Community Corner
Anna Maria Churches Aid Rod and Reel Employees After Fire
A group of churches is helping some 30 employees who recently lost their jobs due to a kitchen fire at the Rod and Reel Pier on the north end of Anna Maria Island on Monday.
All Island Denominations, which is made up of six churches on the island, has volunteered to provide emergency help to the employees for rent, utilities, food and other needs while the restaurant is repaired, according to an article in the Bradenton Herald.
The replacement is expected take about two months, according to the owner, Dave Cochran.
The article states that organization's benefits are usually reserved for Anna Maria Island residents and members of island churches, but the group decided to cover Rod & Reel Pier employees because the provide a service to the residents and visitors of the island.
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The fire reportedly occurred inside the southeast wall of the restaurant, but required responders to tear holes in the roof and remove the ceiling and other equipment to put out the blaze.
The restaurant and historic pier have been closed until the damaged areas can be replaced.
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