5 Things You Need to Know Today: Dec. 12

1. It was a violent weekend in SRQ. Three people were seriously injured in a Newtown shooting early Sunday at the same time a Sarasota woman's body was found in a ditch on University Parkway in Manatee County. Police are still searching for suspects in the Newtown incident and Manatee County Sheriff's Office has ruled the University case a homicide.

2. With that said, how does Sarasota stop this gun violence? The city is looking to have a regional approach and could consider a consultant to see what could be done. Commissioner Willie Shaw actually made his comments to stop the violence last week — before the latest incidents.

3. How much community goodwill does North Sarasota have for the proposed Goodwill store? We might find out today during an on North Tamiami Trail at the closed Winn-Dixie. Goodwill also recently opened a boutique store on Derek Avenue.

4. We're doubling the highlighted adoptable pets to satisfy both cat and dog lovers, thanks to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Today, we have Tara — an Australian Cattle Dog who needs a home.

5. We're going to regularly remind you that Sarasota County Schools has a chance to win $100,000 from Patch. But the school system needs your help. Enter the Deck the House content by uploading a picture or video of your house decorated for the holidays. If your house is a national finalist, you can win up to $500 to be applied to your December electric bill!