News Briefs

+ School district hires new finance director
The Manatee County School District announced April 14 that it has hired Rebecca Roberts as its new finance director.

Roberts most recently served as the city of Baltimore’s chief accountant.

“We are grateful to have someone with Rebecca’s knowledge and experience joining our leadership team,” said Rick Mills, superintendent of the Manatee County School District. “She is a great addition and will strengthen our control of the district’s finances.”

Roberts replaces Tommy Crosby, who resigned in January to become the director of Alachua County’s Office of Management and Budget.

Roberts will report to the district’s chief financial officer, Michael Boyer.

+ Dick Vitale raises funds for cancer research
After 8-year-old Lacey Holsworth lost her two-year battle with cancer April 5, TV personality and East County resident Dick Vitale will create a grant to raise funds for pediatric cancer research through the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

Vitale has pledged to raise $250,000 in honor of Holsworth and plans to present the check at the ninth annual Dick Vitale Gala May 16, at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.

Holsworth attended Vitale’s gala last year with Adreian Payne, a Michigan State basketball player.
To make a donation, visit jimmyv.org/lacey.

The V Foundation awards direct, all-cash donations to cancer research and related programs.

Meetings & agendas
Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Meeting — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, at the County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Manatee County Board of County Commissioners Land-Use Meeting — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at the County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Citizens’ Budget Advisory Committee Meeting — 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at 215 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.