Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on July 1
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County
More positive cases reported in Manatee
Manatee County has another 46 new cases of people who have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the latest data released by the Florida Department of Health on Tuesday.
The latest local cases were among the 6,093 new cases across the state.
Across the state, the deaths of 58 more residents were also announced on Tuesday. In total 3,505 Floridians have died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. An additional 99 deaths of non-residents have been reported in the state.
The death toll in Manatee County stands at 130.
In Manatee County, there have 2,856 people total who have been infected by the coronavirus. Statewide, there have been 152,434 people infected.
Free COVID-19 testing available here
A reminder that free COVID-19 testing continues at locations in Manatee and Sarasota counties, including:
A drive-thru site near The Mall at University Town Center, in the parking lot east of Dillard’s, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or until the site uses all of its test equipment for the day.
A walk-up site at Home Depot, 2350 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.or until the site uses all of its test equipment for the day.
A walk-up site at Lincoln Park, 501 17th St. E., Palmetto, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.or until the site uses all of its test equipment for the day.
Anna Maria Island beaches will be open for 4th of July weekend
Amid a statewide surge in COVID-19 cases, several South Florida counties have opted to close beaches this holiday weekend to prevent massive crowds from gathering.
Beaches on Anna Maria Island will remain open for the Fourth of July, according to local officials.
However, they stress that members of the public need to take safety measures seriously to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus.
“Residents and visitors of our beaches should continue to practice social distancing when out in public,” said Manatee County Director of Public Safety Jake Saur in an email. “When they are unable to socially distance from others, they should wear a mask both indoors and outdoors.”
In two of the island’s three cities, Holmes Beach and Anna Maria, you will be required to wear a mask at certain locations.
Church employee test positive after summer camp
After one of its employees tested positive for COVID-19, Christian Retreat in Bradenton has reconsidered future events. The revelation came one week after its summer camp, where children and adults huddled together, embracing each other during an evening service.
Read more here.
More sheriff’s office employees test positive
A total of nine Manatee County Sheriff’s Office employees have now tested positive for the coronavirus.
The sheriff’s office confirmed last week that one deputy, one detective and three civilian employees had tested positive for the coronavirus.
As of late Monday, another three deputies and one civilian employee had also tested positive, according to sheriff’s office spokesman Randy Warren.
City of Sarasota passes face mask mandate
If you don’t wear a mask at certain spots in the city of Sarasota, it could cost you a $500 fine.
Popular Bradenton restaurant to close because of COVID-19
After a six-year run, Rich Knowles, chef and owner of enRich Bistro, 5629 Manatee Ave. W., announced on social media that he is closing his popular restaurant.
“To my friends, family, Bradenton community, and anyone who has ever dined at enRich, I am announcing some sad news. On July 11, enRich will be closing indefinitely. This is the toughest decision I have ever had to make in my life, but I feel like it is the right one,” Knowles wrote.
“This COVID pandemic has been absolutely devastating. In addition, I have struggled with lease negotiations for some time. When trying to look forward, there is just too much uncertainty. It is time for a reset and to look for the next door to open,” he said.
Food pantries in Manatee County
As COVID-19 has ravaged Manatee County and employers have shedded jobs, food security has become a bigger issue for many residents.
Manatee County government has released a list of food pantries in the county where residents can obtain free food and other assistance.
Read it here.
NEED A JOB? LOOK HERE
Employers can post jobs while workers displaced by the coronavirus pandemic can search for them at jobfocus.com, a service hosted by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce.
Also, here is a link to more information about applying for unemployment benefits in Florida.
ORGANIZATIONS OFFERING HELP
Resources are available to help struggling Manatee County residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. Opportunities also exist to support local relief efforts, which are facing a sudden and overwhelming demand.
Here is a list of some of the organizations offering help.
Need help paying rent or utility bills? Check out the groups listed here.
BRADENTON RESTAURANTS OFFERING TAKE-HOME AND DELIVERY SERVICES
The Bradenton Herald has published a list of restaurants offering take out and/or delivery services during the coronavirus pandemic.
Also, feel free to leave the names, addresses and phone numbers of other restaurants, either as a comment on our Facebook page or on the page for the Manatee Eats group.
This story was originally published July 1, 2020 at 7:31 AM.