Good morning, Sarasota.

USF Sarasota-Manatee announced plans to build a 7,000-square-foot, $6.5 million STEM facility to replace an expired lab lease at Mote Marine Laboratory while JoshProvides named Monica Caldwell as executive director to help families with epilepsy—Downtown Wellen Park will host Oktoberfest on Oct. 4, Selby Gardens opens its Orchid Show with British artist Rebecca Louise Law on Oct. 11, and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale is recruiting new singers for its 2025-26 season.

Sammy, a 13-year-old mixed breed—ABC7’s Pet of the Week—is looking for a new home after his former owner had to give him up because of health issues.

Dr. Jim Whitman—known for his musical talent and community work—died, leaving Longboat Key without his familiar voice.

He sang at Kiwanis meetings and town events, and a celebration of his life will be held in January.

The local chapter of the National League of American Pen Women is hosting an exhibition of more than 30 multimedia works at Plymouth Harbor that opened on Sept 9 and will run for two months.

The exhibit features oil painting, pastels, photography, sculpture, creative writing and more — many pieces are available for purchase.

Taylor Stanberry, the four-foot, 11-inch expert in python hunting, shared his insights during a local talk—detailing his unique methods and the challenges of controlling invasive snakes.

Visit Sarasota’s economic impact report showed that hotel room and vacation rental rates increased by more than $20 on average from last July, with hotel revpar up 17.6% and vacation rental revpar nearly 8% while average room night stays dropped almost 2%—the report also noted an overall economic impact decline of 8.1% likely linked to last year’s storms and nearly 144,000 visitors spending over $132 million. This data reflects ongoing shifts in local lodging trends amid seasonal challenges.

New College of Florida has enrolled over 900 students this fall, reaching a record high.

College officials credit the boost to expanded sports and graduate programs (after a period of controversy) and expect further growth (a sign of the college rebirth) in the coming months.

Sarasota and Manatee Schools confirmed that as of Sept.

12 no staff are under review for online posts about Charlie Kirk's killing—while the Florida Department of Education warned that teachers risk losing jobs or licenses if they post such comments.

Sarasota Public Schools is proposing to move its central office to Wilkinson Elementary School—part of a plan to better use school facilities and reduce costs, with a Board vote expected by late November; the move would reassign Wilkinson students to nearby schools as community input sessions are scheduled for Sept. 17th, Sept. 24th and Oct. 7th. The plan addresses under-enrollment, rising maintenance expenses and potential funding losses linked to state voucher programs.

Sarasota County Schools said enrollment at Wilkinson Elementary has dropped so much that the district might close the school and reassign its 392 students to other schools.

Parents met today at Bee Ridge Park to discuss saving the school - a townhall with the superintendent is set for September 18 at 6 p.m. and a board decision is expected on November 18.

Ringling College’s annual AI Symposium will be held Oct.

10 — Oct. 11 to help artists and students learn how new tech affects art and design. The two-day event features lectures, workshops, and discussions by educators, artists, and tech experts to guide creative professionals in a fast-changing digital world.

Bayflite now has its emergency medical helicopter based at Venice Municipal Airport—boosting faster care for local patients.

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.

Justin Layman Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — The Ugly Grouper — Free entry — Experience an evening of Folk, Rock, and R&B from the talented Sarasota singer-songwriter Justin Layman.