Good morning, Sarasota.

The Waffle Stop, a 74-year-old Sarasota restaurant famous for serving Elvis Presley in 1956, will close at the end of the year, marking the loss of a beloved community dining spot.

Mark Riley, owner of Rico’s Pizza Gulfgate, has been delivering pizzas to Sarasota Memorial Hospital staff and patients on Christmas morning for 15 years.

In Sarasota, last-minute Christmas shoppers, including a young boy and his uncle, supported local businesses experiencing financial strain from recent hurricanes.

A Florida family is seeking help to identify a semi-truck driver involved in an alleged hit-and-run crash on Interstate 4 as they were moving to Orlando, with the incident under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.

Federal regulators allowed American Airlines flights to resume after a systemwide technical issue temporarily grounded them, impacting holiday travel.

The judge has ruled against Brennan Wakey's motion to dismiss, requiring him to stand trial for the death of Colton Wright in Sarasota.

In 2024, Sarasota's arts community demonstrated resilience and adaptability in facing challenges such as significant cuts in state arts funding and damages from hurricanes, with notable efforts to secure new performance venues and funding sources.

A Sarasota condominium was sold for $11.35 million, with the highest sale recorded at $15 million for a Siesta Key home, highlighting 2024's top residential real estate transactions in the region.

Florida enacts nine new laws on Jan.

1, 2025, including restrictions on social media use for minors and increased protections for first responders, amid legal challenges and public debate.

Florida records the highest number of drunk driving accidents in December, emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices during the holiday season.

Live Performance by Scott Curts

Scott Curts, an accomplished singer and songwriter, will perform live at Marina Jack, showcasing his unique 'loop' music style accompanied by his German Shepherd, Apollo.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

Bri Rivera, a talented musician and vocalist from Puerto Rico, showcases her musical skills at Marina Jack in Sarasota.

Klez Fest Celebration

Experience an evening of lively Eastern European Jewish and Yiddish music, featuring performances by Sarasota’s own Yiddish Cowboys, along with dining and artisan marketplaces.

Holiday Bird Walk for Young Birders at The Celery Fields

The Florida Young Birders Club hosts a guided bird walk and song workshop for kids and teens, focusing on local bird species and nature exploration at The Celery Fields.

Scott Curts Live Performance

Accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts performs his unique loop-style music at Marina Jack in Sarasota, Florida.

New Year's Eve Celebration at Pier 22

A New Year's Eve event featuring a special holiday menu, live DJ entertainment, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.

Scott Curts Live Performance

Scott Curts, an accomplished singer and songwriter, showcases his unique 'loop' styling at Marina Jack in Sarasota.

Dog Training Workshop at The Bay

A monthly dog training session conducted by certified expert trainer Terry Cook, designed to improve your dog's behavior while enjoying time outdoors with fellow dog owners.

Forever Elvis '73 featuring Dwight Icenhower

This event showcases a tribute to Elvis Presley by acclaimed Five Time World Champion Elvis Tribute Artist Dwight Icenhower, celebrated for his remarkable voice and performances.

Jean-Yves Thibaudet: Concert Series Debut

Acclaimed French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet performs Debussy's Preludes in his debut concert for the Sarasota Concert Association.