The Sun - Dec 31 2014

VOL 15 No. 10

New year, new sand, new life

FREE

December 31, 2014

PHOTOSFROMTHEair.com | sun

Work progresses on a $13.4 million renourishment project at Egmont Key to battle large-scale erosion of the historic Isand’s beaches. See story on Page 21.

Mainsail names hotel project Waterline Construction of the project at Marina and Gulf drives should take 14 to 16 months.

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

HOLMES BEACH – With a name that evokes water lapping against the side of a boat or along the shore, the Waterline hotel, lodge and marina complex will soon change the face of

INSIDE NEWS OPINION Sun survey tom breiter outdoors castles in the sand real estate crossword

4 6 7 15 22-24 28 28-33 35

the city’s center.

“I think everybody will like it,” Joe Collier, president of Mainsail Development, said. “It will bring that area to life. I think people will be pleasantly surprised.”

The project, located near the intersection of Marina and Gulf drives, includes a lodge with two wings that feature two-bedroom lodging units, see mainsail, page 21

‘Sticker shock’ hits fire board

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

BRADENTON – West Manatee Fire commissioners questioned the cost and design of a boat that the district plans to purchase with a matching grant from the West Coast Inland Navigational District.

In September, Capt. Ryan Moore presented to the board a detailed report on replacing the district’s boat. Board members approved negotiations with a sole source provider as the only manufacturer that could produce a boat to meet the district’s needs.

However, at the December meeting, Commissioner Randy Cooper said he “has sticker shock” over the nearly $400,000 cost of the boat.

Moore said he used that figure as the worst case in order to apply for the grant and added, “I expect it to be less, but I don’t know how much. There are redundancies and better prices we can get on items like the trailer.”

Deputy Chief Brett Pollock confirmed that and said they had not discussed price with the manufacturer. see sticker, page 21

Fish. wash ashore

Sun readers look back at

on AMI but red tide is not the cause. 8

2014 and forward into 2015. 4

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Mar Vista takes a step up.

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper

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THE SUN

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

Happy New Year Best Wishes

LIC.#CFC1426956 ~ CPC 1458020

www.lapenseeplumbing.com 778.5622 * 401 MANATEE AVENUE , HOLMES BEACH

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

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Mar Vista approved for second story Mar Vista will move 52 seats from its indoor dining room to a new second story outdoor dining room next year.

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

LONGBOAT KEY – Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub has the green light from Longboat Key officials to build a second story deck with outdoor dining.

Over objections by surrounding residents concerned that outdoor dining will increase noise and parking problems, the Planning and Zoning Board gave final approval this month to the Chiles Restaurant Group for a site plan amendment and a special exception to the town’s code to allow the expansion. Other changes at the historic restaurant at 760 Broadway St. will include re-grading the parking area and additional landscaping, according to the site plan.

The second story deck will have 52 seats, to be relocated from the first floor indoor dining room, which will become retail space, Longboat Key Town Planner Steve Schield said, adding that the first floor indoor bar with 12 seats will remain.

With no new seats – the restaurant has 169 – there is no need for more parking spaces, he said.

“Our goal is to keep the original style and fishing shack quality of the Mar Vista Restaurant intact and consistent throughout the redesign,” said Sarasota architect Barron Schimberg, of The Schimberg Group Inc. “Mar Vista has a European feel to it with the openness and the trees, and we don’t want to lose that specialness. The inside is rustic and intimate, and that will remain for patrons to continue to enjoy as a local destination.”

Architectural schematics and civil engineering will begin after the holidays, with a July through November time frame for begin-

Our goal is to keep the original style and fishing shack quality of the Mar Vista Restaurant intact and consistent throughout the redesign. Mar Vista has a European feel to it with the openness and the trees and we don’t want to lose that specialness.”

Barron Schimberg Architect

ning interior kitchen and building improvements and site compliance, according to Mark Anderson, project manager of development and construction for the Chiles

Restaurant Group, adding that the restaurant will remain open during the improvements.

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THE SUN

ISLAND NEWS

in brief

Football Fever Week 17 winner Bill Thompson won the final week of the season with a score of (-2) and by virtue of total points tie breaker guess of 42 points.

Visit our website, www.amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

DECEMBER 31, 2014

Looking back & looking ahead…

Island residents and visitors share their thoughts on the year that passed and the year to come.

“In 2014, I woke up every morning and loved my life. Repeat for 2015.”

Dee Brady, Anna Maria

COMPILED BY JOE HENDRICKS

Save the gumbo limbos campaign

SUN CORRESPONDENT | JHENDRICKS@AMISUN.COM

The gumbo limbo trees at De Soto National Memorial have been infected by a fungus called ganoderma, which is a live wood feeding fungus that creates conk shape fruit at the base of the trees. This disease is capable of causing the death of all remaining gumbo limbos.

The Friends of De Soto National Memorial received a matching donation of up to $5,000 from the Johnston Family Foundation to assist in the preservation of the trees.

The park needs $10,000 to treat all 14 trees, and the Friends have begun a campaign to raise the funds.

To donate, visit www.friendsofdesoto.org. The Friends is a not for profit organization that supports and promotes the park.

What will you remember about 2014, and what do you look forward to in 2015?

Chance to help a friend A fund-raiser to help pay the veterinarian bills for Jasper the dog is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 5 p.m. at Lobstah’s restaurant in Holmes Beach.

Happy hour prices will apply.

The dog’s current owner, Karen Perry, inherited Jasper after his former human, Air America owner Eric Bergan, passed away. However, Perry is unable to pay for the increasingly expensive medical care that the loveable, but aging, black Lab, requires so Lobstah’s has agreed to hold a fund-raiser to help defray the costs. Jasper achieved fame, but not fortune, as the mascot for Air America in many of the company’s ads.

Drainage bid awarded Holmes Beach commissioners recently authorized the mayor to approve awarding a bid to Woodruff and Sons for drainage improvements on Basins 2 and 4. The bid was for $405,358.

Basin 2 is from 32nd Street south of the Anna Maria Island Centre to Manatee Avenue. Basin 4 is in the area of the Manatee Public Beach.

Planner lists projects Holmes Beach Planner Bill Brisson told commissioners at a December work session that their first priority for projects is to revise the site plan process. Other projects include updating the five-year capital improvement plan and revising the public participation portion of the comprehensive plan.

Nancy Ambrose, Holmes Beach:

My favorite memory is celebrating my dad’s 95th birthday. We also adopted a poodle and got involved with Florida Poodle Ambrose Rescue. Many of us will never forget a magical evening with Symphony on the Sand in the rain, and receiving the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s National ACT Lead Award is something I will never forget.

I look forward to moving into our new home, spending more time with my dad, making strides on cancer issues, working on palliative care bills and continuing the weekly Beach Market at Coquina Beach.

Debra Aplin, Holmes Beach:

“I’ll remember my daughter’s engagement, and I look forward to good health and the birth of my nephew’s first child.

Ed Chiles, Anna Maria:

2014 was about the Gamble Creek Farm; BeachHouse renovations; progress on our wild clams initiative; the wild pig project; and recognition of our Chiles Pine Avenue restoration project, heritage seafood initiatives and organic farms.

We look forward to our Mar Vista tree house project; continuing to develop heritage seafood initiatives, sustainable seafood resources and aquaculture projects; and expanding the Pine Avenue organic community gardens with the addition of a model garden in Lakewood Ranch.

Jack Clarke, Bradenton Beach Vice Mayor:

2014 was a year of trials and tribulations for Bradenton Beach, especially the city government. I am hopeful 2015 will bring positive, meaningful Clarke results to resolve the many issues we face at city hall.

JB Crawford, Cortez:

I will remember the opening of Cuba, a wonderful country with warm and loving people. In 2015, I look

Crawford Dan Ryan, Holmes Beach

I will remember 2014 for the opportunities I had to perform music with amazing players, including Barry Goudreau and Fran Sheehan, formerly of Boston. I look forward to more music and more photography.”

forward to a reconciliation between Republicans and Democrats and responsible government.

Amanda Escobio, Holmes Beach:

I will remember 2014 as the year my mother died suddenly and hiring a live mariachi band for my dad’s 80th birthday.

For 2015: watch more sunsets, take deeper breaths and carpe Escobio diem!

Suzi Fox, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring:

2014 was our best year for new volunteers. We had 20 new volunteers that worked so hard and were so much fun; normally we have two or three new walkers per year.

In 2015, I would like to invite more new Fox walkers to come join us on the nesting beaches.

Gillian Kendall, Holmes Beach:

I met the love of my life, brought her to Anna Maria Island, and we swam on the beach where I learned to body surf in the 1960s.

2015 will bring us closer together, geographically and emotionally, and I Kendall look forward to more swims and walks on our beaches.

Nancy Kim, Bradenton Beach:

I’ll remember Malaysia Airlines flight 370, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and the death of Robin Williams. 2014 also marked the successful and gratifying launch of my personal Kim concierge service. In see 2015, page 5

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

THE SUN

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2015: Looking back and looking ahead “I am thankful for renewed friendships on the Island and the tremendous support and love I have received from Anna Maria Island. I am grateful for my family and thankful that they all live on the Island. I am also grateful that Carol Whitmore, Manatee County Commissioner

I’m in a position to help those who need it."

FROM PAGE 4

of my personal concierge service. In 2015, I wish health, happiness and prosperity to everyone I love!

Maureen McCormick, Anna Maria Island Historical Society:

We will remember 2014 for the thousands of visitors who came to hear the story of the Island and its three unique cities and thank them for their generous support. We are looking forward to our exciting museum renovation and working with our New College and Florida State interns to help us in our ongoing preservation and documentation program.

Janie Robertson, Bradenton Beach Commissioner:

I think the most important thing that happened in 2014 was Mayor Bill Shearon and Finance Director Sheila Dalton working together to re-establish the city’s financial credibility with the state.

I look forward to the ULI study results. Hopefully, Robertson an Island-wide effort to protect our perimeter will be launched with help from the county.

Steve Schewe, Bradenton Beach:

2014 forced me to realize we are not yet free from race issues as a country. Personally I relaunched Steve’s Fitness as an in-home service and business has never Schewe been better.

Sam Speciale, Bradenton Beach Police Chief:

In 2014, the city saw two major projects happen – the pier and the cell tower, and we had one very important major election (the Martin- Speciale Vosburgh race). In 2015, hopefully a breath of fresh air will go through the city so things will calm down and the city can move ahead.”

Bill Tokajer, Holmes Beach Police Chief:

I will remember how blessed we are as an agency to have the support from our community and elected officials. We have citizens Tokajer thanking us daily for the job we do. That is truly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing our proactive efforts to protect paradise.

On a personal note, my youngest daughter, Valerie, told us she is pregnant, so are looking forward to our fifth grandchild.

Jan Vosburgh, Bradenton Beach Commissioner:

In 2014 we had a lot of issues that need to be resolved.

My hope is that 2015 brings us an opportunity to get rid of Vosburgh all the lawsuits burdening the city, and I will do everything possible to make this happen.

“I’m glad the Dow Jones went to 18,000 and the economy is recovering.”

Ken Williams, Columbus, Ohio

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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

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

GUEST COLUMN Looking forward

A

s the lights go out on 2014 and we start another year, we remember the good and the bad of the past 12 months. Many of us look forward to the new year with new hopes and resolutions that test our ability to change our bad habits and adopt new ones.

In today's issue, reporter Joe Hendricks interviewed people from all walks of life asking them what they will remember and perhaps cherish about the old year and what they hope for the future.

Two elected officials in Bradenton Beach talked about the turmoil there while the police chief looks forward to the pier reopening. Maureen McCormick looks forward to a renewal of the AMI Historical Museum while Nancy Ambrose is ever hopeful of a cure for cancer and Suzi Fox hopes for more Turtle Watch volunteers.

W

e at The Sun are grateful for the support of our readers and advertisers, who have helped us make it into our 15th year of publication. It has been our pleasure to bring you the news, sports, features and, hopefully, the essentials of life in our communities.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make this experiment in newspapering possible.

One item coming up in 2015 is the Urban Land Institute study of where we are and options for the future. The study seems to be a panacea for officials who have been working to control the influx of rental homes in residential neighborhoods. We hope when the completed study comes out, it becomes more than a dust collector on a shelf in city hall. Let’s look for goals that can be achieved, and then strive to make them happen.

Of course, there will always be problems to solve everywhere. But if we could change our mindset to one like Anna Maria resident Dee Brady expressed in Joe Hendrick's story, we might all be happier.

“In 2014 I woke up every morning and loved my life. Repeat for 2015.”

Happy New Year to all.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Watchdog needed As a taxpayer, I strongly support Commissioner Al Robinson’s attempts to provide some transparency and, hopefully, control over the spending of the West Manatee Fire Rescue organization.

I was very disappointed to read that some of the other commissioners and the fire chief are trying to stifle Commissioner Robinson’s ability to even get the financial information he has requested to do the job for which he was elected. They propose putting a limit on how much financial information a commissioner can request.

In a prior meeting, his request to find out how much one of the professionals hired on a building project was being paid was denied; stating

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

that the information was proprietary.

That’s simply outrageous.

These commissioners need to be reminded that they are spending the taxpayer’s monies, not their own. They were elected to be good stewards of the public funds, not to simply act as a rubber-stamp for whatever the fire chief wants to do (a $400,000 jet boat? Seriously?)

Mike Eiffert Bradenton

Be careful what you ask for Yes traffic is a problem. Yes parking is a problem. Yes building/ rental is a problem. Yes garbage is a problem. In my opinion we can fix this without going overboard.

All I see is committee after committee going off half crazy. Traffic - do

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

you really think a gondola or buses and boats are the answer? That just means more people. If there is no more parking - no more will come.

The money from paid parking at the county beach will probably never be seen in Holmes Beach so why do it?

Traffic getting into the beach would be even more chaotic.

Building - do we want to limit how many bedrooms people can build on their own property? If I want to build (or rebuild due to a hurricane) a four-bedroom house to accommodate my family on their visits, I should be able to within the current setbacks, etc. Don't restrict our rights.

Garbage - I have no problem with my garbage collector. I put my garbage out when I am suppose to and see LETTERS, page 7

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 31, 2014

THE SUN

the sun survey

on the agenda

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION: What's on your Christmas wish list?

Anna Maria

9% 0%

13% 16%

A winning lottery ticket.

A new bike.

A new bridge.

1/6: Revenue Committee, 2 p.m.

1/8: City Commission work session, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7086130.

Bradenton Beach 107 Gulf Drive N.

1/5: Scenic Waves, 3 p.m.

1/7: Pier Team, 11 a.m.

1/8: City commission meeting, 6 p.m.

For information, call 7781005.

Holmes Beach

Health and happiness for my friends and family.

5801 Marina Drive

16%

THIS WEEK’S SURVEY What are you looking forward to in 2015?

1/7: Parks and Beautification Advisory Board, 4 p.m.

1/9: Island Congestion Committee, 2:30 p.m.

A limitless supply of clean, nonpolluting energy - oh wait, we already have that in solar power. Nevermind.

• Waking up each morning.

• Taking cooking lessons.

• Keeping my job.

• Finding a job.

• Enjoying liviing in this beautiful place.

• Moving off the Island.

Note: Events are free unless indicated.

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.

Friday

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.

bundle limbs as required by them. If I need more recycling (capacity) I will get another bin.

Parking- you would be hurting many full time residents to close off parking on the streets.

I would like my friends from the other parts of the Island to be able to park in front of my house to visit. Call the police for permission - are you joking?

Don't they have more important things to do? I have friends that drop by all the time and park

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

Saturday

in front of my house. The key is they are in front of my house unlike some rentals who park everywhere. Please - I like parking in front of my house. So are you getting this? It is the rental units that don't follow the laws.

They are noisy. Their garbage sits out for days overflowing - pay for another can. The lawn people throw the cuttings all over other peoples property untied. They do not have enough parking for all the people in those mega houses.

It isn't the size of the house, it is the control. In my opinion, we

need rules for them to follow.

Let them pay the rental agent to move garbage out on the correct days. Let them pay the rental company to be responsible for parking overload. Don't punish the locals like myself who have been on the Island for more than 30 years. Crazy rules and kneejerk reaction to what is going on could come back and bite us all in the butt. I am hoping the new regime will tackle these matters in an intelligent manner.

Sue Wheeler Holmes Beach

The Island Branch Library, the West Manatee Fire District and the offices of the cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach will be closed on Jan. 1. The Island Community Center will close at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 and be closed on Jan. 1.

Tingley Memorial Library will close at noon on Dec. 31 and be closed Jan. 1. There will be no Waste Management or Waste Pro solid waste or recycling collection on Jan. 1. All Waste Management residential collections will resume the next day.

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

at 7 p.m., Lowe Hall, Church of the Annunciation, 45th St. and Second Ave., Holmes Beach.

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.

Wednesday Jan. 7

Nancy Law demonstrates painting acrylic flowers, Island Gallery West, 5368 Gulf Drive in S & S Shopping Plaza, Holmes Beach, 10:30 a.m. to noon.

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

Gulf Coast Writers, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m.

Sunday

Thursday

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.

Lecture by restaurateur Sean Murphy, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

Sneak peak tour, Perico Preserve, north side of Palma Sola Causeway, east of Harbour Isle development.

Reserve to 941-748-4501, ext. 6039.

Jan. 3

Jan.4

LETTERS

Holiday schedule

mark your calendar

Jan. 2

FROM PAGE 6

For information, call 7085800.

10005 Gulf Drive

Peace on Earth.

47%

7

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.

AMI Artists’ Guild meeting, basic copyright law with Attorney Anne Dalton, social hour at 6:30 p.m., program

Jan. 8

Friday Jan. 9

Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s group, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m.

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THE SUN

DECEMBER 31, 2014

Fish wash ashore; red tide apparently not the cause A mullet roundup in the Gulf of Mexico off Bradenton Beach netted roe, or eggs, for dozens of fishermen just in time for Christmas. But since then, mullet have been washing up on Anna Maria Island’s beaches apparently as a result of some fishermen keeping the high-dollar roe from the females and dumping the low-dollar female carcasses and the males overboard.

In previous Sun reports, local food banks have said that it would be too expensive to

transport, ice and process the fish even if the fishermen were willing to save room in their boats bring them to the dock and donate them. Meanwhile, Manatee County workers continue to clean dead fish from the beaches. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports no red tide off Florida’s Gulf coast, and county officials say they believe the dead fish, which numbered in the thousands of tons, were dumped.

TRACY ECKERT | SUBMITTED

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Fishermen cruise the Gulf shallows off Anna Maria Island, above, in search of mullet.

Right, dead mullet are scattered across the beach but are quickly removed by county crews.

KIM SKARDOUTOS | SUBMITTED

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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THE SUN

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Š Minto Communities, LLC 2014. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 12/2014

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Live like a local Respect Wildlife

Osprey Please look up before you cut down a tree; I might have a built a nest at the top!

Anna Maria Island Sun, Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch and Shorebird Monitoring

SUBMITTED | DENNIS GROH

Scrubbing up CHAPEL OPEN FOR SELF-SERVE COMMUNION

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$0..6/*5: $)63$)

4VOEBZ 8PSTIJQ t am Church School for Children & Youth 10:00 AM Adult Class 8:45 ". t Book Study 9:00 AM

A NON-DENOMINATIONAL, CHRISTIAN CHURCH -07*/( $)3*45 t 4)"3*/( )*4 (3"$& t 4&37*/( "--

t SPTFSDIVSDI DPN t 'JOE VT ! GBDFCPPL DPN 3PTFS$IVSDI

512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

An osprey spruces up for the New Year by taking a birdbath.

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

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11

Historic find on beach

H O L I S T I C

W E L L N E S S

C E N T E R

&

Andrew Crowton found this 50-cal. shell casing while fishing for sharks along the beach on Friday, Dec. 26, with Chris Galati, Jr. Crowton said he looked up the serial number on the casing and found out it had been made in St. Louis, Mo., in 1943.

According to records, the Army Air Corps flew training missions off the north end of the Island, and this shell casing might have been used in an exercise, fell to the bottom of the Gulf and washed ashore recently where Crowton found it. He said he was thinking of having the disarmed casing mounted for display.

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TOM VAUGHT | SUN

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THE SUN

Better cell reception in 2015 2015 will bring better cell reception to Bradenton Beach, especially for AT&T and Verizon subscribers, as the construction of the new cell tower located next to the Public Works Department building is more or less complete.

“We’re just waiting for the carriers to start bringing their equipment in. The tower’s ready to go, the platform’s ready, and the electric’s ready,” said Police Chief Sam Speciale, who helped bring the tower to the city via his inquiries and communications with representatives of Florida Tower Partners. Once the carriers install their equipment, the tower will be sealed and the lattice work will be attached to the tower base. Speciale said the carrier construction schedules are dependent on tower projects they have going on elsewhere.

Florida Tower Partners representative Jim Eatrides said he expects the carriers will have their work in Bradenton Beach completed within the next two months, at the maximum.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

THE SUN

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FILE PHOTO

The start of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one mile fun run brought out a lot of younger runners.

Get ready for Dolphin Dash AME School students who participate in the AME Running Club will get a free T-shirt if they sign up for the one-mile fun run.

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

HOLMES BEACH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The streets near Anna Maria Elementary School will be full of runners on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, as the school presents its Tenth Annual Dolphin Dash, sponsored by the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PTO and organized by Jesse Brisson.

The only changes this year are minor, said Brisson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a bigger

spread of food, more selection,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have black T-shirts to pass out to the runners.â&#x20AC;?

The Dolphin Dash begins at 7 a.m. with registration and the 5K run begins at 8 a.m. At 9 a.m., the one-mile fun run allows beginners and smaller kids an opportunity to run.

The run is held under the auspices of the Bradenton Runnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club. T-shirts and goodie bags are guaranteed to all preregistered runners. There will be door prizes and refreshments after the race ad ribbons for all who finish the Fun Run. For the 5K run, awards will be given to male and female best overall, Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division for those 40 and older, Grand Masters for 50

and older, Senior Grand Masters for 60 and older and Veteran Grand Masters for those 70 and older.

First through third place awards will go to 10-12, 13-15, 16-19, 2024, all the way up to the maximum.

First through 10th place awards will be presented to grade level age groups 5 through 9.

To register, log onto bradentonrunnersclub.com and find a link under â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eventsâ&#x20AC;? or log onto www.runnergirl.com. The cost if registered by Jan. 5 is $25 for adults, $15 for kids under 18 and $22 for Bradenton Runnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club members.

For race day registration, adults will pay $30 and children under 18 will pay $15. For more information, call 941-713-4755.

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

W

e often like to use the chart below to illustrate how the average return investors expect for stocks, generally anticipated at 8 to 10 percent a year over longer periods of time doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t often translate into that same level of performance in most years.

In other words, the long term averages are developed through a wide disparity of returns, both positive and negative, that more often than not fall outside of the normal range. Our approach to this is to take the expected return of about 10 percent per year and to then define 10 percent bands of +5 percent and -5 percent around that expectation. So, a return between 5 percent and 15 percent for a particular year would be considered normal.

Returns further away from normal are grouped into 10 percent bands, both in the positive and negative directions.

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An unusual average year Investment Corner TOM BREITER The result is a little surprising to most. Since 1950, there are far more years with results outside of the normal expectation than in the middle band surrounding the norm. In fact, only 23 percent of these years were close to the long-term expected rate of return.

The takeaway is that investors should be prepared for results on a yearly basis that are abnormal, both in the positive and negative direction, while they pursue their long-term investment goals.

2014 turned out to be a year in which returns for the major stock indexes were in that long-term average range, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 Index providing returns in the +5 to +15 percent band.

2014 was unusual in some other ways though. There was a wide disparity in the returns achieved by sub-categories of different asset classes. For example, large cap stocks in general posted returns of over 10 percent, but smaller companies struggled this year after leading the markets higher for the two previous years.

High quality bonds had a very good year in 2014, but higher yielding corporate bonds had sub-par performance.

International stock markets struggled and provided negative results in general, although as already discussed, the U.S. market did quite well. At some point in the future the domination of U.S. stocks will reverse, but there doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to be any indication yet that this trend change is imminent.

I hope you have a great year as an investor in 2015. Stick with sound investment principles, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be distracted by short-term noise from the financial media, and you should do fine.

Tom Breiter is president of Breiter Capital Management, Inc., an Anna Maria based investment advisor. He can be reached at 778-1900. Some of the investment concepts highlighted in this column may carry the risk of loss of principal, and investors should determine appropriateness for their personal situation before investing. www. breitercapital.com

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Fireworks ready for New Year’s celebration Police will have extra staff on duty to enforce the fireworks ban.

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

BRADENTON BEACH – When the ball drops at Times Square, the sky above the Gulf will come alive to herald a new year.

Once again, a free fireworks show is being offered on New Year’s Eve starting at midnight, and the beaches will be open for those who want to enjoy it.

And as in previous years, the three law enforcement organizations will have extra personnel to make sure the fireworks

are in the hands of the professionals since fireworks are illegal to the general public.

“If it flies or goes boom, it’s illegal,” said Bradenton Beach Police Lt. John Cosby.

“We’ll have extra men for law enforcement and traffic control, plus we’ll have help from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and Holmes Beach, if we need it.”

The police have cracked down on illegal fireworks lately, and they will confiscate fireworks if they see them.

To avoid traffic and parking hassles, Island residents and visitors take the free Island trolleys, which will run until 1 a.m., according to Manatee County Area Transit. Whether you come to Bradenton

Beach for the fireworks or to a bar to celebrate with drinks, using the trolley is safe and can help motorists avoid a DUI. Law enforcement in the other two cities on the Island will have personnel checking for fireworks and dangerous driving, as well as traffic and crowd control. They urge everyone to remember that alcohol is illegal on the beaches of Anna Maria Island.

Fireworks confiscated by police during the July 4 holiday. file photo

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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CINDY LANE | SUN

Christmas present Maddi Davenport won this surfboard on Christmas Eve at Duffy’s in a raffle to benefit the National Kidney Foundation. The board was presented by Phil Salick, twin brother of Rich Salick, who taught the artist, Chuck Crawford, his airbrush style. With him are Peggi Davenport, Maddi’s mom, and Joanie Mills with her daughter, Madison, who drew the winning ticket.

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

Library lecture series set The series is named after the late Alice Taylor Reed, a Friends of the Island Library member who organized the series every year until her death in 2006.

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

HOLMES BEACH – The beaches aren’t the only thing that brings tourists and snowbirds to Anna Maria Island. The new year also brings with it the Alice Taylor Reed Lecture and Travel series that run from January through March and usually play to packed rooms.

All of the lectures are free and are held at 2 p.m. on Thursdays, unless otherwise noted, at the Walker-Swift Meeting Room at the Island Branch Library. Seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis, and reservations are not available. For more information, call the library at 778-6341. If you would like to show support for the series through a contribution, mail it to 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 and mark the check for the Alice Tay-

SUBMItTED

This photo, called “Fighting Cranes,” was shot by nature photographer Ron Mayberry, who will speak at the Island Branch Library on Thursday, March 5, at 2 p.m. lor Reed Lecture and Travel Series.

Here’s this season’s lineup.

• On Jan. 8, Beach Bistro and Eat Here owner Sean Murphy talks about

his past, from growing up in Nova Scotia to his successful attempt to avoid a law career and take up food in New Orleans. He and his wife, Susan Timmons,

own and operate the highly acclaimed Beach Bistro and his more casual Eat Here, still highly acclaimed. He will talk about his commitment to excellence and the integrity and authenticity to succeed in the restaurant business.

• On Jan. 15, Tampa Bay native James Schnur, a special collections librarian at the university of South Florida, St. Petersburg and Pinellas County Historical Society historian, talks about life in the bay area, and Manatee County, during the early 1900s. He brings with him a variety of photography of those early years and he will trace development in the area before World War II. • On Jan. 22, Jane Plitt, author of “The Remarkable Story of Martha Matilda Harper,” talks about Harper’s career that made her the “Creator of Modern Franchising.” In addition Plitt to writing, Plitt has broken barriers in labor relations, economic development and civil rights.

She has written anther book titled “Fire Your Doctor: Hire Yourself.” She also see library, page 19

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library: Popular lecture series set FROM PAGE 18

is vice president of the Manatee County Chapter of the League of Women Voters and president of the Manatee County Library Foundation.

• On Feb. 12, Dr. Tim Berra comes to Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, to talk on “Darwin and His Children: His Other Legacy.” In this Berra illustrated lecture, Berra talks about Charles and Emma Darwin’s 10 children. Three died in childhood, three were elected Fellows of the Royal Society and three were knighted.

Books will be for sale and signing after the lecture.

Berra is author of six books on evolution and biology.

• On Saturday, Feb. 21, au-

thor Echo Heron talks about what it’s like to be an author and has written nine best-selling books over three genres: true medicine, medical mystery thrillers and historical biographical fiction. She has been a media expert in the field of healthcare politics and an advocate for nurses’ and patients’ rights.

• On Feb. 26, Brenda Means, of the Southeast Guide Dogs, talks about breeding and training Guide Dogs and Ambassador Dogs, which are used for visiting assisted living centers and schools. She will bring a dog to assist her. Learn about Southeast Guide Dogs, a nonprofit organization, and learn how it trains dogs to help change lives.

• On Thursday, March 5, wildlife photographer Ron Mayberry talks about his ex-

tensive career shooting wildlife all over the world. He is dedicated to preserving wildlife and is a frequent speaker with camera clubs and nature organizations. Mayberry, who holds a U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License, has images in the 2009 NANPA Showcase publication, 2001 Audubon Magazine Top 100 Images and Nature’s Best Photography.

• On Thursday, March 25, Karen Bell, the well known Cortezian who owns Star Fish Company market and restaurant and is part owner of the family's wholesale seafood business, speaks about her youth, career and efforts to save the way of life in the fishing village east of Bradenton Beach on the mainland.

She also owns a boat yard, Cortez Cove Marina, and is a partner in Tide Tables restaurant in Cortez.

Do not enter This home at 109 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, has been posted as uninhabitable due to its age and condition. An outside set of stairs fell off the house. The owner, builder Shawn Kaleta, of Beach to Bay Construction, will likely tear it down and build a new structure, according to Anna Maria Building Official Bob Welch, but until then, people are warned to stay out of it.

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

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New sand pumps new life into Egmont Key The project will place geotextile tubes on the beach to minimize erosion on the key’s western beach.

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

EGMONT KEY – New sand is being brought to this small island to build up the beaches where the ruins of historic Fort Dade stand eroding into Tampa Bay and the Gulf.

The sand, which comes from a maintenance dredging in the bay, will be used to extend the beach of this vanishing key and the Army Corps of Engineers plans to put geotextile tubes out into the water from the beaches to slow down the erosion. The Corps awarded a $13.4 million contract to Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company of Oak Brook, Ill., to perform maintenance dredging of Tampa Harbor along the Egmont and Mullet key channel cuts. The sand dredged from there will go to Egmont Key’s renourishment. The maintenance dredge will remove up to 875,000 cubic yards of sand along 17 miles of channel to improve navigation

PHOTOSFROMTHEAIR | SUBMITTED

Another view of the Egmont Key renourishment, looking east with the 1858 lighthouse in the background. safety. The Corps predicts the project will be done by early spring, weather permitting.

The first sand is being put down on the north beach, which is the most eroded, according to project engineer Andy Cummings, and it will progress to the western beach.

Workers will be cognizant of the

wildlife in and around the water, Cummings said. Sea turtles might be relocated through the use of open trawlers, if there are a lot in the area during the project. Egmont Key is home to gopher tortoises, nesting sea turtles, sea birds and winter migratory birds.

Erosion on the western shoreline

mainsail: Names hotel project FROM PAGE 1

an 80-seat restaurant and meeting rooms; a 50-boat slip marina and a separate building with two-bedroom lodging units.

“Ultimately, we discovered through the branding process for Epicurean (the company’s luxury hotel in Tampa), that a name is important,” Collier explained. “We never thought we would call it Mainsail. We just used that as a placeholder because it’s the name of the company.

“We always wanted to come up with a name that reflects how it fits in with the Island. We hired an agency, worked through names and came up with Waterline. We felt it was a good name for us.”

Collier said the company has secured a demolition permit from the city and has been removing rebar at the site where buildings were modified as part of the settlement agreement and ensuing negotiations with the city.

“We are expecting to begin construction at the end of spring

– late March or April,” Collier said. “It will take 14 to 16 months to complete, and we’ll do it all at once. It should open in late summer of 2016.”

The next step will be a final site plan and then construction drawings and technical permits, Collier said. There are no new renderings of the building yet.

Because of the modifications, the engineers and architects are still working.

Collier said the name of the Mainsail Beach Inn, at 101 66th Street, will not change. There two- and three-bedroom units in two buildings are being sold as a condo/hotel units and rented as hotel units when not used by the owners.

The projects will allow guests to use amenities at both locations. Renters and guests from the Beach Inn will be able to go the lodge and eat in the restaurant or get a boat, and renters and guests from the lodge will be able to go to the beach at the Beach Inn.

has caused a significant loss of beach nesting area for the turtles and wiped out rows of palms that simply fall into the water.

Fort Dade was built in 1899 just after the Spanish American war to defend the bay from possible attack. A lighthouse built in 1858 still stands and remains in use today.

The Corps asks Egmont Key boaters and beach enthusiasts to observe construction signs and use extra caution during dredging operations.

For more park information, go to www.floridastateparks.org/egmontkey/ and click on http://egmontkey. info/page-1251146.

sticker: Boat cost questioned FROM PAGE 1

Commissioner Al Robinson said there are boats at the lifeguard headquarters in Bradenton Beach, the Coast Guard station in Cortez and the Holmes Beach Police Department and added, “If it won’t save lives and property, it’s a waste of time.”

Fitting the district’s needs

“I was asked to find a boat to best fill our needs,” Moore replied. “I think it will save lives and property. That’s the purpose of the program.”

Robinson asked about the district’s existing boat, and Moore said it is not capable of meeting the district’s medical needs because there is no space to treat patients.

In a September report, Moore said the boat should be capable of both fire and rescue emergencies, have shallow water response capabilities, be aluminum and trailerable and have a jet drive propulsion system that would operate in shallow water and be safer.

Commissioner David Bishop asked if it would give the district “unique response capabilities,” and Moore responded, “Shallow water response is an area that’s not being covered. It provides that, but we also can maintain our current capabilities.”

Incoming Chief Tom Sousa pointed out, “We only have board permission to negotiate with one vendor. We could bring back comparable alternatives plus get information from other agencies that are buying boats.”

Board members agreed to have Sousa present alternatives.

Chief contract

Fire commissioners also approved a contract with Sousa, who will become chief in May 2105 after Fire Chief Andy Price retires. Attorney Maggie Mooney-Portale presented the contract, which was reviewed by the board’s attorney, Jim Dye. She said the effective dates of the contract are May 1. 2015 to April 30, 2018. Three members of the fire commission can terminate it for causes listed in the contract or four members can terminate it without cause.

If Sousa is terminated with cause, there is no severance pay, but if it is without cause, there will be 20 weeks severance pay. There are resignation and extension provisions.

Sousa’s annual salary will be $101,500 from May 1, 2015, to Nov. 30, 2015, and $106,575 for the remainder of the agreement. He will receive a vehicle, which can be used for district business within the state.

Mooney-Portale said Sousa must reside in Manatee or Sarasota counties, and Robinson said Sarasota could be a hour and a half away.

Mooney-Portale said that could be the case in Manatee County also.

“I live in Manatee County, and I don’t plan on moving,” Sousa said. “To me that’s irrelevant.

Strike it.”

The board approved the contract with that change.

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OUTDOORS

Resolutions for anglers Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

I

think New Year’s resolutions were invented to remind us of all the things on our perpetual (as in they never quite get done) to do list. We start to become aware of them as the holidays approach and they begin to coalesce into lists as the New Year approaches. These are reminders of the way we would like things to be and although they might actually never get done, just keeping them in mind can be helpful.

Anglers are no different, listing resolutions such as keeping our tackle in order (being able to find what we want when we need it). It’s amazing how many times I’ve come across something I’ve been looking for, right when I don’t need it. And while it might not be needed at the moment, I sure can remember when it would have come in handy one day on the water.

Now after years of failed attempts at keeping resolutions, I think it best never to make them in the first place.

After all, the things we really need can fit on a fairly short list. In thinking back over the years I’ve come up with a list that I think will make future resolutions obsolete.

Here are my top items to improve your fishing odds over the coming year: Make a plan to fish places you run by on the way to your favorite fishing hole. Spend a day fishing places you’ve never fished before and try different techniques.

One of the things I highly recommend is that anglers that only fish live bait resolve to spend a day fishing with artificial lures. If you don’t have any idea what to use, start with jigs try spending a day really giving them a chance – you might be surprised.

While I’m a firm believer in having a plan, make sure that you remain flexible. Don’t be so focused on heading to one of your favorite fishing spots that you miss the signs of action along the way.

One of the most important things on any angler’s to do list is to have the right equipment for the kind of fishing

rusty chinnis | sun

Bring in a new view of fishing in 2015 you want to do. You won’t need a surf rod with 40-pound monofilament line to fish for trout and redfish, and you don’t want to take your 8-pound spinning outfit offshore to fish for grouper and snapper over ledges and wrecks.

When you do match up your outfit, make sure the reel is the right size for the rod and that the line is the right size for the reel. Also make sure the spool is filled to capacity.

Matching a 10-pound spinning or bait-casting outfit means the right reel for the rod and the right line for the reel. The same goes for a larger rig that you might use offshore. see reel time, page 23

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Six species provide action Captain Rick Grassett

Anglers fishing with me on my Action Craft flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB's Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano, flounder and bluefish on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay on flies and CAL jigs with shad tails during the past week.

Keith McClintock, son-in-law Rick Anderson and grandson Garrett Anderson, all from Illinois, fished deep grass flats on the west side of Sarasota Bay with me on Monday.

They caught and released trout, ladyfish and a flounder on CAL jigs with shad tails. Alan Sugar, from Michigan, fished the same areas with me on Tuesday and caught and released trout and ladyfish on an Ultra Hair Clouser fly fished on a sink tip fly line.

Lane Thurgood, from Virginia, and daughters Bella and Beatrice, fished

the same areas with me on Saturday.

Lane fly fished while the girls used spinning tackle. They had good action catching six species of fish, including trout, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, ladyfish and a small gag grouper on Ultra Hair Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails.

Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and more should be good options on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay. Look for reds and big trout mixed with mullet schools on shallow flats and edges of bars. 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. Catch and release night snook fishing in the ICW is also a good option now. Fish peak tidal flows for the best action.

RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Ian Mceachern, from Sarasota, had good action catching and releasing Spanish mackerel and blues on Ultra Hair Clouser flies while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

reel time: Resolutions for anglers FROM PAGE 22

Sure you can catch a 2-pound trout on a 30-pound rig and if you’re lucky you might land a large grouper on an eight weight outfit, but in neither case, will it be much fun for you or your catch!

Once you’ve got the right rig the next most important thing on the list is to set the drag. It’s a shame to lose a fish because your drag was too light and the hook

wouldn’t set or if the drag was too tight and the line breaks. Know what you’re after and set the drag with intention before the bait or lure ever hits the water.

Learning to tie good strong knots and making sure you don’t forget important steps should be a high priority. Probably more fish are lost to poorly tied knots than any other reason. Remember that the line will part at a poorly tied knot,

especially one that slips. It’s important to draw knots down tight with pliers and the aid of a little saliva. You don’t have to learn to tie lots of different knots, just make sure you do a good job on the ones you do tie.

Last on this list but definitely not least is making sure your hooks are sharp. Have sharp hooks sharpened when you hit the water and make sure

they stay sharp throughout the day. I’ve learned from experience to have a hook sharpener on hand and to check the sharpness of the hook numerous times during an outing.

Have the right equipment, have everything in good working order, have a plan, be flexible with that plan and you’ll have all your angling New Year’s resolutions filled.

tide chart for anna maria city pier dec 31-jan 7 Day Date

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

Wed 12/31

9:28a 1.08

2:14a -0.23

7:07p 2.13

12:26p 0.97

Thu 1/1

10:26a 1.14

3:11a -0.37

7:52p 2.19

1:29p 1.01

Fri 1/2

11:18a 1.19

3:59a -0.52

8:34p 2.23

2:19p 1.05

Sat 1/3

11:56a 1.21

4:39a -0.59

9:12p 2.23

3:06p 1.05

Sun Rise Set

Day Date

7:20-5:46

Sun 1/4

7:21-5:47 7:21-5:48 7:21-5:49

A.M. High Time Feet

A.M. Low Time Feet

P.M. High Time Feet

P.M. Low Time Feet

12:26p 1.21

5:15a -0.60

9:49p 2.21

3:50p 1.02

Mon 1/5

12:50p 1.21

5:48a -0.57

10:25p 2.116

4:33p 0.96

Tue 1/6

1:11p 1.23

6:19a -0.51

11:04p 2.09

5:18p 0.90

Wed 1/7

1:32p 1.28

6:51a -0.43

11:46p 1.98

6:04p 0.83

Sun Rise Set 7:21-5:49 7:21-5:50 7:22-5:51 7:22-5:51

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Nice haul Tim Flood (left) and Eric Paloma visiting from Schaumburg, Illinois, went offshore with snapperaddict and hauled in this catch in a half-dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. Paloma caught the large King Mackerel in the middle and the two kept a 22-inch red grouper and several mangrove snapper.

SUBMITTED

Submitted

Twin blackfins Roger and Matt Danziger of the NozDoc.com fishing team, caught these 19- and 24-pound blackfin tuna on live pinfish 45 miles off of Holmes Beach this past weekend.

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Winter classes at Center begin in January The Island Community Center offers the following classes at 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. For further details or to register, call the Center at 778-1908 or visit the website at www.islandcommunitycenter. com. For a complete list of center programs and special events, visit the website.

exercises that promote healthy bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Wear well-supported sneakers and plan to use weights, resistant tubing and floor mats, all available at the Center. Member price is $8/class and non-member price is $15/class.

Mah Jongg

Conversational Spanish

Thursdays, beginning Jan. 8, Mah Jongg Club at 10 a.m. Fee applies.

Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 7, Mah Jongg lessons at 2 p.m. Fee applies.

Bridge lessons

Fridays, beginning Jan. 2, bridge lessons at 10 a.m. Fee applies.

Kids dance fitness

Mondays, resuming Jan. 12, kids dance fitness at 4:15 p.m. Fee applies.

Tai Chi

Introducing Tai Chi with instructor Keith Christianson, a 3rd degree black belt in Hwa Yu Tai Chi, on Fridays beginning Jan. 2 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Experience the power, purpose and peace of this transformative art form while improving muscle strength, balance, flexibility and an overall feeling of wellbeing. Member price is $8/class and non-member price is $15/class.

Watercolor class

Sue Lynn Cotton’s class is appropriate for both the novice and experi-

SUBMITTED

Instructor Lisbeth Oscuvilca teaches conversational Spanish on Tuesdays. enced artist on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. January through April.

This is an opportunity to learn to create a quality painting with less effort while constructing a better-designed composition. Paint from photographs, paint people and pets, discover more about color and find your own style. Member price is $20/lesson and non-member price is $25/lesson.

Bridge lessons

Bridge Lessons with Larry Auerbach returns on Fridays, Jan. 2 through Feb. 20, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. This professional bridge player will start with the basics and teach bidding conventions and techniques along with game rules

and strategies for playing a hand.

Member price is $8/class and nonmember price is $15/class.

Zumba

Zumba with Grisel McCain will be on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Jumpstart your morning with hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves that will make you love working out. Member price is $8/ class and non-member price is $15/class.

Staying strong

Staying Strong with Karen Iannello will begin again in January on Mondays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for the active, mature adult. This class is about strength training and weight-bearing

Conversational Spanish continues on Tuesdays with Instructor Lisbeth Oscuvilca from 4:30 to 6 p.m. It consists of exercises and conversations relevant to travel in Spanish-speaking countries.

Classes are taught in three-session packages and offer six levels of learning the Spanish language.

Preregistration is required. Members pay $40 per three sessions, and nonmembers pay $50 per three sessions.

There is a 10 percent discount for three months of pre-paid (12) classes: members/$144 and non-members/$180.

Tennis anyone?

Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m., round Robin tennis for adults of all skill levels with membership or day pass.

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., “The Legends” play tennis (4.0 NTRP level and higher). Membership or day pass required.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:30 to 5 p.m., free tennis lessons for children ages 5 to10. Pre-registration required.

Daily private and group tennis lessons available by arrangement.

Technology university at Center A series of hour-long classes are being offered at the Anna Maria Island Community Center beginning in January. This is an opportunity to get hands-on, straightforward instruction on the how-tos of using the iPad, iPhone, Kindle, digital photography and Facebook.

Space is limited and the cost per class is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Register at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria. Take note of the list of things to bring to

each class.

For more information contact Jennifer Griffith at 941-778-1908, ext. 204.

Classes are as follows: • Monday, Jan. 5, 2 to 3 p.m., iPad basics; • Thursday, Jan. 8, 11 a.m. to noon, Beyond iPad basics. Part 1; • Monday, Jan. 12, 2 to 3 pm., iPhone basics; •Thursday, Jan. 15, 11 a.m. to noon, Beyond iPhone basics;

• Monday, Jan. 19, 2 to 3 p.m., Facebook; • Monday, Jan. 26, 2 to 3 p.m., Digital photos on iPads and iPhones; • Thursday, Jan. 29, 11 a.m. to noon, Beyond iPad basics, Part 2; • Thursday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. to noon, iPhone basics; • Monday, Feb. 9, 2 to 3 p.m., Beyond iPad basics, Part 1; • Thursday, Feb. 12, 11 a.m. to noon, Beyond

the iPhone basics; • Monday, Feb. 16, 2 to3 p.m., Fitness and health apps; • Monday, Feb. 23, 2 to 3 p.m., Beyond Kindle Fire basics; • Thursday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m. to noon, Digital photos on iPhones and iPads; • Monday, March 2, 2 to 3 p.m., Beyond iPad basics, Part 2.

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Octogenarian chronicles social issues Author JB Crawford spent much of 2014 contemplating matters of local and national significance.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

CORTEZ – JB Crawford’s new book, “Goodbye Baloney,” provides a literary snapshot of events and issues relevant to 2014.

“Goodbye Baloney” features 77 case studies that range in subject matter from the judicial system, to electoral politics and looking for new places for humans to live.

“It’s the kind of book you can sit down and read 10 minutes at a time. It’s very thought provoking and an interesting book, I think,” the 80-year-old Cortez resident said.

According to the book jacket, Crawford spends the early part of his days “enjoying the smell of ink, the crinkle of paper and the drama of everyday living,” and his case studies were inspired by his immersion in print media.

“I am a regular and dedicated newspaper reader. I find items of interest, clip them out and write little editorials on subjects that interest me,” he said.

“I wanted to share with thoughtful people the concerns I have with life in modern America. I happen to be very concerned that the United

joe hendricks | sun

Cortez resident JB Crawford displays his most recent book, “Goodbye Baloney.”

States has more people behind bars than any country in the history of the world. There’s also a case study called Broken Windows that tells much about America,” Crawford said.

Arranged in alphabetical order, the collection begins with Affluenza, “the uncontrolled desire to be wealthier;” and includes Failure of the War on Drugs; a Missing Fish essay on grouper fishing enforcement; Open Cuba; Port Desoto; Soak the Poor; Texas Textbooks; and Who’s Your Daddy.

About the book’s title, Crawford said, “There is a case study about an eight-year-old boy who

made a baloney sandwich, went out and sat on the front steps, and a dog came up and took his sandwich and walked away with it. That’s 'Goodbye Baloney,' and the underlining theme of having things taken away from you with exasperation and the inability to do anything about it.”

Crawford cites corporate price fixing, unethical debt collection, bait and switch tactics and cramming unauthorized services on cell phone bills as example of baloney snatching.

“These are organizations trying to get your sandwich, and one of the messages in the book is you have to be alert and protect what you have,” Crawford said.

Crawford also weighed in on the events that took place in Ferguson, Missouri after his book was published.

“It’s a tragedy that we have to come to this kind of confrontation between law enforcement and people just walking around; but it happens, and it happens with increasing regularity. Ferguson is one more example of the things in America we need to pay more attention to,” he said.

Crawford grew up in Cortez, earned a degree in literature from the University of Florida, studied comparative literature at the University of Erlangen in Germany, and is the holder of two advanced degrees from Harvard.

A

protect what you have,” JB Crawford Author He taught high school English and retired as a school district superintendent in California.

He also spent 40 years as Army Reserve officer and retired with the rank of colonel.

“I live in Cortez, and I grew up in Cortez. My third line of work, even now, is as a commercial fisherman,” Crawford said, noting that he previously wrote a series of books for youngsters that detail the skills and equipment needed to harvest food from local waters.

Crawford will be selling his books at the Commercial Fishing Festival taking place in Cortez in February.

His self-published books can be purchased online at Amazon.com, in print and Kindle formats, and he can be contacted directly at drjbcrawford@hotmail.com.

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

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I

THE SUN

REAL ESTATE

DECEMBER 31, 2014

2015 – a million dollar year

t’s New Year’s Eve, and I’m sure you’re busy with your list of resolutions. Well I’ve been busy too, but instead of New Year’s resolutions I’ve been making a list of New Year’s predictions, and I predict 2015 will redefine what a million dollar home is.

It’s been coming for a while – a small ocean swell crashing on the shore before we know it. There have been numerous articles written about the increase in sales of more than $1 million, including in this space, and long time residents just shaking their heads in disbelief.

True we’ve been down this road before the financial crisis gave everyone a reality check, but this time it’s different. First of all the growth is more widespread, not just concentrated on the islands and waterfront property. Now there are numerous areas in both Manatee and Sarasota Counties that are boasting abundant properties selling for more than $1 million. It also feels more restrained than

Castles in the Sand Louise Bolger the overheated market before the crash which you just knew even while living through it could never last, this time we seem to be on more of a solid footing.

According to the Multiple Listing Service, as of the beginning of December, there were 102 $1 million plus single family properties sold in Manatee County, with a top sale of $3.2 million.

Sarasota County, not surprisingly, has more than triple that number, coming in at 383 $1 million or more sales and hitting an incredible high of $11.85 million.

With another month’s worth of sales still to be posted, both counties are expected to be ahead of last year.

In September, I did my own one year analysis of the three Anna Maria Island cities and Cortez and discovered that between September 2013 and September 2014, there were 11 more $1 million or more sales. This represents more than a 50 percent increase with Anna Maria City and Holmes Beach having the largest increase in number of sales.

There is even talk now of a shortage in inventory for this level property. Manatee and Sarasota waterfront property continues to be in high demand and is exactly the area the lacks available land to develop. Lakewood Ranch and the Inlets in east Manatee and Sarasota continue to build high end homes with some properties listing and selling in the $2 and $3 million range. There is still high end inventory in these areas, however, some real estate professionals are concerned that the coming demand may not keep up with the supply.

With Conde Nast telling the planet

Manatee County has fabulous beaches and Christie’s calling Sarasota County a “jewel box” the world as well as investors, second home buyers and high earning professionals in this country are paying attention and making plans.

I predict that during the next few years, we will see a significant change in what we always thought was a sleepy little area of Florida’s west coast. Like it or not, more people are coming to visit and purchase pushing prices and demand higher than ever.

Maybe this is the year you should bypass the aisle with the Andre Pink Champagne and go right for the Dom Perignon Brute. So go ahead and toast yourself for being so real estate savvy that you ended up in one of the best areas in the country to live with million dollar properties increasing double digit every year.

Wishing you and your family a happy, prosperous and healthy 2015!

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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Anna Maria resident publishes seventh book Dr. Alice Moerk, of Anna Maria, has published her seventh book, “Shattered Mosaics,” the second novel in her historical series, PasTimes.

Set in 13th century France, the story follows the family of Ain of Poitiers, cousin of Eleanor of Aquitaine, in their movements across France – west to Dijon, south to the Pyrenees and north across the English Channel as they become enmeshed in the wars of the Roman Church against the peaceful, yet heretical, Cathars.

The novel is the sequel to “Ain’s Song,” winner of a Florida state award for fiction and the Eudora Welty prize for historical fiction.

Moerk’s first series of books, NewFoundSouls, deals with contemporary topics and characters who struggle to maintain their identities amidst prejudice, homelessness and the cruelties of our culture. The third book in the series, “The Piper From T’P’S’L” received a Florida state award for fiction.

Moerk also is the author of a children’s book, “Jackie: the Sailor Boy.”

pat copeland | sun

Alice Moerk shows the cover of her newest novel, “Shattered Mosaics.”

“Shattered Mosaics, published by Peppertree Press, is available on Amazon or by contacting Moerk at 778-7923.

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THE SUN

TOM VAUGHT | SUN

In remembrance American flags at Holmes Beach City Hall and West Manatee Fire Rescue Station 1 flew at half mast on Christmas Eve to remember three law enforcement officers who were killed nationwide within a 24-hour period.

DECEMBER 31, 2014

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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Chamber schedule for January The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly Business Luncheon at the Gulf Drive Café and Tiki, 900 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a good networking opportunity. The cost is $15 per person, and you must RSVP. If you don’t and show up, the cost will be $15. If you reserve and don’t tell the Chamber, your account will be billed.

A week later, on Wednesday, Jan. 14, Trustco Bank, 5858 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, will host the Chamber Sunrise Breakfast from 7:45 to 9 a.m. Again, an RSVP is mandatory, and the cost of the breakfast is $8 with an RSVP or $16 without.

Finally, the Chamber’s Business Card Exchange will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The site is to be determined at a later date. The cost is $5 and RSVPs are appreciated.

For more information, call the Chamber at 778-1541.

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www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 31, 2014

Commissioner suggests ULI topics Commissioner Janie Robertson thinks employee parking and perimeter hardening should be discussed during ULI study interviews.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

BRADENTON BEACH – As the three Island cities continue their efforts to provide approximately 130 interview candidates for the upcoming Islandwide Urban Land Institute (ULI) study, Bradenton Beach Commissioner Janie joe hendricks | sun Robertson recently shared some conBradenton Beach Commissioner Janie Robertson is among the elected officials making cerns she would like addressed when the suggestions for issues to be looked at during upcoming Urban Land Institute study. stakeholder interviews take place in early theoretically. However, we also know that consideration when examining local February. he actually tells his employees that they In a Dec. 22 e-mail Robertson sent to environmental issues. are not to park in his parking lots, and prospective study participant Rick Bisio, “My interest is in developing an Islandthey end up parking in our few public lots wide program for perimeter hardening Robertson expressed her belief that for hours,” Robertson said, in her note to BeachHouse and Sandbar restaurant by planting sea oats and installing dune Bisio. owner Ed Chiles, as one of the Island’s walkovers. This would improve our large employers, should assist in the efHer note goes on to mention a large unstormwater rating scores, and this a grantforts to address parking issues. named restaurant coming soon to Holmes friendly project. For this reason, I would “I feel strongly that he, with his larger Beach, which Robertson feels may comask that you add (City Engineer) Lynn restaurants and multiple-employee staff, pound parking issues. Chiles is an investor in Townsend Burnett to my list of (interviewshould be tasked with helping to solve the the Mainsail development in Holmes Beach ee) nominations,” Robertson wrote. parking problems we have. As you know, that will include a restaurant.

When contacted, Chiles declined the he is required to provide parking spaces Robertson also addressed another opportunity to comment on Robertson’s for his largest shifts, which he does item she would like to see like given ULI e-mail.

(941) 778-6066 WWW.CALLTHE ISLANDERS.COM JOHN@CALLTHEISLANDERS.COM

John van Zandt 6101 MARINA DR., HOLMES BEACH, FL 34217

www.amisun.com

DECEMBER 31, 2014

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Pier reconstruction hits home stretch Last week, Duncan Seawall employees continued their renovation of the Historic Bridge Street Pier by constructing a series of cupolas and the T-end pavilion that will grace the city pier scheduled to reopen in mid-January.

Joe Hendricks | Sun

photosfromtheair.com

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THE SUN

TOWN CRIER Shopping for a new year Start 2015 off with a trip to the Beach Market at 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, at the trolley stop, concession stand area on Sunday, Jan. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The market features fresh produce, arts and crafts, jewelry, local artists, scarves, apparel, pottery, purses, health and beauty items, music and more.

Local musician Larry Wilhelm will be performing during January. The nearby Coquina Café offers meals and snacks right on the beach. Manatee County does not allow dogs within the park.

The market is wheelchair accessible.

Contact Nancy Ambrose at 941-5184431 for more information.

Obituaries Anna Fettrow Anna Fettrow, 80, of Tampa passed away December 17, 2014.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, William. Survivors include her daughter, Wilhelmina “Willie” Kightlinger and her husband, E. Kightlinger, of Tampa; and Anna’s cousin, Sally Rees, of London, Ohio.

Born and raised in West Jefferson, Ohio, Anna worked for the Ohio Bell Telephone Company for many years.

In 1969, she came to Florida and lived on Anna Maria Island for several years where she worked at the Sand Dollar Gift Shop and was a member of Roser Memorial Church. She moved to Tampa in 2002. Anna was a loving wife and mother who always put her family first.

A graveside service will take place at a later date at Florida National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Anna may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.act. alz.org. Online condolences can be made at www.blountcurrywest.com.

Perry Martin Pittman Perry Martin Pittman, age 50, was born Jan. 17, 1964, in Chattanooga, Tenn., and died Dec. 28, 2014.

He was a resident of Holmes Beach, Fla., on Anna Maria Island, where he was the owner of Tortilla Bay Southwest Grille.

Comfy food on Bridge Street The Bridge Street Merchants are hosting a Mac and Cheese Contest at the Bridge Street Market on Sunday, Jan. 4. Mac and cheese tasting and voting will happen from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

It’s free to enter the contest. More information and the required advance entry form are available on the market page of www.bridgestreetmerchants. com/Market.aspx.

Tangled Mangos, a reggae/funk/jam band based in Bradenton Beach, will provide live music..

Organizers ask attendees to consider taking the free island trolley to Bridge Street. 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.

He leaves his father, Frank Pittman, of Crossville, Tenn.; his mother, Bettie Pittman and brother Ed Pittman, of Athens, Ga.; and his brother, Scott Pittman, of Austin, Texas.

A memorial will be held Sat Jan. 3, at 5 p.m. at the public beach in Holmes Beach. Pastor Mark Alt will preside. In lieu of flowers, make a donation to St Jude’s Children’s hospital.

Esther L. Gegan Esther L. Gegan (nee Hug) passed away suddenly on Dec. 22, 2014.

Esther was born on Aug. 16, 1939, in Orange, N.J., to the late Joseph and Esther (Carmeli) Hug. Esther was raised in New Jersey and graduated from West Orange High School in 1957.

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, William A. Gegan, a son, Bill Gegan and his girlfriend, Liz Baziotis, of Ocean Grove, N.J., a daughter, Sue Whieldon and husband, John, of Leander, Texas, a son, Bob Gegan and wife, Kim, of Tampa, Fla., and a daughter, Sandy Gegan and partner, Jeanette Diaz, of Chicago, Ill. She pampered and spoiled her seven grandchildren, Billy, Stephanie and Shea Gegan, of Lake Como, N.J., Kyle and Matthew Whieldon, of Leander, Texas and Trent and Fiona Gegan, of Tampa, Fla. She also leaves two brothers, Gerard Hug and wife Kathy, of Montville, N.J., Lawrence Hug and girlfriend Cheryl Sonners, of Livingston, N.J., and two sisters, Barbara Hug, of Bradenton Beach, Fla. and Corinne Pansulla and husband Joe, of Sarasota, Fla. Esther was a lover of life. Her vibrant personality and genuine spirit endeared her to everyone she met. She had many friends, was active in her community and was beloved by all. She lived in Bordentown, N.J., and Johnstown, Pa., where she was employed

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.

Story time at the library

DECEMBER 31, 2014

Everyone is welcome to attend from beginner to seasoned veteran. For more information, call Judy at 779-1416 or Ellen at 778-1554.

Writer’s Club meets

Misty Wright, the children’s librarian, reads stories on Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 10 a.m. Kids between toddler and five years of age are welcome as are their parents at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. For more information, call the library at 778-6341.

Julie Ann James, publisher/founder of the Peppertree Press will speak about the steps to getting published at the Gulf Coast Writer’s Club meeting at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 1:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Call Sylvia Price at 778-3209 or scprice@verizon.net.

Irish Ceili dancing taught

Book club meets

The Anna Maria Irish Ceili Dancers begin their winter dancing at the Sandpiper Mobile Resort, 2601 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, on Wednesdays, from 1 to 3 p.m., and will continue every week through the end of March.

The Mana-Tweens Book Club meets at the Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 6 p.m. to discuss a book. For information on the group, call 778-6341.

as a legal secretary prior to retiring to Florida. A lifelong collector, Esther delighted in everything from plates and cranberry glass to Beanie Babies and refrigerator magnets. She also loved playing all kind of games – backgammon and Jeopardy were just a few.

Her greatest pleasure was spending time with her family, especially her husband, children and grandchildren.

Services will be held at Groover Mansion Memorial Park & Funeral Home.

1400 36th Ave. E., Ellenton, FL 34222.

In lieu of flowers, make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her name.

dant, who was visiting from Michigan, was in the Gulf with his family when his stepfather jumped on him playfully, and he pulled out a knife and threatened the stepfather. His brother got the knife away from him, and he started walking away. Police were called and Longboat Police picked him up, but the family did not want to sign an affidavit against him and he was released.

BEACH BEAT Anna Maria

12/26, 2:21 p.m., civil dispute, 100 block of Palmetto Avenue. The complainant said an unknown party trimmed the sea grapes on his property sometime between October and December.

12/22, 9:55 p.m., lost property, 100 Spring Avenue, at the beach. The complainant said she lost her bracelet while on the beach at the Sandbar restaurant.

Bradenton Beach

12/25, 5:30 p.m., attached tag not assigned to vehicle, driving with a suspended license with knowledge, 100 block of Gulf Drive South. The officer ran a computer check on the suspect’s car and found it was assigned to another vehicle. He stopped the driver at the Circle K, and the driver said his license was suspended for not paying child support. He said he found the plate and planned to use it until he could get caught up financially He was arrested.

12/27, 4:35 p.m., domestic aggravated assault, 2300 Gulf Drive S. The defen-

Cortez

12/26, 9:55 p.m., grand theft of a vessel, 4300 block of 127th Street West. A boat was stolen from a dock.

Holmes Beach

12/13, 9:03 a.m., criminal mischief, Paradise Realty, 5201 Marina Drive. Two windows were shot out overnight, apparently by a BB gun.

12/13, 9:13 a.m., damage to property, Egrets Landing, 5602 Marina Drive.

Three windows were shattered overnight by BBs. 12/13, 11 a.m., criminal mischief, 600 block of Key Royale Drive. The victim’s truck was shot by a BB gun.

12/14, 10:47, criminal mischief, 600 block of Key Royale Drive. A person or persons unknown shot out a window in the front door with a BB gun.

12/14, 4:34 p.m., driving with a suspended license, 700 block of Manatee Avenue. The officer stopped the driver for speeding, and a computer check showed his Virginia driver’s license was suspended for non-payment of traffic fine. The suspect got a ticket.

12/14, 11:59 a.m., property damage, 3700 block of Fourth Avenue. The front door window was shot out by a BB gun.

12/16, 12:38 p.m., burglary, West Coast Surf Shop, 3902 Gulf Drive. The owner said someone tried to open the front door overnight with a crow bar, damaging the door frame.

DECEMBER 31, 2014

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 Go figure?

10 Scented candle option 15 One may become an exurb 16 Carew's Twins roommate 17 Monopoly duo 18 Inspiration for some Yahtzee categories 19 Reasons for handshakes 20 Large volume 22 Alt-rock subgenre 23 Material for Caesar 24 Russian crepes 26 Egyptian __: cat breed 27 Warm time for Nancy?

28 Nursery nourishment 29 Slinky ad feature 32 1970 Top 40 song with the lyric "And I'm lucky that

Answers to 12-24-14 Crossword Puzzle.

you're mine" 34 Restraining device 37 Numskull 38 Nickname for the NFL draft's last pick 40 High regard 41 Alice's workplace 42 1956 milestone for Ford: Abbr.

45 __ anglais: English horn 46 Actor Ken and others 48 Hitch 49 Its Batman version contains a Joker 50 Like some annoying blog posts: Abbr.

51 Coming-out party?

52 Quality of a good math proof 54 Zen-like "Caddyshack" mantra 57 Grenoble's river

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35

58 Hoops matchups 59 Former lab heaters 60 Like many lotteries Down 1 Lowly worker 2 Best in a mess 3 ER protocol 4 "Vapor Action" brand 5 2013 NCAA Men's Ice Hockey champs 6 Place to wrestle 7 George W.'s first press secretary 8 Driver's appointment?

9 Sports 10 Make big strides 11 U.N. workers' gp.

12 2002 Lil' Bow Wow film 13 Prayer sung by Desdemona in "Otello" 14 Carried on 21 Makes bad calls?

24 Hall of Fame pitcher who managed the Yankees to a 1978 title 25 Tag 28 Ill-gotten loot 30 Chances 31 Vier times zwei 32 Special 33 Poetic rapper 34 Only woman with two Nobel prizes, formally 35 Insurance fraud perpetrator, perhaps

36 Ammonia component 39 Distinguished 42 Historic island palace 43 __ pork 44 Uncreative threat

47 Latin rock group Los __ 48 First sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy 50 "Iliad" war god 51 Factor opening

53 Mouths, anatomically 55 See 56-Down 56 With 55-Down, sore throat soother

36

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classified

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

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

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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

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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

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DECEMBER 31, 2014

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Please call or text. 808469-5514 Reward.

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

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

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

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

941-812-0507 “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 ARE YOU WANTING to vacation and not worry if your pet is lonely. I will overnight in your home, so your animal can stay in his own environment. Home Sitting is also available.

Great References. Call Mary 941-405-2496 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.

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PHOTOGRAPHY NEW AERIAL AMI PHOTOS. PhotosFromTheAir.com. email: photosfromtheair@ gmail.com or Call 941-7739834

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

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.

Call us today! 941-778-3986

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" 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

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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 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 941-7782307. Franmaxon realestate.com.

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

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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