Good morning, Sarasota.

A local fire station hosted an open house to teach residents about fire safety and answer questions—officials say the event was designed to build stronger community bonds and increase awareness of fire prevention.

Attendees toured the station and interacted directly with firefighters.

On June 19, Lakewood Ranch's Sisterhood for Good awarded 30 grants totaling $150,150 at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing—this event came after receiving 101 applications and nearly matching last year's total despite a challenging donation season after hurricanes.

Records in Sarasota-Manatee show that many domestic strangulation charges are dropped by prosecutors—even though victims face a 750 times higher risk of being killed by the same person—and that several offenders later committed deadly acts after previous nonfatal assaults.

Jim Travers has stepped back from leading the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation after six years as chairman — though he stays on the board — while Jenne Britell and Drayton Saunders take over as co-chairs as the board seeks City Commission approval to continue work on a new performing arts center.

A know your rights class will be offered to Sarasota residents to explain their legal protections — organizers said details on location and time are forthcoming.

The Venice Planning Commission approved a new hospital zoning district that allows Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Venice campus to build up to 150 feet—this change aims to improve patient care by shortening distances between key areas.

The board also approved a site plan for a Hyatt Studios hotel, a revised Generations at Venice multifamily project, and modifications to Venice Crossing that shift the area from residential to commercial use.

Midtown Associates submitted plans to redevelop the vacant Winn-Dixie site next to Michael’s on East into a mixed-use project with 112 apartments, a 145-room hotel and retail space on 1299 S.

Tamiami Trail—25% of the apartments will be affordable, and the project has been reviewed by the city committee. Plymouth Harbor and Sage Park Townhomes also received partial approval and will move forward after further City Commission review—negotiations continue over necessary property adjustments.

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.

Psychic Sundays Tour

1-3 p.m. — Discover Sarasota Tours — Ticket prices vary — Immerse in the mystical with tarot readings and a sound bath experience under the guidance of Deni Dreazen.