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Tag: manatee county

  • Election Day Tuesday: Races in Polk, Manatee and Pinellas counties

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    POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Parts of the Bay area will have Election Day races Tuesday, most notably the city of Lakeland.

    The Lakeland mayor’s spot, along with two commission seats, will be determined on Tuesday.


    In addition, municipal elections are taking place in Auburndale, Winter Haven and Fort Meade.

    Meanwhile, in Manatee County, Holmes Beach residents will vote in a general election.

    In the city of Seminole (Pinellas County), Mayor Leslie Waters is facing candidate Marcus Barber. Waters has served as mayor since 2013 and in various other government positions in the city since 2009.

    Barber is a former city employee.

    Here’s a closer look at the races:

    POLK COUNTY

    Lakeland Mayor

    Auburndale Municipal Election (City Commission Seat 3)

    Fort Meade Municipal Election (City Commission Seat 3)

    • Glen R. Anderson
    • Frederick Lamar Hilliard
    • Jim Watts

    City Commission Seat 5 At Large

    In addition to the mayor and commission seats, Lakeland voters also will decide on three charter amendments:

    Charter Amendment #1

    Proposed charter amendment modifying Commission district boundaries to be as equal in population as practicable.

    Shall the Lakeland City Charter be amended to modify City Commission district boundaries to be as equal in population as practicable consistent with State law? (Yes/No)

    Charter Amendment #2

    Proposed Charter amendment modifying term limits applicable to City Commissioners and Mayor.

    Shall the Lakeland City Charter be amended to modify term limits applicable to City Commissioners and Mayor, other than members in office on January 1, 2020, from the current term limits of no more than 3 complete terms in any combination of the positions of Mayor and Commissioner to new term limits of no more than 3 complete terms as a Commissioner and 2 complete terms as Mayor? (Yes/No)

    Charter Amendment #3

    Proposed Charter amendment eliminating obsolete provisions; renumbering sections; amending other miscellaneous provisions.

    Shall the Lakeland City Charter be amended to eliminate obsolete provisions; specify that mayor or commissioner elected to fill vacancy shall take office upon receiving election certificate; authorize any commissioner to call special commission meeting; require neighborhood posting of special assessment notices rather than newspaper ad; provide that ordinances subject to referendum petition shall not be suspended pending referendum and petitions shall be voted on at regular elections; conforming civil service provisions to current practices? (Yes/No)

    PINELLAS COUNTY

    City of Seminole Mayor Election

    MANATEE COUNTY

    Holmes Beach City Commission (Vote for up to Three)

    • Steven Oelfke
    • Jessica Patel
    • Terry W. Schaefer
    • Carol Soustek

    Anna Maria
    Commissioners John Lynch, Kathleen Morgan and Charlie Salem qualified earlier this year to run for reelection without opposition Nov. 4.

    Bradenton Beach

    Bradenton Beach Commissioner Jan Vosburgh will remain in her position due to no candidates vying to replace her. Mayor John Chappie and Commissioners Ralph Cole and Debbie Scaccianoce will retain their seats after qualifying for reelection without competition.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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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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    Julia Hazel

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  • Tour some spooky Halloween Homes around Central Florida and Tampa Bay

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    The Halloween season is here, and lots of homes are decked out with all sorts of spine-chilling decorations.

    Spectrum News got the chance to check out some of the best and scariest in Central Florida and around Tampa Bay.

    🔼 Check out the creepy compliation above! 

    And we’d love to see your home, too! Just fill out a form for Central Florida or Tampa Bay.

     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Portion of popular Skyway fishing pier shuts down indefinitely

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    SUNSHINE SKYWAY BRIDGE — A portion of the South Skyway Fishing Pier State Park has been closed indefinitely after state officials discovered structural issues during a recent inspection.

    What You Need To Know

    • The fishing pier is part of the original Sunshine Skyway bridge built in 1954

    • A recent inspection by the Florida Department of Transportation found structural issues – the Department of Environmental Protection shut a portion of the pier down

    • Fisherman say they want it repaired or replaced


    The Florida Department of Environmental Protection shut down access beyond the bait shop on Monday, following a report from the Florida Department of Transportation that identified safety concerns.

    The closure means vehicle and pedestrian traffic is now restricted to the northern section of the pier.

    The Skyway Fishing Pier is one of the most popular fishing spots in the Tampa Bay area, drawing locals and tourists year-round. For many, it’s more than just a place to fish — it is part of their daily routine.

    “I fish this bridge religiously. This is really my therapy,” said Corbin Newman, who has been coming to the pier since he was five years old. “I just hate that they’re shutting this whole section down — all the good fishing is down there.”

    Allen Young, who works at the bait shop on the pier, said the structure, which was part of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge built in 1954, has long been a favorite for birdwatchers, tourists, and anglers alike.

    “There’s really something for everybody,” Young said. “Whether you’re birdwatching or just a tourist checking it out.”

    While parts of the pier remain open, regulars say it’s not the same without full access. Newman and others hope the state will find a way to repair the damaged section and reopen it soon. “If the state doesn’t want to fix it, maybe the people can pitch in,” Newman said.

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    Jeff Van Sant

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  • A+ Teacher shows students how to live healthy lifestyle 

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    PARRISH, Fla. — Coach Clifford Lim never pictured himself becoming an elementary school teacher.

    Now he can’t picture himself doing anything else. He teaches physical education at Harvey K-8 at Copperstone in Manatee County. He teaches his students the basics and how to live a healthy lifestyle.

    What You Need To Know

    • Coach Clifford Lim teaches PE at Harvey K-8 at Copperstone in Manatee County

    • Lim was a minister first and then transitioned into a career in education
    • Would you like to nominate an A+ Teacher? Click here

    “You don’t have to be a body builder. You don’t have to be a marathon winner. You just have to keep up with your exercise and stay fit,” said Lim.

    He teaches more than 1,000 students and wears many hats.

    “Yeah I’m an eye glass fixer, I’m a counselor, I’m a nurse, I’m a mom, I’m a dad. We do everything out here,” said Lim. 

    A parent nominated him to be our A+ Teacher, saying he was a saving grace for her son. Lim says he wants the best for every student.

    “Regardless of what’s going on in their life, they just need that stability that someone’s going to love them for who they are regardless,” said Lim.

    He didn’t start out teaching. Lim was a minister first and then transitioned into a career in education.

    “I always loved playing with the kids and everything but I never thought I would be a teacher so it’s one of those aspects God honestly put me where I’m supposed to be and I’ve been enjoying it ever since,” said Lim.

    In addition to teaching, Lim leads a running club in the morning which helps get kids active before the school day begins.

    “It’s just motivating them, having them set goals, and just going after their goals and doing what they need to do to achieve those goals,” said Lim. 

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    Jorja Roman

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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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  • Authorities searching for missing Bradenton teen

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida law enforcement is looking for a missing Bradenton teen.

    There is a missing child alert for a 17-year-old girl, Giselle Diaz Maldonado.

    She is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, 240 pounds, black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a purple shirt and black and white ripped jeans.

    Officials say she went missing on Oct. 16. But it was upgraded to a missing child alert last night.

    She was last seen around the 1800 block of Martin Luther King Avenue East in Bradenton, but authorities say she could be in the Oakland Park area now of Broward County.

    She could be traveling with a man in a two-door black Honda.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of this child is asked to please contact the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9377 or 911.


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    Spectrum News Staff

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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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  • In Bradenton stop, Homeland Security Secretary Noem touts ICE efforts

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was in Sarasota and Bradenton on Monday, highlighting the work of ICE and homeland officials in getting what she said are hardened criminals off the streets.

    Noem said Monday marks nine months since President Donald Trump took office, and since then more than 480,000 undocumented immigrants have been arrested.

    She also reaffirmed support for Florida’s deportation facilities, including “Alligator Alcatraz” and “Deportation Depot.”

    “It’s been fantastic to see the partnerships that we’ve had here in Florida, in this community and throughout the entire state,” Noem said.

    The secretary stood in front of a table full of firearms and narcotics and addressed violence against ICE agents, saying that it won’t be tolerated.

    “That is one of the reasons we are here today to focus on what this office has done — our officers — the criminals that they’ve taken off streets here in this city out of our communities,” she said.

    Noem was asked about recent reports that she had spent $200 million of taxpayer money on two private jets. Noem said they are for the Coast Guard to replace 25-year-old aircrafts.

    A few days ago, a member of the House Appropriations Committee wrote a letter to Noem, claiming she didn’t have the protocol to obtain those jets.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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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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  • Parrish residents pushing for more sidewalks in growing area

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Residents in a Parrish neighborhood say more sidewalks are needed for kids walking to school.

    What You Need To Know

    • Residents want improved sidewalks on Old Tampa Road between U.S. 301 and Fort Hamer Road

    • They say students from Williams Elementary School are walking along the busy road

    • Manatee officials say there are records of requests in the past to get more sidewalks on Old Tampa Road but the projects never moved forward


    Dion Schaal says completed sidewalks have been needed for years on Old Tampa Road between U.S. 301 and Fort Hamer Road.

    Schaal says the sidewalks that are there come to a dead end or are in bad shape, which means pedestrians often have to cross Old Tampa Road or walk alongside it.

    “Unless you want to hop barbed wire at the dead end. Or take your chances on the deadly s-curve on Old Tampa Road and avoid traffic like you’re in a game of Frogger, this is what you have to work with,” Schaal said.

    It’s crossing and walking along the road that is his main concern, especially for kids walking to and from Williams Elementary School.

    Manatee County officials told Spectrum Bay News 9 there are records of requests in the past to get more sidewalks on Old Tampa Road but the projects never moved forward. (Spectrum News/Tim Wronka)

    “This is where they want my kids to walk. My 7- and 9-year-old. Coming home from school,” Schaal said. “They want them to ride a bicycle next to standing water that’s in a ditch. Nowhere for them to safely exit. And no sidewalks, except for the one that dead ends into the woods back here.”

    For years, he has tried to get Manatee County to fix and complete the sidewalks but he hasn’t had any luck.

    Manatee County officials told Spectrum Bay News 9 there are records of requests in the past to get more sidewalks on Old Tampa Road but the projects never moved forward. Any new requests and funding would need to be approved by the board of county commissioners.

    With traffic increasing in the growing area, Schaal is hoping to get some answers soon.

    “It’s a disaster waiting to happen. And we’re trying to prevent it,” Schaal said.

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    Tim Wronka

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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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    Julia Hazel

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  • Tampa Bay Jewish, Palestinian communities react to ceasefire

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tampa Bay’s Jewish and Palestinian communities are weighing in on the ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.

    The ceasefire agreement, along with the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, is being met with hope, but also some caution among these communities.

    What You Need To Know

    • Jewish and Palestinian residents in Tampa Bay are reacting to the latest developments out of the Middle East

    • The CEO of the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee called the video of Israeli hostages being reunited with their families “overwhelming” and said he’s hopeful a ceasefire will last

    • Leali Shalabi, a Palestinian-American woman, said she’s happy for the Palestinian prisoners who were released but is concerned for those who remain in custody

    • PREVIOUS COVERAGE: As hostages and prisoners are freed, complex issues remain for Israel-Hamas ceasefire


    Shepard Englander, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, said even though the violence of Oct. 7, 2023 happened across the globe, the pain of it was felt locally.

    Englander said there are a number of people in the area the federation serves whose relatives were taken hostage or killed.

    He told Spectrum News he wore a pendant with the words “Bring them home now” on it from just after the attacks until Monday morning. Englander called the support the local Jewish community has received “unbelievable” including when it came to organizing a gathering just after the Oct. 7 attacks.

    “We called the city. They opened the municipal auditorium, they staffed it, they welcomed us. We had over 800 people,” Englander said. “At least a third of them were not members of the Jewish community. They just cared about us. They were just friends.”

    Palestinian-Americans, like Leali Shalabi, have also been watching the violence in Gaza unfold.

    Shalabi said she felt a flood of relief for the families of the Palestinian prisoners released Monday, but also immense sadness for those still being held. When it comes to the ceasefire deal, she said she has doubts it will hold up.

    “I think this ceasefire is probably only going to end at its phase one, same way the last one did. It’s very hard to be hopeful when there’s a pattern, and we are looking at the patterns, and the pattern time and time again is that these ceasefires have been broken,” Shalabi said.

    Englander said he’s optimistic the ceasefire will last. The freeing of hostages was the first step, but there are other issues, like whether Hamas will disarm and who will govern Gaza, that still have to be worked out.

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    Sarah Blazonis

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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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    Julia Hazel

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  • A look back at The Center of Anna Maria Island’s inspiring recovery efforts

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    ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fla. — The Center of Anna Maria Island became the central hub for recovery in a community battered by back-to-back storms.

    The damage Helene and Milton left behind, you can still see today.

    During the time shortly after the storms passed, The Center also became a symbol of community and inspiration.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The Center of Anna Maria Island turned into the community’s recovery hub

    •  Christopher Culhane is the center’s Executive Director and said the yearlong efforts to get back to normal have been tough

    •  The Center has been providing youth sports and other activities for the community which relied on it for hurricane relief


    The Anna Maria Island community suffered major impacts twice, however, the place most residents consider a home base also became a beacon of hope.

    Holmes Beach resident Brooke Svoboda said she has lived on the island for years and The Center on Anna Maria Island became an integral part of the days after the storms.

    “And then the supplies started coming in and it was a home. You got a smile when you started coming in, warm food, supplies,” said Svoboda. “They know it’s the heartbeat of this community and they know the island would not be the same without it.”

    A year later, the community center’s children are scoring big during the center of youth soccer league games, which started back up for the fall season a couple of weeks ago.

    Ironically, that league start would put it on the same timing as the storms arriving a year ago.

    “The hurricanes damaged a little bit of everything on the island,” said The Center of Anna Maria Island Executive Director Christopher Culhane, as he started talking about his recollection of the storms. “Pretty dramatic. All of the tennis court. All of the higher fencing, all of it got blown over. The scoreboard we lost as well. “

    A newly installed scoreboard is now up. And what caused all of this is a bad memory for most residents in the Bay area.

    From fires bursting from downed power lines to rushing water over submerged streets, the moments right after the hurricanes were incredibly challenging and a chaotic scene.

    The double impact of hurricane winds and flooding devastated Anna Maria Island and anything on it.

    But Culhane also said something else happened soon after.

    “The Center stepped up with many other organizations and started a volunteer effort to put the island back together,” he said.

    Neighbors were in need, such as Svoboda, who relies on The Center for her family’s youth activities.

    A year ago, she relied on them even more.

    “We did stay on the island. We didn’t evacuate,” she said. “And after the hurricane hit, we came to The Center, we got supplies. It was like our home when everything was chaos and destroyed.”

    And more started to happen.

    The Center would then help plant almost 30,000 plants to renourish the beaches.

    They also held a relief concert last November with Lynyrd Skynyrd, raising more than $400,000 for temporarily unemployed AMI hospitality workers.

    The Center being so close to the water, like everything else on Anna Maria Island, also faced its challenges.

    It has been a yearlong effort to get back. The sod on the soccer fields had to get redone. The fencing and tennis courts are not fully restored.

    Nevertheless, they are playing on them today.

    The Center and its staff got recognition for all the arduous work they did over the year, and following their social media one can see how much.

    As well as the efforts continue even today to inspire others like Svoboda’s son, Parker.

    “We started a little business, and we thought it would be good to donate some back to the Center,” said Parker. “And we’ve done it enough to get to have our jerseys.”

    Proceeds from Parker’s printing business is going back to The Center to help in other ways.

    Because the kind of teamwork you see on the field during the youth games is also what happens on Anna Maria Island, according to Culhane.

    “This community steps up,” he said. “The Center wouldn’t be here without the community. And the community always stands strong with events like this past year.”

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    Roy De Jesus

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  • On The Town: Sizzlin ‘n’ the Sukkah in Bradenton

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    BRADENTON, Fla. — The Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch is inviting everyone to come celebrate the holiday of Sukkot with them.


    Sukkot is a week-long Jewish harvest festival, celebrating G-d’s protection during the Exodus from Egypt. As part of the holiday, Jews will dwell in a temporary structure called a sukkah, eating and celebrating.

    “The part that we focus on is the unity among the Jewish people,” Rabbi Mendy Buckiet said. Buckiet is a Rabbi at the Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch.

    Buckiet is inviting everyone to Sizzlin ‘n’ the Sukkah on Sunday. As part of the event, there will be good food, fun events and religious activities.

    “Try to bring as many people together as possible,” Buckiet told Spectrum Bay News 9. “That’s the only way to truly connect with G-d, only through unity, only through kindness, only through love.”

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    Jeff Butera

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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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    Julia Hazel

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  • Sarasota Memorial Hospital unveils plans for rehab pavilion

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    SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. – Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is planning a new, $82.5 million Rehabilitation Pavilion at its Venice campus.

    The new medical rehab center will be located on the Venice hospital campus. Hospital officials said the expansion will ensure a seamless, more convenient transition from the hospital to the new inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation facility.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is planning a new, $82.5 million Rehabilitation Pavilion in Venice

    • Hospital officials said the expansion will ensure a seamless, more convenient transition from the hospital to the new inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation facility

    • Construction is set to start in 2026 on the 83,000-square-foot facility

    Construction is set to start in 2026 on the 83,000-square-foot facility. The pavilion opening is scheduled for patient care in early 2028.

    The four-story pavilion will feature 50 private inpatient suites, advanced therapy gyms, mobility-training areas, and spaces designed to replicate real-life environments for recovery and independent living.

    The first floor will house outpatient therapy and administrative offices, with a shelled fourth floor reserved for future growth.

    “This pavilion reflects our long-term commitment to providing comprehensive rehabilitation for people of our community,” said Maria DeCarlo, SMH Vice President of Post-Acute & Rehabilitation. “It will mirror the nationally recognized programs and amenities at our Sarasota campus while offering care closer to home to residents in the growing south county community.”

    Levels two and three will be dedicated inpatient rehabilitation units with private patient suites.

    The Rehabilitation Pavilion at SMH-Sarasota has been operating at or near full capacity since it opened in 2017 and was expanded from 44 to 54 beds in 2018 and to 60 beds in 2022.

    During the summer of 2025, the hospital board also approved $5.6 million to expand the Sarasota campus rehabilitation pavilion again by seven more beds, bringing the total to 67.

    That expansion will begin next spring with the new wing opening in early 2027.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Pumpkin patches around the Tampa Bay area

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    TAMPA, Fla. — With fall in full swing, many pumpkin patches have opened back up in the Tampa Bay area for the season. Whether you are looking to pick the perfect pumpkin, meet farm animals or go on a hayride, there are plenty of locations to visit that offer a wide range of themed activities.

    View a Google Maps listing of Tampa Bay area pumpkin patch locations and details below:
    (To submit a pumpkin patch location not on the map, please use our submission form at the bottom of the page)


     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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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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