Good morning, Sarasota.

Four local developments show progress as Embracing Our Differences expands its Education Ambassador Program with a $350,000 grant, the Community Foundation awards $2.1 million in scholarships, Senior Friendship Centers start free creative writing classes on Aug.

19 at Carter Library, and HCA Florida Englewood Hospital opens a $1 million helipad.

Yesterday at 1:30 p.m., county firefighters and Florida Forest Service personnel responded to a 15-acre brush fire on Tempest Harbor Loop in Venice, evacuating 10 homes with no reported injuries or property damage.

A brush fire forced evacuations in Granite Woods Loop near South Venice but is now 80% contained, officials said at 2:20 p.m. on Saturday.

Fire crews expect no further evacuations despite lingering smoke from a low-pressure system.

Florida State University announced that Steven High will retire as executive director of The Ringling once his successor is chosen.

He led the museum since 2011 (growing its budget and collection) and helped strengthen Sarasota's leading cultural venue.

Lakewood Ranch High School hosted the Junior Rancher's Agriculture Summer Camp from June 1 to 4, where FFA members explored animal, plant, and environmental science with hands-on activities + a live demonstration of the milking process by Dakin Dairy Ag Experience.

On Friday morning, firefighters battled a brush fire on the 12000 block of Tempest Harbor Loop in the Stoneybrook at Venice neighborhood, evacuating 10 homes as the blaze burned 41 acres.

The Florida Forest Service & local crews used a helicopter for water drops to slow its spread.

Deputies will increase patrol on Siesta Key Beach today + officials aim to manage safety as visitor turnout grows.

Charlotte County health officials issued a rabies advisory after a raccoon tested positive on May 29 near Jarvis Street, urging residents to keep pets vaccinated and avoid contact with wild animals.

Cruise fares drop during hurricane season as fewer people book trips and ships adjust itineraries to avoid storms.

Sarasota travelers can save on Caribbean cruises but should check cancellation policies and plan backup arrangements (a reminder from cruise experts).

Today, Executive Chef Jamil Pineda showcased his Cajun Shrimp & Grits at Michael’s On East as part of the 21st Annual Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week running June 1–14 across Sarasota County venues.

Doughnut lovers enjoyed free treats and special deals on Friday, June 5 at chain and local shops around Sarasota + other parts of Florida as Krispy Kreme, Dunkin', and Duck Donuts offered donuts to mark the holiday.

Developers of a 3,148-acre project in southern Sarasota County have revised plans to include fewer new homes than previously envisioned.

The combined plan for Wellen Park & Winchester Ranch now calls for 22,500 homes, roughly 250 more than once planned for Wellen Park alone.

Bri Rivera Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info unavailable — Experience the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican music with local talent Bri Rivera.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of eclectic blues and rock with professional musician Ryan Faraday.

2026 USRowing Youth National Championships

Four days of elite racing — Nathan Benderson Park — General Admission 4-Day Pass: $94 — Watch the nation’s top young rowers compete for national titles in a vibrant atmosphere.

Mystical Visions Performance

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Enjoy the energetic sounds of a female fronted pop/rock cover band playing hits from the 60s to today.

Lady Disdain: A Hilarious Fantasy Romance

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Asolo Repertory Theatre — $31.50 — Experience a witty romantic comedy with a battle of wits and voices between rival audiobook narrators.

Tasting the City - Sarasota Food Tasting Event

5:30-8 p.m. — BMW of Sarasota — $100 — Discover culinary delights from local restaurants while enjoying live entertainment and giveaways.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of tropical tunes from a rising star in the local music scene.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of eclectic tunes from a seasoned guitarist and vocalist originally from Boston.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience eclectic sounds from an accomplished singer-songwriter in a relaxed atmosphere.

Towles Court Artwalk

4-8 p.m. — Towles Court Artist Studios — Free entry — Explore local art and meet creators in a vibrant community setting with live music and refreshments.