Good morning, Sarasota.

On Aug 20, the Sarasota Police Department put K-9 Butch on patrol after he completed 480 hours of training with Officer Adam Bearden—he now patrols the city with the department's fourth K-9 unit.

On August 19, the Klassika Ensemble performed at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church, blending classical tunes with popular songs in a joyful midseason show—listeners joined in with covers of Piano Man and You Raise Me Up.

The church will host the final Midsummer Concert Series performance on August 27, and it will continue to showcase musical fusion for the community.

Art Center Sarasota is planning a centennial celebration that will begin in October and include community exhibitions, local artist showcases, and a revived Beaux Arts Ball on March 21—designed to keep art accessible to everyone.

Executive director Katherine Ceaser said the milestone events honor the center’s 100-year legacy in serving the community.

Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Terry Connor said no teachers were laid off as staff reassignments over the summer balanced budgets and shifting enrollment.

He noted that classroom operations have remained smooth into the third week of school while enrollment holds near projections — a sign that proactive moves kept classrooms stable.

Volunteers from Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch reported that 22,311 hatchlings have been recorded this season—more than the 20,633 recorded in 2024 and nearly matching the 22,713 from 2023.

They also said that 224 nests remain on the beach for further tracking.

Gentile’s Cheesesteaks, a well-liked shop on 7523 S.

Tamiami Trail serving Philly cheesesteaks since 2012, has closed, and the Long family announced that Johnny Longhots and Steaks will take over and open on Oct. 1 with a refreshed menu.

The July report shows that Sarasota single-family home sales increased with a steady median price while condo prices dropped nearly 18% amid longer market times and larger seller discounts—Manatee County had fewer sales with a slight dip in prices as buyers push for better deals.

Local realtors warn that homeowners must lower expectations because high condo supply and cautious buyer behavior are reshaping the market.

During Aug 4–8, several homes sold in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Palmer Ranch, Osprey, and Nokomis with a Cherokee Park property on South Drive topping the week at $7.2 million; other transactions included condos and single-family homes with varied features and sale prices.

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.