Good morning, Sarasota.

Barks and Brews gave pet owners a chance to show love to their dogs at the Green, University Town Center on Feb.

10 in support of Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Center (the monthly fundraiser featured Valentine’s-themed costumes, bows, and bandanas).

Venice Agape Flights pilots died on a mission to Haiti and were hailed as devoted servants of God.

Local couples in Sarasota shared how common interests, chance meetings, and cultural traditions forged lasting love as Valentine’s Day nears.

Their stories include a couple united by greyhounds, another who met over trivia (and one connected through church events) that bring a personal touch to the community.

Sarasota Bay Watch will host its 15th annual Scallopalooza eco fundraiser on March 7 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium at Bay Park Conservancy, featuring an open bar, chef-inspired food stations and an auction to support local conservation programs.

Florida lawmakers passed a bill on Feb.

11 to name the American flamingo as the state bird and assign the scrub jay as the official state songbird if approved by the Senate & Gov. Ron DeSantis; the change would take effect on July 1.

Florida’s Health Department has proposed changes to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program that will lower income eligibility from 400% to 130% of the Federal Poverty Level, potentially cutting over 16,000 patients from medication coverage.

Affected recipients were notified by letter — community input is accepted until March 4.

Dogs Inc. paired guide dog Grace with Sarasota resident Mark Thornsbrough after a neighbor urged him to seek help for his back injury and vision loss.

He now takes daily walks with his new partner to stay safe and independent.

Live Performance by Bri Rivera

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a standout musician from Puerto Rico.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience an evening of captivating music from a talented guitarist and vocalist.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of eclectic music styles from talented singer-songwriter Scott Curts.

Mystical Visions Band Performance

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy a lively night of pop/rock covers from the 60’s to today with the energetic Mystical Visions.

Circus Sarasota

1-2 p.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — Various prices — Experience the thrill of Circus Sarasota with a variety of performances suitable for all ages.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info not provided — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, in the heart of Sarasota.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Experience the soulful sounds of Ryan Faraday, a talented musician from Boston, now grooving in Sarasota.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy a vibrant evening of eclectic music with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts.

Mystical Visions Concert

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy the music — Experience a lively evening with a female fronted pop/rock cover band playing classic hits from the 60's to today.

Annual Mash Bash

5-8 p.m. — Plantation Golf & Country Club — Fun-filled event — Enjoy food, music, and themed activities inspired by the classic TV show M*A*S*H.