Florida's Top 5: Our Most Popular Facebook Stories This Week

From an auto burglary spree in Valrico to the 30th anniversary of Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center, check out the stories Florida Patch readers were sharing, reading and commenting on for the week of March 13.

Bradenton Bank Robbery Under Investigation

Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies were on the hunt for a man accused of holding up a SunTrust Bank in Bradenton on Wednesday, March 15 in the afternoon. According to the agency, a man walked into the 5714 14th St. W. SunTrust just before 3:50 p.m. and passed a teller a note demanding money. After receiving an undisclosed amount of cash, the man fled on foot. He didn't say on the lam for long though. The sheriff's office announced an arrest in the crime a few hours after it was committed.

Winn-Dixie Ends Fuel Perks In Favor Of Plenti

Floridians who favor shopping at Winn-Dixie may be in for a bit of a surprise come April 5, the day the grocery chain intends to roll out a new customer reward program in partnership with Plenti. Winn-Dixie announced its partnership with Plenti on Wednesday, March 15. The new loyalty program is intended as an upgrade to the popular Fuel Perks program.

3 Teens Arrested In Valrico Auto Burglary Spree

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of three teenagers on Thursday, March 16following a suspicious person call that came in early that morning from the Saint Cloud Oaks subdivision. According to the agency, the call prompted deputies to set up a perimeter in the area because there had been prior auto burglaries reported. Patrol deputies, K9 and aviation units responded to the scene.

Pinellas To Give Away Free Fresh Produce To People In Need

The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners and local partner agencies, in an effort to help promote the welfare of its residents, will host a free produce giveaway on Friday, March 31. The event will take place at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, located at 1012 Pennsylvania Ave. in Clearwater. Free produce will be available from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. or while supplies last. The event is open to anyone who needs extra help with some of their grocery needs.

TECO Celebrating Manatee Viewing Center’s 30th Anniversary

Tampa Electric honored the 30th anniversary of its Manatee Viewing Center – and its 5 millionth visitor – during a free celebration on Thursday, March 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center is located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo Beach.

Photo credit: Manatee County Sheriff’s Office