Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 24th of November.
Good morning, Sarasota.
🏘️ Community
On Nov. 19, All Faiths Food Bank gave out about 1,000 turkeys at Ed Smith Stadium while a second event on Nov.
22 delivered nearly 800 turkeys at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The food bank ordered a record 14,500 turkeys and will give out 4.1 million holiday meals by year’s end—helping local families after federal cuts to food aid.
Mild weather on November 22 helped draw a steady crowd to downtown Sarasota's farmers market where families shopped for local produce, crafts and sweet treats while enjoying live music.
Vendors noted strong foot traffic—many local business owners praised the busy turnout—making the event a success.
Families celebrated the start of the holiday season at Light Up Longboat on November 22 at Town Center Green.
Local groups provided caroling, Santa visits, and a tree-lighting countdown — a raffle raised donations for HOPE Family Services.
🎭 Culture
Sarasota’s Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium opened in October and now houses a 400,000 gallon tank with marine animals such as a giant Pacific octopus, Humboldt penguins and river otters.
Visitors can feed and touch stingrays as the facility displays murals by local artists and offers free STEM programs to about 70,000 students each year.
Bahi Hut, Sarasota’s oldest tiki bar open since 1954, has been named one of the Best Dive Bars in America by USA TODAY—recognizing its strong drinks, retro decor, and lasting appeal with local patrons.
The accolade highlights the bar's enduring role as a cherished destination for both locals and visitors.
📰 Economy
FPL’s rate hike approved by the Florida Public Service Commission will begin on Jan.
1, 2026 and run for four years as FPL said the increases are needed to support growth and hurricane readiness—affecting about 12 million customers with typical monthly bills rising from $101.70 to around $136.64. Advocates for the elderly and conservation groups opposed the proposal.
🏛️ Government
Rick Piccolo, president and CEO of Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, will retire after 30 years of service as he led over half a billion dollars in improvements that made the airport self-sufficient and supported many local jobs.
His work also brought new educational partnerships including a charter school and an upcoming aircraft mechanics program—steps that will benefit our community for years to come.
🏈 Sports
The Braden River High School Raiders JROTC team of eight boys and five girls won four of five events at the state championship in Brooksville on Nov.
15—placing second in the rope bridge event as their knot got tangled.
Vinny Mercadante, a Cardinal Mooney grad from Lakewood Ranch, launched his lacrosse training school in January to boost local players’ skills and confidence.
He works with athletes of all ages and donates equipment to help those in need—filling a gap in private coaching in the region.
🎉 Sarasota Events
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yaya Diamond and the Dream Chasers Concert
7:30 p.m. — FSU Center for the Performing Arts — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the musical journey of Yaya Diamond and her talented Dream Chasers.
Boston Marathon & Half Marathon Qualifier in Sarasota
6:30 AM – 12:30 PM — Nathan Benderson Park — Registration fee applies — Aiming to qualify for Boston? This could be your chance to set a personal record on a perfect course.
Inside the Art World
11 AM – 12 PM — Sarasota Art Museum — Free entry — Explore contemporary art trends and insights with expert Elana Rubinfeld in an engaging and informal discussion.
🏠 Sarasota Real Estate
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📣 Sarasota Announcements
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