Good morning, Bradenton.

ABC7 Chalkboard Champions is hosting its Day of Giving to collect donations for local causes.

Community members from across the Suncoast have supported the event, helping fund local nonprofits.

Radio host Candice Grey from The JOY FM suffered a severe e-bike crash in Riverview on Aug.

6 that broke her jaw and fractured her ear canal during a family ride and her injuries have spurred a call for mandatory helmet use as students head back to school.

A new membership-based hurricane evacuation program has launched at six coastal airports including SRQ, offering residents a guaranteed Airbus A320 flight to Atlanta when a Category 1 storm forms; membership costs range from $1,250 for individuals to $4,400 for a family & extra fees for additional members and small pets.

Manatee County Superintendent Dr. Laurie Breslin said Veterans Elementary, one of two new schools under construction, will be ready for students on the first day of school to rebalance zones and boost safety with tools like Evolve + Centigix badges.

She urged parents to stay engaged in education.

Byron Donalds leads the GOP gubernatorial race with polls showing him at 43% (a contender is at 12.1%) as legal challenges persist among candidates; ballots will be cast tomorrow, Aug.

8.

The landowner of the nearly three-acre Pines Mobile Home Park—damaged by Hurricane Helene in 2024—is planning a redevelopment with shopping, dining, and recreational options on Bradenton Beach.

A City Hall meeting is planned to invite public comment on the project.

Florida health officials reported 12 confirmed or probable cyclosporiasis cases in Sarasota and Manatee counties since Jan.

1, up from four earlier; the CDC links the rise to a multistate outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce (no common exposure has been identified locally).

Former pro Ian Desmond is now coaching Lakewood Ranch High School's baseball team as fall tryouts will begin next week following a strong spring season with about 60-70 players.

He values giving honest feedback to help kids learn and enjoy the game.

FAME: The Musical

2:00-4:30 p.m. — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant celebration of youth and artistry through unforgettable music.

FAME: The Musical

7:30-10 p.m. — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a celebration of youth and artistry with unforgettable music from the iconic Fame!