Daily News Roundup: May 29, 2025
Josh Cramer Named Next Chief of Bradenton Police Department
The Bradenton City Council has officially confirmed retired Assistant Chief Josh Cramer as the city’s next Chief of Police. Cramer, a veteran of the Bradenton Police Department with nearly three decades of service, was nominated by Mayor Gene Brown and will assume the role on July 8 following the retirement of Chief Melanie Bevan.
Main Line Break Disrupts Palmetto’s Reclaimed Water Service; Restoration Expected by Friday
The City of Palmetto has announced a temporary citywide outage of its reclaimed water system following a mainline break. Public Works crews are currently on site conducting repairs, with service expected to be restored by Friday morning, May 30.
Not Every Child Gets the Chance to Learn to Swim – Step Into Swim and Big Dreams Through Small Steps Are Changing That in Manatee County
Swim lessons have long been treated as a privilege — an optional enrichment reserved for those with the means and access to pools, instruction, and time. But drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children, particularly in states like Florida, where water is a part of daily life. Swim education shouldn’t be an add-on. I…
Man Uses Tracking Device to Kidnap Ex-Girlfriend, Arrested After Multi-Agency Effort
RUSKIN, Fla. — A 21-year-old man is behind bars after deputies say he kidnapped his ex-girlfriend using a tracking device and forced her into the trunk of her own car.
Oyster River Ecology Founder Highlights Waterway Restoration on The Big Picture Manatee
A new episode of The Big Picture Manatee highlights local environmental efforts to protect and restore the region’s fragile water ecosystems. The episode features Damon Moore, founder of Oyster River Ecology, as a special guest.
Tariff Concerns Drive Business Boom for Palmetto Manufacturer
Spectrum Custom Molds & Manufacturing is experiencing a surge in demand as businesses nationwide respond to tariff concerns by shifting to domestic suppliers. The Palmetto-based company, led by CEO Mike Guidoboni and his son, COO Adam Guidoboni, has seen increased interest from clients seeking reliable, American-made tools and components.