Daily
Sarasota
Monday, March 9th, 2026
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 9th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local officials issued a purple alert on March 8 after receiving reports that a senior citizen may be in danger (details remain pending) and urged residents to contact authorities if they have any information. ABC 7
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Saks Fifth Avenue said in a Saturday note it will close its Mall at University Town Center store at the end of May, ending a 30-year presence in the Sarasota-Manatee market. Observer
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Organizers unveiled scaled-back designs for a new performing arts center in downtown Sarasota on March 3 (taxpayers will still incur an $88 million cost) as the city plans its cultural future. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ Organist Olivier Latry delivered a dedication concert at St. Armands Lutheran Church in Sarasota, marking the installation of its 2,200-pipe Schantz instrument completed in 2025 as members enjoyed selections from Bach & improvisation. The church plans future community programs using the new instrument. Observer
- ➤ The Irish Celtic Festival took place March 7 at Greenbrook Adventure Park in Lakewood Ranch, featuring Irish music, dance, food + a lively dog parade that delighted residents and celebrated Celtic heritage. Observer
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Teen Court of Sarasota awarded a record $40K in scholarships to 20 students at its Changed for Good dinner on March 4 at Michael’s on East, marking 30 years of the program. The nonprofit gave youth real courtroom roles like attorneys & jurors to build legal skills. Observer
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ City, county + U.S. Army Corps are renourishing 1.2 miles of Lido Beach with sand dredged from New Pass. The $4.6 million project started March 5 and will complete before April 15, potentially widening the beach by up to 150 ft in areas. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Town officials and HR Green engineers presented plans to raise streets and upgrade stormwater drains in the Sleepy Lagoon neighborhood to reduce flooding during high tides. The project will increase drain capacity on Juan Anasco, De Narvaez and Bayview Drives once permits are secured. Observer
- ➤ Thirty local residents finished a seven-week Citizens Academy program and received certificates at a town hall meeting today. The program taught them about planning, zoning, and public works (among other services) and may lead to more volunteer board participation. Observer
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Anthony Razzano from Lakewood Ranch survived a gasoline explosion at age 12 that burned over 87% of his body and cost him his left hand (doctors said his survival was unlikely). He earned degrees, built a financial advisory firm, and wrote a book, and he now shares his recovery story. ABC 7
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Booker High girls basketball team, led by coach Ty Bryant along with a mix of returning stars and fresh talent, is set to face top-ranked Bishop Moore in a state semifinal in Jacksonville on Tuesday, Mar. 10 — marking their fourth consecutive Final Four appearance. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ On Sunday, runners from across the region participated in the second annual Sarasota Suncoast Half Marathon and 5K at Nathan Benderson Park where heart surgery survivors and first-time finishers celebrated personal milestones. Local sponsors promoted healthy living—ensuring the event fostered a supportive, community-driven atmosphere. ABC 7
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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.
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Open Mat
6-7 a.m. — TeamAlves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school — $20 mat fee for non-team members — A welcoming occasion to grapple and refine your techniques from the week.
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Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of vibrant music from local sensation Bri Rivera, steeped in Puerto Rican tradition.
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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Your calendar reflects your priorities better than your Twitter feed.
~ James Clear
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