Good morning, Bradenton.

Police launched a criminal investigation after a boat caught fire at Twin Dolphin Marina at 1:30 p.m. on July 14 and temporarily closed the riverwalk while asking anyone who saw the incident to contact Det.

Michael Carpenter with tips — authorities are gathering information.

Bradenton's Village of the Arts will host its 2nd Annual Christmas in July event on Saturday, July 19—from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.—as local attendees can enjoy gemstone mining, festive music, unique shops, tasty bites, and free parking.

Willie Taggart announced that his foundation signed a partnership with the School District of Manatee County on Tuesday to launch before and after-school care with academic support at Lincoln Memorial Middle School in Palmetto.

He said the program will offer leadership development, life skills and workforce training (helping local youth overcome gaps in care).

Manatee County Department of Public Safety and Community and Veterans Services will host Operation: Sandbag Support on Friday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Public Safety Complex in Bradenton—eligible residents may have 10 sandbags delivered and receive onsite support to prepare for hurricane season.

Manatee County Commissioners are asking for community input on plans to redesign the Cortez Boat Ramp near the Cortez Bridge over the Intracoastal following unsafe conditions from last year's hurricanes — they say a new design could add up to 25% more boat trailer parking.

Public meetings will be held on July 24 at The Bridge Church, August 6 at Manatee Central Library, August 11 at Island Library in Holmes Beach, August 13 at Rocky Bluff Library and August 18 at Lakewood Ranch Library to gather ideas.

Jupiter Hammerheads vs. Bradenton Marauders

7:59-10:59 p.m. — LECOM Park — Tickets available — Experience the excitement of minor league baseball with a thrilling matchup between the Jupiter Hammerheads and Bradenton Marauders.

Dunedin Blue Jays vs. Bradenton Marauders

1-4 p.m. — LECOM Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch a thrilling baseball matchup between the Dunedin Blue Jays and Bradenton Marauders.

Paint Your Pet Class

2-5 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $— Unleash your creativity while painting a portrait of your beloved pet in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Emo Night Karaoke

8 PM – 2 AM — Oscura Coffee & Cocktails — Free entry — Sing your heart out with a live band at this lively karaoke night.

Anesthesia-Free Dental Services for Pets

Call to schedule your appointment — Holistic For Pets — Cost varies — Experience a stress-free dental care solution for your furry companions.

Literary Feast at Green Zebra Cafe

7-9 p.m. — GREEN ZEBRA CAFE — Free entry — Dive into inspiring books and engage in lively discussions over delicious food.