Concerts set for grounds of Historic Courthouse

BRADENTON -- Free live outdoor concerts take place every Wednesday in February and March on the grounds of the Historic Courthouse, 1115 Manatee Ave. W. As a part of Realize Bradenton's music series of events, each Wednesday lunchtime concert will feature a live performance by local musicians. Performances begin at 11:30 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. Bring your lunch or purchase a boxed lunch catered by Renaissance on 9th. Each week Realize Bradenton will partner with The Food Bank of Manatee for a food drive to benefit the community, so bring a nonperishable food item to benefit the cause.

The schedule:

n Wednesday: Manatee Concert Band, directed by Dennis Downs, plays a variety of concert music. All members are volunteers who play for fun and fellowship.

n March 6: John Rinell sings Sinatra and more. Rinell is originally from Hoboken, the home of Ol' Blue Eyes, and has done Sinatra tributes for years locally and around the country.

n March 13: Scott Blum Duo will entertain with hits from the '50s and '60s.

n March 20: Jacobites Scottish Bagpipe band plays traditional pipe and drum in addition to modern arrangements. Led by Gary Reinstrom.

n March 27: Blue Star trio performs. Beth Hammer, host of a local radio show and a weekly Blues Jam, will perform with Johnny Guitar, original blues man, and Skofield on keyboards.

Chair of congressional committee to speak

LAKEWOOD RANCH -- The Manatee Chamber, Sarasota Chamber and STARTUPS join in a luncheon to hear from U.S. Congressman Bill Shuster, chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, hosted by Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Sarasota, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday at the Polo Grill & Bar Fete Ballroom, 10670 Boardwalk Loop.

Reservations required to LisaR@ManateeChamber.com or 941-748-3411. The cost is $20 for Manatee Chamber, Sarasota Chamber and STARTUPS members; $35 for nonmembers (includes lunch).

-- Herald staff reports