The Sun - Dec 24 2014

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VOL 15 No. 9

December 24, 2014

Endangered bird may delay pier rebuild

Students have last-minute wishes

BY TOM VAUGHT

SUN STAFF WRITER | tvaught@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – As the clock wound down on the last school day before the Christmas break, students at Anna Maria Elementary were getting ready by cleaning their desks and making sure their assignments were done.

The Sun wondered what some of those kids were dreaming about finding under the Christmas tree.

Guidance Counselor Cindi Harrison took notes and made sure names were spelled correctly as we wandered the halls, visiting classrooms.

Here’s what they said they wanted.

1. Gabriel Djakov asks for a Star Wars tanker.

2. Lily Stringer simply said, “I really want to see Santa.”

3. Lorena Danolic wants a Doc McStuffins Play Set. 4. Heidi Querrard would like a Princess Doll.

5. Emerson Edixon asks for an American Girl Doll.

6. Alyssa Sparks wants a Minecraft Game with an X Box and full controller.

7. Tristan Watson, who attended AMI and is now at Bradenton Christian, got his wish. He’s going on a weeklong trip to Disney World.

8. Kaleb Rice wants video games for his play station.

9. David Connerton asked for an iPhone.

10. Finally, Mrs Harrison told everyone what she wanted for Christmas and every day of the year – peace.

So, make sure you leave Santa some cookies and hot chocolate, kids, and hope he reads The Sun to find out your Christmas wishes.

Newly-designated and threatened red knots may delay the reconstruction of three erosion control groins in Bradenton Beach.

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed the red knot, a shorebird that frequents Anna Maria Island, as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. A designation of threatened means a species is at risk of becoming endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range.

The new listing may delay the already-permitted removal of three crumbling erosion control groins see bird, page 28

Recall petition drive begins

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – As promised, former City Commissioner Pete Barreda was sitting in the Gulf Drive Café’s Kokonut Hut Wednesday afternoon, making available to city voters the recall petition that could lead to a special election that would determine whether Mayor Bill Shearon finishes his term in office.

Barreda, the recall committee chair, sat ready with a folder filled with 200 unsigned copies of the single-page document. Each form is designed to accommodate one signee, and the verified signatures of at least 100 registered city voters must be collected in order for the recall effort to continue.

If fewer than 100 verified signatures are collected, see RECALL, page 28

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey art outdoors food column real estate sports

4 6 7 22 24-25 29 34-39 40

new releases about

county may fight expected

Anna Maria Island by local writers. 26

Long Bar Pointe lawsuit. 16

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Fire district meeting heats up.

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

Merry Christmas

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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Fire commissioner assails district for spending The issue arose after an inquiry about the amount of information a commissioner could request without board approval.

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

BRADENTON – Tempers flared at last week’s meeting of the West Manatee Fire Commission when Commissioner George Harris asked if they should limit the amount of information that a single commissioner can request from the staff without board approval.

“I believe your pointing at me,” Commissioner Al Robinson said.

“Yes sir, I am,” Harris replied.

Robinson responded that in the last 24 hours, the district spent $17,000 and spends $500,000 a month and $6 million per year.

“When I chose to run, I had a platform to try and stop the hemorrhaging of money,” Robinson said. “Three thousand people gave me that mandate.

We’re spending money like crazy, and I can’t make decisions unless I know the economics.”

He then passed out a memo listing costs including capital items purchased in the past five years and for more than $35,000 each at a total of $658,000, remodeling Station 1 in Holmes Beach at $360,000, purchasing and remodeling of the administration building at $1.6 million, and remodeling of Station 2 in Cortez at $1.5 million for a total of $4.3 million.

“Word on the street, and I can’t get a straight answer out of anybody, is we’re going to spend $2 million on this building over here (Station 4) and heard today about a $400,000 jet boat.

“It’s flabbergasting the way we spend money,” he said. “We’re not living within our means. We’re spending the taxpayers’ money. We’re over the top.”

Harris said it took staff several hours and cost $154 to get the information for Robinson and added, “My concern is that this request may be the tip of the iceberg. I think it would be advantageous for this board to address what an individual commissioner can request.”

Incoming Fire Chief Tom Sousa said they should develop guidelines on the process for commissioners to seek information, “not to try to squelch getting information,” but to govern staff time

in providing it.

Commissioner David Bishop, the incoming chair, asked if Harris wanted the issue on the next meeting agenda and Harris replied, “Yes; it needs to be addressed,”

Station 4 report

Sousa reported on information he had gathered on potential sites for rebuilding Station 4. Two sites are being evaluated – the current site at 407 67th Street W. in Bradenton and a parcel owned by the Palma Sola Presbyterian Church that is adjacent to the fire district’s administration building at 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.

At a work session on Dec. 9 questions arose regarding an easement through the middle of the current site and angle parking for the church on Third Avenue West, which could interfere with ingress and egress from the church-owned site.

“The easement is for a sewer line, and it bisects the property,” Sousa told the board. “NDC (NDC Construction, the design/build team selected for replacing the station) didn’t feel it was a big problem to move it.”

He said depending on the depth of

the pipe, if the fire officials decide to move it and there is not enough inversion for the sewage to flow, they would have to build a lift station. He said he is seeking a rough estimate on design and cost for a lift station.

“To utilize the whole property you would have to mitigate that sewer line,” he pointed out, “I’m skeptical about trying to put that big a building on such a small footprint without relocating the sewer line.”

Sousa said he met with the minister about the angle parking and both agreed that it would be a problem. He proposed some areas of no parking and she said she would take the proposal to the church board.

He also said he met with officials from an engineering firm about traffic light control for Manatee Avenue and 67th Street, but he does not have any costs yet.

“I’m not prepared to make a recommendation until I get all of the information,” he concluded. “I polled the battalion chiefs and they prefer the current site. I’m comfortable with either site once we get the church to agree to parking and talk to the signalization people.”

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ISLAND NEWS

Fire commissioners elect officers

Board to discuss rental landscape debris The Holmes Beach Parks and Beautification Advisory Board plans to discuss a proposal by member Dennis Groh regarding landscape debris on rental properties.

“As part of the effort to keep the city beautiful. I would propose that rental properties be required as part of their licensing to have their landscapers removed all the debris they generate on the day they generate it,” Groh said in a memo to Chair Bob Longworth.

He said most responsible management companies already comply, but added, “I have witnessed several situations where the debris is just left unbundled in a pile next to the street, “Since Waste Management will not remove the landscape debris unless cut to length and bundled, the landscape debris just sits and looks increasingly unsightly while the leaves turn brown and blow all over.”

He said he hopes the board would make a recommendation to the city commission. The board’s next meeting is Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 4 p.m.

Police department seeks grants Homes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer has applied for the following grants: • Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grant, $19,129 for 17 automatic external defibrillators to put in each police vehicle, the marine boat and the ATV; • Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant, $1,011.78 to purchase two night vision binoculars; • Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant, $13,345 to purchase a 2015 Kawasaki twoseat, four-wheel drive vehicle.

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Lawyers offer vacation rental advice to officials

in brief

West Manatee Fire Commissioners last week elected the following officers for 2015: David Bishop, chair; Randy Cooper, vice chair; and George Harris, secretary/treasurer.

Acting Chair Larry Jennis also made the following appointments: • Cooper – liaison to the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials, representative to the Manatee County Fire Commissioners’ Association, dinner committee and beach safety and Citizens’ Fire Academy programs; • Jennis – awards and accreditation committees; • Bishop – facilities advisor; • Harris – safety committee and alternate to the Manatee County Fire Commissioners’ Association; • Al Robinson – alternate liaison to the Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials,

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

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

Lawyers offered local municipal government officials some tips last week on how to address vacation rental problems under a state law curbing municipal regulation of rentals.

Al Hadeed, county attorney for Flagler County, and Susan Trevarthen, attorney with Weiss, Serota in Fort Lauderdale, conducted a webinar featuring suggestions on things to do and things to avoid doing gleaned from court cases in several Florida jurisdictions.

The 2011 vacation rental law passed with aid from the well-funded Short Term Rental Advocacy Center, which also advises lawyers challenging municipal attempts to regulate rentals, Hadeed said.

The law prohibited communities from regulating vacation rentals

if they didn’t already have regulations in place at the time the law passed in June 2011, making municipalities with such ordinances on the books leery about amending them due to the possibility of invalidating the grandfathered provisions, he said.

This year, the Legislature amended the law to restore local regulatory powers as long as municipalities don’t prohibit vacation rentals or regulate the duration or frequency of rentals, but local leaders must be careful to tailor any new ordinances to their cities’ unique situations, he said.

“Get the opinions of as many stakeholders as possible,” before passing a new ordinance, he suggested, adding that while full-time residents deserve their quality of life, rental owners have property rights, too.

Anna Maria commission discusses webinar

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

ANNA MARIA – After sitting through the Florida League of Cities webinar on what other cities are doing to handle problem vacation rentals, members of the city commission talked about what they learned on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

“When one group of property owners impact their neighbors’ rights, you have to consider that when writing an ordinance,” said Commission Chair Chuck Webb.

“I learned if you don’t explain the intent of an ordinance in the first part of the ordinance, the courts might make a broader interpretation of it,” said Commissioner Doug Copeland, who said he would like to see if the attorney in the webinar, Susan Trevarthan would be available to help out the city.

Mayor Dan Murphy said he is concerned that City Attorney James Dye is part owner of a rental property in the city and he has to recuse himself from discussing vacation rentals.

“I think it’s time to fish or cut bait and use another attorney,” he said.

Webb said Dye did not recuse himself until late in the game and now he says he got a ruling from the bar that he can weigh in on vacation rentals.

Webb asked staff to put the perceived conflict on the agenda for a meeting last Thursday.

Flagler County is focusing on regulations for the public safety and welfare, he said, using fire safety as an example. More thorough fire inspections may be required to ensure that rentals have, for example, hard-wired smoke detectors, an evacuation plan or a posted emergency contact number.

The 2011 law allowed for 20 people to occupy a 3,000-squarefoot house, he said, which encouraged investor groups to buy and convert homes into rentals, greatly impacting single family home neighborhoods, he said.

To combat that impact by instituting an occupancy cap is tricky, he said, because rental owners argue that the city is interfering with their investment expectations. Phase in a cap over time and see webinar, page 11

Realtor weighs in on vacation rentals Island Real Estate owner Larry Chatt spoke as the city commission talked about good and bad property managers.

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

ANNA MARIA – Island Real Estate owner Larry Chatt got up from the audience at city hall as the work session on vacation rentals concluded and moved to the dais last Thursday night.

The city commission had been speaking about property managers and some of the good ones they knew compared to some who might not be so diligent in their dealings.

Saying the problem is complicated, Chatt said he favors licensing of rental homes and inspections.

He said that was his opinion, not the opinion of the group of real estate and property management professionals that was formed recently to make sure their rights to do business were protected. He proposed hashing out the problems with the commissioners so they know what they are.

Before Chatt spoke, the commissioners discussed an ordinance resident Maureen McCormick was putting together as a base for one that would address all of the vacation rental problems.

Commissioner Carol Carter said she spoke with see rentals, page 5

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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Resident offers life safety rules for rentals Dick Motzer suggested imposing a moratorium on the construction of houses with five or more bedrooms.

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

HOLMES BEACH – Resident Dick Motzer has submitted the following sug-

gestions to the city regarding life safety requirements for rental properties with five or more bedrooms.

• Require an annual inspection by a life safety inspector before a rental license is issued. There would be a fee for the inspection, and the inspector could issue notices of violation.

• Require smoke detectors and a licensed monitoring company to monitor all rentals with five or more bedrooms.

• Require sprinklers in all new construction and all remodels with five or more bedrooms.

• Require pool inspections and a guard over the bottom drains.

• Require the life safety certificate to be displayed.

“These suggestions do not address the real problem of the large number of occupants from the eight-bedroom homes,” he added.

He said the homes are set up like college dorms with suites around a common area and pointed out, “This is out of character with the Island and this is definitely commercial property in a residentially zoned area.”

He suggested a moratorium on the construction of houses with five or more bedrooms until the city can “gain control of the problems that we thought we had resolved with the LAR (living area ratio)."

on new homes with more than three bedrooms or rooms that could become bedrooms. The ordinance also allows people who are building non-rental houses to sign a covenant that they would not change the occupation of the house from owner-occupied to rental within five years, unless there was “an extraordinary hardship based on a catastrophic event.”

The commissioners voted to keep the moratorium in effect for a year from its inception on Sept. 22, unless there is sufficient progress that would make it unnecessary. If the moratorium is still

needed past the deadline, they could vote to extend it.

Finally, the commission approved a plan to start clearing Gulf Front Park of exotic and invasive plants, but not Australian pines. The city has $25,000 for the project and Mayor Dan Murphy said he is going to ask for money from the Tourist Development Council to pay for the project. He also said he would ask for funds to develop City Pier Park at Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard.

rentals: Realtor weighs in FROM PAGE 4

many residents, and they all want regulation of vacation rentals.

Commissioner Dale Woodland said he wanted a simple cap on the number of people allowed in a rental house and it would not be limited by the size of the house. He said 10 would be a good number.

McCormick said if the tenants get too noisy and the police are called, they could count how many people are staying and make excess tenants leave.

The commissioners talked about the bad apple rental managers who packed

houses with partiers and got a lot of complaints. Chatt addressed that when he spoke, saying most rental managers would not put too many people into a house because the owners would get mad if they damaged the home or got too many noise complaints.

The commissioners have known they could prohibit managers from doing business in the city if they are too lenient about the quality of tenants they allow to rent.

In a related topic, the commission voted to pass an ordinance spelling out the terms of the city’s moratorium

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THE SUN

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

Like us on our new Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun

DECEMBER 24, 2014

GUEST COLUMN An Island Christmas missed

BY JERRY L. GIESKE SR. SPECIAL TO THE SUN

I

will miss this winter season on Anna Maria Island.

I first came to the Island at age 14 in 1948 to spend Christmas with my grandparents. I then went into the military service and grew up with memories of Anna Maria in my mind. Well, I ended up on the Battle Creek, Mich., police department after a stint in the U.S. Navy and Army. I never had the vacation time or money to return to the Island, and both grandparents had passed away.

Then in 1960, I joined the Prudential Insurance Co. My income and vacation time was much greater than when I was with the police department. I managed to make my first insurance convention with Prudential, and it was held in Hollywood Beach, Fla., for three days. After the convention I headed straight to Anna Maria and stayed for a week. I then made it an annual vacation trip and stayed for many months each season and spent my time at the Rod and Reel Pier.

I retired from Prudential in 1996 and then was able to come to the Island and find a roommate and stay from December until mid-April. Then I returned to my Michigan home on Mullett Lake near Topinabee. Well, after this past season in 2013, I returned to Michigan and found that I had contracted cancer. I started taking chemotherapy in August 2014 and was told that until I went into remission I had to stay in Michigan. Sad news.

I do receive The Sun newspaper by mail and try to keep up with all the changes going on there throughout the year. But I really miss my four-month stay, and hope that if you print my letter, all of my friends that I could not contact and who wonder where I am will be able to read it and know why I’m not there this season. If the good Lord’s willing and the chemo works, I will be back next season. After all, I’m only 80! Thank you for printing this and may all of you have a very merry Christmas and a happy 2015 New Year.

Editor's note: If any of Jerry's Island friends want to write to him his address is: Jerry Gieske, Sr. 4367 Old U.S. 27 Highway Cheboygan, MI 49721

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Lester Day at its finest The largest crowd ever attended the 13th Annual Lester Family Fun Day at the Anna Maria Island Community Center on Saturday, December 6. It’s such a busy time of year, yet all ages came from near and far to welcome in the holiday season.

There were smiles and laughter and plenty of holiday cheer shared among friends old and new. There was Santa’s arrival by sled, the ever-popular fish pond, very talented ballerinas from Diane Partington Studio of Classical Ballet performing scenes from The Nutcracker, local teen Griffin Heckler performing “Let It Be” from the movie "Frozen," artistic face painting, holiday card mak-

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field

ing, pony rides, a balloon artist and a very upbeat drum line, just to name a few events.

But most of all, there was a feeling of good old-fashioned fun with great old-fashioned prices, which is just what the Lesters wanted.

The Island Community Center would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our wonderful, generous event sponsors, Chuck and Joey Lester, whose continued support over the years has been simply incredible.

We would also like to thank Polli Stroup and the Duffy’s Grill Team; John Horne, of the Anna Maria Oyster Bar; Erin Hughey, our fantastic winter wonderland set designer; and the Manatee High School Drum Line. Special thanks to Santa for generously

Layout Ricardo Fonseca

Outdoors editor Rusty Chinnis

Reporters Pat Copeland Cindy Lane Tom Vaught Joe Hendricks

Ad director Chantelle Lewin Ad assistant Chris Boniberger

Columnists Louise Bolger

Classified ads Bob Alexander

giving his Saturday to listen to the good children’s Christmas wishes, and thanks to the AMI Pyrates for facilitating Santa’s sleigh ride.

Also, we’d like to acknowledge all of the wonderful volunteers who so graciously gave their time, rolled up their sleeves and made this event happen – the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island and so many others who simply showed up and asked, “What can I do to help?” The Annual Lester Family Fun Day is a great opportunity for everyone to come out and visit our Center to see what we do and to meet our staff. The Center extends best wishes to you and your families for the holidays and the New Year.

The Anna Maria Island Community Center staff

Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Web Jocelyn V. Greene Accounting John Reitz

Distribution Bob Alexander Keith Isner Tony McNulty Contributors Steve Borggren Tom Breiter Troy Morgan Monica Simpson

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: Do you favor building the proposed cell tower in Anna Maria?

Anna Maria

39%

No, what they're planning will be an eyesore and completely out of scale.

10005 Gulf Drive

None scheduled For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

12/30: City Commission work session, 1 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach 5801 Marina Drive

None scheduled For information, call 7085800.

Holiday schedule

The Island Branch Library and the offices of city of Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach will be closed on

61%

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Dec. 24 and 25 and on Jan. 1. The offices of the city of Holmes Beach and the Island Community Center will be closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1. The Island Community Center will close at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31. The offices of the West Manatee Fire District will be closed Dec. 24 through 26 and Jan. 1. Tingley Memorial Library will close at noon on Dec. 24 and 31 and be closed Dec. 25 through 27 and Jan. 1. There will be no Waste Management or Waste Pro solid waste or recycling collection. All Waste Management residential collections will resume the next day.

All Waste Pro residential collections will resume the next regularly scheduled collection day.

mark your calendar Yes. I'm tired of my calls being dropped in mid-sentence.

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

Wednesday Dec. 24

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY What's on your Christmas wish list?

• A limitless supA new bike. ply of clean, A new bridge. nonpolluting Peace on Earth. energy - oh wait, Health and happiwe already have ness for my friends that in solar and family.

• A winning lottery power. Neverticket. mind.

• • • •

To vote, go to www.amisun.com or scan this code to vote by smartphone. But don't just vote – let us know what else you think. Send your comments about this week's topic to news@amisun.com or post them in the comments section of our website.

Results are printed on this page every week in the Anna Maria Island Sun.

LIKE us on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AnnaMariaIslandSun Email your favorite sunset photo of the week to sunfb@amisun.com and we will post the best one on our SUNset Sundays.

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

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

Letters should be kept to 300 words or less and should contain your name and the city in which you reside.

Personal attacks and obscene language will not be printed. Letters also may be edited for length and content.

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5.

Saturday Dec. 27

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

Wednesday Dec. 31

Early Settler’s Bread for sale, AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., $5.

Meditation class, AMI Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach, 11 a.m. to noon, donation only.

Call 941-778-2099 or email ArtLeagueAMI@gmail. com. to register.

Friday

Sunday

Jan.4

Dec. 28

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

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

Monday Dec. 29 Naturalist-led wagon tour, Robinson Preserve, 99th Street Northwest and 17th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton, 9 to 10 a.m. and 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., first come, first served.

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8.

Register to 941-778-2099.

Tuesday Dec. 30

Jan. 2

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

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

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

Monday Jan. 5

Chair yoga, Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., $8.

Register to 941-778-2099.

Tuesday Jan. 6

Children’s story time, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m.

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

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Thanks for service to city At right, above, former Mayor Carmel Monti, and below, former City Commissioner David Zaccagnino received clock plaques from City Clerk Stacey Johnston as a thank you for their service to the city. “I loved working with you all,” Monti said. “I think a lot of things we were working on are coming to fruition.” Monti, who was mayor for one term, chose not to run for the office again. Zaccagnino, who was a commissioner for nine years before resigning from office to run for mayor, said, “It was a pleasure serving my community.”

Pat Copeland | Sun

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

Joe Hendricks | Sun

Austin out and about Shown with eight-year-old Dudley Bowman during the recent Christmas on Bridge Street, Blue Marlin Grill employee Austin Goncalves provided a quick update on his recovery from the ciguatera fish poisoning he contracted while spear fishing in the Bahamas in July. “I’m doing much better,” he said, adding that he has been attending high school on the mainland since the academic year began. “I keep on improving, but I haven’t been back out on the water yet.”

Distinctive Homes for Casual Lifestyles CBC060236

www.GagneConstruction.com

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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WEBINAR: Rentals discussed FROM PAGE 4

consider vesting existing rental agreements that could be could be affected, he suggested. Regulating the number of people allowed per bathroom in a rental would be a creative response to rental owners who cram bunk beds in living rooms and convert garages into bedrooms to maximize occupancy, according to Susan Trevarthen, a Fort Lauderdale attorney who detailed case law on vacation rentals for listeners.

To thwart challenges from vacation rental owners, code enforcement inspections of vacation rentals should be made

pursuant to a clearly defined municipal program and conducted when rental units are vacant to minimize the risk of transgressing state statutes, Hadeed said.

The vacation rental law likely will be revisited by the Legislature in the 2015 session, Hadeed predicted, primarily because of the unfairness to residents whose neighborhood character has been redefined by a constant transient population and whose market values are impacted negatively by vacation rentals. “You have one hand tied behind your back because of this legislative process,� he told leaders.

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'FOOFM &ODSVTUFE .BSTBMB 4BMNPO - Ortygia

has always been my passion, “andFood to me Ortygia is a magical place.

What makes Ortygia an Original is that I serve Sicilian French cuisine using the products of local growers and shops.

I enjoy witnessing my customers delight in dishes they never imagined would be even remotely Sicilian. I invite you to come experience my dream come true!

Gaetano Cannata, Chef/Owner, Ortygia

�

EAT LIKE A LOCAL DineOriginal.com 15 South Ristorante • Andrea’s • Anna Maria Oyster Bar • The BeacHhouse Restaurant • The Bijou CafÊ • Blu Mangrove Grill • Blu Que Island Grill • Bridge Street Bistro • The Broken Egg • CafÊ Americano • CafÊ Baci • CafÊ Gabbiano • CafÊ L’Europe • CafÊ Venice • Caragiulos • Cedar Reef Fish Camp • Ciao! Italia • Cosimo’s Restaurant & Catering • The Crow’s Nest • Derek’s • Drunken Poet CafÊ • Duval’s • Euphemia Haye • Fast N Fresh • Gold Rush BBQ • Gulf Drive CafÊ + Tiki • Half Shell Seafood House • Harry’s Continental Kitchens • JPAN Restaurant • Lobster Pot • Lynches Pub & Grub • Madfish Grill • Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub • Michael John’s • Michael’s On East • mi Pueblo • Ophelia’s On The Bay • Ortygia Restaurant • Pacific Rim • Pattigeorge’s • Pier 22 Restaurant • Polo Grill & Bar • Primo! Ristorante • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Roessler’s Restaurant • Salute!

Restaurant • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits • Savory Street • Sharky’s On The Pier • Siesta Key Oyster Bar • SoMa Creek Side • Village CafÊ • The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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Commission won't use Dye on rentals After the city commission meeting ended and the work session on a vacation rental ordinance began, City Attorney James Dye got up and left.

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

ANNA MARIA – City Attorney James Dye will not be a part of the city commission’s attempts to control vacation rentals after a spirited exchange last Thursday night with commission chair Chuck Webb, who also is an attorney.

Dye Webb feels Dye’s partial ownership of a family-owned rental property at 102 Tuna Street, a home built by baseball star Warren Spahn for his family, represents a conflict of interest. A local real estate company manages the rental.

Mayor Dan Murphy first brought up the possibility of a conflict at a meeting earlier last week. He said he was concerned that the city would have to hire another attorney, which would cost the city more in legal fees.

The city earlier paid attorney David Levin $5,000 to render an opinion on whether the city is exempt from laws that restrict the city’s power over vacation rentals. Levin said the city was exempt, but many of the commissioners, if not all, disagree with him.

Webb said assisting the city in drafting ordinances to control the influx of large homes built to be rental properties is in conflict with the partownership of the house.

Dye said, based on the situation, the bar doesn’t see a conflict. He is part owner of a family house that is rented sometimes. It has two bedrooms and a sleeper sofa.

“This house is outside the area of concern,” he said. “My understanding is you brought Mr. Levin in because you don’t like my opinion.”

This house is outside the area of concern. My understanding is you brought Mr. Levin in because you don't like my opinion."

James Dye Anna Maria city attorney

Dye said he disagrees with Levin and he would not be able to work on it.

“I’m not sure I can stand in his shoes,” Dye said.

Webb said the issue is whether Dye

can continue to work on vacation rentals. Commissioner Dale Woodland said he doesn’t agree with Levin either.

Commissioner Doug Copeland said there were questions raised in a webinar they watched earlier in the week about Levin’s opinion, and they could consider hiring an attorney who worked on the webinar, Susan Trevarthan, to help them. Copeland said he’s backing off of what Levin said.

Commissioner Nancy Yetter said she would have liked Dye to work with Levin. She said Dye let them down.

The mayor said Dye is still recusing himself, and the city needs a city attorney who can weigh in on the issue.

“Bringing in another person doesn’t do it,” the mayor said.

When asked why he thinks there is a conflict, Webb said: “We might regulate your property some day.”

Dye continued to sit through the commission meeting, but when the vacation property work session started, he left.

Privateers get early Christmas present

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

Two local businesses and a handyman have come to the rescue of the Anna Maria Island Privateers.

The charitable group of pirates lost their regular Santa’s sleigh last year when a former active member claimed it was his and won a court case to get it back.

Since then, the Privateers have asked for help in getting a new sleigh. The old one was built on a boat trailer.

Now the owners of Sea Kat

Divers and the Drift In have combined efforts to put Santa back in a sleigh. Sea Kat donated a trailer, and the Drift In held a fund-raiser Saturday. As a result, the Privateers are close to having the money to pay for the conversion from a trailer to a sleigh, and Warren Clause, who built the first one, will design and build the new one, according to Privateer ’s media liaison Cynthia Meeks. Construction of the new sleigh is set to begin soon.

Meanwhile, Meeks said the Privateers’ parade ship, Skullywag, is still being evaluated

for repair after a man driving a pickup truck ran into the side of the ship on Dec. 6 while the Privateers were coming home from a parade in Sarasota. Still, she said she’s delighted that the crew is recovering from the loss of its sleigh, with a little help from friends.

“It's folks like this and the citizens of Anna Maria Island and surrounding communities that have made the Privateers succeed for the past 43 years,” said Meeks.

“Thank you to all and may all of you have a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”

It's folks like this and the citizens of Anna Maria Island that have made the Privateers succeed for the past 43 years."

Cynthia Meeks Privateers media liaison

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Wagon tour at Robinson Roll through Robinson Preserve in a covered wagon on Monday, Dec. 29, from 9 to 10 a.m.

A tour guide will explain the preserve's history, resident wildlife, flowers and preserve highlights. A second

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The program is suitable for all ages.

Arrive at least 15 minutes in advance.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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15

EEEC off to fast start Mayor Dan Murphy asked for volunteers to re-form the Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee to work on landscape and beautification projects

“We will start in January,” Murphy said. “We’ll walk down to the area and look it over first.”

Copeland said because of the negative reaction to an advisor’s plan that called for the Australian pines to be removed, they would not consider removing any of those trees.

Murphy said after the unwanted landscaping is removed, they would proceed with planting native plants.

He also said he would ask for financial help from the bed tax generated by Tourist Development Commission. He said he would put together a request for funding.

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

ANNA MARIA – With three of its five members, the newly elected mayor and a city commissioner liaison, the newly re-formed Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee, also known as EEEC, held its first meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

Mayor Dan Murphy wanted to bring the committee back to life and its first order of business was to look over plans to remove exotic and non-native landscaping from Gulf Front Park.

Jeanne Deem, Lynn Brennan and Jenah Victor were the three members who showed up for the first meeting while Jane Coleman, who was a member of the previous committee, and David Rogerson were absent. City Commissioner Doug Copeland, who is spearheading the cleanup project,

City Pier Park

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

From left to right: Lynn Brennan, Jenah Victor, City Commissioner Doug Copeland, Mayor Dan Murphy and Jeanne Deem at the Environmental Education and Enhancement Committee. attended as commission liaison.

Copeland told the members that the city planned to groom the beachfront land in two parcels – first with the portion between Palm and Palmetto Avenues and second between Palmetto and Willow Avenues. The city

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has $25,000 budgeted for the entire project, which runs between Magnolia and Oak Avenues. He said after they remove the unwanted plants, he did not want big patches of barren land so they might plant some sea oats in those areas.

Murphy said he is forming a committee to make plans for City Pier Park, the six lots of vacant land that the city bought several years ago.

He recruited resident Bob Patten, a former mayor of a New Jersey city, to head that effort.

“This is another project I would like the TDC to fund,” he said. “I would like to get it passed by the city commission without funding, and then go to the TDC.”

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Long Bar suit anticipated County officials support their attorney’s recommendation to fight a lawsuit, if filed.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRSONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Assistant County Attorney Bill Clague recommends the county defend itself from a potential Long Bar Pointe-related Bert Harris claim, rather than settle with Carlos Beruff’s development group.

Last week, Manatee County Commissioners unanimously approved Clague’s recommended response to a Bert Harris notice of claim filed by the developers of the More than 1,000 people showed up at a 2013 controversial Long Bar Pointe project. commission meeting pertaining to the Long “That claim arises out of the board’s Bar Pointe development. decision not to transmit the developer’s File photo proposed text amendment to the comprehensive plan. That decision was made at a would get built if Beruff succeeded with a very well attended public hearing in August Bert Harris lawsuit. of 2013,” Clague said.

“The Bert Harris Act allows a developer During that 2013 hearing, the commisto file a notice of claim with the county, alsion voted 4-3 in favor of granting the leging that the county’s action has violated developers a related map amendment that the developer’s rights,” Clague explained. allowed for mixed-use development on a Beruff’s notice of claim was filed in large tract of land along El Conquistador August and the county had 150 days to Parkway in Bradenton, but fell short of respond. allowing a marina and bayside channel that “That’s why we are here today,” could have led to the potential destruction Clague said, noting that a Bert Harris of an environmentally sensitive coastal lawsuit cannot be filed until the remangrove forest. sponse period expires.

The developers later withdrew the “As of Jan. 1 they will be able to (file). mixed-use request and submitted plans for I cannot predict that they will file a lawa residential development that has yet to be suit, but all the correspondence we have built adjacent to Sarasota Bay. received suggests that is what they intend While campaigning for reelection to do,” Clague said. earlier this year, Commissioner Carol As for how the county should respond, Whitmore expressed concern that the Clague said, “There is no recommended citizen-opposed channel and marina compromise or reconsideration of the

board’s decision. We are recommending that you stand by that decision. We believe the claim does not meet the requirements of the Bert Harris Act.” Clague said this opinion was based in part on the premise that the allowable property uses listed in the comprehensive plan and other county code do not equate to automatic development approval, but serve instead as guidelines for property uses likely to receive approval.

“Any of those uses would have to come back to this board, with full opportunity for public involvement,” Clague said.

He offered to go into greater detail regarding the county’s legal position, but said he preferred to keep that information “close to the vest” in order to protect the county’s interests.

Before the discussion was opened to public comment, Clague emphasized the need

for citizen restraint.

“It is in the legal interest of the county to avoid politically charged comments and personal attacks. Those kinds of acerbic remarks don’t help our case … particularly if you have an interest in seeing the county’s decision upheld,” he said.

Resident Glen Gibellina said, “It was a good project, but now he (Beruff) has pushed the county a little too far. Stay the course and stay your ground.”

Former County Commissioner Jane von Hahmann also addressed the commission.

“You were defending and supporting a land development code that has been in place since 1989. The coastal element and the conversation elements that are there were put into place to protect certain properties. There probably isn’t a challenge here,” she said.

Animal Services study unveiled A public meeting will be scheduled in February to discuss implementation of the study recommendations.

BY JOE HENDRICKS

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

MANATEE COUNTY – Last week, county commissioners were presented the findings of a $50,000 Manatee County Animal Services study conducted by the Matrix Consulting Group. The study assessed compliance with best practices, identified areas for improvement and provided recommendations for change.

The study pertains to the county’s efforts to provide a No Kill animal shelter, as decreed by county resolution in 2011. This designation is obtained by

saving at least 90 percent of the dogs and cats brought to Animal Services and extends to local rescue groups as well, some of which advocate a 100 percent save rate.

“Today is merely an introduction,” said County Administrator Ed Hunzeker.

“We are scheduling a workshop for February to go over our recommendations for implementing the findings. No doubt it will have cost implications and staffing implications. We will have a very public discussion on all of that in February” he added.

While summarizing the report, Matrix representative Alan Pennington

acknowledged the No Kill effort has endured initial setbacks and challenges, but he praised Manatee County for being the first in the state to strive for that status. He also noted that the decision to adopt this philosophy was not accompanied by additional funding or staffing.

“You went from a save rate that was in the high 50s and low 60s, to one that is in the high 80s right now. That’s significant improvement in three years,” he said.

Pennington acknowledged that a 100 percent save rate is unrealistic, due to illness or animal temperament, but said that goal should always be strived for.

The study recommends the hiring of an Animal Services director who supports the No Kill philosophy. In August, Hunzeker appointed former Public

Safety Director and No Kill proponent Bill Hutchison to come out of retirement to serve as interim director of Animal Services.

When discussing the study later in the week, Commission Carol Whitmore said Hutchison has worked hard to develop a staff that supports No Kill and has given no indication he is ready to retire again.

The study also recommends hiring a full-time veterinarian and building a new shelter facility. Whitmore said she is curious to see how the other commissioners respond to requests for additional funding.

Pennington stressed the importance of spay and neutering programs and the need to foster and maintain relasee no kill, page 17

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

Christmas shopping From left to right: Isabella Clements, Brian Gallaher and Karoline Berzowski pause to pose for the camera as they shop for gifts at Anna Maria Elementary School’s art room. The PTO set up the shopping so the kids could purchase gifts for relatives privately. There were a wide array of gifts for kids and adults.

Cookbooks on sale The Anna Maria Elementary School PTO’s cookbook, “Island Delights,” is on sale for only $10. The book is a compilation of recipes from parents

and teachers, and the PTO says it makes a great holiday gift. Visit the school at 4700 Gulf Drive to purchase books.

NO KILL: Study unveiled FROM PAGE 16

tionships with local rescue organizations.

The study also cites a need for greater emphasis on recruiting and retaining volunteers, greater transparency, especially in regard to euthanization data, increasing community awareness of programs and services offered and offering evening and weekend adoptions.

Staff insight

The study included interviews and anonymous surveys conducted with Animal Services staff. One hundred percent of those surveyed agreed that a full time vet is needed, and 93 percent disagreed when asked if Animal Services is adequately staffed.

When asked if they feel the county supports Animal Services, 93 percent disagreed, and only 13 percent felt the division has a clear

vision and direction.

When asked if the No Kill philosophy was right for Manatee County, 6.7 percent said it was; 26.7 percent were neutral and 66.7 percent felt it was not.

“Sixty-six and seventh tenths percent of employees disagreed that we’re on right path with the No Kill. I think we need to delve deeper into what that means. They feel that they’ve been under attack, and I’m not surprised they have that perception,” Commissioner Betsy Benac said, in reference to criticisms levied by some in the animal rescue community.

Commissioner Vanessa Baugh thanked those who have assisted with the No Kill effort and said, “I think enough people have been beat up; it’s time to turn it around and work for a positive outcome.”

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Island students perform in ‘Hairspray’ Jack Heckler, an Anna Maria Elementary (AME) grad and a sophomore at Manatee School for the Arts (MSA), starred as Corny Collins in the school’s fall presentation of “Hairspray.” This was Heckler’s first time auditioning and his first school show. He sang, danced and led “The Nicest Kids in Town” troupe on the Corny Collins show, living up to his moniker as Corny and helping Tracy Turnblad take a stand on in 1960s Baltimore.

The ensemble cast members included AME grads, Adra Dupuis and Emily Bell. They wowed sold out audiences all three nights with their impressive performances, choreography and

amazing set and costume designs.

Jack’s mother, Erin, said the school lived up to its reputation as an A-Rated, High Performing, Gold Seal Charter School of Excellence as rated by US News & World Report.

After months of rehearsals, the cast delighted the crowds that filled the school’s large theater. MSA will present “Carousel” in March 2015.

SUBMITTED

Jack Heckler, upper right, with the rest of the cast of “Hairspray.”

Christmas colors Poinsettias are in bloom at a Cortez flower farm. The star-shaped leaf pattern represents the star of Bethlehem that led the three wise men to the manger where Christ was born.

CINDY LANE | SUN SUBMITTED

The crew of the Anna Maria Island Dragon Boat Team practices. They are seeking more members.

Dragon Boaters ready for season

Holiday hours The Tingley Memorial Library in Bradenton Beach, 111 2nd St. N., will be operating with special holiday hours for the next two weeks. The library will close at noon on Christmas Eve, and remain closed on Christmas Day, as well as Friday Dec. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 27.

The library is always closed Sundays and Mondays, but will reopen Tuesday, Dec. 30, be open until noon on New Year’s Eve, and closed on New Year’s Day. Regular library hours, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will resume Friday, Jan. 2.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

The ladies of the Anna Maria Island Dragon Boat Team are coming off a successful off-season training program in preparation for their first race in February and the group is inviting new paddlers to join the fun. They say this is the fastest growing water sport in the world.

The team was the dream of Melinda Bradway, an avid Dragon Boater for eight years, who started the project and is working with the Anna Maria Island Community Center as a pilot project.

They now have a dedicated group of paddlers training for the upcoming races in the spring. They will be racing in Bradenton, Sarasota, Orlando and ultimately at Sombrero Beach in Marathon in May.

Bradway said the Island waters are the perfect place to train.

“We launch the boat at the Holmes Beach boat launch, at the end of 63rd Street and head out to Bimini Bay and the canals, and on calm days we venture out to the Tampa Bay,” she said. “We are greeted by dolphins, rays, bald eagles, ospreys and our fans who root us on whether on their docks or in boats.”

AMI Dragon Boat leases its boat from High Five Dragon Boat, of Tampa, while they plan fundraisers to purchase their own boat, personal flotation devices and paddles.

Anyone interested in finding out more about this new sport or sponsoring the team, contact Melinda Bradway at 941462-2626.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 24, 2014

THE SUN

Holiday event adds money to charities The annual Christmas on Bridge Street held Saturday, Dec. 13, drew a record crowd of approximately 1,000 people throughout the evening in the Bridge Street market lot, according to event organizers.

The Bridge Street Merchants, a not for profit group, hosted the event which contributed proceeds to local food banks and the Cortez Yacht Club.

Proceeds were distributed as follows: Manatee County Food Bank, $750; All Island Denominations Roser Community Food Pantry, $750; and the Cortez Yacht Club, $300.

The celebration featured holiday music provided by local performers, Russ and Brandi and Savannah Brady and Friends. Holiday wreaths and gift baskets with more than $5,000 in certificates for dining, shopping, accommodation stays and merchandise from local shops were raffled off with the arm's length of tickets available for $20.

There were about a dozen vendors selling holiday themed crafts, as well as other gifts for everyone on Santa's list.

A hot chocolate bar with tiny marshmallows optional was a big hit and Santa

Assistant attorney The last city commission meeting of the year began with Bradenton Beach City Attorney Ricinda Perry’s daughter, Victoria, leading the city commission through the Pledge of Allegiance before a discussion ensued on the selection of Charter Review Committee members.

After leading the commission through the Pledge, Victoria presented each commissioner with homemade Christmas cookies that she baked herself.

delighted kids of all ages as he walked through the crowds wishing everyone a merry Christmas.

A group of children from the Anna Maria Island Community Center treated the crowds with a Reader's Theater rendition of "The First Christmas Stocking," directed by volunteer Beth Shaughnessy and education director, Kathy Bogad.

The event also featured snow and the lighted boat parade hosted by the Cortez Yacht Club.

“What a great turn out for Christmas on Bridge Street and thank you to all of the businesses and individuals that support this annual event, said Bridge Street Merchant' president, Angela Rodocker.

“We are appreciative and proud to be a part of such a generous community.”

Sponsors for the event included: Bridge Street Merchants, Bright House Networks, Bradenton Herald, Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper, GrayHawk Windows and Doors Remodeling, Ideal Image, Edgewater Real Estate, Kimball Construction, IMG Academy, The BeachHouse restaurant, METV and Duke Overstreet.

[Jingle Bell]

[Jingle Bell]

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[Jingle Bell]

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

[Rock]

For a Holiday Gift that Rocks …

Beach Bistro Gift Certificates; On-site or Online.

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THE SUN

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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THE SUN

Two art copyright workshops next month The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island will host two meetings on copyrighting artistic works.

Anne Dalton, Esq. will discuss "Exploring Creative Arts Copyright" on Monday, Jan. 5, at the Church of the Annunciation at 45th Street and Second Avenue in Holmes Beach.

Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

On Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon, Nancy McDermott will hold a workshop on how to copyright your paintings, at CrossPointe Fellowship Church,

8605 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.

The cost is $10 for guild members and $25 for non-members.

For more information, call 941778-6694. Register for the workshop at the gallery, 5414 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, or online at www.amiartistsguildgallery.com.

Call to artists The Anna Maria Island Art League is accepting artworks for its January exhibit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yin and Yang, Positive and Negative, or 100 Shades of Gray,â&#x20AC;? featuring works in black, white and gray.

All mediums are encouraged, including painting, drawing, sculpture, jewelry and film and digital photography.

Original artwork must be submitted before Monday, Jan. 5, to the Art League, 5312 Holmes Boulevard in Holmes Beach.

Each artist may submit up to three works; members pay $15 per submission and non-members pay $20 per submission.

Artwork must be original with the exclusion of digital imaging, and be

ready to display. A hint of color can be applied but the work must be primarily black, white and/or gray.

The exhibit opens with a free, public reception on Friday, Jan. 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 941778-2099, e-mail ArtLeagueAMI@ gmail.com or visit http://www. islandartleague.org.

Wet paint From left, Marti Salerni, mural designer June Keeling, Tracie A. Godri and Island Gallery West President Betsy Kennedy painted a new Island Gallery West mural for the first time in five years. The original design is the third mural that the Holmes Beach art group has created.

CINDY LANE | SUN

Guild donates to schools

The Artists' Guild of Anna Maria Island presented $200 to each of the art teachers at Daughtrey and Blackburn elementary schools to help with the purchase of art materials. From left are Mary Zion, of the Artists' Guild, Nazareth Manzanares, Gregory Parker, Paul Brown, art teacher Debra Spencer and Carissa Holinbaugh, of Blackburn Elementary School.

SUBMITTED

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

THE SUN

SUBMITTED

Wagner pet food drive The offices of Wagner Realty throughout the area colaborated on a food drive for pets this season. The Humane Society of Manatee is the recipient of the proceeds of the drive, which took a large van to pick up last Thursday. Sandy Greiner, of Wagner Realty, coordinated the annual event and was thrilled with the participation of all the offices. Pictured with just a small portion of the collected items are Lisa Grassi, Judith Bozek, Carla Ross, Sandy Greiner and Natalie Russell.

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OUTDOORS

DECEMBER 24, 2014

The importance of being prepared

W

e work long and hard to get the chance for a a day on the water fishing. All too often those days are far apart, and in our haste, we just grab our gear, put it on the boat and head for the water. All too often we forget to check some of the most basic things that make the difference when we do manage to hook a quality fish.

It’s a good idea to have a check list to follow before you ever make the first cast.

These are the major reasons we lose fish, and with a little due diligence, it can be easily avoided.

A sharp hook is obviously one of the most important components of an effective rig. It’s also one of the easiest things to forget to check. A hook can be razor sharp the last time you used it and can become dulled with contact to the rub rail of the boat, objects in the water, guides and many other things. Test it every time you step to the bow and you’ll have a better chance at catching that fish you searched long and hard for. I like to check the hook on my

Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS finger nail. If I put it there and it doesn’t slip I know its sharp enough. Still it’s a good idea to have a hook sharpener at hand and touch up the point several times during your outing.

Knots are probably the second leading reason fish are lost. Even the best tied knot will break if it’s not tightened well. You may tie perfect knots, but there’s a chance they could loosen between trips. Always make sure you moisten knots before tightening them, and draw them up very tight. The first place a leader will break is at a knot when it slips.

Checking the drag is, of course, one of submitted

see reel time, page 25

You don’t want to miss the fish of a lifetime because you forgot some basic maintenance.

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 24, 2014

reel time: Prepare the most important things you can do. I would suggest having the drag set so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to touch it while fighting a fish. Make sure your drag is smooth. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll know if it needs attention if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s any jerking motion when line leaves the spool.

Checking leader and line for nicks and abrasion is another must. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to cut off a small section of leader and re-tie than to lose a good fish to an imperfect line. Fly anglers can take an extra step by always stretching their fly line. Fly line has memory and will come off the spool in small loops that can tangle easily, causing you to break off a fish. Strip off the line youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be casting, make a cast and gently stretch it as you retrieve it.

Each time you step to the bow make sure your knots are tight, the drag is properly set, hooks are sharp, leaders are abrasion free and fly line is stretched. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find it will make a big difference at the end of your fishing day. On the days you get many chances you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to end up with pulled hooks or a break off because you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t check your drag or leader.

While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always lose fish even when everything is right, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll definitely have a better chance if you develop and follow a simple check list. Sharp hook, smooth leader, properly set drags, stretched line and tight properly secured knots.

25

Find tripletail in coastal Gulf Captain Rick Grassett

FROM PAGE 24

THE SUN

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released Spanish mackerel and trout in Sarasota Bay, snook, redfish and blues in the ICW at night and tripletail in the coastal gulf on flies and DOA Shrimp during the past week.

Emerick Corsi and Julia Westermann, from Chicago, Ill., fly fished in Sarasota Bay with me on Monday morning. The best action was at the Middleground flat and near Stephens Point where they caught and released several Spanish mackerel to 4 pounds on Ultra Hair Clouser flies.

Parke Cooper, from Stuart, and Steve Strobl, from Tampa, fished with me on Tuesday. Our plan was to fish the coastal Gulf for false albacore and tripletail, and conditions were perfect. We

found some bait in a couple of places with birds resting nearby but no albies, so we hunted tripletail. They had good action catching tripletail to more than 10 pounds, including a couple of 8-pounders on bloodworm DOA Shrimp. They had numerous shots at tripletail and hooked another big tripletail that gave us a couple of beautiful jumps.

Anna Maria Island and Sarasota winter residents, Bill Morrison and Gary Marple, snook fished with me on Wednesday evening.

We fished lighted docks in the ICW, where they caught and released several blues, snook and a red on my Grassett Snook Minnow fly. Bill had 2/3 of a slam with snook and redfish when he caught and released a trout on one of our last spots to complete his slam.

Steve Traves, owner of Anna Maria Island Outfitters, and I got in on the tripletail action in

The Weather Outside is NOT Frightful...

Renting a Boat is So Delightful!

the coastal Gulf when we fished with Rusty Chinnis on Thursday, hooking up several times on Leftyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deceiver and my Grassett Flats Minnow flies. It was slow to start, however, after the sun warmed the water some and visibility improved, we started to find them. A great sight fishing opportunity!

Tripletail and false albacore should be good options in the coastal Gulf depending on conditions. Look for albies feeding near the surface and tripletail around crab trap buoys.

Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, jacks and more should also be good options on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats.

Catch and release night snook fishing in the ICW is also a good option now. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action.

At the close of another year we gratefully pause to wish you a warm and happy Holiday Season. Cannons Marina features

boats for half and full day rentals.

941-383-1311 Cannons.com 6040 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5:30 p.m.

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BOOKS

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Writer releases two books on AMI Both books are available at the Galati Marine gift shop and the Sandbar and BeachHouse restaurants.

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

Travel writer and photographer Phyllis Chandler Grey, who has lived on Anna Maria Island for the past 10 years, has released two new books about Anna Maria Island.

“Anna Maria Island Sunrise to Sunset” is a hardback coffee table book with more than 100 fresh, new, full-color photographic images. The book is sprinkled with two-page panoramic spreads of many of the Island's wonders.

Also included is an Island history back to the days of Hernando De Soto, shell and bird identification pages, a sampling of beautiful homes and numerous photos capturing people, places and activities that make the Island special.

“I plan on revising it every year,” she said.

The second book, 'Goodnight Anna Maria Island,' also hardcover, is for kids of all ages. In this delightful book of rhyme, Chandler Grey blends her photography with digital aquarelle

resulting in dreamy watercolors.

“Goodnight Anna Maria Island” recounts all the fun and activity filling one day in the life of a child on the Island.

“This work is an homage to Margaret Wide Brown and her 1947 classic children's book, ‘Goodnight Moon,’” Chandler Grey said. “One inspiration for the book was provided by a 10-yearold visitor to Anna Maria who begged his parents for another Island day

SUBMITTED

Travel writer Phyllis Chandler Grey at the beach where she found inspiration to write "Anna Maria Island: Sunrise to Sunset" and "Goodnight Anna Maria Island." rather than return to Disney World.”

Chandler Grey's photography has been published in many travel books and magazines, and she said many of the images in her island books are award-winning shots. These are her first books, and they are limited first

editions. She said many copies were promised before the final books went to print.

These books are available locally at the Galati Marine gift shop, the Sandbar and the BeachHouse.

Amazon will also carry both.

Island writer completes three-part tome Sharon Clarke’s new novel is a Depression-era tale of love and self-discovery.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – Sharon Clarke’s fictional account of her family history is now complete.

The Island author recently released “Constellation Rose,” the third and final installment in the trilogy that began with “Mourning Redemption” and “Morgan’s Crossing.”

The title character in Clarke’s new book is based on the author, but set in an earlier time period due to a love of history. “'Constellation Rose' is about a young girl coming of age in Depression-era Pittsburgh. She has a dysfunctional family, and her mother suffers from depression. Her dad is an alcoholic, but a lovable character,” Clark said.

“It’s a love story too. Rose falls in

love with a young boy she knew as a child, who was extremely poor, but they lose track of one another, and Rose winds up battling her own demons.”

Clarke The title stems from Rose’s first encounter with a shooting star, a wish, a meteor shower and the subsequent belief that she has power over the stars she feels guide her life.

Clarke’s late mother grew up in Pennsylvania, and family visits exposed young Sharon to the coal mining mindset. Rose’s story later shifts to the Detroit area, where Clarke grew up and spent her adult years, until she moved to Bradenton Beach with her husband Lyn, who is also an author.

“I grew up in Southgate and my father worked at Great Lakes Steel.

I have fond memories of going into Detroit in the '50s,” she recalled.

“Constellation Rose” is dedicated

to Clarke’s father, Homer Ping, “who passed from this life with a prayer on his lips and without a complaint,” according to the dedication.

“My father was an alcoholic, but he was a loveable drunk. My mom became a very judgmental and very bitter. She put my dad through hell. I loved my mom, but there were things I didn’t love about her,” Clarke said.

She began writing “Constellation Rose” two years ago and her mom passed before it was published.

“This is the book I always wanted to write, but I didn’t think my mom would appreciate it because this one has too much she would recognize. My mom was not physically abusive, but I guess she was bi-polar. We had a lot of strife between us, and I was the oldest, like Rose; and too much like my dad.”

Clarke was 50 when she wrote her first book, but it was something she always wanted to do. She offered some advice for others who have not yet put

to paper the tales they wish to tell.

“You just have to sit down and start doing it. Once you get into character it becomes easier. You begin to laugh and cry with your characters, and it becomes a great outlet. In my second book, I killed off my second husband and had him buried under an outhouse,” she said.

As for what she hopes “Constellation Rose” brings to others, Clarke said, “I hope they find a heart-warming story with strong characters. I wrote it mainly for young women who might be going through trying times. I wanted to encourage the reader not to give up hope, because sometimes your dreams can come true.”

The Clarkes self-publish their books and assist others in doing the same.

Lyn peddles the couple’s literary wares at the weekly Bridge Street Market and their books are also available at Amazon.com in print and Kindle formats. Learn more at www.

ClarkeBooks.net.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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Old City Jail gets new life The Old City Jail at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria got a new paint job thanks to Rose Lipke and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public works department. Lipke, a sign painter and artist, who has lived most of her life in Cortez or on the Island, volunteered to repaint the letters on the jail. She first took a stencil of the letters in November, and then the city painted the building its characteristic white.

Lipke returned last week to repaint the red and black letters.

pat copeland | SUN

Rose Lipke took a stencil of the letters on Nov. 15.

Doug Copeland | SUbmitted

At left and above, Rose Lipke spent the afternoon on Dec. 18 repainting the letters on the Old City Jail at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Below, the jail is once again ready for visitors.

pat copeland | SUN

Anna Maria Public Works Department employee John Pouris painted the jail the second week of December.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

BIRD: Threatened status may delay pier reconstruction FROM PAGE 1

and the construction of three new permeable adjustable groins in Bradenton Beach until the federal government grants permission to proceed or specifies further permit conditions to protect the birds, said Charlie Hunsicker, director of the Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department.

The Manatee County Commission awarded the contract for the project last week to Cayo LLC of Fort Worth, Tex., for $4,412,415 with 285 days for completion.

The project is necessary to prevent road damage to Gulf Drive in the event of a storm, according to Hunsicker.

Listing the species will be good for the birds, said Suzi Fox, director of Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring, which worked on a study of red knots three years ago with Eckerd College.

The purpose of the monthlong study was to see if cordoning off a section of beach would be beneficial to red

knots, but the birds didn’t stay within the boundaries, preferring the open beach, she said.

Other bird species readily nest inside cordoned areas on the beach.

Turtle Watch is working on a plan to help beachgoers and beachfront property owners identify and understand the species and share the beach with them, Fox said.

The birds winter on Anna Maria Island during their migration of thousands of miles from the Canadian Arctic to the southern tip of South America, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which cites development, climate change, and the overharvesting of horseshoe crabs in Delaware Bay as bait as reasons for the listing. The birds feed on eggs during the spawning of horseshoe crabs.

One red knot, banded in 1995 by biologists in Argentina, has been named Moonbird because he has flown the equivalent of a trip to the moon and at least halfway back in its 21 or more years of migrations, according to the service.

CINDY LANE | SUN

The replacement of three erosion control groins will be delayed while the county consults with the federal government about how to protect red knots during construction. Two of the groins, known as Twin Piers, mark a popular surfing spot.

RECALL: Petition drive begins FROM PAGE 1

this particular recall effort dies.

The petition to recall Mayor William Shearon states, “We, the undersigned, registered and qualified voters of the city of Bradenton Beach, Manatee County, Florida, pursuant to 100.361, Florida Statutes, petition for the recall of William Shearon, holding the office of mayor in the city of Bradenton Beach.”

The form includes a Statement of Grounds that lists the two counts of alleged wrongdoing that serve as legal grounds for a recall effort.

“Count 1 – Malfeasance: On or about Feb. 6, 2014, Mayor William Shearon violated the Sunshine Law by engaging in a discussion with, and soliciting a response from, another city commissioner via e-mail on the topic of pending litigation, a matter involving city business that was reasonably foreseeable to come before the city commission and without advance notice to the public in violation of Art. 1. Sec. 24(b), Florida Constitution and 286.011, Florida Statutes.”

The litigation referred to is a lawsuit filed by the BeachHouse restaurant ownership group alleging that Shearon exceeded his mayoral authority in an attempt to thwart

future development plans.

The second alleged count of malfeasance says: “On or about April 21, 2014, Mayor William Shearon violated the Sunshine Law by engaging in a discussion with another city commissioner via e-mail on the topic of special events, a matter involving official city business that was reasonably foreseeable to come before the city commission and without advance notice to the public.”

This charge pertains to Shearon’s correspondence with Commissioner Janie Robertson regarding her efforts to revise the special event permitting process.

The petition form explains the legal requirements of the signee in terms of being a city resident and a registered city voter, lists Barreda as the chair of the recall committee and provides space for the signature of the person witnessing the signature.

While awaiting his first signee, Barreda reiterated that his goal is to keep the recall process as professional as possible. He also noted that he has not publically stated his personal stance on the matter.

“I never said I wanted him out,” Barreda said.

“How I feel about it isn’t important,” he added.

Mitchell Ladeweski has attended many

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

From left, recall committee chair Pete Barreda looks on as Bradenton Beach resident Mitchell Ladeweski signs the recall petition of the forfeiture of office meetings that have taken place at city hall in recent months, and he was among the first to sign the recall petition.

“I think the people should have the right to make the decision. I’ve been in the meetings, and we don’t get anywhere, and we’re spending too much money in the process,” he said.

His female companion said she preferred the recall method over the commission-led forfeiture proceedings because the recall effort is not prone to attorney fees and endless appeals.

Like Barreda, neither Ladeweski nor SEE RECALL, PAGE 39

FOOD & WINE

DECEMBER 24, 2014

THE SUN

Enjoying our paradise Adam Ellis BLUE MARLIN

H

ave you been to the little blue cottage with the back yard on historic Bridge Street? Here at Blue Marlin Grill and Seafood, we strive to serve house made food with integrity. We search for the freshest ingredients from as close to home as possible. Our team takes great pride in creating an approachable menu and atmosphere that is welcoming to everyone.

We live in a bountiful fishing community with one of the oldest fishing villages in Florida. Everyone knows that by now, and it's true. The Cortez fishing village continues to thrive because of the fishermen and the support they get from local restaurants with seafood on the menu. Thank you A.P. Bell Fish Company and Cortez Bait & Seafood.

At Blue Marlin we spend our day preparing for you to come to our house to experience what this island paradise has to offer. Yes, most places on the Island feel

the same way, but what is important about this evening ritual is why we are doing it. We are all in constant motion during our busy days. Supper is a time to relax and reflect with good company.

Whether you are with some new friends or Uncle Tim, this is a time for expressing your humanity and enjoying your loved ones. This is a time for communication and connection. We break bread for many reasons that often get overshadowed by our daily grind. We should take more time to slow down, have meaningful conversations and become closer to the company we keep.

With the New Year just around the corner, resolutions are going to be a high priority. Let's be more conscious in our decisions to become better and make resolutions that are attainable. (I'm not talking about diets that we don't follow or other impossible goals.) We need to communicate, be positive and take time to enjoy the paradise we live in.

This dish is hearty and made with classic holiday ingredients. But, if you don't want the hassle of cooking and cleaning during your busy schedule this month, we'd love to make it for you. Stop into our little blue cottage and join our family and friends for dinner.

SUBMITTED

Roasted butternut squash with sage brown butter can be finished with seafood such as lobster and scallops or red snapper.

Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto with Sage Brown Butter By ADAM ELLIS

This dish includes easily attainable ingredients that will compliment your holiday occasions and can be served with lobster and scallops or even a piece of sauteed red snapper

Ingredients

4 to 6 cups of warm chicken stock

1 medium sweet onion, finely diced 2 cup Arborio rice 1 cup dry white wine 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded and sliced into 1/2 inch discs 1 cup olive oil 1 Tbs. cumin 1 Tbs. chili powder Salt and pepper 1 cup shaved Parmesan 1 bunch sage leaves 1 lb. butter

Method Preheat oven to 425 degrees with parchment lined baking sheet.

Toss the butternut disks in salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin and olive oil. Roast squash for 15 to 20 minutes until fork tender, but not mushy. When cooled dice into 1/4 inch cubes and reserve for finishing.

In large, heavy pot on medium low, add 2 Tbs. olive oil. Sweat the onion on medium low heat for 8 to 10 min. You don't want the onion to brown. Turn up heat to medium, add rice to

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gently toast for 2/3 min. The key to a good risotto is to use a wooden spoon and take your time as you stir often. When rice is slightly toasted, turn heat up a bit and add white wine. Allow rice to soak up majority of wine and return heat to medium.

Add warm chicken stock, a ladle at a time, stirring.

As the rice soaks up the stock, add more but not too much to flood the rice. Continue stirring in chicken stock until rice is almost al dente.

You still want a little crunch to the rice at this point. This may be done the day before. Set aside until service.

In a small saucepan melt half the butter with

sage leaves over medium heat. Butter will start to brown after 5 minutes. Watch carefully as not to scorch. You want a nutty brown color. Set aside for finishing.

When you are ready to serve, heat your pan to medium high and add a pat of butter and rice. Add a little more stock so rice becomes creamy stirring. Add Parmesan and diced butternut squash. When heated through, drizzle sage brown butter with crispy leaves for garnish. Add a seafood protein, such as a sweet piece of sauteed snapper or scallops and lobster, to finish this off.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

Bring your dancing shoes Dates have been set for the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra’s (AMICCO) two musical fund-raisers with Gulf Drive Band and special guest Koko Ray. The Jazz Fest will be held on Thursday, Feb. 12, and the Oldies Beach Dance on Thursday, March 12, both at the Sandbar restaurant pavilion at 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Proceeds will benefit AMICCO. Both fundraisers are sponsored by the Sandbar restaurant and the Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper.

Tickets are available at the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce, 5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, at the Beach Market Son undays at Coquina Beach or by calling Nancy Ambrose at 941-518-4431.

File photo

Dancing shoes were in order at last year's Oldies Beach Dance.

Shade meeting scheduled A non-public shade meeting will take place at Bradenton Beach City Hall at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8. The topic of discussion will be the 2012 lawsuit Jo Ann Meilner, Tjet Martin and Bill Shearon filed against the city in regard to a development agreement the previous city commission reached with Ed Chiles and the ELRA Inc. BeachHouse

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restaurant ownership group.

The shade session will commence at an open meeting, but move into an attorney/client session limited in attendance to city attorneys Ricinda Perry and Charles Johnson and the five city commission members who will meet privately to discuss potential settlement negotiations and alternatives to litigation, including

G re at Fu n re at Taste & ! a G ift C a rd S ay it w it h

meditation and arbitration.

A court reporter will transcribe the proceedings and the transcription will later be made part of the public record at the conclusion of the litigation. The shade meeting could last up to two hours and will be held under the attorney/client session provisions allowed under Florida’s Sunshine Law.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

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Lawn Party sets fund raising record According to event organizers Michael Garey and Bill Herlihy, the Dec. 6 Longboat Key Gourmet Lawn Party grossed more than $100,000 in ticket sales, raffle sales and sponsorships.

“We had approximately 1,100 people show up and it looks like we netted approximately $65,000 for our two hour party; that’s a record-setter for this 33-year-old event,” Herlihy said.

“The Lawn Party committee is very grateful for the work done by our wonderful volunteers over the past several months. These men and woman should feel a great sense of accomplishment, and we feel confident new records were set. We are also grateful for the record level of support from our sponsors and vendors,” Garey added.

The money raised will benefit numerous children’s charities in Manatee and Sarasota counties.

From left, Michael Garey and Bill Herlihy show raffle tickets that helped raise $100,000. submitted

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REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 24, 2014

The gift of a real estate appraisal

T

onight you’ll probably hear the tap tap tap of reindeer hooves on your roof and maybe even get a glimpse of the big guy himself. What you won’t see is a home appraiser spreading a lot of holiday cheer, probably because he’s not too happy.

The job of home appraisers is to advise bankers, brokers and ultimately investors whether a house is a sound investment. However, appraisers are increasingly being pressured from lenders, mortgage bankers and real estate agents to hit their number when appraising property. This means that rather than coming up with an independent estimate of the property’s value, they are being asked to fit their appraisal into a predetermined value.

Appraiser valuations can make or break a deal and also make or break a commission for loan officers, as well as real estate agents, and kill a sale for

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger sellers. As we all know, appraisals that come in below the sale price cannot be accepted by lenders unless lower prices are negotiated or more cash put down.

According to the Association of Realtors, 24 percent of real estate agents surveyed in March 2014 reported that low appraisals resulted in sales contracts being affected. However, this number has gone down and in March 2013, 29 percent of agents reported this issue and in March 2012, 31 percent, showing a possible trend of inflated appraisals. In addition, according to Allterra Group, a for-profit appraiser

advocacy firm, almost 40 percent of appraisers surveyed reported pressure to inflate values with much of this pressure being applied in a very subtle way.

Last year, that number was 37 percent.

Also, the Wall Street Journal reported that an estimated one in seven appraisals conducted from 2011 through early 2014 inflated home values by 20 percent or more.

The pressure to get home loans approved has escalated since the housing market is not as hot as hoped, resulting in fewer transactions being processed through lenders affecting their bottom line. Banks should be interested in making good loans based on accurate appraisals, however, the practice of selling off loans on the secondary market, including Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, for the purpose of packaging and selling as investment instruments takes away much the lender’s responsibil-

ity. In fact, the higher the value of the property the better even though the Mortgage Bankers Association could hold the lender accountable if it knew the appraisal was inaccurate.

Appraisers maintain they are the only independent unbiased party in a real estate transaction. While they admit there is a conflict, since their employer has a vested interest in the loan being approved, they are still able to maintain their integrity. Lenders frequently hire appraisers through an appraisal management company in an effort to keep a distance between loan offers and appraisers. The only problem here is that if enough appraisals come in short the appraisal management companies are at risk of losing the lender’s business, thus putting their own pressure on appraisers. see BOLGER, page 35

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 24, 2014

BOLGER: Real estate appraisals

THE SUN

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Cast-n-Cage paid up The pier-based business owners headed into Christmas week fully caught up on rent.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

FROM PAGE 34

The poor misunderstood appraiser can’t seem to make anyone happy – not his employer, not the home seller and certainly not the real estate broker. The only person in the transaction that may thank him for a noninflated appraisal is the home buyer, who may have been saved from overpaying for a home.

I’ve always felt that the profession of home appraisals is more of an art than a science. Yes, you have to provide hard and accurate facts, but those facts can be spun in a variety of ways. Let’s hope that this new blip in the housing radar does not result in another major blow to the real estate market.

In the meantime, enjoy your holiday and welcome the big guy.

At least you can always depend on him. Happy holidays.

BRADENTON BEACH – Cast-n-Cage restaurant owners Roland Pena and Tammy Kemper-Pena made good on their promise to pay the city the back rent they owed for November and January.

According to City Treasurer Sheila Dalton, the pier tenants submitted a payment of $11,413 on Thursday, Dec. 18 which also covers the renewal of their city-issued occupational and business licenses.

“The amount represented the full amount due,” Dalton said of the payment received. joe hendricks | sun Last month, Pena and Kemper-Pena reached an agreement with In November, Tammy Kemper-Pena and Roland Pena promised the comcity commissioners that gave them until Dec. 20 to get fully caught mission they would be caught up on their rent by Dec. 20. up on rent owed for the pier-based restaurant space they lease from the city.

Having the fishing pier back in service will also allow the couple to The arrangement hinged on the anticipated sale of a residenreopen the bait shop they shut down in September. The couple also tial rental property the couple owned in Bradenton Beach. Pena had previously discussed an adjacent concession stand that would told the commission the proceeds from the sale would allow offer coffee, baked goods and other snacks for pier visitors. the couple to make their rent payments and would assist with The pier reopening will bring to an end the temporary rent abatethe financial challenges incurred since the pier reconstruction ment the commission granted in September, which relieved the began in August. business owners of the additional rent payments associated with The majority of the commission supported giving the Penas the the bait shop and concession stand. additional time, but cautioned that any future late payments would Vice Mayor Jack Clarke said he hopes these recent developments trigger the eviction process. signal better times ahead for the pier tenants.

When contacted last week, Pena said business has been a little “I sincerely hope this fresh start will enable Cast-n-Cage to slow the past couple weeks, but the couple hopes to capitalize on the develop into a self-sustaining member of the business community pier reopening in mid-January and the onset of the tourist season. going forward,” Clarke said.

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Registration open for Lifelong Learning classes To register, call 941359-4296 or see the website at www.lla-sm.org.

The Lifelong Learning Academy is taking registrations for courses scheduled for Anna Maria Island starting in January. Each course costs $75, and there are a variety of subjects.

• “Learning Paradigms for Life Enhancement,” with Betty Rogers, explores ancient and contemporary wisdom in holistic health. Lean how to become your own life coach.

Classes begin on Jan. 12 and are held Mondays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be seven sessions and all are held at the Anna Maria

Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria.

• “Spiritual Psychology,” with Peter Mermin, explores the human capacity for growth and change.

This class will be discussion oriented and focused on individual reflections on the topics and the first class is Jan. 26 from 2:30 to 4 p.m., and it runs every Monday for six sessions at the AMI Community Center.

• “Diversity in the Holocaust,” with Irene Mirkovich, uses documentary and narrative films about the lesser-recognized people besides the Jews who suffered and perished in the holocaust such as Gypsies, Poles and Russians. It

starts Jan. 15 and runs for eight Monday sessions from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the AMI Community Center.

• “Discovering the Hidden Talent of Your Other Hand,” with Barbara Dondero, will encourage students to use their non-dominant hand for writing and drawing to gain greater access to the right brain hemisphere strengths such as creativity, emotion and intuition.

The first class is Jan. 15 and it runs eight sessions from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria.

To register, call 941-359-4296 or log onto the website at www.lla-sm.org.

DECEMBER 24, 2014

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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THE SUN

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In loving memory

Sam Lott, 12-23-1987 to 10-5-2011 You are loved, remembered and missed so very much every day and always. You are in our hearts. Be at peace, my sweetness.

Mom (Kim Lott)

DECEMBER 24, 2014

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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RECALL: Petition drive begins FROM PAGE 28

his companion indicated whether they support the mayor or support him being removed from office; and Barreda encouraged all city voters to sign the petition, regardless of where they stand on the issue.

The recall committee now has 30 days from Dec. 17 to submit its petition signatures

to the Supervisor of Elections for verification.

If this effort is successful, Shearon will be given the chance to add a 200 word rebuttal to a second petition form that would require approximately 115 signatures in order to trigger a special election.

Petition sheets can be obtained by emailing recallshearon@gmail.com.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Let the playoffs begin

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

regulation play during a best out of five penalty kick shoot out against keeper Jason Sato.

Island Pest Control Jessie’s Island Store

1 seed Slims Place. In the goal for Dojo, 5 Josh Bernet had nine saves. Chris

The underdog was unable to prevail in the match up between the regular Beacon Design 2 season first place finishers Jessie’s Eason Builders 4 Island Store and the eighth seed Island In a strong match up, Beacon Design Pest Control. Captain Oliver Peiterit came up two goals short against the had the single goal for Island Pest regular season’s second place finishControl, while the team saw action by ers, Eason Builders. Matt Plummer two goalies: Nate Talucci with nine led Eason Builders with two goals. saves and Troy Shonk with three saves.

Captain Scott Eason and Joey Ciasullo Jeff Christianson led Jessie’s in scoring Sato Real Estate 0 each had a single goal in the game with with three goals. The team added two additional goals by Perry Pittman and Wash Family Construction 1 an assist by Jeff Walker. Seventh seed The first game of the night found Beacon Design saw goals by Omar Donald Christianson and an assist by sixth seed Sato Real Estate lose to Polar and Shawn Kaleta. The goalies Holly Belton. Goalie Chris Culhane Wash Family Construction the playoff’s for each team were kept busy. Goalhad eight saves for the night. third seed. Despite strong striking atkeeper Jordan Demers had 10 saves for tempts by Sato Real Estate, it could not Beacon and Wes Robinson made nine Slims Place 1 score against goalie Ray Gardner who saves for Eason Builders.

Dojo Martial Arts 4 had 14 saves. The lone goal by Wash In the final game of the night, fourth Family Construction was made after seed Dojo Martial Arts beat the fifth Quarter final playoff action took place for the Anna Maria Island Community Center’s adult co-ed soccer league Thursday night as eight teams battled it out for a spot in the semifinals. In single elimination play, only four teams move forward to play another game.

Golfers await Christmas If Santa has been listening to the golfers at Key Royale Club, there will be a number of new clubs or bags or both on the greens. Too bad he can’t do anything about their scores.

On Monday morning, Tom Bode and Vince Mercadante tied for first place in the singles low net contest with scores of 27. Earl Huntzinger came in second with a 28.

In the afternoon, three golfers tied for the win in the modified Stableford contest. Barry Anderson, John Estok and Dan Richardson each had a score of +2.

On Thursday, Dec. 18, the team of Nub Turner, Chuck Tencate, John Estok and Dan Richardson took first place with a score of 28. Bruce Allan, Gerry Dahl, Ron Pritchard and Earl Ritchie came in second with a score of 29 For information on membership, call Key Royale Club at 778-3055.

Chicharo scored two goals, with singles

by Adam Bujarski and Chelsey Hoffner.

Bujarski also had two assists aiding in his team’s victory. The goalkeeper for Slim’s Place, Will Case, was busy in the net with 11 goals Josh Pettit put Slim’s on the boards with his lone goal.

Semi-final action will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 3 starting at 7 p.m. Wash Family Construction will play Eason Builders in the first game. At 8 p.m., Jessie’s Island Store will take on Dojo Martial Arts.

The championship game will be held on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. A special presentation honoring the contributions to the island community, the Community Center, and to soccer will be presented to Paul “Ace” Hayward at the championship game.

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

TOWN CRIER

Davey J performs at Beach Market The Beach Market at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, at the trolley stop and concession stand area, will be open on Sunday, Dec. 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring a mix of vendors selling fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local art, apparel, pottery, purses, collectibles, health and beauty items, holiday decorations and more.

Davey J will provide the live music with the sounds of the surf and seabirds in the background. Food is available at the Coquina Cafe. Manatee County does not allow dogs anywhere in Coquina Park. The market is stroller, walker and wheelchair accessible.

Contact Nancy Ambrose, at 941-5184431. for more information.

Music at Bridge Street Market Local song writer and musician Karen Klarich provides the music for the Bridge street Market on Sunday, Dec. 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 111 Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach.

The market features fresh produce, local art, chair massage, beach-style gifts, jewelry, clothes, home décor, food, fun and more. A limited amount of vendor space is still available in some categories.

Klarich’s lifelong musical career includes being a voice major at the University of Michigan, a gospel singer in Ohio and a songwriter published by Sony records. She is currently achiev-

ing great local success with her rock/ R&B/bluesdance band, Karen and the Big Bad Wolves. She’s been performing at the Anna Maria Island Beach Café for the past eight years and now hosts an open jam there every Thursday called Jam in the Sand.

Ride the free island trolley to Bridge Street if you can. Car parking options include the city lot behind the Bridge Street Bistro, up and down Bridge Street including by the city pier, city hall (permissible on Sundays) and along the beach just south of Bridge Street.

For more information on the Bridge Street Merchants, or vendor space at the market contact market manager Melissa Enders at melissaenders76@ gmail.com or 215-906-0668 or visit www.bridgestreetmerchants.com.

for sale. Contact Linda Yarger at 7783580 or LyargerL @aol.com for more information.

Mac and cheese pros needed

Restaurant collects for the hungry

The Bridge Street Merchants’ Mac and Cheese Challenge will be held at the Sunday market on Jan. 4. Mac and cheese tasting and voting is schedule for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Any area home cook or restaurant is urged to enter again this year.

“We’re hoping to see some of the Island’s favorite lobster or stone crab mac and cheese from the restaurants, along with some secret family recipes from local home cooks,” said market manager Melissa Enders.

The first place winner will get a $100 Publix gift card as well as bragging rights. For an $8 donation, marketgoers will be able to taste all mac and cheese entries with proceeds to benefit Feeding Empty Little Tummies. FELT is Manatee County’s original backpack program to feed homeless children on weekends, a time when these children often go hungry.

More information and the required advance entry form is available on the Market page of www.brdgestreetmerchants.com.

Island Gourmet Grill, 5910 Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, has teamed with Feeding Empty Little Tummies (FELT), to provide weekend meals to homeless public school children using backpacks filled with enough food to get them through the weekends. The restaurant will be accepting donations through December.

A donation of $40 will feed a child for four weekends. Typical backpack food items needed include quart packages of powdered milk, oatmeal and cereal packs, single-serving pasta cups, fruit cups, beans with franks, mac and cheese, raisins, peanuts and almonds.

No glass containers will be accepted; tab tops are preferred.

Manatee County Schools has identified more than 2,300 children who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless.

For more information on how you can help, send checks made payable to FELT, Inc. of Manatee and mail them to Island Gourmet Grill, 5910 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.

Bingo at Center

SHINE program needs volunteers

The Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St. N., Bradenton Beach, hosts bingo starting Thursday, Jan. 15, from 7 to 9 p.m. and running every Thursday of the week through March 26, 2015. There will be cake and coffee

The Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging need volunteers to join the award-winning SHINE team to help the elderly make decisions on Medicare, health insurance and pre-

Irish dancing weekly Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, enjoy Irish Ceili dancing at Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, starting Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. Learn how to dance or improve what you know. Call Judy at 779-1416 or Ellen at 778-1554.

Play bridge at Annunciation Enjoy duplicate bridge every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call 8965154.

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scription drug plans.

Volunteers may also make educational presentations to community groups and participate in local health fairs, senior fairs and other outreach and educational events. For more information, or to volunteer, call the Elder Helpline at 1-813-740-3888, ext. 5593.

Volunteer advocates needed Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. The program’s local councils are seeking additional volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns.

Special training and certification is provided.

All interested individuals who care about protecting the health, safety, welfare and rights of long-term care facility residents, who often have no one else to advocate for them, are encouraged to call toll-free 1-888-831-0404 or visit the program’s website at http:// ombudsman.myflorida.com.

Red Cross needs you The American Red Cross in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties has an urgent need for volunteers to help train people how to save a life and to assist local families who have lost their home to a fire or other disaster. Volunteer instructors help people learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and First Aid. Disaster Action Team volunteers assists families who have suffered house fires or other disasters with short-term places to stay and other immediate needs, such as getting temporary refills on medications. Volunteers also are trained to provide emotional support for these families.

All volunteer applicants must pass a background check and attend an orientation class. All training is free.

American Red Cross volunteers constitute 94 percent of the total workforce to carry out its humanitarian mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.

To register or for more information, visit www.redcross.org/fl/Sarasota/volunteer.

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BEACH BEAT Anna Maria No new reports.

Bradenton Beach No new reports.

Cortez

12/16, 3:56 p.m., domestic battery, AP Bell Fish Co., 4600 124 St. W. The man and woman got into an argument in the parking lot, and he reached into her car and took out their child and put the child in his vehicle. She got out and retrieved the child. He tried to remove the child from her car agai, and they started hitting each other. Coast Guard Station employees broke up the fight and she left with the child.

The male walked away from the Coast Guard employees and was later arrested at his home.

12/18, 7 a.m., warrant arrest, 10100 block of Cortez Road West. The subject had a warrant for violating terms of a supervised release, and she was arrested.

Holmes Beach

12/8, 8:59 a.m., driving with a suspended license, 5900 block of Marina Drive. The officer ran a

www.amisun.com

random computer check on the suspect’s license plate and it showed her driver’s license was suspended and there was an order to seize the tag. He stopped the driver, who could not produce a valid proof of insurance. He took her plate and ticketed her.

12/9, 8:06 a.m., driving with a suspended license, 4200 block of Gulf Drive. The officer spotted the female defendant driving the car that he had stopped just minutes before when a male was driving the car and now was gone. A computer check showed the female owned the car and her license was suspended. She said she had gone to court about her license the day before. The officer issued her a ticket.

12/9, 1:22 p.m., driving with no license plate or registration, 100 block of 28th Street. The officer stopped the driver because there was no license plate on the trailer he was towing. There was no plate on his vehicle either. He was ticketed.

12/12, 10:04 a.m., warrant arrest, 5800 block of Marina Drive. Dispatch said the defendant had come to the police station and was acting suspiciously. The officer ran a warrants check on him and found he had a warrant for trespassing after a warning. He was detained.

DECEMBER 24, 2014

Obituaries Col. John Atkinson Col. John Atkinson, U.S.A.F retired, 96, of Holmes Beach, Florida passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 24, 2014.

Col. Atkinson was born on November 3, 1918, in Auburn, Alabama, to the late Thomas and Irene Carroll Atkinson. He served with the United States Air Force as a pilot during World War II and the Korean Conflict, retiring after 30 years of loyal service as a colonel.

He moved to Manatee County over 40 years ago, where he served on the Bradenton City Commission for several years and held the office of vice mayor of Bradenton. He also worked for 15 years as a broker with Merrill Lynch in Bradenton. After living in Bradenton for many years, he moved to Holmes Beach. Atkinson also was a member of the Retired Air Corps and the Kirby Stewart American Legion Post #24, of Bradenton.

Atkinson was predeceased by his loving wife, Nancy Atkinson, in March 2013; a son, Tommy; and one brother. He is survived by his sister Sarah Miller and her husband, Jack, of Bradenton; a son, Burton Atkinson and his wife Glenna, of Pompano Beach, Fla.; two daughters, Corinne Pool, of Bryan, Ohio, and Sherry Kirschner and her husband, John, of Celina, Ohio; step-daughter Christine and Steve Nelson, of Bradenton, Fla.; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members

and friends.

A celebration of Atkinson’s life was held Nov. 28, 2014, in the clubhouse of the Key Royale Country Club in Holmes Beach with full military honors by the Kirby Stewart American Legion Post #24 of Bradenton.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.

Robert ‘Bob’ Lamp Robert “Bob” Lamp, 90, beloved husband and father, passed into the next life on Dec. 18, 2014.

Mr. Lamp was married for almost 65 years to his loving wife Phyllis (Keinath) Lamp. He was born in Detroit, Mich. and retired to Florida in 1984. Mr. Lamp was a member of the American Legion after serving in the Navy during WWII. He was also a member of the Elks and Moose lodges as well as St Joseph and St Bernard Catholic churches.

Mr. Lamp was an avid golfer, fisherman, bowler and dancer. He retired after 41 years from the Ford Motor Company.

He is survived by his soul mate and wife Phyllis; sons Lawrence (Rose) and Keith (Debbie); four grandchildren Ashley, Jared, Connor and Rachel; sisters Jill and Bonnie; several nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends.

He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

DECEMBER 24, 2014

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 What Rudolph used to be called 6 One in a wild bunch?

9 Beatles song syllables 13 Pilot 15 Baseball letters 16 Baseball's Hershiser 17 Baseball champs of 2013 18 "What do you take me for?"

20 Easy mark with a sob story?

22 Trail terminus: Abbr.

23 British pop singer Lewis 24 Expressionist painter LeRoy 26 Habitat for some ibexes 29 Coke go-with 30 Balkan native 31 Part of a team observation

Answers to 12-17-14 Crossword Puzzle.

32 Fine groove 34 Salt's output 37 It's seldom total 39 Digital filer's target 41 1960 Olympic gold medalist Rudolph 42 Cape Cod catch 44 Intl. commerce group 45 One-third of a WWII film 47 Wind often affects it 48 Joy 49 Calls to mind 51 Some future fliers 53 Hint 54 Shirt that hardly covers anything?

59 Didn't ride 61 Hamper 62 "... we fat all / creatures __ to fat us": Hamlet 63 Roger or Brian of music 64 Bundle up on the farm

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65 Speedometer reading, e.g.

66 Margarita condimento 67 Noble gas, and a homophonic hint to how this puzzle's four longest answers are formed Down 1 Buster?

2 Affirm as true 3 Noon in Paris 4 Stands by an artist 5 Put away 6 Folding craft 7 Woeful words 8 Dovetail sections 9 Punch line?

10 Ruckus at a coven?

11 The first Mrs. Arrowsmith 12 Kind of wrench 14 International commerce components 19 Like some picture cards 21 Gets used (to) 25 Land with a red, white and green flag 26 Over 27 Point sets, in math 28 Very small pharmaceutical mail order?

32 "I've heard enough" 33 Court 35 Time in ads 36 Sour fruit

38 "No real damage" 40 Marching band lows 43 Hill building 46 Dramatic devices 48 Counter man

49 It's a real knockout 50 String quartet part 52 Wahine's greeting 55 Two-time Atlantic crosser of 1493

56 __ party 57 DVR option 58 Adult, at one time 60 Commission

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

CLEANING SERVICE

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

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at AMICC. Help your community by giving of yourself.

Various positions available.

Call Sandee 941-778-1908 ext 0

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

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

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

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, Walgreen's and The Anna Maria Island Sun Newspaper (corner of Gulf and Palm).

OUR DAILY BREAD of Bradenton is looking for volunteer servers 9amnoon. Ask for Penny 941745-2992

BABY SITTER BABY SITTER. Honor student with own transportation. Experienced, References available. Call or text Amanda at 941-713-3219 RED CROSS CERTIFIED baby sitter. Honor student.

Call or text Isabel 941-5457995

BOATS: PARTS & SERVICES & SALES

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

Call 941-251-5948

COMMERCIAL SALES/ LEASES/RENTALS ANNA MARIA CITY Gulf Drive Frontage Commercial 2 Lots 104x120 Real Estate only $1,200,000. Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 RESTAURANT/OFFICE/ RETAIL 1113 sf Kitchen Equipment include Gulf Drive Bradenton Beach $495,000 Call Alan Galletto Island Real Estate 941-232-2216 BAR/RESTURANT 2100 ft2 with lease, includes Liquor License, Furniture and Good Will $599,000 CALL ALAN GALLETTO Island Real Estate 941-232-2216

COMPUTER SERVICES

BOATS ARE SELLING Very Well. Happy Holidays To All. www.

Islandboatsales.net We Also Buy Boats.

941-228-3489

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

BOAT SLIPS FOR RENT. Up to 60 feet. Two minutes to Intracoastal Waterway by Cortez, Parrot Cove Marina 941-795-0088

EMPLOYMENT

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

Call us today! 941-778-3986

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FAMILY Owned Gift Shop on AMI. Part time. Evenings/weekends a must. Retirees welcome. Inquire at 727-244-5906

NOW HIRING WAITSTAFF, Cooks & Dishwasher Apply in person Mon.-Sat. 9AM - 11AM or 2PM to 4PM at the Key Royale Club, Inc. 700 Key Royale Dr. Holmes Beach, FL No Phone Calls Please **Must be able to pass a drug test** EXPERIENCED NAIL PRO} to take over established clientele at upscale LBK salon. Friendly, reliable, patient and gentle a must!

Flexible schedule. Call 941-387-9807.

SALES ASSISTANT PART-TIME Busy office, strong communications skills, computer skills.

Need to be flexible.

Send Resume to PO Box 1394, Anna Maria FL 34216 WELDING CAREERS Hands on training for career opportunities in aviation, automotive, manufacturing and more.

Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 888205-1735

FURNITURE CUSTOM COASTAL FURNITURE & CABINETS by Frankie Z. ebay store.

Call 941-726-1482. 10015 Cortez Rd (corner of 101st) frankiezaff@yahoo.com

GARAGE, MOVING, RUMMAGE & YARD SALES HUGE SALE NIKI’S Gift & Antiques Shop! 5351 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach. All Sterling Silver and Gold Jewelry 10% to 60% off. Select Gifts, Beach Art, Dolls, Glassware, Porcelains, Miniatures 30% to 80% off.

New line Designer Candles, Soaps, and Essential Oils.

See the Mid-century furniture covered in Bart cloth.

Open 7 days 9:30-5.

ROSER THRIFT SHOP Open Tuesday and Thursday 9:30am - 2 pm. Saturday 10 am -1 pm. Annex open am same days. Donations accepted Wednesday 9 am. – 11am 511 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Call 941-779-2733.

DECEMBER 24, 2014

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. State License # CRC1327296. Call Jerry Kern 941-504-2222 www. kernconstructioninc.com SOUTHWEST HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget.

Call Mike 616-204-8822.

“HONEY DO" HOME Repairs & Handyman Services.

35 yrs experience. Painting, drywall, tile, woodwork. All tasks. Call 941-896-5256 or 941-807-5256 www.honey dohomerepairinc.com PAINTING INTERIOR/EXTERIOR. Clean professional service. Free Estimates. Call Wayne Lewin 941-7268414

HOME SERVICES HANDY MAN for HIRE. Worked all trades, no job to big. Satisfaction guaranteed. Free estimates. Call Arthur 941-518-8658 DRAIN CLEANING James VanFossen A.K.A. “RIP” Call 941-301-6077

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

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

ELI’S IRRIGATION New install/repair. Pumps, pools, irrigation, landscape lighting and pressure washing.

Call 941-580-2054

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

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

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

LOCKSMITH ISLAND LOCKSMITH, “Lock Around the Clock”.

Licensed/bonded/insured.

Call 941-778-1661 or 941713-4414

LOST & FOUND LOST SILVER-STONE Bracelet Friday or Saturday December 6 or 7 at Island Player Theater. Please call 941-794-7255 FOUND PRESCRITION GLASSES Ralph Lauren corner of Manatee and East Bay, Holmes Beach.

Call 419-769-1610 LOST GOLD PINKY ring with amethyst stone vicinity of Cortez Kitchen and Swordfish Grill. Call 941778-8359 LOST PANDORA BRACELET many charms. Great sentimental value. Call 518-365-2702 MISSING 18 INCH GOLD chain with diamond drop, sterling silver seed bracelet , location Blue Water Beach Club between 9/12 & 9/13/2013 heartbroken was gift from husband 45 years ago REWARD please call 863-668-8566 no questions asked

MASSAGE Effective and Reputable "LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST" (MA70460) available for House call Service. Relax and Revive!

Call Ginger at 941-9621242. www.gingeryoung massage.com

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

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

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

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell 941794-0455 WALY PRECISION PAINTING custom painting, pressure washing, commercial/residential, interior/exterior, drywall/stucco, Licensed & insured. Call 941-448-1928 or 941-580-4005 www.

WalyPrecisionPainting.com

PERSONAL SERVICES SMALL ODD JOBS, yard work, walk dog etc. Call George 941-773-5518 THE TINT GUY." Commercial, residential, automotive, marine.

Free estimates. All work guaranteed. Over 25 years experience. Mobile service available. Call 941-2012649

PET SITTING/ HOUSE SITTING ANNA & LINDSAY’S Dog Walking. $5 per dog walked, $10 Dog wash. $20 for both plus play time.

Contact 917-406-9554.

Anna Maria Island Only.

PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@gmail.com or Call 941-773-9834

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE. Anna Maria Island & West Bradenton. Certified pool operator. Residential/ commercial. Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-737-5657

DECEMBER 24, 2014

classified

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AMI VALET LLC Professional parking services. Restaurants, weddings, any & all special events. Insured & Licensed. Years of experience. Call 941-565-0137 AMIValet@gmail.com AT YOUR SERVICE Personal & Professional assistant. Great rates.

References available "Let me do what you are unwilling or unable to do."

Call Cindy 941-812-2238 zicker8@aol.com

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE SPACIOUS 3BR/3BA Condominium rarely available in wonderful bay front complex with pool and tennis courts.

Tastefully renovated to include newly tiled kitchen & family room with a peak of the bay and a split bedroom plan. Centrally located in Holmes Beach, with a short walk to shops. Ground-floor unit with covered parking and private storage.

Family oriented and pet friendly. Offered at $450,000. Call Green Real Estate @ 941-7780455 FREE! What every REAL ESTATE BUYER or SELLER needs to know!

Go to www.yourmar ketupdate.com for the latest market data.

CANAL FRONT, RECENTLY renovated 2BR/2BA villa with dock. Near intercoastal with/no ridges. Great soon to be gated community.

Pet friendly. Bradenton.

Yes, you can have it all. $260,000. Katharine Pepper RoseBay International 941-751-0582 or 802-363-9973"

AMISUN.COM

Call us today! 941-778-3986

ELEVATED DUPLEX 2BR/1BA each side.

Washer/dryer, dishwasher, tiled, 2 one car garages, covered patios.

2 blocks to beach, bay, pier, shops, cafes and bars. 204 2nd St N, Bradenton Beach $650,000.

Call 941-741-1096 PERICO BAY CLUB VillaVery well maintained! $230,000. Runaway Bay – Light & Bright, Weekly rentals! $317,900. Call Kathleen today! 941773-0165 Island Real Estate DISCOVER the OTHER ISLAND, Tidy Island in Sarasota Bay. Tastefully renovated lake front condo; 3BR/2BA/2 car w/storage. This condo has so much to offer!

Pet friendly. $344,900 Katharine Pepper RoseBay International 941-751-0582 or 802363-9973" 4BR/3BA HOUSE on 71.5 acres with 18 stall horse barn in Parrish, Florida. Call Steve Georgie 941-321-6253 at Keller Williams Realty

REAL ESTATE: LOTS FOR SALE GORGEOUS LOT (14,160 Sq. Ft) (80 X 177) Located at 1107 Palma Sola Blvd. Stunning views of Palma Sola Bay with great potential for new construction.

For more details contact Gregg Bayer at AMI Beaches Real Estate 941-799-9096

RENTALS: ANNUAL 1BR/1BA BASIC UTILITIES included. Triplex upstairs near Manatee High. Not pet friendly $700/ mo $700 security.

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 kate@ islandreal.com – 941-3451295 - Island Real Estate of Anna Maria Island, Inc.

Looking for a bright energetic Property Management Team? Call Amberly and Tracy at A Paradise 941-778-4800 to maximize your rental income.

WEST BRADENTON WARES CREEK area. Cute 2BR/1BA house. One car garage.

Nice private backyard. $1100/mo First, Last & Security. Credit check required. Call 941-809-2488 HOLMES BEACH 1BR efficiency. Small but cute includes water & garbage $850/mo Available January 15. 1 year lease & credit check required. Call 941809-2488

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-$750/ wk Redekercondos.com 941-778-1915

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

VACATION RENTALS AVAILABLE Winter 2015.

Rates start at $2,600/mo.

Contact Fran Maxon Real Estate 941-778-2307.

Franmaxonrealestate.com.

AMI GULFFRONT CONDO. Pool, garage 2BR/2BA January $3200 for 3 weeks, April $4200/mo. Call 941281-2193 dunkirkray@ gmail.com

RENTAL WANTED PROFESSIONAL COUPLE LOOKING for 2 or 3 bedroom rental on AMI. Start January 3, 2015 to June 2015 or longer. No pets.

Call 407-240-4284.

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport services: Tampa $85, Sarasota $35, Clearwater $75, Fort Meyers $150, Orlando $150. Call 800-301-4816. amitaxi4u@gmail.com, www.amitaxi.com TOWN CAR SERVICES, All airports served. Local and Long distance services available. Call Glen 941225-0072

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Call us today! 941-778-3986 DECEMBER 24, 2014

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DECEMBER 24, 2014

business & service directory computer service

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home improvement

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

painting

transportation

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DECEMBER 24, 2014