Good morning, Bradenton.

On Thursday, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office escorted 106-year-old World War II veteran Sgt. John Skeen to the Elks Lodge in Lakewood Ranch where he received the Knight of the Legion of Honor—France's highest medal—for his role in freeing France.

He recalled his fallen platoon members as he accepted the award and honored a lifetime of humble service.

Ever After Exotic Experiences will open Saturday, May 10 from noon to 4 p.m. at 6020 Erie Road in Parrish—offering a mobile petting zoo with unique animals like a coatimundi, camel, lemur, wallaby, and capybara while visitors can purchase $10 advance tickets for 45-minute visits along with food trucks, vendors, and pony rides.

South county is getting a new Chick-fil-A when it opens next Thursday, May 15 at 6010 14th Street West near Bayshore Gardens — Nathan Anderson will run the restaurant.

It will be open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. — the drive-thru will stay open until 10 p.m. as it offers dine-in, carry-out, delivery, and catering.

The owner of a Tampa pool company was given a 20-year prison sentence for taking more than $1.5 million in deposits and not finishing pools for customers in Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, and Polk counties.

At Thursday’s Manatee County Commission meeting, commissioners voted unanimously to postpone a final decision on reversing wetland protections after state agencies strongly opposed the change—responding to concerns over a post-Hurricane Ian statute.

They will review the policy again when SB 250 allows for additional wetland buffers after Oct. 1.

On May 6, the League of Women Voters of Manatee County reported that the County Commission approved proclamations for Economic Development Week, IMG Academy Girls National Basketball Team Day and First Black Woman Postmaster Day—while also voting on property deals, budget changes and service projects as citizens raised concerns over transparency.

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.

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Bradenton

12-9 p.m. — Bradenton Downtown — Ticketed — Embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt exploring the charming sights and hidden gems of Bradenton.

Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-10:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Lowest Price Guaranteed — Enjoy a thrilling Minor League Baseball matchup featuring the Lakeland Flying Tigers taking on the Bradenton Marauders.

Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-10:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Tickets starting at $26 — Catch an exciting Minor League Baseball showdown in Bradenton!

Grand Opening Party at La Locanda di Diego

Evening — Mote Ranch Homeowners Association — Drink specials all night — Celebrate the launch with good music and great company.

Virtual Tour of Woodlands Village

9 AM - 7 PM — Woodlands Village Senior Living Community — Free entry — Explore this award-winning senior living community and enjoy a glimpse of its exceptional services and lifestyle.

Visitor’s Day at Joni and Friends Family Retreat

6-9 p.m. — Christian Retreat Conference Center — Registration required — Experience real-time disability ministry and enjoy a Talent Show on-site.

Virginia Drive Home ~ Close to Down town

Adorable, updated, vintage home on Wares Creek. Enjoy the serenity and abundance of nature by living on "the Creek!"