Month: October 2023

Staff Report

PALMETTO — On Tuesday, HCA Florida Blake Hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new freestanding emergency room facility in Palmetto. The 10,800-square-foot facility will be built on 3.6-acre parcel at 902 10th St. East, just east of the Walmart Supercenter.

The estimated completion timeline for the project is next summer. The company plans to break ground on another such facility in Bayshore Gardens in December.

“This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in HCA Florida Healthcare’s commitment to enhance healthcare accessibility in the Palmetto community,” the company said in a press release.

Formerly Blake Medical Center, HCA Florida Blake Hospital is 383-bed tertiary hospital located in west Bradenton since 1973. It contains the only Level II Trauma Center and Burn Center in Manatee County.

Source: thebradentontimes.com

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Football Fans…. The South Florida, Southwest Florida, Sarasota and Bradenton Hooters locations will be opening on Sunday, November 5^th at 9 am. Catch the Miami Dolphins vs. Kansas City Chiefs when they play in Germany at 9:30 am at your neighborhood Hooters restaurant.

Enjoy happy hour deals from 9 am to noonincluding $10 Snackatizer featuring 6 wings and fries, 10 piece Buffalo Shrimp are half price and one pound of Crab Legs are only $19.83. Drink deals include Crown Royal, Jameson, Grey Goose, Patron and wine by the glass ($5), Absolut, Bacardi, Jack Daniel’s, Tito’s, Heineken, Corona and Dos Equis ($4), Captain Morgan, Jim Beam, Sauza and Skyy, Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite and Michelob Ultra ($3).

South Florida Hooters locations:

Hooters of Bradenton (4908 14^TH Street W, Bradenton) 941-758-1175

Hooters of Cape Coral (3120 Del Prado Boulevard, Cape Coral) 239-945-4700

Hooters of Fort Myers (4411 Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers) 239 275-4666

Hooters of Naples (3625 Gateway Lane, Naples) 239-513-9964

Hooters of Port Charlotte (1360 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte) 941-625-0200

Hooters of Sarasota (6507 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota) 941-923-4666

Hooters of Beach Place (17 S Ft Lauderdale Beach Blvd Suite 305, Fort Lauderdale) 954-767-0014

Hooters of Boca Raton (2240 NW 19 Street, Suite 1101-A, Boca Raton) 561 -391-8903

Hooters of Coral Way (3301 Coral Way, Miami) 305-873-6166

Hooters of Doral (8695 NW 13^TH Terrace, Miami, FL 33126) 305-593-5088

Hooters of Hialeah (680 w. 49^TH Street, Hialeah, FL 33012) 305-827-8000

Hooters of Fort Lauderdale (6345 N. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale) 954-928-0026

Hooters of Pembroke Pines (7990 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines) 954-962-6330

Hooters of Sunrise (3805 N University Drive, Sunrise) 954-748-1000

Hooters of Weston (2282 Weston Road, Weston) (954) 990-7047

LTP Management, a Franchisee of Hooters of America, owns and operates 15 locations in South Florida. For more information about South Florida Hooters please visit www.HootersFlorida.com or follow us at Twitter @HootersFlorida, Instagram @SouthFLHooters, TikTok @SouthFLHooters and Facebook @HootersFlorida.

Source: patch.com

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Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office

BRADENTON – The Manatee County Tax Collector will begin collection of 2023 property taxes on November 1, when 199,267 annual Property Tax Bills and Informational Notices are scheduled to be mailed. The Property Appraiser valued the 2023 tax assessment roll at $75,943,852,267; the total taxes to be collected by the Tax Collector is $1,164,534,138.65.

The 4% discount period has been extended for annual tax payments that are received or postmarked by November 30.

Save time, avoid mail delays and pay your taxes online at taxcollector.com. For quick and easy online payments, QR codes that take taxpayers directly to their parcel have been added to tax bills. If you do not receive your tax bill by November 20, access taxcollector.com where you can print a duplicate bill, pay current and delinquent taxes, and print receipts.

Informational Notices are sent to taxpayers whose tax bill was requested by their mortgage company or escrow agent. A tax bill will not be mailed and no tax is due if the gross tax is less than $15.

Unpaid 2023 taxes will become delinquent April 1, 2024.

5,536 Third Quarter Installment Bills will be mailed November 30. To pay next year’s taxes in quarterly installments, apply at taxcollector.com by April 30, 2024.

Taxpayers can sign up to receive free property tax email alerts regarding taxes on taxcollector.com. Email alerts allow customers to receive an email when taxes are due, when a payment is made, when discount periods are ending, and when the taxes are delinquent. View the ‘How to Sign Up for Property Tax Email Alerts’ tutorial for assistance.

The Tax Collector serves as the collection agent for all taxing authorities and distributes the funds. The Board of County Commissioners, School Board, city councils/commissions and taxing authorities set the tax millage rates. The Property Appraiser establishes the taxable value and exemptions of the property. For information concerning exemptions and ownership or address changes, visit the Property Appraiser’s website manateepao.gov or call 941.748.8208.

Source: thebradentontimes.com

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by LWV Manatee County

BRADENTON — The League of Women Voters of Manatee County Education Issues Committee observes the Manatee County School Board meetings for items of interest to citizens and to the League and notes adherence, or lack of adherence, to good governance procedures and the sunshine laws. The following are the major points from the school board meeting on 10/24/23.

The meeting was called to order at 5:02 p.m. by Chair Choate followed by the reading of the district vision statement by Ms. Foreman, who then introduced Matt Ennis, Pastor of Westside Christian Church who gave the invocation. The Color Guard of Manatee High School presented the colors followed by the pledge of allegiance.

Recognitions – Michael Barber, Director of Community Engagement, facilitated introductions, after pointing out the Good News Banner with over 500 stories on the district’s website Good News page.

Career and Technical Student Organization Winners at National Competition

Dr. Paul Gansemer, Executive Director of Adult, Career and Technical Education introduced the First Place National Competition Winners representing Braden River High School, Southeast High School, King Middle School, Nolan Middle School, Palm View K-8, and Manatee Technical College. [LWV Note: Follow this link to see individual winners – Career & Technical Student Organization Winners at National Competition.]

National Principal Month

October is National Principals Month and to celebrate, the School Board and Superintendent Wysong welcomed district educators serving in their first year as Principal. This included Melissa Porco, Kinnan Elementary; Melissa McCullough, Daughtrey Elementary; Irene Nikitopoulos, Haile Middle School; Kimone Cooper, Lee Middle School; Dr. Melinda Lundy, Bayshore Elementary; and Daniel Bradshaw, Parrish Community High School. Not attending were Adrienne Vos, Blackburn Elementary and Lorie Starkweather, Sugg Middle School. Mr. Tatem read a proclamation.

Farm City Week

Kelli Kennedy, Assistant Director of Adult, Career and Technical Education reviewed the history of Farm City Week and the historical significance of agriculture in Manatee County. She thanked the Board for supporting the elementary agriculture curriculum framework and the first elementary program at Myakka City Elementary School. Ms. Messenger read the proclamation. 

Reports and Presentations

Schematic Design Construction Update on East County K-8. 

Joseph Ranaldi, Deputy Superintendent of Operations, introduced Ms. Roddenberry of the HKS architectural team who presented the concept for the 40-acre school east on SR64 that includes a secure perimeter, dedicated loops for cars, buses and pre-K students. It will have 1700 student stations with projected enrollment of 1500 students. Mr. Brando described the schedule for construction with the elementary building underway in 2023 and completed in 2024 with the middle school building underway in 2024 and completed in 2025.

Mr. Choate stated this will be the first design for a K-8 school to be built in Manatee County. He brought up the different start times for elementary and middle schools. Mr. Ranaldi said this design gives opportunities for thinking differently, especially when thinking of families with multiple aged children.

In response to Mr. Tatem’s question about populating the school, Mr. Ranaldi indicated this school will relieve Gullet Elementary and Jain Middle School. Ms. Spray noted that rezoning will be involved. 

Ms. Foreman asked about the impact of the race track regarding noise. Mr. Ranaldi indicated this property is 2.5 miles from the track. However, he indicated there is a tract of land slated for an elementary school within 700-800 yards from the race track with a berm planned. Ms. Spray noted visiting that closer tract and noise wasn’t an issue.

Ms. Spray and Mr. Tatem voiced concerns about traffic and safety, especially, SR 64 and queried regarding coordination with state and county on traffic concerns.

Superintendent Wysong highlighted the opportunity this gives to think differently and to be innovative. He indicated he will bring a decision to the board regarding the administrative structure for this school earlier than normal to make timely decisions, and “to get this as right as we can.”

The 2024-2025 SDMC Academic Calendar.

Dr. Laurie Breslin, Executive Director of Student Services and Family Engagement, presented two options, A and B, for the 2024-2025 academic calendar and the need for feedback from the community, parents, teachers, and staff. [LWV note: link to options The 2024-2025 SDMC Academic Calendar]

Ms. Messenger stated that in years past the district did more than one year at a time and asked why only one year is being presented. Dr. Brelin indicated it is due to a new Superintendent and a second year’s calendar will be proposed later. Ms. Messenger noted there are positives and negatives to both Option A and Option B. Ms. Foreman said in her view the impact is greater on the teachers than the families. She is really interested in getting feedback from the staff. In response to her question, Ms. Spray was told that the feedback is sorted by type of respondent.

Public Comment

MH cited biblical references and contrasted positive and negative attitudes.

HF pointed out that teachers lose three days of break at the end of the semester on the calendar options presented. She advocated for the Defense of Democracy group. She asked that the district have a book reinstatement process.

BR stated that children of color are treated differently from white students and requested that people of color be treated like everyone else.

MP welcomed the new superintendent and expressed a desire for him and the board to review the LMA situation with new ears and eyes. [LMA – Lincoln Memorial Academy]

Consent Items. Seventeen consent items passed 5-0.

New Business (Superintendent Recommendations)

Approval to Purchase Panorama Education Surveys, No. 24-0076-RG, Estimated in the Amount of $130,000.00 (Multiple Funding Sources)

Dr. Wysong spoke to the renewal of an existing agreement and deferred to Mr. Chapman to respond to questions. This is a platform for gathering and storing information required in certain grant projects. Mr. Tatum brought up the ESSER funds [Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency funds]. He asked what has been identified that is required to continue after ESSER stops and where it resides in the budget. Dr. Wysong assured him that conversations are underway and the district has known that when the funding was given out, there is less revenue coming in at this point.

Ms. Spray requested Mr. Chapman to come to speak to the survey. Mr. Chapman described this survey has been given the past 3 years and used with 4-12 graders to determine how safe they feel measuring school climate. Mr. Chapman told Ms. Spray teachers are being surveyed as well, although that is not a requirement. 

Mr. Tatem asked about the guardrails put in place for surveys. Mr. Chapman stated that we follow state statutes. Mr. Tatum also asked about the financials. Mr. Chapman stated it’s a piece of the larger project, that sunsets next September.

Ms. Foreman asked if the survey automatically goes out to parents. Mr. Chapman said that parents are notified. Ms. Foreman also asked about data sharing.  Mr. Chapman indicated the board will be asked to weigh in on authorizing the Superintendent to sign the agreement. Ms. Spray voiced concern regarding a data breach and stated she is totally against a paper survey.

Passed 5-0

Approval of 2023-2024 Salary Schedules for SAMP (Supervisory, Administrative, Managerial and Professional staff), Hourly Non-Bargaining and School Administrator (Multiple Funding Sources)

Dr. Wysong stated this was the final piece to the salary schedules. Ms. Spray pointed out that she thought the salaries for principals was top heavy. Ms. Messenger countered that the principals are doing the hardest job in the district and should not be considered top heavy. Mr. Tatum added that Dr. Wysong is paid by contract and not on this salary schedule. Passed 5-0

Approval of the Revised Job Description and Position of Chief Operations Officer to Executive Director, School Support Services (No Financial Impact)

Dr. Wysong explained this position was previously filled by Mr. Ranaldi. This updates the job description and brings the title in line with Executive Director. Passed 5-0

Approval of Sixth Amendment to Agreement to Purchase Property from Haval Farms, LLC in North River Ranch (No Financial Impact)

Dr. Wysong explained this is an amendment with the seller of a property in the East part of the county for a planned middle school in the Parrish area. This involves an adjustment to scope.  Mr. Pendley indicated that the seller has not completed some of the improvements promised but is willing to add an access road now. A 17-acre tract that is part of the deal will be held back until this road is built. A discussion followed to understand the drawing showing what was promised that is not done, and the new road to be completed.

When asked by Mr. Tatem what would happen if the amendment is not approved, Mr. Pendley stressed the importance of moving forward with the sale to keep the timeline for permitting and moving the project forward. Passed 5-0

New Business (No Superintendent Recommendation)

Approval of Travel Expense Associated with the School Board Members’ Attendance at the FSBA-FADSS Annual Joint Conference, November 28 – December 1, 2023, at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, FL, Not to Exceed $5,600.00 

All of the board members will attend. Passed 5-0

Approval of Travel Expense Associated with the School Board Member’s Attendance at the Florida School Finance Officers Association (FSFOA) November 2022 Conference, November 13 – November 17, 2022, at the Caribe Royale, Orlando, FL, Not to Exceed $1,400.00. 

Ms. Foreman will attend. Passed 5-0

Updates

Legal 

Mr. Dye indicated that even though the board voted to not participate in the Social Media law suit, he suggested they have a discussion during Friday’s workshop and after a phone call with those handling the law suit.

Operations Update 

Mr. Ranaldi reported that Human Resources is continuing with job fairs. For transportation, the first electric bus is coming this week. There are currently 105 bus drivers, and the optimal number is 115. They are also continuing to work issues with the Where’s the Bus app. Regarding Food Service, they are testing some new vegan options in several schools. So far there is no issue with the potential problem of not having milk cartons, but just in case, plans are made for stocking stable milk and pouring options. On November 15 at 5:30 is the ribbon cutting for the Buffalo Creek Middle Schools media and administrative buildings.  

Instructional Update 

Mr. Jensen outlined required instructional topics for November: Holocaust, Veteran’s Day – Medal of Honors recipients, and Victims of Communism forty-five minutes in government classes. The University of Florida training has begun with all elementary principals, literacy coaches and paras.

Superintendent’s Remarks Dr. Wysong thanked the board for approving the consent items and highlighted approving the Annual School Security Assessment Report and hiring the Recruitment Coordinator in Human Resources. He described his outreach meetings with the faith-based community and SAC (School Advisory Council) members. Dr. Wysong thanked the Board for his two days off to do Professional Development. At the Friday workshop, he will provide an update on his Entry Plan and discuss strategic planning.

Board Comments

Mr. Tatem described the Victims of Communism essay contest sponsored by a local group with judging on October 29 and scholarships awarded. Recounting a personal story of being caught in traffic resulting in anxiety, he encouraged everyone to be safe. His informal survey as he meets parents shows that they like their schools.

Ms. Foreman commended the debate coach at Southeast High School. Out of 3000 schools, she was 1 of 108 to receive recognition. She indicated she hopes the district and board does address reinstating books. She indicated she doesn’t think it’s right that one objector can make a decision for everyone. She said this was a good meeting overall.

Ms. Messenger said, out of respect of time, she had no comment.

Ms. Spray described the Big Bank Theory and a tour with Guardian Angels. She planned to tour Samoset tomorrow.

Chair Choate stated he also has attended Big Bank Theory presented by the Chamber at the high schools. He expressed appreciation for the approval of the security proposals with the Sheriff department and all other partners.

Governance

Board members asked clear and important clarifying questions regarding items requiring their vote. For example, Ms. Foreman and Ms. Spray asked for clarification regarding changes and resident outreach. Mr. Tatem sought answers to tough questions.

We agree with school board members’ emphasis to coordinate actions with other governmental agencies. However, some board members seem to think this does not already happen. It would behoove them to know whether or not it is happening before making statements that sound like it doesn’t happen at all. 

Chair Choate is encouraged again to request the microphone at the podium be used when seeking responses from people in the audience. Ms. Roddenberry spoke for long periods of time in response to questions and was never asked to step back to the mic.

Board members would benefit from a workshop about how plans are made for building new schools and what requirements and statutes guide that work.

Ms. Spray’s comment about principals’ pay was observed to be potentially demoralizing to a key group of district leaders. She would benefit from spending days shadowing principals at all levels. Ms. Messenger is commended for countering Ms. Spray’s opinion.

At times, it appears that Mr. Tatem is not listening to district staff explanations. He often asks questions that were already answered. For example, he repeated the same questions regarding ESSR funds, Panorama Survey purchase, and the Haval Farms purchase after explanations had already been given. 

Mr. Tatem would benefit from a briefing or workshop about how grant funding works. 

Ms. Foreman’s comments regarding reinstating banned books are appreciated as the League of Women Voters is on record supporting the district having a very clear and accessible process for reinstating banned books and challenging the challenges of materials. We support parents’ rights to make decisions for their own students but not for other parents’ students.

This was a short agenda that was made unnecessarily longer because Mr. Tatem and Ms. Spray are observed to ask vague questions, that lead to rambling monologues. We recommend board members, to the extent possible, write down their questions before the meeting so that they are clear and concise.

In regard to one public commenter, we encourage the school board to request demographic data regarding student discipline and determine if the Student Code of Conduct is administered consistently across schools and various ethnic populations.

School Board of Manatee County meetings are typically held on the second Tuesday at 10 AM, and on the fourth Tuesday at 5 PM. Meetings are live streamed on Manatee Schools TV, and can be viewed on local cable including Spectrum Channel 646 and Frontier Channel 39. Meetings can also be streamed on the School District of Manatee County App, available for Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV devices.

Make a Difference – Join the League!

Source: thebradentontimes.com

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PALMETTO, Fla. (WWSB) – Manatee County Crime Stoppers are teaming up with many organizations for their 20th Annual “Halloween Safe Kids Night.”

This is a free event, which will offer some spooktacular games, lots of treats and a costume contest.

The event will be held on Tuesday night from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

This will be in the Mosaic Arena at the Manatee County Fairgrounds in Palmetto.

Copyright 2023 WWSB. All rights reserved.

Source: mysuncoast.com

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Our digital database of restaurant health inspections is updated regularly with the latest information on which Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice area restaurants passed or failed.

You can use the database to search by Sarasota or Manatee County or by restaurant name. You can see which restaurants were fined and which were forced into temporary closure. 

Disclaimer: The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation describes an inspection report as “a ‘snapshot’ of conditions present at the time of the inspection.” On any given day, an establishment may have fewer or more violations than noted in their most recent inspection. An inspection conducted on any given day may not be representative of the overall, long-term conditions at the establishment.

Please note that some more recent, follow-up inspections may not be included here.

Restaurant news:Highly anticipated restaurant opening this week in downtown Sarasota

Craving an awesome sandwich?10 best restaurants and delis in Sarasota and Bradenton

Ticket Newsletter:Sign up to receive restaurant news and reviews plus info on things to do every Friday

Sarasota-Manatee best restaurant inspections

The following restaurants, food trucks or caterers, listed in alphabetical order, passed their inspections Oct. 22-28 with zero violations:

• Affordable Custom Catering, 590 U.S. 41 Bypass, Venice
• Anchor Inn, 3007 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
• Casa Tino Authentic Latin Cuisine, 8742 S.R. 70 E., Bradenton
• Dhaba, 6592 Superior Ave., Sarasota 
• Dunkin’, 151 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood
• Garcia Manuel Duran, 6547 Gateway Ave., Sarasota
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, 190 N. Cattlemen Road #4, Sarasota
• Manatee Palms, 1128 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton
• North River Pizza Company, 11255 U.S. 301 N., Parrish
• Pizza Boss, 4260 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice
• Samurai Japanese Fusion, 1936 Hillview St., Sarasota 
• Sarasota Catering Company, 6544 Superior Ave., Sarasota
• Sarasota Ford Cafe, 707 S. Washington Blvd., Sarasota
• Two Guys to Go, 2801 14th St. W., Bradenton

Sarasota County restaurant inspections with high-priority violations

The following restaurants, listed in alphabetical order, were issued warnings, recommended for administrative complaints or were temporarily closed due to failed inspections Oct. 22-28:

Abondanza Italian Deli

200 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Administrative complaint recommended.

Seven total violations, with one high-priority violation:

• High Priority – Stop sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition Observed operator cooking roasted peppers, zucchini, mushrooms and chicken on outside grill no coverage. Observed operator voluntarily dispose of food **Warning**

Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria

27 Fletcher Ave., Sarasota 

Oct. 24

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Twenty-one total violations, with four high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Container of medicine improperly stored. Observed a case of Advil stored above food in the dry storage area. Operator removed Advil. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
• High Priority – Pasteurized eggs or egg products not substituted for raw shell eggs in foods such as Caesar salad, hollandaise or Béarnaise sauce, mayonnaise, eggnog, ice cream, and egg-fortified beverages. Identified foods made with raw shell eggs must be fully cooked prior to service. Observed the bar using unpasteurized shell eggs for drinks. **Warning**
• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw shell eggs stored over alcohol and juice in the bar cooler. Operator removed eggs. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in the kitchen and bar areas: Raw shell eggs (55F – cold holding); cheese olives (53F – cold holding); butter (75F – cold holding.) Operator stated that the items had been out for approximately 2 hours and put them in the walk-in cooler. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**

Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria

27 Fletcher Ave., Sarasota 

Oct. 25

Call back — complied. Met inspection standards.

Bodrum Restaurant

225 Miami Ave. W., Venice

Oct. 24

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Two high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Dishmachine chlorine sanitizer not at proper minimum strength. Discontinue use of dishmachine for sanitizing and set up manual sanitization until dishmachine is repaired and sanitizing properly. Observed dishwasher machine chlorine sanitizer at 000 parts per million. Observed operator fix broken hose and retested dishwasher at 100 parts per million chlorine sanitizer. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
• High Priority – Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Observed 1 live roach by back door next dish washer machine. Observed operator kill roach. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Bodrum Restaurant

225 Miami Ave. W., Venice

Oct. 26

Call back — complied. Zero violations.

Flanagan’s Pub

759 U.S. Highway 41 Bypass S., Venice

Oct. 23

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Eight total violations, with two high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Container of medicine improperly stored. Observed bottle of Pepto-Bismol on shelf at cooks area over equipment and next to food. Observed operator remove medication. **Warning**
• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw beef over cut onion and cheese in walk-in cooler. Observed operator move beef for proper storage. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Luna Ristorante

200 Saint Augustine Ave., Venice 

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Five total violations, with two high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Dishmachine chlorine sanitizer not at proper minimum strength. Discontinue use of dishmachine for sanitizing and set up manual sanitization until dishmachine is repaired and sanitizing properly. Observed dishwasher machine at 000 part per million chlorine sanitizer. Observed operator set 3 sink for sanitizing dish ware and equipment. **Warning**
• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw sliced beef over cooked sauce in reach-in cooler. Observed employee move beef for proper storage. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Papa Johns Pizza

3080 17th St., Sarasota

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Thirteen total violations, with three high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food marked with a date that exceeds 7 days after opening/preparation. Observed 2 containers of ready-to-eat stringed cheeses marked as 10/19. **Warning**
• High Priority – Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food not consumed/sold within 7 days after opening/preparation. See stop sale. Observed 2 containers of ready-to-eat string cheese marked 10/19. **Warning**
• High Priority – Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed spray bottles containing cleaning chemicals stored on the back food prep table. Operator removed bottles. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Patches Restaurant

501 E. Venice Ave., Venice

Oct. 27

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Twelve total violations, with one high-priority violation:

• High Priority – Server handled soiled dishes or utensils and then picked up plated food, served food, or prepared a beverage without washing hands. Observed server return dirty dishes to kitchen then pick up plated food without washing hands.

Manatee County restaurant inspections with high-priority violations

The following restaurants, listed in alphabetical order, were issued warnings, recommended for administrative complaints or were temporarily closed due to failed inspections Oct. 22-28:

Breakfast Company Commissary

700 13th Ave. E., Bradenton 

Oct. 24

Follow-up needed: Administrative complaint recommended.

Seven total violations, with five high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over or with ready-to-eat food in a freezer – not all products commercially packaged. Observed in walk-in cooler in back kitchen area raw shell eggs over canned beverages and salad dressing. Educated person in charge on safe refrigerator storage and emailed person in charge the handout. Person in charge removed raw shell eggs. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
• High Priority – Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. Observed in front kitchen area on sandwich make station. Employee grabbed soiled cloth with gloves on to wipe his gloves, grabbed cooked chicken with same gloves on to make a sandwich. Stopped employee and educated on glove use and hand washing. Employee voluntarily discarded the sandwich, removed soiled gloves, washed hands and put clean gloves. **Corrective Action Taken**
• High Priority – Stop sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Observed in front kitchen area on sandwich make station. Employee grabbed soiled cloth with gloves on to wipe his gloves, grabbed cooked chicken with same gloves on to make a sandwich. Stopped employee and educated on glove use and hand washing. Employee voluntarily discarded the sandwich, removed soiled gloves, washed hands and put clean gloves.
• High Priority – Stop sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed on front service line breakfast station: raw shell eggs (64F – cold holding); scrambled egg mix (57F – cold holding.) Person in charge stated that they had been out at the station since 9 a.m. Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded both food items.
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed on front service line breakfast station: raw shell eggs (64F – cold holding); scrambled egg mix (57F – cold holding.) Person in charge stated that they had been out at the station since 9 a.m. Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded both food items.

Florence’s Brooklyn Pizzeria

3306 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Sixteen total violations, with four high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Stop sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed meatballs 66F, sausage 64F, cheese 65F, ham 67F, garlic in oil 74F. Product located in 2 door flip top pizza cooler. Observed garlic in oil out at room temperature. Per operator, all products were in the cooler overnight and the garlic in oil was left at room temperature overnight. Operator disposed of above products. **Warning**
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed meatballs 66F, sausage 64F, cheese 65F, ham 67F, garlic in oil 74F. Product located in 2 door flip top pizza cooler. Observed garlic in oil out at room temperature. Per operator, all products were in the cooler overnight and the garlic in oil was left at room temperature overnight. Operator disposed of above products. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed pizza holding at 123F. Operator stated pizza was put in case at 11am. **Warning**
• High Priority – Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed 3 bottles of glass cleaner hanging on reach in cooler handle. Operator moved bottles. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Los Arcos Seafood and More

5108 15th St. E. Space 90, Bradenton

Oct. 23

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Four total violations, with three high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed in reach-in cooler across from fryers raw oysters over salad dressing. Educated person in charge on safe refrigerator storage and emailed person in charge handout on safe refrigerator storage. Person in charge removed the raw oysters. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
• High Priority – Stop sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed in upright reach-in cooler: cheese (56F – cold holding); raw beef (57F – cold holding); raw chicken (54F – cold holding); seafood ceviche (53F – cold holding.) Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded all food items. **Warning**
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in upright reach-in cooler: cheese (56F – cold holding); raw beef (57F – cold holding); raw chicken (54F – cold holding); seafood ceviche (53F – cold holding.) Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded all food items. **Warning**

Nonna’s Pizza

7604 Cortez Road W. #10, Bradenton

Oct. 25

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Sixteen total violations, with two high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in glass door minifridge across from cook line: heavy cream (47F – cold holding); garlic in oil (57F – cold holding); chicken (46F – cold holding.) Operator stated items had been in cooler approximately 1.5 hours. Operator placed items from cooler into walk-in cooler. **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
• High Priority – Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed bottle of bleach stored on roll top reach-in cooler. Operator removed bottle of bleach. **Corrected On-Site**

Nonna’s Pizza

7604 Cortez Road W. #10, Bradenton

Oct. 26

Call back — complied. Met inspection standards.

Peach’s Restaurant

7315 52nd Place E., Bradenton

Oct. 27

Follow-up needed: Administrative complaint recommended.

Six total violations, with five high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed in walk-in cooler in main kitchen area raw sausage over cooked sausage. Educated person in charge on safe refrigerator storage and emailed a copy of the handout. Person in charge removed raw sausage. **Corrected On-Site**
• High Priority – Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. Observed in dishwasher area an employee touched face with glove on hands and grabbed clean plates and utensils. Educated person in charge on glove use and handwashing. Employee put soiled plates and utensils back in dish machine, removed soiled gloves, washed hands and put on clean gloves. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
• High Priority – Stop sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Observed in main kitchen area butter, raw shell eggs and scrambled egg mix time stamped 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Time observed 10:30 a.m. Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food held using time as a public health control marked with a time that exceeds the four-hour limit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded all food items. Observed in main kitchen area raw shell eggs and butter pats in front service area not time marked. Educated person in charge time/temperature control for safety food identified in the written procedure as a food held using time as a public health control has no time marking and the time removed from temperature control cannot be determined. Person in charge voluntarily discarded both food items.
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food held using time as a public health control marked with a time that exceeds the 4-hour limit. See stop sale. Observed in main kitchen area butter, raw shell eggs and scrambled egg mix time stamped 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Time observed 10:30 a.m. Educated person in charge on time/temperature control for safety food held using time as a public health control marked with a time that exceeds the 4-hour limit. Person in charge voluntarily discarded all food items.
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food identified in the written procedure as a food held using time as a public health control has no time marking and the time removed from temperature control cannot be determined. See stop sale. Observed in main kitchen area raw shell eggs and butter pats in front service area not time marked. Educated person in charge time/temperature control for safety food identified in the written procedure as a food held using time as a public health control has no time marking and the time removed from temperature control cannot be determined. Person in charge voluntarily discarded both food items.

Pho House

7240 55th Ave. E., Bradenton 

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Warning issued.

Six total violations, with two high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Dishmachine chlorine sanitizer not at proper minimum strength. Discontinue use of dishmachine for sanitizing and set up manual sanitization until dishmachine is repaired and sanitizing properly. Observed in back kitchen area dish machine chlorine sanitizer at 000 ppm. Person in charge set up 3 compartment sink and chlorine sanitizer tested at 100ppm. Person in charge called for service on dish machine. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
• High Priority – Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed in walk-in cooler outside on south side of building raw shell egg over coconut milk. Educated person in charge on safe refrigerator storage and emailed person in charge handout. Person in charge removed raw shell eggs. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**

Stone River

7360 55th Ave. E., Bradenton

Oct. 26

Follow-up needed: Administrative complaint recommended.

Nine total violations, with five high-priority violations:

• High Priority – Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Observed in walk-in cooler in main kitchen area beef gravy (46F – cooling). Gravy is dated 10/25/23. Educated person in charge on cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours and emailed person in charge handout on cooling procedures. Person in charge voluntarily discarded gravy. **Warning**
• High Priority – Dented/rusted cans present. See stop sale. Observed in main kitchen dry storage area 2 cans of artichoke hearts dented on the seam. Person in charge removed from dry storage for return. **Warning**
• High Priority – Employee touched soiled surface and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Observed in dishwasher area employee touched soiled dishes and then touched clean utensils and failed to wash hands. Educated person in charge on handwashing procedures and glove use. Employee put dish in soiled area of dishwasher area, washed hands and put on clean gloves. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
• High Priority – Stop sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed in walk-in cooler in main kitchen area beef gravy (46F – cooling). Gravy is dated 10/25/23. Educated person in charge on cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours and emailed person in charge handout on cooling procedures. Person in charge voluntarily discarded Gravy. **Warning**
• High Priority – Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in front cooking area roast beef (65F – cold holding); cheese (62F – cold holding); ham (64F – cold holding); sliced turkey (65F – cold holding.) Person in charge noticed that the cooler was not turned on. Person in charge stated that all the food products had been out for approximately 2 hours and placed all product in walk-in cooler. Educated person in charge on cold holding foods and emailed person in charge handout on cold holding. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**

Stone River

7360 55th Ave. E., Bradenton

Oct. 27

Call back — extension given, pending. Follow-up inspection required.

Source: heraldtribune.com

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REGISTER NOW for our monthly Mega Quad Chess Tournament this Sunday, November 5th.
Click here to register.

TOURNAMENT OVERVIEW:

· U.S. Chess Federation (USCF) rated tournament. 3 rounds. All rounds are Game in 40 minutes, with 5-second delay.

· First round starts at 12 noon.

· End of online registration is 11AM, Sunday, the day of the tournament. On-site/walk-in registration occurs from 11:30AM to 11:50AM.

· ENTRY FEE: If registered online before 11AM on tournament day, $20 for Manasota Chess Center members; $25 for non-members. If registering on-site on tournament day, $25 for Manasota Chess Center members; $30 for non-members.

DIRECTIONS: Click here for directions to the Manasota Chess Center at our new location.

QUESTIONS: Email the Manasota Chess Center at manasotachesscenter@gmail.com or call us at 941-900-3296.

Source: patch.com

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A home in The Lake Club topped all transactions in this week’s real estate. Alfred and Karen Frederick, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 8537 Pavia Way to Vasilios and Jennifer Kiritsis, of Bradenton, for $3,455,000. Built in 2022, it has five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a pool and 4,291 square feet of living area. It sold for $1,987,700 in 2022.

Country Club East

Betty Jane Karras, trustee, sold the home at 7511 Crosshill Court to James Russell and Candace Edwards, trustees, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,675,000. Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,869 square feet of living area.

Jeremy and Lucretia Phillips, of Windermere, sold their home at 16720 Berwick Terrace to Kortney and Stephanie McCulley, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,637,500. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 3,229 square feet of living area.

Michael Freedman, trustee, sold the home at 14717 Castle Park Terrace to Gregory Corsan and Suzanne Ritter, of Belle Mead, New Jersey, for $1.09 million. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,465 square feet of living area. It sold for $722,000 in 2021.

Mallory Park

Wesley and Kimberly Ann Jensen, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 12211 Seabrook Ave. to Michael and Tricia Lacey, of Bradenton, for $1,563,800. Built in 2018, it has four bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 4,443 square feet of living area. It sold for $835,000 in 2020.

Sharon Lee Ford, of Bradenton, sold the home at 12016 Blue Hill Trail to Joseph and Jessica Premuto, of Bradenton, for $609,000. Built in 2019, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet of living area. It sold for $410,500 in 2019.

Rye Wilderness Estates

Amanda and Sam Tabachnick, of Parrish, sold their home at 16805 First Ave. E. to John and Melissa Whitting, of Bradenton, for $1.25 million. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four baths, a pool and 3,969 square feet of living area. It sold for $640,000 in 2016.

Country Club

John and Melissa Whiting, of Bradenton, sold their home at 8064 Royal Birkdale Circle to William and Joyce Kushner, of Lakewood Ranch, for $1,035,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,734 square feet of living area. It sold for $552,500 in 2019.

Indigo

Robert Willie and Jamila Aisha Ajanku-Willie, of Sarasota, sold their home at 13407 Deep Blue Place to Kevin Todd Dichillo, of Bradenton, for $900,000. Built in 2021, it has four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,740 square feet of living area. It sold for $636,500 in 2021.

Diana Marcela Pennington, of Bradenton, sold the home at 4018 Celestial Blue Court to Anthony James Del Buono and Maria Pia Del Buono, of Bradenton, for $745,000. Built in 2016, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,471 square feet of living area. It sold for $439,900 in 2017.

Empire State Holding Group LLC sold the home at 12708 Aquamarine Ave. to Derek and Brittany Crudgington, of Bradenton, for $641,200. Built in 2023, it has four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 2,434 square feet of living area.

Jeffrey Alan Sniffen and Vilma Sniffen sold their home at 3511 Azurite Way to Louis and Kathleen Ann Pizzichillo, of W. Babylon, New York, for $560,000. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,682 square feet of living area. It sold for $514,800 in 2022.

Empire State Holding Group LLC sold the home at 12733 Seasong Terrace to James Alan Hellmich and Jennifer Elizabeth Hellmich, of Bradenton, for $520,000. Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,617 square feet of living area.

Lakewood National

Colin Moore and Janice Marie Plain, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 17731 Hickok Belt Loop to Mario Avallone, of Bradenton, for $865,000. Built in 2020, it has two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 1,900 square feet of living area. It sold for $498,100 in 2020.

Rosedale Addition

Amy Relaine Dennis and Matthew Ray Dennis, of Sarasota, sold their home at 4923 Tobermory Way to Timothy and May Hindmarsh, of Bradenton, for $699,900. Built in 2020, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,694 square feet of living area. It sold for $322,000 in 2020.

Hampton Terrace at University Place

CML R4 LLC sold the home at 7922 Edmonston Circle to Dan and Mihaela Dragan, of University Park, for $690,000. Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,432 square feet of living area. It sold for $530,000 in 2006.

Mary Tyler Evans, of Weeki Wachee, sold her home at 7715 Drayton Circle to Harry Steinberg, of University Park, for $632,500. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,674 square feet of living area. It sold for $485,000 in 2002.

Tara

David and Beverly Breiter, of Bradenton, sold their home at 5809 Pleasant Grove Court to Richard and Lisa Deary for $685,000. Built in 1993, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,162 square feet of living area. It sold for $300,000 in 2019.

Savanna

Hamid Reza Bagheri and Aneta Hrycyna, of Nokomis, sold their home at 13604 Saw Palm Creek Trail to David Olsen and Michelle Susan Olsen, of Hoschton, Georgia, for $681,600. Built in 2017, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,221 square feet of living area. It sold for $330,000 in 2017.

Greenbrook

Joshua and Larissa Smith, of Sarasota, sold their home at 15732 Butterfish Place to Luis Marin, of Breinigsville, Pennsylvania, for $650,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,651 square feet of living area. It sold for $490,000 in 2021.

GreyHawk Landing

William Marion Rash Roma Jean Rash, trustees, of Kingsville, Maryland, sold the home at 12338 Lavender Loop to Jason and Nicole Held, of Bradenton, for $650,000. Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,238 square feet of living area. It sold for $290,000 in 2013.

Waterfront at Main Street

Diane Creasy sold the Unit 1-402 condominium at 10530 Boardwalk Loop to William and Elisa Ann Spence, of Lexington, Maine, for $625,000. Built in 2017, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,400 square feet of living area. It sold for $527,000 in 2022.

Riverdale Revised

Timothy and Amanda Schnetzka, of Bradenton, sold their home at 173 Americas Cup Blvd. to Efrain and Vicky Vega, of Bradenton, for $620,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,433 square feet of living area. It sold for $370,000 in 2017.

Louis Scott Schaefer and Patricia Costello, of The Villages, sold their home at 185 Americas Cup Blvd. to Troy Lezotte, of Bradenton, for $610,000. Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a pool and 2,180 square feet of living area. It sold for $360,000 in 2009.

Peridia

Paul and Linda Jorgensen, of Bradenton, sold their home at 4321 Presidential Ave. Circle E. to George and Cheryl Roth, of St. Louis, for $610,000. Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,374 square feet of living area. It sold for $298,000 in 2018.

Riverwalk Village Cypress Banks

Sean and Melissa Millea, of Shelton, Connecticut, sold their home at 11136 Hyacinth Place to David Sharkey, of Bradenton, for $600,000. Built in 2000, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,468 square feet of living area. It sold for $395,000 in 2016.

Creekwood

Charlotte Rawlings, trustee, of Sarasota, sold the home at 5008 76th St. E. to Hans Christian Causey and Dawn Lee Cook, of Cumming, Georgia, for $585,000. Built in 1994, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,314 square feet of living area.

Summerfield

Joseph Plourde and Wilma Jean Fry, of Upper Arlington, Ohio, sold their home at 11814 Clubhouse Drive to Lucian and Carolina Fogoros, of Bradenton, for $584,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,245 square feet of living area. It sold for $252,000 in 2003.

Debra and Richard Lockhart and Eric Lockhart, of Lakewood Ranch, sold their home at 11923 Winding Woods Way to Kelly and Daniel Beavers, of Bradenton, for $470,000. Built in 1998, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,681 square feet of living area. It sold for $336,000 in 2021.

Ashley Trace at University Place

Carol Gutierrez and David Bayer, of Cidra, Puerto Rico, sold their home at 7723 Ashley Circle to Kathryn McPhail, of Bradenton, for $570,000. Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,917 square feet of living area. It sold for $355,000 in 2004.

Del Webb

Anne Marie Keane, of Lakewood Ranch, sold her home at 6926 Dorset Court to Maria Ranzino, of Bradenton, for $548,000. Built in 2020, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,458 square feet of living area. It sold for $266,200 in 2020.

Veranda at Lakewood National

William Edward Gallagher and Joanne Gallagher sold their Unit 2026 condominium at 5694 Palmer Circle to Margaret Mary Randolph and James Douglas Randolph, trustees, of Bradenton, for $545,000. Built in 2021, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,462 square feet of living area. It sold for $280,200 in 2021.

Charles Collins sold his Unit 2616 condominium at 5695 Palmer Circle to Dana Louise Smith and Murray John Blair, of Ontario, Canada, for $515,000. Built in 2022, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,462 square feet of living area. It sold for $375,000 in 2020.

Belinda Anne Newsom, of Lake Orion, Michigan, sold her Unit 813 condominium at 5527 Palmer Circle to Peter and Michele Breihof, of Nutley, New Jersey, for $480,000. Built in 2018, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,336 square feet of living area. It sold for $230,000 in 2020.

Braden River Ranchettes

Michael and Melissa Toler sold their home at 7825 41st Ave. E.to Andrew and Shannon Jackson, of Parrish, for $535,000. Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,760 square feet of living area.

Waterlefe Golf and River Club

Frances Gregori, trustee, of Bradenton, sold the home at 633 Foggy Morn Lane to Randall and Margaret Boulch, of Bradenton, for $520,000. Built in 2001, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,748 square feet of living area. It sold for $218,900 in 2001.

Lakehouse Cove at Waterside

Benny Diasparra and Ingrid Tomitz-Diasparra, of Massapequa, New York, sold their home at 8113 Sternway Road to Christopher and Christa Lee Bauer, of Queens, New York, for $515,000. Built in 2023, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,810 square feet of living area. It sold for $472,400 in June.

Savannah Preserve at University Park

Avri Smith, of Bradenton, sold the Unit 7906 condominium at 7906 Saint Simons St. to Samantha Bailey-Smith and John Bolds, of University Park, for $455,000. Built in 2007, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,512 square feet of living area. It sold for $432,500 in 2022.

Vintage Creek

Virginia Behrens, Clark Behrens, Terry Behrens, Margo Berry, Jeremy Guynn and Billy Guynn, of Myakka City, sold their home at 4608 Vintage Drive to Dale and Jerramie Holbrook, for Sarasota, for $450,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,691 square feet of living area. It sold for $129,500 in 1996.

Woodleaf Hammock

D.R. Horton Inc. sold the home at 1743 Woodleaf Hammock Court to Magda Madly, of Englishtown, New Jersey, for $395,600. Built in 2022, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,662 square feet of living area.

Harmony

Anthony D’Onofrio, trustee, of Estero, sold the home at 11807 Brookside Drive to Marlene Lebrun, of Bradenton, for $395,000. Built in 2017, it has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and 1,926 square feet of living area. It sold for $273,900 in 2017.

Terrace at Lakewood National

William and Cheryl Wehde, of St. Paul, Missouri, sold their Unit 1642 condominium at 18028 Gawthrop Drive to John Neubert, of Bradenton, for $390,000. Built in 2022, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,142 square feet of living area. It sold for $332,500 in 2022.

Source: yourobserver.com

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It’s unclear when the threat of island consolidation might rear its controversial head.

Holmes Beach Mayor Judy Titsworth told The Islander Oct. 26 that she’d seen no sign of progress on a potential study into consolidating Anna Maria Island’s three municipal governments.

The study by the Florida Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability, a research arm of the Florida Legislature that supports state lawmakers by providing data, research and analysis to assist budget and policy deliberations, was proposed by local legislators.

It was introduced at a January Manatee County Legislative Delegation meeting by state Rep. Will Robinson Jr., R-Bradenton, who pointed to low voter roles and questioned the number of governments needed to govern the island.

Robinson motioned to commission a study on the island’s governing structure and to present options to the local legislative delegation for its 2024 session.

The delegation unanimously approved Robinson’s motion.

Legislators tabled the proposed study in February and requested the island mayors discuss options for consolidation among themselves, but those talks didn’t make it far — until August.

State Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton, and Robinson brought consolidation back to the table with an Aug. 21 letter to the mayors in which they called for feedback about the study ahead of their Oct. 5 delegation meeting.

The mayors responded by agreeing to embrace the study in hopes of reducing taxes or improving municipal services but they pushed to change the scope of the study to explore consolidation of services rather than municipalities.

However, there was no discussion of the consolidation study at an Oct. 5 legislative delegation meeting and there has been no subsequent clarification on the matter.

      Robinson briefly touched on island governance at an Oct. 24 Bradenton Kiwanis Club meeting, when he claimed 90% of the city of Bradenton Beach residences are vacation rentals.

“I’m personally concerned that, as the voting population goes down, there are fewer and fewer people to vote, and either crazier people get in, or you don’t have people that can run for office,” Robinson said. “That small amount of people voting affects the other 90% of property owners. That’s when the Legislature has to step in.”

According to the West Manatee Fire Rescue District, which is responsible for inspecting vacation rental units on the island, 76% of Bradenton Beach’s 952 properties are registered as transient lodging establishments with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

The cities of Anna Maria and Holmes Beach comprise about 39% and 24% registered TPLEs respectively, according to WMFR.

Robinson added that he wanted to “respect” the individuality of the island cities but simultaneously called for island unification.

“I want to make sure the island is set up as strongly as possible and as unified as possible,” he said. “I would expect this session to be very robust.”

Titsworth said the state legislators had yet to address the mayors’ request to limit the study’s scope or provide any update.

“I haven’t heard a thing. Not a peep,” Titsworth said.

She added that, while the legislators have made it clear they’re interested in such a study, she hopes they will take their time and engage the cities.

“We’re just sort of in the dark,” Titsworth said. “We don’t know what direction — if any — they’re going to take. … It sure isn’t fun. It would be way more productive if we were all on the same page with communication.”

The 2024 state legislative session will begin Jan. 9 and is set to run until March 8.

Boyd and Robinson did not respond to Oct. 26 calls from The Islander.

Source: islander.org

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Holmes Beach police arrested Kevin McNamara, 35, of Bradenton, Oct. 20 for allegedly resisting a law enforcement officer with violence.

He also faces a first-degree misdemeanor charge for allegedly assaulting a law enforcement officer.

An officer found a man, later identified as McNamara, standing outside of Cheesecake Cutie and Cafe, 3324 E. Bay Drive, around 2 a.m., according to a Holmes Beach Police Department report.

The report stated that McNamara told the officer he was walking home and had stopped to meet a friend but there was nobody else there.

HBPD said McNamara was asked to provide identification and, when he could not find it, threw a bag at the officer and told him to search for the ID.

When the officer dumped the bag’s contents, McNamara allegedly became “upset” and approached the officer with clenched fists, twice saying, “Do something, bro.”

The officer took the gesture as a threat and told McNamara he was under arrest.

The report alleged that McNamara punched the officer, then the two grappled and, after they fell to the ground, McNamara grabbed the officer and refused to let go.

A backup officer arrived and the two handcuffed McNamara and transported him to the HBPD, where the officer documented injuries to himself and McNamara, who had a high heart rate and asked for medical attention.

Manatee County Emergency Medical Services responded and after EMS cleared McNamara, he was taken to the Manatee County jail, where he was released the same day on posting a $2,500 bond.

If convicted, punishment for resisting a law enforcement officer with violence, a third-degree felony, includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and a fine of up to $5,000.

Punishment for a first-degree misdemeanor includes up to one year in jail, one year of probation and a fine of up to $1,000.

On Oct. 23, assistant public defender Alexis Schad, representing McNamara, filed a plea of not guilty to the charges and demanded a jury trial.

An arraignment will be at 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Source: islander.org

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