Good morning, Sarasota.

Tasty Home Cookin, a family-run diner off Tuttle Avenue famed for its affordable home cookin, will close on Saturday, July 18 due to rising costs and financial strains post-pandemic.

The diner, which has served the community for 36 years, invites patrons to visit one last time at 3854 South Tuttle Ave.

Detwiler's Farm Market announced plans to open its largest store yet—a 52,000-sqft building in North Port set to open late 2028—near Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s new campus, while its seventh store will open in Bradenton this fall to serve growing local demand.

Allegiant Air will offer nearly 30 new and seasonal flights to Florida airports later in 2026, including seasonal returns from Sarasota Bradenton International starting Sept.

30, as it fills gaps left by Spirit Airlines shutdown. The move follows its May merger with Sun Country.

North Port approved an extra $4.1 million to restore the historic buildings at Warm Mineral Springs Park on July 7, closing the funding gap for the project that will stabilize key structures and enhance visitor amenities.

City officials will share a construction timeline as further updates become available.

Sarasota Memorial released its 2026 Community Report on July 8 to showcase hospital expansions (including a new cancer pavilion and research institute) and community investments that will improve patient care.

The report sets the stage for continued healthcare innovation in Sarasota.

Manatee County reported a decline in opioid deaths with a (56%) drop compared to last year due to expanded prevention, treatment and naloxone access programs.

Officials are continuing to invest in outreach to help residents overcome opioid addiction.

Food critics recommend eight Florida restaurants for hot dogs with toppings, and Sarasota's City Island venue, The Old Salty Dog, serves its Fully Loaded Salty Dog topped with bacon, sauerkraut, grilled onions, mushrooms + four cheeses.

Local experts say food lovers should take a road trip to try these flavors.

SimplyDwell, a subsidiary of Neal Communities, is set to develop three new home communities in Sarasota, Wellen Park and Parrish this year.

The Sarasota project will feature 534 lots and offer amenities (pools, dog parks and playgrounds) for varied lifestyles.

Evan Poznanski, a rising senior for Sarasota Christian baseball, recorded the third-fastest 60-yard dash of 6.85 seconds on June 23 at Prep Baseball’s West Florida Top Prospect Games & he posted a .393 average with 29 RBIs, earning him Athlete of the Week.

High school hurdler Keymani Dillingham overcame anxiety to win two state titles and break the 400-meter hurdle record; she will start her Division I career at Jacksonville State this summer.

Dillingham trains four days a week with coach Larry Ryans, who praises her potential & uplifting drive.

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.

2-Day Sound Healing Certification with Tuning Forks

9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Wild Ginger Apothecary — $895 — Deepen your sound healing skills with practical training in the art and science of tuning forks.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy vibrant musical performances by the Puerto Rican musician who stands out in Sarasota's local scene.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the sounds of a talented guitarist and songwriter as he performs his unique blend of Roots, Blues, Rock, and Soul.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill — Free entry — Experience the unique loop styling of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts in a relaxed setting.