5 Things You Need to Know Today: April 12

1. Manatee County high school students and their parents are invited to share a free meal and some candid conversation tonight at 6:30 p.m. at , located at 1701 27^th St. E. The purpose of this event is to encourage and facilitate dialogue between teens and adults on important issues that are often difficult to talk about. “The Power of Conversation: Let’s Talk” will include an inspirational speaker, youth performers and prizes for all teens who bring an adult. For more information call (941) 749-3030, ext. 3491, or email Sharon Kramer, executive director of the Manatee County Substance Abuse Coalition at skramer@drugfreemanatee.org.

2. Don't miss the fundraiser Sunday for the founder of Royal Rescue, one of the most active rescue organizations in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Julie Royal was diagnosed with breast cancer and has no health insurance. Since her diagnosis, she has had three surgeries and is scheduled for radiation and chemotherapy. Sunday's jazz concert is designed to help pay for her health care. The fundraiser is at the Florribean, 1400 Main St. Sarasota, Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Minimum donation is $20. A portion of food and bar sales will also go toward her treatment.

3. More than 90 school volunteers will be recognized at an awards ceremony today from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the . Thirteen volunteers will receive special recognition for their exceptional service, including one hairy, four-legged, extra-special volunteer.

4. A one-third mile stretch of Riverview Boulevard between 34^th Street NW and 40^th Street Court NW will be closed for up to eight months beginning May 1 while an aging bridge over McLewis Bayou is replaced. Traffic will be routed to Manatee Avenue during the closure. The bridge replacement project was awarded to Naples, Florida-based Quality Enterprises USA, Inc. The project is expected to cost $1.5 million to be paid through gas tax revenues and previously issued transportation bonds.

5. Northwest Bradenton residents and the county's boating enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in a workshop next week to collect public input for the future of Warner’s Bayou boat ramp. Manatee County will host a public workshop at 6:30 p.m. April 19th at the cafeteria, 6806 5th Ave NW, to ask Warner’s Bayou-area residents and local boaters what they want to see at the launch.