You’re invited to join a discussion about the future of the Downtown Improvement District and what actions should be taken to achieve the DID’s goal of improving downtown Sarasota.
While the DID is a self-taxing district comprised of commercial property owners, all are welcome to attend the workshop and share ideas to make our downtown a special destination residents and visitors alike want to experience. Do you like the beautiful hanging flower baskets sponsored by the DID? Would you like to see more? Additional special events like Fresh Fridays? Or ways to make downtown even more visually appealing?
A recent lecture series hosted by Architecture Sarasota highlighted the successful transformation of downtown turning it into an engaging, walkable area, and one of the most desirable places in the nation. What’s the best path forward to continue and build upon that success?
The DID Strategic Plan Workshop starts at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21 at Selby Library, 1331 1st Street. Bring your ideas!
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We’re thrilled to announce that by the end of this month, free, full coverage Wi-Fi will be available in four of our parks: Arlington Park, Bayfront Park, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park and Payne Park.
Soon this complimentary service will make it easier than ever to stay connected while getting out and enjoying the fresh air and delightful views offered in our parks. As of now, Arlington Park and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park are completely online, with the other two parks following close behind.
Our Wi-Fi in the Parks program launched in November 2022 with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, and our crews have been working diligently to install the necessary technology to the other three ever since.
This no cost program offers visitors a change of scenery when conducting their business, schoolwork or leisure activities online.
Make sure to look for the signage indicating the availability of free Wi-Fi at each park. Enjoy!
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Attention parents and grandparents!
Bring your little ones and join us for an unforgettable, egg-citing, splash-tastic celebration at Arlington Park & Aquatic Complex's annual Aqua Egg Hunt!
Children up to age 12 are invited to dive into the fun and search for hidden eggs in the facility's Olympic-sized and small family swimming pools from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23.
Participants will be divided into age groups to ensure each child can hunt for eggs safely. Special prizes will be awarded to those who find the "golden" eggs and all kids will get to take home a goody bag and a mesh bag for collecting eggs in the pool.
Please arrive early. The hunts start promptly at these scheduled times:
- 1:00 p.m.: 3 years and younger (accompanied by adult)
- 1:20 p.m.: 4 and 5 years old (accompanied by adult)
- 1:40 p.m.: 6 to 8 years old (shallow)
- 2:00 p.m.: 8 to 12 years old (deep)
Registration is required for this event and the cost is $5 per child (adult chaperones free). Register at www.LetsPlaySarasota.com or call 941-263-6732 for more information.
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The Sarasota Police Department is excited to reintroduce its Police Chaplain Program. The program aims to offer department members and their families access to religious professionals who possess a distinct understanding of the challenges faced by our personnel.
With its relaunch, the program has undergone some enhancements. It will now feature seasoned representatives from diverse religious denominations, ensuring that all employees have a trusted individual to confide in. This initiative underscores our commitment to addressing the unique challenges and stresses encountered by law enforcement personnel.
Law enforcement is a demanding profession with intense pressure, traumatic events and emotional strain. Officers and their families often grapple with the profound effects of their work, necessitating a confidential outlet to discuss concerns, seek guidance and find solace. The Police Chaplain Program offers that — a dedicated support system provided by religious professionals from diverse backgrounds.
By reinstating this program, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting the well-being and resilience of our officers and their families. The inclusion of representatives from various religious denominations underscores our dedication to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that individuals can access support aligned with their beliefs and values. By investing in their mental, emotional and spiritual health, we strengthen our department's capacity to serve and protect the City of Sarasota effectively.
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Experience the magic of dance as the Paul Taylor Dance Company celebrates its 70th Anniversary at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall! Witness the groundbreaking performance of Taylor's iconic Promethean Fire, a masterpiece choreographed in the aftermath of 9/11, praised by The New York Times as one of Taylor's best works. Delight in the whimsical world of Gossamer Gallants, where dancers embody insect heroes and heroines in a comedic yet captivating battle for supremacy. Don't miss the Florida premiere of Echo by Resident Choreographer Lauren Lovette, a mesmerizing addition to the Company's repertoire. Join us March 18 for an unforgettable evening of athleticism, emotion, and artistry.
On March 23, immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of The Academy Of St Martin In The Fields (ASMF) at the Van Wezel. Renowned worldwide for their brilliant interpretations of classical masterpieces, the ASMF, led by Music Director Joshua Bell, promises an evening of unparalleled musical excellence. Experience the rich history and refined sound of this prestigious chamber orchestra as they push the boundaries of performance under Bell's direction. Join us for a transcendent journey through symphonic repertoire and chamber music, showcasing the timeless beauty of classical music at its finest.
Tickets for both shows are presently available and can be bought online at www.VanWezel.org, by dialing the box office at 941-263-6799, or by visiting the box office during operating hours: Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
We value our urban canopy and tree protection program and we’re proud to announce we have another certified arborist!
Kalyn Ennis, a City Code Compliance Officer, recently earned her Arborist Certification. Kalyn joined us in 2019 as a Permitting Technician and moved to Code Compliance a few years later in 2021. She has had a longstanding love of trees since childhood, so when those overseeing our urban canopy needed help, Kalyn offered her services. Through this, the arborists learned about her interests and encouraged her by taking her out into the field where she gained hands-on experience.
In July 2023, Kalyn applied to take the arborist certification test through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). She spent about six months studying for the exam, which consists of 200 multiple choice questions about the tree care profession that are based on recent job task analyses from arborists around the world. She passed in December 2023 – and the additional work and studying was completed while fulfilling her duties as a code compliance officer. Congratulations!
And the timing is especially good with our Neighborhood Canopy Program recently relaunched.
In addition to this position, many other employment opportunities are available with the City of Sarasota. Check out a complete list and apply online here.
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