Good morning, Sarasota.

ODA football captain Dylan Walker hosted a fundraiser at a rivalry game in Lakewood Ranch on Sept.5 that raised $5,395 for the Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund to support hurricane recovery efforts in the community.

He partnered with local businesses to raffle prizes such as tickets and hotel stays and will add a portion of the concession sales to the donation.

The Paradise Center is finalizing its move from Bay Isles Road to Longboat Island Chapel as it prepares to reopen on Sept 29.

Executive director Amy Steinhauser said the center will expand its programs—such as bingo and cooking classes—and is seeking more fundraising support.

On Aug. 31 at 3:15 a.m. on North Washington Blvd, a 29-year-old man fired his 9mm handgun during a fight that began after a verbal argument between groups—his warning shots then discharged three times, fatally hitting a 36-year-old Bradenton woman and injuring another man, and he now awaits arraignment on Oct. 3 at Sarasota County Jail.

Police responded to a road rage chase on Alta Vista Street where three vehicles chased a white van and then stopped a Trailblazer, whose search revealed two firearms that led to an arrest—witnesses said the chase began after the van driver threw a metal pipe at a BMW.

On Sept. 8, Longboat Key's Town Commission took its first vote on the 2026 budget that keeps property taxes unchanged while approving staff pay raises.

The town will hold another public hearing at Town Hall on Sept. 22 before the fiscal year begins on Oct. 1, with revenue expected to increase by 5.8% from rising property valuations.

Residents on Longboat Key are raising their houses with raised foundations and new building methods after Hurricane Helene caused severe flood damage.

Michael and Kelly O’Brien are lifting their 1,300-square-foot house 12 feet on North Shore Road—as six permits were issued since August 2024 as homeowners work to protect their homes from future floods.

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.

3rd Bass Live Concert

7 PM – 12 AM — Big Top Live — Tickets starting at $75 — Experience the unforgettable music of 3rd Bass in Sarasota.

Garden In Bloom Fundraiser Gala

5-11 p.m. — Meadows Farmers Market — Ticketed event — Enjoy a magical evening of live music, food, art, and community at this inaugural gala.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy the captivating sounds of musician Bri Rivera, a standout talent from Puerto Rico, as she performs live on the waterfront.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check event page for details — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico making waves in Sarasota's music scene.

Graphic Design Certificate Program

2-8 p.m. — American Graphics Institute — Check for tuition details — Enhance your design skills with a comprehensive graphic design certificate course.

Weekend Psychic & Holistic Expo

9 AM – 6 PM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Admission varies — Explore the realms of spirituality with psychics, mediums, and holistic products.

Community in Motion 5K & 1 Mile Walk

8:30-11:00 a.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate fitness and community spirit at this annual 5K and 1 Mile Walk event.