Good morning, Bradenton.

Edmunds data shows new car monthly payments have reached $777 nationwide while Florida buyers now pay about $46,888 per vehicle, up from 2019 numbers.

Rising costs and longer loan terms add extra expenses + influence buyers’ decisions.

In the upcoming Aug. 18 primary, voters in Districts 2 and 5 will choose candidates to join the Manatee County School Board while District 4 has an unchallenged incumbent — candidates plan to boost student reading and support teachers amid ongoing challenges.

On 7/21/26, the Manatee County School Board meeting reviewed student awards, summer learning programs & budget updates.

The session began at 5:30 p.m. and set a public hearing for budget items on July 28 with no public comments offered.

Manatee County approved negotiations with IceMann Development for an $80 million indoor ice sports complex near Premier Sports Campus and Lakewood Ranch Library, though some residents worry about traffic and property values.

County commissioners will review the project further on Tuesday.

Carlos Beruff has proposed a plan to eliminate wetlands and build an 8-foot-high wall at Longbar Pointe — public comments are accepted until August 7 at the Army Corps of Engineers.

This permit request is pending and seeks community input on environmental protections.

State crews are making safety improvements on U.S. 41 between 63rd Avenue and 53rd Avenue — temporary lane closures will occur in both directions until work is finished late 2026.

Drivers should also brace for impacts from roadway upgrades along 63rd Avenue East between U.S. 301 and Tuttle Avenue.

En-Vision America has expanded its ScripTalk technology to help visually impaired patients manage their medications by scaling production with a new building on its Palmetto property.

The device, which reads prescription labels aloud, now assists over 20,000 users nationwide.

Wednesday & Friday Wine Down

5-9 p.m. — Amore Restaurant — Buy 1 Bottle of Wine, Get the 2nd 50% OFF — Enjoy a midweek wine special with live music from Eddie Tobin.

Wine Down Wednesday & Friday

5-9 p.m. — Amore Restaurant — Buy 1 Bottle of Wine, Get the 2nd 50% OFF — Enjoy live music and great deals on wine for a perfect midweek relaxation.

Savor Sarasota Menu

All day — Amore Restaurant — Cost varies — Experience authentic Portuguese & Italian flavors with live music in a cozy atmosphere.

Savor Sarasota Menu at Amore Restaurant

Aug 2 – 30 — Amore Restaurant — Pricing not indicated — Experience authentic Portuguese & Italian flavors with live music and a cozy atmosphere.

Savor Sarasota Culinary Experience

All day — Amore Restaurant — Check for specials — Experience authentic Portuguese & Italian flavors accompanied by live music.

End of Summer Brunch

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Lake Vista Park — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the end of summer with a delightful brunch amidst nature.

FAME: The Musical

7:30-10 p.m. — Manatee Performing Arts Center — $ — A thrilling celebration of youth and artistry inspired by the iconic film and television phenomenon.

FAME: The Musical

2:00-4:30 p.m. — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant celebration of youth and artistry through unforgettable music.

FAME: The Musical

7:30-10 p.m. — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a celebration of youth and artistry with unforgettable music from the iconic Fame!