Good morning, Sarasota.

Residents in Sarasota and Bradenton will find most grocery stores open on Memorial Day — May 26 — though some like Aldi will have limited hours and Costco will be closed while banks, post offices, and the stock market remain shut.

An arts summit held last June at the Sarasota Opera House showed that cuts in government art funds have challenged local groups while strong local support offers hope.

Keynote speaker Deborah Rutter urged cultural leaders to keep fighting—she noted that lawmakers from both sides are working to bring back lost grants.

Nine students from Florida’s 17th Congressional District have received appointments to U.S. Service Academies after nominations by Rep. Greg Steube — including locals from Sarasota High School and other area schools.

The round-up also covers the Big Waters Land Trust photo contest ending May 31, Temple Emanu-El’s 17th Mitzvah Day with over 400 volunteers, an award for a Ringling College artist, and upcoming local events like the Memorial Day concert and an art festival.

The Out-of-Door Academy held its 100th commencement on May 23 at Bayside Community Church with 70 graduates + about 1,000 guests in attendance.

The centennial ceremony honored seniors from diverse study areas as they prepared for college and future careers.

Michaelynn Magac urged Sarasota County commissioners to purchase the nearly 50-acre Gulf Gate Executive Golf Course property, which was bought in 2022 for $3 million and has remained undeveloped—she said the land could serve as a large-scale stormwater project near Sarasota Bay to help alleviate frequent flooding. The proposal calls for the county to act soon so that available funds can be used to address the recurring flood issues.

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.

2025 Bumpy Jones Classic Long Course Meet

4 AM – 4 AM — Selby Aquatic Center — Registration required — Dive into a two-day long course swim meet featuring all relay events.

Open House Hiring Event

2-6 p.m. — 730 S Osprey Ave — Free entry — Explore exciting career opportunities in resort and caregiving staff.