Good morning, Bradenton.

A father from Parrish drove hundreds of miles to FSU after Thursday’s mass shooting so he could find his son—a college student who narrowly escaped gunfire and sprained his ankle—and the two shared a long hug.

Bradenton Police arrested Jeffrey Jones, 48, on three felony criminal mischief charges after he allegedly caused $11,000 in damage to three Tesla vehicles at Pinebrook Commons—he is now held at Manatee County Jail with a bond set at $150,000.

Manatee School for the Arts has started a solar project to power its campus with solar energy—working with Tampa Bay Solar to install about 3,000 panels that will cut utility costs by 90% and help fund new art and dance spaces.

The project will become one of Florida’s largest rooftop solar systems—producing up to 2.0 Megawatts and enough energy for 200 homes daily while paying for itself within seven years.

A public event called Stand Up for USF Sarasota Manatee will be held on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Anna Maria Oyster Bar Landside on 14th St., Bradenton, to gather input on keeping the campus in the community as plans to transfer it to New College of Florida are discussed — board members and locals are invited to share their views.

Environmental protection remains a top priority as Earth Day 2025 nears, and local advocates push for more renewable energy and less pollution (a key goal for coastal communities) while ManaSota 88, which has worked for over 30 years (in Manatee and Sarasota counties), leads the call for change.

Legislators in Tallahassee moved key language from SB1118 into SB1080, and the bill passed its final committee 18—4 on April 15; it would remove local control over growth and impose fee changes on rural lands.

The bill now heads to the Senate floor and may be heard next week, prompting local officials to urge residents to oppose it.

The Wiz Jr.

5:30-7 p.m. — Ozell Ackerman Auditorium — Ticket proceeds support local arts — Experience the magical journey down the Yellow Brick Road with an engaging musical for all ages.

Bradenton Punk Rock Flea Market Vol. 5

12-6 p.m. — Oscura Live — Free entry — Experience local punk music and unique vendor finds at this vibrant market celebration.

Tampa Tarpons vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-10:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling night of minor league baseball as the Tampa Tarpons take on the Bradenton Marauders.

KANSAS with special guest The Outlaws

7-11 p.m. — Bradenton Area Convention Center — Tickets start at $65 — Experience a night of classic rock with unforgettable hits from KANSAS and The Outlaws.

SUP & RUN 5K

7:55-11:00 AM — Nathan Benderson Park — Benefiting RUCK9 and Operation Second Chance — Celebrate the 10th anniversary of this exciting paddleboard and running event.

Downtown Lakewood Ranch Classic Car Show

5-8 p.m. — Ed's Tavern Lakewood Ranch — $10 per vehicle — Bring your ride or enjoy a family-friendly night of classic cars, food, music, and prizes.

Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-11:59 p.m. — LECOM Park — Check event website for ticket prices — Feel the thrill as the Lakeland Flying Tigers take on the Bradenton Marauders in this exciting baseball matchup.

Doubles Troubles Pickleball Tournament

May 10-11 — G T Bray Recreation Center — Entry fee required — Compete in a thrilling pickleball showdown with fellow enthusiasts.

Tampa Bradenton Speed Dating for Singles Age 25-42

7-9 p.m. — Motorworks Brewing — Ticket purchase required — Experience a modern way to meet potential matches in a lively setting.

Sunday Brunch at the Grove

11 a.m. — GROVE — Reservations required — Enjoy a delightful outdoor brunch with friends at a top-notch dining destination.