Good morning, Sarasota.

Officer Tripp Schwenk retired on June 26 after a 26-year career with the Sarasota Police Department following an Olympic career that earned him gold and silver in 1996.

The Sarasota native is remembered for his dedication & community impact and is now considering new opportunities.

Sarasota deputies are searching for 81-year-old Barbara Hamilton after she was last seen at 8:30 a.m. June 30 leaving Best Care Senior Living Facility on 8th Street; officials say she left on foot amid early signs of dementia and ask anyone with information to call 911.

CNN named Sarasota America’s No. 1 town to visit in 2026 because of its vibrant arts scene, pristine beaches and lively restaurant culture.

The ranking underscores the city’s Gulf Coast charm and its competitive appeal for travelers.

Longboat Key officials ordered a $28,000 study on sooty dust after residents noticed black residue on patio furniture and vehicles; the test found the particulates likely come from roadway traffic and local maintenance activities (not from aircraft) on the island.

Sarasota County has released its 2025 Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report, now available online and in print.

The report shows drinking water met EPA and FDEP standards throughout 2025 (including customer service updates and facility improvements) to ensure safe water for residents.

On July 1, local researchers and officials met at the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program workshop to examine how increased boat traffic at the reopened Midnight Pass may be affecting seagrass & wildlife.

County officials are developing a management plan to support bay-friendly boating.

Sarasota County is under a burn ban that bans open fires and private fireworks due to drought risks ahead of July Fourth.

Residents must follow these safety rules as officials in nearby counties enforce similar restrictions to help prevent wildfires.

Manatee Softball 12U All-Stars played in the state tournament in Port St. Lucie from June 26 to 28, aiming for a berth at the Little League Softball World Series.

The team made its first run as a chartered Little League member and finished sixth, marking a historic milestone for local softball.

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.

Live Blues Night with Trey Wanvig & Detroit Mike Duo

6-10 p.m. — Pop's Sunset Grille — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful blues from local talent Trey Wanvig and Detroit Mike.

Sarasota Cars & Coffee

8-10 a.m. — The Mall at University Town Center — Show car parking $10, motorcycle $5, spectator free — Experience a vibrant gathering of exotic and classic cars while supporting local charities and enjoying complimentary coffee.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Puerto Rican folk music with local favorite Bri Rivera.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy the musical talents of professional guitarist and vocalist Ryan Faraday as he showcases a blend of roots, blues, and rock.

Singles Mixer in Sarasota

7-10 p.m. — Libby's American Restaurant — Free entry — Mix and mingle with fun singles in a relaxed atmosphere for great conversations and new connections.