Good morning, Sarasota.

On May 8, Longboat Key resident Merle Nelson celebrated her 90th birthday with a paddleboarding outing and shared reflections on her long career as a teacher, legislator and mediator in Maine—highlighting her work on organ donation reforms, policies for displaced homemakers and support for the arts—and advised keeping a positive outlook and giving back to the community.

Harbor58’s Money Talks program meets monthly at Oasis Church in Lakewood Ranch and teaches youth aging out of foster care essential money skills—such as saving, investing, and budgeting.

Parrish High junior Parrish Williford, who bought a 2002 Dodge Ram with nonprofit help, is one example of the program's impact as Harbor58 plans a campus with six paired villas to support 12 youths in gaining independent living skills.

The longtime Applebee’s at 3255 University Parkway closed permanently on Monday, May 19 — the same day Chili’s near Trader Joe’s on South Tamiami Trail shut its doors.

Both closures end decades-long service to Sarasota residents even as other chain locations continue to operate.

Arts Advocates honored Andy Sandberg with the Luminaire Award for his outstanding contributions to Sarasota arts—he is the artistic director and CEO of the Hermitage Artist Retreat and was praised for fostering local partnerships with institutions such as Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Booker High School. The award included a $1,000 donation to help support the retreat after recent hurricanes.

The Science and Technology Society is a Manatee County nonprofit that works with NASA and local partners to bring science workshops and speaker forums to families and students of all levels.

Founder Nick Barbi is planning a music fundraiser this summer—seeking more funding and volunteers to expand the club’s programs.

The Sarasota City Commission unanimously voted Tuesday to name veteran Dave Bullock as interim city manager effective May 27 while relaunching its search for a permanent replacement after Marlon Brown’s retirement last October—Doug Jeffcoat will postpone his planned retirement to aid the transition. The commission will now use internal staff to guide the hiring process and set the next steps as it navigates the busy fiscal year ahead.

Savor Sarasota will return from June 1 through June 20 with over 50 local restaurants participating in its 20th anniversary celebration (featuring two-course prix fixe lunches for $25 and three-course dinners for $45) and many venues will offer cocktail and wine pairings (adding extra dining options).

Ashlan Guengerich, a junior third baseman for the Sarasota High softball team, boosted the Sailors to the final four by batting .459 with 23 runs and 51 RBIs in 28 games.

She made clutch hits in regional playoff wins on May 14 and May 15 and showed resilience after losing her coach—coach Aly Bermudez—to ovarian cancer.

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.

AquaPalooza 2025

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — MarineMax Sarasota — Free entry — Kick-off Summer 2025 with live music, giveaways, and a vibrant gathering of boaters at New Pass Sandbar.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the musical talents of Bri Rivera, a rising star from Puerto Rico in the Sarasota music scene.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic evening of music as Scott Curts showcases his unique loop styling alongside his trusty companion, Apollo.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check event page for details — Experience the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican musician Bri Rivera in Sarasota.

ADVERZO, LA MISMA EMPRESA & MORE

9 p.m. — Strobes Event Center — Tickets available — Experience a vibrant explosion of regional rhythms at this unforgettable concert in Sarasota.

Brunch + Bloom Networking Event

12-3 p.m. — Rose & Ivy - Steak, Sushi, Cocktails — Ticket required — Celebrate summer and network with an amazing group of women while enjoying entertainment and delicious bites.

Jesus Christ Superstar Musical

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Asolo Repertory Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the magical blend of storytelling, music, and dance in this iconic musical.

UTC FIT Zumba on The Green

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Green at UTC — Free entry — Experience a high-energy dance party workout with Zumba under the stars.