| Together with: |
 |
|
Happy Friday, Sarasota. In today’s edition: Frozen, a white Christmas dinner and dance party, support grows for workforce housing, and more. Let’s get to it!
— Cait Baker
|
📰 In the news
A new hub for STEM: Mote Science Education Aquarium has unveiled Workforce Development Labs offering hands-on training and mentorship in aquaculture, conservation, coral, and veterinary care, helping students and professionals launch careers in marine science — read the full story.
Support grows for workforce housing: Habitat for Humanity received approval to build 20 townhomes near downtown Palmetto for low-income first-time buyers, with design finishing next year and construction expected in 2027 and 2028 — see what’s planned for Palmetto.
How Sarasota monitors threats: SPD is expanding SRQ City View, enlisting downtown businesses and condos to share live camera feeds, with rebates available and modest fees, aiming to speed responses and investigations — get details on costs and rebates.
Compare rates for free: The national average for car insurance is around $175 per month. Paying more than that? Same, so I did some shopping around and ended up cutting my premium in half. If you haven’t checked in a while, you’re probably overpaying too — here’s the comparison tool I used.
Identity theft is up 25%: Last year, Americans lost $12.5 billion to ID theft & fraud, and the stories behind those numbers are brutal. My friend just told me his dad’s on his fourth replacement credit card. Other folks have woken up to empty bank accounts or their personal info dumped online after a breach. Aura catches these kinds of attacks early by monitoring for new accounts, weird money movements, leaked data, and other red flags so you’re alerted before things blow up — learn more about it here.
|
Better Bodies: A healthier, stronger you for the holidays and the New Year
In partnership with Better Bodies Training
The holiday season is here… and while it’s a time for celebration, it’s also the perfect moment to invest in your health for the year ahead.
Sarasota-based Better Bodies Training (led by longtime fitness and nutrition coach Henriette Steffensen), is helping adults 40 and over finish the year strong and step into the New Year feeling energized and confident.
With over 20 years of experience, Henriette specializes in fitness and nutrition coaching designed for the 40+ community — focusing on helping you move more, eat better, and feel your best.
Habits that last well beyond January resolutions.
“Instead of waiting for January and New Year’s resolutions, start building momentum now,” says Steffensen. “A few small steps before the holidays can make all the difference in how you start the New Year.”
Give the gift of wellness and receive 3 sessions for yourself or someone you love. Visit betterbodiestraining.com or call 404-545-4465 to get started.
|
🫶 We got your back
A fresh start nearby: Shebeen Irish Pub and Kitchen is moving off Siesta Key to Gulf Gate, taking over the former Sarasota Brewing Company building about 1.5 miles east. Owner Eileen Carrigan aims to reopen Feb. 1 with 135 seats, a central stage, a larger kitchen, and a full bar. Farewell event Dec. 7. Get all the details.
Crews prep for bay project: Heads up on Longboat Key: TECO is installing a new gas main to avoid a dredging clash, bringing nightly work and sidewalk closures along a 1.5-mile stretch from the New Pass drawbridge to Longboat Club Road. Expect traffic shifts 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Dec. 20, then Jan. 5 to 31, mostly near the south end of Gulf of Mexico Drive. See schedule and affected areas.
Your week needs this pour: Step into Calusa Brewing’s McIntosh taproom for 36 taps pouring a rotating lineup, weekly releases, and a front-row brewhouse view. Add local art, bar games, and the in-house PigFish kitchen for snacks when hunger hits.
Thinning hair? Same: I’ve been shedding a lot, and recently noticed my ponytail feeling thinner. After way too much panic-Googling, I decided to take Hers’ online quiz. They recommended a Biotin + Minoxidil green-apple gummy that targets regrowth and overall hair health. The whole thing was surprisingly easy: just verify your identity and a licensed provider signs off. Here’s the quiz if you want to check it out.
Makeup that actually works: My sister and I were talking the other day about how the makeup we used in our 20s… just doesn’t work now that we’re in our 30s and 40s. Laura Geller’s entire makeup line addresses this shift, with formulas that smooth, brighten, and actually stay put. If you’re in the same boat, their curated kits are worth a look.
|
📆 Around town this weekend
All events are subject to change without notice. This is entirely outside our control. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.
Today
❄️ White Christmas Dinner & Dance Party! @ Celebrations Venue | Friday (12/5) at 7:00pm – Holiday season calls for a White Christmas dinner and dance, all sparkle, good food, and classic tunes. Dust off the winter whites, practice your spins, and prepare for a night that feels like a Hallmark movie, but with better cocktails, and fewer small-town mayors.
🌟 Light up the Night @ Five Points Park | Friday (12/5) at 7:00pm – Ready to give downtown a glow up? Selby Five Points Park is lighting up the night, the perfect excuse to stroll, catch up with neighbors, and pretend we planned this on purpose. Simple, bright, and the Sarasota evening that reminds you why you live here.
This weekend
⛵ Set Sail Campus-to-Campus Boat Tour @ Downtown Sarasota Campus | Saturday (12/6) at 9:45am – Selby Gardens is setting sail with a full-day campus-to-campus boat tour, the old Florida way to play hooky. Cruise the Intracoastal with narration, hop both campuses, and refuel with a box lunch at Historic Spanish Point. Culture with a sea breeze, and zero parking drama.
🛍️ Atomic Holiday Bazaar @ Robarts Arena | Saturday (12/6) at 12:00pm – Skip the big box run and prowl Robarts for Atomic’s Misfit Makers, slinging vintage kitsch, upcycled threads, jams, jewelry, and plants. The Bradentucky Bombers welcome the first 100 adults with swag-stuffed totes, plus there are food trucks, the cantina, and $6 admission, kids free.
🛥️ VABI Boat Bash 2025 @ Venice Area Beautification Inc | Saturday (12/6) at 5:30pm – Boat Parade night on the Intracoastal means trading lawn chairs for linen napkins. Grab a spot at VABI’s Boat Bash, watch the flotilla glide by, enjoy holiday dinner from Cafe Venice, and dance to The Cryin Shames, because cardio pairs with sequins, and a spritzer.
❄️ Frozen @ Manatee Performing Arts Center | Sunday (12/7) at 2:00pm – Arendelle is taking over Bradenton for an afternoon of live-theatre chills and feels. Sing along to “Let It Go,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” and all the hits while dazzling effects and sparkling costumes bring the story to life.
🎪 LECOM presents Wonderland: Believe @ Wonderland Circus | Sunday (12/7) at 5:00pm – Step into a holiday fever dream of high-flying stunts, glittering lights, and just the right amount of danger, starring Sarasota legend Nik Wallenda, the always-extra Johnny Rockett, and electrifying Ty McFarlan. Expect heart-in-your-throat circus acts, soaring aerial performances, and a feel-good story that leans hard into the holiday spirit.
Next week
🌺 Bayfront Gardens Tour @ Bayfront Gardens | Monday (12/8) at 11:00am – A small-group walking tour at The Ringling’s Bayfront Gardens leads you past 2,350 trees and the estate’s history. Expect 90 minutes of guided gawking, daylong garden access, and a dash of Florida weather, so bring water, sun armor, and sensible shoes.
🎭 Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage @ Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | Monday (12/8) at 1:30pm – Trade your usual seat for the spotlight with a docent-led stroll through the Van Wezel’s Florida art, then a backstage peek at how the magic happens. It’s $15, low on drama, high on insider stories, and benefits Arts Advocates and the hall’s education programs.
🐶 Nathan’s Honor Dog Rescue Event @ University Town Center | Tuesday (12/9) at 6:00pm – Take a break from errands and swing by Nathan’s Honor Dog Rescue for wagging tails and real blues. Maine-born, Tampa-based multi-instrumentalist Zack Pomerleau throws down harmonica, guitar, foot drums, and vocals, classic cuts and originals. Good deeds, gritty grooves, minimal small talk.
Wanna see more? Browse our full events calendar →
|
🎶 Live music & entertainment
|
🏠️ Price is right – Sarasota edition
How it works: We’re going to give you some facts about a home for sale, including a picture of the outside, the kitchen, and one additional room. Your job? Guess how much it’s listed for (preferably before you click to find out).
Listed by: Barbara Dumbaugh (MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY)
Heritage Builder channels West Indies style on almost half an acre West of the Trail, on a quiet canopy street. The great room and chef’s kitchen face a tropical scene, sparkling pool, generous entertaining terrace, covered lounge, and outdoor kitchen.
Owner’s suite brings a formal vestibule, vaulted ceiling, dual walk in closets, and a spacious bath with dual vanities. Finishes include a full height backsplash and walk in pantry, plus 8 foot solid core doors, hurricane impact rated low E windows with insulated vinyl frames, spray foam insulation, and a 10 minute hop to downtown and the beaches.
Make your guess, then (and only then)… see how much it costs →
|
|
|
