Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of April.
Good morning, Sarasota.
SunPass warned customers that scam texts claiming unpaid tolls continue even after fake websites were shut down in February — the texts urge users to click a link that leads to fraudulent sites designed to steal personal information, so customers are advised to check their toll balance online instead.
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office said that an elderly couple was found dead in the front yard of a Sarasota home on the 7200 block of Treymore Court after an apparent murder-suicide—detectives recovered a handgun near the man's body and a note indicating the shooting was premeditated.
Two Sarasota Schools administrators disputed a report that the district ended its contract with The Florida Center for Early Childhood when records confirmed the agency served about 274 students last school year.
The board approved an interagency agreement and plans to keep seven social worker positions and hire five new mental health providers—changes officials said will give better oversight and faster help for students.
Good Friday today, April 18, is not a federal or state holiday but is observed by many Florida school districts as part of a three-day Easter weekend—Sarasota schools are closed while some counties remain in session, so families should check local calendars for details.
Visit Sarasota County named native Jennifer Manzanilla Dolgetta as visitor experiences coordinator—she comes from First Watch Restaurants where she managed customer service for over 570 outlets and built volunteer programs.
She will run the tourism bureau's visitor centers, outreach and local business engagement while drawing on nearly 13 years of hospitality experience.
Empath Health opened its new Empath LIFE facility using the PACE model at 303 13th Ave East in Bradenton on April 2, providing seniors who qualify for nursing home care but want to stay home with primary care, therapies, social support, and transportation—an option designed to help them maintain their independence in the local community.
At the LECOM Suncoast Classic at Lakewood National, twenty-one Korn Ferry Tour players shot 5-under-par or better in Wednesday's first round led by Jorge Fernandez Valdez with a 10-under 61 — tee times will resume Thursday at 7 a.m. and the tournament will end on Saturday, April 19.
Dinner at Selva Grill
6-8 p.m. — Selva Downtown Sarasota — $3 contribution — Enjoy inventive Peruvian cuisine and cocktails in a chic setting.
Sunset Day Party
4-8 p.m. — Georgies UTC Restaurant & Bar — $30 – $750 — Enjoy a lively sunset atmosphere with HipHop and R&B beats spinning by live DJs.
Guided Walks at Glebe Park
12-2 p.m. — Glebe Park — Free entry — Explore the natural beauty of Siesta Key while observing migratory birds in the shade.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant performance by Puerto Rican musician Bri Rivera in the heart of Sarasota.
Trivia Night
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Hillview in Southside Village — Gecko's Bucks prizes — Gather for a fun filled evening of trivia with friends and family.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic mix of original music and covers by the talented Scott Curts accompanied by his loyal dog Apollo.
City of Sarasota Tree Giveaway at The Bay
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The Nest at The Bay — Free entry — Discover tree care tips during a lunchtime discussion with local arborists.
Earth Day Celebration at The Bay
11 AM - 1 PM — The Bay Park — Free entry — Celebrate nature with hands-on activities for families while learning about sustainability.
Education Foundation Ringling Bridge Run
7-11 a.m. — The Bay Park — Registration fees apply — Participate in a scenic run with options for everyone in the family.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican musician Bri Rivera in the heart of Sarasota.
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