Daily
Sarasota
Thursday, November 20th, 2025
Good morning, Sarasota. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Alissa Silvers led community members at Arlington Park to paint a tropical-themed mural on the lifeguard building during a Community Paint Day and Kids’ Wellness Fair on Nov.15 (funded by the City of Sarasota's Public Art Program). Observer
- ➤ Bird Key Yacht Club officials broke ground on a new clubhouse on Nov. 13 after the old building was demolished in early fall—marking the start of a $20M+ project that will include micropile testing before construction continues. Local members and nearby residents expressed excitement about the new, state-of-the-art facility replacing the former clubhouse. Observer
- ➤ Lynnette Coney is a Sarasota single mother of three who is studying for her December RN board exam while struggling with rising living costs and reduced work hours. Emergency help from Season of Sharing—covering $1,000 in rent—and support from a local resource center allowed her to catch up on rent so she can continue preparing for a better future. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ At the Cars & Coffee event on Nov. 8 at The Mall at UTC, deputies pulled over drivers who revved their engines to warn them about noise disrupting the Mote Science Education Aquarium's open roof. Organizers said future offenders may be banned from the monthly gathering — a step to keep the area respectful for local neighbors and businesses. Observer
- ➤ Safe Children Coalition announced its 2026 Champions for Children—Gulf Coast Community Foundation, MSC Foundation and National Alliance on Mental Illness Sarasota and Manatee Counties—who will be honored on March 26 for their work caring for children. The Giving Breakfast will be held at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A famous sandwich shop closed earlier this year at 7523 S. Tamiami Trail and a new restaurant—Johnny Longhots and Steaks—will take its place. The new eatery is getting close to opening in December and will serve the cheesesteaks that locals have long enjoyed. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Mara Art Studio-Gallery stands as a local hub that shows the talent and hard work of Sarasota artists—its creative exhibits inspire both new and seasoned painters and sculptors. The gallery continues to champion art and hard work in the community. ABC 7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Venice Area Beautification Inc. announced it has received over $2 million in grants from the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, with a recent $75,000 award to restore the Venice Urban Forest after hurricane damage and boost water quality and wildlife habitats. Gulf Coast Community Foundation allocated $50,000 from the Olga Lee Fund (for Global Conservation and Women Entrepreneurship) and $25,000 from its Environmental Initiative Fund to support ongoing green space improvements in Greater Venice. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Operation Warrior Resolution, a nonprofit led by Kendra Simpkins, has purchased a new 6-acre facility in east Manatee County to expand holistic mental health services for veterans through brain-based healing, equine therapy, and group yoga sessions. Simpkins said the organization aims to double the number of veterans served by 2026 and will soon hire more staff to meet growing demand—strengthening community care. Observer
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Brian and Marilyn Keemer have listed their 5,000-square-foot home in Lake Club, where modern smart features and careful design make every room unique. The custom Todd Johnston model sports a 10-foot-high rhino portrait from Johannesburg and offers lake views on over half an acre — a blend of adventure and luxury. Observer
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Preview capsules for FHSAA high school playoff games in Sarasota and Manatee are set for Friday, Nov 21, with matchups such as Cardinal Mooney versus Bishop Verot and Booker versus Bayshore scheduled at 7 p.m. Local experts forecast competitive scores and highlight key players for teams including Manatee, Cape Coral, Palmetto, Mitchell, West Orange, Venice, Sumner, and Riverview — fans can expect an exciting regional showdown. Sarasota Herald-Tribune
- ➤ Eric Nuxol, the championship director for the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club, has started volunteer registration and ticket sales for the event scheduled for April 16-19. He invites residents from Sarasota and Manatee counties to support the tournament and boost local business (approximately 1,100 volunteer roles are open) while tickets—on sale since Nov. 12—offer a $40 Any Day Flex option (discounts apply for early purchases). Observer
- ➤ Sarasota High boys' swimming team won the FHSAA Class 4A state championship on November 14th at Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training in Ocala, earning their fifth title in six years. The team overcame a coaching change—when former coach Andrew Eckhart left for North Carolina—and new coach Andrew Antonetz led them to a big win with standout senior Bogdan Zverev nearly breaking a state record. Observer
- ➤ Riverview girls’ swimming won the FHSAA Class 4A state championship on November 14 at Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training in Ocala—collecting 12 medals to secure their fifth straight title. The win marks the program’s 12th state championship and builds on coach John Bruenning’s tradition of teamwork and excellence. Observer
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Ryan Faraday Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Cost info unavailable — Experience a captivating evening of live music with professional guitarist Ryan Faraday and his band.
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Florida Turkey Trot
8 a.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — $23.14-$55.23 — Participate in a fun 5K run/walk with a Thanksgiving theme, complete with medals and mimosas.
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Runaway Gin - Phish Tribute
7-8:30 p.m. — Big Top Live — Ticketed event — Experience the electrifying tribute of Runaway Gin, hailed as the world's most notable Phish tribute project.
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Ezra Ray Hart Concert
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the musical talents of Ezra Ray Hart live in Sarasota.
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Frozen Musical Performance
Dec 4-21 — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Check website for pricing — Discover the enchanting story of Frozen live on stage with spectacular effects and beloved songs.
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Cabana Dogs Live Performance
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Cover charge may apply — Enjoy high-energy beach rock sounds with a mix of rock, country, and soul.
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