Good morning, Bradenton.

Today on World Press Freedom Day, Joe McClash, publisher of The Bradenton Times (Manatee County’s first online only newspaper), stresses that local news survives only when the community supports it as legal and financial challenges strain independent journalism and decrease coverage of local government.

Pelot’s Pharmacy, a family-run store that had served the community for over 130 years, closed in March because rising costs & modern competition made it unsustainable, yet local memories keep its legacy alive.

On 4/28, the League of Women Voters observed the school board meeting, where district leaders recognized student achievements and approved job reclassifications, new positions, and projects such as MSTV internships and Project HEART.

The board also considered shifting high school start times to ease community challenges (details coming soon).

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.

Almost Eagles Concert

7-10 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Tickets available — Experience a night with Almost Eagles and enjoy classic tunes in a beautiful venue.

Mother's Day Brunch Buffet

10 AM-3 PM — PIER 22 — Adults: $70+ | Kids: $25++ — Delight in a waterfront brunch with an abundant buffet of seasonal favorites and chef-attended stations.

Bradenton Marauders Faith & Family Night

6:30-9:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Prices Vary — Experience a fair-themed atmosphere with games, activities, and church performance opportunities during the game.

Lies, Spells & Old Wives' Tales

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a brand new world-premiere musical comedy closing the 'Soul Of A People' theatre season.

The Wandering Hours Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — The Bay Park — Free entry — Experience the unique sounds of Americana with stellar string picking from The Wandering Hours.

The Royz Band LIVE at Mattison's Riverwalk Grille

5-9 p.m. — Mattison's Riverwalk — Reservations recommended — Enjoy outdoor dining and live music from The Royz Band.

RJ Howson Music Showcase

7-11 p.m. — The O Bar — Check for admission details — Enjoy a night of live music with singer-songwriter RJ Howson and his friends.

RJ Howson, Mike Kach and Friends Concert

4-8 p.m. — Stottlemyer's Smokehouse — Admission details not specified — Enjoy an evening of live music with RJ Howson and friends at a local venue.

Lakewood Ranch Rockstar Connect Networking Event

6-8 p.m. — Ed's Tavern Lakewood Ranch — Free entry — Connect with the community and build authentic relationships over laughs and stories.