Bradenton's 5 Things to Know Today: June 5

1. Where to Retire Magazine, America's foremost authority on retirement relocation, will feature Bradenton as a top retirement destination in its July/August 2012 issue. The article will feature quality of life highlights, including neighborhoods, culture and arts, attractions, beaches and recreation, medical facilities and learning opportunities. Published six times a year, Where to Retire magazine covers the best retirement regions, towns and master-planned communities.

2. A series of budget workshops this week will offer an overview of county expenses and needs. The workshops start this afternoon with a breakdown of the sheriff's budget and with budget requests from the Public Defenders office. The meeting begins at 1:45 p.m. On Wednesday County Commissioners will participate in an overall fund analysis and on Friday commissioners will take a look at proposed Capital Improvement projects.

3. The students of the Just for Girls' Jane B. Pratt Alternative School will celebrate "Courage" as the theme of their 2012 graduation ceremony from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. today at , 1011 21st Street East. The graduation program will feature an awards ceremony as 8th grade girls graduate to traditional high school. The program currently serves 50 students in three grades. Murrie Bumpers, a member of Just for Girls Board of Directors, will give themkeynote address. Bumpers was active in the Civil Rights movement and marched with Dr. Martin Luther King.

4. Manatee County Animal Services is offering animals that have been in the shelters for more than 90 days free to good homes. The county will screen adoptive families to make sure theses animals are given to a good home. The animal will be vaccinated and spay/neutered. The county does not want to keep animals in a kennel longer than 90 days. By adopting them out quickly the county can help prevent the animals from developing issues or behavior problems.

5. Florida Power and Light is asking the state for permission for electricity beginning in January. The Public Service Commission is holding a series of public hearings and also accepting written comments. Send written comments to: Florida Public Service Commission, Office of Commission Clerk, 2540 Shumard Oak Boulevard, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0850. The PSC will also accept faxes at 1-800-511-0809 and e-mails: contact@psc.state.fl.us. Please  include Docket Number, 120015-EI in your correspondence.