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Tag: Julia Hazel

  • Bradenton mother hopes new fentanyl classification will save lives

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — President Donald Trump recently signed an order to classify fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, which the State Department defines as “a nuclear, radiological, chemical, biological, or other device that is intended to harm a large number of people.”

    A Manatee County mother who lost her daughter to an accidental overdose believes this decision could prevent more deaths.

    What You Need To Know

    • A mother in Bradenton supports President Trump’s decision to classify fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction

    • Nanette Cobb lost her daughter to fentanyl poisoning three years ago

    • The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office seized a significant amount of fentanyl this year, but add there has actually been a downward trend in fentanyl use

    “It’s heartbreaking because my life, and our family’s life, are never going to be the same without her,” Nanette Cobb said about her daughter Nicolette, who she lost three years ago. 

    She was just 24 years old when she died of fentanyl poisoning.

    “She took one pill one time, and it killed her instantly,” Cobb said. “Nicolette was mourning the death of my mother. She had just died a couple days before. And talking with a friend online, said, ‘Oh, I have something that will help you with your mourning.’”

    Cobb says that one pill contained seven nanograms of fentanyl per liter. She says two nanograms is enough to kill an adult man.

    “I wish I could tell people that in time you feel better. It doesn’t. It gets worse,” Cobb said. “I miss her more and more each passing year that she doesn’t age, and I can’t share my life with her and her life with me,” she said.

    She says she believes President Trump classifying fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, along with increased emphasis on border security, will help keep fentanyl out of the U.S. and protect families.

    “Well, I felt relief because I hope that other mothers won’t endure what I have to endure,” Cobb said. “That we get this off the streets and stop killing our children.”

    The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is also fighting the opioid epidemic, with its largest fentanyl bust this year in March, when deputies seized $1.4 million worth of the drug.

    “That bust alone, in terms of fentanyl, that’s enough to kill, I want to say, five or six million people,” said Louis Licata, captain of the Special Investigations Division for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

    Licata says there has actually been a downward trend in fentanyl use in the county.

    According to MCSO data, so far in 2025 there is a 41% decrease in all overdoses and a 29% decrease in deaths from last year. The sheriff’s office also says fentanyl contributes to the majority of overdose deaths.

    “One reason is the security of the borders that’s making it harder for the drug traffickers and the cartels to get it in,” Licata said. “Doesn’t mean that they’re not going to or (are) moving to other traditional ways to get it into the U.S., or into our state, for that matter,” he said

    For now, Cobb is waiting for justice for her daughter. The suspect who gave Nicolette the pill is behind bars, and the case is with the prosecutor.

    “It would make me feel relieved,” she said. “I, of course, will forgive the person because that’s what my faith calls me to do. But it will be a final point for me to see that justice is served.”

    Cobb hopes that sharing her daughter’s story can help other families avoid the same tragedy.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • $20M plan in the works to improve safety along U.S. 41

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A busy stretch of U.S. 41 has a well-documented history of pedestrian-involved crashes. The Sarasota Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is looking to change that.

    The organization states that in Manatee and Sarasota counties, 35 percent of serious injuries involve people who are walking or biking in the region.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Sarasota Manatee Metropolitan Panning Organization (MPO) has a $20 million project to help increase safety along U.S. 41

    • The project includes closing gaps in sidewalks and improving the lighting

    • While the U.S. 41 Bay Drive to Cortez project begins in 2027, MPO estimates the entire project will be complete in 2029

    Many Bay area residents know U.S. 41 as a busy road.

    But for Danny Williams, walking along this road and seeing the high-speed traffic is a reminder of how precious life is.

    “My adult son… he’s been hit in a hit-and-run. It destroyed his bike on one road up here that didn’t have a sidewalk on the north side. And he got hit right at this intersection we’re coming up to,” he said as he walked Spectrum News to the location.

    Fortunately, he survived. But the near-tragedy is one of the reasons Williams advocates for pedestrian safety with the Sarasota Mobility Alliance. He’s even made lifestyle changes, like limiting driving and instead using public transit.

    “Reducing deaths and serious injuries is the main goal of all of it. If cars move slower, they will kill fewer people — and people will still get there in about the same amount of time anyway,” he explained.

    A pedestrian safety project is set to begin in 2027, which Williams says is a step in the right direction.

    The $20 million project will focus on U.S. 41 between Bay Drive and Cortez Road — and has been in the works for a decade.

    “This is one of our projects that we really want to focus on over the next several years — the funding of sidewalks and lighting improvements along U.S. 41. It’s a consistent corridor on our high-injury network, which means there is a disproportionate amount of fatalities and serious injuries along this corridor,” he said.

    MPO Deputy Director Ryan Brown says at least a dozen people every year are injured or killed along that stretch of U.S. 41, and hopes this project will reduce that number.

    “We certainly want to address gaps within the sidewalks and improve lighting conditions,” he explained.

    In the most recent year, MPO says there were 19 total bike or pedestrian crashes, and two of them were fatal.

    “We’ve tried to design and include elements in these improvements that will reduce conflict points, reduce speed and truthfully address this growing concern. We’re seeing more people die on our roadways.”

    Businesses along U.S. 41 have witnessed the crashes as well.

    Amanda Mote, a server at S.O.B. Burgers, says her restaurant lost a regular customer, and a friend.

    “I’ve worked here since 2015 — so 10 years. And it’s just a crazy road. So many accidents… people getting hit. And then there was one accident involving a motorcycle. Unfortunately, a friend of ours — and he passed away,” she said.

    For now, advocates like Williams will continue pushing for change to make this road and others safer.

    While the U.S. 41 Bay Drive to Cortez project begins in 2027, MPO estimates the entire project will be complete in 2029.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Reggae festival in Sarasota to raise money for Hurricane Melissa victims

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — Sarasota business and community leaders are raising money for Hurricane Melissa victims in Jamaica.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sarasota business and community leaders are raising money for Hurricane Melissa victims in Jamaica

    • The United for Relief Reggae Festival will support the on-the-ground relief efforts still underway

    • The festival will begin on Saturday, starting at 10 a.m. until 10 p.m., then again on Sunday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., at the Sarasota Fairgrounds

    The United for Relief Reggae Festival will support the on-the-ground relief efforts still underway in the Caribbean country.

    “I was born and raised in Montego Bay,” Reggae artist Greg Roy said.

    Singing is a passion for Roy, but recently it’s been a lifeline.

    Hurricane Melissa devastated his hometown of Montego Bay in Jamaica. Music — and support from his wife — have helped him process the destruction.

    The rest of Roy’s family lives in Jamaica, but after the storm, he didn’t hear from his daughter or his mother for four days.

    “When I finally started hearing from people and hearing some of the horror stories, we tried to individually help people. But they would say things like, ‘Listen, it’s bad. Focus on your family,’” he said.

    Fortunately, his family is doing OK.

    They are displaced from their homes, but they are staying positive.

    “Video calls — we’ve had video calls with my mom. She’s fine. She’s up in Kingston. A few things were lost, but anything we possess will be repossessed. The grandkids are laughing when we talk. And, you know, it’s Christmas. Everybody wants a gift, so we’ve got to keep the spirit,” he said.

    The Sarasota community is rallying to support Jamaicans with this weekend’s United for Relief Reggae Festival.

    Reggae artists like Roy will be performing, and the event will feature vendors providing authentic island cuisine and cultural showcases celebrating Jamaica’s heritage.

    The United for Relief Reggae Festival being set up, which will support the on-the-ground relief efforts still underway in Jamaica. (Spectrum News)

    The United for Relief Reggae Festival being set up, which will support the on-the-ground relief efforts still underway in Jamaica. (Spectrum News)

    “I think the importance of this event cannot possibly be understated. You’ve got individuals who are still without roads, shelter, drinkable water,” she said.

    Allison Imre is the chair of United for Relief, which organized the festival.

    She says the goal is to raise more than $100,000.

    One hundred percent of the proceeds will go toward helping hurricane victims in Jamaica.

    “It will go to food, clothing, shelter, even things as simple as Christmas gifts for the little kids,” she said.

    The island nation still has a long road to recovery… but artists like Roy are using music to spread positivity and connect people.

    The festival will begin on Saturday, starting at 10 a.m. until 10 p.m., then again on Sunday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Each ticket costs $30.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Phase 1 of Bishop Animal Shelter expansion project to be complete next week

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — It’s a major upgrade for Manatee County’s four-legged residents and the families waiting to meet them.

    Manatee County Animal Welfare is nearing completion on the first phase of a multi-million-dollar expansion project, one that’s set to eventually replace the county’s aging Palmetto shelter.

    Manatee County Animal Welfare is getting a much-needed boost at its Bishop Animal Shelter.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County Animal Welfare is nearing completion on the first phase of a multi-million-dollar expansion project, one that’s set to eventually replace the county’s aging Palmetto shelter

    • A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly expanded Bishop Animal Shelter will take place Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. 
    • Manatee County Animal Welfare is getting a much-needed boost at its Bishop Animal Shelter

    “This is needed because of our outdated shelter in Palmetto,” said Michael Strollo, Community & Veterans Services Communications Coordinator for Manatee County.

    He said crews are building a modernized campus featuring eight kennel buildings, an adoption center, expanded play yards and room for more features in the future.

    “Each kennel building will have a cleaning station and a water station. We have new fire-suppression systems for all the kennels to ensure safety for all of our animals,” he explained. “And the kennels themselves have indoor and outdoor runs.”

    Fifteen dogs can be housed in each building, and the plan is to transition all dogs from the Palmetto shelter to this site by the end of the year.

    And the play yards there are more than double the size of those at the Palmetto location, part of a campus-wide investment in enrichment and comfort.

    “Modern things that include fiber run throughout the property, upgraded security systems, cameras,” Strollo said. “Even just having water at every single play yard.”

    Local leaders, including Manatee County Board Chairman George Kruse, say improving animal welfare has been one of the community’s top concerns.

    “We have a shelter up in Palmetto that has been band-aided year after year and is in inadequate condition,” Kruse said. “Fortunately, Bishop Animal Shelter was graciously donated to us years ago, which led to this unique opportunity allowing us to expand and completely eliminate Palmetto.”

    These upgrades are all about giving dogs a safe, temporary home, one where they can heal, play and connect with future families.

    A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly expanded Bishop Animal Shelter will take place Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 11 a.m.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • New initiative called Drink & Dine Passport to help bring more business to AMI

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — You won’t need a plane ticket for this passport… just an appetite.

    Small businesses on Anna Maria Island are offering special discounts through a Drink & Dine Passport.

    It began last month to bring more people to the island’s restaurants.

    What You Need To Know

    • Small businesses on Anna Maria Island are offering special discounts through a Drink & Dine Passport

    • Anna Lichnowski started the initiative to help small businesses that were impacted by Hurricane Helene

    • Those interested can purchase the Drink & Dine Passport online or in person at the Coquina Beach Market on Dec. 12 and Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    For 35 years, Sam Marchi has been making and serving food with the same family recipes passed down through generations.

    “Yeah, this is what we do. And I think we’re pretty good at it,” he said.

    He’s the owner of Pizzano’s Pizza & Grinderz. While his business has other locations, this one in Holmes Beach has been going through ups and downs since rebuilding after it was flooded by Hurricane Helene.

    “It’s been a rough year. Things have been a little bit off. You know, I think that’s just for everybody in general on the island,” he explained.

    So Marchi and other businesses on the island agreed to participate in what’s called the Drink & Dine Passport.

    Each business creates custom discounts, and people who purchase the passport can redeem each offer once.

    So far, more than 120 people have purchased one.

    “There is a lot of demand. People are excited,” said founder Anna Lichnowski.

    Lichnowski first thought of the idea after experiencing firsthand what natural disasters can do.

    “We come from a small town. It was impacted by Hurricane Sandy back in 2012. We know how hard it is to recover as a small business,” she explained.

    She says it’s all about encouraging people to shop local.

    Around 30 Anna Maria Island businesses are part of the passport, each offering different food and drink discounts.

    “They all want more business. They need more business,” she said.

    The passport costs $25 and covers up to four people in a family.

    Marchi says he’s giving a 10% discount off orders when customers show the passport.

    “I think it’s going to help us. It’s going to draw new customers in. And obviously, any new customers help all the island businesses,” he said.

    Marchi knows that any initiative to help island businesses regain strength is something he wants to support.

    Those interested can purchase the Drink & Dine Passport online or in person at the Coquina Beach Market on Dec. 12 and Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Anna Maria Island businesses, dealing with low tourism, hope for holiday help

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Anna Maria Island businesses are feeling the pinch this holiday season.

    What You Need To Know

    • Anna Maria Island businesses are hoping to get more foot traffic during holiday events

    • One business, “The Fudge Factory,” hosts its annual candy cane making presentation — this year hoping to bring in more money

    • It begins at 6 p.m. and is held every Friday and Saturday until Dec. 20.


    One local shop owner is hoping some Christmas spirit will help turn things around.

    Making fudge is like a science — but for Benjamin Kaminecki, it’s an art form he has been mastering for decades.

    “I love it. It’s my passion,” he said.

    He is the owner of The Fudge Factory in Bradenton Beach. It’s in a sweet spot of town, right next to Bridge Street Pier and other shops.

    His number one selling item is in the store name — of course, fudge. And on this day, he is making his favorite flavor.

    “Chocolate pecan,” he said.

    But his overall store sales have declined within the past couple of months, down 30 percent.

    “It’s been really a struggle,” Kaminecki said.

    He thinks part of it is because of a slow tourism season and the government shutdown, but also from being devastated by Hurricane Helene last year. During December, January and February, he was down 70 percent.

    “That was the worst experience of my lifetime. We lost our money because of the hurricane. The hurricane hurt us a lot. Business has not been the same since then,” Kaminecki said.

    So now, he’s banking on his annual candy cane making presentation to bring in some money.

    “This will help out with our community over here,” he said.

    But he’s not alone.

    The president of the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce said other businesses are also hoping holiday events will bring in more people.

    “I do know that tourism has been down so far this year,” she said.

    But this could just be a temporary setback.

    “Now I am hearing from a lot of the accommodations that they are already heavily booking into next year,” she said.

    For now, Kaminecki is focusing on his business, making sweet treats with a smile.

    “And that’s all she wrote. You have chocolate turtle fudge at The Fudge Factory,” he said.

    The candy cane making presentation begins at 6 p.m. It is every Friday and Saturday until Dec. 20.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County agencies providing Thanksgiving meals

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Food banks across the Bay area are helping people in need this Thanksgiving.

    Today, dozens of volunteers in Manatee County are handing out warm meals.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dozens of volunteers in Manatee County are handing out warm meals

    • Meals on Wheels Plus plans on handing out food to more than 400 seniors

    • Food Bank of Manatee County said that during one of their recent events, they gave away more than 700 frozen turkeys and sides to families in need

    The nonprofit, Meals on Wheels Plus plans on handing out food to more than 400 seniors.

    That includes all the regular meal fixings and dessert.

    The organization says they are met with more people needing food every year, so all throughout this week the organization held events to help make sure families had enough for a meal today.

    Meanwhile, the Food Bank of Manatee County said that during one of their recent events, they gave away more than 700 frozen turkeys and sides to families in need.

    Officials said that while they serve families in need every year, there were additional challenges this year. those include the government shutdown and just the overall rising costs of living. 

    “This year, well, this year, I would say it just continues,” said Maribeth Phillips, Manatee’s Meals on Wheels Plus president. “The need continues, and the increased need continues. And that is because of the cost of food. It’s because of the cost of rent and the cost of all kinds of inflationary factors.”

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County resident gives lawn care advice for people during drought

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    PARRISH, Fla. — Much of the Tampa Bay area is experiencing moderate drought conditions. In the Sarasota–Bradenton area, while the yearly rain total is only two inches below average, our Weather Experts say a lack of rainfall over the last three months has created these conditions.

    What You Need To Know

    • Much of the Tampa Bay area is experiencing moderate drought conditions

    • In the Sarasota–Bradenton area, while the yearly rain total is only two inches below average, our Weather Experts say a lack of rainfall over the last three months has created these conditions

    • Manatee County resident Allyn Hane has been taking care of lawns and teaching people how to maintain their yards through his business, Yard Mastery, and through his YouTube channel, The Lawn Care Nut

    • Manatee County Water Conservation Outreach Specialist Breanna Bieberich said the conditions are in Phase 1, but it is possible it could move to Phase 2


    For over 20 years, Allyn Hane has been taking care of lawns and teaching people how to maintain their yards.

    He runs his own business called Yard Mastery. He sells fertilizer and other lawn products, but he’s also become a bit of a YouTube sensation. His channel, The Lawn Care Nut, has nearly 600,000 subscribers, and four of his videos have over 4 million views.

    This week, Hane is demonstrating how residents can keep their lawns safe during drought conditions, like what Manatee County is currently experiencing.

    “So what I’m going to do is put the tuna can out right in the (sprinkler) stream, and I’m going to measure how long it takes to get a half inch of water down,” he said.

    Hane said this helps conserve water — you’ll know exactly how long to let your sprinklers run.

    “By putting that tuna can out there and putting your sprinklers on, you wait until it gets a half-inch deep in that tuna can, because that’s what we consider good watering, is one-half inch every couple 2 or 3 days.” he explained.

    The county says there are Phase 1 restrictions currently in place, which limit watering to once a week, but it’s possible drought conditions could worsen.

    Manatee County Water Conservation Outreach Specialist Breanna Bieberich said the conditions are in Phase 1, but it is possible it could move to Phase 2.

    “If we were to move to Phase 2, that would mean residents would be watering less. We would be enforcing our restrictions more heavily. Conservation officers, compliance officers would be out and about making sure that residents follow the rules,” she said.

    Hane also recommends products like Moisture Max that help retain water.

    “What this does is it sequesters water in the soil and helps to keep it from evaporating. So, products like this can make the watering that you’re doing go further, again, because they’re holding that water in the soil,” he said.

    Hane considers himself an educator, and whether it’s rainy season or dry season, almost everyone can benefit from a little lawn care advice.

    Our Weather Experts also point out that in the Sarasota–Bradenton area, 2024 was the second-wettest year on record, with more than 78 inches of rain. That means it will take more time for drought conditions to significantly impact our water reservoirs.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Bradenton businesses hoping seasonal events will bring in more people

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Businesses in downtown Bradenton are getting into the Christmas spirit, hoping seasonal events will bring in more customers after what they say has been a slow couple of months for sales.

    What You Need To Know

    • Shops say they are experiencing a slow couple of months, and are hopeful that seasonal events will help bring them more money

    • Recent government shutdown, uncertainty cited as reasons for people shopping and spending less

    • The Holiday Shop Crawl event will be going on until Dec. 15. If customers visit all 13 retailers, they’ll be eligible to win a prize

    Finding beauty in vintage items is an art to Carolyn Nees.

    She is the owner of The Vintage Vine Market in Bradenton. The store opened in 2023 in Bradenton’s historic district.

    But recently, she said business has been slow.

    “You know, we’re probably year-over-year off about 25%,” she said.

    She hopes to see a bump in sales by participating in local events like the “Holiday Shop Crawl.” Its purpose is to encourage people to buy local at 13 vendor shops in Manatee County.

    “We’re hoping to, kind of as a community, as colleagues, try to introduce each other’s customers and cross-shop,” she explained.

    Dan Yonko with the Manatee Chamber of Commerce spoke about how local events help bring people into businesses, and he explained some reasons why shops might be experiencing a dip in foot traffic.

    “I think people are just — there’s a lot of uncertainty with the economy and, you know, just coming out of the government shutdown. So I think now that the government’s reopened, people are going to have a little bit more sense of security,” he said.

    Yonko said they’re also seeing shops get creative.

    “A lot of people are doing bundles and specials. One of the things we at the chamber do is help promote local businesses. Small businesses are the heart of our community,” he said.

    For Nees, her biggest challenges came after last year’s hurricanes.

    “This has been a difficult season for the community. And we recognize that our customers are going through some difficulties as well,” she said.

    News hopes the local events this holiday season help her bounce back — and with community support, downtown businesses will benefit.

    The Holiday Shop Crawl event will be going on until Dec. 15. If customers visit all 13 retailers, they’ll be eligible to win a prize.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Anna Maria Island business, one of many struggling post-hurricanes, to close

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — An Anna Maria Island business is closing its doors for good next month after experiencing its worst year. 

    The Cheesecake Cutie and Café says sales are down 50% this year, and that it’s been a struggle to recover from last year’s hurricanes — and the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce says they aren’t alone.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Cheesecake Cutie and Café plans to close its doors on Dec. 18

    • The island’s Chamber of Commerce says they aren’t alone; other businesses are still struggling to recover after 2024 storm season

    • Jennifer Geils opened the cafe in 2020 but says business has declined

    Making desserts for others is a treat for Jennifer Geils. She says it’s a passion that has been passed down for generations.

    “So the cheesecake is my mom’s recipe. It’s been in our family for 40 years, so I grew up watching her make this,” she said.

    Geils opened The Cheesecake Cutie and Café in Holmes Beach in 2020.

    “I am Italian, and food has always been the place for people to gather and just be happy,” she explained.

    She shares her happiness with others who love sweets.

    But soon, moments like this will end. Geils decided to close the store when her lease expires in December.

    “It’s been a struggle financially for the last year,” she said.

    This year, she says her sales are she believes the decline is related to last year’s hurricanes.

    She faced financial losses after Milton — the store lost power, leading to wasted food. But it’s the aftermath of last year’s storms that her business could not recover from.

    “I think the island people have been afraid to come, and so all their vacations were rebooked,” she said.

    The Cheesecake Cutie and Café is not the only business struggling. The Chamber of Commerce says other businesses are also still in the recovery process.

    “It has been a little slower this year than it typically is. I think that visitors are waiting to see for us to get all the way through this hurricane season,” Geils said.

    While this chapter of her life is closing, she has plans for her future — including a move to Alabama.

    “We are hoping to do something up there with a different name completely. We’re still working on that, but, yeah. So it’s a new adventure,” she explained.

    It will be a new beginning, but with the same recipes and love for sweets as before.

    The last day for The Cheesecake Cutie and Café will be Dec. 18. The café is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Rod & Reel Pier restaurant opens its temporary location

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — After being closed more than a year, a popular business is finally open again on Anna Maria Island — the Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant.

    Last year, the structure was literally swept away by Hurricane Milton.

    But today, customers and staff are back. The restaurant opened its temporary location as it waits for the pier to be rebuilt.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Rod & Reel Pier restaurant is back for the first time in more than a year

    • Last year, the structure was literally swept away by Hurricane Milton

    • The temporary location for the Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant is in Holmes Beach at 3246 East Bay Dr.

    The Rod & Reel Pier is back for the first time in more than a year.

    Assistant Manager Dawn Stockford welcomed longtime customers back to the restaurant they call their second home.

    “We are ready, guys. We are ready — so happy to see this turnout,” she said.

    It’s the first look inside the new — but temporary — location in Holmes Beach. And it’s like a walk down memory lane for many, passing by pieces on the wall that people recognize from the original location, along with photos reflecting memories from the pier.

    “I love it — very nice,” one customer said as they walked in for the first time.

    It took eight months for this place to get up and running. Now staff members are back, serving customers with the same food from the original menu.

    Stockford has been working for the Rod & Reel Pier for 10 years.

    She calls this a temporary home until the pier is rebuilt, but she still plans to make the best of it.

    “We are going to build new memories here,” she said.

    There is no set date for when construction will begin at the site of the original pier and restaurant, but there are still plans to rebuild.

    “Now I think we need, like, five different permits from different agencies. And we’ve gone through, I’d say, about 80 to 90 percent. I mean, we’re well on our way,” the owner, Olie Lemke, said.

    Lemke says revenue from the now-open restaurant will help the rebuilding efforts.

    “Every dime that’s spent here goes into rebuilding the pier, and every meal counts,” he said.

    And the customers know each meal means they’re one step closer to sitting at their spot on the pier.

    One customer, Flint Heidlebaugh, was there enjoying a meal.

    “Oh, it’s awesome. It feels great. Everybody’s having a good time. And I love the pictures and the memorabilia,” he said.

    For Stockford, happy customers mean a busy restaurant — and a sense of normalcy, even if it’s miles away from the original Rod & Reel Pier.

    The temporary location for the Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant is in Holmes Beach at 3246 East Bay Dr.


    PHOTO GALLERY:

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  • Bradenton Convention Center completes $54 million project

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A recently completed Manatee County project is expected to bring in up to $40 million a year to the local economy.

    A two-year, $54 million improvement project at the Bradenton Area Convention Center significantly expanded the facility.

    Business owners like James Schumacher hope the project brings an increase in foot traffic to his location.

    “It’s all made in house,” he said of Papa’s Pizzeria, which he has owned and operated in Palmetto for two years. Everyone calls him Papa Jimmy.

    “I like being around people,” Schumacher said. “I used to be in the mortgage business, and I used to be in the restaurant business years before that. And I like the restaurant business.”

    Now his main goal is trying to grow his customer base and eventually expand his business. One possible path to seeing more people buy his pizzas is through an increase in foot traffic from events held at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, located less than two miles from the pizzeria.

    The convention center just completed a capital improvement project, adding 30,000 square feet of space to the building, including a grand ballroom, breakout rooms, meeting rooms and other additions. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “From the gun shows to the Comic-Con and all these different things that they’ve got going on over there, they are popping in here,” he explained.

    The convention center just completed a capital improvement project, adding 30,000 square feet of space to the building, including a grand ballroom, breakout rooms, meeting rooms and other additions.

    Elliott Falcione, the executive director for the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, explained how this addition to the convention center will help.

    The first event at the Bradenton Area Convention Center will be this Wednesday. It will host the Florida Sports Foundation Hall of Fame ceremony. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    The first event at the Bradenton Area Convention Center will be this Wednesday. It will host the Florida Sports Foundation Hall of Fame ceremony. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “We needed that second mass assembly room. That is needed to be able to bring in conventions to our community. So we’re at a 95,000-square-foot convention center. That is the biggest from Saint Petersburg to Naples,” he said.

    He said the convention center is expected to significantly contribute to the local economy.

    “(By) 2027 mid and beyond, this facility should be stimulating the economy by $30 to $40 million a year,” he said. “As you know, Bradenton and Palmetto are going through an extensive redevelopment process. You need assets like this to feed the small business community 12 months a year.”

    The expanded convention center provides a new platform for the community — one that business owners hope will help them grow.

    The first event at the Bradenton Area Convention Center will be this Wednesday. It will host the Florida Sports Foundation Hall of Fame ceremony.

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  • Manatee County expands its Emergency Vehicle Preemption System

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — More than 100 intersections in Manatee County will undergo technology upgrades to help first responders reach emergencies faster.

    The county announced it is expanding a program called the Emergency Vehicle Preemption System. It modifies traffic signals so the lights turn green for first responders, saving crucial time in emergencies.

    What You Need To Know

    • More than 100 intersections in Manatee County will help get first responders to emergencies quicker

    • All county EMS vehicles will be fully equipped with the device

    • Manatee County says the expansion is set to be complete by the fall of 2026. Officials also say there have been no issues with traffic using this new system


    Stepping into the job of an EMT is something Chloe Millard was inspired to do.

    “I became an EMT to follow in my dad’s footsteps. He is still currently employed with the county and has been for 32 years,” she said.

    She has been an EMT since 2023, the same year Manatee County first started a pilot program using the Emergency Vehicle Preemption System. It uses technology that recognizes when first responders are approaching an intersection through a device installed in their emergency vehicle. That device automatically connects with the traffic light to turn it green.

    “I think it’s very helpful with clear roadways and intersections, and every second matters in someone’s medical emergency,” she said.

    The system was originally installed at 24 intersections, with 20 vehicles equipped with devices to change the lights. Now, the county is incorporating the technology at an additional 95 intersections, and all Manatee emergency vehicles will have preemption devices.

    “So by having that intersection change happen prior to the ambulance even getting there, we’re ensuring safety for the crew as well as safety for everyone else going through that intersection,” said Jason Evans, the district chief of operations in Manatee County EMS.

    In an emergency, every second counts, and Manatee County is committed to making sure first responders have every advantage possible.

    Manatee County says the expansion is set to be complete by the fall of 2026. Officials also say there have been no issues with traffic using this new system.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • SeaPort Manatee handled a record number of cargo in 2025

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    PALMETTO, Fla. — SeaPort Manatee is making waves, moving more cargo than ever before.

    The 55-year-old port handled nearly 12 million tons of cargo in fiscal year 2025, which concluded at the end of September.

    What You Need To Know

    • SeaPort Manatee handled 11.85 million tons of cargo in the 2025 fiscal year

    • This is an all-time record

    • Troy Layton, the Director of Operations and Maintenance at SeaPort Manatee, says there was new business this year that contributed to that record number

    It starts with customers like Carlos Diaz, the COO of World Direct Shipping.

    The international company uses four ports, but Seaport Manatee is its only American trade hub.

    “We concentrate on the Mexico–U.S. trade,” Diaz said.

    World Direct Shipping is one of SeaPort Manatee’s largest customers.

    “From Mexico, we’re shipping a lot of produce, a lot of appliances. There’s a lot of different fertilizer, phosphates, different chemicals,” he said. “We also ship lava, rocks for gardening. There’s just a whole host of things. And then from the United States, we’re shipping a lot of paper products.”

    As part of SeaPort Manatee’s 20-year vision plan, the facility will continue to expand its infrastructure to keep up with demand. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Troy Layton, the Director of Operations and Maintenance at SeaPort Manatee, says there are several products that helped the port reach that record cargo amount this year — including produce and construction materials, along with two other high-volume products.

    “We’ve gotten a lot of new business recently with our bulk liquid and fuels — those have dramatically increased,” Layton said.

    A planned expansion has officials thinking even bigger for next year.

    As part of SeaPort Manatee’s 20-year vision plan, the facility will continue to expand its infrastructure to keep up with demand.

    SeaPort Manatee handled 11,855,828 tons of cargo in the 2025 fiscal year. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    SeaPort Manatee handled 11,855,828 tons of cargo in the 2025 fiscal year. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “We’re looking to expand our container operations because we see that more cargo is moving toward containerization. So we’re going to build Phase Three of our container operation, and that’s another 16 acres to add to our tenants. We can bring in a higher volume of containers,” Layton said.

    As SeaPort Manatee continues to expand and grow, businesses like World Direct Shipping are excited for the future.

    Layton said they anticipate another increase in business when their container operation is complete. As they create more space, there will be more room for containers.

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  • Manatee County celebrates the ownership of Mixon Fruit Farms property

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — A Bradenton landmark is entering a new era in the community.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County on Friday celebrated its purchase of the historic Mixon Fruit Farms with a “Mixon in Bloom” event

    • As the county officially takes ownership, Commissioner Amanda Ballard said it is moving forward with planned projects for the farm — including a food market, a community library center and other agri-tourism initiatives

    • Friday’s event included a Pass of the Key ceremony

    Manatee County on Friday celebrated its purchase of the historic Mixon Fruit Farms with a “Mixon in Bloom” event featuring a symbolic Passing of the Key ceremony.

    “The Mixon family knows their farm and its legacy aren’t ending today. It’s being passed to a new generation for the next chapter,” said Liam Fernandez.

    This wasn’t Fernandez’s first trip to Mixon Fruit Farms — he has been a frequent visitor.

    “Well, pretty much all my life. I’ve lived here since I was born,” he said.

    But Friday, the Southeast High School senior was here with a purpose. It was a class field trip to help volunteer at the “Mixon in Bloom” event.

    The county anticipates all renovations and changes on the property to be complete within two years. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “It’s always nice to get out and get involved,” he said.

    As the county officially takes ownership, Commissioner Amanda Ballard said it is moving forward with planned projects for the farm — including a food market, a community library center and other agri-tourism initiatives.

    “We also are really dedicated with this space to not only preserving the heritage of agriculture here, but also helping a new generation to see the value of ag,” she said.

    Friday's event included a Pass of the Key ceremony. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Friday’s event included a Pass of the Key ceremony. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    It’s a future that the Mixon family is excited for.

    “We are so happy that we were able to preserve the legacy,” Mixon said.

    It’s a legacy that the community will continue to enjoy — and students like Liam will continue to learn from.

    Commissioner Ballard said the county anticipates all renovations and changes on the property to be complete within two years.

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  • Bay area businesses experience increase in small wedding requests

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Weddings are meant to be a day to remember.

    What You Need To Know

    • Some local businesses say they’ve seen an uptick in requests from couples to do smaller weddings 

    • Beach AMI Weddings and Flowers by Edie are among them

    • According to The Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding last year was more than $31,000 — an increase of 4.2% over 2023


    But more couples are making sure that big expenses aren’t part of the memory.

    Smaller weddings became more frequent starting with the pandemic — but years later, the trend is continuing.

    Being busy isn’t just a choice for Karen Riley-Love, who owns AMI Beach Weddings. It’s a lifestyle.

    “That’s beautiful,” she said while looking at flower arrangements and preparing for three weddings.

    Over the past year, she said most of the weddings she has booked have been small weddings.

    “Part of it is, you know, the economy,” Riley-Love said. “People have less money to spend on weddings.”

    The smallest package she provides is called the “Love Story Mini Wedding.”

    She says it works for up to 20 guests and costs $2,800.

    “That sweet spot — really around 20 to 30 guests — has increased by at least 30%, and my 50-guest weddings have come down probably by about 15%,” Riley-Love said.

    Her Anna Maria Island business has taken a hit — not just because of last year’s hurricanes, but also due to the trend of smaller weddings.

    She said her profits are down 7% year-to-date, although recently there has been reason for optimism.

    “But this October has been my busiest October I’ve ever had. So we’re seeing it come back — I’m definitely seeing the markets are changing.”

    According to The Wedding Report, the average cost of a wedding last year was more than $31,000 — an increase of 4.2% over 2023.

    Other businesses that serve weddings, like Flowers by Edie, have also noticed an increase in smaller requests.

    Riley-Love said if this trend of smaller weddings continues, she might need to change her business model.

    “I do have concerns that I may have to raise prices on the packaging,” she said.

    She cares about turning a couple’s vision for their perfect day into reality.

    “It’s more important to me to have high-quality elements — those perfect pieces,” she said.

    Because Riley-Love believes every wedding should be special.

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  • Manatee County’s largest wildlife rescue center reopens

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    BRADENTON BEACH, Fla. — After more than a year of work and repairs, Manatee County’s largest wildlife rescue center recently fully reopened.

    What You Need To Know

    • Wildlife, Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach reopens after over a year of repairs

    • The center was hit by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, causing significant damage

    • Volunteers have helped more than a thousand animals this year

    For eight years, Jill St John has called this rescue center part of her family.

    “I love animals immensely. Whenever they get bigger, a lot of us volunteers are blessed to release them back into the wild,” she said.

    She’s a volunteer at Wildlife, Inc. Education & Rehabilitation Center, which just fully reopened last month after Hurricanes Helene and Milton caused flooding and damage at their Bradenton Beach location.

    “I’m glad we are reopen,” she said.

    While the center still took in rescues, it remained closed for more than a year. They were finally able to turn their phones back on last month.

    “The phone is ringing a lot again,” she said.

    So far this year, the center has helped more than a thousand rescued wildlife animals — including a bird with West Nile virus that came in this week.

    Gail Straight, the owner, said it took more than a year to reopen because of issues with getting materials and finding people to build — including rebuilding the homes for the wildlife.

    “I had to get new cages … All the shelves and everything are new,” she said.

    As more calls come in each day at the center, St John knows her volunteer work is helping give the wildlife animals a new beginning.

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  • Manatee County businesses serve free food to SNAP-impacted families

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    HOLMES BEACH, Fla. — While the federal government shutdown continues, White House officials have said this month’s SNAP benefits will be partially covered by an emergency fund.

    But with families still unsure when the benefits will be fully reinstated, local businesses are stepping up to the plate to serve free meals to the people who need them.

    What You Need To Know

    • While the federal government shutdown continues, White House officials have said this month’s SNAP benefits will be partially covered by an emergency fund

    • Local businesses like Paradise Cafe in Holmes Beach are serving meals for free to families whose SNAP benefits have been impacted by the shutdown

    • Co-owner Jackie Estes says if families want to come eat for free at Paradise Café, all they have to do is show their SNAP card and identification

    In the hospitality industry, Jackie Estes, co-owner of Paradise Café in Holmes Beach, knows that being successful is about more than just taking orders.

    “What I love about my job is the people I meet — people from all over the world,” she said. “After 30 years, I have customers that keep coming back.”

    And now she’s welcoming people who need help.

    Last week, the café announced on social media that they would offer free food for any family whose SNAP benefits have been impacted. Already, some families have taken them up on the offer.

    “We just started it. It just got on a couple of days ago, and we just had one guy with three little boys,” Estes said. “The kids sat down, and we made the pancakes, and they had a great time.”

    She said she will continue serving up hot plates until SNAP benefits are fully reinstated. She believes that even small acts of kindness can make a difference.

    “I just hope that everybody that has a chance to do something small,” she said. “You don’t have to do anything big and major. Do it in your community.”

    Estes said she knows she is making an impact and hopes others will do the same.

    Estes says that if families want to come eat for free at the Paradise Café, all they have to do is show their SNAP card and identification.

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  • The Food Bank of Manatee hosts emergency drive-thru

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — As many families are without SNAP benefits for the month of November, local organizations are stepping up to make sure no one goes hungry.

    On Tuesday, Republican State Rep. Vern Buchanan toured some of those community efforts firsthand, seeing how they are filling in the gap for families in need.

    It began with an emergency drive-thru at Dream Church in Bradenton.

    What You Need To Know

    • Many Manatee County families are without SNAP benefits for November

    • The Food Bank of Manatee hosted an emergency drive-thru at Dream Church

    • State Rep. Vern Buchanan is supporting these efforts with a $10,000 donation

    • BELOW: View pantries and soup kitchens

    Carolann Drawdy arrived two hours before the food giveaway — but she says it was worth the wait.

    “It’s been rough, but we are getting by,” she said.

    She’s been receiving SNAP benefits for about four years. Between her and her cousin, they receive almost $300 a month.

    “It’s a little difficult. I also take care of an autistic cousin, and he also gets food stamps. So I’m not able to get his breakfast, lunch, or dinners at this moment. We’re just trying to get whatever we can right now to help,” Drawdy said.

    She waited in line to receive groceries that will cover 25 meals. She says her food supply at home is running low.

    “It’s just hard to get by — having to scrape by for extra food when you don’t even have money sometimes to pay your rent or your water,” Drawdy said.

    Carolann Drawdy in her vehicle as she picks up food from Dream Church. (Spectrum News)

    According to The Food Bank of Manatee, local food pantries in Manatee County have reported an increase of up to 40% in requests for help.

    Volunteers with the food bank say they are doing their part to help.

    “SNAP benefits need to be approved. The money needs to be released. Not sure when that’s going to happen, and it is just critical that we help our community,” volunteer Liz Kappel said.

    Buchanan toured the Food Bank of Manatee today and says he is donating $10,000 to the organization.

    “If you can imagine, one in eight Americans count on their SNAP benefits. That needs to get resolved now,” Buchanan said.

    While Drawdy is uncertain where some of her next meals will come from, she says she’s still remaining positive.

    “I thank my Heavenly Father every day for being here,” she said.

    Drawdy tells me she plans on attending more of these events in the future until her SNAP benefits are fully reinstated.

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  • Manatee County Veterans Council creates displays to honor veterans

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — November is National Veterans and Military Families Month — and to honor this, Manatee County volunteers are decorating so the community always remembers the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.


    Molly Boardman is a collector of items from the past that now serve as reminders.

    “This means the world to me,” she said.

    Her collection has grown over the last 20 years.

    Now, she’s putting the memories on display at the South Manatee Branch Library in honor of National Veterans and Military Families Month.

    “Well, what I’m hoping it gives people in the community, especially children, is a chance to see these things — and hopefully talk about the sacrifice that people have made for our freedoms,” she explained.

    Molly served in the Army from 1985 to 1989, then was in the Reserves until 2009. She also had a 20-year career as a teacher in Manatee County. Now, she has been selected as Veteran of the Year by the Manatee County Veterans Council.

    “I come from a very, very long line of military people, all the way back to the American Revolution. I wanted to feel like I was doing my part,” she said.

    That family history made her appreciate even the little things about the military. She still has her first pair of boots.

    “Basic training was very, very difficult to get through. I still wear them sometimes,” she said.

    Other volunteers from the Manatee County Veterans Council — like Air Force veteran Victor McKenzie — are hoping this exhibit, which features Boardman’s items, will remind the community of what veterans have sacrificed.

    “I think it’ll help explain the different branches of service, the different periods of wartime, so they know how long we’ve been defending our country,” he said.

    The wall inside the library includes pictures and items from wars dating back to the Korean War.

    “This is what my classroom used to look like — my students would call it the museum.”

    Boardman is more than just Manatee County’s Veteran of the Year — she’s a voice for veterans, showing the impact the military has had on the country.

    Visitors can see the display inside the South Manatee Branch Library until Nov. 12.

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