Good morning, Sarasota.

Sarasota residents have a chance to view the Strawberry Moon on Monday, June 29 at 7:56 p.m. Top spots like Bayfront Park, Bird Key Park, and Siesta Beach offer clear waterfront views for a relaxing evening walk.

A recent study found that Florida ranked 5th among states in a wage gap analysis because its median annual wage fell nearly $9,200 short of a living wage.

The report also showed that Orlando ranked 5th among large cities with significant wage gaps.

Dr. Randy Wells retires as director of the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program effective July 1, and Dr. Katie McHugh, who joined the project as an intern in 2000, will take over + Wells will continue research as director emeritus after 56 years of service.

Firefighters reached 90% containment of three brush fires that burned over 1,000 acres at Orange Hammock Ranch in North Port early Wednesday, Jun.

24. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection acquired the 5,777-acre ranch in 2020 as an environmental site.

Hot, humid conditions will hit with heat indices of 100 to 105 and scattered storms increasing on Monday and Tuesday, while burn bans remain in effect across dry counties * residents are advised to drink water and take breaks in the shade during outdoor activities.

Sarasota County will swap a landlocked parcel for an $11-million Gulf-front property to create a public beach with clear oversight & benefits for residents, visitors and local businesses.

The move aims to preserve public access for future generations.

Florida officials announced that fireworks will be allowed for July 4 — however, counties with burn bans, including Sarasota, may restrict pyrotechnics so residents should celebrate safely amid ongoing wildfire risk.

Local officials say the heat index will hit the middle 100s later this week, and residents should use fans, open windows for cross breezes, and stay hydrated.

Experts offer cooling tips, such as dampening curtains (which help lower indoor temperatures) to beat the extreme heat.

Florida recorded 51 lightning fatalities between 2016 and 2025 + experts advise Sarasota residents to seek shelter during summer thunderstorms.

Venice High School announced its 2026 athletic Hall of Fame class on June 15, naming seven inductees including former MLB player Mark Guthrie and NFL player Trey Burton — the honorees will be celebrated at halftime during the Indians game on Sept.

10 and at a formal ceremony on Sept. 12.

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.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from Puerto Rican talent Bri Rivera.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Check out a talented vocalist from Puerto Rico making waves in Sarasota's music scene.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of Ryan Faraday, a versatile musician from Sarasota.

Sarasota Speed Dating for Singles in Their 50s and 60s

6-8 p.m. — PopStroke — Ticket required — Connect with up to 12 potential matches in a fun and relaxed environment.