Thursday, March 5th, 2026
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A local Herald-Tribune writer urged e-bike riders, cyclists, and pedestrians on Legacy Trail to respect each other and improve safety by using bells and mirrors, setting a 20 mph speed limit, and increasing patrols until protected lanes are built (comments follow rising concerns about dangerous streets and inattentive drivers). Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ Sarasota County officials said the beloved waterfront park may remain closed as further safety inspections and potential repairs are assessed, leaving community members waiting for a clear update on its reopening. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Aldi will open a new store in Wellen Park as early as summer, following its Cape Coral launch on Feb. 26 where over 300 customers lined up at 3510 Del Prado Blvd & the popular chain looks to expand its footprint in Sarasota County. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ On March 2, the City Commission reviewed the revised Concept 2.0 for the new Performing Arts Center. The plan consolidates the project into one ground-level building at The Bay park — cutting 500 seats and lowering costs while focusing on coastal resiliency. Observer
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in Florida increased nearly 20 cents between March 2 and March 3 amid rising tensions as the Strait of Hormuz closed (AAA data), prompting analysts to warn that rates may rise further in the coming days to affect local drivers statewide. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Sea turtle nesting season is underway on local beaches, and authorities stress that touching turtles, eggs, or hatchlings is illegal (Marine Turtle Protection Act). Visitors should keep a safe 10-foot distance and contact lifeguards if a turtle appears distressed. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ A waterfront home on Harbor Drive in Harbor Acres sold for $14.75 million earlier this month, marking one of the priciest deals in the first quarter. The 6,752 sqft residence features five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a resort-style pool, terraces and a boat dock. Observer
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Booker girls basketball overcame an early season slump to clinch a state semifinal berth — they will face Bishop Moore at 3 p.m. on March 10 at UNF Arena in Jacksonville. Observer
- ➤ Tuesday, Mar. 3, undefeated Venice Indians beat undefeated Sarasota Sailors 14-1 in boys baseball at Sarasota High — the loss ended Sarasota’s unbeaten run. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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Mystical Visions Live
6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy great tunes — A female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60’s to today.
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Minnesota Twins vs Baltimore Orioles Spring Training
8:05 AM – 2:05 PM — Ed Smith Stadium — Free trial available — Catch the Minnesota Twins take on the Baltimore Orioles live in spring training action.
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The Mirror Crack'd
3:30-4:30 p.m. — Asolo Repertory Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling performance showcasing mystery and drama.
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A Night with Janis Joplin
Mar 11-26 — Keating Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the explosive energy of Janis Joplin and the legendary artists who inspired her.
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Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy a night of eclectic tunes from an accomplished singer-songwriter accompanied by his German Shepherd.
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Sarasota Ukulele Festival & Concert
11:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. — Sarasota Orchestra — $35+ — Enjoy workshops, a champagne reception, and a lively concert featuring Them Uke Boyz and Uke 66.
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Beginning Bird Photography Workshop
8:30-10:00 a.m. — Sarasota Audubon Nature Center — $10 – $20 — Enhance your bird photography skills in a beautiful natural setting with experienced guidance.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy the captivating sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented Puerto Rican musician, as she lights up the local music scene.
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Ryan Faraday Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening with the talented Ryan Faraday showcasing his musical talents.
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Spring Training: Pirates vs. Orioles
2:05-7:05 p.m. — Ed Smith Stadium — Cost unknown — Enjoy a split squad matchup as the Pirates take on the Orioles in an exciting spring training game.
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.
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