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HBPD chief to be honored. page 3A weekUy I by FPA AMI Chamber of Commerce Medium Business of the Year U CIVE CLOVALLYJ -'*rt/ftas A-.J'^'.^ Churches celebrate Christmas. pages16A-17A VOLUME 21, NO. 7 ~a ~gPffivvin Objectors to HB moratorium rise, city limits terms Astheworldterns take the free ride. Page 6 HB commission seeks Mainsail update. Page 4A Local tourism strong despite weak U.S. economy. Page 8A Islanek ! happenings Community events, announcements. Pages IOA-15A Make a date. Page 12A NYT crossword puzzle. Page 18A S h4l AME school news. Page 20A The Moose Lodge remodels, Christmas for kids. Page 22A Sports: Isl gold at sta games. Pa Hot fishing shiners. Pc JslaM Chamber ments, con Christmas. The island Pages 6B- By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter While Holmes Beach residents have been packing city meetings in the past year to com- plain about huge houses, investors moving residents out of the city's housing stock and renter-related problems, at a Dec.11 meeting, it was the turn of new owners, contractors and others to voice their opinions about a proposed building moratorium. About 20 peaceful protesters wore green imprinted shirts, stating "No Construction Means No Jobs," and two Holmes Beach police officers monitored the Dec. 11 meet- ing. A draft ordinance to stop tear downs, rebuilds and new construction for six months in the R-2 district was discussed. It included a Dec. 6 retroactive date so as not to cause a rush on building permits. Fourteen contractors and owners voiced their opinions mostly against the retroactive date and six-month provision and by the meeting's end, the commission was swayed to take out the retroactive date and replace it with Dec. 25, a "Christmas present," as sug- gested by Commissioner David Zaccagnino, and change the draft moratorium's duration to "up to" six months. Along with these revisions, at a second meeting last week, a consensus of commis- I SW M a WI Beach to Bay Construction project manager Ryan Moss talks with Holmes Beach Commis- sioner Marvin Grossman outside the cham- bers after a Dec. 11 meeting at city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell sioners agreed to limit the impact of the mora- torium to future construction equivalent to 50 percent of a home's existing market value. The proposed moratorium is expected to be up for a commission vote at the meeting at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 18. Jack Sandleman of Gulf Drive spoke to the duration issue. "Perhaps six months is a bit too long," he said, suggesting a 90-day morato- rium. Janice Martinez said she'd begun demolish- ing a home Dec. 11. "And now I found out we can't start construction for six months. What's up with that?" She told commissioners she wants to live in Holmes Beach with her children who have been coming to the island every summer and her grandchildren. "Be fair to people like us. We're not build- ing a home to rent," Martinez added. "Can you make an exception for people who want to live in this community and be part of this community and help this community grow? "What about our economy? And all the people out here in green shirts who earn their living on the island, in a very honorable and noble profession? Think about that before you start taking away our rights, please." James Martin, a contractor from Bradenton, said, "We're a small company and don't have a lot of employees, but they have families. To stop all construction for six months is too much. It's tough enough with the economy as is." Code enforcement board member John Wise said, "You're talking only about 10 houses" and PLEASE SEE MORATORIUM, PAGE 2 Osborn fails to cooperate with BBPD-FDLE HB cart crossing By Mark Young Islander Reporter Kelly Osborn isn't saying if she will coop- erate with a Florida Department Law Enforce- ment request to release items in her possession to conclude the investigation into her daugh- ter's 2009 death in Bradenton Beach. Sheena Morris, 22, was found dead in a S. BridgeWalk Resort motel room hanging from the shower head by her dog's leash. Her death was ruled a suicide, but later changed to undetermined in 2011 after a Osborn private forensic pathologist spoke to the medical exam- S iner about his conclusions. anders take r It was Dr. Michael te senior -. 114 Berkland's contention - ge 2B hired by Osbom from the action with 6 examiner's file photos that ' action with ge 3B the crime scene could have age 3B Morris been staged. dBiz However, Berkland's reputation was r called into question when it was discovered he S 5 had twice been fired from medical examiner duties. A storage unit belonging to Berkland also was found to have human organs being announce- stored in common household containers. nmerce and Osborn's contention is that her daugh- ter was murdered and a public campaign to have her daughter's death investigated further street map. came to fruition in September when an FDLE 7B SMART panel recommended that the Braden- ton Beach Police Department take additional steps in its investigation. BBPD Police Chief Sam Speciale admin- istratively reopened the case, and FDLE agents were assigned to assist the department. The investigation stalled last month when BBPD at the behest of FDLE requested Morris' computer, medical and psychological records. Osborn refused to release the items - which she claims to possess to BBPD. She has maintained that BBPD botched her daughter's death investigation and, in a letter back to Speciale, said she had no intention of releasing an thiing to his department. Her refusal to cooperate spurred a Dec. 3 letter from FDLE Special Agent in charge John Burke to Osbom asking for her cooperation in releasing the requested items. Osbom has insisted that BBPD be removed from the investigation and that FDLE take charge, but Burke again explained in his letter to Osborn that FDLE has no jurisdictional author- ity and that BBPD remains in control of the investigation with FDLE assistance. Although The Islander obtained Burke's letter by a public records request, Osborn expressed displeasure over it being released, and other communications between Osborn and BBPD also have been made public. Following The Islander Dec. 12 report on Burke's letter, Osborn sent an email to the city of Bradenton Beach, again calling for FDLE to take over the investigation. She also called for PLEASE SEE OSBORN, PAGE 3 fails funding By Rick Catlin Islander Reporter The Florida Department of Transportation's tentative five-year work plan for traffic enhance- ments from 2013-2018 for Manatee County was presented by Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization director Mike Howe at the Dec. 10 Island Transportation and Planning Organization meeting. The MPO's priority plan is sent to the DOT to determine if funding is available, then returned to the MPO as the DOT's tentative five-year plan. The DOT also can rearrange the priorities. The five-year plan presented to the ITPO does not include as the city of Holmes Beach had hoped a crosswalk for unlicensed golf carts at the State Road 789/East Bay Drive inter- section with Gulf Drive. The project has previously been listed on five-year plans. DOT representative Roxanne Lake attended the ITPO meeting and said the DOT wanted to fund the project, which the MPO recommended, but it came in third on its priority list for Anna Maria Island. There is only enough money in the projected DOT budget to do the first two projects, she said. Those two projects include landscaping East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach from 31st Street to State Road 64/Manatee Avenue and updating PLEASE SEE CROSSING, PAGE 2 2A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER CROSSING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the traffic signal at Marina and Gulf drives in downtown Holmes Beach. The DOT estimated the landscaping project at $515,457, while the signal cost estimate is $137,370. Lake said the crosswalk project could be put back on the MPO list next year. However, she said the DOT's main priority now is fixing the 1-75 corridor. Howe explained the DOT is always "crunching num- bers" to get as many projects as possible funded from among the 11 counties in District 1 of the DOT. The MPO sends the DOT a list of priorities each July, then has to wait until the following July to learn how much state and federal money is available. He reminded the ITPO this was a "tentative" work program. Newly elected Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti did not attend the meeting. The ITPO is composed of representatives the mayors of the three island cities, who discuss the MPO agenda in order for the appointed ITPO representative to vote accordingly. The ITPO's current representative is George McKay of Anna Maria. The Florida Department of Transportation lacks funds in its tentative five-year plan for a cart crossing at the State Road 789/East Bay Drive and Gulf Drive inter- section in Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Rick Catlin MORATORIUM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 listening "only to the squeaky wheel," not a satisfied majority of citizens. Scott Boyd of Baronet Lane told commissioners to consider the possible cost of litigation. Eric Yonkee, who's been building a home for the past several months, feared he'd be held to the backdated moratorium. However, Commission Chair Jean Peelen said so long as a permit is filed with the city building depart- ment before the moratorium effective date, he would not be affected. Bradenton attorney Louis Najmy, representing Beach to Bay Construction, among other contractors, businesses and property owners, next approached the podium. "I get that you want to ensure the island isn't over- built," he said, adding he understood the big house focus. Najmy told Peelen, "I can't stop connecting your manifesto to this ordinance that is solely targeted to demolitions in R-2 district properties and a potential goal to stop one builder Beach to Bay Construction." Najmy suggested the city "do it for all zoning dis- tricts," and only for three months. Green shirts unite A crowd at a Holmes Beach meeting looks on Dec. 11 as commission- ers consider t moratorium for " the Residen- S:-Z tial-2/duplex z oning district. Islander Photo: Kathy Prucnell Resident and contractor Darrin Wash of Wash Family Construction said he understood the moratorium was about duplexes and underground footers, but asked why six months. "It's going to hurt the green shirt people here. It's going be a big impact on us contractors," he said. City attorney Patricia Petruff said the planning com- mission needed time for its review, and both the city and planning boards had to follow legal requirements for public hearings and notices. Peelen said, "Our commitment up here is that we'll do it absolutely as expeditiously as possible." Wash continued, "Six months to you is like business as usual for you guys. We aren't coming to your jobs and saying you can't work for six months." Commissioner Judy Titsworth said, "This issue is not just about the duplexes. We have a developer, developers, who haven't been looking at the comprehensive plan. "The multi-family seasonal tourist has crept into our R-2 district while we were sleeping," she added, referring to the change from small rental houses for one family to many families sharing the new multi-story homes. David Scott of Palm Drive added another consid- eration, "The moratorium is going to discourage people from buying because of the uncertainty." %Vine Tasling Thursdai Check delails (o' TlielalerifroiilReslauraiil.ielI NothrnTi O AnaMaiaIsan Lnc: vey ay1130m-:.p I 11 South Bay BoulevaI rdgFri.& Sat 4:30pm-10 AIIne.n NEW!GLUTEN- FI RE FREE CRUST!* 24-ITEM (u SALADBAR A 2 HOMEMADE P SOUPS DAILY ENDLESS I A ARTISAN BRICH LINED OUEH j PIZZABAR LUNCH 649 DINNER 759 I Free Sundae SS 8 FLAVORS! CREATE YOUR OWN SENSATION! 10519 Cortez Road W. Cortez 941-792-5300 www.fireandstonepizza.com OSBORN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 disciplinary action against Speciale. Osborn complained that the letter was "confidential" and it should not have been released. However, in spite of Osborn's protest, the letter was not marked confidential and FDLE also has confirmed that the letter was not confidential. Osborn would not answer questions from The Islander if she would cooperate and release the requested items to BBPD. Burke further offered to have FDLE agents pick up the items, but Osbom cited a request from Burke to limit her public comments on the investigations. Burke explained in his letter to Osbom that her con- tinual public appearances discussing the investigation could be harmful to the investigation. However, on learning of The Islander's Dec. 12 story, she contacted other media outlets insisting to them that Special released a "confidential" letter. She also accused The Islander of wrongdoing in reporting FDLE's push for her cooperation. "Your paper will reap the repercussions of your actions," she said in a Dec. 11 email to The Islander. In regards to whether she will comply with the FDLE request, Osborn said, "I cannot respond at this time," saying the release of the letter is under review, although she would not say by whom. "You will be hearing plenty about this article that was published, and it won't be from me," Osborn wrote to The Islander. Osbom accused The Islander of misleading the public by reporting that the investigation is an "administrative" action, but Speciale remains in charge and he can and has termed the reopened case as being administrative in nature. In a Dec. 13 email, Osbom backed away from her statements, saying, \ ly issue isn't with you publishing the article. My issue is with the chief releasing it ... the chief knew or should know as law enforcement that this is an open investigation." However, according to Speciale, it is not an open investigation. As of press time for The Islander, BBPD and FDLE say there was no release of the requested materials. THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 U 3A HB mayor names interim police chief By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Second in the hierarchy of the Holmes Beach Police Department, Lt. Dale Stephenson will be the city's interim police chief while the city undergoes a search for a per- manent replacement. Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti announced his decision Dec. 17. "Naturally, I'm honored," said Stephenson, adding he thanked the mayor for the appointment and for HBPD S Chief Jay Romine for his past years of leadership. SStephenson was offered the posi- i i tion Dec. 14, and accepted that day, he S said. ,l Monti said last week he expected Monti to conduct a formal search through the Florida Police Chiefs Association, and Stephenson expressed interest in retaining the position until his retirement date of Aug. 1, 2016. Romine announced in a Dec. 7 letter to the mayor Dec. 20 would be his last day. Romine said after 26 years in the department, he felt it was time to explore other opportunities. There are 21 full-time employees and one part-time employee in the HBPD. Romine described his philosophy "is to get compli- ance with the smallest hammer possible." Romine called it community policing "policing with empathy." "I really hope they find somebody to continue the kind of policing we've started," Romine said, "because it works." Monti emphasized the city now has time to do a search for a replacement, and Romine "volunteered to be there for as long as I needed." The city charter requires the mayor get concurrence from the city commission on department head appoint- ments, and the commission is expected to concur on Ste- phenson. Monti and two new commissioners took office Nov. 19 following the Nov. 6 election. Although Romine's last day will be this month, he retired Aug. 1, 2011, when he entered Florida Retirement System Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP). Ste- phenson also entered DROP the same day. Public employees who elect the DROP can continue on the job for up to five years in the incentive program while accumulating monthly retirement benefits in a FRS trust fund, earning tax deferred interest. Employees in the DROP program must leave by the last day or lose the accumulated contributions. City to honor police chief The city commission of Holmes Beach was to hold a reception for retiring Police Chief Jay Romine after press time for The Islander, at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, in city hall, 5801 Marina Drive. Romine will retire Dec. 20 after 19 years in the top law enforcement spot. Commission Chair Jean Peelen welcomes all to attend the gathering as well as a formal presentation in Romine's honor immediately following the reception and during the 7 p.m. commission meeting, also in city hall. At the time of his appointment, Romine was the youngest police chief in the state. He served the city more than 26 years, beginning as a patrol officer in 1979, and advancing to patrol sergeant, detective sergeant, lieutenant, assistant chief and chief. Romine also chief contributed his expertise and experience to numerous Romine local, state, national and international associations and boards. He currently serves as secretary/treasurer for the Florida Police Chiefs Association; a member of Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Exec- utive Institute Policy Board; state representative to the State Association of Chiefs of Police; member of Tampa Bay Chiefs of Police Association; chair of the Mana- tee County Law Enforcement Council; and chair of the Manatee Technical Institute Criminal Justice Academy Advisory Board and Board of Governors. For more information, call Peelen at 941-896-5827 or email at jpeelen@holmesbeachfl.org. 4A E DEC. 19, 2012 U THE ISLANDER Holmes Beach commission seeks Mainsail update By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter There were more questions than answers for Holmes Beach commissioners Dec.11 on the future of the pro- posed Mainsail Anna Maria Lodge at the corner of Marina and Gulf drives. Earlier in the day, Mainsail Lodging and Develop- ment president Joe Collier and two others showed Mayor Carmel Monti, Commissioner Judy Titsworth and the city building staff a site plan for a 120-seat restaurant, bar and lodging complex of 20 buildings, including 31 townhomes and nine hotel units at 5325 Marina Drive. The project also includes a marina that has operated for several years, with the city leasing a portion of the docks to Mainsail. In 2001, the commission approved the proposal for the property known as Tidemark Lodge, when Carling- ford Development Company was the developer. It was linked to a commercial zoning change, with special exceptions and conditions, including 111 parking spaces, lodging limited to transient guests of no more than 120 days and an Old Florida architectural style. The Tidemark property was sold after a bankruptcy in 2004 and, according to county records, is now owned by Main- sail AMI Marina LLLP of Tampa and George Glaser of Bradenton. Commission Chair Jean Peelen said the ownership has changed numerous times. Peelen and Commissioner David Zaccagnino said Mainsail should have made a presentation before the commission. Zaccagnino asked whether Mainsail knew it needed to be briefed with their plans, and was respon- sible for approving any site plan changes. Monti said he wasn't sure the current developer knew the politics of the city. He said he agreed to Collier's staff visit to discern the developer's intentions, although the developer advised he was unable to make the commission meeting. "Frankly I'm glad they didn't waste the city coun- cil's time because it was not a very meaningful meeting," Monti said, referring to the city commission and adding there are complicated site-plan expiration issues the city needs to fully understand. Later in the meeting, Titsworth reported Mainsail representatives showed the group a site plan, but not floor plans. They want to move slowly, building-by-building as units sell, she said. Titsworth questioned how that would work with a resort community. The city's 2001 resolution approving the develop- ment tied the site plan to elevations, special exceptions and parking requirements, and there's no longer a valid lease for parking with the bank, she added. Commissioner Marvin Grossman said he is "very concerned" about the parking. Titsworth said she had a "ton of questions" Main- sail representatives weren't prepared to answer, but they offered to make a future presentation to the commission. She asked Monti to make sure that happens. While she hoped the city could work with Mainsail, she said if the commission is not satisfied, she favored moving to revoke or amend the site plan. Building inspector David Greene said he expected to be working with the old site plan's footings, foundation, building location, height and design. At the staff meeting, city officials asked for Main- sail's civil design plans and a current schedule of pro- Maintenance engineer George Knocklia points to mowing and cleanup his crews completed Nov. 26 behind Mainsail Anna Maria Lodge & Marina, 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell posed construction, he said. The developer's most recent project schedule called for a Nov. 1 "start date" for site cleanup as well as for site and civil designs plans for two buildings, and set Nov. 26 and Dec. 15 for architectural designs and Dec. 1 for permit submission and review. None of these items have been submitted, according to city building officials. After the meeting in a phone interview, Collier said Mainsail would be revising the project schedule. He blamed the recent change in the city building depart- ment staff for delays, but said he was "ready to march forward." "We're spending money for engineers and architects and pre-development sales and marketing," he added. He expected construction to begin in the first quarter of 2013. A Nov. 27 meeting had been set for the Mainsail presentation before the commission, but the city resched- uled the meeting to Nov. 20. Monti said two dates for a commission presentation had been canceled by the devel- oper. Collier said he's waiting to hear back from the city staff to arrange a meeting after the holiday "so their archi- tect and project manager can walk through the sequenc- ing," and then, he said, Mainsail will be ready to submit for permits. He said he did not know a n) Iluii about the city com- mission wanting a presentation. In September, then-Mayor Rich Bohnenberger asked the commission to begin a revocation process for the project, calling it an abandoned construction site, and commissioners agreed. City officials then said the sales trailer permit expired and the condition of the site amounted to a code viola- tion. In October, the developer told Bohnenberger Main- sail intended to kick start the project, and if need be, defend its right to the entitlements with litigation. The commission agreed to back off revocation pro- ceedings, and instead called for sunset provisions for future site plans. Those provisions were on the Dec. 11 agenda, and commissioners unanimously approved them as an amend- A model of the Main- sail Anna Maria Lodge & Marina depicts the proposed commercial develop- ment with entitle- ments for a 120-seat restaurant, bar and lodging complex of 20 buildings, includ- -- (ing 31 townhomes ""' and nine hotel units ..at Marina and Gulf drives. Not depicted are other commer- cial or residential properties in the vicinity. ment to the land development code. City attorney Patricia Petruff said developers will now be required to show "reasonable continuous prog- ress" and clarifies current requirements for site plan expi- ration. The amendment also requires: A building permit applied for within 90 days of site-plan approval, with a one-time 90-day extension. Additional extensions approved by the commis- sion. If an active permit is not maintained, the site plan will be voided. Site plan shall expire three years after the date of the site plan unless decided otherwise by the commission. Giving an example of the new law, she said, "It doesn't allow someone to get a building permit for an underground sewer connection, and that be the only permit they would receive for five years." Petruff added, however that for the amendment to make sense, additional proposed LDC changes adopt- ing the state building code as required by the state's Emer- gency Management Division were needed. She said she'd left with the city's building department for review a couple months ago, and they were never returned and added to the code. ei tings Anna Maria City Dec. 19, 4 p.m., sunshine law training meeting. Jan. 2, 4:30 p.m., charter. Jan. 8, 6 p.m., planning and zoning. Jan. 9,6:30 p.m., environmental education enhance- ment. Jan. 10, 6 p.m., city commission. Jan. 22, 2 p.m., Island Transportation Planning Organization. Jan. 24, 6 p.m., city commission. Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, 941-708- 6130, www.cityofannamaria.com. Bradenton Beach Jan. 3, 1 p.m., pier team. Jan. 3, 7 p.m., city commission. Jan. 7, 3 p.m., scenic waves. Jan. 16, 1 p.m., community redevelopment agency. Jan. 16, 1:30 p.m., capital improvement projects. Jan. 17, noon, pier team. Bradenton Beach City Hall, 107 Gulf Drive N., 941- 778-1005, www.cityofbradentonbeach.org. Holmes Beach Dec. 20, 7 p.m., work session. Dec. 27, 7 p.m., work session CANCELED. Jan. 3, 7 p.m., work session. Jan. 8, 7 p.m., city commission. Jan. 10, 7 p.m., work session. Jan. 16, 2 p.m., Barrier Island Elected Officials. Jan. 17, 10 a.m., code enforcement. Jan. 17, 7 p.m., work session. Jan. 22, 7 p.m., city commission. Jan. 24, 11:30 a.m., police retirement board. Jan. 31, 7 p.m., work session. Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, 941- 708-5800, www.holmesbeachfl.org. Manatee County Jan. 8, 9 a.m., county commission. Jan. 29, 9 a.m., county commission. Administration building, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bra- denton, 941-748-4501, www.mymanatee.org. West Manatee Fire Rescue Dec. 20, 6 p.m., fire district commission, including swearing into office of elected officials. Jan. 24, 9 a.m., fire pension board. Administrative office, 6417 ThirdAve. W., Bradenton, 941-761-1555, www.wmfr.org. Of Interest Government offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday, Dec. 24-25, New Year holiday, Jan. 1., Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 21. The Islander office will close Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 1. Delivery will occur over- night Sunday Dec. 23 and Monday Dec. 24, and Dec. 30-31. Send notices to news@islander.org. THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 E 5A Mainsail residential neighbor again expresses objections By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Holmes Beach resident Lance Spotts points to sev- eral 20-foot Australian pines between his 14-year home on Sunrise Lane and a proposed hotel/condominium res- taurant mixed-use project, and says with a sigh, "That's how long this has gone on." Spotts has been interested in the project from its inception. He's watched the trees grow from seed since the Tidemark Lodge now Mainsail project began. Spotts recently viewed a Mainsail model, and it prompted him to write city commissioners and the mayor a Nov. 30 email. "It looked like public housing in some ghetto, cramming as many buildings and people into as tight a space as could be allowed," he wrote. With voters choosing a new mayor and commis- sioners in the Nov. 6 election, he wrote, "I think we should take this public sentiment out for a test ride and stop the jewel of downtown Holmes Beach from being exploited." As he recalls earlier times, Spotts tells how city com- missioners in 2001 decided to change two lots adjacent WMFR shares holiday tree safety tips Caution is the watch word in holiday decorating. The long-standing traditions of the Christmas tree, candles and electric lights increase chances of fire, according to the West Manatee Fire and Rescue and the U.S. Fire Administration. To prevent the ever-popular Christmas tree and other decorations from catching fire, WMFR and other fire officials offer the following advice: Fresh-cut Christmas trees should not be left up longer than two weeks. Trees should be kept away from heat sources, including fireplaces or vents, because the heat further dries out trees, causing easier ignition. Trees in stands should be kept filled with water. Only nonflammable decorations should be used. No more than three strands together unless oth- erwise indicated safe. Strings of lights should be connected to an exten- sion cord before it's plugged into an outlet. Lit candles should be avoided. Consider using battery-operated, flameless candles. Christmas trees and other holiday decorations should be kept from blocking access to exits. For more information, go online at www.usfa. fema.gov (An9^taU64?dh (sea P2 t& 1nu ELKAcom PHOTOGRAPHY flA 7 ,3P5TOAPHY 941-778-2711 Holmes Beach, FL 34217 The 2013 Calendar is available at the Islander and shops & stores all over the area AINNA ILI- W cw I LiO KEt 2 0-J3 'E,_ ELKA. For a signed copy call Jack me BeahF 941-778-2711 to his home from residential to commercial zoning. He remembers telling the commission then, "You're putting money into (the developers') pockets and taking it out of mine," and one commissioner responded, "You make a great argument, Spotts, but we're going ahead anyway." Spotts and other Sunrise Lane property owners Dan and Tina Howe sued the city of Holmes Beach in July 2001 for its site plan approval and the rezoning, and in the same year, settled with its first developer, Carlingford Development Company, for a revised site plan. Spotts and the Howes dismissed the lawsuit with a settlement agreement that granted them deed restrictions to curtail future nuisances, rezoning and expansion. It also required the developer to make site plan changes, including prohibiting outdoor dining and beverage ser- vice and outdoor music, except for special events with 24-hour notice to them, and limits on the hours of use at the development's swimming pools. Other requirements, according to the settlement agreement, included a 50-foot setback for one Tidemark building, construction of a 6-foot concrete block stucco wall along the easternmost side of Sunrise Lane, a con- tinuous vegetative screen of cedar trees, and a 4-foot high sound baffling between the pool area and boat basin. While there's uncertainty about what is enforceable today, Spotts maintains his concerns over parking, traffic and noise issues. And in his recent email, Spotts points out a section in the city's land development code that requires the city to rescind the approval of the special exceptions due to Peaceful ' greetings - rise The city of Holmes Beach Public Works Department raises a holi- day "Peace" sign Nov. 29 at 55th Street and Holmes Boule- ' vard as part of its a streetside holiday decorations. Islander Photo: Bonner Joy nonuse. "Why should they get exemptions when everyone else has to play by the rules," Spotts says. And, when asked what he'd rather see the property used for, he went for a home run over the 20-foot Aus- tralian pines, saying, "I'd like to see a moratorium on it, and the city buy it as a park." HB car fire damages home A car fire in Holmes Beach during the early morn- ing hours of Dec. 15 resulted in more than $100,000 in damage to a car, carport and home in the 600 block of Dundee Lane on Key Royale, according to West Manatee Battalion Chief Richard Jasinski. No one was injured. The two occupants of the home were alerted by a smoke detector and evacuated. The fire started in a late model Acura parked in the driveway, spread to a carport and into the house at about 3 a.m., according to Jasinski. The vehicle was determined to be a complete loss. "Crews got there within three minutes of the call coming in and put it out within one minute," he said. "It spread quickly because of the close quarters." Nine firefighters extinguished the fire with two fire trucks and one engine at the scene. The home had a new hurricane garage door, which slowed down the fire somewhat, according to Jasinski's report. The cause of the fire is remains under investiga- tion. (91)77-99 -9oleyStp15,* yss ,,&eeLyAo 6A E DEC. 19, 2012 U THE ISLANDER )pi1l01ion Yes, it's nearly Christmas As we wind down to Christmas, just a week to go and, while next week's dateline is Dec. 26, in order for Islander staff to celebrate the holiday with their families, the newspaper will arrive early to homes, racks and businesses overnight Sunday and Monday. Your "best news" will arrive just in time for you to check out the local advertising and do some last-minute LOCAL shopping for holiday gifts. Sorry, shameless plug. But our advertisers and all the local businesses in our area mom-and-pop shops mostly and even their local suppliers, artists and crafters - have far more appeal in their offerings than big-box stores and deserve the boost in their cash registers. In the spirit of the holiday, The Islander will again sponsor the Where's Woody local artists sidewalk sale in the Island Shopping Center. For a little history, the event became an annual Christmas effort when the city of Anna Maria shut down then-resident artist Woody Candish for lack of an (expensive) special event permit to host a yard sale at this home. It seems a jealous shop owner in the city was upset over Woody gathering his artist friends at his home to sell their works directly to holiday shoppers. Which led Woody to the newspaper, asking, "What can I do?" Which led us to say, "Have the sale here." And Woody's artist friends and their artist friends and our artist friends and members of the Guild Gallery and other art organizations joined us. There's no fee to the artists, of course, and they offer unique gifts and exceptional bargains, and bring traffic to the stores in the center. It's a win-win. It wouldn't be a holiday without Woody's sale in the nick of time for gift-giving. And what about Woody? The first couple of years he brought sculptures to sell, and then he only came to say hello. And then he moved to the Village of the Arts and we see less and less of him. But you can come and say, "Merry Christmas." After all the fun events in all three cities and the Anna Maria Island Privateers parade and party, this will be a day to wish your neighbors a happy holiday and pass some time and shop. It's 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, at The Islander, 5404 Marina Drive, and all around us on the sidewalk. In view of world events tragedy for so many in a small town in Connecticut we have much to be thankful for on Anna Maria Island. We wish you all glad tidings. Hug your loved ones and remember those less fortunate in your hearts. _ ,.., . . //._., ,-L.. '.. V Publisaherand EdtEr ij;:;.: Bonner Joy, bonnerelelander.org LIa Neff, opy editor .. . Joe Bird -'. H":', .. .. SKevin Casaldy, kevlnlslander.org. Rick Catlin, rlckOlelander.org . Jack Elka, jackjackelka.com Kathy Pruonell, kaI hypeOlender.org Mark Young, mar4yOilander.org. Contributors Jesse Brieson Karen Riley-Love Capt Danny Stasny, fishOlslender.org Edna Tlemann Mike Quinn I NewsManatee.oom Advrts/ng Director Toni Lyon, tonllelander.org Production Graphics Sotirce strr 414 Use Wlliams, managueraw@indog Janice Dlngman, pier plank coordinator aocounting@leander.org as E: wwede w.landerrorg PHONE U rbane Bou-7 chet Rose Robet Shari Urbana ... v. PHONE 941-778-7978 toll-free faxe 1-866-862-9821 Have your say We welcome and encourage your comments on topics, columns and editorials in The Islander. The Islander accepts original letters of up to 250 words and reserves the right to edit. Letters must include name, address, and a contact phone number (for verification). Anonymous letters will not be printed. Send letters to news@islander.org or 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL 34217, or comment on current stories on The Islander website at www.islander.org. Find us on nvww.islander.org ,I i THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 7A Suncoast S society awards Islander -iwinners at ,I Studio Nancy Colby stands by Headlines from the Dec. 18, 2002, her first-place winner, issue of The Islander "Purple Pedigree," in Sthe Florida Suncoast Holmes Beach Commissioner Roger Lutz called Watercolor Society the proposed interlocal ~agiInit nt itll Ii L.iiilee County i i. signature show at the regarding the proposed skate park in the city a "sham." Studio at Gulf and Lutz said all the county is required to do is pay $5,000. Pine, 10101 Gulf There also were a number of ambiguities in the agree- Drive, Anna Maria. ment, Lutz said, but the motion to accept the agreement Islander Photos.: Edna passed the commission 4-1. Tiemann A group of seven Anna Maria residents said they ____ formed the Residential Community Association of Anna Maria to help the city commission accomplish goals and solve problems, rather than hinder its progress. Orga- nizer Duke Miller said parking would be the focal point J he / .... t. E to start the association. Miller said his group opposes S ,,, ..,,public parking on residential streets. o ;ta i rouI i ws l. We 1e n 11 Anna Maria Mayor SueLynn changed proce- Dec. b.,g r th, ., t,,r t dures for public comment at commission meetings P',,, Il)r G tit fD e .,1 ,, y after discussion with commissioners. The new rules M A, I U.S. T/h, BSI.N /(, hi allow public comment for three minutes per person the F7 ot .. # N : ,t .. 3 t," 1s only on the agenda item.. The mayor said some citizens S l Iu $5 F,, ,,, U1O. . fu w I engage commissioners in debates and often stray from the agenda. Some spoke more than once on the same issue, she said. Resident Diane Caniff said the mayor's E r r .. ruling prevented dissent and was undemocratic. E--A L, [ o,,,,,,a,..i Fdo. N,,, TEI'MPS AN)D DROPS ON AMI .IN, ... ,J,,, Date Low High Rainfall R, , N i, t ,,, \, 111,11,,d ., Dec. 9 61 78 0 B. I ,/ i h,/N,,,, .... II ,, Dec. 10 61 ,82 0.62 to, W r D,,. /. ,, Dec. 11 68 77 0.40 ,, Dec. 12 66 81 0 'i, .%nn,, o' (uf ,, [-,,,, pi Dec. 13)" 57 73 0 Dec. 1,4 56 72 0 .Dec. 15 56 80 0 Average area Gulf water temperature 72.50 24-hour rainfall accumulation with reading daily at approximately 5 p.m. We'd love to mail-W-.-t decor I 0-,kitsch & you the news! We mail The Islander weekly for a nominal $54 per year. It's the best way to stay in touch with what's happening on Anna Maria Island. We've been pub- lishing and mailing successfully since 1992! I.T We bring you all the news about three city governments, community happen- ings, people features and special events ... even the latest real estate transactions ... \ ) thing you need if your "heart is on the Island." Z. .1 The Islander is distributed free locally. If you don't live here year-round, use this form to subscribe for yourself or someone else. (Sorry, we do not suspend: mail subscriptions you get the news free while you're here!) -. 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Date a Credit card billing address: MAIL START DATE: The Islander THE BEST NEWS ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND SINCE 1992 on OSs dr t trorr, HOCll Ond O Island Shopping Center 5404 Marina Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217 serc tr a rcriC ar* CHARGE BY PHONE 941.778.7978 ONLINE (secure server) www.islander.org The Island(er E-MAIL subscriptions@islander.org Find us! 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 941.778.7978 8A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER State of Tourism: locally strong despite economy By Mark Young Islander Reporter "You have done exceptionally well despite the econ- omy," said Walter Klages of Data Research Services, who presented a State of Tourism report to the Manatee County Tourist Development Council Dec. 10, at Bra- denton Beach City Hall. "The reality of the economy is not exciting," said Klages. "At best, it's luii'in through very rough waters. Unfortunately, the recovery is slow. There is no inflation yet, but if you go into the grocery store, you probably have a different opinion and gas prices are so volatile no one can predict prices for tomorrow." Despite a li.'.'lini' economy, Klages reported increased tourism throughout the county, especially on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. Through 2012, visitation to the county was up 9.9 percent from 2011, and the total economic impact to the area was up 12.9 percent. Occupancy in area hotels was up 8 percent. Visitor origin was up across the board, especially from Europe. Klages said European visitors to the county rose by 23.3 percent in 2012. European visitors to the area in 2011 were 53,296 compared to 65,720 this year. Florida and Midwest visitors remain the highest per- centage of visitors, accounting for more than 100,000 people from each area. "What is most impressive of all is how well we have marketed into the off-season," said Klages. "There's no secret in marketing the high season. The trick is driving the other side of the shoulder." Klages said the sports marketing effort in the county is paying dividends. "It's the sports market that has been the key to driv- -Walter Klages of Data Research Services updates the Manatee County Tourist Development Council on the State of Tourism for 2012. Islander Photo: Mark Young Keep Manatee Beautiful executive director Ingrid McClellan and chairman Thomas Hovanec address the Manatee County Tourist Development Council during a Dec. 10 meeting at Bradenton Beach City Hall in an attempt to gain support for the 2013 Sandblast compe- tition canceled in 2012. Islander Photo: Mark Young ing those numbers in the off-season," he said. "It's been a fabulous year in spite of the economy." Bradenton Area Sports Commissioner Joe Pickett told the TDC board he is "very excited about where we've been and where we are going, as we continue to grow. Pickett said it's important to understand the value of sports, youth sports in particular, "because sports isn't going to go away." And in Manatee County, the effort is to attract a vari- ety of sporting events. Pickett said the county offers a "totally balanced sports schedule." Baseball and soccer represent the two largest cat- egories making up 40 percent of events recruited by the sports commission. The remainder of the events recruited are from a variety of sports from softball to bowling. "For the most part, we are a youth type sports area," said Pickett. "We have 84 events secured for 2013 and we have already secured 64 events for 2014. We also are already booking events into 2017." Pickett said the county should understand its weak- nesses, too. "Some of our weaknesses include transportation issues, more team-suited hotels and our BASC budget," he said. "We just lost a bid to Polk County that we worked on for 18 months because of transportation. It's our No. 1 factor for losing bids." Pickett did have good news. Manatee County will host the baseball Travel Ball Select World Series in July. "And US Soccer will see a lot more things going for- ward, and the same with USL Soccer," he said. l'ii ling also has had a tremendous impact to our communities." TDC vice chair and local businessman David Teitel- baum said he would like to see TDC be more proactive in assisting BASC with securing bids on events to make Manatee County more competitive. The bi.''.I sporting news came from Elliott Fal- cione, who announced the effort to secure the 2017 Inter- national Rowing Federation world championship took another positive step forward. "Manatee County was well represented when we met with the federation in Switzerland," said Falcione. "The U.S. rowing director joined us." Falcione said the event would draw competitors from more than 100 countries, "So this isn't a Manatee County or Sarasota County event, this is a USA event." The United States has not hosted a FISA world- rowing championship event since the 1990s, so "FISA is ready to have this in the U.S., and we are as well." He said test events are planned in 2015 and 2016. "This is a branding opportunity that our aquatics center can host a major world event," he said. Hotel space remains a concern, but Falcione said, with events such as this, "the hotels will come. This is an eight-day event, so hoteliers will gain 500 rooms by 2015 or no later than 2016." He expects a minimum of 2,000 hotel rooms will be needed for the eight days of the world championship. Falcione said he would address the TDC again to discuss a travel budget for as efforts to secure the FISA world championship continues. "Some of us will have to go to South Korea for the championships, because they will award the 2017 games there," he said, and we will need to be there to accept. *25,000 CHALLENGE TO BI D A BETTER FUTUEI! Holmes Beach residents Charles and JoAnn Lester are again offering up to $25,000 in matching funds for any contribution postmarked by Dec. 31, 2012, to the Anna Maria Island Community Center. And your contribution is tax deductible. Children and families in our community count on the Center... The Center provides a critical human service need on the Island and annually serves more than 3,480 individuals and family members, providing more than 1.2 million hours-service to change and enrich lives. !ilia : .-a WERE IN YOU. This ad is a community service sponsored exclusively by Tfhe Islander COUNT ME IN FOR THE CHALLENGE! Name Address I IPhone I -I Amount $ 1 I would like my gift in honor of: I I I I I would like my gift to be in memory of: I I Send your check to the Lester Challenge, I payable to AMICC. Mail your donation to P.O. Box 253, Anna Maria FL 34216. Please, bill me for my pledge amount. I. ..i THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 O 9A Holmes Beach commissioners set LAR limits in motion By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Holmes Beach city commissioners tasked their plan- ner to take the first stab at writing an ordinance to limit construction to a .34 living area ratio in the Residential-2 zoning district after they reach a consensus to forge ahead on the new building scheme. At a Dec. 13 work session, each commissioner - with the exception of Commissioner David Zaccagnino - agreed to a .34 ratio as supported by city planner Bill Brisson's report on oversized dwellings and associated problems in the R-2 district. The LAR ordinance will change the land develop- ment code to restrict the square footage of homes in pro- portion to lot sizes. Zaccagnino agreed with imposing a LAR to address oversized houses, parking, trash and noise issues that started in his Avenue E neighborhood, but noted there are fewer small homes due to lack of a market or profit. "There's a happy medium in there. To me I think that happy medium is between .35-.45." He favored a mixture of opportunities for builders and architects to design within a general concept like LAR. In September, Zaccagnino favored a .30 ratio. Brisson of LaRue Planning & Management Services updated commissioners with his Dec. 12 report on the R-2 district. He said while the LAR recommendations were the same as reported in a Sept. 20 memorandum, the new report contained data adjustments based on the county property appraiser's office research and changes resulting from a legal review. Brisson also spoke to three setback issues and recom- mendations from his research on the daylight plane and wedding cake land planning concepts. On the three setback issues, Brisson said he did not recommend any further study, but rather that the city clarify misinterpretations and stop misapplication of the code with ordinance or policy changes. On whether one or two 20-foot front yard setbacks should be permitted on corner lots, he recommended the commission change its code to clarify the issue. Brisson said the intent of the code when he wrote it was to require front-yard setbacks on the primary streets because they were expected to carry more traffic. He suggested a policy to stop allowing open porches and similar structures to encroach in setbacks. On elevator shafts encroachments into setbacks, he called the past interpretation "off-the-wall," and agreed with a former public works superintendent Joe Duennes' policy to eliminate such future encroachments. As far as daylight plane and wedding cake concepts to stop construction of large infill homes from dwarfing smaller homes, he discouraged the daylight plane con- cept, calling it a "complex issue," workable only if tai- lored to a community by staff planners and architects. Brisson said the wedding cake setbacks are easier to implement, adding they could "give you more light and air" between buildings. As previously proposed in July by Duennes, the concept would give additional setbacks of five feet for a second story and three feet for a third story. Commissioner Judy Titsworth asked Brisson how the city could promote "a story and a half." She described the design as living space over a garage and a porch six steps up from ground level. Brisson asked Titsworth to send him pictures, and he'd look into it. Titsworth also asked Brisson, "In your opinion, which do you like better, the wedding cake or the LAR?" \\.Idduing cake is really more flexible and doesn't reduce the building size so much," he replied, but added that the two concepts could be used together. Zaccagnino favored a mixture of housing. He said LAR would give builders and architects the opportunity BREAKING NEWS, E-EDITION, FACEBOOK & TWITTER. BEST CONTESTS! WE HAVE IT ALL. to freely design. \ly feeling is you start putting more and more restrictions on things, we're going to end up with more monolith structures or just wedding cake designs," he added. Commission Chair Jean Peelen asked Brisson to pro- vide a draft LAR ordinance for the commission meet- ing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, after press time for The Islander. Cortez woman celebrates 90 years Skip Speer and Virginia Goush, foreground, are sur- rounded by friends and neighbors at the Cortez Park mobile home clubhouse party Dec. 3 in Cortez. Goush celebrated her 90th birthday with balloons, cake and friends. She was born Dec. 3, 1922, in Clinton, Mo. Islander Photo: Edna Tiemann Get all your Holiday Shoppiini here loads of t unique gifts for everyone! * Ladies swimwear for every shape & size. SUnique clothing and gifts for men, women & children SNative American Turquoise Fun kites for all levels, plus everything for the beach! The V BEACH SHOP 0000 Wapoo 11904 Cortez Road W. Cortez 941-792-3366 www.thebeachshopboutique.com NEXT TO TYLER'S ICE CREAM Mon-Thu 10-6, Fri-Sat 9-8, Sun 9-6 V er3 X0oocdYi/rcd @ile SJoin us at The Islander newspaper office and i_ Bon the sidewalks of the Island Shopping Center ... S9-2 Saturday Dec. 22 This fantastic sale features works by the area's finest artists! Pottery, sculpture, paintings, jewelry and more! Join us at the biggest ART "yard sale" of the year! Anna Maria The Islander Another Islander newspaper sponsored event. For more information call 778-7978 P Pa __ 10A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER ippenings 3612 E. BAY DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH, 941.778.0400 AND 313 PINE AVE, ANNA MARIA, 941.778.0500 ANNAMARIASALON.COM I A I, -- - Private Charters & Excursions Wejin. B irtrc:j, -nnr'i. erS:jr P:jrtiieS 'I._'C. t: -1 j Pj;sseni: erS [J..,:jrn.:jt: Dr:, C u: inLj ::luIJcini Lun:: r': Gu l I e:J: T.:Lu r :ci SW FL Iluseurr- ';-10 Weekl, Thiirt, ThurSt:Ji:J Sunset C:ruiSe r[:rri Hist,:,.:: E.r:c;je Street Pier- ".- 0 I..1,-nt hi, Hist,-r, CruiSeS "2F. z E .:lrri,'nt Ie E -: ur I:'nS -1 J' .Sunset D:l-:,.Ihir'i Wt,::t \ C:rulSeS- '.2L 941-870-4349 ...... iSl:jni'-:J :l r I e :: u.rl: rns ,:: ,:r i Organizers of the Cortez Commercial IFishing Festival are seeking volunteers . "" for the two-day event, which takes place Feb. 16-17 in the historic fishing village. The festival is offering sev- eral enticements for volunteers this year. Last year 's crowd grazes the food booths while some sit and enjoy the atmosphere, food and music. Islander File Photo Volunteers needed for 2013 Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival By Mark Young Islander Reporter From its 1981 humble beginnings with about 500 attendees, to the modem day Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival that draws an estimated 25,000 people, preparing and putting on the annual event takes many dedicated volunteers. And more volunteers are needed for the 2013 festi- val, which launches Feb. 16-17. According to Florida Institute for Saltwater Heri- tage festival committee chair Linda Molto, volunteers are needed to staff ticket booths, T-shirt booths, the informa- tion tent and parking lots, and as runners, people who check areas of the festival for supply needs. Molto said FISH is offering volunteers something new this year. "This year, for the first time, volunteers will be given a choice of $10 in food tickets or a festival T-shirt as a thank-you gift," she said. But the real reward, she said, is a volunteer knows they are helping FISH achieve its important goals. The festival is the primary FISH fundraiser that pur- Clancy's plunges into 2013 with Shamrock Shiver The fifth annual Shamrock Shiver Charity Plunge will take place at noon Jan. 1. Clancy's Irish Pub, 6218 Cortez Road, Bradenton, is organizing the annual trek to the beach for the New Year's Day wade into the chilly waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The plunge some will swim, some will dance, some will barely step in the Gulf will take place in Bra- denton Beach near Gulf Drive and 12th Street South. The post-plunge party will take place at Clancy's and feature door prizes, refreshments and music by the Jack Tamburin Band. The event will benefit Caring for Children Charities, an organization dedicated to helping disadvantaged chil- dren in Manatee and Sarasota counties. To date, the shiver has raised more than $80,000 for Caring for Children. For more information, call 941-794-2489. Island Library offers 'tween' book club The Manatee County Public Library System has started a series of book clubs for "tween" readers ages 8-12, including an island club. Each month, the Mana- Tween Book Club will explore a book, meeting for an hour at a local library. The meeting schedule in 2013 includes: Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, first Wednesday, 6p.m. Central Library, third Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. Braden River Library, first Thursday, 6 p.m. Palmetto Library, second Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. Rocky Bluff Library, second Wednesday, 6 p.m. South Manatee Library, first Thursday, 6 p.m. For more information, call the main library at 941- 748-5555, ext. 6318, or go online to www.mymanatee. org/library. chased the 95 acres of preserve land to buffer the village from development, and proceeds now benefit the orga- nization's effort to rehabilitate the preserve, as well as efforts to preserve the historic fishing village's way of life. "This is a busy event, but we always stress that our crews have fun," said Molto. "Smiles are contagious." This year's festival motto is, "Better fish to fry." Each year, student artists of all skill levels are encouraged to submit an illustration to be used as the festival's official artwork in advertising and on products such as T-shirts. Almost 60 artists from Manatee County high schools and college students have submitted their work. A student's work from the State College of Florida has been selected for this year's festival, but Molto isn't telling whose work until the official release of the logo takes place in January. To volunteer for the festival, email Molto at vil- lagelady27@verizon.net or call and leave a message with contact information at the FISH office at 941-254- 4927. Apast A1-iii,., 'A i 1, plunge, celebrating the new year and raising money for Caring for Children Chari- ties. Islander File Photo Astronomy club invites island stargazers The Local Group of Deep Sky Observers, Manatee- Sarasota group of astronomy enthusiasts, will station telescopes at Holmes Beach city field at sunset Saturday, Dec. 22, for island stargazers. The group's calendar for 2013 includes stargazing Jan. 19 and April 20 on Lakewood Ranch's Main Street, Feb. 16 and May 18 at Riverview High School in Sara- sota and March 16 in Holmes Beach. Participation is free. For more information, call Brian Hawkes at 941-342- 9632 or go online to www.lgdso.com. the store! Island Shopping Center* 5418 Marina Dr Holmes Beach (intersection of gulf and marina) 941.778.2169 saom f oiappenmangs Home chefs dominate mac 'n' cheese challenge on By Mark Young Islander Reporter Home chefs holding up ribbons even the occa- sional blue one at the Bridge Street Market food challenges isn't uncommon, but at the Dec. 2 mac 'n' cheese challenge it was home chefs taking the top two spots. The first Sunday of every month, the market plays host to a food challenge designed to raise money for local charities and give marketgoers a taste of local flavor. For a $5 donation, participants taste all of the entries and vote on their favorite. Home chef Kim Batchhelder claimed the blue ribbon and bl.-'i.i' i _ll, for the mac 'n' cheese chal- lenge, an event that started last year and has quickly become a foodie favorite. Jake Spooner claimed second place and Island Time Bar and Grill was the only local restaurant to claim a ribbon with third place. Enzio Piccione of Island Time was on hand to accept his prize. He won the event last year. Eight local restaurants and home chefs vied for bl.'inI' rights. Displaying their flavors side by side with the eventual winners were Banana Cabana Carib- bean Grille, The Back Alley, BridgeTender Inn and Dockside Bar and Island Gourmet Grill. Market manager Melissa Enders said it was good to see the home chefs representing themselves well among the chefs of local eateries. "The best part was the top two are not affiliated with local restaurants," she said. I \'.),>tl. really stepped the competition up this year. Island Time had mac n' cheese in an ice cream cone. There was lobster mac 'n' cheese, as well, but it was the traditional style mac 'n' cheese dishes that won the day." The real winners are the charities, however, and this year's beneficiary of the mac 'n' cheese challenge is Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue, operated by Islander newspaper office manager Lisa Williams. The event raised more than $300 for Moonracer, which will help the Moonracer pay veterinarian bills to get sick animals healthy and ready for adoption to forever homes. "I chose Moonracer because I have great respect for what Lisa does," said Enders. "Anyway I can help animals I'm up for the challenge because I can't adopt Local Democrats celebrating inauguration Local Democrats will celebrate the inauration of President Barack Obama with a brunch, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 21, at the Longboat Key Club and Resort, 220 Sands Point Road, Longboat Key, Longboat Key. The celebration in the Harbourside Dining Room is being organized by the Longboat Key Democratic Club and will include a screening of the live ceremonies from Washington, D.C. The brunch costs $26. For more information or reservations, call Jane Albaum at 941-362-0520. BeachHouse booms in to 2013 with fireworks Fireworks will return to the sky over the BeachHouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. The fireworks will go off after the New Year's Eve countdown to midnight and the arrival of the new year. The public fireworks show is part of the restaurant's 19th annual New Year's Eve Extravaganza, which features a dinner buffet, dancing, music by DJ Chuck C, party favors, Champagne and good seats for the fireworks. The BeachHouse will take reservations for indoors and open seating will be an option on the waterfront deck. The restaurant's party will start at 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31. For more information, call 941-779-2222. Bridge Street them all myself." Moonracer is a weekly market participant with a market booth every Sunday. "She's here every Sunday working hard to find forever homes for some furry friends," said Enders. "These furry friends especially need our help because they were about to lose their lives if it wasn't for Lisa. They were all in the pound before Lisa scooped them up and gave them a second chance. It's why I person- ally love Moonracer." Enders said the Jan. 6 food challenge will raise money for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. She is considering either a chowder or a gumbo chal- lenge, but is still working out the details. Enders said the weekly markets are doing well, but traffic appears to be slower than last year. "We are trying to reach out to the locals and tour- ists before the holidays to buy their Christmas gifts locally," she said. winners of me mac n cheese jooa challenge at tme Bridge Street Market are second place Jake Spooner, first place Kim Batchelder and, representing Island Time Bar and Grill, third place Enzio Piccione. Money raised benefits Moonracer No Kill Animal Rescue. Islander Courtesy Photo St. B's CCW cruising from Tampa The St. Bernard Council of Catholic Women will sponsor Cruise into the New Year III, a cruise aboard Holland America's Ryndam, Jan. 20-27. The cruise will depart from Tampa for Key West; Roatan, Honduras; Santo Tomas, Guatemala; and Costa Maya, Mexico. The CCW, which meets at the church on the second Tuesday of each month September through May, has organized bus transportation from Holmes Beach to Hol- land's port in Tampa. For more information, contact Barbara Murphy at 941-228-2916 or barbara@travelnowllc.com. Museum selling ornaments The Anna Maria Island Historical Society museum, 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, is selling holiday ornaments featuring images of the old Anna Maria city jail and other island landmarks. The museum also is selling T-shirts, magnets and island histories for the holidays. For more information, visit the museum Tuesday- Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., or call the museum, 941-778- 0492. Click! The Islander welcomes photographs and notices of the milestones in readers' lives. Send notices and photographs to news@islander.org or 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach FL34217. THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 H 11A GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE What Women Want... A massage, facial, mani-pedi, hair style and makeup. A pampering package... $100 5343 Gulf Drive, Suite 500, Holmes Beach By appointment: 941-730-3649 clairemariespa.com Lbys IslanIJewe S37-ul DiveArhRbe e lrd 41 F indu nteoiial."Sterling .9v Poat nGul rieNot -, *,I *. .. g-o.ole.Sop15- 94) 79099 make someone happy today with Aveda holiday gifts and gift certificates gf -.. Q - 531 acq ua salon spa store AVE DA on the beach hair skin nails massage 1 gulf drive holmes beach B.i 941.778.5400 m acquaaveda.com ' Is 12A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER 0000,000 Wednesday, Dec. 19 Noon -Anna Maria Garden Club meeting, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941- 778-2607. Thursday, Dec. 20 10 a.m.- Island book club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341 Friday, Dec. 21 First day of winter. Saturday, Dec. 22 1 p.m. Teen winter crafts, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-6341. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.- Where's Woody art and yard sale, The Islander, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-7978. Sunset Stargazing, Local Group of Deep Sky Observers, Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Infor- mation: 941-342-9632. Sunday, Dec. 23 Shop local. Buy local. Dine local. Monday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve. Tuesday, Dec. 25 Christmas. Wednesday, Dec. 26 Kwanzaa begins. Ongoing Through Jan. 6, "Waist Watchers: The Musical," by Alan Jacobsen, the Professional Learning and Theatrical Organization, Ramada Sarasota, 7150 Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Fee applies. Infor- mation: 941-363-1727. Through Jan. 4, Signature Show exhibition, Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society, the Studio at Gulf and Pine, 10101 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-966-1397. Through April 28, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, hosts Sea Lions: On the Water's Edge. Fee applies. Information: 941-388-4441. Wednesday and Saturdays, 9 a.m., horseshoes pitched, Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Information: 941-708-6130. First Wednesdays, noon, Anna Maria Island Chamber of Com- merce networking luncheon. Location varies. Fee applies. Informa- tion: 941-778-1541. First Wednesdays, beginning in January, Mana-Tween Book Club, Island Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-748-5555, ext. 6318. At sunset Dec. 22, the Local Group of Deep Sky Observers will set up telescopesfor stargazers at Holmes Beach city field, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photo: Courtesy LGDSO Second Wednesdays, 8 a.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sunrise breakfast. Location varies. Fee applies. Informa- tion: 941-778-1541. Thursday, 5-7 p.m., Thirsty Thursdays specials and activities, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. Fourth Wednesdays, 5 p.m., Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce business-card exchange. Location varies. Fee applies. Information: 941-778-1541. Friday, Senior Adventures, low-cost field trips from Annie Silver Community Center, 103 23rd St., Bradenton Beach. Fee may apply. Information: 941-962-8835. Third Fridays, 5-8 p.m., Pine Avenue Porch Party presented by local merchants, Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. Food donations requested for Roser Food Pantry. Information: 941-896-3132. Saturday, 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island meeting, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-761-8834. First Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon, Manatee County Audubon open house, 9:30 a.m. Audubon Walk, FeltsAudubon Preserve, 4600 24th Ave. E., Palmetto, Information: 941-729-2227. Through May, third Sundays, 9-11 a.m., Jr. Audubon, Mana- tee Audubon Society, Felts Audubon Preserve, 4600 24th Ave. E., Palmetto. Information: 941-729-2227. Through April 10, Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the Bridge Street Market, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach. The first Sundays include a food challenge. Monday, 1 p.m., bridge games, Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Information: 941-778-0414. First Mondays, 7 p.m., Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage board meets, Fisherman's Hall, 4515123rd St. W., Cortez. Informa- tion: 941-254-4972. Third Mondays, noon, Anna Maria Island Democratic Club lunch meeting, BeachHouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bra- denton Beach. Fee applies. Information: 941-779-0564. Tuesday, 12:30 p.m., Anna Maria duplicate bridge, Episco- pal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Information: 941-778-3390. Tuesday, noon, Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island meets, BeachHouse Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach. Infor- mation: 941-794-8044. Coming up Dec. 29, 8 p.m., Manatee Players presents "Two on Tap," 502 Third Ave. W., Bradenton. Dec. 31, midnight, New Year's Eve fireworks at the Beach- House Restaurant, 200 Gulf Drive, N., Bradenton Beach. Jan. 1, New Year's Day. Jan. 10, 2 p.m. Friends of the Island Library lecture and travel series presents Chuck Sidlow, a performer with Circus Sara- sota, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Jan. 12, 2-4 p.m.- Friends of the Island Library host a 30th anniversary celebration, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Jan. 17, 8 p.m. The Island Players' opening of "A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody," which continues through Feb. 3, Island Players theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Save the date Feb. 9, Anna Maria Island Privateers Thieves Market, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach. Feb. 10, Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra concert, CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Feb. 14, Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island Sweethearts big band dance benefiting Anna Maria Island Community Center, 407 Magnolia Ave., Anna Maria. Calendar announcements Send calendar announcements to calendar@islander.org. Please include the time, date and location of the event, a brief description and a contact via email and phone. The deadline for submissions is the Wednesday before publication. The Islander hosts Where's Woody art, yard sale The Islander and local artist Woody Candish will again host an annual pre-holiday art and yard sale at the Island Shopping Center, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The event, offering local quality art at bargain prices in time for last-minute holiday gifting, will take place 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, outside The Islander and other center shops. The featured artist will be Linda Molto of Cortez. Artists are invited to have a booth or table at the sale they need only register, which is free, with The Islander. To participate as an artist, contact Lisa Williams at The Islander, 941-778-7978, lisaw@islander.org, or stop by the office. I . iBoJ Massage " Skincare * Hair * Nails * Bridal Parties SYoga ' Body & Sol Day Spa Natural Wellness In Paradise 941-650-5441 9805 Gulf Drive Anna Maria, Florida www.annamariadayspa.com HOW TO RELAX ON AN ISLAND. MASSAGE BY NADIA Call 941.518.8301 M4nawufj AMI forw mnore than/ 17 yea . Yor place, your convwe~yeuce GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Early classified deadline: 5 pm Thurs, Dec 20, for ads appearing in the Dec. 26 edition of Tli Islander newspaper. J THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 E 13A De Soto memorial hosts Winter Luminary Walk LEFT AND BELOW: De Soto National Memorial in northwest Bradenton cel- ebrated the season with thousands of luminaries Dec. 15for a walk through the park where guests found "re-enactors" telling stories of how the Spanish and Native Americans celebrated winters on Florida's Gulf Coast. They also were entertained by Native American musician Juan R. Leon on the flute and solo violinist Amberly Waterman of Holmes Beach playing traditional European melodies. Other entertainment included the Manatee High School Chamber Orchestra performing seasonalfavorites, State Road 64 playing bluegrass and more. The national park is at 8300 De Soto Memorial Highway, Bradenton. Islander Photos: Edna Tiemann Bay Hollow women ring in holidays Decked in red hat finery, women from the Bay Hollow condominiums in Cortez celebrate their 10-year anniversary and the holidays with a Christmas tea at the Harrington House Beachfront Bed & Breakfast, 5626 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. They are Kathy Doddridge, from left, Gloria King, Carol Berg, Linda Brown, Missie Brown, Jeri Zayak, Vice-Queen-Carolyn Tojek, Carolynn Johns, Mary Breaux, Betsy Lawless, Linda Barrett, Queen-Lorri Gibson, Pat Droster and Carol Boos. Islander Photo: Courtesy Jeff Brown Art league offers playshops for kids, adults Local artist Tammy Barrons is leading a series of "playshops" for children and adults at the Anna Maria Island Art League, 5312 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach. The schedule includes: Block Printing for children, 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 19, with instruction on carving a block to print cards, shirts, bags and other items. Enrollment is $68 for members, $84 for non-members and includes mate- rials. Girls Night 'In' Classy Collage for adults, 7 p.m., Friday Dec. 21, with instruction in scrapbooking, fram- ing and album collages. Enrollment is $54 for mem- bers, $70 for non-members. Monotype Printmaking for adults, 2 p.m., Satur- day, Dec. 22. Enrollment is $54 for members, $70 for non-members and includes materials. Monotype Printmaking for children, 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 27, and 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Enroll- ment is $38 for members, $54 for non-members and includes materials. Paper-hat making for children, 10 a.m., Thursday Dec. 27, and 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Enrollment for one session is $38 for members, $54 for non-members and includes materials. Combine the printmaking and hat playshops for a discounted price. Girls Night 'In' for adults, 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 28, with instruction in "shrink plastic" and making jewelry. Enrollment is $54 for members, $70 for non- members and includes materials, Paper making for adults, 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 29. Enrollment is $54 for members, $79 for non-mem- bers. For more information or reservations, call the league at 941-778-2099 or email 4arts4ever@gmail. com. Richard Ratcliffe ... you trusted him for is here and ready to help you out. BEGLEY MANATEE 3401 Manatee Ave. W., 941-748-3297 Westway Shell 5818 Manatee Ave. W* 792-0412 Sunoco Auto Clinic 4630 Manatee Ave. W 782-8980 r ------------------ ---i r_----------- -- ---- --q I FOUR Tire Rotation I IOil, Lube & Filter Changei S& Wheel Balance I' I1 I I r 1 most cars I i most cars i i UP TO 5 QTS. PREMIUM OIL ' NOT VALID WITH OTHER COUPONS ON SAME SERVICE WITH COUPON EXP 06-01-13 JUST4FUN WINTER FUN SPECIAL S )BOATS BIKES KAYAKS . ~ Q LOUGE WITH THIS AD! Not valid with other offers. SUN LOUNGER Loes priced item o .1 rental items is FREE. uf 535 Pulf Drive, Hrolmrs Beah .&5 Planz g"- Jq, & Pa 3 G D . Homs f acebook.com/ 05 3aebouk Jusl4FunRenlals J- J^ S Plazat5358 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941-896-7884 _ -'.o4 -- At the close of another year we gratefully pause to wish you a warm and happy Holiday Season. Cannons Marina features Sarasota Bay's largest and newest fleet of boats for half and full day rentals. A CANNONS %J MARINA Passionate Boating People since 1955 WWW.BRIDGESTREETMERCHANTS.COM : BRIDGE STREET MARKET OPEN-AIR MARKET ON HISTORIC BRIDGE STREET EVERY SUNDAY F'OX'm3P V-APRIL BRNDGEWmAL TIeI Islander et;ie s BRADENTON BEACH .jewater Produce, Plants, Local Artwork, LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK Souvenirs, Food Fun and more! Info: Melissa Enders: (215) 906-0668 MelissaEnders76@yahoo.com 6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key (2 miles from north end) ICW Marker 33 Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. 5:30 p.m. 941-383-1311 j 1 I oseterna oesaalbevsit ..- ns ' 14A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Artspace encourages creative visions in Anna Maria By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Dreams do come true. She had a vision. She put it to paper, and voila, it came to be. To hear Deborah Webster's story now owner of Artspace, a studio of artists located above the post office in Anna Maria is to believe it. An art teacher for 30 years in Schenectady, N.Y., she and her and husband, Lex Halakan, a health teacher in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., and now top golfer at the Key Royale Club, first came to Anna Maria Island as visi- tors. They moved here full-time a year ago and, with artists Joanne Taylor Brown and Rita Payne, opened their studio and a gallery where they've worked and held classes and shows Recycled Art for the grand opening in March, and Black & White in November in conjunction with artsHOP. Also with Artspace, Webster organized small group trips to Asolo Repertory Theatre to see "Red," a play about painter Mark Rothko, as well as the St. Petersburg Clay and Morean Art Center. Artspace is planning another show at the gallery, an Artspace Challenge, in March 2013, as well as trips to Naples and Sarasota cultural destinations. Webster's inspiration to start Artspace took root in 2004 when she promoted visioning books at her school. She encouraged her students "to put yourself there" - wherever it was they wanted to be as they created books, cutting out magazine pictures, illustrating and writing about their dreams. She added to the challenge by advising them to pretend they'd just received a very large check to help their dreams come true. Webster, too, started her vision book in 2004. Among the first entries in her book are scenes of ItEADYMAN _ HANDYMAN & LAWN CARE ullLC "Call me with your Honey Do List! 941-71 -O94? Mark Palmieri Insured Free Estimates SABAL PALM LI '. OU I .. Airport Transportation Hourly Limo Rental 941-870-7010 Toll Free 800-745-0424 www.sabalpalmlimousine.com $10 OFF with this ad, 1 per household thru 5-15-13 the seaside, sunny days and white beaches with people relaxing and strolling. "And then, I didn't even know this place existed," she said. Her dream evolved, she said. She wanted to travel to Australia to study aboriginal art, learn from the Outback and explore the Great Barrier Reef. She pasted pictures of kangaroos, koalas and Aus- tralia's coastline in her book. Her teaching career took her in 2006 to a residency at the Art Institute of Chicago where she was encour- aged to apply for a Fulbright-Hays fellowship. The pres- tigious program is operated by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs with 55 countries worldwide. It awards merit-based grants for the international exchange for students, scholars, teach- ers and others to conduct research and exercise their tal- ents abroad and bring back other cultures to the United States. As she began applying, she saw program destinations Carpet Upholstery Tile Girout Cleaning and Stain Control 778-2882 or 387-0607 V www.FatCatCarpetCleaning.com SIsland PEST and TERMITE CONTROL INC. Beach Sign up for either Drywood or 941-778-1337 Subterranean Termite Guaran- fax tee and receive up to an instant 941-778-3285 $600 discount! Call immediate- Bradenton ly. Only the first 500 customers 941-794-1005 are eligible!Sarasota Sarasota * Subterranean & Drywood 941-365-2893 Termite Control Brandon * General Pest Control 813-643-0200 * Lawn and Ornamental fax Treatments 813-643-0595 * Weed Control and Port Charlotte Fertilizations 941-625-6887 * In-Wall Tube Systems We now accept Discover Card. | mail@islandpestandtermitecontrol.com www.islandpestandtermite.com Artist Joanne Taylor _j Brownforms clay into "':i ". a one-of-a-kind large "r ceramic piece, with gallery owner Debo- rah Webster looking on in the background at Artspace located above the Anna Maria Post Office where they create, experiment and showcase differ- ent medium, styles and forms. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell like Malaysia and Egypt, but that was not her vision. She put aside the application. Her mentor again prompted her to pick up the Ful- bright application before the deadline. She did. As she was about to settle on Egypt and write an essay, a notice flashed across her computer screen: "We're sorry to tell you but Egypt's no longer available, we're replacing it with Australia." "I said, 'Omigosh,"' she gasped. "That means I'm supposed to do this." "That was in October. I forgot all about it because school was so intense. There was so much going on." Deborah Web- ster stands aside "Bit/,//i, her mixed-media composition on canvas, cre- ated by layer- ing handmade papers, oils, glass beads and other recycled objects at Artspace studio "- c and gallery, 101 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria. HOLMES BEACH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE Foreign & Domestic Air Conditioning Electrical Systems *Tune-U Brakes & More 5333 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach . at the corner of M a Gulf & Marina Drives 941-779-0487 - CHRISTIE'S PLUMBING ' RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL Family Owned and Operated Since 1975 OPEN SAT. Two Florida State-Certified Master Plumbers REPAIRS & REMODELING NEW CONSTRUCTION EMERGENCY SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES WATER HEATERS SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING CERTIFY AND INSTALL BACK FLOWS NO EXTRA CHARGE FOR OVERTIME 778-3924 OR 778-4461 5508 MARINA DRIVE, HOLMES BEACH LOCATED IN THE BACK OF THE BUILDING V41 77I-50U75 Excellent handyman services www.cortezcraftsmen.com Meowwy Christmas! - FAT( l -', From our family to yours: We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Have a safe, happy holiday season. WEST COAST Air Conditioning*Heating Inc (941) 778-9622 .. 5347 Gulf Drive #4, Holmes Beach, FL 34217-1779 ww-.westcoastac.com THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 15A Then in 2007, back in New York, she recalled, "One day Lex and I were sitting in the dark in the cold weather in New York and we got the mail. There was a big enve- lope. I started to tear into it, thinking it was advertising. Lex said, don't tear it, open it up." "It said, 'Congratulations you won a Fulbright,"' she said. "It covered i \ ) Ilinll I traveled all over Austra- lia." She spent the summer studying in Sydney's muse- ums, and on a guided Outback excursion, learning from aboriginal artists in their natural surroundings as she watched them make their "dot" art. "And actually, that is how I came to this style," Web- ster said, pointing to her current work. "It's all about movement. They use little dots. I use little pieces," she said of her mixed media style that combines small pieces of handmade papers with oils, glass beads and other recy- cled objects. After sharing her experience with a lesson plan in her high school and publishing a booklet, Webster's visioning and art came to Anna Maria. She stumbled upon the space above the post office, once a marine artifact shop that had been vacant for sev- eral years. "Then, when we moved here we had all this stuff in boxes," and Webster again opened her visioning books. And, according to her 2004 vision book, this was the very space she envisioned: a studio with 15-foot ceilings, French doors that opened to a garden off a balcony and brick patio exactly what is now Artspace. "I wrote this in 2004. And this is 2012. It came true and I didn't even remember it was in there," she said. "It just happened," she added. At work at Artspace, 101 S. Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, Lex Halakan puts the finishing touch of pastels on his orb- inspired painting. J"I I ',.. Z Artspace offers classes Artspace offers daytime classes, evening work- shops and Learn-to-Draw lessons at 101 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, above the city's post office, some free and some for a fee, and also offers drop- in prices for attendance. Every Wednesday afternoon, gallery owner Debo- rah Webster opens Artspace to anyone looking to learn to sketch. "In three easy lessons, I can teach you to draw anm\ 1inei." said the former high school art teacher. Daytime classes begin in January for all skill levels. In Sandy Toes, 7-9 a.m. Tuesday and 6-8 p.m. Friday, instructor Alexandra Lillis combines painting outdoors with composition, perspective, light and color theory. In Palettes in Paradise, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. on Tuesdays, Lillis guides students through color media, care and maintenance of tools while creating works of art. And with Creative Artists, 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. on Fridays, Lillis teaches landscapes, portraits, By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter The Anna Maria Island Art League 25th annual Win- terfest Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Festival announced Linda Molto's silk-screen print "The Safety Meeting" as the best of show, nine other category winners and "Young at Art" awards. Molto of Cortez described her winning silkscreen print in the graphics category as "fairly abstract," but with realistic elements. The title for the piece came from young people who said it looked like a safe and "an inside joke here in Cortez," she said. Emma Thurgood of the Art Center Sarasota was the judge of the Dec. 8-9 event at the Holmes Beach city field, which also awarded the following: Awards of Distinction and $250 prizes to Brian Shope for "Cantilevered Leaf" in the wood category; Thomas Petro "Lifeguard" in the oil/acrylic category; Mina Heuslein for "Lantana Covered Bowl" in the pot- tery category and Ward and Sandy Siegler for "The Mer- maid" in the jewelry category. Awards of Merit and $100 prizes to Ron Deel for "Scarlett Shadows" in the oil/acrylic category; Dustin Cole for "Sailfish Chasing Lure" in the wood category; Kathryn Nidy-Cukier for "Butterfly Kisses Single Swal- lowtail" in the mixed media category; Doug Cavanah BEST PRICES on Premium Cigars Box and Bundle Cigars. BEST SELECTIION in County. Tobacco Great r o T Service/ epot T Friendly 4635 Cortez Rd. W., Staff Bradenton, 941-795-7776 illustrations and more to all skill levels. Materials for the daytime classes can be purchased at the studio. Workshops, beginning in January, will be avail- able upon request to groups or private parties at a per-person fee that includes materials. Topics include vision boards, palette-knife painting and mixed-media art forms. For more information, call 941-243-3835 or email Webster at info@artspaceannamaria.com. Artspace collects for FELT Artspace is sponsoring a food and art supply drive for Feeding Empty Little Tummies, Manatee County's weekend backpack program to feed homeless children, in time to add to FELT's holiday food packages. Donations of new boxes of crayons and coloring/ activity books and food in individual-sized packages can be dropped off at its gallery and studio, 101 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, above the city's post office, Tues- day through Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. for the drive. For more information, call 941-243-3835 or email Webster at info@artspaceannamaria.com. for "Early Morning Light" in the photography category; and Robin Zimmerman's "Big Bird" in the fiber/paper category. "Young at Art" first-place winners: Noe Rodriguez of the Manatee School for the Arts; Xiomayra Tiaseca of H.S. Moody Elementary School and Jada Taylor of Blackburn Elementary; and Nayelie Centeno Figueroa. "Young at Art" second-place winners: Queenie Zheng of Manatee School for the Arts; John Duncan of Tara Elementary; Savannah Nolan of Blackburn Elemen- tary; Nick Hopkins of Jessie P. Miller Elementary; Placei Lizzie Noble of Blackburn Elementary. This year's Winterfest brought mixed reviews as far as attendance, according to league president and festival coordinator Laura McGeary. While she said there were lighter crowds on the second day of the festival, she heard the event brought in the bipx'.I festival crowds on the island this year. "Because of the rough year, overall we felt it was a success," she said. Winterfest was the first league-sponsored festival since the gallery closure due to financial difficulties. The league's difficulties were blamed on a tough economy and the temporary loss of its tax-exempt status, which was reinstated in July. The next league festival is Springfest, March 9-10. Island Animal Clinic Serving the Islands since 1970 TOTAL PET CARE: New Hours Surgery V8-5:30 Dentistry .Monday-Frid Boarding 9-Noon Day Care Baths Wednesday Food & Supplies 24-Hour Eergency Drop OfffK Pick Up .- .<- Wi-i v. Bystrom vM i "., Holmes' Beah Busines 5343Gulf Drive, ite 9 941.778.2445 941 360 9276 L- SOLAR SOLAR WATER SOLAR POOL SolarDirect.com ELECTRIC PV HEATER HEATER Art League recognizes Winterfest winners MIXON cJj1 Ii INC. i l :11[ 5412 Marina Drive Island Shopping Center Holmes Beach 941.778.2253 16A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Roser continues tradition of Christmas Story The annual Bethlehem Walk begins and ends at Roser Memo- rial Community Church with the Rev. Gary Batey presiding as three kings arrive bearing gifts for Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus Dec. 15 at Roser fellow- ship hall, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. W2~ Kids carol at LBK church party Children sing carols at the Christ Church of Longboat Key's annual Christmas party for children who show improvement in reading. More than 90 children were treated with a visit from Santa and dinner prepared by parishio- ners and adult "Reading Buddies" who are paired with a child in the read- ing improvement pro- gram. Islander Courtesy Photo FACEBOOK & TWITTER. PIER PLANKS! WE HAVE IT ALL. Solemn onlookers learn there is no room at the innfor Mary and Joseph to spend the night Dec. 15 during the Bethlehem Walk at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. Four generations of Hal Kesyer familyl, including 101-year-young Hal, BJ Love, Rosanne Tennyson and Emery Vulgan, gather for the Dec. 15 Bethlehem Walk at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria. II CHRIST CHURCH OF LONGBOAT KEY PRESBYTERIAN (U.S.A.) - December 23 Christmas Sunday Service 10:00 AM Sermon: "ONE FOOT IN HEAVEN" December 24 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7:00 PM Meditation: "THE WONDROUS GIFT" Located at 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive Longboat Key 941.38.883ofc w~hithrhfb~r Family Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Implants Snoring and Sleep Therapy Re-tore, ' ISLAND/ Reuyenate, DENTAL SPA Rec pturteYotur rwie "I want to completely change your perception of what it means to go to the dentist" Dr. Gy Yatros SA need a good laugh? visit the emerson quillin signature store, humor, art, gifts 317 Pine Ave., Anna Maria www.emersonshumor.com m 'I = I THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 E 17A Island churches celebrate Christmas Eve, Christmas Christmas will be celebrated islandwide and include candlelight services, masses and sermons Sunday through Tuesday, Dec. 23-25. St. Bernard Catholic Church St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach, will celebrate Mass at each service, including regular services Sunday, Dec. 23. On Christmas Eve, a children's Mass will be held at 4 p.m. and midnight Mass will begin at 10 p.m. On Christmas Day, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. services will be held. The Rev. Michael Mullen will officiate. For more information, call 941-778-4769. Episcopal Church of the Annunciation Christmas Eve candlelight services at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. On Christmas Day, there will be a 9:30 a.m. service at the church. The Rev. Dee Ann de Montmollin will officiate. For more information, call 941-778-1813. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church With worship, carols, candlelight and Holy Com- munion, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will celebrate Christmas Eve at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at the church, 6608 Marina Drive. On Christmas Day, worship service will begin at 9:30 a.m. The Rev. Rosemary W. Backer will preside at the services. For more information, call 941-778-1813. CrossPointe Fellowship A candlelight service at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve will be held to celebrate the holiday at CrossPointe Fellow- UPEIiN Mon.-Fri. 73oam-7pm Sat., Sun., Holidays 73oam-5pm WALK-INS WELCOME C We're available to tend to your urgent care needs Fever/Infections Minor Lacerations Simple Fractures Sprains PINNACLE MEDICAL CENTER S 315 75th Street West Bradenton 941-761-1616 ship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, according to the Rev. Ed Moss. Regular Sunday services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. also will celebrate the season, Dec. 23. There will be no service Dec. 25. For more information, call 941-778-0719. Roser Memorial Community Church Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, will hold a Christmas Eve candle- light celebration service and Sing We Now of Christmas Nativity Pageant at 5:30 p.m., with music by Joyful Noise children's choir, soloists and ensembles. At 9 p.m. Christmas Eve, a traditional candlelight service, will feature "Shepherd Story" and music by the choir, soloists and ensembles. On Christmas Day, the church will celebrate at 10 a.m. service in the chapel. The Rev. Gary A. Batey is the pastor of the nonde- nominational Christian church. For more information, call 941-778-0414. Longboat Island Chapel The Longboat Island Chapel will feature a candle- light service at 7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve at the church, 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. A Sunday worship service will be held at 10 a.m. Dec. 23, with the Rev. Charlie Shook will preside at the services. For more information, call 941-383-6491. Christ Church of Longboat Key ABOVE: The hayride at the CrossePointe Fellowship holiday party Dec. 14fills up with kids and grown- ups aboard for the ride to the Holiday of Treasures walk-around at businesses on Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive. LEFT: Carly Kubik, left, and her sister, Sara, get a hug from Janice 'B,,rr, itfi Behling at the CrossPointe Fellowship community Christmas party and hayride Dec. 14 at the church, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: Rick Catlin SUNDAY ~Jo t 10A.M. Island C hopl The Rev. Dr. A AN INTEHH Carroll COMMUNITYCHURCH iCHRISTMAS EVE Candlelight Service 7:30 p.m. The Rev. Charlie Shook, Preacher Refreshments served before and r after the service in the garden. 6 *7 A All are / welcome N-NW 6200 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key 941-383-6491 www.longboatislandchapel.org The Lord's Warehouse Thrift Store: 9-1 Mon., Wed. and Sat. GloiRhDei Lutlheran Church S, Pastor Rosemary W. Backer CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SCarols, Candlelight & 0 Holy Communion 1 i 7 & 10:30 pm CHRISTMAS DAY WORSHIP 9:30 am 6608 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach 778-1813 www.gloriadeilutheran.com "All are welcome here" "The Wondrous Gift" will be the Christmas Eve sermon by the Rev. Bruce W. Porter at a 7 p.m. candle- light service at the Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. At 10 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 23, "One Foot in Heaven" will be Porter's sermon at the church. There are no Christmas Day services. For more information, call 941-383-8833. Harvey Memorial Community Church Harvey Memorial Community Church, 300 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, will worship at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 23. For more information call 941-779-1912 or 727- 433-2584. Longboat chapel to hire new minister The Longboat Island Chapel board of trustees voted last week to hire new senior minister the Rev. Vincent Carroll. The chapel's search committee spent several S months interviewing applicants, and chose Carroll to recommend to the congregation. He has been a guest preacher at the chapel's Sunday ser- vices over the past several months, and will continue speaking through Carroll December. Carroll is a summer pastor at The Little Stone Church on Mackinac Island in Mich- igan. He lives with his wife, Molly, in Sarasota. The congregation will vote following worship Jan. 13 the 57th anniversary of the church's first service at its current location, 5144 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, to accept Carroll. For 27 years, Carroll served in the Navy Chap- lain Corps, with assignments in Vietnam, on the Car- rier Lexington, battleship New Jersey and at Camp David. He was a senior chaplain at the U.S. Naval Academy and senior chaplain for Navel Forces in Europe. Before his chaplain military career, Carroll was assistant pastor of First Presbyterian Church, in Rochester, Minn. Carroll attended the University of Iowa; United Theological Seminary, Minneapolis; Chapman Uni- versity, Los Angeles; and Claremont School of The- ology, Claremont, Calif.; with graduate studies at San Diego State University; Pacific School of Religion, Berkley, Calif.; Iserlohn Institute, Iserlohn, West Ger- many and Mansfield College, Oxford University. AN INTERDENOMINATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH HARVEY MEMORIAL S*PASTOR -t. STEPHEN KING Jk Sunday 9:30am PO Box 243, Bradenton Beach, 34217 300 CHURCH AVE. BRADENTON BEACH 2 BLOCKS NORTH OF BRIDGE ST. CLOCK TOWER *Communi CurcA L T&A i c Gary A. Batey, Pastor A non-denominational Christian church Celebrating 100 Years of Service in 2013 Christmas Eve Services: Sanctuary Monday Dec. 24 5:30 pm Candlelight Celebration Service Especially for families, but welcoming all ages. Music by Joyful Noise children's choir, soloists and ensembles "Sing We Now of Christmas" Nativity Pageant Matthew 2:1-11; Luke 2:1-20; John 3:16-17 9 pm Traditional Candlelight Service Music by Chancel Choir, Soloists and Ensembles "Shepherd Story" Isaiah 40:9-11 Luke 2:8-18; John 10:11-16 10 am Christmas Day Service in the Chapel 512 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria www.roserchurch.com 941-778-0414 18A U DEC. 19, 2012 U THE ISLANDER Plaintiffs to appeal watercraft wrongful death verdict By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter A not-guilty jury verdict in the three-year-old law- suit waged by the family of a Deltona man who died in a watercraft accident near a staging area for an artificial reef project at Longboat Pass at south Coquina Beach appears headed to yet more litigation. "We're appealing \ .ti Illini." plaintiff's attorney Tiffany Faddis of Faddis & Faddis PA of Orlando said last week. As one of two attorneys for the personal representa- tive of Jose H. Medina and Christie L. Soto during the five-day trial ending Nov. 19, Faddis said an appellate lawyer has been retained for the appeal in the wrongful death case. A week after the verdict, the plaintiff's attorneys filed motions seeking a new trial and 12th Judicial Circuit Judge Diana Moreland's recusal from further proceedings. An affidavit by Medina's widow claims More- land deprived her of a fair trial, and listed 17 grounds, including improper evidentiary rulings as well as anger, hostility, animosity, disrespect and a demeaning attitude toward plaintiff's trial attorney Eric H. Faddis. The recusal motion alleges a "well-founded fear she will not receive a fair hearing on account of the bias and prejudice of Judge Moreland against plaintiff and her counsel." Earlier this month, Moreland denied Faddis' recusal motion. A five-day trial, alleging negligence and involv- Island police blotter Anna Maria No new reports. Anna Maria is policed by the MCSO. Bradenton Beach Dec. 6, Cortez Road at Gulf Drive, vehicle burglary. A complainant reported from Bradenton to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office that while his vehicle was at the listed Bradenton Beach location, someone had entered the vehicle and stole his wallet. Dec. 10, 118 Bridge St., grand theft. A couple rode their bicycles to the Sports Lounge and placed them at a nearby bike rack. When they decided to leave, they ing admiralty law, ended with a defense verdict that found no negligence on the part of McMulley Marine Services Inc. and Pine Island Towing Company. Man- atee County awarded McCulley Marine Services the contract for the reef project in May 2009. Pine Island Towing operated the barge. The judge dismissed the county from the suit on a summary judgment motion before the jury was seated Nov. 13. The plaintiff voluntarily dismissed the other defendants, Tug Champion Inc. and captains of the ves- sels, John W. McCulley, Michael Hollingsworth and Roland Blakely. Medina drowned under the barge while attempt- ing to preserve his disabled personal watercraft July 4, 2009, after he and friends had launched recreational vessels from Coquina Beach Bayside Park. The tug and the barge were brought from Marco Island to Longboat Pass July 3, 2009, and were moored in the 530-foot channel. It is undisputed that at the time of the accident, the tug and barge were stationary, and the personal watercraft was drifting. The trial included expert and other testimony relat- ing to admiralty law and an issue about mooring in narrow parts of the waterway on the day Medina and friends ventured out on the watercrafts. The appeal will seek to overturn the jury verdict, as well as Manatee County's dismissal due to its limited participation, according to plaintiff's attorney Tiffany Faddis. As of The Islander press time, the court had not ruled on the request for a new trial. discovered their bikes, valued at $700, were missing. According to the report, the bikes were not locked. Bradenton Beach is policed by the BBPD. Cortez Dec. 7, 12300 block of Cortez Road West, domestic disturbance. A Manatee County Sheriff's Office deputy responded to a call of a domestic disturbance and made contact with a man and woman arguing. The deputy determined no criminal act had occurred, and issued the couple domestic violence packets. Nov. 24, 4400 block of 123rd Street West, burglary Unknown persons gained entry into a locked utility closet and stole an estimated $300 worth of items. Cortez is policed by the MCSO. Holmes Beach Dec. 3, 6300 block of Gulf Drive, disturbance. A Holmes Beach Police officer made contact with a man and woman arguing in front of their residence. The man said he recently discovered his fiance had been unfaith- ful and wanted to leave, but the woman refused to give him the keys to their only vehicle. A friend was called to pick up the man, who was advised to call HBPD before returning to collect his belongings. He returned two days later without first calling HBPD, and the woman who said she did not want him there called police. Officers stood by while the man collected his belongings. Dec. 3, 5337 Gulf Drive, theft. An employee at Lobstah's Restaurant reported someone had stolen pre- scription medications from her purse while it was locked inside the manager's office, but video surveillance had no clear view of the alleged theft. Dec. 4, 200 block of North Harbor, trespass warn- ing. Police responded to a possible disturbance and made contact with a man sitting in the backyard of a residence. A female complainant told police the man was her ex- boyfriend and he was not supposed to be there. The man was issued a trespass warning. Dec. 8, 5900 Flotilla Drive, theft. A vendor at Winterfest reported to police that he had dropped off his tent with numerous supplies the previous night. When he arrived the day of the festival his materials, valued at $1,900, were missing. Police walked the grounds and found several supplies were undisturbed. Dec. 8,3000 Gulf Drive, traffic. An HBPD officer working traffic control at the Christmas parade observed a vehicle attempting to gain access to the parade route. The officer stopped the driver and told him to back up, at which time the vehicle almost hit the officer. The officer observed the same vehicle attempting to do the same thing a block from his location. The officer entered his patrol vehicle and attempted to the stop the driver a few blocks away. The driver stopped, but then continued for several more blocks. The officer made contact with the driver, who appeared to be confused. The driver did not remember his name or address. A neighbor was even- tually contacted, who confirmed that the man has been confused. The officer issued a mandatory driver's license examination. The neighbor drove the man home. Dec. 8, 600 block of Key Royale Drive, distur- bance. Police arrived to find a man and his adult daughter arguing. The man has recently undergone some mental evaluations and the daughter had legal control over his actions. She wanted her father's live-in girlfriend to leave the home. She did so after police arrived. Dec. 9, 500 block of 71st Street, vehicle burglary. Police responded to a complainant who reported someone had stolen fishing poles from his boat. Police searched LO AND BEHOLD! By Steven E. Atwood / Edited by Will Shortz Across 1 [It's gonel] 5 A pop group might have one on 12 Pouch 15 64 or 1,000 19 Head of a family 20 Woodcutter of legend 21 Rings 23 Consideration in choosing a dell? 25 Without rhyme or reason 26 Baby pig, e g 27 Name part meaning "from" 28 Part of a butcher's stand-up routine? 29 Camouflage 30 Sharpness 31 French wave 32 Pallid 35 Laundry basket of just colors or just whites? 41 _-Pei (dog breed) 42 Reqmt for certain graduate studies 44 Get an effort 45 Actress Sommer 46 Wise lawmaker most likely to be re elected? 51 Miniature Answers: page 8B 52 Protestant denom 53 Anthony Eden, Earl of 54 Red-berried tree 55 French spouse 58 Rock's __Fighters 59 Seeks, as office 61 Artistic expression on the slopes? 64 Levels 66 Thrust upward 67 Causing Election Day delays? 73 Car category 77 Skin growth 78 Negatives 79 Time 80 Mideast capital 81 Dallas player, for short 82 Jungle critter 84 Chart indicating the progression of darkness after sunset? 87 Disturb 88 Sched listing 91 Eve preceders 92 Boy Lat 93 Power in Hollywood? 98 "Don't be 99 Caught in 100 Thick skin 101 Prop for Mr Monopoly or Mr Peanut 103 Paintball weapons? 107 Voluminous ref 108 Comes by 112 Salsa specification 113 When there might be a two-for-one special on ice cream drinks? 116 Beat in a price war 117 Props for Mr Monopoly and Mr Peanut 118 Make 119 Building support 120 Some printers 121 Curse 122 Mil awards Down 1 Loan figs 2 Nuuanu Pall Lookout locale 3 Grp that has held summit meetings in Caracas and Riyadh 4 Paul Bunyan, e g 5 Used a FedEx Office service 6 Actress Woodard 7 Actress Vardalos 8 Source of northern exposure? 9 Belarus neighbor 10 Old minelayers 11 Critic Clive 12 Quarantine 13 Composer Salieri 14 1957 #1 R&B hit for Chuck Willis 15 Or or nor Abbr 16 "Let good unto all men" Galatians 6 10 17 Suffice 18 Salinger girl 22 Like superhighways 24 Actress Lena 30 Counter orders 32 To the same extent 33 SeaWorld attraction 34 Offshore bank, eg , for tax purposes 35 Normandy campaign city 36 Writer Fleming 37 Writer Wallace 38 11th-century king of Denmark 39 City on the Little Cuyahoga 40 Clear, in a way 42 Italian port on the Tyrrhenian Sea 43 Attic's purpose 47 Sport involving paddles 48 Olive 49 Grazing area 50 "Wise" one 51 Patronized, as a restaurant 55 Fr title 56 Unyielding 57 Lunatics' outbursts 60 Denver-to Albuquerque dir 61 Paulo 62 Quaker cereal 63 Contents of jewel cases 65 Ones going through channels? 67 Fencing unit? 68 "Vive I" 69 Kind of personality 70 Up to, briefly 71 Brian of ambient music 72 Big maker of 65 Down 74 Permeate 75 Jewelry chain 76 Turn inside out 80 Separate out 83 Braves'div 84 High-performance cars 85 Bond girl Adams 86 Given enough to be happy 88 Out around midday, say 89 Emphasize 90 Some car radio buttons 94 B-baller 95 Small rented farms, in Britain 96 Keep out of sight 97 High, in a way 98 Pay for a hand 101 Terra 102 "Aristotle Contemplating _ of Homer" 103 Certain bra specification 104 Legal scholar Guinier 105 Quaintly antique 106 German quaff 109 Actress Lupino and others 110 Undercover agent 111 Bits and pieces, eg Abbr 114 "That's itl" 115 Roofing material O 15 2 U a) * - rJ n3 N bn -3 U- = U, c-I n '.a -r * 4 '-4 Bustle elected Manatee County commission chair The new Manatee County Commission began to take shape at a Nov. 27 meeting with the election of Larry Bustle of Palmetto as commission chair. The commission unanimously voted for him to serve a one- year term. Also at the meeting, newly elected County Com- missioners Betsy Banac at large and Vanessa Baugh, District 5, were sworn into office. Commissioner Mike Gallen, District 2, was elected first vice chair of the board, while Benac was elected second vice chair. Commissioner John Chappie, Dis- trict 3, who chaired the commission the past year, was elected third vice chair. Commissioners also voted on liaison positions. Commissioner Carol Whitmore at large was re-elected chair of the Tourist Development Council and the Manatee Port Authority. Chappie was voted first vice chair of the authority, with Gallen and Baugh second and third vice chairs respectively. Also re-elected was Commissioner Robin DiSa- batino, District 4, who remains chair of the Manatee County Civic Center Authority. Benac will be first vice chair, with Baugh as second vice chair and Bustle as third vice chair. Benac also will serve as chair of the Community Redevelopment Agency, while Gallen will be vice chair. Whitmore is a former city commissioner and mayor of Holmes Beach, and Chappie held the same seats in Bradenton Beach before election to the county commission. the surrounding area and discovered the poles had been thrown into the water. Dec. 9, 3900 East Bay Drive, suspicious incident. Customers at Publix called police to report a woman in her 20s was panhandling in front of the store. When people did not give her money, she screamed obscenities at them. The suspect left the area before police arrived. Dec. 9, 2900 block of Avenue B, assist WMFD. Police assisted West Manatee Fire District firefighters after a palm tree caught fire. Investigators on the scene determined Florida Power & Light power lines caused the tree to catch fire. FP&L was contacted. Holmes Beach is policed by the HBPD. Streetlife is based on incident reports and narratives from the Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach police departments and Manatee County ',, ,rf's Office. Just visiting paradise? C'.;ilt II, .- ;,I thI-II f, l:.1-1d .*,'I [I."LJI" .,.gklrlg.1 ?lm, t., ,LJ. r l ["t-3l' O r I I IIil K : r -i r l -.,: ,- i Ti I r ni lnl: ', Is LJ r.. .' ;.,I .lo i. -,p l ,.i .-l r H ,:,l r ,. 1 ,-, h ,;,i-5 11 TlIe Islandei THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 19A New Cortez Bridge study to begin By Rick Catlin Islander Reporter The Florida Department of Transportation will begin a study in January for a replacement of the Cortez Bridge. Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organiza- tion executive director Mike Howe told members of the Island Transportation and Planning Organization Dec. 10 that the study would take about a year. He said public meetings will be held after the study's completion to discuss options, much as they were in 2006, when the DOT began discussing the possible replacement of the Anna Maria Island Bridge on State Road 64/Mana- tee Avenue. The DOT study will look at all possible scenarios for the bridge on State Road 70/Cortez Road, Howe said, including cost of a major rehabilitation of the bridge, if feasible. During DOT public meetings in 2009 for a new Anna Maria Island Bridge, residents gave opinions of the vari- ous options presented by the DOT. The majority of writ- ten comments favored a new, two-lane, low-rise bascule bridge with emergency traffic lanes. The public rejected a high-rise bridge. The DOT has yet to include the new bridge in a five-year plan. Bradenton Beach Mayor John Shaughnessy said the type of bridge is not as important as where the DOT puts it. "Right on to Longboat Key," he said tongue-in- cheek. L\ .il) afternoon rush hour, all the Longboat Key traffic backs up in Bradenton Beach," Shaughnessy said. Politicians have discussed a bridge direct from the mainland to Longboat Key for more than 40 years with- out success. The DOT has one bridge project for Anna Maria Island in its tentative five-year plan for capacity, resur- facing and bridge projects. Rehabilitation and repair of the Cortez Bridge for an estimated $6.1 million is in the plan, but no start date for construction was listed. The repairs would be for the bridge and State Road 684/Cortez Road to just west of 127th Street, Cortez. ._ .. -- - _ _- _--_ -- F- -- -_ c . [ L - --__-::- --- +_ ---- -_- __= . .. -_ . BREAKING NEWS, E-EDITION, FACEBOOK & TWITTER. PIER PLANKS! WE HAVE IT ALL. XI 41IId' &IU& al y~ i^ i &. LL U 'lllUJ.iJii TUESDAY-SUNDAY 11-8, CLOSED MONDAY Across from Manatee Public Beach 3901 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941-778-7769 www.floridasecrets.com The Florida Department of Transporta- tion will begin a study for the replacement of the Cortez Bridge begin- ning in 2013, Sarasota-Mana- tee Metropolitan Planning Orga- nization execu- tive director Mike Howe said in December. Islander File Photo The Restaurant v/Open for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner v/Reserve Your Table for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve The Deli /Holiday Feasts To Go (Roast Turkey... Chateaubriand...) S vChristmas Dinner At Home with all the fixings! (order by 12/23) Catering v/Call Harry's to plan your Holiday Parties . -L uck Bistro0Menu- HappyHour Dinner Resturan I. TaeS .I aerngI. orerStr 560 uf f~xco rie (91)33.77 rysicknSo Ii~ii1 OPEN 7 DAYS 11:30-9:30 2 9e/67 Longboat'sPremier Waterfront Restaurant! Happy Hour 4-6pm no se EVERY DAY Come and get them. "Best food, best service, best view... Any closer to the water, you need a towel" OPEN 7 DAYS 1:30-9:30 Call-Ahead Seating 0 Reservations for 5 or more By land or sea! 800 Broadway St. Longboat Key 0 941-383.1748 Longboat's Longest Family Established Restaurant 0 www.stonecrab.cc IOEN CHRISTMAS -** W" tAIJA HAPPY HOUR 2-6 PX DAILY q01FFeerhousemm e, apethers S- We're not just pJ Cuban food! _~ :- 7am-1 Opm SI & Dinner, and Lwe deliver! 5904 MARINA DRIVE o HOLMES BEACH 941.254.4999 I s ~I 20A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Surprise school district visit celebrates AME custodian New to Anna Maria Elementary School this year, Todd Persinger says he's like "the glue," loves working with children and it shows. FromAME's principal to the cafeteria manager, and now the district it's been recognized. Persinger is one of four finalists in the EdVantage Education Award Program chosen by the Manatee County School District. One will go on to compete in the state- wide contest that recognizes exemplary teachers and sup- port staff. "He's very experienced and extremely friendly," said AME principal David Marshall, who worked with Pers- inger while he was principal at Palma Sola Elementary. Persinger spent 12 years at Palma Sola as head custodian before coming to AME. "He's very proactive," Marshall said, adding he stepped forward when they needed a "Zero the Hero" for International Peace Day. "He puts himself out there and does whatever needs to be done." He's also turned heads by saving the district $6,600 in trash costs this year, according to Marshall and pro- gram coordinator and Manatee Education Foundation Development Director Tricia McKay Powers. Persinger noticed that Waste Pro was picking up trash from the school daily when the trash bin was not nearly full. He informed the school district's i i. i *\ and recycling specialist, and pickups were reduced to twice a week. McKay Powers said there will be a March 3 pro- gram for district winners. A teacher from Manatee County School District also will be recognized. AME fifth-grade teacher Heather Nyberg had been in the running until the most recent cut, Marshall said. Marshall explained the staff support statewide winner will be awarded a $5,000 savings account. He expected the state to announce a winner by the end of the school year. Cafeteria manager Annie Mousseau also attests to Persinger's resourcefulness. "He thinks of things before you ask for them," she said. Persinger previously had worked in car detailing business, but when his children started school he wanted to help with whatever Daugherty Elementary School needed. "I started this for my two kids," he explained. "And now I have a whole school of kids. I just love being around them. I feel like I'm kind of the glue." Anna Maria Island .~ Elementary School prin- ,- cipal David Marshall and EdVantage finalist Todd w Persinger await their cue for an interview with the School district TV program S' cameraperson following Sa Dec. 14 surprise with balloons and dignitar- W .' ies, including Bradenton Marauders Marty mascot in Santa attire at the school, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Islander Photos: Kathy Prucnell ~l~ 1.* Manatee County School District interim superintendent David Gayler congratulates Anna Maria Elementary custodian Todd Persinger for being named a district finalist in the EdVantage Education Awards Program. AME Calendar December Monday, Dec. 24-Monday, Dec. 31, winter break. January Tuesday, Jan. 1-Monday, Jan. 7, winter break con- tinues, and Tuesday, Jan 8: students return. Saturday, Jan. 12: Dolphin Dash, 8 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 24, FCAT Parent Night: time to be determined. Anna Maria Elementary School, 4700 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, 941-708-5525, www.manatee.kl2.fl.us/ sites/elementary/annamaria. ----- <: i I IOF- / ..- . ........... -:p CHOICE OF THE FOLLOWING 1 small house salad per person Quesadillas 1 cup of soup per person Chicken Wings (8) or 1 appetizer to split: 1/2 Onion Rings Mozzarella Sticks SW Sampler (Half Nacho SW Egg Rolls & SW Egg Roll) Grilled Chicken Dinner with Rice Veggies Grilled Chicken Dinner with Rice & Veggies Grilled Mahi Dinner with Rice & Veggies Grilled Salmon Dinner with Rice & Veggies Meatloaf Dinner with Mashed Potatoes & Veggies Small Shrimp & Pesto Pasta Spaghetti & Meatballs Fried Shrimp Dinner (8) with Fries & Slaw Prime Rib Dinner (8oz) with Mashed Potatoes Choice of one per person, Beverages not included (OKONUT HUT LI OPEN EVERY DAY II AM TIL ??? 941.778.1919 900 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 U 21A School Choice registration opens in January Parents can sign children up to attend a school other than the neighborhood school assigned by the Mana- tee County School District in the School Choice Open Enrollment Period. The choice period begins Tuesday, Jan. 22, and ends Friday, Feb. 8. It is the only time the district allows parents to choose a school without a reason or need. In the 2012-13 school year, Anna Maria Elemen- tary School enrolled 94 students who do not live on the island, including Choice Program students, 36 percent of its 256-student population, according to AME registrar Amy Slicker. AME principal David Marshall invites anyone interested in the program to tour the school, which has consistently ranked as an "A" school based on Florida's Comprehensive Assessment Test. In 2011-12, the choice program contributed 88 stu- dents to AME, 30 percent of its 290-student enrollment that year, according to Daniel Lundeen, district supervi- sor of student demographics. Also, last year, the program enabled 10 island chil- dren to choose an elementary school other than AME. According to the district, School Choice options can be important for parents of students who are making the transition from pre-kindergarten to kindergarten, elemen- tary school to middle school, or from middle school to high school. However, parents must arrange for transportation to and from the choice school. It is not provided by the district. Manatee County public schools offer a variety of academies, access to international baccalaureate programs from first to 12th grade, and art and music options. Approval of School Choice applications is subject to enrollment capacities and other demographic criteria. For more information, call 941-708-4971, visit the district's Parent Information Center, located at 234 Mana- tee Ave. E., Bradenton, or go online at www.manatee- schools.net. brings in pajamas Third-grader Leah Schlossberg, p ulS-' ,,Il/- ers Ava Zink, Charlotte Pardue al J.,, I~ Schlossberg advertise a lemonul,, \htIl/ on Marina Drive in Holmes h .i / r. raisefundsfor Project H, In r. Ti, students purchased 14 pairs or p ,I, .tii. with their lemon: il, \ i, \. Islander Photo: Karen Ri, i L i. weather 22A 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Moose Lodge popularity booms with Gulf views, fun shows By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter In the midst of a major remodel that promises to enhance the view of the beach from the Bradenton Beach Moose Lodge 2188, organizers are selling out Las Vegas- style performances as fast they can schedule them. Administrator and manager Ernie Casali attributes the lodge's popularity to ( \ i. fi ling they're doing to enhance what it offers members incredible food, shows and new ways to reach the members. "We started the shows," he added. "This is the first year we did it this big." The five tributes three Neil Diamond shows starring Holmes Beach's Tim McCaig in October and November and two Elvis Presley shows with Billy C & His Legends in December were sold out. More mostly sold out winter shows include Donna Moore's Diva Legends Show, tributes to Patsy Cline, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, Matt and Tanya, entertainment for the Moose Valentine's Day dinner dance, as well as Del and Gary's Doo-Wop. And McCaig will return for a Feb. 2 performance. With the Del and Gary Jan. 26 and March 16 shows, Casali said, "I sold the first one out in two hours, a second show in 24 hours, and a third I haven't put out yet." Each show at the lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, translates to increased dinner sales, he said. The lodge typically serves 40 dinners, but, with entertainment, the lodge serves up to its 142-seat capacity. Along with the shows' popularity, there's a backdrop of climbing membership since the lodge prohibited smok- ing four years ago. Membership rolls have swelled from 1,700 to 6,000, according to Casali and lodge Gov. Ron Luckerman. "We can't keep members from signing up they're coming through the doors on a daily basis," said Casali. With only 22 parking places, Luckerman said with a laugh, "Hopefully they don't all come at the same time." Lunch runs five-six hours on the weekend, and dinner is served five nights a week. "People love the emails," Casali says of his regular announcements to the membership. "And we shake it up. A lot of the other Moose Lodges, they just have fish fries." "Our menu is second to none to any restaurant in town," Casali says, including prime rib, mahi, salmon, baby back ribs and peel-and-eat shrimp. "We have the whole nine yards." Other features attracting members are reasonable dues and food prices. And there's the Moose's charitable emphasis, Casali explained. He said the fraternity including Women of the Moose donates $100,000 annually to Moose chari- ties, Mooseheart, a residential child-care facility in the western suburbs of Chicago; and Moosehaven, a nursing home and assisted-living center in Orange Park. Other recipients of Moose donations include Special Olympics Manatee, Safe Kids, the Anna Maria Island Community Emergency Response Team, the Salvation Army and Roser Church food bank. "We give it away all the time. There's four families we support at Christmas," Casali said. "We're doing a lot of things to bring people in. We've been contracting artists," including island artists, Chad "Cheeta" Ruis and AnnMarie Nicholas to help with the renovations. Ruis will be painting a mural, "floor to ceiling, top to bottom" in the front section of the building, he said. Nicholas already has started her work. "And we're probably going to contract more. We've got contractors everywhere," Casali said. They'll be taking down walls, he explained, "So when you walk in the front door, all you're going to see is beach." The dining room will include a new horseshoe- shaped bar, and new offices will be configured. "We don't have enough room for duct work and our electrical and ceiling is too low, so we're going to rip it all out, and we'll be putting it back new," he said. While currently there are no plans for more seating or a second story, the lodge wants to be ready. "We're making sure the structure is sturdy enough for two floors." Along with all the new activities, the membership is changing, Casali said. "Ten years ago, the age was much higher here," he said, adding the Moose is now attracting working people in their 40s and 50s with children. "We even have a kids menu now. Women of the Moose entertain a full house for the Dec. 15 Children's Christmas Party at the Moose Lodge, 110 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach. Adults accompa- nied 51 children to the party for lunch, followed by gifts and games. Islander Photos: Edna Tiemann Preston Santilli, age 5, Bradenton, enjoys lunch at the Women of the Moose Dec. 15. Christmas Party -Sports Bar & Gril Sports Bar & Grill PARTY r K THiRK'S 11 r NO TO-MAYA"! DEC. 21, 2012 Live Entertainment with Jack Tamburin 6-10 and Power Surge 10-2. BEST DRINK PRICES IN TOWN Taco & Chimichanga Specials 6 ,21 :, 6.eR a 'WB- :"'e to www .clancysii sh s S ._u ,,'. 941 794-2 9 , 0CsANE LIQUORS FULL LIQUOR STORE LIQUOR-BEER-WINE 941-779-BEER 5344 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach THE REAL GERMAN RESTAURANT ON FLORIDA'S WEST COAST from all of us at Old Hamburg CLOSED CHRISTMAS EVE OPEN 4-8 CHRISTMAS DAY S CALL FOR RESERVATIONS Special Christmas Menu / includes CRISPY DUCKLING (24-HOUR PREORDER) CLOSED NEW YEAR'S EVE OPEN 5-9 NEW YEAR'S DAY DINNER HOURS: TUES-SAT 5-9PM 778-1320 Anna Maria Island Centre 3246 E. Bay Drive Holmes Beach THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 23A Brawn-BeachHouse competition benefits Hope services By Mark Young Islander Reporter In discussing domestic violence against women, actress Nicole Kidman once said, "This is an appalling human rights violation, yet it remains one of the invisible and under-recognized pandemics of our time." From community grassroots groups, to state and federally-funded organizations, an awareness and sup- port effort has been under way for years to bring out of the darkness the light of truth about domestic violence. While the public is becoming more exposed to the suffering of women, children and some men, the struggle continues in reaching the victims of domestic violence, who often are caught in a cycle of abuse that becomes their normal. According to Hope Family Services executive direc- tor Laurel Lynch, research has shown that 95 percent of domestic violence homicide victims in Florida never reached out for the help available to them. Hope Family Services, in Bradenton, offers emer- gency safe shelter, counseling, prevention programs, safety planning and more. The Dec. 9 second annual Brawn on the Beach strongman competition next to the BeachHouse Restau- rant in Bradenton Beach was a benefit to raise money for the organization that offers its services to domestic violence victims free and is confidential. "The money this event raises is incredible and obvi- ously, the more money we have the more good we can do," said Lynch. "However, the whole notion is aware- ness. Awareness in reaching the victims, and also to change the perspective that people being victimized by domestic violence are somehow weak." Lynch said the psychology of becoming caught in an abusive relationship runs much deeper than what is on the surface. "We can help," she said. "But when you look at 95 percent of Florida homicide victims in domestic violence never reach out for help, then we must continue to raise awareness and find ways to reach out to them." Nine competitors eight men and one woman - vied for bl,.--in- rights, medals and cash prizes in gruel- ing competition with one another, but the real winners are domestic violence victims have available to them an a.p. BeLL fisH compaNy ic. Fresh Seafood Since 1910 Great selection of locally caught Grouper, Snapper, Shrimp, Panfish and much more. S Planning a fishing trip? Call about our big selection of frozen bait! o DISCOUNT PRICES EVERYDAY". See you at our docks! o 941-794-1249 S 4 0Q 0 124th St. W. Cortez, Florid* __- Traditional Christ mas Dinner $17.95 - 3-Course Christmas SPackage $23.95 ~ S, including Soup or Salad, ITraditional Dinner and Dessert .:-t.-.ns It'i.- :.-.rr'rrT' ry -J - inr i[..=-nu jO JIs.-. j.ii.l t:-,lI BRIDG STEE organization like Hope Family Services to free them- selves from abuse. "Last year we raised almost $7,000 and we hope to do at least the same this year," said BeachHouse Restau- rant general manager Rebecca Shannon before Sunday's event. The BeachHouse and City Fitness of Bradenton were the primary sponsors of the event, which feature multiple partner sponsors and drew hundreds of spectators. Shannon said the concept started with a simple con- versation with a member of City Fitness. "We were discussing domestic violence and we then talked to Ian Harrison at City Fitness and he mentioned that we should do a strongman competition," said Shan- non, who noted she brought the idea to BeachHouse owner Ed Chiles. "We became associated with Hope because helping families has always been near and dear to Ed Chiles," she said. "We felt Ian's strongmen lifting up those in need would be a nice touch and show there are men that women and children could count on." Competitors participated in five events, including a _-- - -"----- il ..-' ww m a vw:i-.- Bridge Street Bistro upstairs ~ serving from 5 pm 7 Days Open Christmas Day Noon-8 truck pull, log lift and farmer's walk where contestants walked a course for as long as they could carrying a com- bined 300 pounds in weight. The atlas stone event featured competitors lifting a 200-pound stone over a 51-inch bar as many times as possible while being timed. The competitors closed out the competition by carrying a 280-pound coffin-shaped stone as far as possible. The BeachHouse offered drinks and food with all proceeds going to Hope Family Services. Other busi- nesses offered raffle items, there was a 50/50 drawing and many businesses made donations to the event. The competitors were there to not only raise a lot of weight, but to help raise awareness about domestic violence. They also were competing for cash prizes. Tim Pritchard won the overall competition and col- lected $500 for first place. Brandon Hardy placed second and earned $250. Jeremiah Chambers rounded out the top three places, which was worth $125. Hope Family Services can be reached at 941-747- 8499 and has a 24-hour hotline at 941-755-6805 or visit www.hopefamilyservice.org. HO! HO! Sandbar party ',,u w i d/ I ,i _l /. I ,I 1 i l i %. -, I Il t F i, 'IJo n 1i /1, i1 1 i # i *rr'I. H, I Ci F iiiiii, I t 11 1.ro I (' '111 H, OIi \ Io I idi ('Cni 11 ., io / *. ,t ,'* ,ri %, t Fl.,, i, Io ot il, tili u o,n ,,I l Lo .,,, r,, C Ili, C i( li l. t,', Kid P^-o,t r i ilI, soiiL i R, .A.I.n 11 I \,IItII #I iI n, |It .1 1 1 , 1 < If t r. o IIt I ( i It ,'r .'11/, Ml ,,,,, - ? ,,' i ,. R , ,, i t. ] -I i< , ,i i ,,,/, ,/ I , - h i l. i, /1 0 ,l t t,,i ,, /1 /1I1 / o ,i 'i, ,il - t /'. ," I ,,, ,# ft,0 [ -*I01t0'd. 0 r tt J , S ,, | , ,,,,ll t 1,l,, I C ,l, G [, %I 'l h. ,. , Island Coffee Haus ReaZ Florida Relaxation! Coffee, tea, pastries, desserts, and self-serve yogurt. And free WiFi. MERRY GHRLST~MfiS FREE coffee for medical, education, church, clerical, city & government employees through 12-24-12 1 bAA A4& & pp JGulf Drive Bradenton iR - 941-782-11212'--l "" * 1, m.r 24A I DEC. 19, 2012 U THE ISLANDER m A d d/ :irriato filter. OMl * ------------ ----------------- $50 PICK THE WINNERS CONTEST * The Islander pays $50 to the person with the most cor- All advertisers must be listed to be eligible to win. 7 - rect game-winning predictions. Collect prize in person ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON, PER WEEK. 8 or by mail. Winner Advertiser 9 * Entries must be mailed/postmarked or hand-delivered 1 10 to the newspaper office by noon Saturday weekly. 2 11 * A winner will be drawn from tying entries. The decision 3 12 of The Islander football judge is final. 4 13 * All entries must be submitted on the published form. En- 5-1 tries must be hand-written original, not copied. Be sure to include name, address and phone number. 6- 15 :$50 BUCS CONTEST Your correct score prediction for this week's Buccaneer game could win you $50. Drawing in the event of a tie. Rollover if there's no winner! (no game/no prize) BUS _ vs SCORE SCORE *Your name Address/City Phone Mail or deliver to The Islander 5404 Marina Drive, Island Shopping Center, Holmes Beach FL 34217 INFO: 941-778-7978 i %filyc f(Sreet OkAr4 leoverjf frn (an(a, uiCe, JhAppiy! Several dozen gift sets, baskets and presents sit ready for raffles on tables at the Dec. 15 Christmas on Bridge Street holiday bazaar. Islander Photos: Mark Young Santa visits with afan during the Dec. 15 Christmas on Bridge Street celebration in Bradenton Beach. Santa rode in on the Anna Maria Island Privateers sleigh and the Privateers joined this year's festivities to raise money for their ongoing effort to save Santa's sleigh. Geof Cummins from Makai Glass Design shows his artistic workmanship while making glass jewelry at the Dec. 15 Christmas on Bridge Street holiday bazaar. Students from Rowlett Elementary Magnet School, focusing on com- munication and the creative arts in Manatee County performs during the Dec. 15 Christmas on Bridge Street celebration. Joy Leitner, left, conducts the informal Anna Maria Island choir, concert and opera singers performing Christmas carols at the Relish Cafe, 503 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, during the business' holiday open house Dec. 14. Islander Photos: Rick Catlin Owner! chef Vinny ______ Esposito, left, dishes up the first serving of a 24-foot sub sandwich he and his help- ers created at Vinny & Cheryl's Ital- ian Kitchen, 314 Pine Ave., for the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Dec. 14. Receiving the first slice of sub is Nate Coleman of Anna Maria. Members of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society serve warm apple cider to thirsty visitors on Pine Avenue at the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Dec. 14. Anna Maria City Commissioner Gene Aubry autographs his recent book, "The Island I Grew Up On, "for Dan Gagne of Anna Maria. Aubry's book includes watercolors of the Victorian homes where he was raised on Galves- ton Island, Texas. Proceeds benefit XXXX XXXXX. Aubry was at the Relish Cafe, 503 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, Dec. 14, during the Holiday walkaround. ^amf Ann Naria a-o offerafaa cl, ;vau:e, treaurve 2B 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Islanders take gold at FL State Senior games By Kevin P. Cassidy Islander Reporter Two runners with island ties took part in the Dec. 8 2012 Florida International Senior Games State Champi- onships in Lakeland. Islander Erma McMullen grabbed a gold medal in the 5K Road Race in her 70-74 age group. McMullen's time of 31:19 around the paved course that circled Lake Hollings\, nhll was a new personal record. Longtime Galati Yacht Sales employee Mickey Hooke also ran the 5K Road Race around the lake. Hooke posted a 17:24 to grab first place overall by more than two minutes over the next senior competitor. His finish time was the fastest 5K in the history of the race. As if that weren't enough for Hooke, he spent his 52nd birthday competing in the 2012 Florida Senior Games 10K Road Race in Lakeland Nov. 17. His time of 35:40 was three minutes faster then the next finisher and set a new masters and grandmasters record for the course. For his efforts, Hooke received a gold medal and a trophy. Hooke now has more than 100 first-place finishes in Florida races since 1998, along with 55 records set in 2012. Hooke has finished in first place overall in four of the six championship races he's run in 2012. Key Royale golf news The women of Key Royale Club played a nine-hole, shotgun-start mixer Dec. 11, followed by lunch in the clubhouse. Gloria LaDue grabbed first place in Flight A with a 2-under-par 30 to edge second-place finsher Tootie Wagner by one shot. Penny Williams and Helen Pollock tied for third place with matching 33s. Flight B went to Barb Estok, who carded a 2-under- par 30. Beatrice Friebe was alone in second with a I-. I- . -inu L ,* Mickey Hooke shows off some of the hardware he won recently at the Florida State Senior Games in Lake- land. Islander Photo: Courtesy Kathy Johnson 1-under-par 31, while Liz Lang, Terry Westby and Joyce Brown tied for third at 1-over 33. Shue Wheeler captured Flight C with the low round of the day. She torched the course with a 5-under-par 27, a 5-shot victory over Judy Ward in second place. Markie Ksiazek fired a 1-under-par 31 to to grab a 2-shot victory in Flight D over Sally York. Erma McMul- len and Eunice Warda tied for third place with matching 35s. Horseshoe news Four teams emerged from pool play during Dec. 15 horseshoe action at the Anna Maria City Hall horseshoe pits. In the first semifinal, Norm Good and Karl Thomas rolled past Tim Sofran and Dom Livedoti 23-7. The second semifinal match saw John Crawford and Bruce Munro annihilate George McKay and Steve Gross- man 21-4. Good-Thomas defeated Crawford-Munro 23-11 in the finals. Norm Good and Rod Bussey were champs for the day after being the only team to post a 3-0 pool play record during Dec. 12 horseshoe action. Play gets under way at 9 a.m. every Wednesday and Saturday at the Anna Maria City Hall pits. War- mups begin at 8:45 a.m. followed by random team selection. There is no charge to play and everyone is wel- come. Register now for Gulf Coast Senior Games Registration has begun for the 24th annual Gulf Coast Senior Games, a series of athletic competitions held in Manatee and Sarasota counties Feb. 19-24, 2013. Sixteen sports and competitions include golf, archery, shuffleboard, basketball, bocce, bowling, cribbage, cycling, golf, horseshoes, pickleball, racquetball, swim- ming, table tennis, tennis, a 5K-road race and assorted track and field events. The registration fee is $12 and includes an event T-shirt. There is a $3 fee for each event and the top-five finishers in each event advance to the Florida State Senior Games in December 2013. Participants can register by mail or by going online at www.mymanatee.org/parks and clicking on Register Now. Registration must be completed by Feb. 1, 2013. There is no day-of-event registration. For more information on the 24th Annual Gulf Coast Senior Games, call Jalwan at 941-742-5932, ext. 6023. Holmes Beach parks board approves bat house at preserve By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Not to compete with Batman's digs but to protect a mammal on the decline and provide educational oppor- tunities in Holmes Beach a bat house at Grassy Point Preserve passed muster of the city's parks and beautifica- tion committee Dec. 5. Motioned by Marilyn Shirley, and seconded by Jim Dunne, the parks committee unanimously recommended it pursue Christine Callahan's request to place an educa- tional bat house on the 34-acre nature preserve. Callahan, a volunteer at Anna Maria Island Elemen- tary school, would provide the bat house and signage, and asked for the bat house approval to provide teach- ing opportunities, according to committee chair Melissa Snyder. Proposed is a wooden bat house on a post about 12-15 feet above the ground "in a place where bat poop is not a problem," Snyder said. She said the city would need to provide and install a base, either a pole or several poles. The bat house activities would join activities of Klathleen D Saifing Catamaran Sailing Daily from Holmes Beach &Bradenton Dolphin Watch & Sunset Sails J | Emerson Point Excursion- Sail, Hi e, Dphin Watch Holiday Gift Certificates / k.T,,i"l d an.et- i bird-watching, estuary work and vegetable gardening at Grassy Point, she added. Committee member Dennis Groh said he would share a photograph of a well-done, triangular-style bat house. "There are bats in the area," said Snyder. "If we put a bat house out there, we may not get bats immediately. But eventually you will have a colony of bats. "While we may not like them and people may be afraid of them, bats are a very beneficial mammal. They are also on the decline because of the loss of habitat. And they are good pollinators," she said. Other members added that bats will use the houses to sleep during the day and eat mosquitoes when they're active. Holmes Beach Commissioner David Zaccagnino, liaison to the parks committee, said bats need a clear entryway and a close water source, which Grassy Point has, located on Sarasota Bay near East Bay and Gulf drives. The preserve was purchased in 2000 with a grant from the Florida Community Land Trust and over the years has been improved and managed through a part- nership between the city and the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. At Grassy Point's opening in October, former Mayor MB MARINE LLC Electronics / Electrical Installation & Service ^ 9(941)920-1169 PO Box 1064 Cortez, Fl 34215 mbowers@tampabay.rr.com FISHING CHARTERS Capt.Warren Girle Inshore Offshore Redfish hL..-.. U Snapper Snook 4 Grouper Light Tackle Fly Over 30 years experience in local waters USCG Licensed Full / Half Day Trips 941.387.8383 (H) 941.232.8636 (C) Rich Bohnenberger announced the Florida Department of Transportation was planning a $533,000 project with a boardwalk that will cross the property's water features. He said it was "No. 3" on FDOT's priority list, and funds were expected to be released in 2013. City officials also have talked about a lookout tower in the preserve, and an improved intersection and cross- walk at East Bay and Gulf drives. Grassy Point's only entrance has limited on-street parking on Avenue C. Zaccagnino said the former mayor had begun talks aimed at acquiring nearby vacant lots for parking. In other parks matters, action was taken on the fol- lowing: *Groh reported six to eight trees nii ilnith\ iin at King- fish Boat Ramp. The committee unanimously agreed to have Groh make a list of what needs to be done and schedule a workday. Members agreed to replace dead trees at 77th Street on Jan. 6 at a National Arbor Day ceremony. A community garden proposal at Flotilla Drive between 59th Street and Birdie Tebbetts Field, and pos- sible other locations was placed on the next agenda. The next P&B committee meeting will be at 5 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 2. lj ICaptain Mark Howard aI 941-704-6763 sumotimefishing.com Snook Trout Redfish Tarpon Grouper Shark CG Licensed Captain Don Meilner Prices start at just $15/hour per person! 941.778.3875* www.gnarlymangrove.com THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 3B Warmer water, hot fishing action with shiners By Capt. Danny Stasny Islander Reporter With a slight warming trend, water temps are climb- ing into the upper 60s, which in turn is proving prosper- ous for flats fishers who are still using shiners. Although baiting shiners during cooler weather a couple of weeks ago was hit or miss, using them now is a good bet. You may still want to carry some live shrimp just in case especially if you plan on fishing any docks or around inshore structure. Good numbers of black drum and sheepshead are frequenting local docks and canals around Bimini Bay and Key Royale. Live shrimp is a must for targeting either of these tasty striped fish. You can also expect to catch flounder and redfish while working these docks. In southern Sarasota Bay, good action is occurring on deep grass flats for migratory fish, including pom- pano, bluefish and ladyfish. The pompano are sporadic at best, although the bluefish and ladyfish will fill in the idle time between pompano bites. Either style of pompano jig will work, although anglers are favoring small cannonball head jigs. Finally, near-shore structure is still producing rod- bending action for anglers in search of bonito and shark. Try chumming with live shiners to get the bonito to rally. Once you catch one, cut a nice chunk from it and hook it on a shark rig. Black tips in the 50-pound range are the norm right now. Capt. Rick Gross of Fishy Business charters is tar- geting spotted seatrout on the flats of Sarasota Bay with decent results. On recent charters, Gross managed to put his clients on limits of spotted seatrout using live shiners on the grass flats. "With the water temps slightly rising, the fish are eating white bait," says Gross. "Although, it's still good to carry some select shrimp just in case." Also while fishing the flats, Gross is catching some keeper-size flounder. "We were having trouble with the birds trying to eat our shiners," says Gross. "So I added a split shot to try to keep our baits a little deeper. When we did, we started catching flounder." To target flounder on the flats, try l, I m.n,' your bait through the sandy potholes on the flat. You can also find them on channel edges or in areas that have rocky fea- tures, such as small ledges or docks. Jeff Medley at the Sunshine Skyway Bridge South I I I Larry Riddle of Tampa shows off a firetruck red grou- per caught on a live pinfish in 130feet of water off- shore of Anna Maria Island with Capt. Larry McGuire. Captain Wayne Genthner Wolfmouth Charters Cell 941-720-4418 V2 Day & 6 hr trips Bay & Gulf Fishing Twin Engines Bathroom Onboard Family Friendly Discounts Pets Welcome 32 years Professional Experience SLIGHT TACKLE SPORTFISHING CAPT. RICK GROSS 794-3308 CELL 730-5148 1/2 DAY & FULL DAY CHARTERS Catcher's Marina 5501 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach, FL Harrison King of Montana holds one of eight catch- and-release oversized redfish caught on a charter fish- ing trip with Capt. Warren Girle. Fishing Pier says although there are large numbers of sheepshead around the pilings, the bite is a little off. "Either people aren't fishing for them," says Medley, "or they're just not biting real good yet." Fish that are biting include pompano, bluefish, Span- ish mackerel and bonito. For the pompano and bluefish, Love's lures pompano jigs are the ticket. Pompano in the 2-pound range are hitting these small jigs with a purpose. The bluefish are a bycatch for fishers targeting pompano. Pier fishers using live shrimp and working on the bottom around the pilings of the pier are catching good numbers of flounder, mangrove snapper and black sea bass. These three species are some of the best tasting fish you can find on our waters, so if you're looking to fill the freezer, you may want to head to the South Pier. On a final note, Medley warns that the bite has been sporadic but, when it happens, it's game on. "There's no rhyme or reason to it this week," says Medley. "You may catch nothing but pinfish for an hour and then all of a sudden % \ d. iinig changes and you fill your cooler." Capt. Warren Girle is fishing nearshore structures for bonito. These fish provide drag-screaming action on medium-weight spinning gear. Using live shiners, Girle is chumming these fish to the boat and then casting free- lined baits into the frenzy. Average size of the bonito is 7 to 10 pounds. Once Girle's clients have caught enough bonito, they're targeting black tip sharks by cutting a six-inch strip of bonito belly and placing it on a shark rig. The black tips are coming to the boat in the 50- to 80-pound range. Finally, while structure fishing, Girle is dropping live shiners to the bottom on a knocker rig and reeling up keeper-size flounder. After all of that action on bonito and sharks, Girle's clients are keen on reeling up fish they can take home for dinner. On the deeper flats of Sarasota Bay, Girle is drifting andji ''in'' with pompano jigs. Not only is he managing S AM IlH PM HIGH AM LOW PM LOW Moon I)e I' 31 45 1 ? 14. 16 1 l ) 1 2 I11 4 .(1f 11. )Dec. 21 "211. I I 3 2- I 11 41 k -'- rt'i ,2h I II.l I I 1. .11 Ilfi 1111 I 1 :2h il.(/ Il't'. 2. ilii2.'1 I I l '1111 1-11.2 1:1.1 I.l. i. 34" 11.2 4 I 11 ..1 1.4(. -114 I'.ss I.I e. 2, 12 1 2 i I 4 "1 II 95 i i j *St Pro esi o G u i e 9 li .7ll40 USCG Licensed www fishannam1aria com to put his fishers on some keeper pompano, but various other species as well. Spanish mackerel, bluefish and ladyfish are biting in between pompanos, which supplies good variety and constant action. Steve Oldham at Island Discount Tackle is hearing of decent action on the flats of Anna Maria Sound, where spotted seatrout are being caught on deeper flats of 5 to 7 feet. While targeting trout, expect to also catch ladyfish and Spanish mackerel. You can either use artificial like DOA Cal jigs or suspending baits, such as the MirrOlure MirrOdine. If using live shrimp or shiners, try using a popping cork and drift over the flats and retrieve the cork slowly while popping it to cover more area. Sheepshead are arriving on the flats and around local docks. Oldham suggests trying a fresh-cut piece of shrimp to start. If the sheepies won't bite the shrimp, try fiddler crabs or sand fleas. While fishing docks for sheepies, Oldham says to expect to encounter black drum, redfish and plenty of spot tail pinfish Jim Malfese at the Rod & Reel Pier is seeing decent action for pier fishers using live shrimp as bait. Using a small, stout hook and a half-ounce sinker, fishers are bottom fishing around the pilings and under the pier. As of this week, keeper-size redfish are being caught, as well as flounder and black drum. Schools of baitfish such as shiners are still being seen around the pier, al llt1 ugih M il l,. se feels that the better bite is occurring on live shrimp. If you choose to use shiners, try bottom fishing as if you're using shrimp. Generally, flounder and redfish will readily take a shiner if it's put in front of their nose. On a final note, we wish Jim Malfese's canine com- panion, Malcolm, who also works daily at the pier, a happy birthday. Send fishing reports to fish@islander.org. Environmental groups release scallop larvae Mote Marine Laboratory and Sarasota Bay Estu- ary Program, in partnership with Sarasota Bay Watch, released about 3 million scallop larvae into the bay in December in a continuing effort to bring stability to the scallop population. The 10-year restoration project is powered by the scientific expertise of Mote and SBEP, as well as vol- unteers and donors of partners such as Sarasota Bay Watch. Since December 2011, SBW and partners have released about 12 million scallop larvae in an effort to build self-sustaining populations in the bay. "Today's release illustrates what can be achieved when the spark of a worthy cause is fueled by the eii i.. of our community," said SBW president Larry Stults. "Look how much we've accomplished in just two short years." Where Men Shop for Gear and Women Shop for Men NEW Bamboo Shirts with Our Logo! PERFORMANCE Clothing from Patagonia, ExOfficio, True Flies HOLIDAY Gift Cards: Buy $100, Get $20 Bonus. Top Quality Fly and Spin Gear, Fishing Kayaks and Kayak Charters 505 Pine Ave Anna Maria 941.254.4996 9-6 daily www.amioutfitters.com 4B 1 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Holmes Beach seeks volunteer board applicants By Kathy Prucnell Islander Reporter Like Uncle Sam, the city of Holmes Beach wants you. The city is accepting applications for openings on the planning commission, code enforcement board, board of adjustments and upcoming openings on the police retire- ment board and the parks and beautification committee. The planning commission an advisory committee to the city commission that makes recommendations on whether proposed land development laws and regulations are consistent with the city comprehensive plan has an immediate opening for a board member and an alter- nate. The alternate is required to attend all meetings. The members serve a three-year term. The board of adjustments a board that decides on variances has two alternate openings. The code enforcement board also needs an alternate to replace Marvin Grossman, who resigned after winning a seat on the city commission in the Nov. 6 election. The code board is a quasi-judicial body that holds hearings, CANALFRONT, BAY VIEWS CANALFRONT, BAY VIEWS BAY IN FRONT, CANAL IN BACK. You won't find many like this 3BR/3BA with 2,226 sf under roof. Good bones, needs update $599,000. Mike 800-367-1617 Norm an 941-778-6696 Norma 3101 GULF DR Realty INC HOLMES BEACH www.mikenormanrealty.com L sales@mikenormanrealty.com makes findings and imposes penalties for violations of city codes and ordinances. The appointed member will fill a term that expires in April 2015. The police retirement board which administers and manages the police officers pension trust fund will need to fill two private citizen spots in March 2013. There are two positions open on parks and beautifica- tion committee, which serves as a recommending body on citywide parks and beautification projects. The two-year appointments will begin in April 2013. The city will accept applications through Dec. 14 for the immediate openings. Applications can be picked up from the city clerk, 5801 Marina Drive, or downloaded from the city website www.holmesbeachfl.org, under forms/misc forms. Island real estate transactions By Jesse Brisson Special to The Islander 642 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 4,252 sfla / 5,079 sfur 4bed/51/2bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 2009 on a 97x130 lot was sold 12/05/12, Sun Coast Property Group LLC to Lipskind for $1,100,000; list $1,189,000. 1900 Gulf Drive N., Unit 7, Marbella, Bradenton Beach, a 1,320 sfla 1,425 sfur 3bed/2bath condo built in 200 was sold Deutsche Bank National Trust Company to Leestma for $813,750. 520 Key Royale Drive, Holmes Beach, a 3,720 sfla 5,114 sfur 5bed/21/2bath/2car canalfront pool home built in 1959 on a 100x107 lot was sold 11/20/12, MEK Properties LLC to Lee for $790,000; list $859,000. 105 Tern Drive Anna Maria, a 1,705 sfla 1,981 sfur 2bed/2bath/lcar canalfront home built in 1976 was sold 11/30/12, Duncan to Duffy for $650,000. 104 23rd St. N., Holmes Beach, a 2,088 sfla 2,112 sfur 4-Plex with pool built in 1954 on a 58x100 lot was sold 11/16/12, Davis to Kennedy for $555,000; list $597,000. 309 59th St., Unit B, Waldo's Paradise, Holmes Beach, FLORIDA DREAMS REALTY of Ami,INC 5358 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach,FL 34217 S941.462.4016 Check out our online vacation rental catalog on Anna Maria Island and at Heron's Watch, Bradenton. www.Florida-Dreams.com We speak English, German, French and Hungarian a 2,083 sla / 2,349 sfur 3bed/2bath/2car land condo built in 2007 was sold 11/16/12, Simpson to Russel for $480,000; list $489,000. 211 71st St., Holmes Beach, a 1,344 sfla 1,472 sfur 2bed/2bath pool home built in 1982 on a 54x 105 lot was sold 11/16/12, Kaleta to Jones for $475,000; list $499,000. 5802 Imperiore Ave., Holmes Beach, a 1,020 sfla /1,320 sfur 3bed/2bath pool home built in 1970 on a 47x 101 lot was sold 11/21/12, Davis to Arnold for $445,000; list $449,000. 771 Jacaranda RoadO, Anna Maria, a 1,447 sfla 1,744 sfur 2bed/2bath/2car home built in 1979 on a 52x98 lot was sold 11/15/12, Gottschalk to Island Savvy Ventures LLC for $442,500; list $475,000. 205 77th St., Unit A, 205 77th Street, Holmes Beach, a 900 sfla 1,373 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with pool built in 2012 was sold 11/26/12, Sato to Hansen for $429,000; list $439,000. 6200 Flotilla Drive, Unit 253, W; il~ai\ Point & Moor- ings, a 1,622 sfla 1,793 sfur 3bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1979 was sold 11/21/12, Blevins to Deschutter for $420,000. 5704 Holmes Blvd., Holmes Beach, a 1,678 sfla 1,962 sfur 2bed/2bath home built in 1959 on a 82x117 lot was sold 11/23/12, O'Brien to Clark for $398,600; list $419,000. 251 17th St. N., Unit 14, Bradenton Beach Club, Bra- denton Beach, a 1,722 sfla / 2,156 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built I 2003 was sold 11/21/12, Earnhardt to Studee for $373,000. 523 South Drive, Anna Maria, a 1,736 sfla 2,861 sfur 3bed/2bath canalfront home built in 1976 on a 60x110 lot was sold 11/26/12, Christie to Trivento for $350,000. 2407 Ave. B, Bradenton Beach, a 1,650 sfla /2,711 sfur 4bed/4bath duplex built in 1995 on a 50x100 lot was sold 11/19/12, Reemelin to Ivers for $320,000. 306 Second St. N., Bradenton Beach, a 1,674 sfla 1,722 sfur 4bed/3bath triplex built in 1957 on a 5 x 120 lot was sold 11/20/12, Webster to Greer for $320,000. 205 Peacock Lane, Holmes Beach, a 1,653 sfla 4bed/3bath duplex built in 1973 on a 43x87 lot was sold 11/16/12, Almengual to Peacock Palms LLC for $305,000; list $335,000. 3607 E. Bay Drive, Unit 105, Sandy Pointe, Holmes Beach, a 976 sfla 1,065 sfur 2bed/2bath condo with shared pool built in 1996 was sold 11/20/12, GBA Fidu Inc to White for $165,000; list $179,900. Jesse Brisson, broker/associate at Gulf-Bay Realty of Anna Maria, can be reached at 941-778-7244. tNft 70 0 L- m- roj1F x1=62 J 941-713-4755 800-771-6043 ISLAND CONDO FOR SALE: 2bed/2bath turnkey condo with good rental history. Pool, tennis, covered parking, bay access, water views, elevator, future bookings, and new A/C and new roof are just some of the fea- tures of this condo. Just bring your flip-flops and enjoy. Offered at $259,000. Call Jesse Brisson for more info @ 941.713.4755. ifYhahnkiO-for your support in making our family No. I in sales in Manatee and Sarasota counties! Charles Buky Cell: 941-228-6086 www.teambukyrealestate.com 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Suite 1 Longboat Key FL 34228 Early classified deadline: 5 pm Thurs, Dec 20, for ads appearing in the Dec. 26 edition of The Islander newspaper. d Biz By Rick Catlin Banana Cabana offers Cuban Christmas fare The Banana Cabana Caribbean Grill, 103 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach, is celebrating a traditional Cuban Christmas Eve dinner with an all-you-can-eat pig roast for $24.95. Included are all the trimmings and family-style side dishes. Seatings are 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24, and reservations are required. For more information, call 941-779-1130. Chamber advises members on proposed law The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce sent members an email about proposed congressional legisla- tion, but made it clear the chamber was informing mem- bers, not attempting to influence opinion. The email said proponents of the Reforming and Consolidating Government Act of 2012 "believe it will streamline government agencies by reducing duplication between agencies and consolidating some agencies into one to reduce fragmentation. "It would aid in helping American businesses suc- ceed, especially small businesses, by helping them to more easily and seamlessly access services in support of exports, domestic competitiveness and job cre- ation." Opponents of the bill, the email said, "believe it will dismantle several long-standing federal programs aimed at helping small businesses, such as the Small Business Administration, including minority-owned, women- owned and service-disabled, veteran-owned small busi- nesses. More information on the proposed legislation is available at www.beta.congress.gov/bill/112th-congress/ senate-bill/2129, the release said. Manatee chamber hosting Pancakes and Politics The Manatee Chamber of Commerce will host state lawmakers for Pancakes and Politics, a preview of the 2013 legislative session with a focus on business-related issues. The event will be 7:30-9 a.m. Jan. 28 at the Bradenton Country Club, 4646 Ninth Ave. W., Bradenton. Invited speakers include state Reps. Jim Boyd, Darryl Rouson and Greg Steube and state Sens. Bill Galvano and Arthenia Joyner. The cost to attend is $25 for chamber members, $20 for nonprofit chamber members and $35 for non-mem- bers. For more information or reservations, call 941-748- 4842 or email lisar@manateechamber.com A crab trap Christmas The Blue Marlin restaurant, 121 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, constructed a Christmas tree resembling a crab trap. Islander Photo: Courtesy Will Corr Chamber welcomes new Island Gourmet The Island Gourmet, 5312 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, was officially welcomed by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce and Holmes Beach Mayor Carmel Monti Dec. 13 with a ribbon- cutting ceremony and party. Islander Photo: Toni Lyon SELLING*. BUYR I LOAL AVETO wwwl Pu n a~ailln~ue o Eri, 4167.278 oSeaj -kolco REALTRS e rtet andpa oucmidssion "2011 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CHAMBER LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR" ANNA MARIA ISLAND Unique 3292 sq ft bayfront townhome. Recently updated and beautifully renovated. Exceptional Gulf-to-bay complex with beach, bayside pool and dock, secured elevator. Covered parking for 4 cars. David Moynihan (941) 720-0089. #M5833321. $775,000 ANNA MARIA ISLAND condo with pool and one short block to the beach. Top floor end unit, well maintained, new impact glass windows in 2011, and turnkey fur- nished. Weekly rentals are permitted. Dave Moynihan (941) 720-0089. #M5832341. $159,900 BRING YOUR FISHING POLE, tennis THIS PALM HARBOR HOME is remark- raquet, and bathing suit to enjoy this Gulf- able, every aspect is up to hurricane code, to-bayAnna Maria Island condo. The views elevated, furnished, and has a garage. Full are amazing, watch the boats on Sarasota bay view, possible boat slip available at the Bay or stroll to the beach. Mark Reemelin brand new dock. Includes $105,000 co-op (941) 932-3778. #M5832476. $319,650 share. Rae Ellen Hayo (941) 932-3778. #M5824080. $319,900 ISLAND TRIPLEX -This property is directly across from the beach, beautiful Gulf view. Beautiful furnishings, totally updated. Atrue beachhouse with all the character of the island. Rae Ellen Hayo (941) 932-3778. #M5832547. $1,699,000 WAGNER REALTY Bn..pgq P"r fl $u i 191 ISLAND DUPLEX best of both worlds, 2 units, income property and residence. Beautifully furnished and tiled floors, granite and SS. 3BR/2BAeach with elevators. Rae Ellen Hayo (941) 932-3778. #M5833130. $849,900 SEE ALL OUR Y LISTINGS AT WAGNERREALTY. COM 6B 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER A2 RENTA SURREY BIKE I HOUR. R GET I HOUR FREE IF YOU MENTION THIS AD! SOUTHWESf GRILLE M Bikes for 71 Ages L H O E o Surrey Bikes Electric Bi e GO GET HOOKED! Kayaks & Guided Eco Tours ON OUR Gan j: Beach & Baja ear Rentals co 111W tt- -w ~~T-SIr, ON OUR 5318 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach 4Ca 42- PWWW.TORTILLA-BAY.COM CI ! T-cm mv T_ 0 oo 00< 9 Mz Zzz o D L)LU -a < I 0 IC. L Cr 0 SW - 0 < 0 a.~g 4 UU2 0 z L w 12 i 2< c co < U ~fFr z. E <- 6LL < as LUI z <(L 0 Bd L ww Er GU 1V c~co 'o "' 09 (C) EE TUESDAY-SUNDAY 11-8, CLOSED MONDAY Across from Manatee Public Beach 3901 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941-778-7769 www.floridasecrets.com ED Let me help you navigate Anna Maria Island to find your perfect home or condo. uDI - Capt. Greg Burke GregBurkeSr@hotmail.com 941.592.8373 310 Pine Ave. Anna Maria Florida THE ISLANDER 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 7B OLD-FASHIONED ICE CREAM MADE ON SITE. Full-Service Soft Serve Ice Cream Sugar Free/Fat Free Shop! & Sorbet _.r. 3v AV -m CORTEZ Serving Lunch & Dinner w LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY IA2 1 M r < Big Screen TVs Big Menu Make plans now for our 8:30-? with Russ Adams Project 9701 Gulf Drive *Anna Maria *941-567-4056 www.slimsplaceami.com PZM.4zt 8B 1 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER Sandy's Lawn Service Inc. Sands Established in 1983 Lawn Residential and Commercial SFull service lawn maintenance Service Landscaping Clean-up 7781345 Hauling tree trimming 11Licensed & Insured Paradise Improvements 778-4173 Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Specialist -- Replacement Doors and Windows Steven Kaluza Andrew Chennault Fully Licensed and Insured Island References Lic#CBC056755 RDI CONSTRUCTION INC. SResidential & Condo Renovations Kitchens Bath Design Service o ,Carpentry Flooring Painting Commercial & Residential I References available 941-720-7519 PLANET STONE Marble & Granite Inc, Counter tops, vanity tops, bar tops and more. tez Road W., Bradenton 941-580-9236 - Bed: A bargain! ':i K!i!. < Q.' n!! Full &Twin, " )i ll '-. i ii.I>l iiII.i 0 new/used. 4 |I - |I .... .. h. ll .... 359-1904 "Movers Who Care" TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, HURRICANE Windows & Doors 941-730-5045 WEATHERSIDE LLC A We Come To You Full Warranty SAntennas Mirrors SPower Locks Trunks Door Handles 941-780-1735 ALLPOWERAUTO.COM SINCE 1995 1 FREE ESTIMATES FL MV-46219 Anderson & Associates Insurance Your Island Insurance Specialist WORKING TO SAVE YOU MONEY 941-729-7355 ANSWERS TO DEC 19 PUZZLE T A B B Y A T S E A P I BB M c -- OL VE FE IGN SEP I A CH111 WE L T E S DA Y C0 0 K R B IN IR K RATED LON N DONJ A C K TOOK CARE RIPS AI L OA S L E O NRA B A S S L AN C E GTE ERIN D TAG AVID HOLDS DA N T E M B A E D OR E RIO GE R HAVE S NL R ICHBUDDY TELEXED ICE NOT ORES PHOEN IXR VER TOIG A SHA U N ODEs STOCK ER MONT A NA JOE OARS PANE E GOMA N I A SL C KG RACE MA T E A N G CU BA N MAR NEWT N J U IC E ATE E AVES ATOLL ASLAN R E E ND PAT LE I -N T SET OF EIGHT crystal holiday gourmet coffee mugs, $15, Barracuda 63-inch pool worm/ cleaner, $100. 941-737-9173. CANTON HOME THEATER speaker system. Four cubed surround sound speakers, one center channel speaker and subwoofer, $1,850, new, now, $475. FUTON: LIGHT COLORED, hardwood, excellent, $75, wood coffee table, $90, screen doors, com- plete, $25. 941-778-3920. TWO YELLOW HUMMER kid bikes, $60/each or two for $100. 941-778-7978. MARY KAY COSMETICS: Full line at discounted prices. Jenifer, 941-224-1760, 941-739-0792. ANTIQUE COPPER POTS and bowls, collection $350. Burl-wood rocker, oak office chairs, col- lectibles. View at The Islander store, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. FOR SALE: LATERAL file cabinets: 2 HON 2-drawer black and 3 attractive 2-drawer wood files. Various office supplies. Also selling antique wood office chairs, Haitian art, collectible art, some framed. Many local artists. Home decor. 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. AERIAL PHOTOS of Anna Maria Island. View and purchase online: www.jackelka.com Individuals may place one free ad with up to three items, each priced $100 or less, 15 words or less. FREE, one week, must be submitted online. Email classifieds@islander.org, fax toll-free 1-866-362- 9821. (limited time offer) EARLY CLASSIFIED DEADLINE! The deadline for classified ads for the Dec. 26 edition is 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20. The Islander office will be closed Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 24-25. I WANT TO return to paradise: Looking for a business opportunity where I contribute solid real estate and property management experi- ence, a strong work ethic, and success-focused approach as my investment. References pro- vided. 205-531-0820 THE HIVE: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday. 119 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach. Locally hand- made jewelry, imported jewelry, Buddha-related stuff, illustrated cards, artistic T-shirts, South Afri- can gifts and much more. GLORIA DEI LUTHERAN Church: All are wel- come to come and worship with us! Please call 941-778-1813 or visit us at: www.gloriadeilu- theran.com for worship times. 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. TERRY HAYES, REALTOR. Premier Sothebys. 941-302-3100. Terry.hayes@sothebysrealty.com. Discoverannamaria.com. WANTED: YOUR OLD cell phone for recycling. Deliver to The Islander, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. MANATEE SAFETY SIGNS exclusively for boat- ers. Available at the Islander, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. 941-778-7978. FISHING GEAR WANTED: The Privateers and The Islander are collecting new or used, repair- able fishing poles and reels, nets, tackle, buck- ets, etc. to give to children. Donate your gear at The Islander newspaper office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. FREE GUN LOCK courtesy of Project Childsafe, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Com- mission and Holmes Beach Police Department. Pick up at The Islander office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. Don't be sorry, be safe. More ads = more readers in The Islander! ROSER THRIFT SHOP: Open 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Donation drop-off Wednesday. 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Half-price clothing sale in December. 511 Pine Ave. Anna Maria, 941-779-2733. NEW LOCATION: STEFF'S Stuff Antiques has moved to The Centre Shops on Longboat Key. 5380 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Unit 101. 941-383- 1901. YARD SALE: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22. Some Christmas items, antiques chest, this and that. 512 69th St., Homes Beach. WHERE'S WOODY ART & Yard Sale at The Islander, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22. Local artists offer bargains. Come see if namesake Woody Candish will appear! The Islander will host its annual yard sale. Island Shopping Center, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. LOST: BOX OF very large canvas prints, corner of Marina Drive and Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Lost Monday morning, Nov. 19. Jay, 941-243-4303. PARENTS NEEDED for loving homes to foster puppies and kittens until they are old enough for adoption. All food and medical provided. Julie, 941-720-1411. WELL-MANNERED RESCUED dogs are look- ing for great new homes or fosters. Larger dogs. Please, call for information, 941-896-6701. BIMINI BAY SAILING: Small sailboat rentals and instruction. Day. Week. Month. Sunfish, Laser, Windrider 17 and Precision 15. Call Brian at 941- 685-1400. POWER NOLES CUSTOM 11.5-foot fiberglass tunnel hull with bass seats. Very stable! Great for fishing-stand on the side without tipping, go in really shallow waters. Very fun boat for anyone who wants to get on the water! 2001 25-hp Mer- cury 2-stroke, plus a trolling motor with battery. Must see! $2,150 obo. Call Toni, 941-928-8735. SALES ASSOCIATE: MOTIVATED, experienced real estate licensee for busy Island office. Please call Jesse or Robin at 941-778-7244. KIDS FOR HIRE LOCAL ISLAND STUDENT babysitter available. CPR and first aid-certified, early childhood devel- opment major. Emily, 941-567-9276. RED CROSS-CERTIFIED babysitter and dog sitter. Reasonable rates for both. Call 941-527- 5051. BABIES, PETS AND plants: Responsible, trust- worthy, reliable, fun 17-year-old college student. Own transportation. 941-447-9658. NICOLE AND HALLIE'S babysitting, pet sitting and pet walking. Red Cross certified, good with animals. Hallie, 941-773-6317, Nicole, 941-370- 7981. KIDS FOR HIRE ads are FREE for up to three weeks for Island youths under 16 looking for work. Ads must be placed in person at The Islander office, 5404 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. CAREGIVER FOR ELDERLY: Full care, references, 30 years experience. Call between 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. 941-545-7114. ONLINE SERVICE: Did you know you can place classified ads and subscribe online with our secure server? You can view special sections and get breaking news, too. Check it out at www. islander.org. JIL DE C A SIFIED. TOASTED COMPUTER SERVICES. Your home and business specialist. On-site service, virus/ spyware, cleanup, system setup, upgrades, diag- nosis and repair, internet/wireless networking, custom system design. 941-224-1069. I DON'T CUT corners, I clean corners. Profes- sional, friendly cleaning service since 1999. 941 - 779-6638. Leave message. ISLANDER HANDYMAN SERVICE: 23-year Island resident, references. The Flying Dutchman LLC. We do all repair, interior and exterior, carpentry and more. Peter, 941-447-6747. ISLAND COMPUTER GUY, 37 years experience. On-site PC repairs, upgrades, buying assistance and training. Call Bill, 941-778-2535. WILDLIFE REMOVAL and relocation: Problem solving for all animals, big and small. Call Joe, Westcoast Nuisance Wildlife Service. 941-720- 4152. CLEANING BY LAURA offers everything on your list from kitchen and bath cleaning to dusting and emptying wastebaskets. 941-539-6891. TRANSPORT SERVICE: LET me drive you to the airport or anywhere in Florida. Flat rates. Reason- able. Call Mike, 941-567-6634. AFFORDABLE HURRICANE PROTECTION: Doors and windows, impact rated screen installs easily on inside, see-through, leave-up. Free esti- mate. Registered and insured. Island discount. TDWSINC@msn.com. 941-730-1399. U FLY I drive your car anywhere in the USA. Air- port runs, anywhere. 941-746-5651, 941-545- 6688. ISLAND LIVING CATERING/personal chef for your wedding, home and special events. 941- 345-4727. KEY CLEANERS & LINEN has expanded our ser- vices. We now offer residential cleaning. Family owned for 24 years on Longboat Key. Quality and service, now in your home. 941-383-1222. SEWING AND ALTERATIONS for clothing, bridal wear, home decor. Tuesday at Timeless Trea- sures 401 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. APPLIANCE REPAIR: ALL makes and models. 25 years experience. Call Jay, 720-217-2565. Reasonable rates. ALL THE DETAILS make a difference. Getting into the grooves of cleaning. Call 941-224-7506. I CAN FIX IT. Virus cleanup, system upgrade. Hardware, software and network repair. Cell phone repair, support. Replace broken camera, screen, etc. Give islander Socko a call: 941-799- 1169. BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS JD's Window Clean- ing, Holmes Beach. I make dirty windows spar- kling clean. 941-920-3840. ISLAND MERMAIDS CLEANING and Co.: 36 years of happy customers. Organizing, laundry, ironing, pet-watch, storm-check, etc. Rentals our specialty. 941-778-3046. BEACH SERVICE air conditioning, heat, refrig- eration. Commercial and residential service, repair and/or replacement. Serving Manatee County and the Island since 1987. For depend- able, honest and personalized service, call Wil- liam Eller, 941-795-7411. CAC184228. ANYONE CAN TAKE a picture. A professional creates a portrait. I want to be at your wedding! www.jackelka.com. 941-778-2711. RELAXING MASSAGE IN the convenience of your home or hotel. Massage by Nadia, more than 19 years on Anna Maria Island. Call today for an appointment, 941-518-8301. MA#0017550. MA#0017550. CONNIE'S LANDSCAPING INC. Residential and commercial. Full-service lawn maintenance, land- scaping, cleanup, hauling and more! Insured. 941-778-5294. JR'S LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE Lawns, native plants, mulching, trimming, haul- ing, cleanup. Island resident 25 years. Call 941 - 807-1015. STRAIGHT SHOT LANDSCAPE. Shell installed $45/yard at true specifications. Free appliance pick up. Call Shark Mark. 941-301-6067. SHELL DELIVERED AND spread. $45/yard. Haul- ing all kinds of gravel, mulch, top soil with free estimates. Call Larry at 941-795-7775, "shell phone" 941-720-0770. NATURE'S DESIGN LANDSCAPING. Design and installation. Tropical landscape specialist. Resi- dential and commercial. 30 years experience. 941-729-9381, 941-448-6336. Find more landscape ads on the next page! ---------------------------------------------q CLASSIFIED AD ORDER I ______al dlin _r IDec. _-ditio I CLASSIFIED RATES: Minimum $12 for up to 15 WORDS. 16-30 words: $20. 31-45 words: $40. BOX ad: additional $4. (Phone number is a "word.") The deadline is NOON Monday for the following week's paper. Run issue date(s) Amt. pd Date Credit card payment: 1 1 No. Name shown on card: House no. or P.O. box no. on cc bill Your e-mail for renewal reminder: Web site: www.islander.org 5404 Marina Drive Holmes Beach FL 34217 Ck. No. or TFN start date: Cash - _card exp. date Billing address zip code E-mail: classifieds@islander.org Fax toll free: 1-866-362-9821 Phone: 941-778-7978 ------------------------------------------------ A II.SO A N ER C ASSIF IED.S JUST VISITING PARADISE? Don't leave the Island without taking time to subscribe. You'll getALL the best news, delivered bythe mailman every week. Visit us at 5404 Marina Drive, Island Shopping Center, Holmes Beach orcall 941-778-7978. Online edition: www.islanderorg The Islander mm4-2038 CALL THE ISLAND'S FINEST... MORE THAN 2,500 LARGE AND SMALL PROJECTS ON AMI SINCE 1988! We provide design plans-You preview 3-D drawings WASH FAMILY CONSTRUCTION 941.725.0073 Darrin J. Wash State Lic. CBC1258250 LOCALLY OWNED AND FAMILY OPERATED SINCE 1988 ION'T SWEAT TIIE SMALL STUFF Need computer help? Chances R, I can help. And if I don't have the answer, I know someone who will. Start to finish hardware, software, network setup and repair, printer help, continu- ing support... Give me a call. If it's broke, I can usually fix it. Cell phones, too. e-SLtkSJUtjlOUS business network / computer solutions Socko Pearson, 941-799-1169, sockopearson@aol.com ISLAND REFERENCES AVAILABLE ADOPT-A-PET %''11111 11.1 111i: "Il 111'I 2i I. I, cr I I. ) A1 Ili .ihlc panlI i. l. < nki ll i 1 11.'1" I ,kI. da kIoII -...._ \ L li' pan\ and n ill n1. .d .111 \l1.1 lr.' Iid l 111. c'l'2 in a11 I l- p1 1iii 11 11k1 N IcI.l l.l d. lll cI and ul p l i datc oln i, ii \\ .l[Lil I'111 .J4, ,1111) [ 1111l i u_'h .IhIIIIM CI Nit K ill \ inia.Il lPc, uI In.a. t4 -sn -i, -i EpO SREDB. The Islander ThIe Islander THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 0 9B CHRISTIE'S PLUMBING Residential & Commercial Family Owned and Operated since 1975 New Construction Remodeling All Phases of Plumbing Repair & Service 778-3924 or 778-4461 5508 Marina Drive, Holrn-:, 1.' i* Ii"i Sat. BOAT, RV & TRAILER STORAGE Wash Down Easy Access Clean Security Cameras 941-232-9208 Rates starting at $40 Centrally located off Cortez Road 4523 30th St. W. Warehouse/Workshops also available AN'S RESCREEN IN! C"*-L *:-.GES, LANAIS, PORCHES, WINDOWS, C.:1 :*P j: i:b TOO BIG or Too SMALL. Free Estima.: Call Dan, 941-713-3108 Junior's Landscape & Maintenance Lawn care PLUS native plants, if ' mulch, trip, hauling and cleanup. " Call Junior, 807-1015 ." HONEY DO HOME REPAIR HHandyman Service Let us put our 35 years of experience to work for you! Joesph LaBrecaue *Carpentry *Drywall *Flooring *Painting *Siding *Tile 941.896.5256-office Free Estimates Licensed 941.807.5256-cell Ask about our 10% guarantee & Insured The Appliance Experts $25. OFF r':1 ,,ii ii v 1 1 ,in I , -,n iii a.] ALL MAKES & MODELS ,- Call the experts: 941-565-2580 10B U DEC. 19, 2012 U THE ISLANDER A rhD TOP NOTCH LAWN Care: Residential and com- mercial. For all your landscaping needs. 941-932- 6600. VAN-GO PAINTING residential/commercial, inte- rior/exterior, pressure cleaning, wallpaper. Island references. Bill, 941-795-5100. www.vangopaint- ing.net. TILE -TILE -TILE. All variations of ceramic tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship, prompt, reliable, many Island references. Call Neil, 941-726-3077. CUSTOM REMODELING EXPERT. All phases of carpentry, repairs and painting. Insured. Meticu- lous, clean, sober and prompt. Paul Beauregard, 941-730-7479. GRIFFIN'S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Inc. Handy- man, fine woodwork, countertops, cabinets and shutters. Insured and licensed, 941-748-4711. JERRY'S HOME REPAIR: Carpentry, handyman, light hauling, pressure washing. Jack of all trades. Call 941-778-6170 or 941-447-2198. _. 0 l EXPERIENCE 'Fft--- ~REPUTATION REACTOR. RESULTS 37 Years of Professional Service to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Heron Harbour 2/2 Condo, Htd Pool, tennis,furnished. $125,000. RENTALS GULFFRONT Vacation/Seasonal 5/4 Home. GULFFRONT Luxury Villas 2/2 and 1/1.5 Vacation/Seasonal CHARMING 1BR Cottage. Steps to beach. S1,200/month BOOKING NOW FOR 2013 SEASONAL/VACATION RENTALS HOLMES BEACH- 941-778-0807 tdollyl@yahoo.com www.tdollyyoungrealestate.com BIG FISH REAL ESTATE BOATERS PARADISE 3. BR :. BA ,:,n Jre. -:in l A A Jr ni ,i "'.;.74 -a 'i'i0 Call I, .1:r rmnn P',:J,:,1 *':41 *1.. *').. ,:,r Lo:n'.uri n )41 .7 2..24 I~,1 AWESOME SHORTSALE r,B '4BA t..:, hlll anJ J,:,:l,. N l n -r ,:.:niirui:i:n I' ':' 13i' .il3irt3r,'lr,:,ni t> 7:, 1:11: C all Lo:,n i.i.-erin ')4 1 7 7 .41, O:,r Carnen FJe,:,lJ '-.1 '.:.4-. WATERFRONT ON AMI! BRI', i'BA :n canal uIIll, Try,, anj l, n J I.:.r I.i Cd11 J.ll PFeln H dl', ,: r 9-41 .7 3.:'-^,:'.. . DEEP WATER CANAL 1'rl 3d', dlldt'l- -'J31 ,-p .'1r 1:1 ller ln 9l .nl;d; t ', I' .rnle n g 'e,,:,a 9I ..:. 4.V 5 ,l .:. --all F-: lr: Lonri 14. 67.- --fl --c *. ; -4 ** 1 f^W^. -*J.alg^ _____i. 4i-% PALM HARBOR 3/2. NW POOL HOME Ilann r I' n'. walk : bt..:l', Sl.nnlnq bauhlili.Ill,' updr1.l $3,4 49 ,: 1 00 1 1 call ",.-br1 B rker "1,-")') 1:11:11: 1 C l ,,:,:,l. S1,.,,qq: ', all,:,r '4 1 -'),'.,2- 1 '54 Bro.: er ')4 1 .? ?.'3:" ,,r, 5351 Gull Drive No. 4. Holmes Beach www.gobiglishreally.com 941-779-2289 SOUTHBAY HOME REPAIRS: If it's broken, stuck, loose, leaks, needs paint, etc. I'll fix it. Affordable quality work. 941-720-2906. THE FLYING DUTCHMAN LLC: Professional tile roof restoration. Call Peter for free estimate. 23-year Island resident, references, insured. 941- 447-6747. WEEKLY/MONTHLY/ANNUAL rentals: wide vari- ety, changes daily. SunCoast Real Estate, 941 - 779-0202, or 1-800-732-6434. www.suncoastinc. com. VACATION RENTALS ONLY: Private pool homes, and condo, 1 BR/1 BA overlooking golf course. Call 941-794-1515 or www.coastalpropertiesre- alty.com. ANNA MARIA RENTAL: 2BR/1 BA, washer and dryer, close to beach and fishing pier. Call 941- 720-2418. ANNUAL RENTAL: 2BR/1 BA cottage. Gulffront location. $1,500/month plus utilities. Call for details. Anna Maria Realty Inc. 941-778-2259. amrealty@verizon. net. 2BR/2BA HOLMES BEACH waterfront condo: Fully furnished with views, pools, Jacuzzi, tennis, boat dock. Available December-February, 2013. Call 818-620-3543. We listen. We list. We sell. Call the Neelys for a private showing of this unique property. 941.809.5565, 941.807.6220. cellwithmelandbarb.com I|LAND' "it7 v::^/' VACATION "- 3001 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach PROPERTIES, LLC 941.778.6849, toll free 800.778.9599 RENTAL WANTED: EFFICIENCY for single male retiree. Non-smoker, Jan.15-March 15. 941-778- 4389. CUTE VACATION EFFICIENCY: Screened porch, near boat ramp, many other area amenities, cable, WiFi. 941-779-6638. SEASONAL: LAKE-VIEW single-family house, 2BR/2BA, sunroom, laundry, garage, deck. Like new. Five minutes to beach. 941-587-4675. RESPONSIBLE COUPLE SEEKS annual rental on Anna Maria Island starting May/June. 2-3BR/2BA furnished, ground level, desirable. Consider six months. Local references. 207-669-5353. SEASONAL RENTAL, ANNA Maria, 200 feet to Rod & Reel Pier, 2BR/1BA, newly refurbished ground-floor duplex with all amenities, January and April still available, booking now for 2013-14. $1,800/month plus tax, 941-387-8610. OVERLOOKING TENNIS COURTS at IMG, 2BR/2BA furnished condo, garage, seasonal three-month or annual. Call 941-778-3926. PERICO ISLAND: 3BR/3BA private pool, com- munal pool, gym and tennis. Available December and January. 941-795-3778. www.pericoholiday- villa.co.uk. 2BR/2BA: 1,441 sf. Unfurnished on canal, $1,800/ month includes garbage. Pets welcome under 25 Ibs. 1-car garage. 941-779-9320. 1 BR/1BA GROUND FLOOR, Gulf to bay condo, heated pool, fishing pier. Over 55. $1,600/month, $1,100/month annual. 813-393-6002. THE ISLANDER U DEC. 19, 2012 0 11B RENT: $2,700/MONTH. Bradenton/Anna Maria Island area. 3BR/2BA home located on deep- water canal. This home has lovely, unique fea- tures, open space, in-ground pool, boat dock/lift, patio room, two-car garage and so many other amenities, why wait? Call us today for the special on the monthly rent. Close to many restaurants, shops and the beaches ... you don't want to miss out on this! 614-486-9833. SEASONAL OR WEEKLY cottage-style rentals. 1 BR/1BA or 1 BR/1BA with loft with pool. Walk to beach, shops or dining! 941-778-3426. Web site: www.spinnakerscottages.com. DIRECT GULFFRONT: 146 feet on the beach. 3BR/4.5BA, office recreation room, spa, pool, outdoor kitchen and theater, elevator, turnkey furnished. $3,750,000. Suncoast Real Estate, 941-779-0202 or 941-720-0288. Happy holidays from your friends in classified! EARLY CLASSIFIED DEADLINE! The deadline for classified ads for the Dec. 26 edition is 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20. The Islander office will be closed Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 24-25. DIRECT GULFFRONT CONDO: Bradenton Beach. Excellent investment rental income. www. flipkey.com/124227. $269,000. By owner, 941- 962-8220. FOR SALE BY owner: 1BR/1 BA mobile com- pletely remodeled with share, beach and bay access. Call 941-224-1652 for more informa- tion. CAPTAIN GREG BURKE: Duncan Real Estate. Need listings, all inventory sold or pending. Call 941-592-8373, email: gregburkesr@hotmail. com. WANTED: RENT-TO-own or owner financed, 2-3 bedroom, Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Braden- ton. 941-567-6724. WE'RE LOW, LISTINGS needed. Are you curious as to how much your home could be worth? Call us for a free professional consultation. Call Lynn at Edgewater Real Estate, 941-778-8104. WATERFRONT: M.D. FROM Norway with wife and teenage daughter are looking for a cash deal on a 3-4BR house on Anna Maria Island, in Bradenton or Lakewood Ranch. Call Helmer, Licensed Realtor, 941-592-8853. PLEASE CALL ME if you are interested in sell- ing. I am looking to purchase a home close to the beach or on the beach. 941-779-6158. No Realtors. WATERFRONT BAYOU CONDO: 2BR/1BA, $259,000. Owner financing or rent short/long term. Furnished completely remodeled, new appliances, washer, dryer, professionally deco- rated. 941-778-1410. LOT: 135-FOOT frontage, partial view Palma Sola Bay. Last one, desirable area, underground ser- vices. 941-792-8826. Adkins Florida Live the Dream. Buy a Florida Business Dream Big Real Estate I Business Opportunities I Auctions Business Price Seafood Restaurant 495.000 Cafe-Type Eatery Pre-School Dry Cleaners 99.000 995.000 795.000 Precious Metal Dealer 39.000 Children's Clothing Motel 99.500 995.000 Down Adjusted Net Sales 295,000 187,974 459,473 75,000 75,700 160,000 905,000 49,597 326,289 795,000 199,368 607,702 39,000 275,000 1,650,000 99,500 50,000 140,000 995,000 31,600 50,000 Call us for details on these great opportunities ... -21 1111 5239 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, Florida 34209 KEI Cell 941-713-1260 ILL "l1 HJames@AdkinsFloridaGroup.com i Sl www.AdkinsFloridaGroup.com LER JAMS Ground-level 3BR/2BA Island cottage, meticulously maintained, updated baths,granite countertops, and pool. $599,000 Visit us on Pine Avenue or online for many more listings and rental info. ISLAND FACES...SELLING ISLAND PLACES I Early classified deadline: 5 pm Thurs, Dec 20, for ads appearing in the Dec. 26 edition of The Islander newspaper. Group ml_ 12B 0 DEC. 19, 2012 0 THE ISLANDER [Jingle Bell] [Jingle Bell] [Jingle Bell] [Rock] For a Holiday Gift that Rocks ... Beach Bistro Gift Certificates; On-site or Online. A ,a , |