Anna Maria Island Sun May 3, 2017

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VOL 17 No. 29

May 3, 2017

Havin’ a ball

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left to right: Anna Wampole and Karaline Berzowski dance as Ava Harlan watches at the Anna Maria Elementary School Princess Ball on Thursday. The young ladies wore their best as they danced with their dads, grandfathers or each other.

Aqua protestors voice numerous concerns

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

About 75 people opposed to the Aqua by the Bay development gathered near its entrance on the traffic circle at 75th Street and 53rd Avenue on Saturday afternoon, singing songs and carrying signs.

Horns honked in support as they chanted “Nay, nay, Aqua Bay.” Signs said, “No mangrove destruction, election day is coming,” “Enough Beruff,” “Earth before profits” and “Save our bays.”

As the afternoon sun grew hotter, they gathered in the shade of palm trees, talking in small groups about a

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey OUTDOORS SPORTS RESTAURANTS REAL ESTATE CROSSWORD

4 6 7 26-27 30-31 32-33 34-39 44

long list of concerns over the 529-acre residential/commercial project with 2,894 homes, including a five-story building and a 13-story building.

A drone was buzzing the eagle’s nest on the property the other day, scaring the bird off the nest, one said.

Representatives of the Council of the Original Miccosukee Simanolee Nation, Aboriginal People of Florida, stood silently with their flag and feathers; the property contains an archaeological area, possibly containing Native American artifacts or graves, according see Aqua, page 10

Turtle friendly

Bungalow Beach improves lighting. 28

Anna Maria Island, Florida

MARK COARSEY | SUBMITTED

Mangroves have been trimmed along Sarasota Bay on Beruff-owned land, according to commercial fisherman Mark Coarsey.

City CAUTIONED ABOUT PROPOSED OCCUPANCY LIMITS.

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Tempers flare at Center funding

meeting. 4 The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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MAY 3, 2017

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Planning board suggestions questioned The board’s plan for reducing vacation rental occupancy could come with a heavy price.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH –The Planning and Zoning Board’s desire to limit future home sizes received mixed reviews from the city commission, and City Attorney Ricinda Perry said the proposed land development code amendments would devalue properties and provoke Bert Harris claims.

During the commission’s Tuesday, April 25, workshop, City Planner Alan Garrett explained the planning board’s recommendations to reduce vacation rental occupancy by mandating smaller houses and fewer bedrooms, while encouraging traditional bungalows and cottages instead of large, box-like structures.

The proposed amendments would apply to all homes and duplexes in the R-1 and R-2 zoning districts, including those owned by permanent residents who may one day wish to replace their existing homes.

Current code allows 3,500 square feet of habitable, air-conditioned living space that can be equally divided between two

elevated 1,750 square foot living levels.

The board proposed reducing that to 2,000 square feet of total living space, based on a 40 percent floor area ratio (FAR) applied to a standard 5,000 square foot lot. Larger lots would also be capped at 2,000 square feet and smaller lots would be allowed proportionately less.

Habitable space does not include garages, sheds, carriage houses, porches, patios, decks or pools.

The board recommends a new home’s upper living level be restricted to 85 percent of its lower living level. This would allow 1,082 square feet on the first level and 918 feet on the second level if built on a standard or oversized lot.

The board recommends a 29 percent bedroom area ratio (BAR) that would cap bedroom space at 580 square feet. If combined with a recommended 120 square foot minimum bedroom size, it would be virtually impossible to include more than four bedrooms in a building plan – but Perry noted that dens and offices could later be converted to non-approved sleeping rooms.

Garrett said adoption of the proposed amendments would necessitate mailing post cards to all R-1 and R-2 property owners to notify them they had one year to

file a Bert Harris claims for their devalued property.

Board input

The planning board members attended the meeting and provided their input.

Reed Mapes said city’s voters’ support of a temporary building moratorium was a request for a permanent four-bedroom limit.

“That’s what the citizens want,” he said.

“It would be limiting to say the least,” Commissioner Ralph Cole said.

“That was the purpose,” Mapes replied.

Mapes’ lives in a 2,164 square foot waterfront condo that is larger than the standalone homes he recommends.

Bill Vincent echoed Mapes moratorium comments and said, “This piece of work that’s before you may be the single most important decision that this commission makes for the future of Bradenton Beach.”

Planning board chair John Burns disagreed.

“I voted against the work product as a whole. You’re looking at depriving me of 1,500 square feet of added value to my property … that’s what Bert Harris is for.”

Commission discussion

Commission members John Chappie and

Marilyn Maro expressed initial support for the amendments, but Chappie questioned the upper living level limit. Maro said north end residents want smaller homes instead of large party houses that cause problems in neighborhoods.

Cole and Commissioner Jake Spooner questioned whether less interior space would result in more noise coming from decks and patios.

“If not 2,000, what is the number?” Mayor Bill Shearon asked.

Perry said the proposed code might inspire a developer to build a single-level 2,000 square foot home with a 2,000 square foot deck on top and said moratorium was not to establish a permanent four-bedroom limit, but to provide the commission time to figure out how to deal with large rentals.

“You're using your zoning codes to go after behavioral issues,” she said.

Perry told the commission members to brace themselves for substantial Bert Harris-related legal fees if they reduce property owners’ entitlements by 42 percent or more. The commission took no formal action, but asked Garrett and Building Official Steve Gilbert to come back with additional suggestions.

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ISLAND NEWS

in brief

City holds on water taxi legislation Holmes Beach commissioners want more information before they pass legislation governing the requirements for water taxis and ferries operating in the city.

During an April 27 discussion, commissioners addressed the issue, identifying potential problems with water taxi services as dockage and parking.

Walter Loos, of Adventures Away, asked commissioners for guidance to establish a local Island water taxi service in the city. He proposed using public transportation in lieu of parking, an idea commissioners liked, but thought it would be difficult to enforce.

Commissioners agreed to readdress the issue when a proposed water taxi or ferry service provider presents them with a business plan addressing parking and transportation to and from the watercraft.

Noise ordinance workshop Tuesday A Bradenton Beach City Commission workshop discussion on the city’s noise ordinance will take place at city hall on Tuesday, May 9, at 1 p.m. Residents, business owners and local musicians are encouraged to participate in the public discussion that will help determine if any changes to the noise ordinance or its enforcement are needed.

Holmes Beach develops review committees Rather than give administrative approval permission for small site plans solely to the building official, Holmes Beach commissioners are electing to form a review committee.

At the suggestion of Building Official Jim McGuinness, commissioners agreed April 27 to begin the process to form two site plan review committees. The first committee, comprised of the building official, city planner and city engineer, will review and approve minor or small site plans.

Major site plans will continue to be approved or denied by commissioners, however a larger committee including the police department, fire department and city staff will review the applications first to help streamline the process.

McGuinness also suggested commissioners consider charging applicants with complicated or time-consuming site plans additional fees.

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

Trolley pullover lanes discussed The Anna Maria Commission expressed initial support for possibly creating pull over lanes for the Island trolley, where space permits. “There’s two things the trolley does really well,” said Commissioner Doug Copeland, who brought up the topic. “One, it moves quite of few people and keeps quite a few cars off the road. The second is to decrease the flow of traffic dramatically,” Copeland said, citing 12 cars backed up behind a trolley stopped in a travel lane. He attended a recent Island Transportation Planning Organization meeting and asked the other two Island mayors to gauge their commissions’ interest in City Engineer Lynn Burnett conducting a small feasibility study.

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MAY 3, 2017

Holmes Beach disappoints Center leadership

Center supporters remain unhappy with the amount of support given the organization by Holmes Beach city leaders.

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

HOLMES BEACH — Commissioners agreed to help financially support The Center of Anna Maria Island, but the amount wasn’t quite what the nonprofit and its supporters were hoping for.

After much discussion, questions and passionate arguments on both sides, commissioners agreed to donate $10,000 to the Center and to leave the door open to donate more to the nonprofit in the future.

Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson was among those disappointed by the amount.

Johnson said he budgeted $45,000 to donate to the Center for the current fiscal year and argued that commissioners should release the entire amount to the nonprofit.

“I think it’s time for this city to support the community center,” he said.

Commissioner Judy Titsworth agreed.

“I think it’s time to move on and show we’re all in for the community,” she said.

Commissioners Marvin Grossman, Jean Peelen and Carol Soustek had a different opinion.

“I’m not for handing you the money,” Soustek said to Center Executive Director Kristen Lessig.

“My residents aren’t happy.”

Grossman said the back and forth between commissioners, Center leaders and the community during the meeting left him feeling “badgered.”

“I think at this time I couldn’t vote for more than $5,000 to 10,000,” he said. “I have to go with what the community wants.”

Public comments

Community members took to the podium during public comment to

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Local business owner Jen Crady, of AMI Fitness, asks commissioners to consider withholding city donations to the Center, citing damage to her business caused by the nonprofit’s day pass program.

Center.

“We do struggle,” he said. “We struggle for your support.”

Bradenton resident and Center member Robert Ball said the nonprofit helped his family find a sense of community after relocating to the area. “It’s a big deal to have a place for my wife and kids I think it’s time for to feel safe.”

Holmes Beach resident Jim this city to move on Kihm said he was concerned with the Center’s financial reports, and show we’re all in management practices and using “public money to support the Cenfor the community.” ter” because of its fitness center.

Center Treasurer Jim Froeschle Judy Titsworth said he’s tired of the negativity often Holmes Beach city commissioner associated with the nonprofit.

“It time to quit throwing rumors around,” he said. speak for and against funding the Froeschle added the organization’s organization. fitness center was expanded at the “I think people are a little request of members and with the skeptical about the Center, not the help of then-board members. None community center,” Holmes Beach of the Center’s funds were used in resident Nancy Deal said. “The the expansion. ‘community’ is out of it, I guess.”

She questioned how the nonNot a good fit profit operates.

Local business owner Jen Crady “There’s a lack of trust in this of AMI Fitness also addressed community center,” Deal said. commissioners, citing issues with Center board member and local the Center’s fitness center damagrestauranteur Ed Chiles asked ing her business with its day pass commissioners to look beyond the program. nonprofit’s past to the future.

For $10 per day anyone can “To have a healthy community, purchase a day pass to the Cenyou need healthy community orter, including vacationers, which ganizations,” he said. “The Center Crady said make up 80 percent of needs your support.” her business.

Center board Chair Bill Shuman also spoke in favor of funding the see center, page 13

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MAY 3, 2017

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House passes rental bill The big question this week was whether the Senate would amend its city-friendly bill and make it unfriendly again in terms of local vacation rental regulation.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

TALLAHASSEE – Friday afternoon, the Florida House adopted HB 425 by a 63-56 vote.

The vacation rental bill championed

by Mike La Rosa (R-St. Cloud) seeks to end the local regulation of vacation rentals by mandating that all local ordinances and regulations must apply equally to all residential properties, whether they are used as short-term rentals or permanent residences.

On Thursday, April 27, the House members rejected by a 37-78 vote an amendment filed by Rep. George Moraitis (R-Ft. Lauderdale) that would have allowed cities to continue regulating rentals.

Jim Boyd (R-Bradenton), the Island’s elected representative, voted against the amendment on Thursday and in

www.myfloridahouse.gov

Last week, Rep. Jim Boyd, from Bradenton, voted in favor of a bill that would eliminate the Island cities’ ability to regulate vacation rentals. favor of the un-amended bill on Friday.

During Thursday’s session, Boyd described the local vacation rental ordinances he was aware of as “draconian.”

The question that remained at the beginning of this week was whether the Senate would adopt the now cityfriendly, committee-amended version of the vacation rental bill, SB 188, originally filed by Greg Steube (R-

Sarasota). As of Monday morning, SB 188 had not yet been scheduled for a second reading that could lead to an amendment or a third reading and final vote.

Many elected officials and Island residents expressed concerns that the amended Senate bill that passed through committee would be amended by the entire Senate in a manner that

brought it back in line with the House’s intent to eliminate city’s home rule authorities to regulate vacation rentals.

If such an amendment was proposed and supported by the Senate majority, the three Island cities would essentially lose the ability to regulate vacation rentals. Enacting HB 425 as law would allow for rental registration programs, but no registration fees could be charged and the registration programs would be for informational purposes only, with no accompanying enforcement component.

If the Senate bill were to be adopted as it read Monday morning, the two bills would be drastically different and would need to be reconciled with via last-minute House/Senate compromise – or the contrasting bills would die and the regulatory balance struck in 2014 would be retained for at least one more year.

The legislative session is scheduled to end Friday. If so, Island residents, property owners and elected officials will know the fate of the two vacation rental bills on or before Cinco de Mayo.

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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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MAY 3, 2017

EDITORIAL Reading between the lines

O

ne of the protestors at the Aqua by the Bay rally on Saturday voiced a concern that’s being discussed at bars, on beaches and in boats: “How do they get away with changing the rules in the middle of the game?”

The state of Florida and Manatee County have laws regulating development, mangrove trimming and destruction, dredge and fill operations and seawall construction.

Yet, at Aqua by the Bay, it appears that height restrictions don’t matter. Mangroves can be trimmed, and potentially destroyed, without permits. “Excavation” is substituted for “dredging” in project reports, “retaining wall” is substituted for “seawall,” “Enhancement area” is substituted for “borrow pit,” and everyone nods and winks that the two are different.

Aqua’s plan to excavate dry land landward of the mangroves and create an “enhancement area” will leave a two-mile strip of mangroves with water on both sides of them. That’s not how those mangroves are growing – they are attached to land on one side, with roots in the water on the other side.

The county staff report states that the enhancement area’s construction could cause sediment transfer, which could undermine the mangroves at their roots, then inexplicably recommends that the county commission approve the plan.

It’s almost as though a page is missing from the report that would tie the two contradictory statements together.

But all the pages are there. Apparently, you have to read between the lines to determine what the report really means.

That flies in the face of the public’s First Amendment right to know.

The Sun’s request for information from the county to explain several apparent inconsistencies in the report was met with a demand for written questions last month, an unusual requirement, but not unreasonable. However, the reply to the written questions was unreasonable - since the project is pending before the commission, no one on the staff is allowed to respond to the questions.

If you can’t get the answers to questions before the decision is made, what good is it to get the answers later?

If everything in the plan is open, legal and aboveboard, why wouldn’t commissioners simply answer the questions of a newspaper, or Saturday’s protestors, or those of the people who are going to pack the county commission chambers in downtown Bradenton on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.?

Certainly a lot is at stake for the private property owners who have a right develop their land. But a lot is at stake for the commercial fishermen, recreational boaters, tourists who love to see the highly-touted “Old Florida,” and the county’s electorate.

We encourage commissioners to do the right thing and address the concerns of the people with honest, complete answers to their questions, including, “How can they change the rules in the middle of the game?”

Because if the game is fixed, the masquerade needs to stop before we lose this natural treasure.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR limit – A trip with the grandkids I picked up the grandkids for a week’s vacation and thought I would start at a nice motel on the way to Florida. I told the kids, “We are on vacation, so have fun for the week.”

The motel had a nice pool with all the water features and the kids could not wait to head to the pool. They were “just being kids” when the motel management told us the yelling and screaming had to stop and the noodles had to be put away.

I explained that we were from Holmes Beach, Florida, and that our police chief says that kind of conduct is okay until 10 p.m. We were told to pack up our things and leave; or abide by their rules.

I went on the Internet and found a house in a residential neighborhood on the coast of Florida that had a big pool with a jumping platform, waterfall, and slide. I rented it for a week and turned the kids loose in the pool. After about an hour, the police showed up and told us we had to be quiet because we were in a residential neighborhood and the kids were being too loud.

I promptly asked what the decimal reading was and what their limit is. The officer said they didn’t use a decimal reader and the code states that if you’re bothering the peace and quiet of others it must stop.

I explained that we had just got there and the kids had only been playing for about an hour. He said their city commission passed a noise ordinance and they must carry out the law. I told him we were from Holmes Beach, our commission has a noise ordinance, and the police chief has his own set of rules.

They take a decimal reading – which curiously is always below the legal

Take The Sun Survey on Page 7.

and no matter how loud the people are they can have fun until 10 p.m. The chief does not follow the rules about peace, quiet and the respect of others; or the other criteria the commission has enacted as law for controlling noise.

The police officer at our current vacation site stated that if we did not quiet down, we would be cited. And if it continued, we would be evicted. Did this really happen? Kids were told to have respect for others and follow the law?

I guess we should hire the police chief from this other community to enforce the laws that the Holmes Beach Commission has written; and replace “Tokajer Law” with what should be done.

Dick Motzer Holmes Beach

Save the fishing village Editor's note: This letter originally was addressed to the Manatee County Board of Commissioners.

I live in the 130-year-old Cortez commercial fishing village. In fact, I live on the Sarasota Bay Shore lot of the first tract of land bought in Cortez by my then-20-year-old-grandfather. This is about 47th Avenue so I can look across to 53rd Avenue where Long Bar's proposed development is to be taking place. I will actually see that 14-story building if it goes up there. I can also see it if the 100-year storm in 2021 crashes it into the bay.

There is no doubt in anybody's mind but that this development will have a very detrimental effect on the fishing industry. I should like you county commissioners to consider the fact we're not just talking about preserva-

tion of the fishing industries in Cortez.

I wish you to consider the economic impact on Manatee County. Did you know that there are two big millionsdollar wholesale businesses here?

That there are two places where you can buy ready-to-cook seafood and 10 restaurants where people come every day? Down 119th Street with the two that are down there it is estimated they have 1,700 eating at the restaurants there. On a daily basis down 123rd right in front of my house going to Star Fish there's at least 800 people a day who go there to eat. Consider then then those who eat at O'Shucks, the Cortez Café and the new restaurant there that used to be the pizza place, then there is Tide Tables and the Seafood Shack - you have at least another 1,000. We are talking about close to 3,500 people a day who come into this little village to eat fish. Is that not an impact on the tourism in Manatee County and the economy?

People come to visit Manatee County and they like the seafood .They come to Cortez where they are going to get fresh from Florida seafood. You must not in doing your duty allow this development to take place which would have such an impact on the fishing. As you know, those little mullet that are spawned out in the Gulf come right back to their home to grow and they grow among the mangroves.

They have to have the freshwater with no red tide. As you know, 80 percent of the habitats for fishing have been destroyed already by development and thousands of pounds of fish are destroyed from the red tide.

Certainly you are aware of the fact that people who come here who want SEE LETTERS, PAGE 7

WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MAY 3, 2017

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on the agenda

the sun survey

PREVIOUS QUESTION: What should the County Commission do with the proposed Aqua by the Bay (Long Bar Pointe) project?

83%

Reject it because of the environmental damage it will do.

3%

Ask Carl Hiaasen to write a book about it.

Anna Maria 10005 Gulf Drive.

5/9: Planing and Zoning Board Commission meeting, 4 p.m.

5/11: City Commission special meeting, 6 p.m.

5/25: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

9%

5/3: CRA meeting, 10 a.m.

5/3: Pier Team meeting, 11 a.m.

5/3: Scenic WAVES Committee meeting, 3 p.m.

5/4: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

5/9: City Commission workshop, noise ordinance, 1 p.m.

5/11: Department Head meeting, 1 p.m.

5/18: City Commission meeting, 12 p.m.

5/23: Special City Commis-

Approve it if all required permits are obtained.

5%

7

Carefully read the entire staff report on it, listen to critics and supporters, then decide.

sion workshop, CRA plan, 9:30 a.m.

5/23: City Commission workshop, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive.

5/3: Parks and Beautification Committee meeting, 10 a.m.

5/3: Planning Commission meeting, 7 p.m.

5/9: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

5/11: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

5/18: Public Works Community Forum, 6 p.m.

5/23: City Commission meeting, 6 p.m.

5/25: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7085800.

Island-wide

5/17: Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall, 2 p.m.

mark your calendar

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY Do you favor additional funding from the three AMI cities to support the Center of Anna Maria Island (formerly the Community Center)?

• Yes. The Center is a vital part of Island life, history and culture and deserves our support.

• No, The Center should make it on its own without tax dollar subsidies.

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

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Thursday May 4

Wednesday May 3

Kayaking for first timers, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th Street NW, Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Reserve to 941-742-5757, ext. 7.

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

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

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

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

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

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 8

LETTERS

Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Tom Vaught

Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis Ad director Chantelle Lewin

Ad assistants Chris Boniberger Sue Otto

Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz

Classified ads Bob Alexander

Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Web/Social media Jocelyn V. Greene

Contributors Pat Copeland Steve Borggren Sean Murphy Monica Simpson

FROM PAGE 6 the lush green lawns, not Florida grass, have to have fertilizer on them. It is the nitrogen that creates the production of the little red tide plant that emits the gas that is killing the fish. In my 92 years of living I can recall years back where there were many scallops in our bay – that's how we teenagers made our money – and how we had many fish and we never had red tide. The development means destruction of fish habitats and more – red tide, much traffic and changes to a way of life.

Save the Cortez fishing village. This has been long but then be glad I am not appearing before you to say all this. I urge you to do the right thing., Mary Fulford Green, Ed.D. Cortez

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mark your calendar From Page 7

Saturday May 6

1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Reiki II with Virginia Steagall, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., $50. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

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

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

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

Refreshments available for purchase.

Oyster Extravaganza habitat restoration, Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Register at www. eventbrite.com/e/oyster-extravaganza-atperico-preserve-tickets-33600321466.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493.

Patron Appreciation Day, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 to 4 p.m.

Friday

May 7

May 5

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

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

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

Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

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

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

Learn to knit, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 3:30 p.m. Preregistration required. Call 941-778-6341.

Wednesday May 10

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

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

Brain health forum, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd floor, Longboat Key, 10 a.m., $10. Lunch provided. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

Coloring Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, noon.

Chess Club, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 4 p.m.

Monday

Thursday

Sunday

May 8

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

Tuesday May 9

Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine

May 11 Boomer Boot camp, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m. One class, $15; five classes, $65; 10 classes, $100.

Zumba for beginners, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 10 to 10:45 a.m.,

MAY 3, 2017

$10 per class. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

American contract bridge league, open pairs duplicate bridge games, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1 to 4 p.m., $11 per game with snacks included. Reserve to maryannbrady@aginginparadise.org or 941383-6493.

Reiki II with Virginia Steagall, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, second floor, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., $50. Reserve to maryannbrady@ aginginparadise.org or 941-383-6493.

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

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

Refreshments available for purchase.

Friday May 12

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

Bridge refresher class, Aging in Paradise Resource Center, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, 2nd Floor, Longboat Key, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., $10, includes coffee and cookies. Reserve to maryannbrady@

www.amisun.com

MAY 3, 2017

THE SUN

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Going green for Arbor Day

Kristin Swain | Sun

Representatives from Keep Manatee Beautiful, the Florida Forest Service and Anna Maria Public Works join Mayor Dan Murphy and Commissioner Carol Carter in planting five green buttonwood trees April 28 near the Anna Maria City Pier in honor of National Arbor Day. The trees were provided by donations to Keep Manatee Beautiful from the Osceola Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Kristin Swain | Sun

From left: Binky Rogers, Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon, Scenic WAVES Chair Tjet Martin, Florida Forest Service representatives Mike Keegan and Eric Strickland, Ingrid McClellan of Keep Manatee Beautiful and Gayden Shell celebrate planting three live oak trees at Lou Barolo Park in Bradenton Beach. The planting was funded by the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency.

Kristin Swain | Sun

From left: Commissioners Carol Soustek and Marvin Grossman join Florida Forest Service representative Mike Keegan, Mayor Bob Johnson and Parks and Beautification Committee members Sharon Randall and Zan Fuller, along with Ingrid McClellan of Keep Manatee Beautiful at the Holmes Beach city basketball court to celebrate the planting of five silver buttonwood trees and 12 Texas sage in a raised berm adjacent to the court and parking area. The trees were funded by donations to Keep Manatee Beautiful from Ellenton Nursery Growers and Modern Woodmen of America.

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MAY 3, 2017

Campaign contributions to Manatee County commissioners Six Manatee County commissioners have received at least $30,500 in total campaign contributions from Aqua by the Bay developers Carlos Beruff, Larry Lieberman, their related companies, or principals in their related companies.

Priscilla Whisenant Trace, District 1 TOTAL Charles B. Smith, District 2 Barrington Group Larry Lieberman

TOTAL cindy lane | SUN

Protestors gathered on Saturday to oppose several aspects of the proposed Aqua by the Bay project, scheduled for a decision by Manatee County commissioners on Thursday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m.

aqua: Protestors voice numerous concerns FROM PAGE 1

to a Cultural Resource Assessment Survey conducted by Janus Research.

Some wondered how two Manatee County commissioners who formerly worked with project developer Carlos Beruff could be voting to approve or deny the project on Sarasota Bay on Thursday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the commission chambers, 1112 Manatee Avenue W., Bradenton.

Cortez resident, business owner and former Commissioner Jane von Hahmann discussed current Commissioner Steve Jonsson’s 2011 affiliation with Beruff, as co-manager of Gold Medallion LLC. In 2004, Commissioner Betsy Benac worked as a consultant for SBC Development, headed by Beruff’s current business partner Larry Lieberman, when he planned to construct the previouslyproposed project for then-owner Manatee Fruit Co. The highest buildings in that project were six stories.

Unless the commissioners stand to gain financially from Aqua, they are required by law to vote on the project, von Hahmann said, “but they should be especially careful given their past association.”

Six of the seven commissioners, including Jonsson and Benac, have accepted at least $30,500 in campaign contributions from Beruff and his business associates (see related story).

But the big topic of the day was mangroves.

Florida Statutes protect mangroves and require permits for their trimming or destruction. Commercial fisherman Mark Coarsey recently took photographs of the two-milelong pristine mangrove fringe on the east side the Aqua property, showing mangroves that had recently been extensively cut. He asked the Florida Department of Environmental Protection whether a permit had been issued. DEP responded that no permit had been issued as of the protest date. Requests by The Sun to DEP for more information went unanswered.

A former DEP employee that criticized the agency’s handling of the project was demoted from environmental administrator, a position she had held since the 1990s, to environmental consultant, according to Politico.com magazine.

Connie Bersok, a 30-year veteran of DEP, issued a memo for the project’s permit application that described her review of its proposed mitigation bank. The memo was never distributed by her superiors, then she was demoted, she told the magazine.

"That was the first indication that he (Beruff) was going to control what was done with that project," she told Politico. "That was the clue. And things sort of went downhill from there."

Stephen R. Jonsson, District 3 B Squared Ranch LLC Barrington Group Best Prize Property LLC CMB Holdings LLC Cargor Partners III Charlie Michaels Inc. Cottages of Twin Rivers LLC I-75 Office Park LLC Jacbo LLC Larry Lieberman Lisa Lieberman Sarasota University Groves LLC Charles Tokarz

TOTAL

Robin DiSabatino, District 4

cindy lane | SUN

Barrington Group Carlos Beruff Cargor Partners III Cargor Partners IV Cargor Partners VI CMB Holdings LLC Larry Lieberman Medallion Homes Gulf Coast Medallion Realty LLC SBC Developments LLLP Savannah Preserve Inc.

Representatives of the Council of the Original Miccosukee Simanolee Nation, Aboriginal People of Florida joined the protest Saturday; an “archeological area” on the project may be related to Native Americans.

TOTAL

Cut mangrove branches have been dumped illegally in the bay, Coarsey said. Fishermen depend on the bay, known in the Cortez fishing village as the kitchen, for the propagation of marine life; juvenile species, including sea turtles, grow in the shelter of mangrove roots along the bay’s coastline.

A Democratic Club flyer inviting people to the protest points out that the developers propose dredging a lagoon and building a seawall landward of the mangroves, which will then suffer from erosion.

Holmes Beach Commissioner Jean Peelen forwarded the flyer in an e-mail, writing, “This transcends party lines.”

At the protest, she held a sign saying, “Stop! Beruff is rich enough.”

The Sun’s written questions on inconsistencies in a county staff report on the mangroves and other issues were answered briefly by John Barnott, director of the Manatee County Building and Development Services Department in an e-mail stating, “This is an active hearing and I cannot allow staff to discuss most of this with anyone.”

To contact county commissioners about the project, call 941-748-4501 or visit https://www.mymanatee.org/home/ government/board-of-commissioners.html for their e-mail addresses.

TOTAL

Vanessa Baugh, District 5 CMB Holdings LLC Medallion Homes

Chairman Betsy Benac, At Large Barrington Group Cargor CM Property Investments Inc. Cargor Partners III Cargor Partners VI Charlie Michaels Inc. Larry Lieberman

TOTAL

$0 $1,000 $1,000

$2,000

$1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $500

$12,500

$500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500

$5,500

$500 $500

$1,000

$1,000 $500 $500 $500 $500 $1,000

$4,000

Carol Whitmore, At Large

Barrington Group $2,000 ($1,000 refunded) $1,000 Larry Lieberman $2,500 ($1,000 refunded) $1,500 Long Bar Pointe Inc. $500 Long Bar Point – Seagrass Phase $500 Medallion Realty LLC $500 Savannah Preserve $1,000 ($500 refunded) $500 SBC Developments LLLP $2,000 ($1,000 refunded) $1,000

TOTAL GRAND TOTAL

$5,500 $30,500

Sources: Manatee County Supervisor of Elections Office, Florida Division of Corporations

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MAY 3, 2017

THE SUN

Voices of protest “The issue

“The fish nursery is

“Cortez relies on

“We need to

transcends party

a valuable part of

the bay, and we

preserve the

lines.”

our economy.”

rely on them.”

shoreline, that’s

Jean Peelen

Peelen

Gerry Swormstedt

Swormstedt

Sue Kersey

Kersey

why people come

McDonald

to Florida.”

“It’s such a shame.”

“Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

“Don’t destroy paradise.”

Mary and Joe, Bradenton

Bill, east Manatee County

Patty Parmann, Bradenton

“Don’t be a Carlos”

“How do they

“We need quality of life, not

Katie Tupin

get away with

just a fast buck.”

changing the rules

Dan Young, Whitfield

Tupin

in the middle of the

“I’m horrified about the

game?”

mangroves.”

Mary Onna Bode

Charlotte, Sarasota

Bodi

Guna McDonald

“We need to save our coast from development.

Let them go to the middle of the state.”

Nancy Luse

Luse

11

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Center to host karate tourney It’s a first for The Center of Anna Maria Island.

The Center is hosting the first Kids Karate Island Championship 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, May 6, with co-hosts Gladiator Dojo and Sensei Omar Schwanzer.

The tournament is open to children

ages 4 to 12 years old. The cost is $10 to participate. Medals and certificates will be awarded to competition winners. In addition to the competition, various martial arts demonstrations by students from area dojos also will be showcased. Attendance is free.

3RD ANNUAL

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941.794.1235 ADULTS

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* * 95 95 $34. $14.

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13

Committee sets bridge preferences The Anna Maria Island Bridge Aesthetics Committee’s preferences will be considered by bridge designers.

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

BRADENTON – After a series of meetings dating back to last June, a committee of Florida Department of Transportation bridge engineers, representatives of Bradenton and the three Island cities and citizens finished recommendations for the way a replacement for the Anna Maria Island Bridge will look.

The committee finalized the choices that will be used as a guideline for designing the new 65-foot clearance fixed-span bridge that will take the place of the current drawbridge, although there is no money in the state budget for the design phase.

The first series of choices were mudline footings to support the bridge with no platform around them at the waterline and sunshine infill panel railings in metal safety fence sections. Committee members chose to forego scenic overlooks on the bridge for safety reasons.

They chose turtle impressions on the support piers and wall impressions on the walls of the bridge. The committee preferred a beach getaway theme over

an old Florida design.

They also listed preferences for landscaping leading to the bridge approaches. They wanted a mixture of trees in both groupings and straight lines and deferred on shrubs and ground cover plantings.

The cities of Holmes Beach and Bradenton would be responsible for maintaining the landscape on each end of the bridge and engineers consulted with public works officials from each.

They approved the use of royal palms, sabal palms, Geiger trees and buttonwoods for both ends. They agreed to provide irrigation for the first year after the trees are planted.

The city of Holmes Beach prefers

using concrete leg benches that will be on the landings of the west end of the bridge instead of recycled plastic that was recommended by Bradenton Beach Mayor Bill Shearon. Bradenton also chose not to have trash receptacles to avoid having to empty them while Holmes Beach preferred the metal receptacles and benches The committee and cities agreed to colored concrete for walkways instead of paver bricks.

The committee members will hold a public information meeting later this year or early next year, and they hope there will be a budget for the design phase of the bridge by then.

CENTER: Holmes Beach disappoints leadership FROM PAGE 4

According to Crady, the vacationers using the Center’s fitness facilities instead of her gym is having a significant negative impact on her business.

“It’s killing us,” she said.

Crady said she supports the Center and believes it should have a fitness center, but tapping into the shortterm rental market was “unfair.”

While Center leadership maintains there is no formal vacation rental program or agreements for use of the fitness center, two Island realty companies, Sato Real Estate and AMI Accommodations, have an informal agreement with the nonprofit.

Vacationers staying at properties managed by the two companies are allowed to go to the Center to use its facilities. The management companies are invoiced for each use at the $10 daily rate.

In an April 26 e-mail, Lessig said the amount of day passes sold is negligible, with $6,800 paid by the two rental companies since the beginning of the fiscal year in July.

“The renters generate little income,” Froeschle said.

Titsworth asked Froeschle and Lessig if the nonprofit would be willing to give up the revenue from the rental industry in exchange for a commitment of more money from the city. “That’s the biggest objection we get from the community, that you’re taking business away from the local gyms,” she said.

Lessig said because there’s no formal agreement with the rental agencies, going to them and asking passes for the two Island gyms be included in their offerings to renters or passes for the Center be discontinued was out of the question. “I cannot tell someone how to run their business,” she said.

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Froeschle said he would be uncomfortable shutting off one of the Center’s revenue streams due to a projected year end loss of more than $200,000 for the nonprofit.

Froeschle said he would be uncomfortable shutting off one of the Center’s revenue streams due to a projected year end loss of more than $200,000 for the nonprofit. As of March 31, the Center reported a $190,000 loss for the year, ending June 30, due to less support from local governments and lower payouts from fundraisers coupled with high overhead costs. At the end of March the fitness center had generated $74,500 in income with $100,500 in direct and indirect expenses, leaving the program operating at a loss.

Center supporters and staff gath-

ered at the meeting left city hall before the vote, uttering comments including “disgusting,” “despicable,” and “you should be ashamed of yourselves,” directed at commissioners.

“I’m really disappointed the commission won’t support the community center,” Titsworth said before the vote, which passed unanimously.

Commissioners agreed to consider additional future funding for the Center, possibly targeted toward support of youth programs, if presented with a plan from the nonprofit.

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15

Pier design firm on hot seat A meeting scheduled for Monday afternoon was expected to impact whether WGI’s design and engineering services would be retained.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – The Wantman Group Inc. (WGI) and its affiliate, CB&I Engineering, are in jeopardy of losing the right to serve as the design and permitting firm for the rehabilitation of the city pier.

During last week’s Anna Maria Commission meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy told commissioners he met with WGI representatives twice already and had a third meeting scheduled for the afternoon of Monday, May 1.

Murphy first met with the WGI in early March, after that firm was ranked highest among the three that responded to the city’s request for

proposals (RFP) for the initial design and permitting phases of what is expected to be a $2 million rehabilitation project.

“I gave them eight deliverables that the city wanted before we could get into the negotiations phase. They came back on April 4 and of the eight we requested, we got three. The other five issues still remain open,” Murphy said.

He told the commission he wanted PERT charts (Program Evaluation Review Technique) that clarify scheduling, organization and project coordination. He also wants cost estimates for the construction of the pier, preliminary engineering for the replacement of the restaurant and bait shop structures and details on the permitting process.

“Those are pretty critical items to this project,” Murphy said.

“When we first started this effort we estimated $200,000 for the planning and permitting phase. They came in with

joe hendricks | SUN

Mayor Dan Murphy and City Commissioner Nancy Yetter call into question WGI’s performance thus far. a draft proposal of $250,000.

As a result of my first meeting with them, the bill came up to a little more than $300,000.

We haven’t started negotiating at this point. The negotiations will come after the May 1 meeting – that’s when I’ll come to you with their proposal,” Murphy said.

“This has gone on way too long, and we are to the point where we need to make some substantive decisions. Things are not copasetic on this

process so far. Deadlines are missed; items we requested are missed,” he added.

Commissioner Brian Seymour asked Murphy if the WGI representatives were aware that this was their last chance. Murphy said they were.

“I’ve expressed my disappointment twice. A PERT chart to me is fundamental for a project of this size,” Murphy said.

Commissioner Nancy Yetter

also expressed concerns about the firm’s performance.

“It worries me. Even if they meet the next deadline, they certainly haven’t proven themselves at this point, so I would have very little faith in any future dealings with them,” she said.

“I share that. We are in a honeymoon phase, and it’s kind of a rocky start,” Murphy replied.

“And the monetary increases just because we asked for verifiable charts and timelines.

It’s a bit ridiculous,” Seymour added.

Murphy said he would bring the matter back for commission discussion on Thursday, May 11.

If WGI is jettisoned, the firm that ranked second in the RFP evaluation process would get the next shot at being the city’s pier design firm. That would be Sarasotabased Taylor Engineering and their affiliate Sweet Sparkman Architects.

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17

Mothers Day

BY SEAN MURPHY SPECIAL TO THE SUN

P

eople ask me if my mom taught me how to cook.

Truth is my mom was a lovely person, but she could not cook

worth a dam.

Mom was Irish Catholic. She clung to the Irish cookbook like she clung to her rosary.

The Irish Cookbook is the world’s smallest book.

“Take everything that walks, swims or flies across the face of the earth and boil the living bejeezus out of it.”

Mom was a disciple of the Irish Cookbook one pot school. Put all the stuff in one pot.

Put the lid on. Boil until the grey scummy foam comes out under the lid.

Plate it up.

We had a lot of gray-white dinners.

Potatoes, cod and cauliflower boiled together. Haddock, onions and potatoes boiled together. Chicken, onions and potatoes boiled together.

The plates looked religious in and of themselves, Sorrowful Mysteries.

My little brother was a schemer.

Boiled cod tasted pretty bad, but if you wanted to watch TV, you had to eat it. He would hide his fish in his milk.

Drink half his milk, break up the fish and slide it right in there.

I couldn’t bring myself to turn him in. I was afraid of him. He was an evil little tike.

With a particularly malevolent hiss he warned, “Tell, and I will break everything you own”.

He finally did. All of the holy statues on my dresser, all of the little balsa airplanes hanging from the ceiling, hockey trophies, all busted up and crushed together in a pile mixed with underwear in the middle of the room.

Looked like Berlin in ‘45.

He eventually went to work for the Canadian CIA.

The outcast from the Irish Cookbook sorority was my aunt Irene - “Reney” was the affectionate short form.

Reney was a food angel. Her food was a flavorful wonder, a profound revelation. She used garlic when her sisters regarded onions with suspicion.

She had a spice rack and used it.

Aunt Reney became the original Emeril – the first TV chef.

She began as the grocery-store-ladywho-gave-out-samples. You’ve seen them – the ladies at Publix cooking up little weenies in the electric frying pan.

Aunt Reney got a part time job sampling out Chinese food in the corner grocery.

We’d all get together at aunt Reney’s and make egg rolls. The next day she would slice them and stick them with picks and give them away at the grocery store.

As it turned out, Reney was the best damn Chinese-food-grocery-store-lady for miles, and somebody in marketing thought it might be neat if they had her actually cook the egg rolls on TV. Aunt

Reney became Chef Rhee-Nee – a little make up, one of those silk Chinese jackets from the costume store, some umbrellas and a couple of Chinese lanterns.

The show had a good run and then some TV genius decided that cheffing on TV was never really going to catch on.

Why would anyone watch someone cooking on TV? On Mothers’ Day I am going to watch happy families celebrating a special brunch at Eat Here and mothers sipping free champagne at the Bistro and complimentary sexy cocktails at the Doctors’ Office.

I am going to be thankful to my mom for a great many things, but I will be thinking of aunt Reney’s egg rolls.

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

18

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MAY 3, 2017

Trees increasing but protection still needed

BY INGRID MCCLELLAN, M.A., M.Ed., M.S. Executive Director, Keep Manatee Beautiful

A

n Urban and Community Forestry Grant of $7,322, funded by the U.S. Forest Service, has been awarded to Keep Manatee Beautiful to update the Manatee County Tree Canopy Analysis – a Comparison of 20042014.

The original analysis was done in 2010. The analysis update is completed just in time for National Arbor Day on April 28.

The analysis update was conducted for each study year (2004, 2009, 2014) on each of the six municipalities in Manatee County (Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key - the portion within Manatee County - and Palmetto) and in unincorporated Manatee County, which does not lie within any of the six municipal boundaries.

Aerial photographs for these three study years were acquired from the Southwest Florida Water Management District data library to use to measure the acreage of tree canopy. Scientists used iTree Landscape software developed by the USDA Forest Service to assign

GUEST COLUMN ecological and economic values to the canopy within three benefit areas: carbon storage and sequestration, air quality (air pollutant removal) and stormwater runoff reduction. With the iTree Landscape software, Manatee County and local municipalities can accurately identify communities in most need of trees and maintain existing trees routinely.

Conclusions

The conclusion of the analysis update was that Manatee County’s tree canopy has fluctuated from 26 percent in 2004 to 39 percent in 2009 then to 32 percent in 2014.

These percentages include invasive tree species.

Although Manatee County’s tree canopy has increased since 2004, with a tree canopy covering 32 percent of its land area, Manatee County is behind in meeting the 40 percent target set by American Forests for urban tree coverage.

Unincorporated areas have canopy coverage of 32 percent, which is an increase of 6 percent

since 2004.Manatee County’s incorporated areas have a combined urban forest cover of 32 percent.

Canopy coverage in four of Manatee County’s six cities, including its two largest, has increased since 2004 (Palmetto, Longboat Key, Bradenton, Anna Maria).

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

Recommendations

Development impacts the tree canopy. Larger trees are removed and replaced with smaller trees or trees are removed altogether in exchange for a fee. As Manatee County continues to increase in developed area, the overall tree canopy may be jeopardized.

Recommendations identified in the analysis to be shared with local governments are: • Re-create the two Urban Forest Manager positions that were eliminated within Manatee County’s Public Works Department as well as Building and Development Services Department, and place it in the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department.

This department was chosen because they currently manage other resources, such as air, water quality, preserves, beach renourSEE TREES, PAGE 22

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MAY 3, 2017

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20

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MAY 3, 2017

Families need The Center Despite its financial woes, The Center plays a vital role for Island families.

“We first rented a home because we were not sure we wanted to live in a town of mostly renters and vacationers. We felt our children needed a neighborhood and stable friendships. The first couple months were lonely, and we started looking at homes in Bradenton and Sarasota. Miss Debbie from Anna Maria Elementary suggested I contact The Center. A little over 18 months ago, we bought a home in Holmes Beach. If not for the community center, we would not be living on this Island.”

Joined by her husband Anthony and son Dalton, The Center’s Youth Director Stephanie Rycerz said, “This is my son.

We are members of the community center because I took him to flag football practice, and I made friends there. We would have left if we had not made friends and made those personal connections.”

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Impassioned pleas from staff and supporters helped convince the City Commission to provide $18,600 in previously-budgeted taxpayer funds to support The Center’s youth programs. The city also leases The Center its property for $1 a year.

The Center’s role in retaining permanent residents was stressed during the Thursday, April 26, meeting.

“Our youth programs have reached over 400 children,” Director Center Kristen Lessig said.

Lessig, a Holmes Beach resident, acknowledged the Center’s financial struggles, but also addressed the role it plays for Island families whose neighborhoods are populated by vacation rentals and homes devoid of children.

“That community center is their community. My daughter does not have kids on her street to play with. She comes to that community center because she wants to play with her friends,” Lessig said.

An Anna Maria teen named Bolton said, “I used to live in Texas. I lived in a neighborhood, and I had friends down the street. I don’t really have that here; the community center gives me that. There’s not really that many fun places to hang out on the Island for teenagers.”

Bradenton resident Robert Baugh, the

joe hendricks | SUN

Joined by her husband Anthony and son Dalton, Stephanie Rycerz discusses the Center’s importance to her family. new chief operating officer for the Chiles Restaurant Group, said the transitory nature of his career previously made it hard for his three kids to build lasting friendships.

“They spend a lot of time at the community center, and they’ve built some very personal relationships that I hold near and dear. I hear about families moving off. If you want more of us to come back into the community, we have to have something besides just work,” he said.

Holding her daughter Xyza, Nikkiah Jaworski said, “The community center for

me as a single mom has been essential to raising my daughter here.”

Sam Pakbaz said, “When we moved here about a year and half ago, our two boys were pretty lonely. We’re at The Center four, five times a week. We would not be in this city today if wasn’t for The Center. If you want families with kids on this Island, you’ve got to give them a place to meet.

If you don’t, we’re gonna go to Sarasota, we’re gonna go to Bradenton.”

Colleen McCarthy read a letter penned by her husband Sean, a retired New York City Police officer.

Financial considerations

Before the commission’s unanimous vote of support, Commissioner Carol Carter expressed concerns about youth programs operating with a $114,000 deficit in the current fiscal year, with $86,000 in administrative costs.

“We cannot charge nearly what it costs to run the programs. Just to open the doors of that Center we lose $115,000; that’s no staff included,” Lessig said.

The commission agreed to discuss an increased level of support when creating its annual budget this summer.

As she left city hall, Lessig said, “The leadership of Anna Maria has shown their support.”

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21

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joe hendricks | SUN

Left turn lane a must Led by Vice Mayor John Chappie, the Bradenton Beach Commission recently instructed Mayor Bill Shearon to carry forward the message that it will not support any Cortez Road redesign that does not allow westbound traffic to turn left at 119th Street West. The commission directed Shearon to state this position during future Island Transportation Planning Organization discussions and other public forums in which he represents the commission and the city on this issue.

22

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MAY 3, 2017

FDOT to host Cortez Road project meeting For everyone who has an opinion on the proposed changes to the Cortez Road and 119th Street intersection, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is ready to listen.

FDOT is hosting a public meeting to discuss and get input on the proposed safety project 5 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, May 9, at the Cortez Road Baptist Church, 4411 100th St. W., Bradenton.

At the meeting, department representatives will share the four options being considered for the intersection and receive public input on the preferred choices.

The options under consideration are to leave the intersection as-is, remove the traffic signal completely, realign the intersection using a segment of property reserved for the Florida Maritime Museum, or modify the intersection to prevent

left turns west bound on Cortez from 119th Street South.

Another option, to restrict left turn lanes southbound onto 119th Street from Cortez Road was scrapped due to public outcry against the project.

Comments on the project also can be emailed to Traffic Safety Program Engineer David Wheeler at david.wheeler@dot.state.fl.us or Richard Howard at richard.howard@dot.state.fl.us.

TREES: Still need protection FROM PAGE 18

ishment, manatee protection, artificial reefs, boating safety and aids to navigation. The role of the Urban Forest Managers would be to coordinate the county staff with tree protection and maintenance roles, oversee the tree removal permitting processes, and play a lead role in invasive plant removal and mangrove protection.

• Governments and developers need to ensure that new developments incorporate both appropriate landscape vegetation in new projects as well as preservation of existing tree communities to provide positive environmental benefits to residents.

• Tree protection is important in any community, and the

landscape codes for each municipality and the county should reflect a commitment to preserve mature trees and to plant new trees when developing new projects. Public trees (street trees, median trees and park trees) must be properly maintained by maintenance staff. Trees within private property should also be protected by the landscape code.

Property owners should be educated about the importance of a substantial, healthy tree canopy, which includes all of the trees in the county, including those on private lands. Trees that are removed from both private and public lands should be replaced with enough trees so that there is no net loss of total tree canopy.

• Urban areas can also greatly benefit from revitalization proj-

ects that conserve existing trees and introduce new trees into streetscapes with few or no trees.

Studies have shown that because trees create a positive environment that attracts and welcomes consumers, pedestrians tend to shop and linger longer along tree-lined streets.

When analyzed in 2009 for carbon sequestration and storage, air pollutant removal and stormwater management, Manatee County’s tree canopy provided the equivalent $230,662,176 in environmental benefits to its residents. These positive results reinforce the need for Manatee County to protect and increase the area of its tree canopy, as well as justify the costs associated with managing trees as a resource.

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MAY 3, 2017

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23

Code Enforcement to continue as interim crossing guards City code enforcement officers happy to pitch in and help as school crossing guards

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

HOLMES BEACH — Code enforcement officers are helping out as crossing guards at Anna Maria Elementary School, despite commission concerns.

During the April 25 meeting, Commissioner Jean Peelen expressed concern that using code enforcement officers as crossing guards instead of Holmes Beach police officers is placing an added strain on the two-person team.

“Code enforcement has about 800 units to inspect along with their other

duties and a two-person staff,” Peelen said. “I cannot imagine it’s a good use of resources.”

She suggested training community members to be crossing guards while the HBPD provided school resource officer is absent.

Code Enforcement Officer James Thomas addressed Peelen’s concerns, saying that despite the long list of tasks facing himself and Code Enforcement Officer Nate Brown, the two enjoying being able to help out their fellow officers.

“We never say ‘no’,” he said. “We try to pitch in whenever we’re needed.”

Additionally, Thomas said working in the mornings and afternoons as crossing guards on Gulf Drive helps to identify potential code enforcement

issues, such as unlicensed lawn care providers and contractors coming into Holmes Beach. Working as a crossing guard takes less than an hour in the morning and afternoon away from his regular duties on days when it’s needed, Thomas said.

In Holmes Beach, code enforcement functions as an arm of the police department.

Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said the contributions of the code enforcement officers to assist the police department were greatly appreciated, especially in a time when several officers are absent.

“Code enforcement works as a part of our team,” he said. “Police officers are just important as code enforcement officers.”

Commissioner Pat Morton said he didn’t take issue with code enforcement officers pitching in to help out as school crossing guards.

“They’re down there seeing a lot of things we don’t see,” he said. “That’s a precious thing.”

“I love seeing our happy code enforcement officers out there with our cute little kids,” Commissioner Judy Titsworth said.

Thomas said he appreciated Peelen’s concerns and appreciation of the job code enforcement does in the city. He added that HBPD officers work in conjunction with code enforcement, each filling in for the other when necessary.

“We’re a team,” he said.

New faces form Center board Amidst community scrutiny, new board members flock to Center.

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

The Center of Anna Maria Island’s board of directors’ roster is filling up quickly.

After months of searching for new candidates to fill vacancies, new board members are popping up frequently at the nonprofit’s monthly meetings.

The board welcomed three new members April 26 in a unanimous vote — Emma Stringer, David Zaccagnino and Don Purvis. The three new members join Margie Shard and Frank Agnelli who were added to the board during a previous meeting April 3.

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The new additions bring the board of directors’ numbers up to 17 members.

“These people all bring good qualities to the board,” said board Treasurer Jim Froeschle. “They’re not just names.”

Shard and Zaccagnino bring financial management knowledge to the monetarily struggling nonprofit.

Purvis and Agnelli are both experienced business owners. Additionally, Purvis was a professional athlete in Germany before relocating to Holmes Beach with his family. Stringer also has business experience along with marketing know-how.

“I really appreciate everyone who’s running to the Center,” board member Ed Chiles said.

Other board members include Scott Dean, Sean Flynn, Rex Hagen, Karen Harllee, Patty McBean, Pete

These people all bring good qualities to the board. They're not just names.

Jim Froeschle Center board treasurer Paciorek, Sam Pakbaz, Lindsay Sauls, Mike Thrasher and Chair Bill Shuman.

24

MAY 3, 2017

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MAY 3, 2017

941.779.2337 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK 5344 3 GULF DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH

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THE SUN

OUTDOORS

MAY 3, 2017

Against the wind W

hen anglers encounter a perfect day on the water, they can be understandably elated. Why? Well, it just doesn’t happen that often.

More likely than not there will be some weather to endure. Rain, clouds and high or low temperatures can make fishing challenging, but of all the weather conditions, the wind can be the most daunting.

The wind makes for an uncomfortable ride in a boat, tests an angler’s casting ability and has a way of just wearing on your constitution. On windy days you’ll find most anglers huddled in an area that provides some protection. That might be the lee of an island, a canal or a pass where they can get some relief from the choppy water and poor visibility.

Sometimes the conditions will shut the fishing down and discourage fishermen from even staying on the water.

While avoiding the windy days might

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS be an option for some anglers, others will have a limited window of opportunity and have to make the best of a bad situation. In truth, the wind can actually provide prospects that most anglers might miss.

Experience has shown me that fishing in the lee on windy days might be the opposite strategy to employ. This might seem counter-intuitive, since fishing in areas exposed to the full force of the wind is definitely less uncomfortable. In reality, the wind and the choppy water it produces might actually concentrate baitfish and crustaceans providing predators with an opportunity to set up an

ambush. The wind might mean it’s hard to see the fish if you’re sight fishing, but it also makes them less spooky and less visible to the prey they’re after.

Recently I had the displeasure of fishing just such a day. The weather guessers had correctly predicted winds from 12-15 knots. While we might have chosen not to fish that day, it happened to be the only time my friends and I could find to get together. We started out with the intention to fly fish, but conditions (winds that actually gusted to 25 knots) soon made us glad we had stowed spin tackle under the gunnels.

Wind doesn’t usually deter singleminded fly anglers, but even the most die-hard know when to say when. We worked the flats determinedly for close to an hour and only managed to catch one small trout before we finally made the switch to spinning tackle. see reel time, page 27

rUSTY CHINNIS | sun

Jim Wiers holds one of several large trout that rewarded us after a long and daunting day.

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MAY 3, 2017

reel time: Against the wind FROM PAGE 26

Casting jigs and top water plugs was a whole lot easier than attempting to fly fish, but the fish still didn’t respond to our new strategy. Moving from spot to spot, we were determined to find some willing fish, but even though we saw a few we couldn’t buy a bite. Fortunately that changed late in the day when we targeted some deep-water flats that were fully exposed to the now howling wind.

Using DOA jigs and the DOA Deadly Combo, we started to find some hungry trout. For some reason a later afternoon shift in the tide had put them on the feed. In five or six drifts, we caught and released some beautiful fish to 22 inches.

This reminded me that if you’re determined enough and persist you can usually find some time of the day or tide when fish will feed. In this case it turned what could have been a frustrating and futile day into a success.

If you can hold out for better days to fish, you’re a lucky angler. Most fishermen don’t have that luxury. In any case if you’re determined and use some counterintuitive logic, you have a good chance of turning a windy day into a successful outing, even against the wind.

THE SUN

27

Waters teeming with activity Captain Dave White

The waters around Anna Maria Island have been teeming with springtime activity in the past week.

I've seen everything from big cobia, snook, red grouper and blackfin tuna caught the past week. People I know have landed sailfish in local waters as well!

Inshore, I've been putting fly and spin anglers on big seatrout on the deeper flat. Using live shiners under a cork or a heavier eyed Clouser Fly has been the ticket. Snook have been prevalent in the potholes and against the mangroves on a high tide. Redfish are present along the oyster bars. Using a chunk of ladyfish or mullet sometimes will coax a fish that won't chase a shiner.

There's been quite a few cobia making their way north for the migration. I'm looking for big stingray and manatee in the shallows. The cobia follow these larger animals.

Be prepared to pitch a large bait in front of them. I missed an opportunity at two huge cobia due to not being ready! You never know when and where these fish show themselves.

Offshore, big red grouper are being caught in 80-120 feet of water. Pinfish, squid and sardines are always a good choice for these guys. Blackfin tuna are making a big showing this spring. Always exciting

captain DAVE WHITE | SUbmitted

Captain David White, of Anna Maria Charters, shows off healthy blackfin tuna caught on a Spanish sardine. and extremely tasty. Spanish sardines, threadfin herring, cigar minnows and large pilchards free lined are keys to hooking up. Hopefully, this wind will lie down a bit and the Tarpon will be here in numbers soon! Good luck and tight lines!

Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta

Key, caught and released trout, bluefish, flounder and snook in Sarasota Bay and trout, flounder and snook in Gasparilla Sound on flies, CAL jigs with shad tails and 2.75” DOA Shrimp during the past couple of weeks.

Mark Wayde, from Michigan, fished a day in Sarasota Bay with me. We worked deep grass flats on both sides of the bay, and he had good action catching and releasing trout to 18 inches and bluefish on Ultra Hair Clouser flies fished on an intermediate sink tip fly line. Marshall Dinerman and a guest, both from Atlanta, also had some action with me in Sarasota Bay with trout and bluefish on CAL jigs with shad tails.

Tarpon fishing should take off as the water in the coastal Gulf continues to warm. Trout, blues and Spanish mackerel should also be good options on deep grass flats and passes of Sarasota Bay. Snook season closes from May 1 through Aug 31 on the west coast of Florida, so please handle them gently and release them quickly. You should find larger trout in shallow water along with snook and reds when conditions are good. Fishing lighted docks and bridges in the ICW for snook with flies and DOA Lures continues to be a good option.

tide chart for anna maria city pier-may 3-10 A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

Wed 5/3

8:27a 1.53

12:40a -0.07

5:35p 1.99

11:51a 1.39

6:49-8:05

Thu 5/4

9:00a 1.65

1:42a 0.07

1:13p 1.83

1:38p 1.23

Fri 5/5

9:28a 1.77

2:34a 0.22

8:44p 1.75

3:00p 0.97

Sat 5/6

9:52a 1.90

3:17a 0.37

9:53p 1.71

3:50p 0.70

Day Date

6:49-8:06 6:48 -8:06 6:47-8:07

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Sun Rise Set

Sun 5/7

10:11a 2.02

3:52a 0.53

10:48p 1.68

4:44p 0.45

6:46-8:08

Mon 5/8

10:28a 2.12

4:22a 0.68

11:34p 1.63

Tues 5/9

10:44a 2.23

4:48a 0.82

Wed 5/10

12:17a 1.58

5:14a 0.94

5:22p 0.26 5:57p 0.10

11:03a 2.32

6:32p 0.00

6:46-8:08 6:45-8:09 6:44-8:09

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THE SUN

MAY 3, 2017

Turtle-friendly Bungalow Beach improves lighting

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

BRADENTON BEACH – A sign at the Bungalow Beach Resort tells guests to close curtains at night and not to use lights on the beach, and some of the outdoor lights have homemade shields.

But Manager Anastasia Tietjen and owner Gayle Luper wanted to do more to protect sea turtles during nesting and hatching season, May 1 - Oct. 31.

For less than $1,000, with donations from Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, and C.J. Hahn, business manager of Synergy Lighting, they are switching their outdoor lighting to fixtures that are safe for both turtles and people.

The property had several carriage lights, with glass all around, which attracts the attention of nesting turtles and can keep them from laying their nests and can make hatchlings veer away from the Gulf of Mexico toward the light. They are being replaced with shielded lights that point down and feature amber or red light bulbs with light frequencies that are harder for turtles to see.

Turtle Tips During sea turtle season, May 1 – Oct. 31, please follow these tips: • Turn off lights visible from the beach and close blinds from sundown to sunrise; lights confuse nesting sea turtles and may cause them to go back to sea and drop their eggs in the water, where they won’t hatch. Light can also attract hatchlings away from the water.

• Don’t use flashlights, lanterns or camera flashes on the beach at night.

• Remove all objects from the sand from sundown to sunrise; they can deter sea turtles from nesting and disorient hatchlings.

• Fill in the holes you dig in the sand before leaving the beach; they can trap nesting and hatching sea turtles, which cannot live long out of the water.

• Don’t use sky lanterns or fireworks; they litter the beach and Gulf.

• Do not trim trees and plants that shield the beach from lights.

• Never touch a sea turtle; it’s the law. If you see people disturbing turtles, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

CINDY LANE | SUN

Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, and C.J. Hahn, of Synergy Lighting, are helping the Bungalow Beach resort in Bradenton Beach install turtle-friendly outdoor lighting. C.J. Hahn, says that a carriage light with a homemade shield may not be adequate to protect sea turtles during nesting and hatching season.

Turning outdoor lights off leaves everyone, including people, in the dark, Tietjen said.

But turtle friendly lighting is also people friendly, providing safety for both species, according to Fox. The project is being completed just in time for the start of turtle season

Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Bird tips During bird nesting season, March through August, please follow these tips: • Never touch a shorebird chick, even if it’s wandering outside a staked nesting area.

• Teach kids not to chase birds – bird parents may abandon nests if they’re disturbed.

• Don’t feed birds – it encourages them to fly at people aggressively and is not good for their health.

• If birds are screeching and flying at you, you’re too close.

• Avoid posted bird nesting areas and use designated walkways to the beach.

• Keep pets away from bird nesting areas.

• Keep the beach clean; food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows to the beach, and litter can entangle birds and other wildlife.

• If you see people disturbing nesting birds, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

this week, when the city of Bradenton Beach code enforcement officers, and those of the other Island cities, begin inspecting the beach at night for lighting that is not in compliance with turtle lighting laws.

This week and next, Turtle Watch will be distributing packages to rental

managers with laminated flyers for storefront windows and temporary turtle tattoos for guests’ children.

For information on turtle friendly lighting and printable cards you can display at your vacation rental property, visit: http://islandturtlewatch.com/ lighting/

Live like a local Respect Wildlife

Black bellied plover Shorebird nesting season has begun please do not disturb our nests!

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

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MAY 3, 2017

THE SUN

29

WMFR’s non-transport ALS program moves forward Commissioners plan to launch a paramedic program and consider a rate increase for the coming fiscal year.

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

BRADENTON — West Manatee Fire Rescue’s non-transport advanced life support program is getting ready to roll out, but it’s going to cost a little taxpayer money.

The district received the first round of approvals from Manatee County commissioners April 25 when commissioners voted in favor of approving changes to an ordinance governing the application process for ALS service.

The changes add an option for non-transport ALS and are a solid first step for WMFR’s paramedic program.

“It couldn’t have gone better,” Chief Tom Sousa said.

With firefighters already training to become dual certified as paramedics, Sousa hopes to launch the program at the district’s Station 3 in Holmes Beach within the next several months.

The ordinance amendment will have a second public hearing and vote at an upcoming County Commission meeting.

With the ALS program on-track, fire commissioners began looking at the district’s finances for the upcoming fiscal year.

During an April 21 meeting, Sousa recommended a 2.2 percent raise in residential assessment rates. If accepted by commissioners in the fall, the increase would raise the base residential rate from $180.20 to $183.70 for the first 1,000 square feet. Each square foot after that would be charged at $0.1084 instead of $0.1063, the current rate.

The increase would bring in about $120,000 in added revenue for the district, which will help cover increased costs planned for the coming year, including adding

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

From left: West Manatee Fire Rescue Firefighter Zack Benshoff accepts congratulations from Chief Tom Sousa April 21 after being promoted to firefighter second class. the new non-transport ALS service. If grants the district has applied for come through, the funds could be carried over into the next fiscal year to help pay for planned capital improvements, such as the purchase of a new fire engine.

Commissioners also are considering increasing the commercial base rate from $425.22 to $442.23, bringing in an extra $28,849 to the district. Each square foot beyond the base rate would be charged at $0.1915 versus the $0.1841 current rate.

If the grants applied for aren’t awarded to the district, the increase, which is estimated to be

less than $7 per residential home, would prevent deficit spending and depleting reserves.

Commissioners are required to register their rate recommendation with the Manatee County Property Appraiser’s office by June. A public hearing and vote will be held to determine the final rate amount for the coming fiscal year in August.

The total budget for the 2018-19 fiscal year is currently projected to be $7,042,428, a $152,671 increase over the $6,889,757 budgeted for the current fiscal year, ending Sept. 30.

30

THE SUN

SPORTS

MAY 3, 2017

Beach House Real Estate – gridiron champs

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

As predicted, the teams with the four best season ending records in the adult co-ed flag football league at the Island’s community center matched up in the semi-final games Thursday night. Top ranked Beach House Real Estate ended Beach to Bay’s season in the first game of the night despite the strong, spirited play by the team lead

by Tim Shaughnessy.

Team Beach to Bay stayed to watch the second semi-final game with Tyler’s Ice Cream going head-to-head against Moss Builders. The close match up ended the first half of play with a five-point lead for Team Moss Builders.

The second half of play found Tyler’s Ice Cream take over the lead. With a last minute effort by team captain Ryan Moss and his talented players, the team found itself in scoring position with seconds ticking off the game clock.

The big stop by KB Belton end zone sealed the deal for Team Tyler’s Ice Cream with the one point win.

With spectators on the sidelines and the championship title on the line, the final game of the night started with Tyler’s Ice Cream on offense. The first throw from team captain Ray Gardner went to Rob Alderson, owner of Tyler’s Ice Cream. Alderson gained good yardage on the first down play.

Trying to put quick points up on the scoreboard, Gardner launched the ball downfield to Zach Schield past his reach. Applying the pressure, Jon Moss forced the pass by quarterback resulting in an interception by teammate Jason Mickan after the ball came off the fingers of Dan Healy.

Taking over on downs, Shawn Kaleta made the first offensive play for Beach House Real Estate with a first down catch and stop by Healy. Second down saw the first of many connections between team captain and quarterback Don Purvis and Moss.

Moss’ 15-yard gain put Team Beach House in scoring position. Tyler’s Ice Cream’s own defensive pressure, applied by the quick off the line speed of Tyler Lancaster, put the football back into the hands of Gardner on offense.

Ready to make something happen offensively, Gardner went to Lancaster, who was able to gain short yardage before his feet got tied up on the field.

monica simpson | SUN

Bettye Purvis, proud mom and life long supporter of Beach House Real Estate's team captain Don Purvis, receives the game ball after Thursday night's championship game at The Center. From left to right: Bettye Purvis, Jess Griffin, Jason Mickan, Shawn Kaleta, Don Purvis, Jon Moss, Brittany Sutton, Jay Hoffmeister and Beach House Real Estate's biggest fan Alyssa Moss.

Second and third down plays were stopped by Moss applying pressure on Schield for the sack and an incomplete pass into a sea of Beach House defenders on third down.

After eight minutes of play, the game remained scoreless. That would change with the offensive wizardry of Purvis. Taking the football himself for a 25-yard gain, Purvis set the stage for the first down catch by Moss.

Moss got the call again, running through traffic down to the Tyler’s Ice Cream seven-yard line. Purvis got the football on the handoff behind the line of scrimmage and ran it into the end zone for the first score of the championship game with eight minutes left in the half.

Purvis added another point to the scoreboard with the extra point by connecting with Moss in the back left corner to advance the score to 7-0.

Gardner showed his razzle-dazzle on the field, diverting the rusher to connect with KB for seven yards. Taking the ball down the field himself, Gardner crossed mid-field for the first down.

Moving the ball well toward the end zone, Schield caught a high pass in

the middle of the field for a 15-yard offensive statistic. After taking the snap, Schield held the ball, taunting Moss, who could not rush the quarterback. The smart hesitation allowed the offense to draw the defenders down to the end of the field.

Schield pitched the football to Gardner, who had all of the room in the world to run before being held by Moss, giving Tyler’s Ice Cream the first down on the Beach House five-yard line.

In the pass only zone, Gardner got the ball off to Dina Calvary for the touchdown. The score was called back due to an impeding the rusher penalty

by Tyler’s Ice Cream. The penalty moved the line of scrimmage to the seven-yard line, outside of the pass only zone. The ruling from the official would not allow a running play by the offense despite the ball’s placement on the field.

On second down, the pass was incomplete by Belton. Beach House’s defender Mickan batted down the third down pass intended for Belton.

Taking over possession of the football with less than a minute on the

clock, Purvis got the quick pitch off to Kaleta. Jesse Griffin took the second snap of the series, giving it to Purvis to run to the Beach House Real Estate 25-yard line.

With 30 seconds on the clock for the half, Purvis ran the same play using nine seconds to pick up 10 more yards. Gardner was ready to pounce as the rusher at the next snap. Purvis launched the ball to the back left corner of the end zone over the head of Griffin.

Under pressure, Moss threw the football over the head of the receiver leaving less than 10 seconds in the half and a third down play. Beach House called its final time out to regroup hoping to widen the lead.

After the snap, Purvis threw a bullet down the field that whizzed by Griffin, giving the ball back to Tyler’s Ice Cream with five seconds to score.

Tyler’s completed its first pass to Schield, who smartly got out of bounds, leaving two seconds on the scoreboard. With one more hope for the half, Gardner called a timeout. The see sports, page 31

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MAY 3, 2017

THE SUN

31

sports: Beach House Real Estate victorious FROM PAGE 30

Beach House defense gave Gardner time to find an open man. The completed pass to Calvary at mid-field was quickly stopped by a flag pull to end the half.

The second half of the final game of the season started with a short gain by Griffin for Beach House Real Estate. Moss took the next snap and threw a pass that went off the hands of Purvis, taking the possession to third down. A flag pull by Calvary stopped Griffin from pulling away and scoring.

Gardner’s team struggled to get into scoring position with a botched play after the first snap and a hard collision with Belton down on the field and Mickan walking off the hit.

On third down, Gardner hoped Alderson’s sprint would take him far enough down the sideline for the first down and first score for his team.

The incomplete pass gave the ball back to Beach House. On its own five-yard line, Purvis dropped the ball in the end zone with Gardner in hot pursuit. The referee ruled the play a safety, giving Tyler’s Ice Cream its only two points of the game and another chance on offense.

Calvary gained another seven yards before being stopped by Jay Hoffmeister, the defensive MVP of the first semifinal game of the night. The handoff to Lancaster got Tyler’s good yardage before being stopped short of the first down.

Gardner got his team across the midfield line with his agility and speed. After a bobbled handoff and 10 minutes left in the game, Gardner was given the option to run. Seeing the open lane for Gardner to score, Moss alerted the Beach House Real Estate defenders, but not before Gardner got to the seven-yard line.

The crucial third down play came to a disappointing end for Tyler’s Ice Cream, with a delay of game call giving the football back to Purvis’ crew.

Bolting off the line, Griffin crossed into the end zone, after missed flag pulls

by Lancaster and Schield, giving Beach

House six more points. Going for a two-point conversion and the run or pass option, Moss ran the ball in moving the score to 15-2.

Tyler’s Ice Cream saw its chance to win the game fade away with a pick Griffin putting the ball back into prime scoring position. The quick touchdown by Kaleta left two minutes on the clock and Beach House Real Estate ahead by 19 points.

On offense, Gardner found Healy open.

The football hit his hands and then hit the ground. Hoping for a miracle and the opportunity to score, Schield took the snap and threw the ball just short of Lancaster.

Beach House Real Estate defender Mickan read the play beautifully and snatched the ball out of the air for the interception to end another adult flag football season at The Center.

Sun Scoreboard Thursday, April 27 Adult Co-Ed Flag Football – Semifinal Playoff Games #3 Beach to Bay #1 Beach House Real Estate

20 33

#2 Tyler’s Ice Cream #4 Moss Builders

20 19

Adult Co-Ed Flag Football – Championship Game #1 Beach House Real Estate #2 Tyler’s Ice Cream

Saturday, April 29 Youth Soccer: 11- to 14-Year-Old League Signarama Salty Printing

Youth Soccer: 8- to 10-Year-Old League

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Schooner not seaworthy The wooden hull of the recently raised schooner that is docked at the Seafood Shack restaurant in Cortez is in bad shape and still taking on water that is being removed by pumps.

Chief Operating Officer Jed Lippincott said the ship needs to come out of the water soon.

His first choice would be to place the schooner on dry land on the Seafood Shack property so kids and adults can still enjoy the historic value of a ship built in the 1870s, but no final decisions have been made.

21 2

3 1 NEVILLE CLARKE | SUBMITTED

#1 Truly Nolen #3 Progressive Cabinetry

6 5

#2 Slim’s Place #4 Wash Family Construction

6 9

See you next season The Legends of Tennis, a group of snowbirds and residents wrapped up another season of play at The Center recently. From left to right: John Rice, Steve Marshall, Denny Yohe, Tom De Mott, Peter Brindle, Lee Sherb, Dean Mira and Brian Sneed.

32

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THE SUN

MAY 3, 2017

Occupancy increase sought The Anna Maria Commission advised Jean and Bill Bystrom to contact an attorney regarding their efforts to gain greater occupancy for their Still Waters resort at 604 N. Shore Drive. Making her second appearance before the commission, Jean Bystrom said they thought the resort they’ve owned for 15 years

was grandfathered when they bought it. She said they did not want to file a Bert Harris claim against the city – and the time to do so has expired.

The resort has a four-bedroom duplex and a two-bedroom duplex. The Bystroms want a 12-person occupancy, but are limited to eight by the city’s vacation rental ordinance.

When Bystrom asked about a variance or a special exception, Commissioner Doug Copeland said that process needs to be initiated by the owners and their attorney; and he suggested they wait to see if the state legislature prohibits local rental regulations first.

We Are Ready To Eat?.........

Sharky’s Seagrill “Saturdays: Melanie Massell”

2519 Gulf Drive N. ‘ Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 Phone (941) 779’9151 Cell. (941) 877-9435

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MAY 3, 2017

THE SUN

33

joe hendricks | SUN

The wooden platforms atop the city-owned restaurant space will be redesigned and replaced when new air-conditioning units are installed later this year.

AMOB repairs up in the air It was not known last week if the project costs could or should be shared.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

lunch dinner take-out 5346 gulf drive, holmes beach 941.778.5788

BRADENTON BEACH – Acting as separate bodies, the Community Redevelopment Agency and the Bradenton Beach Commission are supposed to decide this week whether to split the $70,000 to $100,000 it’s going to cost install new air conditioning units atop the city-owned restaurant space leased to the Anna Maria Oyster Bar. During last week’s CRA meeting, member Ed Chiles suggested the CRA consider asking the City Commission to share a portion of the expenses using some of the $400,000 in the city-controlled pier fund. That fund includes the $8,000 a month in rent the city receives from AMOB and its subtenants. The fund’s primary purpose is to provide for the maintenance of the Historic Bridge Street Pier. It also provides some self-insurance for the uninsured pier.

It was suggested the city bear some of the costs of replacing the air-conditioning because the city owns the building and receives the rent revenues.

The CRA members agreed that CRA funds should be used to redesign and replace the wooden rooftop platforms that will hold the new dining room airconditioning units and the new kitchen unit installed last year.

The CRA members believe maintaining the original appearance and aesthetics of the wooden platforms helps preserve and enhance the historic ap-

pearance of a structure located within the CRA district. There had been previous discussions about removing the platforms because their current configuration has resulted in water leaking into the restaurant.

During last week’s meeting, confusion arose as to whether a previously approved CRA project could be modified to allow for an additional funding source. The CRA members did however authorize Southern Cross to serve as the primary contractor.

AMOB owner and CRA member John Horne has offered to close the restaurant for two weeks in September while the repairs take place. As AMOB’s landlord, it will be up to the City Commission to determine whether AMOB receives some form of rent abatement to compensate for the lost income. If the restaurant doesn’t close, temporary air-conditioning units would have to be leased at the city or CRA’s expense to maintain the restaurant guests’ comfort.

When asked for a legal opinion, City Attorney Ricinda Perry said via e-mail, “It is my opinion, that absent further action by the CRA and City Commission, the project remains that of the CRA, and that all funding of all components are the responsibility of the CRA.” The CRA’s follow-up discussion will take place Wednesday, May 3, at 10 a.m. If needed, the city commission discussion will take place at the Thursday, May 4, meeting that starts at 6 p.m.

Public Works Director Tom Woodard said he hopes this week’s meetings provide some clarity on how he is to move forward with the project.

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MAY 3, 2017

The best of the best

t’s nice to be the best at what you are and Anna Maria Island has certainly been voted the best in several different categories during the past five or so years.

It’s been great for business and rental properties but not so great for traffic and overcrowded beaches. Now the city of Bradenton has its own best designation and has been voted one of the best cities to start a small business.

A WaletHub study released mid-April ranks Bradenton number 114 out of 1,261 small cities around the country for starting a business. WalletHub is a personal finance website based in Washington, D.C. offering free consumer tools, including free credit reports and credit scores. It has also branched out into producing research reports and surveys, one of which is the best small city to start a small business survey.

Bradenton is in the top 10 percent of best small cities surveyed based on populations between 25,000 and 100,000, Bradenton had a population of 54,437 in 2016 per

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger the U.S. Census Bureau. In addition, the survey considered the business environment and access to resources and business costs including affordability of office space, length of work week and financing ability. It was ranked 24th in business costs, 240th in business environment and 707th in access to resources based on the 1,262 small cities surveyed.

By comparison, Sarasota ranked number 391 and North Port number 613. Of the 1,262 cities compared, 79 were in Florida including seven others from the Tampa Bay Area, but Deerfield Beach was the highest ranked small city in Florida. And in case you’re wondering where small business

entrepreneurs might be coming from, think about New York State, one of the highest taxed states in the country. In fact, last year 191,000 people left the state, and 43,000 of them relocated to Florida. I think we probably got a few of those.

The March sales statistics are in, and for the most part they continue to improve. As always, these statistics are from the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee reflecting sales within the Multiple Listing Service.

The median sale price (half of the sales above and half below) for single-family homes in Manatee County for the month of March was $290,000, 7.4 percent higher than March of last year. The average sale price in March was $338,860, 1.5 percent lower than last year, and the number of closed sales were up 11.7 percent from last March.

The median sale price for condos in Manatee County for the month of March was $174,500, 9.4 percent higher than March of

last year. The average sale price in March was $212,192, 5.4 percent higher than last year, and the number of closed sales were down 4.4 percent.

The month’s supply of inventory for both single family and condos remains low averaging about 4.75 in March of this year.

However, the statistic I don’t always include in this analysis that I found interesting is the median time to contract, which is 47 days for single-family homes this March and 37 days for condos this March. This is a pretty sweet number indicating a market that is selling many of the available properties quickly.

Even though the average sale price for single-family homes was slightly down in March, it’s still shocking to see that Manatee County is supporting an average sale price well over $300,000. Who would have thought this was possible not too many years ago? But then we are the best of the best, and apparently, we’re not the only ones who know it.

MAY 3, 2017

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WWW.AMISUN.COM - CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

MAY 3, 2017

MAY 3, 2017

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PTO dinner and kindergarten play set The Anna Maria Elementary School PTO Family Dinner will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16, followed by the kindergarten play, “Pajama Party.”

Columbia restaurant on St. Ar-

mand’s Circle will host the dinner.

The menu will consist of chicken and yellow rice, served with a side of black beans, a small 1905 salad, Cuban bread and a drink. Desserts are available for a small donation. Pre-orders

Four members sought for TDC Manatee County is accepting applications for four openings on the Tourist Development Council (TDC), which makes recommendations to the Manatee County Commission on how tourist tax revenues are spent.

Eligible applicants must be owners/operators (general managers) of motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks or other tourist accommodations that are subject to the 5 percent resort tax in Manatee County.

The TDC has nine volunteer members: one member of the County Commission who serves as chairman, two elected municipal officials, one being from the largest municipality in the county, four members who are owners or operators of tourist accommodations and two members who have an interest in tourism but who are not subject to the 5 percent resort tax.

The TDC meets on the third Monday of every other month at 9 a.m. at various locations in Manatee County.

Terms are for four years. All applicants must be registered voters in Manatee County.

Applications are due by Thursday, June 1, and may be found online at www.mymanatee.org/advisory_boards.

For more information, call Monica Luff at the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 941-729-9177, ext.

3944, or e-mail her at Monica.Luff@mymanatee.org.

must be turned in to the front office by 3 p.m. on Monday, May 15. All preorders are eligible to win one of four $25 gift cards to Columbia restaurant.

Pre-orders may be made at the school or by calling 941-708-5525

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February resort tax collections $400,000

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

February 2017 $350,000

February 2016 $300,000

$250,000

$200,000

$150,000

$100,000

$50,000

0

Anna Maria

Bradenton Beach

Holmes Beach

Source: Manatee County Tax Collector

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Historical Society scholar The Anna Maria Island Historical Society (AMIHS) awarded a scholarship to John (Jack) Heckler, son of Erin Heckler, of Anna Maria, at the AMI Chamber Business Card Exchange on Wednesday, April 26. Heckler is involved in many school activities including the national history bowl team; the school guitar ensemble; journalism, writing and poetry clubs; various aspects of film making and school productions; the Tae Kwon Do program and the track team. He also has served more than 200 hours of community service including as a camp counselor at The Center of AMI and as a performer in the Sarasota Medieval Fair. Heckler plans to major in history and has been accepted to several Florida universities. He poses here with AMIHS Scholarship Committee members Barbara Murphy, Valerie Wilson and Pat Copeland.

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Summer mosaics class Lori Heintz will teach a “Fun with Mosaics” workshop at the Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd. Holmes Beach, on Saturday, May 13, from 1 to 5 p.m. The cost is $55 for Art League members and $65 for nonmembers.

Heintz Participants need to bring something to work on like a flower pot, stepping stone, platter, small table, etc. Objects’ surfaces are limited to 16-by-16 inches.

Wear clothes that can get dirty.

Scholarships may be available.

Call the Art League at 941-778-2099 for more details and to register. The League is open from 10,a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Wednesday.

Darkroom class at Art League Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., hosts “Introduction to the Print Processing In The Darkroom,” by Christine Galanopoulos, on Saturday, May 13, from 11am Galanopoulos to noon. Students will learn basic print processing done before digital cameras with darkroom techniques. The cost is a donation to the Art League per student. The class is limited to four students.

Register by calling 941-778-2099 or visit The Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, Monday through Wednesday, from10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

MAY 3, 2017

Art League to party The Anna Maria Island Art League 5312 Holmes Boulevard, Holmes Beach, will host a members’ painting party with Lori Heintz on Friday, May 12, the evening of their May exhibit.

The cost is $10 for a 14- by 6-inch canvas and acrylic paints to create your own unique masterpiece, or you could bring your own supplies and the class would be free.

RSVP by calling 941-778-2099 or visit the Anna Maria Island Art League between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Wednesday.

A call for artists The Anna Maria Island Art League 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach, is looking for artists for its May open exhibit, a non-juried show open to area

artists of all media – painting, drawing, sculpture, jewelry and both film and digital photography. Artwork must be no larger than 22 by 34 inches, unless approved.

Brings submissions to the AMI Art League between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday, through Friday, no later than May 10. The entry fee is $10 per piece for all Art League members and non-members. There is a limit of three entries per artist.

There will be an opening reception on Friday, May 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and artwork will be shown through May 31.

For any questions regarding submissions, contact Fran Sansbury, gallery assistant, at 941-778-2099 or visit the Art League.

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Park request could put commission in a pickle The city has a new pickleball court and some residents are already lobbying for another.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – There’s pickleball battles brewing on and off the courts in Bradenton Beach.

The concrete foundation has been poured for the new $15,000, Community Redevelopment Agency funded pickleball court at Lou Barola Park, near the police station on Highland Avenue.

Public Works Director Tom Woodard said the concrete will be allowed to cure this week, and he hopes to have the new court painted, striped and ready for play at some point next week.

Meanwhile, there is a petition being circulated in support of the Scenic WAVES Committee’s desire to have a stand-alone pickleball court installed at Herb Dolan Park on the north end of town. That park’s existing pickleball court consists of blue striping placed atop the basketball court, with a temporary net put in place when pickleball is played.

At a recent City Commission meeting, city resident Jim Hassett expressed his desire for the neighborhood park’s

Tjet Martin | Submitted

The concrete foundation for the new Lou Barola Park pickleball court was poured last week. remaining open space to be left as is. He said he suspects one of his neighbors will circulate an opposition petition if plans materialize to install the second

court that some commission members expressed tentative support for.

The Herb Dolan pickleball court is listed on the agenda for the Wednesday,

May 3, Scenic WAVES meeting at 3 p.m.

If the committee supports the request, it will be formally presented at some point for City Commission consideration.

submitted

Seaside wildlife rescue Devon Straight with Wildlife, Inc. and Holmes Beach resident Chris Adrian row back to shore April 26 after rescuing an osprey found tangled and hanging from a sailboat mast on Bimini Bay. The rescue took three hours with the help of Adrian and his wife along with Holmes Beach Code Enforcement Officer James Thomas.

Straight said the bird is resting and remains in critical condition at the rescue’s facility.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Gazebo offered declined

The Anna Maria Commission has declined for now Nancy Ambrose’s offer to install a gazebo at City Pier Park.

Ambrose presented her plans to the commission last week in hopes of the new gazebo serving as an element of a butterfly garden that would replace the one formerly located next to Holmes Beach City Hall. The design plans she presented were inspired by classic gazebos found in Georgia. When Mayor Dan Murphy asked the commissioners if they wanted a gazebo, the commission reached unanimous consensus that a larger pavilion or a different kind of structure might be preferred instead, and those decisions need to be made when developing an all-encompassing park plan.

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MAY 3, 2017

TOWN CRIER

be provided. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Call 941-778-6341 for more information

Writers to meet

Boat tour for museum

The Gulf Coast Writers meet at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, May 3, from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. Members are asked to bring writing for others to read. For more information, call 941-778-6341.

Paradise Boat Tours is offering a fundraising boat tour on Thursday, May 11, at 3 p.m. to benefit the Florida Maritime Museum (FMM). Participants will enjoy a 90-minute adventure through pristine inter-coastal waterways aboard a spacious catamaran. Ninety-five percent of tours see dolphins, and other wildlife spotting include manatees, rays, fish, and birds.

This is a unique opportunity to explore Florida’s coastal heritage, and enjoy stories of authentic Cortez. Captain Sherman, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide who will be accompanied at the helm by FMM staff. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $20 for children under 12. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks aboard.

Call 941-708-6120 or visit the museum, 4415 119th St., Cortez, during regular business hours to make your reservation. Cash, credit card, or check accepted. The tour will leave from the Bridge Street Pier.

Sit and knit The Friends of the Island Branch Library present an opportunity to take some time out to knit and/or crochet at the library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Thursday, May 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. Bring a project and enjoy a relaxed, air conditioned setting. For more information, call 941-778-6341.

Forty Carrots fun The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, hosts Forty Carrots, a parenting program based in Sarasota, on Friday, May 5, at 10 a.m. This is a program parents and kids from mobile babies to five years old experience new activities, join in circle time fun, spend time with other families and get valuable parenting information. Tickets are available for this session at the library desk. Space is limited to 12 families. For more information, call the library at 941-7786341.

Food fun for seniors Senior Adventures will visit a produce market before lunch on Friday, May 5. Those interested in going should meet at The Center, 406 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria, at 10:15 a.m. to catch the van for Detweiler’s Produce on University Parkway. Afterward, the will enjoy lunch at Hickory Hollow.

Call Peg at 941-778-3106 to register.

Join the oyster-friendly effort The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department is looking for volunteers to help restore oyster habitat in the estuary around Perico Preserve, 11700 Manatee Ave. W. on Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers will bag shell and build oyster mats and then cool down by learning about oyster biology with games, science experiments and activities. They’ll wrap up with a free lunch for each volunteer around noon.

The Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department and Around the Bend Nature Tours are sponsoring this event. This project is part of the Gulf Oyster Recycling and Renewal Program.

Library says thanks

The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, is holding a patron appreciation day on Saturday, May 6, at 2 p.m. The event is free and open to all, and there will be live music with John Perry, refreshments, face painting, origami, a photo booth and an opportunity to draw on the concrete outside with chalk. The staff will also demonstrate the new equipment in the library. For more information, call the library at 942-778-6341.

The initiative has many partners, including START (Solutions to Avoid Red Tide), Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department, UF/IFAS Manatee County, the Chiles Group, the Gulf Shellfish Institute and the Tampa Bay Estuary Program.

This event suitable for ages 10 and up with parent/guardian supervision.

To register, visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/oyster-extravaganza-at-pericopreserve-tickets-33600321466.

Sierra Club meets Manatee/Sarasota Sierra Club has two meetings coming up. On Monday, May 8, there will be a Manatee Conservation meeting from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Manatee County Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd., Bradenton. Members will discuss building sound environmental policy in Manatee County.

Contact Sandra Ripberger at 941794-3878; sandrarip@yahoo.com, or Judy Johnson and Stuart Smith at 941755- 6110, jedit79@gmail.com for more information.

The club will hold a general meeting on Thursday, May 11, at 7 p.m. at the Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Blvd.

Of the Arts, Sarasota, to hear Dan Lobeck , president of Control Growth Now, which for 28 years has sought to balance the interests of developers in protecting the natural environment, neighborhoods, mobility and taxpayers in Sarasota County. Bring a snack to share afterwards. For more information, call Gerry at 941-366-9596.

Musical fun at library The Island Branch Library, at 5701 Marina Drive, presents a bilingual program of musical motion for kids and

adult on Tuesday, May 9, from 10 to 22 a.m. For more information, call the library at 941-778-6341.

Get hooked on knitting The Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, introduces a knitting class for kids 8 years old to adults on Tuesday, May 9, from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. This class requires preregistration at the library or by calling 941-778-6341.

Lose that stress

The Off Stage Ladies of the Island Players will hold their last meeting of the season on Wednesday, May 10, at 11:30 at IMG Academy Golf Club, 3450 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton. There will be a buffet lunch and a performance by the State College of Florida Presidential Quartet. Visitors are always welcome. Contact Nancy Ambrose 941-518-4431 for information.

Loren Batsell leads a Guided Relaxation Circle on the first Friday of every month from 5 to 5:45 p.m. at the Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach. Donations are requested. A portion of the money will benefit the Art League.

Batsell practiced wellness for more than 20 years, She is a nationally board certified Doctor of Oriental Medicine and licensed acupuncture physician.

Chairs will be provided or students may bring a mat. Attendees will be given verbal cues throughout the process to calm the body, mind, and spirit.

Comfortable clothing is suggested.

For more information, call 778-2099 or visit the Anna Maria Island Art League.

Wonderful world of color

Reaching out to long-termers

Join the Island Branch Library’s Coloring Club, which meets on Wednesday, May 10, at noon, at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Coloring isn’t just for kids anymore. It can ease stress and turn on your creative juices. It’s free and it’s fun. Call 941-778-6341 for more information.

Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program has advocate positions available in Manatee County. Volunteers visit with residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult-family care homes to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect.

Training and certification are provided and volunteers participate in council meetings, administrative assessments and complaint resolution in facilities.

If you would like to become an ombudsman and make a difference in your community, visit ombudsman. myflorida.com, search on Facebook or call 1-888-831-0404.

End of season for Offstage Ladies

Become more chess-friendly If you never learned to play chess or if you’re a player but can’t find someone to play against, come to the meeting of the Island Branch Library Chess Club on Wednesday, May 10, at 4 p.m. at 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Bring your own chess kit or they will

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BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

4/14, seized property, 9000 block of Gulf Drive. The deputy stopped the driver for speeding and found out the vehicle had not been registered and had a false tag on it, He seized the tag and the driver’s license.

4/21, lost property, 100 Spring Ave. The victim came to the Sheriff’s Office to report she lost her purse at the Sandbar restaurant around midnight.

4/23, found property, Rod and Reel Pier, 875 North Shore Drive. A credit card was found in the parking lot 4/27, found property, 300 North Shore Drive. A man found currency along the roadway and turned it in to a deputy.

Bradenton Beach No new reports

Cortez

4/21, criminal mischief, 3800 115th St. W. The deputy was called to the location on a report that three palm trunks, a

Obituaries Taylor B. Chadsey Jr. Taylor B. Chadsey Jr., 60, of Bradenton, Fla., moved on to a better place April 20, 2017, surrounded by his family in their home. Born on Dec. 2, 1956, Taylor was an avid outdoorsman who shared his love for fishing and hunting with countless members of the community.

Taylor is preceded by his father Taylor B. Chadsey Sr. Taylor is survived by his wife of 35 years, Mary Nell Chadsey, whom he met while at the University of Florida, Go Gators! Taylor is also survived by their three loving children, Victoria Chadsey, Jimmy Chadsey and wife Nathasja, Taylor Chadsey III and wife Jenni; and two grandchildren, Zoe and Callie Chadsey, all living close by in Bradenton. Taylor’s mother, Barbara Chadsey; brother, David Chadsey; and sister, Jill Chadsey-Gault, are all also residents of Bradenton.

Growing up in Bradenton, Taylor was a member of the Boys & Girls Club and a graduate of Manatee High School class of 1974. These are where Taylor met many of his lifelong friends, and enjoyed playing baseball and fishing the waters around Anna Maria Island with them. He loved taking his family to the Keys every summer to fish,

cactus and a signpost had been painted purple. Neighbors believed it had been done on the one year death of the musician Prince. A black paint tray with purple paint was located nearby at the home of a resident who picks up trash everyday. He said he might not have touched the tray, since he uses a device to pick up the trash so the authorities will check it for fingerprints.

Holmes Beach

4/20, trafficking amphetamines, 700 Manatee Ave. W., Kingfish Boat Ramp. The officer stopped the suspect vehicle because it had a tag not registered to it.

The passengers acted nervous, and the officer asked if they had any drugs in the car He told them he could overlook marijuana, but not anything stronger. A passenger gave him a marijuana blunt.

He told all the people in the vehicle to keep their hands where he could see them and they cooperated. The driver had a warrant for his arrest from Manatee County, and he was an habitual traffic violator. The officer arrested the driver and told him the car would be towed. He asked if there was anything in it, and the driver said there might

spearfish, and catch lobster. Sharing his love of the water with his children, grandchildren, and many of their friends were some of his favorite times.

As a longtime member of the community, Taylor built a successful business as a financial advisor working for Morgan Stanley for more than 31 years.

He was extremely proud, sharing that endeavor with his oldest son, Taylor, where together they truly enjoyed helping people achieve their financial goals In lieu of flowers, if possible, the family would like for people to bring/send their favorite pictures of Taylor as they will be creating a scrapbook of all the great times.

A memorial service with a celebration of life was held on, Saturday, April 29, 2017, at 1134 Palma Sola Blvd, Bradenton, Fla. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton, is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Donald John Jablonski Donald John Jablonski, CAE, 82, of Anna Maria, died on April 22, 2017.

He was born on Nov. 12, 1934, in Essexville, Mich., and was raised in Bay City, Mich. Mr. Jablonski also resided in Arlington, Va., Washington, D.C., and Potomac, Md. Donald was a 1953 graduate of

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be some methamphetamines under the seat. He said he found it at the beach.

The officer checked the car’s serial number and found it had been stolen in Manatee County. A further check of the car showed various drugs, paraphernalia and equipment for weighing drugs.

He also found various credit cards, reward cards and items that appeared to be stolen.. The car was towed and the driver was taken to the police department where he got angry because the paperwork was taking so long. After it was finished. He was transported to jail.

4/20, possession of marijuana, 600 Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the suspect for speeding. The driver had “marijuana debris” on his shirt and had no license because he was 16 years old. The officer saw a bag of marijuana when the driver opened the car door. There was a front passenger who was not a minor and said the car was his and two female passengers, also minors, who had a bottle of rum. The front passenger said he had bought the alcohol. He was arrested and the minors were released to their parents.

4/22, driving with an expired license, 7400

Palm Drive.. The officer stopped the suspect for a badly cracked windshield and found his license was expired. He was ticketed and had to find a friend to drive his car home.

4/22, Theft, 100 52nd Street. An iPhone was stolen from its owner while she swam.

4/24, driving without a license, warrant arrest, 4600 Gulf Drive. The officer ran a computer check on the suspect’s truck and found he had no license.

He stopped the driver and found that there were warrants on him. He was taken to jail.

4/25, larceny/theft, True Value Hardware, 5324 Marina Drive. An electric bicycle was stolen from the rear of the store.

4/25, recovering a stolen vehicle, 3200 East Bay Drive. The officer stopped the suspect because of a shattered windshield.

He said the car was not his and abandoned on his property. The suspect heard the dispatcher say the car was listed as stolen, and the suspect said he could clear up everything if he could speak with the daughter of its owner.

He could not contact her and was taken to the police station for processing and then to jail.

Bay City Central High School, Bay City, Mich., and also a 1959 graduate of Southeastern University, Washington, D.C. After experience, study, training and testing, He was honored by the ASAE Certification Board with a lifetime title Certified Association Executive (CAE). In addition, he served as president and treasurer of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Md., Exchange Club for many years. Don served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War assigned to the Naval Inspector General Office in the Pentagon. Don’s on-the-job accounting skills were honed through employment as an auditor with Capital Airlines, Inc., as senior accountant with Advanced Communications Engineering and costs accountant with Selma Field Engineering Services. These positions served him well as he moved on as assistant comptroller with Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) and as senior associate executive VP with the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and his final position as the first executive director of American Society of Nuclear Cardiology in which he assisted in its incorporation as a new non-profit Society. In 1999, Don developed Hodgkin’s disease, and went through many radiation and chemo treatments and over the next 17 years developed five more cancers for which he had to take action. Cancer did not beat this man.

Don’s passing was the result of sepsis that took hold of him very quickly, while in a nursing/rehab facility after hip surgery.

Don has left behind his wife of 41 years, Hellen ‘’Pat;" daughter, Pamela Jablonski; son, Tim Jablonski; grandson, Lorenzo Whitfield; two step children, Bernie Neumaster, and Terry (David) Neumaster; daughter in law, Shelly Jablonski; son in law, Lorenzo H. Whitfield and son in law, Randy Bell, to join his predeceased children: daughter, Elizabeth Whitfield and son, Philip Jablonski in the afterlife.

The family asks that memorials be made by giving a donation to H. Lee Moffitt Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Fla., or your local veterans service organization. Also Don asks that memorials be made by, giving a flower to a loved one or a friend or making a call to a relative.

Service will be held promptly at 11:30 a.m.-noon, Monday, May 8, 2017, at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, FL 34241. Please arrive 30 minutes before ceremony at 11 a.m. to line up in car for pavilion.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be made to www. brownandsonsfuneral.com.

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FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Was missing 7 Cell download 10 "The Wild Duck" playwright 15 Inclusive term 16 Engage in a bit of self-criticism 17 Word on a rĂŠsumĂŠ 18 Item with pips 19 Scene when stores open on Black Friday?

21 "I believe in the absolute __ ... of humanity": Gandhi 23 Investment initials 24 CPR provider 25 Certain rider 26 Boost, say 29 Quill __ 31 Superhero preparing to cook dinner?

35 Yachting, perhaps 36 Relies (on) 37 Eclair big enough to share?

42 Pub patron's words 44 Pole-to-pole link 45 Efficient wall decor for a steel vault?

53 Tirana is its cap.

54 Blu-ray player error message 55 Sandusky's lake 56 N.T. book 58 Comprehended 59 Winery event 62 Just tempting enough ... and what 19-, 31-, 37- and 45-Across are?

65 "Move it!"

66 Principle 67 Dickens' "__ Mutual Friend"

68 Fountain offering 69 Minor surgery targets 70 Old spy gp.

71 Heads (toward) Down 1 Started 2 Like many Schoenberg compositions 3 Cell component 4 Actors Kevin and Richard 5 Article in Der Spiegel 6 Spanish deity 7 "__ you kidding?"

8 Lock up, say 9 '60s Moore role 10 One of an academic octet 11 Sit tight 12 Subject of a 1765 act 13 Defunct carrier 14 O.T. book 20 Woodworking tool 22 More practical 27 Vacation time 28 "Honor Thy Father" author 30 FDR was once its governor 32 Move it Answers to 05-03-17 Crossword Puzzle.

33 Violin attachment?

34 Fresh, to a Frau 37 Farm houses 38 Cape named by Charles I 39 "__ Love": "Carmen Jones" song 40 Demand 41 Decline 42 Org. encouraging vaccination 43 "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" musical 46 Inedible wrap 47 Affirming retort 48 Rue family tree 49 Wrap up 50 Sibelius' "Valse __" 51 Dead __ 52 "Holy moly!"

57 Cancel the dele 60 __ box 61 Box __ 62 NYC Freedom Tower locale 63 Nos. on driver's licenses 64 Anniversary no

MAY 3, 2017

MAY 3, 2017

classified

ANNOUNCEMENTS THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Lynn at 813758-3234 or lbrennan47@ gmail.com ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).

BABY SITTER RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES Islandboatsales.net 17 years & Hundreds Sold. “Business On A Hand Shake” Not Using Your Boat, Let’s Sell It. Dave/Owner 941-228-3489

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

CLEANING SERVICE CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & RENTALS. Professional and Reliable. Call 941756-4570 CLEANING: RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, Construction and Vacation Rentals . Also available Power Washing and Windows. Call 941251-5948

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

EMPLOYMENT GIFT SHOP PART-TIME positions on Anna Maria Island. Night & weekend shifts. Retirees welcome.

Call Manager 813-4097540

ESTATE SALE ESTATE SALE FRIDAY May 5.

9:30-2. 319 Hardin, Anna Maria. Wall unit, ladies writing desk, chairs, lamps, sofa, paintings, prints, double bed set, patio table & chairs, book cases, books, bar stools, CD's, kitchen ware, linens. Also Ford Fiesta, china, glass, and misc.

Sale conducted by Palma Sola Sales. Numbers given out at 8am

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

FOR SALE COMPUTER DESK $50, 4 Drawer Metal File Cabinet $10, Polk Speakers, mount in wall (5) $25, 20” Girls bike $10. Call 941-778-4036

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES ROSER THRIFT SHOP and ANNEX, Open 9:30am.-2 pm Tuesday, Thursday and 10am. – 1pm. on Saturday.

Donations preferred on Wednesdays 9am. -11pm.

511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

941-779-2733.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

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

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CRC1327296.

Call Jerry Kern 941-7781115 www.kernconstructioninc.com

“HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

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

“No job too Small”. Repairs, replacements, improvements, wall TV’s, shelves, cabinets, calking etc. Call Jim 941-448-7806 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 WALY PRECISION PAINTING: painting, drywall, stucco, and remodeling, commercial/residential, licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-4656324 www.WalyPrecisionPainting.us BESPOKE SERVICES, MASTER CARPENTER for all home & office repairs. Also painting, decorating, decking & dock repairs,. Large or small works. Reasonable Rates! Island guy for Island work. Call RICHARD 941-448-3571

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941 SHELL DELIVERED AND spread $55/yd. Hauling all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770 STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Specializing in Old Florida Seashell driveways and scapes. Also Rock, Mulch, & Soil. Free estimates. Call Shark Mark 941-301-6067

THE SUN

LEGAL NOTICE

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE NORMS TOWING gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 5/17/2017 9:00am at 1855 63rd Ave E Bradenton FL 34203 pursuant to subsection 713.78 of the Florida Statutes.

NORMS TOWING reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids.

BAYSIDE COMMERCIAL PAINTING. David Padyani Call 941-565-9446 or Larry Zimmer 941-2248123 Licensed & Insured

1995 Buick century 1G4AG55M8S6491096

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

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

2010 Honda Accord 5J6TF1H33AL002349 2004 Honda Civic 1HGEM21964LO51995

LOST & FOUND FOUND SMALL FRIENDLY domesticated black & white cat near Bean Point.

Needs good home. Call 941-778-1976 LOST KAYAK BIMINI BAY Floated away on Sunday nights storm. Tan Feather Lite. Please call 941-7783057 LOST HEAVY GOLD CHAIN with Blue Stone near 47th Ave in Holmes Beach on December 26. REWARD! Call 908-963-1702

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

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496

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

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

Call 407-579-1621 LOST TENNIS BRACELET Gold with Diamonds around. Near Dog Park or Publix. REWARD! Call 941778-2494

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

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

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

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

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

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE FROM THE HIGH $200’s. Only minutes from the beach, this new active adult community is perfectly located just south of Manatee Ave, off Village Green Pkwy.

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

Luxurious amenities, pool, spa, gym, pickle ball and fenced-in dog park. HOA only $190/ month. Models open daily. Contact us 941254-3330 www.MirabellaFlorida.com 516 N. BAY New Construction. 4BR/4.5BA Incredible Gulf Bay Views. $1,725,000.

Call Charles Buky Coldwell Banker 941-228-6086 CANAL FRONT HOMES Holmes Bch - Key Royale GULF FRONT CONDOS Gulf Place, La Casa L’Plage, Waters Edge & MORE. Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 PERICO ISLAND Furnished 2BR/3BA townhouse very large floor plan, dining room, walk in closets, den, priced to sell $269,900. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054 BAY FRONT HOME W. Bradenton Palma Sola 4000 sq.ft. 4 BR/3.5 BA 4 car garage. Stunning Cathedral ceilings. No Island traffic! Island Real Estate ASK Alan Galletto 941-232-2216 NEW LISTING BREATHTAKING Gulf Views 1BR/1BA WEEKLY RENTALS Great Income producing property.

Sleeps 4 $439,900 Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-3305054 BRADENTON BEACH CLUB by Owner 2BR/2BA + Den. 1268sf.

Pictures? homeaway. com/ 3676751. Interested? Call Owner 813454-7611 $465,000

AMISUN.COM

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REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY noon-2pm , 11002 Perico Bay Bradenton.

FANTASTIC WATER VIEWS: PERICO ISLAND Large ground level Villa 2BR/2BA, 2 car garage, den, vaulted ceilings in living room, dining room, sunroom, 11002 Perico Way. New Price $329,900. Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 2pm-4pm 11433 Perico Island Circle, Bradenton 3BR/2.5 BA Single Family Home. New Kitchen, Roof, New A/C. Spectacular Water Views. $425,000 . Sharon Hightower RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-330-5054

REAL ESTATE: OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-4 PM DRASTICALLY REDUCED. PRICED TO SELL Beautiful Custom Home, 10 Minutes from AMI Beaches Completely renovated in 2016: new stainless/granite kitchen, NEW ROOF, skylight and hardwood floors. Open floor plan, split bedrooms, large lanai, 2210 sq ft under AC, 3BR/2BA/2CG. $329,900 5320 88th St. W., Bradenton Call 941580-0626

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

Call today for details. Ask for Ed DUNCAN REAL ESTATE 941-779-0304 www.teamduncan.com 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.

Call us today! 941-778-3986

ANNUAL HOLMES BEACH Small but Cute! Unfurnished 1BR/1BA Available May 15. $900/mo. First, last, security deposit. Credit check. Call JoAnne 941809-2488 1BR/1BA DUPLEX $1050/ mo. on island annual lease.

Gulf front studio $1000 annual lease. 2BR/2BA furnished condo at West Bay Point $1850/mo. annual lease. Contact A Paradise 941-778-4800 PERICO ISLAND VILLA: 2BR/2BA ground floor villa w/attach garage, water view from most rooms including screen patio.

Comm. pool & tennis. $1750/mo. includes water and basic cable. First, last, & Sec. Dep. Island Real Estate 941-345-1295 ANNUAL RENTAL- BEAUTIFUL, 3BR,/ 3BA canal front home perfect location on Oak Ave 1 block to beach 3 blocks to stores. Dock w/ lift. Spacious and light, granite counter tops and stainless appliances. Large garage, private yard.

Available June 1. $3,300 month - 941-321-5454 BEAUTIFUL 2BR/2BA HOME in Heather Hills Estates. This large home has 960 sq. feet of living space and can be rented fully furnished, partly furnished or ready for your furnishings. The home is in a quiet and friendly 55+ community with access to an 18-hole golf course, shuffleboard court and expansive club house.

Home has an open style living room/dining room and a separate den.

Includes a carport, lovely front porch seating area and a laundry/utility shed with a washer and dryer. Close to restaurants, shopping and more. No pets/smoking. Just $975 a month.

Rent includes water, trash, pest control, yard maintenance, home association fees and more.

Drive by and you'll fall in love with its charm. Call 727-902-4005 for more information.

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!

MAY 3, 2017

SEASONAL RENTALS AVAILABLE: May & June.

HOLMES BEACH: 2BR/1BA ground level. Block to Gulf.

ANNA MARIA (monthly minimum): 2BR/2BA & 2BR/1BA Both ground level and Close to Beach.

2BR/1BA Gulf Front. Second story. Horizon Realty of Anna Maria 941-7780426 kringco@tampabay. rr.com NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Anna Maria. 3BR/2BA Seasonal Rental across the street from Gulf.

Heated Pool.

AMIRENTAL.com

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $165. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com

ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all airports, appointments, casino, cruises, etc. Tampa $60. Sarasota $30. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 ADMIRAL TOWN CAR Professional chauffeur, taxi prices! Airports (1@ $75, 10 $150 to Tampa), Appointments anywhere.

Credit cards accepted. Phil 941-320-1120 admiraltowncar@gmail.com, Licensed & Insured ROGER'S AIRPORT SERVICE. Tampa, St. Pete/ Clearwater, Sarasota/ Bradenton. Call Roger 941773-1469

www.amisun.com

MAY 3, 2017

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home improvement

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

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transportation HOME SITTING / PET SITTING

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THE SUN

www.amisun.com

MAY 3, 2017

Vacation Rentals • Sales • Property Management

TeamDuncan.com • 941.779.0304

310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216