Good morning, Bradenton.

On July 25th, more than 200 Siamese and Siamese-mix cats were rescued from a Manatee County residence when the resident reached out for help with a growing stray population—Manatee County Animal Welfare and nine partner organizations removed, treated and transferred the cats.

Most of the cats were healthy while one needed extra medical care, and local groups now urge the community to help foster, adopt or donate.

A new FWC report shows 477 manatee deaths this year—an increase from last year’s 389—with a cold winter and a red tide bloom in Southwest Florida cited as the main factors.

The agency said pending tests on red tide cases will update the findings but will not change the total death count.

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners will reconvene Tuesday, July 29 at 9:00 a.m. in board chambers to review a 72-item agenda that includes discussing the possible $13.5 million purchase of Mixon Fruit Farms and other local measures.

Manatee County officials are accepting applications from residents to serve on the Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizen Advisory Committee; the group meets at 5 p.m. on the second Monday of scheduled MPO meeting months at the Sarasota Manatee MPO Office on 15th Street E—applications must be submitted by August 17.

On July 24th, representatives from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency—DOGE—sent a letter to county officials requesting detailed records and access to county facilities by August 5th and 6th as part of a state financial audit following Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press conference. County administrators said they would meet the deadline despite a busy budget session.

Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch will host the invitation only youth soccer Premier SuperCopa and SuperCopa Plus championships for elite U9 to U17 teams in 2026, 2028 and 2030.

The multi-year deal with U90C Sports and local tourism groups marks Florida's West Coast as a rising hub for elite youth soccer — promising economic benefits and top-level play.

Emo Night Karaoke

8 PM – 2 AM — Oscura Coffee & Cocktails — Free entry — Sing your heart out with a live band at this lively karaoke night.

Anesthesia-Free Dental Services for Pets

Call to schedule your appointment — Holistic For Pets — Cost varies — Experience a stress-free dental care solution for your furry companions.

Literary Feast at Green Zebra Cafe

7-9 p.m. — GREEN ZEBRA CAFE — Free entry — Dive into inspiring books and engage in lively discussions over delicious food.

Steve Arvey Blues Brunch

12-3 p.m. — Mattison's Riverwalk — Check for entry cost — Experience the soulful blend of traditional blues and modern Americana from renowned artist Steve Arvey.