Good morning, Sarasota.

Sarasota Police officers rescued an unconscious woman from a burning car at U.S. 41 and U.S. 301 on June 30 when they heard a crash on an unrelated call—quick actions saved her life as the incident remains under investigation.

Deena King has opened her Define Arts Gallery at 8326 Consumer Court in Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch where she shows her abstract art that reflects her feelings—she is taking appointments for buyers and will soon start weekly pop-up events to attract younger customers.

This move follows her successful Palm Avenue gallery in Sarasota and marks a new step in Lakewood Ranch's art scene.

The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will finish its free Stage of Discovery Summer Education Program with 'Alice in Boogie Wonderland'—a performance that reimagines Alice in Wonderland by combining pop, disco and R&B songs on July 12th and 13th.

The camp has helped many local youths build performing arts skills and will feature a live band led by Resident Music Director Matthew McKinnon.

Officials announced that Lido Beach will undergo renourishment and dune restoration with $12 million in federal funds and 200,000 to 300,000 cubic yards of sand to improve 1.2 miles of shoreline and add extra storm-surge protection while keeping beaches open.

The work will begin after Oct. 31—when nesting seasons end—and finish renourishment in early 2026 with the dune system completed by spring 2027.

Town officials said a plan to raise roadways in flood-prone neighborhoods on Longboat Key may extend from two to five years because early funding estimates were low.

The town has set aside $6.4 million through 2030 and is continuing design work while seeking matching grants—focusing on projects in areas such as Sleepy Lagoon and Longbeach Village.

Sarasota County’s preliminary fiscal year 2026 budget shows a 4% spending increase with a $507.1 million operations spending plan and 152 new full-time positions approved in recent meetings—county officials set the maximum millage rate at 3.2273 mils and noted a potential $23 million shortfall from declining state revenue sources. The budget discussions reflect careful planning amid a 5.6% rise in property tax values and anticipated revenue decreases from other sources.

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.