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Tag: Julia Hazel

  • Sarasota County to begin dredging Phillippi Creek this fall

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    SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. — A dredging project to alleviate flooding will soon begin along a Sarasota creek.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sarasota County officials say they have received approval to start removing thousands of yards of material from the creek between U.S. 41 and Beneva Road

    • Phillippi Creek overflow has frequently inundated homes — most recently last year due to Hurricane Debby’s rain

    • Officials say the dredging is likely to begin this fall

    The county recently received approval for the project along Phillippi Creek, where overflow has frequently inundated homes — most recently last year due to Hurricane Debby’s rain.

    Sometimes, new homeowners don’t anticipate everything they need to know about their new house. That was the case for Nadia Bowen.

    “When we moved in, I thought it was such a beautiful location. I never in a million years thought that, you know, the water would come this high — we’re 16 feet up,” she said.

    Bowen moved into the Southgate neighborhood in Sarasota in 2021. For three years, she said there were no overflow issues from Phillippi Creek. But Debby was a wake-up call.

    “It was flooded all the way up to here. It was close to coming to our pool, basically,” she said.

    She said that while her home wasn’t flooded, others in the neighborhood were. She watched her neighbors experience the turmoil and is now worried her home could be next.

    “Hurricane Debby really, really scarred our community. We have many people in our community that are still not back in their homes,” she said.

    Bowen started a dredging subcommittee in the Southgate Community Association. The group advocates for dredging along Phillippi Creek. Sarasota County has received approval to start removing thousands of yards of material from the creek between U.S. 41 and Beneva Road.

    Bowen lives between those two roads, but her home backs up to a secondary branch of the creek, not the primary waterway.

    “I don’t know if they’re actually going to dredge this. We’re not sure. We know they’re going to dredge the main canal. We’re really happy about that,” she said.

    Sarasota County Stormwater Director Ben Quartermaine said the dredging process will likely begin sometime this fall.

    “Sedimentation in the creek has been building up over time, and projects and storms like Debby have reminded us that it’s imperative to ensure that the creek is operating at max capacity,” he said.

    Those who live near the creek are awaiting the change.

    “During storm times, it’s scary. It’s scary that there’s nowhere for the water to go,” she said.

    With the county focused on improving Phillippi Creek, Bowen is hopeful the dredging provides protection for residents.

    Earlier this year, Sarasota County submitted an emergency application for dredging along Phillippi Creek. That application was denied — according to county officials, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers determined a standard application was appropriate, due to several factors including the size of the dredging project and the location.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Breast cancer survivor shares story; Wellness Expo to spread awareness

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the local Manatee County community is spreading awareness with its annual Wellness Expo.

    What You Need To Know

    • October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the local Manatee County community is spreading awareness with its annual Wellness Expo

    • Dr. Jose Erbella will also be introducing his new book at the expo called “The High Risk: 10 Things to Know to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer”

    • The free Wellness Expo will be this week in Bradenton on Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 2015 32nd Ave. W., Bradenton

    • There will also be free mammography screenings starting at 9 a.m.

    At 89, Geraldine Schneider holds memories close to her heart.

    “Everything. And my memory is going so bad. But I remember back,” she said.

    Especially memories of a time when her family helped her get through breast cancer.

    “My heart,” she said.

    Schneider first realized something was wrong in 2001, when she was 65.

    “When I got the call from my doctor, it was before Thanksgiving, and I was like, ‘I can’t believe it,’” she said.

    At the time, her late husband Ralph was dealing with his own pancreatic cancer treatment.

    “I was focused more on his life than I was on my cancer, which I think was God’s way of getting me through my problem,” she said.

    But family battles with cancer persisted. Two of her daughters are breast cancer survivors as well.

    “Scary for me,” she said.

    Now, Schneider worries about her cancer coming back. She is hoping to get some feedback by attending the Wellness Expo in Bradenton.

    “I want to ask one of the doctors about it. I do have a little condition with the left breast that I’m curious about, cause if I get another cancer, I won’t not do anything. At 89, I’m totally ready for whatever happens,” she said.

    Health care providers will be available at the event to answer questions.

    Dr. Jose Erbella with Manatee Physician Alliance said events like this are a way to educate people about cancer.

    “The big message is that cancer is really preventable. You know, it’s directly linked to lifestyle, directly linked to our eating habits, our exercise habits and our social habits,” he said.

    As for Schneider, she said it’s a way to stay informed.

    “People asking questions and being told the correct answers, not something that’s incorrect, will help them,” she said.

    Schneider and her family have supported each other through their cancer, and she hopes the expo will provide others with support as well.

    Erbella will also be introducing his new book at the expo called “The High Risk: 10 Things to Know to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer.”

    The free Wellness Expo will be this week in Bradenton on Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 2015 32nd Ave. W., Bradenton.

    There will also be free mammography screenings starting at 9 a.m.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Roser Food Pantry, still struggling after hurricanes, in need of donations

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Roser Church Food Pantry has been struggling to bounce back following last year’s hurricanes.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Roser Church Food Pantry is experiencing one of its hardest years, still trying to bounce back after getting flooded during Hurricane Helene more than a year ago.

    • Over the past year, volunteers say they’ve seen a decrease in donations — but an increase in people needing their services.

    • If you want to donate to the food pantry, you can drop off items at Roser Church in Anna Maria, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address is 512 Pine Ave.


    The church says it’s the only food pantry on Anna Maria Island.

    Over the past year, volunteers say they’ve seen a decrease in donations — but an increase in people needing their services.

    Wanda Crummey prides herself on keeping everything inside the food pantry at Roser Church organized. It’s a labor that she loves.

    “Helping the neighborhood. Making sure that people have food when they need it,” she said.

    But the pantry is experiencing one of its hardest years, still trying to bounce back after getting flooded during Hurricane Helene more than a year ago.

    “It was devastating. But the reality was you spent an hour saying, ‘This looks like hell.,’” Crummey said. “And then it’s, ‘What are you going to do to fix it?’ I’m from New Orleans, and this is what you do. You pick it up, you move forward.”

    They did fix it up and were able to reopen by the end of October last year — but the problem was the loss of food.

    “It was a huge dumpster full, so it was probably going to be about, I’d say, 100 cases of food,” she said.

    And now, they aren’t seeing enough food donations, leaving shelves bare.

    “One, we’re handing out more. Number two, we don’t have as many tourists on the island right now,” she said.

    They attribute that loss of tourism to hurricane season last year. Since then, volunteers and church staff like Charles Wade have worked hard to rebuild what was lost.

    “We’re just asking for help. I always say this to people — whatever you give from your heart, we do appreciate it,” he said.

    And Crummey’s wish is for people to give if they can, to help others in need.

    “I hope we’re able to get some more food in so that we can serve more people on the island,” she said. “Because I believe that we’re going to have more people in need as the year goes on and the cost of living increases.”

    It’s a hope that Crummey and the rest of the volunteers and church staff are holding on to so they can continue feeding people on the island who need it.

    If you want to donate to the food pantry, you can drop off items at Roser Church in Anna Maria, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The address is 512 Pine Ave.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • St. Armands Circle Fall Fine Art Festival returns after last year’s storms

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Last year’s hurricanes flooded St. Armands Circle in Sarasota. The road to recovery for the community was lengthy.

    What You Need To Know

    • The St. Armands Circle Fall Fine Art Festival returns this weekend after Helene caused it to be canceled last year

    • Hurricane Helene’s storm surge led to both physical damage and financial concern for many

    • The Fall Fine Art Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, Saturday and Sunday.


    Some key events that help local businesses and vendors had to be canceled — but back this weekend is the St. Armands Circle Fall Fine Art Festival.

    When it comes to painting, Victoria Cooley said it’s all about perspective.

    “I want them to feel calm, happy and peaceful,” she said.

    Those positive feelings are what she wants someone who purchases one of her pieces to experience.

    “You know, I take it seriously that they’re living with my art, and it’s a part of their house,” Cooley said. “So I want people to get a break from things that make them unhappy.”

    Painting is her income, and while her husband does receive Social Security checks, she said she relies heavily on festivals to make money.

    “We usually do 28 shows per year,” she said.

    When last year’s storms forced the cancellation of the St. Armands Fall Fine Art Festival, Cooley was worried. It’s typically one of her biggest shows. Hurricane Helene’s storm surge led to both physical damage and financial concern.

    “It was a little bit of a scare,” she said. “Well, because it’s back open, I’m hoping for a lot of foot traffic. I’m most excited about just being here on St. Armands, and the stores are back open.”

    The entertainment district has now rebounded, but St. Armands Circle Association Executive Director Rachel Burns said the process has been difficult.

    “Last year was devastating for the community,” Burns said. “We had water intrusion into every merchant. It’s something that has never happened in the 100-year history of St. Armands Circle. And it means that not only did merchants lose what they had in stock, they had to rebuild, replace, and we had to wait then for people to want to come back to the area.”

    This weekend’s festival provides an opportunity to bring more people back to St. Armands Circle.

    “I’ve got the vintage VW bus, and so far, the people that have seen it are just loving it because it’s reminiscent of a time that they remember — when things were a little happier and mellower,” she said.

    Cooley is on a mission to share her art, hoping to give people a different perspective and leave them with a smile.

    The Fall Fine Art Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, Saturday and Sunday.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Belle Haven Historic Cottage now open, more than a year after Helene

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A piece of Anna Maria Island history is now open to visitors after being closed since Hurricane Helene.

    What You Need To Know

    • Belle Haven Historic Cottage opened Oct. 1 after being closed since Hurricane Helene




    • The Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s volunteers worked to restore the artifacts and buildings



    • The society’s president said it is applying for grants that could provide funding for upgrades to the Belle Haven Cottage to keep it in good condition



    Earlier this month, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society reopened the “Belle Haven Historic Cottage.”

    Being able to step into a world from the past is what Carolyn Orshak protects.

    “We are so excited to have it open. It was a year in the making,” she said.

    Orshak is the president of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society.

    She said the “Belle Haven Historic Cottage” just opened this month, after volunteers worked hard to restore it.

    It was damaged by Helene last September.

    “She had to just buckle up and store all of our artifacts that we couldn’t get into the museum yet,” she said.

    The cottage sustained some water damage, but the museum was flooded with four feet of water from Helene. Artifacts dating back to the 1800s were damaged — some were destroyed.

    “Because it was a very slow, tedious process,” Orshak said. “Every artifact had to be inventoried and cleaned. It took months, it took months.”

    Longtime volunteers like Heidi Pratt played a key role in the restoration. She says the renovation also gave the society a chance to make the museum even better.

    “I’ve volunteered now for 10 years, and originally this place was jam-packed like an antique store, shelves and things. We’ve had it properly curated. Everything’s in its place, little areas that belong together. It’s perfect,” she said.

    Orshak said this 1920s house is a vital piece of history for the island community.

    “Children really need to learn our history. Because as we grow into adulthood, we need to understand the things about our world that make it that way, the things that we can do to make it better,” she said.

    History serves as a reminder of our past, and Orshak plans on protecting that for years to come.

    She says they are applying for grants that could provide funding for upgrades to the Belle Haven Cottage to keep it in good condition.

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  • Sarasota woman reflects on loss of her brother amid Israel-Hamas ceasefire

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — As a ceasefire continues overseas in the Israel-Hamas war, a Sarasota resident who lost her brother in the conflict is feeling a mix of emotions.

    What You Need To Know

    • A Sarasota resident, Keren Shani-Lifrak, lost her brother in the Israel-Hamas war

    • Sgt. Major Adi Shani was killed in combat in December 2023

    • Shani-Lifrak expresses cautious optimism following the ceasefire and return of hostages

    Keren Shani-Lifrak’s brother, Sgt. Major Adi Shani, lived in Israel. He was 39-years-old when he got the call to return to active duty in the military. He was killed in combat in December 2023.

    Shani-Lifrak says his sacrifice was to protect his wife and kids, but also for all Israelis.

    “We’ve been all praying for this nightmare to end. It’s the longest war ever. Nobody wanted it. I hope he has peace now and that we all can have peace now,” she said.

    When President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Shani-Lifrak felt cautiously optimistic.

    “We are so hopeful. We want to believe that it will end, and the soldiers and the hostages will come home. The soldiers will come home to their families and their kids. But it was kind of like—until I see it, I’m not going to believe it,” she said. “It’s going to take a lot for us to rebuild and recover and regain some kind of sense of normalcy and trust again.”

    On Monday, Hamas returned all 20 remaining living hostages to Israel, while hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel were freed.

    Shani-Lifrak hopes this will be the end of the war.

    “I’m so happy for them,” she said. “I know that the whole country has been waiting for them to come home, and I can’t imagine what they have suffered. I just want them to be happy and have a good life. And I want peace for everyone.”

    Looking at a collection of pictures, Shani-Lifrak remembers her late brother.

    “It’s really sad,” she said. “I look at his really kind eyes, and I keep telling him, ‘You did it. You brought them home.’ So other families can have their loved ones back.”

    Spectrum News also received a statement from the Jewish Federation of Manatee County. It reads, in part:

    “We also take this moment to recognize the enormous sacrifice and service of Israel’s soldiers and their families, who put their time, their economic well-being, their bodies, and their lives on the line to protect Israel during this horrific period. We mourn the loss of 915 soldiers who died as they fought successfully to get the hostages home and defeat Israel’s enemies.”

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  • Morton’s Siesta Market recalls Hurricane Milton 1 year later

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — It has been one year since Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9, 2024.

    What You Need To Know

    • It’s been one year since Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key
    • The market’s managers said Hurricane Helene’s storm surge sent about two feet of water into the building, destroying equipment
    • Then it was Milton’s winds that blew away their awning and left the store without power for four days

    Many businesses, including Morton’s Siesta Market, still haven’t fully recovered yet.

    Morton’s Siesta Market deli manager Dana Benton feels right at home at the beach market, which is less than half a mile from the Gulf.

    “It’s always a joy when I come in here, to be honest with you. Like, I feel like they are 100% my family,” she said.

    She says the business has become like a family to her — it’s supported her, and she’s been there for it, too, especially in the aftermath of last year’s hurricanes.

    “I came to help with the cleanup in the deli and the store,” she said. “Last year was the first time since I’ve lived in Florida I’ve experienced a bad hurricane,” she said.

    The market’s managers said Hurricane Helene’s storm surge sent about two feet of water into the building, destroying equipment. Then it was Milton’s winds that blew away their awning and left the store without power for four days.

    Benton says the effects of the storm are still being felt to this day.

    “This year has been kind of slow, and I think it’s because of the hurricane. A lot of people are not wanting to come down. I think in fear that the hurricane is going to come again, or another one’s going to come during this time of year — because it was this time last year,” she said.

    Benton says last year’s storms were scary, and while the store still has work to do to recover, she’s thankful she’s found a second home at Morton’s Siesta Market.

    “They have helped me grow. They have helped me learn to be productive again. They have helped me learn to love myself,” she said.

    The store manager says they are going to wait to make the renovations they haven’t completed — like installing a new awning — until this hurricane season is over.

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  • Holmes Beach business sees success in hurricane recovery

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Tomorrow marks one year since Hurricane Milton hit our area. The storm took a toll on Manatee County’s barrier islands — especially the businesses.

    What You Need To Know

    • Hurricane Milton took a toll on Manatee County’s barrier islands — especially the businesses

    • Manager Joey Garbus says Island Lumber and Hardware looks a little different after last year’s storms

    • Island Lumber and Hardware has seen an uptick in customers during recovery and is looking to a brighter future

    The storm took a toll on Manatee County’s barrier islands — especially the businesses.

    One of those businesses is Island Lumber and Hardware in Holmes Beach.

    Mold grew on their wooden floors because their power was out, leaving behind serious damage.

    Joey Garbus, manager of Island Lumber and Hardware, says the business has looked a little different after last year’s storms.

    “This business has been extremely great for us, definitely. The rush of everybody trying to rebuild their homes has definitely slowed down. But now we’re in the process of helping them rebuild. A lot of people lost houses and had to tear everything down,” he said.

    Their business was flooded by Hurricane Helene — and suffered more damage from Hurricane Milton. The building was without power for two weeks. Rebuilding and returning to normal took some time.

    But as their business grew in the aftermath of the hurricanes, new opportunities came. Island Lumber and Hardware now has a showroom.

    “Since the flood came in, we were able to revamp everything and give the whole store a facelift,” said Garbus.

    And inside, there are new products — like hurricane windows for storm season.

    “There’s a lot of demand right now for windows, especially out here after the storm, Garbus said. “We finally found someone who would take us on as a buyer.”

    Garbus says the company has invested in new software that helps clients visualize their projects. Investments like this all stem from the exposure the business received while helping the community recover.

    “Ever since the storm, we’ve seen an uptick in customers saying, ‘Wow, I’ve been here for 20 years and just realized you guys are here. I’ve been going into town this whole time.’ It’s nice to hear more of that,” Garbus said.

    He is inspired by this new growth. The help Island Lumber and Hardware provided after last year’s storms has now led to a brighter future for the business.


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    Julia Hazel

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  • Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium to open Wednesday

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — It has been years in the making, but this week the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is making a splash in Sarasota, opening the doors to its new Science Education Aquarium to the public on Wednesday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium officially opens to the public Wednesday, Oct. 8

    • The aquarium has three STEM labs inside, as well as five workforce development laboratories. These will be used as educational tools for students.

    • A local Manatee County native painted the murals inside.

    “At our heart, we are a marine science research laboratory. This is who we are,” said Vice President Kevin Cooper. “And this is not just a tourist attraction — it’s part of our informal marine science education experience that we’ve always offered the public from Mote Marine Laboratory.”

    When it comes to creating a vision, Andrew Viera does it all from the heart.

    His paintings bring visitors to a whole new world — yet a familiar one — at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.

    “When I’m painting, I just kind of let my mind and my eyesight do the thinking for me,” he said. “I want them to feel like they’re in old Florida, a natural Florida. Not a built one, but just organic.”

    Viera’s murals include one at the otter exhibit. It was a favorite for Nyla Anderson and her mom, Nina, who had an unforgettable experience when they toured the new facility.

    “It is my birthday, and I’m 11 years old today,” Nyla said. “I like that you can touch and feel a lot of different animals. And probably my favorite experience was definitely the otters.”

    Nyla wants to be a marine biologist and uses experiences like the aquarium as a learning tool.

    “I’m homeschooled. I’ve been homeschooling for about six years, and this year I’m in sixth grade,” she said.

    Just like how visitors like Nyla will see nature up close, Viera hopes people will see his art and be inspired to help protect wildlife.

    “Illustrations create more of a connected sense for kids and for generations,” he said. “So when they look at something, they’re like, ‘Oh, I want to protect that.’”

    Viera is passionate about conservation — the same feeling that Mote Marine Laboratory leaders want to inspire with their new aquarium.

    The aquarium has three STEM labs inside, as well as five workforce development laboratories. These will be used as educational tools for students.

    “The Science Education Aquarium is really purposeful,” Cooper said. “When you walk in, the first thing you’re going to see is one of our three state-of-the-art STEM teaching laboratories. We’ve established a partnership with Sarasota and Manatee County school systems, and we’re going to bring 70,000 K–12 students here free of charge every year.”

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  • Bradenton expects wastewater infrastructure project to be complete next year

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Big upgrades are flowing into the city of Bradenton, as parts of its $100 million wastewater infrastructure project are nearing completion.

    What You Need To Know

    • The city’s “Face It, Fix It” initiative is focused on resolving infrastructure issues, including preventing wastewater discharge into the Manatee River

    • There are several projects underway, all designed to increase the amount of wastewater its facility can hold, especially during storms

    • Some of the city’s wastewater infrastructure projects are just weeks away from being completed, while others will wrap up early next year

    The initiative aims to improve operating efficiency and protect the Manatee River.

    Donald DeMonia, a construction manager with the City of Bradenton for the past several years, has spent many recent days at the Water Reclamation Facility. He is making sure the wastewater infrastructure project is running smoothly.

    “Most of my jobs were wastewater plants and water treatment,” he said.

    “This is our brand new, 2,000-gallon clarifier. The capacity on this one — all three of the ones we have now — will fit in here.”

    The city’s “Face It, Fix It” initiative is focused on resolving infrastructure issues, including preventing wastewater discharge into the Manatee River.

    “Super important,” DeMonia said. “Like everybody, right? We live here — city personnel and residents — we all agree the environment and the river are very important to us. So this is just one piece of the puzzle.”

    There are several projects underway, all designed to increase the amount of wastewater this facility can hold, especially during storms.

    The plant can hold up to 9 million gallons, but heavy rainfall can still cause problems.

    “This is our temporary EQ tank. In heavy rains or flooding, we can store the excess flow into here,” DeMonia said. “And then, when the plant catches up, we can recycle it back through the plant.”

    The site treats between 5 to 6 million gallons of wastewater each day, but where the excess water goes is changing.

    “Whatever’s excess left over, it used to go to the (Manatee) river,” he said. Now we’re going to inject it down into the aquifer. That’s going to eliminate all discharges through the river.”

    There are a lot of layers to managing wastewater, but DeMonia knows Bradenton’s process will be more efficient once this project is complete.

    Some of the city’s wastewater infrastructure projects are just weeks away from being completed, while others will wrap up early next year.

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  • Bradenton’s new police chief leads department forward

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — The Bradenton Police Department has a new police chief.

    Josh Cramer was sworn in over the summer, and since then has already made an impact on the community.

    What You Need To Know

    • Bradenton Police Department has a new Chief of Police, Josh Cramer 

    • Cramer first started in 1995 as a patrol officer 

    • Cramer says he is the first internal chief to be sworn in since 1995

    “I want to say how proud I am to be the chief of police here in Bradenton,” he said.

    The new police chief brings a new kind of vision to the area, and on this day it begins with fifth-grade students.

    Cramer handed out safety patrol badges to students who’ve earned them. “It really gives them a sense of duty, responsibility, and leadership,” he said.

    These are qualities Cramer strives for himself.

    He first started his career as a patrol officer in 1995 with the Bradenton Police Department. Cramer worked his way up, taking over as police chief in July.

    “I think we all, anybody who gets into any type of first response, first responder job, wants to help people. And ultimately, that’s what led me to it. I’ve always had a respect for the law,” Cramer said.

    Cramer said he is the first internal chief to be sworn in since 1995. One of his key priorities is setting goals.

    “Do your job the right way and be kind. And if you can do that, use common sense,” he said.

    Transparency is also valuable to Cramer.

    “I will tell people how it is. They may like it. They may not like it. But I’m not going to sugarcoat things for people. We have a hard job to do,” he said.

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  • Tampa Bay entrepreneur revives old vending machines

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — A Tampa Bay business owner is giving old vending machines a new life, and bringing more art into the community at the same time.

    What You Need To Know

    • Lucid Vending is a company that refurbishes old vending machines and stocks them with items you wouldn’t typically see, like a mini harmonica necklace or a mystery bag

    • The prices range from $2 to $20

    • The owner has 22 total around the Tampa Bay area and plans to open a new one every month

    Thinking outside the box is a full-time job for Chance Ryan.

    Ryan is the owner of Lucid Vending, a company that refurbishes old vending machines and stocks them with items you wouldn’t typically see, like a mini harmonica necklace or a mystery bag. The prices range from $2 to $20.

    The Lucid vending machine stands in one of the shops in the Tampa Bay area. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “It happened by accident. Sort of. Just thought it’d be a fun idea to take vending machines, put them in cool bars and locally independently owned establishments in the Tampa Bay area,” Ryan said.

    Now he owns 22 vending machines and does all the buying, restocking, and refurbishing himself.

    “These are old Lance cracker snack machines from the 1990s. And you know, you can just refurbish them. I put new control boards in there and upgraded them with credit card readers,” he said.

    He takes pride in selling products from local artists — he buys the pieces upfront and re-sells them.

    “Well, I just like the community feel of it. It’s kind of, you know, hyper-local,” he said.

     Oscura, a music venue and coffee shop, located in the historic district of Bradenton, shares that same mission..

    Olivia D’Amico is one of the shop’s owners. A lot of art is purchased out of the vending machine, she said.

    Olivia D’Amico, the co-owner of Oscura in Bradenton, said the Lucid vending machine aligns with the local community. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “People always stop and talk about it and ask us questions. And again, it just brings a little fun and whimsy, which we love here,” D’Amico said. “Really aligns with our community. And our community really enjoys.”

    The vending machines are free for businesses, and he gives a portion of the profits to each business, Ryan said.

    “I’m kind of at that point where I’m getting more in the grain and making more of a profit, and they’re making more profit because the sales always keep going up with the more improved I make my machines,” he said.

    This innovative idea of turning something old into something new has grown into a profitable business. Ryan says he hopes to create a new machine every other month.

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  • Under One Roof: New women’s shelter opens in Bradenton

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — What was once a Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is now serving the community in a new way.

    What You Need To Know

    • “Under One Roof Gateway South” will house 40 women and help them overcome addiction, homelessness, and trauma

    • The public got its first look at the facility on Wednesday

    • Funding for Under One Roof Gateway South came in part from opioid settlement money and HUD’s HOME-ARP program; County officials said women will begin to stay in the facility sometime this month

    The facility is now a women’s only shelter called “Under One Roof Gateway South.”

    From an emotional grand opening, to the public’s first view on Wednesday, Sarah Carter knows that all the hard work to open this women’s shelter was worth it.

    “This is the Gateway South dorm. So this is the dorm specific to the recovery pathways,” she said.

    Carter is a program manager for Helping Up Mission — a nonprofit that has partnered with Manatee County to operate the new women’s only shelter in Bradenton.

    It’s also a recovery center that will house 40 women and help them overcome addiction, homelessness, and trauma.

    “What this does is it kind of redirects, it gives women in this community a place to go, sit, relax, be treated with respect,” Carter said. “And then ultimately, we’re hoping for a yes, we’re hoping for a yes. I do want recovery.”

    The public got its first look at “Under One Roof Gateway South” on Wednesday. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Carter said there is no time limit for how long women can stay here, but there is a 30-day track for women who want to work toward their next step.

    “The idea is that you’re coming in, you’re getting a hot meal, a shower, some sleep. In the morning, you get some breakfast, and then you go about your day. And the idea is just that you come in and you give us a chance,” she said.

    It’s a chance to help as many women as possible.

    Funding for Under One Roof Gateway South came in part from opioid settlement money and HUD’s HOME-ARP program. County officials said women will begin to stay in the facility sometime this month. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Funding for Under One Roof Gateway South came in part from opioid settlement money and HUD’s HOME-ARP program. County officials said women will begin to stay in the facility sometime this month. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    “It’s not one size fits all,” Carter said. “And we want to have a resource center that’s going to be able to provide all of the landing pads and the courses for the different pathways that people are going to choose.”

    Carter believes the new shelter will provide a pathway to a better future.

    Funding for Under One Roof Gateway South came in part from opioid settlement money and HUD’s HOME-ARP program. County officials said women will begin to stay in the facility sometime this month.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Bradenton business owner makes changes to accommodate meat price increase

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — As the prices of meat continue to rise, the community in Manatee County has felt the impact, from ranchers to businesses.

    What You Need To Know

    • The price of ground beef is at an all-time high, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
    • Five Nine Grill & Tavern co-owner and chef Mike DeGirolamo says his top-selling item is the burger, but the rising price of ground beef means they’ll have to increase their menu prices


    Flipping one patty to the next, Five Nine Grill & Tavern co-owner and chef Mike DeGirolamo is pretty handy when it comes to the kitchen.

    “It’s pretty much all I know. I’ve been doing it for 25 years or more,” he said.

    “Main satisfaction is like, people like what you do. They enjoy eating. It’s always given me satisfaction. The job changes every day,” he said.

    The restaurant opened two years ago.

    “In the last three, four or five months, ground beef has gone up a couple dollars a pound,” he said.

    The price of ground beef is at an all-time high, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average price per pound in August was $6.63.

    “Today I saw it for about $5.04 a pound, which is going to end up making us have to increase what our burgers are going to cost. This is an 80/20 ground beef, fresh, eight-ounce patty,” he said.

    DeGirolamo says their top-selling item is the burger, but the rising price of ground beef means they’ll have to increase their menu prices. And he’s planning to get creative to try to offset other costs.

    “Possibly going to a frozen ground beef patty, getting a different kind of blend of meats, maybe not selling eight-ounce burgers. Selling seven or six,” he said.

    He worries about what these decisions could lead to.

    “Right now we do something like a Burger Tuesday for $8 — you get a cheeseburger and fries. And if we take that up to $10, will it hurt our business?” he said.

    Right now, DeGirolamo says business is OK, but the increase makes him nervous.

    “Obviously it’s something I’d like to leave to our children. They both work — actually, all three of them work — in the restaurant industry,” he said.

    He says his restaurant’s prices reflect the mission of the restaurant.

    “We try to be a family comfort food restaurant, and we try to be value-based. So the increases in the prices, we do our best to keep everything affordable,” he said.

    Despite the price increases, DeGirolamo is staying focused on keeping his food affordable.

    DeGirolamo says he plans to increase prices next month.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Detwiler’s Farm Market opens new warehouse plans to open more stores

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Detwiler’s Farm Market will soon open its biggest warehouse – a 133,000-square-foot facility in Palmetto.

    What You Need To Know:

    • Detwiler’s Farm Market will soon open its biggest warehouse – a 133,000-square-foot facility in Palmetto

    • The grand opening is on Monday, Sept. 29, at 9 a.m. at 1811 51st Avenue East, Suite 100  

    • They hope to increase their workforce by over 50 percent over the next two years


    Their expansion will also create more jobs in Manatee County. They hope to increase their workforce by over 50 percent over the next two years.

    Harrison Mayer, who has been operating heavy machinery for 15 years, was hired earlier this year as a distribution manager at Detwiler’s. He is now overseeing the new warehouse, which will open next week.

    “It’s pretty incredible that with this new center, we’re going to be able to provide jobs, and we’re also going to be able to provide even fresher produce for our customers. I’m very excited,” he said.

    His excitement is shared by the Detwiler family.

    “This is our production room,” said company President Sam Detwiler.

    He said the new warehouse will help create more jobs, with their workforce expected to increase from 80 to 125 within the next two years.

    The 133,000-square-foot warehouse will house all of Detwiler’s operations under one roof, which Detwiler said will help them operate more efficiently.

    “The big reason we want to utilize a bigger warehouse is that we can do more direct purchasing and also lower our prices,” he said. “Most of our competitors act like they don’t care about price. Our family could charge more, but we don’t want to.”

    This new facility will replace two smaller warehouses and serve all six of their store locations across Manatee and Sarasota counties.

    It’s a significant part of a plan that will help this family business expand.

    “A store every 12 to 24 months is kind of our plan. And we’d love to see this go as far as Tampa, and even down to Fort Myers and Cape Coral,” he said.

    And employees like Harrison are excited to be part of a growing business.

    “I think the biggest thing is we now have the opportunity and runway to be able to continue to expand, and to provide better services for our current stores and customers,” he said.

    The grand opening is on Monday, Sept. 29, at 9 a.m. at 1811 51st Avenue East, Suite 100.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Bradenton mayor says horse riding in Palma Sola Bay has been paused

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Horse riding in Palma Sola Bay has been paused for a month.

    The announcement was made earlier this month by Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, who said that it was the horseback riding companies that presented the idea as part of an effort to get to the root of a bacterial issue in the water.

    What You Need To Know

    • Horse riding in Palma Sola Bay has been paused for a month

    • The announcement was made earlier this month by Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown

    • Officials with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program say they plan to test the water samples during the month the horses are gone and the month after the horses come back

    Abbey Tyrna, the executive director for Suncoast Waterkeeper, says her organization has been testing the water every week at Palma Sola Bay since 2022. The testing is taking place in the area residents call the “Little Palma Sola Bay,” which Tyrna says is unsafe to swim in due to high levels of bacteria.

    “Since 2022 we’ve seen that the water quality does not meet state standards,” she said.

    She tests in a location where businesses offer horseback rides on the beach. She said it’s possible that the waste left behind by horses is contributing to the bacteria levels. 

    “We have seen horses be attributed to our high levels in our side, but they’re not the only cause,” Tyrna said. “So what we’re trying to understand is, what are all the causes?”

    Officials with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program say their organization is also testing the water to see if keeping the horses out of the bay for a month will improve water quality.

    “Both SCWK and SBEP have found evidence that horses are contributing some of the bacteria found in Palma Sola Bay. But the levels appear to be low enough that they are considered to be ‘detected, but not quantifiable,’” the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program said in a statement.

    But Tyrna worries about the repercussions of the experiment.

    “I worry about their financial stress under a situation where the conclusions that will be gleaned from those month-long experiments are not going to be scientifically valid, given the conditions that we know of the bay,” she said.

    Tyrna believes keeping the water clean is a task not just for her, but for the entire community.

    Sarasota Bay Estuary Program officials say they plan to test the water samples during the month the horses are gone, and then again the month after they return.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County residents react to new ‘Big Bin Advantage’ trash service

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County is making changes to its trash services with the “Big Bins Advantage” program, which starts Oct. 6. 

    Residents in unincorporated parts of the county will each receive a 96-gallon trash bin. The county says the program will reduce truck traffic and save taxpayers money.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County is making changes to its trash services with the “Big Bins Advantage” program, which starts Oct. 6

    • Residents in unincorporated parts of the county will each receive a 96-gallon trash bin

    • The county says the program will reduce truck traffic and save taxpayers money

    Fourth-generation Myakka City resident Susie Brown lives on a small six-acre farm off State Road 64, and says she wants what’s best for her county, which is why she is concerned about the upcoming changes to trash service in unincorporated Manatee County.

    She says this rural community supports one another.

    “This county means a lot to me because it’s my family heritage,” she said.

    The “Big Bins Advantage” program will provide one 96-gallon trash bin to each resident.

    “It’s just — it’s huge,” she said.

    The county says recycling and waste pickup will occur once a week instead of twice a week. The new bins are also four inches taller and one inch wider than the current bins.

    Brown says the size of the bins could be an issue, since one driveway is shared by three separate homes.

    “They’ve got to be three feet apart. We can’t get in and out of the driveway. I mean, I haul horses, I have horse trailers. My neighbors leave early with their trailers for work, and it makes pulling in and out really difficult,” she said.

    She also worries about safety when bringing the larger bins to the end of her driveway.

    “It’s the safety of putting them out there — (because as you can hear), the traffic’s really bad,” she said.

    But Brown says the county is trying to address her concerns. County officials told Spectrum News they are helping residents on a case-by-case basis, saying,“We’ve seen tremendous cooperation from our haulers in adapting quickly when adjustments are needed.”

    Brown says she is not the only one concerned about the new program, but she’s hopeful the county will work with her toward a solution.

    The county reminds residents to place all items curbside by 6 a.m. on collection day.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County invests in upgrading parks and building more

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County commissioners recently approved an investment of $24 million into the county’s parks. 

    Recently, mornings have been really busy for crews working at Manatee County parks.

    That includes Molly White, the director of sports and leisure services for the county.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County Board of County Commissioners has approved over 24 million dollars CIP for parks over the next five years
    • 10 parks in Manatee County are undergoing upgrades
    • Manatee County expects to finsih the work being done on their parks within the next two years

    “Right now we’re at Hidden Harbor Park. It’s right across from the Fort Hamer boat ramp,” White said.

    Hidden Harbor Park is not yet open. It’s one of several the county is currently working on, and they hope to open it this fall, she said.

    It will offer a pump track, playground, three volleyball courts, an educational center, and a pavilion.

    “Alongside the growth to ensure the families that are moving here, that have been here forever, have a place to play,” she said.

    Over the past three years, investments in the county’s parks have been a high priority for local leaders, White said.

    That focus continued recently at the Board of County Commissioners’ last budget meeting.

    “We are so lucky that the Board of County Commissioners has approved over $24 million CIP just for parks over the next five years,” she said.

    Roughly 10 parks in Manatee County are under construction, in the design process, or getting ready to open, she said.

    The county chooses the locations for the parks based on areas where they’ve seen the most growth.

    “Our population has grown immensely. The growth is coming out north and out east. And having a passive park like this gives free, affordable recreation opportunities for kids to get out,” she said.

    As White continues to pave a path for Manatee County’s parks, she knows every change and addition is another investment for both residents and visitors.

    The county expects to finish work on all the parks that are undergoing work within the next two years.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • LGBTQ+ advocate works to create more art in the community

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Across the Tampa Bay area, local municipalities are removing street art following a state policy change.

    What You Need To Know

    • India Miller found herself looking for artistic alternatives after street art was removed last month in downtown Sarasota

    • Miller started her own group recently — called ‘Good Trouble’ — that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community, as well as for artists

    • Miller said that this Saturday at 10 a.m., her group and others will be painting a rainbow at the Harvest United Methodist Church in Bradenton


    That has left some artists looking for other ways to express themselves.

    For India Miller, painting is a form of expression.

    “I’m drawing the transgender pride flag,” she said.

    Which is why she’s painting rocks with LGBTQ+ colors, to then scatter around the community.

    “It just gives people hope. I hope that somebody’s walking, just sees it and picks it up, takes it home, or just realizes we care,” she said.

    She found herself looking for artistic alternatives after street art was removed last month in downtown Sarasota.

    For example, it appears that a rainbow was painted over on one particular crosswalk.

    “I’m sad, you know, that our rights to exist and have, you know, freedom and dignity and the same rights that everybody else has, you know, are up for vote,” she explained.

    Miller started her own group recently — called ‘Good Trouble’ — that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community, as well as for all artists whose work was once here on a sidewalk that has been scrubbed clean.

    “It’s something that says you’re here, you’re valid, we love you, you know. It can be hopeful, or it doesn’t have to be an LGBTQ person — somebody who loves art,” she said.

    She is also offering the rock art to local businesses to have inside their shops.

    Miller said it’s a way to speak without words.

    “I hope it’s, you know, a way to protest peacefully and resist,” she said.

    By placing a new form of art where other art was removed.

    Miller said that this Saturday at 10 a.m., her group and others will be painting a rainbow at the Harvest United Methodist Church in Bradenton.

    She said there will also be opportunities for the public to participate in rock painting.

    The next event will be on Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Trinity.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • New community market opening this weekend in Palmetto

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    PALMETTO, Fla. — A new community market is opening in Palmetto, and organizers hope it will attract more people to the downtown area.

    What You Need To Know

    • The North River Market will have more than 70 vendors

    • Market organizers hope to bring more people to downtown Palmetto, leading to more foot traffic for local businesses

    • The North River Market will be located in “The Yard,” just outside of the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto, this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    That’s one of the goals of Mayor Dan West, who said this new market will help both vendors and the downtown business district.

    Ella’s Sweet Spot is just one of the many vendors who will be there on Sunday.

    Baking has always been in Emily Zollner’s heart. That love first came from her family.

    “I was around four years old. I have a grandma who was kind of my daycare growing up, and a mom who loved to bake and aunts who loved to bake. So I just sort of caught the bug,” she said.

    Those are memories she has never forgotten, and they motivated her to switch careers — from pharmacy manager to business owner. She opened Ella’s Sweet Spot in 2022.

    “We are making our pumpkin spice whoopie pies, which is one of our favorites this time of year,” she said.

    But the business hasn’t always been sweet.

    “So we are, you know, kind of living paycheck to paycheck as we go. It’s a struggle. Things are tight when you’re trying to start your business and grow it and things like that. So for us, growing the business would mean a huge improvement in quality of life,” she said.

    She believes Ella’s Sweet Spot is about to grow with the help of the new community market that will debut this weekend in Palmetto. The North River Market will have more than 70 vendors.

    The first market will be held this Sunday. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    The first market will be held this Sunday. (Spectrum News/Julia Hazel)

    Zollner said she desperately needs the boost, since her business is her only source of income.

    “It also gives us a chance to get out into the community and gain new customers,” she said.

    She said the only marketing for the business is done through social media. But this new community market will be the biggest they have ever participated in, and she believes it will bring in more money.

    “I really would love to see our business grow to the point where financially, we can be more comfortable,” she said.

    Zollner knows there is power in community, and she hopes to use this new exposure as a way to increase sales and spread some sweet love.

    The North River Market will be located in “The Yard,” just outside of the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto, this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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    Julia Hazel

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