Good morning, Sarasota.

Candace Choate, a Sarasota single mom, faced job loss and eviction before emergency funds from Season of Sharing and Mothers Helping Mothers helped her avoid eviction—she secured a new job and began planning for a more stable future.

Longtime resident Bob Waechter donated a 2.2-acre parcel along the Legacy Trail north of Ashton Road to the Pines of Sarasota Foundation in memory of his late wife and mothers — the property is listed for $1.2 million with its sale proceeds supporting the foundation's care for local residents.

USA TODAY Network reporters compiled a guide of 10 Florida dive bars that locals cherish, including Sarasota’s Bahi Hut, a historic tiki spot that opened in 1954 — the list also features venues like Ormond Beach’s Babe’s Blue Room, a favorite for 35 years.

The feature highlights these bars where patrons enjoy cold drinks and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere — a true taste of Florida’s dive bar culture.

This week, concerts in Sarasota, Bradenton and Port Charlotte will bring a mix of hard-rock, country, blues and indie music with headliners including Seether, John McEuen and Parmalee.

Fans can enjoy shows at venues like Cottonmouth, Charlotte County Fairgrounds and Big Top Live — a diverse lineup for the area.

Two charter operators, Mater Academy and Somerset Academy, filed notices Tuesday to share campuses at Brookside Middle School and Emma E.

Booker Elementary under the Schools of Hope law—despite district plans approved last week to boost enrollment by repurposing these schools. Sarasota County Schools said it will challenge the requests as materially impractical given its new Future Focused Strategic Initiative.

Research from Mote Marine Laboratory found that the illegal shark fin and meat trade continued globally despite international protections established over a decade ago — DNA tests of nearly 20,000 samples revealed far more fins than reported from legal channels.

The study noted that unsustainable practices by major offenders, including Spain and China, could lead to future trade sanctions if they persist.

Sarasota officials approved keeping Midnight Pass open—part of a plan to maintain the bay's improved health since it naturally reopened in 2024, and the county seeks a development plan to protect the waterway.

Local groups will host a meeting on Nov. 16 at Evie’s Spanish Point and plan an outreach event in December to update the public.

The shutdown ended Wednesday night but flight delays and cancellations in Florida continue as air traffic controllers work off a month-long pay gap.

The FAA is keeping flight reductions at 6%—and travelers at busy airports like Orlando and Sarasota Bradenton should frequently check their flight status for updates.

Sarasota Memorial performed its 1,000th minimally invasive cardiac surgery, marking a key moment in heart care as a small incision between the ribs helps reduce pain and infection risk.

Dr. Jonathan Hoffberger led the procedure—demonstrating the hospital’s commitment to advanced, less-invasive surgery.

A new restaurant named Kitchen Social will open early 2026 at University Town Center at 257 N.

Cattlemen Drive, replacing the Rusty Bucket that closed on Aug. 18. The chef-driven tavern will serve comfort food including Asian-inspired dishes, fish and chips, and burgers — its first branch in Florida — while offering views of the roundabout and holiday light displays.

High school football playoffs have started for Sarasota and Manatee teams, with games kicking off yesterday and continuing today at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Fans can catch live action on NFHS Network—tracking every play as teams chase championship glory.

The Parrish Community girls golf team won the Class 3A state championship at Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills on Tuesday and Wednesday by coming from behind on the second day to beat Lake Nona by two strokes.

The team recorded a record-low score of 287 on day two—14 strokes lower than any other competitor.

2025 Sarasota Shark Tank SCM Meet

4 AM – 4 AM — Selby Aquatic Center — Entry fees apply — Compete in annual short-course meters meet featuring exciting 25-meter sprints and relay events.

Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Festival & Sunset Drum Circle

2-6 p.m. — Siesta Beach — Free entry — Experience stunning sand sculptures and enjoy live music at this community festival.

33rd Annual Sertoma Golf Classic

9 AM – 2 PM — Laurel Oak Country Club — Supports community needs — Experience a day of golf with exciting contests and a chance to win big prizes.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holiday season with the iconic Mannheim Steamroller performing their revolutionary Christmas music.

Sarasota Campus Open House

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Galen College of Nursing - Sarasota — Free entry — Explore nursing programs and meet faculty at an informative Open House event.

Scott Curts Live Performance

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

Bri Rivera Concert

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Enjoy the vibrant performances of Puerto Rican musician Bri Rivera in Sarasota's lively music scene.

BrickUniverse Sarasota 2025

10 AM – 4 PM — Robarts Arena — General Admission from $20 — Experience incredible LEGO builds and hands-on activities for the whole family.

MTC Legacy Trail Run

7 a.m. — Cafe in the Park — Free entry — Test your limits in a 60K ultramarathon for a great cause along the scenic Legacy Trail.

PMP Certification Classroom Training

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Regus - Sarasota Courthouse — $1599 — Comprehensive 4-day training for aspiring project managers featuring PMBOK standards and mock exams.