Good morning, Sarasota.

On August 1st, Florida lawmakers Rep. Kathy Castor (D), Rep. Vern Buchanan (R), and Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R) introduced the Florida Coastal Protection Act, a bipartisan bill that will permanently ban offshore drilling within 125 miles of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Local business leaders say the measure is needed to protect the state’s economy and environment as the bill moves through Congress.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a new law on July 1 that lets churches build affordable housing on their property if at least 10% of the units are affordable—local governments will still decide on project approvals.

In Sarasota County, over 300 parcels may be used to help address the housing shortage while offering churches a new source of revenue.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are set to play three preseason games in 2025, starting with a game against the Tennessee Titans on August 9th at 7:30 p.m. on NBC Channel 8 on WFLA—this leads into a regular season that begins on September 7 with an away game at Atlanta.

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.