Daily News Roundup: June 19, 2025
Juneteenth - Freedom Day
Tampa Bay Rays in Talks to Sell Team for $1.7 Billion to Jacksonville Homebuilder
The Tampa Bay Rays may soon have new ownership as the team enters advanced negotiations to sell to a group of investors led by Jacksonville-based homebuilder Patrick Zalupski.
Mote Prepares to Close City Island Aquarium Ahead of Major Move to New Mote SEA Facility
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is entering the final stages of its long-anticipated relocation from City Island to the new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park by UTC.
Primo the Dog Safe After Adoption Concerns Prompt Shelter Review
Manatee County Animal Welfare is responding to public concern following the recent adoption of a dog named Primo, assuring the community that he is now safe and in the care of a loving family.
Manatee County Seeks Community Input on Future of Central Library in Downtown Bradenton
The Manatee County Public Library System is seeking public input as it evaluates the future of the Central Library in downtown Bradenton. Officials are considering a range of options aimed at preserving critical library services while aligning with ongoing revitalization efforts in the city’s core.
Nearly Half of Manatee County Households Struggling to Stay Afloat, New ALICE Report Finds
A new report from United Way Suncoast reveals that 43% of households in Manatee, Sarasota, and DeSoto counties live below the ALICE threshold, meaning they earn more than the federal poverty line but still cannot afford necessities such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Bradenton Police Seize Drugs, Gun, and Cash in Major Felony Arrest
A Bradenton Police Department investigation led to a significant drug bust on Wednesday, resulting in the arrest of 48-year-old Johnie Jones, Jr., a convicted felon. The operation, initiated by a patrol officer’s tip, culminated with the execution of a search warrant by the department’s SWAT Team and Crime Reduction Team.