Good morning, Sarasota.

Local events continue to draw interest in Sarasota as the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe hosts its third annual Juneteenth Arts Festival at its campus on June 22 with live performances and a free concert featuring indie jazz saxophonist Dee Lucas—USRowing will return to Benderson Park on June 12—15 for the Youth National Championships, expecting nearly 10,000 athletes and spectators. Other community activities include a Senior Friendship Centers author series starting June 19, FPL distributing hurricane preparedness kits to seniors on June 11, and additional events in reading, art, and local craftsmanship fueling summer programming.

Rachel Ghormley and her husband bought the 50-year-old Euphemia Haye on Longboat Key after it closed suddenly, and they plan to keep favorite menu items while making minor updates to the wine list.

They will launch live music nights and special events to celebrate its 50th anniversary later this year—bringing renewed energy to a local landmark.

Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested on charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering for his alleged role in protecting an illegal gambling operation that made over $21 million in profits — he is held without bail in Lake County and is set to appear in court on June 30.

On Thursday morning, Venice officials held a ribbon cutting at 343 Nassau Street for the Old Betsy Museum next door to the Venice Museum — honoring Earl and Karen Midlam for preserving the historic 1926 American LaFrance fire engine.

Hundreds of people gathered at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on Thursday night to watch the rare Queen of the Night bloom, a night-flowering cactus that opened its buds in about 30 minutes and closed at dawn (its blossoms can reach six to eight inches in diameter).

Ann Morrison, a Broadway veteran, returns to the Asolo Repertory Theatre stage to play King Herod and Joanna in Jesus Christ Superstar as director Josh Rhodes seeks a fresh take on the classic show—bringing humor and bold ideas to the role.

Sarasota Music Festival director Jeffrey Kahane will perform Heirloom—a concerto written by his son Gabriel—on June 20 at the Sarasota Opera House as part of the festival.

The performance fits the theme Music as a Mirror of History and marks a special family collaboration that brings a new chapter for both musicians.

Florida motorists saw gasoline prices rise for the second week in a row as the average climbed to $3.01 on June 2, though the cost remained about 3.7% lower than the national average.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration said seasonal demand shifts and changes in crude oil prices contributed to the increase and that prices were expected to stay relatively stable during the summer travel season.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB 913 on April 29 to ease condo owners’ financial strain by allowing associations to borrow funds for repairs and by raising reserve thresholds—this law will take effect July 1 as owners, including many in Sarasota, face rising insurance costs and repair fees after Surfside. Local owners say the new law offers needed flexibility but worry it may not fully address the ongoing affordability challenges.

At the Sarasota-Manatee High School Sports Awards held on May 30, readers voted to honor Saint Stephen's weightlifter Corbin Franklin as Boys Athlete of the Year—he received 57.94% of the vote after lifting 385 pounds at the regional meet and 390 pounds at the state Class 1A meet.

Open House Hiring Event

2-6 p.m. — 730 S Osprey Ave — Free entry — Explore exciting career opportunities in resort and caregiving staff.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check website for entry details — Experience the unique loop styling of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts in beautiful Sarasota.

Evening Namaste with Claudia Baeza

6-7 p.m. — The Bay Park — Free participation — Experience mindful yoga under the guidance of a talented local instructor in a scenic setting.

Roa Concert

9 PM — Bombón Mexican Restaurant — Ticket Info Available — Enjoy a unique night with Roa as they perform their popular hits in an intimate setting.

Dad’s Day Block Party

10 AM – 2 PM — The Mall at University Town Center — Free entry — Celebrate Super Dads with games, live entertainment, and special meet & greets.

Father's Day Celebration at The Ringling Grillroom

10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. — The Ringling Grillroom — $30 and under — Celebrate dad with delicious grilled meals, specialty beers, and live music in a charming setting.

Environmental Book Circle Conversations

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Selby Library — RSVP required — Engage in a discussion about Sarasota's environmental issues through literature.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free admission — Enjoy a night of eclectic music from accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts accompanied by his canine companion.

Meteoreyes Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Oscura Coffee & Cocktails — Cover charge may apply — Dance to the catchy indie-synth-electro-pop-rock beats of Sarasota's MeteorEYES.

Virtual Senior Living Tour

9 AM - 7 PM — Aviva Senior Living — Free entry — Explore quality senior living with top-rated care and nutritional dining options.

Community Development Orientation

Come find out about Neighborhood Expert jobs to assist in the development of The Newtown Family Center. Hiring starts in September.