Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 13th of May.
Good morning, Sarasota.
🏘️ Community
The Selby Foundation approved capital grants (totaling $648,376) for 20 nonprofit organizations in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.
The funds will support musical instruments, technology systems and medical devices for arts, education and health services.
Sarasota will hold its annual Memorial Day parade on May 26 with the march leaving from Osprey Avenue at 10 a.m. and ending at Chaplain J.D.
Hamel Park for a ceremony that starts around 11 a.m., where Marine veteran Sonny Bywaters — a founding member of the parade organizing committee — will speak as the keynote while law enforcement, veterans groups, and community organizations join the event.
🚧 Accidents
A crash on I-75 northbound near State Road 64 backed up nearly 5 miles of traffic—images showed three lanes blocked and drivers using the shoulder in a construction zone—delaying travel by about 25 minutes.
💼 Business
At the end of 2024, HL Asian Market opened in Sarasota on 7113 South Tamiami Trail—the site was formerly an event hall sold for $4.7 million.
The 23-aisle store offers live seafood, unique produce, and global ingredients including teas, sauces, and imported alcoholic beverages.
Elegant suites at Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor earned a rare AAA Four Diamond rating for superior luxury and service and are among only 34 hotels in the region to be so honored.
Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Golf Tournament raised over $110,000 on May 2 to support hospital staff, and SPARCC received a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator and the Platinum Seal from Candid—a recognition of its commitment to safe care.
Dr. Jennifer Fergeson became a partner at Windom Allergy Asthma & Sinus in Sarasota — she joined in 2016 and trains medical students at USF and FSU.
In related business news, DutchCrafters presented the Mortise and Tenon Award to key employees, and wealth adviser Gianni Valenti earned CFP certification — while Safe Place’s Mary Ellen Mancini was recertified as a Certified Fund Raising Executive.
🎭 Culture
Alena Grom, a Ukrainian artist, won the People’s Choice Award for her photo 'Stolen Spring' at the Embracing Our Differences outdoor exhibition held at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and St. Petersburg’s Poynter Park from January 19th to April 13th.
The photo shows a woman amid Bucha’s bombed ruins framed by cherry blossoms (she received a $2,000 cash prize).
📰 Economy
United Way Suncoast’s report shows that the survival budget for a family of four in Sarasota County rose 10% to $104,424—while nearly half of local seniors now fall below the ALICE threshold, with households increasing from 48,600 to over 52,600.
The report warns that rising costs for housing, food and healthcare may push families to neighboring counties—prompting calls for affordable policy changes.
🎉 Sarasota Events
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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.
Bri Rivera Live Concert
6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Cost info TBA — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talent from Puerto Rico who has captivated the local music scene.
Namaste at The Bay with Jessica DuBose
9-10 a.m. — The Bay Park — Free entry — Enjoy mindful yoga led by Jessica DuBose in a beautiful outdoor setting.
🏠 Sarasota Real Estate
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💼 Sarasota Job Board
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📣 Sarasota Announcements
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