Issue No. 13 | Fall 2024

ISSUE NO. 13 | FALL 2024

CONTENTS 14 19

Darryl Goldman

by Emma Taylor

Bite Into Our Favorites of Bradenton’s Newest Restaurants

by Kelly Stilwell

28 Quarterly Catch-Up:

An Overview of Bradenton’s Recent Events

by Shelly West

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Bradenton Fall Happenings!

by Amanda Gray

36 Discovering the Heart of Bradenton

by Beth Deyo

41

Historic Buildings

44

Meet Local Business Owners

Photo Essay by David X Tejeda

Tess and Carl Muench The Cat’s Meow, A Vintage Marketplace

19

Bradenton’s Newest Restaurants

Oyster River Photo: Paula Wright

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Taverna Tuscana Photo: Kelly Stilwell

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14 46 Hot Off the Press

by Shelly West

48 Realize Bradenton - A Bagful of Bradenton

by Nicole Miskovic

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The Disappearing Dive Bar AMI

by P J Quinn

56

Get Your Game Face On

by Kendra Gemma

60 Council’s Bradenton Recreation

by Liz Reed

63 Students Use Public Artwork to

Inspire A Healthier Manatee County

by Christopher Tittel

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BRADENTON MAGAZINE P.O. Box 1034 Bradenton, FL 34206

www.BradentonMag.com

EDITORIAL PAULA WRIGHT Publisher + Editor-In-Chief Paula@BradentonMag.com

TONI LYON Ad Sales Representative Toni@BradentonMag.com

ROXANNE CLAPP

Designer

KENDRA GEMMA

Copy Editor and Proofreader

CREATIVE WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Stilwell Kendra Gemma Liz Reed Emma Taylor Shelly West David X Tejada Amanda Gray Nicole Miskovic Beth Deyo Christopher Tittel P J Quinn

COVER: DARRYL GOLDMAN Please recycle this magazine

Promoting Manatee County and All Our Neighbors.

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DARRYL GOLDMAN

BY EMMA TAYLOR

unearthed affinity that she initially didn’t believe he was the artist. She called the teacher to confirm, and promptly agreed to begin giving him one dollar a week to attend lessons.

But despite not going directly from womb to easel — like many seem to, or at least claim to have done — Goldman is an artist. But not just an artist.

His entire life and career have been as vibrant and colorful as his paintings.

Many artists grow up immersed in creativity. It’s as though they emerged from the palette like Aphrodite from the sea — newborn and nude, dripping in colors they were destined to wield.

Their path to practice seemingly logical, even inherent. But each artist has a different origin story, and Darryl Goldman’s discovery of his talents came a bit later than most.

Goldman had a conservative upbringing in Meridian, Mississippi, and dreamed of becoming a minister from an early age. He doesn’t remember coloring or drawing as a toddler. He wasn’t gallivanting to the salvage yard with his upcycling uncle to gather pieces for his latest installation.

In fact, Goldman didn’t discover he could draw until primary school. “Most kids grow up drawing and coloring, I guess. I saw my first box of colors when I was in first grade. I was fascinated that you could have things that could make drawings like that,” he said fondly of his artistic introduction.

Pure chance led Goldman to attend a private art lesson with a friend in the second grade. He was delighted by the bright colors splashing across a woodblock as he painted the teacher’s parakeet.

Invigorated by his newfound outlet for expression, the young Goldman proudly rushed his creation home. His mother was so surprised by his 14 | BMAG

True to his childhood aspirations, Goldman became a faith leader. He worked as a U.S. Army chaplain during his time in the service and celebrated his 50th anniversary as an ordained minister this year. He and his wife of 55 years, Linda, both enjoyed long careers in the U.S. Army.

Art remained mostly a hobby for Goldman until his retirement from the military.

He’s jumped out of airplanes with soldiers and comforted them by bedsides in hospitals, and he’s traveled to and lived in various places. He and Linda even managed to keep their marriage strong while spending three years traveling in a motorhome together in retirement — an undertaking that most married people will recognize as no small feat.

Goldman hasn’t practiced art every day of his life, but he’s found a way to maintain his appreciation for, and study of it, even when he felt his primary focus was called elsewhere.

“My wife and I were at the Pentagon together for about five years. She was in civil service, and I was a chaplain there. When we had the opportunity, we’d go out and look at artists’ work and visit exhibits. I knew I needed to get back into it,” Goldman said of creativity’s steadfast presence.

If collecting experiences, developing relationships, and offering ample passion to various callings are methods of indirectly strengthening one’s creative muscles, then Goldman has been doing heavy lifting for years — brush in hand or not.

The Goldmans were transferred to Texas after their time in D.C., and he was promoted to colonel. But shortly after receiving his new title, he made the choice to leave the service and go back to being a civilian minister. “I decided I wanted to do other things, as well as get back into art. I became a senior pastor at some very large churches, and it gave me time to do some painting,” he said of the transition.

It was during this time that Goldman attended a workshop with the renowned oil painter TJ Cunningham. Cunningham provided Goldman with the knowledge and tools needed for a practice known as “plein air painting” or painting from life outside. The method has become a hallmark of Goldman’s style.

Goldman’s spare time for painting became even more abundant a few years ago when he decided to retire from pastoring and he and his wife embarked on a multi-year journey to see the country.

“On the road was great because I had the opportunity to do a lot of outside painting. I spent a lot of time painting people’s houses, people’s dogs. I really enjoy that kind of thing. It’s sort of what I’m working on now, doing this series on downtown Bradenton. I enjoy capturing people and where they live,” Goldman said of his favored process and subject matter.

It’s not surprising that this style of painting appeals to Goldman. Much of his life has been centered around people — understanding and helping them, guiding them through their fears and triumphs. It feels appropriate that his art tends to capture the beauty of natural daily life. It also happens to be a process that often invites more connection with his subjects.

“In the RV parks, people saw me painting outside and would say, ‘May I take a look?’ I met many wonderful people that way,” Goldman shared.

The Goldmans decided to put roots down several years ago and moved to Florida. Goldman was encouraged by his sister-inlaw, the professional artist Jody Goldman, to join (then) Island Gallery West. Goldman described it as, “a tremendous way to display and sell my art in a setting of friendly and supportive artists.” Island Gallery West has since become Island Gallery and Studios on Main Street in Bradenton, and Goldman’s art is still available there.

When approaching his work, Goldman heeds the advice of an artist friend to initially paint for himself when something moves him, and to paint for others only secondarily. What has surprised him greatly, though, is how the things that inspire him seem to move others similarly — particularly when noting the popularity of his Midwestern farm scenes among the often coastal-centric Manatee County crowd.

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Goldman tends to paint his surroundings, though, and much of his work now features scenes from his time Florida. He was already working on a series of paintings that capture downtown Bradenton when he sent some of his samples to Bradenton Magazine editor in chief Paula Wright. The image selected for this issue’s cover is from that series.

Perhaps it stems from his life as a man of faith, but Goldman is astoundingly humble. For all his accomplishments and talents — and enjoying his (at least) third career turn as working painter — he expresses his motivations and elations simply. “I’m often accused of pricing my pieces too low, but really, I just like when other people want to have something in their house. And better their house than mine because storage does become an issue!”

Goldman says with a light laugh.

Goldman now spends a large portion of each day in front of the canvas, and Linda helps him with the business side of his artistry. He’s shown at many locations around Manatee County and will be displaying his work for a “featured artist” exhibit at Island Gallery and Studios in March of 2025.

Goldman’s pieces are currently for sale at Island Gallery and Studios in Bradenton and can be viewed on darrylgoldman.com and Facebook.

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B I T E I N T O O U R F AV O R I T E S O F B R A D E N T O N ’ S N E W E S T R E S TA U R A N T S

BY KELLY STILWELL

Gastronomes, rejoice! New restaurants are opening all over the Bradenton area.

From Italian to sushi to new brewpubs, it’s nice to have so many delicious places close to home! We’ve eaten at every spot on this list (sometimes more than once!), and we can tell you wholeheartedly — you’re going to love the food!

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EnRich Bistro With deep roots in Bradenton, EnRich Bistro is not necessarily new to the area. The very popular Bradenton restaurant had to make the hard decision to close during the pandemic, like many others. Unfortunately, most of those that closed did not reopen. But EnRich had a fan base hopeful for a return and, thankfully, they got their wish. EnRich reopened on Friday, May 10, and just two days later, served a crowd of 400 on Mother’s Day. The new EnRich Bistro has modern look, with a bar area, two partially separated dining rooms, as well as a private dining area with doors that slide closed.

The Geraldson’s Farm Eggplant on the specials menu was the perfect starter; crispy fried panko eggplant was served on top of a base of herbed Chèvre and red wine reduction, with a dollop of jalapeño tomato jam. After hearing about the small plate tuna poke, I had to try it, too. The yellowfin tuna was fresh and flavorful and paired well with the avocado and wasabi kale slaw. Wonton chips were served on the side for scooping up all that deliciousness.

For entreés, we had to try the grilled Australian rack of lamb topped with smoked baba ganoush — an eggplant based creamy dip — served with a vegetable salad. I had a hard time deciding what to order for my entrée, but when EnRich owner Rich Knowles suggested I try the black garlic-crusted skirt steak, it was an easy yes. Cooked perfectly, the tender sliced beef was served with a smoked poblano chimichurri sauce and paired with delicious plantain saffron rice.

You absolutely can’t leave without trying the carrot cake, which was the best I’ve ever eaten. The Thai basil ice cream with pistachio streusel was also amazing.

The portions at EnRich are generous, so box up your leftovers for the next day’s lunch. We did!

You’ll find EnRich at 5239 Manatee Avenue West.

Make reservations online at enrichbistro.com or call (941) 289-1299

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Executive Chef Larry Lane

Chef/Owner Rich Knowles

Taverna Toscana The first of three Italian restaurants on our list, the excitement for Taverna Toscana was building for some time before they finally opened on Manatee Avenue. What sets this restaurant apart of the other Italian spots is that it offers more of a rustic Italian menu than the traditional dishes you’d expect. The menu has a wide variety of options for appetizers as well as entrées.

This is definitely the kind of spot where you could sit at the bar with a glass of wine or cocktail and share a few appetizers for a meal. I’ve been to Taverna Toscana three times and enjoyed a different experience each time.

The first time I shared the crostini del giorno, Fabio’s Wagyu meatball, and the grilled octopus at the bar along with a French I-75, one of their specialty craft cocktails.

On the second visit, I was with a group, and we ordered several appetizers and several entrées served family-style. Being able to taste a lot of different dishes is a great way to experience a new restaurant, so you can pick your favorite to order the next time you go. I did just that, ordering the wagyu short rib Bolognese on my last visit.

The restaurant has only been open for a couple of months and very cleverly teased the opening for 10 months with amazing photos of their mouthwatering dishes, so it’s not surprising there is a crowd every night. Make a reservation if you want to be sure to get a table.

Photos courtesy of Taverna Toscana

Tavera Toscana | 1301 6th Ave W, in Bradenton. Make reservations online: tavernatoscana.com

Oyster River Oyster River, the rooftop restaurant at the fabulous Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, opened at the end of July. The resort is beautiful and is only just getting started. A private beach area, spa, and more are on the way. But Oyster River is open and already often seeing crowds at their upscale fresh seafood restaurant with a Mediterranean twist. Executive chef Anthony Castro has been at the helm of restaurants all over the world, including the Shangri-La Hotel in Asia.

The menu offers quite a few choices. As you’d expect with a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, there’s a raw bar with oysters, caviar, shrimp cocktail, and a seafood tower. We have to suggest the caviar dip with homemade chips. It’s big enough to share. Don’t miss the crab cake, which is saying a lot from this transplanted Marylander. The burrata salad is more of an app than a salad. The presentation is beautiful, so if you’re a foodie, get your video ready. The Caesar salad was wonderful, topped with fried oysters and a parmesan wheel. The lobster bisque is creamy with pieces of fresh lobster and perfectly seasoned. For entrées, the wagyu filet comes with prawns, a crab cake, or a lobster tail. The desserts are also creative and decadent so, at minimum, choose one and share. The crème brûlée was heavenly.

The weather should be perfect now to dine on the open-air terrace with views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Manatee River. Note: Oyster River Rooftop is reservation only. We’d suggest reserving well in advance.

You’ll find Oyster River Rooftop at 600 US-41, in the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, near the convention center.

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Inner Compass Brewing We kept hearing about Inner Compass Brewing from friends who had visited.

We finally stopped in on our way home from SRQ and found it to be a fun, familyowned, neighborhood spot with a long bar and family-friendly vibe. It’s much larger inside than I expected, with 2,500 square feet of taproom, 2,500 square feet of brewery, and even more space for private events. There’s also an outside patio with more seating and an area for entertainment.

The list of beers is long, but you can taste anything on draft to find what you like. With 30 taps, you’ll have a lot of choices. They try to have as many of their own beers on tap as they can, and any guest beers will be from our state. We loved the Stouts Honor and the Kan-Do Kölsch. Though they don’t have a full bar, they do offer a selection of wines, mimosas, High Noon vodka and tequila canned cocktails, and soft drinks.

Let’s face it, for the most part, you go to a brewery for beer, not food, but Inner Compass surprised us. We started with the fish dip, and though I have to say the housemade chips wouldn’t be my first choice to go with it, the dip was surprisingly good. We also got an order of six wings, and they were tender and juicy with just enough Buffalo sauce. Other options are teriyaki or garlic. The ICB Burger was cooked perfectly, topped with lettuce, tomato, and a pickle on a brioche bun.

Other handheld options include a fried chicken sandwich, fish and chips, Philly cheesesteak, and more. There’s even a vegetarian option as well as a few salads on the menu. The pizzas looked good, too. We’ll be back.

Inner Compass Brewing is located at 10316 Technology Terrace in Bradenton.

Bar Italia If you’re wondering why there are so many new Italian restaurants in our area, perhaps it’s because Italian food is the most popular of all ethnic cuisines, according to a 2023 article in Forbes. Bar Italia opened in July in Lakewood Ranch and hasn’t slowed since. With a lively bar, popular happy hour, and delicious food, this Italian bistro should be added to your list. As the website says, the setting is elegant, comfortable, and unpretentious. We couldn’t have said it better.

We started with the 12-month proscuitto with ricotta served on grilled country bread. The breadsmith makes this bread exclusively for Bar Italia using the restaurant’s recipe. The crust is crunchy and the bread is soft and flavorful. Pace yourself. There’s a lot more to taste. The shrimp “aqua pazza” scampi is bathed in a spicy tomato sauce, topped with reggiano and more of that grilled country bread.

I’m always up for sharing appetizers instead of ordering entrées, and I plan to go back and order the fritto misto, housemade meatballs, and Chef Rob’s stuffed peppers. Can’t wait.

For entrées, try one of the pasta dishes. Bar Italia makes their own pasta, and you really can’t go wrong with any of those dishes. If you want to try the pasta without committing to a large dish, try the one of the primo pasta smaller portions. The wood-fired pizza was impressive, with crispy crust and lots of toppings. Out of the six choices, we chose the Pig & Fig, with ripe figs, prosciutto, mozzarella, fig jam, and arugula. It was delicious, though a little on the sweet side. I could do with less jam, but that’s me. We still devoured the leftovers the next day.

Remember how I told you to pace yourself? I hope you do, because the desserts are fantastic. You’ll have quite a few choices, but just go with the caramelized cheesecake. It is so decadent. Pair it with a cappuccino or one of the coffee drinks.

And speaking of drinks, Bar Italia has a nice wine list and quite a few craft cocktails.

We plan to visit again soon to take advantage of the Happy Hour menu. See you there. Find Bar Italia at 6568 University Parkway, Lakewood Ranch.

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Scarpino’s Classic Italian The only restaurant on this list located in west Bradenton, you’ll find Scarpino’s in Bayshore Shopping Center. Though this classic Italian restaurant was founded by Frank Scarpino over 30 years ago, it’s been given new life through new ownership and a renovation. Last year, the restaurant was purchased by Rob Arias. Though the decor has a whole new look, a couple of very important things haven’t changed.

Many of the original recipes are still used, and much of the staff remains. Scarpino’s pizza chef, Giorgio, who relocated from Italy to work there, will continue to use his 25 years of experience to create those mouthwatering pizzas fans have loved for years.

With 16 appetizers to choose from, you might want to order a bottle of wine and try at least a couple.

This is my kind of meal, where friends can share several starters like Scarpino’s shrimp or those tender meatballs, and not even get to the entrées. But then you’d miss the fettucine puttanesca and piccata.

Thinking pizza? You’ll have more than 25 to choose from. You might want to look at the menu ahead of time and decide before you go.

Don’t leave without dessert. Yes, you’ll have a dozen of those to choose from, too. Order the cheesecake and the cream puff cannoli. You’re welcome.

Visit Scarpino’s at 6152 14th St. W in Bradenton.

Old Friends Doing New Things Though not new, some of our old favorites are making upgrades that feel like new. Harry’s Continental Kitchens on Longboat Key has been around since 1979, but with the recently added a covered patio, it feels like new. Visit Harry’s Continental Kitchens at 5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive in Longboat Key. Michael John’s has added a new bar, making it even easier to enjoy a casual meal on date night. We used to think of MJ’s as only fine dining, but have you tried their “filet mignon” burger with those crispy fries?

Find Michael John’s at 1040 Carlton Arms Boulevard in Bradenton.

Ed’s Tavern added a new location in east Bradenton.

We had heard so many good things about it that we finally made it in on a rainy Saturday to a packed house. The menu is long and they have a full bar as well as local draft beer. The atmosphere is fun and family-friendly. Ed’s is located at 1305 108th Street East in Bradenton.

Explore More Than One Local Spot on a Food Tour A great way to try several local restaurants is to go on a food tour. Key Culinary Tours has food tours in Anna Maria, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Venice. The tours typically go to four restaurants, ending with a sweet treat.

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QUARTERLY CATCH-UP An Overview of Bradenton’s Recent Events

BY SHELLY WEST Fall is upon us, and the summer months are already behind us. Here is a look back over the past few months and the changes that Bradenton and surrounding areas have seen.

City Offices for Sale In late July, the Bradenton City Council approved the sale of the current site of City Hall and the Bradenton Police Department, paving the way for a major redevelopment project. The plan includes an eight-story apartment building with 350 units, a 14-story hotel with 130 rooms, and a 20-story condominium tower featuring 95 units, a rooftop bar, meeting spaces, and a pool deck with a bar on the ninth floor. Additional features include 20,000 square feet of retail space, 8,600 square feet of restaurant space, and an eight-story parking garage.

The sale requires the city to relocate City Hall by the end of 2025, according to officials. However, the closing is not expected until 2026, as the city must first conduct inspections and surveys to help the developer assess the cost of any off-site mitigation.

At its July 24 meeting, the council also approved a construction agreement with NDC Construction, based in Bradenton, for the new Bradenton Police Department headquarters. The $30 to $35 million project will create a 50,000-plus-square-foot police station, with construction anticipated to begin around December of this year and expected to take 15 to 18 months to complete.

As for City Hall, the city is still in the process of identifying a new location. Officials are exploring multiple properties and options, confident that they will be able to either construct a new building, remodel an existing one, or acquire a suitable space.

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QUARTERLY CATCH-UP

Palmetto Resort Now Open Sarasota-Manatee’s newest resort, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, began welcoming guests in late July, offering stunning views of the Manatee River where it meets the Gulf of Mexico. This eightstory resort features 252 guest rooms and a range of upscale amenities, including a spa, restaurants, and bars, and a recreation area including pickleball courts and a nine-hole course. Once construction at the neighboring Bradenton Convention Center is complete, the two properties will be connected by a covered walkway. The convention center is undergoing a $48 million renovation to complement the resort’s style and expand its facilities.

New Flights and Destinations SRQ has announced exciting new flights to several destinations this year, including New York City; Austin, Texas; Des Moines, Iowa; Plattsburgh, New York; and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Allegiant will be operating the flights to Austin, Des Moines, Plattsburgh, and Portsmouth, while American Airlines will handle the New York City route.

You can already book flights to Austin, Des Moines, and Plattsburgh, while the New York City and Portsmouth routes are set to launch in November.

These new routes are part of a broader expansion across Florida airports.

SRQ has seen remarkable growth since the pandemic, with steady increases in passenger numbers throughout 2021, 2022, and 2023. Last year, the airport celebrated a 21.5% increase in passenger traffic over the past five years, with over 4 million passengers passing through in 2023.

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To accommodate this surge in traffic, the airport is expanding its facilities. A new ground transportation center with a covered passenger area and an expanded parking facility are set to open later this year. A new five-gate terminal is planned for 2025, featuring a concession program that will highlight local restaurants and coffee shops.

Breaking Ground for Veterans The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting America’s first responders, Gold Star families, and military veterans, is taking a significant step toward eliminating veteran homelessness in Florida.

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, the foundation held a groundbreaking ceremony for the “Bradenton Veterans Village,” a new residential facility designed to provide housing and support for homeless veterans.

Manatee County generously donated 8.7 acres of land at 4410 66th Street West in Bradenton for the project.

Completion is scheduled for some time in 2025. The village will include an 84-unit apartment complex, a comprehensive on-site support service center, and a community of 38 Comfort Homes. In addition to providing wraparound services, the complex will feature amenities such as a gym, workforce development center, outdoor amenities center, pickleball court, multipurpose room, game room, and lounges.

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Celebrating 30 Years of Service August 1, 2024, marks 30 years since Manatee County Habitat for Humanity became an independent affiliate. Before 1994, the organization operated alongside Sarasota Habitat under the name Manasota Habitat for Humanity. Recognizing the unique needs of each county, they decided to split, allowing them to better serve the community in Manatee County. Since then, Manatee County Habitat for Humanity has been dedicated to building homes, communities, and hope.

To celebrate this milestone, the organization is planning a year-long series of events from August 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025. Throughout the year, they will share stories from their early days, featuring the first Manatee Habitat homeowner and the inaugural president.

In honor of their 30th anniversary, a special logo will be incorporated into all communications. A highlight of the celebration will be a 30th Anniversary Birthday Party. The family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Manatee County Habitat for Humanity looks forward to marking this milestone with the community and continuing its mission of providing affordable housing for families in need.

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BRADENTON FALL HAPPENINGS

BY AMANDA GRAY By the time fall arrives in Florida, residents and visitors alike are ready to welcome it with open arms. A break from humidity and a cooler gulf provide the perfect backdrop to take in festive outdoor activities and community events in Bradenton. So, if you’re ready to shift from palm trees to pumpkin spice, this list of Florida fall happenings has you covered.

Activate your best fall self by attending the annual Hunsader Farms 33rd Annual Pumpkin Fest! This year’s event, which is free for children under 10, will be held during various weekends throughout the month, on October 12-13, October 1920, and October 26-27 from 9 to 5 p.m.

Live music, hayrides, and a petting zoo are all included with admission. With many fall-friendly activities happening throughout the day, attendees can also purchase pumpkin pies, homemade ice cream, and pumpkins. This event invites dogs to participate in the celebration as well, as long as they are friendly and on leash. Hunsader Farms is family-owned and operated and located at 5500 C.R. 675 Bradenton.

Dust off your best monster mash dance moves at Bridge Street’s Sundown Get Down, Pumpkins & Palms in Paradise on October 17. Street parties are a regular occurrence at the historic strip on Anna Maria Island, so you can count on a good time while you stroll, shop, eat, and dance your way through the night.

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Sip on a pumpkin-flavored libation at Motorworks any night of the week.

Their sprawling outdoor patio serves up unbeatable ambience and, when the evenings are cooler, you can sit under their beautifully lit oak tree while enjoying live music or bingo, or bring the family and play the giant lawn games sprinkled throughout this impressive outdoor space. While Motorworks operates year-round, make it a point to enjoy it during peak patio weather and be sure to check out the 9th Annual Celt Music Festival, being held at the brewery on October 19.

Stroll the Palma Sola Botanical Garden’s during their Fall Plants & More Sale on Sunday, October 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and stock up on some fall garden favorites. Admission is free.

Leaf peeping is great, but in Bradenton one of the signature ways to enjoy a fall day is to head to the beach and enjoy what many locals refer to as the ideal time of year for a swim. So, while there are many events happening all over town, you can’t go wrong with keeping it simple and enjoying mild temps and a slower pace.

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DISCOVERING THE HEART OF BRADENTON

BY BETH DEYO A STROLL THROUGH DOWNTOWN The cooler fall temperatures make this the perfect time to rediscover downtown Bradenton’s local charm. Take a stroll down Main Street, and you’ll find a perfect blend of historic architecture, new attractions, and beloved staples.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, downtown Bradenton always has something fresh to offer – even for those who think they know it well.

DINE, SHOP, AND PLAY ON OLD MAIN STREET At the heart of downtown Bradenton, Old Main Street is home to a diverse array of local businesses, restaurants, and entertainment options. Food enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, from upscale dining to casual local favorites.

Several downtown restaurants also offer stunning views of the Manatee River, whether you’re dining al fresco on the rooftop or enjoying a waterfront meal near the marina.

Island Gallery and Studios showcases works from local artists, offering a glimpse into the area’s vibrant creative community. This artist-owned-and-operated gallery offers paintings, photography, pottery, and handcrafted jewelry for sale. It’s an excellent place to find a one-ofa-kind piece of art or a special gift while supporting local talent.

On Saturday mornings from October through May, The Bradenton Market brings a mix of vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities to Old Main Street. This lively market is a perfect spot to spend your morning, with local farmers offering fresh produce, artisans showcasing handmade crafts, and a large selection of food trucks and ready-to-eat snacks. The atmosphere is both festive and relaxed, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. Wellbehaved furry friends are also welcome on a leash.

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The eye-catching City Centre Parking Facility offers free parking and adds a contemporary touch to the historic area. On the first floor, you’ll find several shops and boutiques where you can browse for unique items and gifts. This area also features a cozy coffeehouse, perfect for grabbing a freshly brewed coffee or a smoothie to recharge during your shopping spree. If you have a sweet tooth, two nearby ice cream shops offer delicious treats.

As evening falls, Old Main Street’s nightlife comes alive. Craft cocktail enthusiasts can sip creative concoctions while those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere can enjoy a pint at one of downtown’s Irish pubs. There’s even a dog-friendly bar where patrons can bring their four-legged friends and enjoy games like pinball, pool, and darts.

ART, CULTURE, AND RIVERSIDE CHARM Downtown Bradenton is a hub for arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. The crown jewel of the area is the Bradenton Riverwalk, a 2.03-mile stretch along the Manatee River between the Green and DeSoto bridges.

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This scenic park offers something for everyone.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, take in the beautiful views, and explore the interactive public art installations. The splash pad and playground are perfect for families with young children, while the beach volleyball courts and skateboard park cater to those seeking more activity.

The Riverwalk is also the departure point for the Gulf Islands Ferry, making it easy to plan a hassle-free day trip to Anna Maria Island. Simply park downtown, hop aboard, and enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea.

Heading north from the Riverwalk, you can’t go wrong with a stop at the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Here, you can explore exhibits, see live manatees, and marvel at the wonders of the universe in the planetarium.

The nearby ArtCenter Manatee hosts rotating exhibitions and offers classes for aspiring artists of all ages. Meanwhile, the Manatee Performing Arts Center brings the stage to life with a variety of theatrical productions throughout the year.

Just a short distance from downtown lies the eclectic Village of the Arts (VOTA), a unique community of artists, galleries, and shops housed in colorfully painted historic cottages.

Thanks to Freebee, a free ride-sharing service, it’s easy to make your way from downtown to the VOTA and the Manatee Historic District. This area, just east of downtown, is home to several thrift and vintage shops, eateries, and the newly completed Riverwalk Expansion.

OLD FLORIDA WITH A MODERN FLAIR While downtown Bradenton continues to evolve with new businesses and attractions, it maintains the enchanting Old Florida feel that residents and visitors cherish. The historic buildings, scenic river views, and charming streetscapes offer a nostalgic journey through time, even as modern amenities and contemporary touches enhance the experience.

This fall, enjoy a leisurely stroll through our vibrant downtown. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new spots, you’re sure to find something special at every turn.

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David’s photo essay reminds us to look around at the historic charm of our city. We have some beautiful old nostalgic buildings that keep it rooted in history.

Bradenton’s ‘Pink Palace’ was reborn as a Hampton Inn, the Manatee River Hotel first opened in 1926.

Iron Block Building at 530 12th Street West (Old Main Street) was built in 1896 in the cast iron style of architecture by Dr. Charles Ballard.

The Atlantic Coastline Railroad Company Passenger and Freight Depot Bradentown Florida, built c. 1925, became the Bradenton Depot when Bradentown dropped the ‘w’ from its name.

The Professional Building opened its doors on February 22, 1926, as The Bradenton Bank and Trust.

The Tole Fogarty House, located at 3101 Riverview Blvd. in Bradenton, was built in 1871 and is now restored.

The Manatee County Courthouse, built in 1913, is a historic courthouse building located at 1115 Manatee Avenue West. On June 11, 1998, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Rexall Pharmacy, at 831 Manatee Ave, was built in 1910.

The Bradenton Post Office opened at the corner of Manatee Avenue and 9th Street West on January 2, 1937. The building was constructed as a WPA project with U.S. Fidelity and Guarantee Company as contractor. The post office remains in operation today.

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Tess and Carl Muench The Cat’s Meow, A Vintage Marketplace When did you start the business? Why? My husband, Carl, and I wanted to transition into a business that is conducive to the next phase of our lives, and The Cat’s Meow was born out of that idea. The Cat’s Meow, A Vintage Marketplace opened it’s doors in May, 2020 - right when Covid was starting to impact our community.

What is your connection to Bradenton?

We moved to the Bradenton area from Sarasota in 2014.

What is your background? Is this business a result of your passion?

I have a strong background in sales and administration, and Carl has owned a successful lawn/landscape business for over 30 years. We both like being challenged, and work well within challenges. Starting this marketplace was a perfect opportunity to grow and thrive in a creative environment, while pursuing our love for vintage thrifting, while turning it into a sustainable income.

What were your drives to start up?

Carl and I were looking to transition into a business that we could do together as we get older. But, we also wanted to serve and contribute to our community. Starting a brick and mortar shop so that people could shop local, and repurpose older quality merchandise created the path we chose.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

There is such fun for Carl and me in the “hunt” for the merchandise that we offer here, but, more importantly it’s being able to share it all with others within our community on so many different levels. The relationships we’ve established with both cusotmers and our 40+ vendors are as priceless as the treasures that we hunt!

Has it been everything you expected?

The Cat’s Meow has become so much more than we 44 | BMAG

ever expected or imagined! It has been a huge blessing and a challenge worth meeting! We have learned so much within this journey. I believe that TCM is a gift and provision - and has become reality that we have the privilege of sharing with those around us. Our team includes other like-minded vendors that definitely makes our store the unique venue for our community that it is!

TCM is successful because of those vendors who have become an intrical part of this venture, and I thank each and every one of them.

What makes your services unique?

TCM is a vibrant, fluid, women-based business - a unique venue that caters to our vendors and our customers alike.

We offer booths to both vintage and antique vendors, and to local artisans that would like to market their merchandise in an amazing space tailored to those with a passion for building their individual businesses, as well as supporting their community. Collectively, we have a goal of offering exceptional merchandise for our shoppers, within a warm and inviting atmosphere for our clientele, that promotes a unique & satisfying shopping experience.

What advice would you give someone starting their own business?

Enjoy the journey! Remember that when starting a new venture, we have certain ideas in mind of how things are supposed to be, and how they’re suppose to go. The reality is that staying fluid, flexible and teachable is imperative - that will make it possible to maintain a good attitude, which promotes the ability to keep a clear perspective.

When we go through challenges with patience and a positive outlook, we’re then much more capable of being open to seeing not just possibilities to find the right solutions to challenges, but that platform paves the way to building a much more versatile business.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

BY SHELLY WEST

If you were asked, “What are 100 things to do in Sarasota before you die?” you might be stumped. Fortunately, local blogger and Bradenton Magazine writer Kelly Stilwell recently published a book to answer that very question. The book is aptly named 100 Things to Do in Sarasota Before You Die. We had the chance to sit down with Kelly to discuss her book and her successful blog, which is where her journey began. The first question was about her background.

“I always loved to write, especially in college, and then I became a stockbroker.

Once I got married, had kids, and was staying home, I started writing again for small publications — things like how to take your kids to the zoo for the day, that kind of thing. One of the editors I worked with suggested I start a blog. I said, what’s a blog? This was 14 years ago. So, I started a blog, and that really changed my life. I was writing about family stuff and kids’ stuff, and soon, people began asking me to review products or go on local trips.

Eventually, I went to Indonesia for two weeks. Since then, I’ve visited 40 countries because of my site, and travel has just become my passion.”

“I started my blog right after we moved here.

There’s just so much to do in this area. Years later, a publisher saw my blog and reached out, asking if I’d be interested in writing a book about the Sarasota-Bradenton area.

The 100 Things To Do Before You Die books are a nationwide series, and they said they thought I was the person to write the book about our area. The first thing I did was pick

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up the 100 Things To Do In Tampa Before You Die book, and I was blown away by the things I had no idea existed in Tampa! That got me excited about writing the book for our area.

That’s how the book came to be. I accepted the challenge, and while it was a year-long process, it was a lot of fun. I discovered so many new places that I didn’t know about, and I hope the book will help others discover new places in Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, and beyond. I also write for Bradenton Magazine and USA Today, and I still run my blog, Food, Fun, and Faraway Places.”

In addition to writing, Kelly is an accomplished photographer, and most of the photos in the book are her images.

When asked about her journey from former stockbroker to stay-at-home mom to travel and lifestyle writer and blogger, Kelly shared, “Well, the whole being sponsored for posting was new to me. I was just writing for fun. I had no idea there was money in blogging. The first sponsored post I did was after someone offered to send me three jars of jelly. I was over the moon, and my husband thought I had lost my mind. He thought this was just a fun hobby and didn’t expect anything to come out of it. But I was like, wow, jelly, this is great! Then, more and more people wanted to send me products. I had boxes stacked to the ceiling and realized, what have I done? I now had all these products to write about.”

Her success came from a refreshing approach to her blog and good timing. As one of the early bloggers, Kelly jokes that she and others who started at the same time are considered “oldschool bloggers.”

She continued, “Once I had all these products to review, someone reached out and asked if I wanted to go on a trip. I figured, why not?”

Kelly added, “All combined, you have 100 things that you can do. Most of the restaurants in the book were already my favorites. But like I said, I crowdsourced. I asked my friends on Facebook, went to Nextdoor, and joined other Facebook groups, asking what their absolute favorites were. A lot were already spots we loved, but there were plenty I hadn’t been to. So, every Saturday, my husband and I went out exploring, and that’s how we found a lot of the places in the book. We went to the circus last year so I could get my own photos and it was incredible! Now I want to go back and see the new show! We explored. We went to the Bishop Museum and Selby Gardens, and found all these wonderful places and stories behind them, which was really fun.”

What’s next for Kelly? Promotions, book signings, and appearances are filling her calendar in the coming months. You can catch her at the Bradenton Farmers’ Market in October and November, as well as Barnes & Noble and Sarasota Art Museum, to name a few.

For a complete listing of where you can get your copy signed and support a local author, visit Kelly’s website at https://kellystilwell.com/shop/.

As for another book, she says you just never know.

That first trip was to Kissimmee, Florida. Fast forward to recent years, Kelly has extensively traveled the world, visiting over 40 countries in the last 15 years.

When asked about her process for authoring the book, Kelly explained that she first crowdsourced input on what people from the area suggested.

Since there are similar books for cities across the U.S., the publisher provides guidelines for content, covering categories like food, drink, music, entertainment, sports and recreation, culture and history, and shopping and fashion.

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A BAGFUL OF BRADENTON

BY NICOLE MISKOVIC

If you’ve had the chance to attend one of Realize Bradenton’s summer Mini-Markets, you’ve seen that it’s more than a vibrant hub of local artisans, farmers, and vendors. It’s also a gathering place for community members from all walks of life to enjoy art, music, activities, and community.

And with the success of the Summer Safety and Summer Santa Mini-Markets, Realize Bradenton is set to unveil a limited edition Market Bag designed to capture all the feelings we experience when we’re there.

The new bag, which will be designed by Tako Pharsenadze, a local designer and illustrator, will encapsulate the spirit of community found at the Bradenton Market and will become a tangible representation of its impact on our community.

I saw that vendors were talking to each other, they were drinking coffee together, they were interacting with their customers as if they were friends,” said Pharsenadze. ”It was just a very warm, friendly atmosphere. It makes me think of bright colors and fun visuals for the design.”

Capturing the Heart of the Market As Pharsenadze continues to develop the design, she’s staying committed to creating a Market bag that resonates with everyone. Her approach centers on uplifting people and fostering connections between diverse groups.

Celebrating Community Through Design Originally from the Republic of Georgia, Pharsenadze came to the U.S. to study graphic design, business, and fine arts at Ringling College.

“I was always very inclined toward the arts and arts communities. And I think that’s what I found here. So after Ringling, I decided to stay and start my business because I found a lot of community and support here from everyone, especially in the arts,” Pharsenadze said.

Her connection to the local arts scene deepened as she began working on various projects, including branding a gallery in downtown Sarasota. This work introduced her to the Bradenton Market and its mission to foster community through the arts. Inspired by her sense of community, Pharsenadze eagerly took on the challenge of designing a Market bag that embodies the essence of the Market.

Pharsenadze’s design process is thorough and community-focused. She began by interviewing Market vendors to understand their perspectives and what they felt were their defining characteristics. The feedback she received highlighted the Market’s friendly atmosphere and, most importantly, the relationship between community members and the vendors.

“The thing that caught my attention about the Market is its friendliness and the community.

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“It’s challenging to come up with a design that ties together feelings rather than objects. That’s kind of what I’m looking for right now, to capture that friendly atmosphere, said Pharsenadze.

“I recently found out that Bradenton is known as The Friendly City and I thought it was so perfect. It definitely shows at the Market, with everyone talking to each other and telling stories.”

You can get your very own piece of the Bradenton Market when the regular Market season begins in October, which goes from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday until May. The bag design will be revealed on both the Bradenton Market and Realize Bradenton Facebook and Instagram accounts, so stay tuned for the official announcement!

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THE DISAPPEARING DIVE BAR AMI

BY P J QUINN

An exploration of AMI dive bars They hide in the shadows, in the corners of the island, nicotine- and rum-drenched interiors, tattoos and torn board shorts, tank tops, and beards. Woman in flip flops and cutoff jeans contrasts to the cover-up clad beachgoers and the expensive but mediocre beach scene establishments that have taken over Anna Maria Island (AMI).

The local dive bar is disappearing and with them a bit of the soul of AMI. The local haunt where the characters are as colorful as the paisley dresses of the tourist.

Where stiff drinks are poured and stories told of a yesteryear when AMI was still a sleepy little backwater. The talk of the day was fishing or the scandal of the week. The past hangs in the air never to be replaced by the present. A hold on the island as it vanishes to the whims of politicians and developers. Being there, you become part of the story whose closing chapters are slowly being written.

The island used to boast of Fast Eddy’s, Feeling Swell, Oar House. You could walk from Anna Maria to Bradenton Beach and never have a thirst as you stopped in grab a quick one and began your journey again. Now Anna Maria has none, Holmes Beach two, and Bradenton Beach, the last hope as we journey to revisit the disappearing dive bar.

What makes up a dive bar? What separates them from the others? Drink! Food is never a thought – not even an afterthought – nor are frozen drinks which most drinkers consider food. You go to drink. Music is sometimes a nice diversion, along with some bar poker, bingo, or trivia, but you go for a shot and beer, catch up with your friends, run into exgirlfriends/boyfriends, or swapping tales with your newfound friend for the day.

Our journey begins in Holmes Beach as we work our way south.

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(Side note: Bortell’s in Anna Maria as of this writing has discontinued serving food and now back to basics, after an extensive remodel. Maybe, just maybe we are seeing a resurrection of the dive bar.)

Our first official dive bar D Coy Ducks. A life-size portrait of Brad welcomes each guest as they enter, a long-time bar tender who has sadly passed but whose memory lives on with each story and Rays victory. The home of the Bucs and the Bolts where you are likely to see the Stanley Cup twice or a Super Bowl replica trophy. Order your pizza delivered from Feast next door. Just make sure you offer some to the bartenders. Sit back, enjoy a game, a conversation, or just soak in the island atmosphere. Always a local crowd, non-smoking, the servers will take credit/debit cards, with lots of TVs to watch the local team. The late crowd will be entertained by a band playing into the wee hours.

Trending south about three miles you will hit The Anchor Inn. Your journey has taken you from the northernmost end of Holmes Beach to the southern end. It’s mostly a bar and pool tables with a jukebox. Double Deez next door will serve you a killer Chicagostyle dog or beef sandwich. Bring quarters for the pool table. Sit and relax with a tale or two from a local who has “seen it all.” Cash only and smoking with a friendly atmosphere. A local haunt for the service workers getting off the night shift to spend a bit of their tip money and take a deep breath before heading home. Owners Bob’s or Darla’s friendly smile welcomes all, as long as you behave.

The journey to the last stand of the island dive bars hits its crescendo in Bradenton Beach, while the north end brags of two bars. Bradenton Beach hosts the last of the truly island bars.

Starting with Tommy Knockers: Imagine a neighbor with a two-car garage who had no idea what to do with it. So, he decides to put a cooler in the back, stocked with a variety of beers, a couple of tappers, a few surfboard tables. Hire a couple of good-looking bartenders, along with 13 mermaids hidden though out the décor, and start serving.

This makes for the perfect neighbor bar. Casual beyond casual, it’s not uncommon to see bikini-clad patrons and sandy feet at the bar. Sit amongst the regulars and those idling away the time ‘til their table is ready at Wicked Cantina, as the jukebox plays Journey or Tennessee Whiskey for the fifth time that evening. With its garage door open, you get a very airy open feeling in the bar. There’s smoking, and they will take credit cards. In the fall, celebrate with the Bills Mafia as they bring a bit of Buffalo to the island.

Sports Lounge is aptly named with its ring of gaming tables around the main bar: billiard tables, bar shuffleboard, and various other gaming tables. This is the place to test your skills or realize how much of your skills you have lost. A smoky old-time atmosphere, friendly attentive staff, credit/debit cards accepted. A stiff drink, a round of pool or shuffleboard with your buds and an evening well spent.

As you spill out of Sports, you see the granddaddy of them all, The Drift In, or The Drift.

It was owned by Babe Ruth at one time, who was unceremoniously kicked out of the bar. Swearing that this will never happen again, he bought the place in the 1930s. Yes, 1930s. It was long-established when this was a fishing village, and the fishermen, after bringing their catch to market, would come to have a stiff drink to wear off the fatigue and cold at 7 a.m. Now it is home to the vivacious Manny (the mannequin) who has flirted with many a patron only to rebuff their advances. This is a smoking and cashonly bar. On weekends during the season it resembles more of a block party with the patrons spilling out to the tiki bar to listen to a local band and soak in the winter sun.

You are as likely to see a retired executive along with a lifelong fishermen exchanging tall tales over a cigarette, a scotch, or bourbon. At night, the indoors hosts the dance crowd as the local band breaks into song. You can dance like no one is looking because no one is.

So our journey ends in the wee hours of the next morning. You played a couple of rounds of bar poker or took a chance on bingo, tested your trivia knowledge. Now, with a cool drink in your hand, you realize the one thing they all have in common, a place to sit and reflect and wonder, what happened to all the dive bars?

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GET YOUR GAME FACE ON

BY KENDRA GEMMA

ARE YOU FEELING LEFT OUT AS SCHOOL SPORTS START UP? YOU DON’T HAVE TO! ADULT ATHLETIC LEAGUES AND CLINICS ABOUND IN MANATEE COUNTY. FIND YOUR FAVORITE SPORT OR DISCOVER A NEW ONE THIS FALL. NO MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE, YOU CAN RELIVE YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DAYS ON THE FIELD OR THE COURT BY JOINING A TEAM. YOU’LL GET SOME EXERCISE WHILE EXPANDING YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLE. WHAT COULD BE BETTER?

MULTIPLE SPORTS Did you recently move to our area, or do you simply want to make new friends? Try a social sports club.

Both MVP Sports and Social Club and SoCo Club Sport offer co-ed adult leagues in Manatee County.

Compete in a variety of traditional sports – such as basketball, softball, and baseball – or have fun challenging yourself and your opponents in cornhole, mini golf, bowling, or disc golf.

Depending on the sport, you can sign up as an individual and be placed on a team, register with a few people, or create your own team.

Venues range from an indoor court for volleyball to a golf club for 9-hole scramble golf to Motorworks Brewing for cornhole.

No matter which sport you choose, they all usually include team shirts and other swag with their fees.

Equipment is always provided.

Check MVP Sports’ and SoCo Club Sport’s websites for current schedules and details on the different leagues. Most are open to all levels of experience, so you should feel welcome even if you’re new to the sport. Bonus: Since they’re social clubs as well, eating and drinking often follow the games.

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Manatee County Sports and Leisure Services also has adult league sports, although the selection is more limited (and you won’t enjoy officially sanctioned social time). You will be able to sign up to play flag football, softball, basketball, and kickball. Most sports are co-ed, and you can join as part of a team or as a free agent. However, the county won’t place you on a team. Instead, you’ll be added to a list of pick-up players for teams that need to fill out their rosters. Keep in mind that equipment is generally not supplied.

Consult your chosen sport’s FAQs to learn what you need to bring.

If you’re already a member of the YMCA of Southwest Florida or you’ve been considering joining, look into their adult sports leagues. Basketball, softball, and even martial arts may be available at your local branch.

RACQUET SPORTS For more individualized play, take a swing at a racquet sport.

Tennis anyone? The county offers seasonal league play on clay courts. Register for the fall season in September and begin league play in October. Sign up as an individual or with a partner for doubles.

Experienced pickleball players may want to become a member of the Lakewood Ranch Pickleball Club. It’s inexpensive, and there is social league play every Saturday.

Newbies can attend free introductory clinics on the first Saturday of each month.

For less of a commitment to pickleball, head to UMR Sports on Upper Manatee Road for open play round-robin pickleball. Non-club members pay just $10 to take part in Friday Night Lights from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Bring your pickleball paddle, cash, and your friendly competitive spirit.

As you jump into the world of competitive sports this season, we can’t promise you’ll feel like a kid again, but you’ll definitely have fun and make new friends.

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL Whether you’re a pitcher, catcher, or outfielder, the Manatee Baseball League could be a perfect fit for you. The 19+ recreational league has been around since 1992. Because teams play year ’round, roster assignments and registration happen on a rolling basis. Games are held at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays at Lakewood Ranch Park.

Walk-ups are welcome, and so are players of any skill level.

Players over 60 have another option.

Bradenton Senior Softball competes 52 weeks of the year. Organized leagues take the field between January and April with pick-up games filling the rest of the calendar. Bring your own shoes and a glove, as well as a bat, if you have one.

During league play, team shirts will be provided. Most games begin at 8:30 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.

Weekly batting practice happens on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m.

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COUNCIL’S BRADENTON RECREATION

BY LIZ REED Council Smith bought the pool hall he had been working in back in 1936, after it had been in operation for a decade. The Bradenton Recreation Center remained in its old location under Council’s management until 1954. That year, Council moved his business to 536 12th Street West in downtown Bradenton, the location where it became a legend. It was right across the street from the Manatee County Courthouse, and it was frequented by judges, lawyers, and police officials. It was also known as a hub of prostitution and gambling.

Council Smith passed away in 1977, and his son Lawton took over the business. In honor of his father, Lawton renamed it Council’s Bradenton Recreation. In 2016, Lawton decided it was time to retire and sell the business. It was purchased by Kimberly Wagner and Sandi Duffy, owners of the Toasted Mango Cafe, with locations in downtown Sarasota and Siesta Key. They kept up Council’s winning formula of pool, burgers, chili dogs, and beer.

From the time they took over, the two women felt uneasy in the building.

They always had the feeling they were being watched. On occasion, they would even catch sight of a mysterious man standing by the pool tables, only for him to vanish a moment later. They arranged for us to conduct an investigation, and it turned out to be one of our most interesting!

There were four of us on the team: my husband and I, another female investigator, and another male investigator who was also our tech guy. We brought along video equipment, K2 meters that detect the appearance of electromagnetic fields, and a voice box that allows a spirit to manipulate radio waves to communicate. The second male investigator decided to shoot some pool to see if that would attract some attention. Almost immediately it did; a female spirit spoke through the voice box, trying to pick him up.

A little while later, the second female investigator also tried to get some attention by playing pool, and it worked. She was suddenly

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surrounded by very cold air that caused her to shiver. She walked over to me, and it felt like that cold air went right through me. It was a wild experience, but the night wasn’t over.

The two of us pretended to be prostitutes, strutting around the pool hall offering our services to the patrons. Multiple spirits started trying to speak through the voice box, and our K2 meters were lighting up in response to our offers. One spirit especially liked it when I said, “Come here, big boy, and buy us a drink.” Our K2 meters lit up solid red and stayed there. Red is the highest level the meters go to, and for them to stay on red for an extended time is very unusual. Apparently the spirit was very enthusiastic about buying us drinks.

My husband had a much less amusing experience.

He began having serious trouble breathing, as though something was trying to take his breath away. This was not at all a common experience for him. We decided to take a break and went outside, and his breathing went back to normal immediately. Our tech guy stayed inside, in order to pan the empty hall with the video camera. The next morning he sent me a video clip and called me to make sure I took a look at it.

The footage he caught was amazing! It’s not every day that you manage to capture a full-body apparition walking across a pool hall, and then bending over a table as if to play pool. He could also be heard saying, “hey hey,” as if he were hoping someone would come over to join the game.

The day we planned to reveal all the evidence we collected to Kimberly and Sandi, I got a call from ABC 7 Suncoast News. They asked if my team could meet them in a haunted location and tell a ghost story for a feature they were working on: Legends, Folklore, and Haunted Places. I invited the reporter to attend the reveal that evening, and he joined us at Council’s. The reporter asked if we had captured any evidence during our investigation. I told him he could judge that for himself and played the video clip. His was response was surprise, followed by, “Holy s***!

You’re going on the news!”

The best part of that experience was seeing our video evidence on the news, followed by the newscasters looking at each other in shock. One said to the other, “Did you see that?” It was very

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gratifying for our team. Our clients identified the man in the clip as the same spirit they had seen repeatedly. For them, it was vindication. They weren’t going crazy, and there was evidence to support their claim of a haunting.

Kimberly and Sandi listed the restaurant for sale in the summer of 2019. In early 2020, like so many other businesses across the country, Council’s was forced to shut down in the face of the pandemic.

It was soon sold, with the understanding that it would remain Council’s and reopen as soon as possible. The new owner even asked if existing staff would be willing to come back.

It was not to be. Without warning, all Council’s signage was removed, and the interior of the old pool hall was gutted right down to the ancient grill that had cooked up so many hamburgers and chili dogs over the decades. As of this writing, the building remains empty.

We have reached out to the new owner, but we haven’t heard anything back. With so many changes to the building, we’d like to conduct another investigation to find if the spirits we had detected are still there, or if they have moved on.

Of course, we’re also curious about plans for the future of the location.

LIZ REED CO-FOUNDER OF PSOBFL AUTHOR OF HAUNTED MANATEE COUNTY OWNER OF DOWNTOWN BRADENTON GHOST WALK paranormalsocietyofbradenton.wordpress.com

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STUDENTS USE PUBLIC ARTWORK TO INSPIRE A HEALTHIER MANATEE COUNTY

BY CHRISTOPHER TITTEL Step into Regatta Plaza, located between the Manatee River and Manatee Memorial Hospital, and you’ll come upon a metal sculpture featuring two large hearts.

Actress Jane Seymour and her Open Hearts Foundation developed this work of public art along Bradenton’s celebrated Riverwalk in 2019 to inspire the community to help others.

Cross Manatee Avenue and you’ll find on the main campus of the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County (DOH-Manatee) the most recent artwork to inspire Bradenton residents and visitors.

Hedda Matza-Haughton, co-chair of Arts for Health Sarasota-Manatee (AFHSM), recently teamed up with Steven Piskoty, artistic mentor with the Student Community Innovation Program (SCIP) run through

Hedda Matza-Haughton, co-chair of Arts for Health Sarasota-Manatee (left) Dr. Jennifer Bencie, health officer at the Florida Department of Health in Manatee

the Suncoast Science Center’s Faulhaber Fab Lab, and with DOH-Manatee Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bencie to challenge a class of 15 student artists to research and develop works of public art addressing current public health topics.

The works of the Fab Lab student artists who embraced the project are now on display at 410 Sixth Ave. East in Bradenton, located in the main lobby and along the corridors of the building. A nutritionthemed sculpture also appears in the “food forest,” located between the main building and the Women, Infants & Children (WIC) services center.

Artist Gemma Davies “Hues of Health”

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“What you see as you enter and proceed through a health facility affects your mind, body, and spirit,” said Matza-Haughton. “These works do more than just beautify DOH-Manatee. Each piece educates viewers on important public health topics, while focusing on the many services that DOH-Manatee offers. More importantly, they inspire viewers to learn more about the health of the community in which they live, work, and play, as well as to join the Manatee HealthCare Alliance in its efforts to improve the health of the community on so many different fronts.”

In addition to each student conducting their own independent research, Matza-Haughton said all students toured DOH-Manatee and learned about the services offered. Themes later emerged during a brainstorming session among the students that MatzaHaughton said she was happy to facilitate.

“Teenagers, health care agencies, and AFHSM are working together to help make a difference,” said Matza-Haughton. “Incorporating the arts is a powerful tool for education and prevention.”

She mentioned the piece on opioid addiction, in particular, as creating this inspiration.

“The artistic depiction of a person literally climbing out of a prescription bottle filled with pills offers hope that there is a path out of addiction,” said Matza-Haughton, “particularly to viewers and the families and friends of viewers who are currently struggling with or who have overcome addiction.”

Artist Danny Berry echoed Matza-Haughton.

“I felt very content knowing that I could use these skills to bring awareness to substance abuse,” said Berry, “as I have had personal connections to people whose lives were, unfortunately, negatively impacted by the issue.”

Artist Danny Berry — Man Climbing Ladder

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Public art is not an art form. It’s simply a way of improving the changing environment through the arts.

— Malcolm Miles Researcher of Critical and Cultural Theory, Art, and Urbanism

Artist Abigail Pereira Untitled - Teen Pregnancy

The Suncoast Science Center launched SCIP in 2020, offering high school and college students a unique chance to impact the community through creativity and innovation. With guidance from expert mentors and access to state-of-the-art fabrication equipment, students collaborate to create solutions to community issues.

“Traditionally, students are drawn to the Fab Lab because of their interest in STEM fields – that is, fields related to science, technology, engineering, and math,” said Piskoty. “It was nothing short of amazing to work on a summer-long art project with a special group of students eager to learn how to use machines, software, and techniques that they had never used before and turn public health topics into thoughtprovoking works of public art.”

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Artist Shanthi Marmash Health for All

Berry said the SCIP project, especially elements of the project involving the use of 3-D design software and printers and laser engravers, has even inspired him to continue his pursuit of the arts into his college years.

“Now, I’m headed to Duke University, where I will study mechanical engineering,” said Berry. “I strongly believe being a part of SCIP made me unique.”

Dr. Bencie is a member of the AFHSM Board and a leading supporter of the arts playing a role in promoting both physical and mental well-being across the community.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to host the works of these artists and public health champions on our campus,” said Dr. Bencie.

For more information on Arts for Health Sarasota-Manatee, visit Artsforhealthsarasotamanatee.org.

For more information on the Suncoast Science Center’s Faulhaber Fab Lab, visit Suncoastscience.org.

For more information on the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County, visit Manatee.FloridaHealth.gov.

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