Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of July.
Good morning, Sarasota.
At The Glenridge on Palmer Ranch, Sylvia Waller will celebrate her 105th birthday on Friday, July 10 with four generations coming together.
Family members say her healthy lifestyle and lifelong love for the arts and community have defined her remarkable life.
After losing over $200,000 last fall, Sarasota Little League recovered with local donations and fundraisers at Twin Lakes Park that kept the season going.
The league now uses electronic systems (with funds double-checked) and expanded its board to rebuild strong community trust ahead of upcoming tournaments.
Florida residents can see the Milky Way's bright center across the night sky all month as part of Milky Way season.
On July Fourth weekend and especially on July 14 (new moon), dark sky areas away from city lights offer the clearest view.
On Thursday, July 2, The Exchange awarded $500,000 to local arts organizations and students at its annual Grants and Scholarship Awards gala at its consignment boutique on S.
Orange Ave. The funding supports exhibitions, performances, and arts education projects in Sarasota.
Historians note that in 1776, early residents in Sarasota endured a harsh landscape where Cuban fishermen and Seminoles built makeshift ranchos and traded daily — enduring mosquitoes and wild animals while relying on seasonal fishing.
Local maps show the area’s evolving name, offering a glimpse into the region’s rugged roots.
Scrappy, the dolphin rescued from a Speedo in 2006, is still thriving in Sarasota Bay as researchers track 170 dolphins.
The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program urges boaters and beachgoers to protect marine life during Fourth of July weekend + report any animals in distress.
Sarasota and Manatee counties enforce a burn ban on personal fireworks this Fourth of July weekend after recent lightning sparked wildfires, while Lifeguard Chief Luis Rodriguez says over 20 guards will cover beaches on Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 8 pm at Lido, Siesta and Casey Key.
A new state law now expands the free swim lesson voucher program so children ages 1 to 7 can get water safety instruction beginning July 1; families earning at or below 200% of the federal poverty level + those with children with autism or active duty military families are prioritized.
Residents planning to swim on Sarasota beaches this Fourth are advised to check updated water test results from the Florida Department of Health and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that show red tide and bacterial levels.
Officials urge reviewing advisories to ensure safe beach activities.
Between June 15 and 19, high-value residential sales swept through key Sarasota neighborhoods, including a standout $4.7 million sale on Sarabay Road; other deals ranged from condos to single-family homes and showed a strong market trend.
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.
Towles Court Artwalk
4-8 p.m. — Towles Court Artist Studios — Free entry — Explore local artists' works and enjoy live music and refreshments in a charming arts district.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Sarasota.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.