New retailers join DeSoto Square mall

BRADENTON — The DeSoto Square mall announced Friday several new retailers are opening in the shopping mall off U.S. 301.

Miracle Eyebrows and Shoe Connection opened last week and Elizabeth’s Bargain Bin will open July 16.

The mall has also added a 20,000 square-foot arcade center called Saturn 5 that will include 70 games, an 18-hole miniature golf course and a 400 square-foot inflatable obstacle course. The food court will get a new tenant — Burger City — in the summer.

“We are pleased to announce these new shopping, fun center and dining options for our many shoppers as we enjoy a steady summer at DeSoto Square,” said Jeni Wilson, mall manager.

Strutting in Sneakers scheduled for July 24

BRADENTON — More than 16 community leaders will walk the catwalk July 24 at the second annual Strutting in Sneakers, a fitness-wear fashion show to benefit the American Red Cross Manatee County Chapter.

The fashion show and brunch runs from 10 a.m. to noon at Pirate City, 1701 27th St. E., and is sponsored by On A Shoestring. The fashion show will showcase the latest fashions in fitness wear.

The models are competing for “Top Model” by raising funds and selling tickets to the event to benefit the Manatee County Chapter.

Tickets to the event are $25 at http://american.redcross.org/strutting.

You can vote with dollars for your favorite model by visiting: www.active.com/donate/ struttinginsneakers2 (click on “search” to see a list of the models’ individual pages)

For more information, call (941) 792-8686.

Workforce Freedom Initiative Tour

BRADENTON — Glenn Spencer, executive director of the Workforce Freedom Initiative, with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will speak July 30 at the

Manatee Chamber of Commerce, 222 10th St. W, Bradenton, from 8 to 9 a.m.

Spencer will give the latest legislative update from Congress regarding labor’s agenda, strategies and why it matters to the business community. Spencer spent six years with the United States Department of Labor as deputy chief of staff.

Reservations are required by July 28 to Lisa at LisaR@ManateeChamber.com or (941) 748-4842, ext. 123. The presentation is being offered at no cost to Manatee Chamber members.

Joint chamber networking set for Sept. 1

LAKEWOOD RANCH — East Meets West II, sponsored by The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, The Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce and the Longboat Key, Lido Key, St. Armands Key Chamber of Commerce will be held Sept. 1.

There will be 60 tabletop exhibitors showcasing their businesses goods and services. Complimentary hors d’ oeuvres from local restaurants and a cash bar will be provided. Admission is $10 in advance and includes a chance to win a raffle prize. The first 500 pre-registered guests will receive a free event bag.

The event is from 5-8 p.m. at Polo Grill & Bar/Fete Catering in Lakewood Ranch. For more information, call Annette Gueli at (941) 952-1119.

— Herald staff reports