Thursday, January 2nd, 2025

Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Sarasota.
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ LaShawn’te Lee, a single mother of four, graduates from the State College of Florida thanks to scholarship support from the Palm Aire Women's Club, highlighting the club's commitment to aiding students and the community. Observer
- ➤ Hurricane Debby's devastating flooding destroyed 84 homes in the Laurel Meadows neighborhood, pushing the community to unite in restoration and resilience. ABC 7
- ➤ Sarasota anticipates a significant year in 2025 with leadership changes, airport expansions, and downtown development, including decisions on the future of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Observer
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Former ballerina Ashley Benefield was convicted of manslaughter, not murder, in the fatal shooting of her estranged husband amid a custody dispute, with a sentence of 20 years followed by 10 years probation. ABC 7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Sarasota's performing arts scene triumphantly returns in 2025 with a diverse lineup of shows including 'Funny Girl,' 'The Cancellation of Lauren Fein,' and 'Jesus Christ Superstar' among others. Observer
- ➤ ABC7's Karen Kim explores diverse musical talents across the Suncoast, highlighting local acts and the unifying power of music. ABC 7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Christian Ziegler, former Florida GOP chairman, was removed from his position after allegations and an investigation into sexual assault, though later cleared of these charges but faced potential video voyeurism concerns. ABC 7
- ➤ Floridians affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene have until Jan. 7, 2025, to submit their applications for federal assistance. ABC 7
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Sarasota.
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ten Sarasota high school athletes across various sports are highlighted for their exceptional performances and potential for outstanding achievements in 2025. Observer
-
Scott Curts Live Performance
Scott Curts, an accomplished singer and songwriter, showcases his unique 'loop' styling at Marina Jack in Sarasota.
-
Dog Training Workshop at The Bay
A monthly dog training session conducted by certified expert trainer Terry Cook, designed to improve your dog's behavior while enjoying time outdoors with fellow dog owners.
-
Forever Elvis '73 featuring Dwight Icenhower
This event showcases a tribute to Elvis Presley by acclaimed Five Time World Champion Elvis Tribute Artist Dwight Icenhower, celebrated for his remarkable voice and performances.
-
Jean-Yves Thibaudet: Concert Series Debut
Acclaimed French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet performs Debussy's Preludes in his debut concert for the Sarasota Concert Association.
-
Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Queen
Experience the music of Queen performed by the Listeso String Quartet at St. Boniface Episcopal Church under candlelight.
-
Bobby Jo Valentine's Concert in Sarasota
Bobby Jo Valentine returns to Sarasota with new songs and stories, offering a heartfelt musical experience that supports ALSO Youth.
-
Florida Bee Gees Tribute Show at Riverview Performing Arts Center
Experience the National Premiere of Bee Gees Now!, a highly acclaimed tribute band that brings the music and essence of the Gibb Brothers to life through an impressive theatrical performance.
-
Bri Rivera Live Performance
Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, showcases her vocal and instrumental skills at Marina Jack in Sarasota, Florida.
-
Scott Curts Live Performance
Scott Curts, an accomplished singer and songwriter from Sarasota, performs his unique 'loop' styled music accompanied by his dog, Apollo, at Marina Jack.
-
Bri Rivera Live Performance
Bri Rivera, a talented musician and vocalist from Puerto Rico, will be performing live at Marina Jack in Sarasota, showcasing her musical journey and influences.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

Stay Connected Anywhere with This Powerful Portable Charger
Never worry about dead batteries or missed calls again. This high-capacity, portable power bank is a game-changer for anyone who relies on their devices throughout the day. With the ability to charge up to five devices at once, it’s perfect for families, professionals, and travelers alike.
Its compact design makes it easy to carry, while its powerful output ensures your phone, tablet, earbuds, and more stay fully charged no matter where you are. Say goodbye to low-battery anxiety and hello to uninterrupted productivity.
Whether you’re commuting, on vacation, or working remotely, this charger is your ultimate power solution. Stay connected, stay powered, and never miss a moment.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Sarasota.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.
~ Seneca
About Daily Sarasota
Welcome to the Daily Sarasota, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Sarasota, Florida community. If you like the Daily Sarasota, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Sarasota.
Advertising Opportunities
Advertising with us will make sure you stay at the top of everyone's mind—in Sarasota and across Florida. You can learn more here. We'll work together to build a custom plan to hit your goals this year.
Alternatively, you can submit events, announcements, real estate listings, and job postings. We'll include them in our newsletter on whichever dates you like.
Community, delivered
Our hyper-local media company activates communities through daily email newsletters that curate the most positive, impactful local news + events – all for free.
Subscribe to Daily Sarasota
A free Sarasota community newsletter.
- Daily local news
- We curate the most positive, impactful local news + events.
- 6AM City
- A publication of 6AM City, the nation's leading local newsletter-first media network. Nominate your city.

© 6AM City Inc. 2025. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy. Terms of Service. Questions? Contact us here
Sitemap: https://dailysarasota.com/sitemap