Anna Maria Island Sun April 2, 2014

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VOL 14 No. 23

April 2, 2014

‘Mama Won’t Fly’ takes off

The Island Players soar high with “Mama Won’t Fly,” a hilarious production filled with belly laughs and featuring a delightfully cantankerous “mama” who won’t get on a plane. Review on Page 20.

Board questions taking funds from Grassy Point The city’s public works supervisor wants $20,000 from preserve funds to buy a backhoe.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners expressed their displeasure at a request by Public Works Superintendent Tom O’Brien to take $20,000 from the Grassy Point Preserve line item in the public works budget and put it toward the purchase of a small backhoe.

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey business outdoors real estate beach beat classifieds

4 6 7 14 26-28 32-37 39 44-47

City eyes ban on truck traffic

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

In a memo, O’Brien said the backhoe is essential to maintain the city’s drainage system. He said $20,000 would be allocated from maintenance funds set aside for Grassy Point, and the remainder of the $37,812 would be from the stormwater utility fund.

Mayor Carmel Monti noted, “It’s a really good investment to improve drainage.”

Commissioner Jean Peelen asked how much is in the Grassy Point line item.

Monti said $40,000 and added, “Last year we had

ANNA MARIA – Mayor SueLynn used a map at last Thursday’s commission work session to explain suggested changes to the traffic ordinance as they continue to deal with the flood of cars and trucks that visit the city.

Perhaps the most radical was an effort to keep truck traffic off the side streets and streets parallel to Pine Avenue. The mayor initially wanted to erect signs with the in-

see FUNDS, page 38

see BAN, page 38

sister act stylin’

at Studio 104 in Bradenton Beach. 14

Anna Maria Island, Florida

tom vaught | SUN

Neal preserve readies for

its grand opening April 9. 10 Author Tim Dorsey entertains

Island Branch Library crowd. 23 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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APRIL 2, 2014

7 e / c i 24 Serv

y c n e g r e m

E

*Plumbing *Pool Service/Maintenance *Backflow

LIC.#CFC1426956 ~ CPC 1458020

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

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APRIL 2, 2014

THE SUN

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Win a pink sapphire and diamond bracelet Bridge Street Jewelers has donated the bracelet for this year’s Island Affaire on April 12.

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

ANNA MARIA – Put some sparkle into your life and get into the pink of things by winning a pink sapphire and diamond bracelet at An Island Affaire on Saturday, April 12.

Donated by Bridge Street Jewelers, this stunning bracelet is appraised at $4,500 and was designed

by John Krake. It is a 14k, white gold, ladies hinged bangle with a safety catch, and it contains two rows of princess cut, fine, Burmese pink sapphires (4.0 carat total weight), which are accented on both sides by a row of diamonds (0.50 carat total weight).

Tickets are one for $25, three for $50 or seven for $100 and are available prior to the event at the Community Center lobby, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. You do not have to be present to win, and only 300 tickets are available.

submitted

Above, a lucky ticket holder can win a pink sapphire and diamond bracelet or, at right, a golf cart at the Island Affaire.

Bridge Street Jewelers donates an exquisite piece of jewelry every year for the Affaire to help raise money for the children’s programs at the Center. In addition, the jewelry store has donated a Wyland painting for the live auction.

You also can win a specially designed and built Club Cart by Custom Carts of Sarasota at the event.

Tickets are one for a $10 donation or five for a $20 donation and can be purchased at various participating Island locations and at the Community Center.

Anna Maria Island Resorts and the Chiles Group of restaurants sponsor the golf cart drawing. You need not be present to win.

The Affaire will be held in the

Grande Ballroom at the Center and include a champagne reception, an open bar and a selection of hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6 p.m.; a dinner catered by Harry’s Continental Kitchens with a dessert bar; live and silent auctions and entertainment featuring singer Bertie Higgins.

Individual tickets are $175, and tables of eight or 10 are available.

There also is the option of attending the Pre-Affaire VIP party at 5 p.m., which includes special entertainment, VIP seating and a private auction preview for $250 per person.

Black tie is preferred. The Center will provide valet parking services.

Seating is limited, so reserve your seats today. RSVP by April 10 to Wende Webb at wendew@myamicc. com or by calling 941-778-1908, ext. 9203.

Sponsorships for the Affaire are available by contacting Webb and include Diamond, $10,000; Gold, $5,000; Silver, $2,500; VIP Table, $2,000; Bronze, $1,000; and Underwriters, $250 to $999.

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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Monti to present parking and gondola plans Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti will hold a public presentation on his plans for a three-story parking garage at Manatee Public Beach and a gondola to ferry people from the mainland to the public beach. The meeting will be on Wednesday, April 16, at 5 p.m. in city hall, and citizens are invited to give their input on the plans.

Agnelli awarded $49,500 in lawsuit In a March 21 document, John Agnelli released Holmes Beach City Commissioner Jean Peelen and the city from a lawsuit for a payment of $49,500. Agnelli’s lawsuit claimed that Peelen made statements in a Sept.

30, 2012, newsletter that harmed Agnelli’s reputation and were libelous.

Hurricane seminar on April 7 Manatee County Commissioner John Chappie will host a hurricane seminar for Island residents at Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, on Monday, April 7, at 6 p.m. This event will provide presentations about hurricane readiness for the Island communities, and speakers will include representatives from the four island cities and Manatee County.

Hurricane season begins June 1. Hurricane preparedness should begin now to ensure that residents have the information necessary to protect themselves and their families, homes, and businesses.

For more information, contact the Holmes Beach Police Department at 708-5804.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

APRIL 2, 2014

Commissioner questions attorney’s fees

Commissioner Marvin Grossman thought that the high attorney’s fees were due to commissioners’ calls.

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

HOLMES BEACH – After Commissioner Marvin Grossman questioned the city’s legal fees at last week’s city commission meeting, Mayor Carmel Monti provided a breakdown of the fees for January and February.

Grossman, thinking that the $11,000 for professional services was due to commissioners calling the attorney, told the board, “We’ve been spending a lot of money. In January, we spent $19,000 on attorney bills, and over $11,000 of it was for calls.

“We have a policy if you have a problem and want to ask the attorney, you should go to Stacey (City Clerk Stacey Johnston) first. Also, if you’re going to call somebody that you pay by the minute, you

should write out the question first.”

However, Human Resources Analyst Mary Buonagura pointed out, “No staff contacts the attorney without the mayor’s permission.”

Buonagura said that a great deal of the attorney’s time has been spent on the new floodplain management ordinance mandated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which the city’s insurance depends on; updating the capital improvement plan; and revising the building code, which had to dovetail with the floodplain management ordinance.

“Looking at the bill does not determine if it’s correct or incorrect.

You can’t poke holes in something

without knowing the details,” Monti stressed, adding that in addition to city commission meetings and work sessions, the attorney has been present at all of the charter review commission meetings.

At Thursday’s work session, Monti produced a meeting comparison showing that from October 2011 to September 2012, there were 26 city commission meetings and work sessions, and from October 2012 to September 2013, that more than doubled to 53.

From October 2013 to the present time, there have been 10 city commission meetings and 10 work sessions in addition to 10 charter review commission meetings.

January and February attorney fees January • Professional services – $11,577 ($2,031 for floodplain ordinance and $3,597 for meetings); • Litigation – $6,809; • Peelen/Agnelli lawsuit – $111; • Mainsail – $1,062; • Total – $19,599.

February • Professional services – $9,555; • Litigation – $1,424; • Peelen/Agnelli lawsuit – $74; • Mainsail – $1,044; • Tree House – $4,117; • Total – $16,214.

Mayor receives bike rack estimate Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti has received an estimate for two aluminum bike racks from Rustic Steel Creations, of Tampa. One bike rack will depict four decorative fishes for $2,379 and the other a large spiral fish for $2,571. The total estimate is $4,950.

Paul Roat to be honored Tingley Memorial Library board members decided last week to rename the library conference room the Paul M. Roat Meeting Room in honor of the late Island journalist who also served as library board secretary. A dedication ceremony will take place on Monday, July 21, coinciding with the birthday he shared with Ernest Hemingway.

Board member Carol Conover will succeed Roat as secretary. The board also agreed to create a scholarship in Roat’s memory to benefit local students interested in journalism and writing. Contributions from Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon and others have already produced $2,500 for future scholarships.

Correction The deadline to RSVP for the Affaire to Remember is April 10. Respond to Wende Webb at wendew@myamicc.com or by calling 941-778-1908, ext. 9203.

Commissioner protests At last week’s city commission meeting, Holmes Beach Commissioner Judy Titsworth produced these Mickey Mouse ears in objection to Mayor Carmel Monti’s plans for a parking garage at the Manatee Public Beach and a gondola to transport people over Anna Maria Sound.

Pat Copeland | Sun

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APRIL 2, 2014

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Repeal of vacation rental law possible ...

The House bill provides greater protections for property owners and rental managers.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Both branches of the Florida State Legislature are considering bills that would repeal a portion of the vacation rental law created in 2011 by the passage of House Bill 883.

The new legislation would return to local officials the ability to pass legislation pertaining specifically to vacation rentals. The state law enacted in 2011 dictates that local legislation cannot single out vacation rentals and must apply to all residential properties.

Details still need to be worked in regard to potential duration of stay requirements and the protection of property owners from an outright ban on vacation rentals.

If passed, Senate Bill 356 would

allow local governments to impose a seven-day minimum stay on vacation rentals. House Bill 307, by comparison, calls for no such limits and would still allow daily or weekend rentals. In addition to allowing for short-term rentals, the House bill includes language that prevents city governments from banning rentals altogether. Because of these stipulations, the House bill appears to have the greater likelihood of being passed.

On Wednesday, March 26, state

senators approved on third and final reading the Senate bill that includes a seven-day stay amendment proposed

by Sen. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton.

The bill reads: “A local law, ordinance, or regulation may not limit the frequency of rentals, or set a minimum stay requirement for a vacation rental of greater than seven days.”

Having been approved by a 37-2 margin, the bill originally introduced see RENTAL, page 34

... while reactions differ widely Elected officials favor the repeal, while industry members question the need.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Many Island residents are closely following two bills working their way through the state legislature that pertain to the partial repeal of the vacation rental law

created by House Bill 883.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Jean Peelen and Anna Maria Mayor SueLynn have been at the forefront of the local efforts to repeal HB 883.

“It (a repeal) would at least return to us a portion of what we had before they snatched it away in 2011, when it was up to cities to regulate vacation rentals in their city,” Peelen said. “They had no right to do that, and it would be best if they returned it completely, but

I’m also practical, so I say a half a loaf is better than none, and this is half a loaf that would give us some authority to regulate our cities.

“In Holmes Beach, we could at least put into effect what I consider to be safety and health requirements on rentals that we were not allowed to do in the past unless we put those requirements on every house in the city,” she added.

Holmes Beach commissioners had the foresight to enact vacation rental

legislation prior to the passage of HB 883. This included establishing daily, weekly and monthly rental zones. This was not the case in Anna Maria, where some feel the propensity of vacation rentals now threatens the character of the city.

“I think it’s an opportunity to have some local control over the balance we need between supporting people see repeal, page 34

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OPINION

Mike Field, editor and CEO Mike & Maggie Field, publishers 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

APRIL 2, 2014

EDITORIAL Don't charge county drivers

A

nna Maria City officials have taken considerable heat lately for daring to discuss the idea of paid parking on Anna Maria Island. The suggestion has been met with skepticism from the business community, which fears diminished revenues, and downright anger from mainlanders, who resent the notion that city residents might not have to pay but everyone else probably would.

Since nothing has been approved by the city commission yet, we don't really know what form this proposal will take. The devil, as they say, will be in the details of any parking plan.

But it would be difficult to support any suggestion that Manatee County residents should have to pay to park here while city residents would be exempt.

If paid parking is adopted, we believe all county residents should get a pass and continue to park for free. The burden, then, would be borne by out-ofarea visitors.

How this all would be worked out remains to be seen. But it still begs the main question: Should there be any paid parking on the Island? After all, free parking is a time-honored tradition on AMI and an integral part of the attraction of this charming place. How much of that charm would be lost with the installation of parking meters or stations requiring payment?

Further, what would be the intent of paid parking? To generate revenue? Or would it be an effort to reduce traffic, which has exploded during this recordsetting tourist season?

Clearly, there are no easy answers here. And we commend Island officials for their efforts in finding solutions. However, if a paid parking plan is one of those solutions, then we believe it should include an exemption for all Manatee County residents and not just some of them.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Thanks for your help On behalf of the Friends of the Island Library, we are so grateful to Pastor Ed Moss and his staff of Crosspointe Fellowship Church, who literally opened their doors to us and allowed us the use of their Fellowship Hall, a beautiful large space, filled with light. The book sale was a great success. To our wonderful volunteers, who toiled over thousands of books of all categories, to all our friends who donated the books and everyone who attended the sale and purchased them, we say sincerely, thank you. Our net was $3,300 plus 38 new members.

Of particular mention is Mike LePensee who both stored the books and picked them up from the Library to store. We thank him and his wife, Karen, very much for being so gracious throughout the year.

Denise Johnson Holmes Beach

Unnecessary expenditures This week the mayor of Holmes Beach unveiled his latest ideas to improve the Island. You can decide for yourself if any of them have merit. I want to address the city money that was spent to create the drawings the mayor is using to sell his ideas.

At the last city commission meeting, the mayor was asked how much his drawings have cost the city of Holmes Beach.

He hesitated then said $2,500. He then

informed the commission and the public that he, the mayor, was in charge of the budget and it is his decision how city money is spent.

Holmes Beach has a weak mayor-strong commission form of government. The mayor is an administrator only. He has no vote on city matters and works under the guidance of the city commission. Mr. Monti has overstepped his duties as mayor and used city money to promote his own personal ideas without the knowledge or approval of the city commission.

The mayor should repay the $2,500 of your tax dollars that he spent pursuing his flights of fancy. I also call on the city commission to conduct a detailed monthly review of how city money is being spent. This mayor has shown that he cannot be trusted to make sound financial decisions with our money.

I want to encourage everyone to attend the city commission meetings - they are getting interesting. The newspapers cover the meeting, however, they can’t cover everything. Attend the meeting for yourself to hear what’s really going on in Holmes Beach.

Ellen Stohler Holmes Beach

Amendments misguided Once again, we lift our serpent heads from our quiet abodes to protect our Island character and quality of life. A 33page submission to the Holmes Beach

Building Department is requesting, no, not just one amendment but two amendments to our ordinances to accommodate more commercialism. A change in zoning from residential to commercial is being requested as well as a change in land use to mixed use, residential and commercial. The submission is implying that it is a relatively minor change, however, why would there be a need for amending two ordinances and why would there be accommodations for 15 parking spaces on their site plan if this were true?

The property at 214 54th Street currently described as “single family residential” is the property in question. The word adjacent is used in the submission because across the street it is zoned commercial while, in fact, the properties that are closest and adjoining are zoned residential. The submitted site plans show that this property would be facing Holmes Boulevard, with cars exiting onto Holmes, thus pouring more traffic onto a street that already gets the diverted traffic from the current excessive congestion from Marina Drive.

To make changes in zoning from residential to commercial is blatant preferential treatment in favor of businesses over residents. If this gets by, how much farther north on Holmes will it continue?

No amount of money is worth the see LETTERS, page 7

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APRIL 2, 2014

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: The top five reasons to build a Colorado-style gondola to the mainland:

Anna Maria

3%

Would go well with a snow skiing resort on AMI.

9%

Could introduce a whole new way to troll for grouper.

12%

Brings more tourists to our touriststarved Island.

10005 Gulf Drive

4/10: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive n.

4/2: CIP, 10 a.m., followed by CRA, 10:30 a.m.

4/2: Pier Team, 11 a.m.

4/3: City Commission work session, 6 to 6:45 p.m., followed by meeting, 7 p.m.

4/7: Scenic Waves, 3 p.m.

4/9: Planning and Zoning Board, 3 p.m.

4/10: City Commission/department head meeting, 1

42%

None of the above.

18%

15%

Could be a new favorite sunset spot.

All of the above.

• OK if all county residents get a pass.

• Make everyone pay and fund off-Island parking garages for visitors.

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

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

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

April 1

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Wednesday April 2

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

Gulf Coast Writers, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Mana-Tweens Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

Thursday April 3

LETTERS FROM PAGE 6

damage that this Island has incurred.

This season has shown dramatically the negative impact of more traffic, more noise, more trash, etc. This change, instead of improving the character of the Island and the quality of life on the Island, would have a negative impact and set a terrible precedent.

Dick and Margie Motzer Holmes Beach

Thanks to all

Thank you to the Island Players board of directors, director Kelly Wynn Woodland, stage manager Mike Lusk, the cast and crew of “Mama Won’t Fly” and all the wonderful volunteers at Island Players for

doing the cancer benefit preview performance. Thank you to Dottie Mizzi and to Lois Manza and her store, Creations by L, for helping sell tickets.

Thank you to The SUN for helping promote the performance. Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets - it was so much fun spending the evening with you and thank you for making a difference in the fight against cancer. I hope that everyone has a chance to see this Island Players production – it is fabulous.

Nancy Ambrose Holmes Beach

Two years is enough Beware of the politicians who push

for higher salaries, longer terms, and more spending by creating new positions in our local government.

Were they not aware of the pay and two year term before they ran? I'm sure no one ran for election with the stated desire to raise the burden of the taxpayers. We have enough career politicians in America, we don't need them in Holmes Beach. Keep the two year term so we can vote them out if they don't live up to their campaign promises and the pay should stay as is. I'm tired of feeding the gravy train.

John Arsenault Holmes Beach

p.m. followed by City Commission budget meeting, 2:15 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

4/2: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 5 p.m.

4/2: Planning Commission, 7 p.m.

4/8: City Commission meeting, 7 p.m.

4/9: Charter Review Commission, 9 a.m.

4/10: City Commission work session, 7 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

mark your calendar

Tuesday

• Bad idea. It would THIS WEEK’S be complicated and SURVEY signal folks that we don't want their What do you think of business. the idea of paid park• OK if Island resiing on AMI? dents don't have to pay.

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Knitting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, doors open at 6:30 p.m., play at 7 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

Friday April 4

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Saturday April 5

Arts and crafts show, Holmes Beach City Hall field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m.

to 5 p.m.

Sunday April 6

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

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

Arts and crafts show, Holmes Beach City Hall field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday April 7

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 1 to 1:45 p.m. Register at artleagueami@gmail.com or call 778-2099.

Artists’ Guild program with Ralph Garafola, Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday April 8

Children’s story time on firefighters, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Yoga with Lucy, AMI Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $6. Bring a mat.

Wednesday April 9

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

Program on “Medicare: What it it is and What it SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 43

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THE SUN

APRIL 2, 2014

City to consider plan for ball field use Resident Andy Proctor hopes to schedule tournaments on the field annually between Sept. 1 and Dec. 1.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Commissioners plan to consider a proposal from resident Andy Proctor, of Manatee West Hurricanes Baseball (MWHB) to improve the city’s baseball

field for youth baseball.

The discussion came during a report by City Attorney Patricia Petruff that Manatee County has agreed to the city’s request to terminate the interlocal agreement for construction and maintenance of the baseball field made in 1998.

“The county is OK with it if they are not responsible for maintenance,” Petruff said.

Proctor, who first brought his proposal to commissioners in the fall, said enhancements

include adding sod, a moveable pitcher’s mound and artificial turf covers for the base paths, as well as batting cages/pitcher warm up area, a shell walkway from the bleachers to the restrooms and other improvements at a cost of $25,800.

Proctor said MWHB plans to schedule 10 tournaments annually between Sept. 1 and Dec. 1, “with a direct economic impact of at least $18,000 per event.”

Human Resources Analyst Mary Buonagu-

ra said Proctor spoke with her and the mayor last week, and she told the board, “There’s matching funds out there to sponsor the improvements to the field to bring the kids back in the Little League way. We’ll get the needs and see if we can’t get some money. He has a 501C(3).”

Commissioners asked that the issue come to a work session, and Chair Judy Titsworth said she would put it on a future agenda.

Easter returns to Anna Maria The Easter Bunny will visit the city of Anna Maria again on Saturday, April 19, starting at the Sandbar restaurant for the 28th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, co-sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Sun. Refreshments will be served in the pavilion next to the restaurant starting at 8:30 a.m. followed by the egg hunt at 9 a.m. sharp.

Kids will be separated into different age groups and they will hunt down Easter eggs on the

beach. Kids are urged to bring a bag for their eggs.

Following that, the Easter Bunny will lead a parade down Pine Avenue for the Fifth Annual Easter Egg Roll and the Fourth Annual Easter Bonnet Contest.

There will be plenty of fun for the family including face painting, egg painting and dyeing and complimentary pictures of the Easter Bunny from Dara Caudill of islandphotography.org.

The Sandbar will provide food

and refreshments including fresh squeezed orange juice, mimosas, quiche and ham biscuits.

AMI Donuts will provide freshly made donut bites. Music will be provided by DJ Chuck Caudill.

Everyone will receive a number that can be redeemed for prizes in participating shops along Pine Avenue, “The Greenest Little Main Street in America.”

The egg roll and bonnet contest event also is sponsored

by PAR and the Anna Maria Sun newspaper. The roll will take place from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

Prizes for the best bonnet include a two-night stay at the Anna Maria Guest Houses for first place, a Beach Bums golf cart rental for second place and a Beach Bums kayak or tandem bike rental for third place.

First prize for the best kid’s bonnet is a Sandbar lunch for the winner and three of his/her friends complete with hot fudge

sundaes. Second prize for kids is a Surry bike rental from Beach Bums and third prize is a chocolate bunny.

This is the 12th year The Sun newspaper has been a sponsor for the Sandbar Easter Egg Hunt.

For more information on the Sandbar Easter Egg Hunt and Pine Avenue Easter Egg Roll contact Tina Fusaro at 778-8710 or tfusaro@chilesgroup.com.

APRIL 2, 2014

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THE SUN

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Sea hunt On Saturday, March 15, Bradenton Beach's "Underwater Guy" Captain Jim Humes, of Sea Kat Divers, gave Anna Maria Island Kiwanians a picture and word tour of the Regina Underwater Archaeological Preserve located in Bradenton Beach. From left to right: Kiwanis President Dave "Watchdog" Miner, Humes, Jane and Marjorie Petring.

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APRIL 2, 2014

Neal Preserve opens in April

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

You can’t take it with you, but you can hold a piece of history thousands of years old at Neal Preserve by simply picking up a conch shell.

Prehistoric Native American inhabitants of the preserve, just across the Manatee Avenue bridge from Anna Maria Island, opened the shells at the crown to get at the meat inside, said Charlie Hunsicker, Manatee County’s natural resources director, reminding visitors that taking anything from the preserve is against the law.

“You can hold something that a person held a thousand years ago,” he said, pointing at shells scattered all over the preserve.

Neal Preserve is scheduled to open on Wednesday, April 9, but a few visitors got a sneak peek recently.

Among the most interesting features of the preserve are a reconstructed burial mound – about 230 bodies were excavated in the 1930s from two cemeteries on the site; the remains were taken to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. A midden, or trash dump, also has been reconstructed.

The preserve also is the site of the rare, endangered Florida cotton plant that is flowering now – the petals turn from yellow to pink as the day

wears on. The plants barely survived efforts to eradicate them on the misguided assumption that they harbored boll weevils that would destroy commercial cotton crops, according to archeologist Bill Burger, who has studied the site for several years.

The preserve once was the site of a citrus grove, a dump, and a source of shell for local road beds, but in prehistoric times it served as a fishing camp, he said.

An observation tower overlooks Anna Maria Island, the Intracoastal Waterway, Perico Island and Bradenton, and a shady boardwalk leads through mangroves to the Intracoastal.

Signs along the shell and boardwalk pathways describe plants and Native American sites. A picnic pavilion is at the entrance to the park, on Manatee Avenue just east of the bridge.

The county bought the land in 2005 with county funds, a partial donation by landowner Pat Neal and grant funding through the Florida Communities Trust.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for next Wednesday, April 9, at 4 p.m. will include guest speakers, light refreshments, demonstrations of Native American tool use and naturalist-guided tours.

cindy lane | sun

Above, the observation tower at Neal Preserve provides vistas of Anna Maria Island, Perico Island and Bradenton.

Left, the flower of the endangered cotton plant starts out yellow, then turns pink close to sunset. Spanish moss at the Preserve. The new boardwalk looks like it has always been there, thanks to careful construction and minimal tree removal. Below left, a group looks at some prickly pear cactus during a sneak peek at the Preserve, which opens on Wednesday, April 9. Below, a savannah looks much like it did 1,000 years ago. Handrails were eliminated from this part of the boardwalk to maximize the view.

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APRIL 2, 2014

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Board says no changes in terms and no term limits Members also agreed to place building height limits in the charter.

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

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HOLMES BEACH – After considerable discussion, charter review commission members agreed to stay with two-year terms for the mayor and commissioners, not to institute terms limits and to put building height limitations in the charter.

Members first discussed terms of city commissioners, and Pam Leckie favored four years and said, “You can’t get enough accomplished in two years. It’s too much, too often.”

David Cheshire liked three years, David Lester two or three and Jim Plath and Chair Bob Johnson two.

Commissioner Judy Titsworth said the deciding factor for her to run for office was that it was only a two-year commitment.

Commissioner Marvin Grossman agreed and said he didn’t mind the campaign process. Commissioner Pat Morton also agreed and added, “Especially if you get a bad apple.”

Resident Andy Sheridan pointed

out, “If it’s more than two years, you lose the desire for citizens to step forward, and it gives the commissioner an opportunity to opt out as well. It’s working; there’s no reason to change.”

The vote was 4/1 with Leckie dissenting.

Mayor’s term

Regarding the term of mayor, Cheshire said it is a more complex job than being a commissioner and advocated three or four years.

Leckie agreed and said, “The mayor serves as the city manager.

You need someone who knows what they’re doing, and if they’re going to do a good job, they have to spend a lot of time at it. We absolutely have to consider a longer term.”

Titsworth favored two years because “if they’re doing a good job, they’ll get reelected. It’s worked for 50 years. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.”

Johnson said, “If he or she is doing the right thing, he or she will get reelected in two years. It’s a matter of keeping the checks and balance of the citizens involved in the process.”

Grossman agreed and said, “People read the paper and know

what you are doing.”

The vote was 4/1 with Leckie dissenting.

All agreed on not adding term limits to the charter.

Building height limits

Johnson said building height limits could be changed by a vote of three city commissioners, and stressed, “The purpose of a charter is to contain the details which are of such importance that they should not be subject to change simply by ordinance without a public referendum.

“There doesn’t seem to be a lot of inclination to change, but pressures will build on this Island as we’ve gone from being residential to an investor’s paradise.”

He introduced a draft charter amendment addressing building height.

“I can’t think of anything that is more important to this community, this Island,” Sheridan said and added that as a trolley driver, “I hear it from the tourists. They are aware of it and point out that it makes us more desirable and a better destination. It makes our see terms, page 15

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APRIL 2, 2014

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BUSINESS

APRIL 2, 2014

Sister act stylin' at Studio 104

BY LOUISE BOLGER SUN STAFF WRITER | lbolger@amisun.com

STUDIO 104

Not everyone woman has a sister, but those of us who do understand what a special and challenging relationship it is. When you complicate an already complicated relationship with the difficulty of starting and running a business, it becomes almost a miracle when it all works out. Well miracles abound at Studio 104 in Bradenton Beach where Kim Skardoutos and Christine Morin are both sisters and business partners.

In January 2008, Skardoutos and Morin, Canadian natives, decided to start their own business in hair and nail care and purchased Milena’s Beauty Salon, which was a fixture in Bradenton Beach for 24 years. The sisters are so busy with their year 'round regular clientele as well seasonal visitors to the island, they are actively looking to expand with the addition of a stylist and nail tech.

Morin has 10 years as a stylist on Anna Maria and is proficient in all types of hair cuts for men, women and children. She offers hair styling, roll ups, blow-drys, perms and a full range of color services.

She says, “You want it I’ll do it.”

And even though she is extremely busy, she still manages to fit in being a Mary Kay representative. Her hair services are moderately priced starting with $20 for women’s hair cuts, $57 for color and $85 for full foil highlights.

Skardoutos’ life is even busier than her sisters with two young daughters to keep track of as well as working as a professional photographer. She has 12

2501 Gulf Dr. N. Unit #104 Bradenton Beach 941-778-5989 Hair: Tuesday-Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nails: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 9.a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hair appointments available other times by appointment. submitted

Christine Morin and Kim Skardoutos offer nail and hair care at Studio 104.

Nail appointments available early mornings by appointment.

years experience as a nail tech on Anna Maria and also is a licensed stylist. She was recognized as the favorite manicurist in the Sun’s Readers Choice awards for 2011.

Skardoutos specializes in acrylics as well as pink and white, regular and French manicure, shellac and jell polish.

She also offers pedicures which can be customized to the needs of the individual starting with a simple nail cut to a full spa pedicure and encourages men of all ages to give it a try.

And Skardoutos is fast, doing fills in 30 minutes, full sets in 45, pedicures in

45 and express pedicures in 25 minutes. Again pricing is moderate with spa pedicures at $35, pink and white full set $45 and manicures $15.

Studio 104 also offers waxing, brow tinting and hair removal and can accommodate small wedding parties.

They use Redken products and OPI and can special order any other products you may want, and they love walk-ins.

The Studio 104 sisters aren’t going anywhere especially since Kim Skardoutos and her husband “TT” recently purchased the condo space their business is located in. They are looking

MasterCard & Visa accepted forward to growing their business right along with the continued growth of all of Anna Maria’s businesses. Mostly they want to thank their customers both local and seasonal for their loyalty and their referrals.

Studio 104 meets all of your nail and hair needs in an intimate, flexible and affordable shop, where you’ll meet a pair of busy sisters, who leave the sibling rivalry parked on Gulf Drive.

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TERMS: No changes, no limits

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

APRIL 2, 2014

FROM PAGE 11

Island so much more distinctive than any other barrier island in Florida.�

Members agreed to adopt Johnson’s amendment with approval of the city attorney.

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City manager form of government

After considerable discussion on whether to recommend a city manager form of government, members agreed that it is not a decision for this committee. “This is a serious change,� Johnson pointed out. “It would affect a lot of different things and the ability to really understand and analyze that would be a dialogue for the community. “It’s not going to happen in this committee.

The reality is that we don’t know enough to make a recommendation.�

Cheshire said it could be beneficial if the Island three cities would consider one city manager, but “the chance of that is like a snowball on the beach in July.�

The group’s next meeting is Wednesday, April 9, at 9 a.m., and members will review the complete mark up of the charter, agree on proposed amendments and discuss the ballot questions.

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APRIL 2, 2014

Buy or sell that boat quickly Island Boat Sales is a familyowned business run by Dave Struber, his wife, Sandy, and son, Ethan, Island residents since 1996.

Boats are selling very well, and “business is booming,” they say.

“Location, location, location.

The display visibility along with great customer service and a full service facility are the keys to our success here,” Dave says.

“Two thousand and thirteen was a banner year, and 2014 is projected to be better,” adds Sandy.

Dave has been in the boat-selling business since 1999 and has sold hundreds of them, ranging from 16-foot center consoles to 65-foot yachts.

Dave likes to say, “Big or small, we sell them all.”

They always need more boats because the business sells out about 75 percent of its inventory every month in season. Sellers can even use their boat and the facility while it’s for sale. The company also buys boats outright.

They believe in keeping things simple with “business on a hand-

submitted

Dave and Sandy Struber welcome you to Island Boat Sales.

shake.” Customers love that oldfashioned way of doing business, Dave says.

Customers can feel free to drive in and look around the upscale marina, which also has excellent water access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

The business is located at 12160 Cortez Road W., just east of the Cortez Bridge. The phone number is 941-228-3489 and the website is www.islandboatsales. net.

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Nap time A royal tern grabs a few winks while two more take advantage of a recent break in the weather to sun themselves at the beach.

CINDY LANE | SUN

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APRIL 2, 2014

Kayak building benefits veterans Kayak fishing and boat building provide recreational therapy for local vets.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

CORTEZ – Paddle. Fish. Heal. These three words sum up the mission of Heroes on the Water (HOW) organization.

The motto appears on business cards carried by Raul Casas, chapter coordinator for the Sarasota-Bradenton chapter of the veteran’s organization that provides recreational therapy to vets in the form of kayak fishing outings.

Casas is among those who spent two recent weekends gathered outside the Florida Maritime Museum in Cortez building skin-on-frame kayaks under the tutelage of visiting master boat builder and Virginia resident Dave Gentry.

Over the course of two weekends, a rotating cast of HOW members and volunteers, and museum volunteers, built four lightweight Chukanut-12 kayaks that are now part of the local chapter’s fleet. They will be launched from Bayshore Gardens Park during a Saturday, April 26, outing. Now in its third year, the group’s first kayak outing took place at Robinson Preserve.

“We provide a venue where they can go out and relax, bond and interact with each other, and it has an amazing effect on them. We don’t pretend to offer counseling. It’s the activity itself that helps,” Casas said, when discussing the therapeutic value of kayak outings.

HOW members include veterans of wars in Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam. Many suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and some are coping with injuries as well. Time spent in a kayak offers some a sense of freedom, agility and mobility not found on land.

As the kayak-building project got underway on Saturday, March 8, Casas said, “There’s camaraderie and kidding around. We’re learning things, and working as a team.”

The museum provided the boat shop

Dave Gentry | submitted

Above, Dave Gentry, far right, spent two weekends teaching veterans and volunteers how to build skin-on kayaks to benefit the SarasotaBradenton chapter of the Heroes on the Water organization. At right, Raul Casas and John Beale assemble the frame of a skin-on-frame kayak and outdoor workspace.

“This is the first time we’ve worked with Heroes on the Water. It’s a great experience,” said John Beale, the museum’s education and volunteer coordinator.

While the vets and volunteers worked, Gentry said, “Skin-on-frame kayaks have been around for several thousand years. First, we build a skeleton out of wood. The ribs are made of marine plywood and the rest of the frame is locally grown cypress.

"Once the skeleton is complete, we cover it with polyester fabric and paint that makes it waterproof.”

Gentry has developed a simple and inexpensive form of kayak building that relies on basic tools, materials and plans that do not require vast boat building experience.

“You just lay the patterns on your

joe hendricks | sun

wood and cut them out,” he said.

When asked about durability, Gentry said, “I can take a hammer, hit the fabric as hard as I can, and it won’t bother it at all.”

As for what he hoped the first-time boat builders would take from the experience, he said, “Making new friends, learning new skills, and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful that is also very practical.”

Vietnam vet and Agent Orange victim Dave Reichert said, “I do a lot of kayak-

ing, but this is the first time I’ve built one.

When Raul told me about this organization I couldn’t get involved quick enough.

The best cure for all this stuff is attitude.

If we can affect a veteran’s attitude, he’s well on the way to being cured.”

The Patterson Foundation in Sarasota funded the kayak building exercise as part of its Legacy of Valor campaign.

Heroes on the Water seeks additional volunteers, financial support and donated fishing gear. To help, call 203482-1790.

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Board won’t require acoustic block Some felt that such a requirement in the outdoor dining ordinance would be overregulating.

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

HOLMES BEACH – During a review of proposed changes to the outdoor dining ordinance, Commissioner Marvin Grossman raised the issue of requiring those offering amplified music to install an acoustic block, as was done at the Barefoot Tiki Bar. “It’s not our intension to encourage outdoor music,” Grossman said. “Let’s not make our citizens uncomfortable with the outdoor music these businesses create.”

However, Mayor Carmel Monti disagreed and said, “There are so many differences in the locations.

We can mange it on a case-bycase basis. We want to encourage outdoor dining.”

Commissioner Jean Peelen said it should be up to the business and

pointed out, “If it’s over 65 (the decibel limit in the noise ordinance), it’s illegal.”

Commissioner David Zaccagnino agreed.

Planner Bill Brisson suggested making it a part of the site plan review and commissioners agreed.

We want to encourage

Barefoot Tiki Bar solution

outdoor dining.”

Chair Judy Titsworth asked Nicole Heslop, owner of the Barefoot Tiki Bar, if the acoustic block she installed stopped the complaints.

Heslop said it was a combination of that and making the bands keep the sound level down and added, “I had an acoustical engineer come and tell me where to put it. It was a process of understanding sound levels and how to control them.

“It has kept the music inside. We want to be a good neighbor, and our customers like to be entertained, but also like to have a conversation.”

She said they should leave it up to the businesses and not make the ordinance too stringent.

Zaccagnino asked if the kiosks offering food and drinks on the

Carmel Monti Mayor proposed boardwalk at the Mainsail marina would be allowed because according to the ordinance, in order to have outdoor dining, a restaurant must have indoor dining.

Brisson said those businesses would not be classified as restaurants, and he would have to add a description of that type of use in the ordinance. He said the ordinance does not provide for a freestanding bar, like a Margarita stand, which also would have to be added to the ordinance.

Residents want low-key beach access Hugh Holmes, Sr. offered to donate five feet for a beach access at 81st Street.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Chair Judy Titsworth said neighbors at 81st Street are unhappy with a plan to make a beach access there.

“They are concerned about it being a public beach access,” she explained, “even though it’s a neighborhood access.”

At a recent meeting, commissioners learned that Hugh Holmes, Sr. offered to deed to the city a beach access at the street end. An attempt to secure a beach access there failed in the past because Holmes did not own all the property,

Turtle Watch vols to train Volunteers for AMI Turtle Watch will attend a training meeting on Tuesday, April 8, at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. The main staff will meet from 6 to 7 p.m., and the section coordinators will meet from 7 to 8 p.m.

There are no openings for new walkers, and the meeting is not open to the public, said Suzi Fox, executive director

Once it’s conveyed to the city, it’s up to the city to regulate.”

Patricia Petruff City attorney but he recently acquired full interest it.

“The access and liability are on my parents’ property,” Titsworth said. “Dad

of AMI Turtle Watch.

Park name criteria suggested Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti told commissioners that beautification board member Dennis Groh has suggested some criteria for naming parks after a family asked to have the park at 6807 Homes Boulevard named after it and a permanent plaque installed.

wants five feet on his property deeded to the city.”

She said the access could be simple with no signs or garbage barrels and asked if they could put stipulations on it.

“It’s a policy decision for you to make as to which accesses remain natural and rustic and which ones will be major with walkovers and benches,” City Attorney Patricia Petruff explained.

“Once it’s conveyed to the city, it’s up to the city to regulate. If there’s only five feet there, there’s a limit as to what you can do.”

One way to regulate it would be to ban parking on the street, Commissioner David Zaccagnino said, and Police Chief Bill Tokajer said it already is posted.

Criteria are: • The plaque could be a conditional award; • The family could be required to hire a professional landscape service to maintain the park; • The plaque could remain as long as the park is maintained to a reasonable standard as determined by the city.

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APRIL 2, 2014

Shining performances for ‘Mama Won’t Fly’ Mama Won’t Fly plays through Sunday, April 6 at the Island Players Theater.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@ amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – “Mama Won’t Fly” was a challenge for the Island Players, mainly because the large number of roles required that almost everyone who participates in the annual plays be in the cast. And even then, there was still some duplication where an actor had to play more than one role.

But throw in a hilarious script full of belly laughs, some unique stage automobiles from the State College of Florida, plus a Manatee High School student who flashed placards across the stage between scenes, and you end up with some marvelous insanity that never fails to deliver.

Anne Bean was fantastic as Savannah Honeycutt, the daughter who gets stuck driving her mama, played lovingly by Cathy Hansel-Edgerton, from Birmingham, Ala., to Santa Monica to see her brother’s wedding because mama won’t fly. They are joined by mama’s future daughter-in-law, Hayley Quinn, a bubbly, wistful woman

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

Robin Rhodes, as a woman getting married in Las Vegas, prepares to attack Judy Keenan, who runs the all-night chapel. Vinnie Conte plays the groom to be.

played perfectly by Megan Dunn Cox. There is friction between mama and daughter, and Hayley Quinn has to deal with it, wondering what other surprises will await her when she meets more members of her future

husband’s family.

The trip is delayed at one point as they stop at a bra museum in the middle of nowhere. Jo Kendal was wide-eyed crazy as she turned in a hilarious performance as the elderly

maggie field | sun

Locks of Love Hair’s To You owner Maryanne Speciale divides the flowing locks of AMI Privateer Tim “Hammer” Thompson into five pony tails, which were cut off and donated to the Locks of Love campaign. Looking on during the trimming is Thompson’s friend, Becky Kramer, who, along with Thompson, is a cancer survivor and also cut her hair and donated it to Locks of Love, which makes the hair into wigs for cancer patients.

matron of the museum. After they “escaped” from the museum, they watched as a thief stole their vehicle, but mama would find a cheap used vehicle – a Mini – which meant the three ladies were crammed even closer to each other.

There were other great performances including three by Robin Rhodes, who did her patented “fanny chewing” on some of the characters – she would have made a great Marine Corps drill instructor.

Rick Copp was good as a confused highway patrolman and Cousin Chicken and Vinnie Conte had some appearances that he aced. Herb Stump and Bruce Whitton came out as a Texan and a spritely Irishman who had opened a restaurant and couldn’t decide on the cuisine.

In all, the stops were as funny as the road trip and the cast certainly did the script justice. Go see “Mama Won’t Fly.” The Island Players is at 10009 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. Tickets for “Mama Won’t Fly” are still available and can be purchased by calling 7785755.

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Author finds humor in the macabre Tim Dorsey told a library audience he gets some characters from people he knew, but not his main character, Serge A. Storms.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The author of some of Florida’s edgiest comedies paid a visit to the Island Branch Library to talk with a crowd of two dozen or more interested fans and to sell and autograph copies of his books.

Tim Dorsey, who has written numerous New York Times bestseller novels with Florida settings, including "Florida Roadkill" and "Hammerhead Ranch Motel," entertained the crowd with stories about his books and his life.

Born in Indiana, Dorsey became a Floridian early in his life.

“My mother moved me to Florida and took up with a jai alai player,” he said.

He now lives in Tampa with his wife and two daughters.

In addition to his Florida murder mysteries, starring antihero Serge A. Storms, he brought two books he released at the suggestion of readers.

The first is "Florida Roadkill: A Sur-

tOM VAUGHT | SUN

Tim Dorsey signs books while talking to the audience. He explained how his characters came to be and how he starts writing when he feels ready. vival Guide," which shows some of the places that inspired locations in his books. The second, "Squall Lines," is a compilation of articles and columns he wrote in college and as a journalist.

Dorsey described Serge A. Storms as a larger-than-life antihero.

“Over the years I learned that the most dangerous are very intelligent, but they drift over the line of reason,” he said. “I made Storm like that and I sometimes allow him to rant about

Florida for me.”

Storms’ pal, Coleman, was taken from a real life friend from college who tended to be disconnected with reality at times. He recalls one instance.

“He was driving south on I-75 and called me on his cell phone to tell me all the traffic on I-75 was going north and I said, ‘Haven’t you heard? Hurricane Andrew is headed for South Florida,’” Dorsey said.

“During the storm he got on the

phone to give me a blow by blow description. He sought shelter under a stairwell outside and called back later to tell me he was going in now because the rain was going sideways, and it felt like pins when it hit his skin.”

When asked if his two daughters read his books, he said they did.

“They think I’m Serge,” he added.

He was asked if he ever tried to get his books made into movies or a television series, and he said he came close on TV, but so far nothing has come of it. His agent is also working on a movie and the agent has a good record for getting other movies made including "LA Confidential" and "Million Dollar Baby."

He said he doesn’t keep a set schedule when writing.

“I get a good night’s sleep, and the next morning I start writing,” he said.

“When I have a book coming up, I stop making personal appearances.”

He said he loosely outlines his books and for the first rewrite, he rewrites the outline too.

Finally, Dorsey said he reads about Florida, but he doesn’t read his competition.

“We’re all paranoid about reading other Florida authors because we don’t want to steal their ideas,” he said.

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

APRIL 2, 2014

Sarasota Bay Watch made great strides in 2013 Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS In an executive summary prepared by Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) President Larry Stults Ph.D., J.D., he recapped the organization’s accomplishments in 2013. In total, Sarasota Bay Watch and its volunteers donated well over 2500 hours to restore and protect local waterways, marine life and habitat. Volunteers also removed over two miles of fishing line from local waterway bird rookeries and rescued live entangled birds.

During 2013, SBW sponsored seven volunteerbased events, including the 6th annual Great Scallop Search, the 5th annual Sister Keys Cleanup and a scallop nursery cleanup at Mote Marine. Students from numerous area schools and from Sarasota CREW partnered selected events.

Additionally, SBW is in the third year of its 10-year Scallop Restoration Project successfully released approximately 26 million scallop larvae and over 100,000 juvenile scallops into the bay waters of Manatee and Sarasota counties. This brings the cumulative project release to approximately 54 million scallops.

The scallop releases were funded primarily by SBW’s Scallopalooza fundraiser at the Sarasota Yacht Club, which raised $25,000 for scallop restoration in 2013.

SBW’s art exhibit “Gulf Coast Heritage: At the Intersection of Art and Local History” opened at the Conservation Foundation and can be seen at various local venues through 2014. The sale of cards created from the art work supports the efforts of SBW. To purchase them contact Stults at larrystults@aol.com.

SBW continued to build and expand partnerships with stakeholders. They included Mote Marine Laboratory, Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, Selby Gardens, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Longboat Key Garden Club, Sarasota Yacht Club, see reel time, page 27

rusty chinnis | submitted

Sarasota Bay Watch board member Caroline McKeon and Charlie Hunsicker, director of parks and natural resources in Manatee County, release juvenile scallops into Palma Sola Bay.

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APRIL 2, 2014

Sarasota Sailing Squadron, Audubon, Save Our Seabirds, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Maritime Museum, Sarasota County, Manatee County, the town of Longboat Key, START, New College, Pineview School, Riverview High School, Sarasota High School, and Sarasota CREW. Volunteer events in 2013 included a wide range of activities including the 1st annual cleanup of the Jim Neville Marine Preserve with students from the Pineview School Marine Club, the 3rd annual Skier’s Island Cleanup with Riverview National Honor Society students, the 5th annual Sister Keys Clean-up, the 3rd annual Scallopalooza held at the Sarasota Yacht Club, the 6th annual Great Scallop Search, the 1st annual Midnight Pass Fishing Line Cleanup with SRQ Crew, the 4th annual fishing line cleanup with Save Our Seabirds, a clean-up of a forthcoming scallop nursery (a joint MOTE/SBW project) to create a Sarasota-based facility to grow scallops that will be run by community volunteers.

Sarasota Bay Watch set up displays on Earth Day at Oscar Scherer Park, the Fall Family Festival at the Conservation Foundation and Historic Spanish Point, and the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit at Mote Marine Laboratory.

In other projects, SBW kayaked with

underprivileged youth in association with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program, partnered with Manatee County Parks and Recreation providing SBW field guides, partnered the town of Longboat Key, and the Longboat Key Garden Club in combining Sister Keys educational signage with an audio tour stop developed by the Science and Environmental Council of Southwest Florida.

SBW also advised Riverview High School on planning an outdoor native plant watershed demonstration area, coordinated with Conservation Foundation for signage and messages at its new welcome center and was a co-sponsor of monofilament measurement with Mote interns.

These accomplishments would not have happened without the help of many organizations including several on Anna Maria Island. The Sun has been a supporter of SBW since its inception as has the Chiles Group.

The newest member of Sarasota Bay Watch’s Board, Steve Traves, of AMI Outfitters, has information on Sarasota Bay Watch events and T-shirts for sale. Stop by and see him at 505 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria or call 941-254-4996.

To find out about SBW’s events or to volunteer, go to www.sarasotabaywatch. com.

Captain Tom Chaya

Springtime fishing has been great around the cool fronts. We are targeting many species at this time of year.

This is the best time of year to hook up on big snook. They are hungry and a bit less wary as the water warms.

Bob Hammond and family had a big day on snook catching a half dozen fish over 30 inches.

They also connected on big trout.

Large gator trout are feeding in the shallow bars and spoil islands. Hank Shulhoff, from Ohio, had the biggest of the week at 30 inches and weighed just under 8 pounds. Redfish are working the deeper hard bottom and oyster bars. Their numbers will increase as the water temperatures rise.

School sized kingfish have moved into area waters in the 30-to-50-foot depths over hard bottom. Pompano and permit are roaming the beaches and passes. Shrimp, sandfleas and jigs have worked well in the ditches off the beach. A couple of reports of small bonefish were in the same areas which is rare in waters this far north of their region.

Dick McNabb and crew, from Tennessee, had limits of pompano and

permit up to 8 pounds. Sheepshead are winding down after their spawn, but can be found around pass docks and rocky reefs. Spanish mackerel and bluefish rounded out a nice week of fishing.

Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay on flies during the past week.

A front passed through on Monday with a soaking, all day long rain, so we chose to not snook fish on Monday evening. It was good choice because it rained all night. Venice and Lakewood Ranch, winter residents Chub Bortz and Jeff Wagner fished Sarasota Bay with me on Tuesday.

The rain stopped by late morning and the wind blew 25 mph before the end of the trip, however, they persisted and caught trout to 20 inches, including a couple of slot size fish, and ladyfish on Ultra Hair Clouser flies.

Weather was a problem again on see captains, page 28

tide chart for anna maria city pier April 2-9 A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

Wed 4/2

2:05a 1.41

7:02a 0.75

1:02p 2.26

Thu 4/3

3:00a 1.28

7:26a 0.86

1:36p 2.26

9:26p -0.15

Fri 4/4

4:02a 1.18

7:48a 0.95

2:14p 2.22

10:22p -0.07

Sat 4/5

5:17a 1.12

8:09a 1.03

2:59p 2.13

11:25p 0.02

Day Date

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

8:36p -0.20

7:20-7:48

Sun 4/6

7:19-7:49 7:18-7:49 7:16-7:50

27

Time to hook up on big snook

reel time: SBW makes strides FROM PAGE 26

THE SUN

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

7:04a 1.12

8:24a 1.12

3:54p 2.00

12:34a 0.08

5:05p 1.87

Mon 4/7

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set 7:15-7:50 7:14-7:51

Tue 4/8

9:25a 1.31

1:40a 0.13

6:33p 1.77

12:41p 1.21

Wed 4/9

9:43a 1.42

2:37a 0.16

8:02p 1.74

2:12p 1.07

7:13-7:52 7:12-7:52

28

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captains: Fish deep grass flats FROM PAGE 27

Wednesday as cold air settled in and strong winds continued to blow, so we didn’t fish. Bill Fox, from Atlanta, Ga., fished Sarasota Bay with me on Thursday and Friday. Bill prefers the action and variety found on deep grass flats, so we focused on those areas to keep his fly rod bent. He had good action both days catching and releasing numerous trout and a few Spanish mackerel on Ultra Hair Clouser flies. There were also ladyfish and Jacks in the mix to keep things interesting.

I was the instructor for a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters OrvisEndorsed Fly Fishing School on Saturday. In addition to fly casting, students also were schooled on leader construction and saltwater fly fishing techniques. The next class will be on April 12. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-3494400 to sign up.

Fishing deep grass flats for trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more should continue to be a good option Also, look for reds, snook and big trout on shallow flats or edges of bars

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

Venice winter resident Chub Bortz caught this upper slot Sarasota Bay trout on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly while fishing with Captain Rick Grassett. in Sarasota Bay. When conditions improve in the coastal Gulf, action with Spanish and king mackerel, false albacore

(little tunny) and tripletail should also heat up.

APRIL 2, 2014

www.amisun.com

APRIL 2, 2014

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29

Sandwich board signs get another reprieve The commission said as long as store owners don‘t place the signs in the right of way, leave them out all night or use more than one sign, they can use them until May 1.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Business owners who use sandwich board, or A-frame, signs to get the attention of tourists and other shoppers will have another month to use them, if they use them the right way.

The city commission agreed at its work session last Thursday to delay the implementation of a ban on the signs that was adopted under a rewritten sign ordinance recently.

After the ban was announced, business owners complained that they were not part of the process, and the commission rewrote the ordinance during season when they are too busy with their shops to get involved.

At the meeting last week, Commissioner Carol Carter said she spoke to a couple of business,people that had concerns.

“There are some obviously grandfathered areas and some ar-

eas with signage in their building permits and others with problems getting their businesses to be known,” she said. “We ought to allow the businesses not on Pine Avenue to have more time and have them come back with a plan.”

Commissioner Nancy Yetter said the commission’s obligation is to the businesses that have a problem without the signs, and Mayor SueLynn said they ought to extend the delay on implementing the ban until May 1 with a warning.

“There were two places on Pine Avenue that have very large signs and used two A-frames,” she said. “I had to call and have them removed.

“One had a sign in the right of way and they had to pay a fine,” she added. “Obey the rules: Use one A-frame, don’t place it in a right of way and take them in at night.”

Commissioner Doug Copeland said some businesses have unique problems that they could review on a case-by-case basis. Commissioner Chuck Webb said the extension is so the commission can come up with a way to deal with the unusual cases.

SueLynn said she would speak with City Planner Alan Garrett to see if he could have an amended ordinance ready for the April 10 work session.

Code Enforcement Officer Jerry Rathvon said when they started, all businesses had only one sign with their name on it and eventually some added signs. She said that’s OK as long as the business only has its name on one sign. If there are two businesses under one roof, they can have two signs, each with the name of one of the businesses.

“There is no silver bullet and I think we know that now,” Commissioner Dale Woodland said. “I think the exception has to be real. We don’t want it to become the norm.”

In other decisions, the commission agreed to adopt the International Property Management Standards adapted for the city. They agreed to delay and discuss further what to do with the city-owned six lots at Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard and what to name the property if it becomes a park. The name City Pier Park was suggested.

The commission also approved a second annual Chalk Festival, but only for one day since it requires Pine Avenue to be shut down. The first festival was for two days. hey also asked staff to make up an ordinance to allow Little Free Libraries in the setbacks, but only one library per street.

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APRIL 2, 2014

APRIL 2, 2014

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Celebrate a new alliance Southeastern Guide Dogs and the Chiles Restaurant Group, which operates the Sandbar in Anna Maria, the BeachHouse in Bradenton Beach and the Mar Vista Dockside on Longboat Key, are celebrating a new partnership, called Dollars4 GuideDogs, that will generate funds for Southeastern Guide Dogs, the group that trains dogs to service the visually impaired.

The three restaurants will offer

their patrons a convenient opportunity to donate to Southeastern Guide Dogs at the point of sale.

Diners will be presented with the chance to make a $1, $5, $10, or other donation to be added to their check at each of the restaurants. The initial goal of the Chiles Group is to raise $15,000 to sponsor and name three Southeastern puppies – one for each of its restaurants.

To help kick off the new partnership, the public is invited to an official Launch Party at the Sandbar on Thursday, April 10, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Southeastern Guide Dogs puppies will be on hand to greet guests and spread tail wags all around. The event will take place in the Sandbar restaurant event and wedding pavilion adjacent to the restaurant. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available.

Something's fishy Brenda Alcorn's Gyotaku fish prints will be featured at Island Gallery West during the month of April, with an artist’s reception taking place on Friday, April 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Alcorn works in many media, including watercolor, acrylics, nature printing and photography, but the art of Gyotaku, or fish rubbing, is especially attractive to her and those who collect her work.

Island Gallery West is located at 5368 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For additional information visit www.islandgallerywest.com, Facebook or call 941-778-6648.

IGW | SUBMITTED

32 THE SUN

I

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 2, 2014

April 15 – impossible to ignore

t comes around every year, the one day of the year that you never look forward to, the one day of the year you would like to sleep through and the one day of the year it’s impossible to ignore.

No it’s not your birthday or your brother-in-law’s winter visit, it's tax day.

As much as we hate to pay Uncle Sam, if you’re a homeowner you are probably eligible for a very substantial annual deduction, your mortgage interest. Last year United States’ homeowners received a total of roughly $70 billion dollars in federal tax breaks through deductions on their primary home, second home or investment property. And not surprisingly there are critics and supporters of this deduction.

Critics of the mortgage tax deduction make the case that the

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger deduction mainly benefits Americans in the upper tax brackets and costs the government too much in lost revenue. There have been proposals floating around Congress for years attempting to limit the mortgage deduction, and it’s very likely that eventually some kind of reform will become a reality.

Two changes that are at the top of the likely list are raising the eligible deduction from a $1 million mortgage down to a $500,000 mortgage and eliminating the deduction for second homes.

Proponents of maintaining the

mortgage tax deduction claim that it promotes homeownership as well as all of the economic byproducts of homeownership that go into maintaining and updating a home. In addition, home ownership and the equity that it accrues is the asset that most middle class citizens depend on to supplement their retirement. For the middle class, equity in their homes exceeds one third of their total assets far more than financial portfolios.

And don’t forget that although all homeowners want to see their properties appreciate, even if appreciation rates are low you will create equity just by making your monthly mortgage payment.

Also, if your own your own home, whether it’s your primary residence or a second home, you are eligible to deduct your prop-

erty tax. Investment properties have other deductions available to them like maintenance and depreciation, but they also have to claim any income associated with the rental of that property.

In addition, the federal government provides for tax benefits when you sell your primary home at a profit. The current law states that a sales gain up to $250,000 or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly is tax-fre as long as the homeowner owned the property for two years and lived in it for two of the five years before the sale.

The benefit of this law, in addition to protecting gains earned through property appreciation, also provides homeowners the flexibility to move up or down to another home based on their lifesee bolger, page 33

APRIL 2, 2014

www.amisun.com

Audit report produces no penalties State law provides little in the way of punishment for cities that spend more money than they bring in.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

BRADENTON BEACH – The audit report that recently revealed a second year of unbudgeted expenditures by the previous city administration has been submitted to the state of Florida Auditor General’s office in Tallahassee.

“The bottom line is the actual expenses over revenue were $250,000. That’s against state law and can’t happen,” Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon said, when discussing the report at the March 20 commission meeting.

According to city auditor Randy Dillingham, the city overspent its projected budget by nearly $600,000 over the course of the past two fiscal years, from October 2011 to October 2013, and last year’s budget required 24 adjustments to account for non-budgeted city expenditures.

According to Florida law, “The adopted budget must regulate expenditures of the municipality, and an officer of a municipal

government may not expend or contract for expenditures in any fiscal year except pursuant to the adopted budget.”

A call to the Auditor General’s office shed additional light on the post-audit process and any potential penalties the city might face.

“It is contrary to law to overspend the budget, and hopefully, the auditor noted that it was in non-compliance with section 166.241,” said Audit Manager Marilyn Rosetti. “However, there’s nothing in the law that provides a penalty for doing that.

“The report is filed, it’s a public record, and people can see it,” Rosetti added. “We review it for other purposes, but there’s no responsibility on our part to do anything.

Hopefully, they’ve taken action and they’re not going to have that problem again.

“We do occasionally audit local governments. The Auditor General has the authority to do that, but we don’t, by policy, unless we’re directed to by the legislative auditing committee.

“If there is a perception by a legislator or the citizenry that this is indicative of other problems and that this is a chronic occurrence, then an audit could be requested, but us receiving the report with that over-expenditure of the budget is not something that would automatically trig-

ger an audit by our office,” she said.

“When governing bodies are not taking care of business, overspending its budget, and not providing amendments, especially if it gets them into financial trouble, the electors usually speak at the voting polls,” Rosetti said.

In November, city voters elected Shearon to serve as mayor, replacing former Mayor John Shaughnessy, who headed the city administration during the previous two fiscal years.

When informed of Rosetti’s comments, Shearon said, “My main point is that we (the city) broke the law, whether it’s enforced or not.”

The recent arrival of new City Treasurer Sheila Dalton is expected to produce better budgetary and accounting practices moving forward. In past years, former City Clerk Nora Idso served as city treasurer in addition to her duties as clerk.

Those duties have now been separated.

“The city will not break the law, and Sheila and I put that in our management letter that went to the Auditor General.

In that letter, we addressed all 24 issues, and I’ll guarantee you right now that none of those will be on next year’s budget,” Shearon said.

THE SUN

33

BOLGER: Can’t ignore April 15 FROM PAGE 32

style, age and family size without fearing loss of equity because of a large tax bill.

Naturally, all real estate professionals and the National Association of Realtors strongly oppose eliminating the mortgage interest deduction, stating that housing is the engine that drives the economy.

Certainly a large part of Anna Maria’s economy is driven by housing, and in particular, second home housing. Eliminating the second home mortgage tax deduction would negatively impact the Island’s economy and those homeowners who have invested in the Island for both second home and investment properties.

April 15 may not be the most fun day of the year, but it’s one that you can’t take the chance of sleeping through. Make sure you are taking advantage of all of your eligible tax deductions and make your feelings known to your state and federal representatives about the future of the mortgage tax deduction.

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THE SUN

REPEAL: Reactions vary widely FROM PAGE 5

renting their properties as vacation rentals and securing the peace and quiet of all our residents,� SueLynn said. “This could be an opportunity to meet the needs of everyone. At least we would have some wiggle room. Without the amendment, we can’t do anything.� “I don’t think we ever wanted to get into limiting the number of days or the duration of stay.

That’s not what’s causing the problems; it’s the sheer number of rentals. It’s better to have this amendment than to have nothing. If we get nothing, our hands are tied, and we have no way to control the destiny of our city,� she added.

Peelen and SueLynn both asserted that neither city intends to institute a ban on vacation rentals.

The industry perspective

In regard to the two bills being considered by state legislators, Island Real Estate owner Larry Chatt favors the House bill because it prevents cities from prohibiting rentals outright, whereas the Senate bill is less clear on that issue.

Chatt said the seven-day minimum stay requirement contained in the Senate bill is less of a concern on the Island, where the average stay is nine days, but might hurt a city like Orlando, where some amusement park visitors favor shorter stays.

He does not foresee an attempt to ban vacation rentals locally, but fears beach communities elsewhere in the state might try

Many of us are playing nice. They need to find those who aren’t and enforce the rules; and if we aren’t, I expect someone to tell me so I can fix it.�

Larry Chat Island Real Estate to do so, if allowed. “I think it’s healthy to continue pushing for permanent residents, but we can’t take away the property rights of current owners.

With the cost of the home, property taxes, flood insurance and everything else that’s required, there aren’t enough jobs to support the population we’d all love to have on this Island. That’s why we have more absentee owners renting out their homes,�

Chatt said.

He also mentioned the need to enforce existing regulations that would help lessen the impact of vacation rentals in local neighborhoods. “I don’t understand how 883 stops local municipalities from enforcing good and fair guidelines for incoming tourists. The

APRIL 2, 2014

DREAM cities don’t enforce what’s on the books now. They’re doing better, but let’s enforce what we have before we institute more guidelines.�

Chatt fears local legislation aimed at the large vacation rental operators would hurt small operators who have fewer resources to accommodate additional regulations. “I understand the challenges with the larger houses, but they’re allowing those to be built,� he said of local city leaders. “Many of us are playing nice.

They need to find those who aren’t and enforce the rules; and if we aren’t, I expect someone to tell me so I can fix it,� he said.

David Teitelbaum’s resort holdings include the Tortuga Beach Resort in Bradenton Beach. He sees merit in both sides of the repeal debate. “It’s too bad they have taken away home rule, but there are basic problems that can be solved. Overcrowding is illegal and can be resolved with enforcement. Quiet enjoyment can be enforced too. “I don’t have these problems in Bradenton Beach. Our guests sign an agreement before they get a key. They agree not to disturb their neighbors; if they do, they get one notice and the second time they’re out.�

In response to those who claim enforcement alone is the answer, Peelen said, “The cities have a constitutional right to govern what goes on in their cities and that was taken away, period.�

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VACATION

RENTAL: Repeal of law being considered FROM PAGE 5

by Sen. John Thrasher, R-St. Augustine, will now be sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Members of the House are also working on their own repeal bill.

Last amended on March 21, House Bill 307 reads: “A local law, ordinance, or regulation may not prohibit vacation rentals, or regulate the duration or frequency of rental of vacation rentals.�

Neither bill would super-

sede local laws, ordinances, or regulations adopted on or before June 1, 2011.

At press time, the House had yet to cast a vote on their bill; nor have they taken any action on the bill approved last week by the Senate. In order for either bill to become state law, one of the two bills must be passed by a majority of members in both legislative branches.

A more likely scenario is a reconciled bill that contains elements of the both the House and Senate bills, and

leads to compromise agreeable to representatives and senators alike.

If an agreement cannot be reached, both bills would die on the floor and the status quo would be maintained for at least another year. The 2014 legislative session ends May 2.

Local officials say repeal is needed so cities can address noise, parking, overcrowding and other quality of life concerns created by rentals that become party houses and mini-hotels in residential neighborhoods.

314 60th, Holmes Beach 4 bed | 3 bath, Turnkey Furnished Key west style home centrally located on island Offering $5,000 credit for golf cart with purchase of home for quick and easy access to the beach 2,356 sq.ft. $869,000 Call A.M.I Beaches for more info at

941-567-5234

APRIL 2, 2014

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

35

Gyotaku workshop slated Have you ever tried painting with a fish instead of a brush? On Tuesday, April 8, from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., the Anna Maria Art League and instructor Brenda Alcorn will host a workshop dedicated to the ancient art of Gyotaku. Dating back to the mid-1800s, Gyotaku, also

known as fish rubbing, is the traditional method of Japanese fish printing that involves dipping a fish into paint and pressing its outline onto paper, creating a one-of-a-kind monotype.

Registration is limited to six people. The cost is $40 for Art League members and

$60 for non-members.

Attendees are asked to bring paper towels and gelbased super glue; all other materials will be supplied.

To register, call 941-7782099 or visit the Art League at 5312 Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach.

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THE SUN

MARCH 26, 2014

Pastor says nobody lives at church A woman getting her possessions from her nonrunning car in the parking lot prompted neighbors to complain.

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Dave Leghorn, a resident of Holmes Beach who lives near CrossPointe Fellowship, spoke before the city commission last week about a possible code violation at the church, but the

pastor says no.

Leghorn told the commission the church is allowing people to live there, and he asked the city to take action. He said the church allows a man to live inside the church and a woman to live in her car in the parking lot.

“The car windows are blacked out,” Leghorn said. “She says she stays at other places when she can.”

Commissioner Chuck Webb said they would have Code Enforcement Officer Jerry Rathvon look at the situation, but Pastor Ed Moss says those reports are a rumor.

“Nobody is living in the building or on church property,” he said.

“Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies check the property every night to make sure nobody is sleeping there.”

Moss said he thinks he knows the source of the rumors.

“A lady left her car in the lot because the anti-theft device is malfunctioning and the car won’t start, and we hope to fix it next week,” he said. “Her property is in the car and she goes there to get her stuff, but she is not sleeping there.”

Department head oversight clarified

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT

BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon now has the clarification he sought with regard to the oversight of department heads, charter officials, and building and planning officials.

During the March 20 commission meeting, commissioners established a framework for department head interaction that involves an individual commissioner conducting an informal monthly meeting with a specific department head or city official in order to stay abreast of city projects and departmental needs.

Commissioners favored an approach that provided each of them with greater department head interaction over an approach more reliant on the mayor alone.

Department heads and contracted Building Official Steve Gilbert will now submit a written departmental report in advance of the monthly department head meetings that currently provide commissioners and key staff members an opportunity to discuss city operations.

As directed at a previous meeting, City Attorney Ricinda Perry and Commissioner Jack Clarke crafted a resolution that clarifies and establishes the rules and policies governing the manner in which city business and city-related matters are conducted.

According to Resolution 14-812, the mayor will oversee the day-to-day functions of the department heads and other supervisors who are then responsible for the city employees that work in their departments.

It was determined that the

mayor has the authority to suspend a department head for a maximum of three days, but needs commission approval to enact a longer suspension or terminate a staff member that has supervisory powers.

Shearon requested the

administrative clarifications when taking office in November. The process took on a greater sense of urgency when ELRA Inc., the restaurant ownership group headed by Ed Chiles, SEE DEPARTMENT, PAGE 43

APRIL 2, 2014

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THE SUN

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michaelsaunders.com s 4400 Manatee Avenue W s Bradenton, FL s 941.748.6300

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THE SUN

APRIL 2, 2014

County commission candidate speaks to Kiwanis

BY TOM VAUGHT SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island hosted Terri Wonder, a Democratic candidate for the Manatee County Commission at-large seat held by Carol Whitmore last Saturday.

Wonder had her husband, Ray Wonder, introduce her. She has recent experience in the fight against the Long Bar Pointe project, which was pared back after the citizens expressed fear that it would bring development to an area of the county that is environmentally sensitive.

Wonder has been a social scientist for the U.S. military; she won the Superior Civilian Service Award in 2010 and was twice deployed to Iraq to assist military efforts there. She has a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary education, and she is

a lead instructor for Pace Center for Girls.

Wonder said the county does a bad job of listening to people and she wants to expand bus service to the eastern portion of the county.

She also said the county disrespects its citizens and they, in turn, become more strident about their causes.

Wonder was asked about the inrush of tourism on the Island and whether the Tourist Development Council should be asked to slow down advertising to allow the Island cities to make plans to cope with it.

“I grew up on Siesta Key, so I know how packed the barrier islands can get,” she said.

“It seems to me the Tourist Development Council could reallocate some of that advertising money to help the county cope with the tourism.”

She also said she knows the best advertising can be word of mouth like it was for years.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Terry Wonder, right, poses with Robyn Kinkopf, of the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island

FUNDS: Board questions taking Grassy Point funds FROM PAGE 1

$180,000 set aside for Grassy Point that we used for other things. This year, we are planning to do some grant applications.”

Commissioner Marvin Grossman said they should discuss plans for Grassy Point at a work session and said there are plans for a boardwalk and other improvements.

Peelen agreed with bringing the plans to the city commission for discussion.

“There are lots of things we want to do at Grassy Point,” Commissioner David Zaccagnino stressed. “I don’t have a problem with the backhoe, but if you take $20,000 from that fund, we’re never going to get the $300,000 to build a boardwalk or have matching funds to do anything there.”

He asked why all the money is not coming from the stormwater utility fund, and Monti said that money is allocated

for other projects.

Chair Judy Titsworth agreed with Zaccagnino and pointed out, “We had $180,000, and it’s gone; now $40,000 is down to $20,000.”

Human Resources Analyst Mary Buonagura said she is seeking both technical and beatification grants for the preserve and noted, “The previous plans were never developed and fleshed out. This project is evolving rather quickly, and I hope to bring you a discussion paper on April 24.”

Zaccagnino said the city needs the bobcat, but the board should refocus its attention on Grassy Point.

“Taking money from Grassy Point is a bad thing, but we need the bobcat,” Commissioner Pat Morton said.

Peelen made the motion to approve the funding for the bobcat, but to try and seek the money from another place in the budget, and it was approved.

Treasurer clarifies Grassy Point issue The day following the Holmes Beach City Commission discussion regarding Grassy Point funding, City Treasurer Lori Hill explained in a memo that Commissioner David Zaccagnino “said that we keep dipping into the Grassy Point kitty and using those ‘reserved funds.’ I was never asked to reserve those funds.

“If this is something that we are planning to work on next fiscal year, we would need to budget for it and then direct the funds be reserved so that we can build them up. That is not how it has been done nor directed to be done.”

She pointed out that the other portion of the money for the bobcat is coming from the stormwater maintenance fund in the public works budget.

“The stormwater utility fund is the $200,000 we receive from taxpayers each year that is typically used for the major improvements,” she continued.

She said if the city commission wishes to designate funds to be reserved for Grassy Point, she would have to find out if they are able to reserve the unused budget for the current year.

But in the future, “We do need a plan and it needs to be in the CIP and it needs to be added to the budget,” she concluded.

BAN: City eyes truck ban FROM PAGE 1

ternational code circle with a slash over a picture of a truck and the wording “8 Tons” on it.

Resident Leslie Vanderberg has a petition with 33 signatures on it asking the city to ban the big vehicles on those residential streets.

Sgt. Paul Davis, of the Manatee County Sheriff ’s Office patrol in the city, said the ban might pertain to lawn service trucks as well.

SueLynn asked residents of those side streets to call the Sheriff ’s office at 708-8899.

“We will ticket those drivers who disobey the law,” she said. “If a truck driver gets a ticket, he might lose his license and his way to make a living.”

City Attorney Jim Dye said they should change the traffic ordinance if they erect the signs.

BAN ALL TRUCKS?

SueLynn said truck drivers who deliver on Pine Avenue would have to find a way to turn around because they won’t be able to use the side streets. She asked Dye if they could remove the “8 Tons” from the sign to make it all trucks.

She was reminded that would make it illegal for pickup trucks to use the street, but Davis said the deputies would have the discretion for enforcement and they would not apply the law to the popular vehicles.

Other changes include removing asphalt along the right of way at Galati Marine because it causes flooding during storms and eliminating parking on the right of way; enforcing no parking in the middle of the circle on Blue Heron; adding stop signs at the beach entrance at Coconut and Gulf Drive to eliminate speeding; prohibiting parking at Crescent Av-

enue before the bridge where people sometimes park in front of the city’s maintenance garage; adding crosswalks at Palm and Palmetto avenues across Gulf Drive and crosswalks across Magnolia Avenue between the western corners of Magnolia and Gulf; eliminating parking for Rod and Reel Motel customers to allow more pier customers to park there; and adding no parking signs along swales because cars tear up the swales. In addition, they will reconfigure the city hall parking lot to make more spaces.

www.amisun.com

APRIL 2, 2014

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

3/13, 11:20 a.m., information, 100 block of Hammock Road. The complainant said he got a call from a client of his real estates business who said she saw a listing for renting one of his properties on Craig’s List when she knew it was for sale, and she was afraid it was a scam.

3/25, 10:21 a.m., domestic violence, 200 block of Gladiolus Street. The defendant pushed the victim out of the way when they got into an argument over a milkshake. The defendant was arrested.

Bradenton Beach,

3/24, 3:54 p.m., child neglect, 100 block of Ninth Street. The female defendant was getting evicted from her rental unit for being loud and intoxicated the night before. When the rental agent came, the defendant left the residence through the back door without telling her children she was leaving or where she was going. She also admitted she turned off the GPS finder in her cell phone so nobody could find her. She returned an hour later and was arrested. The children were taken by Child Protective Services and the father of the children was also notified.

3/27, 1:33 a.m., DUI with property damage, 2300 Gulf Drive. The defendant rear ended the car in front of her and the officer suspected she was intoxicated and called for a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy who examined her and found probable cause to place her under arrest. She was also cited for

careless driving.

3/28, 1:13 a.m., escape from police custody, 200 Bridge Street. The officer arrested the defendant for an out of county warrant and handcuffed her. As he tried to put her into his patrol car, she ran to the dinghy dock and jumped off the end into the bay.

Deputies from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Coast Guard joined the search. They searched the boats anchored in the bay and found her wet clothes in one boat and her in another.

She told the officers, “I was drinking and I ran. Big deal.” She was processed and transported to the county jail.

3/28, 10:53 p.m., resisting arrest, battery on a law enforcement officer. 100 Bridge Street, Sports Lounge. The officers were flagged down by a passerby who said there were two women fighting in front of the bar. The defendant was arguing with a male and was very agitated. The officer told her to sit on the curb, but she came toward him.

He then told her she was under arrest, and she tried to pull away from him but another officer joined him, and she bit him on the arm, breaking the skin. She was cuffed and put in the back of a patrol car, but was able to slip out of one handcuff and began banging her head on the car window. The officer recuffed her, and she started kicking at him, and he punched her and pepper sprayed her.

The officers were treated by EMS for the bite, and the officer who punched the suspect broke a knuckle. She was jailed.

Cortez

3/21, 12:46 a.m., information, 11900 block of Cortez Road W. The officer spotted a man driving fast and a woman in anoth-

THE SUN

er vehicle driving after him. He stopped both of them. The man said he was trying to get away from his wife and that they had gotten into an argument. The man smelled of alcohol. The woman said she had been following her husband to make sure he didn’t do anything bad. The officer told the man to call someone to drive him home. A computer check showed the man’s license was suspended. He told the deputy he didn’t know that it was suspended. The deputy seized the license and ticketed the man.

The wife was upset because she could not keep the husband out of her house.

After explaining that she could get a restraining order in the morning, the deputy let them leave.

Holmes Beach

3/8, 7:14 a.m., traffic violations, 6100 Marina Drive. The officer observed a vehicle with what appeared to be window tinting that was too dark. He ran the license plate through the system, and it showed the tag had expired. The driver said he did not have a driver’s license, he worked for a local business and he was from Mexico. He handed the officer a passport, a Mexican ID card and a red light ticket from Bradenton. He was the registered owner for the vehicle he was driving. The officer asked the driver if he had ever gotten a ticket, and he said he had, and the officer used the computer to look it up. He tested the window tint and it was too dark. He issued the driver tickets for driving without a valid license, expired tag and window tint violation.

3/9, 1:54 a.m., battery, 6300 block of Holmes Boulevard. Two acquaintances got into a verbal battle while drinking and

Obituaries Carolyn Davis Fernandez Carolyn Davis Fernandez, 73, of Anna Maria, died March 23, 2014.

Born in Miami, she moved to Anna Maria in 1983.

She was predeceased by her parents, Vallie Marshall and Katherine May (Hammond) Davis; husband, Captain U. S. Merchant Marine, retired, Julian M. Fernandez; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be no services. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes and Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, was in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be sent to Southeast Guide Dogs or an animal charity of one’s choice.

Condolences may be sent to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

39

they began striking each other. Both were injured, but refused to go to the hospital, and both refused to fill out affidavits. The officer made a capias request to the state attorney’s office to investigate.

3/9, 2:04 p.m., warrant arrest, 4000 block of Gulf Drive. The officer saw the defendant make an illegal left turn. A computer check showed the driver had a warrant for his arrest from Manatee County for fraudulent application for vehicle title. He was taken to jail.

3/9, 5:02 p.m., beverage law violation, 100 White Avenue on the beach. The officer responded to a call about illegal use of alcohol on the beach. He observed two males consuming beer and burying the cans in the sand. He had them dump out their open beers and dispose of approximately 12 cans of beer. They were issued notices to appear for under-aged drinking and drinking in a prohibited location.

3/12,10:59 a.m., warrant arrest, seat belt violation. The officer was conducting seatbelt enforcement and saw a driver not wearing his. He stopped the driver and found he had extraditable warrants out of Pinellas County for obtaining property in return for worthless checks.

He was handcuffed, ticketed for the seatbelt violation and taken to jail.

3/13, 12:13 p.m., driving with no valid license, 5300 Holmes Boulevard. The officer stopped the driver for the window tinting and found the driver had no license, just a Mexican ID card. He was ticketed and the owner of the vehicle came to claim it.

3/13, 8:21 p.m., larceny, Havana Cabana, 5904 Marina Drive. The owner said two signs on his vehicle were stolen.

James D. Lavaty James D. Lavaty, of Anna Maria, passed away March 14, of Parkinson’s at his daughter’s home, in Sanford, Fla. He was born in Port Chester, N.Y., to Barbara and Joe Lavaty. He grew up in Port Chester, but graduated from University of Puget Sound, Wash., in 1965. In April of 1966, he enlisted in the Army and was commissioned as a lieutenant.

He served in Vietnam as a member of the Green Beret Special Forces from 1968 to 1969 and was awarded a Bronze Star.

In 1970, he married Ceni Wheatland from Sanford, Fla. Jim worked in management at Jordan Marsh, but in 1978, became the manager of Jacobson’s specialty store, in Longwood, Fla. In 1997 he moved to Anna Maria Island, with his partner, Marcia Brewer, to enjoy a family home on a canal and at the beach. He helped open

the first Publix store on the Island as a seafood specialist and spent the remainder of his semi retirement, boating, and fishing Five months before his death he went back to be with his loving children and daughter Heather’s skilled nursing care.

Jim was an avid sportsman and shared that love with his children and grandchildren. He was lovingly referred to by his grandchildren as “Papa Beach”. He is survived by his son Jeff Lavaty (Hayley), his daughters Holly Garemore (Rich), Heather Stelzer (Tom), his beloved grandchildren by age Lucas, Mason, Max, Elise, Garrett, and Jack, his sister Barbara Olson (Gregg) and longtime partner Marcia Brewer. The family would like to thank Hospice of the Comforter for its loving care. And to his loving friends who helped and cared so much, they are forever grateful.

Donations can be made to Hospice or to the Wounded Warriors Foundation.

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www.amisun.com

THE SUN

TOWN CRIER

Medicare explained by expert

Mana-Tweens discuss a book The Island Mana-Tweens Club, consisting of kids between the ages of 8 and 12, will meet at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, April 2, at 6 p.m. to discuss the book, “The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet,” by Eleanor Cameron. Registration is required. Call the library at 778-6341.

Looking for birds Manatee County Audubon is leading a field trip on Wednesday, April 2, to Shamrock Park and Venice Rookery to look for scrub jays, black bellied whistling ducks and a huge variety of wading birds. Contact Amy Miller at 758-7478 or at febelle@verizon.net or Connie Zack 758-2929 or at zacodo@ tampabay.rr.com to attend.

Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. There will be lunch and or dinner out. Meet at 3 p.m. at the Starbucks at 5485 University Pkwy. Field trips are free to Manatee Audubon members and $3 to non-members.

Free memory screening Sue Fox, of the Sarasota Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will present "Memory Screening for Alzheimer’s” on Friday, April 3, at 3 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Alzheimer’s disease is the seventh leading cause of death and more than five million Americans suffer from this debilitating disease at an annual cost of $170 billion.

This program is free and seating will be available on a first- come, firstserved basis. No prior registration is necessary. For more information, call 778-6341.

Knit one, purl two Learn to knit or just have fun knitting with others at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday April 3, at 2 p.m.

Call the library at 778-6341 for more information.

Partners in Play program The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will host Forty Carrots, a parenting program based in Sarasota, on Friday, April 4, at 10 a.m. This is a program where kids from mobile babies to five years old and their parents experience new activities, join in circle time fun, spend time with other families and get valuable parenting information.

The program is free, and you can get

APRIL 2, 2014

Festival for butterflies A two-day outdoor Arts and Crafts Show to benefit the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park is being held at the Holmes Beach City Hall field, 5801 Marina Drive, on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, April 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shop for jewelry, glass, photography, art, apparel, food, plants, nautical light posts, crafts and more. Owen Poteat will be performing and selling CDs. There is free admission and free parking. Contact Terri at 352-344-0657 or Nancy at 941-518-4431 or www.tnteventsinc.com.

a ticket for this session at the library desk. Space is limited to 12 families.

For more information, call the library at 778-3986

Walking the Island for homeless Turning Points of Manatee, a group dedicated to helping the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless, will host its Second Annual Family Fun Walk on Saturday, April 5, at 4 p.m. on South Coquina Beach.

There will be a one-mile family fun awareness walk (rain or shine), T shirts (guaranteed to pre-registered walkers), DJ, fun activities, raffle, family pictures, face painting, great food, post walk party and sunset watch, sand castle competition, special appearance by Henry Lawrence and a Zumba party.

Check-in is at 4 p.m., the walk starts at 5:30 and there will be a post-walk party around 6 p.m. The cost is $20 for adults, $10 for students, $45 for families and kids under five years old are admitted free. Register now at http://www. turningpointswalk.org/ or call 941-7471509 for more information.

Audubon holds gathering Manatee County Audubon holds an open house at Felts Audubon Preserve on Saturday, April 5. Everyone is invited to Felts on the first Saturday of each month, from 8 a.m. to noon. A bird walk led by an Audubon member, starts at 9:30 a.m.

Bring the kids for a walk on the wild side to see birds and other animals on the 27-acre preserve located at the corner of Experimental Farm Road and 24th Avenue East (4600 24th Ave. E.) in Palmetto. Call 941-729-2222 or visit www.manateeaudubon.org for details.

Outdoor shopping at the beach Stroll the Beach Market at Coquina Beach at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, at the trolley stop concession stand area, every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through April 27. Shop for fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, apparel, pottery, purses, collectibles, health and beauty items and more. Local favorite, Larry Wilhelm will be performing on Sunday, April 6.

You’ll find many unique items. Enjoy the beautiful white sand beach, relax on the beautiful new deck overlooking the Gulf and get some great food at the Coquina Cafe.

Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in the Coquina Park. The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair accessible. Contact Nancy Ambrose for information 941-518-4431.

Story time at the library Misty Wright, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, Apr. 8, at 10 a.m. Kids between toddler and five years of age are welcome as are their parents at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Field trip set to Emerson Point Manatee County Audubon is leading a field trip on Tuesday, April 8, to Emerson Point in Palmetto. Take a two-hour walk with Lucette Wombacher and members of the Manatee County National Resources Department. Notify Lucette at 776-8424 or at lucettew@ msn.com to attend.

Bring water and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at 8:30 am at the welcome center. Field trips are free to Manatee Audubon members and $3 to nonmembers.

Financial advisor and Medicare expert, Devin Johnson will cover Medicare benefits, what you need to know, and how to make sure you are fully protected at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, April 9, at 2 p.m. This brief presentation will hit the fundamentals of the often-confusing program and there will be plenty of time for questions and answers from the audience.

The program is free and open to all.

Seating will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more information, call 778-6341.

Perico Preserve improvement The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP) Bay Guardian volunteers will plant thousands of Florida-native plants on Saturday, April 12, at Perico Preserve. The 12,000 plugs of marsh grass are being donated by FWC Redfish Hatchery at Port Manatee.

The upcoming project is the fourth volunteer outing for the Bay Guardians in 2014. Prior projects were completed at Bowlees Creek Island, Jiggs Landing and Arlington Park. Perico Preserve is located on the west side of Manatee County near Anna Maria Island.

Join the Bay Guardians for a single project or as an ongoing commitment.

Local school, scout and church groups interested in volunteering may contact Sara Kane at sara@sarasotabay.org.

Catch problems in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Tuesday, April 15, at the Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The screenings are being offered at reduced prices. They include stroke/ carotid ultrasound for $40, abdominal aortic aneurysm for $40, arterial disease test for $40, thyroid ultrasound for $40, abdominal ultrasound for $95 and heart scan-echocardiogram for $95 or all six tests for only $179. Blood tests, liver, cholesterol, PSA and TSH tests are also available. To register, call 888-667-7587.

Are you being served?

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) volunteer counselors from the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging are available to help Medicare beneficiaries learn if they qualify for additional benefits. If they are eligible, SHINE volunteers can provide application assistance.

If you or someone you know needs help with your Medicare costs, you can call 1-800-96-ELDER or 1-800-963-5337 and speak with a SHINE counselor.

APRIL 2, 2014

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 “That’s enough from you!”

4 City whose tower’s construction began in 1173 8 Pops out of the cockpit 14 Seoul-based automaker 15 Bulky boats 16 Hit one’s limit, in slang 17 How poets write?

19 Like a classic French soup 20 Tree of Knowledge locale 21 How moonshine is made?

23 Quick summary 26 Learned 27 Actress Thurman 28 Bath bathroom 29 Go to the bottom 33 How parts of a whole can be written?

Answers to 03-26-14 Crossword Puzzle.

38 Middling grade 39 “Doctor Who” actress Gillan 40 Taylor of fashion 41 Strong glue 43 Lyrical preposition 44 How a priest preaches?

47 Electrically flexible 49 Lyrical preposition 50 Feel crummy 51 World power until 1991: Abbr.

53 Spirits brand with a Peppar variety 57 How kangaroos travel?

60 Former Cubs slugger 61 Meadow lows 62 How some paper is packaged?

65 Land on two continents 66 Squeaker in Stuttgart 67 Big fan 68 1987 Beatty flop 69 Freelancer’s detail

THE SUN

70 Big primate Down 1 One going downhill fast 2 __ Kush mountains 3 Port in a storm, so to speak 4 Score to shoot for 5 Taxing initials 6 Knitter’s coil 7 Part of LPGA: Abbr.

8 What the cold-blooded don’t feel 9 She performed between Creedence and Sly at Woodstock 10 Sends away 11 Aloof 12 Napa vessels 13 Piggery 18 Last 22 Needs a fainting couch 24 Saudi neighbor 25 WWII female 28 Hard-hit ball 30 Clickable image 31 Coming up 32 Florida __ 33 Blue-and-yellow megastore 34 Stash finder 35 Willard of “Best in Show” 36 Brewpub 37 Pre-final rounds 42 Speaker between Hastert and Boehner 45 Coffee order

46 Pickup at a 36-Down 48 Picasso, for one 52 Justice Sotomayor 53 “Easy-peasy!”

54 Fictional Doone

55 Go through entirely 56 Small bite 57 Short notes?

58 Small bite 59 Lowers, as lights

61 X-ray kin 63 Ont. neighbor 64 L.A. campus

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THE SUN

SPORTS

APRIL 2, 2014

Youth flag football awards presented

BY SCOTT DELL SPECIAL TO THE SUN

The 2014 Anna Maria Island Community Center’s youth NFL Flag Football season concluded with the annual awards ceremony.

The co-ed youth league is a recreational fun league where everyone participates. The awards ceremony honors every participant with some sort of an award and individual recognition on stage. No matter what age and what ability, everyone walked away from the ceremony with something.

The ceremony also honors those teams and individuals for their success during the season on the field. The Community Center gives away first place trophies for the regular season champions and also for individual accomplishments.

Regular season first place trophies were awarded to the West Coast Air Conditioning and Heating Dolphins in the 8-10-year-old age division, the LPAC Cardinals in the 11-13-year-old age division and the Mr. Bones Bengals in the 14-17-year-old age division.

Individual trophies were awarded to the Sportsmanship recipients Tuna McCracken in the 8-10-year-old age division, Ben Dalto in the 11-13-yearold age division and to Andrew Zink in the 14-17-year-old age division.

Individual trophies were awarded to the Defensive Player recipients Evan Christenson in the 8-10-year-old age division, Bathie Thiam in the 11-13-yearold age division and to Danny Doyle in the 14-17-year-old age division.

Individual trophies were awarded to the Female Most Valuable Player recipients Ava Alderson in the 8-10-yearold age division, Hagan Powers in the 11-13-year-old age division and to Moriah Goode in the 14-17-year-old age division.

Individual trophies were awarded to the Male Most Valuable Player recipients Gavin Johnston in the 8-10-yearold age division, Michael Latimer in the 11-13-year-old age division and to Danny Doyle in the 14-17-year-old age division.

The entire flag football season will conclude on Wednesday, April 2, with the last Super Bowl game in the 18-year-old and up division. The number two seeded Beach to Bay Construction Dolphins team plays the number four seeded Duffy’s Tavern Eagles team in the league’s final game.

scott dell | submitted

Above, AMICC Flag Football Female MVP award to Ava Alderson, Hagan Powers and Moriah Goode. At right, AMICC Flag Football Sportsmanship award to Tuna McCracken and Andrew Zink.

Below, AMICC Flag Football Defensive Player award to Evan Christensen, Bathie Thiam and Danny Doyle.

www.amisun.com

APRIL 2, 2014

mark your calendar FROM PAGE 7

isn’t,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Grand opening, Neal Preserve, Manatee Avenue east of Anna Maria Island Bridge, 4 to 6 p.m.

Saturday April 12

Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039.

Alzheimer’s care group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, doors open at 6:30 p.m., play at 7 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

Privateers’ Thieves’ Market, Holmes Beach city field, 5800 Marina Drive, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Master Gardener tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m.

Reserve to 941-722-4524.

Volunteer planting day, Perico Preserve, north side of Palma Sola Causeway, east of Harbour Isle development, 9 a.m. to noon.

Reserve to 727-893- 2765.

Origami, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Island City Fest, Holmes Beach city field, 5800 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Music on the porch, Florida Maritime Museum, Cortez Road and 119th Street West, Cortez, 2 to 5 p.m.

Friday

Sunday

Forty Carrots program for babies and children to age 5, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Island City Fest, Holmes Beach city field, 5800 Marina Drive, 5 to 10 p.m.

Opening reception for St. Stephen’s Visual Arts 4th Conservatory Exhibit, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Opening reception for photographer Margaret Kelley, Artists’ Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Opening reception featuring Brenda Alcorn’s fish prints, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Opening reception for “Cuba Awakening,” The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, 6 to 9 p.m.

Master Gardener tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524.

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

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

Thursday April 10

April 11

April 13

Monday April 14

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 1 to 1:45 p.m. Register at artleagueami@gmail.com or call 778-2099.

Tuesday April 15

Children’s story time on weather, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Yoga with Lucy, AMI Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach,

10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $6. Bring a mat.

Starry night walk, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 7:45 to 9 p.m. Reserve to 941-748-4501 ext. 6039.

Wednesday April 16

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

Program on “Bicycling from Berlin to Prague,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Mana-Tweens craft club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

Thursday April 17

Friends of the Island Library Book Club, “A Castle in the Forest,” by Norman Mailer, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

Knitting class, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, doors open at 6:30 p.m., play at 7 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

THE SUN

Ballroom dancing

Center Notes Jennifer Griffith

April classes at Center The Island Community Center offers the following classes at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For further details or to register, call the Center at 778-1908. or visit the website at www.islandcommunitycenter.com. For a complete list of Center programs and special events, visit the website.

Intro into video game developing Do you have an idea for a game, but don’t have the tools or knowledge to make it a reality? You will learn the basics of creating video games using Game Maker Studio. Computers, software and instructional handouts will be provided.

The initial four classes in April are free.

Day: Thursdays Time: 6 to 7 p.m.

Fee: Free for April Instructor: Jameson Wilkinson

AMI dragon boating

Friday April 18

Family movie, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Saturday April 19

Naturalist-led 60-minute wagon tours, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m., first come, first served.

43

Paddlers from Paradise is a pilot program for a dragon boat program and team or teams to be in full swing by fall. Come this month and learn the basics – dry dock and water training and a get in on a race. For more information on the April boating and training schedule and fees contact Melinda at 941462-2626.

Learn the art of ballroom dancing and the thrill of moving in unison with your partner. This class will offer a variety of dance instruction on a rotating basis. Dances include, swing, foxtrot, cha cha, waltz, tango, samba, and more. There must be eight people signed up per class.

Day: Tuesdays Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fee: Members, $6 per class or $10 per couple; non-members, $12 per class or $20 per couple Instructor: Robin Rhodes

Technology university This is a new series of classes for the technology challenged. You will learn about computers, smartphones, Kindles, etc. Check with the Community Center for a full schedule of class topics. Preregistration is required.

Days: Wednesdays: April 2, Kindle training; April 9, iPhones and iPads; April 16, Facebook and social media; April 23, Android phones and tablets Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Fee: Members, $10; nonmembers, $15 Instructors: Various

Zumba gold (55+low impact) Zumba fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a one-of-akind fitness program.

Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Times 10 to 11 a.m.

Fees: Members, $6; nonmembers, $12 Instructor: Grisel McCain

DEPARTMENT: Supervision clarified FROM PAGE 36

filed a lawsuit against Shearon in February.

Among other things, the suit alleges that Shearon directed building department and code enforcement officials to rule unfavorably against the BeachHouse restaurant in regard to development requests and potential code violations.

Shearon denies the allegations and says he was simply relaying complaints received from constituents.

The new resolution addresses these concerns, and says, “The mayor may not actively participate or influence any city employee or contractor on any issue, decision-making, or job performance which may foreseeably come before the city commission for action.”

In addition to addressing concerns raised by the unresolved lawsuit, the need to clarify department head oversight was prompted by the mayor and commission’s desire for greater department head accountability concerning city

project timelines and completion.

The discussions on department head oversight served as notice that Commissioners Clarke, Vosburgh and Straight intend to be actively engaged in the management of the city, whereas Vice Mayor Janie Robertson has been more inclined to defer to the mayor on matters of staff oversight and daily operations.

Commissioners adopted the resolution by a 4 to 1 measure, with Robertson voting against it.

Vosburgh will interact with Gilbert and

the building department. Robertson will meet with City Clerk Jamie Anderson and Treasurer Sheila Dalton. Straight will meet with Police Chief Sam Speciale, and Clarke will meet with Public Works Supervisor Tom Woodard.

When asked if he felt his mayoral powers had been diminished, Shearon said, “No, it gave me exactly what I needed to move forward and gave me the clarification I’ve been trying to get for two months.”

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THE SUN

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS CAPT GREG BURKE, Duncan Real Estate Need listings, all inventory sold or pending Call 941-5928373 email - gregburkesr@ hotmail.com BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself.

Various positions available.

Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0 THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).

OUR DAILY BREAD of Bradenton is looking for volunteer servers 9amnoon. Ask for Penny 941745-2992

AUCTIONS ONLINE ONLY AUCTION - Buses, Tractor & Equipment & More for Sale! Ends April 3rd @ 7PM. Gulf Bay Auctions: 251-600-9595 or Visit GulfBayAuctions.com, AU3301

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE POWER WINDOW and LOCK repair. Licensed, mobile, Guaranteed. Call for Free estimate. 941-7801735 MV 46219

BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

Call us today! 941-778-3986

BOATS SALES ARE VERY GOOD, Season is in full swing. We are sold out again. Consignment boats are needed. "We also Buy Boats. www.islandboatsales.net 941228-3489. Dave-Island Resident & Owner.

TRAILER ESTATES BOAT SLIPS $ 6 per foot .Minutes from Sarasota Bay. Repair shop & fish cleaning station on site. Call T.J. 941-7567177 AMI BOATERS SELLING or BUYING, call Captain Dave!

World Class Yacht Sales 877-901-BOAT. captaindave@wcyachtsales.com Bringing buyers and sellers together!

CORTEZ DIVING COMPANY Call 941-792-7595. Underwater Hull Maintenance THE BEST BOAT Detailing Co. In Town. A & M Boat Detailing. Call Gary For Free Quote 941-223-2368 18' PONTOON 2006 HONDA 40hp. Runs good with trailer. Asking $4499.

Call Robert 941-730-1291

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

CLEANING SERVICE C & T HOUSEKEEPING. For all your cleaning needs. Free Estimates.

Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512 CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways etc.

Call 941-251-5948

AMISUN.COM

JACKIE'S CLEANING SERVICE. Residential & Commercial. 19 years experience. References available. Free estimates.

"Cleaning your way." Call 941-251-6209

COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS OFFICE SPACE in Holmes Beach. $375 to $875. month. STORAGE SPACE $95 to $195/month. Call 941-737-1121 ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Commercial 2 Lots 104x120 Real Estate only $1,200,000. Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216

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

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

EMPLOYMENT PART-TIME SALES Clerk.

Evenings & weekends. Retiree's welcome. Gift shop on Anna Maria Island. Call 727-244-5906 AIRLINE CAREERS BEGIN here - Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Housing and Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 877-741-9260 www.FixJets.com CDL-A TEAM OWNER Operators: $2,500 Lease Incentive! Team Dedicated Routes. Great Revenue & Regular Weekly Home Time! 888-486-5946 NFI Industries nfipartners.com

APRIL 2, 2014

FOOD GRADE TANKERS, Class-A CDL w/tanker endorsement, Prefer 2 yrs experience, Mileage & Drop Pay, Vacation, Health, Dental & 401k. For information call 800-569-6816 or go to our website www.ottery transportation.com HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING Technician Training! Fast Track, Hands On, National Certification Program. Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits Eligible!

877-994-9904

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES SALE! NIKI’S GIFTS & ANTIQUE SHOP 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. Select Sterling & Gold 50% to 60% off. Select gifts, dolls, Bric-Brac, Vintage & Costume jewelry, glassware, crystal art 35% to 80% off. Just arrived beautiful 5 piece white wicker Henry Link bedroom set. Driftwood pieces,. Open 7 days 9:30-5.

AIRLINE CAREERS BEGIN here - Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Housing and Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 877-741-9260 www.FixJets.com

ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open Tuesday and Thursday.

9:30am-2pm, Saturday.

10am - 1pm. Donations during shop hours, but preferred on Wednesday.

9am - 11am. 511 Pine Ave. Anna Maria Call 941-7792733.

FOR SALE

GARAGE SALE APRIL 4 & 5, Friday & Saturday. 9am5pm. 806 Gladiolus, Anna Maria. Household goods, clothes and much more!

RATTAN BISTRO TABLE SET with 4 swivel barstools and 34" beveled glass top for sale. Perfect height for dining with view. Nice condition, priced to sell!

Call 941-345-4065.

CANNON EOS DIGITAL REBEL XTI Strap 58mm Cannon zoom lens EF-S 18-55mm (2) Bower 58mm macro UV filters 58 mm UV filter Digital Optics 0.45X Digital Wide Lens w/macro Sigma 70-300 (1:4-5.6) zoom + macro lens, Low quality recording (picture) 2.5 megapixels Medium quality recording 5.3 megapixels High quality recording 10.1 megapixels. Camera bag, battery and charger, operating booklet. Seldom used and very clean, no damage or scratches, originally purchased for about $800, additional lenses purchased for about $450. Asking $500. Call 941-778-9818 GENERAC" POWER FOR your home. Model #7550 EXL. Be ready ofr a power outage. Asking $895. Call 941-730-1291

GARAGE SALE 8am - noon, Saturday, April 5. Outdoor furniture, misc household items. 116 White Avenue, Holmes Beach.

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

Neil 941-726-3077 RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget.

Call Mike 616-204-8822.

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

“HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honey dohomerepairinc.com

HOME SERVICES HEADED BACK HOME? I'll keep an eye on your seasonal home for you until you get back. Weekly or Monthly inspections.

Email reports after each visit. www.amivhc.com or Call 941-685-8999 GENERAL BELLE PRESSURE Cleaning & Sealing. Inside/ outside. Tile, grout, pool cages, patios, driveways, etc. Commercial & Residential. Call 352-223-1134 WILL CHECK YOUR home while you are away. 30 year resident. Great references.

Weekly or Bi-weekly. Call Safe Away 941-962-0581 DRAIN CLEANING James VanFossen A.K.A. “RIP” Call 941-301-6077

INTERIOR DESIGN THE HOME STYLIST Interior decorating. Vacation Homes & Rentals. Great packages that meet your budget. Call to schedule consultation. Debbie Wagner 941-518-8783

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 TOP NOTCH LAWN CARE For all your landscaping needs. Commercial and Residential Call 941-932-6600 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

APRIL 2, 2014

classified

LOCKSMITH ISLAND LOCKSMITH, “Lock Around the Clock”.

Licensed/bonded/insured.

Call 941-778-1661 or 941713-4414

LOST & FOUND FOUND CAMERA ON beach in Anna Maria near Palm Ave, Call 812-3507575 FOUND RABIS TAG from Cook County, Illinois at Ave E in Holmes Beach. Call 815-953-5997 LOST SET of KEYS in Holmes Beach February 19th.

Call 941-778-3330. Please leave message LOST DOG FEMALE Yorkie “Precious” limited hearing and vision. Very Friendly.

Call 941-920-4934 or 941778-2907 REWARD! LOST CAMERA in Bradenton Beach on Sunday February 8. Call 217-8410007. REWARD. Valuable pictures.

LOST PANDORA BRACELET many charms. Great sentimental value. Call 518-365-2702 MISSING 18 INCH GOLD chain with diamond drop, sterling silver seed bracelet , location Blue Water Beach Club between 9/12 & 9/13/2013 heartbroken was gift from husband 45 years ago REWARD please call 863-668-8566 no questions asked

MASSAGE ENJOY A MASSAGE at your convenience in the comfort of your own home. 10 years experience.

MA59074. Call 941-3016400

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!

Call us today! 941-778-3986

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 16 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

"PERSONAL TRAINER" A.M.I. Fitness. Blake Forsberg ACE-certified. Special deals this month including no membership fee if you work with me. Call 360271-8439 forsbergblake@ gmail.com

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/ residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, 10% off. Licensed & insured. Call 941448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www.WalyPainting.com

PERSONAL SERVICES SMALL ODD JOBS, yard work, walk dog etc. Call George 941-773-5518 CHUCK'S MOBILE UPHOLSTERY Island resident. Call 941-565-1867 THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine.

Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941-2012649

PET SITTING ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available.

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496

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

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. Anna Maria Island & West Bradenton. Certified pool operator. Residential/ commercial. Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657

AMISUN.COM

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 DIRECT Gulf front Condo.

Bradenton Beach. Solid 10% Investment rental income. $299,000. By Owner. flipkey.com/124227.

Call 941-962-8220 ACTIVE 55+ COMMUNITY with heated pool and boat docks. Beaches are 5 min. away. Beautifully Remodeled in 2012, 2BR/2BA, villa with open floor plan. Turnkey Furnished. New Designer kitchen includes Stainless appliances, granite tops and a large island cook-top. New bathrooms and walk in closets with additional storage. Enjoy the convenience of your own washer & dryer within the unit. $159,900. Call 303-884-9479

THE SUN

OWNER FINANCE. WATERFRONT Bayou condo, 522 Pine Ave. $275,000.

2BR/1BA Furnished, completely remodeled, granite kitchen, New tile bath, fixtures, furniture, washer/dryer. All new appliances, 46 inch flat screen TV. Professionally decorated. Walk to historic city pier and fine dining. Call 941-7781410.

PERICO BAY CLUB CONDO for sale. LOWEST PRICE IN COMMUNITY. Light & Bright with Vaulted Ceilings…in beautiful condition…$173,000!!

Call today! Kathleen White 941-773-0165 Island Real Estate.

ISLAND HIDEAWAY only a block from beach 3BR/2.5BA. Oversized garage. Meticulously maintained. Lush tropical landscaping.

Can be rented weekly. $599K. Call Karen Day Fineout. Wagner Realty.941-518-3682.

BRING YOUR BOAT! Canal villa with no bridges to ICW. 2/2 with carport. 23 foot dock. Open plan, Update kitchen & baths. $259,900 Katharine Pepper, RoseBay International 941-755-2100 or 941-792-9459 DEEP WATER CANAL Front Home. 3BR/2BA on corner lot. Between Manatee Ave and Cortez Rd. 1 block to intracoastal. 1 block to beach. $475,000 Owner may finance. 941-778-7980 or 941-778-7565.

IMPECCABLE TOWNHOME only a short walk to beach and shopping.

2BR/3BA + Den. End Unit. 2 car garage. Can be rented weekly. Call Karen Day Fineout .

Wagner Realty. 941-5183682 1BR/1BA CONDO in Country Village 55+.

Updated kitchen, stainless steel appliances. New carpet and furniture $59,900.

For more information call 517-902-2542

INVESTMENT PROPERTY: Holmes Beach Condo.

2BR/2BA Two balconies' overlooking pool & Gulf.

Call Owner 941-778-9378 4BR/3BA HOUSE on 71.5 acres with 18 stall horse barn in Parrish, Florida. Call Steve Georgie 941-321-6253 at Keller Williams Realty

REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME West of Gulf Drive, QUIET Street, Beach Close, 64’x80’ Lot at 112-79th Street, Holmes Beach, $659,000, 941-778-6364

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2BR/2BA Mirror Lake, pool, tennis, workout room. End unit ground level across from SCF included trash, basic cable, pest, washer & dryer, condo application required. $800/mo $800 security deposit Available immediate.

2BR/2BA Perico Bay Club. Lake view, pool, tennis, workout rm. washer/dryer, carport.

Secured entry. 1.5 miles to island. Condo application required Available 4/1 $1300/mo $1300 security deposit. Credit/ Background required with everyone over 18 years old. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com ANNUAL RENTALS: VILLAGE GREEN 2BR/2BA/2CG. Large Screen Porch. Available April 10. $1200/mo.

BAY VIEW TERRACE: 2BR/ 1.5 BA renovated upstairs condo from April 1. $1,250/mo. Furnished or unfurnished. Call Kate 941345-1295 or email: kate@ islandreal.com Island Real Estate of AMI, Inc. HOLMES BEACH APARTMENT 2BR/1BA W/D, carport, quiet, close to beach.

April thru December. $950/ mo includes utilities. Call 941-761-4153 ANNUAL RENTAL 2BR/1BA ground floor, half duplex, $1,200/mo. Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941-7787200 or email rentals@ satorealestate.com.

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HOLMES BEACH 2BR/2BA, ground level duplex, steps to the beach, screened porch, washer/dryer/ dishwasher/refrigerator.

Furnished or not. May 1st availability. islandbeachrental@msn.com

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$750/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-778-1915

VACATION RENTALS – BRADENTON, houses or condos. Weekly or monthly.

Call 941-794-1515. WWW. Coastalpropertiesrealty. com Suzanne Wilson, PA, Broker 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!

RENTAL INVENTORY NEEDED!! Help us fill our waiting list for 2015.

Call Tracy or Amberly at 941-778-4800 A Paradise Vacation Rentals OFF-SEASON 2BR/2BA CONDO all inclusive $1800/mo. Call Suzanne at Coastal Properties Realty, 941-794-1515.

RENTAL WANTED

ANNUAL RENTAL WANTED for long time island business owners. Prefer single family home. Ready to move in May or June. Tom at 941-993-4909

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classified

REAL ESTATE: OUT OF AREA NEAR BOONE, NC 2+/ac. tract 350ft of rushing streams 3000ft elevation private and secluded underground utilities and paved roads from only $9900. Call 877-717-5273 ext 91 UP TO 9 ACRES from $14,900. Mountain cabin only $89,900. Access to lake and trout stream.

Views of the Atlanta skyline. 45 minutes from Northern Atlanta. Priced below developer cost! Call 888-260-0905 Ext. 17.

TENNESSEE LOG HOME Sale! Saturday April 12th Only. New 1200 sf ready to finish log cabin on 10 acres with Free Boat Slip on 160,000 acre recreational lake. Only $89,900. Excellent financing. Call now 877-8880267, x76

SEAFOOD "DAY BOAT CAUGHT SEAFOOD� Cap't Anthony's Seafood, LLC. 107 Spring Ave. 941-778-2141 Fresh grouper, Red Snapper, Mullet, Stone Crab, Octopus, our FAMOUS "Manali Dip" a must have!!! These fish were sleeping in the gulf last night and prepared to be on your table today!

CAUGHT & PROCESSED LOCALLY BY CAPT ANTHONY MANALI, AN ISLAND LOCAL FOR OVER 50 YEARS!!

FISH CLEANING LESSONS by the "CAPTAINS WIFE". JoAnn Manali, Four times IGFA World Record Holder. FRESH FROM THE GULF TO YOUR PLATE! Call for appt. 941-778-2141

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

TRAVEL "TO ITALY WITH LOVE TOURS" small private/ personalized groups to Enchanting Sperlonga on The Mediterranean.

13 Nights at "Marconi's Charming B&B". Relaxed Day Trips: Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Positano, quaint villages. Great Price, allinclusive approx. $4,500 - $5,500 with airfare. June Morrocco, Owner/Guide.

Call 541-474-3541. www. toitalywithlovetours.com

Call us today! 941-778-3986 APRIL 2, 2014

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APRIL 2, 2014

business & service directory AUTOMOTIVE

home improvement

THE SUN

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Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 Interior Designs

computer service

movers

home improvement

painting HOME SERVICES

HOME SITTING / PET SITTING transportation

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THE SUN

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APRIL 2, 2014