Good morning, Sarasota.

All Faiths Food Bank received a three-year $270,000 grant from United Way Suncoast to expand its Benefits Assistance Program that helps ALICE families apply for government benefits and will serve nearly 18,600 neighbors over the next three years.

Businessman Hugh Culverhouse Jr. donated $25,000 to Teen Court, which offers a second chance for young offenders, and the program will host its first Justice & Jammies Gala on Nov. 7 at the Art Ovation Hotel — a move expected to reduce juvenile justice costs.

A Sarasota County deputy turned a shoplifting call near Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way and Pershing Avenue into an impromptu race Tuesday night—he accepted a challenge from local man Jacoby Jacobs, and bystanders cheered as the deputy won.

A former Sarasota postal worker, 30-year-old Anabel Ossombi, is accused of check fraud for stealing 66 checks worth over $60,000 from more than 30 people between May and November, and she faces charges for scheme to defraud and money laundering—her trial date has not yet been set.

Venice residents supported 92-year-old Julia Ballard, owner of Ballard’s Farm Supply, after she was attacked by three women in their 20s driving a black Lexus SUV on Monday night as she tried to stop them from stealing three puppies — the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has filed a report and is investigating while Ballard continues to run her store.

Sarasota County commissioners ended Tuesday’s final workshop with little progress on reducing spending as the tax collector skipped the meeting and a nearly $600K charge surfaced for collecting school district taxes.

The panel will revamp the budget process next year—aiming to cap spending increases in future years to address rising costs.

On Aug. 27, the Sarasota County Commission will choose two planning board members from seven applicants that include both local environmentalists and real estate professionals.

They have raised issues such as managing growth, improving roads— and protecting natural surroundings.

The Sarasota Paradise soccer team hosted a celebration at Premier Sports Campus on August 19 to mark Sarasota Paradise Day after winning the title again and preparing to go pro in USL League One next year—fans enjoyed music, carnival games, food, and soccer on the Suncoast.

Out-of-Door Academy was named the top preseason high school football team in Sarasota and Manatee counties after readers voted, and the Thunder opened the season with a 38—0 win over Halifax Academy on August 15 with Canadian transfer quarterback Eddie Chaput at the helm.

PMP Certification Training in Sarasota, FL

9 AM – 5 PM — Regus - Sarasota Courthouse — Contact for pricing — Gain essential project management skills and knowledge through an interactive 4-day training course.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic evening of music with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts and his canine companion, Apollo.

Justin Layman Live Performance

1-5 p.m. — Siesta Key Oyster Bar — Free entry — Experience the unique blend of Folk, Rock, and R&B music from local Singer/Songwriter Justin Layman.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check venue for entry fees — Enjoy an evening of unique loop-style music from accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts.

Bri Rivera Concert

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician rooted in Puerto Rican tradition, as she lights up the local music scene.

Discussion on Plato's Phaedo

10:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. — Friends of the North Sarasota Public Library — Free entry — Engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the nature of the soul and Socrates' beliefs on immortality.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the eclectic sounds of singer-songwriter Scott Curts with his unique loop styling accompanied by his beloved dog, Apollo.

Sarasota Bradenton Home Show

10 AM - 7 PM — Robarts Arena — Free entry — Explore the latest in home improvement and renovation ideas from expert exhibitors.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check the artist's website for details — Enjoy an evening with talented Puerto Rican musician Bri Rivera in the heart of Sarasota.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check local listings — Experience the unique loop styling of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts in a scenic Sarasota venue.