Anna Maria Island Sun February 1, 2017

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VOL 17 No. 16

February 1, 2017

Island masterpiece SAINT CACCHIOTTI | SUBMITTED

A sunset like this leaves a lasting impression on locals and visitors alike.

Anna Maria hires lobbyist The Anna Maria Commission is willing to spend $5,000 a month to fight a state bill that would nullify the city’s vacation rental ordinance.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Lobbyist Chip Case and his Tallahassee-based Jefferson Monroe consulting firm have been hired to assist the city of Anna Maria in its attempt to defeat a vacation rental bill filed by state Sen. Greg Steube.

The adoption of Senate Bill 188 and the companion bill, House Bill 425, filed by state Rep. Mike La Rosa, would prevent local governments from adopting new vacation rental regulations or enforcing local regulations adopted after June 1, 2011.

This would nullify the vacation rental ordi-

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey business outdoors police reports sports real estate

4 6 7 14 26-27 30 32 38-43

nance adopted in Anna Maria in 2015 and any vacation rental regulations adopted in Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach after mid-2011.

Based on the recommendaCase tion of City Attorney Becky Vose and her son and law firm partner, Wade, the commission authorized Case’s hiring last week. At a cost of $5,000 per month for five months of service, Case will work to defeat the proposed vacation rental bills. He also may be asked to lobby for or against other Steube proposed state legislation.

Case’s contract includes an early termination clause in the event that the proposed vacation rental legislation

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

HOLMES BEACH - The city may have a noise ordinance, but that doesn’t mean the discussion about noise in residential areas is over.

The issue appeared on the Jan. 24 commission work session agenda.

Chair Judy Titsworth said she hoped commissioners could discuss the issue and find a way to give some type of relief to residents with vacation rentals in their neighborhoods.

Commissioner Jean Peelen said she was concerned with how the city’s noise ordinance is being enforced by police.

Commissioner Carol Soustek suggested rather than rely on a noise meter, police approach the tenants of a property after a noise complaint is received against them.

“I like the idea that the officer just notifies the people there is a problem and to keep it down,” she said.

Titsworth said while she understands children in pools and people enjoying the outdoors will make noise, it’s the constant noise produced

see lobbyist, page 40

Island gourmet: Good

food, good value. 14

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Noise debate continues in Holmes Beach

see noise, page 40

Holmes beach MAYOR LIKES CITY MANAGER IDEA.

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PASSING THE torch at Hurricane

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Seafood fans, prepare to feast in Cortez 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival music schedule

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

CORTEZ – It’s almost time for February’s most salty and delicious local event – the 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, set for the weekend of Feb. 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Celebrate “Fishing For Our Future” with eight local bands, including a scurvy group of sea shanty singers, Cortez native Eric Von and Cortez fishing Captain Soupy Davis and his band.

Check out nautical and environmental works by more than 50 artists focused on the historic fishing village’s maritime heritage. Take the kids to the expanded children’s play area and visit the marine life touch tank.

Explore the Cortez Cultural Center, the FISH Boatworks and the Florida Maritime Museum, all free, then head to the commercial fishing docks on Sarasota Bay for dock talks by Florida Sea Grant representatives and demonstrations and interactive displays by Fishing For Freedom.

Saturday, Feb. 18 10-11 a.m. - Shanty Singers 11:15-12:45 p.m. - Manatee River BlueGrass 12:45-1:30 p.m. - Awards and introductions 2-4 p.m. - Eric Von Band 4:30-6 p.m. - Jason Haran

SUN file photo

The 35th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival is set for Feb. 18 and 19 with seafood, live music, nautical art and more.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, set sail for the food court, featuring locally-caught grouper, stone crab and other selections, with menu items for landlubbers too.

Admission is $4, with kids 12 and under free. Proceeds benefit FISH, the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage, to restore and expand the

Sunday, Feb. 19 10:30-noon - Soupy Davis and his band 12.30-2 p.m. – Passerine 12:30-4 p.m. - Eric Von (Bratton Store Porch) 2:30-4 p.m. - Karen and Jimmy Band 4:30-6 p.m. - Koko Ray

95-acre FISH Preserve east of Cortez village.

To find the festival, head west toward Anna Maria Island on Cortez Road to the entrance at the Florida Maritime Museum, 4415 119th St. W. Free parking is available east of the village off Cortez Road 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).

For more information, visit www. cortez-fish.org or call 941-254-4972.

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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Holmes Beach expands Grassy Point Holmes Beach commissioners voted unanimously Jan. 24 to purchase a 0.195 acre lot at 302 31st St. to expand Grassy Point Preserve.

The purchase was approved at $45,000 with a closing in late February.

Mayor Bob Johnson said the lot is “a key piece of property for the current structure of the park.”

The purchase is the second for the city in under a month. Commissioners approved the purchase of another small lot located within the preserve’s main entrance gate at the north end of Avenue C earlier in January.

Commissioner Jean Peelen said the property acquisitions are a part of the city’s efforts to protect and improve the preserve.

Johnson said the funds for the acquisitions were budgeted for the current fiscal year.

City engineer Lynn Burnett said work at the preserve is almost complete. Grassy Point is expected to reopen to the public in the next few weeks.

Stay out of the water A no swim advisory has been issued for the Palma Sola Beach south access, approximately 1000 feet west of 81st Street West on the south side of the Causeway. Other beaches located in Manatee County are not under advisory. A no swim advisory indicates that water contact may pose an increased risk of infectious diseases to humans.

On Jan. 26, officials of the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County received test results that showed an elevated level of enterococci bacteria.

The Palma Sola Beach South water will be tested again on Feb. 6 and results will be available on Feb. 8. The advisory will be in effect until the water meets Environmental Protection Agency safety guidelines.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Football Fever pays off

The contest winner is picking the Patriots to beat the Falcons in Sunday’s Super Bowl.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Having been declared the winner of The Sun’s 2016 Football Fever contest, Bradenton Beach resident Jon Syre left Island Time Bar & Grill last Thursday afternoon with a bounty of prizes worth more than $2,000.

Syre teaches physical education and health at Martha B. King Middle School in Bradenton, where he also serves as the athletic director. He won the season-long Football Fever contest by most accurately picking the weekly winners of the selected NFL and NCAA football games.

Syre’s predicting prowess earned him a bicycle, umbrella, chair, cooler and other prizes from Budweiser; a gift certificate for two to Island Time; a wool heritage banner and team hat from AMI Sports Zone; a two-night stay at the Island Time Inn; free scooter, kayak, bicycle, paddle board, boogie board rentals and a long sleeve surf shirt from Island Scooter Rentals; a one-month membership, two personal training sessions and a gift basket from Island Fitness; a $100 gift certificate to the Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Bar; a $50 gift certificate

joe hendricks | SUN

Jon Syre claimed his Football Fever prize package last week, joined by representatives from the businesses that sponsored the contest. Shown from left to right are Bob Slicker, Swordfish Grill; Julia Lombardo, Bridge Street Jewelers; Chantelle Lewin, The Sun; Eric Fleishman, Island Time; Syre; Brenda Canning, Island Fitness; Chuck Williams, Budweiser; and James Roberts, Bridge Tender Inn. Representatives from AMI Sports Zone and Island Scooter Rentals were not available for the photo shoot. to Slim’s Place; a $50 gift certificate to the Flippin’ Mullet Sports Bar and a $50 gift certificate to the Swordfish Grill. And for that special female in his life, Syre won a custom made Anna Maria Island Destination Bracelet from Bridge Street Jewelers.

After accepting his prizes, Syre, a Chicago Bears fan, said, “I knew I had a chance because I won two of the weekly contests. The secret was this was the first time I bet against my own team, the Bears, and it worked out for me. It’s a great contest. I appreciate all the local businesses and I’m a big supporter of local businesses. I

know there was great competition and I’m sure it was very close. I enjoyed playing every week and it was my weekly thrill knowing I could pick the games right even though my team was losing.”

When congratulating Syre, The Sun’s Advertising Director Chantelle Lewin said, “Congratulations Jon. Thank you very much for playing; and thank you to all of our advertisers and participants.”

The contest is over, but Syre is picking the New England Patriots to win the Super Bowl on Sunday.

“I don’t necessarily want them to win again, but I don’t think Atlanta’s got enough to stop them,” he said.

Adult flag football returns to the Center The Center of Anna Maria Island’s adult flag football league is kicking off Thursday, Feb. 16.

Adults of all ages are welcome to join in the fun.

The cost is $5 for center members and $120 for non-members. Registration is required by Feb. 3.

Evaluations will be held Feb. 9 with a draft to follow.

Games will be played weekly at 6 p.m. on Thursday nights.

To register, visit www.centerami.org or call 941778-1908. Registration can be accepted in person at the center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

For additional information or to sponsor a team, contact recreation director Will Schenerlein at will@centerami.org or 941-778-1908, ext. 9205.

Correction Lori Hill is the treasurer for the city of Holmes Beach. A recent Sun story misidentified the treasurer.

Counterfeit bill discovered Counterfeit bills are a rarity in Bradenton Beach, but local businesses are advised to take precautions nonetheless.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – On Thursday, Jan. 26, Paradise Boat Tours employee Terri Lanning contacted the Bradenton Beach Police Department about a $10 bill she suspected might be counterfeit.

“One of my employees noticed a weird bill in the drawer. The police department responded, and it was confirmed counterfeit,” General Manager Sherman Baldwin said.

As a courtesy, Baldwin sent an e-mail to Mayor Bill Shearon informing him that a counterfeit bill had

Submitted | Paradise Boat Tours

This counterfeit $10 bill was discovered at a local business last week. been discovered.

“These things tend to happen in waves, so getting the word out is important,” Baldwin’s e-mail noted. see counterfeit, page 42

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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Holmes Beach mayor wants a new form of government Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson wants to shake up city administration by adding a city manager.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Bob Johnson is seeking to bring more change to the city.

During the Jan. 24 work session, Johnson asked commissioners to consider creating an ad-hoc committee of at least five residents to study the possibility of changing Holmes Beach’s type of government.

Currently the city has a council-mayor type of government. Johnson would like to see that change to include a city manager before he leaves office in 2018.

The type of government Johnson proposes would be similar to that of Longboat Key and would include a commission, city manager and mayor. The city manager would be a hired, administrative position, unlike a popularly elected mayor who only serves a two year term with no guarantee of re-election. The city manager would take over

the day-to-day management tasks currently associated with the mayor.

Johnson said the current administration has worked to overcome administrative instability in the city. He Johnson fears the changes made to help the city move forward will be undone when a new mayor takes the dais at the end of 2018.

Johnson confirmed he will not be seeking a third term as mayor.

He presented commissioners with a report showing a shift in the city’s population, with residential population dropping from 4,966 to 3,851 over a 15 year span. His report showed the city’s voting population at 2,883 and 31 percent of residential units as rentals.

Johnson said out of 37 similar-sized, beachfront communities in Florida, 26 have the council-manager form of government with 10 of the remaining communities retaining an average population of 1,520 full-time residents. Out of the communities he researched, only Holmes Beach retains the mayor-council form of government with a larger residential population.

Commissioners did not share the

We’ve been to hell in a hand basket.”

Jean Peelen Commissioner mayor’s urgency to examine the possibility.

“I’m not for it at this time,” Chair Judy Titsworth said. “We have so much on our plate right now, and this is a huge change.”

Rather than spending money to hire a city manager, she suggested using the money to add any needed personnel to existing departments.

Commissioners Marvin Grossman, Pat Morton and Carol Soustek also spoke against convening a committee at this point.

“Right now the staff is slightly sinking,” Soustek said, concerned about the added responsibility a committee could put on city staff. She suggested reconsidering the mayor’s proposal over the summer.

Commissioner Jean Peelen, however, shared some of Johnson’s concerns.

“A mayor can change every two years,” she said. “There’s no consisten-

cy in the charger positions. When a new person comes in, everything changes.

Your worst nightmare can come in as a city mayor.”

“We’ve survived 70 years so far,” Titsworth said.

“And we’ve been to hell in a hand basket,” Peelen said.

“I think you guys are grossly underestimating what is really necessary here,” Johnson said. “Every two years is the wrong way to put a part-time, uneducated, unknowledgeable person in the mayor’s seat who’s supposed to administering the city. You can’t get the cooperation you need from other municipalities with a novice sitting here like me. This needs to change for the betterment of this city.”

“Well, we can all agree to disagree,” Titsworth said. “I see other areas in our admin that could use higher positions.”

Commissioners agreed to continue the discussion at a future work session.

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OPINIOn

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

GUEST COLUMN Why I marched

BY JEAN PEELEN HOLMES BEACH CITY COMMISSIONER

O

n Saturday, Jan. 21, I traveled to Washington, D.C., where I marched in the Women’s March along with one of my daughters, two of my granddaughters, two old friends (fellow authors of “Saving the Best for Last: Creating Our Lives After 50”), and 500,000 of my closest friends.

The march was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I was happy to have three generations of my family there together. The night before the march, my 15-year-old granddaughter said she wasn’t sure she wanted to go. She was afraid that there might be violence, or that the purpose was ugliness – simply dislike of the new president. I told her I believed this march was about unity, about the protection for vulnerable groups such as minorities, people with disabilities, gay and lesbian people and women. I believed it was an expression of concern about what this new administration might bring.

I told her that I believed it might turn out to be a historic event and that someday she would be proud to say to her grandchildren, “I was there.”

She did go, and was uplifted by her experience.

Contrary to what you might have read or seen on TV or social media, the march was characterized by good behavior, kindness, respect for all and amazing good humor. The police loved us, and we loved the police. It is unfortunate that some of the press picked out some foul utterances by one pop star as their coverage of the march.

Here are two examples of the kindness and thoughtfulness that ruled the day. My friend and I, both in our mid-70s, took a break and sat on a low wall for a few minutes. Our backs were killing us from standing for many, many hours. A woman even older than we are sat down next to us, leaned over and said: “Would you like some Alleve?” She seemed like an angelic apparition. Her act was typical of how people were with each other that day.

The second example involved my friend’s daughter’s six-month old baby. The baby did what babies do and needed a diaper change. This was in the middle of a packed sidewalk. Her mom put her down with a protest sign underneath her, then people she didn’t even know gathered in a circle around the mother and baby, protecting them both.

Baby was changed with thanks all around.

When one is squished among hundreds of thousands of others, one might expect tempers to flare, harsh words to be spoken. That never happened.

The ethic of the day was passion, humor, and friendliness. The funniest sign I saw was “Tweet others as you would wish to be tweeted.”

Several of my friends and family who could not SEE guest column, PAGE 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Senator Steube: I am a full time resident of Holmes Beach, a third generation native and owner of the #1 Re/Max franchise in the state of Florida. I state all of that to you in hopes of you understanding that I am not some new NIMBY that wants to stop all development, and I fully grasp and support the meaning of private property rights and have served the National Association of Realtors as a representative in Washington, D.C. The issues on the Island are in my mind a private property rights battle between homeowners and investors. I personally have five of these rentals immediately contiguous with my home and all have pools. The various parties and yelling that goes on is pretty difficult to put up with, especially the first Saturday night when it seems lots of alcohol is being consumed. I believe that I am entitled to the peaceful enjoyment of my own home and my six grandkids shouldn't have to hear F bombs through the fences surrounding my home. Investors are taking a calculated risk for a chance at a profit, and, as we both know, municipalities can and do change various requirements that can affect an investor and their potential profits. I have sold many properties on the Island, and I always cautioned my buyer/investor to beware that ordinances can always change.

This is called risk versus reward, and it's what investors do, but it is not what homeowners are doing when they buy a home. Allowing investors to slide under the cover of

private property rights is a misuse of the term, and the founders of our Constitution clearly understood the rights of peacefully living in your home. I believe in home rule for local cities, and I do not think legislators should be telling residents how their towns should operate. I have been a real estate investor for over 40 years, and I always understood that rules can change, but I never expected the state government would become Big Brother in my life. I urge you to reconsider this position for the sake of homeowners everywhere in our area.

Ron Travis Broker/owner/partner RE/MAX Alliance Group

Focus on the positive Too often we get caught up in the negatives that occur on and around our Island. They always get attention. Last night I attended The AMI Chamber of Commerce's Trolley Grant Award ceremony for the third time. Each year it's refreshing to realize how much this Island community gives back to and supports, its community. However, this was the first time I was in the position of receiving a grant for the Roser Food Pantry. It's quite different being the recipient for a non-profit that does so much to assist the Island residents in need of a helping hand. Being a grant recipient magnifies the graciousness of the AMI Chamber of Commerce, in this case, and our giving community

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7. as a whole. The next time you are faced with a negative regarding this or that or the other thing going on around you, take a few minutes and think of all the wonderful people, organizations and associations that are consistent givers in this threecity Island community. You might realize that there are never enough thanks to go around.

Again, thank you AMI Chamber of Commerce. Thank you Trolley Grant Awards Committee. And a special thank you to the event host, Karen LaPensee, LaPensee Plumbing, Air and Pool.

Lynn and Jack Brennan Pam and Major Leckie Charles Wade and 18 food pantry volunteers Roser Food Pantry Supported by All Island Denominations

Your thoughts?

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment?

Is there something you need to get off your chest?

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

There are several ways to doit. Visit our website at www.amisun.com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page. Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. You can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

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

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What do you think of state Sen. Greg Steube's bill to allow the open carrying of guns at elementary and secondary public schools, public university and college campuses, local government and legislative meetings, and career centers.

Anna Maria

13%

I like the idea. It is our Constitutional right and it could save lives.

10005 Gulf Drive.

2/9: City Commission special meeting, 6 p.m.

2/14: Planning and Zoning Board, 4 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

2/1: CRA meeting, 9 a.m.

2/1: CIP meeting, 10 a.m.

2/1: Pier Team, 11 a.m.

2/1: Scenic WAVES Partnership Committee, 3 p.m.

2/2: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

2/7: City Commission workshop, 1 p.m.

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For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

2/1: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 10 a.m.

2/1: Planning Commission, 7 p.m.

2/14: City commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Island Wide

2/15: Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Anna Maria City Hall, 2 p.m.

mark your calendar

87%

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

I am opposed to it.

In fact, I think the whole idea is insane.

Wednesday Feb. 1

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY What do you think of Anna • It's a good idea. Time to Maria hiring a lobbyist to help fight the proposed vacation rental bill?

fight fire with fire.

• It's a bad idea and a waste of taxpayer money.

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

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun View The Sun’s online edition at www.issuu.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun GUEST COLUMN FROM PAGE 6

make it to D.C. or to one of the local marches, asked me to represent them there. I was saying their names in my head as we marched, no, shuffled, along.

Marching was impossible. The parade route was completely filled before many thousands even got out on the street, so the parade route grew to envelop the entire downtown/mall area

of D.C. The site of thousands of people with the same purposes in in mind moving in concert was awesome.

Friends of mine are still asking, “But why did you march?” My answer is first, that the right to protest and speak out against our government is enshrined in our Constitution. It is a right that needs to be exercised and valued. Second, I have stood for the rights of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children

with disabilities, my whole adult life. Why would I stop now? I think my job now, in my 70s, is to be a role model for young people, most particularly my one grandson and six granddaughters. They are learning that it is important to serve, it is important to stand up for what you believe, and it is important to exercise your rights as a citizen of this great country.

So, I marched.

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

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

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $5.

Einstein’s Circle discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

Gentle chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, noon to 12:45 p.m. $12. Space limited.

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

Reiki with Virginia Steagall, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., $75 for three sessions, coffee and cookies provided.

Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493.

Kid’s movie, title TBA, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3:30 p.m.

Thursday Feb. 2

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba for beginners, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org or 941-383-6493.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included.

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

Laura Reiley, food critic, lecture “Farm to Table Fables,” Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

High Tea and Fashion Show, Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20. Reserve to 941-778-1638.

Bingo, Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, 7 to 9 p.m. Refreshments available for purchase.

SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

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mark your calendar Friday Feb. 3

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

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

Bridge beginners/refresher class, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10 includes coffee and cookies. RSVP to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Roser-Robics chair-based exercise class, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. Bring two cans of fruit of equal size and weight.

Knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

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

Saturday Feb. 4

Starry night telescope exploration, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 7 p.m. Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext.

6039.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 9 a.m. to noon, $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Ask a Master Gardener, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10:30 a.m.

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

with snacks provided for 10 workshops.

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

Gentle Yoga & Meditation with Joan Dickerson, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 10:45 to 11:45 a.m., $12. Bring a mat.

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

Juvent yoga meditation workshop with Peter Simonson and Tamara Page, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 p.m., $10 with cookies and coffee provided. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Sunday

Tuesday

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

Gentle yoga with Carol McClenahan, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 9:30 a.m., $10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise. org or 941-383-6493.

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

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 to 11 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Duplicate bridge, Church of the Annun-

Feb. 5

Feb. 7

Monday Feb. 6

Movement, muscles and more, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 8 to 9 a.m., $8 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Aging Mastery Program, 10-part series, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., $100

ciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 12:30 p.m.

Enhancing Your Living Environment seminar with Cindy Tanner and Larry Hale, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 3 p.m., $10 with coffee and cookies provided. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-3836493.

Irish Ceili and set dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m. Collection taken for musicians.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $10 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

“Manatee County during the Great Depression,” presented by Cathy Slusser, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Jazz Fest, Sandbar restaurant events pavilion, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Reserve to Nancy Ambrose, 941-518-4431.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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9

Certificate could drop rates

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

To slow rising flood insurance premiums, owners of residential, rental and business properties should consider getting elevation certificates, FEMA advises.

Letters are on their way to local mailboxes notifying property owners that hiring a licensed surveyor, engineer or architect to obtain an elevation certificate could lower premiums, said Janice Mitchell, a FEMA regional insurance specialist in Atlanta.

Even if the certificate does not result in lower premiums, it would not trigger an increase higher than the existing rate increase schedule, she said.

For some policyholders who own property in high-risk flood areas like Anna Maria Island, annual flood insurance premiums are increasing from 5 to 18 percent for primary residences and up to 25 percent for non-primary residences insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

The increases are mandated by the federal Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act to phase out discounted rates on such properties, gradually increasing their premiums up to their full risk, or actuarial, rates.

Among the affected policyholders are owners of pre-FIRM properties, those which were built or substantially improved on or before Dec. 31, 1974, when Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) were adopted, or before the effective date of the initial Flood Insurance Rate Map for the community in which the property is located. Anna Maria’s flood insurance rate map is dated Feb. 1, 1984, while Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach maps are both dated June 11, 1971, according to FEMA records.

Whether or not you get an elevation certificate, be careful not to let your flood insurance policy lapse, Mitchell said, because if it is discounted, it will be reissued at the full risk premium.

For more information, visit www.FEMA. gov/cost-of-flood.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

It’s the time of your life.

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Waterfront Living on Florida’s Last Private Island From the high $400’s Ahh…island time. The freedom of days set to the rhythm of the tides, the roll of the sun, and pure whimsy. Like time spent on Harbour Isle, a private island paradise where you can catch dinner on a morning kayak and the sunset from our private Beach Club overlooking Anna Maria Sound. The locals call it “Florida’s Best Kept Secret.” And you’re about to get in on it. Come take the tour, and pick up the keys to Florida’s last private island. Don’t miss your chance for the best views and pricing at Harbour Isle! 5 minutes to world-famous Anna Maria Island beaches.

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For correct representations, make reference to this advertisement and to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a seller to a buyer or lessee. © Minto Communities, LLC 2017. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 2/2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Mermaids on display The 51 mermaids featured in the Bridge Street Merchants’ Mermaids public art project, art show and online auction that serves as an extension of the recent artsHOP festival can now be viewed at the Bradenton Beach locations listed below. Online bids can be submitted at www.visitbridgestreeet.com, under the Public Art menu option and then clicking on the arrow next to the green box that says “view items.” The online bidding closes at midnight on Sunday, Feb. 26. The creations were unveiled during an artists’ reception at the Bridge Tender Inn on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

Locations

• BeachHouse restaurant, 200 Gulf Dr. N. • Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Dr. S. • Adventure Away, 102 Bridge St. • Island Time Inn, 105 Bridge St. • BridgeWalk Resort (Mira Mar Room windows), 100 Bridge St. • Broken Beauty (behind the BridgeWalk), 109 1st St. S. • The Uptown Lot, 110 Bridge St. • Sea-renity Beach Spa & Eco Boutique, 112 Bridge St.

joe hendricks | SUN

Before being relocated to their current locations, the “Mermaids” were displayed en masse at the Bridge Tender Inn. At right, Bradenton Beach resident Sharon Clarke created this mermaid-themed work of art, “Mermaid Rising,” that is now on display at Mermaid Haven/Bridge Street Interiors.

• Mermaid Haven/Bridge Street Interiors, 114 Bridge St. • Bridge Street Bazaar, 115 Bridge St. • Bridge Tender Inn & Dockside Grill, 135 Bridge St.

• Paradise Boat Tours, 200 Bridge St. • Tide & Moon Jewelry/Room with a Hue, 200 Bridge St. • A.M.O.B. restaurant, 200 Bridge St.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

THE SUN

13

Finance director resigns City Clerk LeAnne Addy will assume the treasurer/finance director role.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City Treasurer, Finance Director and Deputy Clerk Maggie Martinez tendered her resignation last week.

Martinez submitted her resignation in a letter mailed to Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy and dated Monday, Jan. 23.

“I am resigning from my position as finance director and deputy clerk for the city of Anna Maria to return to school full-time. My last day of employment will be Feb. 6. I appreciate the opportunities I have been given during my time with the city, as well as your professional guidance and support. I wish you and the city the best of success in the future. If I can

assist with the transition, please let me know,” she wrote.

During the Thursday, Feb. 26, commission meeting, Chair Doug Copeland mentioned her resignation and said, “We wish her the best and thank her for her services.”

On Friday, Martinez said, “I need to finish my degree, and I’m more than halfway there. I’m already in school, and it makes me feel good.”

She is pursuing a degree in business administration at State College of Florida, and she plans to transfer to another college later to finish her degree.

Martinez began working for the city part-time in 2009. In 2011 she became deputy clerk II. She was named treasurer and deputy clerk in 2013.

During the interview process that took place last summer preceding the retirement of City Clerk Diane Percycoe, a great deal of emphasis was placed on

We wish her the best and thank her for her services.”

Submitted | Maggie Martinez

City Treasurer Maggie Martinez is leaving her position with the city of Anna Maria.

Doug Copeland, Commission chair

hiring a successor who also possessed significant experience with city finances.

This led to LeAnne Addy being hired to serve as the city’s new clerk.

On Monday, after returning from a twoweek vacation, Murphy said he does not plan to hire someone to replace Martinez.

Instead, he will appoint Addy to serve as clerk and treasurer.

The city charter says the mayor shall appoint a city treasurer who shall be bonded and whose duties shall include: • Collecting and investing all city funds, subject to directives from the city commission; • Making all payments due from the city; • Supervising all accounting procedures of the city; • Submitting monthly financial reports to the commission; • Auditing the accounts of any city officers who leave the city’s employment, and noticing the mayor and commission if any officers are found to be indebted to the city; • Certifying available funds; • Furnishing the mayor with other fiscal services as required.

In regard to Martinez’s departure, Murphy said, “I appreciate her long service to the city, and I’m happy for her that she’s able to return to school. I think it’s a great thing to do. I myself went into the MBA program when I was in my 30s and early 40s. We’re going to miss her, and we wish her well.”

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BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Island Gourmet: Good food, good value

BY LOUISE BOLGER

ISLAND GOURMET GRILL

SUN STAFF WRITER

If you’re born and raised in New Orleans and you grew up with Ruth Fertal’s children of Ruth’s Chris Steak House fame, working in the restaurant business seems an obvious choice. Well, it must also have been obvious to Ruth because Scott St. Blanc ended up working for her for 23 years, at one point overseeing nine of Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurants in Florida.

Like many restaurant owners, Scott St. Blanc started out washing dishes and moving up the restaurant ladder from waiter to assistant manager, manager and regional director for Ruth’s Chris. When he decided it was time for him to open his own restaurant, he looked close to home in Holmes Beach, opening Island Gourmet Grill in August 2012.

St. Blanc’s philosophy is “You want to make people feel good about opening their wallets.” He wants to provide food and service that will not only encourage his patrons to come back again and again but also make them feel they are receiving good value for their money.

To do this, he and his long-time chef Donny Wolfe start with the best ingredients and convert them into a variety of gourmet and casual food that will appeal to most people. In addition to specials every day and oysters year-round, Island Gourmet’s dinner menu includes entrees like snapper, lemon seafood pasta and veal piccata. Start with soup and salad or appetizers

5910 Marina Drive Holmes Beach 941-778-0333 www.IslandGourmetGrill.com Monday – Friday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in season) Saturday: 5 to 10 p.m.

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

All major credit cards accepted LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

Owner Scott St. Blanc offers gourmet and casual food at Island Gourmet. like shrimp ceviche or pot stickers. And if you’re in the mood for a pizza, Island Gourmet’s are truly gourmet with thin crust and great specialty choices like duck and goat cheese or Hawaiian, or you can build your own with an assortment of toppings.

The lunch menu includes flatbreads, tacos, sliders, sandwiches, burgers and, of course, small personal pizzas, in addition to starters and salads.

Lunch and dinner are great, but happy hour is definitely the best. With Island Gourmet’s full bar and extensive wine list, the happy hour features $5 wine and drinks with premium liquors, $5 house sangrias and $5 house martinis, in addition to $2 domestic beer and $3 imported beer. And you might just run into some of the regular crowd or a Ladies Night Out gathering lined up along the main bar or the community bar. The restaurant also has a large see island gourmet, page 15

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

C oncert Series 2017

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Founded in 1967 1967, they are one o of Florida’s premier ensembles and a favorite among area music lovers. The group has performed throughout the Florida, in New York City, and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. MARK YOUR CALENDAR: FEB 26 The Wyndbreakers Duo APR 23 Ring Sarasota

www.RoserChurch.com/Concert-Series A NON DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

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SUNDAY WORSHIP • 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary Adult Bible Study 8:45 AM • Book Study 9:00 AM • Nursery & Church School 10:00 AM

mission festQ• SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 • 8:30 and 10:00 AM

941-778-0414 • www.RoserChurch.com • www.facebook.com/RoserChurch

THE SUN

15

ISLAND GOURMET: Good food, good value FROM PAGE 14

dining room with both tables and booths as well as outside tables that are pet friendly.

Island Gourmet not only has takeout but it also delivers to the entire Island without charge; great for renters just checking in. It also does on site and off site catering with lots of weddings on the catering list and servers will bring the dishes, if needed. In addition, Scott St. Blanc doesn’t forget

the Island’s full time residents, offering off season specials like buy one get one, 20 percent off for locals and free appetizers.

Holmes Beach may be a long way from New Orleans but not that far that Scott St. Blanc forgot his roots.

Now Anna Maria is the beneficiary of all that good training that Ruth Fertel provided, but don’t take my word for it log on to Trip Advisor for the real story.

16

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Ugly Grouper site plan moves forward Ownership of the Ugly Grouper seeks a reduction allowance for parking while expanding restaurant seating.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Plans for a major expansion at The Ugly Grouper are poised to move forward with the blessing of the City Commission.

Commissioners met for a work session Jan. 26 where talk of the restaurant expansion dominated the meeting.

Bob Dwyer, appearing on behalf of the restaurant owners, said the plan is to expand the seating at the existing location from 96 seats to 300. The major obstacle in the restaurant ownership’s path is a lack of onsite parking at the 5704 Marina Drive location, according to commissioners.

“They’re way short on parking at one space per three seats,” Chair Judy Titsworth said.

According to the site plan pro-

vided to commissioners for review, the restaurant has 30 dedicated vehicle parking spaces during lunch hours with 67 total. The restaurant also has 14 golf cart spaces and bike racks.

For the expansion, city attorney Patricia Petruff said the restaurant would need at least 98 parking spaces to adhere to the one space per three seats rule.

City planner Bill Brisson said representatives for the restaurant requested a reduction in vehicular parking spaces by providing spaces for golf carts and bicycles.

To assist in reducing the amount of parking required, Dwyer presented the city with a parking study conducted by restaurant staff to determine how many parking spaces were used during peak hours.

Based on the study, Brisson said he believes the restaurant might have enough parking for the amount of patrons it could expect during peak dinner hours, figuring the necessary spaces at 2.5 people per vehicle and 1.5 per golf cart.

The issue, he said, was if the restaurant suddenly became popular

with lunch crowds during the hours when it has limited parking, a concern shared by commissioners.

Dwyer suggested allowing the requested seating expansion to 130 indoor seats and 170 outdoor seats with the stipulation that if parking becomes a problem the restaurant will remove seating as determined by the commission.

“It’s hard to take something away from someone,” Commissioner Marvin Grossman said. “It’s easier to give them more.”

Building official Jim McGuinness said that while it’s the applicant’s burden to determine how to configure parking to meet the city’s requirements, commissioners also should take into account the improvements the new management has made at the property, including the installation of a new commercial kitchen, the creation of indoor seating and a landscaping plan to help with sound buffering. The new ownership also purchased three adjacent parcels of land to help support the see grouper, page 17

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

THE SUN

17

grouper: Site plan moves forward FROM PAGE 16

planned expansion.

Dwyer said the restaurant ownership was ready to meet any requirements handed down by commissioners in order to get the restaurant operating at planned capacity by the high point of season.

“We’ve done the work, we’ve bought the property and we’re standing here hat in hand asking for your approval, if we meet all of your conditions,” Dwyer said.

“We’re just trying to get things cleaned up across the street.”

In addition to parking, Grossman said he was concerned with the proposed increase in usage inten-

sity at the property.

To combat the increased noise, Dwyer said a plan is in place to install landscaping around the restaurant to buffer noise and the owners have agreed to stop playing music after 8 p.m.

Commissioner Jean Peelen said she felt comfortable granting the increase in seating with the stipulation that seats be removed or requiring the restaurant to reconfigure parking to accommodate more spaces if parking becomes a problem.

Petruff agreed to work with the restaurant owner’s attorney, Scott Rudacille, to create a resolution to

determine the maximum amount of available parking spaces and how many seats those spaces would give to the restaurant including golf cart spaces.

“If you get every construction worker on the Island there at lunch to eat your grouper sandwich, God bless you, but you’ll have a problem,” Petruff said to Dwyer.

The matter will have a public hearing before going to commission vote during the Feb. 14 meeting.

“You be prepared with the most parking possible and we’ll be prepared with the number of seats we’ll allow,” Titsworth said.

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18

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Passing the torch at Hurricane Hank's

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

HOLMES BEACH – It’s the end of an era for a popular island hot spot.

After 15 years of ownership, Margaret and Paulie Hoffman are saying goodbye to Hurricane Hank's, 5346 Gulf Drive.

The 62-seat restaurant and adjoining liquor store businesses changed hands Jan. 17 for an estimated $1.4 million.

Margaret said she and her husband are excited to embark on a new phase of their lives in retirement.

“We’re very happy to have sold the business,” she said. “We’re very thankful to our wonderful employees and loyal customers.”

While the Hoffmans are retiring, they’re not planning to give up life on Anna Maria Island.

“We love the Island,” Margaret said. “We’re not sure what the next step will be, but we’re looking forward to finding out.”

Stepping into the role are Brian Mathae and Sharon Evans as coowners of the business.

“I plan to be very active in the business,” Mathae said.

Continuity for the staff and pa-

in brief Bert Harris settlements continue in Anna Maria At the request of City Attorney Becky Vose, the Anna Maria City Commission approved nine more Bert Harris claim settlement offers last week. All nine property owners were offered occupancy exceptions that would allow for two persons per bedroom, plus two additional guests per rental unit. Seven of the property owners sought 12-person occupancy limits, one sought 10 and one sought eight.

Enacted last year, the city’s vacation rental ordinance allows two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests, or a maximum of eight, whichever is less. Four of the offers made last week were to clients represented by attorney Louis Najmy and five were made to clients represented by attorney Scott Rudacille.

The deadline to file occupancy-related Bert Harris claims

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Hurricane Hank's store manager Patrick Hicks, left, and restaurant manager Ben Conlon, right, strike a pose with new co-owner Brian Mathae Jan. 26 at Hurricane Hank's in the S&S Plaza, 5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. trons of both Hurricane Hanks businesses is key, according to Mathae, who plans to retain the entire staff.

He also plans to speak with customers to see what changes they’d recommend for the menu.

Patrons may notice small changes occurring as they step through the door. Mathae said he’s removing some decorative items, at least temporarily. While some items, such as the iconic mermaid that once hung from the ceiling,

may be reused somehow, Mathae said other pieces would likely be sold at a memorabilia sale, with the proceeds going to a local nonprofit.

Despite the changes occurring, Mathae said he doesn’t expect to close the restaurant or store.

“There’s still a million things to do,” he said. “We’re so excited. We hope everyone feels a great energy about our future.”

against the city of Anna Maria expired in mid-January. The city received more than 100 claims and approximately two-thirds of those claims have been settled or have settlement agreements pending based on the occupancy exceptions. To date, the city has not had to provide any monetary compensation to settle a claim.

Arriving in Segway style Bradenton Beach Police Chief Sam Speciale arrived at city hall last week riding a policeequipped Segway on loan from Adventure Away proprietors Walter Loos and Julie Kirkwood. Speciale said he would soon be submitting a previously discussed funding request to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for the potential purchase of one or two law enforcement-style Segways. The CRA was scheduled to meet next at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Speciale said the Segways could be used to patrol the CRA district that currently extends from the south side of the Cortez Bridge to Fifth Street South and includes Bridge Street and the

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

pier area. The CRA district is now eligible for additional police patrols on weekends and holidays using pre-approved CRA funds. Speciale said using Segways would free up the city’s traditional police vehicles for use elsewhere in the city.

Speciale estimated the used Segway to be valued at $15,000 to $19,000, but he thought it could be purchased for approximately $10,000 if the CRA expenditure is approved.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

THE SUN

19

Special assessment study authorized

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City officials are moving forward with their efforts to levy an occupancy-based special assessment fee on vacation rental properties.

During the Thursday, Jan. 26, meeting, the Anna Maria Commission unanimously approved entering into a contract with the St-Augustine-based Stantec firm that provides engineering, design, architectural, surveying, environmental sciences, project management and project economics services.

The proposal requested by Mayor Dan Murphy calls for Stantec to “conduct a study to develop a nonad valorem assessment program to recover a portion of the annual costs of infrastructure – capital and maintenance – that benefit rental properties as designated on property rolls maintained by the county property appraiser and/or the city.”

The proposal lists a not-to-exceed cost of $34,838.

“The scope of services that we

propose is to develop an assessment program that would fund all or a portion of the annual costs of certain infrastructure and city services, the need for which is being driven to a great degree by properties that are designated vacation rental on county and/or city property rolls,” the proposal states.

“Although the infrastructure and services benefit all properties within the city, vacation rental properties place a greater burden of usage on the facilities and thus a greater cost, and they receive a special and proportionately greater benefit from the facilities and services,” the proposal says.

Similar to an impact fee study, the assessment study will provide the city with the data needed to support the implementation of a special assessment fee. The data included in the study would also be used as the city’s primary line of defense if the assessment is challenged in court.

According to the study: • Evaluating the appropriateness of the requested assessment in terms of the statutory requirements and ju-

dicial standards established through case law; • Requesting and evaluating data required to complete the analysis; • Identifying with city staff specific costs to be included in the apportionment analysis; • Developing the cost apportionment criteria that fairly apportions costs to vacation rental property owners in proportion to the benefits and services received; • Presenting the results to the city commission and providing implementation assistance as required.

During last week’s meeting, Commissioner Dale Woodland asked City Attorney Becky Vose if any other Florida cities have tried to levy a special assessment on vacation rentals. He also asked what the odds of success might be.

Vose said across the board special assessments pertaining to drainage, fire service and other city and county services are common. She also said there have been groups of vacation rentals owners in California who requested certain services from the state and agreed to pay a special

assessment in return, but she’s not aware of any city or county in the country that has initiated an attempt to levy a special assessment fee specifically on vacation rentals.

“This is different,” she said.

“There’s no way to say what the odds are because this is the first,” Chair Doug Copeland said.

“It’ll either be 100 percent or zero when we get done,” Woodland added.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson and his city commission have also discussed a special assessment program, and city staff has been asked to prepare a request for proposals that would help determine the cost of the assessment study before the commission is asked to make a decision.

During his recent mayor’s report, Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon provided his fellow commissioners with a brief recap of the special assessment efforts taking place in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach, but the commission has not yet engaged in any formal discussion on the matter.

20

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

THE SUN

21

The big Gulf shrimp fraud

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

T

he selling of American seafood has become a scandal.

The seafood Americans eat has stopped being American.

Ninety-one per cent of the seafood consumed by Americans now comes from Asia.

At best, only 2 percent of it is being inspected. Of that 2 percent, some 90 percent is regularly condemned.

The scandalous part is that much of that Asian seafood is being repackaged and sold in markets and restaurants as something else. One of the greatest menu lies is Gulf shrimp.

It is possible to get Real American Gulf shrimp, but you have to work a little harder to find it, and you have

to pay more for it – as much as 100 percent more.

Almost all of what restaurants are calling Gulf shrimp is coming from shrimp farms much closer to the Gulf of Thailand than the Gulf of Mexico.

Asian shrimp is farm-raised in pools in salt marshes near river deltas. Virtually none of those shrimp pools are inspected.

I spent some time in Thailand and North Vietnam. Everybody upstream is peeing in the river and the shrimp farms are located in tidal pools near those rivers.

And the peeing is not the worst of it.

I observed one shrimp farm that was placed between a leather tannery and a cement plant.

When the pools of shrimp become polluted and the shrimp begin to die – all of the shrimp are just harvested, and the shrimp farmers move on.

Sometimes the shrimp is rinsed with a bleach solution to clean up the

smell.

Chances are good that cheap Asian shrimp is not only chemically tainted but morally tainted as well.

Asian-farmed shrimp are fed fish meal made from trash fish captured in the Gulf of Thailand and the China Sea. The ships that catch the trash fish are manned by up to 70 percent slave labor. Children are picked up from the streets and forced to work on the slave ships.

Often Asian shrimp is not only cheaper by weight but they are already peeled and deveined. Asian shrimp can be sold more cheaply than American shrimp that haven’t been peeled and deveined because the peeling and deveining of Asian shrimp is accomplished in shrimp factories also manned with slave labor.

I wish I was making all of this up, but my imagination is just not that perverse.

The documentation of slavery in

the Asian shrimp industry is the subject of a Pulitzer Prize winning report in the Washington Post.

So much of the shrimp consumed in this country is of the inferior Asian type that Americans don’t know what real shrimp tastes like any more. Increasingly, I hear comments that the real Gulf shrimp are tough.

They are not tough but they are firm – and much firmer than the soft and mushy bleached Asian shrimp that almost everyone is serving.

What is a shrimp fan to do?

Next time you are buying shrimp in a grocery store turn the package all around until you find the tiniest print on the package. Chances are better than excellent it will say “Product of Indonesia or Vietnam or China.”

And the next time you’re in a restaurant that is bragging about its Gulf shrimp, ask which Gulf, and watch how awkward everybody gets.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Holmes Beach mayor gives progress report

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

HOLMES BEACH – Mayor Bob Johnson is proud of the progress the city has made during his tenure in office.

“I think we’ve covered an awful lot in these last 18 to 24 months,” he said Jan. 24 while delivering his annual report during a commission meeting at city hall. Johnson said he believes the current administration is moving forward with its goal to bring stability to city hall, though he said there’s still room for improvement.

“I think it’s been a great year and a

great two years,” Johnson said. “I think we’re finally getting the administration to the point where things can get done.”

Johnson also announced his picks for commission liaison appointments.

He recommended Chair Judy Titsworth to serve as an alternate for calls from the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center and to oversee buildings and grounds and roads, bridges, drainage, canals and erosion.

Commissioner Jean Peelen was recommended to be the city’s liaison to legislative matters, the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, the Mana-

tee County Council of Governments and the ManaSota League of Cities.

Johnson recommended Commissioner Marvin Grossman as liaison to the city’s Parks and Beautification Advisory Board and Anna Maria Elementary. He also was tapped to serve as an alternate to the ManaSota League of Cities.

Commissioner Pat Morton was nominated to serve as the liaison to Waste Pro, the Manatee County Emergency Operations Center and the Holmes Beach Police Department pension board.

Johnson recommended Commissioner Carol Soustek as liaison to The Center of Anna Maria Island, code

enforcement and the Planning Commission.

While commissioners agreed to the appointments, they did agree to discuss the language in the city’s code of ordinances governing their duties as liaisons at a future work session.

Peelen said she was concerned the language could be interpreted as allowing commissioners to write ordinances.

City attorney Patricia Petruff said she thinks the entirety of the administrative code should be considered for revision.

Titsworth said she would place the matter on a March work session agenda.

Old Florida Charm out as new bridge theme The Anna Maria Island Bridge Aesthetics Committee will meet again at 10 a.m. on Feb. 22.

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

BRADENTON – At its first meeting in three months, the Anna Maria Island Bridge Aesthetics Committee decided to use a Beach Getaway theme instead of Old Florida Charm. There was no discussion as they gave consensus approval.

The committee is charged with making recommendations to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on enhancements to a replacement bridge to the 60-year-old drawbridge

that connects the Island to the mainland via Manatee Avenue and has been working on it since last summer.

The replacement bridge, a fixed span structure with a 65-foot clearance, will be built just south of the current bridge. At previous meetings, members approved a mudline design to the footings, piers with a hammerhead design, sunshine infill rail panels, blue piers, turtle impressions on four pier facings and wall impressions featuring manatees, turtles and pelicans with fractured granite finish.

At the meeting on Jan. 25, consultant Rachel Rodgers, of L.A. Designs, added input to the choices. They discussed items that would add to the aesthetics without being a part of the bridge.

FDOT Project Manager Ryan Forrestel

The replacement bridge will be a fixed-span structure with a 65-foot clearance.

told the group those plans may not materialize because whatever they build, such as landscaping, irrigation, furniture and surface treatments, would have to be maintained by Holmes Beach on the west side and Bradenton on the east side, and they had not talked with the necessary city officials yet.

Rodgers said they could landscape using trees or trees and shrubbery. She said using only trees would add instant curb appeal with visual impact and they could use many trees or a few.

She said maintenance costs would be lower.

Rodgers said they could have trees in a long line or in groups, and they might make a pocket park using the trees with benches or picnic tables.

The group was opposed to tables because they felt bicyclists would use the facilities more than families wanting to picnic.

The group will continue to work on the designs at its next meeting on Feb. 22.

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Cold weather strategy

W

hen winter weather comes to southwest Florida, anglers have to alter their strategy to meet the changing conditions. Cold fronts not only drop water temperatures, but can cloud local waters and produce shifting cold winds. Fortunately, the passing fronts yield to periods of calm and often balmy weather. While weather conditions can vary significantly, the first strong fronts put fish into a winter pattern.

One factor that remains consistent during our winters is a change in the water temperatures. Knowing the way different species respond to the chilling waters gives anglers an advantage. While winter fishing can be challenging, excellent action is available to fishers that use their senses and think like a fish. Awareness and persistence really pays dividends when the thermometer begins to plunge.

The most sought after species –snook, redfish and trout – respond differently to the cold, but will all concentrate in areas where the surrounding waters are more

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS temperate. Snook are most sensitive to the changing water temperature and migrate to rivers, canals and basins with deep water. There are several strategies to employ when fishing for all species, especially snook. Look for areas with dark bottom that absorb the heat of the sun warming surrounding waters, creating a magnet for the sensitive linesiders.

Shallow bays and bayous that heat up quickly on sunny days and flush warm water on late afternoon outgoing tides can be particularly productive. Even the seawalls that line residential areas can warm the water and attract fish on cold days. It doesn’t take much of a temperature difference to concentrate them.

When fishing a particular flat, canal or

basin, pay attention to areas that receive the most sun during the day. Explore water that is protected from cold north winds. The wind stirs the water, keeping it from absorbing the sun’s rays and warmth. Sun exposure, depth, protection from the wind and the color of the bottom all figure into the equation. Find these conditions and you’ll be in an area that is more desirable to fish.

When the weather prevents the sun from warming the water, look for deep areas that harbor fish. Channels, holes under big boats in canals and boat basins are all potential refuges for fish during cold weather. These areas warm more slowly, but they also cool more slowly.

Rivers and creeks are also good sanctuaries, depending on the conditions.

All local species are affected by the cold water to some degree, but many, like trout and redfish, have a higher tolerance. One strategy to employ even under temperate conditions is to slow see reel time, page 31

rUSTY CHINNIS | sun

Don’t rule out top water in the winter. Parker Novi, of Anna Maria, caught this bluefish on a top water plug in December in Sarasota Bay.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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Enjoy winter fishing Captain Dave White

I had the pleasure of guiding Fred Rehbein, and his son, Mark, on a fly trip this past week. Fred is a video producer who has been putting together fly fishing tutorials for years. He's worked with such names as Lefty Kreh and Bob Clouser. Mark works for Bonefish Tarpon Trust, an awesome organization with a mission to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitat through research, education and advocacy.

The winds were high, so we took the 18-foot Beavertail skiff to the river and found rolling juvenile tarpon. These finicky fish weren't chewing anything we were offering. But the boys managed a few Jack crevalle and ladyfish on the fly. Good conversation and stories were exchanged as well as a healthy respect for the sport.

Thursday night I pushed Warren McCarthy around numerous dock lights in search of snook and trout on fly. Warren, from Basingstoke, England, hadn't felt the

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strength of a snook on fly. He hooked one on his third cast. Warren typically fishes with a 2-3 weight rod, so he was quite enthusiastic as the powerful snook got him down to the backing on an 8 weight. He was able to land about half a dozen schoolie sized snook and a few keeper trout. I had a few live bait charters mixed in as well, but the milky water of the Gulf kept me fishing in the bays and estuaries. If you get a chance to whip a fly rod around for a bit, don't pass it up.

Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails in Sarasota Bay and trout, snook and reds in Gasparilla Sound on CAL jigs with shad tails, 4-inch jerk worms and flies during the past week.

Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, Ill., fished the backcountry of Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me on Tuesday. He had a great day catching and releasing a slam including trout to 19�, a couple of reds to 24 inches and a 26-inch snook on CAL jigs with shad tails and 4-inch jerk worms. We found a concentration of reds and snook, but couldn’t get them to eat at first. With the tide a little higher, see captains, page 31

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Home Sweet Home wants to party Home Sweet Home is a non-profit organization dedicated to getting more people to become permanent residents of the Island.

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

HOLMES BEACH – After a glitch in the system, Home Sweet Home is now a non-profit agency in the eyes of the Internal Revenue Service. Anna Maria City Commissioner Carol Carter said a glitch came when the IRS wanted the group to state that its goal is to increase low-income housing and handicap housing. Members changed the goal to preserving historic buildings, which would be more in tune with what they are trying to accomplish.

Carter said they could work with the Florida Historic Conservation Fund and if they could find a property for sale that they could purchase, they would only pay taxes on the structure, which would be a lot lower than adding the land’s value. The fund would own the land, which means it could not be converted into vacation rental property.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Members of Home Sweet Home, the group attempting to attract full-time residents to the Island, at their meeting last week at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation.

Home Sweet Home is coming upon its first year, and members want celebrate with a party. Member Jack Brennan said they got permission from Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy to use City Pier Park as a venue. They suggested calling it a Hometown Celebration. Plans so far call for a potluck meal, and Pam

Leckie said they could get AMI Radio to promote it and cover it live. The party would be open to people from all Island three cities, and they set the date for Sunday, March 19, at 2 p.m.

Work continues on gathering stories about residents: how they found the Island and what they like about living

Nonprofits get trolley grants The money comes from advertising on the trolleys and is distributed by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce.

here. Members would also like to use newspaper accounts of special Island events such as the Easter Sunrise Service and the Bethlehem Walk.

The next meeting will be on Feb. 16, at 3 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.

Live like a local Respect Wildlife

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

HOLMES BEACH – A large crowd of Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce members, local not-for-profit organization officials and local government leaders gathered at LaPensee•Plumbing•Pools•Air for the monthly Chamber Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, Jan. 25 for a special occasion, to hand out more than $50,000 to keep the charities running.

Chamber President Deb Wing spoke to the crowd about this fifth annual grant awards ceremony.

“With the grant awards presented tonight, the Trolley Grant Awards Program has awarded a total of $230,000 in grants to our non/not-for-profit Island organizations, she said. “The grant moneys being awarded this evening are from the 2016 trolley program funds, and, once again, we are honored to give back to our community.”

Wing said the Island trolleys served approximately 580,000 riders with free rides.

The money passed out that night came

Dara Caudill island phography | submitted

Representatives of the not-for-profit organizations that split more than $50,000 from the trolley advertising revenues at the Anna Maria Island Chamber meeting last week.

Art League, Anna Maria Island Historical from advertising revenues, which also enSociety, Anna Maria Island Preservahance the funds needed to run the colorful tion Trust, Anna Maria Island Privateers, transports.

Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch, Cultural The Chamber Trolley Panel, which decided how the money should be distributed, Connections of AMI, Friends of Manatee consisted of Chamber board members Eric County Animal Services, Friends of the Island Library, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Cairns, Karen LaPensee and Bev Lesnick Island, Moonracer No Kill, Roser AID and Chamber Vie President Terri Kinder.

Food Pantry, Roser Memorial Community Wing thanked the 27 businesses that adChurch, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island, vertise on the trolleys. The money went the following not-for-profits: Anna Maria Island The Center of Anna Maria Island, West Concert Chorus & Orchestra, Anna Maria Bradenton Crime Watch and Wildlife, Inc. Island Elementary PTO, Anna Maria Island

Brown (Cuban) anole If you promise not to spray pesticides, I will take care of most of your bugs.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Center financials come under scrutiny

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

ANNA MARIA – The Center of Anna Maria Island is halfway through its 2016-17 fiscal year and the nonprofit still has a long way to go financially.

During a quarterly town hall meeting held Jan. 23 at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, executive director Kristen Lessig addressed the issue of the organization’s finances. While the organization is still facing a financial shortfall, Lessig said it hopefully will come close to breaking even by June 30, the end of the fiscal year.

An update in the center’s financial reporting structure created six cost centers, which include direct and indirect expenses along with a prorated disbursement of administrative and other overhead costs based on the amount of square footage used at the facility to operate programs. The cost centers are sports, youth, fitness, culture, seniors and fundraising.

Lessig’s report showed income at $85,073 for the six month period in the youth cost center. With direct expenses of $78,415 and indirect expenses of $60,911, the program is at a loss of $74,049, including deductions for overhead.

The fitness cost center shows an income of $11,185 with direct expenses of $53,804 and indirect expenses of $10,239. After a deduction for overhead, the fitness center shows a net income of -$72,654.

When questioned, Lessig said the use of the fitness center by visitors accounted for $4,290 in income.

Other cost centers showing a net loss include the senior center at -$21,986, the culture center at -$35,360 and sports at -$142,549.

The only cost center reported with a positive net income is the fundraising center with $230,967 in net income.

Lessig’s report shows The Center with a total income of $478,984, which after expenses drops to a net loss of $135,013 as of Dec. 31 to end the first half of the fiscal year.

The center hopes to gain an additional $150,000 in donations and earn $70,000 from special events along with $15,000 in grants to help close the gap. Lessig also is still hopeful the Island cities will

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Executive director Kristen Lessig opens the floor to questions Jan. 23 at the Center of Anna Maria Island’s quarterly town hall meeting. give a combined $48,000 to help fund the center.

She appeared before Holmes Beach commissioners Jan. 24 to plead The Center’s case, also presenting the financial update.

“We need the support of the city to fill the gap for The Center,” Lessig said.

With the planned $48,000 from the cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach, she said the gap in finances would be reduced to an estimated $87,000 for the year.

Commissioner Jean Peelen was concerned about giving funds to The Center if a large percentage of the people being served by it, particularly children, are coming from other municipalities.

“If we’re supporting mainland kids, the mainland should help support the programming,” she said.

Lessig said she was unsure of how many children in center programs are from other municipalities. “We’re not discriminating against who we serve,” she said.

Chair Judy Titsworth suggested if the city does decide to provide funds for The Center, commissioners designate where the funds should be spent, such as on sports programming.

“Island sports are huge draws for young families,” Titsworth said.

Commissioners agreed they would need more time to study the information provided before making a determination regarding funding. The matter was continued to a March work session.

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Murder, mystery and mayhem take Center stage The swinging 70’s are back, baby, but only for two nights at the Center of Anna Maria Island.

This year’s annual murder mystery play is titled “Shag Another Day: Convention of Evil Doers” and investigates the antics of Dr. Upheaval and Awesome Powers. The play, sponsored by Air & Energy, is written and directed

by Beth Shaughnessy.

There will be no danger of spoilers as the play ending will change each night.

Center communications manager Aris Thompson said even the cast won’t know who the real villain is until the last act each evening.

Attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favorite villain or shagadelic character. A costume contest will be held.

The two nights of intrigue begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 18. Tickets are $40 per person or $300 for a table of eight. Dinner is included from the Traveling Gourmet.

A cash bar will be available.

The event is recommended for adults only.

submitted

Sponsorships are available.

For sponsorship information, contact Lindsay Sauls at event@centerami.org.

To reserve tickets, contact The Center at 941-778-1908, or stop by at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

Power Squadron to meet The Anna Maria Island Sail and Power Squadron holds its next monthly general membership meeting on Thursday, Feb, 2, at 6 p.m. at the squadron’s building, 1200 71st St. NW, Bradenton. Nancy Larkin Reed will speak and show photos and records about her grandfather, a sea captain in the early 1900s who sailed out of Gloucester and Salem, Mass. They will serve potluck dinner at 6 p.m. followed by the speaker the speaker

and a business meeting around 7 p.m. Visitors interested in boating topics and classes to improve boating skills are welcome and encouraged to attend.

The Power Squadron provides free vessel safety checks and offers its members with a wide ranging social program. For more information, call 941-792-0394 or email amispsbridge@gmail.com.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

For the birds The Arts and Crafts Festival for Wildlife, Inc., Animal Education and Rehabilitation, was held last month at Holmes Beach City Field next to city hall. Volunteers Nancy Burnett and Iliana Garcia were there with some of the owls that live at the Bradenton Beach facility.

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BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

1/21, lost item, 200 block of Periwinkle Plaza. The complainant said a replacement trash can delivered by Waste Management is missing.

Bradenton Beach

1/15, alcohol consumption in a public place, 135 Bridge St. The officer observed a man holding a can of beer. The defendant tried to hide it when he saw

Obituaries Jeanne Kerrigan Jeanne Kerrigan, 85, a longtime resident of York Beach, and Stoneham, Mass., passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 19, 2017.

Jeanne and her husband Donald (predeceased) raised five children, Neil (Donna) Kerrigan; Mark (Kim) Kerrigan; Stacie (Dennis) Kerrigan; Lea (Bob) Nardone; and Chris (Anthony) Kerrigan. She leaves one brother, Paul (Michele) Gerety and was predeceased by two brothers, Robert and David. She also leaves six grandchildren, Kaithlin, Patrick, Brittany, Brian, Zachary and Megan; and many nieces and nephews.

Jeanne didn’t just live life, she ran toward it, full speed ahead, every day.

the officer, but he was give a notice to appear.

1/21, battery on a victim more than 65 years of age, 1100 block of Gulf Drive South.

The defendant was arguing with his mother and pushed her to the floor, causing her to hit her head. He told police his mother is bipolar and his brother was mentally handicapped and they started arguing because his mother spent all their money. He said he did push her, but he picked her up immediately after. He was arrested.

Cortez

No new reports.

She embraced life, roughed it up, celebrated it and gave it another try each day. She was the hardest worker in the world. Jeanne grew up in Everett, Mass., and graduated from Boston College School of Nursing. She worked full time as a nurse, raised five children, and at the same time, returned to Boston College for her masters in education. She also attended Western New England College, where she earned a masters in business administration and a masters in public administration.

After many years as a nurse, she transitioned to teaching nursing at Northeast Regional Vocational High School and then became a guidance counselor there.

Jeanne enjoyed spending winters in Bradenton, and could often be found at shore of Sarasota Bay or at the Anna Maria Island Moose Club, enjoying an afternoon at the beach with friends. Although she traveled all over the world,

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Holmes Beach

1/22, DUI, 5200 Gulf Drive. The officer pulled the driver over because he was driving erratically. He smelled alcohol on the driver’s breath and noticed the driver’s eyes were watery and red.

He asked how much the driver had imbibed and he said two or three beers.

The driver took a field sobriety test and was arrested.

1/23, larceny/theft, trespassing, 600 block of Baronet Lane. Police were called to the scene by the property owner, who said her Realtor told her people looking at the house, which was for sale,

more than anything, she enjoyed spending time with her family, on her back porch, in York Beach, looking at her beautiful rock garden and overlooking the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

A funeral Mass was held on Saturday, Jan. 28, in St Raphael’s Church, Kittery. A private burial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Gerety Kerrigan Scholarship Fund at P.O. Box 513, York Beach, ME 03910. Lucas & Eaton Funeral Home, York, is assisting with arrangements. Visit www.lucaseatonfuneralhome.com.

Dr. Saul Ladd Dr. Saul Ladd, 88, of Holmes Beach, passed away on Jan. 19, 2017.

A native New Yorker, he and his late wife Rosalie moved to Florida in 1974, so that they could pursue their love of sailing all year long. Saul enjoyed

noticed two females coming out of the back yard with two decorative stones.

She said the witnesses had seen the suspects at Dundee Lane where the suspects were trying to sell another house. Police went to that house and talked to a suspect, who said she was unhappy with her Realtor due to the “underwhelming” price of her home.

She said she had gone to the home of the victims where she saw the mosaics there and started stealing items to boost the value of her home. The officer had the suspects return the stones and wrote a request to have the state attorney’s office investigate.

a long and distinguished career as a podiatrist, having founded Cortez Foot & Ankle with his partner and lifelong friend, Dr. Alan Katz. He retired in 1993, providing more time for he and Rosalie to sail, golf, travel the world and spend time with their children and grandchildren.

Saul is predeceased by his beloved Rosalie and their special rescue dog, Izzy. He is survived by his children Sandra (Jonathan), Jeff (Andrea), and Nancy Ladd; his grandchildren Bryan (Katie), Becky (Steve), Jeremy and Kelsey. He is also survived by his brother Barry (Lori), sister Madeline, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Underdog Rescue of Florida. A celebration of his life was held on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at the Key Royale Club, where Saul loved spending time with his golf buddies and friends.

Holmes Beach town hall meetings begin with code enforcement Holmes Beach welcomes public input at town hall meetings.

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

HOLMES BEACH – City officials began a series of town hall meetings Jan. 26 with one of its most publicly visible departments — code enforcement.

Code enforcement officers James Thomas and Nate Brown hosted the meeting along with Police Chief Bill Tokajer. More than a dozen community members came out to find out a little more about what code enforcement does and voice questions for the officers.

Brown began the meeting with a history lesson, tracing the lineage of code enforcement all the way back to 1754 B.C. and the sixth king of Babylon, Hammurabi. Brown said the king enforced a rule requiring a house be dropped on any man who built an

inferior structure for someone else.

“We don’t go that far now,” Tokajer said.

Brown said the tragedies that occur as a result of bad building practices indicate the weak points in the code, allowing for improvement.

Among the duties of code enforcement officers are trash and debris, abandoned vehicles, overgrown lots, noise and verification of permits.

“Code enforcement promotes compliance of the ordinances governing public safety and welfare,” Brown said. In Holmes Beach, code enforcement officers also are trained to issue parking violations and serve as crossing guards at Anna Maria Elementary if needed.

Suzi Fox, executive director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, said the enhanced presence of code enforcement in the city over the past two years had helped her volunteers to focus more on helping sea turtles and less

on trying to promote compliance with nesting season regulations.

“We used to be really mean, now we’re really nice,” Fox said. “It’s fun to be sea turtle friendly.”

Ingrid McClellan, executive director of Keep Manatee Beautiful, and Bob Baublitz, of Waste Pro, also spoke during the meeting.

“It’s a pleasure working out here,” Baublitz said. “I really enjoy it.”

He added that Waste Pro staff working on Anna Maria Island are trained to assist the police and code enforcement with spotting suspicious activity.

“Public safety is not just a police thing, it’s a community thing,” Tokajer said.

During the meeting, officers addressed the complaint process, enforcement of the city’s noise ordinance, street parking and how code enforcement differs from the building department.

Thomas said while code enforce-

ment can check a construction permit and cite builders for not having one or working outside of the scope of the permit, officers cannot issue or revoke a permit.

For noise complaints, Thomas said officers would rather be the “bad cops” than risk tensions developing between neighbors.

“Our objective is to enforce the codes,” he said. “The goal is to get compliance without anyone wanting to retaliate against a neighbor.”

Thomas said the best ways to get in touch with code enforcement are by e-mail, telephone and in person at city hall.

“We’re trying to have a domino effect of positivity,” he said. “We want to be proactive.”

For more information on code enforcement, call 941-708-5800 or email thomasj@holmesbeach.org.

The town hall series will resume in March with the police department.

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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Red tide may cause respiratory symptoms

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

The National Weather Service in Ruskin predicts that red tide could cause respiratory irritation in some coastal areas this week, with symptoms including coughing, sneezing and tearing eyes, especially in people with respiratory conditions such as asthma and emphysema.

Red tide, a bloom of the organism Karenia brevis, contains a neurotoxin that can cause respiratory distress, kill fish and marine mammals, and poison shellfish, making it unfit to eat. Red tide was found in background to medium concentrations in 17 samples collected from Manatee County last week and in low to high concentrations in 30 samples collected from Sarasota County, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), which reported varying degrees of respiratory irritation and fish kills last week in the two counties caused by red tide.

The Florida Department of Health advises people with asthma to bring their inhalers to the beach during a red tide or avoid the area until conditions improve. Residents of and visitors to beach areas affected by red tide are advised to close

windows and run the air conditioner or heater with a new filter.

Some swimmers experience skin irritation and rashes after swimming in waters with a severe red tide and also have reported eye irritation from the sea foam.

Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming in water where dead fish are present due to possible elevated bacteria levels.

Depending on wind direction, currents and the location of red tide blooms, some areas may be affected while others are not. Beachgoers can find unaffected beaches at www.mote.org/beaches and www.myfwc.com/redtidestatus.

Shellfish like clams, oysters and coquinas that are Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission harvested from areas with active red tides should not be eaten because shellfish are are generally considered safe to filter feeders that can concenconsume. trate the toxins produced by red Some researchers believe that tide. Scallops can be consumed stormwater runoff containing if only the scallop muscle is fertilizer nutrients, especially eaten. Scallop stew using the phosphorus and nitrogen, inwhole animal should not be crease red tide growth. eaten.

For the latest red tide updates, Crabs, shrimp and lobster can visit http://tidesandcurrents. be eaten because they do not noaa.gov/hab. concentrate the toxin. Shellfish To report a fish kill, call the available through restaurants FWC at 800-636-0511. and commercial food suppliers

reel time: Cold weather strategy FROM PAGE 26

your retrieve and keep close to the bottom. Top water can still be effective in the winter, but anglers should reduce the action they impart to plugs and poppers.

Some species actually thrive in cold water. A good example is sheepshead. Often shunned by anglers, they are hard fighting, challenging to hook and excellent to eat. Look for them around structure, particu-

larly bridge and dock pilings where they feed on small crabs, shrimp and barnacles. Winter weather and cooler temperatures also stimulate species like pompano, bluefish, mangrove snapper and black drum. Use your senses, experiment, be persistent, and you can experience some very good fishing during our cooler winter months.

captains: Enjoy winter fishing FROM PAGE 27

we backed off a little, changed the style of CAL plastic tail and worked the area a second time. That proved to be a winning combination as Keith caught and released a couple of nice reds and a snook!

Longtime friends and clients Tom Lamb, from Geneva, Switzerland and his daughter, Diane Muhlfeld, from Sarasota, fished Sarasota

Bay with me on Thursday. They had some action with trout and a couple of pompano to 4-lbs on CAL jigs with shad tails. Lew Murray, from Tarpon Springs, FL, fished the backcountry of Gasparilla Sound near Boca Grande with me on Friday. We worked on shallow water fly fishing techniques and he caught and released his first snook on my Grassett Flats Minnow fly.

Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more should be good options on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges in the ICW with flies and DOA Lures should also be good. Also look for snook in shallow water along with larger trout and reds when conditions are good.

32

THE SUN

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Hayward Cup Championship:

Mason Martin hammers Anna Maria CrossFit

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

In the much-anticipated final game of the adult co-ed recreational soccer league season at The Center, more than 50 fans and spectators anxiously awaited the arrival of the referees to start the championship match. With great expectations, Team Mason Martin took the initial kick against Team Anna Maria CrossFit in the battle for the Paul “Ace” Hayward Championship Cup. Unexpectedly, Anna Maria CrossFit dominated the ball to start the game.

Striking hard and striking fast, Ryan Moss took the first shot near mid-field for Team CrossFit. The soccer ball sailed just over the crossbar.

With the support of family, Mason Martin’s Lexi Braxton Sato played to win, taking a shot that went just right of the post. Rico Beissert followed with shot of his own for Team CrossFit that soared just left of the post.

Lighting up the field, Beissert carried the ball down the field to find teammate Will Kretzmann in the box.

Beissert’s crossing pass was just out of Kretzmann’s reach, resulting in a save by starting goalie Ben Sato.

Beissert was not to be denied. On his next touch of the ball, Beissert’s missile shot hit the next with the assist by Jessica Williams for Team Anna Maria

monica simpson | SUN

Team Mason Martin proved why they were the #1 ranked team this season in the Island's co-ed recreational soccer league by winning the Hayward Cup Thursday night. Pictured left to right: (top row) Charles Buky, Nate Welch, Nick Sato, Grank Agnelli, Ben Sato, Ted Hurst, Anthony Barberio, (bottom row) Lexi Sato and Tara Stutts.

CrossFit’s first, and only goal of the game.

Behind early in the championship match, L. Sato and Anthony Barberio were determined to tie up the game and prove why Team Mason Martin finished

The Island takes youth soccer to another level

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

For years kids who want to take their skills to another level on the soccer field have been forced to go to GT Bray, Braden River, and other soccer clubs to play against area youth. The Center wants to develop a team of up and comers consisting of male and female players who were born in 2006 or later.

The newly developed team will play in two tournaments in the spring on two different weekends. Each tournament will consist of several games in which the team will play.

As a competitive team of 12 players, not all players who tryout will make the team. This team will not play together

in the recreational league at The Center or in the regular season league play around the area. This team will only play in select tournaments.

Tryouts will be at The Center on February 3 from 6-8 p.m. The cost per player is $125 which includes uniforms, tournament fees and referee fees.

Team practices and attendance at practice is expected. Players can participate on both The Center’s competitive team and the island’s recreational league. This is a wonderful opportunity for youth soccer players to raise the level of their play and grow their experiences on the pitch.

For more information, contact Drew Mitchell at 941/778-1908 at The Center.

the season at the top of the ranking.

Shots by L. Sato and Barberio missed the mark, giving Kretzmann another chance at a goal.

B. Sato saved the shot by Kretzmann giving Mason Martin’s Tara Stutts the opportunity to fire off a shot. Going off of the hands of goalkeeper Olaf Krause, Barberio took the corner shot that whizzed by the mob in the box before deflecting off of a defender to tie the game 1-1.

Staying in the game, Beissert fought hard against Nick Sato who was called for a foul, giving Beissert a free kick opportunity. Mason Martin’s strong defense denied the goal for Anna Maria CrossFit. Despite the aggressive defensive attack by JT Goode, Barberio hit his second goal of the game with just under eight minutes left in the first half of play.

Team Anna Maria continued to stay in the game with an amazing saves

by Kraus on two shots by Barberio.

N. Sato was called for a foul against Goode, but Goode’s team could not capitalize on the scoring opportunity.

Known for his cherry picking suc-

cess this season, Team Captain Frank Agnelli tried to get control of the ball near the goal, searching for his first goal of the game. Agnelli would be denied by Kraus.

Striking again, Barberio’s rocket shot ricocheted hard off of the cross bar.

Nate Welch was called for a foul against Goode. Once again, Team Anna Maria could not make anything happen on the field.

With no time on the scoreboard clock, the referees kept the official clock on the field. Surprise newcomer to the league Ted Hurst hit Mason Martin’s third goal of the game to close out the half, giving his team a two-point lead.

Hoping to capture the win in the last 20 minutes of regulation play, Team Anna Maria CrossFit started on offense.

Its offensive run would be cut short by Team Mason Martin.

After two minutes of play, Barberio scored the fourth goal of the game for his team. Agnelli quickly followed with his only goal in the championship battle. Hurst struck again, but Krause stopped the goal, keeping his team in the hunt.

With a four-point lead, Mason Martin changed it up in the goal. N. Sato took over the keeper responsibilities, while B. Sato took to the field.

Charles Buky, for Mason Martin, and Oliver Petereit, for Anna Maria CrossFit, both made their defensive presence known on the field, while Allison Burnham was an offensive threat for CrossFit. In scoring position, Kretzmann took a free kick that hit hard onto the back of a Mason Martin defender. Barberio took advantage of the free ball, moving it quickly down the field with Matt Jeronimo hot on his heels. Jeronimo’s pressure forced Barberio to change direction and pass the ball to L. Sato.

Barberio’s pass drew Kause to the left corner of the net giving L. Sato more than half of the net to gently place the ball for the goal.

In what was touted as his last soccer game, Lyn Clark fought hard to get the soccer ball to his feet by the goal.

Clark’s controversial leadership style has moved his teams in the past to the top of the ranks for many seasons, insee sports, page 34

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

TOWN CRIER

Library book sale The Friends of the Island Library’s annual book sale returns at Roser Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, on Friday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, Feb. 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Thursday, Feb. 16, the doors will be open to members only from 1 to 3 p.m.

Those wishing to shop early may purchase a membership at the Island Library or at the door. On Saturday at noon, you can fill a plastic bag, donated by Publix, for only $3 per bag.

Clean, gently used books are being accepted at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. They do not accept magazines or self-help books, unless they are very recent, or very old medical books. Children’s books and cookbooks, CDs, DVDs and jig saw puzzles are particularly welcome. They will not accept books after Feb. 13.

For further information, call the library at 778 6341.

Fashion and fun at St. Bernard’s St. Bernard’s Women’s Guild will host its annual fashion show and luncheon on Feb. 23, from noon to 2 p.m. in the activity center at St. Bernard’s, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. This year’s theme is Flowers, Friends, and Fashions.

Lunch will be catered by The Feast; fashions from Irene’s. Models are local women and all proceeds benefit local area charities. A ticket donation is $25. A limited number of tickets will be sold, none at the door.

For more information, call Connie Kihm 410-812-2468.

Writers meet

33

Cheeseheads reunion

Call for volunteers The Center of AMI is in full swing and needs volunteers to help during this busy season. Activities include murder mystery evenings, a Rat Pack crooner and the annual Tour of Homes. Contact Volunteer Director Robyn Kinkopf at 778-1908, ext.

204, or robyn@centerami.org to volunteer and attend a group orientation on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at noon or 6 p.m.

THE SUN

More Koko at Jazz Fest

The 14th Annual Jazz Fest, sponsored by the Sandbar, the Anna Maria Concert Chorus and Orchestra (AMICCO) and The Anna Maria Island Sun, will feature a musical treat at the Sandbar restaurant events pavilion on Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 3 to 5 p.m.

Island favorite KoKo Ray Hansen (above, right) will perform both sets of ,jazz numbers from the 1920s to now. Hansen will play keyboards on the first set and will accompany members of Gulf Drive, featuring Judy Lynn, from Cleveland, on vocals and Bil Bowdish, from Boston, on flute, sax and vocals, during the second set playing flute, sax and other instruments. He also plays two saxophones at the same time – harmony on one and melody on the other. Jazz Fest and Oldies Beach Dance are the only time all these great artists perform together.

Tickets to Jazz Fest are on a first come basis and are available at the Anna Maria Island Chamber, 5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, on Sundays at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach from Nancy or by calling Nancy at 941-5184431. Tickets are only $10 per person in advance (before noon Feb. 7) and $15 at the door, if available. The Sandbar will sell refreshments. to come along for some good family fun.

Call the library at 941-778-6341 for more information.

Food critic spills the beans Tampa Bay Times Food Critic Laura Reiley will lecture on “Farm to Table Fables” at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. This is one of the Friends of the Island Library Travel and Lecture Series events.

There is no charge, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Seniors look at shells Senior Adventures will visit the Palmetto Shell Show on Friday, Feb. 3. Meet at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, before 10 a.m.. The cost is $5, and you need to reserve a spot on the van by calling Peg at 941-778-3106.

Bingo and fun

The Gulf Coast Writers meet at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 12:45 p.m. Attendees will review writings and are urged to bring some of their own works. For more information, call t 941778-6341.

Bingo at Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St., Bradenton Beach, runs each Thursday evening in January, February and March from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be drinks and cake available and door prizes.

Family movie time

Programs for all at the library

There will be a free kid’s movie showing at the Island Branch Library,5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 3:30 p.m. Parents are encouraged

The Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, will have fun for all ages on Friday, Feb. 3, First is the unique parenting program Forty Carrots

for younger kids from 10 to 11 a.m. Parents and kids will learn together. You must sign up in advance.

Next is the knit and crochet club from 2 to 4 p.m. Call the library at 941-778-6341 for more information.

Green up that thumb Homeowners with visions of flowers and edibles from the ground can get some advise or answers during Ask a Master Gardener starting at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

A certified Master Gardener will be on hand, and there’s no charge. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Fun for youngsters Tuesdays are fun for pre-schoolers at the Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, at 10 a.m. when kids librarian Trudy Hill-Bell reads stories and has activities and crafts for the children.

Parents must accompany kids. Call the library at 941-778-6341 for more information.

A history lesson County historian Cathy Slusser presents “Manatee County During the Great Depression” at the Island Branch Library at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m. This show is free and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 941-7786341.

The 60th Annual Wisconsin Day celebration is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 8, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, with a potluck luncheon buffet. Doors open at 10 a.m. for registration and past events have drawn 300 Wisconsin refugees, residents, vacationers and Green Bay Packers fans.

Attendees are urged to bring a luncheon dish to generously feed eight to 10 adults.

Crockpots and slow cookers are popular, and those bringing one should put an ID on the heating vessel and its lid. Bring your own table setting and baked beans, coffee and hot water for tea will be provided.

There will be live polka music for dancing and listening, and there will be a 50/50 raffle and many door prizes. The fee is $5 per person. For more information, call Denny at 941-907-6646 or Larry at 941243-3747.

Detect problems in time You could be alerted to possible stroke or other health problems by taking Prevention Plus Stroke and Vascular Screening offered Wednesday, Feb. 8, 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 also are available. To register, call 888-667-7587.

Sweet Adelines perform The Magic of Manatee Sweet Adelines will perform their annual show, “It’s Showtime” on Saturday, Feb. 11, starting at 3 p.m. at a new location, Bayshore High School Theatre, 5401 34th St. W., Bradenton.

This award-winning group sings acapella in the style of traditional barbershop.

Members come from all around, including the Island. Tickets are $15 each; mail a check plus a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Magic of Manatee, 3002 Vivienda Drive. Bradenton. FL 34207.

Valentine arts and crafts show There will be a two-day outdoor Arts and Crafts Show at the Holmes Beach City Hall field, 5801 Marina Drive on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event also benefits the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park.

Shop for jewelry, glass, photography, apparel, food and more. Area favorite Patchouli will provide acoustical music on Saturday. There is free admission and parking. Contact Terri 352-344-0657 or tnteventsinc.com for more information.

34

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THE SUN

Razze wins Women’s Cup Contention for the Women's President's Cup concluded at Key Royale Golf Club on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

Janet Razze, carding a personal best round, won the competition with an 18 hole net score of 52. (Ninehole net scores are combined from Jan. 17 and 24.)

Runner-up with an 18 hole net score of 56 was Terry Westby.

In regular Individual Low Net play the winners were:

Flight A 1st place Phyllis Roe 26 2nd place (determined by a card-off) Andi Saia 26 3rd place Sue Little 31 Flight B 1st place Tootie Wagner 31 2nd place three-way tie at 32 Pam Alvord, Deb Richardson and Sue Christensen (no 3rd place awarded)

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

MCAT installs wheelchair technology on popular local route Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) recently installed new state-of-the art equipment to assist wheelchair passengers on one of the county’s most popular fixed routes.

One bus on MCAT’s Route 3, which offers passengers 30-minute service frequency along the Manatee Avenue corridor from I-75 to Manatee County Public Beach, now

has QUANTUM wheelchair securement technology.

The device enables passengers that utilize wheelchairs or powered scooters to independently activate a securement device that secures their mobility equipment in less than 25 seconds by simply pushing a button.

The new technology allows for the quick, effective, and safe securement of wheel-

sports: Mason Martin defeats Crossfit FROM PAGE 32

Flight C 1st place Susan VanOrsdel 29 2nd place Jan Turner 31 3rd place Roxanne Koche 32 Flight D 1st place Janet Razze 25 2nd place Terry Westby 29 (also card-off) 3rd place Ann Hitchen 29 Low gross: Phyllis Roe 34 Sue Little scored a chip-in on #4 and Helen Pollock on #6

chairs and scooters without the transit operator securing every wheelchair device with old-fashioned securement straps and four-point tiedowns.

For more information, contact William Steele at 941747-8621. For more information about MCAT, visit www. ridemcat.org.

cluding a championship. History would not fully repeat itself Thursday night for Clark and Team Anna Maria CrossFit. Leading by six goals, spectators could see the wind go out of the sails of the Team Anna Maria CrossFit team. Team Mason Martin put the seventh nail in the coffin with a goal by Welch to take the victory and the capture the championship cup.

Sun Scoreboard Tuesday, Jan. 24 Adult Co-Ed Volleyball

Air & Energy 2 Intechgrate Systems 0

(game 1 25-13, game 2 25-17)

#1 Mason Martin #3 Anna Maria CrossFit

Salty Printing Cloud Pest Control

20 6

Lancaster Design Slim’s Place

18 13

Bark Real Estate Truly Nolen

20 14

Youth Flag Football: 11 to 13-Year Old-League

Anna Maria CrossFit 2 Beach to Bay 0

(game 1 25-21, game 2 25-19)

Thursday, Jan. 26 – Paul “Ace” Hayward Cup Championship Game Adult Co-Ed Soccer

Saturday, Jan. 28 Youth Flag Football: 8 to 10-Year-Old League

7 1

Anna Maria Oyster Bar Miller Electric

0 28

Progressive Cabinetry Tyler’s Ice Cream

21 14

Youth Flag Football: 14 to 17-Year-Old League

Air & Energy Sign-A-Rama

25 19

Intechgrate Systems Duncan Real Estate

24 14

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

www.amisun.com

THE SUN

35

DAWN MATHISON | SUBMITTED

Wedding bells Debi and Troy Thompson celebrate their wedding with a reception at the Anchor Inn Saturday.

The two were married in a beach ceremony earlier in the day. Congratulations, Debi and Troy!

36

THE SUN

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Vacation rental regulations still in limbo

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – As part of the ongoing efforts to enact vacation rental regulations, the Bradenton Beach City Commission has requested a joint work session with the Planning and Zoning Board (P&Z).

City Planner Alan Garrett suggested the joint workshop during the commission’s Jan. 24 vacation rental workshop, and that has been scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 1 p.m.

Garrett suggested the joint workshop after City Attorney Ricinda Perry expressed concerns about some of the P&Z board’s recommendations. Perry noted that she was not invited to participate in any of the P&Z meetings that produced the proposed rental regulations. She said this resulted in the board members not having the benefit of legal advice regarding any potential unintended consequences their recommended regulations might have. This also left Perry without a full understanding of board’s intentions and the thought processes behind them.

One of her main concerns was the recommendation to fully rescind the Quality of Life Ordinance spearheaded

by Mayor Jack Clarke in late 2015 as an alternative to a citizen-requested building moratorium.

The controversial Quality of Life Ordinance was adopted before Clarke left office, but never implemented or enforced. This happened in part because Garrett and Building Official Steve Gilbert had concerns about the time and staffing needed if asked to conduct initial and/or annual inspections of hundreds of vacation rentals, as is now the practice in the city of Anna Maria.

The general feeling last week was that inspections would only be required after a violation of any implemented rental regulations occurred.

The commission now led by Mayor Bill Shearon never attempted to revise the adopted ordinance or the fee structure required to set in motion, which left Bradenton Beach as the only city on the Island without an enforceable vacation rental ordinance.

SEE RENTALS, PAGE 37

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

THE SUN

37

RENTALS: Regs in limbo FROM PAGE 36

In November, city voters approved a six-month moratorium on the issuance of new building permits for the construction of new homes with more than four bedrooms or rooms that could be used for sleeping. That gives the commission until early May to enact new rental regulations or extend the moratorium.

As he did at the previous workshop, Garrett stated his belief that the Quality of Life ordinance should not be rescinded, but retained and modified to incorporate any commission-supported P&Z recommendations and any additional regulations desired by the commission.

Garrett and Perry said a great deal of work went into creating an ordinance they feel contains many whereas clauses and other provisions that remain necessary and viable.

It was also noted that the city would also incur additional ad-

The commission has until early May to enact new rental regulations or extend the current building moratorium.

vertising and legal expenses if a new ordinance is requested.

The commission still has to decide what to do with the contradicting occupancy-limits recommended by P&Z. The board originally recommended two persons per bedroom plus two additional guests. At the request of members Jim Lynch and Frank Harrison, a subsequent, non-unanimous recom-

mendation was forwarded to the commission calling for an eight-person occupancy limit with no grandfathering period for existing rental properties.

When that recommendation was presented to the commission on Jan. 10, Gilbert suggested a 10-year grandfathering period for existing rental properties.

The city of Anna Maria received more than 100 Bert Harris claims after enacting an eight-person limit with a fiveyear grandfathering period that allows for two-plus-two occupancy until the grandfathering period expires.

Last week, the commission also directed Perry to continue researching the potential pursuit of a court-issued declaratory judgment that may support the theory that the city’s comp plan does not allow vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods.

38

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

Be prepared for closing day I

f you’ve dealt with your cold feet and are ready to walk down the aisle to the closing table, make sure you have some extra cash in the pocket of that tux. Closing costs can be the biggest surprise when purchasing a home, even bigger than the leaking roof.

One of the responses of the financial crisis is more transparency on the part of lenders when disclosing closing costs.

However, there are plenty of other surprises that buyers could be facing that are not required to be disclosed. Typically closing costs can run as high as 5 percent of the purchase price, exclusive of the down payment. Here are some of the costs that may be disclosed and others that may be a surprise: Lender fees to the bank are disclosed and specific, however, buyers may also need to pay for an appraiser, home inspectors and settlement agents the day of closing.

In addition, title insurance and homeown-

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger ers’ insurance are required by lenders and must be in place by the day of closing. If you purchase a property without a mortgage, title and homeowners’ insurance are optional but not recommended not to have.

The amount of property tax due is also sometimes a surprise based on the day of the month of the closing and whether property taxes are paid in advance or in arrears, based on the county you’re buying in. Also, lenders generally want to collect funds from homeowners in order to pay property tax directly, insuring that it gets paid. They may also want to do the same with homeowners’ insurance to protect their interest

in the property. This involves setting up an escrow account ranging anywhere from three to six month’s prepaid at closing.

Utilities will also ask for deposits to set up a new account if it’s a company you haven’t done business with before.

Condominium association fees also will have to be adjusted at closing based on when the seller last paid his/her fees. For example, fees paid on a quarterly basis could have been paid on Jan. 1 for the next three months and you closed on Feb. 1 owing the seller two months of fees that they prepaid. Same with special assessments that are on the books but not paid for yet, which can be negotiated along with the sale price or paid by either the buyer or seller at closing. By Florida state law, condominium by-laws and financial statements, including the budget, must be provided to a buyer once contracts have been signed. The buyers are then entitled to three business days to review the docu-

ments before final contracts are signed.

Something called prepaid interest has brought more than one buyer to tears at the closing table. Prepaid interest is the daily interest charge accruing between the closing and the day on which your first mortgage payment is due. To avoid this surprise, close as close to the last day of the month as possible.

Finally, human error, even in today’s computer and automated world, happens.

Of course, this could work in your favor or against it. Be prepared for either.

Per Trulia, the percentage of homes with accepted offers that ultimately did not close in 2016 compared to 2015 increased to 3.9 percent from 2.1 percent. For some reason, even in what is supposed to be a growing real estate market there are a lot of cold feet going around. Whether your feet are warm or cold, if you plan on showing up for the closing ceremony, don’t forget the cash.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

6101 MARINA DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

Date Closed List Price Sold Price Address

Anna Maria

2016-12-05 1,100,000 2016-12-27 645,000 2016-12-09 750,000 2016-12-22 999,000 2016-12-27 2,575,000

Lot Size Property Description

9707 & 9705 Gulf Dr 252 Gladiolus St 222 Chilson Ave 407 Spring Ave 885 N Shore Dr

1809 1428 1248 1450 3141

Commercial 2 Br/1 Ba SFR 3 Br/2.5 Ba SFR 4 Br/3 Ba SFR 4 Br/4.5 Ba SFR

850,000 212,700 334,000 350,000 375,000 450,000

120 9th St N #1 308 2nd St N #102 1801 Gulf Dr N #226 1325 Gulf Dr N #160 108 9th St S #F 2401 Ave B #Unit A

2248 520 1080 1392 1154 1410

150x95

Triplex 1 Br/ 1 Ba Condo 2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo 2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo 2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo 2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo

300,000

12421 Baypointe Ter

112x166x112x160

Bradenton Beach 2016-12-13 925,000 2016-12-30 239,000 2016-12-26 344,000 2016-12-12 475,000 2016-12-30 389,000 2016-12-02 485,000

Cortez

2016-12-15 320,000

Real estate transfers of December 2016 •Sponsored by Alan Galletto, Island Real Estate Source: Mid Florida Multiple Listing Service

SFUA

900,000 630,000 675,000 960,000 2,575,000

THE SUN

Date Closed List Price Sold Price Address

SFUA

Lot Size Property Description

2016-12-08 624,000 2016-12-22 655,000 2016-12-16 649,900 2016-12-13 729,000 2016-12-15 719,900 2016-12-12 789,000 2016-12-28 899,000 2016-12-23 1,395,000 2016-12-29 1,395,000 2016-12-16 339,900 2016-12-30 399,000 2016-12-16 399,900 2016-12-20 599,000 2016-12-22 679,000 2016-12-31 799,000 2016-12-16 825,000 2016-12-23 324,000 2016-12-28 699,000

90x100 95x111 1400 75x100

1790 2017 2425

1047 1949 1184 1008 1569

1456 1106 1232

72x100

Holmes Beach

600,000 600,000 630,000 695,000 720,000 730,000 875,000 1,250,000 1,275,000 318,000 357,000 375,000 540,000 637,500 700,000 725,000 308,000 682,000

206 83rd St 1448 515 71st St 1841 311 65th St #B 205 68th St 1384 234 85th St 1715 4803 2nd Ave 7005 Holmes Blvd 4105 4th Ave 207 73rd St 1738 3702 6th Ave #1 3701 E Bay Dr #1 5806 Gulf Dr #103 4200 Gulf Dr #205 213 75th St #A 5608 Gulf Dr #116 5610 Gulf Dr #2 4001 Gulf Dr #103 207 55th St #A

3 Br/2 Ba SFR 3 Br/2 Ba SFR

3 Br/2 Ba SFR

3 Br/2 Ba SFR 3 Br/2 Ba SFR

3 Br/2 Ba SFR

4 Br/3 Ba SFR

6 Br/6.5 Ba SFR

4 Br/3 Ba SFR

2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo

4 Br/ 3.5 Ba Condo

3 Br/ 2 Ba Condo

2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo

3 Br/ 2.5 Ba Condo

2 Br/ 2 Ba Condo

2 Br/ 2.5 Ba Condo

2 Br/ 2.5 Ba Townhome 3 Br/2 Ba Villa

39

40

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THE SUN

lobbyist: Hired by Anna Maria FROM PAGE 1

dies during the committee sessions prior to any final votes taking place on the house and senate floors.

The 2017 legislative session begins March 7 and committee sessions have been scheduled for early February. Steube’s bill was referred to the Regulated Industries, Community Affairs and Rules committees.

United front?

Commissioner Nancy Yetter asked if the cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach would share the cost of hiring a lobbyist. Vose said Mayor Dan Murphy made some initial inquires but as of now Anna Maria is going it alone.

Vose plans to share information obtained from Case with the Flagler County officials, who are also at the forefront in the fight for local vacation rental regulation. The commission also accepted Yetter’s offer to communicate with elected officials in other potentially-impacted coastal cities.

Commissioner Dale Woodland said he had a 30-minute phone conversation with Steube that was cordial, but failed to provide any significant dialogue. Wood-

land invited Steube to come meet with the commission, but was told Steube preferred to meet at his Sarasota office, where Sunshine Law would allow only one commissioner at a time to accompany the non-voting mayor to a private meeting.

Steube was elected to the state senate last fall by voters in Sarasota County and Charlotte County. He does not directly represent the Island cities represented by State Sen. Bill Galvano and State Rep. Jim Boyd.

Citizen input

Anna Maria residents Ruth Uecker and Amy Tripp addressed the commission last week.

“I think it’s certainly the right way to go,” Uecker Uecker said of the lobbyist.

“I was very concerned when I read about this bill, so I immediately sat down and wrote an email to Mr. Steube. I also plan to copy this to Rep. Boyd and Sen. Galvano,” she said.

“The passage of this bill would virtually ruin everything our local community has worked so hard to achieve,” Uecker’s e-mail said.

“I would like to know what we

Personalized Property Management!

15% Commission Rate

can do to let this gentleman know that we’re not going to roll over and let this happen. Do we get on a bus and go to Tallahassee?” she asked the commission.

Tripp said she e-mailed several state legislators scheduled to participate in the preliminary committee discussions.

“Let the committee members know that we’re against SB 188,” she said in regard to legislation she feels would be devastating for the Island.

“I’m not very positive that anything we do regarding Sen. Steube personally will change his mind. I think our power lies in the other representatives and senators. If we can quash this in one of the committees and it never gets to the floor that’s our best bet,” Chair Doug Copeland said.

“These are politicians, they count votes. They want to know how many people are for this, how many people are against this and does it impact me getting reelected? Logic and reason are not what they’re basing their decisions on,” he added.

“I think it will become clearer once we have conversations with Chip Case. Whether you like lobbyists or not, it’ll be good to have one on our side," he said.

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

noise: Debate continues FROM PAGE 1

by tenants at vacation rental properties that concerns her.

“Kids are going to laugh and play in pools,” she said. “We want young families to move here. We don’t want to seem unwelcoming with officers at the door for kids playing in pools.”

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer agreed to instruct officers to enforce the noise ordinance in whatever manner commissioners choose. However, he argued that the noise meter is taken on every possible noise complaint call.

“It is being utilized at all calls, if available,” he said, adding that officers issue a citation if it’s found the noise produced is violating the noise ordinance.

He expressed concern that officers visiting a rental unit or residence to warn tenants about noise if there was no violation occurring could undermine the effectiveness of the noise ordinance.

“If it’s not a violation I’m not sure what we’re warning them about,” Tokajer said.

While Commissioner Marvin Grossman talked about being empathetic to the plight of residents, Commissioner Pat Morton said he understood the difficult position police officers face when attempting to warn someone without proof of a violation.

“You can’t control a property in a residential area with commercial rules,” he said.

Resident Renae Ferguson said she feels the noise problem “has escalated in the last few years.” She said she likes the idea of officers approaching a residence after a complaint is lodged against it.

“I’m not sure that all of these renters really know the rules,” she said.

“If noise is bothering the residents, it’s too much,” resident Kim Rash said. “Knock on doors; keep it simple.”

Resident Margie Motzer also spoke against the use of a decibel noise meter by police. Motzer said she regularly gets high decibel readings using a cell phone application outside of her living room window.

“I am totally opposed to the decibel reader,” she said.

With no resolution reached, commissioners opted to continue the discussion at a March work session.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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HBPD officers report for presidential security detail

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

-*'& *4 BETTER AT THE #&"$)

1301&35: ."/"(&.&/5 p 3&"- &45"5& 4"-&4 p 7"$"5*0/ 3&/5"-4

Contact Us Today!

Rentals@IslandVacationProperties.com www.IslandVacationProperties.com p

HOLMES BEACH – Four police officers joined more than 28,000 members of law enforcement from around the county to help provide security along more than 100 city blocks Jan. 21 during the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

Sgt. Vern McGowan was joined by officers Tommy Fraiser, Joel Pierce and Mike Walker in Washington, D.C., in protecting a section of the inauguration parade route as a part of the National Law Enforcement Protection Detail Team. “It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience,� McGowan said. “It was just amazing. I was impressed with how well our officers represented the county and their dedication to what they were doing. It was an honor, not a little vacation.�

McGowan, Fraiser, Pierce and Walker were flown to the nation’s capital along with 42 other law enforcement officers from Manatee County, who all volunteered to help safeguard the festivities.

McGowan said the officers were given a few hours to sightsee after arrival before being sworn in on Thursday before beginning their duties on Friday.

He recalled the officers being picked up from the hotel before dawn to begin working a security

Courtesy HBPD

Holmes Beach Police officers Mike Walker, left, Tommy Fraiser and Joel Pierce, right, with Sgt. Vern McGowan brave the cool temperatures Jan. 21 in Washington, D.C., to help provide security along the inauguration parade route for President Donald Trump. detail at 4 a.m., a duty that didn’t end until after 8 p.m. Despite cool temperatures and a light rain, McGowan said the officers were proud to be on-hand for the occasion. “Just to be there and be a part of it, you don’t mind that little bit of discomfort,� he said.

The one downside was the officers had to face the crowd and away from the parade. “We didn’t get to see the president as he came by,� McGowan said.

HBPD Chief Bill Tokajer said once he received the invitation from the city of Bradenton to join other officers from Manatee

County, he asked one officer from each shift to volunteer, sending McGowan along as a supervisor. “I was sort of voluntold,� McGowan joked. “If we are asked to participate in an inauguration again we would be honored,� Tokajer said. He added that if the opportunity does present itself again, he would seek volunteers from the officers who didn’t participate this year.

McGowan said he’d love to experience the nation’s capital again. “I would definitely like to take the family there on vacation,� he said.

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COUNTERFEIT: Bill discovered FROM PAGE 4

As a precautionary measure, Bridge Street Merchants Executive Director Jack Clarke distributed Baldwin’s e-mail to the other business owners on Bridge Street.

On Monday, Police Chief Sam Speciale said he had not received any additional reports of counterfeit bills being passed.

“Now that we’re getting into our season, the businesses need to be a little more diligent and vigilant in using those pens to test bills,” Speciale said.

“If the bill appears to be fake, the person taking the money has two choices: they can tell the customer they can’t accept the bill or they can tell the customer they need to call the police. The customer can then either stick around or take off.

“We are not asking businesses to prevent the customer from leaving, but if they can get a picture we can try to determine if that person knew the bill was bogus. Other than that, there’s not much we can do about it. When we called the Secret Service they just wanted to know the serial number of the bill,” he explained.

Speciale said the person trying to spend the counterfeit money may not even know it’s fake.

Now that we’re getting into our season, the businesses need to be a little more diligent and vigilant in using those pens to test bills.”

Sam Speciale Police chief “They can’t prove the person had knowledge the bill wasn’t any good, and it’s hard to enforce unless we find the bills on the person,” he said, noting that passing counterfeit money is not a common occurrence in Bradenton Beach, but it does happen occasionally.

FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

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Historical Society luncheon Feb. 16 The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will hold it’s annual members' luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 16, at noon at the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, at noon. The public is welcome.

The featured speaker will be Cathy

Slusser, Manatee County director of historical preservation, who will talk about the county’s efforts regarding historical preservation.

The Sandbar restaurant will cater the event, and tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. There will be raffles for prize baskets.

This also is the annual membership renewal. A single membership is $20, a family membership is $30 and a benefactor membership is

$100. The benefactor membership includes membership in NARM, the North America Reciprocal Museum Association, which entitles members to free admission to more than 700 arts/cultural institutions in North America.

For reservations call Susan Anderson at 407-415-2678 or e-mail Arlene Clarke at amihsmembership@gmail.com.

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

ANNA MARIA 207 Fir Avenue George Myers 941-224-6021 A4170361 $1,890,000

B R A D E N TO N 5016 64th Drive W Deborah Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4136838 $1,549,000

ANNA MARIA 802 Gladiolus Street Mark Boehmig 941-807-6936 A4170813 $925,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 209 69th Street A Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4171643 $919,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 110 7th Street S Deborah Nelson 941-266-5900 A4174554 $2,200,000

B R A D E N TO N 5211 21st Avenue W Deborah Capobianco 941-704-2394 A4169543 $599,999

B R A D E N TO N 1504 90th Court NW Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4167740 $579,900

B R A D E N TO N 532 Hillcrest Drive Toni Lyon 941-928-8735 A4170841 $525,000

ANNA MARIA 524 Villa Rosa Way Kelly Baldwin 941-404-9396 A4173954 $1,395,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 615 N Point Drive Kathy Valente 941-685-6767 A4173388 $1,100,000

B R A D E N TO N 2808 Bay Drive Michael Moulton 941-928-3559 A4112747 $775,000

ANNA MARIA ISLAND 668 Key Royale Drive Laurie M Mock 941-232-3665 A4164160 $634,000

NEW CONSTRUCTION

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

B R A D E N TO N 1104 92nd Street NW Patty Brooks 941-545-1194 A4174734 $399,999

8 8 8 . 552 . 52 2 8

B R A D E N TO N 7740 34th Ave W 103 Barb Eberhart 941-761-7349 A4168002 $365,000

RENTAL ANNA MARIA ISLAND 2311 Gulf Drive N Unit A 3 Bed 2 Bath 4852 SqFt $2,000

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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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Throws the first pitch 7 Find fault 11 Bygone Ford 14 They may be hard 15 Tavern 17 Hunt's TV co-star 18 "Next subject" 19 Made dinner at home 20 "Sold!"

21 CIA predecessor 22 Historic Potomac estate 25 Son-gun connection 26 __ land: disputed territory 31 Rueful word 35 Quick snack 37 Simple home 38 With 40-Across, NPR broadcast since 1979 40 See 38-Across 42 Word with box or light 43 Levelheaded 45 Timer drizzler 46 Mussel habitat 48 Uno plus due 49 "Life of Brian" comedy group 56 Plant studied by Mendel 59 With 41-Down, tries for a long pass, in football lingo 60 Odor 61 First or last quarter ... and, literally, what can be found on either end of 18-, 22-, 38-/40- and 49-Across 63 Action scenes 64 Get-out-of-jail card?

65 Museum guide 66 32-Down contents 67 Fruity coolers 68 "Nothing to it!"

Down 1 Make a run for it 2 Connect with 3 Parting mot 4 Lacquer ingredient 5 Former Senator Lott 6 Lat. or Lith., once 7 Traffic enforcement devices 8 Take out __ 9 Love Is On makeup maker 10 Upsilon follower 11 Hauls 12 Menu possessive linked to the Qing dynasty 13 Place in the woods 16 Tokyo-born artist 20 Gets the mist off 23 World Cup skiing champ Lindsey 24 "Moi?!"

27 Citi Field squad Answers to 01-25-17 Crossword Puzzle.

28 Polynesian capital 29 Bright sign 30 Text command 31 "Time's Arrow" author 32 66-Across source 33 Covent Garden solo 34 Pretentious sort 36 Eight British kings 39 Agenda listing 41 See 59-Across 44 Shows up 47 Give to charity, say 50 Peter of Herman's Hermits 51 Webmail option 52 Copy exactly 53 Old Testament prophet 54 Future foretellers 55 Really bad 56 Carson forerunner 57 Nobelist Wiesel 58 Duck mascot company, on the NYSE 61 Starz rival 62 Kellogg School deg.

63 Some retirement acct. holdings

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ANNOUNCEMENTS BEACH YOGA ON Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www. thriveyogafit.com 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).

AUCTIONS SUNDAY FEBRUARY 12.

3pm. 4517 Palmetto Point Dr, Palmetto, FL Waterfront Home and contents, 2BR/3.5BA, with the possibility of being 5 to 6 bedrooms.

Wide open water views of Terra Ceia Bay. SATURDAY FEBRUARY 11 at 5pm. 1005 Riverside Dr. Palmetto, FL. A 50 foot tour boat and business. Boat will hold 44 people, 2 to 3 trips per day. 2nd Auction a 50 foot SeaRay with twin diesel 720HP engines, 4 AC units and a generator. SATURDAY FEBRUARY 11 at 12:30pm. 309 Palm Ave & 310 Hardin Ave Duplex on Anna Maria Island faces on different streets. 2BR1BA faces Palm Avenue and 2BR/1BA faces Hardin Avenue. ALL FLORIDA REALTY & AUCTION CO. AB 923 941-746-5355 941-722-1957 AU1333.

For terms and conditions go to AFRAAC.COM

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE GOT A CAR You Wanna Sell.

The Good, The Bad or The Ugly.

Call Now 727-400-1910

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

AMISUN.COM

Call us today! 941-778-3986

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES IslandBoatSales.net Season is Here - Very Busy – “Business On A Hand Shake” 17 Year Owner & Island Resident. 941-228-3489 -Dave

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

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

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

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

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

EMPLOYMENT

ADULT CARE COMPANION NEEDED week of Febuary 20 on Anna Maria Island.

Call 202-744-6668 PART TIME ADMIN ASSISTANT needed for successful island sales team! If you have real estate & admin experience, call us today! 941448-5616 GIFT SHOP PART-TIME positions on Anna Maria Island. Night & weekend shifts. Retirees welcome.

Call Manager 813-4097540

TOUR BOAT CREW WANTED. Location at Mainsail Marina, Holmes Beach.

Year round part time positions. Boat handling experience helpful but will train.

Upbeat outgoing personality a must. Senior Retirees encouarged to apply. Call 941-920-0092

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

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES

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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.

WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX, Open 9:30am.-2 pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and 10am. – 1pm. on Saturday. Donations preferred on Wednesdays 9am. -11pm. 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. 941-7792733

BESPOKE SERVICES, MASTER CARPENTER for all home & office repairs. Also painting, decorating, decking & dock repairs,. Large or small works. Reasonable Rates! Island guy for Island work. Call RICHARD 941-448-3571

GARAGE SALE HUGE 3 Families Saturday 9am2pm. 218 84th St. Lots of antiques, collectibles, Bric-Brac, Occupied Japan, Fenton Angles, Porcelian, minatures, pewter animals, lamps, furniture, Designer clothes, books, tools, Tons of vintage Designer & costume jewerly. Great prices.

Don't miss this Sale.

SHEETROCK/DRYWALL REPAIRS install & finish.

STUCCO Repairs. All wall & ceiling textures. All home maintenance & repairs. 30 years experience. Free Estimates! Call 941-321-0482

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 “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

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

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

AMISUN.COM

LEGAL NOTICE 2000 Chrysler Vin 2C4GJ2530YR8100762000 Ford Vin 2FAFP71W9YX181524 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 2/8//2017 9:00am at 1855 63rd Ave 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

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

941-812-0507 “WIZARD OF WALLS”.

Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

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

2004 Malibu Vin 1G1ZT54824F236883 1998 Buick Vin 1G4CW52K2W4631949 2000 Chrysler Vin 2C4GJ2530YR810076 2000 Ford Vin 2FAFP71W9YX181524

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Meticulous, Thorough, Quality Workmanship. Interior/Exterior. Wall paper removal..

Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

LOST & FOUND LOST ORANGE MANX Tailless cat in Cortez Area. Call 518-810-9416 LOST KAYAK BIMINI BAY Floated away on Sunday nights storm. Tan Feather Lite. Please call 941-7783057

DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

LOST ENVELOPE WITH Money in it. Border of Holmes Beach & Bradenton Beach. REWARD 361-9440167

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

LOST HEAVY GOLD CHAIN with Blue Stone near 47th Ave in Holmes Beach on December 26. REWARD! Call 908-963-1702 FOUND CAT grey and white friendly cat found on 63rd street Holmes Beach, near boat ramp. Dec 4. Call 813-546-3982

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

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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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 26 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

AMISUN.COM

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE STARTING FROM THE UPPER 200’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 $190/month. Models open daily. {Contact us 941-254-3330} www.MirabellaFlorida.com 106 WILLOW RENOVATED Cottage. 1 in from Beach, beautiful pool/spa. Lush landscaping $1,197,000.

Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 FIND REAL ESTATE at brokersandra.com. Call Sandra Glantz 941-7999229 Licensed Real Estate Professional with Wagner Realty. Call for free market analysis.

GORGEOUS GULF VIEWS! Light, Bright & Airy 1BR/1.5BA! Great rental potential! $329,900 Call 941773-0165 - Kathleen White, Island Real Estate Realtor BAY FRONT HOME Palma Sola W. Bradenton 4000sq.ft. 4BR/3.5BA 4 car garage. Stunning cathedral ceilings. No Island traffic! Island Real Estate Ask AL Galletto 941-232-2216 FOR SALE BY OWNER Large 2BR/2BA condo in Palma Sola Harbor. 1296sf Waterfront Home with dock, gated community with amenities. 2 miles from beaches. 2 pets allowed $290,000 Call 972351-2834 GREAT RENTAL! $30K/ YEAR! 1BR/1BA in Direct Gulf Front complex! $299,900 Call 941-4485616 - Erin Heckler, Island Real Estate Realtor

Call us today! 941-778-3986

AAA Just-Off-Island MOBILE HOME Totally updated and remodeled 1BR/1BA + Bonus Room/Bedroom + porch + shed. All NEW appliances incl. washer/dryer, microwave, TV's. 100% Furnished-just bring your toothbrush in SUNNY SHORES, by Cortez. $99,500 sale by Owner.

Appointment 941-7135779 for Pat

CHARMING 2BA/1BA HOME w/lanai & large yard. Washer/dryer 1100 sq. ft. on quiet cul-de-sac. Home West of 26th Street next to St. Joseph’s Church Bradenton. Annual lease $1400/mo plus utilities, first/last and $500 security, credit/background check, lawn & pest provided by landlord. Call Scott 941-779-3313

RENTALS: ANNUAL ANNUAL RENTALS WANTED ! We have well qualified tenants for beach and mainland annual rentals, Full management or Finders fee.

Call today for details. Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com WEST BRADENTON San Remo 4011 Plumosa Terrace 2BR/2BA/1CG on Salt Water Canal. W/D hookups, Large lanai & yard plus dock Bring your boat! $1600/mo unfurnished. First, & Security.

Credit check. Lease option possible. Call JoAnn 941809-2488 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 2BR/2BA FURNISHED BAYFRONT Condo at Shellpoint $1750-Annual lease.

Longboat Key Studios $975 month to month lease only. Call A Paradise 941778-4800 HOLMES BEACH ANNUAL: Pool view & partial bay view from this 2nd floor, 2BR/2BA condo in W. Bay Pt. Moorings. Spacious 1377 sq. ft. light & bright unit with new paint and bedroom floors. Ready Now. $1800/mo. Call Island Real Estate - 941778-6066

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

ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fl Condos. Pool beach access, fully equipped $650-$800/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-704-7525 or 941-7781915

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

WILLKOMMEN AUF AMI! Besuchen Sie Island Real Estate in einem unserer Inselbüros (6101 Marina Drive oder 419 Pine Ave) mit unserem deutschsprachigen Reservierungsservice und erhalten ein freies Island Real Estate Baseball Cap! Wir geben Ihnen gerne mehr Auskunft über unsere 250 ausgewählte Feriendomizile für Ihren nächsten Urlaub!

VACATION RENTALS Winter 2017 – weekly / monthly available Jan, Feb, Mar. Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate 941778-2307.

SEASONAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: March, April,& May June. HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/1BA ground level.

Block to Gulf. ANNA MARIA (monthly minimum): 2BR/2BA & 2BR/1BA Both ground level and Close to Beach. 2BR/1BA Gulf Front. Second story. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-778-0426 kringco@ tampabay.rr.com

GREAT ANNA MARIA ISLAND 1BR/1BA Remodeled Home. 55+ Community across from beach. Reduced RATES $1,800 for April, $1,600 for May, $1,400 for June thru November. Call Kevin @ 309-716-4015 WEST COAST TREASURE 3BR/2BA fully furnished home. Available now!

NW Bradenton (Palma Sola). 4 miles from Beach. Nightly/Weekly/ Monthly. Reasonable Rental Rates. Call 941201-2190 GULF DRIVE BRADENTON BEACH 2BR/1BA full kitchen ground floor. Direct TV, porch 75 steps from beach.

Beautiful. Available March – May. 90 day minimum Call 813-917-5270 HOLMES BEACH RUNAWAY BAY Condo.

Ground floor 2BR/2BA. Pool & tennis. No Pets/ Smoking. Walk to Beach.

Available Now! Call 941779-1043

LAST MINUTE CANCELLATION 2BR/2BA Canal Front Villa in central Holmes Beach. Available February, March & April 2017 (1 month minimum) {$2500/mo all fees & taxes included} 5BR/5BA GULF FRONT HOME in Anna Maria also available in February starting at $3200 per week + fees. Call Green Real Estate 941-778-0455 www.greenreal.com

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

Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017

business & service directory computer service

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home improvement

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

transportation

movers

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FEBRUARY 1, 2017