Main Street at Lakewood Ranch will host its monthly Music on Main concert Friday, July 1, 2011 from 6-9 p.m. Johnny Reagan and the Renegades will take the stage with Classic Rock, Southern Rock and Country.  Beer, wine and food sales will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County. 

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County has been providing hope and opportunity to children for over 60 years.  Currently, the organization operates 5 clubs and serves over 3,000 children.  Its mission is to inspire and enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. 

Check out the fountain area for some extra activities, with a visit from the balloon twister, face painting, Aggie Originals’ caricature art and BOUNCE U providing a basketball toss. Stroll around and enjoy the exquisite shops and restaurants, or play a round of golf while you enjoy the music!

Bradenton, Florida – Manatee County Government recently received its Green Local Government Certification through the Florida Green Building Coalition.

Dr. Jennifer Languell, past president of the Florida Green Building Coalition, executive director of the Coalition, presented the certification to Manatee County Commissioners on Tuesday, June 21.

“It’s an incredible challenge to parent sustainability and that’s what you’ve done in Manatee County,” Languell said. “Nothing of this magnitude is going to move forward without some enthusiasm and leadership behind it. This was more than just doing your jobs; it was about doing your jobs well and thinking of the greater community by finding these efficiencies.”

Bradenton, Florida - Demolition is hard work, but for this group it's their get out of jail card - except it's not free.

"They're very long days. One wants to finish fast," says Victor Vargas. The 25-year-old is working off his sentence for driving without a license by serving 30 days in Manatee County's Offender Work program.

"Citizens of Manatee County do not have to pay the cost of someone's incarceration for a non-violent person," explains Mike Miranda, senior probation officer in Manatee County.

The county jail saves nearly $68 a day to house each offender and the program generates money. Offenders pay $20 a day to work. Since January, the county has raised more than $51,000 in fees to help sustain the program. The program also helps offenders keep their day job and stay with family.

"The days you could spend with your kids and family you have to spend in the program. It's a sacrifice, but it's better than going to jail," says Vargas.