Coastal Grind Coffee opens in Gulf Gate

Local officials say an effort by Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature to cut property taxes could deliver a heavy blow to local governments, describing it as part of a broader push to erode home rule. They argue the move would strip power from local governments and shift crucial community decisions up to Tallahassee, raising concerns about how counties and cities on the Suncoast would fund services. For Sarasota residents, the practical question is not only whether a tax bill changes, but what happens to the local budgets that pay for storm recovery, parks, libraries, public safety and other services residents expect close to home. (WUSF)

Ahnysa Turner was found guilty Monday in a Sarasota Little League theft case. WFLA reported the amount stolen as more than $200,000; the sentence included one year in jail and a separate order to pay $176,000 in restitution. The case centered on funds taken from the youth sports organization while Turner served as treasurer. Beyond the courtroom result, the conviction is a reminder that volunteer-run youth organizations depend on basic financial controls, especially when dues, sponsorships and tournament money flow through a small group of adults. (WFLA)

The Sarasota County Commission approved a $91.8 million budget amendment in June to fund hurricane recovery projects. Officials framed the spending as a reminder that returning the area to normal after a run of major storms remains a work in progress, with reimbursements still lagging behind local outlays. The money is directed toward recovery efforts across the county, so storm costs are still shaping local finances long after debris pickup and emergency repairs faded from daily view. (WUSF)

Sarasota Magazine's annual 'Her & Now' soiree, celebrating the women who shape the community, returns Aug. 6 at the Sarasota Garden Club. The event is tied to the magazine's Women of Impact issue and brings together honorees and guests for the yearly gathering. It is more civic-social than hard news, but it is a useful calendar marker for people who follow local nonprofit, business and cultural leadership circles. (Sarasota Magazine)

Turrell Skyspace glows at The Ringling today, giving Thursday a compact arts option tied to the museum campus. It works as a short cultural stop rather than a full evening plan. (The Ringling)

Live music comes to The Plaza at Waterside Place on Friday, July 10. The outdoor gathering spot hosts the performance for residents and visitors. (Visit Sarasota County events)

Sarasota Art Museum has a guided tour on the calendar, giving visitors a structured way into the galleries instead of wandering cold. It fits the weekend arts lane without needing a full evening commitment. (Sarasota Art Museum)

Sarasota's Farmers Market returns Saturday, July 11, at Lemon Avenue and Main Street. The market is built around local produce, food vendors, handmade goods and community gathering, making it one of the easiest weekend stops for residents who want something practical rather than a ticketed event. It also gives downtown a daytime anchor before the hotter part of the afternoon. (Sarasota Farmers Market)