Friday, March 13th, 2026
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 13th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Margie’s Market opened in Newtown on March 10 as a pilot pantry-market run by All Faiths Food Bank — it offers fresh groceries and help applying for food benefits in an area long labeled a food desert. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ Officials plan to complete the Florida Gulf Coast Trail (including the 18.5-mile Legacy Trail from Venice to Sarasota) that will span 420 miles from Tampa to Naples, boosting regional safety and economic growth. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The 100-year-old Leonard Reid House now serves as a museum for the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition and stands as a beacon of local history in Newtown; on April 4 the coalition will host a book fair outside the home during the Spring Fling Easter parade. FOX 13
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Climate Adaptation Center recognized Climate Champions Charlie Hunsicker, Sara Kane and F. John LaCivita at a Sarasota event that honored their efforts to boost resilience with projects like wetland restoration and hurricane-proof construction. The awards highlighted leadership that helps the region prepare for future climate changes. Sarasota Magazine
- ➤ Florida law prohibits removing bats from structures during maternity season (Apr. 16–Aug. 14) to protect these beneficial species. Homeowners should use legal one-way exclusion devices (after sealing entry points) before the season begins. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ At SRQ, TSA wait times were 0-15 minutes yesterday when Global Entry resumed at U.S. airports on Thursday, Mar. 12 amid staffing shortages from a government shutdown. Officials warned wait times at larger hubs may worsen if the shutdown continues. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Lakewood Ranch Medical Center CEO Rob Anderson will resign effective March 26 as the hospital prepares its $120 million tower expansion ribbon cutting on March 24 in Lakewood Ranch. Interim CEO Philip Reber will lead the search for a permanent replacement. Observer
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ A recent feature reviews 12 classic restaurants cherished by Floridians, from historic diners to scenic seafood spots. Sarasota’s Walt’s Fish Market Restaurant & Tiki Bar stands out for its fresh offerings and century-old seafood traditions. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ A restored 1920 Craftsman home featuring a wired-for-electricity treehouse, chicken coop and one-bedroom cottage was listed for sale at $4.19 million in West of Trail. The property at 1611 Hyde Park St. offers modern updates and distinctive outdoor amenities on a corner double lot. Observer
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Sarasota High advanced to the Final Four after a strong win on Mar. 12. The team prepares for next week’s tournament at its home court as local fans rally behind their effort. ABC 7
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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.
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Ryan Faraday Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Entry fee unknown — Enjoy an evening of diverse musical styles from an accomplished local artist.
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Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic mix of music as Scott Curts performs live, accompanied by his German Shepherd, Apollo.
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Mystical Visions Concert
6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of a female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60’s to today.
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Get Your Mutt Movin' 5K Run & Walk
8-11 a.m. — Payne Park — Fundraising for animal rescue — Help support Satchel's Last Resort Animal Rescue while enjoying a community 5K run and walk with your furry friends.
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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