Good morning, Bradenton.

Mothers Helping Mothers is asking the community to donate toys for its annual Toy Day on December 17 to support 350 families in need; Bob Boast Volkswagen will host the event to help meet the greater demand.

Donations of unwrapped toys or monetary gifts must be dropped off by December 15—using collection boxes at workplaces or businesses, or shipped directly from an Amazon wish list.

Manatee schools named award finalists yesterday, recognizing those who have shown outstanding dedication in education & community service.

The school board selected the finalists after a strict review process as part of the annual awards program.

A new Florida Senate bill will let high school coaches negotiate pay and performance bonuses while bypassing teacher unions, and if passed, it will take effect on July 1, 2026—legislators and sports groups say this change could help coaches earn a market value that matches their long hours. The act is proposed amid reports that many coaches earn only about $3,000 per season despite working roughly 1,500 hours.

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.

Blue Oyster Cult Concert

8-10:30 p.m. — The Center of Anna Maria Island — Starting at $75 — Enjoy a night of classic rock with Blue Öyster Cult under the stars.