Good morning, Bradenton.

Jose Alfredo Gomez was convicted of manslaughter by culpable negligence with a firearm and aggravated battery with great bodily harm with a firearm this week after he shot Fernando Garcia-Nunez in the parking lot of The Hall nightclub during a graduation party on June 11th—his sentencing will take place on October 22nd at 1:30 p.m.

Today, Bradenton shoppers can save on items like personal computers, school supplies, and clothing during the Florida Back to School Sales Tax Holiday, which runs through August 31 and exempts these items if they meet set price limits—exclusions include cell phones, video game consoles, and furniture for recreational use.

Manatee County is accepting applications for two volunteer Special Magistrate positions to review local land code violations and impose fines—selected appointees will serve four-year terms until October and hold hearings on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m. in Bradenton, with applications due by September 1.

On July 29, the League of Women Voters of Manatee County Government Committee reviewed the County Commission meeting to note adherence to good governance and discuss key items such as the port solar panel proposal, an award for Eli Alaniz, and property acquisitions for Mixon Farms and Rye Road while also hearing citizen comments on juvenile curfew, opioid funding, and form‐based codes. Commissioners approved several motions including a directive to study urban corridors for form‐based codes—setting the stage for future county actions.

Earlier this week, law enforcement officers finished a mental health training program at St. Petersburg College that was funded by the Pepin Family Foundation and the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation to boost support for first responders.

In memory of Bradenton officer Zachary Butterfield (whose wife attended the ceremony), the group will distribute challenge coins this fall in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties that link to vetted mental health resources.

Manatee County Commissioners appointed five individuals to the new Government Efficiency Liaison Committee to support the DOGE initiative and improve public service—this vote was part of a transparent application process completed on July 18.

The board also approved two property acquisitions, a 10-acre environmentally sensitive site in Parrish and a 39-acre historic property in Bradenton, to fund future local community programs.

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.

Steve Arvey Blues Brunch

12-3 p.m. — Mattison's Riverwalk — Check for entry cost — Experience the soulful blend of traditional blues and modern Americana from renowned artist Steve Arvey.

The Cosmic Recipe for Life

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature — $10/$3 for Members — Explore the science of life's resilience in extreme environments and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Back to the 90’s Decade Reunion

6 PM – 1 AM — 13th AV Dream Center — Tickets available — Celebrate the nostalgia of the 90’s with music, fashion, and memories.

Repticon Bradenton - August 2025

9 AM – 4 PM — Bradenton Area Convention Center — Entry fees may apply — Explore a unique trade show dedicated to reptiles, exotic pets, and related supplies.