Good morning, Sarasota.

Leanna Ross, a longtime survivor of abuse, now walks with dignity after getting help from local faith-based nonprofit Selah Freedom.

She works as a manager at a seeing-eye dog training center in Palmetto and shares her journey to inspire others seeking recovery.

All Faiths Food Bank launched its 13th Campaign Against Summer Hunger on March 28 at Riverview High School to feed children facing economic hardship this summer.

The effort uses $1 million in matching funds to double donations through May 15 (meals will be provided via schools and community centers).

Hanami Sushi Cocktails & Grill opens today in Sarasota’s Rosemary District at 1525 4th St., Unit C following a yearlong renovation that transformed the historic Citrus Exchange building into a nearly 7,500-sqft restaurant.

The venue will serve contemporary Japanese dishes, including sushi, hibachi, and craft cocktails.

The Sarasota Film Festival features a documentary tracing the origins of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band.

Occupational Hazard: The Original Coral Reefers will show Tuesday, April 14 at 6:30 p.m. at New College of Florida’s Sainer Pavilion (5313 Bay Shore Road).

Florida's minimum wage will rise to $15 an hour on Sept.

30, 2026 following a 2020 constitutional amendment that increases wages by $1 annually (which also adjusts tip credits) with future changes based on inflation.

Former New College program director Jono Miller legally challenged the college's 210-page master plan—citing missing faculty and student input and factual errors—as he prepares to attend an administrative hearing later.

Colorado State University expert Phil Klotzbach predicts a somewhat below-average 2026 hurricane season with thirteen named storms, six hurricanes, and two major storms due to El Nino.

The season runs from June 1 through November 30.

The City Commission declined to add the extra $4 million needed for SHA’s McCown Towers—a project to build 96 senior housing units + secure 160 public parking spaces for the Rosemary District—leaving SHA President William Russell planning to seek funds from county recovery resources.

A feature spotlights Florida's top brunch spots, including State Street Eating House + Cocktails in downtown Sarasota where locals enjoy creative dishes and cocktails on Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The listing also profiles favorite venues across the state for weekend splurges.

A 64-team National High School Softball Invitational (a showcase for top high school teams) will run April 1–3, 2027 at the nearly completed 17th Street Park Regional Sports Complex, which is scheduled to finish in December, and a six-team college tournament will follow at the same facility.

Lakewood Ranch's Avary Shirley was named 2026 Girls Soccer Player of the Year by the Herald-Tribune on April 9.

Voting on the 15-candidate poll remains open until Tuesday, Apr. 14 (10 a.m.), inviting locals to share their pick.

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

8-10 a.m. — The Mall at University Town Center — $10 for show cars, free for spectators — Check out unique cars while enjoying coffee and supporting a local charity during Earth Month.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening with Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, showcasing her musical journey through local tunes.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Details TBA — Experience live music from guitarist and songwriter Ryan Faraday, an engaging performer from Sarasota.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic mix of music from accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts alongside his canine companion, Apollo.

Mystical Visions Concert

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy the tunes of a female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60’s to today.

In-Studio Sarasolo Performance

3-4 p.m. — Sarasota Contemporary Dance — Ticket prices vary — Experience an intimate solo performance at this vibrant dance venue.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info not provided — Experience the melodic sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Experience the heartfelt sounds of Ryan Faraday, an accomplished guitarist and vocalist from Sarasota.

Omgitswicks and Friends Comedy Show

3-4 p.m. — McCurdy's Comedy Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a hilarious performance featuring Omgitswicks and friends at a local favorite venue.

Mystical Visions Concert

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience a lively female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60's to today.