Good morning, Sarasota.

A 19-year-old man, Fredy Sanchez, died when his red Ford Ranger struck an FPL pole and crashed into the Cow Pen Slough Canal near the intersection of Ranch Road and Rustic Road just before 7 a.m. on Sunday, June 22.

Tickets are now on sale for the 2025 Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sandsculpting Festival, which will be held Nov.

14-17 at Siesta Beach. The festival will feature live sand sculpting competitions, music, food, and family activities — and offers early-purchase ticket, parking, and sponsorship opportunities.

Keep Manatee Beautiful is organizing a sea oat planting event at Coquina Beach on July 26 at 7 a.m. — they need 300 volunteers to help plant 12,000 sea oats to restore dunes along Anna Maria Island’s coastline before hurricane season, with tools provided and volunteers recommended to bring water, sunscreen, gloves, and closed-toe shoes.

Venice City Council is planning to add six firefighter/paramedics to allow a fourth ambulance to run around the clock as calls for help increase—this change will cost about $780,000 and may be funded by a small property tax hike or adjustments to the fire pension fund; no final decision has been made yet.

The Florida Department of Transportation is holding a public hearing on potential Clark Road improvements — including a possible widening to four lanes — on June 26 at Covenant Mennonite Fellowship.

The project covers a 3.4-mile stretch from exit 205 to Lorraine Road and remains in the planning stage with options like additional traffic lights and roundabouts under review.

Sarasota County Schools launched a Youth Vaping Task Force to tackle rising nicotine addiction among students.

The group, which includes students, educators, parents, and community leaders, will work to educate youth + reduce the trend of vaping in the community.

Sarasota eateries will celebrate National Coconut Day on June 26 with special coconut treats and island cocktails.

Local restaurants like Duck Donuts and Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar will offer menu items with toasted coconut—a nod to tropical flavors.

The current administration is reviewing plans to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac—companies that help many people get home loans.

If privatization moves forward, Sarasota buyers may face higher mortgage rates and tougher loan rules.

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.