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.

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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.

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'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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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