Good morning, Sarasota.

On Dec. 9, the Women’s Golf Association and Key Niners competed in a toy drive — centric golf tournament at the Harbourside Golf Course and held a community lunch at the ballroom with donations benefiting Toys for Tots.

President Lynn McBier announced a Swing for the Cure event set for Feb. 24.

Sarasota County deputies removed a 10-foot alligator from in front of a 7-Eleven in Venice this week after video footage showed the incident online — and authorities had also removed another over-600-pound reptile the previous week.

Residents enjoyed Longboat Harbour’s Lighting of the Docks on Dec.

6, where 56 decorated docks featured creative displays like a working miniature train and playful holiday themes — visitors also donated to Toys for Tots.

Lottery players in Sarasota have another chance to win big as the Powerball jackpot has grown to an estimated $1 billion after no winner was declared on Dec.

10; local tickets are available (at nearby retailers) and the next drawing is set for Saturday after 11 p.m. ET.

Florida law allows parking in front of a home as long as driveways, fire hydrants, and other restricted areas are not blocked.

A 2024 law prevents HOAs from adding extra parking rules—check posted signs to avoid fines or towing.

On Dec. 11, families in Sarasota-Manatee gathered at Nathan Benderson Park to raise awareness during National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and collected $339,000 for care, research and support.

More than 1,000 participants showed their solidarity with those affected by Alzheimer’s.

Cardinal Mooney won its third state football title with a 52-28 victory over Jacksonville Bolles on Dec.

10 at FIU's Pitbull Stadium. The Cougars scored eight touchdowns, and Coach Jared Clark praised the team's precise play and relentless drive throughout the game.

The Venice High boys soccer team was named the Herald-Tribune Top Team for November after earning 52.34% of the vote among 10 nominees.

The team started the season with 10 matches in 22 days and posted a 9-1 record.

Sarasota's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — Joe's On Main — Tickets required — Celebrate the holiday spirit in your ugliest sweater while enjoying festive activities and prizes.

Sarasota Half Marathon & 5K

7:00-10:30 a.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — Register for lowest price online — Experience a picturesque run while enjoying the scenic beauty of Sarasota.

Wheel of Fortune LIVE!

7 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Valet parking available — Experience America’s Game® live and spin the iconic wheel.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes from a seasoned guitarist and vocalist, Ryan Faraday.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Entry info not specified — Experience eclectic live music from a talented singer-songwriter accompanied by his loyal canine friend.

Open Mat Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Session

6-7 a.m. — TeamAlves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school — $20 mat fee for non-team members — A great opportunity for grappling and practicing techniques in a welcoming environment.

Live Music with Ben Jacobs

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — Entry fee not specified — Experience a soulful pop-rock fusion with Ben Jacobs as he delivers an electrifying performance.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland

6-9 p.m. — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Check website for pricing — Experience a magical holiday extravaganza with Cirque Musica in Sarasota.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant musical talents of Puerto Rican artist Bri Rivera in Sarasota.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check for ticket info — Experience the music of guitarist and vocalist Ryan Faraday, a prominent figure in Sarasota's local music scene.