Friday, May 8th, 2026
Good morning, Bradenton. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Donald Leroy Sweitzer, 89, died peacefully on April 26 at Lakewood Ranch Hospice House, with a memorial service on Saturday, May 9 at Bethel Baptist Church (11:00 a.m.) in Bradenton. He was known for his strong work ethic and community spirit throughout his life. The Bradenton Times
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Local nursing graduates completed their training last week and are ready to join hospitals + clinics to support patient care. Their new skills aim to strengthen community health services. ABC7
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ After 20 years, the Bradentucky Bombers will take the stage as they compete in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association North American Playoffs in Waterloo, Ontario (their first playoff appearance); their first bout against SoCal Derby is set for Friday, June 5 at 4 p.m. EDT. The Bradenton Times
- ➤ Konnor Griffin has been added to the exclusive Marauders club — his photo plaque honors his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The plaque will be on display at LECOM Park during the upcoming six-game homestand against the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels. The Bradenton Times
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Mother's Day Brunch Buffet
10 AM-3 PM — PIER 22 — Adults: $70+ | Kids: $25++ — Delight in a waterfront brunch with an abundant buffet of seasonal favorites and chef-attended stations.
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Bradenton Marauders Faith & Family Night
6:30-9:30 p.m. — LECOM Park — Prices Vary — Experience a fair-themed atmosphere with games, activities, and church performance opportunities during the game.
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Lies, Spells & Old Wives' Tales
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a brand new world-premiere musical comedy closing the 'Soul Of A People' theatre season.
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The Wandering Hours Live Performance
6-10 p.m. — The Bay Park — Free entry — Experience the unique sounds of Americana with stellar string picking from The Wandering Hours.
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The Royz Band LIVE at Mattison's Riverwalk Grille
5-9 p.m. — Mattison's Riverwalk — Reservations recommended — Enjoy outdoor dining and live music from The Royz Band.
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RJ Howson Music Showcase
7-11 p.m. — The O Bar — Check for admission details — Enjoy a night of live music with singer-songwriter RJ Howson and his friends.
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RJ Howson, Mike Kach and Friends Concert
4-8 p.m. — Stottlemyer's Smokehouse — Admission details not specified — Enjoy an evening of live music with RJ Howson and friends at a local venue.
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Lakewood Ranch Rockstar Connect Networking Event
6-8 p.m. — Ed's Tavern Lakewood Ranch — Free entry — Connect with the community and build authentic relationships over laughs and stories.
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Justin Layman Live Performance
7-11 p.m. — Craftails Speakeasy — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening of folk and rock melodies from Florida's own singer-songwriter.
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Family Retreat Visitor’s Day
3-6 p.m. — Christian Retreat Conference Center — Free entry — Experience disability ministry in action and celebrate God-given talents at the Talent Show.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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