Good morning, Sarasota.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties recently celebrated the opening of the Malcolm Family Teen Center at the Louis and Gloria Flanzer Boys & Girls Club in Arcadia— a new space that will help DeSoto teens succeed after high school with programs in academics, career readiness, and hands-on training. Local officials and club members attended the ceremony to mark a major milestone in expanding opportunities for youth in the area.

Billy Prater, the former manager of a Sarasota County resort, is accused of stealing over $110,000 from his employer by giving away free rooms and paying a handyman via CashApp and PayPal — an audit revealed the theft occurred between the end of 2023 and late 2024, and he was released on a $50,000 bond.

Seagrass protects Sarasota’s shoreline and sea life but has been declining due to stressors, and MOTE Marine Laboratory is leading a 10-year restoration plan with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the University of Florida to study these impacts.

The Florida Legislature approved $2 million per year for five years for the initiative, and local experts noted a 19% gain in Sarasota Bay seagrass last year—further research and funding will guide future efforts.

Anna Maria is asking for funding support from Mote Marine, Manatee County, and state officials to rebuild its pier destroyed by hurricanes— the pier once hosted a marine science center and served as a key ferry drop-off for residents and visitors.

City officials spent $223,000 on inspections and design and expect demolition to begin by the end of June as they work to secure an estimated $7 to 9 million needed for reconstruction.

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.

Ice Cream Social Fundraiser

4-7 p.m. — Jeni’s Ice Creams — 25% of sales will support Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Center — Indulge in delicious ice cream for a great cause.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic mix of music from accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts accompanied by his loyal canine companion, Apollo.

Community Development Orientation

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

Piano Friends Performance

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection — Paid venue parking — Experience sequential performances by talented local pianists in a celebration of music.

Sarasota Fireworks and Candle Painting Party

7-9 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$47 per person — Create a scented candle and enjoy a fun painting night with friends.

Reptiday Sarasota

10 AM – 4 PM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Visit for an exciting showcase of reptiles, supplies, and exotic pets.

Sarasota Mystic Faire

9 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Sarasota Municipal Auditorium — $5 for one day or $8 for the weekend — Experience Florida's largest psychic fair with holistic and metaphysical vendors.

Christmas in July Night Market

6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Green at UTC — Free entry — Celebrate summer with holiday cheer, local vendors, and live music as Santa makes a special appearance.

DOG BAR SRQ - Grand Opening Celebration

12-3 p.m. — Dog Bar Sarasota — $7 entry per dog — Celebrate the return of Sarasota’s favorite dog-friendly hangout with cold drinks and a fresh menu.