Good morning, Sarasota.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art will host a three-day symposium on art and healing May 14-16 with keynote speaker Dacher Keltner speaking at 6 p.m. in the Historic Asolo Theater—other local events include Project Pride SRQ’s Grand Carnival on May 31, The Haven’s new group home at 4405 Desoto Road, upgrades for Venice Youth Boating, the Spring Fling Skim Jam at Nokomis Beach May 16-18, an Oyster River Ecology fundraiser May 22, a fine art festival on May 24-25, and a gopher tortoise discussion May 28.

Seven exciting new restaurants are set to open soon across Sarasota from downtown to University Town Center—one of which is a members-only spot co-founded by Michael Jordan that promises diverse menus featuring Greek, Italian, and modern American flavors.

Planned openings range from this summer into next year as the local dining scene prepares to welcome these innovative additions.

Former New College spokesperson Fred Piccolo Jr.—charged for exposing himself at the UTC mall and other locations—may have three misdemeanor exposure charges upgraded to third-degree felonies, potentially totaling five felonies with up to five years per count if approved, state attorney Ed Brodsky said Friday.

Joseph Holt, who led Choral Artists of Sarasota since 2011 and raised its profile with international concerts like the D-Day anniversary performance, is retiring as artistic director and will lead a Memorial Day concert on May 24 at Church of the Palms—while the board reviews the ensemble’s future steps.

The Sarasota area offers a full lineup of music concerts this week, with some Friday shows drawing fans and additional events scheduled for today and Sunday at venues in Sarasota, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key and Englewood.

The events – featuring local and national talent in jazz, blues, reggae and indie-pop – give local music lovers many choices.

NOAA warned that nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm and urged residents to return home only when officials confirm safety while avoiding hazards like floodwaters and downed power lines.

Hurricane Preparedness Week highlighted safe cleanup practices, generator safety, and vigilance for delayed emergency responses—measures that are critical as Florida prepares for a potentially volatile hurricane season.

On May 7, the Sarasota County Fire Department won the Heart Safe Community Award for its work in emergency heart care.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs gave the award in Las Vegas— the honor recognizes the department's efforts to train more than 3,000 community members in CPR and AED skills.

On Thursday, about 370 residents gathered at Riverview High School to hear Sarasota County and federal agency representatives explain steps to prepare for the hurricane season from June 1 to Nov.

30. Officials warned that federal budget cuts may reduce FEMA assistance—prompting urges for proper insurance, preventative measures, and adherence to evacuation orders.

Mother's Day Brunch at Sarasota Art Museum

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Sarasota Art Museum — $75 per person — Celebrate Mother's Day with a gourmet buffet brunch accompanied by live music and museum admission.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a rising talent in the local music scene.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the eclectic sounds of accomplished local musician Scott Curts as he performs with his German Shepherd companion, Apollo.

Bri Rivera Concert

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a standout voice in the Sarasota music scene.

2025 Sarasota Guitar and Amp Show

10 AM – 3 PM — Sarasota Municipal Auditorium — Check website for entry details — Explore new and vintage guitar gear with fellow enthusiasts.

Joe Gatto's Let's Get Into It Tour

1-9 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of improvisational comedy with Joe Gatto and special guest Mark Jigarjian.

ABPA Annual Meeting and Business Conference

12 AM - 10 PM — The Westin Sarasota — Registration details vary — Attend a dynamic business conference with unparalleled networking and industry insights.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 PM — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican music from local talent Bri Rivera.

Bollywood Dance at The Bay with Megha Vaid

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Nest at The Bay — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy the energetic vibes of Bollywood dance in a vibrant setting.

Justin Layman Live Performance

6 PM-12 AM — 3 Bridges Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of Folk, Rock, and R&B with local talent Justin Layman.