Good morning, Bradenton.

Local organizers host vinyl listening parties to bring residents together and celebrate classic records.

The events offer a relaxed setting for conversation and shared enjoyment in community venues.

New College of Florida is settling students into its refurbished North Campus (the former USF Sarasota-Manatee campus) where classes, dorms and offices now operate after the transfer was finalized in July.

The college will continue transitioning spaces for current USF students and launch new graduate programs this fall.

A SmartCustomer report shows that families in Bradenton face nearly $1,000 in back-to-school expenses and are turning to AI tools to set budgets and avoid scams (62% had begun shopping by early August).

Rep. Greg Steube has introduced the GATOR Act to commission a federal review on whether species classification complicates the removal of nuisance alligators from waterways near homes and businesses.

The study will engage the comptroller general + state wildlife agencies to advise future protocol without altering current management.

Manatee County will host a free pet vaccine and microchip clinic on Wednesday, Aug.

26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Animal Welfare Resource Center in Bradenton & residents must book appointments online and complete required forms before their visit.