Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 21st of March.
Good morning, Sarasota.
The All Faiths Food Bank reported a 26% rise in clients since December amid soaring gas prices and increasing living costs along the Suncoast, and officials expect more residents to need assistance as school ends and service workers face financial strain + community concerns grow.
Fishing guide Tom Stephens blends a passion for fishing and art as his custom rods are now on display at Ringling College alumni exhibition, Echoes in Color in Sarasota.
He spent many hours crafting each rod + adding his unique touch to attract local art fans.
Drivers in Sarasota face rising pump prices as Florida gas nears $3.94 per gallon amid global supply issues — analysts warn prices may soon hit $4 while diesel climbs above $5, with costs expected to remain high for weeks.
At Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, TSA wait times averaged 5 minutes Friday morning while other Florida airports experienced longer delays due to a funding lapse that left agents unpaid (a Tallahassee company organized a donation drive for them).
Today, Sarasota airport expects up to 16,000 departing passengers on its busiest day as its TSA Screening Partnership Program keeps security lines smooth.
Officials report that Terminals A and B will have all lanes fully staffed — travelers should arrive two hours early and allow extra time for parking.
Siesta Beach is lively today as spring break visitors fill the popular shore, drawing families and tourists for a seasonal escape (local observers report higher-than-usual activity).
Officials recommend planning for parking and managing the crowd.
Nathan Benderson Park will host several watersports competitions in April, starting with U.S. Masters Swimming championships on April 2-4 + followed by scholastic rowing and a dragon boat festival later in the month, drawing over 5,000 athletes to Sarasota.
Benchmark International Arena in Tampa hosted eight NCAA men's teams for the first two rounds of the tournament last Friday.
The Florida Gators, seeded first in the South region, faced Prairie View A&M as Florida teams took part in early tournament action.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Polo Match at Sarasota Polo Club
1-6 p.m. — Sarasota Polo Club — Check the event page for ticket prices — Enjoy a beautiful day of polo action and festivities at the Sarasota Polo Club.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info not provided — Experience the captivating sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented Puerto Rican musician making waves in the Sarasota music scene.
Ringling Underground - April Showcase
8-11 p.m. — The Ringling Grillroom — $15 / Free for Members & Students w/ID — Experience captivating live music and a showcase of emerging student artists in a vibrant museum courtyard.
Easter Brunch Buffet
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — PIER 22 — $70 adults, $25 children under 10 — Delight in a festive brunch buffet featuring seasonal favorites and stunning waterfront views.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Entry details not provided — Enjoy an evening of live music with local talent Bri Rivera, a standout in the Sarasota music scene.
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