Anna Maria Island Sun February 14, 2018

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 18 No. 18

February 14, 2018

Paddling in paradise PADDLERS FROM PARADISE | SUBMITTED

The AMI Paddlers from Paradise use people power to propel their sleek Dragon Boat and are looking for more crew mates who want to make a splash, get fit and have a great time along the way. Their story is on Page 22.

Catch the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival

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

CORTEZ – Savor a taste of local history at the 36th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival this weekend, Feb. 17-18, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the historic fishing village on the shoreline of Sarasota Bay. With live music, marine life talks and displays, kids’ activities, nautical arts and crafts, net mending demonstrations and boatloads of fresh seafood, the festival has something for everyone.

This year’s logo, “Rooted in history,” portrays a sturdy mangrove – a plant that lives with its roots in saltwater – as a metaphor for Cortez commercial fishing fami-

INSIDE NEWS 4 OPINION 6 SUN SURVEY 7 BUSINESS 14 OUTDOORS 26-28 FOOD & WINE 29 SPORTS 35 REAL ESTATE 36-42

lies. Stepping into the village, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is stepping into old Florida.

As community activist Mary Fulford Green says, Cortez is “rooted in the past, living in the present and looking to the future.”

Cortez has been a fishing village for more than 1,000 years, beginning with Native Americans, Spanish fishermen who established fishing ranchos; and, in the 1880s, settlers from Carteret County, N.C., including Green’s ancestors, the Fulfords.

The village survived a devastating hurricane in 1921, a killer red tide in 1947 and increasing regulations limiting commercial fishing.

SEE FESTIVAL, PAGE 30

PINK & NAVY

blossoms with new owner. 14

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Commission considering driveway restorations Westra Construction will not be restoring right of way driveways to their pre-project conditions.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

FILE PHOTO

There will be plenty of tasty treats to tempt those at this year’s Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival.

BRADENTON BEACH – A Feb. 8 commission discussion on bike and pedestrian improvements produced a parallel conversation about who might pay to restore driveways disturbed by Manatee County’s water and sewer main projects.

While nixing the Avenue C bike improvements, the Bradenton Beach Commission discussed potentially spending a half-million dollars or more to restore driveways along Avenue C, where county work is now taking place in city right of ways. Similar work SEE RESTORATION, PAGE 43

VIEW the Island’s history as pictured in vintage postcards. 24-25 JAZZFEST and Artwalk delight

their weekend crowds. 15, 20 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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Mayor optimistic about state funds for new pier The city’s request for state funds has been included in the Florida House and Senate budgets.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Removing this engraved pier plank that memorializes Phil Guttridge resulted in Peter Piir losing his job with the city of Anna Maria.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The city’s request for $750,000 in state funds to help build a new pier has cleared another hurdle.

According to Mayor Dan Murphy, the bills containing the monetary request are moving through the Florida House and Senate.

“Commissioners: Some very good news! Our $750,000 appropriation bill for the city pier restoration has been approved and is included in both the House and the Senate final budgets,” Murphy said in a Feb. 9 email to city commissioners. “The next stop should be Gov. Scott’s office if all goes as planned.

"We owe a big thank you to Sen. Bill Galvano and Rep. Jim Boyd for making this a priority in their budget submissions. Also, both Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore and our lobbyist, Chip Case, played a big role behind the scenes in getting this funding

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

City officials hope the state legislature will contribute $750,000 to the estimated $4.5 million construction of a new pier and pier structures. through in record time. Keep your fingers crossed, your seat belts fastened and hope we make that final hurdle.”

The appropriations request originally filed by Boyd as House Bill 3107 is included on page 335 of the 431-page Senate appropriations bill, SB 2500.

The state appropriations request is part of Murphy and the city commission’s overall efforts to fund an estimated $4.5 million pier project that will also include a new restaurant space and bait shop at the pier’s end. Their goal is to build the new pier using as little ad valorem tax

money from city residents as possible.

In addition to the state money, city officials are seeking up to $1.5 million in county resort tax funds and $330,000 in county surplus beach concession revenues. Both requests will require the approval of Manatee County commissioners.

Potential contributions by pier tenant Mario Schoenfelder, additional corporate sponsorships and a grassroots online GoFundMe fund-raising effort being led by city resident Sissy Quinn could help fill the remaining $1.92 million funding gap.

Petitions address pier plank removal More than 180 signatures were obtained in support of two men who lost their jobs after removing engraved pier planks without the city’s permission.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Petitions have been circulated and given to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy regarding two former city employees being fired in January for the unauthorized removal of two engraved pier planks.

The petition forms received last week contain more than 180 signatures.

SEE PLANKS, PAGE 40

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Parks committee hosts dog park meeting This meeting’s just for the dogs.

The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee will host a meeting on planned improvements for the city’s dog park at 10 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 14, in commission chambers at City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive.

The second meeting of its kind, the purpose is to build on ideas for hardscape, landscaping, entrances to the park and other areas of concern.

Attendees are asked to bring concerns and ideas to present during the meeting.

Road report Maintenance work continues on the Longboat Pass Bridge. Expect nighttime/overnight north and southbound lane closures from 9 p.m. each night to 5 a.m. each morning Sunday, Feb. 11, through Thursday, Feb. 15, and again Sunday, and Monday, Feb. 18 and 19. Use caution and expect possible delays.

Vendors sought for Island farmers market A new farmers market is kicking off March 6 at City Pier Park in Anna Maria, and the city is looking for vendors to participate. The market is expected to run on Tuesdays, March 6 through May 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. While vendor spaces of 10 feet by 10 feet are free, vendors are required to carry their own liability insurance. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact the city at deptclerk@cityofannamaria.com or 941-708-6130, ext. 121.

Democrats meet Digna Alvarez, regional director for U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, will discuss Nelson’s efforts to permanently ban oil drilling off of Florida’s coasts when he speaks at the Anna Maria Island Democratic Club’s monthly meeting Monday, Feb. 19, at the IMG Clubhouse, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

A buffet lunch will be served. The cost is $17 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Registration begins at 11:15 a.m. Reservations are not necessary, and all are welcome. For information, contact Harry Kamberis at 941-779-0564.

Vision statement ready for feedback After several months of deliberation, the city’s planning commissioners have drafted an updated version of the Holmes Beach vision statement that they’re ready to submit for feedback.

The new version of the vision statement, the first segment of the city’s comprehensive plan, will go before city commissioners for discussion at a March 29 work session. If commissioners vote to adopt the new vision statement, it will be the first step toward a full update of the comprehensive plan.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Bike path leaves residents flat

Many do not see the need to direct Gulf Drive bicycle traffic through their neighborhood.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The residents have spoken and there will be no multi-use bike and pedestrian paths or new sidewalks installed along Avenue C, at the north end of the city.

Several Avenue C and Avenue B residents objected to the bike and pedestrian improvement plans discussed at the Tuesday, Feb. 6 city commission work meeting. Many of these same residents expressed similar objections when the four possible options were first presented by City Engineer Lynn Burnett at the Feb. 1 work meeting.

During both meetings, most of the half-dozen residents who spoke questioned the need to build a stand-alone bike path along Avenue C to address bike and pedestrian safety concerns along Gulf Drive, which is a state road.

Most who spoke opposed any option that involved multi-use paths or sidewalks in the cityowned right of ways that also include portions of their driveways. Avenue C resident Denise Saunders was among those who said the installation of a bike path or sidewalk would take away all or most of their existing right of way parking because they would not be allowed to park on the path or sidewalk.

After two hours of discussion last week, the City Commission, led by Mayor John Chappie, reached unanimous consensus that there would be no new sidewalks or multi-use paths.

Chappie said the city might still want to install signs that direct bicyclists and pedestrians off Gulf Drive and onto Avenue C, with sharrow striping possibly installed along Avenue C to create bike lanes on the edges of the existing pavement.

The bike and pedestrian improvement options Burnett presented were partially based on city stormwater improve-

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Avenue C resident Michael Saunders objected to the bike path during both recent City Commission discussions. ments already planned for the Avenue C right of ways in October. Any additional bike and pedestrian improvements would then have been installed before the disturbed right of ways were restored. Burnett said this would avoid the expense and inconvenience of tearing up and restoring the right of ways more than once.

Avenue C resident Michael Saunders questioned the need for “five blocks of grandiose corridor” being connected to three-foot-wide sidewalks along Gulf Drive at either end of Avenue C. Avenue B resident John Burns said, “Do we need to spend this amount of money for this short of a section to wreck up this much of a neighborhood when we’re not talking a significant number of people? I don’t know if there’s a need for this much of a disruption.”

It was suggested the bike and pedestrian safety concerns be addressed via improvements made along Gulf Drive instead, where the safety concerns exist.

There was some tentative support expressed by other residents for a sidewalk going down at least one side of Avenue C. It also was suggested the real need is for sidewalks along the east/west streets heavily traveled by families headed to and from the beach.

Commissioner Jake Spooner

I don’t know if there’s a need for this much of a disruption at this point in time.”

John Burns, Bradenton Beach resident

said he would like to see east/ west sidewalks on the north side of town, but he acknowledged the existing space limitations.

Regarding pedestrians unexpectedly crossing Gulf Drive at night, Commissioner Ralph Cole said, “When I drive down Gulf Drive, I feel like I’m going down a dark country road and all the sudden a opossum runs out in front of you. That’s the kinds of things we need to fix with the projects we’re doing.”

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Murder, mayhem, and mystery at the Center Tickets are still available for The Center of Anna Maria Island’s annual murder mystery dinner theater. The event is back for two nights only, Friday, Feb. 16, and Saturday, Feb. 17.

In its 10th year, this year’s murder mystery theme is Las Vegas, featuring mob bosses, gambling and even Elvis is scheduled to make an appearance. The cast features Don Purvis, Mike Shaughnessy, Monica Simpson, Will Schenerlein, Caleb Roberts, Ray Gardner, Tim Shaughnessy, Bri Shaughnessy, Leah Purvis, Jillian Cacchiotti, Erin Heckler and Keith Leathem. The play, “What happened on the island stays on the island,” was written and directed by Beth and Bri Shaughnessy.

Tickets are $45 and include dinner and the show. For an additional $15 guests can mingle with the cast from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the curtain rising at 7:30 p.m. A cash bar, live auction and raffles also will be available. This event is recommended only for adults.

Title sponsors for this year’s event are Air and Energy and the Hagen family.

The law firm of Abrahamson and Uiterwyk is this year’s bar sponsor.

To purchase tickets, call the Center at 941-778-1908, go online to www.centerami.org or visit 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. To sponsor the event, contact Executive Director Kristen Lessig at kristenl@centerami.org.

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Tickets on sale for Tour of Homes Step right up and get your tickets for the 25th annual Tour of Homes before ticket prices go up March 1.

In honor of the event’s 25th anniversary, The Center of Anna Maria Island is offering discounted tickets at $25 through March 1, when the ticket price increases to $30. The one-day event takes place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 17, and will feature six stops this year.

Center Executive Director Kristen Lessig said five Island homes have been confirmed for this year’s event. The sixth stop will be at the Center itself, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

The Center campus will host this year’s Tropicla Treasures Boutique, sponsored by Duncan Realty, food vendors, and the annual quilt raffle. The quilt,

FILE PHOTO

One of the homes on last year's Tour was at 630 Dundee Lane on Key Royale. created by the Eyeland Needlers, is on display in the Center’s lobby until a winner is chosen the afternoon of the event.

Quilt raffle tickets are $1 each or six for $5. Tickets for both the Tour and the quilt raffle are available at the Center. Tour tickets also

can be purchased online at www.centerami.org.

Sponsors for the event also are being sought along with volunteers. To learn more or to participate, contact the Center at info@ centerami.org. or call 941778-1908.

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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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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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 a couple of ways to do it. The easiest and most direct is to e-mail The Sun at news@amisun.com. Remember to put Letter to the Editor in the subject field. Or you can snail-mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

Or you can hand-deliver a letter to our office in Island Sun Plaza, 9801 Gulf Drive in Anna Maria. 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.

The Sun reserves the right to edit letters for length or content.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Local women demonstrate strength Two strong women were in various media last week regarding their qualifications in roles they have on AMI. It was reported that Judy Holmes Titsworth has been asked, and might consider, running for mayor. Some say she has no experience in the management of running a city, etc.

Are you kidding me?

Judy was born on the Island along with her twin sister, Jeannie. There are four generations of the Holmes family on our Island still. She has run her husband’s construction business and employees for many years. Judy has served as a Holmes Beach city commissioner and the chair position, with a total of six years' experience.

Have we agreed on various issues throughout the years? No. Can I still pick up the phone and call her? Yes. Does she have the right to run as she chooses? Of course. Whatever Judy decides to do, please respect her love of the Island and her ability to do any job she decides.

Kristen Lessig is leaving The Center of Anna Maria Island. Our community center needed someone like Kristen to cut expenses and work with a large change in her board of directors over the last three years. She pulled off saving The Center, as former director Pierette Kelly told many Islanders at a function recently. Have some of my friends lost their jobs during major cutting of staff? Yes. Did it hurt some out here? Yes. Did it have to be done? Yes.

It took someone with Kristen's drive and professionalism to get our Center back on track. It’s up to the Islanders to support The Center in future years.

I think our Island is blessed to have these two strong capable women.

Carol Whitmore AMI resident for 49 years Former Holmes Beach mayor

Plenty of good stuff on our Island Among all the bad and divisive news we've had recently, here's a list of just some of the good stuff that has happened, or is going to happen, on our lovely Island and surrounding areas.

Did happen: Kid's science skills, so smart!

Darcie Duncan, our very own. Sissy Quinn, the fundraiser. Trolley money donations. Good financial news and upcoming events at the community center. The Holmes Beach Artwalk.

Going to happen: The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. The Beach Bistro's St. Patrick's Day parade. The Anna Maria movies in the park every Wednesday night. To name just a few things.

And there's going to be so much more happening in the coming season.

I'm grateful to be here. I love this small town stuff, don't you?

Susan Hatch Anna Maria

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ON THE AGENDA

THE SUN SURVEY

PREVIOUS QUESTION: How do you feel about Anna Maria allowing A frame signs for a year or until the pier opens?

17%

It's a bad decision because they are an eyesore.

ANNA MARIA 10005 GULF DRIVE

Feb. 14, 2 p.m. – City Commission special meeting For information, call 7086130

BRADENTON BEACH 107 GULF DRIVE N.

Feb. 15, noon – City Commission meeting Feb. 20, 1 p.m. – City Commission work session Feb. 21, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning Board meeting For information, call 7781005

HOLMES BEACH

Feb. 14, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification Committee meeting, dog park Feb. 15, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting with workshop to follow Feb. 19, All Day – President’s Day holiday, city offices closed Feb. 26, 1 p.m. – Ad-hoc form of government committee meeting For information, call 7085800

ISLAND-WIDE

Feb. 20, 6 p.m., WMFR board meeting, administration building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

5801 MARINA DRIVE

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

25%

It's a ploy by the businesses to get the signs.

58%

It's a great idea and much needed by the businesses on Pine Avenue.

THE SUN SURVEY IS NOT A SCIENTIFIC POLL AND IS USED FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY.

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY Who should pay for repairing residential driveways damaged by the county's ongoing water pipeline replacement project?

• The county.

• The contractor.

• The Island cities.

• The residents.

• All 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 The Anna Maria Island Sun staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistants Chris Boniberger Diane Martin

Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz

NOTE: EVENTS ARE FREE UNLESS INDICATED.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 14

Happy Valentine’s Day! Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information call 941-518-4431.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon.

Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea with The Closet Whisperer, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 2 p.m., $15. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Family movie in the park, Anna Maria City Pier Park, across from the Anna Maria City Pier, 100 S. Bay Blvd., 7 p.m.

THURSDAY Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Sean Murphy Monica Simpson

FEBRUARY 15

Veteran Services Information, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 9 a.m.

Ageless Grace brain fitness with Gail Condrick, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 9 a.m., $10.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Zumba and mat pilates

for seniors, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m., $10 per class.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach 10:15 a.m.

ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided.

Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com.

Meet the Author featuring Carl Jeronimo, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Friends of the Island Library Book Sale, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 1 to 3 p.m. Open to membersonly.

Jam in the Sand, Anna Maria Island Beach Café, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

AMI Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting, howluckyami at Restless Natives, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 5:30 p.m.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 6 to 9 p.m.

FRIDAY

FEBRUARY 16

Friends of the Island Library Book Sale, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Roser-Robics chair-based SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 32

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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Formula business ordinance moves toward approval An ordinance regulating formula businesses in the city center is being fast-tracked toward adoption by city officials as the deadline looms on a moratorium blocking the businesses.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – With a moratorium deadline looming, city commissioners’ plans to fast-track the adoption of a formula business ordinance are moving forward.

The draft ordinance took its first step toward passage when planning commissioners agreed the proposed legislation is not in conflict with the city’s comprehensive plan. If passed, the ordinance will replace a morato-

rium set to expire Feb. 28 that prohibits formula or chain businesses from opening in the city. Under the proposed regulations, formula businesses will be allowed in the downtown corridor of the city up to 5 percent of total businesses by special exception only.

Affected areas are zoned C-2, C-3, and the city’s MXD overlay district.

The only businesses exempt from the regulations are banks and financial institutions. Existing formula businesses, including Domino’s Pizza, would be grandfathered.

The ordinance does not address the other primary shopping area in Holmes Beach, the west side of East Bay Drive, where two modern shopping centers, two pharmacies and a grocery store all currently exist. Formula businesses will continue to be allowed in that area.

Other commercial areas of town, such as where Bank of America recently closed, will not be welcoming formula

businesses any time soon. Retail establishments aren’t allowed in C-1 zoned areas. City planner Bill Brisson said he believes these other locations also aren’t attractive to formula business operators because of location and difficulties with access to the properties.

“The desire is for downtown to keep its quirky character,” Brisson told planning commissioners.

Planning commissioner Scott Boyd said he had trouble approving the ordinance, not because he feels it’s in conflict with the city’s comprehensive plan but because he doesn’t feel the plan adequately addresses commercial businesses.

Chair Charles Stealey agreed with Boyd.

“As far as I can tell, it’s not inconsistent (with the comprehensive plan) because it’s not addressed in detail,” Stealey said.

Part of the issue was attributed to

the age of the city’s comprehensive plan, which has not been updated since 1989, according to Brisson.

“When you go back over the years, you encounter unforeseen issues,” Stealey said. “The comp plan couldn’t contain things that haven’t happened yet or are unforeseen.”

After some discussion, planning commissioners voted unanimously that the proposed ordinance is not inconsistent with the city’s comprehensive plan.

Now that the ordinance has passed Planning Commission approvals, it moves on to the City Commission for two votes and public hearings. The first reading of the ordinance with a vote by commissioners and public hearing takes place Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. at city hall. If the ordinance passes, it will move on to a final vote and public hearing at a future City Commission meeting.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

36th ANNUAL

CORTEZ I AL C R E M M Co

FISHING FESTIVAL FEB. 17&18

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission $4

Proceeds benefit F.I.S.H. Preserve

Kids 12 & under FREE

The festival is located at the East end of town adjacent to the Florida Maritime Museum on 119th St. W. to the Bay. Off site FREE parking is available at: • G.T. Bray Park (with $3.00 round trip shuttle to Cortez) 5502 33rd Ave Dr W., 34209 -- turn east off 59th St onto 33rd Ave Dr • Coquina Beach (with $3.00 round trip shuttle to Cortez) • One block east of the village, off Cortez Road (5-minute walk)

GREAT FOOD AND LIVE MUSIC COMMUNITY DISPLAYS EXPANDED KIDS AREA LARGER PARKING AREA NAUTICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ART

FOR INFORMATION CALL 941-254-4972 WWW.CORTEZ-FISH.ORG

Member FDIC

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Tourism board meets Vacasa

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

A local vacation rental agent told the Manatee County Tourist Development Council (TDC) on Monday that his company has gone international.

John Lefner, of Island Real Estate, explained that the company has sold the vacation rental portion of its business to Portland, Oregon-based Vacasa, which manages 7,500 rentals with 200,000 employees worldwide.

Vacasa’s Anna Maria Island branch will have a strong, local presence at 419 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria, important for guests who want to do business face to face, not on the Internet, Lefner said.

The Anna Maria City Commission is reviewing the Pine Avenue office’s compliance with the city’s formula retail and formula commercial establishments ordinance.

Vacasa will produce more bookings for rental owners and will have a wider reach than Island Real Estate did in the European market, Lefner said, adding that Island Real Estate will continue to offer real estate sales services in Holmes Beach.

Lefner said Vacasa is sensitive to local residents and will enforce the rules in a five-page guest agreement that covers parking, noise, quiet enjoyment and other issues.

“We want to be a good neighbor because we don’t want to kill the golden goose,” he said. “We want to keep that livability.”

Vacasa also wants to keep the Island’s quaintness, he said, adding, “They don’t want to change it, they don’t want to turn it into spring break, they don’t want to turn it into a

wedding destination.”

The sale to Vacasa reflects a growing trend of real estate companies selling off their vacation rental business, which is going digital, Lefner said.

“We’re in a new learning curve when it comes to how people travel,” he said, adding that while he plans his vacations two years in advance, more and more people use their phone to book instant travel.

About 84 percent of Manatee County’s vacation rentals are condos, single-family homes, duplexes and triplexes, with about 16 percent hotels and motels, Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Elliott Falcione said.

VACATION RENTAL LEGISLATION

The TDC voted Monday to recommend that Manatee County commissioners formally oppose Florida Sen. Greg Steube’s proposed vacation rental legislation, SB 1400.

The vote came after Bharat Patel, a representative from the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, representing a large contingency of its members from about 20 hotels in Manatee County, said the bill would kill tourism jobs and harm the economy.

TDC Chair and Manatee County Commissioner Carol Whitmore said the county has opposed the bill on its 2018 legislative platform because it would replace local government regulation of vacation rentals with state regulation.

“The state is going to usurp that, and if you believe that the state will inspect these rentals for safety, I think you’re foolish,” TDC member

GREAT FOODhCOCKTAILShCRAFT BEER

5346 gulf drive holmes Beach 941.778.5788 hurricanehanks.com

and Anna Maria Commissioner Doug Copeland said.

“We’ve watched many investors buy homes that were owned long term because there’s so much money to be made,” he said. “It’s destroying the fabric of the Island communities.”

TOURISM UP IN FIRST QUARTER

Visitation was up in the first quarter of Manatee County’s fiscal year, October through December 2017, said Walter Klages, of Tampa-based Research Data Services, the county’s tourism consultant.

A 5.8 percent growth in visitation to 155,100 people from the same quarter the previous year is “significant,” he said, with the 9.7 percent increase in economic impact to $152 million even more significant.

While occupancy was slightly down from 65.3 percent to 64.9 percent because inventory has grown, Klages said the market absorbed most of the new inventory, all but .6 percent.

The average daily rate increased 3.4 percent to $155 a night, he said. The Florida market grew by 3.8 percent, and the European market increased by 6.8 percent. Average party size stayed stable at 2.5 people per party, as did the length of stay, 6.1 days. The length of stay is desirable Falcione said, explaining that the state average is 4 days, but at 7 days, visitors begin spending less money each day.

The couples' market decreased from 58 to 54 percent, but there were increases in other markets – the family market increased from 32 to 34 percent, the single market increased from 13 to 14 percent and the extended family market grew from 9 to 10 percent.

Business travel grew from 8 to 9 percent while vacation travel decreased from 73 to 70 percent.

The average age of visitors is up from 49 to 51, and the average income of visitors grew from $115,000 to $120,000.

Tampa International Airport is still the primary airport for tourists coming to Manatee County, with 59 percent of local visitors arriving in Tampa.

County tourism officials must pay attention to a decrease in first-time visitation from 37 to 34 percent by targeting marketing and promotions to attract first-time visitors, Klages said.

Klages predicts strong tourism growth this year in the 2.6-2.7 percent range, slightly above national projected growth, he said.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

• Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport announced new services: Elite Airways to Portland, Maine, and White Plains, N.Y., and Allegiant Airlines to Indianapolis, Ind., Cincinnati, Ohio and Pittsburgh, Penn.

• Manatee County Administrator Ed Hunzeker reported that negotiations have stalled on getting a hotel at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto.

• The TDC board met Judith Tilton, the CVB’s first Director of Cultural Affairs, who will work to promote arts and heritage organizations in the county to enhance tourism.

• Board member and Anna Maria Island vacation rental owner David Teitelbaum was re-elected vice chair.

Sunday Brunch 10:00 am - 1:00 pm $10.00 brunch menu 2 for 1 Mimosa & Sangria

12

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Rental bill favored by second Senate committee The Senate’s vacation rental bill has one more committee stop before it can advance to the Senate floor for additional debate and a possible final vote.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE – The vacation rental legislation now known as CS/SB 1400 has been further amended and reported favorable by the Florida Senate’s Regulated Industries Committee.

The committee reported favorably on the bill by a 9-1 margin during its Thursday, Feb. 8, meeting, with Sen. Dorothy Hukill (R-Port Orange) casting the only nay vote.

The Senate bill’s final committee stop will be the Appropriations Committee, where Sen. David Simmons (R-Longwood) intends to again propose amendments that would allow local governments to retain some regulatory control over vacation rental homes.

As amended last week, CB/SB 1400 contains legislation originally proposed

by Sen. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota) in SB 1400 and legislation originally proposed by Simmons in SB 1640. Additional amendments were made last week and during the Community Affairs Committee meeting on Jan. 30.

The Senate bill currently seeks to preempt all licensing, inspection and regulation of short-term vacation rentals to the state’s Department of Professional and Business Regulation (DBPR). DBPR already requires vaca-

WWW.FLSENATE.GOV | SUBMITTED

During last week’s committee meeting, Sen. Greg Steube expressed his continued support for the state taking over all licensing and regulation of vacation rentals. tion rentals to be state-licensed, but additional inspections and oversight are strictly complaint driven.

Steube wants the state to have total regulatory control over vacation rentals. If adopted as he proposes, the cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach would lose the local vacation rental regulations adopted since 2014. Local rental and zoning regulations adopted before June 2011, would still be preserved.

Simmons is willing to preempt some control to the state, but he wants local governments to retain the ability to regulate detached single-family homes used as short-term rentals. He also wants local governments to retain the ability to inspect vacation rentals for compliance with building, fire and life safety codes.

LATEST AMENDMENT

Steube is a member of the Regulated

WWW.FLSENATE.GOV | SUBMITTED

Sen. David Simmons intends to re-introduce his city-friendly amendments during the yet to be scheduled Appropriations Committee meeting.

Industries Committee that amended the bill last week. Simmons is not, and he did not participate in the meeting.

The committee approved an amendment proposed by committee chair Travis Hutson (R-Palm Coast) that ensures home owners associations (HOA) and condominium associations can still restrict or prohibit short-term rentals.

“Any HOAs or condos that are worried about the sanctity of their own neighborhoods have that ability to outright ban, prohibit or do whatever they want to vacation rentals,” Hutson said.

Hutson did not express similar concerns about protecting the sanctity ofresidential neighborhoods not included in condominium or HOA bylaws.

“Thank you for allowing me to put the amendment in to protect some of my locals back home,” Hutson said regarding Steube’s support of his amendment.

Amendments pertaining to non-

discriminatory rental practices and American Disability Act compliance were discussed but withdrawn.

SIMMONS AMENDMENTS

The Senate bill is now headed to the 20-member Appropriations Committee that includes Simmons and Sen. Bill Galvano (R-Bradenton), but not Steube. As of Sunday, that meeting had not yet been scheduled.

Speaking by phone on Friday, Simmons said, “I plan on bringing up my amendments in the Appropriations Committee, and we’ll have a very robust and professional debate.

“There is no constitutional right to run a business in a neighborhood zoned originally as a residential neighborhood. Those neighborhoods that don’t have restrictive covenants that SEE RENTAL BILL, PAGE 13

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

13

House bill begins committee process As of Monday, the proposed House and Senate vacation rental regulations were not aligned with one another.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT jhendricks@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE – House Bill 773, filed

by Mike La Rosa (R-St. Cloud), was scheduled for its first committee discussion on Tuesday, Feb. 13 when it was to be debated by the Florida House’s General Accountability Committee.

The House bill as written does not mirror the Senate legislation crafted

by Sen. Greg Steube, Sen. David Simmons and other state senators.

The House bill simply says, “A local law, ordinance or regulation may regulate activities that arise when a property is used as a vacation rental provided such regula-

tion applies uniformly to all residential properties without regard to whether the property is used as a vacation rental, or a long-term rental or whether a property owner chooses not to rent the property.”

The House legislation would not impact local vacation rental regulations or zoning restrictions adopted before June 1, 2011, but it would impact local regulations adopted after that.

If adopted, La Rosa’s legislation would allow local governments to maintain existing occupancy limits, registration fees, inspection requirements and other regulations, but only if those requirements and regulations also apply to homes occupied by permanent residents. This would likely result in local governments having to discard or significantly modify existing local rental regulations.

WWW.MYFLORIDAHOUSE.GOV | SUBMITTED

State Rep. Mike La Rosa is calling on local vacation rental regulations to be applied to non-rental properties too.

The House and Senate must adopt similar legislation in order to create new state law. There is currently no Senate companion to the La Rosa bill and no House companion to the Senate bill, but that could change during the House’s General Accountability Committee meeting.

BRADENTON BEACH INSIGHT

and the Ramba Consulting Group are serving as the city of Bradenton Beach’s contracted lobbying firm.

On Friday, Bradenton Beach City Attorney Ricinda Perry said Ramba told her that he and his team have met with several Senate committee members about the Senate’s vacation rental bill. They are also working behind the scenes in opposition to La Rosa’s House bill.

Perry also said Ramba told her Gov. Scott does not support the Senate legislation originally proposed by Sen. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota) that calls for all vacation rental licensing and regulation to be handled by the state. Doing so would place additional financial and staffing burdens on the state’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

For the second consecutive year, Dave Ramba

RENTAL BILL: Favored by Senate committee FROM PAGE 12

could control something like this don't have the internal ability to stop the abuses. If you turn them all into vacation rentals, nobody’s going to want to live there because you’ve got a bunch of investors from outside the community and nobody with a sense of community.

“It’s important that the local gov-

ernments talk to their legislators and also come up (to Tallahassee) and talk to the committee so they can explain that this is destroying the fabric of those neighborhoods,” he said.

Simmons represents a portion of the greater Orlando area and a portion of Volusia County.

When asked what impact vaca-

tion rentals are having on Florida’s east coast, he said, “Call over to Cocoa. They’ll tell you it’s destroying the fabric of their community.

Less and less people want to live downtown or are able to because they’re turning areas close to downtown into a place of nonowner-occupied vacation rentals.”

14

THE SUN

BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Pink & Navy blossoms with new owner

BY LOUISE BOLGER

PINK & NAVY

SUN STAFF WRITER

L

ife is challenging, especially wen you have three teenage children, so why take on more of a challenge? You’ll have to ask Amy Fleece that question, the owner of one of Pine Avenue’s premier shops since June of last year, but I’m pretty sure she’ll say she’s having the time of her life.

Fleece has already had a few challenging careers in addition to motherhood. She has a degree in psychology and taught at USF in Sarasota and then went into marketing, but she kept looking for something new, something she never did before. She knew she liked fashion going back to the days when her grandfather owned a leather company in Tampa, so she started looking for a business that would fulfill that interest.

Being a native of Bradenton with parents who live on Anna Maria she was well acquainted with Pine Avenue and all the great things that have gone on there during the last several years. Pink & Navy was a well-established shop in business for almost eight years and was available, a perfect combination.

If you haven’t been to Pink & Navy in a while, you need to go back and take a look, and if

BOUTIQUE 216 Pine Ave. Anna Maria 941-567-4000 amy@pinkandnavyami.com www.pinkandnavyami.com

Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sundays in season Noon – 4 p.m.

All major credit cards accepted LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

Pink & Navy owner Amy Fleece has put her own stamp on the popular store. you’ve never been there, you’re in for a treat. Fleece has gradually put her own stamp on the bright and open shop by incorporating inventory for all generations, all age groups and all sizes. She has an expansive price range from high end to well-priced dresses; tops and bathing suits, both two piece and one piece for women; and she will shortly be adding

plus sizes.

For women you can find dressy dresses in lace and shimmer, both long and short; hats; beach coverups and hand painted T-shirts by one of Fleece’s employees. Her men’s inventory, which is being expanded upon, includes shirts and T-shirts. And for kids there’s a whole range of cute things, including games and stuffed animals.

Pink & Navy also carries a wide selection of flip flops, casual and dress-up, beach towels creams and lotions for the beach and a small but nice assortment of small gifts. Fleece is building a nice collection of custom jewelry from a local artist to add to her more casual rings and bracelets, perfect for young and older ladies alike.

It’s a great place for locals and

visitors to browse through with new inventory coming in all the time. Fleece runs the shop with the help of a few part time staff, including her 16-year-old daughter and some of her friends, but she’s there every day overseeing things.

This young mother welcomes another challenge in her life. As the sign on the front window says, “New Year, New You, New Pink & Navy.” You just have to check it out.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

15

Jazz fest sells out the house The 15th Annual Jazz Fest was a sellout on Tuesday, Feb. 6, at the Sandbar restaurant pavilion.

This year, Dana Cohen, a singer from New Hampshire, applied her talent to the trio consisting of Bil Bowdish on horns and vocals and Ted Young at the keyboard. She got a rousing round of applause after singing the Etta James classic, “At Last.”

When special guest KoKo Ray Hansen joined the music after the break, it became a little more spirited as he and Bowdish both played sax and flute. As the show neared the end, KoKo Ray displayed his trademark routine by playing two saxophones at the same time.When the band started performing their signature last song, Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock and Roll,” the audience hollered, got up and danced, just like a bunch of teenagers.

There will more of that on Tuesday, March 13, with the Eighth Annual Oldies Beach Dance at the same location. Both events are fundraisers for the Anna Maria Concert Chorus and Orchestra. Sponsors include the Sandbar restaurant and The Anna Maria Island Sun. Tickets are available at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 941778-1541.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

KoKo Ray Hansen blows on two saxophones as the concert winds down.

16

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

17

A Doctor’s Office valentine

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

B

efore opening the Doctor’s Office Craft cocktail bar, I had a bar consultant friend check out the location.

He observed, “It’s between the hardware store and the lumber yard. Perfect.”

Since the 40s, the space was the real Island Doctors’ office.

It was the office and surgery for Doctors Huth and Deame, and then finally Doctor Stephen Pelham. Generations of Islanders received medication, advice, stitches and acts of kindness and healing in the building. Some were even born there.

Good things happened there every day for a very long time.

I grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I was the president of the student council at St Patrick’s High School. St Pat’s was loaded with Catholics. The president's title was head boy.

The nuns who taught there did not think of me in those terms.

A family of Catholic boys attended St Patrick’s – the Pelhams. Two of the Pelham boys, Cliffy and Ricky, were famous.

They were big and strong and were accomplished pugilists. They were fast of fist and boot and whenever there was a gang of cranky Protestants in the vicinity determined to settle the Irish question one prayed that Cliffy and Ricky Pelham would show up.

They saved my scrawny neck more than once.

There was also a younger Pelham – Stevie. He was a helluva hockey player.

He was a freshman when I was a senior.

I drove from Nova Scotia to Anna Maria in an Austin Marina.

It was a terrible car. It was the sorry step-child of British and American auto technology.

It represented the worst of both worlds.

The Austin Marina wept all of its fluids continuously. I spent days under that car being bathed in brake fluid, transmission fluid, oil, gasoline.

Eventually I got a rash. Susan insisted I visit a doctor.

I was sitting on an examination table in the doctor's office when a kid walked in wearing a clinician’s white coat and carrying a clipboard. He appeared to be about fifteen. His name tag said Doctor Pelham.

The doctor looked up from his clipboard and asked, “Are you Sean Murphy that used to be head boy at St Pat’s High School?”

I replied, “Are you Cliffy Pelham’s little brother?”

It was natural that we should become friends, but Steve became a great friend.

Years later Susan and I were in the desperate throws of opening the Beach Bistro in the teeth of a hurricane. Wind and waves were pounding the windows.

Water was invading the premises. Dr Steve and his wife, Sheleaugh, spent a long day and night shoveling sand, heaving sand bags and bailing to keep the infant Bistro afloat.

Steve and Sheleaugh were also there to lend support at the birth of our first child.

Dr Steve has stitched and bandaged me and my chefs in the doctor’s office and the Bistro kitchen.

Steve and Shelagh have always been there for us.

Their friendship has been a source of joy and love and laughter since that first meeting at The Doctor’s Office over 35 years ago.

On Valentine’s day we should celebrate our great friendships.

The happy ghosts of love and friendship inhabit the rooms of the Doctor’s Office.

We hope that the good will and good health generated in the building will act as a fountainhead for other great friendships and that friends will go there to celebrate kindness and good cheer.

Dr Steve is still in the business of dispensing sage medical advice.

His wise advisory to me in the clinic at that first meeting for treatment of that rash?

“You better sell that goddam car.”

Sean Murphy is the head coach of the incredibly talented team that runs the Beach Bistro; its little sister, Eat Here; and its new craft cocktail bar, The Doctors Office. Some of his articles can be found on the Bistro’s web-site, www.beachbistro.com

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941.778.6444 www.BeachBistro.com

18

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Concerns surface regarding Vacasa office Representatives are working with city officials regarding compliance with the city's franchise business ordinance.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Anna Maria’s city attorney and mayor have expressed concerns about the Oregon-based Vacasa vacation rental company operating a local office in Anna Maria.

The concerns pertain to compliance with the formula retail and formula commercial establishments ordinance the City Commission adopted in August.

The office space discussed at the Thursday, Feb. 8, commission meeting is located at 419 Pine Ave. in a building formerly occupied by Larry Chatt’s Island Real Estate. Chatt sold the vacation rental portion of his business to Vacasa in De-

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

This office space on Pine Avenue now serves as a local Vacasa vacation rental office cember, but he still owns the building.

City Attorney Becky Vose explained how these concerns surfaced.

“I was contacted by a Realtor who

said they were interested in having Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Realty move into the

city. I informed the lady that if they had the elements that are defined in the formula retail and formula commercial establishment ordinance, they would not be permitted here,” Vose said.

“The response was that Vacasa, which is an international vacation rental management company, had already moved into the city. It’s my understanding they’re not in violation at this point. If at any point they become in violation we’re going to need to address that issue,” Vose said.

Vose referred to Ordinance 17-831, which defines formula retail and commercial establishments as those with three or more operational establishments worldwide and/or approved future locations. It further defines formula commercial establishments as those that maintain two or more of the following features: standardized merchandise, standardized building façade, standardized décor and color scheme, standardized uniform apparel, standardized SEE VACASA, PAGE 41

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2018

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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THE SUN

19

Super Philly trip Island chef Ezio Piccione, far left, made the trip to Philadelphia last week for the huge downtown party honoring the city's first Super Bowl championship.

Pictured with Ezio are cousins Justin McNair, Bill McNair, Melissa McNair (dressed as an Eagle) and mom, Regina Piccione.

SUBMITTED

20

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

A walk on the art side Art lovers enjoyed a stroll around the Holmes Beach business area for Friday night’s art walk. There was live music, snacks, liquid refreshments and artwork.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Budding artist and Manatee School for the Arts student Taylor Sage shows off her latest work, “The Cortez Lion,” during Art Walk at the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island Gallery. Sage was chosen by the guild as February Art Student of the Month.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

There was a cigar box instrument display at Island Gallery West.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

The Florida Mountain Boys performed in front of the mural adjacent to Island Gallery West.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

21

Parks committee works toward beautification The city’s dog park isn’t the only project in the works for Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee members.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

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HOLMES BEACH – Members of the city’s Parks and Beautification Committee are working on several ongoing projects in an attempt to further beautify the city.

While most Island residents and visitors are aware the committee is working to remodel the Holmes Beach Dog Park, that’s not the only area of concern for committee members.

A secondary priority for members is the revitalization of Spring Lake Park, located on Holmes Boulevard. The park, which offers a short walking path and benches with views of the small lake, was recently cleared out by public works employees at the request of committee members.

Clearing out invasive species of plants and those that were doing poorly in the salty ground makes way for a new landscape plan being devised by committee member Dennis Groh. The first step in that plan was to plant four mature gumbo limbo trees that were donated to the city in the barren park. The next steps will be to select new plants for the park, create a full landscaping plan and determine what kind of ground cover will be used.

“Spring Lake Park is a challenge,” Groh said, attributing the issues the park’s had with dying plants to the saltwater environment.

He presented committee members with a list of saltwater-tolerant plants that he believes would do well in the park.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

As part of an ongoing project to revitalize Spring Lake Park, members of the Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Committee requested public works employees plant four mature gumbo limbo trees that were donated to the city in the small Holmes Boulevard park.

“It’s not a wide pallet to choose from,” he said.

Groh is already beginning work on a landscape design for the park.

Committee member Joshua Linney said he’s hard at work attempting to revitalize the city’s Adopt-A-Spot program. He’s identified 17 Adopt-A-Spot locations, many of which already have sponsors who take care of the landscaping and cleanup of the area. Linney hopes to find business or personal sponsors for the remaining spots and also is asking community members to help identify potential spots to be included in the program.

“Other spots may need to be identified,” Groh said. “It’s not just the responsibility of this committee, it’s the responsibility of the community.”

Another project for the committee is replanting a pocket park located at 39th Street. Groh said

the project remains on hold while force main and storm drain work is completed in the area.

One project the committee isn’t sure it will be able to tackle is beautification of the Kingfish Boat Ramp. After Hurricane Irma passed in September, several trees were broken and toppled over, requiring removal. Recent issues with the seawall at the Manatee County-maintained park have forced the removal of additional trees.

“The whole look of Kingfish has changed,” committee member Zan Fuller said.

Groh and Linney agreed to try to open the lines of communication with Manatee County representatives to see what can be done to help restore the vegetation in the park.

Parks and Beautification Committee members meet the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. Holmes Beach City Hall.

22

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Paddlers from Paradise use people power For more information, call Melinda Bradway at 941-4622626 or see their website at www.paddlersfromparadise.com or their Facebook page.

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

HOLMES BEACH ¬–The AMI Paddlers from Paradise, a local Dragon Boat team, are ready for another season.

Their boat resembles a serpent with a vicious dragon’s head, and their ranks range from 28 during the off-season to 50 or more when the snowbirds return.

“Our mission is to promote fitness, fun and camaraderie,” said Melinda Bradway, group founder and coach.

“We train 10 months out of the year, skipping two months when it gets too hot.”

Their dragon boat season begins in October and they train until March.

According to the group’s website, Bradway was a member of the Dragonheart Vermont team that won the 2017 USA National Dragon Boat Championship for the women’s 60 and older division held on Lake Mercer, N. J. That team is scheduled to compete in the international Dragon Boat Champion-

SUBMITTED

The Paddlers From Paradise invite those interested in Dragon Boats to take a ride and learn more. They say rowing helps them keep fit and takes their minds off their problems. ships in Hungary in July.

Last July, the AMI Paddlers from Paradise won the gold medal and first place trophy at the Suncoast Dragon Boat Festival at Benderson Park, in Sarasota. They will be competing this year in Tampa, Apollo Beach, Sarasota, Mount Dora and Clermont.

While the competition keeps them physically fit, they feel paddling keeps them mentally fit.

“We have a chant,” Bradway said, “One, two, three, four; leave your problems on the shore.”

Bradway also wants to let others enjoy time in a dragon boat. Bradway also said the look forward to forming a breast cancer survivors team.

“We invite people to go for a ride to look at the sea life or catch a sunset,” she said. “I keep the cost down and we charge $10 per person for an excursion.”

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www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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JANUARY 17, 2018

Things were different on Anna Maria Island in the old days. Within the lifetimes of our eldest residents, there was no bridge leading to the Island, and people took a ferry across the Intracoastal Waterway. Even earlier, they arrived at the Anna Maria City Pier by steamship from Tampa. Ladies’ swimsuits included hats. Roads were made of sea shells. But some things remain the same, like the surf, the sand, the sun, and the postcard sentiment, “Wish you were here.”

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JANUARY 17, 2018

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26

THE SUN

OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Know your tides H

aving a good working knowledge of the tides in your area will greatly increase your angling odds.

While I always like to follow the axiom, “The best time to go fishing is whenever you can,” understanding and being able to track tidal fluctuations is invaluable.

Let’s start with a quick primer.

While there are numerous factors that influence the tides, it’s the gravitational pull of the moon on the water that has the greatest effect. The moon also affects the earth’s mass. This means that the oceans on opposite sides of the earth experience high tides as the earth is pulled away from the water.

The other object in the solar system that influences the tide is the sun, which has approximately one half the influence of the moon. When the sun and the moon line up at the full and new moon, their combined influence creates a greater pull, and we experience strong or spring tides.

When the sun and moon are at right

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS angles to each other, during the moon’s first and last quarter, they interfere with each other and we experience weak or neap tides. In addition, the tidal ranges are greater when the moon and sun are at perigee, or closest to the earth. Experience will teach the angler how to benefit from the myriad tidal factors that produce good fishing.

I learned a valuable lesson about tides on trips to the Bahamas in search of bonefish. My first several trips were planned to coincide with a full or new moon in order to take advantage of the increased feeding activity that gener-

RUSTY CHINNIS | SUN

Extreme low tides can pinpoint some excellent fishing holes.

SEE REEL TIME, PAGE 28

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

27

Fish between fronts for best action CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE

Large white pelicans, Canadian license plates and big amberjack are a sure sign of winter time in the Sunshine State. We here at Anna Maria Charters are taking full advantage of the seasonal fishing. Offshore, red grouper, lane snapper, hogfish and big amberjack are the name of the game. Fishing sardines on the bottom is filling the cooler with great tasting species for the table. While anglers who want a knock down, drag out fight are getting on the other end of big amberjack, live pinfish and pilchards freelined are hooking up these fish.

Inshore is producing spotted seatrout, sheepshead, black drum and pompano with some consistency. The trout will hit a jig, as will the pompano. The sheepshead, black drum and occasional redfish will readily eat a shrimp. These fish are all good table fare, with sheepshead being out primary inshore target. The weather is looking great lately, get out there and soak it up.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had good action catching and releasing trout and Spanish mackerel in Sarasota Bay and tripletail in the coastal Gulf on flies and reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails in the Terra Ceia area

CAPTAIN DAVE WHITE | SUBMITTED

Clayton Vaughn, of Tipp City, Ohio, happily hoists a hefty amberjack caught on a live Pinfish with Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters. during the past week. The best action was with big trout in skinny water in Sarasota Bay, tripletail in the coastal Gulf and reds in skinny water in the Terra Ceia area.

Nick Reding, from Longboat Key, and Mike Perez, from Sarasota, waded a couple of shallow flats in Sarasota Bay with me on Monday. The action wasn’t fast but they caught and released a few quality trout up to 22 inches on Grassett Flats Minnow and Clouser Minnow flies.

Alan Sugar, from Michigan, fished deep grass flats of Sara-

sota Bay with me on Wednesday and had some action catching and releasing trout and a Spanish mackerel on Ultra Hair Clouser flies. A couple of classmates from Maryland and Deaware whom I hadn’t seen in more than 40 years, Jim Willey and Gary Zlock, met me at the boat launch at the end of my trip on Wednesday to say hello.

We took a short trip to bend the rod on a few trout and shared a beer and a burger at the end of the day. Great to catch up!

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., and Jack McCulloch, from Lakewood Ranch,

Fla., fished the Terra Ceia Bay area with me on Tuesday. They had great action with several reds and trout on CAL jigs with shad tails.

The most memorable trip of the week was with Martin Marlowe, from New York, on Thursday. We hunted tripletail in the coastal Gulf, found several and he caught and released the personal best tripletail ever caught on my boat. The big fish ate a shrimp fly pattern on a 7-wt fly rod, ran deep into the backing and put on a show jumping. We survived getting wrapped on

the crab trap line to bring the fish to the boat. Congratulations Martin!

I was one of the seminar speakers at the 2018 Florida Fly Fishing Expo at the Plantation resort in Crystal River, Fla., on Friday, Feb. 9. The Fly Fishers International (FFI) event featured some of the best fly tiers and fly fishing anglers and guides in the state, including legendary Florida Keys fly fishing guide, Steve Huff.

The show featured seminars, fly tying and fly casting clinics and demonstrations. I gave a presentation to an enthusiastic, standing room only group on fly fishing for snook at night and deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Fish the windows of stable weather between fronts for the best action. Sunny afternoons and evenings with some protection from the wind should fish better this time of year due to warmer water. There should be good action with trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Fishing shallow water for big trout should also be a good option.

I think it is appropriate to discuss something here that has been bothering me for a while. Not that there’s anything wrong with catching and eating fish, but I think boat limits are needed for both guides and SEE CAPTAINS, PAGE 28

Grady-White & Yamaha Sale Save up to $7.5K on a new Grady and get upto 5 years of warranty on a new Yamaha.

6040 Gulf of Mexico Driv v e, Longboat Key | 941-- 383-1311

canno ons.co om

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CAPTAINS: Guides can make a difference FROM PAGE 27

guides and recreational anglers.

With numerous species of fish available to catch and bag limits as they currently are for some species, it may be legally possible to keep a total of 30 to 40 or more fish, depending on the species and number of anglers on a boat.

I don’t think Sarasota Bay and surrounding waters can support that kind of pressure. Some people forget or never knew about the conservation battles that many guides, along with CCA, fought in the past with redfish in the 80s, the gill net ban in the 90s, snook regulations and more to get to where we are today.

With an increasing population

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., with a red caught on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing the Terra Ceia area with Capt. Rick Grassett. and more anglers fishing, less habitat due to development and declining water quality due to residential runoff and agricultural pol-

lution, fishing is bound to decline if we don’t all do something about it. Just my opinion, but as a guide for 28-years I promote catch and release fishing and conservation to all of my clients and I think it is important to set that example. I’m not trying to be judgmental, but just because we can legally kill a limit of fish doesn’t mean we have to in order to be successful. Everyone is the captain of their own vessel and can set lower limits themselves. Guides are teachers, we can make a difference or have a negative impact. As I say every month in my fishing forecast, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit.

REEL TIME: Know your tides FROM PAGE 26

ally takes place during these times. Instead, I found that the bonefish I was stalking would disappear into the mangroves as the tide rose, giving me a shorter window to pursue them along the mangrove fringes.

Based on that information, I planned subsequent trips when neap tides slowed the progress and size of the tide, providing many more opportunities for sight fishing bones.

Just the opposite is true when I explore local waters. While I still fish whenever I have the opportunity, I target days of extreme high and low tides because I know they stimulate feeding and concentrate fish. Depending on the time of year and the temperature you can use the tide to take advantage of the season. In the winter when the waters chill down I like to seek out locations where a late afternoon falling tide brings warm water off the flats. The holes, slues and channels the water drains into attract gamefish and can provide some excellent action.

When fishing the flats, working from the deep water to shallow on the falling tide and in reverse on the rising tide is a very effective way to target fish. Very low tides (during spring tides) provide an excellent opportunity to scan the flats for channels, slues and holes on the flats where fish congregate. Armed with

this knowledge anglers can return when the flats are covered with water and benefit from that awareness.

Tide charts are valuable because the tide can be varying heights depending on whether you’re fishing in the Gulf or far up a bay. Planning your day to take advantage of these variations can make a real difference in action. No matter what species you target, you’ll have a better chance at success if you understand and track the tides. They can tell you where to concentrate your effort and help you avoid other less productive areas. Pick up a tide chart at your local tackle shop or download one of a number of excellent Apps on your smartphone.

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

FOOD & WINE

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29

Say it with chocolate on Valentine's Day

Andrea Spring

W

MERMAID PIES & PRODUCE

hen I was growing up, my sister and I couldn't wait to make our cards for Valentines Day. Our mother would bring out all of the supplies – paper doilies, construction paper, ribbons, bits of lace, crayons, the button box and, of course, rubber cement. After all the stickiness, arguing over buttons and the pride of the finished product, we had a joyful time that will stay with us always. Sadly, in this age of very little free time and e cards, the handmade Valentine is a lost art.

The very first Valentine was written by the priest St. Valentine while he was held prisoner by the Romans. He was accused of helping Christian couples marry and was arrested. During his confinement he cured his jailor's daughter, Julia, of blindness. He penned a letter to her afterwards and signed it, "Your Valentine," an endearment still used by card companies today.

Over the centuries, the legend and cards gained popularity. In the early 1800s, in Britain alone, tens of thousands of cards were mailed, despite the high cost postage. The love struck discovered that they could send heartfelt greetings and stay anonymous.

Soon handmade cards were being mass produced, and Sailors' Valentines, made of shells collected from foreign shores, became extremely popular. Along with these exotic souvenirs came new kinds of sweets and flavors not before seen in the British Isles and America where Valentine's Day was most popular.

By the early 1600s, one of those flavors was chocolate. The cocoa bean, or cacao bean, was sweeping Europe. It was a fa-

SUBMITTED

Deep chocolate brownies topped with whipped cream and a candy heart make a special Valentine's Day treat for your loved one. vorite of European royalty and commoners alike. In London, chocolate houses were as popular as coffee houses for social gatherings. Boxed chocolates became a popular present for a loved one, and in 1861, the British chocolate maker Cadbury made a decision that changed Valentine' s Day forever – a heart shaped box for its candies.

A move of marketing genius for sure, heart boxes became all the rage in the United States, and chocolate became an unforgettable part of Cupid's favorite holiday.

Chocolate desserts have became very popular for this holiday, essential for restaurant menus.

I've created dozens of desserts over the years for my own restaurants and others. This recipe for brownies is simple, deep, rich; one of the best chocolate experiences you will ever have.

Deep Chocolate Brownies Ingredients

• 1 c. butter, melted • 2 c. white sugar • 4 eggs • 2 tsp. vanilla • 2/3 c. cocoa • 1 c. flour • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. baking powder (not soda)

Directions

Preheat oven to 325º.

Mix butter and sugar well. Add eggs, one at a time and beat eggs in well. Add vanilla, cocoa, flour, salt and baking powder. Mix well and bake in oil sprayed 8-inch x 8-inch pan for 20 minutes.

Check with toothpick. Center should be moist crumbs, not wet batter and not dry crumbs. If not done, keep baking and check every 5 minutes. Don't over bake.

You can add 1/2 cup of additives, chocolate chips, nuts, crushed candy, raisins or whatever you like.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Cortez Heritage Trail in the works

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

CORTEZ – Cortez native Mary Fulford Green’s vision of creating a Cortez Heritage Trail in the historic fishing village is taking shape.

The trail would take visitors from the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage “FISH” boatworks on 116th Street West to the FISH Preserve, the Cortez Cultural Center, then over a footbridge to the historic Burton/Bratton store and the Florida Maritime Museum at Cortez Road and 119th Street West.

FISH purchased and restored the 95 acres in the preserve a little at a time, with proceeds from the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, which returns this weekend to the village. The preserve, which includes Sarasota Bay waterfront, is not yet complete, but a trail and kayak launches are planned.

FISH board member Herman Kruegle is taking the reins from longtime CVHS member Green, 93, to get

CINDY LANE | SUN

The Florida Maritime Museum and the historic Burton/Bratton store will be stops on the Cortez Heritage Trail. at least $85,000 in funding for the trail, for informational markers describing the stops, and for a new welcome center near the boatworks that would also house historic wooden boats that need protection from the elements, he said.

The boats include the Sallie Adams, named for an ancestor of Green’s, and the Esperanza, a former Cuban refugee

boat.

While other preserves in the county focus on nature, Kruegle hopes the emphasis at the Cortez Heritage Trail will be education about the importance of commercial fishing and the history of the fishing village, he said.

Green was instrumental in getting the Burton/Bratton store moved from

the west side of Cortez village to the museum grounds, and in moving the cottage that became the Cortez Cultural Center to the FISH Preserve from Bradenton Beach during her tenure on the Cortez Village Historical Society (CVHS) board. Her ancestors were among the founders of Cortez.

FESTIVAL: Catch the popular event on Saturday and Sunday MUSIC SCHEDULE

FROM PAGE 1

Local fishermen created the festival in 1982 to counter opposition to the commercial fishing industry. While Florida voters passed a constitutional amendment in 1994 to ban gill nets, putting much of Cortez out of work, the festival – and Cortez – still survived.

The first year, villagers pitched in to make fish chowder, which was gone by noon, recalls festival veteran John Stevely. Nowadays, a huge food court ensures plenty of seafood, including the Cortez staple, smoked mullet, and landlubber fare for everyone.

The original $1 admission has only been raised to $4 since then, with kids under 12 free.

Proceeds benefit festival organizer FISH, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, to restore and expand the 95-acre FISH Preserve on Sarasota Bay east of Cortez village. FISH purchased another piece of property adjoining the preserve in 2016 and plans to create hiking and kayak trails in the preserve, which has been largely cleared of invasive species and planted with native vegetation.

Environmentalist and ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cous-

Saturday, Feb. 17 Main Stage 10-11 a.m.

Shanty Singers 11:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Doug Deming 12:45-1:30 p.m.

Awards and Introductions 2- 4 p.m.

Eric Von Band 4:30-6 p.m.

Jason Haram Sunday, Feb.18 Main Stage 10:30 a.m.-noon Soupy Davis

and his Band 12.30-2 p.m.

Manatee River BlueGrass 2:30-4 p.m.

Soul R Coaster 4:30-6 p.m.

Koko Ray Bratton Store on the Porch 1-5 p.m.

Eric Von

FILE PHOTO

Thousands of visitors enjoyed the festival's music, food, activities, arts and crafts and demonstrations last year. teau has endorsed the FISH Preserve.

“Your FISH Preserve is very impressive,” he wrote. “Its economic value cannot be judged in terms of dollars alone. I have

seen from many places around the world, communities like the fishing village of Cortez, suffering from the demise of the natural resources base on which they depend. Your proj-

ect is an important reminder of the vital connections between nature and humanity.”

To find the festival, head west toward Anna Maria Island on Cortez Road to the en-

trance at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W. Free parking is available east of the entrance at the FISH Preserve, a five-minute walk from the gate. Free offsite parking is available at G.T Bray Park, 5502 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton (turn east off 59th Street onto 33rd Avenue Drive) or at Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island, with a shuttle bus to Cortez ($3 round trip). Pay parking is available in the village.

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

SHOPPING

SELF IMPROVEMENT

Book sale this week

Networking lunch scheduled

The Friends of the Island Branch Library holds their annual book sale this week at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, on Thursday, through Saturday, Feb, 15 through 17. Only Friends members will be allowed in on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. for an opportunity to shop first. Nonmembers can sign up for Friends membership at the door for as little as $10.

The sale will be open to all on Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m..

This sale is a major fundraiser for the Friends, which helps the library with things not in its budget and sponsors the travel and lecture series every season. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

The February S.W.A.T. (Successful Women Aligning Together) Anna Maria Island Chapter networking meeting and lunch will be held on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 11:45 a.m. 1:15 p.m.at Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach.

Attendees should bring business cards for this popular event, so they can mingle with other like-minded professional women. Guests are always welcome. The AMI Chapter meets every third Thursday of each month.

To R.S.V.P. for the AMI Chapter networking meeting and for more information about S.W.A.T., contact: Janice Teeter, SWAT AMI director at SWATAMI@ gmail.com or www.swatnetworking. com.

Church market set

Catch it early

The Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, will host its White Elephant sale on Friday, Feb. 16, from 3 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 17, from. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There is a $5 admission charge for the Friday sale, and admission is free on Saturday. In addition to gently used items, there will be food to eat there or to take home.

You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered on Thursday, Feb. 22, 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.

MUSIC Songs for seniors Senior Adventures will listen to some music on Friday, Feb. 16. The bus leaves Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach at 9 a.m. for Sunnyside Village, in Sarasota. Reservations are necessary and attendees will need $5 for the van and $2 for the piano concert. Call Kaye Bell at 941538-0945.

READING Book club meets The Friends of the Island Book Club meets at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, Feb. 15, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. The group will discuss Kristin Hannah’s “The Nightingale.”

For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

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ART Silk painting The Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach, presents a painting on silk workshop with Mark Mizener on Tuesday, Feb. 27, from 2 to 5 p.m. Mizener, spent his childhood in Downers Grove, Ill.. He majored in theater arts at University of Illinois and also at Columbia College in Chicago.

The cost is $65 for nonmembers and $60 for members, and the fee covers art supplies. Spaces are limited. Scholarships may be available. Call the Art League at 941-778-2099 or visit the Anna Maria Island Art League on Monday, Wednesday or Friday, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for more details.

The art of writing The Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, announces a three-session women’s writing group, “Writing From Art” by Susan Huppert on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; Feb. 26, 28, and March 2, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The cost is $45 for non-members and $40 for Art League members. The class is limited to 10 students. Scholarships may be available.

Call the Art League at 941-778-2099.

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OBITUARIES William 'Billy' Lepenna William “Billy” Lepenna, 59, beloved companion of Liz Marcyes, of Bradenton, Fla., passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2018.

Born in Connecticut, he was the son of the late William Jones and Lori Moore.

A veteran of the United States Army, Billy worked for Auto Pros Used Cars of Bradenton and was a jack of all trades. He was a descendent of the Narragansett Indian Tribe and took great pride in his Native American heritage. He enjoyed helping others and taking on a variety of projects.

Billy was a loving and easy-going man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his adoptive parents, Daniel and Rosemary Lapenna; his siblings, Bobby (Kristine) Jones, of Sarasota, Fla., Anne (Lambert) Goldstein, of Sarasota, Fla., Mike (Julie) Moore, of North Carolina, Brian Moore, of Indiana, Kathy (Rodney) Aehert, Thomas Lapenna, Lynn (Lapenna) Bousquet; his son Jeremy Cermola; along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held on Sunday, Feb. 11, at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach Fla. A traditional ceremony will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. on the Narragansett Indian Tribes Reservation, Charlestown, R.I. Burial will be private.

James 'Jim' H. Ross James "Jim" H.Ross, 72, passed away Friday, Feb. 2, surrounded by his family. He was known around the Island

as Captain Jim or Navy Jim. Jim was a resident of the Island off and on since 1996. He retired from the Navy as a Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate at age 37. Since retiring, he tried his hand at many things. He was a substance abuse counselor and ran marathons for many years, a Coast Guard licensed captain and was the manager of the Moose Lodge in Key West. Jim spoke some Japanese and Portuguese, compliments of the Navy, as well as knowing American sign language.

Jim was born and raised in the Kensington area of Philadelphia Penn. with his eight brothers and sisters. He roamed the seas with the Navy and continued his travel and adventures for most of his life. He loved being on the water and was a Sea Tow Captain in the Keys and a Supply Boat Captain for the oil rigs out of Aransas Pass, Texas.

Jim is survived by his son, John, of Tampa, and daughter, Jami-Leigh, from Indiana; sisters, Lynn Niblick, from New Jersy, Denise Tozzi, and Janet Morgan from Florida; brothers Jack, from Pennsylvania, Terry from Texas, Kevin from Connecticut and Brian of Florida; 21 nieces and nephews and; extended family and friends.

His sister Kathy Reilly of Pennsylvania preceded him in death.

A celebration of life will be held Island-style at Bortell's on Saturday, Feb. 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In loving memory Erick Scott Sylvester died Nov. 12, 2017, in Panama Beach, Fla. He owned Sarasota Beach Service. He formerly lived in Holmes Beach and Longboat Key.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR From Page 7 exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

Ringling College Lifelong Learning Academy Lecture Series, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to noon, $55 for four lecture series or $15 per lecture. Reserve to www.rclla. org or 941-309-5111.

Intermediate bridge session, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

Knit and crochet, teaching group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701

Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Mosaic NEST grand opening, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 4 to 6 p.m.

Sunset drum circle, Manatee Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 5 to 8 p.m.

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 7 p.m., $45. Tickets available at www.centerami.org.

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 17

Friends of the Island Library Book Sale, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sun spotting, Robinson Preserve, 1794 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 9 to 11 a.m.

Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Florida

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Accident takes life of man with local ties

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

BRADENTON – The son of former Bradenton Beach Police Officer Mike Bazell died in a motorcycle vs. car accident last week. Ryan Michael Bazell, 23, of Bradenton, was pronounced dead at the scene on Thursday, Feb. 8, according to a Florida State Patrol accident report. The accident occurred around 5:36 p.m. at Cortez Road West in Cortez..

The report said Carol Ann Nelson, 80, of Bradenton, was traveling westbound in the left turn lane approaching Seventh Street when she turned in front of Bazell’s Yamaha motorcycle.

Bazell’s motorcycle hit the van, spinning it around, and Bazell separated from the motorcycle. He was pronounced dead at the scene and Nelson was taken to Blake Medical Center with minor injuries. She was charged with violating the right of way.

BEACH BEAT ANNA MARIA No new reports.

BRADENTON BEACH

2/2, Marchman Act, 100 block of Avenue A. An intoxicated woman was taken into custody for her own safety.

2/5, disorderly intoxication, 121 Bridge St, An intoxicated female smashed a menu sign at a restaurant. She was arrested.

2/7, grant theft, 100 block of 10th St. N, A surfboard was stolen.

CORTEZ

1/30, burglary to vehicle, Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. W. A purse was stolen from an employee’s car.

HOLMES BEACH

2/1, defrauding an innkeeper, Harrington House, 5826 Gulf Drive. A guest left without paying $1,120 bill.

2/2, driving with an expired license, 4000 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check and found out the driver’s license had expired. He was ticketed.

2/3, DUI, 5200 Gulf Drive. The officer was operating radar and saw the defendant driving out of his lane and he followed the Institute for Saltwater Heritage, 4515 124th St. W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., $4 for adults, children 12 and under free.

Wildlife spotlight: Osprey outing, Robinson Preserve, 1794 99th St. NW, Bradenton, 10 a.m. to noon. Reserve to elena.burke@mymanatee.org or 941-742-5923 ext. 6036.

ACBL open pairs duplicate bridge, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $11 per game with coffee and snacks provided. Reserve to 941-216-9600 or sjbrill@aol.com.

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 7 p.m., $45. Tickets available at www.centerami.org.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18

Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, 4515 124th St.

suspect, who accelerated to 70 mph in a 35 mph zone. He stopped the suspect and noticed signs of impairment. He had the driver perform a field sobriety test and based on the result, placed him under arrest.

2/3, driving with no valid license, 3000 SR 789.

The officer ran a computer check on the driver and it showed she did not have a license. She was ticketed.

2/3, driving with a suspended license, 3100 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check and found the driver's license was suspended for accumulation of points. She was issued a summons to appear in court.

2/5, trespass warning, 4000 Gulf Drive. Police responded to a complaint from a county public works employee who got into an argument with a homeless person about sleeping in the park overnight. The officer issued a trespass warning to the woman.

She left on a bus.

2/6, driving with no license, 4500 Gulf Drive. The officer on patrol spotted a vehicle whose driver looked away when he spotted the officer. The officer ran a computer check and found that the driver had no license. He was ticketed.

2/7, suspicious circumstances, Anna Maria Elementary School, 4700 Gulf Drive. The officer responded to reports of two men on the roof of the school. The custodian said when he hollered to them, they jumped down and left in a silver Chevrolet truck.

The custodian said there was no damage.

W., Cortez, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., $4 for adults, children 12 and under free.

Beach Market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For information call 941-518-4431.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 19

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m.

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

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 20

Yoga with Cheryl Kaiser, The Paradise Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10. Reserve to maryannbrady@theparadisecenter.org or 941-383-6493.

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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33

Commissioner Yetter says farewell The appointment of a new commissioner will take place at the commission’s Feb. 22 meeting.

Hopefully I’ve done

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City Commissioner Nancy Yetter was presented a key to the city before her final commission meeting on Thursday, Feb. 8.

Yetter and her husband, Mike, sold their Anna Maria home and will move into their new home in Tampa later this month. She was four months into her third term as a commissioner. She also served three years on the Planning and Zoning Board.

Murphy gave Yetter her key to the city during the reception held in her honor before last week’s meeting.

“She’s been a big contributor and always has great ideas, supported all the good causes and provided tremendous insight into what was being done and how things should be done,” Murphy said, noting that hoped she would use the key to return from time to time.

“We so much appreciate everything you have given to our city. We’re going to miss you. Thank you very much,” he said.

Commission chair Doug Copeland said, “I just want to thank Nancy for her service to the city. It’s been greatly appreciated and great to work with you. We wish you and your husband good luck in your future endeavors.”

more good than harm.”

Nancy Yetter, Former city commissioner Murphy then presented Yetter with a plastic roach as part of a running joke that dates back to when he put it in her bag of bag of popcorn, and she found it during a meeting.

REPLACEMENT PROCESS

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Departing Commissioner Nancy Yetter accepts a key to the city from Mayor Dan Murphy.

Yetter said, “This all started back in 2009 when Fran Barford was mayor.

She and my husband got me onto the P&Z board, and from there I became involved.”

Yetter said she participated in a petition drive that led to the recall of a commissioner and that led to her running for a commission seat.

“If you’d had asked me 10 years ago if I would ever run for public office I would have said you’re crazy, this will never happen. Hopefully I’ve done

more good than harm. We always try to do our best. I stayed true to my campaign promise that the people of this community would always come first,” Yetter said.

She thanked Mike for putting up with her post-meeting rants and said, “He was always there to support me, as well as the city staff. The city’s very fortunate to have a wonderful mayor that’s brought innovative ideas to the city, and the staff and the commission who support him. Thank you.”

During the meeting that followed, City Attorney Becky Vose said the four remaining commissioners would appoint Yetter’s replacement at the beginning of the Thursday, Feb. 22, meeting.

Each commissioner will rank each candidate in terms of their first choice, second choice and so on. The candidate with the lowest combined score will serve the remainder the Yetter’s commission term that ends in November. A coin will be flipped if there’s a two-way tie, The city clerk’s office will accept candidate applications until the close of business on Friday, Feb. 16. As of Monday, David Bouchard, Jon Crane and Amy Tripp had submitted applications.

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BRIEFS Pier piling discussion Originally scheduled for 11 a.m., the Anna Maria City Commission’s Wednesday, Feb. 14, pier meeting has been pushed back to 2 p.m. During the meeting, members of the Ayres Associates design and engineering firm are expected to provide commissioners with a cost comparison analysis that will help decide if the pier pilings will be made of concrete

or a composite material.

Parking hearing Thursday The Thursday, Feb. 15 Bradenton Beach Commission meeting will include a public hearing for a residential parking exception at 103 Highland Ave. The noon meeting will include discussion on the Anna Maria Oyster Bar sign and its compliance with a previouslyissued conditional use permit. Commissioners also will continue their discussion on the proposed use of the county’s surplus beach concession funds.

A ‘Babe’ for Valentine’s Day The city of Anna Maria’s Wednesday, Feb. 14 Classic Movie in the Park will feature a free outdoor screening of “Babe,” the 1995 film that tells the tale of a loveable pig that wants to be sheepdog. The screening will begin at 7 p.m. and movie-goers are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, drinks and snacks.

Last week’s screening of “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian” drew approximately 60 people, doubling the 30 or so folks who attended the week before.

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

SPORTS

THE SUN

35

Team Slim’s Place finishes as champions

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

After more than a decade of watching youth co-ed flag football played on the fields at the community center on Anna Maria Island as a mom, a coach and a reporter, so many memories came rushing back this season. From the smallest players participating in the Moss Builders Clinic to the high school boys in the oldest league, it is encouraging that the sense of community still exists with the gridiron sport.

For the players in the 14- to 17-year-old league, flag football has been the only sport that has been able to attract enough players to make a sports season at The Center for a number of years now.

Soccer has suffered with only two teams and mixed age groups, and basketball just has not seen competitive games in years.

There is something about flag football that continues to draw youth of all ages to the Island year after year. After writing about the youth league football season this year, it is apparent this passion should remain strong for years to come.

As the high school boys played week after week, it was a time for lifelong friends to come together and have valuable face-to-face communication time, whether it is on the field or on the sideline.

Watching the team members of Slim’s Place play hard, have fun, and play with heart against friends, classmates and newcomers reminded all of us why recreational sports on the Island is so important.

Putting down the remotes to the PS4 or XBOX One, getting away from the pressures of homework and school and detaching from the cell phones and tablets for a couple of hours a week provided the atmosphere for an exciting flag football season.

Team Slim’s Place became the team to beat as each week passed.

On frozen fields, through the fog and on a slippery field Tuna McCracken and David Daigle, classmates and buddies since kindergarten, worked as a cohesive unit with friend, Connor Ludwig and

SUBMITTED

Flag football champions Team Slim's Place (14-to-17 year old league), left to right: Jackson Runo, Tuna McCracken, Connor Ludwig, Nick Bigelow, Parker Davis, David Daigle and coach Monica Simpson. new teammates Nick Bigelow, Jackson Runo and Parker Davis.

Finishing the regular season undefeated always provides added pressure to a team going into the playoffs. For Slim’s Place, the fact that the focus was on having a great time with no coaching pressure to win created an environment for natural talents of each player to shine.

Going into the championship game, Slim’s Place’s opponent, Team Blalock Walters came from a rough start at the beginning of the season, losing the first several games, to a place on the final bracket. The desire to win was clearly displayed by Chris Snyder and Corey Jacques. The pure athletic ability and speed of Cole Carter, friend of many of the Slim’s Place teammates, was displayed in every game.

This along with the strong team effort by Daniel Sentman, Bryce Higgins and Ben Brashear is what put Blalock Walters into championship contention by the end of the season.

Staying in the big game for the first half of the game, Slim’s Place focused on playing its game and keeping the Blalock Walters

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

Champions Planet Stone, 11-to 14-year old youth flag football league.

offense from scoring. The strategy of the team was successful carrying it through the final second of the game with a 25-point lead.

Cortez Pump took the 8 -to 10-year-old league championship last Tuesday with a win over Bins Be Clean. The middle school league saw Planet Stone win the final game over Blue Lagoon midweek.

With kids' flag football done, youth basketball returns again this season with the games starting Saturday, Feb. 24.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, FEB. 6 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL 8- TO 10-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Cortez Pump Bins Be Clean

MONICA SIMPSON | SUN

25 14

ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL

Bins Be Clean 25 25 Signarama 9 17 Slim’s Place 25 25 Signarama 4 14 Slim’s Place 25 25 Bins Be Clean 23 12

Team Cortez Pump, eight-to 10-year old league, flag football champions.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 7 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL 11- TO 13-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Planet Stone Blue Lagoon

14- TO 17-YEAR-OLD LEAGUE – CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

Slim’s Place Blalock Walters

THURSDAY, FEB. 8 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL 36 20

51 26

Bins Be Clean Lancaster Design

(5-0) 28 (1-4) 26

CABB Cleaning Moss Builders

(1-4) 32 (2-3) 38

Beach Bums (2-3) 26 Beach House Real Estate (4-1) 33

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H

REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

Stupid Cupid – not so stupid

appy Valentine’s Day! It’s the day to recognize and appreciate the one you love, and the chubby little guy with wings is there to help you or at least provide a friendly reminder. And although Cupid may not actually be an angel, I recently learned about another type of angel, the Renovation Angel.

Renovation Angel is an organization that accepts donations from homeowners who are getting ready to do major renovations.

Renovation Angel is one of the leading organizations in the field, but not the only one. Green Demolitions Luxury Bargains and Kitchen Trader Pre-Owned Luxury are two others. All of them both accept donations and resell the items. Here’s how it works: The service offers free, insured removal and transportation of luxury kitchens, appliances, bath fixtures, furniture, home décor and architectural elements. The items donated are packed and transported in one day leaving the home swept clean.

Homeowners are given an estimate of the

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER value of the items donated for tax deductions purposes,and even have appraisers available for property donations valued high enough to require an appraisal per IRS standards.

The repurposed items are then sold via the internet, or in the case of Renovation Angels, at a 43,000 square foot store in New Jersey. The money it earns is used to support charitable programs ranging from addiction recovery, job training, youth-atrisk programs and others.

Not only is this type of contribution a win for homeowners, who will qualify for a sizeable tax deduction, but it also will keep the amount of renovation inconvenience to a minimum. In addition, homeowners

who are interested in promoting a green lifestyle will appreciate keeping household items out of landfills. Renovation Angels claim they have diverted more than 33 million pounds of household items from landfills and have distributed over $2.2 million to charities.

With Anna Maria Island at the forefront of recognizing the benefits of sustainable practices with the Island’s Green Village, I’m sure there are homeowners getting ready to undertake renovations who would be interested in donating. There is, however, one little catch. The household items being donated must qualify as luxury high end items. If you’re getting ready to tear out a 1960s kitchen with knotty pine cabinets and harvest gold appliances, you’ll be disappointed.

Luxury means just that – designer kitchens and baths with high quality cabinets and countertops that can be recycled into another home. It may sound crazy, but there are plenty of buyers looking at high end properties with high end kitchens and

baths who plan on ripping them out and installing something that fits their lifestyle and taste. These are the homeowners that organizations like Renovation Angels are targeting.

The organizations that handle these types of donations are nationwide, and you can start with an online application and pictures of your household items as a first step. If accepted, a representative will likely be sent to inspect them and compile a financial proposal. And don’t forget these organizations are also a good source to purchase luxury household items at deep discounts and promote a good environment.

In Greek mythology Cupid, the son of Venus represents love, attraction and desire. Falling in love with a house is not so different than falling in love with a person – both are riddled with pitfalls, expenses and heartbreak. At least when it comes to renovations, some of the heartbreak and expense can be reduced for those qualified while also doing a good thing. Become an angel it’s the smart thing to do.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

37

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

New assistant

SUBMITTED

Kelly DeForest, of Bradenton, has been hired by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce to serve as administrative assistant. The mother of two children, DeForest helped out at a recent Island Bayfest with fellow parishioners from CrossPointe Fellowship in Holmes Beach.

20-year anniversary Chapae clothing boutique owner Pat Slusser, center, celebrates the 20th anniversary of her business at 101 S. Bay Blvd. in Anna Maria. With her are staffers Jan Alyasin, left, and Connie Young.

Call us for all your sales or rental needs!

“Our Name Says It All” SALES AND VACATION RENTALS TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 941-778-4800 800-237-2252

VisitAParadise.com

941-778-7200 REAL ESTATE INC.

519 Pine Ave. • Anna Maria, FL 34216

HOLMES BEACH: 5201 Gulf Drive • ELLENTON: 945 25th Drive East, Suite 10

Toll Free

(866) 519-SATO (7286)

www.SatoRealEstate.com

"Island faces selling Island places"

38

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THE SUN

Top real estate producers for January, 2018 A PARADISE

EDGEWATER REAL ESTATE

Mary Burke - Listing Cindy Grazar - Selling

Lynn Zemmer - Listing & selling

AN ISLAND PLACE REALTY

Stephanie Bell - Listing Briana Shaughnessy - Selling

Sue Carlson - Listing Billi Gartman - Selling

FRAN MAXON REAL ESTATE

ISLAND REAL ESTATE

COLDWELL BANKER

Alan Galletto - Listing Marianne Correll - Selling

DUNCAN REAL ESTATE

MICHAEL SAUNDERS ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Buky Team - Listing & selling Darcie Duncan - Listing & selling

Debbie Capobianco & Kristi Berger Listing & selling

MIKE NORMAN

Kathy Caserta - Listing Jed Wilkinson - Selling

SATO REAL ESTATE

Jason Sato - Listing John Damato - Selling

WAGNER REAL ESTATE

Rae Ellen Hayo - Listing & selling

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

39

NEST nature center opens Friday

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

The NEST at will open at Robinson Preserve on Friday, Feb. 16 from 4-6 p.m. with a family-friendly event sponsored by Manatee County’s Parks and Natural Resources Department.

The event will include a ribbon cutting, guided tours of the NEST, short for MOSAIC Center for Nature, Exploration, Science and Technology, nature-themed activities and sneak peek tours of the new expansion at Robinson Preserve. Refreshments will be provided by Mosaic and Willis Smith.

The NEST, an elevated tree house education center, features classrooms for environmental programs beginning later this year.

It is surrounded by 150 acres of the Robinson Preserve expansion, which will feature canoe and kayak launches, mangrove islands, a 5K track, a 1.6-mile jogging and walking trail featuring heartbreak hill, freshwater ponds for a sport fish nursery, restored wetlands and a connection

MANATEE COUNTY PARKS AND NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT | SUBMITTED

The NEST will open this week at Robinson Preserve. to the existing preserve, according to Parks and Natural Resources Department officials.

“The Mosaic NEST represents a community effort to imagine, design, and build a one-of-a-kind learning environment in northwest Bradenton,” Manatee County Parks and Natural

Resources Volunteer and Education Division Manager Melissa Nell said in a press release. "The site's new programming, launching this fall, will offer educational programs and special events that will help participants gain a better understanding of wild Florida and coastal Manatee County.

We are extremely excited to bring this resource to our county's residents and visitors.”

The 487-acre Robinson Preserve, bordered by Tampa Bay, the Manatee River and Perico Bayou, was purchased by the county from the Robinson family in 2002 for $10 million, in part with a $6 million grant from Florida Communities Trust. The Robinson family kept 200 acres bordering the land to develop a residential subdivision and an 18-hole golf course, but 150 acres of that tract was later purchased by the Conservation Foundation with Mosaic Company Foundation funds, and the land was donated to the county.

Robinson Preserve's gates open at 7:30 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Entrances are at the western end of 17th Avenue Northwest in Bradenton and on the south side of Manatee Avenue west of the Perico Island Bridge.

The entrance for the event at the new expansion site is at the corner of Ninth Avenue Northwest and 99th Street Northwest. Parking will be available inside of the new expansion property.

LO C A L LY K N OW N . G LO B A L LY C O N N E C T E D.

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 505 S Bay Boulevard Debbie Vogler 941-705-3328 A4199179 $1,850,000

BR ADENTON 5016 64th Drive W Debbie Capobianco & Adam Cuffaro 941-704-2394 A4136838 $1,350,000

L O N G B OAT K E Y 5611 Gulf Of Mexico Drive 5 Laura Rulon 941-896-2757 A4207769 $750,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 511 70th Street Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4208261 $719,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2500 Gulf Drive N Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4201859 $3,195,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2509 Avenue C B Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4208192 $589,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 6300 Flotilla Drive 99 Kathy Marshall 941-900-9777 A4208643 $379,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 600 Manatee Avenue 224 Susan Nemitz 941-237-0045 A4204610 $355,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 318 Bay Drive S 7 Ralph & Megg Faillace 941-713-9142 A4178742 $1,170,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 529 69th Street Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4198504 $759,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 101 66th Street 9 Ken Kavanaugh, Jr & Margo Story 941-799-1943 A4178549 $635,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2509 Avenue C A Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4208163 $599,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

MSC MORTGAGE | MSC TITLE | MS&C COMMERCIAL NEW HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS | RENTAL

BR ADENTON 4018 Sandpointe Drive Kristi Berger 941-730-3801 A4208045 $259,999

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

BR ADENTON 3404 79th Circle W 301 Barb Eberhart 614-204-7687 A4208992 $520,000

RENTAL ANNA MARIA ISLAND 4112 5th Avenue 5 Bed 3.5 Bath 4466 SqFt $3,650

michaelsaunders.com L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E B R O K E R

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PLANKS: Petitions address issue FROM PAGE 3

One of the forms said, “We, the undersigned, believe that the termination of employment of Pete Piir and Taylor Mannhart was an extreme punishment for acts that were intended to be kind to the members of the community. What a misunderstanding. Pete and Taylor thought they were doing a good deed, helping friends. The city thought they were misappropriating city property.”

The other petition form pertained to Piir only. It included similar language and also said, “Peter has been an impeccable employee of AMI for 10 years, and the drastic decision to terminate him should be reversed.”

Mayor Dan Murphy and Public Works Manager Dean Jones decided to fire Piir and Mannhart after it was learned that they went out on the closed Anna Maria City Pier and removed the two engraved planks without permission and while still on the clock. Piir and Mannhart were fired for the misappropriation of city property.

City Attorney Becky Vose later issued a legal opinion that stated the planks became city property when they were installed on the Anna Maria City Pier.

The city plans to return engraved planks to those who properly requested them.

Piir told The Sun he removed a plank for his friend Denise Raykov, a Holmes Beach resident who lost her son, Phil Guttridge, in 2007.

Raykov’s parents, Bradenton Beach residents Richard and Jeanette Langer, had already notified the city clerk’s office that they would like to have Phil’s plank – when removed by a local contractor in a permitted fashion.

The second plank removed memorialized someone Mannhart knew whose nickname was “Gumby.”

When asked about the petitions after last week’s City Commission, Murphy provided a written response that addressed a local TV news story he felt was one-sided.

There are two sides to every story.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria Mayor “There are two sides to every story.

The decision to discharge these two employees was made after four days of deliberation, as well as consultation with legal counsel and others. It was not taken lightly, nor was the outcome one I would have desired. That matter, as presented on TV, omitted facts and was misleading. However, it is not now, nor shall it ever be, my policy to discuss personnel/HR issues in public.

They should and will remain private between the employees and the city.

I will steadfastly refuse to turn any matter between an employee and the city into a public spectacle,” Murphy’s statement said.

“I realize that position allows others and the media to give a one-sided picture of a very serious matter, but I cannot make this a public matter regardless of political or other ramifications. If the employees involved in this matter have new information about the circumstances, we would certainly listen and take it into consideration and re-evaluate our decision. However, that would continue to be a private matter between the employees and the city,” Murphy’s statement concluded.

When asked about the petitions and any impact they might have, Murphy would only say, “If Mr. Piir has any new information he’d like to share, I’m all ears.”

As of Monday, neither Piir nor Mannhart had returned to work for the city.

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

41

VACASA: Concerns surface over office FROM PAGE 18

Regarding the potential installation of a Vacasa sign, Commission chair Doug Copeland said the existing sign was blank the last time he saw it.

Murphy addressed what would happen if any future violations occur, including non-compliant signage.

“If that happens, they will be cited by our code enforcement officer and given time to correct the situation. If they fail to correct, they would incur a fine for each day they’re in violation. Should we have a violation, we will enforce it vigorously,” Murphy said.

Murphy spoke with local Vacasa representative John Lefner on Friday and they discussed the ordinance that Murphy sent him a copy of.

“I didn’t want him investing a bunch of money in a sign if they were going to have to take it down,” Murphy said.

VACASA RESPONSES

When contacted via email Monday morning, Zac Monahan, senior integration director at Vacasa, was asked if Vacasa plans to maintain an office in Anna Maria.

“Yes. We assumed the lease of the office on Pine Avenue as part of the acquisition of Island Real Estate’s vacation rental business. We are currently in conversations with the mayor’s office and have a meeting scheduled to work together to determine how we will maintain our office in Anna Maria and preserve the city’s Old Florida atmosphere. We want to be good neighbors and members of the community. We will be working closely with the mayor’s office to ensure we are in compliance with the ordinance,” Monahan wrote.

Speaking by phone Monday morning, Lefner was asked if the Pine Avenue office is currently open.

“Yes. It’s never missed a beat since Island Real Estate vacation rentals was sold to Vacasa. Vacasa’s goal is to be a good neighbor. We’re working with the mayor on the signage issue. We want to adhere to the rules and enforce the rules for occupancy, noise and parking,” Lefner said.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Meet Joe Joe Zuniga appeared at the Island Branch Library Thursday as part of Meet the Author appearances this month. Zuniga wrote a book about former Tampa Bay area teacher Debra LaFave, who was arrested for having sex with students.

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www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

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FEBRUARY 14, 2018

THE SUN

43

RESTORATION: Commission considering driveway restorations FROM PAGE 1

will take place along Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach and is already underway in Holmes Beach.

The city of Bradenton Beach is not obligated to replace driveway materials located in city right of ways, but Mayor John Chappie and the commission feel it might be the right thing to do if the funding can be found.

City Engineer Lynn Burnett said the county’s contractor, Westra Construction, is only required to partially restore the disturbed rights of way by installing #57 stone at a depth of six inches. Westra is not required to replace asphalt, concrete, brick pavers or shells removed from city rights of way.

The white 57 stone is used Island-wide in vertical infiltration stormwater trenches recommended and engineered

by Burnett, who serves as city engineer for all three Island cities.

Chappie said he didn’t recall whether the City Commission made any previous decisions regarding driveway restoration.

He also said he didn’t know anyone that was a big fan of 57 stone. Commissioner Jake Spooner said the 57 stone used along Bridge Street and other areas frequently parked on and driven on gets crushed into a fine dust that impedes the intended drainage benefits.

Burnett said depending on the materials used it could cost approximately $580,000 to restore an estimated 100 driveways along Avenue C, and additional driveways will be impacted elsewhere.

“You’d be looking at a sizeable chunk of change,” she said.

The commission discussed the possible use of the county’s surplus beach concession revenues, but Chappie questioned whether the county would allow funds intended to provide an Island-wide public benefit to be used on driveways. Fifth cent gas tax and the half-cent infrastructure sales tax revenues were also mentioned.

In addition to any personal restoration costs incurred, impacted property owners will need a city-issued right of way permit to make city-approved

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The rights of way and driveways along Avenue C in Bradenton Beach are being disturbed by county infrastructure projects. modifications to portions of driveway restored with 57 stone. Commissioner Marilyn Maro suggested those permit fees be waived.

Chappie suggested the city start taking pictures of impacted and soon to be impacted driveways and no formal decisions were made.

LETTERS AND PERMITS

Letters and permits obtained

by The Sun further illustrate Westra’s obligations.

The Bradenton Beach restoration conditions were established in a June 8, 2017, letter signed by then-Mayor Bill Shearon.

The letter, to be drafted by Burnett, was unanimously approved sight-unseen by Shearon, Chappie, Spooner, Ralph Cole and Marilyn Maro and Jake Spooner at the commission’s June 7 Capital Improvement Projects meeting.

That day, Burnett said the county required immediate action, and this was a routine matter that did not need to come back to the commission.

She said the disturbed right of ways would be restored “consistent with the current adopted land development code and city standard details.” She did not specifically mention 57 stone and the commission did not request additional details.

Addressed to Manatee County Project Manager Jennifer Fehrs, the June 8 letter said, “Existing impervious driveway surfaces shall be removed and shall be restored with the heavy duty infiltration trench materials.”

The attached diagram referenced 57 stone.

Shearon was the only commission member who saw the letter before it was sent to the county.

On June 19, a similar letter signed by Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson was sent to Fehrs.

“The right of way shall be restored utilizing heavy duty infiltration trench detail as adopted

by City Commission in November 2016,” Johnson’s letter said, also referencing a diagram that showed 57 stone.

On Friday, Burnett confirmed that the city of Holmes Beach also plans to make stormwater improvements before the city rights of way are fully restored.

The right of way permit that the Bradenton Beach Building Department issued to Westra on July 11 differs from the letter and says, “Project also includes restoration of all sidewalk, concrete, brick, shell driveways, landscaping, grass and removal and replacement of mailboxes and signs as applicable.”

The permit states the project will extend from Cortez Road to just north of Manatee Avenue.

The Holmes Beach Building Department’s right of way permit packet includes a document that says, “See restoration conditions letter from mayor dated 6/9/17, attached.”

The permit says the project is citywide, 28th Street to 4000 Gulf Drive.

Mayor Dan Murphy said Westra has not requested a restoration letter or right of way permit in Anna Maria.

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THE SUN

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Seize 6 Just slightly 10 Lip-__ 14 Justice nominated by Barack 15 Buddy, in slang 16 Secure with lines 17 Cut most likely to win a BBQ competition?

19 TT automaker 20 Part of 21 Feminine side 22 Keyboard shortcuts 24 TV scientist with 19 Emmys 25 Keurig coffee for the big day?

27 Tear drier 29 Richmond-to-D.C. direction 30 Hunk's pride 31 Finishes second 34 Deli order 35 Rental to get the twins to college?

38 Word before or after pack 39 Nearly 40 Asian New Year 41 Harmless cyst 43 They're tossed up before they're made 47 Sports competitions in anti-gravity?

51 Uganda's Amin 52 Ciudad Juรกrez neighbor 53 It's crude, then refined 54 Bit of cabinet hardware 55 Money box 56 Ring up a short story writer?

59 Bering Sea barker 60 Impromptu modern

group pic 61 King Triton's mermaid daughter 62 Poet __ St. Vincent Millay 63 Boys, to men 64 Commencement celebrants Down 1 Org. that makes cents 2 Woody's wife 3 Repeals 4 It meant nothing to Edith Piaf 5 Buddy 6 Chicago 7 first name 7 Rodeo bucker 8 Writer/illustrator Falconer known for "Olivia" children's books 9 Stan "__" Musial 10 Big wet one 11 "I'm not making that decision" 12 "For sure!"

13 Baked fruit desserts 18 Rare blood designation 23 Dogfish Head brew 25 "Star Trek" role for Takei

Answers to 02-07-18 Crossword Puzzle.

and Cho 26 "To recap ... " 28 Pick out of a crowd 32 Bell tower sound 33 Long fish 34 Secretary of Agriculture under Nixon 35 Smartphone arrangement 36 "Knock on wood" 37 Craigslist caveat 38 Wrote back 40 Fly around the equator?

41 Actor Bentley 42 It included a sweet, not sorrowful, parting 44 Sunflower relative 45 Doted on 46 Delphic diviners 48 Lily plant 49 "Not __!"

50 Cock and bull 54 Broadway's Walter __ Theatre 57 Classified ad shorthand for "seeking" 58 Folklore crone

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

CLASSIFIED

ADULT CARE RETIRED CNA/CMA ISLAND Resident. Home care for you or loved one. Also errands, Doctors appointments, housekeeping, Cooking etc. Call 941-3741227

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com 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).

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: SALES & RENTALS BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. I am in Need of Boats. No Contracts, No Hassle.

If I List It, It’s Sold. I also Buy Boats. Island Boat Sales. Dave/ Owner 941-228-3489

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

CLEANING SERVICE TOTAL HOME SERVICE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial & Rentals.

Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 THOMPSON CLEANING SERVICE CommercialResidential-Marine.

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AUTHORITY ONE SERVICES. Residential/Commercial/Vacation Rentals & Construction Cleaning.

Also Power Washing, Windows, Paver Sealing & Roof Cleaning.

Ask about your Senior Citizens Discount Call 941-251-5948 or 941565-3931

COMMERCIAL SALES ANNA MARIA ISLAND 4-sale Resorts Bradenton Bch *5 units $1,048,800 *13 units $4,999,000 *9300 Sq. Ft. Ware-house, Machine Shop heavy duty elect or Car Storage, So Many Possibilities. Near SRQ Airport $595,000 Island Real Estate Ask Alan Galletto 941-232-2216

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

EMPLOYMENT BAR BACK NEEDED 3 or 4 nights per week. Apply at Bortell's 10002 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria After 1pm.

LINE COOKS NEEDED immediately For High Volume, Fast Paced Beachside Café. FT/PT. Apply In Person ONLY at AMI Beach Café, Manatee County Beach NEEDED PART TIME HANDYMAN. $10 per hour.

Call 941-778-7293 HELP WANTED 3 POSITIONS AVAILABLE. Full time night cashier, part time nightcashier/cashier assistant. Part time Deli position. Please apply in person at Jessie's Island Store 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. See Jimmy or April for more details.

CAREGIVERS NEEDED If you are patient and have a caring heart-We want you!!! We care for Senior's in Manatee County. We will train, You must be 21 years of age, clean driving record, able to pass a back round check and drug test. Please call HomeInstead Senior Care at 941 739 3050 ext 112, ask for Tammy

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

FOR SALE LEGACY 9' CLASSIC SHUFFLEBOARD. Black Cherry.

Purchased in November for $1999. Great price at $1100. Call 941-242-9912 BRAND NEW QUEEN Bed. Mattress, headboard, dresser, two lamps $400.

Call 941-242-4796 SOFA & LOVESEAT. LEATHER, Forest Green $500. Call 941-792-0014

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open 9:30am-2pm, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday. 10am1pm Saturday Donations preferred 9am-11am Wednesdays. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Phone 941-779-2733

HAULING SITE CLEAN-UP to trash outs we can handle it all.

Call us for your dumpsters/ trash needs today 941-7538772

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194

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WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us DECKOUT MASTER CARPENTER Everything Patio & Dock Decking Work Repair, Replace, Maintenance Work, Cleaning, Treatments, New Decks.

Also Handyman/Painting work to home or office.

Call RICHARD Bespoke Service 941-448-3571 Island Resident.

STORM DAMAGE? Prompt Response. Tree work, Carpentry, Painting, Roof/ Fence Repair, Etc. Medium and Small Jobs Accepted.

See ORANGE AD in Painting Section. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 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.

FENCING, CAN'T GET ANYBODY? Wood, Vinyl. New or Repair. Call Richard. Free Estimates.

941-448-3571 Bespoke Services.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE 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 $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 03/14/2018, 09:00 am at 1855 63RD AVENUE E. BRADENTON, FL 34203, pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

1HD1KTM11GB615544 2016 HARLEY-DAVIDSON

LOST & FOUND WATCH TURNED IN to the police department which was found on the beach.

Turned in on Jan. 7th. Call Detective Brian Hall 941708-5800 ext 243.

LOST 18" DIAMOND CHAIN NECKLACE with my grand mother's diamond in center – REWARD Call 267454-0725 FOUND WEDDING RING October 2 in Holmes Beach. To Rayburn with love Kathy. Call 941-9008226 LOST ENGAGEMENT RING. Solitaire white gold. Lost on 10/22/2017. Call 770712-8819 FOUND NECKLACE PENDANT near Anna Maria Post office. Call 941-7733182 LOST GOLD BRACELET with toggle clasp & charm with 50th anniversary engraved.

Sentimental value. Lost in vicinity of Palm Ave. in Anna Maria. Call 407-8730078.

LOST MY GRANDMOTHER'S gold wedding band (initials inside and date) at Coquina Beach area. Reward.

Call 407-579-1621

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

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

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PAINTING & WALLCOVERING PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315 BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured

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

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. AMI & West Bradenton. Certified Pool Operator. Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893

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PRINTING CUSTOM DIGITAL PRINTING "Your printing dream to reality" Specializing in Dye sublimation Printing.

Graphic Design. Performance Active ware. Logo Design. Call Rhonda 330-550-4847

PROFESSIONAL PRESSURE & WINDOW WASHING AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing, Roof Cleaning and Windows.

Call 941-251-5948

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

FROM THE LOW $300’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

Perfectly designed, open 2BR or 3BR/2BA plus den & 2CG floor plans.

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $209/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 113 BEACH AVE 3BR/3BA Pool Home. Great location West of Gulf Drive with Direct beach access! $1,055,000 Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941228-6086 CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 SLIGHTLY OFF THE ISLAND. 3BR/2BA completely renovated lake house, five miles from the beach. No Condo/HOA Fees, No Deed Restrictions, No Traffic, Huge Boat/RV Storage Area, No Flood Insurance. $319,500. www.690932nd.com. For Sale By Owner. 941-795-5225

Call us today! 941-778-3986

FOR SALE ADORABLE half duplex Anna Maria. ! Walk to Beach eating shopping. .

Brenda Boyd May Boyd Realty . 941-730-8589 $399,000 . $359,000 THE PERFECT HOUSE 3BR/2BA pool beautiful yard !!! Two blocks to the causeway!

Bike to the island!! Great VRBO neighborhood! Call soon. Scott May 941-2388377 Boyd Realty PERICO BAY TOTAL remodel of 2BR/2BA, tiled throughout, gorgeous kitchen and bath, updated plumbing and electric, vacant $229,000 Call 551-427-0248

REAL ESTATE: LOT FOR SALE BAY VIEW LOT ! Across from Anna Maria Park. $440,000 Brenda Boyd May broker 941-730-8589

RENTALS: ANNUAL NEWER RAISED 2BR/2BA home on duplex lot, built in 2003. Very spacious with great room layout & casual canal views from windows. Nice bathrooms , ceramic tile in main body of home, carpet in bedrooms. Washer/dryer in unit. Plenty of parking, community boat dock across street. Short walk to incredible beaches of Anna Maria. Quiet neighborhood. Close to trolley, restaurant's, shopping and Public Beach. Small pet ok with $250 pet fee. This won't last long. ONE OF THE largest floor plans at Perico Bay Club, 3BR/2BA. Kitchen cabinets refaced and Corian countertop installed, both baths have seamless Corian countertops . Porch enclosed, can be used year round. There is a lake front downstairs corner unit; but, bushes hide estuary/lake. 1866sf with covered carport.

Pool directly across street with hot tub. Beautifully maintained & landscaped property. gated entry 24 / 7. Master pool is Olympic size ideal for swimming laps. Tennis, Horse Shoe pit, Workout room, Library, Game room, Kitchen and dinning space. Active, quiet & safe community. Great space to enjoy Florida living & entertaining. Background & credit required on all tenants 18 years and older. Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-7790304 www.teamduncan. com

ANNUAL RENTAL and CONDOMINIUM Association management serviced by (2) offices open 7 days a week! Contact junew@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc. ANNUAL RENTAL HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1.5BA, carport, storage, W/D hookups $1,450/mo, Non-Smoking. Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307.

2BR/2BA TOWNHOUSE with a 1 car garage at Palma Sola Trace. Available immediately. Call A Paradise at 941-778-4800 Coming soon a 3BR/2BA and a 1B NEW email R/1BA. Call for information HOLMES BEACH 2BR/1BA Elevated Duplex. Laminate floors, deck, laundry, parking, storage. Close to Beach. Small Pet considered. $1300/mo plus utilities. Call 941-779-9470 1BR/1BA GROUND LEVEL Duplex. Steps to Beach and Shopping. Ceramic floors, screened lanai, parking. Small Pet considered. $950/mo plus utilities. Call 941-779-9470

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

FEBRUARY 14, 2018

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915 2018 SEASONAL RENTALS Available: 2BR/1BA Gulf front from $3,850 per month, 2BR with sleeping loft from $3,850 per month. Three month minimum. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@tampabay.rr.com GREAT RATES! Weekly, Monthly. 3BR/2BA NW Bradenton. Call Grace 941-201-2190 HOLMES BEACH LOVELY 2BR/1.5BA 1/2 Duplex.

Short walk to Beach.

Beautiful private back yard. Fully equipped.

March $3500 April $2500. Call 845-2063930 OLD FLORIDA AMI COTTAGE. N. Shore Dr., Anna Maria. 2BR/1BA monthly.

Available October, November and December 2018.

Call 201-704-8078 ISLAND GARDEN VILLAS Beautiful villas in a very private setting, surrounded by tropical gardens. Weekly and monthly rentals, 2BR/2BA and 1BR/1BA. Call Christy at 941-7735343

VACATION RENTAL BOOK Now for January 2019.

2BR/2.5BA Condo. Heated pool & spa. Garage. AMI $1400/wk. January 5-26.

Rent one, two or three weeks. Call 717-324-6695

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $65. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 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 ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

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

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