Top Stories - This Week: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004 Sharks unwelcome in Anna Maria Islander Photos: Courtesy Nate Talucci Beachgoers and boaters reported large numbers of sharks along the beaches of Anna Maria Island last July - a somewhat unusual occurrence. Robert E. Hueter, Ph.D., director of the Center for Shark Research at Mote Marine Laboratory said the blacktip sharks pictured are adults about to migrate south and, typically, they're not dangerous. Commissioners in Anna Maria City evidently feel differently. Sharks still biting in Anna Maria By Rick Catlin. Islander Reporter Sharks 1, Islanders 0. Proposed discussion by the Anna Maria City Commission of a possible ban on shark fishing within the city didn't get a bite at the commission's Jan. 8 workshop. Full Story... Trolley nuisance under Anna Maria noise ordinance By Rick Catlin. Islander Reporter Anna Maria city commissioners had their first reading Jan. 8 of a proposed noise ordinance that is based upon a Manatee County ordinance, but if eventually passed, the Manatee County Area Transit's Island trolley might be the first offender. Full Story... 'Road rage' charged against Bradenton Beach official By Paul Roat. Islander Reporter An "intent to do violence" charge has been levied against Bradenton Beach City Commissioner Lisa Marie Phillips by a neighbor. Full Story... Cortez burglar takes some, leaves some A weekend break-in at the Cortez Cafe left new owners Sam and Deborah Varelis $100 poorer, but it could have been worse, said Ms. Varelis. Full Story... Holmes Beach again needs 'special counsel' By Rick Catlin. Islander Reporter Holmes Beach has a contracted city attorney, but following the latest recusement of the law firm of Dye, Deitrich, Prather, Petruff and St. Paul at the city commission's Jan. 6 meeting from yet another issue, the city again needs "special counsel" for legal advice. Full Story... Holmes Beach "savings" ordinance could be challenged By Rick Catlin. Islander Reporter The legal wrangling in Holmes Beach over the "savings clause" ordinance and related issues will likely continue at the planning commission's Jan. 22 meeting. Full Story... Hughes files civil suit for public records By Diana Bogan. Islander Reporter Attorney Richard Groff of Dye, Deitrich, Prather, Petruff & St. Paul filed a civil suit against Island Middle School Inc. and IMS Director Kelly Parsons Jan. 8 in Manatee County Circuit Court on behalf of ousted Island Middle School Director Gary Hughes. Full Story...

Click to view the party picture gallery