New Ferry | Mixon Farm Closes | IMG Sale: 2023 Top Bradenton News

BRADENTON, FL — With 2023 coming to a close, here are some of the top news stories in the Bradenton area:

'It's Very Sad': Mixon Owners Discuss Decision To Sell Citrus Farm

Mixon Fruit Farms in Bradenton is on the market for $15.8 million. The 39-acre citrus farm has been run by the same family for 84 years.

Bradenton Realtor Stole $200K Worth Of Lululemon Clothing

A Bradenton Realtor stole more than $200,000 from Lululemon in a return-fraud scheme, Sarasota County Sheriff's Office said.

FL-Based Department Store Rebranding Its Two Largest Retail Chains

Bealls, Inc., headquartered in Bradenton, is rebranding its two largest retail chains — Bealls Outlet and Burkes Outlet — as bealls.

Detwiler's Farm Market Opens New West Bradenton Location

The Sarasota grocer recently opened its sixth location in the region. The new Bradenton store boasts new departments.

Actor Scott Baio Flees CA Crime, Moves Family To Bradenton

"Happy Days" and "Charles in Charge" actor Scott Baio said he moved from California to Florida because of increasing homelessness and crime.

Former Coquina Beach Market Organizer Forced To Find New Home — Again

The Market at Longboat Key will return to the redeveloped Town Center Green and will take place monthly.

• Related: New Weekly Market From Coquina Beach Organizer Launches In Osprey

Couple Sexually Abused Kids Including Baby: Manatee Sheriff

Detectives found images and videos of a Bradenton couple performing sex acts on children from 10 months to 10 years old, MCSO said.

FL Lawmaker Tricked Into Reading Inappropriate Fake Names Aloud: Watch

During a Florida House subcommittee meeting, Rep. Will Robinson was duped into reading fake names out loud during public testimony: Watch.

IMG Academy Sells For $1.25B To Hong Kong-Based Private Equity Firm

Endeavor Holdings Group will sell IMG Academy, a school for elite athletes, to BPEA EQT, a private equity firm, and Nord Anglia Education.

New Ferry Service From AMI To Bradenton Has Start Date: Manatee County

Gulf Islands Ferry, which will bring passengers to and from Anna Maria Island and Bradenton, finally has a start date, Manatee County said.