Friday, May 15th, 2026
Good morning, Bradenton. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Michael John Dunlop, 64, passed away peacefully at home on May 8 after a battle with cancer. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 23 at the Robert Toale & Sons Celebration of Life Center (4310 Solutions Lane, Bradenton) to honor his legacy of love and laughter. The Bradenton Times
- ➤ A community cleanup drive is set for 9 a.m. May 23 at Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto after vandalism damaged 17 graves. Local officials and businesses will help restore the historic site. ABC7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Manatee County stormwater ponds are being overrun by invasive water hyacinth and hydrilla that choke native plants; environmental agent Michelle Atkinson said treatment will start soon + local officials are working to prevent the spread to connected waterways. ABC7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse said the upgraded Bishop Animal Shelter now houses 120 dogs and improved care has been delivered, while he urged county leaders to expand services with better walks and outdoor time instead of overspending on a permanent facility in a debated location (supporters favor cost-effective measures). The Bradenton Times
- ➤ Bradenton city officials are moving forward with summer projects to improve neighborhoods, infrastructure and public spaces, and residents can check the City website or use MyBradenton 311 for service updates. On May 19, the city will celebrate its birthday to mark over a century of community growth and spirit. The Bradenton Times
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Justin Layman Live Performance
7-11 p.m. — Craftails Speakeasy — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening of folk and rock melodies from Florida's own singer-songwriter.
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Family Retreat Visitor’s Day
3-6 p.m. — Christian Retreat Conference Center — Free entry — Experience disability ministry in action and celebrate God-given talents at the Talent Show.
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The Bunny The Bear Live
7-10 p.m. — Oscura — Tickets starting at $20.22 — Enjoy a night of alternative rock featuring The Bunny The Bear and special guests.
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