Anna Maria Island Sun April 6, 2016

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VOL 16 No. 23

April 6, 2016

Soggy Saturday

CHANTELLE LEWIN | SUN MATT YOUNT | SUBMITTED

Wet conditions prevailed Saturday morning to start the Island weekend, as strong winds and more than 1.6 inches of rain soaked the area. Above left, a car lies half-submerged just off of 56th Street in Holmes Beach. Above right, Island visitors Jacee and Levi Yount take to the “high seas” on a mini-lake created at Gulf Drive and 75th Street.

Island mayors send transportation project list to officials The letter includes ways to immediately impact congestion, as well as priorities for a barrier island traffic study.

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

The four Island mayors have sent a letter to officials in the cities of Bradenton and Sarasota, Manatee and Sarasota counties, the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Agency and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) regarding ways to immediately impact traffic congestion on the barrier islands.

According to the letter, “We are asking each agency to review the list and work

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey business outdoors town crier real estate classified

4 6 7 14 26-27 32 36-41 45-47

with other appropriate agencies to determine when such an improvement can be implemented. Some of the recommendations are within the Manatee County area of responsibility and some are in FDOT’s areas and some recommendations involve local, county and state agencies.

“The mayors would like to work with each agency to help bring these quick fixes to fruition. We will be contacting each agency to follow up on implementation plans.”

Priorities

Short-term transportation priorities include: • Determine the viability and effectiveness of express buses both on see project, page 43

FIND IT all at the Anna Maria General Store and Deli. 14

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Carleton gets 21 months Carleton was originally set to stand trial for unlicensed real estate activity, but investigators turned their attention to complaints from renters that did not received vacation rental units.

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

TAMPA – US District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced former Holmes Beach real estate agent Michael Carleton to 21 months in a federal prison for taking deposits Carleton on rental units that were not available. Carleton, 53, was convicted of mail fraud Nov. 25 last year.

In addition, Carleton is required to pay $200,000 in a judgment against him in two cases where he took deposits and failed to deliver on rental units or their down payments. He is also required to pay $136,048.96 to his victims. His company, Coast Line Accommodations, book more than 70 renters, according to court documents.

After receiving complaints, the Holmes Beach Police Department investigated Carleton until U.S. Postal investigators took over.

Carleton’s real estate license was suspended in 2013 by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, and charges of operating without a license were brought against him, but the trial was see carleton, page 43

Ruling expected in rental occupancy lawsuit. 3

Good start, wet ending for the Food Truck and Music Festival. 23 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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Occupancy ruling anticipated Plaintiffs’ arguments

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – As of Monday, city officials and potentially-impacted vacation rental owners were still awaiting a judge’s ruling on whether an eight-person occupancy limit is legal.

Circuit Court Judge Gilbert Smith Jr. conducted a hearing in downtown Bradenton on Friday, April 1, the same day the city of Anna Maria’s vacation rental ordinance took effect.

Smith said he hoped to issue a ruling this week.

Assisted by attorney Aaron Thomas, attorney Randolph Smith represented Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Homes LLC. State records list Joe and Kelley Varner as the authorized personnel of the LLC that shares an address with Anna Maria Vacations and Anna Maria Island Beaches Real Estate; the latter of which lists Joe Varner, Shawn Kaleta and James Bayer as authorized members.

None of the plaintiffs attended the hearing.

The plaintiffs sought a motion for summary judgement that would render Section 108-53 of the vacation rental ordinance null and void.

Attorney Wade Vose represented the city, assisted by his mother, City Attorney Becky

Kathy Prucnell | Media Pool Photo

Attorney Randolph Smith addresses Judge Gilbert Smith Jr., with Mayor Dan Murphy and attorneys Wade and Becky Vose watching with keen interest.

Vose. The city sought a final summary judgement that denied the plaintiff’s motion and granted the city further relief.

Mayor Dan Murphy and City Commissioners Carol Carter and Doug Copeland attended the hearing.

The challenged ordinance states the maximum occupancy of a vacation rental shall be limited to the lesser of two persons per bedroom, plus two persons, or a total of eight occupants.

A rental property containing more than

one structure or rental unit is limited to eight occupants per lot or structure, whichever is less.

The grandfathering clause allows for fiveyears a maximum occupancy of two persons per bedroom in existing rentals, regardless of the number of bedrooms. When the provision expires on April 1, 2021, the occupancy restrictions would apply to all vacation rentals.

The occupancy restrictions do not apply to owner owner-occupied properties.

Randolph Smith said restricting occupancy is an attempt to prohibit vacation rentals, and that authority is preempted to the state.

In 2014, Senate Bill 356 amended House Bill 833 and returned to municipalities some ability to enact with local legislation pertaining solely to vacation rentals.

“A local law, ordinance or regulation may not prohibit vacation rentals, or regulate the duration or frequency of rentals,” the amended state law says.

Citing Black’s Law Dictionary, Randolph Smith said, “Prohibit means to forbid by law, to prevent, preclude or severely hinder.

The ordinance has the effect of prohibiting a vacation rental.”

He also cited a 2014 advisory legal opinion in which Attorney General Pam Bondi said the city of Wilton Manors could not limit vacation rentals to certain zoning districts.

Bondi noted those restrictions had to be in effect before the adoption of HB 883 in 2011.

Defendants’ arguments

Wade Vose said state limitations placed upon local governments pertain only to an outright prohibition of vacation rentals or limiting their frequency or duration of use. see VRO, page 21

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ISLAND NEWS

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APRIL 6, 2016

in brief

Attorney seeks vacation ordinance update Holmes Beach City Attorney Patricia Petruff has recommended updating the city’s property vacation ordinance due to an increasing number of vacation requests. In addition, she has recommended that the city’s code enforcement department begin an inventory of the city’s alleys due to the increasing number of encroachments such as landscaping, gazebos, fences, etc.

Planner nixes parking for mixed use Holmes Beach City Planner Bill Brisson has opined that existing parking is not adequate for the addition of three residential units above the AMI Plaza at 5304 Holmes Blvd. Owner Mike Hynds had submitted a mixed-use application to add the units above the plaza, which includes Lobstah’s restaurant.

According to Brisson’s report, “The site plan envisions using existing non-conforming parking spaces on the east side of the building. These parking spaces extend beyond the property line of the subject property into the right of way of Gulf Drive.”

He said if these parking spaces were at one time approved by the city, they might be considered legally nonconforming and may continue to be used for existing uses on the property.

“However, none of these parking spaces may be used to meet the parking requirement for the three new residential units,” Brisson concluded.

joe hendricks | sun

A recent FDEP review of the city’s submerged land lease indicates that tour boats and most other commercial vessels cannot up tie up to the city day dock.

FDEP weighs in on day dock The FDEP’s latest interpretation may prevent commercial vessels from accessing the public day dock.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

Watch for bridge maintenance Crews are working on the Cortez Bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight lane closures controlled by flaggers from 9 p.m. each night to 5 a.m. each morning Sunday, April 10, through Wednesday, April 13. Use caution and expect possible delays.

Easter service offertory The Easter Sunrise Service at Manatee County Beach collected $8,612, which will be split among the Island’s six participating churches, according to Anna Maria Island Kiwanis Club organizer Sandy Haas-Martens. She said that amount was likely the highest in the 52 year history of the event.

Balance your gut The Center of Anna Maria Island will host nutritional health coach and inspirational speaker Rather Hosch, who will offer a wellness workshop titled “The Gut Connection,” on April 14, from 7 to 8 p.m.

Get the low-down on how important the gut is to the overall health equation. Find out how a healthy digestive system is the key to overall health.

Things like irritating rashes, blotchy skin or breakouts, forgetfulness, anxiety and mild depression, weight gain or loss, inflammation, mood swings, and fatigue can all be cured when the gut is balanced.

The workshop is free. For more information, contact Will Schererlein at 941-778-1908 or will@centerami.org

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials have received the letter they requested from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) regarding the use of the city day dock and the commercial spaces located at the foot of the pier.

Dated Thursday, March 31, the letter from FDEP Southwest District Director Mary Yeargan was addressed to Building Official Steve Gilbert.

“The Department has conducted a review of the uses of the city of Bradenton Beach pier and day dock.

It has come to the department’s attention that commercial vessels use the day dock to conduct unauthorized revenue generating activities … the lease limits the use of the day dock to the mooring of recreational vessels and a water taxi,” the letter said.

This statement contrasts an e-mail response provided in February by FDEP spokesperson Lori Elliott.

“The lease authorizes temporary mooring of vessels on a first-come, first-served basis. The lease provides for services to be offered to various public users,” the previous response said, making no reference to nonauthorized commercial uses.

FDEP’s latest response may nega-

tively impact the business operations of Paradise Boat Tours, Anna Maria Sailing Adventures, charter fishing boats, bait salesman John Maguire and others that use the day dock.

Police Chief and Pier Team facilitator Sam Speciale questions whether FDEP took into account that users pay no fees to the city and financial transactions are not allowed on the dock. A city ordinance prohibits selling or offering any merchandise, article or service without city commission consent.

Speciale also said FDEP has not defined what constitutes a water taxi is, and that’s something he now seeks.

His research failed to produce a definition. Bradenton Beach ordinances contain no references to water taxis, and neither do Manatee County’s.

Florida Statutes provide no such definition, nor do the FDEP and U.S. Coast Guard websites.

During the Feb. 18 commission meeting, Mayor Bill Shearon said, “The way it was explained by the attorney was a water taxi goes from point A to point B; there’s no side excursions.”

Paradise Boat Tours owner Sherman Baldwin subleases city-owned commercial space at the land-end of the pier. He uses the space as a tour terminal. He also sells bait, rents and sells fishing gear and provides concierge services for eight other local businesses.

“I researched the term water taxi and spoke with FDOT and FWC and nobody on a state or county level was

I researched the term water taxi and spoke with FDOT and FWC and nobody on a state or county level was able to define the term.”

Sherman Baldwin Paradise Boat Tours owner able to define the term,” he said.

Some Florida municipalities do have ordinances that define water taxis.

Tampa’s ordinance defines a water taxi as watercraft capable of being used as a means of transportation and engaged in activity where a fee is paid for transportation from one destination to another.

The Naples ordinance says a water taxi is a vessel offered for hire to transport passengers to and from properties adjacent to local waterways.

Baldwin recently purchased a see day dock, page 8

APRIL 6, 2016

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Petitioners protest rental restriction change The change set for 2017 would increase their rental period from one week to 30 days.

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

HOLMES BEACH – A group of property owners in the R-1 zoning district have petitioned the city regarding a change in rental restrictions that is set to take effect in 2017.

In 2007, the City Commission changed rental restrictions in the R-1 zoning district from weekly to 30 days. Rental owners who could prove they were renting at the time were allowed to continue to rent for anther

10 years. However, at the end of 10 years, they would have to comply with the 30-day minimum.

The group of property owners has asked to meet with city commissioners because they feel the change would cause them to suffer substantial financial hardship as well as a loss in the value of their property. They said after 2017 they will be “in the difficult position of trying to find tenants who can afford to stay at the beach 30 days or more consecutively.”

The owners that signed the petition include Linda Gallen, Robert Gutierrez, Richard Garguile, Marcia Ward, Debra Gutierrez, David McClenhan and Robert Hartung.

Their property is located between 42nd and 52nd streets,

Petition by property owners

In their petition, they maintain: • All the properties have more than adequate off street parking.

• The owners reside in Manatee County or have Island real estate firms available to immediately respond to problems.

• The properties have not been subject to any nuisance complaints.

• The change would diminish their property values and constitute a taking for which they are entitled to compensation.

• The properties are within walking

distance of the beach, are difficult to rent monthly and are popular with families with children. The ordinance would reduce the availability of rentals to families with children.

• There are hundreds of properties nearby were short term rental is not restricted, and permitting those to continue “is arbitrary, invidious discrimination without justification and constitutes spot zoning."

The petition maintained that the city has violated the petitioners’ procedural due process rights under the Fifth and 14th amendments to the Constitution and Section 9, Article 1 of the Florida Constitution.

Beach volleyball The volleyball courts at Manatee Public Beach were extremely popular with spring breakers and continue to draw sun-seeking beachgoers each week.

CINDY LANE | SUN

We’re proud to be Manatee County’s largest and best-rated Trane dealer!

Accepting the Trane Top Ten Award March 5, 2016

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OPINION

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

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APRIL 6, 2016

EDITORIAL Separate but equal

R

ecently the mayor of Anna Maria had an electric sign installed near the entrance to the city reminding bicyclists to obey the rules of the road. The message was brief and to the point but did not include a reminder to motorists to likewise obey traffic laws.

Bicyclists complained about the sign being too harsh and the city recently took it down, a move we believe should be reconsidered.

The number of bicycles on Anna Maria Island streets has increased dramatically in recent years as more and more visitors discover the Island’s charm and beauty. Cycling is a great way to see the sights, plus it’s healthier and better for the environment than driving a car.

So we all find ourselves crowding onto shared roadways. Unfortunately, those roads are narrow and full of traffic. Riding the skinny bike lanes along Gulf and Marina Drives is a scary prospect, for both bikers and the motorists trying to avoid them. he laws have been set up so that bicycles have to be treated like cars and trucks. They are supposed to travel the same direction as cars, signal their intentions like car drivers and stop when the signs say so.

With more and more people opting for nonmotorized modes of transport, those driving cars, carts and scooters face a task that can't be overemphasized - being ever more vigilant and alert.

“Keep your head on a swivel” has never been more appropriate.

Neither has building a consensus that everybody is going to try to follow the rules. For motorists, that means coming to a complete stop and no rolling through the stop sign. For cyclists, the same, even though stopping and starting up again at every side street intersection is physically more difficult. But you’re riding a bike partly for the exercise so don’t get lazy and roll through or see how slow you can go without putting down your foot.

Use turn signals, please. We’ve noticed a lot of car drivers have abandoned that practice. It’s a courtesy so that other drivers will know what to expect. Cyclists should do the same. And if you're riding at night, make sure you have a light on.

Instead of complaining that we’re against cycling, remember that we’re all in this together. The streets are more crowded and it’s not Mayberry anymore. It’s busy not only along the main streets of this Island, but also along what might seem to be back roads but which are, in fact, main thoroughfares in our little burg.

As for the road sign recently removed, we’d like to see it erected again but with one that reads, “Cyclists and motorists must obey all traffic laws.”

T

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Editor's note: This letter originally was sent to the Bradenton Beach city clerk and was accompanied by the signature of 37 other concerned citizens.

Park bathrooms a bad idea The residents surrounding the Herb Dolan Park would like to thank the commission, Lt. Cosby and the Public Works Department for your efforts to improve our city parks. We are looking forward to many of the planned improvements. These changes are positive and will improve the park while retaining its intended feeling and purpose.

We are, however, very concerned regarding the discussions to install unattended public bathrooms in the park. We strongly feel that this would be contrary to the intended purpose of this neighborhood park.

Installing a bathroom will create a variety of issues, including cost, additional burden on the already overworked Public Works Department, plus odor and environmental issues.

The bathroom, regardless of placement, will stand directly between the surrounding properties’ front balconies and the water.

Imagine how much property values would be affected by replacing your view of the bay with a view of a public bathroom.

There is no need for this type of facility. The Herb Dolan Park is not a destination park, nor was it intended or designed to be a destination park.

Today, it is easy for the police to drive by and see what is happening in the park. The installation of a bathroom creates challenges for the police and neighbors when it comes to monitoring activities in the park. It will also create a screened, private area for every type of illicit activity you can imagine.

There is no precedent for placing a bathroom in a small, neighborhood park of this size. John Chappie Park, Katie Pierola Park and Lou Barolo Park do not have bathrooms.

In summary, we like 95 percent of the proposed changes, since they

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. are in alignment with the historical and intended purpose of Herb Dolan Park. Furthermore, we feel that city investments in erecting and maintaining public restroom facilities be considered for more intensely used destinations, including Cortez Beach or higher use beach areas, and not this small neighborhood park.

John Burns Bradenton Beach

Your thoughts?

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment?

Is there something you need to get off your chest?

Send us a letter to the editor and have your say.

There are several ways to make your opinion known.

Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@ amisun.com. If you prefer the old-fashioned way you can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and must contain your name and the city in which you reside. Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.

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on the agenda

the sun survey

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What do you think of the new biking, walking and driving trail being proposed for AMI?

35%

38%

I'm not so sure. I want to see the details first.

Great idea. It will make it safer to walk, ride a bike or drive a car or golf cart on AMI.

Anna Maria 10005 Gulf Drive

4/12: Planning and Zoning Board, 4 p.m.

4/14: City Commission shade meting, 5 p.m.

4/14: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

4/6: Community Redevelopment Agency, CANCELED 4/6: Capital Improvement Projects, 10 a.m.

4/6: Pier Team, 11 a.m.

4/7: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

4/12: City Commission work session, 1 p.m.

4/14: Department head meet-

ing, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach

5801 Marina Drive 4/6: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 10 a.m.

4/12: City Commission meting, 7 p.m.

4/14: City Commission work session, 7 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

4/11: Island Transportation Planning Organization, Holmes Beach City Hall, 2 p.m.

4/14: Manasota League of Cities, Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, 9:30 a.m.

mark your calendar

27%

Sounds OK as long as it doesn't go through my neighborhood.

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday April 6

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

In your opinion, which group best obeys the Island's traffic laws?

• • • • •

Pedestrians Cyclists Motorists All of the above None of the above

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

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

Lifelong Learning Academy discussion on the criminal justice system, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10.

Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

Gulf Coast Writers group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:45 p.m.

Book and Craft Club for ages 8 -12, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

AMI Community Connections gathering of friends, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Thursday April 7

Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane

Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Accounting John Reitz

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty

Ad director Chantelle Lewin

Web/Social media Jocelyn V. Greene Cindy Lane

Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Monica Simpson

Bike tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m.

Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 8.

Zumba with Suzy for beginners, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 11 a.m., $10 per class.

Aerobics for Seniors, Roser

Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

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

Friday April 8

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

Sarasota Institute of Lifetime Learning lecture series via DVD, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m. $8 per lecture, tickets at the door.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10.

Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

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

Opening reception featuring Kathy Spark, Chris Collins and Joanne Wilhelm, Artists Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Opening reception for Joanna Karpay’s “Old Florida Splendor,” Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 38

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Food, music and auction at the Grand Affaire Entertainment will be provided by Howl at the Moon, an interactive, high energy, dueling piano show.

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

ANNA MARIA – The Grand Affaire, The Center’s 26th annual gala, will be held on April 16, from 6 to 11 p.m. in The Center’s Grand Ballroom, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The Chiles Restaurant Group will present a culinary experience that features culinary parings with wine. Hors d’oeuvres include caviar with blini, oysters, charcuterie and cheese with accouterments. The first course will be a farm inspired, seasonal salad, and the main course will be dry aged rib eye with port and lobster with beurre blanc with seasonal vegetable gratin. For dessert, choose from torched meringue, hand shaved blueberry granite and Key lime profiterole.

Entertainment will be provided by Howl at the Moon, an interactive,

high energy, dueling piano show, set to a variety of music from classic rock to today’s tunes.

Guests can bid on silent auction items throughout the evening. The live auction will be pared down to a few fabulous packages, and paddles will be used for this portion of the event. Items will be available online before the event with an option to buy now.

Tickets are $175 per person. The black tie event begins with social hour at 6 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m.

Sponsors for the event include The Sun, Mainsail Lodging and Development, Motorcoach Store, Progressive Cabinetry, Erik Abrahamson of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, Pineapple Fish and Bright House Networks.

Sponsorships are available and include and include Affaire, $10,000; Entertainment, $6,000; Gold, $5,000; Silver, $2,500; and Friend, $750. To become a sponsor, contact Affaire Chair Dawn Mishler at 941518-4997 or by e-mail at dmishler@ tampabay.rr.com.

APRIL 6, 2016

DAY DOCK: FDEP weighs in FROM PAGE 4

second vessel for use as a water taxi and he believes his continued business operations can be conducted in a manner compliant with the submerged land lease.

Remedy proposed

The FDEP letter says the city can pursue authorization to use the leased area for commercial purposes by submitting an application for consideration. The letter says modifying the existing lease to allow for additional commercial uses would result in the city forfeiting the fee waiver it currently receives.

“If the city wishes to retain the lease fee waiver, it will be necessary to eliminate the ongoing commercial uses at the day dock,” the letter says.

During previous commission discussion, Commissioner Jake Spooner said a modified lease would cost about $2,500 annually.

He suggested Baldwin would be willing to share those costs, and Baldwin said he would.

Spooner feels a commercial

lease would create additional revenue for the city. The commission directed Shearon to follow up on this request, but no further action has been taken.

The FDEP letter referenced a second subleased commercial space and said, “All activities must be for a municipal recreational purpose … It does not include concessions, leases and subleases to businesses not related to the former, such as jewelry stores and clothing shops.”

This contrasts the previous FDEP response that said, “The submerged land lease does not regulate the kind of activity that is occurring on adjacent uplands.”

The FDEP letter concludes by saying, “Please contact the department within 15 days to discuss a resolution to the matter referenced above.”

Speciale referred to a survey document that indicates the subleased commercial spaces lie outside the submerged land lease boundaries, and he said the efforts to further clarify these matters are ongoing.

APRIL 6, 2016

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APRIL 6, 2016

Moratorium petition requested It remains to be seen if the city commission will reject a citizen-requested building moratorium for a third time.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The citizenled efforts to enact a building moratorium remain ongoing.

Longtime city resident Pricilla VonAhnen recently requested from City Clerk Terri Sanclemente an Ordinance Initiative Petition form that could ultimately result in a voter referendum on a potential moratorium ordinance.

The petition form VonAhnen received

includes language from Article IV of the city charter that addresses ordinance enactment by way of citizens’ initiative.

The petition form says, “The electors of the city may propose ordinances to the commission provided a minimum of 50 electors or 10 percent of the electors voting in the last city election, whichever is greater, have signed a petition on a form provided by the city clerk.”

Three hundred and ninety one ballots were cast in the Nov. 2015 city elections, which means 50 signatures are needed. An informal list containing more than 150 signatures was previously presented to the City Commission as part of the efforts to have a moratorium enacted due to concerns about large vacation rental homes being built in residential joe hendricks | sun

see petition, page 33

Pricilla VonAhnen and her husband Frank Harrison are among those still pushing for a building moratorium in Bradenton Beach.

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APRIL 6, 2016

GRAND OPENING • 3 NEW MODEL HOMES

are just the beginning

Actual Views from Marina Walk

NEW WATERFRONT RESORT HOMES FROM THE $500s

It’s not just the water, it’s all we add to it! Harbour Isle unveils the latest additions to our award-winning waterfront resort community overlooking beautiful Anna Maria Sound.

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Tour 3 New Model Homes Today!

NEW RESORT AMENITIES

New Beach Club with Private Clubhouse, Fitness Center, Yoga Lawn, Resort Pool and Spa, Cabana Bar and Sky Bar, Sandy Beach, Kayak Launch, Neighborhood Amenities with Outdoor Kitchens, Pools, Cabanas, Spas and Fire Pits, Moments to Anna Maria Island, named one of Florida’s “10 Best Secret Beaches� by USA Today/10Best.com No CDD Fees – Visit us online to learn more!

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12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209

Located on SR-64 West, just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

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Ritch Rosati | submitted

Hair today ...

Giselle Moire enjoys a dip in the Gulf of Mexico off Anna Maria Island.

APRIL 6, 2016

Patagonia ExOfficio Nautilus Simms Orvis Sage Scott Bote Yeti Rio

401 & 505 Pine Ave. Anna Maria 941-254-4996

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AMI OUTFITTERS

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Coastal Gear & Apparell

www.amioutfitters.com

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APRIL 6, 2016

The Anna Maria Island Art League presents the 28th Annual

“Springfest” April 9th & 10th, 2016

THE SUN

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January resort tax collections

Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Festival Sat. & Sun.

10am - 5pm Holmes Beach, FL City Hall Field

Juried Art Exhibit Live Music (Saturday)

10am to 1pm Anna Maria String Band 1pm to 4:30pm Drum Bunny - Scott Blum & Howie Banfield

“Young at Art” Children’s Exhibit & Activity Area Community Booths Raffle Food Court Free Admission & Parking

Artwork Courtesy of Robert Johnson

www.IslandArtLeague.org 941-778-2099

Edward E. & Lillian H.

Bishop Foundation

Manatee County’s 5 percent resort tax, or tourist tax, is collected from owners of accommodations rented for six months or less who charge the tax to their renters, in most cases, tourists. About 50 percent of the tax proceeds are allocated to Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau tourism marketing efforts, with 20 percent allocated to beach renourishment. Resort tax increases reflect both increased visitation and improved tax collection efforts. Amounts shown were collected in January and paid to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office in February. To anonymously report a rental owner who may not be paying the tax, call 941-741-4809 or visit www.taxcollector.com/services_resort_tax_tips.asp.

Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

Running from snow Avid runner from Michigan, Dave Lyon has outrun the winds and blustery cold and now seeks the warm breezes and soft sands of Anna Maria Island is seen at Skinny’s by the beach.

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THE SUN

BUSINESS

APRIL 6, 2016

Shop the AM General Store

Investment Corner

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

On Anna Maria Island, there’s a village within a village and not just any village, but a green village. And what every village needs is a general store, and not just any general store, but a general store that sells wine, gourmet and specialty foods and has an awesome deck.

Anna Maria General Store and Deli on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria has been owned by Brian Seymour since July 2012 after managing it for the prior 2 ½ years. Originally located a little further down Pine Avenue, in August last year, Seymour relocated his business into Anna Maria’s Historic Green Village. Not only was he eager to be in this location in order to expand his services and inventory, but he was also enticed by the green concept the village had embraced.

The building Anna Maria General Store now occupies is solar power, energy efficient with an eco-friendly cooling system.

The Historic Green Village has earned a platinum LEED rating and is a net zero energy village.

In addition, when Seymour was redesigning the space for his business, he insisted on using reclaimed wood on both the pine floors and the rustic display shelves and wine racks of what once was a vintage family home.

As great looking as the general store is with high ceilings and French doors, the real appeal is what’s inside.

The front section of the store is a combination of a well stocked wine shop and a mini “what you forgot to bring to the beach” store. Seymour carries 200 varieties of wine, artfully displayed, that will satisfy the fussiest of wine drinkers. The other half is a catch all shop where you can find a little bit of everything from suntan lotion to fishing gear to beach chairs, in addition to some local works of art.

The deli is the heart of Anna Maria General Store, and in its new location, there is a kitchen with a much wider variety of both hot and cold food. The deli offers

TOM BREITER

MyRA: A Roth IRA for beginners Many of my clients have built up a healthy investment portfolio and have confidence in their financial future.

They’ve been saving and investing so long that it has become second nature. But what about the young people in your life? Do you have children or grandchildren who are just entering the workforce or struggling to pay down student loans? They may ask, “Where do I even begin?”

Introducing MyRA

LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

Brian Seymour shows the 200 varieties of wine displayed in the front section of the store. an assortment of cold sandwiches like roast beef, turkey, ham and cheese, tuna, egg and chicken salad, as well as hot pressed sandwiches including a Cuban.

Seymour also offers breakfast every day featuring omelets, breakfast sandwiches, eggs, waffles and biscuits and sausage.

Stop in after breakfast for some of the grill specials like pulled pork, burgers, Reubens and cheese steak.

The potato, macaroni, Farfalle and other salads are made in house, and coffee and tea are always available. The baked goods take up an entire display case and include cake by the slice, brownies, cupcakes, cookies and muffins.

Across the room is another large display case containing cheeses of all types including Wisconsin cheese, ice cream and frozen locally prepared pizza. Most of the prepared items come from local businesses like Tyler’s Ice Cream, Hometown Desserts, V & C Italian Kitchen, St. Armands Baking Company, the Traveling Gourmet, the Village Idiot and others.

ANNA MARIA GENERAL STORE AND DELI 503 Pine Avenue Anna Maria 941-779-9200 www.annamariageneralstore.com

Monday – Thursday: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

All major credit cards accepted In addition, there is a large selection of groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks, tobacco products, water and soda. Anna see general store, page 16

The starting line for the race to a comfortable retirement may be clearer than ever. In light of the fact that 31 percent of American workers have nothing saved for retirement, the government has recently begun to offer a new retirement savings account that is perfect for beginners: MyRA. MyRA is a new kind of Roth IRA designed to help those that don’t have access to a workplace retirement account and are just beginning to save. The MyRA follows all of the rules that apply to Roth IRAs, such as income and contribution limits. The major differences between MyRA and a Roth IRA are that a MyRA is free and has no minimums.

Benefits of a MyRA

MyRA costs nothing to open and has no fees. Roth IRAs usually charge commissions or maintenance fees, which can eat away at the principal and make it harder to accumulate wealth. With the MyRA, an investor knows that all of their hard-earned money remains theirs and is at work for them.

Most private sector Roth IRA accounts require at least $1,000 or more to begin investing. For someone just starting out that can only squeeze $50 out of their monthly budget, saving up $1,000 to open an account is a hurdle.

Many things can sidetrack or discourage a new saver, leading them to give up before they’ve even begun. With the MyRA, there is no minimum, so someone can start investing immediately.

MyRAs make saving easy because automatic contributions can be set up as direct deposits from a paycheck. As an added bonus, the account is not provided through the employer, so changing jobs has no impact on it and does not require changing accounts.

How is a MyRA invested?

MyRAs are considered low-risk investments because they are backed by the United States Treasury. Interest is earned at the same rate as investments in the Government Securities Fund. In 2014, that rate was 2.31 percent, and the average annual return for the 10-year period ending December 2014 was 3.19 percent. Though these are relatively low returns, for inexperienced investors intimidated by the volatility of the stock market, the security of a treasurysee breiter, page 16

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

APRIL 6, 2016

Food and Wine on Pine

FROM PAGE 14

backed investment can be appropriate while they get started.

Once a MyRA has accumulated enough to meet the minimums for a Roth IRA, the account can be rolled over into one with greater investment options. The maximum for a MyRA account is $15,000 before it is rolled over to a Roth IRA. If this sounds like a good option for the beginning investor in your life, help them get started on the right path to-

May 7, 11:30am - 6:30pm

SHOWCASING OUR AREA’S BEST FOOD, WINE, ART & MUSIC HISTORIC PINE AVENUE, ANNA MARIA $5 ENTRY FEE 30 Wineries • Craft Beers Minstrels & Character Performances Children’s Activity Area

Park & Ride Free Trolley

Parking available at Anna Maria Island Community Center & CrossPointe Fellowship Church

A Kentucky Derby Experience At Pine Avenue Downs!

Hat Contest! Races Televised! ATMs on site SPONSORED BY

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Distinctive Homes for Coastal Lifestyles

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FoodAndWineOnPine.com • For info call 941.778.8705 • Rain Date: May 8th

Proceeds benefit local art and culture charities helping local youth realize their dreams in the arts.

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breiter: IRA for beginners

6th ANNUAL

20+ Local Restaurants 30+ Artists 30+ Musical Performances

THE SUN

wards a secure retirement. Have them go to www.myra.gov to open up an account and access more information.

Tom Breiter is president of Breiter Capital Management, Inc., an Anna Maria based investment advisor. He can be reached at 778-1900. Some of the investment concepts highlighted in this column may carry the risk of loss of principal, and investors should determine appropriateness for their personal situation before investing. www.breitercapital.com

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Pat Copeland | Sun

Sally Woodward and Julie Quinlivan cut the ribbon on the door to the contract postal unit.

Ribbon cut on Holmes Beach postal unit U.S. Post Office (USPS) officials joined former contract postal unit (CPU) holders Jack Jackson and Peggy Meyers and new CPU holders Julie Quinlivan and Sally Woodward last week to cut the ribbon on the unit in Holmes Beach.

Carol Shirley, retail manager of the Suncoast District, said, “We’re happy to see Jack and Peggy pass the torch to Julie and Sally.”

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson said the postal unit “serves an essential pur-

pose for our residents. Thanks to Peggy and Jack, you are a personification of this community. To the Lucky Shoppe, thanks for continuing a great lineage.

“This is a celebration and a reflection to tell us where we’ve been, where we are and an opportunity to look at the future.”

Other USPS officials who joined in the ceremony were Patricia Jones, Bradenton Beach postmistress; Chris Borgeson, CPU coordinator of the Suncoast District; and Kim Buckley, acting manager of the USPS operations.

general store: Offers a bit of everything you need FROM PAGE 14

Maria General Store also has about 15 types of beer including local craft beers and local and national newspapers. You could literally live out of this store during an entire vacation and never leave the Anna Maria City limits.

And what about that great deck with nice comfortable sofas and tables where you could get breakfast or lunch and watch the passing parade along Pine Avenue? The deck is frequently used for Island events like Food & Wine on Pine and Bayfest, and Seymour is planning on scheduling some special food and wine events on the deck as well. He is

also working on stocking more gourmet and specialty items.

Seymour wants to thank all of the wonderful full time, seasonal and vacation customers who have supported the Anna Maria General Store and especially his seven member staff, most of whom have been with him a long time The Anna Maria General Store does indeed look like a timeless general store, which is exactly what Seymour was trying to achieve. Check out the only general store within the only green village on Anna Maria Island – your friendly local store.

APRIL 6, 2016

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APRIL 6, 2016

THE SUN

17

The “Bronzed” Gulf Black Grouper

,·P DQ 2ULJLQDO Shack Marina, Bar & Grill has “beenThea Seafood Cortez landmark since 1972. Accessible

by both land and sea, the Seafood Shack has a 68-slip marina, a bar & grill with an outdoor waterfront patio and a 7,000 square foot event space. The Seafood Shack’s mission is to ensure that each and every guest receives fast and friendly service, to always sell fresh, delicious seafood and to preserve that Old Florida Feeling.

We are truly proud to be an Original!

”

Chef Gerard Jesse, Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill

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DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante • Andrea’s • Anna Maria Oyster Bar • Beach House • The Bijou Café • Blu Island Bistro • Blue Marlin Seafood • Bridge Street Bistro • Café Baci • Café Gabbiano • Café L’Europe • Café Venice • Caragiulos • Cassariano Italian Eatery • Cedar Reef Fish Camp • Ciao! Italia • Cosimo’s Restaurant & Catering • The Crow’s Nest • Derek’s • Drunken Poet Café • Duval’s • enRich Bistro • Euphemia Haye • Fast N Fresh • Fins at Sharky’s • Gold Rush BBQ • Gulf Drive Café + Tiki • Half Shell Seafood House • Harry’s Continental Kitchens • JPAN Restaurant • Lobster Pot • Madfish Grill • Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub • Michael John’s • Michael’s On East • mi Pueblo • Ophelia’s On The Bay • The Original Egg • Ortygia Restaurant • Pacific Rim • Pattigeorge’s • Pier 22 Restaurant • Polo Grill & Bar • Primo! Ristorante • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Roessler’s Restaurant • Salute! Restaurant • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits • Seafood Shack • Siesta Key Oyster Bar • SoMa Creek Side • Tsunami • Village Café • The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria • The White Horse Pub

SUN file photo

Live art demonstrations, food, music and fine art are on tap at Springfest.

Springfest this weekend The 28th Annual Springfest Festival of Fine Arts and Fine Crafts will be this weekend, April 9-10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Holmes Beach City field.

Admission and parking are free for the festival, which features original artwork by 100 professional artists and craftspeople in media including painting, glass, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, fiber art, photography and wood.

Sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Art League, the family event features continuous live music on stage Saturday and a large food court, offering a variety of food and beverages.

Community organizations including historical and environmental groups will host exhibits, and children will enjoy a hands-on activity area where they can make free art projects.

A raffle of art work donated by festival exhibitors will benefit the League’s scholarship fund, which provides classes for children and adults. The raffle gives everyone a chance to collect great art for a small donation. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5, and winners need not be present to win.

Springfest and Winterfest are the major fundraisers for the League, a nonprofit, tax deductible organization

dedicated to fostering the arts on the Island. Funds from the festivals underwrite classes, exhibits and a variety of community programs.

For more information, stop by the Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or call 941-778-2099.

Volunteers needed for Springfest

The Anna Maria Island Art League is seeking volunteers for Springfest the weekend of April 9-10.

Help is needed with food tickets, the hospitality booth, selling T-shirts, selling raffle tickets, booth sitters and the Young at Art booth.

You need not commit the entire day unless you want to. You may spend half the shift helping with one thing, and the second half, something else. If the shifts don’t fit your schedule, you will be worked in.

First shift: 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Second shift: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Third shift: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday breakdown) To volunteer, call Fran at 941-778-2099 or e-mail artleagueami@gmail.com.

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THE SUN

APRIL 6, 2016

APRIL 4-10 L I V E M U S I C E V E R Y W E E K

ANNA MARIA ISLAND’S

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Martinez featured at gallery The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island is featuring the work of Carlos Martinez, 17, a senior at Braden River High School during April. "Pony at Play" is a digital painting created in Commercial Art Four. Martinez plans a career in computer animation in the film industry and has been accepted as a student at Ringling College of Art and Design. He has received academic honors awards for his freshman, sophomore and senior years. Two of his art pieces were selected to hang this year in the superintendent's office. He was awarded the Art Excellence Award by the superintendent for 2016. His art teacher is William Ferrell. His piece will be on display at the Guild Gallery, 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.

‘Playable wall art’ at gallery Jerry Patridge’s unique cigar box guitars will be featured in a monthlong exhibit entitled “Playable Wall Art” this month at Island Gallery West. A free, public reception is scheduled on Friday, April 8, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the gallery, 5368 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Refreshments will be served, and Patridge will provide musical entertainment.

For more information, visit www. islandgallerywest.com, facebook or call 941-778-6648.

SUBMITTED

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APRIL 6, 2016

THE SUN

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Free demonstration garden tours Every third Tuesday of the month, the University of Florida/IFAS Extension Manatee County Master Gardeners will host free guided tours of their Educational Demonstration Gardens at 10 a.m.

The gardens are located at the Manatee County Agriculture and Extension Service, 1303 17th St. West, Palmetto.

The one-hour tours are designed to illustrate a variety of garden styles and techniques, demonstrate FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ principles, and educate residents about plants that perform well in Florida landscapes.

The goal is to inspire garden visitors to follow recommended gardening practices at home.

Visitors will walk through a greenhouse, vegetable, butterfly, sensory, and children’s gardens. A bromeliad maze and fruit tree area also are part of the tour. Many other horticultural and gardening surprises will be in store for all visitors.

Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ prin-

submitted

Above and at right are two examples of garden styles that visitors will see on the guided tours of demonstration gardens. ciples, such as right plant-right place, water efficiency, appropriate fertilizing, mulching, attracting wildlife, managing yard pests responsibly, recycling, reducing storm water runoff and protecting the waterfront will be demonstrated in practical applications.

The Educational Gardens first started as a greenhouse project in 2010.

Master Gardeners raised funds for the greenhouse project by holding two plant sales a year, conducting fundraisers, and seeking donations.

Major contributors to the greenhouse and gardens include Mosaic, Kiwanis

Club of Manatee, Manatee Rare Fruit Council, Manatee County, and individual Master Gardeners.

For tour reservations, call the Master Gardener Plant Diagnostic Clinic at 941-722-4524.

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THE SUN

There is something for everyone at The Center The Center of Anna Maria Island 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 Centerami.org

Bikes are limited, so call The Center to pre-register. The cost is $5 for members and $8 for non-members per class.

Turbo Kick

Come learn to paint on silk and explore some fun, colorful creativity. It’s easy, and you can wear your creation when it’s finished. Instructor Janet Kingan will guide and help you create your masterpiece.

All art supplies are included. Bring your favorite snacks and beverages.

Classes are on Wednesdays during April at 6 p.m.

Pre-registration is required. The cost is $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers per class.

Becki Hovda, will bring her Turbo Kick Class to The Center on Mondays at 1 p.m. Turbo Kick combines traditional kickboxing moves with high-intensity interval training for an unbelievable calorie burn.

You will have a blast getting into knockout shape learning hard-hitting combos and edgy dance moves while torching fat and carving lean, strong muscle in the most empowering class you have ever taken. No bags. No gloves. Just results.

This class is included in Center membership and $15 for non-members per class.

Tykes on Bikes

Photography Open Forum

Wine, Women, & Silk

The Center in partnership with Beach Bums is offering a Tykes on Bikes class Wednesdays at 6 p.m. for kids 18 months to 5 years. The class uses balance bikes to help develop balance and coordination. It also teach steering and basic bike skills without the distraction of pedals.

Spend an hour with one of the Island's top photographers, Jack Elka, on April 19 from 1 to 2 p.m. Bring your pictures, cameras and questions. It’s a perfect opportunity to gain insightful critiques, get advice and ask questions.

The cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members.

Boil water warning Manatee County Utilities Department issued a precautionary boil water notice Monday for customers on Sunrise Lane from Gulf Drive to 5325 Marina Drive, including Tidemark Shoppes and Villas of Holmes Beach because of a water line break.

Customers are advised that once service is restored, all water used for drinking or cooking should be boiled as a precaution. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient. As

an alternative, bottled water may be used.

This precautionary notice will remain in effect until a bacteriological survey has shown the water to be safe, normally 24-48 hours.

A rescission notice will be issued when lifted. Residents with questions may call 941-792-8811, ext.

5268, between 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 941-747-4357 after 5 p.m. or on weekends.

APRIL 6, 2016

APRIL 6, 2016

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Rental registration off to good start According to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, approximately 450 vacation rental properties were registered with the city as of Friday, April 1.

The city of Anna Maria’s vacation rental ordinance took effect Friday, and that was the deadline to register a property. There are approximately 600 vacation rentals in the city, and the remaining 25 percent of those who have not yet registered are now technically in violation of the ordinance, but will receive a reminder notice before any ad-

ditional enforcement actions are taken.

Based on the registration figure provided by Murphy, payment of the $695 fee assessed to each registered unit has thus far generated more $300,000 in new revenues that will be applied to past, current and future administrative and code enforcement efforts. City staff will now begin conducting inspections of the registered properties and those who registered are considered to be in good standing while awaiting inspection.

vro: Ruling anticipated FROM PAGE 3

“There’s no such thing as vacation rental that necessarily has to be rented to right or more persons. There’s not one vacation rental in Anna Maria that cannot continue to operate due to the occupancy limit. The city’s occupancy limits are not a prohibition, but just a regulation the property owners don’t like,� he said.

Vose said Smith used a secondary definition of the word prohibit that blew right by the primary definition.

Citing Kentucky case law, Vose said, “Prohibit is not synonymous with regulate.�

He felt Bondi’s opinion actually supported the city’s position.

He said extensive analysis would be needed to determine how severely the restrictions would hinder vacation rental owners and any curbed earning potential could be addressed by a Bert Harris claim.

In closing

After a short recess, Judge Smith praised the attorneys and said, “I really appreciate the arguments you made and the way you presented them. We don’t see this every day.�

During rebuttals, Smith said 32 of his clients’ 69 properties, or 46 percent, contain four or more bedrooms. “If that doesn’t severely hinder the owners of these properties I don’t know what does,� he asserted.

The judge asked if the attorneys were aware of any similar cases taking place in Florida. “I don’t not believe there’s any other case in regard to occupancy limits being preempted to the state,� Randolph Smith said. “This may not be the last court that hears this,� the judge said.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

APRIL 6, 2016

New tree house attorney notifies city A six-month notice is required prior to filing a federal lawsuit.

A year ago the art room at The Center was a dream and now it has supplies, a sink and lighting.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Attorney Bruce Alexander Minnick, of Tallahassee, representing tree house owners Richard Hazen and Lynn Tran, has given the city a six-month notice prior to filing a federal lawsuit regarding their “individual or collective civil rights guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the Constitution,” which gives citizens the right to sue their government.

Minnick said the notice was to allow current city officials “sufficient time to investigate the claims and hopefully find an amicable solution to this unnecessary dispute before very costly federal court litigation is undertaken.”

In 2013, the city’s Code Enforcement Board found the couple in violation of the land development code and ordered them to remove the violations or demolish the tree house on the beach in front of Angelino’s Sea Lodge at 103 29th St. When they failed to comply, the board imposed a fine of

Artists gather to enhance art room at The Center

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

sun file photo

The tree house has been the subject of controversy, as well as court cases, for three years. $100 per day. The couple appealed the order and the fine, and in March 2014, they were granted a stay from the fine.

In September 2014, a judge upheld the board’s original order to remove the violations or demolish the tree house. The couple appealed, and the circuit court upheld the board’s order.

In addition, in September 2103, the couple filed an initiative petition to put an ordi-

nance on the ballot for voters to decide if the tree house is legal. The city alleged that the election is invalid under state law and requested a declaratory judgment.

In February, the couple’s Sarasota attorney David Levin filed a motion arguing that the prohibition in state law applies to a development order and that the tree house is an accessory structure.

ANNA MARIA – Local artists met at the new art room at The Center last week to brainstorm ways to use the space and appeal to more artists.

“We want feedback from the artists about what they want to do with the space,” Programs Director Jenifer Griffith said. “We want artists to participate, and we need a better vision.”

Attending artists included Jean Murray, Joan Voyles, Karen Ellsworth, Joanne Brown, Barbara Truemper-Green and Janet Kingan. Griffith said they agreed to provide her with a list of supplies for artists to use during open studio time.

“This would be especially helpful for people who are on vacation and want to paint or create art,” she said. “We’ll have a cart of supplies, and they can pay an hourly fee and come in and create.”

She said also she plans to establish dates and times for artists to sign up for studio space for a fee.

“We talked about partnerships with the League and Guild because we’re always looking for instructors, and they are always looking for space for classes,” she said. “The Island has a large number of artists, and we’re trying to focus on them and create this space to enhance that culture.

SEE CENTER, PAGE 40

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APRIL 6, 2016

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23

Good start, wet ending

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

Mother Nature rained on two festivals on Anna Maria Island Saturday, forcing them to shut down early.

The inaugural Beach’N Food Truck and Music Festival at Coquina Beach parking area was going strong Saturday morning with visitors coming in. There was a huge stage where the musicians played with Mike Sales acting as emcee. The aroma from the colorful food trucks was drawing hungry people.

Then, the storm came.

“We held out hope that we might be able to reopen,” said Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce President Deb Wing. “There was supposed to be a lull after the storm

tom vaught | SUN

This 1957 Ford Thunderbird has a 406 cubic inch V-8 and has been updated with disc brakes in all four wheels.

passed, but it kept on blowing and raining t.”

While Wing is sorry the festival was cut short, she was optimistic it would become an annual festival.

Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby was impressed.

“The crowd was good, and it was well organized,” he said.

“This is the kind of event we like to see.

Meanwhile, the vendor tents were closed at the Arts and Crafts Festival for the Butterfly Park at Holmes Beach City Hall field at the storm blew through. They didn’t reopen Saturday, but they did Sunday, as planned. Organizer Nancy Ambrose said they attracted a good crowd on Sunday The forecast for next weekend indicates it would have been a better date for festivals.

tom vaught | SUN

The Skinny's food truck, above, was larger thn most of the food trucks.

The truck to the left served barbecue.

Most of the trucks were converted delivery vans but one, a customized 1951 Ford truck, had a pizza oven built into the bed.

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APRIL 6, 2016

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OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Seeing is believing P

olarized sunglasses are an essential tool for any angler. They serve multiple purposes including protecting the eyes and cutting the surface glare by reducing the amount of visible light that passes through the glasses.

This enhances visibility below the water's surface, an indispensable advantage when sight fishing and looking for signs of fish. Many anglers choose their glasses according to style, not realizing that the color of the lenses and other factors determine their real effectiveness. Color is important, but it’s just one of the choices that you will need to make to get the most from your sunglasses.

After choosing a frame that’s comfortable and fits your face, lens color is the most important component.

Anglers who fish blue water and spend long hours over the open sea should buy grey lenses. Grey provides natural contrast and minimizes color distortion in offshore waters. Brown/amber lenses are the best choice for flats fishermen who sight fish shallow water.

Brown/amber lenses offer a brighter field of vision, better visual acuity and excellent color contrast. Many dedicated anglers own more than one pair

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS of glasses. The color vermillion and light copper heighten visual acuity and enhance color in low and flat lighting conditions. When the sun is out and bright, they switch to the darker brown and amber. Another option is to choose a line of sunglasses that feature interchangeable lenses.

The reduction of the glare has another beneficial component. The eye functions like a camera and must adjust to varying light levels. On a bright day, the pupil constricts, muting light levels. Polarized lenses help eliminate reflected glare, so the remaining light falls in a much narrower range of intensity. The eyes can then relax, allowing greater depth perception and truer color contrast.

When choosing polarized glasses you have a number of options: cheap versus expensive, glass versus (polycarbonate) plastic, cast versus laminated

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Polarized sunglasses provide protection for the eyes and are indispensable when sight fishing. polarized lenses and color. The lowest quality are the so called rack glasses, the kind you find in the local pharmacy.

These are better than no sunglasses, but you should buy the best pair you can afford. As a rule, a quality pair of polarized sunglasses will cost you, but they’re well worth the price.

One of the major decisions is choosing glass or polycarbonate (an advanced plastic) lenses. Glass lenses provide better visual (clarity) acuity than plastic, although there are constant advances, and are more scratch resistant. However, glass lenses are heavier and can fatigue the ears and nose after many hours. If you purchase glass lenses, make sure you buy a quality pair with a broad, comfortable nose piece.

Whether you choose a good quality pair of glass or plastic sunglasses, your primary considerations will be frame style and lens color. Choose a frame that is comfortable and one that helps block out extraneous light. Some glasses wrap around the side of the face, while others have separate side shields.

Several of the top manufacturers of sunglasses feature technologies that further increase the effectiveness of polarized lenses. Some offer photochromic lens that lighten or darken as light levels vary during the day. I have found the glass lenses to be superior to polycarbonate, but good polycarbonate lenses may be a better choice for other anglers. see reel time, page 27

tide chart for anna maria city pier april 6-13 A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

Wed 4/6

11:18a 1.95

5:22a 0.17

11:47p 1.93

5:46p 0.06

7:15-7:51

Thu 4/7

11:44a 2.12

5:55a 0.37

6:36p -0.17

7:14-7:51

Fri 4/8

12:45a 1.79

6:26a 0.58

12:14p 2.28

7:27p -0.33

Sat 4/9

1:46a 1.62

6:56a 0.77

12:48p 2.40

8:20p -0.39

Day Date

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

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Sun 4/10

2:52a 1.45

7:25a 0.92

1:27p 2.45

9:18p -0.37

7:11-7:53

Mon 4/11

4:07a 1.31

7:52a 1.05

2:11p 2.42

10:20p -0.29

7:09-7:53

Tue 4/12

5:36a 1.23

8:18a 1.15

3:02p 2.31

Wed 4/13

7:45a 1.25

8:36a 1.25

4:03p 2.15

11:30p -0.18

7:08-7:54 7:07-7:54

APRIL 6, 2016

reel time: Sunglasses FROM PAGE 26

If you wear prescription lenses with or without bifocals, make sure your sunglasses have them too. Trying to tie on a lure or fly after gazing at the water for a long time can be frustrating and put you at a distinct disadvantage.

You can get prescription lenses with bifocals in both glass and polycarbonate.

When you choose a pair of polarized glasses follow the guidelines above, while experimenting to find the color that works best in your fishing situation. By choosing a quality product with the proper color, you’ll greatly expand your fishing horizon while protecting your most valuable asset, your vision.

Some of the more popular brands you might want to consider are made by Smith Optics www.smithoptics.com and Costa Del Mar www.costadelmar.com, but there are many brands available. Choose your sunglasses carefully; they’re one of the angler’s most valuable tools!

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THE SUN

27

It was trout week Captain Rick Grassett

It was a trout kind of week, with that being the predominant catch on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. 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 bluefish on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails during the past week.

Greg Baumeyer, from Illinois, and his son, Wyatt, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Monday and had some action catching and releasing trout on Ultra Hair Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.

Tuesday’s wading trip was cut short due to a strong front with severe thunderstorms, passing through, but fortunately we got off the water just ahead of it.

Dirk Crews, from Wisconsin, also had some trout action on Wednesday

Sarasota Bay and backcountry areas of Charlotte Harbor and lower Tampa Bay.

Annie’s Bait & Tackle

Credit

Bryan, Mike and Shane Loughran, all from Ambler, Penn., show off a monster 44-inch snook they caught while fishing with The Sun’s Readers’ Choice award winning Captain Logan Bystrom. as did Phil Rever, from Maryland, and his son-inlaw Greg Smith, from New York City, on Thursday with the same flies and lures. David Eddy, from

Tampa, fished with me on Friday. David has done some fly casting instruction with me, and despite it being a very windy and slow day, he persisted and caught and released his first trout on a fly.

Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel and more on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and night snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges in the ICW with flies and DOA Lures should be good options. Look for reds, snook and big trout mixed with mullet schools or cruising shallow flats and edges of bars in

Annie’s Bait & Tackle customers are catching big trout and flounder on the Intracoastal side of Anna Maria Island, around 83rd Street. Flounder are by the Cortez Bridge.

Captain Sam Kimball is catching red grouper, catch-and-release gag grouper and a few king fish on his all day trips.

Half day trips are producing snapper, grunts and porgies.

Captain Scott Moore says snook are along the shores in the mangroves and trout are everywhere, including the Kitchen around Cortez. A few kings are being found in 45 to 50 feet of water, hanging around the bait.

Flounder are in Perico Bay. Spanish mackerel and blue fish are in Terra Ceia and around Rattlesnake Pointe. Sheepshead and snapper are around the passes.

Captain Daniel Kesten says snook are starting to move closer to the passes and biting well on both tides. Redfish are starting to school and have been biting better on an incoming tide. Trout are in the deeper grass in cleaner water. Spanish mackerel are starting to show up in good numbers, and tripletail are around the crab traps.

28

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THE SUN

APRIL 6, 2016

Help beach-nesting shorebirds Shorebird nesting season is underway and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds beachgoers to watch out for and avoid disturbing birds and their young.

Shorebirds build shallow nests out of sand and shells on beaches in spring and summer, hatching chicks that are difficult to see. Shorebird nests, eggs and chicks are well camouflaged and can easily be missed and even stepped on unless people know to look out for them.

The snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, American oystercatcher and Wilson’s plover are several of Florida’s beachnesting shorebird species that face conservation challenges.

Despite these challenges, shorebirds can benefit from increased awareness by the public.

“People visiting Florida’s beaches and coastline can really have an impact on whether shorebirds have a successful nesting season,” said Nancy Douglass, who works on shorebird conservation at the FWC. “Following a few simple steps while enjoying the beach can help nesting shorebirds succeed, giving future generations of beach-goers the opportunity to see these iconic birds along our coasts.”

Ways to protect beach-nesting shorebirds: • Keep your distance, whether on the beach or paddling watercraft along the shore. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet from a nest. Birds calling out loudly and dive-

CINDY LANE | SUN

Even shorebirds not currently nesting, like these black skimmers, should not be disturbed. bombing are signals for you to back off.

• Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting sites and use designated walkways when possible. Wildlife photographers should ensure that no camera equipment extends beyond posted area strings or signs and limit photography to no more than 10 minutes to avoid stressing nesting birds.

• Never intentionally force birds to fly or run. This causes them to use up energy needed for nesting, and eggs and chicks may be left vulnerable to the sun’s heat or predators.

Teach children not to chase shorebirds and kindly ask fellow beach-goers to do the same. Shorebirds outside of posted areas may be feeding or resting and need to do so without disturbance.

• Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows, which can prey on shorebird chicks.

Litter on beaches can entangle birds and other wildlife.

• Spread the word. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently let them know how their actions may hurt the birds’

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survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report it to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), #FWC or *FWC on a cell phone or by texting Tip@MyFWC. com. You may also report nests that are not posted to Wildlife Alert.

For more information, go to MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the “Share the Beach with Beach-Nesting Birds” brochure.

In addition to other migratory birds, all shorebird and seabird species found in Florida are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This year marks the centennial of the first Migratory Bird Treaty, which the United States signed with Great Britain on behalf of Canada. This treaty, along with three treaties that followed with Mexico, Japan and Russia, set the stage for the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act and solidified international commitment to migratory bird conservation. Learn more about the Migratory Bird Treaty Centennial at www.fws.gov/birds/mbtreaty100.

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APRIL 6, 2016

A warning for boaters The Coast Guard is advising boaters to avoid New Pass entrance channel in Sarasota County and seek alternative routes until dredging operations and a new Federal Aids to Navigation system is put into place later this summer.

The Coast Guard has completed removal of six buoys and marked the channel as dangerous due to shallow water.

If mariners or recreational boaters see any aids missing, damaged or in the wrong position, they are requested to immediately contact the U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg Command Center via VHF-FM marine band radio channel 16, or by phone at 727-824-7506.

Additionally, boaters may use the new Coast Guard app to file a buoy or aid discrepancy as well.

THE SUN

29

How weak and strong mayors differ Two of the three Island cities use the strong mayor form of government.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City Commission members recently agreed that the city they represent is governed by a weak mayor system, and there is an ordinance forthcoming to clarify the roles of the commission members in this form of government.

In contrast, the neighboring cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach use a strong mayor system in which the mayor does not vote or chair the commission meetings and is given greater supervisory authority over city staff.

A non-voting mayor can also communicate directly with individual commissioners without violating Florida Sunshine Law. This allows for consensus building and preliminary discussions that are prohibited in the voting mayor form of government.

The Anna Maria and Holmes Beach mayors can veto a new ordinance or resolution adopted by the city commission, and the commission in turn can override a mayoral veto by way of a four-fifths or greater supra majority vote.

Weak vs. Strong

The definition of a council-weak mayor system found at the Florida League of Cities (FLC) website says: “The council collectively governs; supervises de-

partment directors; approves budgets, expenditures and audits and plans for the municipality. Each council person has the same powers, duties and responsibilities, although the mayor may have signatory authority related to fiscal matters. There is no central administrative position.

Staff report to departmental directors, who report directly to the council. There are approximately 100 municipalities in Florida with the council-weak mayor form of government. The mayor usually presides at meetings, signs proclamations and makes ceremonial presentations.”

In regard to the council-strong mayor system, the FLC website says: “In this form of municipal government the elected body holds a legislative role and the administrative powers are vested in the mayor. The council often is chaired by a council president or chairperson and that position might rotate annually. Usually, the mayor is directly elected by the voters and may or may not serve on the council. It is more common in Florida for the mayor to be non-voting; examples are Jacksonville and St. Petersburg.

In a few cities, the mayor is both administrative and legislative; examples are Apopka and Orlando. Some city charters provide for a mayoral veto. Staff is hired and fired by the mayor, and the mayor is responsible for the implementation of all legislation and policy. The mayor also has ceremonial responsibilities as listed under the weak form. There are approximately 30 cities with this form in Florida.”

Change previously proposed

In early 2015, the Bradenton Beach Commission appointed a group of citizen volunteers to serve as the Charter Review Committee (CRC). In a rare display of unity, Mayor Bill Shearon, Vice Mayor Jack Clarke and Commissioners Jan Vosburgh and Janie Robertson individually recommended the CRC members consider a charter amendment that would ask city voters if they wished to switch to the non-voting mayor form of government.

When the CRC members gathered in June, City Attorney Ricinda Perry categorized the city’s existing form of government as a hybrid of the weak and strong mayor systems. The CRC members unanimously rejected the idea of a strong/non-voting mayor during the ensuing discussions took place not long after a divisive recall election resulted in Clarke replacing Shearon as mayor.

The proposed charter amendments that CRC chair Rick Bisio later presented to the commission in August did not include a proposed ballot question pertaining to a potential change in the city’s form of government.

In response, Clarke suggested the commission add to the ballot a charter amendment question pertaining to a switch to a non-voting mayor system of government. In contrast to their previous positions, Vosburgh and Robertson voted against it, joined by Vice Mayor Ed Straight and Commissioner John Shaughnessy, thus bringing the discussion to a close.

30

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APRIL 6, 2016

Neighborhood Watch class prepares residents The police department also offers house checks and security surveys of homes.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Residents learned about the city’s Neighborhood Watch program, including how it operates, personal safety, residential security and scams and cons at a training class Tuesday, March 29.

Instructors were Sgt. Vern McGowin, the department’s Neighborhood Watch specialist, and Tami Goudy, a Neighborhood Watch specialist with the city of Bradenton.

Goudy explained that Neighborhood Watch is a phone tree system, not a patrol.

“If you see something suspicious, call the police,” Goudy explained.

“Briefly say why you are calling and tell them where you are. Then let them ask you questions. They’ll let you know when they’ll dispatch an officer to you.

“Then you call your Neighborhood Watch leader to initiate the phone chain. They’ll repeat back to you what you said. You’ll be responsible to call a couple other people.”

“Stay in your home,” McGowin added, “You are not to patrol. You are the eyes and ears for the police department.”

Goudy said describing a possible suspect is especially important and things to take notice of are the person’s shoes because sometimes they change clothes but not shoes; if something is in their pocket that could be a weapon; and any vehicle they might be driving noting color, model, dents and scratches, tag number, etc.

The pair gave some scenarios of suspicious people in the neighborhood, and McGowin stressed that police would rather come and check someone out than have a crime. He also said that solicitors, except for church organizations, are not allowed in the city.

“If you feel uncomfortable about a situation, call police,” Goudy stressed. “The officer can check it out and make sure everything’s OK. That’s what they’re here for.”

McGowin noted that sometimes police initiate a Neighborhood Watch phone chain, as they did Easter weekend when three children were missing.

Personal safety

“Be alert and keep your head up when walking,” Goudy said.

“Glance behind you occasionally, and watch for people trying to approach you. The person that wants to do something bad has already sized you up.

“Let someone know if they are getting to close because there may

be no one else to help you. Use a loud confident voice to show you are in control, and always look for an out.

“Have an air of confidence,” McGowin added. “Appear that you know what’s going on.”

Goudy said to park close to buildings and when leaving a building or store, try to walk with someone else or ask an employee to walk out with you if you feel uncomfortable.

“If your phone rings, let it ring or go to voicemail until you get somewhere safe,” she said. ‘If you answer it you will be distracted.

You can always call back.”

She said men should always carry their wallets in their front pockets because of pickpockets, and women should not carry purses to deter purse snatchers.

“All you need is one form of payment and an ID,” she pointed out.

“If you go to a hospital, they have to treat you even if you don’t have your insurance ID. “If someone wants your purse, give it to them. Nothing in your purse is worth getting hurt for.”

Scams and cons

Goudy said scams and cons come by phone, mail, Internet and in person and advised, “Research anyone who’s calling. Don’t give your personal information to anyone.

“Police officers are not allowed to call for money. If you want to

donate to the police or fire department, talk to the chief. To give to a charity, go online and check them out.”

Residential security

Never open your home door to strangers, and have a peephole see outside, the pair said, and showed a front door with examples of locks, deadbolts, knobs and hinges. They stressed the importance of locking windows and sliding glass doors showed some examples of locks.

They also discussed various types of outside lighting and keeping shrubs and trees trimmed to 2 feet so thieves cannot hide and police can see your house.

McGowin said keeping garage doors locked is important because thieves can access your home through the garage. He said don’t keep the garage door opener inside your car if the car is outside.

Goudy said to use timers on lights so it always looks like someone is home, and McGowin said the police department offers house checks when people are on vacation or gone for several months. He said the police department also offers security surveys of homes.

Call 778-COPS for a house check, security survey or to participate in Neighborhood Watch.

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APRIL 6, 2016

THE SUN

31

Investing in the city’s future Reducing the city debt will produce significant savings for the city.

If we make a $100,000 payment every year for five years we’d save $219,000.�

BY JOE HENDRICKS

John Chambers City Volunteer

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city has begun implementing a multi-faceted investment strategy developed by retired Certified Public Accountant John Chambers and Mayor Dan Murphy.

In January, Chambers volunteered his financial expertise as a favor to the city.

During the March 24 meeting, the City Commission unanimously supported Chambers’ suggestion to make a lump sum prepayment on the debt associated with the six lots property now known as City Pier Park. The city purchased the land for $2.8 million in 2011 at an interest rate of 3.94 percent.

When addressing the commission, Chambers said, “We want to make a $100,000 prepayment as soon as we can, and that will save the city 3.94 percent. If you just did that and didn’t do anything else, we’d save $80,000. If we make a $100,000 payment every year for five years, we’d save $219,000. That would reduce our maturity date from September of 2031 to February of 2028.�

Murphy said, “I think we need to make this an annual event. It does impact liquidity, but this is a wise investment in the future.�

Commissioner Dale Woodland suggested making higher debt prepayments, when feasible, in future years in

joe hendricks | sun

City volunteer John Chambers presents his recommended investment strategies to the city commission. order to generate even greater savings.

Chambers suggested refinancing the debt if a more advantageous interest rate could be found.

A second potential investment strategy pertains to increasing the city’s minimal use of Florida Prime, the state-run investment service provided to Florida municipalities.

Chambers said the current Florida Prime rate is .57 percent, which is low, but on the rise again. Commission Chair Doug Copeland asked Chambers if the city would be locked into the current rate. “If you put $100,000 in at that rate and the rate stayed the same, which it

won’t, in 15 years you’d have almost $9,000,� Chambers said, comparing that to the money saved by making a single debt prepayment.

As a result of the investment policy adopted by the commission in January, the mayor has the authority to make these and other types of investments without commission approval.

In regard to city bank accounts, Murphy said, “We are in the process of consolidating our funds into Hancock Bank. Hancock turned out to be the best deal for the city.�

Chambers said the city was putting $100,000 in its checking account and $500,000 into a money market account currently paying about a quarter of a percent interest rate. “That’s not a lot of money, but it’s more than we’ve been getting, which is basically nothing. The rest we’ll put in treasury bills, CDs, whatever gives us the best return,� he said.

Chambers also suggested looking into additional CDs offered by other banks, some of whom are paying over 1 percent, compared to the .4 percent Hancock is currently paying.

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When providing the commission with an update on the city’s finances, Murphy said he is now projecting anticipated fiscal year city revenues to decrease by $300,000 because vacation rental registration fee was lowered from $1,000 to $695. He also projecting city expenses to decrease by $550,000, which may fluctuate depending on the outcome of a forthcoming paving project.

Murphy said city currently has more than $3 million in reserves, and he expects that figure to be around $2.4 million when the fiscal year ends in September. “That is about 70 percent of the total budgeted expenditures. Best practices say we should have about 35 percent liquid assets in our reserve at the end of the year, and that comes to $1.2 million. I think we need to be a little more conservative than that because we have a lot of different things going on. We’ve got the city pier, which is a big question mark in terms of where the funds are going to come from, and there’s a few other unknowns out there,� Murphy said.

32

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TOWN CRIER

Thieves’ finale at the beach

Help Perico Preserve’s recovery The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program is recruiting Bay Guardian volunteers to plant native vegetation at Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, on Saturday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to noon. his Bay Guardians event will build upon past volunteer efforts to restore the estuarine and upland areas of Perico Preserve. They are teaming up with the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, Around the Bend Nature Tours, and Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources for this family-friendly event. Lunch will be provided.

Contact Darcy Young, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, at 941-955-8085 or info@sarasotabay.org to register.

THEY GO FOR LEGOS

Kids, bring your parents to the Lego club, which meets at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, April 9, at 2 p.m.

Children’s librarian Trudy Bell has a lot of the little building blocks, thanks to a generous patron of the library, and she’ll help you jump-start a project, unless your parents want to help. Donations of gently used Legos are welcome.

Discussion on crime

Detect problems in time

Exchange ideas on current events, social issues, politics and economic issues on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Center of Anna Maria, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, sponsored by the Lifelong Learning Academy.

On April 6, they will discuss the criminal justice system, making the punishment fit the crime and rehabilitating convicted criminals.

The sessions are free, and no registration is required. For more information, call the Lifelong Learning Academy at 941-359-4296 or visit www.lla-sm.org

You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Thursday, April 11, at The Center, 407 Magnolia, 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.

Writers critique The Gulf Coast Writers will meet on Wednesday, April 6, at 12:45 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, in Holmes Beach. Bring three copies of your works for critique or call Alice at 778-7923 or Judy at 778-2436.

Readers unite There’s a new club forming at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, for kids 8-12 years old. The book and craft club, meets on Wednesday April 6, at 6 p.m.

For more information, call 778-6341.

Pedal the preserve The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources and the Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club host a bike tour of Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, in Bradenton, from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 7. Bring your own bike, and helmets are required. Bring sunscreen and water as this will be an exercise session as well as a sightseeing trip. Speed will be limited to 10 mph or less. Only eight bikers will be allowed.

Reservations are required. Call 941-7425757, ext. 8, to sign up.

APRIL 6, 2016

You otter join them Senior Adventures, the group that offers fun explorations for active seniors, will visit the new otter exhibit at Mote Marine on Friday, April 8. The cost is $10 plus gas. The van leaves The Center, at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, at 10 a.m. and they will stop for lunch.

Parents become partners The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, presents Forty Carrots, a parenting program based in Sarasota, on Friday, April 8, at 10 a.m. This is a program where kids from mobile babies to five years old and their parents experience new activities.

The program is free and you can get a ticket for this session at the library desk. Space is limited to 12 families For more information, call 778-6341.

Alzheimer’s care givers meet Sue Fox, a representative of the Sarasota Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, will host a program for caregivers of people with memory problems, including Alzheimer’s disease, on

The Anna Maria Island Privateers are holding their final Thieves’ Market of the season Saturday, April 9, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the south parking lot of Coquina Beach Gulfside. Shop for gently used items, antiques, collectibles, handmade jewelry and more.

The Privateers will be selling baked goods, hot dogs and hamburgers. Big John will be selling his slow roasted BBQ pork and beef sandwiches. Vendors can rent a 25x25-foot space for $25. Contact Joy “Piper Fitzpatrick at 941-545-3664 to rent. See the Privateers online at www.amiprivateers.org.

Music on the porch

Friday, April 8, at 2 p.m. at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The program is free.

Call 778-6341 for more information

In celebration of Cortez’ rich musical heritage, the Florida Maritime Museum hosts a jam session the second Saturday of each month, April 9, behind the museum at 4415 119th St. W., in Cortez.

The music runs from 2 to 5 p.m. Listen or bring an instrument and join the fun.

Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Call 941-708-6120 for more information.

Ladies meet for coffee

Get your native plants

The R.E.A.L. Women of CrossPointe Fellowship at 8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach holds its annual spring coffee on Saturday, April 9, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. The event includes delicious breakfast breads and fruit to go with the coffee. Jennifer Hughes, of Hair Works Plus, will demonstrate spring hair fashions and talk about being a Daughter of the King. RSVP to CrossPointe Fellowship at 778-0719 or office@mycpf.org.

The Florida Native Plant Society’s Serenoa Chapter and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program will hold the 17th biannual native plant festival and sale on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sweet Bay Nursery in Parrish.

The festival is free and open to the public. Members of the Florida Native Plant Society get 15 percent off their purchase price, and non-members can join at www.fnps.org or at the festival.

To get to the sale, from I-75 take the Ellenton Exit 224, go east to Old Tampa Rd/Erie Road. Turn left (north) onto Erie Road and drive four miles to Sweet Bay Nursery on the left.

Check out the website at www.sweetbaynursery.com or call 941-776-0501.

Paper folding at library Judy Pruitt presents her origami class at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Saturday, April 9, from 10 a.m. to noon. Learn this ancient Japanese art of paper folding. The class is free. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Pancakes at Roser Roser Memorial Community Church will host a pancake breakfast on Saturday, April 9, in Fellowship Hall, 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, from 8 to 11 a.m. Proceeds will go toward repairs in the historic century-old Roser Chapel bell tower.

The menu includes pancakes, sausage, syrup and/or melted butter, apple sauce, biscuits and gravy, juice and coffee or tea. The cost is $5 for adults, and there is no charge for children under the age of 5.

Breakfast is not the only bargain that day. Values await at the Memorial Guild Thrift Shop across the street.

Manatee conservation meeting Join the Manatee Sierra Club on Monday, April 11, at 1:30 p.m. at the Bradenton Central Library 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton. Meet with members and help contribute to sound environmental policy in Manatee County.

For more information, contact Sandra Ripberger at 941-794-3878 or sandrarip@yahoo.com.

Story time at the library Trudy Bell, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, April 12, 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 778-6341.

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APRIL 6, 2016

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

3/27, lost property, 10000 Gulf Drive. The trashcan is missing.

3/27, lost property, 100 S. Bay Blvd. A bus rider left his cell phone on the bus.

3/30, found property, 10005 Gulf Drive. A stranger left a cell phone with a note at the Sheriff’s Office in city hall.

Bradenton Beach

3/28, grand theft, Gulf Watch condos, 601 Gulf Drive N. A secured bicycle was stolen.

3/28, lost property, 1300 block of Bay Drive North. The complainant said she lost her wallet.

3/29, harassment, 100 block of Third Street North. A former boyfriend made threats against the victim. The officer wrote a capias request for the state attorney’s office to investigate.

3/31, civil problem, Via Roma, 2408 Gulf Drive N. A patron who was drunk and acting disorderly was told to pack up and move on.

Cortez

3/29, battery, Cortez Bait and Seafood, 4510 119th St. W. The defendant was arrested after it became known that he hit his girlfriend in the face.

Holmes Beach

3/13, larceny, 4000 Gulf Drive, Manatee Beach Café. A young female in a bikini took a purse that was left at a table, according to a witness. The victim’s husband called later to say there was an unsuccessful attempt to use one of her credit cars at the CVS and the store might have gotten a picture of the suspect from its surveillance recording.

He also said there was a successful use of a card at a Beall’s Outlet store.

3/16, larceny/theft, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive. The victims flagged down a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputy who was patrolling the beach. He called Holmes Beach Police, and the victims told the officer they

had left a Go Pro camera and tripod, an Apple iPhone and a pair of shoes at the beach and when they returned, it was gone.

3/17, driving with no license, 5800 block of Marina Drive. The officer ran a computer check on a car, and the license plate was listed as stolen. He stopped the driver who said his boss had rented the car from Avis. He had no driver’s license, and he said the boss had rented it in his name and let him drive it. The officer called Avis and told them the car had a stolen plate. They said they rented it to the boss, and nobody else was authorized to drive the car.

The officer had the car towed and gave the driver a summons for no driver’s license.

3/19, theft, Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive.

The victim said somebody stole her wallet off the table around 1 a.m. She spoke to the bartender, who pulled up a surveillance recording, and it showed a female take the wallet as a male kept lookout. The bartender identified the suspects, and they said she picked up the wallet from the table to give to the victim, who they said was trying to avoid a male “hitting on her.” A witness contradicted their story and signed an affidavit. The suspects were arrested, and the officer sent a capias request to the state attorney’s office to investigate.

3/20, warrant arrest, Martinique Condos, 5200 Gulf Drive. The subject was arrested for outstanding warrants without incident.

3/20, trespass warning, Martinique Condos, 5200 Gulf Drive. Three people who were with the man arrested for warrant in the previous report were identified as not belonging in the swimming pool.

The officer issued the three trespass warnings.

3/21, driving with a suspended license, 750 Manatee Avenue. The dispatcher told the officer that there was a vehicle travelling the streets and that owner’s license was suspended. He stopped the driver and gave him a notice to appear.

3/23, trespass warning, AMI Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive. The manager of the café told police a former employee that

he fired for theft was at the café, and he wanted police to issue a trespass warning, which they did.

3/24, battery, 600 block of Gladstone Lane. The victim said her 87-year-old husband had hit her in the chest during an argument. He said she was drinking whiskey and pulled the covers off him

Obituaries Kathaleen Hineline Kathaleen Hineline, 96, Bradenton, died March 27, 2016.

Born in Ontario, Canada, she moved to Bradenton in 2010 from Rochester, N. Y. She was an Episcopalian and was a member of the Eastern Star and the Woman’s Club in New York.

She was predeceased by her parents, A. Hadley and Katie (Hodgenes) Murray; and husband, Burton; she was survived by sons, Jack (Pam), of Holmes Beach, FL and Burton (Nancy,) of Port Richey, FL; brothers, George Murray and Chuck Murray; sister, Marion Heckman; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

There will be no local services.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, was in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimers Foundation. Condolences may be sent to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mary Miller Mary Miller, of Cortez, died March 8.

She was the loving wife of Bill Miller and great grandmother of Dannielle.

Mary had just recovered from a broken hip, and her death was sudden and unexpected. She will missed by all who are accustomed to meeting her at the restaurants and seeing her travel in the golf cart around Cortez. A graveside service was held.

THE SUN

33

in bed. When police arrived, the suspect had locked himself in the bedroom but the officer got in through a balcony off the bedroom. Because he was complaining of shortness of breath, the officer sent him to to Blame Medical Center. When the doctor cleared him, the suspect was taken to jail.

Jacqueline L. Mofield Jacqueline L. Mofield 77, Thonotosassa, died Feb. 9. A lifelong resident of Cortez, she was predeceased by parents, John Luther and Mamie Ruth (Bonnel) McDonald; survived by husband, Harry M., Jr., of Thonotosassa, Fla.; son, Harry, III, of Bradenton, Fla.; daughter, Barbaree Amaral, of Brandon, Fla.; brother, John McDonald, of Cortez, Fla. and Minnesota; sisters, Janie Treglon, of Port St Joe, Fla., Judy Augsburger, of Dayton, Ohio, and Joyce Davis of Morehead City, N.C.; and three grandchildren.

Stanley D. Shaull Stanley D. Shaull, of Holmes Beach and Michigan, passed away on March 31, 2016. He is survived by his loving family. There will be no local services.

All services will be held in Michigan.

Condolences may be left at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.

Terrie Horne Wankowski Terrie Horne Wankowski, age 53, of Bradenton, died March 7 after a short illness. She is predeceased by her Cortez grandparents, Warion “Shorty” and Evelyn Green Horne; her father, Hubert Horne; and brother Donald Reed. She is survived by husband Frank; mother Hazel Herbert; sister Valerie Herbert and brother Larry Reed; two sons Craig and Jarrett. It is noted that her grandfather Warion Horne served in both World War One and World War Two, the only Cortez veteran to do so. His uniform is on display at the new Cortez Cultural Center.

PETITION: Requested FROM PAGE 10

neighborhoods.

“Within 10 working days of receipt of the completed petition, all signatures shall be submitted to the Supervisor of Elections Office by the city clerk for verification. The commission is bound to act on the petition and proposed ordinance within 90 calendar days after the date of verification. If the proposed ordinance is not adopted substantially as presented, or if it is rejected, the proposed ordinance shall be included on the ballot for the next city general election or for a special election if necessary,” the form states.

“This process is not available for the city budget, appropriations or the remuneration

of city officers, contractors or employees,” the form notes.

According to Sanclemente, VonAhnen must be assigned an ordinance number before a draft ordinance can be prepared by VonAhnen or someone else representing the moratorium supporters. As of Sunday, this had not yet happened.

“This office cannot provide legal advice as to the process and procedures set forth in Article IV of the city charter. You are responsible to provide all appropriate information and the correct number of signatures,” the form states.

If the commission fails to act upon a citizen-initiated ordinance presented in this

manner, the moratorium committee’s efforts will shift to the fall elections.

“Our committee is preparing to get the moratorium issue on the ballot in November if that is what it comes down to,” VonAhnen said last week.

“I am asking for a town hall meeting at the April 7 commission meeting to discuss other options to protect our town, but the moratorium is our backup,” she said.

VonAhnen said some of the original committee members and some new members planned to meet at the Annie Silver Community Center on Tuesday, April 5, at 6 p.m.

“We need to get this going so we do not miss the deadline for November,” VonAhnen

said.

In August, VonAhnen’s husband, Frank Harrison, was the first to ask the commission to enact a building moratorium.

In September, the previous commission voted against a proposed moratorium on residential structures with four or more bedrooms and chose instead to work on a quality of life ordinance that contained new vacation rental regulations.

In December, the current commission voted 3-2 in opposition to a four-month moratorium on permitting for residential structures containing five or more bedrooms in the R-1 and R-2 residential zone districts.

34

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35

Planter plans taking root The city of Bradenton Beach’s Scenic Waves Committee is working on plans for a public art project that would help beautify the concrete planter boxes recently installed on Bridge Street. The plan calls for public and merchant input before issuing a public call to the Island art guilds for local artists to submit application sketches based on themes identified by residents and merchants. Artists from local schools may also be sought. A subcommittee of the Capital Improvement Project Committee would then review the artist applications before presenting them to the city commission for approval to move forward in coordinating the planter paintings with the chosen artists.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

36

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 6, 2016

Boosting your home’s value: part I

R

eal estate values are ruled in a large part by what generation is buying the real estate. Currently the millennial generation, born from approximately the early 1980s to around 2000, is the target buyer. Since they are 75 million strong and purchased 32 percent of the homes in 2014, everyone is interested in marketing real estate is paying close attention. Along those lines, Consumers Reports did a recent survey of millennials and what they are looking for in a home, resulting in a report of the eight ways to boost a home’s value based on the standards of today’s primary buyers.

Rule number 1: Every generation always wants a nice kitchen, and the millennials are no different with one third of them surveyed indicating it was their top most important item in a home. The two items that came in as the most important in a kitchen are stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Stainless has been around for decades, but it is still the first choice in appliances. Some of the newer

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger stainless finishes like black stainless and less reflective finishes are just as popular.

A quartz countertop is the primary challenger to granite as the countertop of choice.

It is easier to maintain and is more heat and scratch resistant than granite and now comes in a much larger range of colors and designs.

However, even a smaller less expensive renovation will add value to your property.

The estimated value of an updated kitchen is between 3 and 7 percent increase in selling price.

Rule number 2: The second most important home feature after kitchens in the survey was an open floor plan with flexible living space.

Additional living space carved out of the existing square feet of the home is very valuable to this generation and a home office is essential since so many work remotely from home, as is a dedicated play area for children. Some of the floor plan hot buttons are a flex room that can be almost anything from a guest room to a game room.

A mother-in-law apartment to accommodate family who are helping with children and an upstairs laundry room or one near the bedrooms is important, since that’s really where all of the laundry is. Flexible floor plans can add between 4 and 6 percent to the selling price.

Rule number 3: Environment sensitive millennials are very interested in energy efficient homes. Here in Florida where air conditioners run for months at a time, having a system that will save electrical costs is vital. Expect to be asked for a couple of year’s worth of electrical bills by potential buyers, as well as the efficiency ratings on air conditioning systems, hot water heaters and refrigerators. High effi-

ciency windows with an Energy Star certification are very important as are LED lights with a long life expectancy. These improvements can add 1 to 3 percent to the selling price.

Rule number 4: Keep it simple and stress free since this generation has no time to spend dusting and repairing. Important features are updated and functioning systems like air conditioning , electricity and plumbing. Also new or young roofs are in demand, especially tile roofs in our area, which are very expensive to replace. Less carpet and more hardwood floors, including engineered wood flooring is a must. Potential increase in value is 3 to 5 percent.

Next week I’ll outline the last four ways to boost your home’s value based on the Consumer’s Report survey. In the meantime, be nice to the millennial generation since they may be pushing your space saving, energy efficient, stainless steel wheelchair some day.

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

APRIL 6, 2016

THE SUN

37

Grand tree protections discussed Grand Trees are defined as those measuring 24 inches in circumference at a height of 4.5 feet.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – In an effort to protect the city’s grand trees, city officials are working on amending the current tree ordinance.

The call for stricter removal and trimming regulations was prompted in part by previous concerns raised

by Commissioner Nancy Yetter in regard to the significant trimming of a large banyan tree during the construction of a new home on Park Avenue.

During the March 24 meeting, Commission Chair Doug Copeland expressed concerns about the removal of a large gumbo limbo tree and removal of buttonwood trees.

Commissioner Carol Carter cited concerns about mangrove removal along canals.

Barbara Murphy, the mayor’s wife, expressed displeasure with the re-

moval of a royal poinciana tree at the corner of North Shore Drive and Pine Avenue.

“That was a travesty. How did that happen?” she said The existing ordinance defines a grand tree as any tree with a 24-inch circumference or greater measured at 4.5 feet above ground level.

“The removal, relocation, destruction of any grand tree, excluding ficus and Australian pine trees, is prohibited unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the city commission that the location of the grand tree renders the lot or parcel as non-buildable,” the ordinance says.

When presenting the matter for commission discussion, Copeland said the city currently has no permitting process or direct remedy for removal or damage to grand trees, no regulations for the trimming of grand trees and no means to recover costs associated with damage determinations made by a certified arborist.

Commissioner Chuck Webb said the current ordinance lacks the licensing component that serves as a trip-wire for enforcement.

As a practicing attorney, Webb

Joe Hendricks | sun

The recent trimming of this banyan tree on Park Avenue led to a commission discussion on strengthening the city’s tree ordinance. helped write Broward County’s tree ordinance. He said developers did not like the ordinance, but it helped establish guidelines that allowed for greater tree protection. He also suggested a mitigation program to help

offset the permitted removal of grand trees.

Copeland suggested fines be established for non-permitted removal or trimming, with the city having the ability to impose liens on properties when fines are not paid. He also wants the city to have the means to recover costs incurred by the city when evaluating removal and trimming violations.

Copeland proposed specific trimming regulations similar to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection regulations on sea grape and mangrove trimming. He also suggested requiring the applicant to submit a tree survey of the property before a removal or trimming license or permit is issued.

“I think photos need to be taken before a permit is issued,” Yetter added.

Copeland suggested the Public Works Department employees compile a photographic survey of the city’s grand trees, but Mayor Dan Murphy said that would be too burdensome on city staff. Murphy suggested the use of Google Earth satellite photos as an alternative to a staff survey.

38

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

THE SUN

mark your calendar From Page 7

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

Saturday April 9

Privateers’ Thieves’ Market, Coquina Beach parking lot, Bradenton Beach, 8 a.m.

Pancake breakfast, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Ana Maria, 8 to 11 a.m., $5 adults and children over 5.

Master Gardener Tour, Riverview Pointe Preserve, end of 75th Street, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m. Reserve to 941-722-4524.

R.E.A.L. Women of CrossPointe Fellowship Spring Coffee, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 9:30 to 11 :30 a.m.

Springfest Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts,

Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

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

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

APRIL 6, 2016

Monday April 11

Social bridge games, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, noon.

Tuesday April 12

Preschool story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

Sunday

Wednesday

Springfest Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

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

Lifelong Learning Academy discussion on the roles and rights of women, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 12 p.m.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $10. Register to ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or 941-778-2099.

April 10

April 13

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

AMI Community Connections gathering of friends, AMI Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Thursday April 14

Kayak paddle, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to 12:340 p.m. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7.

Successful Women Aligning Together, Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Members, $12, guests, $17. RSVP to swatami@gmail.com

Friday April 15

Sarasota Institute of Lifetime Learning lecture series via DVD, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 a.m. $8 per lecture, tickets at the door.

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39

40

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THE SUN

CENTER: Artists gather FROM PAGE 22

Kids and kilns

She said Kingan has been working with the children in the after school program a couple times a month, and they are seeking other artists to enhance that curriculum and expose the kids to all types of art.

“We have a lot of donated items, including a kiln and potter’s wheel, for pottery, and two of the ladies agreed to help me inventory it and see what we have and what we need in order to have some pottery classes,” she said.

The Center currently partners with Painting with a Twist to offer “Corks and Canvas.” Participants bring their own beverage and snacks, and art supplies are included. The next class will take place on Thursday, April 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The theme is “Peace, Love and Turtles,” “We got a lot of ideas at this social, which is encouraging,” Griffith said. “This is a work in progress and our goal is to have a unique art space.

We've come a long way.

Now we have a room, some supplies, a sink and lighting. I hope it continues to grow."

Jennifer Griffith Programs director

“A year ago, Janet (Kingan) said, ‘I need an art room.’ We’ve come a long way. Now we have a room, some supplies, a sink and lighting. I hope it continues to grow.”

The Center of Anna Maria Island is located at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For more information, contact Griffith at 941-778-1908.

APRIL 6, 2016

APRIL 6, 2016

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THE SUN

41

RICK PICKWICK | SUBMITTED

Fabulous finale AMICCO’s closing concert of the 2015-2016, held Sunday, March 20, ended on a resounding note. Famous arias, chorus and overtures featuring soloists brought the audience to their feet time after time. “Maestro Alfred Gershfeld brought a beautiful production to an even higher level, and we could not be more pleased with the outcome of this concert,” said Jeanie Pickwick, executive director of AMICCO. Above are soloists Molly Cayo and Kira Gaillard.

42

THE SUN

SPORTS

APRIL 6, 2016

Beach House Real Estate seals the deal

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

When The Center, historically known as the Anna Maria Island Community Center, started a recreational co-ed adult flag football league six years ago, the field was filled with Island area husbands and wives, friends and family all playing side-by-side on the gridiron for friendly but competitive games each Thursday night. Most teams had at least two female players; some had as many as four. The stands used to be filled for all of the games with spectators and fellow players watching every snap of the ball, with children running around while their parents played and the community watched after the kids.

Over the years, the games have gotten more competitive. The players have gotten younger, and the play has increasingly become faster and more intense. The result is fewer females are playing, the dynamics of the game have changed, and fans in the bleachers are rare. The league gradually transformed and is not quite as family oriented as it once was and as the creators envisioned it.

With the decline in adult flag football participants this season, resulting in the loss of more than half of the teams that typically play in the winter, the remaining players and teams revealed once again the family aspects of the teams and league that made this part of community center sports so special.

The Moss family, the Shaughnessy family, the Sato boys, the Coleman cousins and all of the married and engaged couples that played this season showed the basic foundation of the league remains. In Wednesday night’s game, the family theme was prevalent.

In the first semi-final game of the night, regular season top finishers Beach House Real Estate played the season come back team Truly Nolen. At quarterback, Don Purvis took the snaps from his wife Leah for Beach House. Also for Beach House, Jonathan Moss took the field, playing often this season against his cousin Brent, brother Ryan or father Ed. Truly Nolen had its own family ties with league veterans Nate and Amy Talucci. Nate played Wednesday night against long time friend, former teammate, and “brother from another mother,” Jesse Brisson.

With A. Talucci as center, Truly Nolen started on offense. Intense defensive pressure by L. Purvis resulted in a sack and loss of yardage for the quarterback Jon Bell, who finished the game with 200 passing yards, a 67 percent completion rate for the night.

Bell’s go to players Matt Morgan and Danny Heath combined to get the first down and quick touchdown, putting six points on the

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Beach House Real Estate’s Mike Gillum tries to regain his footing for more Beach House Real Estate yardage after being slowed down by Truly Nolen defender Danny Heath. scoreboard.

Truly Nolen went on defense with a strong rush on D. Purvis, knocking down his first pass of the game. Moss caught the next pass missing mid-field point by five yards. Sean Kaleta made the first down play allowing Beach House to continue its offensive run down the field. After taking the snap, D. Purvis pitched the ball back behind the line of scrimmage to Moss, who had all the time in the world to find D. Purvis near the end zone. N. Talucci saved the score on the play with the flag pull.

An injury timeout was called for A. Talucci who was unable to return to the game. Playing with only four players on the field for the remainder of the game, Truly Nolen played hard and kept the game in its grasp. With the option to run or pass, Moss headed into the end zone for the extra point.

After two nice receptions by Morgan, the Truly Nolen ball was set close to first down line. N. Talucci was heavily guarded by Brisson causing the incomplete catch. Beach House Real Estate went back on offense, but after three quick downs with flawed execution Team Truly Nolen quickly got the football to start another set of downs at its five-yard line.

On first down, Morgan threw the long ball to Bell into the pass only zone close to

mid-field. Bell hit Heath for three passes in a row, including the touchdown catch. The extra point conversion by Morgan pushed the score to 14-7.

Throwing a perfect pass to Mike Gillum with less than two minutes left on the clock, Beach House’s D. Purvis added passing yards resulting in a game total 160 yards.

On the back of L. Purvis, D. Purvis took the ball back hoping to fool the defense. Gaining four yards, the QB found Kaleta for short first yardage. With the clock ticking down, Beach House needed to find the end zone.

D. Purvis got the football to Moss, who threw to L. Purvis for a long gain. Seven yards from end zone, Kaleta tipped the pass that was directed to L. Purvis in the end zone.

Beach House called a timeout stopping the clock with 11 seconds remaining. Recovering from a low snap, D. Purvis tossed a light pass to L. Purvis in the end zone just past her fingertips.

Taking back over on offense, Truly Nolen played smart football with no mistakes.

With two good plays and 1.3 seconds on the scoreboard, Brisson placed heavy pressure on the QB. Bell threw the long pass to Mark Boltwood. Moss was able to make the critical defensive play with the flag pull for Beach House before Boltwood could score the TD. Beach House started the second half of

play on offense, facing the quick defensive rush by Boltwood. With the Boltwood sack, D. Purvis was faced with third down. Moss raced to the mid-field line and caught the pass, but had his flag pulled shy of the first down line.

Pumped and ready to take over on offense, Bell threw a bullet to Heath. Heath mad the first down play, fighting for position against Moss. The completed pass to Morgan took Truly Nolen to second down five yards from the goal line. The quick score and point after

by Morgan in the corner increased the score to 21-7.

There was a strong extra effort by Gillum, who finished the game with 120 receiving yards, pushed the Beach House team down the field. L. Purvis made the reception and held on to the ball as she hit the field doing a backward summersault. The team attempted a diagonal snap to Moss, but he was not in the right possession and the snapped ball fell to the ground.

Moss redeemed himself with good rushing yardage.

On third and goal, both D. Purvis and Moss lined up behind the center. Moss got the snap and handed it to D. Purvis who ran into the end zone for TD after two missed flag pulls

by Boltwood and Heath. Moss brought the game back a seven-point spread with the extra point.

With the score 21-14, Beach House stepped up its defense. Gillum had a critical flag pull on Heath and L. Purvis sacked Bell. On third down, L. Purvis took the QB out of the equation with continued pressure as the snap went directly to Morgan. Unable to find an open man, Truly Nolen gave up the football on downs.

Beach House executed four solid plays with three catches by Gillum and one by L. Purvis, putting the ball on the Truly Nolen five-yard line with less than five minutes left in the game. D. Purvis found Moss all by himself in the end zone as the defenders were drawn off of him by the other Beach House players. The critical extra point pass to tie the ball game was just out of the reach of Kaleta.

Retaining a one-point lead, Truly Nolen took the field ready for smart plays and clock management. N. Talucci ran to catch Bell’s bomb. Heavy covered by Brisson and Chris Sullins, N. Talucci could not catch the ball.

With two minutes ticking down, L. Purvis continued to put the pressure on the Truly Nolen quarterback. Morgan caught one of two passes, but the underdog team could not covert on third down.

Beach House Real Estate took over moving see sports, page 43

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APRIL 6, 2016

THE SUN

43

project: List sent to officials FROM PAGE 1

Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road, with only two to three central pick up stops in Bradenton/Palmetto and ending at the Manatee or Coquina beaches. Provide rider coupons for use at beach concessions, and collaborate with local business to promote service. Gather data on the number of users for recreation purposes, and determine the most appropriate type of bus to serve this user group.

• In coordination with Manatee County, lease a portion of the parking lots at 75th Street and Manatee Avenue and 75th Street and Cortez Road and offer shuttle service to and from the Island for Island employees. Coordinate with the Chambers of Commerce and local businesses to encourage employees to use bus service and collect data on trip usage. Work with Chambers to coordinate drop off locations, work hours, shift changes, etc. to make a shuttle more efficient.

Cindy Lane | sun

Traffic congestion continues to be a problem on the barrier islands.

• Reduce drawbridge lifts on Cortez, Anna Maria Island and New Pass bridges to one per hour and less during peak traffic periods and consider a reduction in lifts on the Longboat Pass Bridge.

• Monitor traffic flow remotely using the cameras already installed and adjust red light/green light time accordingly to facilitate the flow off and onto the Island.

• Continue to press forward with

the currently funded FDOT study on bridge openings and automated traffic signal timer (four lights) for monitoring and adjusting signal timing from the Manatee County Traffic Management Center.

• Consider manual override of traffic signal for law enforcement to allow for maximum traffic flow on or off the Island as needed on heavy beach days.

• Increase Island trolleys to two routes from Coquina Beach to Manatee Beach and Manatee Beach to Anna Maria and provide an extra trolley when needed.

• Improve traffic light operations at Cortez Bridge to 119th Street to allow better traffic flow on Cortez Road. Consider a proposal by a citizen representing the Longboat Key Revitalization Task Force.

In addition, they attached a list of priorities to be included in a barrier island to mainland traffic study to be conducted by FDOT.

sports: Beach House carleton: Sentenced to 21 months Realty victorious FROM PAGE 1

FROM PAGE 42

the football efficiently down the field with a catch by Gillum and first down run by Purvis. Always cool under pressure, Purvis faked the handoff to Moss and found Gillum deep for TD with 17 seconds left on the clock. Beach House continued to work its magic with Moss running the back of the end zone making the extra point reception, taking over the lead at a critical point in the playoff game.

Truly Nolen planned to make the most of the limited time left in the game. Heath could not handle to pass by Bell with Gillum right on his back. On the second down play, Brisson nearly had an interception. To close out the game with the score at 21-27, Heath was the target for the pass. Once again, Gillum broke up the play to end the game.

Beach to Bay could not get in the end zone in the three plays.

In a rare occurrence, the actual top two finishing teams of the regular season will meet up in the championship game. Number 2 seed Moss Builders clinched the second spot in the final game of the season by defeating Beach to Bay Construction in the second game of the night. The championship game will be played on Wednesday, April 6.

Sun Scoreboard Wednesday, March 16 Adult league – Playoffs

#3 Beach to Bay Construction #2 Moss Builders

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#1 Beach House Real Estate #5 Truly Nolen

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cancelled in 2014 after federal investigators charged him with mail fraud.

The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce was called upon to try to get replacement rentals for some of the people who paid for a vacation rental from Carleton. Chamber President Deb Wing said she is happy that Carleton will be off the streets and have to pay restitution.

“Although this was an unfortunate situation, this island quickly rose to the occasion, once we became aware of the issue, to

help both visitors and businesses affected by a fraudulent act,” she said. “It takes an island to catch a thief, and that is exactly what our Anna Maria Island community did.”

Wing praised local businesses that helped the victims.

“In many instances we were able to find suitable accommodations at no additional cost to the visitor, which shows the dedication we all have to giving our visitors a positive experience,” she said. “Our chamber received numerous letters of thanks from visitors for our island hospitality

and willingness to help.”

Wing had some suggestions for those seeking vacation rentals in an unfamiliar location.

“Never book an accommodation from Craig’s list – ever, she said.

“Try to book from locally trusted real estate rental companies or from online booking websites that are secured and trusted. When in doubt, before you pay a deposit, please contact your local Chamber of Commerce as they are familiar with all the local businesses and business owners as well as local accommodations units and can help verify their legitimacy.”

Seawall repairs to begin Within the next two weeks, contractors for the city of Bradenton Beach are expected to begin making approximately $30,000 worth of City Commission approved seawall repairs at the east ends of Ninth Street North, 10th Street North and 12th Street North.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Fabric mimicked by jeggings 6 Dallas NBA team 10 Indian mausoleum city 14 In the company of 15 __ bargain 16 Fountain contribution 17 Midler's "Divine" nickname 18 Burn unit procedure 20 Allow to enter 22 Big name in auto racing 23 Kerfuffles 25 Advanced degs.

26 "Rogue Lawyer" novelist 31 Whiskas eater 34 Pulitzer winner Walker 35 Actor McGregor 36 Dance in a pit 37 Hull fastener 38 Group 39 Mazda MX-5, familiarly 40 Big nights 41 How-to component 42 Follow, as a hunch 43 __ Plaines 44 Rockefeller Center centerpiece 46 Farm enclosure 47 Bit of naughtiness 48 Doze 53 Disney character with a white tail 56 Quartet of Wagnerian operas, and a hint to the progression in this puzzle's circled letters

58 Regal headpiece 60 Bordeaux brainstorm 61 Down-to-earth 62 2001 scandal subject 63 Boilermaker component 64 Prohibitionists 65 City near Florence Down 1 Reservoir creator 2 German actor Jannings 3 Sommelier's asset 4 Examples 5 Classic British twoseater 6 Base cops, briefly 7 __-Seltzer 8 Corpuscle conduit 9 Dreamy guy?

10 Lots of plots 11 Butter in a farmyard?

12 Africa's Great __ Valley 13 Naysayer 19 Light weight 21 Hide-hair link 24 Afternoon break 26 Actor/singer Leto Answers to 03-30-16 Crossword Puzzle.

27 Green hue 28 Homes with buzzers 29 "Ni-i-ice!"

30 Quaint headpiece accessory 31 Raccoon kin 32 __ Martin: 007's car 33 Acknowledge in an Oscar speech, say 36 Barely-there dress 39 Powerful people 41 Rock band Lynyrd __ 44 Legato's opp., in music 45 San Francisco's __ Hill 46 "Like a Rock" rocker 48 Chicago paper, for short 49 __-de-camp 50 Bermuda shorts endpoint 51 One with an untouchable service 52 Word with fair or foul 54 Unadorned 55 Fairway choice 57 PGA star from South Africa 59 Santa __ Mountains

APRIL 6, 2016

APRIL 6, 2016

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS 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).

APPLIANCE REPAIR DR. JOE'S APPLIANCE REPAIR Owner Certified Technician. Reasonable rates. Call 941-527-6447

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE GOT A CAR You Wanna Sell.

The Good, The Bad or The Ugly.

Call Now 727-400-1910

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES. Selling Your Boat? 16 Years, Hundreds Of Boats Sold. "Business On A Hand Shake." www.

Islandboatsales.net Call Dave- 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570 PRESSURE CLEANING and WINDOW WASHING residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways.

Paver Sealing & Cleaning etc. Call 941-565-3935

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

EMPLOYMENT BOTH EXPERIENCED AND NEW REAL ESTATE sales associates wanted in internationally operating realty. Generous commission split, no office fees, great support. Call Markus Siegler at FLORIDA DREAMS REALTY OF AMI, INC 941-779-5700 TWO SCOOPS – Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Ice-Cream... is now hiring part-time associates.

Varied shifts available must be able to work nights and weekends. A great place to work and have a little fun…looking for a few friendly people to join our team. Food prep. or server experience preferred. Great pay! Apply today…Two Scoops 101 S. Bay Blvd.

Anna Maria.

LANDSCAPE LAWN MAINTENACE. Full Time with benefits at Island Condominium. Experience a Must! Call 941-778-5915

CARPET CLEANING

ESTATE SALE

QUALITY COUNTS. CARPET cleaning. Upholstery cleaning. Tile & grout cleaning.

Island's favorite cleaner.

Manatee Chamber Member.

Great price/free estimates.

Call 941-756-1082

THURSDAY APRIL 7. 9:30-2.

318 Hardin, Anna Maria (Please turn on Palm Ave) Remember the Parking Laws! Storey & Clark Piano, rocker, curio cabinet, antique slant front desk, Pie face, wicker, sofa, like new patio set, dresser, drop leaf table, bench, collectibles, books, china, glass, bric-brac & More! Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8am

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

Reasonable rates. Senior discount. References available. Call 941-9622512

Call us today! 941-778-3986

FOR SALE ALL WOOD BEDROOM two night stands, full size bed with TempurPedic mattress (Like New) end chest. $950 OBO. Call 914-263-2013

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES HUGE GOING OUT OF BUSINESS SALE!, Coming close to the end. Everything Store Wide 75% Off. Lots of Sterling, Vintage Costume Jewelry, Pewter Miniatures, Dolls, Art, Furniture, Displays, Collectibles, Antiques, Beer Steins, Bric-Brac, Florida & Pirate Signs, Books, More! Hurry 75% off. 5351 Gulf Dr, Next to City Center, Holmes Beach. 7 days 9:30-5.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX: Open 9:30 am. – 2 pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am.-1pm Saturday. Donations accepted 9-11a.m. Wednesdays 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-779-2733

THE SUN

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel. Design/ Build. Since 1968. License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

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

HANDYMAN. RETIRED ENGINEER. Free estimates.

“No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806

GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194.

GIVING BACK 5321 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Closing sale. 50% off Items.

Open Tuesday through Saturday at 11am.

HUGE GARAGE SALE! Sale of 4 unit beachfront vacation rental forces sale of ALL items.

Furniture, appliances, flatware, island themed artwork, linens, kitchen items, lots more.

EVERYTHING MUST GO!! Friday to Sunday April 8-10 rain or shine.

202 35th Street, 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.

HOME SERVICES HOME/CONDO PROPERTY WATCH SERVICE Are you a winter resident and need a licensed professional looking after your home/condo when you aren't there? $20 Monthly inspection $30 Biweekly inspection - 9 mo. minimum REALTOR - Licensed/Bonded. Call 941-920-0890

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 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

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LOST & FOUND

POOL SERVICES

LOST 2/9/16 - GOLD CHOKER Necklace w/old Spanish coin pendant. - Bradenton Beach - Gulf Drive/ Bay Drive area between 1st St N and 12th St N. Sentimental value. Reward!

Please call 404-545-1943.

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

FOUND KEY RING with Subaru Car key fob & multiple keys attached.

Found at Bradenton Beach.

Turned into Bradenton Beach Police Department

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

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

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/ exterior custom painting.

Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes.

Many Island references.

Please call Neil for free estimates. 941-812-0507 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www.

WalyPrecisionPainting.com “WIZARD OF WALLS" Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455

PEST CONTROL NICK PATSIOS PEST CONTROL Owner Certified Operator. Licensed & Insured. Free Estimates/ Inspections. Call 941-7132071 npatsios5@gmail. com 2/10 NEW until

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

Call Mary 941-405-2496

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE DISCOVER THE OTHER ISLAND! Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Beautiful Townhouse w/direct bay views! 3BR/2.5 BA/ 2 CG with private swimming pool. Open plan.

Pet friendly. $699,000 Katharine Pepper RoseBay Intl 941-792-9459 ICW -BAY FRONT HOME for sale 5BR/3.5BA Bradenton Beach EXCEPTIONAL close to GULF Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-232-2216 W. BRADENTON CONDO 4000sq.ft. Canal front Bay view 3+BR/3.5BA Bonus room dock lift 2 car Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-2322216 NEW HOMES at MIRABELLA FLORIDA. Starting from the mid 200’s. Only minutes from the beaches, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open floor plans, 2BR/2BA plus den and 2CG. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball, pet friendly community. HOA only $190/month.

Models open daily. Contact us 941-254-3330 www.

MirabellaFlorida.com WOW ! UNDER $400K! 2BR/1BA Hideaway Cottage. Central A/C. Block to Pine Ave; Steps to Bay. Turnkey Furnished.

Fabulous For Investor or Personal Use. Don Schroder, RE/MAX Alliance Group. 941-720-7100.

See & Buy!

AMISUN.COM

46 THE SUN

classified

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE FOR SALE by OWNER. 2BR/2BA Condo. Nicely furnished with garage & storage. 10 unit building at IMG Country Club. El Conquistador Blvd. Bradenton $120,000 Call 941-778-3926 PERICO BAY CLUB 2BR/2BA $185,900 Great water view, heated pool, Kayak access, New appliances, New air, New hot water. 24 hour security. Call Owner 941-447-6805 NEW LISTING BEST Value in Harbour Isle 1994 sf 2BR + Den. Loaded with upgrades, End unit.

Open plan, Overlooking Reserve. $492,500 Karen Fineout Wagner Realty Call 941-518-3682 FOR SALE by OWNER. 2BR/1BA Mobile Home.

Waterfront in Cortez Park.

May Rent on 6 mo. + Lease. Call 740-398-9846 VILLAGE GREEN VILLA Small pet friendly 2BR/2BA/2CG Updates $229,900. Real Estate Mart Call 941-356-1456 WATERFRONT 2BR/1.5BA Remodeled and Updated, heated pool, boat dock. $199,900 Real Estate Mart Call 941-356-1456

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2 BR/2BA HOME in Holmes Beach. $1800/mo, $1800 last month, $1000 security. 1200 + S/F, Great room layout. Great parking.

Community boat ramp near by. Credit & Background required. Available March 1. 3BR/2BA spacious ground level condo with many upgrades and covered parking. W/D hook up, includes water, sewer, trash, cable & grounds care in park like setting. Pool, sauna, and observation dock. $1,700 /mo $1700 last and $1000 security.

Background required by association w/ fee. 2BR/2BA lakefront home in Bay Lake Estates. Nice spacious lanai with water view. Inside laundry, 2 car garage.

Water, Lawn care included.

Some vehicle restrictions apply. Background check required. $1500/mo. 1st & last month, $1000. security dep. Available 4/1. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com

Call us today! 941-778-3986

ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA Duplex. 900+ sq.ft. Nice & Clean. New appliances, W/D hookups. $1300/ mo + utilities. First, Last & one month security. Credit check. 1 year lease. Call 941-809-2488 ANNUALS-3BR/2BA furnished elevated duplex $2500. 2BR/2BA furnished in WBPM $1900. 2BR/2BA single family home w/garage $2000. Call Paradise Realty 941-778-4800 WEST BRADENTON: WARES CREEK house.

Spacious 3BR/2BA .

Fenced yard, newly decorated, W/D hookup $1500/mo. WEST BRADENTON: nicely redecorated, New appliances etc. 2BR/1BA/1CG, fenced yard, W/D hookup $1200/mo. First, Last, 1 month security. Credit check 1 year lease. Call 941-809-2488 BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT RENTAL, 3BR/2BA, tennis courts, pool and golf course access. 941-778-2141 ANNUAL RENTAL Bradenton Beach, 3BR/2BA home, view of Intracoastal. Unfurnished. $2,100/mo First, last, and security required.

Call Sato Real Estate, Inc. at 941-778-7200 or email monica@satorealestate.com 2BR/2BA ANNUAL RENTAL Summer Sands, Bradenton Beach.

View of Gulf of Mexico.

Beautiful sunsets, private beach, pool, upgraded with Cherry Cabinet & Granite. Furnished or unfurnished negotiable.

No Smoking/No Pets. $2500/mo. Call 941518-8714

DOUBLEWIDE MOBILE HOME 2BR/2BA in Ellenton 55+ community with all amenities. Lot fee/water included. Annual $1100/ mo. Call Debbie 941-7304929

ANNUAL RENTAL - HOLMES BEACH, 3BR/2BA, granite, w/d, storage, no smoking, available May 1, $1700/month, Call 603969-6840 NORTHWEST BRADENTON single family home in Village Green. 2BR/2BA w/ 2 car garage, small pet with approval. $1350/mo. First, last and security required. Available May 1st. Call June at Island Real Estate 941-345-1295

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!

APRIL 6, 2016

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150.

Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere.

Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured

www.amisun.com

APRIL 6, 2016

business & service directory computer service

THE SUN

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

home improvement

painting

HOME SERVICES

transportation

home improvement

HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

movers

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THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

APRIL 6, 2016