Good morning, Sarasota.

Local nonprofits in Lakewood Ranch hosted recent charity events, including Heritage Cares Foundation’s Five Days of Giving that raised $102,200 + donated over $51,000 to Stillpoint Mission in November.

Knights of Columbus and Coldwell Banker Realty also organized drives supporting veterans and families.

Venice couple Morrisa and Pierre Claude received essential support from Season of Sharing — which helped cover rent and secure a larger three-bedroom home after their premature baby boy, Azaiah, needed intensive care.

The family now thrives with Azaiah at home.

On Dec. 15, Lakewood Ranch High wrestlers caroled at Cypress Springs Gracious Retirement Living, offering holiday cheer to local retirees.

The team performed classics like 'Feliz Navidad' and built community connections while exploring talents beyond the wrestling mat.

Residents in Lakewood Ranch and surrounding communities show their unique holiday spirit by decorating with traditions ranging from displaying 27-year-old, hand-painted nativity sets to building elaborate Lego villages and baking birthday cakes for Jesus — festive exhibits that bring personal history to life throughout the season.

Perlman Music Program Suncoast moves its winter residency for free rehearsals and masterclasses to downtown Sarasota venues from Dec.

30 to Jan. 10, where local students from the Sarasota Music Conservatory will join international participants with a celebration concert and dinner to wrap up the event.

Lakewood Ranch's Rich Vannucci has played Santa for 50 years and shows no sign of stopping (his nonprofit Operation Serving Children also helps local families).

He continues to brighten the season with his time-honored tradition today.

Florida's cost of living is now above the national average, with rising housing and everyday expenses squeezing budgets statewide.

Higher rents, home prices, and costs for groceries, utilities + healthcare are prompting some residents to reconsider their long-term plans.

The Education Center at Temple Beth Israel on Longboat Key offers a diverse winter term with classes in art, film, jazz, and yoga starting Jan.

5 and running through Feb. 27, and enrollment is open for programs priced differently for members and nonmembers (prices vary by course).

Gov. Ron DeSantis’s budget proposes closing USF Sarasota-Manatee within six months to grant New College access to its facilities and land — community leaders and alumni urge legislators to act today to protect 2,000 students and 40 accredited programs.

Sarasota and Manatee counties are in a severe drought that has reduced rainfall by 13 inches this year, lowering freshwater levels beneath barrier islands like Longboat Key.

Experts warn that increased irrigation may draw saltwater into shallow aquifers and urge residents to fix leaks and adjust watering schedules.

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.

Mystical Visions Concert

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy a night of captivating pop/rock hits from a talented female fronted band.