My wife and I own a small business in the city of Bradenton Beach located on Historic Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County. As we headed into 2025, we hoped to celebrate the business’ 100th anniversary with our loyal patrons and visitors to the area. Unfortunately, the hurricanes last fall had a huge impact on our area. Our building sustained some minor damage and together with the city’s building department we set out to repair and reopen expeditiously.
The business, known as “The Drift” or Drift-In AMI LLC, is a local Island dive bar once owned by New York Yankee George Herman “Babe” Ruth. The property/building and parking lot (two parcels) are also owned by us separately, 1715 Ventures LLC. My in-laws owned the business since the late 1990s but due to each of their recent cancer treatments, my wife and I stepped in and purchased the property in 2021 and business in 2022.
With the direction of city officials, we began the process of cleanup and repair immediately. Daily we consulted with the city’s Building Official and Code Enforcement as the process for permitting was dislocated temporarily. We were directed to create a “narrative” and scope of work. Using resources immediately available, we created concept drawings to review with officials and acquired engineered drawings. Most importantly, we were given a permit and proceeded forward.
What has unfolded since that time stinks of government overreach, corruption, property right violations and the tarnish of my family’s good name. As natives of Bradenton, Florida and lovers of the ‘Old Island Charm’ that once was AMI, we are highly disgusted by the actions of local government. From last minute meetings, vague agendas, guarding of questionable easements not used in decades to special titles given to the city’s independent contractor workforce so that contractor can be paid “FEMA dollars;” the same contracted city worker who set up a Florida not-for-profit corporation with the largest developer on Anna Maria Island, and to that same person presenting biased information to commissioners that rule on the fate of our business. We are fed up, sadly disappointed and frustrated to the extent that I write this letter to you for IMMEDIATE ACTION.
Please help us, as we have over 15 employees looking to get back to work. It looks to the public, the local media and patrons that our officials are covering their tracks and hastily running over anyone in their path. We love our state, our community and our businesses. We are asking for justice and transparency.
Derek and Helena Williams
Bradenton Beach
Ed. note: The Drift reopening has been stalled by ongoing permitting issues with the city that will be addressed during two city meetings on Thursday, March 6.
Mayor John Chappie clarified his comments to The Sun on Jan. 24 that Cushing is temporarily suspended, not temporarily terminated as originally reported.
BRADENTON BEACH – The city temporarily terminated the contractual services of Building Official Darin Cushing on Jan. 22 pending discussion at the next city commission meeting.
“Temporarily suspending his services pending talking with the commission and M.T. Causley and that’s all I can say,” Mayor John Chappie said.
The next scheduled regular city commission meeting is Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m.
Cushing declined to comment on the suspension.
Cushing is a contractual employee who works for SAFEbuilt Inspections. M.T. Causley is a subsidiary of SAFEbuilt. The city has a contractual agreement with M.T. Causley to provide building official services.
Chappie did not give a reason for the suspension, but the city has been at odds with Cushing over his approval of a permit for the tiki hut at the Drift-In on Bridge Street.
At a Jan. 16 city commission meeting, City Attorney Ricinda Perry said that the permit should not have been issued based on factors that included the city-owned easements on the property as well as the size of the new structure.
“This was administratively approved and it should have gone through a public hearing,” Perry said. “Legally, I believe it should have been a major development.”
A major development application must first go through a Planning and Zoning Board hearing and then return to the commission for a public hearing.
Cushing wrote on Facebook on Jan. 21 in part: “It was approved administratively and needed no more than that. But others aren’t getting their way (or that property) so I’m being asked to pull back my approval and force the owner to go through a ridiculous set of processes. My job is actually in question over this and other things.”
In Cushing’s absence, permits and inspections will continue in the city, according to Chappie.
“Hopefully, somebody will be here today from M.T. Causley and we’ll try to run business as normal as possible in the interim,” Chappie said.
A city commission work meeting has been scheduled for Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. to evaluate the current model of contracted building department staff versus city employees.
On Jan. 21, Cushing posted on Facebook, writing in part:
“Come on out to the City of Bradenton Beach ‘work meeting’ on 1/28/25 if you truly believe that I’ve done a good job as building official,” he said, adding, “They’re trying to take me out to bend over for developers. I will not compromise my integrity or my license.”
Drift-In owner Derek Williams, who serves as president of the Bradenton Beach Merchants Association, posted on Facebook in support of Cushing. He asked the business community to attend the Jan. 28 meeting.
“Sticking together as business and property owners has never been more important. You might be aware there is a special ‘WORKSHOP’ scheduled on 1/28 at 9 a.m. regarding the building official and his permitting of the renovations at Drift-In AMI. The city has determined that the work is deemed a major development and not consistent with the approvals given by the city planner and city Building Official Darin Cushing. The city would like to discuss the status of an independent contractor versus an employee in the capacity of the building department. My thought is the business community needs to be present. If you can make it, we would love to see you there.”
The work meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 9 a.m. at the Katie Pierola Commission Chambers, 107 Gulf Drive N.
BRADENTON BEACH – The construction of the tiki hut at the Drift-In is on hold pending further review by the city.
City Attorney Ricinda Perry said at a Jan. 16 city commission meeting that a permit approved by Building Official Darin Cushing for the construction should not have been issued based on factors which included the city-owned easements on the property as well as the size of the new tiki structure. She said the project should be classified as a major development and must undergo the hearing process.
“This was administratively approved, and it should have gone through a public hearing,” Perry said. “Legally I believe it should have been a major development.”
The discussion was a continuation of a discussion at a Dec. 19 city commission meeting, and at that meeting Perry said: “If there’s was a modification to the size of the structure that exceeded 10%, that becomes a major development approval, and a major development approval needs to go through a P&Z review and a city commission approval.”
“There was an increase in the size,” Perry said. “Under the old application it was 13 by 15 feet and the current one is 54 by 24, that’s a 450% increase. That increase triggered a major development.”
She questioned whether that would change the classification of the tiki area from an accessory use to a principal use.
Perry said the property owner was informed recently that the city required a major development application.
“I reminded the property owner two weeks ago before starting to pour concrete floors and doing the work I made the legal statement anything you do going forward from this meeting is at your own risk,” she said.
Perry said if someone voluntarily tears down a structure, it comes with the unintended consequences of setting a precedent.
“I know two property owners on the street are asking to have their easement modified,” Perry said. “My concern is when we start saying OK, we’ll let you modify this easement when you voluntarily rip this out, what does that mean for the other easements?”
The attorney for Drift-In owner Derek Williams may be asking the city for modification of the existing easements, one of which goes through the building.
“Derek’s attorney (Scott Rudacille) is supposed to get us some data that we need coming in to review a month or so,” Perry told the commission. “I have asked Scott Rudacille to provide us with the revised easement they want to consider. As this is coming to you for your review in a month or so, you have a responsibility to protect that easement. You can modify it however you want to modify it.”
Perry said she is not in favor of relinquishing the easements.
“When you have an easement and someone is infringing on it, I don’t care that there’s a mistake that comes out of the building department,” Perry said. “You’re interfering with the public right which trumps your building department permit.”
Another issue with the tiki structure is its material, according to Perry.
“There was a directive (at the Dec. 19 meeting) to make sure that public works, the Police Department and West Manatee Fire District were aware of what this application was and had an ability to comment on this.”
Perry said she was told by the fire marshal during a meeting that the West Manatee Fire District does not allow for a thatched roof and it must be replaced with synthetic materials.
“Derek stated at the meeting, ‘I spent $80,000 now you’re telling me I have to rip it off? Who’s going to pay for it?’ Good question,” Perry said. “In my opinion, this all could have been avoided if WMFD knew what the application was. It does come at a cost after the fact to the property owner.”
Fire Marshal Rodney Kwiatkowski placed a red tag on the tiki hut pending further review, Perry said.
“Once the fire marshal is satisfied, he’ll lift the red tags,” Cushing said.
“I followed it to a ‘t’ and now it’s all come crashing down on me,” Williams said. “I would say go back to that permit that was approved.”
Mayor John Chappie said there should have been two separate permits.
“Is he doing improvements inside?” Commissioner Scott Bear asked. “Can he open inside while we resolve outside?”
“If you let them proceed and operate, you are helping them identify business damages they could lose and we would have exposure,” Perry said.
Chappie said he would be hesitant in allowing the business to open before the major development process is complete.
“I’m working to resolve this. I want to go through this the right way and I did,” Williams said. “I just want to open the business and get back on track.”
Williams asked how the process could be expedited.
“A major development application goes through the P&Z meeting in February and goes to the commission the end of February, beginning of March,” Perry said. “For changes in the land development code, a 30-day public notice is mandated.”
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – Former City Pier bait shop bartender Brian Blaine passed away on Aug. 4 at the age of 51.
The Bradenton resident is survived by his significant other of nearly four years, Jill Anderson. Brian, who never married, also leaves behind his 12-year-old daughter, Molly Ann Blaine, and his 18-year-old son, William Robert Blaine, both of whom live with their mom in Bradenton.
“He loved to take Molly to the Bridge Street Pier and she’d throw pennies at the heart-shaped rock in the water like a wishing well. She also loved going to the Moose with us. He loved that little girl like no other,” Jill said.
Molly Ann Blaine loved her father, Brian Blaine. – Brian Blaine/ Facebook | Submitted
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Sept. 1 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Drift In in Bradenton Beach. Attendees are invited to bring a covered dish to share, along with their memories of Brian. Steve Paradis will provide the live music in honor of his late friend.
“The Drift In was like home to Brian. That was like family. We were there every day. We spent Christmas and Thanksgiving there. He loved that bar. Brian didn’t want a funeral service. He wanted me to spread his ashes at the City Pier and have a celebration at the Drift,” Jill said.
“Brian was a wonderful man and a good friend to all,” Drift In manager Doreen Flynn said.
Beer on the pier
Brian sold bait, tackle and beer at the City Pier bait shop in Anna Maria for about six years when Mario Schoenfelder leased the city-owned City Pier Restaurant and bait shop buildings. He was among those displaced from their jobs when the City Pier was closed in September 2017 and later replaced due to damage inflicted by Hurricane Irma, including the loss of the bait shop roof.
In 2017, Hurricane Irma ripped the roof off the City Pier Restaurant bait shop. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
A few months later, on Thanksgiving morning, Brian, a former executive recruiter, and his former co-workers gathered at Bayfront Park to catch up and check in on each other.
In 2017, the displaced City Pier Restaurant employees gathered at Bayfront Park on Thanksgiving morning. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“The pier is a magical place for us. It was my favorite place in the world. It’s the worst I’ve been paid, but the best corner office I ever had,” he said that day before passing out lottery tickets as holiday gifts.
City Pier Restaurant General Manager David Sork received a Thanksgiving lottery ticket from Brian Blaine in 2017. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
The new pier opened in mid-2020. Under new management, the City Pier Grill and bait shop opened later that year but Brian never worked there again.
David Sork was the general manager of the old City Pier Restaurant and bait shop. He now works at the Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach.
“Brian wasn’t nearly as interested in the fishing end of things as he was in entertaining folks and pouring beers,” Sork said. “We were a big family out there and a lot of folks became really good friends. We came together for a common objective: to make a living and have a good time. Brian was incredibly friendly. He built relationships with the customers and had a lot of regulars. He absolutely loved that job and he did it well. He’d serve you a beer and a smile and engage in conversation. He was a happy-go-lucky guy and I’m glad he walked into my life.”
In early May, Brian posted on Facebook a photo of himself, Sork and former City Pier Restaurant staffer Rockey Corby. He referenced Sork and Corby as “the two greatest bosses ever in my life.”
Former City Pier Restaurant employees David Sork, Brian Blaine and Rockey Corby met up in early May. – Brian Blaine/Facebook | Submitted
When discussing his final visit with Brian, Sork said, “Rock and I got together with Brian and Jill a few months ago at the Drift In. We had a good time and it was nice to reminisce and laugh. There was always a big smile on that boy’s face.”
Trevor Peres owns and operates the T-Bone’s Famous Smokin’ Bar-B-Que food truck at Keyes Marina. He also plays rhythm guitar in the famous death metal band, Obituary. After moving to Holmes Beach in 2010, Peres met Brian while fishing at the pier.
After meeting at the City Pier Restaurant bait shop, Trevor Peres and Brian Blaine became good friends. – Jill Anderson | Submitted
“The City Pier had that cool little bait and tackle shop with a bar where you could buy beer. He loved beer, I loved beer, he played guitar and I played guitar, so we hit it off immediately and became friends,” Peres said.
“Brian was cool and funny. When he was bartending, children would come over with their parents and he’d tell the kids knock-knock jokes. I found out he was from New Jersey so I started calling him ‘Jersey,’ and I’d say it with a New Jersey accent. He liked that,” Peres recalled.
Peres helped Brian record some of his own original songs at a friend’s recording studio near Lakewood Ranch.
“He was a huge Grateful Dead fan. I’m more Celtic Frost and Slayer,” Peres said of their differing musical tastes.
Peres, now a Bradenton resident, last saw Brian about a year ago at Danny’s Pizzeria.
“He was leaving and had a piece of pizza crust in his hand. Being silly like he was, he threw it at me and it hit my windshield. I never saw him again, but I talked to him on the phone two weeks before he passed.”
Love story
Brian was born in Newton, N.J. and grew up in nearby Sparta.
“He had some trauma and bad times and needed to get away. He got in his car and came here in 1998 and never left,” Jill said.
Regarding the bait shop and the pier, Jill said, “To him, that place was magical. He used to be a corporate headhunter. He made good money but it was high stress and he’d had enough. Working at the pier was the best job of his life and the happiest he’d ever been.
Brian Blaine and Jill Anderson loved hanging out at the Drift In. – Brian Blaine/Facebook | Submitted
“We met at the Drift In on Oct. 23, 2020. By fluke, he was out at night. He was usually a day drinker. My girlfriend and I came on a trip from Nebraska. Our second night here, I walked through the back door of the Drift and he was standing by the women’s bathroom. I walked up to him, he put his hand out, I put my hand in his and said, ‘Hi, I’m Jill.’ He said, ‘I’m Brian.’ He kissed me and I fell in love right then and there.
“I took him to our Airbnb and we stayed up all night talking. He was so deep and I felt so comfortable with him. We had so much in common. It really was love at first sight and we were lucky to have found that love that most people don’t find in their lifetime.”
Jill returned to Nebraska, to her children, family and a successful hair and nail salon that included a boutique, tanning salon and massage therapy. Jill and Brian visited each other several times before she moved to Bradenton in August 2021.
“I’d been a hairdresser for 35 years, but I knew when I met Brian that’s who I wanted to be with the rest of my life. I didn’t want to spend 10-12 hours a day in a salon anymore even though I loved it,” she said.
“Brian loved the Grateful Dead and went to 49 of their concerts. He loved Jerry Garcia and that music helped him through hard times and good times. He loved “Ripple” and I played a lot of Grateful Dead songs the night he passed away at our home in Bradenton.”
Many years before he met Jill, Brian wrote a song called “Tonight,” which later became their song; and he played it for her at the District 10 gathering place in Linwood, Nebraska.
“Brian would come back to Nebraska with me to see my family and kids. He made so many friends there. He loved driving down the gravel roads and being around the cornfields.
“We were best friends, lovers and confidants. Neither one of us worked and we were together all the time. We had the most amazing and romantic times. He always described us as ‘One: Pure and true,’ and we were.
“Around 2019, he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. He had other health issues too. In 2017, he had that flesh-eating bacteria on his hand. He had neuropathy in his feet and gallstones. He was officially diagnosed with end-stage liver failure last October. A liver transplant was the only thing that would have saved him, but he believed the doctors were wrong and his body would bounce back. He knew deep down it was from the beer, but he enjoyed beer and what’s life if you can’t enjoy it? He never complained or felt pity for himself and he always said there’s people out there who have it far worse. He tried to see the good in people and he loved talking to strangers. Every day, he tried to do a good deed to make somebody’s day special.
Jill Anderson lost the love of her life when Brian Blaine passed away. – Jill Anderson | Submitted
“I always hoped I’d find true love like my mom and dad had. Brian and I only had four years together, but that’s what we had. I’m so thankful he was in my life. He was my world and always will be. I lost my life partner, my best friend, my everything. I feel such an emptiness,” Jill said.
BRADENTON BEACH – Casey Hoffman and Paul “Big Sexy” Weremecki have written a book about the Drift In bar.
Published in March, the 144-page book is aptly titled, “Drift In, Stumble Out” and tells the tale of one of Florida’s great dive bars.
Chapter 1 opens with the following passage: “There’s a host of reasons one would come to the Drift In on Anna Maria Island, such as to enjoy a frosty cold beverage, to try their hand at karaoke, play bingo or bar fun, perhaps listen to some of the best music on the Island or meet up with friends. You may even walk out with a mate.”
The Drift In was once owned by Babe Ruth. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Some sections were written solely by one of the authors and others were written collectively. The book also contains numerous photos of the characters, past and present, who’ve contributed to the bar’s legacy, including former owner Babe Ruth, previous owner Joe Cuervo, current owner Derek Williams (Cuervo’s son-in-law) and the staff members, musicians, locals, part-time residents and visitors who helped make the Drift In “one of the most unique watering holes in America,” according to musician Mike “Mac” McConnell.
The book’s front cover features some of the old photos that hang near the front window, including a classic photo of bar manager Doreen Flynn sporting an impressively high and curly Afro-style hairdo.
The “Drift In, Stumble Out” cover features some of the old photos that hang inside the bar. – SubmittedThese old photos pay tribute to past and present patrons and staff members. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
The back cover notes the book was “Written from the dual perspectives of both patrons and a ‘Dive Bar Worthy’ bartender (Weremecki).”
Hoffman and Weremecki each wrote a chapter about their relationships with the bar. Another chapter is dedicated to the bar’s iconic, sexy and world-renown mannequin, Mannie. Other chapter titles include “As the Barstool Turns,” “Extraordinary Crew Members,” “Timeless Entertainment” and “Drifting and Stumbling Into the Future.”
Drift In manager Doreen Flynn selects Mannie’s ever-changing outfits that range from sexy to sophisticated. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“Drift In, Stumble Out” book is available at the Drift In for $25 and also at Amazon.com.
Authors’ insights
Hoffman owns the Holmes Beach-based Zegway by the Bay business and serves as a tour guide while giving Segway tours of the Island. She was also the co-founder of the now-defunct AMI Radio station that used to broadcast from the Magnolia Hotel building on Bridge Street that was demolished earlier this year.
In addition to bartending at the Drift In, Weremecki and his wife, Laurie Lancaster, co-founded the Sunrise Hope nonprofit organization that assists foster children (www.SunriseHope.org). He’s also the founder of the AMI drum circle in Holmes Beach.
“The Drift In has been such a big part of my life since I moved here,” Hoffman said. “The book is a way to give back to the community and tell a fun story about our favorite little watering hole and the people that come through there. There’s always a sense of community, family and friends when you come to the Drift.”
“The Drift was the first bar I went to on the Island when I moved here in 2020,” Weremecki said. “I had my eye on working there and it finally happened last July. The book is a quick, easy read and it makes a nice souvenir. We share some memories and some of the things that go on here.”
This Babe Ruth cardboard cutout stands inside the Drift In. – Paul Weremecki | Submitted
“We got to sit with Joe Cuervo and he shared some stories with us,” Hoffman said. “We had to verify a couple things, like when Bridge Street became the happening street on the Island, when the original bridge was built, when the Pines Trailer Park used to be a campground and about Babe Ruth owning the bar. It turns out his father owned several saloons back where he was born.”
One of the Drift In walls is dedicated to former owner Babe Ruth. – Derek Williams | Submitted
Once written, the book was assembled in Microsoft Word, saved as a PDF file, uploaded to Kindle Direct Publishing and self-published at Amazon.
“The tricky part was the cover, the spine and the back of the book,” Hoffman said. “We always knew that was the cover we wanted. Thankfully, it worked.”
For those who want to publish their own book, Hoffman said, “I encourage people to give it a try. It’s challenging but very rewarding.”
So far, the pair has sold about 150 copies of their book.
“Some of the proceeds will go to charities supported by the Drift, including Sunrise Hope,” Weremecki noted.
“We’re working on getting the book into some shops on the Island and we’re working on a Kindle E-book version too,” Hoffman said.
On April 14, the authors held a book signing party at the Drift In.
“It was so much fun,” Hoffman said. “A couple people said they already started reading the book and couldn’t put it down. One lady said she read it in one sitting at the beach. We also got some great feedback from the bar owners and Doreen. They were very supportive of our project.”
“We sold about 30 copies in a few hours,” Weremecki added.
Those who want a signed copy of the book can swing by the Drift In during one of Weremecki’s shifts. He’s there Mondays from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m., Wednesdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.
“It was lot of fun to write. We enjoyed it and hope whoever buys it enjoys it,” Weremecki said.
“It was a true joy to be able to write the book and help tell the story of a place I love as part of my hometown community,” Hoffman said.
The authors hope to develop a live show at the Drift In that serves as an extension of the book.
“People have emailed saying they have pictures they want to share and stories they want to tell. We’re going to do it live on Facebook and make it a podcast too,” Hoffman said.
Efforts appreciated
Williams and his wife, Helena, bought the Drift In from her parents a few years ago.
“Helena and I both enjoyed the book,” Williams said. “‘Drift In Stumble Out’ is a funny and honest take on an Island original. The team did a great job sharing anecdotes about the Drift: Babe Ruth, the legacy of ownership, the talented musicians and the unique circus of individuals that enjoy our establishment. We’re really proud of Paulie for all he does.”
The Drift In’s tiki hut provides outdoor seating and bar service. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Flynn said, “I thought it was well-written and I loved the fact that our entertainers were featured.”
General Manager Dan Zelko said, “It’s fantastic. I love the fact that ‘Big Sexy’ helped write the book and that he loves the bar as much as he does – we all do. He did a great job of expressing how the bar really is. He’s here and he understands it. We appreciate that.”
BRADENTON BEACH – Family and friends joyously celebrated the life and legacy of longtime Bradenton Beach resident and honorary Privateer Ellen Scott at the Drift In on Saturday, March 16. Ellen passed away on March 1 at the age of 85.
Ellen Scott made the lotto boards used during Drift In fundraisers. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Ellen’s son, Bob Slicker, thanked those in attendance and encouraged everyone to be as giving to their community as Ellen was to hers. Holding a “Green Flash” shot provided to all by the Drift In, Ellen’s oldest granddaughter, Katie Clennan, proposed a toast in honor of her beloved grandmother. In honor of Ellen’s festive holiday spirit, and St. Patty’s Day being the following day, many attendees wore green clothing; and bagpiper Klaus Hinrichson performed traditional Irish songs.
Granddaughter Katie Clennan proposed a toast after her uncle, Bob Slicker, spoke about his late mom. – Joe Hendricks | SunBagpiper Klaus Hinrichson performed Irish songs. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
On behalf of the Anna Maria Island Privateers, President MaryAnn “Maz” Zayla thanked Ellen for all the support and assistance she provided over the years during Privateers’ fundraisers. “She was the lotto board queen. She raised so much money for us. It was amazing,” Zayla said.
AMI Privateers’ President MaryAnn “Maz” Zayla thanked Ellen Scott. – Joe Hendricks | SunPrivateer Roger “Hoodat” Murphy recited a poem about the Green Flash and made a toast to Ellen Scott. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Privateer Roger “Hoodat” Murphree then recited a poem about the pirate lore of the green flash at sunset signifying a passing soul shooting to the sky. “It’s a rare event indeed, just as Ellen was a rare soul,” he said before raising his “Green Flash” shot and proposing another toast.
Laurie Weremecki sang a beautiful rendition of “Amazing Grace.” – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Laurie Weremecki then sang an emotionally moving rendition of “Amazing Grace.”
The celebration continued into late afternoon with a potluck-style buffet that included many homemade pies baked in honor of Ellen’s habit of baking pies for others, live music performed by Dos-Macs and several special guests.
Several pies were shared during Saturday’s celebration. – Joe Hendricks | SunBrian Slicker proposed a toast to his grandmother at Slicker’s Eatery. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
On March 14, friends and family members gathered at Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez for a Tampa Bay Lightning watch party that celebrated “The Electric Life of Ellen Scott” with blue Jello shots, a toast by Ellen’s grandson, Brian Slicker, and the raffling off of Lightning souvenirs.
BRADENTON BEACH – Longtime Bradenton Beach and Pines Trailer Park resident Ellen Scott passed away at her home on Friday, March 1 at the age of 85.
Ellen was born in Detroit, Michigan on Dec. 8, 1938, and spent many years living in Houghton Lake before moving to Anna Maria Island in 1994.
Ellen Scott was a beloved member of the Bradenton Beach and Cortez communities. – Slicker Family | Submitted
Ellen had three children, Bob Slicker, Bernie Slicker and Cindy Slicker, and a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces and other family members who loved her dearly. She leaves behind a legacy of love and a lifetime of charitable deeds that included making lotto boards and selling raffle tickets at charity fundraisers and baking homemade pies for bake sales and those she knew and loved.
A celebration of Ellen’s life will be held Saturday, March 16 at the Drift In in Bradenton Beach – a stone’s throw from the mobile home park in which she was believed to be the longest-tenured resident.
Beginning at 1 p.m., the celebration will include a bagpiper, a vocal performance of “Amazing Grace” by Laurie Weremecki, a toast to Ellen at 1:30 p.m. and live music by Dos Macs. Attendees are invited to bring a covered dish to share and some are bringing pies baked in Ellen’s pie pans.
Ellen loved the Tampa Bay Rays, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning. On Thursday, March 14, folks are invited to gather at Slicker’s Eatery, 12012 Cortez Road W., at 6:30 p.m. for a special toast honoring “The Electric Life of Ellen Scott,” followed by a Lightning watch party at 7 p.m. Family and friends will gather the following day for a private memorial service.
MEMORIES AND LIFE LESSONS
Ellen spent her final days at home being cared for by family members and Hospice. Her son, Bob, was by her side when she died.
“At the end, it was her and I, and I played the song ‘Thank you,’ by Ben Rector as she passed. She made a stance against cancer. She started feeling sick in October and was diagnosed around the first of the year. Once we found out, we decided to make every day like her birthday.
Corbin, Rowan, Brian and Bob Slicker joined Ellen Scott at a recent Lightning game. – Slicker Family | Submitted
“On Feb. 19, we went to a Lightning game and the Lightning let her start the game by pulling the Tesla coil. They put her on the big screen a couple times and gave her a puck signed by her favorite player, Andrei Vasilevskiy. After the game, they took us down to the tunnel where the players come out after they shower. We met the players and took pictures with Steven Stamkos, Brandon Hagel and Austin Watson. On Feb. 25, she played her last hand of bar poker at the Drift In, and she insisted on walking there and back,” Bob said.
Lightning star Steven Stamkos posed for a photo with Ellen Scott. – Slicker Family | Submitted
When asked what he’ll miss most, Bob said, “How she loved. How she took anything bad that happened and just plowed right through it. She never dwelled on the negative.”
As for what he learned from his mom, Bob said, “Fortitude. Being able to forge through anything. My mom’s mom passed away when she was 6 years old. She became a ward of the state and she and her three sisters grew up in separate foster homes. She was a lead sales rep for an insurance company in Michigan and a successful florist too.”
In 1994, Bob encouraged Ellen to move to Florida. She lived in Anna Maria for two years and then spent two years living with an aunt in Bradenton Beach before moving into the Pines Trailer Park 26 years ago.
“My mom had 17 pie pans at her house. We passed them out to people in the park and they’ll be bringing pies Saturday,” Bob said. “When the hearse came and got my mother everybody came out and lined the streets. Two nights later, they did a toast on her porch. It’s such a wonderful neighborhood.”
Regarding Ellen’s charitable efforts at the Drift In and elsewhere, Bob said, “Even if you didn’t know my mom, you probably bought a raffle ticket from her.”
In closing, Bob said, “We were fortunate that we spent a lot of time together at the end. All her grandkids made it down to see her and attend an event with her before she passed. I’m blessed to have had a relationship with my mother that few ever get to have. She left our family a tremendous legacy.”
Ellen’s son, Bernie Slicker, said, “My mom lived the fullest life anybody could wish for. She loved the people in the Pines, the Drift In and the AMI Moose Lodge. She always dressed for the occasion. She wore green on St. Patty’s Day, white and red on Christmas and Easter colors for Easter.”
When asked what he’ll miss most, Bernie jokingly said, “Her pies. She made apple, blueberry, peach, cherry, and my favorite, lemon meringue.”
“There’s no pie like Grandma’s apple pie,” Bernie’s son, Mike, said.
“She taught me to live life every day and to be happy to be alive,” Bernie said.
“And never let the little things keep you down,” Mike added. “She chose her paradise and she lived until she died in her paradise.”
Ellen’s daughter, Cindy Slicker, lives in Tennessee but visits often. Speaking by phone while cleaning out her mom’s mobile home, Cindy said, “She’s still teaching me about life as I’m going through her stuff. She was selfless. She was an exceptional mom, grandmother and great-grandmother. She’s got four beautiful granddaughters from me and she taught me how to be a good mother. She was very encouraging and an exceptionally unique woman. She had good energy, was a go-getter and she’d get it done. Mom had three sisters and she’s the last to go. Her last statement to me was, ‘My sisters are waiting for me, I gotta get up there.’ ”
Ellen Scott and Molly (Slicker) Parry had a close and loving relationship. – Molly Parry | Submitted
Ellen’s granddaughter, Molly Parry (Bob’s daughter), said, “She was small in stature but she unapologetically took up space. She was feisty, honest and fiercely loyal. Her life was never easy but she always persevered. She was not to be underestimated and she was down for anything. She loved sports and never left a game early, no matter how badly her team was losing. She never missed a single one of my many events and her pride was unconditional.”
Ellen’s grandson, Brian Slicker (Bernie’s son), said, “I’m going to miss everything about her. She went to every one of my sons’ baseball games. She’d stay from 4:30 in the afternoon until 9 o’clock and she always brought goodies for all the kids.
Ellen Scott joined several family members at a Lightning game in February. – Slicker Family | Submitted
“We’d watch Lightning games together as a family at Slicker’s Eatery and go to games when we could. We went to the Lightning game before she started her downward spiral. She had the opportunity to do the Tesla coil and she brought our sons, Rowan and Corbin, up there with her. It was one of the coolest things ever. She was all about the grandkids and great-grandkids. She never missed anybody’s anything.” Brian said.
“She was one of the most charitable people I’ve ever known. If there was a fundraiser, she’d jump in to help. She did so much for the (Anna Maria Island) Privateers that they made her an honorary Privateer last year. In the trailer park, she helped organize events and create a sense of community there.
Regarding the pies, Brian said, “I’ve never seen a person with so many pie trays. She probably had 20 glass Pyrex pie dishes in her cabinet. I took two of them and I’m going to make a couple pies for the celebration.
Long ago, Ellen Scott, left, was integral part of the Tip-Up Town winter festival that’s still an annual event in Houghton, Michigan. – Submitted
“She was one of the most fun people ever. When I was a kid, living in Michigan, they used to have the Tip-Up Town festival on the ice in Houghton Lake. She dressed up and they called her ‘Laser Beam Ellen.’ You never knew anything was wrong with my grandma. She always saw the light and the positive side of life and she made other people happy. She was an icon. She had a great life,” Brian said.
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
Drift In manager Doreen Flynn said, “Ellen was my go-to lady. She and Dort Davis helped get the champagne ready on New Year’s Eve. Ellen made all the lotto boards for our Privateers’ fundraisers and she helped The Renegades assist local families at Christmas. She was always the first to volunteer. She was such a big part of the Drift In, and my own life, and I’ll miss her dearly.”
Ellen Scott became an honorary Privateer in 2023. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Privateer John ‘Lil’ John Arr’ Rutherford said, “Ellen was tremendously helpful during the Privateers’ fundraisers and in recognition of her support we made her an honorary Privateer in 2023. She will be missed.”
Drift In patron and seasonal Pines Park resident ‘Mark the Park’ said, “Ellen was a lovely lady. She made us apple pies and blueberry pies. Last night, I was walking home and I did what I’ve done for the last 10 years: I said ‘Goodnight Ellen, I love you,’ as I walked by her trailer. I knew she wasn’t there, but I didn’t know her daughter was there. Cindy approached me this morning and thanked me.”
BRADENTON BEACH – The Christmas season officially began on Bridge Street with the Nov. 18 lighting of the city Christmas tree.
Prior to the event, the Magic of Manatee chapter of the Sweet Adelines serenaded the crowd with a variety of Christmas songs. They sang, “Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” inviting attendees to sing along to “O Come All Ye Faithful.”
The late John Shaughnessy, a former Bradenton Beach mayor and commissioner who passed away in May, was honored at the tree lighting.
Emcee and local businessman Sherman Baldwin introduced Shaughnessy’s widow, June, and spoke of the former mayor’s vision for Bradenton Beach.
Emcee Sherman Baldwin recognized June Shaughnessy and the accomplishments of her husband, the late John Shaughnessy, who formerly severed as a Bradenton Beach city commissioner and as mayor. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“He would be so proud and happy to be here on a night like this,” Baldwin said. “The vision he saw for this street and Bridge Street pier is nothing short of amazing.”
Joe Cuervo, the former owner of the Drift In, was given the honor this year of lighting the tree.
Former Drift In owners Joe and Angie Cuervo helped light the tree. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“He also brought a vision to this street, always a positive influence and is definitely a part of what makes this street what it is today,” Baldwin said of Cuervo.
Cuervo wished the crowd a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
The illuminated tree brought cheers from the crowd. The 42-foot tree, located at the post office on Bridge Street, lights up the night sky with more than 20,000 lights.
Michael, Mickey and Liam get into the holiday spirit at the Bridge Street Christmas tree lighting. – Leslie Lake | Sun
Following the tree lighting, the movie, “Elf,” was played on an outdoor screen.
The holiday event was sponsored by the Bradenton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the city of Bradenton Beach and local merchants.
Bradenton Beach Police Chief John Cosby said the tree lighting typically attracts around 1,000-1,200 people to Bridge Street.
Santa and Mrs. Claus are seated by the tree before the Bridge Street Christmas tree lighting. – Leslie Lake | SunThe Christmas tree stands in the Bradenton Beach post office parking lot. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
BRADENTON BEACH – The Rock Extravaganza benefit held at the Drift In on Oct. 15 raised nearly $7,000 for local musician Mack Black.
A $4,000 donation Black received from a Drift In patron before the benefit began brought the fundraising total to nearly $11,000.
Black plays bass and harmonica and sings lead and backing vocals with Dos-Macs and his long-time musical partner, Mike McConnell. The Sunday afternoon musical performances and all-star jams featured Dos-Macs, Koko Ray, The Cabana Dogs, Rob Hamm & the Daily Specials, Steve Paradis, Mikey Silbaugh, Tommy Balbo, Lance Biddle (who also provided the PA and ran sound), “Buzz,” Ronnie Soul, Mike Cunningham and the percussionist known as “Cajun.”
The Renegades motorcycle club delivered a cash donation to Mack Black. – Amy Hendricks | Submitted
During the Dos-Macs’ performance, the vice president of The Renegades motorcycle club presented Black with a cash-filled envelope. Throughout the day, Black expressed his thanks and gratitude for the generous donations that will assist him with his living expenses and the medical bills he incurred during a recent hospital stay which caused him to miss several gigs and lose the musician’s income he depends on. He also thanked the Drift In and manager Doreen Flynn for their efforts.
Steve Paradis led one of the all-star jams. – Amy Hendricks | SubmittedThe Cabana Dogs were among the local musicians who donated their time to the fundraising efforts. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
The Drift In donated a lotto board containing a $100 bill surrounded by scratch-off lottery tickets. The raffle winner donated the $100 bill to Black. The winner of the liquor basket donated by Anna Maria Island Privateers re-raffled the basket and donated the additional funds to Black, as did some of the winners of the gift baskets and gift certificates donated by Clancy’s, Il Panificio pizzeria and others. The 50-50 raffle totaled $740, with half the proceeds given to Black.
Pig Out BBQ & Southern Soul Food donated pulled pork sandwiches and more, and several attendees brought dishes to share as part of the fundraising efforts.
Drift In Manager Doreen Flynn thanked everyone for their support and generosity. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“I want to thank everyone who came and donated and gave their time out of the kindness of their hearts,” Flynn said. “Thanks to all the musicians who donated their time for one of their fellow musicians. The music was amazing. Thanks to the Renegades, the Privateers, Pig Out, Clancy’s and everyone else for their generosity. And thanks to the Drift In ownership, employees and volunteers who helped make this very special day possible.”
BRADENTON BEACH – Longtime Cortez and Bradenton Beach resident Marty Tupin passed away on Aug. 1, just a few weeks before his 63rd birthday.
Over the years, Marty was a commercial fisherman, a fiberglass and metal fabricator, an artist, a furniture maker, and more. After a portion of his right leg was amputated, Marty spent his final couple years as the ever-vigilant parking attendant at the Drift In bar in Bradenton Beach, where he zipped around on his three-wheeled electric scooter supervising the sometimes challenging two-deep, tandem parking reserved for patrons only.
Marty Tupin spent his final years patrolling the Drift In parking lot. – Submitted
The Drift In, 120 Bridge St., will host a celebration of life on Sunday, August 27, at 2 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring a dish to share and to share their memories of Marty.
Marty’s family will host a celebration of life at the Star Fish Company restaurant in Cortez, at 12306 46th Ave. W. on Sunday, Oct. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Life’s challenges
Marty’s sister, Judy (Tupin) Mossorofo, lives in Venice with her husband, Charles Mossorofo, and they shared their insights on Marty’s colorful and sometimes challenging life.
Marty was born in Medina, Ohio. When he was about a year old and Judy was two, their parents were in an automobile accident in Butler, Georgia that killed their mom, Elsie, a former Manatee County schoolteacher.
Marty’s dad, Lynn, had family ties to the Cortez commercial fishing community and was a commercial fisherman himself. After the accident, he and the children moved to Manatee County, where the siblings lived with various family members before being placed in separate foster homes.
“All four of us got split up. We didn’t grow up together,” Judy said of their fractured family.
Marty loved his son, Cory Herrick. – Submitted
Judy said Marty began his commercial fishing career in Cortez in the 1980s.
“He loved fishing and crabbing. His friends were commercial fishermen and shrimpers and he worked the docks at the AP Bell Fish Company. He loved catching fish and bringing them to all his friends. He fiber-glassed a lot of boats and he was really good at that. He mended nets too. He also loved painting, making metal sculptures and building and painting wooden chairs and benches. He loved working with his hands. He was very creative. He was a fabulous artist. He was a good father and he loved his dogs too,” Judy said.
Marty Tupin spent many years working as a commercial fisherman. – Submitted
Judy can’t remember exactly when it happened, but she said Marty was in a motorcycle accident that seriously injured his right leg and impacted the rest of his life.
“Later, his leg hurt so bad that he couldn’t walk. It got so badly infected that they had to cut the foot off at the ankle. It then spread up his leg and more of his leg was amputated because of bad circulation and sepsis,” Judy said, noting some toes on his left foot were later amputated too.
In mid-July, Marty became seriously ill and was hospitalized. His left leg was amputated in an attempt to save his life and he was later moved to Tidewell Hospice in Bradenton where he spent his final days, visited by family and friends.
Regarding his late brother-in-law, Charles said, “I’m from New York City. I met Marty 23 years ago when I first came down here with Judy. This guy was just beaming with life. He’d tell me stories about being a commercial fisherman and getting off the boat for a burger and a beer at a bar. He certainly had a lust for life and the open sea.
“We didn’t see each other often, but I was close to him. He lived life completely on his own terms and he did it without being malicious. Marty got grumpy sometimes, but he was all heart and we never argued. I taught him it was OK to agree to disagree and we did that for 23 years. He was a remarkable, beautiful man. He had a heart of gold,” Charles said.
Friends aplenty
Drift In Manager Doreen Flynn said, “I called him ‘Mr. Crotchety’ but I loved him and I wish he was still here. He worked here for the past couple of years but I knew him for 15 years. He used to bring me my fish and shrimp and he taught me to freeze fish in water in a bag so it was fresh when you took it out. He was dealt some tough cards but he always kept his head up and he did not want anyone to know he was in pain every day. He will be deeply missed. He drank Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey and Icehouse beer and we’re going to have an Icehouse special on the 27th.”
Joy Nelson hosts bingo and deals bar poker at the Drift.
She said, “Words to describe my friend: arrogant, funny, straightforward, loving, caring, hard-headed and more. There was never a question about what he was thinking about you. You could be a stranger or a great friend and he never held back. He was completely real and he encouraged me to be the same. He didn’t have an easy life, but he won at bar poker all the time, so I figured he was at least lucky at one thing. But after he went into the hospital for the last time, I realized I was wrong. He was lucky that he found our crazy Drift In family and somehow fit in. We could all butt heads at times and then share a drink and laugh together at the end of the night. I miss my friend,” Nelson said.
Drift In patron Mike Cunningham said, “Most people’s first impression of Marty was that he was a little prickly, but if you accepted him as he was and took the time to get to know him you would find he was a straight-up guy and a true friend. I miss his honesty, humor and frankness. The setbacks he had the last couple of years never changed the good things I loved about him.”
Drift In patron Rebecca Brodeur said, “I loved him. I went to see him during his last days. He was a good, old friend. I went to elementary school with him. He was a stinker even on the bus and at school, but he had a good heart and he was a good person. He wasn’t just a parking lot attendant. He was a great fisherman and artist too.”
As an artist, Marty Tupin worked in many mediums. – Submitted
Local musician Mike McConnell said, “Marty was one of those salty characters that made up the diversity at the Drift In. Our relationship was contentious at first but I believe we regarded each other as friends and we worked together at the most unique watering hole in America.”
Marty Tupin enjoyed time spent on the water. – Submitted
Drift In patron Tammi McCoy said, “Every morning I’d pass by on my way to yoga and Marty would always wave to me. I loved Marty. He was a really good guy.
Her husband Greg, said, “You had to avoid that damn scooter he was on because he’d about run you over.”
With the help from the Drift In and Beach’N Bikes & Rentals, Marty’s scooter was donated to Cortezian and fellow-amputee Kathy Barnett, per the family’s request.
Marty’s family donated his mobility scooter to Kathy Barnett. – Submitted
When asked about Marty, AP Bell and Star Fish Company owner Karen Bell said, “He hadn’t been around here a lot lately, but he used to be in the village all the time when he fished and lived up in Popeye’s apartment. He was kind of a jack of all trades who usually crewed on someone else’s boat. He was as committed to his art as much as anything else and he really enjoyed painting fish on glass. He had a good heart, but he also had an edginess to him.”
Marty Tupin enjoyed painting fish on glass backgrounds. – Sarah Santos | Submitted
Charter captain and cousin Kathe Tupin Fannon, said, “Marty had the ability to piss you off but he also had the ability to make you like him. I am sure when he made it to the front gates of Heaven he was explaining to God how to run Heaven.”
Facebook tributes
Marty’s passing also generated many Facebook comments.
Drift In owner Derek Williams wrote: “I bought the Drift-In in December 2022. Marty was one of the first people to offer me a hand. He loved his Drift family and he truly had pride in our business, our parking lot and his job. He earned every tip and he made people laugh.”
Former Drift In bartender Sharon Bell wrote: “Marty was one-of-a-kind for sure; my salty parking pirate. I think his drive and spirit were so strong that he willed himself into living the past few years. He enjoyed being the center of attention and truly loved being generous. I remember him offering his food and if you didn’t take at least a little it hurt his feelings. He was a pot-stirrer for sure, but kind at his core. He was a hard worker that wanted to contribute and be as independent as he could. We are less for not having him around to antagonize us with his antics. He will be missed and always remembered.”
Sarah Santos and Heather McNeal were among Marty’s many friends. – Sarah Santos | Submitted
Charter captain and Sports Lounge bartender Sarah Santos wrote: “I met Marty a little over 12 years ago when I lived across from Starfish Co. in the village. He was the sweetest man and always made me feel like a million bucks! We will all miss him dearly. He was so talented.”
Sunshine Bechler wrote: “Rest in Peace Marty. Thanks for squeezing me in and out a time or two.”
Commercial fishing was one of Marty Tupin’s many passions. – Submitted
BRADENTON BEACH – The Anna Maria Island Privateers and the Drift In raised $2,350 during Saturday’s annual Christmas in July fundraiser.
Saturday evening’s fundraising efforts included two raffles: one raffle for the lotto board that contained a $100 bill surrounded by $400 worth of scratch-off lottery tickets; and another for the liquor basket valued at $300.
Glen Authers won the
lotto board assembled by honorary Privateer Ellen Scott, and Drift In Manager and honorary Privateer Doreen Flynn won the liquor basket.
Glen Authers won the lotto board that bartender Amanda Westrich helped sell raffle tickets for. – Submitted
The fundraising efforts also included food sales. For a $10 donation, folks could enjoy a wide variety of food donated by local restaurants and others.
While standing near the food table, Privateer Carmela O’Driscoll thanked The Freckled Fin, the Palmetto Moose Lodge, Double Deez Chicago Style Hot Dogs, El Sombreros, Cheesecake Cutie, Bolo’s Baked Goods, the Privateers and Flynn for the food and desserts they donated to the cause.
Several local restaurants donated food to the fundraising efforts. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
As the event got underway, Privateer John “Arr” Rutherford said, “We’re raising money for kids at Christmas time. Most of today’s proceeds will go toward the families that have fallen on hard times that we help during Christmas. This is one of our two annual events that we have to help our Christmas families. The Drift In has been great in allowing us to host this annual event here for the past several years. They’re super-supportive of the Privateers.”
Drift In Manager Doreen Flynn, third from left, won the liquor basket. – Submitted
“We hope to raise lots of money for the Privateers,” Flynn said. “We help families every year at Christmas and we also help raise money for the scholarships the Privateers give away in July. The Privateers do so much for the children in our community and that’s what it’s all about.”
Tammi McCoy was among those who posed for a photo with Santa (Greg McCoy). – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Sitting outside in his Adirondack chair, Santa (Greg McCoy) posed for pictures with those who made donations to the Privateers. During the late afternoon musical performance by Dos-Macs and Tommy Balbo, Santa stepped to the mic and said he was already compiling his naughty and nice lists and supporting the Privateers would get you on his nice list.
Concrete Edgar provided live music indoors that evening.
BRADENTON BEACH – One of the offshore racing boats participating in the 39th Annual Sarasota Grand Prix powerboat races will make a post-race appearance at the Drift In in Bradenton Beach on Monday, July 3.
The powerboats will race offshore of Lido Key Beach in Sarasota on Sunday, July 2, with qualifying and testing on Saturday, July 1.
The Drift In is one of the sponsors of Joe Olivieri’s OC Offshore Racing team.
Drift In owner Derek Williams said, “My friend Joe Olivieri built the boat and he’s racing in that series. He’s dreamed about doing this for a while. He spent a couple years building the boat and this is his first year. He drives the boat and recently raced it in Key West. Some local businesses sponsor him and we’re going to bring the boat to the Drift In parking lot and do something patriotic in honor of the Fourth of July. Joe’s a local guy. He’s a general contractor and he owns Olivieri Construction. He’s done work at the Bridge Tender Inn before and he’s all over town.
“We’re also doing it for the Denis V. Cooper Foundation and Wishes For Heroes.org – a local veteran’s charity I helped start with a friend of mine, Maverick Johnson. We raise money and give it to local veterans in need,” Williams said.
Denis Cooper (aka ‘Maverick Johnson’), Williams, Gary Kortzendorf, Bob Morrison and Steve Hopkins started the Wishes for Heroes foundation in honor of Cooper’s late father, Denis V. Cooper. Known on-air as Maverick Johnson, Denis Cooper co-hosts a country music morning show on WCTQ 92.1 FM and 103.1 FM. He’ll be attending the Drift In event, which will also feature live music by Dos-Macs.
The event, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will serve as a fundraiser for the Denis V. Cooper Foundation, with the Drift In donating the hot dogs to be sold to benefit the foundation. Denis V. Cooper Foundation T-shirts will also be available for purchase.
Some or all of the Drift In parking lot will be temporarily closed that day to accommodate the racing boat.
“Come see the boat, get a picture and have a cold one and a hot dog. We’re supporting a local charity and celebrating the Fourth of July,” Williams said, noting the racing boat might also participate in the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ Fourth of July parade on Tuesday.
BRADENTON BEACH – Ellen Scott is now an honorary member of the Anna Maria Island Privateers.
The Privateers surprised Scott with the honor during a March 15 fundraiser at the Drift In. The Privateers frequently partner with the Drift In to raise funds for the scholarships they award to local students and the Christmas gifts they provide to underprivileged families. The proceeds from this event were donated to the Privateers themselves as part of the “Raise The Skullywag” fundraising campaign for repairs and upgrades needed for their pirate ship-themed parade vehicle.
As she does during all Privateers’ fundraisers at the Drift In, Scott spent the evening urging patrons to purchase raffle tickets for the lotto board that contained $300 worth of scratch-off lottery tickets and a $100 bill. The raffle also included a liquor-filled gift basket valued at $300 to be given to some lucky ticket holder.
“Every time we do an event here, Ellen insists on creating the lotto board. I bring her the tickets and she arranges it, laminates it and then sells the hell out of those tickets,” Privateer John “Lil John Arr” Rutherford said.
Honorary Privateer memberships are bestowed upon community members who go above and beyond in their ef- forts to assist the Privateers.
“It doesn’t make them an official member, just an honorary member,” Rutherford said.
He noted Drift In manager Doreen Flynn is also an honorary Privateer.
“Ellen’s always there to help the Privateers,” Flynn said. “She’s a fantastic lady and she’s been doing this for more than 20 years.”
Flynn said that Drift In patron and retired BeachHouse restaurant chef Donald White is also an honorary Privateer. Several of Scott’s family members attended the fundraising event but she didn’t know they were there to see her honored.
Her son, Bob Slicker, said, “Since I was a child, my mom has always been involved in something to help someone else. She’s a true inspiration.”
Her grandson, Brian Slicker, said, “When I was young and living in Michigan, I got involved in charitable drives because of her. She taught me to help others.”
When presenting Scott with her honorary membership plaque, Privateer Kim “Syren” Boyd mentioned the lotto board and said, “Miss Ellen has been instrumental in helping us do this and we cannot think of a better way to thank her than to make her an honorary Privateer.”
Boyd then read aloud the plaque inscription: “This is to certify that Ellen Scott is held in such high esteem by this organization because of her overwhelming support and generosity to our krewe and to our mission, ‘Pirates for kids and community,’ that the membership and krewe has elected to confer upon her the privilege of honorary membership.”
Drift In owner Derek Williams then presented the Privateers with a $500 check for their “Raise The Skullywag” campaign and Drift In employee John “Baitman” Maguire donated an addi- tional $100.
Drift In owner Derek Williams presented Privateer Kim “Syren” Boyd with a $500 check. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
When discussing her honorary membership, Scott said, “It made me cry. It’s a great honor. I do it because I love the Privateers and I love who they help and what they work for, scholarships for kids and helping families have Christmas.”
Later that evening, the winning raffle ticket was pulled and Massachusetts resident and seasonal Flori- da resident Raye Young won the liquor basket and the lotto board that produced for her $98 in additional lottery ticket winnings.
Lotto board winner Raye Young was joined by Privateers John “Lil John Arr” Rutherford, Carmela Odriscoll, Kim “Syren” Boyd and Adam “Duck” Cross. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
According to Rutherford, Scott generated $2,126 in raffle ticket sales that night and the Privateers received an additional $850 in cash donations, bringing their “Raise the Skullywag” fundraising total to $5,001 at the time.
BRADENTON BEACH – The Bradenton chapter of the Renegades motorcycle club made its annual Christmas gift delivery to the Drift In in Bradenton Beach on Dec. 19.
This year’s recipient family was Tasha (no last name provided), her two-year-old son, Colt, and her four-year-old son, Rocket.
The club members arrived aboard their motorcycles Monday evening accompanied by an SUV filled with Christmas gifts for the family. The gifts were displayed on an outdoor table for a group photo before being loaded into Tasha’s vehicle. The boys were allowed to open one gift that night and together they opened their new 78-piece Kid Connection Dinosaur Gate Play Set.
Tasha watched her sons, Colt and Rocket, open one of the Christmas presents they received from the Renegades. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“It’s really nice,” Tasha said of the Renegades’ charitable efforts.
Renegades’ member Tim “Chopstixxx” Miller said the club’s charitable efforts were inspired by his own family.
“My brother, Dave, started this over 15 years ago. Our mother, Suzie Miller, passed away on Dec. 19, 2001. She struggled raising three boys herself, so it’s a way honor her and to give back to the community,” Miller said.
“We go to our regular bars in the community and get cash donations. Through a third party, or one of the churches, we find a family who’s not affiliated with the club and get in touch with the parents to make sure they’re actually in need and comfortable with us doing this. We get a Christmas list of what the kids want and we go out and buy the gifts. We do well enough that we can usually take care of two families. We start collecting money around Halloween and this year we got about $1,500 from people in the community. The wives, girlfriends and kids do the shopping,” Miller explained.
“We’re a family-oriented club. We’re friendly and approachable. We do family days and birthday parties and we get together and cook. We like helping people and we’ve never had any issues,” Miller added.
Drift Manager Doreen Flynn said, “This is our fifth year of doing this with them. The name of their club is the Renegades, but they have a lot of heart and soul, and they care about the community.”
Unrelated to this event, the Drift In also partners with the Anna Maria Island Privateers to assist underprivileged families during the Christmas holidays.
“We do these things because we want to give to people who need it,” Flynn said.
Derek Williams, Doreen Flynn and Joe Cuervo attended Monday’s event. – Joe Hendricks | SunFlynn was present for the Renegades’ Christmas delivery, but she wasn’t working that night because she recently fell at work, injuring her arm, and missed a few weeks of work after returning from a cruise vacation.
The Renegades gave Flynn a Christmas card containing a cash donation to help offset some of her missed earnings.
“They gave me the most beautiful card and took up a collection for me because I’ve been out of work for a few weeks. I so appreciate it. I’m flabbergasted. I never expected a thing like that, but that’s how generous they are. We all help each other,” Flynn said.
Long-time Drift In owner Joe Cuervo said, “They’re a great group of guys and they like to donate to families in need. They’ve been doing it for a long time. We collect money and donate it to them, and they use that and the other money they collect to go out and buy presents for the kids.”
Ownership change
On Dec. 15, Cuervo sold his share of the Drift In business and property to his son-in-law, Dereck Williams and his wife, Helena, who is Joe and Angie Cuervo’s daughter.
Derek is the president and CIO of the Bradenton-based Williams Wealth Management Group. In February 2021, he and Cuervo purchased the previously leased Drift In building and property in Bradenton Beach from Grant Thormier. That purchase occurred after Cuervo sold the Drift In bar in Bradenton that he also operated on leased property.
Keeping it in the family, Joe Cuervo recently sold his share of the Drift In to his daughter, Helena, and his son-in-law, Derek Williams. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
“We’re a community-oriented family business,” Williams said. “Helena and I are happy to continue Joe and Angie’s legacy. We love what Doreen’s done to make relationships with our patrons and the local community and we want to continue to support the community.
“I’m a Bradenton native. There’s been a lot of changes in our community. We want to keep certain things the same, but we also want to make the Drift In all it can be. We’re excited to be able to help Joe and Angie retire comfortably and we look forward to doing anything we can to make the Drift In even better,” Williams said.
When asked how he plans to enjoy his retirement, Cuervo said, “I’m going to play some golf, do some fishing, do some woodwork and travel a lot.”
BRADENTON BEACH – Holiday merrymakers enjoyed shopping, dining, a movie and a party for a great cause as the Anna Maria Island Privateers and the city’s Christmas on Bridge Street events coincided on Saturday.
Christmas on Bridge Street featured stores staying open later to allow for holiday shopping, live music ringing out from bars and restaurants and a visit from Santa to hear Christmas wishes from anyone who wanted to meet him.
This year, the event coincided with the Anna Maria Island Privateers’ annual Christmas at the Drift In fundraiser, also on Bridge Street. Although the “partnership” was not planned in any official way, everyone enjoyed the fact that the Privateers’ close connection to Santa allowed for him to park his sleigh by the nearly 40- foot tall tree in the post office parking lot for some incredibly festive photo opportunities.
From left, Anna Maria Island Privateers Cookie, Santa Claus, Squeegee and Dallas enjoy a beautiful night on Bridge Street. – Jason Schaffer | Sun
“The Privateers are a great organization. They spend so much time and put so much effort into their charity fundraising,” said Amanda Walker, of Lansing Michigan, who spends the holidays on the Island every year with her family. “They are all smiles and happy to take your picture free of charge, so we always make a monetary donation to them every time we are here. They give scholarships to kids; if that’s not a worthy cause I have no idea what is.”
In addition to having Santa by the tree, children and parents gathered to watch a movie on the other side of the parking lot while they sipped hot chocolate, an annual highlight of the Christmas on Bridge Street event.
Unlike the boat parade earlier this month, police did not close the street for this party, but there were plenty of officers on hand to make sure everyone was safe. Bradenton Beach Police officers reported no incidents during the official celebration and said everyone seemed to be happy and having fun safely.
When The Sun spoke to Privateers President Kim Boyd, she did not have the total amount of money raised, but was enthusiastic about how the event had gone.
“Before we even got here tonight, the Drift In bartend- ers had raised over $1,400 just for the lotto board,” said Boyd, speaking of the grand prize consisting of a $100 bill and $200 in scratch off tickets. “All this money goes back for kids and community, and a large part goes to our scholarships and Christmas family adoptions and the other programs we fund.”
The Privateers are a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that works to help children through scholarship programs and other initiatives.
