Good morning, Sarasota.

Over the weekend the Humane Society of Sarasota County hosted the Petco Love Florida Mega Adoption event where 105 animals (cats, dogs, kittens and puppies) found new homes, surpassing a goal of 100.

The shelter now aims for 130 adoptions and will bring in at-risk pets from surrounding counties (to help save more lives).

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office deputies identified a person of interest in a Nokomis shooting on June 29th — authorities continue to investigate the incident.

A Sunday column explains that Sarasota food stories show more than recipes by featuring local craft barbecue at Smoke & Fire BBQ on Clark Road—where owner Todd Horiuchi and his team mix passion with skill—reminding readers that food news connects health, economics, and our community’s rich culture.

The Big Waters Land Trust unveiled its new Strategic Conservation Plan that uses data to prioritize six conservation values — Clean Water, Imperiled Species, Coastal Resiliency, Sustainable Agriculture, Access for All, and Carbon Sequestration — and nine focus areas in Southwest Florida. The plan received a $2,000 grant from the Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch to boost environmental literacy and strengthen community connections.

The Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee reported in May that median sale prices dropped 7.3% in Sarasota (from $530,000 to $465,000) and 8.9% in Manatee (from $525,000 to $478,195) as sales activity slowed and inventory stayed high.

Longer selling times signal a more buyer-friendly market as the shift in price trends continues.

The Sarasota Herald-Tribune announced Cardinal Mooney Catholic basketball coach Marlon Williams as the 2024-25 Girls Coach of the Year during its Sports Awards Show on May 30 at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall—readers can now vote from 12 nominees in a poll that closes at 10 a.m. on July 7.

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.

PMP Certification Classroom Training in Sarasota

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Regus - Sarasota Courthouse — Early bird pricing available — Gain comprehensive project management training with a money-back guarantee.

Bri Rivera Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check artist's website for details — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a standout musician from Sarasota with Puerto Rican roots.

Brunch at The Bay with Live Music

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — The Nest at The Bay — Check menu for prices — Delight in a tasty brunch while enjoying live music by Taylor Opie from 12-1 PM.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check the website for ticket info — Enjoy the uplifting sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented vocalist from Puerto Rico, as she lights up the local music scene.