Daily
Sarasota
Wednesday, May 20th, 2026
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 20th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Harold Goldstein celebrated his 100th birthday on May 11 at Rosemary and Thyme; this Longboat Key resident gathered friends & family for a lively party marking his milestone and his active spirit on the tennis courts and in the community. Observer
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Local organizations will host summer camps for children and teens this summer, offering hands-on workshops, performance rehearsals, and creative exhibits (each session is designed for specific age groups to spark curiosity and skill-building). Observer
- ➤ At Lecom Park on May 18, Lakewood Ranch High School honored 603 graduates who thanked supportive teachers and friends — marking a milestone as they prepared for college and future challenges. Observer
- ➤ Sarasota High School celebrated its highest-ever graduation rate when hundreds of students tossed their caps at Cleland Stadium on May 15. Principal Ryan Chase said the rate (exceeding last year's 96.5%) marks a big milestone (amid growing academic success). Observer
- ➤ Booker High School held its graduation ceremony at Robarts Arena on May 16, celebrating a record 340+ seniors and a 95% graduation rate as the class marked its highest achievement in 15 years. Observer
- ➤ Graduates of Riverview High School filled Robarts Arena (their longtime venue) on May 16 to say farewell to high school and look forward to future plans. The ceremony featured cap tosses and brief speeches that highlighted the students' achievements. Observer
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Social Security is projected to run out of funds by 2032, which may lower benefits by 28% starting in 2033. Sarasota families who depend on these checks are advised to review their options soon (experts say early claims might help) as policymakers work on solutions. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The first segment of the dredging project on Phillippi Creek from Tuttle Avenue to Beneva Road is complete (60,000 cubic yards of sediment were removed to improve water quality) and county officials say a deeper dredging phase will begin early 2027. Observer
- ➤ Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said Florida could ban fireworks on Fourth of July if drought and wildfire risks persist, and he urged residents to prepare by clearing brush around their homes + making evacuation plans. Severe dry conditions continue across the state as officials work to reduce fire risks. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ Town officials have contracted Holland Landscaping & Tree Service to refresh the medians along Bay Isles Road near Town Hall and Publix as the final repair from 2024 hurricanes — work begins this week and will be complete in time for the July 4 Freedom Fest parade. Observer
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Lakewood Ranch High senior Reece McCabe earned personal medals by placing sixth in both traditional and Olympic weightlifting at the 119-pound class on May 7 at Lakeland’s RP Funding Center + his summer training improved his technique. Observer
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Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check venue for entry fees — Enjoy an eclectic musical experience with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts and his loyal German Shepherd companion, Apollo.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of vibrant Puerto Rican-inspired music with local talent Bri Rivera.
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Ryan Faraday Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience an evening of live music from a talented guitarist and vocalist hailing from Boston, now based in Sarasota.
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Live Music with Scott Curts
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy eclectic performances from singer-songwriter Scott Curts as he captivates with his unique loop style.
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Mystical Visions Concert
6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check venue for entry details — Enjoy the energetic vibes of a female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60s to today.
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2-Day Sound Healer Certification with Tuning Forks
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Wild Ginger Apothecary — $895 — Explore the art and science of sound healing using tuning forks over two immersive days.
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Sarasota Fine Art Show
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Sarasota Art Museum — Free admission — Discover a vibrant juried art show featuring diverse original works from talented artists.
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Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the unique loop stylings of singer-songwriter Scott Curts with his charming companion Apollo.
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Asian Food Festival
2-11 p.m. — JD Hamel Park — Free entry — Experience Florida's largest Asian food festival with 80+ vendors, live entertainment, and cultural showcases.
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A Day Out With Dad
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — The Mall at University Town Center — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled Father's Day event with activities for the whole family.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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