Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Sarasota.
Rising grocery prices have led more families to rely on food banks throughout Florida.
In Sarasota, the All Faiths Food Bank notes higher demand as its mobile pantries serve more residents, and nonprofits call for extra donations and volunteers (82% report costs rising faster than incomes).
Allegiant Air dropped 61 routes (12 in Florida including Sarasota-Brandenton) and will add 49 new routes, with 8 connections launching this fall.
The changes come as the airline posts strong earnings and adjusts capacity due to market shifts.
Avelo Airlines extended its schedule through early spring, offering improved flight days from Sarasota and other Florida hubs—Lakeland remains the main base for nine destinations, and fares start at $39 with prices varying by route.
Michael Jordan & other sports stars are expanding 1000 North to downtown Sarasota.
The members-only club will open in October, offering exclusive dining and lounge spaces at 520 North Tamiami Trail.
Local entrepreneur Amber Hanratty opened Dirty Sara-Soda on her retro trailer and now serves custom dirty sodas, cold brew coffees and lemonade drinks — the menu features local signatures like the St. Armands Swirl and Selby Splash, costing $7 to $8.
Customers earn loyalty cards for free drinks.
A variety of arts events unfold in Sarasota this week - the Summer Circus Spectacular opens today at Historic Asolo Theatre, a Romeo and Juliet show runs Friday at Dingbat Theatre, and a two-day Juneteenth festival plus live jazz and folk sessions add more local color through June 24.
Six Sarasota County public school educators earned the Barancik Foundation’s 2026 Ripple Effect Teacher Award in May, receiving a $5,000 grant each for their support of students, officials said.
The award recognizes outstanding impact beyond the classroom.
A River Club couple has taped off their front door so a family of doves can safely raise two hatchlings, protecting the birds from disturbance.
Wildlife experts say the effort helps secure local wildlife survival.
Spaghetti models on June 17 showed that Potential Tropical Cyclone One remained north of Florida — flooding rains and tornado threats could still affect coastal areas.
Residents should follow updates as the storm strengthens or weakens along the Texas coast.
City Transportation Department and Cummins and Cederberg detailed plans for a water taxi linking Bayfront Park + Ken Thompson Park, with docks at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and a reconstructed pier.
The 30% design project expects grant awards before launching in five to ten years.
Sarasota pet owners are warned that invasive cane toads can secrete a toxin that may kill dogs in as little as 15 minutes; residents should clear yard attractants and wash pets’ mouths immediately if contact occurs—veterinary help is crucial.
The Sarasota Herald-Tribune named track teams and top athletes with Parrish Community's Riley Michaud and Venice's Atarah Robinson selected as Athletes of the Year.
Voting stays open until Monday, June 22 at 10 a.m. for fans to cast their vote—winners will be announced on Instagram.
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.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info not provided — Experience the sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, in an intimate live setting.
Ryan Faraday Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info not provided — Experience the musical talents of guitarist and vocalist Ryan Faraday as he performs a mix of Roots, Blues, Rock, and Soul.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the eclectic musical stylings of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts accompanied by his loyal companion, Apollo.
Mystical Visions Concert
6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of energetic pop/rock hits from the 60’s to today with a female-fronted band.
Sound Healer Certification Course
9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. — Wild Ginger Apothecary — $895 — Enhance your sound healing skills and confidently facilitate group sessions through this immersive certification training.
Bri Rivera Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of vibrant music by this talented Puerto Rican artist in a cozy setting.
Ryan Faraday Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check the site for cost — Enjoy a night of captivating music from a talented guitarist and vocalist.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check for ticket info — Enjoy a night of eclectic music with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts and his loyal companion, Apollo.
Mystical Visions: Live Music Experience
6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of pop/rock hits from the 60’s to today with the female fronted band Mystical Visions.
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