Good morning, Bradenton.

Santa visited Palmetto on Friday at Feld Entertainment during the 40th Annual Flight to the North Pole, where more than 300 terminally ill and disabled children and their families enjoyed holiday activities and received gift bags with presents.

The transformed winter wonderland created a magical day for all involved.

Flight to the North Pole has marked its 40th year by giving over 300 children facing serious medical challenges and their families a magical day in Manatee County.

The day features train rides, a helicopter arrival with Santa, and visits from Mrs. Claus, all organized by the county sheriff's office and local partners.

Manatee County invites residents to a free cleanup event on Saturday, Jan.

10, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Parrish Community Park and Myakka City Community Center — proof of residency is required for participation.

ABC 7 featured Maximus, a one-year-old poodle mix recovering from an injury, as Pet of the Week; he spent four weeks in foster care and is waiting for a forever home through Raven's Haven (call 941-539-4509) where adopters must complete an application and background checks.

Rock promoter Rich Engler, known for producing over 6,000 concerts and 35 local shows, announced upcoming concerts featuring The Wailers on Jan.

24, Atlanta Rhythm Section on Feb. 14 and John Oates on March 1 — highlighting his role in the community.

Sarasota and Manatee school districts denied Mater and Somerset’s Nov.

11 requests to co-locate in four public schools such as Booker Elementary, citing limited space and unmet state rules. The decisions may be reversed if a state appointed special magistrate is requested.

Suncoast Waterkeeper shared its 2025 successes and outlined 2026 challenges today — the group mapped 17 acres of mangroves and secured over $1 million for local water projects while urging citizens to report issues like runoff and algae blooms.

The airport is pursuing a new deal to sell land to New College for a planned baseball stadium, pending FAA approval and board consent.

The college has committed over $3 million to the project, which will use land adjacent to its existing 30-acre lease.

Manatee County will break ground on Valor Commons, a Veterans Connection Hub and Memorial Campus, on Wednesday, Jan.

14 at 1 p.m. at 5215 Buckeye Road (Palmetto) where the project will offer veteran support and community event spaces.

Manatee County Commissioners will review staff survey data on Tuesday, Dec.

16 at 9:00 a.m. (in the Honorable Pat Glass Chambers) regarding the Cortez Marina redevelopment project along Cortez Road. A local group is urging officials to reject plans that include a public boat ramp, citing safety and congestion concerns.

A Christmas Carol Performance

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Manatee High School — Suitable for all ages — Experience the classic tale of redemption in this engaging performance.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Swordfish Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy the soulful sounds of blues with Maine-born musician Zack Pomerleau.

The Nutcracker by International Ballet of Florida

6 PM — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting classic tale of The Nutcracker featuring dancers from renowned ballet companies.

Christmas Day at Pier 22

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — PIER 22 — Chef-created Holiday Menu — Make merry memories this Christmas with seasonal delights by the waterfront.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Inner Compass Brewing Company at LWR — Check for cover charge — Enjoy a night of classic blues and originals from a talented local multi-instrumentalist.

New Year’s Eve Gala 2025

7 PM - 2 AM — Gala Banquets and Events — $160 Members, $170 Non-members — Celebrate the New Year with elegant dining, live music, and an open bar in a grand venue.

The Ultimate Elvis Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — SCF Neel Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience an unrivaled multimedia tribute to Elvis Presley featuring champion tribute artist Cote Deonath and The Infinit-E Tribute Band.