Good morning, Sarasota.

Waterside resident Erin Mason left a demanding job in Washington D.C. to join LWR Girls Who Walk, a local group founded by Paige Venuto that meets every Monday at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. to walk a three-mile loop at Waterside—mixing fitness with friendly socializing.

Sarasota officers rescued an unconscious driver from a burning car near U.S. 41 and U.S. 301 on June 30 after responding to a three-vehicle crash—body camera footage shows them cutting the seatbelt moments before the car was engulfed in flames.

The Florida Department of Education released the 2024-25 school report cards showing Sarasota County Schools earned an A rating for the 22nd straight year while Manatee County Schools earned a B rating.

District officials said Sarasota improved nine points on state accountability and 95% of its schools received A or B grades—highlighting steady progress.

On July 8, Clark Rd was closed from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.—roadwork took place beneath the new pedestrian bridge on The Legacy Trail—and detours directed traffic onto Ashton Rd and Proctor Rd—both directions were affected.

FDOT oversaw the work as crews finalized the project.

Sarasota County has named Ben Quartermaine as director of its new Stormwater Department with an expected start on Aug.

11. The department was created after public criticism of past flood management, and Quartermaine—a project manager at Stantec with county stormwater experience—will lead efforts to improve flood mitigation.

The Sarasota City Commission approved on July 7 a rezone request for the Mira Mar project—letting Seaward Development build two 18-story condo towers with 70 units and add retail, restaurant and office space on Palm Avenue while restoring the historic plaza.

Condo sales will open in late summer and renovation work on the historic building is expected to begin in late 2025.

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.

Juli Treffen

6-8 p.m. — Fin & Tonic — No cover — A casual gathering for 'regulars' and newcomers to connect and enjoy the evening.