Teacher grants spark interest and help Manatee County students grow in the classroom
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Teacher grants spark interest and help Manatee County students grow in the classroom

Source: Manatee County School District In November 2023, PRECO (Peace River Electric Cooperative’s Operation) announced more than $10,000 in mini-grants approved for Manatee County teachers. This week we’re looking at how the funds are benefiting students. Parrish Community High School forensic science and chemistry teacher, Jessica Beihl, used the grant to purchase materials for a…

Thriving Ecosystem in Manatee County: Rare Panther Sighted in Duette Preserve
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Thriving Ecosystem in Manatee County: Rare Panther Sighted in Duette Preserve

Manatee County’s work in nurturing and preserving natural environments has garnered recognition from both environmental advocates and the indigenous wildlife the preserves aim to safeguard. Recent observations from trail cameras have captured a male panther traversing the Duette Preserve in Manatee County, highlighting the 22,000-acre wildlife sanctuary. This footage, showcasing the panther, has garnered significant…

U.S. Olympians help set the bar for student success at Freedom Elementary
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U.S. Olympians help set the bar for student success at Freedom Elementary

Source: Manatee County School District Former and future Olympic athletes set the bar for students to SOAR at Freedom Elementary School, Home of the Falcons. The school’s motto this year is “One Team, One Dream.” The special guests spoke at a school assembly on Friday, January 12, 2024, about active learning, which encourages students to…

Manatee County Invests $2.1 Million in Expanding Multipurpose Trail System
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Manatee County Invests $2.1 Million in Expanding Multipurpose Trail System

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) recently allocated $2.1 million to augment the budget designated for the design and construction of segments within the expansive Gateway Greenway Multipurpose Trail system. This decision was reached during their January 9 meeting. The Gateway Greenway Trail system, an integral part of the multi-county non-motorized Gulf Coast…

Bradenton Area Convention Center Launches $48 Million Renovation and Expansion
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Bradenton Area Convention Center Launches $48 Million Renovation and Expansion

The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (BACVB) has embarked on a $48 million renovation and expansion project for the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Originally constructed in 1985, the convention center is currently undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment that includes the addition of a 14,000 sq. ft. ballroom with pre-function space. This additional square footage is…

Guest Column: There Is No “I” in “Team Manatee”
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Guest Column: There Is No “I” in “Team Manatee”

By: Manatee County Chair Mike Rahn, District 4 Not more than a few weeks into my role as chair for the Manatee County Board ofCommissioners, and I’m still excited. I’m thrilled about the potential of this board, energized byour talented staff, and optimistic about the positive direction our county is headed. As ataxpayer, I genuinely…

Manatee County Unveils State-of-the-Art Lakewood Ranch Library with Drive-Thru Service
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Manatee County Unveils State-of-the-Art Lakewood Ranch Library with Drive-Thru Service

The new Lakewood Ranch Library in Manatee County is nearing completion at 16410 Rangeland Parkway. A grand opening ceremony, set for January 12, 2024, at 10 a.m., will mark its long-anticipated debut to the public. “This continued commitment to bringing resources to our residents is important,” said Manatee County District Two Commissioner Amanda Ballard, who…

Manatee County Launches Community Garden in Elwood Park
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Manatee County Launches Community Garden in Elwood Park

In Elwood Park, Bradenton, located at 4008 39th St. E., a new community garden is set to open its doors to the public. The grand inauguration, featuring a ribbon-cutting event, is scheduled for January 13, from 10 a.m. to noon. This initiative aims to nurture community growth and development in Manatee County, FL. For the…

Van Ostenbridge Elected Manatee County Port Authority Chairman
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Van Ostenbridge Elected Manatee County Port Authority Chairman

PALMETTO, Florida – Manatee County Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge has been elected chairman of the Manatee County Port Authority. “I am honored to assume chairmanship of the governing board of SeaPort Manatee and look forward to working with my fellow board members and the port’s executive team in continuing to advance the vital role of…