Good morning, Bradenton.

A 79-year-old Bradenton man known as the Tech Fairy has spent nearly a decade refurbishing old laptops and donating them to residents through the Nextdoor app — he has fixed over 700 devices and meets recipients in person to ensure they stay connected.

Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare is hosting its annual Friendsgiving fundraiser on Saturday, November 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Manatee County Fairgrounds Veterans’ Hall to raise funds for shelter animals—attendees will enjoy food, live entertainment, a wine lotto and auctions to support pet care.

Governor Ron DeSantis defended a law that lets charter school operators use empty space on low-enrollment public school campuses after lawmakers expanded the Schools of Hope law over the summer—he said using unused facilities makes economic sense and attracts new operators.

Local parents and Sarasota board member Tom Edwards, who criticized the plan as a waste of taxpayer money, worry that free overhead costs could strain public school resources.

The Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller will offer free certified copies, passport photos & notary services to veterans and active-duty military personnel during November to honor their service.

Eligible individuals must present a valid military ID or DD214 since the offer does not include e-certify services.

The Netflix series Black Rabbit, starring Jude Law and Jason Bateman, draws local interest with its story of a restaurateur whose life turns chaotic when his troubled brother returns.

Michael’s on East reopened after a refresh and now offers a special burger inspired by the show—crafted with a blend of meats, cheese, and unique bacon that has diners excited.

Former Olympic-trained wrestlers Nick and Eric Frick use their military and mat experience to train local youth at Sarasota Military Academy & Parrish Community High School, aiming to help emerging athletes reach their dreams.

Bradenton’s Marauders front office attended the Minor League Baseball Fall Business Summit in Indianapolis to learn new ideas and improve the fan experience at LECOM Park in 2026—GM Craig Warzecha led the team with two colleagues in a focused effort that also earned award nominations for their community work and creative promotions.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Ananda Farm — Cost not specified — Experience the soulful sounds of Maine's own blues multi-instrumentalist.

Zack Pomerleau Blues Performance

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Ananda Farm — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of Zack Pomerleau with classic blues and original performances.

PIP at Downtown Central Library

9:45-10:45 a.m. — Downtown Central Library — Free entry — Engage in some quality playtime with your child in this educational and fun drop-in group for families.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Mean Deans Local Kitchen — Check for entry fee — Enjoy the soulful sounds of a Maine born multi-instrumentalist blues musician performing classic blues and originals.

A Night of Worship with Lizzie Morgan

7-9:30 p.m. — Christian Retreat Conference Center — Free admission — Experience an unforgettable evening of worship and praise with Lizzie Morgan.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Swordfish Grill — Free entry — Experience the blues with a Maine native multi-instrumentalist at a local favorite venue.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Cortez Kitchen — Check for cover charge — Experience the soulful sounds of Zach Pomerleau, a talented blues musician, performing classic and original tunes.

The SBCA Open Golf Tournament

8 AM – 4 PM — Heritage Harbour Golf Club — Proceeds benefit local charities — Hit the greens with industry friends and challenge your golfing skills at this par-71 course.

Kaleb Woods Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of award-winning music blending reggae, '90s hits, and country vibes.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Pork Belly’s Eatery and Catering Co. — Admission details not provided — Experience the soulful sounds of multi-instrumentalist blues musician Zack Pomerleau in a lively local setting.