Good morning, Bradenton.

Joel (Joe) Vernon Henry Sr. of Bradenton passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 17th at the age of 90.

A memorial service is scheduled at East Bradenton Church of Christ on Saturday, April 26th at 11 a.m.

The Schmitz Brothers Band will perform at the beer garden of 3 Keys Brewing this weekend—featuring father Dave Schmitz, twin sons Tim and Dave, and percussionist Phil Anderson as they play a mix of classic rock, blues, reggae, jazz and original tunes with no cover.

Sweet Fleet, a tribute band of musicians under 25 led by Sarasota music teacher Greg Burke, will perform Fleetwood Mac songs at Music in the Park at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion as part of a free family friendly series running every Friday from 6—8 p.m. until May 2.

Archie Rutledge grew up in Palmetto and left school early to work as a butcher at age 11—he later became a skilled cow hunter who rode Florida's open prairies amid segregation and wartime service.

He survived serious injuries and harsh conditions to resume cattle ranching and build a legacy of quiet resilience.

Local singer John Frinzi, who blends folk, pop and country, is performing at Whiskey Joe’s in Rocky Bluff (near Ellenton Premium Outlet Mall) where diners can enjoy island-inspired meals daily.

His albums (Into The Dawn, Shoreline, Blue Sky View) are played on Radio Margaritaville and have helped him tour nationally and share stages with well-known artists.

Piper & the Hard Times make strong blues-based music that mixes R&B, soul and rock; they won top honors at the International Blues Challenge in January 2024 and recorded their album Revelation in Nashville in February 2024—20 years after the band first played together.

The band will perform at Cottonmouth in Bradenton, a spot known for its southern soul food and live music on a lovely patio—promising a night of great local tunes.

Champ Jaxon—a 13-year-old blues-rock musician from Southwest Florida—is set to perform with The Champ Jaxon Band at Big Top Brewing Company in Sarasota.

He has played over 120 gigs in nine states including Music Row and Beale Street and his live event offers free general admission and VIP tickets at $12.

The Wiz Jr.

5:30-7 p.m. — Ozell Ackerman Auditorium — Ticket proceeds support local arts — Experience the magical journey down the Yellow Brick Road with an engaging musical for all ages.

Bradenton Punk Rock Flea Market Vol. 5

12-6 p.m. — Oscura Live — Free entry — Experience local punk music and unique vendor finds at this vibrant market celebration.

Tampa Tarpons vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-10:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling night of minor league baseball as the Tampa Tarpons take on the Bradenton Marauders.

KANSAS with special guest The Outlaws

7-11 p.m. — Bradenton Area Convention Center — Tickets start at $65 — Experience a night of classic rock with unforgettable hits from KANSAS and The Outlaws.

SUP & RUN 5K

7:55-11:00 AM — Nathan Benderson Park — Benefiting RUCK9 and Operation Second Chance — Celebrate the 10th anniversary of this exciting paddleboard and running event.

Downtown Lakewood Ranch Classic Car Show

5-8 p.m. — Ed's Tavern Lakewood Ranch — $10 per vehicle — Bring your ride or enjoy a family-friendly night of classic cars, food, music, and prizes.

Lakeland Flying Tigers vs. Bradenton Marauders

6:30-11:59 p.m. — LECOM Park — Check event website for ticket prices — Feel the thrill as the Lakeland Flying Tigers take on the Bradenton Marauders in this exciting baseball matchup.

Doubles Troubles Pickleball Tournament

May 10-11 — G T Bray Recreation Center — Entry fee required — Compete in a thrilling pickleball showdown with fellow enthusiasts.

Tampa Bradenton Speed Dating for Singles Age 25-42

7-9 p.m. — Motorworks Brewing — Ticket purchase required — Experience a modern way to meet potential matches in a lively setting.

Sunday Brunch at the Grove

11 a.m. — GROVE — Reservations required — Enjoy a delightful outdoor brunch with friends at a top-notch dining destination.