Good morning, Bradenton.

Two cell towers are proposed in Parrish with one near the charter academy — where parents voice health concerns — and one near the new town center to boost coverage.

The proposals remain under review.

ABC 7 News Anchor Summer Smith visited Gene Witt Elementary in Bradenton this week to watch fifth graders, led by teacher Colleen Inners, produce a morning news broadcast — a hands-on lesson in local journalism.

Manatee County Utilities issued a boil water notice for the sheriff's office at 600 US 301 Blvd W due to potential bacterial issues and advises customers to boil water for one minute for drinking and cooking.

The notice will last 24 to 48 hours until tests confirm water safety.

Bradenton Beach commissioners are reviewing options for Tingley Memorial Library on 2nd Street North as staff consider whether to fund $23,000 in repairs or repurpose the building—officials will decide on April 16 if the library will join the redevelopment agency or be converted to paid parking.

Starting April 12, drivers on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge must use SunPass or alternative transponders as cash will no longer be accepted + the state says the electronic system will improve traffic flow and cut costs for bridge upkeep.

Local library officials expressed uncertainty about the facility's future on Apr.

7 as they review budget and operational concerns; a public meeting to discuss potential changes is expected soon.

Healthy Kids Running Series Spring 2026

3:30-4:30 p.m. — Tom Bennett Park — Free entry — Engage in a fun five-week running program promoting health and teamwork for kids in the community.

Senior PGA Championship

8 a.m. — The Concession Golf Club — Check website for ticket info — Experience the thrill of major championship golf on Florida’s West Coast.

City of Sarasota Tree Giveaway

10 AM – 2 PM — The Bay Park — Free canopy tree — Celebrate good environmental practices and take home a free tree.

Mark Solo Acoustic Evening

7-11 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy acoustic classics from the 70s and 80s with a soulful twist by Mark Solo.

Yates McKendree Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen — Ticket prices vary — Experience the Grammy-winning talent of Yates McKendree in a soulful evening of music.

Acoustic Thunder Live

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Dance the night away with high-energy music and all-request tunes from Acoustic Thunder.

MindTravel Live Piano Event

5-7 p.m. — Siesta Beach — Free entry — Immerse yourself in a live piano journey guided by renowned composer Murray Hidary as the sun sets over the ocean.

Pizza and Karaoke with Cantor Taibel

6-7 p.m. — Demetrios Pizza & Grill — Price not specified — Enjoy an evening of pizza, karaoke, and casual conversation.

Finish Line Racing Multi-Sport Events

7-10 AM — Fort De Soto Park — Enjoy a vibrant post-party with food and free beer at this multi-sport race event.

NoFilter Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Green at UTC — Free entry — Dance the night away with high-energy hits from various decades and genres.