Good morning, Sarasota.

A survey of 1,500 residents in Sarasota, Charlotte and DeSoto counties found affordable housing tops local concerns at 57.4%—with many also noting environmental protection and crisis support as key issues.

The survey, conducted from July 2025 to January 2026, shows growing worries over affordability and overdevelopment.

Sarasota Ballet’s 20th season (Iain Webb’s milestone) features 16 ballets from 13 choreographers including premieres and classics like Romeo and Juliet.

The season opens in late Oct. at the FSU Center and moves to the Opera House and Van Wezel, offering diverse programs for local audiences.

Florida Studio Theatre is pausing its summer improv festival due to construction pressures at its new McGillicuddy Arts Plaza, and it will return in 2027 with a spring schedule on a May date.

Pizza lovers in Sarasota recently voted Tralia as the best pizza restaurant—the contest ended on Thursday, April 9, with Tralia winning 61% of the vote.

The restaurant, located at 6566 Gateway Ave. in Gulf Gate, is known for its sourdough-based Detroit square pizzas.

The second annual Artists in the Garden showcase returned last weekend outside Longboat Island Chapel as local creatives sold their work, contributing 30% of proceeds to the foundation & community improvement.

Upcoming Arts in April events will continue from April 16 to April 24.

Scientists and local advocates will discuss pressing environmental challenges at a free panel tomorrow at the Bayfront Community Center behind the Municipal Auditorium.

The event ("Beneath the Surface") organized by Suncoast Searchlight and the Science and Environment Council will address issues like microplastics and habitat loss.

Sarasota residents who have not filed their 2025 tax return must act fast: if you miss the April 15 deadline tomorrow, request an extension with Form 4868 and pay any estimated taxes now — those mailing a return should get a manual postmark at the post office to avoid penalties.

Dick Vitale (an ESPN college basketball analyst and Lakewood Ranch resident) was diagnosed with melanoma in his lung and liver cavity after a recent biopsy.

He will start immunotherapy soon and plans an annual gala on May 1 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota to raise funds for pediatric cancer research.

Sarasota County Schools is launching mandatory $20 heart screenings for first-time student-athletes as part of the Second Chance Act.

A screening will be held at North Port High School on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with additional events scheduled at other schools.

Siesta Key was named the No. 1 best beach in the U.S. by U.S. News and World Report in its latest 2026 Best Vacations rankings, as local officials point to its white quartz sand + clear Gulf waters and varied amenities that suit both lively families and quiet couples.

The Herald-Tribune announced nominees for the Boys Athlete of the Week for April 6-11, including local talent from baseball, tennis, track and weightlifting from Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Voting closed at 10 a.m. Friday.

The 2026 Senior PGA Championship takes place at The Concession Golf Club in East Bradenton from April 16 to April 19; Golf Channel airs rounds at 10 a.m. on April 16 and 17 and 3 p.m. on April 18 and 19 via Sling.

The Herald-Tribune held its Girls Athlete of the Week poll for April 6-11 using nominations from local coaches (voting closed at 10 a.m. Friday) and featured candidates from beach volleyball, lacrosse, softball and track and field.

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.

Spirit Fest® Metaphysical, Holistic, & Crystal Expo

10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. — Sarasota Fairgrounds — Diverse ticketing options — Explore Florida's largest metaphysical and holistic expo with crystals, workshops, and wellness products.

Trey Wanvig Band Live Performance

1-4 p.m. — JR's Old Packinghouse Cafe — Free entry — Experience the soulful blues sounds of 22-year-old Trey Wanvig on a Sunday afternoon.