Good morning, Sarasota.

A recent study by Ivarest ranked Sarasota as the Itchiest City in America due to its high number of pest control listings and frequent online searches for bug spray—factors driven largely by the area's common mosquito presence.

The ranking reflects residents' ongoing concerns about insect bites and the need for effective outdoor protection—information that underscores the city's pest challenges.

Residents in Newtown attended a three-day workshop that began on Wednesday to learn skills for strengthening their community and planning a new Family Center on Leonard Avenue.

Organizers plan to hire several participants as neighborhood experts + use their feedback to guide future resource development.

Three drowning incidents occurred on the Suncoast this week—one man drowned off Venice Beach after swimming offshore, another man drowned at a pool during a late-night party, and a woman drowned and was recovered near the Longboat Key Club Thursday evening.

High Noon recalled its Beach Variety 12-packs when some cans were mislabeled as Celsius Astro Vibe Sparkling Blue Razz drinks—products sold in Florida and seven other states between July 21 and July 23 were affected, and consumers are advised to contact Consumer Relations for refunds.

Florida's month long sales tax holiday for back to school shoppers began on August 1, letting buyers pay no tax on clothing, shoes, backpacks with a $100 limit, school supplies with a $50 cap and personal computers up to $1,500 during August (exclusions apply to items like cellular phones and recreational devices).

Suncoast Waterkeeper’s Mangrove Rangers used drones to monitor mangrove health at eight sites in Sarasota and Manatee, comparing images from last year to track storm damage, development, and runoff effects — and they will use the findings to support calls for stronger coastal protections.

Developers propose to demolish the 12-story Zenith Building at Five Points and replace it with an 18-story mixed-use tower featuring 96 residential units — seven of which are attainable — and retail at street level.

If approved, demolition may begin in June 2026 and community meetings with nearby property owners will help guide the final design.

Sarasota Speed Dating for Singles 40s/50s

7-9 p.m. — Bahi Hut Tiki Cocktail Lounge — Ticket price varies — Meet potential matches in a fun, fast-paced environment designed for sparkling connections.

Open Studio Art Event

2-5 p.m. — First Congregational Church UCC — Donations accepted — Engage in creative art making and relax in a supportive artistic community.

Newish Jewish Play Reading: 'A Black and White Cookie'

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Players Centre for Performing Arts — $20 — Experience a moving story of friendship and resilience as two lonely seniors unite against adversity.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 PM — Marina Jack — Cost info not specified — Enjoy the music of Bri Rivera, a local talent from Puerto Rico, bringing her vibrant sounds to Sarasota.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Cost info not provided — Experience the unique 'loop' stylings of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts by the waterfront.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

10 PM – 2 AM — 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL — Free entry — Enjoy the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico, as she captivates the local music scene.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the local talent of Bri Rivera, a rising star in the Sarasota music scene.

Scott Curts Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the unique loop styling of accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts while enjoying the scenic views of Sarasota.

Rainbow Connections Summer Outing

4:45-7 p.m. — Art Center Sarasota — Free entry — Celebrate summer with an art exhibit opening and community connection.

PMP Certification Training in Sarasota, FL

9 AM – 5 PM — Regus - Sarasota Courthouse — Contact for pricing — Gain essential project management skills and knowledge through an interactive 4-day training course.