Good morning, Sarasota.

On Dec. 8 at Christ Church of Longboat Key, Hope Seeds volunteers led by Ann Quackenbush packed 5,000 cilantro and 1,400 onion seed packets as they work toward reaching 500,000 since 2016 + the group will celebrate 10 years next February with donor matching available through Christmas.

Former Adeline chef Drew Adams now leads the kitchen at CW Prime at the St. Regis Longboat Key, where he crafts a new menu featuring local ingredients such as Gulf seafood and Florida citrus.

This year, Sarasota's top food stories featured vibrant farmers markets with seasonal picks, quick recovery of coastal restaurants after storms, a family restaurant relocation to Ringling Boulevard, and a new working farm next to McIntosh Middle School — highlighting a dynamic local food scene.

Students at three local schools wrote letters to Santa earlier this month, sharing Christmas wishes that ranged from moving toy ducks + meeting a famous baseball player to hoping for more time with family and friends.

The letters capture the spirit of the holiday season in Sarasota.

Kelly Lile of Garden Elementary School received the Sarasota County Teacher of the Year Innovation Award at the Ignite Education Teacher of the Year celebration held on Dec.

11, and her creative classroom methods—such as the Decimal Diner and book tastings—continue to inspire her 4th-grade students.

Mote Marine released two rehabilitated manatees, Sleet & Cabbage, into Florida waters after months of care.

This conservation milestone marks a proud step in helping local wildlife thrive.

Longboat Key will break ground on a new library that will honor U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan and his wife, Sandra.

Sarasota County commissioners accepted a donation ($1M) on Dec. 16, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027 on the Town Center Green.

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan announced yesterday the winners of the 16th annual Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards (honoring distinguished service) for first responders.

Awardees include teams from Manatee, Hillsborough and other counties recognized for their dedicated work in keeping the community safe.

Several local restaurants in Sarasota, Bradenton, and nearby communities will be open on Christmas Day to offer festive menus for brunch and dinner—reservations and pre-orders are recommended as seating may be limited.

Render Legacy Trail (450-unit rental community) opened in early December near Legacy Trail in Nokomis, with 40% of apartments leased.

Residents enjoy outdoor amenities and easy access to a long recreational trail as development reshapes South Sarasota.

In November, single-family home sales in Sarasota County surged and prices dropped to $457,495 while condo sales fell amid rising inventory — prompting buyers to ask detailed questions about home conditions and flood risks ahead of high season.

Benderson Development and Kimley-Horn held a workshop on the adaptive reuse of the county administration building on Ringling Blvd next to Laurel Park, proposing a mixed-use campus with office and retail space (a Comprehensive Plan amendment is due by year-end to allow up to 10 stories).

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.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of eclectic tunes and loop styling with renowned Sarasota-based musician Scott Curts.

Open Mat at TeamAlves

6-7 a.m. — TeamAlves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school — $20 mat fee for non-team members — Grapple and practice techniques in a welcoming environment.

Justin Layman Concert

12-4 p.m. — Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with live music from Sarasota's own Singer/Songwriter Justin Layman, blending Folk, Rock, and R&B.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a local sensation from Sarasota with Puerto Rican roots.

New Year's Eve Celebration at Indigenous

5-11 p.m. — Indigenous Restaurant — $150 — Celebrate the new year surrounded by exquisite food and wine crafted by Chef Steve.

Justin Layman Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Swordfish Grill — Tickets available — Experience the unique blend of Folk, Rock, and R&B by Sarasota's own singer-songwriter Justin Layman.

Blue Man Group: North American Tour

7 PM — Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall — Cost TBD — Dive into a thrilling blend of captivating music and interactive art with the Blue Man Group.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician with roots in Puerto Rico.

Justin Layman: Open Mic Night

5:30-9:30 p.m. — 3 Bridges Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of original music blending Folk, Rock, and R&B by local talent Justin Layman.