Good morning, Bradenton.

FPL surprises Sarasota/Manatee County residents by offering free five-foot Christmas trees and LED lights to the first 200 arrivals at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County Christmas Tree Lot (near Publix at Westgate Shopping Center, 3913 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton) on Tuesday, November 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Kroger announced it will pull out of Florida and end its grocery delivery services next year.

The company will close four fulfillment centers on Feb 1 and lay off more than 1,400 workers in Tampa, Rockledge, Jacksonville and Groveland.

The Bradenton Area Convention Center completed a $54 million project that added 30,000 square feet including a grand ballroom and meeting rooms—its first event, the Florida Sports Foundation Hall of Fame ceremony, will be held today.

Officials expect the expansion to boost the local economy by $30 to $40 million annually by 2027.

Bradenton Police Department said its drone pilot captured footage of a family of manatees and a playful dolphin in the Manatee River near Riverwalk last week—an unusual glimpse of Florida's marine life.

Wildlife officials remind boaters to slow down and follow manatee protection zones during Manatee Awareness Month.

Today, the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted 6-1 to name the county’s new Veterans Connection Hub and Memorial Campus along Buckeye Road east of Artisan Lakes Parkway to honor veterans past, present and future.

The 12- to 18-month project will include a Veterans Resource Center, memorial areas and public event spaces and will become a regional landmark supporting veteran services.

Repticon Bradenton 2025

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Bradenton Area Convention Center — Check for ticket prices — Discover a world of reptiles and exotic pets with vendors and exhibitors from the industry.

Zack Pomerleau Blues Performance

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Ananda Farm — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience the dynamic sounds of Maine-born blues musician Zack Pomerleau at this vibrant outdoor event.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Harry's Grill — No cover charge — Experience soulful blues by multi-instrumentalist Zack Pomerleau in a vibrant setting.

2025 Florida Turkey Trot

8 AM – 2 PM — Nathan Benderson Park — $23.14+ — Enjoy a fun 5K run/walk with family-friendly activities and post-race treats.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Bradenton Public Market — Free entry — Enjoy the soulful sounds of blues from Maine's own multi-instrumentalist.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Cortez Kitchen — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the soulful sounds of Maine's blues musician Zack Pomerleau in an evening of classic blues and originals.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Harry's Grill — Check venue for entry — Experience Maine-born blues musician Zack Pomerleau showcasing classic blues and originals.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Pork Belly’s Eatery and Catering Co. — Cost not specified —Enjoy a night of classic blues and originals from multi-instrumentalist Zack Pomerleau.

Sarasota Anime-Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Sarasota Municipal Auditorium — $20 — A collector's paradise for anime fans in the heart of Sarasota, featuring diverse fandoms.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

10 AM – 2 PM — Farmers' Market at Lakewood Ranch — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of a multi-instrumentalist blues musician from Maine.