Anna Maria Island Sun March 16, 2016

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VOL 16 No. 20

March 16, 2016

MAGGIE FIELD | SUN

PAT COPELAND | SUN

MAGGIE FIELD | SUN

Thousands of people lined the route through Anna Maria Island Sunday afternoon for the 19th Annual Beach Bistro St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Above, the city of Dunedin Pipe Band entertains the onlookers with traditional Celtic music. Top right, Dave and Patti Lee, from Wisconsin, along with Barb and Bob Stahl, from Indiana, get into the Irish spirit. Above right, Brody McFadden, 8, and sister, Devon, 5, from Kansas City, get started on some serious bead collecting.

Day dock blocked The city is still awaiting an official letter from FDEP that confirms the current uses of the day dock comply with the submerged land lease.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – The day dock at the Historic Bridge Street Pier was the site of a peaceful protest on Tuesday, March 8.

In the middle of the three-vessel blockade was Bradenton Beach Marina owner Al Bazzy, who stood aboard a floating rental center that formerly served as a floating and navigable wedding chapel.

To the west of Bazzy was embattled

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey business outdoors restaurants real estate crossword

4 6 7 14 27-28 33-35 36-41 44

bait salesman John Maguire and his two-vessel commercial operation.

The eastern edge of the city-owned public docking facility was blocked by the Pride & Joy commercial fishing boat owned by Ryan Davis.

The blockade limited access to the day dock throughout the day and was staged in protest to tour boats and other commercial vessels being allowed to use the dock in addition to recreational vessels.

When discussing these efforts Tuesday morning, Police Chief and Pier Team facilitator Sam Speciale said he found Bazzy’s methods creative and somewhat humorous and not in violation of laws or regulations. see dock, page 43

Three front yards but still a lawn way from home Due to an ordinance change, several lots have three front yards.

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

HOLMES BEACH – A couple’s attempt to build a house on their lot with three front yards in the Palm Harbor subdivision has brought to light problems with two ordinances approved last year.

One was Ordinance 15-19, which required a front yard along each street upon which a lot or parcel fronts and the other was Ordinance 15-20, which banned front yard pools.

Peggy Jude, of One Palm Harbor Drive, gave a power point presentation on the challenges she and her husband, Ron, have encountered trying to design a house to fit on the lot bounded by 43rd Street, Palm Harbor Drive and Palm Harbor Boulevard She said the 20-foot front yard setbacks have decreased their buildable lot space considerably and would significantly impact the pool and dining room.

“In order to have a pool, we have to move our deck close to the house and lose our dining room,” she explained. see lots, page 38

mister roberts

Explore Island living in The Sun’s Tour of Homes preview. 21-23

Resort Wear celebrates 50 years on AMI. 14

Say ‘I do’ to our special Wedding Section. 28-31

Anna Maria Island, Florida

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ROR occupancy limits proposed Future discussions on the proposed ordinance have and will be scheduled.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City commissioners and City Attorney Becky Vose are working on a new ordinance that would limit future vacation rental occupancy in the Residential/Office/Retail District (ROR).

If adopted, the proposed ordinance would limit occupancy to no more than eight overnight guests in vacation rentals that are the result of redevelopment or new construction. The ROR ordinance would not apply to existing structures in the zoning district.

The proposed ordinance deals primarily with occupancy, and other than the commercial use limitations already in place, does not create additional vacation rentals regulations similar to those included in the vacation rental ordinance that applies to residential structures elsewhere in the city.

Commissioner Chuck Webb noted that the ROR district encompasses Pine Avenue and a small portion of Gulf Drive.

joe hendricks | sun

City commissioners Doug Copeland, Dale Woodland and Nancy Yetter, shown from left, discuss occupancy limits in the city’s commercial district.

Due to pre-existing agreements with the city and the desire to avoid another lawsuit, the area within the ROR district that encompasses the Pine Avenue Restoration Project (PAR) would remain exempt from the new occupancy limits.

Commissioner Dale Woodland wondered why the proposed ROR ordinance differed from the vacation rental ordinance.

“I thought we were going to basically

replicate in the ROR what we did in R1.

Are we not doing that? We’re not going to have registration, we’re not going to have inspections; none of that’s going to apply?” he said.

“That is not what I asked for in a draft. I thought there was a feeling on the commission that we just wanted to limit the number of guests staying in these vacation rental to eight. ROR

is different than residential because it is commercial,” Commissioner Doug Copeland said in response.

“That’s right,” Mayor Dan Murphy said.

Commissioner Carol Carter said, “With our vacation rental ordinance, we had two per bedroom, plus two for a maximum of eight, whichever is less. Is there a reason we didn’t do that here?”

Vose said she was simply asked to include a maximum occupancy of eight.

Copeland said the commission could change that if it wanted.

“I would use the exact language we’ve got in the other one,” Woodland said.

“We should be consistent,” said Commissioner Nancy Yetter.

When Woodland asked Vose if she thought the city should notify potentially-affected property owners, Vose said notification is always a good idea.

The proposed ordinance was originally scheduled for Planning and Zoning Board review on Tuesday, March 8, but that hearing was postponed until Tuesday, March 22.

The existing vacation rental ordinance is scheduled to take effect Friday, April 1, pending the outcome of an injunction hearing scheduled to take place at 1:30 p.m. that same day.

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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Noise citation case decided Holmes Beach City Attorney Patricia Petruff reported to commissioners that a judge issued a final ruling in a citation case against Shawn Kaleta regarding a noise citation issued in December.

“Our ordinance was good, but in that particular citation, there was an insufficient showing, and he was found not guilty,” she explained.

She said she would be meeting with Police Chief Bill Tokajer to strengthen the ordinance.

Commissioner questions DOT cameras When Holmes Beach City Commissioner Jean Peelen asked Police Chief Bill Tokajer about traffic cameras proposed for several Island intersections, he said they were to be used as live feeds to manage congestion and evacuation and would not record traffic.

According to an e-mail from Sage Kamiya, deputy director of traffic management for the Manatee County Public Works Department, cameras are being proposed for the following intersections: • Cortez Road at Gulf Drive; • Manatee Avenue at East Bay Drive; • Manatee Avenue at Gulf Drive; • East Bay Drive at Gulf Drive; • Gulf Drive at Marina Drive.

Kamiya said the project cost estimate is $340,353, but it is not yet funded.

City to revise sign ordinance Holmes Beach City Attorney Patricia Petruff advised city commissioners to read a model sign ordinance from the International Municipal Lawyers Association and one approved by the city of Fernandina Beach in order to determine how they want to revise their sign ordinance.

“Look at laser signs, digital signs, scrolling letter signs, computer graphic signs, distracting signs, billboards that flip and see what you like and don’t like,” she said. “I need feedback on those. I need direction on what you want to do.”

She said she would begin drafting language for a revised ordinance.

Corrections Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the city retains ownership of the community center building and the land, and The Center enjoys a 99-year lease. A quote from The Center’s Executive Director Kristen Lessig in the March 9 issue said otherwise.

The total to pay off the community center’s mortgage was $300,000. The March 9 editorial was unclear on the amount.

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MARCH 16, 2016

Work meeting discussions continue...

The commission is still working on city charter interpretations.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –The City Commission work meeting discussions regarding the supervision of city staff continued last week, but no final decisions were made.

Further clarification and formal commission action is expected when the work meeting discussion continues on Tuesday, March 22.

The Tuesday, March 8, work meeting featured nearly three hours of additional conversation on topics first discussed at the Feb. 23 work meeting and further discussed at the March 3 commission meeting.

The commission’s goal is to provide definitive interpretations of city charter language that addresses the roles and responsibilities of the mayor and commissioners, and the supervision of department heads and appointed charter officials.

Reviewing charter language firstdiscussed at the Feb. 23 meeting that Shearon missed, Commissioner Ralph Cole said, “The mayor is the executive head of the city

joe hendricks | sun

Mayor Bill Shearon shares his views on the notion that he is not the supervisor of city department heads. government. In addition to serving as a voting member of the commission, the mayor is responsible for administrative oversight of the city government. The mayor has the primary responsibility for ensuring the city operates in accordance with the policy mandates of the commission. The mayor shall convey policy directions from the commission to the appointed officials.”

The terms executive head and administrative oversight are not defined in the charter, and the charter makes no specific references to the mayor being a supervisor.

At Cole’s request, language from the city Website was read aloud: “The specific system of government used in Bradenton Beach is see meeting, page 32

... post-meeting perspectives differ

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Mayor Bill Shearon and his fellow City Commission members do not see eye-to-eye on the issues discussed at last week’s work meeting.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the supervision of city department heads.

After Wednesday’s Land Development Code hearing, Shearon was asked what he took from the previous day’s work meeting.

“I was very happy with the end result. We went through my sheet and came to an agreement,” he said.

Shearon was asked if he thought Tuesday’s meeting suggested changes were forthcoming in regard to his authority to supervise department heads.

“No. To me, there’s no changes.

I’m doing the same things that I’ve always done. I’m glad Commissioner Cole brought this forward because this is the first time there has been a clear understanding. I believe it clarifies everybody’s stance, including the department heads, so everyone’s on the same page.”

Shearon was asked about the contrasting interpretations he and the commissioners offered regarding oversight and supervision.

“Supervision is a word and probably has multiple definitions,” the mayor said, noting that he considers the terms supervision and oversight to be interchangeable.

Commissioner Jan Vosburgh had a different take on last week’s discussion.

“I overheard a conversation in the chamber a couple of days after our March 8 meeting indicating see perspective, page 32

To me, there’s no changes. I’m doing the same things that I’ve always done.”

Bill Shearon Mayor

“That is not what I concluded from our discussions.”

Jan Vosburgh City Commissioner

MARCH 16, 2016

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Term limits in limbo City officials have varied opinions on whether term limits still exist.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – City officials will have to determine if commission term limits have been eliminated and if so, should they be reinstated?

Before the November elections, the city charter said commissioners could serve no more than three consecutive two-year terms, but that charter review process may have changed that.

A call to the Manatee County Supervisor of Election’s Office on Friday, March 11, provided no clarity in regard to term limit elimination, but Deputy Supervisor Sharon Stief had an opinion on who would make that determination.

“As to whether or not term limits are gone, that is up to the city,” she said.

Stief referred to the charter amendment ordinance, ballot language and additional exhibits the city submitted to the elections office in order to have the charter amendment ballot questions placed on the ballot.

“That’s exactly what we received,” she confirmed.

The ballot language presented to city

voters said, “The city charter provides that candidates for elective office shall be electors registered and residing in the city of Bradenton Beach for nine months immediately prior to the date of qualifying. Should the city revise its charter to increase the residency timeframe to 24 months?”

Voters approved the amendment, but few, if any, ever saw the accompanying charter language that made no reference to term limits, other than the strike-through language included in an exhibit included with the amendment ordinance.

“The verbiage we received from the city is what was put on the ballot, and that’s what the voters voted on. I can’t say if term limits are gone or not.” Stief said.

In August, the Charter Review Committee (CRC) proposed eliminating term limits.

The commission then voted 3-2 in favor of retaining term limits and not placing the question on the ballot. When reviewing the charter amendment ordinance and language presented by City Attorney Ricinda Perry later that month, no one noticed the strike-through language that indicated the potential removal of the term limit reference.

“I believe the ordinance the commission reviewed on two separate occasions and adopted was unequivocally clear that

term limits were removed per the CRC’s recommendation. Whether there was a scrivener's error, the removal was what the commission actually approved,” Perry said last weekend.

She said a different interpretation could be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction if someone wished to pursue it.

“Case law on the subject matter looks at whether a reasonable voter was able to understand what they were voting on,” Perry said.

Additional opinions

During last Tuesday’s work meeting, the commission briefly discussed term limits.

“There is no term limitations,” Mayor Bill Shearon said.

Shearon, who was not in office at the time, recapped the events that transpired and said, “It’s immaterial because the voters voted.”

Vosburgh was one of three commissioners who supported maintaining term limits in August.

“I do not think we should have term limitations. I will not be running again, so it will not affect me, but it’s hard enough to get people to run for these positions. If we get good people, we should let them continue to stay on. Mistakes happen and we should

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let that go. I don’t have a problem with that,” she said Tuesday.

“I don’t either. It was brought up by Commissioner Cole. I just wanted clarification so we’re all on the same page,” Shearon said.

Vice Mayor Ed Straight is the other thirdterm commissioner scheduled to term-limit out of office next fall. When contacted, he said, “I am not sure what I would do, but I would consider running again if it was ruled on that way.”

When discussing term limits informally later in the week, Building Official Steve Gilbert expressed his opinion that term limits remained. He said voters were not asked about term limits and the charter can only be changed by the voters. He suggested the existing charter language could be corrected before being codified and posted at the Municode Website.

In contrast to what he said Tuesday, Shearon agreed.

When serving as mayor, Jack Clarke voted to retain term limits.

Last week, he said the August meetings could be reviewed to determine if the deletion of term limits was a scrivener’s error.

He said the city could reinstate the term limit language, by amendment if necessary, if desired.

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OPINION

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

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MARCH 16, 2016

EDITORIAL Irish fun, Island syle

T

here were few people saying "top o' the mornin'" Sunday afternoon but there was plenty of Irish cheer and blarney flying around at this year's Beach Bistro St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Clearly, if there's one thing Islanders can do well it is stage a parade. Be it Christmas, the Fourth of July or St. Patrick's Day, people on AMI will jump at the chance to party down the middle of Gulf or Marina drives.

This year was no exception. It was a great parade, filled with all things Irish, a couple of camels and even some local mayors, not necessarily in that order. How can you go wrong with bagpipers, high school marching bands and 10,000 people lining the route begging for beads and candy?

Congrats and thanks to Bistro owner Sean Murphy, who pulled off another entertaining procession that had locals, visitors, Irish and the Irish-at-heart all enjoying themselves on a wonderful afternoon.

Despite the absence of the late, longtime parade celebrity Judy the elephant, the mood was bright, the road rose up to meet us and the wind was at our back.

Let's do this again next year.

M

ore Island fun is scheduled for this Saturday, March 19, when the 23rd annual Tour of Homes, sponsored by The Center of Anna Maria Island, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Learn about Island living by taking a peek into these five beautiful houses. Tickets for the tour are available for $20 at various Island locations, and a free shuttle to the homes will be stationed at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, at the border of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria.

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR No power grab As one of the few individuals uniquely qualified to comment on the current wrangle at Bradenton Beach City Hall, having served as the city’s duly elected mayor, I would like to comment here.

The City Commission is on the right track. Our city charter specifically directs that the commission sets policy and determines how the city will be governed.

We operate under a so-called “weak mayor ” system, wherein the mayor is a voting member of the commission, and does not form a separate, third, executive branch of the city government.

Clearly, the mayor is charged with the responsibility to execute the policies and procedures approved by the commission as a whole, of which the mayor is a voting member.

This system does not allow for the mayor to act unilaterally. Close day-to-day detailed supervision of staff and city employees is, and has been, far outside the scope of the mayor's responsibilities. This

form of government is ideal for a tiny city such as ours with finite resources.

No one is trying to strip powers from the sitting mayor, because he has no powers other than those granted by the charter. Rather, he is attempting to assume power and supervisory authority he is not entitled to either by the letter or the intent of the city's charter.

The “O” word (oversight) has been interpreted and exercised to various degrees by different mayors over time, but never as a means of establishing the mayor as a city manager.

Bradenton Beach has operated successfully in this fashion for over 60 years. I submit that city government be allowed to continue to do so without further delay and discussion.

Your Online Opinions at amisun.com

Jack Clarke Bradenton Beach

Where's the plan?

I am sure that the developers

of Waterline and the Holmes Beach commissioners have worked out a plan for the resort/hotel to have no or minimal impact on the traffic flow. I would be interested in hearing about the plan.

Jeannette Rothberg

Your thoughts?

Got an opinion, a complaint or a compliment? Is there something you need to get off your chest? Send us a letter to the editor and have your say. There are several ways to make your opinion known.

Visit our website at www.amisun. com and click on the “contact us” link at the top of the home page.

Or, e-mail The Sun directly at news@amisun.com. If you prefer the old-fashioned way you can mail a letter to us at The Anna Maria Island Sun, Island Sun Plaza, P.O. Box 1189, Anna Maria, FL 34216.

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

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the sun survey

on the agenda

PREVIOUS QUESTION: How will you vote in the March 15 presidential primary election?

Anna Maria

Holmes Beach

3/16: City Commission shade meeting, 5 p.m.

3/22: Planning and Zoning Board, 4 p.m.

3/24: City Commission shade meeting, 5 p.m.

3/24: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

3/22: City Commission meeting, 7 p.m.

3/24: City Commission work session, 7 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

1%

I will not vote but will vote for a write-in candidate in the general election.

44%

I will vote Democrat.

10005 Gulf Drive

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

3/17: City Commission meeting, noon.

3/22: City Commission work meeting, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

5801 Marina Drive

Island-wide

3/16: Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, Bradenton Beach City Hall, 2 p.m.

3/17: West Manatee Fire Commission, 6417 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton, 6 p.m.

mark your calendar Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Thursday March 17

Wednesday

54%

March 16

I will vote Republican

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY

• Outstanding. We'll be back next year.

How would you rate • Still good but something needs to be done about the traffic. your overall experi• Not as good as in previous years. ence visiting Anna Maria Island?

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

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

Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Accounting John Reitz

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty

Ad director Chantelle Lewin

Web Jocelyn V. Greene

Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Monica Simpson Ray Hansen

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

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

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

Arts and Crafts Festival, Coquina Beach Gulfside, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lifelong Learning Academy discussions, The Center of AMI, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

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

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

Anna Maria Garden Club Penny Flower Show, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 1 to 3 p.m.

Ceili dancing, Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, 1 to 3 p.m.

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

Recycled Robots for ages 8 and over, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 6 p.m.

Friends of the Island Branch Library Book Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

Arts and Crafts Festival, Coquina Beach Gulfside, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aerobics for Seniors, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 11 a.m.

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

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

Jazz concert and corned beef and cabbage dinner benefiting Aging in Paradise Resource Center, Longboat Island Chapel, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, concert, 3:30 to 5 p.m., $15 advance, $20 at door, dinner, 5 to 7 p.m., $15.

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

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ANNOUNCEMENT OF LOCATION AND DESIGN CONCEPT ACCEPTANCE Anna Maria Island Bridge Replacement State Road 64 from west of SR 789 (East Bay Drive) to east of Perico Bay Boulevard Manatee County, Florida Financial Project Number: 424436-1-22-01 On January 15, 2016, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) granted approval (Location and Design Concept Acceptance) of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), with the updated Environmental Assessment (EA), for the proposed replacement of the Anna Maria Island Bridge in Manatee County, Florida. The project limits include State Road (SR) 64 from west of SR 789 (East Bay Drive) to east of Perico Bay Boulevard, a distance of about two miles.

Approval of the FONSI, with the updated EA, means the FHWA determined that this project will not result in any significant impact on the quality of the human environment. The proposed project will not displace any residences or businesses within the community. The FONSI will be available for public review from March 16, 2016 through April 16, 2016, during regular business hours at the following locations: ISLAND BRANCH LIBRARY 5701 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL

MANATEE COUNTY CENTRAL LIBRARY 1301 Barcarrota Boulevard West Bradenton, FL

The EA, which was independently evaluated and determined to adequately and accurately discuss the environmental issues and impacts of the proposed project, was signed by FHWA on March 24, 2014. The United States Coast Guard approved the original EA on August 25, 2010.

The selected alternative is a high-level fixed bridge with a 65-foot vertical clearance crossing the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. The new bridge will be built south of the existing bridge. The horizontal clearance is 100 feet perpendicular between fenders. The replacement bridge includes two 12-foot lanes and two 10-foot shoulders. Ten-foot sidewalks are included on both sides of the bridge, separated from the shoulders by concrete barrier walls. The shoulders and sidewalks will accommodate bicyclists. Four and one-half foot high railings are provided on the outside of the sidewalks.

The selected alternative is the result of an extensive Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study process that included engineering analysis, environmental studies, interagency coordination and a public involvement program. You can view the final project reports on the website www.annamariaislandbridge.com. Click on the Project Information page.

The project will now proceed to the design phase, or preparation of construction plans. The rightof-way acquisition and construction phases of the project are not funded in the FDOT Tentative Five Year Work Program for fiscal years 2017 through 2021. For more information about the approved FONSI, please e-mail Gwen G. Pipkin at gwen.pipkin@dot.state.fl.us.

MARCH 16, 2016

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THE SUN

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Public hearing set for property vacation The vacation request is for a portion of Second Avenue between 38th and 39th streets and adjacent to Manatee Public Beach.

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

HOLMES BEACH – City Attorney Patricia Petruff advised city commissioners not to discuss a proposed property vacation ordinance at last week’s meeting.

When Chair Judy Titsworth called for a staff report, Petruff explained, “This is not a public hearing,” she said. “We’ll get a staff report and information at the public hearing.

“Pass it on first reading as a ministerial duty and in anticipation of having a public hearing where all evidence is presented.”

She said the City Commission could take public comment, but no one exercised that right.

The vacation request is for a portion of Second Avenue between 38th and 39th streets. It is adjacent to Manatee Public Beach.

City Planner Bill Brisson recommended denial of the application because the parcel could be used for beach parking for bicycles, motorcycles and golf carts; it would deprive the adjoining parcel of vehicular access; and it is in violation of the city’s comprehensive plan.

Attorney Scott Rudacille, on behalf of his client.

A.T. Sutton, LLC, objected to the proposed vacation and said, “Our client owns the Bamboo Apartments property, which is adjacent to and directly south of the area proposed for vacation.

“This right of way is used frequently by their guests for pedestrian access to the Surf Shop, Skinny’s, trolley stop, public beach and Beach Café without having to walk along Gulf Drive.”

He asked the city to preserve the right of way for public use.

The Manatee County Attorney’s office reviewed the request in December and opposed it. In addition, Building Official Jim McGuinness rejected the application as inconsistent with the city’s comprehensive plan.

The public hearing on the vacation request was set for March 22.

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THE SUN

BUSINESS

MARCH 16, 2016

Mister Roberts celebrates 50 years

BY LOUISE BOLGER

MISTER ROBERTS RESORT WEAR

SUN STAFF WRITER | lbolger@amisun.com

In 1966, we didn’t have cell phones, GPS, barcodes or disposable contact lenses, but there is something on Anna Maria Island that we did have and still do. Mr. Roberts Resort Wear had its grand opening on March 21, 1966, in Holmes Beach, and after 50 years it is going strong and isstill at the same location.

Mister Roberts was established by R. G. Roberts, Jr. and his wife, Tena, after he retired from a banking career. R. G. Roberts, Jr.’s father was a co-founder of the Montgomery Department Stores which were well known in the area for many years. Both R. G. and Tena are deceased, but their legacy has been passed down to their daughters Linda Clayton and Signa Bouziane, who still actively run their store.

Mr. Roberts has established itself as an Island icon and is known for its comfortable resort wear and accessories for both men and women. Some of the lines it carries are Lulu B, Hook & Tackle, Color Me Cotton, Jams World, Weekender, Salt Life, Bamboo Cay and Tormenter. There is a large selection of sandals for women by Havaianas as well as Rider and Island Slipper sandals for men.

You’ll also find beach bags, hats and shirts many with UPF sun protection, AMI shirts and men’s casual belts. In fact, there’s a little bit of everything scattered around the shop including Tervis tumblers, towels, eyewear, jewelry and scarfs.

Clayton and Bouziane want to thank their loyal and repeat customers who

business briefs Commissioners to raise biz tax Holmes Beach commissioners agreed to raise the business tax 5 percent as allowed every two years by state statute. The city increased the tax in 2012, the first time since 2001. It increased it again in 2014.

The proposed increase included the addition of a category for shuttle service vehicles and the separation of golf carts and low speed vehicle rentals into

5330 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941-778-4505 Monday – Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

All major credit cards accepted

LOUISE BOLGER | SUN

From left, Linda Clayton and Signa Bouziane offer resort wear, accessories and more. sometimes just stop in to say hi when they return to the Island and especially their wonderful and long time staff. Jane Bonneson is working at Mister Roberts almost 20 years and is officially the sisters’ ad-

their own category. The city attorney will draft an ordinance to reflect the changes.

Mirabella wins awards Mirabella, an active lifestyle community of new villas in west Bradenton, took home the grand prize of Best Overall Community in the 151-200 unit, multi-family category of the 2016 Parade of Homes presented by the ManateeSarasota Building Industry Association.

Designed for 55-plus homeowners, Mirabella also won Best Amenities and Best Entranceway.

opted sister, Rosalee Moore has also been with them a long time as well and more recently Nancy LaMorie and Lisa Boyles.

And although the inventory at Misster Roberts has changed dur-

ing its 50 years with more contemporary lines of clothing added, the friendly staff and service are still the same. It’s a comfortable store to shop in, and if you’re new to the Island, don’t let the name fool you.

Both men and women will find just what they’re looking for in casual clothing. Watch for an ad in this paper since there will be anniversary specials and coupons to celebrate this impressive milestone.

Bouziane says they are selling service with a bit of therapy thrown in, and one of her favorite days was when she overheard a customers say, “This is our favorite store on the Island.” After 50 years Mister Roberts is probably the favorite store of a lot more people, and since it started before Prozac was invented, the therapy is complimentary.

Say goodbye and hello at HB contract postal unit The US Postal Service will hold a ribbon cutting at the Holmes Beach contract postal unit in the S&S Plaza on Thursday, March 24, at 4:30 p.m.

The public is invited to say goodbye to contract holders Peggy Meyers and Jack Jackson and welcome new contract holders Sally Woodward and Julie Quinlivan. Refreshments will be served.

pat copeland | sun

From left, Julie Quinlivan, Hallie Mattick and Sally Woodward are ready to serve you at the Holmes Beach postal contract unit.

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Shoppers will have an opportunity to buy at Giving Back during its clearance sale from March 22 to April 9, when owner Susan Thomas closes it for good.

Giving Back to close Susan Thomas has announced she will be closing her store, Giving Back at 5312 Holmes Blvd., on Saturday, April 9 Thomas started Giving Back six years ago to raise money for charities on the Island by taking donations of used items, selling them and donating the proceeds. “I’ll have a clearance sale starting Tuesday, March 22,� She said. “What I have left after that I will donate to Roser Church and St. Vincent DePaul.�

Thomas explained why she opened the store. “When my youngest went to college, I decided I needed a project,� she said. “Luckily, we owned the Art League building (where

the store is located) so I was able to operate the store and only use proceeds for the electric bill.�

Now, she said, she wants to step back and relax. “I think we might spend more time in North Carolina where we have a place,� she said. “We might spend six months there and six months here.�

She’ll always remember the people who helped her make Giving Back a success. “We have been able to contribute more than $80,300 to charity,� she said, “There have been some real generous people over the years.�

New director Sherri Proctor, owner of Sherri’s Island image Photography, has been named director of the Anna Maria Island Chapter of Successful Women Aligning Together (SWAT) for 2016. The group meets every third Thursday of the month at the second floor of Bridge Street Bistro, 111 Gulf Drive S., at the Bridge Street roundabout. Working women on the Island and in west Bradenton are welcome to join. Visit www.swatnetworking.com for more information.

SUBMITTED

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Commissioner objects to sharing roads with bikes Chair Judy Titsworth suggested multi-use paths, which are separated from motor vehicle traffic.

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

HOLMES BEACH – City Commission Chair Judy Titsworth read a letter of objection to the city’s bike route options at last week’s work session.

She said the proposed bike route would consist of shared roads including sections of Marina Drive, 83rd Street, 74th Street, Holmes Boulevard, 52nd and Second Avenue and through the public beach to Avenue E and on to Bradenton Beach. “ … in a city where we already have too much congestion on our roads, why would an advisory committee look to adding bicycles to our roads, and in this case, families with small children on bikes?” she asked.

“I feel our back roads, both Marina Drive and Holmes Boulevard, not to leave out Second and beyond, are highly used by locals who need to get around locally when the other roads are at a standstill during peak

congestion periods.

“To give up the opportunity for locals to use these roads without fear of getting stuck behind small children on bikes or tourists on Segways, would be just another step towards Holmes Beach becoming nothing else but a tourist driven commodity.”

Titsworth suggested multi-use paths, which are separated from motor vehicle traffic, instead. She said they could accommodate two way bicycle traffic as well as pedestrians and be safer.

She asked that the proposal be placed on a work session for city commission discussion and praised Mayor Bob Johnson for “his efforts in coming up with not only this plan, but possible alternatives for only a more beautiful but safer route for our Island bicyclists.”

Bike committee plan

Suggestions presented by the bicycle committee include: • Marina Drive: Create large multiuse path on east side of roadway and apply share the road markings and signage on roadway.

• Crossing at 72nd Street and Palm Drive;

Move crosswalk to 72nd street and install pedestrian controlled street crossing lights.

• Holmes Boulevard: Remove north/south stop signs, lower speed for motor vehicles to 20 mph or less, consider traffic calming devices and apply share the road markings and bike route signage • Gulf Avenue and Holmes Boulevard intersection: Install four way stop sign and redesign parking to allow cyclist and pedestrian movement.

• North Manatee Public Beach exit: Build multiuse path on west side of Gulf Ave and beach exit road through existing right of way.

• South Manatee Public Beach exit at 39th Street and Gulf Drive: Install lighted pedestrian controlled crossing across Gulf Drive.

• Path between Gulf Drive ad Sixth Avenue: Widen and straighten path to accommodate multi-users.

• Gulf Drive and Sixth Avenue crossing: Install four-way stop sign and warning signs before blind curve for crossing.

• Avenue E: Require motor vehicles to park with all tires off roadway and sidewalk.

• 28th Street from Avenue E to Gulf Drive: Level and reconstruct shoulder.

MARCH 16, 2016

Musical performance on Palm Sunday

The Roser Community Church Choir presents the cantata, “I Am the Lord of the Dance,” on Palm Sunday, March 20, at the 8:30 and 10 a.m. services.

The hymn, “Lord of the Dance,” is a metaphor of the life of Jesus Christ, including his ministry, death and resurrection. This work uses the hymn tune to link together the narrative of Jesus’ life in a sensitive and dramatic manner. Other familiar hymns included are “Fairest Lord Jesus,” “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us,” “My Jesus, I Love Thee,” and “O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee.”

The cantata is written by Joel Raney and will be directed by Kristen Stanton, director of music ministries at Roser Community Church. Island resident Roselyn Ward will serve as narrator.

A five-piece chamber orchestra will accompany the work, and the Joyful Noise Children’s Choir will join the finale. Prelude music will be provided by the Roser Ringers handbell ensemble.

The public is invited to join the Roser community in ushering in Holy Week with this meaningful worship experience. Roser Church is located near the Anna Maria City Pier at 512 Pine Avenue.

For more information call the church office at 941-778-0414, e-mail info@roserchurch. com , go to www.roserchurch.com or find it on Facebook at www.facebook/roserchurch.

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Hug a fireman West Manatee Fire Rescue held an open house at Fire Station One in Holmes Beach Saturday. The ladder truck in the parking lot got a lot of attention from passersby, and there was a fun house and lots of games for the kids. The fire department’s heavy equipment was on display for kids of all ages. Nora Dropp, 5, got a first-hand education of what firefighters face. She used a hammer to break into a house, which was actually a big tire for safety’s sake; then she had to get the hose and bring it to the fire, as pictured at left, and finally, she had to get the person, aka stuffed animal, to safety.

New code enforcement officer Nate Brown began work Monday, Feb. 29 as the new part time code enforcement officer in Holmes Beach. Brown retired after 29 years as a Missouri State Trooper.

He and his wife, Kellie, relocated to the area after their daughter Brittany, 27, moved to the area to work on her doctorate in psychology.

They also have a son Farryn, in Missouri.

“Nate’s training and experience and his positive attitude will make him a welcome addition to our code enforcement unit,” Police Chief Bill Tokajer said.

Pat Copeland | Sun

Nate Brown stands beside the city’s new beach vehicle that was purchased with grant funds.

MARCH 16, 2016

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Island living featured in

BY PAT COPELAND

Tour of Homes

SUN STAFF WRITER | pcopeland@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Learn about Island living in the 23rd annual Tour of Homes sponsored by The Center of Anna Maria Island on Saturday, March 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The tour includes the homes of Jenifer and Shawn Kaleta, 104 48th Street; Lisa and Mike Brakefield, 615 Ivanhoe

Lane; Diane and Kurt Snouffer, 534 70th Street; and Dave and Kerri Welch, 513 83rd Street, all in Holmes Beach, and Erik Abrahamson, 810 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria.

Tickets for the tour are available for $20 at various Island locations, and a free shuttle to the homes will be stationed at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, at the border of Holmes Beach and Anna Maria.

Restrooms will be available at the Holmes Beach city field at 5801 Marina Drive and at CrossPointe Fellowship.

The Tropical Treasures Boutique will be located at the Welch home.

Visitors will find unique tropical items, bid on silent auction items made by local artists and buy raffle tickets for this year’s Tour quilt, “Flip Flops, Fish and More.”

The quilt drawing and bid awards will be at 3 p.m. Quilt tickets are available at The Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, for $1 each or six for $5 until the day of the tour.

Tour sponsors include Anna Maria Island Sun, Beach to Bay Construction, Duncan Real Estate, Green Real Estate, Bradenton Herald and The Islander.

For more information call Sandee Pruett at 941-518-7717.

Jennifer and Shawn Kaleta 102 48th Street, Holmes Beach T ucked away in the heart of Holmes Beach sits a 1930s beach bungalow on the Gulf of Mexico. The contractor stayed true to the older cottage style and design. That is until you walk through the front door. The Gulf invites you in and welcomes you to take a walk through this totally updated home.

A great room consisting of the kitchen and living room all face the beach. The home has three bedrooms and two full baths, all decorated with a coastal feel.

All of the walls are constructed with wood from the existing home.

On the opposite side of the house an archway of oolite stone leads to the back yard beach. A large pool has been added to one side of the property just off the back patio. This is a great play yard for both children and adults.

Beach bars in the form of tiki huts are the perfect place to relax with a cool drink. The larger bar easily seats 12, and the two side huts seat four. The large iron orb is full of wood for an outdoor fire warming area for cool nights on the beach.

The fencing from the backyard to the Gulf is cleverly created with approximately 25 brightly colored Adirondack chairs. Go ahead and take a walk down the stone path to look at the house from the beach. All those chairs lined up along the beach will bring a smile to your face.

They are an invitation to sit awhile, take in the sounds of the water, soak in the sun and be grateful.

PhotoS submitted by Jack Elka Photography

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MARCH 16, 2016

Lisa and Mike Brakefield 615 Ivanhoe Lane, Holmes Beach T he open floor plan is just what the Brakefields were looking for in this Key Royale home. The marlin over the front door greets you as you enter.

This was Mike’s catch in 1986.

As you enter the kitchen, the focal point is definitely the eating area. The counter-

I

top consists of reclaimed barn wood from Mike’s family farm in South Carolina.

Your focus is then drawn to the wall with the blue door leading to nowhere. The blue door was found in a hay heap on the barn floor. Lisa and Mike did nothing more to the door except clean it, hang it

and add a glass doorknob. A nostalgic look awaits you in this casual sitting area.

A stroll through this beautifully appointed three bedroom home leads to the funky, eclectic outdoor kitchen, patio and shower area. The owners wanted to use indigenous, outdoor stone and chose oolite or coral stone. Throughout the years, they have collected sea shells, glass and treasures from their varied Florida vacations.

The contractor mixed these findings into the coral to personalize their outdoor space.

The walking path will lead you to a grotto-like outdoor shower. Blue glass bricks are added to the coral mix, and depending on the sunlight, the shower takes on the

PhotoS submitted by Jack Elka Photography

lights of a prism. Lisa says no one likes to shower indoors, and you will see why.

This home with all of its personal touches is an ideal family and friend retreat.

Diane and Kurt Snouffer 534 70th Street, Holmes Beach

f you are a regular on the home tour you may get a déjà vu moment. Yes, this home was on the tour a few years ago. That said, once you enter you will wonder if you have ever been in this home.

This is a newer home built in 2012, with the present owners taking possession in September 2013. As you enter,

you will immediately see the dining room table from England. Looking up from the table are two large oyster shell chandeliers, plus three more in the entryway. Don’t miss the sideboard

by Guildmaster, covered in cloth.

The main floor of the home is where the family spends most of its time; leaving the upper floors as guest suites.

Bimini Bay can be viewed from all rooms on the main level.

Two upper levels are for the grandkids and family, who visit every weekend. On the third level, you will be impressed with this extra-large guest suite with two queen size beds. This home features two laundry rooms – one on the main level and one in the third-floor guest suite.

A fully equipped poolside kitchen is put to use every weekend, even in inclement weather, since they have electronic, retractable seethrough shades.

“Euphoric” is the word Diane uses to describe how she feels when she enters her home. Island time suits them perfectly.

PhotoS submitted by Jack Elka Photography

MARCH 16, 2016

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Dave & Kerri Welch 513 83rd Street, Holmes Beach A n attempted motor home tour throughout the U.S. came to a halt with Dave and Kerri’s first stop, Anna Maria Island.

They fell in love with the Island and have lived in numerous homes ever since.

In July 2015, they moved into this Island home and Kerri went to work with her artistic skills. Look closely and you will see some of her watercolor paintings tucked away throughout the home.

An oolite stone archway leads you to the front door. Oolite stone is also called coral

rock and mined in South Florida.

The minute you step in, take a look on both sides of the entryway. Cut wood of pecky cypress has been notched perfectly into the curving of the walls.

Standing in the living room, look upwards toward the hallway studio and peering down at you is a large elk head that Dave Welch shot 10 years ago.

Don’t miss the sliding barn doorway of the studio with mermaid door pulls.

As you enter the dining room, keep an eye out for the large painting by

PhotoS submitted by Jack Elka Photography

German artist Vladimir Kush called “The Last Supper.” It’s the artist’s rendering of the famous painting in which each of the apostles represent a flower. Can you tell who is who?

The dining room leads to a very private retreat on their outside patio and pool overlooking Bimini Bay. Kerri says that lately she’s seen many white pelicans on the bay.

Color pops in every bedroom of the Welch home. One of the guest suites features a dresser with huge lobster claws painted on the front.

This home attracted the Welchs for numerous reasons. They fell in love with the home itself and its close proximity to amenities on Anna Maria Island. Most of all, the solitude and quietness of the neighborhood make this a perfect place to call home.

T Erik Abrahamson 810 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria

PhotoS submitted by Jack Elka Photography

his newly built custom home reveals Old World European charm through its antique furniture and décor combined with large masculine furniture. The result is a tasteful, unique, beautifully appointed home on Tampa Bay. Upon entering the 10-foot custom wood front entry door, you experience grand and breathtaking views of the Skyway Bridge, Egmont Key and Passage Key. Some of the features of the house are plank wood floors of aged European oak, custom aluminum hand rails, aged bronze door hardware, polished nickel faucets and an elevator with a unique picture window.

The home has a 25-foot wide chef’s dream kitchen featuring a 13-foot, lighted island; 60 inch, double range, steamer oven; as well as dual refrigerators/freezers and wine coolers.

The downstairs powder bath is eclectically unique. Don't miss noticing the lighted onyx pedestal sink, floor to ceiling mosaic tiles, European antique mirror, crystal chandelier and even taxidermy.

The master suite is large, luxurious and very open. It has vaulted wood ceilings and was designed to enjoy the vast water-views from the master bed, therapeutic tub, triple head shower, and vanity sinks.

The beach-side pool deck features keystone coral and grass. The pool and hot tub have custom mosaic tile. And there is a stone fire pit for warming. Don’t be fooled by the perfect looking grass around the pool.

Erik has turned his home into an elegant beach-side oasis for work and pleasure.

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MARCH 16, 2016

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OUTDOORS

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Mote shindig honors Scott Moore

T

he William R. Mote Memorial Snook Shindig honoring Holmes Beach based Captain Scott Moore, which was scheduled for last November is now slated for April 8 and 9.

Moore has been a fierce advocate for the protection of snook for decades and was a personal friend and guide to Bill Mote. The tournament was canceled last year due to high levels of red tide in bay waters.

Mote staff scientist Carole Neidig stated, “After postponing the event, we worked hard on finding a new date that would be best for the snook, as well as for anglers. Based on feedback from knowledgeable local guides, we’re hopeful that by April 8, the winter cold spell will be over, there will be good tides that day, and it is before the closure of the fishery, which is May 1.”

The tournament gives local anglers an opportunity to act as citizen scientists, providing valuable information on tagged hatchery-reared snook that have been released into Sarasota Bay. The tournament is a research-based catch, sample, and release tournament. Snook are one of the most prized recreational catches in Florida and help support an industry that brings more than $6 billion annually to the economy.

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS Habitat loss, increased fishing pressure, as well as freezes and red tide have contributed to an overall decline in snook populations. To address this problem Mote and FWC scientists have worked in partnership for more than 25 years on studies to assess if hatchery-reared snook can be an effective tool for helping to rebuild snook populations.

During the tournament, researchers will identify and document hatchery raised fish that were previously tagged and released. This will allow them to recover critical data that will be used to fine-tune release procedures. In the past, tournaments have revealed that changes in release strategies have improved survival of stocked snook by as much as 200 percent.

“This tournament gives participants of all ages a unique, hands-on opportunity to learn more about Mote’s fisheries research and conservation efforts and assist Mote in its mission

Captain Rick Grassett | submitted

Pennsylvania angler Mike Roth caught this snook while fishing the Venice area with Captain Rick Grassett. Snook under the lights will be a good option for tournament participants. to assess the snook population size in Sarasota Bay while having a fun day on the water,” Neidig said.

The Shindig Tournament was last held in 2009 before the 2010 winter that killed millions of snook and resulted in

the closure of the fishery. Since then, Mote scientists have released more than 2,500 hatchery reared snook and need anglers' help to assess the released see reel time, page 27

tide chart for anna maria city pier March 16-23 Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

Wed 3/16

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

1:18a -0.22

5:46p 1.98

P.M. Low Time Feet

Thu 3/17

10:48a 1.23

2:35a -0.23

7:14p 1.90

12:54p 1.20

Fri 3/18

10:59a 1.33

3:35a -0.25

8:38p 1.88

2:33p 1.10

Sat 3/19

11:15a 11.41

4:21a -0.22

9:41p 1.88

3:41p 0.93

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

7:38-7:40

Sun 3/20

11:31a 1.48

4:56a -0.16

10:29p 1.87

4:32p 0.74

7:34-7:42

Mon 3/21

11:44a 1.55

5:24a -0.06

11:09p 1.83

5:13p 0.56

Tue 3/22

11:55a 1.63

5:48a 0.06

11:46p 1.78

5:51p 0.40

Wed 3/23

12:07p 1.73

6:12a 0.19

7:37-7:40 7:36-7:41 7:35-7:41

6:27p 0.25

7:33-7:42 7:31-7:43 7:30-7:44

MARCH 16, 2016

reel time: Scott Moore shindig FROM PAGE 26

fishes whereabouts and survival.

The tournament begins on April 8 at 6 p.m. and ends on April 9 at 5:30 p.m.

There is a mandatory Captain’s Meeting at 6 p.m. on the 8th at Mote’s WAVE Center (former Sea Cinema) at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway on City Island in Sarasota.

Fishing begins after the Captain’s Meeting.

The eligible area runs along Sarasota Bay from Venice to Cortez. There will be an awards dinner at 5:30 p.m. on April 9 at Mote’s WAVE Center.

Adult’s ages 16 and older can register at $35 per person. Youth’s ages 15 and younger can register at $10 per person.

An adult must accompany all children under the age of 16. Registered anglers are eligible for prizes. Snook Shindig entry fee includes entry in the tournament, awards dinner, a Steve Whitlock designed event T-shirt and a Mote tote bag of goodies. Anglers registered for the Shindig and paid dinner guests are eligible for door prizes and participation in the raffles.

For more information and to register, visit mote.org/snookshindig. Those with questions can contact Carole Neidig at cneidig@mote.org or 941-704-7663. Mote would like to extend a special thank you to all the event sponsors.

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Find trout and redfish in potholes Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had great action catching and releasing snook at night in the ICW near Venice on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails during the past week. With good tides at night and mild conditions, snook turned on and gorged themselves on a variety of baits.

Mike Roth, from Pennsylvania, fished a couple of night trips with me in the ICW near Venice on Monday and Wednesday evenings. He had fast action catching and releasing snook to 25 inches and a small red on my Grassett Snook Minnow and EP flies. Mike’s wife, Pam, joined us on Wednesday evening, and she also had good action catching and releasing snook on a CAL jig with a glow/silver holographic shad tail.

I was the instructor for a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing School on Saturday. The course covered fly casting, line control, leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques.

The next school is scheduled for April 2. Cost for the school is $150 per person and includes the use of Orvis fly tackle, a text book and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at 941-349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations.

Tripletail should be a good option in the coastal Gulf when conditions are good. Trout, bluefish and more on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and night snook fishing around lighted docks and bridges in the ICW with flies and DOA Lures should also be good options. Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools or cruising shallow flats and edges of bars in Sarasota Bay and backcountry areas of Charlotte Harbor and lower Tampa Bay.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | submitted

Tim Palmer, from Sarasota, had great action catching releasing snook in the ICW near Venice at night on a variety of flies last week.

Annie’s Bait & Tackle report

Joe, from the Manatee High School Fishing Club, is catching snook and redfish under the docks on the river.

A lot of sheepshead and mangrove snapper are still being caught around Longboat Pass.

Captain Sam Kimball is catching nice red grouper up to 15 pounds on his six- and eight-hour trips, with mangrove snapper, grunts, porgies and catch and release gag grouper rounding out his catches.

Captain Scott Moore says trout and redfish are scattered in the potholes on the flats. Sheepshead, mangrove snapper and Spanish mackerel are still around the passes. As soon as the wind lays down look for kingfish around the bait schools.

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Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Shirin Keikavousi and Anthony Caruso were married on the beach on Anna Maria Island. Chuck Caudill provided music for the ceremony and reception. The reception was held at Tropic Isle Resort. Jordan Oliveira-Heller, of Anna Maria Island Resorts, coordinated the wedding and reception. Shirin and Anthony honeymooned at the Tropic Isle Resort before returning home to Orlando, Fla.

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Sheila Cunningham and Donald Burbach were married at the Gulf Drive Cafe & Tiki on Feb. 6, 2016. Chuck Caudill provided the music for the ceremony and reception. Sheila and Donald honeymooned in Nassau Bahamas, before returning home to Eagan, Minn.

Laura Bays and Edward Reynolds were married on Anna Maria Island on Dec. 3, 2015.

Chuck Caudill played guitar and sang for the ceremony and reception. Laura and Ed honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Arlington, Va. Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MARCH 16, 2016

A Perfect Setting.. For Your Perfect Wedding

100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria Island 941.778.8709

200 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach 941.778.8718

BeAnIslandBride.com

EnRich Bistro brings elegance to the party If you’re looking for scrumptious food with quality ingredients for your wedding reception or rehearsal dinner, look no further than EnRich Bistro at 5629 Manatee Ave. W. in Bradenton.

Its banquet room can seat 45 guests, or it can cater for up to 200 people at a location of your choice, but the big news is the food.

“Global flavors with local ingredients” is the theme that has made a big splash on the local dining scene. Whether you’re a first time diner or have lived here all your life, your mouth will water at EnRich Bistro’s Andouille Crusted Mahi with plantain/veggie/saffron rice medley or its buttermilk fried chicken with homey truffle butter. Chef Rich Knowles prides himself on his diverse menu.

If you’re from out of town, you’ll appreciate event coordinator Jayme Cox, who is there to make sure everything goes perfectly for your special occasion.

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A beachfront wedding

Your dream can come true at The Sunset by Gulf Drive Cafe. The waterfront venue is one of Anna Maria Island’s most appealing sites for wedding celebrations. Located at the south end of the Island, Gulf Drive Cafe overlooks sugar-white sand beaches, the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise-emerald waters and a multi-colored horizon during sunset.

The Gulf waves provide a picturesque backdrop when saying, “I do.” You may also choose to have the ceremony performed at the Seastar Pavilion, several feet away from the beach. It offers sandcovered, open-aired secluded spaces surrounded by miniature tiki huts. The rustic Sunset Tiki is a reception space perfectly suited for groups of more than 50 people. It has a lovely tile dance floor for you and your guests to dance the night away, and there are drop down sides in case of bad weather.

The wedding party and guests also are welcome to dance barefoot in the sand. You have the choice of bar set up during the length of your reception for private use. The team of experts will work with you on creating your perfect tropical dream wedding. There are several wedding packages to fit your budget and you are invited to visit the property, sample the chef’s creations and learn more about the wedding packages offered. For more information, e-mail gulfdrivetiki@gmail.com.

MARCH 16, 2016

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MARCH 16, 2016

AlyseMarie Dillard and John Miller were married on the beach of the Sandbar restaurant on Feb. 27, 2016. Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar, coordinated the ceremony. AlyseMarie and John honeymooned on Anna Maria Island before returning home to Detroit, Mich.

Dara Caudill www.islandphotography.org

Dara Caudill | www.islandphotography.org

Elizabeth (Eliza) Rogers and Conor Dea were married on Oct. 23, 2015, at the Sandbar restaurant. Chuck Caudill played acoustic guitar, and the groom's aunt, Jennifer Sheerin, played violin. Chuck Caudill was also the DJ for the reception. The ceremony and reception were coordinated by Patti Mckee and Luis Ortiz, of the Sandbar restaurant. Eliza and Conor honeymooned in Jamaica before returning home to Denver, Colo.

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MARCH 16, 2016

Theft at Publix

Care planning class offered

Holmes Beach Police are investigating a theft that occurred at the loading area of the Public Grocery Store, 3900 East Bay Drive, on Sunday, March 6, at 4 p.m. The suspect stole approximately 50 metal shelves and components estimated to be worth $2,000. The suspect appears to be a white male, balding with medium length brown hair on the sides. The shelves were loaded into a white 2002 Ford truck, Fl. Tag AZMX39. Anybody with knowledge of the suspect or the theft is asked to contact Detective Sgt. Brian Hall at 708-5800 ext 243, or detective@holmesbeach.org.

A class on advance care planning will be held at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, on Monday, March 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The class will advise people on how to control how they are treated if they are seriously ill.

Tidewell Hospice will provide a light lunch. The class is free for members and $2 for non-members. Call 778-1908 to register.

MEETING: Discussions, disagreements continue FROM PAGE 4

known as the weak mayor system. In this form of the mayor/commission government, the commission possesses both legislative and executive authority.”

Cole believes department heads answer to the commission as a whole and the mayor serves as a liaison to those responsible for carrying out commission mandates.

Shearon said a liaison’s role would make it difficult for him to carry out the duties he was elected to perform. He also said department heads cannot function with five bosses.

Cole’s father, Gail, served as mayor and commissioner in the 1990s.

“When they asked him for advice he gave it to them, but I don’t think he gave them any direction,” Cole said.

“I do not give direction to department heads. I can suggest, I can recommend,” Shearon said.

“I don’t see so much suggesting as I see demanding from you Mr. Mayor,” Commissioner Jan Vosburgh said.

She also mentioned an e-mail Shearon

recently sent City Treasurer Shayne Thompson and others regarding AMOB restaurant owner John Horne’s request to allow dogs on the waterfront patio leased from the city.

As a non-department head, Thompson reports to City Clerk Terri Sanclemente and was acting on a request made through her by Police Chief Sam Speciale. Thompson later sent an e-mail to Horne and city officials that said the city’s insurance company had no liability concerns about the patio use.

Shearon responded with an e-mail to Thompson that copies to others and said, “I would like to know who directed you to research this issue and give an opinion regarding pets on the pier.”

In regard to this, Vosburgh said, “You sent a rather disrespectful note to Terri.

I told you I was going to work with you, but I think you are micromanaging. She delegated a job to him, and you seemed to get upset about it.”

Shearon said he was not sure which e-mail Vosburgh was referring to.

The employee handbook says department heads supervise all subordinate

I disagree with the fact that you are supervisor."

Ralph Cole City commissioner departmental personnel.

In regard to Shearon’s interactions with staff, Cole said, “You have to allow the city clerks to do their jobs without tying them up doing stuff they don’t really need to be doing.”

Cole also said, “We don’t have a city manager, and I don’t think it says the mayor is the city manager.”

At one point, Shearon said, “I guess I’ve been given my direction. I’ve gotten

a clear understanding from you folks.

You don’t want me to be involved in the day-to-day operations. Let’s try it that way and see how it works.”

Shearon’s acceptance of these determinations seemed less certain after commissioners agreed to review his own charter interpretations.

The commissioners agreed the mayor should assist with issues and disputes that involve two or more department heads, but they still want those concerns brought to the commission.

The commissioners did not accept Shearon’s interpretation that said, “The mayor is the supervisor of the department heads.”

Cole said, “I disagree with the fact that you are supervisor. If you read the charter it’s plain and simple.”

Commissioner Jake Spooner said, “We have this dysfunction in the city, and it’s so distracting. I feel like we’re not really getting anywhere. Instead, we’re constantly dealing with this type of stuff. I’d like to get it nailed down, what everybody’s duties are, and let’s focus on improving the city.”

PERSPECTIVES: Post meeting opinions differ FROM PAGE 4

that there was no change in the mayor’s responsibilities.

That is not what I concluded from our discussions,” she said.

Commissioner Jake Spooner said he agrees with some of what Shearon said during Tuesday’s meeting, but he does not agree with Shearon’s interpretation that he, as mayor, is the department heads’ supervisor.

“I think we’re moving in the right direction to define everyone’s roles and responsibilities. I hope this whole process reduces the turmoil that has

been plaguing Bradenton Beach for the last two years so we can focus on our main responsibilities: the betterment of the city,” Spooner said.

“We’re going in the direction of the weak mayor system with the mayor serving as a go-between for the department heads and the commission.

After the meeting, I felt like everything was still up in the air, and that’s why we scheduled another meeting to clear everything up.”

Commissioner Ralph Cole said, “What I was pointing out was that the mayor cannot do anything without the approval of the commission.

Just read the charter. He can give direction according to the mandates of the commission.

The commission is five people, and its takes a 3-2 majority to get anything done in Bradenton Beach. The mayor can give department heads direction, but only direction that is given by the commission.”

Vice Mayor Ed Straight did not participate in last week’s work meeting and he was absent with excuse.

During the March 3 commission meeting, resident John Metz expressed his opinion that the commission does not have the authority to interpret the city charter.

I think we are moving in the right direction to define everyone's roles and responsibilities."

Jake Spooner City commissioner

City Attorney Ricinda Perry addressed that claim during last week’s work meeting.

“That’s an incorrect statement, and I have a page of case law that says the body

that administers the charter has the responsibility to interpret the charter, so you do have the right to have the discussion you’re having,” Perry said.

MARCH 16, 2016

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Obituaries James Melanson James Melanson, aka Big Jim, 67, previously of Holmes Beach, died March 3, 2016.

Big Jim was born on Aug. 12, 1949, and raised in Boston, Mass. He is survived by his beloved mother, Patti, of Port Richey, Fla.; two sisters; his nieces and nephews; and his former life partner, Jackie Estes, of Holmes Beach; along with many friends that became his family.

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

3/6, theft, 800 block of South Bay Boulevard. Items worth $25,000 were stolen from a boat.

Bradenton Beach

3/7, grand theft auto, 1800 Gulf Drive South. The officer saw the suspect pass another vehicle in a no passing zone and stopped him. The driver produced a driver’s license that was suspended but no registration. A computer check showed the motorcycle was stolen, and the officer arrested the driver.

3/7, burglary, 500 block of Gulf Drive South. The officer responded to a report of a person inside a home that was supposed to be vacant. The officer found the suspect and arrested him. He said he found out about the house from another homeless man.

3/7, disturbance, Bradenton Beach Marina, 402 Church St. The marina guard said he contacted a stranger on the property who was aggressive toward him. The officer found the man and determined there had not been a battery, so he took no further action.

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Big Jim worked as a paint contractor, carpenter and plumber throughout his life. Living in Holmes Beach for nearly 20 years, he built a company that employed legions of local painters. One of the many contracts Big Jim secured in Manatee County was Tropicana, where he and his team painted for many years. Later, he joined family and helped to open, Paradise Bagels Café & Catering in Holmes Beach where patrons could always find him greeting them with a warm smile and a booming laugh.

Big Jim loved to spend his off time with family and friends. He loved Harley Davidsons and his truck, and he enjoyed traveling.

He loved the beach, fishing and cold ones. Rarely not laughing throughout life’s adversity, Big Jim

was a heart of pure gold. He loved animals, especially his dog, Bandit. He loved children. He was a gentle and playful giant, and children loved him too. He relished his role of “Pop Pop” to Tyler Schneerer and Alec Thompson, both previously of Holmes Beach.

Big Jim was a happy soul with an infectious laugh who would do anything for anyone, he was loved and admired by many, and he will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life will be held in his honor at Roser Church in Anna Maria at 5 p.m. on March 18, 2016, in the small chapel. A reception will be held at sunset at the 77th Street Cabana directly following the service. Memorial donations can be made Hospice of Southwest Florida.

3/7, aggravated battery, 200 block of Bay Drive North. The officer arrested a woman who reportedly stabbed her live-in boyfriend.

more than the .06 percent allowed.

The officer also found beer in a cooler. He placed the weapons in the police station and placed the driver under arrest.

2/24, DUI, 800 Manatee Avenue.

The officer tried to stop the driver for speeding but the driver would not stop until he was in Bradenton. The driver had a hard time keeping his balance, smelled of alcohol and his speech was slurred.

He refused to take a breath test and was arrested.

2/26, criminal property damage, trespassing, 100 block of 47th Street.

The complainant said some of his neighbors trimmed down some of his plants without his permission.

He confronted the man hired by the neighbor and the man stopped, but resumed a short time later.

When confronted again, the man said the neighbor told him the victim had given him permission to cut the plants back. The victim told the worker to get off his property. The victim left later to play golf and when he returned, he found more of his plants cut back.

The officer talked with a Realtor who had shown the victim’s property while he was gone, and she said she had to stop the worker again. The officer gave information to the detective to investigate.

Cortez

3/6, battery, 4400 124th St. W. The suspect and victim are acquaintances and got into an argument.

The suspect punched the victim and fled. The victim was taken to the hospital.

3/7, driving without a license, 11900 block of Cortez Road West. The deputy saw the suspect fail to stay in his lane while driving a motor scooter and stopped him. He found the driver had no driver’s license and had never had one.

The driver was arrested.

Holmes Beach

2/21, driving while intoxicated, South Harbor Drive and Gulf Drive.

The officer stopped the driver for speeding and after he stopped, the driver, who was under the age of 21, said he had been drinking.

When he had the driver step out of the vehicle, he noticed a box of ammunition. He asked the driver if he had weapons in the car and the driver said yes. The officer found a pistol and a shotgun. He had the driver perform a breath breath test, and it showed the driver had

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60s ain’t nothin’ You can always tell the winter snowbirds from the locals, who stay high and dry when the water temperature is in the 60s. White pelicans visit Cortez each winter from Canada; brown pelicans are year-round residents.

CINDY LANE | SUN

HBPD gets grants Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer announced that the police department has received two grants.

“We purchased a beach rescue vehicle with budget funds and then received $5,000 back from the Florida League of Cities to pay for it,” he explained.

The second grant was $1,000 from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for four portable breath-testing machines, which can also test the amount of alcohol in drinks.

Tokajer said this would aid officers in their zero tolerance policy for those who drink on the beach and for under age drinkers, especially during spring break.

MARCH 16, 2016

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MARCH 16, 2016

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Art League to host Raku workshop The Anna Maria Island Art League will host Robert Reiber’s Raku workshop on March 21, 22, 29 and 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the gallery, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach.

Reiber, an Anna Maria Island resident, works as a freelance artist/illustrator and teaches drawing and painting at a local

high school.

The cost is $125 plus a $25 material fee. Scholarships may be available.

Pre-register by calling 941-778-2099 or visit the Anna Maria Island Art League Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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REAL ESTATE

MARCH 16, 2016

Don’t sweat the small stuff

oday’s my birthday, and since it’s a rather significant one, it got me thinking about all of the things I used to worry about and how a lot of it isn’t important to me anymore. For instance, does it really matter if the dinner I prepared for friends didn’t come out just perfect? After all, isn’t it more important to enjoy the company rather than the pot roast? And how about those winter guests you always felt obligated to invite? Well, guess what, after a certain age you no longer feel obligated. But one of the really important issues that you just have to let go of are problems with neighbors, specifically condominium neighbors and condominium regulations.

After having lived in a condo for almost 18 years, the best advice I can give anyone thinking about buying one is don’t sweat the small stuff. Condominium life on paper is a wonderful carefree lifestyle, and it can be, but

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger you have to have what I like to call a condo personality.

A condo personality is one that is happy to see the grass being cut and doesn’t really care if the landscapers missed a six-inch patch. A condo personality is one that is happy to see a new coat of paint on the building and overlook the inconvenience of having the painters wash their equipment where you have to walk to your car.

A condo personality loves the heated pool and forgets the controversy about the legal and environmental use of noodles in the pool, and a condo personality is one that will tolerate your

neighbors’ loud TV from time to time since they’re 90 and hard of hearing, but lovely in all other respects.

Basically condominium living is designed for the good of the community and not necessarily for the good of the individual, meaning that sometimes you need to put your standards on the back burner. That said there is a wonderful sense of community that exists in most condo complexes.

Residents pull together to make decisions on property improvements and maintenance and enjoy companionship and social activities that may not be available in single-family home communities.

Serving on the board of directors in the association in which you live can be a very fulfilling experience. Most of the time residents who do not serve on the board are happy and grateful that someone else is taking care of business, but there are certainly plenty of

residents who do not participate and complain no matter how equitable you try to be.

Board members have an important as well as a fiduciary responsibility to all residents, and unless there is gross mismanagement or incompetence, other owners should voice their opinions, make carefully thought out suggestions and not sweat the small stuff. I love the condo lifestyle and have decided that I would rather adopt the live and let live motto than clean the pool.

So happy birthday to me. I plan on having my husband buy me an obscenely expensive dinner and then get on a cruise ship and enjoy it all with very good friends. And if it’s not absolutely perfect, believe me, I won’t care because I’m at the time of my life where I refuse to sweat the small stuff, and you should be too.

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MARCH 16, 2016

TOWN CRIER Get ready to vote The Anna Maria Garden Club will hold a its annual Penny Flower Show at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, at Roser Church, 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. It will feature arrangements depicting the theme “Celebrate the Year,” and categories will be the various holidays during the year. The public is invite and refreshments will be served.

For information, call 778-2607.

Midweek shopping at the beach The Coquina Beach Arts and Crafts Festival to benefit the Anna Maria Island Butterfly Park takes place on Wednesday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday, March 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coquina Beach Gulfside, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. For information contact Terri or Andy at 352-344-0657 or visit www.tnteventsinc.com.

Learn about Florida fishing John Beale, Florida Maritime Museum’s education and volunteer

coordinator, will explore the history of commercial fishing in Florida at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, at the museum, 4415 119th St. W., Cortez.

Seating is first-come, first-served beginning at 2:30 p.m. Museum members and volunteers can reserve seats by calling 708-6120 or e-mailing kristin. sweeting@manateeclerk.com.

Discussion on education Education is the topic on Wednesday, March 16, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, sponsored by the Lifelong Learning Academy. For more information, call 941-359-4296 or visit www.lla-sm.org

Bike through Robinson Preserve Take a bike tour through Robinson Preserve on Wednesday, March 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. Bike helmets are required; water and sunscreen are recommended. Groups are limited to eight. This event is sponsored by the Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club. Call 941-742-5757, ext. 8, to reserve.

R2D2 revisited Kids age 8 and older are welcome to

participate in a competition to build a robot from recycled materials at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, March 16, at 6 p.m. The library will provide materials or kids are welcome to bring their own. Some of the robots may be entered to win prizes at the Central Library on April 16. For more information, call 778-6341.

Fish fry at Annie Silver Bring an appetite to the Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., in Bradenton Beach on Friday, March 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. Dinner is $8, and it includes red snapper supplied by AP Bell, macaroni and cheese, cole slaw, hush puppies, dessert and drinks.

Also, Bingo continues at Annie Silver Community Center each Thursday until March 31, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Opera pieces at AMICCO concert The Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra will perform arias, choruses and overtures from famous operas on Sunday, March 20, at 2 p.m. at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, 6101 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. Featured soloists include Russell Andrad.

Tickets are available at the Anna Maria

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Isand Chamber of Commerce, www. amicco.org, or by calling 941-795-2370.

Election talk at luncheon Dr. Susan MacManus, University Of South Florida professor of government provides an analysis of the presidential primary season when the Anna Maria Island Democratic Club meets on Monday, March 21, at the Seafood Shack, 4110 127th St. West, Cortez, on Sarasota Bay. The buffet runs from 11:30 to noon, and the cost is $15 to $17. The Club collects canned goods for local food pantries. Contact Bill McGrath, 941-761-4017, for more information.

Fight cancer and watch a play The Island Players will host a benefit preview performance of “Lettice and Lovage” to help raise awareness and funds to find a cure for cancer on Tuesday, March 22, at 8 p.m, at the Island Players Theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Tickets are a $20 donation, and they are available at Seaside Jewelry and Beads, 5500 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; at the Beach Market at Coquina Beach on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or from Nancy Ambrose at 941-518-4431.

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MARCH 16, 2016

Lots: Some have three front yards FROM PAGE 1

"We could redesign, but we would have to condense our home and go up.

“One of the things we’re trying not to do is build one of those straight up and down houses. We don’t think it fits in the neighborhood. We want to blend in with the neighborhood.”

She said her research has shown there are six other properties in the city that front on three streets. One is the vacant lot adjacent to their property, and the others are currently developed.

“We have a unique circumstance, and there’s no way you could have foreseen this as an outcome,” she said.

“We’re seeking your support for allowing some flexibility in dealing with the unintended consequences.”

Discussing options

City Attorney Patricia Petruff said when the commission approved Ordinance 15-19, “we suspected there would be potential issues for some.”

City Planner Bill Brisson said they

Submitted

The Jude's lot is outlined in orange and is bounded by 43rd Street, Palm Harbor Drive and Palm Harbor Boulevard. could limit the number of front yards required to two, but “to go beyond that, I have a problem. To me that’s the best solution and it’s fair.”

He said if they designate the front

yard, the one behind it should be the rear yard. However City Attorney Patricia Petruff said that if they do that, the setbacks on the rear yards would change to 10 feet.

Commissioner Marvin Grossman said only two of the seven lots are empty, and the others are built out, but Brisson pointed out that the owners could tear them down and rebuild.

Chair Judy Titsworth suggested that they allow the rear yard to only be used for accessory structures and not allow a building to be bumped out.

Commissioner Jean Peelen asked about offering a special exception.

Building Official Jim McGuiness said special exceptions are primarily for uses, and Petruff added that it’s hard to prove special circumstances on a vacant lot.

Titsworth asked about homes built between 2010 and 2016, which had a side yard that is now considered a front yard, and said they should be grandfathered. Brisson said he drafted a provision addressing that circumstance.

Commissioners agreed that Brisson, Petruff and McGuiness would continue to work on a solution and bring the issue back to another work session.

MARCH 16, 2016

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Commission supports Move to Amend

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The City Commission unanimously supported the adoption of a resolution in support of the Move to Amend organization’s efforts to repeal the Citizens United ruling rendered by the Supreme Court in 2010.

When addressing the commission last week, ManaSota Move to Amend Activist Ruth Rauch said, “The reason I believe that action must be taken at the local level is clearly this process has been hijacked by corporate interests. I read that as Florida began its annual legislative session and election year at least $28.5 million had been funneled into legislative political committees.�

Citing proposed state legislation that would prevent local governments from prohibiting fracking as an example, Rauch said the state legislature’s priorities are driven by money donated by corporate entities. “The business of the people is not on the agenda,� she said Quoting Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ginsberg, Rauch said, “The notion that we have all the democracy money can buy strays so far from what our democracy is supposed to be.�

Quoting Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, Rauch said, “Corporations have no consciences, no beliefs, no feelings, no thoughts, no desires ‌ They are not themselves members of We the People, by whom and for whom our Constitution was established.â€?

Rauch concluded by saying, “There’s very little political will at the national level and the state level to address these problems. I think local citizens and communities have to demonstrate that we will not accept this state of affairs, and this is how we ask you to do it. This hurts very much at the local level, and I think you’re all aware of that.�

When properly formatted and formally signed, the Anna Maria resolution will join more than 400 other local resolutions that have been passed as part of Move to Amend’s nationwide efforts to adopt a Constitutional amendment that would reverse the Citizens United decision.

Before Rauch spoke, Commission Chair Doug Copeland shared his views on the marriage of money and politics. “In the two campaigns I’ve been involved with, I’ve refused SEE AMEND, PAGE 41

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MARCH 16, 2016

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City responds to federal lawsuit

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – City Attorney Becky Vose has filed a motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit filed in February on behalf of developer Shawn Kaleta and his Beach to Bay Construction firm.

Filed on Wednesday, March 9, Vose’s 25page motion to dismiss refutes the complaints cited in the Kaleta lawsuit.

Vose disputes the claim that the mayor and other city officials engaged in a concerted effort to single out Kaleta. She also disputes the claim that Kaleta became the focus of the city’s attention, which resulted in a hostile environment filled with animosity in an effort to destroy his professional reputation.

The motion refers to a building permit that was denied in part because of lot coverage percentage inconsistencies that existed between the city’s comp plan and zoning code. Kaleta’s suit claims other developers were granted similar permits, while his was denied.

Vose notes the other permits were granted as the result of an erroneous interpretation by the building official,and not because of discriminatory intent.

Vose responded to the claim that development efforts on Magnolia Avenue were stalled and the costs were increased because the city required the installation of a $20,000 fence.

“It is clear that plaintiffs did not appeal this

determination, but rather complied,” she wrote.

In regard to selective enforcement, Vose stated the allegations were insufficient and an enforcement claim filed on under the Equal Protection Clause requires proof the plaintiff was treated differently based on race, religion, an intent to punish or malicious bad faith intended to injure.

Vose’s motion addressed a dispute involving damaged drainage ditches related to a Magnolia Avenue development, which Kaleta was later asked to repair at his expense. She also addressed a claim regarding the power being shut off and the issuance of a stop work order at 9802 Gulf Drive.

The motion says the stop work order was issued due to non-permitted electrical work taking place and was rectified when the plaintiff hired an independent electrician to inspect the house and ensure there were no safety hazards.

Kaleta is now trying to secure a demolition permit for this property, but needs to acquire a building permit fist, in accordance with a new city ordinance.

In regard to the plaintiffs being banned from obtaining building permits, Vose stated, “There is no allegation that plaintiffs were ever turned down for a permit, or that a permit was even delayed due to this issue.”

Vose also stated, “Plaintiffs failed to obtain any sort of final order protesting the statement

that building permits would not be issued unless Kaleta cleaned up his act.”

The motion also addressed the claim that the city filed a baseless complaint with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Kaleta’s suit claims he was not given a public opportunity to defend the allegations and was never allowed to defend the allegations.

“Obviously, Kaleta will have a full opportunity to defend against the allegation in the context of the DBPR complaint,” Vose wrote.

She also disputed the claim that the DBPR complaint resulted in lost revenues.

In regard to the plaintiff’s request for injunctive relief and damages of at least $100,000, Vose contends Kaleta and his business associates failed to exhaust the administrative remedies provided them.

“Defendant, city of Anna Maria, respectfully request that each of the counts of the complaint be dismissed for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, and for failure to state a claim for which relief may be granted. In addition, city of Anna Maria respectfully requests that the claim as to damages be dismissed due to failure to comply with mandatory notice requirements.

Florida law does not permit a claim for money damages based upon the alleged violation of Florida Constitutional provisions.”

The motions concludes by expressing hope the court will also allow the city to recoup legal costs.

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41

AMEND: Panel supports effort FROM PAGE 40

“In the two campaigns I’ve been involved with, I’ve refused to accept any money or spend any money due to my feeling that money in politics is a bad idea. The Supreme Court ruling that declared that corporations are people and speech is money is destroying our democracy,” he said.

“On the local level it seems like it may not be an issue, but in the last year or two, we’ve spent a lot of money and time having to deal with a state legislature that has taken away our local authority, primarily due to big money interests. I think we need to restore the rights of the community. As long as money rules Tallahassee and Washington, it’s going to be a challenge. I hope someone will move to approve this resolution when the time comes,” Copeland said.

Commissioner Carol Carter later made that motion, Chuck Webb seconded it, and the commission supported it unanimously, which produced a joyous round of applause from the Move to Amend activists in attendance.

42

THE SUN

SPORTS

MARCH 16, 2016

Champions and contenders triumph at the Center

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

As another youth flag football season comes to a close at The Center, kids from eight to 17 years old took the grid iron this past week hoping to be crowned league champions or more in their division playoffs. The Island area’s youth played hard all season and Tuesday night’s semi-final game between LaPensee Plumbing & Pools and Heidi Johnston ReMax was no different for the eight-to 10-year-olds.

The defensive battle resulted in a low scoring game with exciting action from the elementary school kids.

Starting on offense, Kiera Johnston led her team, Heidi Johnston ReMax, as the quarterback with a short pass to Cameron Murphy. Johnston continued to move the ball down the field toward the first down mark with a completed pass to Zack Stewart. The play was stopped short of the first down by Julian Lazzara, for LaPensee Plumbing & Pools, with a quick flag pull. Gaining the first down, Quinton O’Conner caught Johnston’s pass, giving ReMax three more plays to score.

Girl power on the field proved to be successful once again between Johnston and Murphy before having her flag pulled by Jack Procter. After an incomplete pass on second down, a double reverse attempt failed, turning the ball over on downs.

LaPensee’s Andrew Hyman opened at quarterback with two straight handoffs to speedy Dante Tilelli, both of which were stopped for little gain.

A long pass attempt to Procter was incomplete, giving the ball back to ReMax. The teams then traded possessions, but strong defense by both clubs kept the game scoreless.

Starting their third offensive possession, Remax’s Stewart is handed the ball. After his short run play, Stewart was called upon on the next play to throw the ball after a reverse from O’Conner. Stewart’s throw was intercepted in a crucial defensive play by Procter at the ReMax 15-yard line.

LaPensee’s Hyman quickly capitalized on the turnover with a touchdown strike to Procter with less than a minute left in the half. Payton Harlan grabbed the extra point throw giving LaPensee a 7-0 lead.

With time management critical for ReMax, Faul took over as quarterback. Faul hit O’Conner for a 10-yard

monica simpson | SUN

Receiver Cameron Murphy, for Team Heidi Johnston ReMax, runs after the catch with Team LaPensee Plumbing & Pools defenders in hot pursuit. gain. ReMax called their second and last time out of the game. Hoping to score in the last 30 seconds of the half, Johnston received the snap and quickly gave the ball to Faul, giving him the option to pass the ball or gain rushing yardage. Faul threw to Murphy for a ReMax first down. The first down stopped the clock until the offensive snap.

Faul resumed his position under center. The bad snap on first down again stopped the clock and gave the ReMax offense much needed time to regroup.

Faul hit Murphy with a nice throw just short of the end zone. Murphy got open in the end zone for QB Johnston scoring for ReMax. The girls connected again for the one point conversion, tying up the ball game 7-7, which is how the half ended.

The defensive battle continued in the game’s second half until LaPensee’s Hyman threw a quick strike to Harlan, who eluded ReMax defenders and found his way into the endzone.

A missed extra point left the game at 13-7, which is all the scoring LaPensee needed to secure the win.

Update: LaPensee Plumbing & Pools advanced to the league final championship game along with Bark and Company. Bark and Company won uts semi-final game Monday night in overtime against Tyler’s Ice Cream.

The eight-to 10-year-old youth flag football championship game was played on Saturday, March 12, with LaPensee claiming the victory.

Sun Scoreboard Monday, March 7 8-to 10-year-old league – Semi-Finals Tyler’s Ice Cream Bark and Company

6 12 (OT)

Heidi Johnston ReMax LaPensee Plumbing & Pools

7 13

Tuesday, March 8 11-to 13-year-old league

25 28

Truly Nolan Pest Control Tyler’s Ice Cream

14 18

Signarama West Coast A/C & Heating, Inc.

20 24

Air & Energy Progressive Energy

48 6

Wednesday, March 9 Adult league Truly Nolen Mason Martin

27 21

Truly Nolen Tyler’s Ice Cream

44 25

Moss Builders Beach House Real Estate

AMI Vacation Rentals Tyler’s Ice Cream

11-to 13-year-old league

Progressive Energy West Coast A/C & Heating, Inc.

6 13 (W) (L)

14-to 17-year-old league: Semi-Finals

LPAC The Feast

Beach to Bay Construction Coldwell Banker

Friday, March 11 8-to 10-year-old league

36

20

15 14

Team Cuva LPAC

53 6

Team Mannino Team Snyder

35 20

Saturday, March 12 8-to 10-year-old league: Finals – Championship Game LaPensee Plumbing & Pools Bark and Company

11-to 13-year-old league: Quarter Finals

25 6

Truly Nolan Pest Control Sugar Beach Digital

21 33

Signarama LPAC

18 14

Air & Energy Progressive Energy

41 19

The Feast Tyler’s Ice Cream

14 33

14-to 17-year-old league: Finals – Championship Game Team Mannino LPAC

20 34

MARCH 16, 2016

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

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43

Dock: Blocked during peaceful protest FROM PAGE 1

On a more serious note, Speciale said, “It appears Mr. Bazzy is not as concerned about public access to our day dock as he previously claimed.”

Speciale was referring to recent complaints Bazzy and his son Mike have made in regard to tour boats using the day dock and taking up space that could be used by recreational boaters.

Around noon, a recreational boater managed to squeeze into the lone remaining dock space, between the rental center and the fishing boat.

A few minutes later, another boater passed by the day dock, where no docking space remained.

Around this same time, Paradise Boat Tours owner Sherman Baldwin directed the captain of his tour boat to pull up to the dinghy dock in front of the Bridge Tender Inn due to the lack of available space on the day dock. After walking over to the dinghy dock and trying to arrange numerous dinghies in a manner that for allowed safe access, Baldwin redirected the tour boat back to the most eastern edge of the day dock, where it pulled in bow-first so passengers could disembark.

Although the blockade was an inconvenience to Baldwin, he too found humor in Bazzys latest method of expressing his views on the pierrelated disputes the marina owner is engaged in.

The blockade did not return the following day or later in the week, and Baldwin said private conversations took place with some of the parties involved in an attempt to resolve their differences. Baldwin provided no details of those conversations.

Bazzy and his son Mike are plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed as part of their objections to the use of the commercial spaces next to the AMOB restaurant space. The AMOB ownership group leases the restaurant space and the two adjacent commercial spaces from the city and subleases the smaller spaces

It appears Mr. Bazzy is not as concerned about public access to our day dock as he previously claimed.”

Sam Speciale Police Chief to Baldwin and two other subtenants.

As of Monday morning, city officials were still awaiting written correspondence from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) that

supports the state agency’s recent verbal confirmation that the current uses of the day dock and upland spaces do not violate the FDEP-issued submerged land lease.

During the Thursday, March 10, department head meeting, Speciale said nothing would change in terms of the current dock uses until the FDEP letter is received. When that happens, Speciale intends to work with the city commission and the city attorney to amend an existing city ordinance in a manner that would include a length of stay provision for commercial vessels.

“Once we get that letter, we’ll bring that forward to you guys,” Speciale told the attending commissioners.

joe hendricks | sun

Last Tuesday, the owners of these three commercial vessels engaged in a blockade of the city-owned public day dock.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Show that won 16 Primetime Emmys 12 Sno-__ 15 Doesn't bother 16 Z preceder 17 Celebration of a future union 19 "Vous __ ici" 20 Some tech sch. grads 21 French department __-Maritimes 22 Allotment word 23 Roasts 24 Mass figure 25 More familiar role for the portrayer of George in "Bringing Up Baby" 26 Embedded below the surface of 27 AMPAS' London counterpart 30 Code subject 32 Original Dungeons & Dragons co.

33 Sinister 34 Fed, say 35 Seahawks coach Carroll 36 __ Bund: Swiss newspaper 37 Family member 38 A.L. West team, familiarly 39 Shakes 41 Classic muscle cars 43 Meat garnishes 44 Interstate H-1 locale 45 TV "Tool Man" Taylor 48 Local life

49 Airport near I-480, on itineraries 50 City SW of Bogotรก 51 Lets have it 55 Chemical suffix 56 Considers 57 Georgia, once: Abbr.

58 Pressure tactic Down 1 Censor 2 French annuity 3 Beaverlike?

4 Actress Gardner et al.

5 Frat bash staple 6 Response to a pointer 7 Convention handouts 8 "Burn Notice" actress 9 Early AC/DC frontman Scott 10 Worker in an Aesop tale 11 Sails, say 12 Chiseler, at times 13 Corroborates 14 Top sellers 18 Others, in Latin 23 Pretoria's home: Answers to 03-09-16 Crossword Puzzle.

Abbr.

24 Vexatious sort 25 View from Eng.'s Land's End 26 West African cuisine 27 Stands where we lie 28 Opposite of predilections 29 Military might 31 __ center 34 Vents 35 NBA tally 37 Certain dieter's credo 38 Trifle 40 Bit 42 Hollywood, casually 44 Autumn color 45 Certain Sri Lankan 46 Massey of "Balalaika" (1939) 47 Fred McConnell's daughter, in an old sitcom 50 Provide gratis 52 "The Empire Strikes Back," e.g.: Abbr.

53 19th Greek letter 54 1300 hours

MARCH 16, 2016

MARCH 16, 2016

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CARPET CLEANING

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

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

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Dusty at 941779-7688.

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

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

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).

CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. "Have it done your way, we care about our work" Call 941-7564570

APPLIANCE REPAIR

PRESSURE WASHING AND WINDOWS residential, commercial & resorts. Roofs, buildings, houses, driveways. Paver Sealing & Cleaning etc.

Call 941-251-5948

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

AUTOMOTIVE SALES & SERVICE GOT A CAR You Wanna Sell.

The Good, The Bad or The Ugly.

Call Now 727-400-1910

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES ISLAND BOAT SALES. We Are Busy-Need more Boats! 16 Years, Hundreds of Boats Sold. “Business On A Hand Shake.” We Also Buy Boats. www.islandboatsales.net Call Dave 941-228-3489 BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088 BAYLINER CEIRA 26' Weekender/Fisherman. Sleeps 4-6. Locally maintained on Island $7900 OBO Call 941-356-1456

Call us today! 941-778-3986

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

EMPLOYMENT BOTH EXPERIENCED AND NEW REAL ESTATE sales associates wanted in internationally operating realty. Generous commission split, no office fees, great support. Call Markus Siegler at FLORIDA DREAMS REALTY OF AMI, INC 941-779-5700 NOW HIRING LOCAL Loving Caregivers Companions and Home Health Aides FT/PT flexible schedules Work for the leader in Private Duty Home Care Apply now online at www. bradenton.comfortkeepers. com Follow up with Art – HR Call 941-921-4747 MAINTENANCE/JANITORIAL BRADENTON 20-25hrs/wkly Some electrical & plumbing experience, must be able to kneel, squat & climb, pressure-washing, painting, miscellaneous cleaning.

Send resume to: Interviewww@tampabay.rr.com

CITY OF ANNA MARIA immediate opening!!

Part-time parking enforcement specialists needed for weekends and holidays $15 per hour. Job Application and job description available online: www. cityofannamaria.com Mail or drop off resume & job application to: Attn: Pamela Gibbs City of Anna Maria PO Box 779 10005 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, FL 34216 or Email: amcode@ cityofannamaria.com

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES GOING OUT OF BUSINESS SALE! Gifts, Collectables & Antique Shop 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. Everything Store Wide 50% to 90% off.

Tons of Sterling, Vintage & Costume Jewelry, Furniture, Display units, Miniatures, Glassware, Orientals, Books, Art, Lots of Seas shells from around the world, Some purses, shoes & tops, Bric-Brac, Antiques, Collectables. Dealers very welcome Open 7 days 9:30am-5pm.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX: Open 9:30 am. – 2 pm. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10am.-1pm Saturday. Donations accepted 9-11a.m. Wednesdays 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria 941-779-2733 FLEA MARKET RADERS Reef parking lot. Sunday, March 20. 8am-4pm 5508 Marina Dr. Antiques, collectibles, jewelry, furniture, misc. items GIVING BACK SHOP 5321 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. Beginning April 22 at 11am. 50% off closing sale.

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.

AMISUN.COM

THE SUN

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-5042222 www.kernconstructioninc.com “HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

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

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

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPING. Save water, gas, maintenance fees and the environment! Shell your yard. $50/yd installed. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067 R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $50/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770

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

Reward! Please call 404545-1943.

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

Found at Bradenton Beach.

Turned into Bradenton Beach Police Department MISSING BLACK AND WHITE male cat. Lucky is deaf and 15 years old.

He was last seen on 2nd St in Bradenton Beach where he has lived outdoors for 4 years.

Reward. Heartbroken.

941-730-7052 LOST CAT “FIDO” He adopted us 16 years ago. His turf is in the area of 5392 Gulf Dr. near Time Saver and Niki’s . Has collar with a bell, chipped by Animal Clinic. If found please call 941-518-6329.

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

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

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

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

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

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 DONALD PERKINS PAINTING LLC fully insured. 30 years experience. Many Island references. Call 941-7057096

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45

PEST CONTROL NICK PATSIOS PEST CONTROL Owner Certified Operator. Licensed & Insured.

Free Estimates/Inspections. Call 941-713-2071 npatsios5@gmail.com

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

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker of Duncan Real Estate is a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 26 years.

Proven track record that brings you results! 941725-1589 FOR SALE 1 BLOCK from Beach. 1/2 of duplex.

2BR/1BA concrete block. New private deck, plumbing & electrical.

Nicely furnished. Good Rental History. Located at 205 71st St $298,000.

Brokers protected 813892-3690

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

Pet friendly. $699,000 Katharine Pepper RoseBay Intl 941-792-9459 EXCELLENT OFF-ISLAND Investment. Commercial Office Condo. 5306 Cortez W (directly across from Wal-Mart). FSBO $169,000.

Call 941-962-8220 ICW -BAY FRONT HOME for sale 5BR/3.5BA Bradenton Beach EXCEPTIONAL close to GULF Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-232-2216

46

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classified

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE W. BRADENTON CONDO 4000sq.ft. Canal front Bay view 3+BR/3.5BA Bonus room dock lift 2 car Island Real Estate Call AL Galletto 941-2322216 NEW HOMES at MIRABELLA FLORIDA. Starting from the mid 200’s. Only minutes from the beaches, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy. Perfectly designed, open floor plans, 2BR/2BA plus den and 2CG. Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball, pet friendly community. HOA only $190/month.

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

MirabellaFlorida.com SEASIDE GARDENS Canal front 2BR/2BA villa with private boat dock, nicely renovated loaded with upgrades. Weekly rentals, pet friendly. $342,000.00 Island Real Estate Call Kathleen White at 941-773-0165 LOWEST PRICE VILLA IN PERICO BAY CLUB 2BR/2BA with 1 car garage, bright and open.

Just reduced $219,900 Island Real Estate Call Kathleen White at 941773-0165 ANNA MARIA WATERFRONT 3BR/3BA elevated home. End of cul-de-sac. Elevator from oversized garage to living area. Plans available for backyard pool oasis.

MLS# A4146246. Call owner/agent Terri White, Bark & Company Realty, Inc 941-720-3670 FOR SALE OFFICE SPACE in Holmes Beach 300sf office in Key West style Condo Building. "Buy it for a song and put your roots down in Paradise.” $64,995. Call 941-7782841 MOBILE HOME 1BR/1BA. 8 miles to Beach. Furnished, pool & amenities. $11,000 Owner JB Call 941-356-1456

Call us today! 941-778-3986

VILLA NEAR BEACH: Mt.Vernon on Sarasota Bay - $140,900 or $1200/ mo. annual lease (unfurnished). Bright corner 1BR/1.5BA in 55+ active community. 5 min. from Anna Maria Island beaches.

Open floor plan, 960 sq.ft., lots of closets, storage, updated kitchen/baths, bamboo hardwood floors.

Free dock, boat/kayak storage, clubhouse w/pool & spa, walking/bike paths, lakes, parks, more! Sorry, no pets, cycles, or pickups permitted. Sale Realtors offered 3% coop.

Call 727-479-4919 WOW ! UNDER $400K! 2BR/1BA Hideaway Cottage. Central A/C. Block to Pine Ave; Steps to Bay. Turnkey Furnished.

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

See & Buy!

RENTALS: ANNUAL 2 BR/2BA HOME in Holmes Beach. $1900/ mo, $1900 last month, $1000 security. 1200 + S/F, Great room layout.

Great parking. Community boat ramp near by. Credit & Background required.

Available March 1.

3BR/2BA spacious ground level condo with many upgrades and covered parking. W/D hook up, includes water, sewer, trash, cable & grounds care in park like setting. Pool, sauna, and observation dock. $1,750 /mo $1750 last and $1000 security.

Background required by association w/ fee.

2BR/2BA lakefront home in Bay Lake Estates. Nice spacious lanai with water view. Inside laundry, 2 car garage. Water, Lawn care included. Some vehicle restrictions apply. Background check required. $1500/mo. 1st & last month, $1000. security dep. Available 4/1. Ask for Ed. DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www. teamduncan.com SPACIOUS 3BR/2BA TOWN HOUSE in Holmes Beach.

2 car garage, 3 balconies, lots of storage, quiet neighborhood w/heated comm. pool. Small pet possible.

Available April 1, $1800 mo. rent, plus last month, & sec. dep. Background check required. Call June @ Island Real Estate 941-345-1295.

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

Spacious 3BR/2BA .

Fenced yard, newly decorated, W/D hookup $1500/mo. WEST BRADENTON: nicely redecorated, New appliances etc. 2BR/1BA/1CG, fenced yard, W/D hookup $1200/mo. First, Last, 1 month security. Credit check 1 year lease. Call 941-809-2488 WINDMILL VILLAGE 1BR/1BA furnished 8 miles to Beach. Annual Rental $800/mo. Available Now Realtor Call 941-356-1456

MARCH 16, 2016

2BR/2BA FULLY FURNISHED. Month, Season or Annual. Contact 941-7784497. Available beginning April BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT RENTAL, 3BR/2BA, tennis courts, pool and golf course access. 941-778-2141 ANNUAL RENTAL Bradenton Beach, 3BR/2BA home, view of Intracoastal. Unfurnished. $2,300/mo First, last, and security required.

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

View of Gulf of Mexico.

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

No Smoking/No Pets. $2500/mo. Call 941518-8714 ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH Efficiency Apt. includes screened porch, 2 blocks from beach. $650/mo includes utilities. Security deposit. No pets. Call 941778-3734

AMISUN.COM

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

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

WINDMILL VILLAGE 1BR/1BA furnished 8 miles to Beach $600/wk $1900/ mo. Available NOW 2016 Realtor Call 941-356-1456 BEAUTIFUL BAYSIDE 2BR/2BA at Little Gull on Longboat, max 6 person. unable to use week of April 23 thru 30th. $1700 for week. Must be in full

plus $250 deposit. Call 941-773-1552

TRANSPORTATION

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

Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www. amitaxi.com ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469 ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, shopping, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095

www.amisun.com

MARCH 16, 2016

business & service directory computer service

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

home improvement

painting

HOME SERVICES

transportation

home improvement

movers

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MARCH 16, 2016