The Lake Sarasota Community Blog

Holiday closings, energy rebates, much more

2012-02-17T11:52:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Welcome to the Sarasota County Community Connections e-newsletter. Please share this e-newsletter with family, friends and neighbors. Contact us if you have questions, ideas for articles, or feedback on the system, atcommunityconnections@scgov.net

Presidents Day closings

Most Sarasota County government offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 20, to observe Presidents Day. Here is a complete list of closings, along with two centers that will remain open.

Test our new website!

We're updating our website,scgov.net. Take a look around, then take our survey and tell us what you think.

Energy rebate program ends

Barely six months after Sarasota County began helping local homeowners install energy efficient upgrades, the "Get Energy Smart" retrofit program is ending with $1 million awarded.

One man's trash

Feel like freeing up some space while you make a little cash? Bring it to Sarasota County's community garage sale, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Englewood Sports Complex.

Wheels keep on turning

The Legacy Trail celebrates its fourth anniversary with a "Tour de Parks' ride Sunday, March 25. Bike 20 miles on fully paved trails, or try the 35 or 65-mile rides on trails and public roads. Breakfast is sponsored and served by First Watch. Register by March 11.

Closing the book on 2012's 'One Book, One Community'

The Library System turns the page on another successful campaign with events throughout February. Author appearances, book discussions, lectures and presentations ... read all about it here.

New online vendor registration

Vendors who want to do business with Sarasota County will be able to use a new, free online procurement system beginning in March. Read how eProcure will simplify the vendor process in Sarasota County.

Comp plan amendment

Sarasota County is seeking public input for a possible Comprehensive Plan amendment guiding free-standing commercial uses in major employment centers containing industrial light manufacturing and warehouses.

Warm Mineral Springs' future

How do you see the future of Warm Mineral Springs? North Port has startedan internet survey, and Sarasota County has launched an online wiki. Give us your feedback on this valuable natural asset.

Beat the high price of gas

If you commute from North Port, SCAT offers express service for just $2.50 one-way (or $5 round-trip) with limited stops.Find complete routes and pick-up times here.

Want your very own piece of paradise?

Download color and black and white versions of Siesta Key Beach's new No. 1 sign.

Friday, Feb. 17

Sixteen new firefighters will be sworn in to the Sarasota County Fire Department. The ceremony takes place at 3 p.m. in the Sarasota County Board Chamber, 1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota.

What's your vision for Gulf Gate Library?

Tell us during a community open house Thursday, Feb. 23, at St. Andrew United Church of Christ in Sarasota.

2012 Legislative Session, Week 5

Your up-to-the-minute report onlegislative actions affecting Sarasota County.

How are we doing?

Sarasota County libraries want to know. Get a survey online atwww.sclibs.net, or complete a "Voice of the Customer" survey at any Sarasota County library between Feb. 13-18.

January 2012
Economic Report

Sarasota County's economic report for January 2012 has been released.

Commission Reports

Actions taken by the Sarasota County Commission during its regular meetings.

More headlines

New public access email site

Win free tix to an Orioles game

Free alert notification system

23rd Annual Senior Games

Mobile healthcare in February

Shingles vaccinations

Important Community Meeting

2012-02-16T10:49:00.000-05:00

The Lake Sarasota Community Group meeting on March 8 will be a general community meeting with three key items:

1. This will give Lake Sarasota residents a chance to learn in detail about the Bee Ridge Rd. widening project scheduled to begin, as of now, in 2013. A large detailed image map of the project will be on hand for examination. Come find out how more about the project and get your questions answered.

2. All present can stay for a discussion of a grant from the county to improve the entrance medians to Lake Sarasota.

3. The Board will discuss the Lake Sarasota Community Group's future direction, possibly including the election of officers.

The meeting will be held in the meeting rooms in the back building behind Sarasota Alliance Church, 7221 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, 34241.

View Larger Map

Sheriff's report for Jan. 2012

2012-02-16T10:33:00.002-05:00

Here's the report of the Sheriff for January 2012 -- thanks to Ted for the info.

Sheriff's Dept. Crime Report for Lake Sarasota for January, 2012.

Total number of reported incidents: 15

Incidents by category:

Vandalism: 4

Burglary: 4

Theft: 5

Juvenile Disturbance: 2

By Date: By Day of the Week:

Jan. 1: 4 Sunday: 3

Jan. 4: 2 Monday: 4

Jan. 5: 1 Tuesday: 1

Jan. 9: 1 Wednesday: 2

Jan. 10: 1 Thursday: 2

Jan.12: 1 Friday: 1

Jan. 13: 1 Saturday: 2

Jan. 16: 1

Jan. 23: 2

Jan. 28: 2

By Time of Day Reported:

M-2am 2-4am 4-6am 6-8am 8-10 am 10am-noon

1 6

Noon-2pm 2-4pm 4-6pm 6-8pm 8-10pm 10pm-12am

1 2 3 1 1

By Street:

Berkshire Dr. 2 (4244,4236)

Coleridge Ct. 1 (3900)

Fiji Pl. 1 (4284)

Friendship Dr. 1 (6447)

Java Dr. 1 (7132)

Jarvis Rd. 2 (6820,6311)

Lago St. 1 (7150)

Lancaster Dr. 2 (3923,3962)

Malden Dr. 1 (4120)

Middlesex Pl. 1 (3965)

Samoa Dr. 1 (6383)

Ted's Observations:

The number of incidents is up (15) compared to previous months. Sunday and Monday are the days when an incident is most likely to occur. Most incidents occur in the morning hours, between sunup and noon. Most incidents happened to properties in the eastern half of Lake Sarasota.

Community Connections

2012-02-10T07:42:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

Nokomis community cleanup

SATURDAY: Sarasota County will hold itsannual community cleanup in the Nokomis area from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11. Dispose of any non-hazardous waste during this free event.

New public access email site

Sarasota County has launched a newonline site for public access to email. Search by topic, individuals and date.Take a look around,

Closing the book on 2012's 'One Book, One Community'

The Library System turns the page on another successful campaign with events throughout February. Author appearances, book discussions, lectures and presentations ... read all about it here.

Update on Procurement

In May 2011, the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing identified opportunties for improving county procurement practices. Hear what we've accomplished so far during an open discussion at the Health and Human Services building in Sarasota.

New online vendor registration

Wheels keep on turning

The Legacy Trail celebrates its fourth anniversary with a "Tour de Parks' ride Sunday, March 25. Bike 20 miles on fully paved trails, or try the 35 or 65-mile rides on trails and publc roads. Breakfast is sponsored and served by First Watch. Register by March 11.

Watching our watersheds

Commissioner Jon Thaxton joins a panel of scientists, managers, policy makers and educators in a roundtable discussion about the health of our water bodies. Watch, Feb. 15, during the 2012Sarasota Bay Watershed Symposium.

Comp plan amendment

Free alert notification system

Sign up for free alerts on issues that impact your property and neighborhood, including water/sewer interruptions, road closures, Amber Alerts and evacuations.

Warm Mineral Springs' future

How do you see the future of Warm Mineral Springs? North Port has startedan internet survey, and Sarasota County has launched an online wiki. Give us your feedback on this valuable natural asset.

Learn to write, edit, direct

Apply now to one of the Sarasota Film Festival's free educational programs. Learn how to write, direct, edit and review films. And don't forget about youthFEST, a free and family-friendly celebration of cinema. To learn more, visit the Sarasota Film Festival website.

Beat the high price of gas

If you commute from North Port, SCAT offers express service for just $2.50 one-way (or $5 round-trip) with limited stops.Find complete routes and pick-up times here.

Reading comes up to bat

County libraries have teamed up with the Baltimore Orioles to promote reading. Children who sign up and read three or more books in February receive areserved grandstand ticket to the March 14 game against the Pittsburgh Pirate

Randall Reid's vision for Sarasota County

On Feb. 3, County Administrator Randall Reid shared with commissioners his vision for the organization, and how he hopes citizens, commissions and employees will perceive the organization in the future.

What's your vision for Gulf Gate Library?

Tell us during a community open house Thursday, Feb. 23, at St. Andrew United Church of Christ in Sarasota..

2012 Legislative Session, Week 4

Your up-to-the-minute report onlegislative actions affecting Sarasota County.

How are we doing?

Sarasota County libraries want to know. Get a survey online atwww.sclibs.net, or complete a "Voice of the Customer" survey at any Sarasota County library between Feb. 13-18.

January 2012
Economic Report

Sarasota County's economic report for January 2012 has been released.

Commission Reports

Actions taken by the Sarasota County Commission during its regular meetings.

More headlines

Say, "I do," again, on Siesta Key

Neighborhood grant workshops

23rd Annual Senior Games

Mobile healthcare in February

New SCAT Transit Station

Shingles vaccinations

New videos

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: Watchwhat more than 300 women can build for a disabled couple on southern Sarasota County..

PLUS: Sarasota County and Stephen King help the electric car avenge itself.

AND: A seldom-seen video from 1992explores the depths of Warm Mineral Springs.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

Property Appraiser news

If you enjoy getting news about your community and Sarasota County Government, sign up for the Property Appraiser's e-newsletter, Furst Facts.Get up-to-the-minute information about tax exemptions, preliminary values, TRIM notices, tax bills, changes to statutes, and ordinances affecting your property.

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Bee Ridge Road Improvement Update

2012-02-04T08:43:00.003-05:00

The Bee Ridge Neighborhoods Committee -- a volunteer group representing home owners along Bee Ridge Rd. east of I-75 -- met with county officers Friday to review plans for Bee Ridge Rd.

Here's a summary of the most prominent features of the widened road plan:

Four streets in Lake Sarasota will be end-stopped in order to improve traffic flow along the four-laned corridor:

Maui
Allan PL
Chaucer
Coleridge

Three street openings on the south side of Bee Ridge are being slightly turned so that they are directly aligned with roads north of Bee Ridge:

Tora - opposite Sarasota Golf Club Blvd.
Berkshire (next to Coleridge) - will be opposite Aberdeen
Wake - will line up with Wake north of Bee Ridge.

The signalized intersection at Mauna Loa and Bee Ridge will remain signalized, but will be reconfigured to serve the four-lane road. The signals at Bent Tree/Laurel Oaks and at Tora/Sarasota Golf Club Blvd. will be replaced by roundabouts.
A total of 4 roundabouts are planned, at these points:

Tora / Sarasota Golf Club
Berkshire / Aberdeen
Bent Tree / Laurel Oak
Iona / Bee Ridge Extension

Other changes will include buffering along the road -- a combination of corrugated ironwork with columns and viburnum similar to what was recently put in along sections of the new Honore Blvd. north of Bee Ridge. The Committee requested that bus stops include shelters, and has been working on getting the county MPO to plan for sidewalks west of Mauna Loa.

A detailed image of the road plan will be on view at the March 8 meeting of the Lake Sarasota Community Group, 7 p.m. at Sarasota Alliance Church, 7221 Bee Ridge Rd. (opposite Chaucer) - in the meeting space behind the church.

New Alert System in Sarasota

2012-02-02T12:53:00.000-05:00

CodeRED™ Notification System

Residents and Business Owners
Sarasota County Utilities utilizes the CodeRED Notification System - an ultra high-speed telephone communication service for emergency notifications.
CodeRED delivers the important message through a high-speed telephone calling system to all phone numbers on the CodeRED database. Sarasota County staff will access CodeRED via a secure portal on the web. A call area will be marked identifying street addresses on a map. Telephone numbers will be matched up electronically to these addresses through the use of the Geographical Information Systems (GIS). A pre-recorded message will be sent out via the telephone with information about the incident and possibly instructions for action to be taken. This system can call your cell phone number if you register your cell phone number in the CodeRED database.

Uses
This system allows us to send critical communications to all or targeted areas within the county in case of a situation that requires immediate action. This system is capable of dialing the entire county within minutes. It delivers a recorded message from Sarasota County describing the situation and any instructions for immediate or future action. The message will play when answered by a live person or an answering machine and makes three attempts to connect to each number. If you opt in for text message and/or email alerts in the CodeRED database, those will also be sent.

More here:

http://www.scgov.net/EnvironmentalServices/Water/Utilities/CodeRED.asp

Public email, Springs, Valentines on the Beach, more

2012-02-02T12:45:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Warm Mineral Springs' future

TODAY: Help shape improvements to Warm Mineral Springs. Attend a visioning session at the Gulfcoast Event and Conference Center in Sarasota. If you can't attend, join the conversation online. North Port has started an internet survey, and Sarasota County has launched an online wiki.

New public access email site

Sarasota County has launched a newonline site for public access to email. Search by topic, individuals and date.Take a look around,

Say 'I do' again on No. 1 beach

Grab your honey and join hundreds of other couples this Valentine's Day in renewing your wedding vows on America's No. 1 beach. The popular "Say I Do Again"ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, at Siesta Beach.

Free alert notification system

Sign up for free alerts on issues that impact your property and neighborhood, including water/sewer interruptions, road closures, Amber Alerts and evacuations.

SFF announces town hall

The Sarasota Film Festival will hold a free town hall from 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Selby Library, 1331 First St., Sarasota. Organizers will unveil new programs and talk with participants. RSVP on Facebook, or call 941-364-9514 to learn more.

'Movin' Out' star moves to VCC

Henry Haid, the musical star of the Tony Award-winning musical "Movin' Out" brings his tribute to Billy Joel to the Venice Community Center for one night only, Saturday, Feb. 11.

Senior beach walks begin

Every Wednesday in February and March, seniors age 50 and older can meet friends, enjoy gettiing in shape, and win prizes during Sarasota County's annual Senior Beach Walks. Here's how to sign up.

North Port express service

If you commute from North Port, SCAT offers express service for just $2.50 one-way (or $5 round-trip) with limited stops. Register to win an Express SCAT pass, worth up to $85. by participating in this survey.

Reading comes up to bat

County libraries are teaming up with the Baltimore Orioles to promote reading. Children who sign up and read three or more books in February will receive areserved grandstand ticket to the March 14 game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

February mobile healthcare

The Health Department will provide free and low-cost health services at 15 sites around the county during February. Services include diabetes education and screening, blood pressure tests, pegnancy testing, HIV and tuberculosis testings and adult immunizations.

Senior games get pumped up

Some of the best senior athletes around will compete in the 23rd Annual Gulf Coast Senior Games, Feb. 21-26 at locations throughout the region.

Grant workshops scheduled

A series of grant orientation workshops under the popular Sarasota County

Neighborhood Grant Program

will be held January-March at several county locations. The program helps fund community improvement projects.

New administrator joins Sarasota County

Randall Reid, former Alachua County Manager, has officially joined Sarasota County Government. In this video, watch him explain what he expects of the organization.

2012 Legislative Session, Week 3

Your up-to-the-minute report onlegislative actions affecting Sarasota County.

January 2012
Economic Report

Sarasota County's economic report for January 2012 has been released.

More headlines

Summer seagrass survey
New SCAT Transit Station

Shingles vaccinations

New videos

Sarasota County's bright new sign recognizing Siesta Key Beach as the "No.1 Beach in the USA" is drawing lots of shutterbugs.

PLUS: How to fertilize properly.

AND: Visit the Celery Fields Stormwater Facility, Red Bug Slough and Roberts Bay with EPA's Acting Assistant Administrator Nancy Stoner.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

Property Appraiser news

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Sheriff's Alert: Possible Child Predator

2012-02-02T11:48:00.002-05:00

Please click to read th is alert regarding an attempt to lure an elementary school student yesterday.

Note the detailed description of the vehicle and please call if you recognize it.

Dec. 2011 Sheriff's Crime Report for the Neighborhood

2012-02-01T08:22:00.001-05:00

Ted sends this analysis of the Sheriff's crime report:

Here is the breakdown on the Sheriff's Dept. Crime Report for Lake Sarasota for Dec. 2011.

Total Number of Incidents: 11

Vandalism: 0

Burglaries: 7

Thefts: 4

Juvenile Disturbances: 0

Incidents by day of the week: Sunday: 2

Monday: 1

Tuesday: 2

Wednesday: 0

Thursday: 1

Friday: 1

Saturday: 4

By date: Dec. 3, 2; Dec. 4, 2; Dec. 5, 1; Dec. 6, 2Dec. 17, 1; Dec. 22, 1; Dec. 23, 1;

Dec. 24, 1

By Time of Day Reported:

6-8 a.m. -- 2 2-4 p.m. -- 2

8-10 a.m.-- 1 4-6 p.m. -- 5

10 a.m.-noon -- 1

By Street: Brentford Rd. -- 1 (7061)

Java Dr. -- 1 (7115)

Jarvis Way -- 1 (4810)

Lago St. -- 1 (7155)

Mauna Loa Blvd. -- 2 (7064, 7249)

Palau Dr. -- 1 (4068)

Samoa Dr. -- 1 (6478)

Tarawa Dr. -- 1 (6326)

Vana Dr. -- 1 (3955)

Westminster Dr. -- 1 (4101)

All incidents appear to have happened during daylight hours. Most happened at the beginning or end of the month. The majority happened in the northeast quadrant of Lake Sarasota. This pattern also appeared in the previous two months. We probably should concentrate our patrols in the beginning and end of the month, during late morning or early afternoon. Please post in Blog Spot.

Ted Cover, Security Patrol

Lake Sarasota Community Group

Senior Games, SCAT at Cattlemen, Warm Mineral Springs and more

2012-01-26T20:51:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Boogie nights at VCC

TODAY: Break out the polyester slacks, the wide-collar shirts and your disco mirror ball. Night Fever is bringing its popular Bee Gees tribute to the Venice Community Center tonight and tomorrow only. Both shows start at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Students present oral histories

FRIDAY: Experience audiovisual presentations of the stories of native and long-time Gulf Coast residents. Hear their histories and view vintage photographs from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at Mildred Sainer Pavilion, New College of Florida.

Newtown community cleanup

SATURDAY: Sarasota County will hold itsannual community cleanup in the Newtown and Beverly Terrace area from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Jan. 28. Dumpsters will be provided for residents to dispose of any non-hazardous items, scrap metal and unbundled yard waste.

Warm Mineral Springs' future

Help shape improvements to Warm Mineral Springs by participating in a visioning session at the Morgan Family Community Center in North Port. A presentation is scheduled for Feb. 2 in Sarasota.

Have an active senior moment

Some of the best senior athletes around will compete in the 23rd Annual Gulf Coast Senior Games, Feb. 21-26 at locations throughout the region. If you've got what it takes to show up the yung'uns, register now. The deadline is Wednesday, Feb. 1.

SCAT Cattlemen station opens

Located on the southeast corner of Cattlemen Road and Bahia Vista Street in Sarasota, the Cattlemen Intermodal Transit Station is a full-service facility with six bays. Coming soon: ticket vending kiosks, electronic signage and security cameras.

Grant workshops scheduled

A series of grant orientation workshops under the popular Sarasota County

Neighborhood Grant Program

will be held January-March at several county locations. The program helps fund community improvement projects.

Protect yourself from shingles

Caused by the same virus associated with chickenpox, shingles is more common and serious in older adults. If you're 50 or older, get vaccinated.

New administrator joins Sarasota County

Randall Reid, former Alachua County Manager, has officially joined Sarasota County Government. In this video, watch him explain what he expects of the organization.

2012 Legislative Session, Week 2

Your up-to-the-minute report onlegislative actions affecting Sarasota County.

January 2012
Economic Report

Sarasota County's economic report for January 2012 has been released.

Volunteer for seagrass survey program

Sarasota County is following up its successful summer seagrass survey with a call for volunteers to participate in its winter survey, which will run through February 2012.

New videos this week

Sarasota County's bright new sign recognizing Siesta Key Beach as the"#1 Beach in the USA" is drawing lots of shutterbugs.

PLUS: How to fertilize properly.

AND: Visit the Celery Fields Stormwater Facility, Red Bug Slough and Roberts Bay with EPA's Acting Assistant Administrator Nancy Stoner.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Grants, Vaccinations, Saturday Night Fever and more

2012-01-22T23:50:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

County unveils #1 Beach in USA sign for Siesta Beach

Sarasota CountyCommissioners unveiled a sign recognizing Siesta Beach as the "#1 Beach in the USA." The 8-foot-by-4-foot sign is located at the beachside entrance of the main pavilion.

Free event promotes Newtown healthy homes

A free Healthy Homes event will be held on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, 1845 34th St., Sarasota. Organized by the local Newtown/North Sarasota community in partnership with Home Depot, the event is designed to help residents learn how to keep their homes dry, ventilated, maintained, clean, pest-free, contaminant-free and safe using the principles from the National Center for Healthy Housing.

Warm Mineral Springs' future

Help shape improvements to Warm Mineral Springs by participating in visioning sessions hosted by Sarasota County and the city of North Port. Explore the site Jan. 21, or attend one of two presentations scheduled for Jan. 26 and Feb. 2.

Night Fever is bringing boogie back to VCC

Break out your polyester slacks, wide-collar shirts and gold neckwear because the disco mirror ball will be in full spin-mode as Night Fever brings its popular tribute to the Bee Gees back to the Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice, for two nights, Jan. 26 and 27. Both shows begin at 7 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Neighborhood grant workshops scheduled

A series of grant orientation workshops under the popular Sarasota County

Neighborhood Grant Program

will be held January-March at several county locations. The program supports the county's initiative to preserve and enhance the quality of life in county neighborhoods by providing matching grants to neighborhoods to help fund improvement projects.

50+ adults urged to vaccinate

Health officials are urging adults age 50 and older toget vaccinated against shingles. Caused by the same virus associated with chickenpox, shingles is more common and serious in older adults.

Volunteer for seagrass survey program

Sarasota County is following up its successful summer seagrass survey with a call for volunteers to participate in its winter survey, which will run through February 2012.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Contact Us

Sarasota County Government
1660 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, Florida 34236
941-861-5000

pubcom@scgov.net

Vote for the Net

2012-01-18T07:43:00.000-05:00

Vote for the Net and against anyone who would weaken it by trying to create scarcity where none exists, and by clamping down corporate controls, to maintain their old, out-of-date, modes of becoming the 1%.

http://voteforthenet.com/

how to strike

Scholarship, Springs, Siesta, SCAT and more

2012-01-12T20:34:00.000-05:00

Electric car gets its revenge

TODAY JAN. 12: In 2006, the documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car" explained how car manufacturers destroyed their own vehicles. Tonight it's payback time, as "Revenge of the Electric Car" premieres in Sarasota for a one-time, 6:30 p.m. showing at Burns Court Cinema. Following the film, Casey Key resident and author Stephen King joins a panel discussion and Q&A.

Holiday office closings

Most Sarasota County government offices and services, including libraries, the History Center and recreation centers, will be closed Monday, Jan. 16, for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.Here is a complete list of closings.

Siesta Key Beach unveils sign

Picture yourself in front of America's No. 1 beach sign at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18. That's when the Sarasota County Commission will unveil the colorful new sign, fashioned after bright retro postcards from the past.

SCAT transfer station opens

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 19 will mark the opening of the new SCAT Cattlemen Intermodal Transfer Station. The event will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Cattlemen Road and Bahia Vista Street in Sarasota.

Peggy Sue and you at VCC

Johnny Rogers plays the hits of Buddy Holly and other music legends at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13 at the Venice Community center. Tickets are just $20-$25. Get yours today!

Early voting begins

Early voting for the Jan. 31 Republican primary election begins Saturday, Jan. 21, and runs through Saturday, Jan. 28. Eligible voters can cast ballots at one of three locations from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Warm Mineral Springs' future

Scholarship opportunity

The Supervisor of Elections is accepting applications for a $1,200 scholarship. Here are complete guidelines and eligibility requirements.

2012 Legislative Update

The 2012 regular session began Jan. 10 and ends March 9. Here's what Sarasota County will be watching in the weeks to come.

Do you commute from North Port?

SCAT offers express service for just $2.50 one-way (or $5 round-trip) with limited stops.

The route operates Monday-Friday with four round trips in the morning and four in the evening. To learn more, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 861-5000.

December Economic Report now available

Sarasota County's December Economic Report has been released. Get demographic details, employment figures and more for Sarasota County.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Community Connections

2012-01-08T20:33:00.002-05:00

Greetings!

'Band Bash' this Saturday!

One of the coolest additions to Selby Library's recent renovation is the new Teen Center, complete with work stations and materials created especially for teens.Now it's time to party, with some of the area's hottest local bands and DJs. Here's the lineup.

Holiday office closings

Planning Commission filling three vacancies

Sarasota County is accepting applications forthree vacancies on the Planning Commission. Each vacancy is for a four-year term. All applications must be filed by Jan. 6.

Culture never tasted this good

Sample Venice's best cuisine, visit the finest attractions, and cut a major rug, all in a single night, during "A Taste of Culture." This progressive dinner starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Venice Archives, and concludes at the Venice Community Center with after-dinner refreshments and dancing.

Logic and accuracy testing

The Supervisor of Elections ivites you to observe the logic and accuracy testing of the county's voting and tabulating equipment that will be used in the Jan. 31 Presidential Primary.

Peggy Sue and you at VCC

Johnny Rogers plays the hits of Buddy Holly and other music legends at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13 at the Venice Community center. Tickets are just $20-$25, and they are going fast, so get yours today!

Absentee ballots mailed

Absentee ballots for the Jan. 31 Presidential Primary were mailed Dec. 30. Under Florida law, all eligible voters may request a vote by mail ballot. Here's how to get yours.

Scholarship opporunity

The Supervisor of Elections is accepting applications for $1,200 scholarshoip. Here are complete guidelines and eligibility requirements.

Happy New Year from Lake Sarasota

2011-12-31T07:50:00.001-05:00

Band Bash, Rules of the Road and more...

2011-12-31T07:45:00.001-05:00

Greetings!

Holiday office closings

Most Sarasota County government offices and services, including libraries, the History Center and recreation centers, will be closed Sunday, Jan. 1, and Monday, Jan. 2, for the New Year's Day holiday. Here is a complete list of closings.

Band Bash breaks in Selby Library Teen Center Jan. 7

The new center was unveiled during an official ceremony earlier this month. Nowit's time to party with some of the area's hottest teen bands and DJs.

How do you roll?

If it's by bike, the Sheriff's Office wants you to know the rules of the road in Sarasota County.

Free, low-cost health services

The Sarasota County Health Department will provide free and low-cost medical services at 15 sites throughout Sarasota County in January. The staff will also be present at two special events.

Cut-rate fees for energy class

Learn how to achieve more energy efficiency in your home. Sarasota County is offering reduced class fee incentives for a limited number of residents who register for courses at the Florida Solar Energy Center.

December Economic Report now available

Sarasota County's December Economic Report has been released. Get demographic details, employment figures and more for Sarasota County.

New videos this week

Our local students' annual NEST calendar proves that the economic and social impact of locally grown food is not just kids' stuff.

PLUS: Tour Sarasota County'sPhillippi Farmhouse Market

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

We want your input

Small Business Owner Survey

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Contact Us

Sarasota County Government
1660 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, Florida 34236
941-861-5000

pubcom@scgov.net

Happy Holidays from Lake Sarasota

2011-12-22T13:28:00.000-05:00

2011-12-21T13:31:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Welcome to the Sarasota County Community Connections eNewsletter. Please share this enewsletter with family, friends and neighbors. Contact us if you have questions, ideas for articles, or feedback on the system, atcommunityconnections@scgov.net

Holiday office closings

Most Sarasota County government offices and services, including libraries, the History Center and recreation centers, will be closed Friday, Dec. 23, and Monday, Dec. 26, for the Christmas holiday. Here is a complete list of those closings, along with some exceptions.

Free, low-cost health services

The Sarasota Health Department will provide free and low-cost medical servicesat 15 sites throughout Sarasota County in January. The staff will also be present at two special events.

Cut-rate fees for energy class

Fresh Phillippi Farmhouse!

More than 50 local farmers gather every Wednesday at Phillippi Estate Park withlocally grown and harvested fruits and produce. Watch one of Sarasota County's more popular services.

How do you roll?

If it's by bike, the Sheriff's Office wants you to know the rules of the road in Sarasota County.

December Economic Report now available

Sarasota County's December Economic Report has been released. Get demographic details, employments figures and more for Sarasota County.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

We want your input

Small Business Owner Survey

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Contact Us

Sarasota County Government
1660 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, Florida 34236
941-861-5000

pubcom@scgov.net

Reminder about voter registration

2011-12-20T09:53:00.004-05:00

This message regarding voter registration has been sent to Homeowner Associations to be distributed:

KATHY DENT
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA
www.SarasotaVotes.com

Dec 16, 2011
Media contact: Tel: (941) 861-8606
Fax: (941 861-8609

Voter registration deadline nears for January 31 PPP

SARASOTA, FL – Voters must be registered by January 3, 2012 to be eligible to vote in the January 31, 2012 Presidential Preference Primary, Supervisor of Elections Kathy Dent announces. New voter registrations must be postmarked by January 3 or delivered in person to any supervisor of elections office not later than 5 p.m., January 3.

Because Florida is a closed primary state, a person can only vote in the primary for the candidates of the party in which the person is registered. This means that voters registered without party affiliation or in a party other than the Republican Party will not be eligible to vote on January 31.

Ms. Dent also urges voters to verify and update their registration information prior to election day. A voter may check his or her voter registration status by going to the SOE website (www.SarasotaVotes.com). Select “Voter Information” from the menu and then select “Voter Lookup” and follow the easy instructions.

New registrations, signature updates, and name and address changes may be submitted on a Florida Voter Registration Application.

Application forms are available at all supervisor of elections offices, city halls, county libraries and offices, and social service agencies, and may be downloaded from the SOE website.

For more information, call the supervisor of elections at (941) 861-8600 or write to Supervisor of Elections, PO Box 4194, Sarasota, FL 34230-4194.

-end-

Calendar by kids; free surrey rides; raining barrels

2011-12-15T19:33:00.000-05:00

Greetings!

Holiday office closings

Annual kids' calendar

Sarasota County's annual Neighborhood Environmental Stewardship team (NEST) calendar has been released. For 2012, students celebrate locally grown and produced food. Here are photos of all the winners.

Cut-rate fees for energy class

Take a slow surrey ride

Friends of The Legacy Trail is giving a lift to those who cannot otherwise share in the trail experience. The Legacy Trail surrey departs the Laurel Community Center and Trailhead every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Rides are free.

It's raining barrels

Come see why rain barrelsare a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Free workshop Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m., at North Sarasota Library. Barrels are available for $37, including tax. Pay by check or cash.

November Economic Report
Details on population, employment, top employers and more.

New videos this week

Sarasota County now has one convenient place to find information on permits and other requirements needed to build or improve exciting properties.

PLUS: Hear how homeowners in Sarasota County and surrounding cities are using the Get Energy Smart program to save energy and money.

Speakers Bureau

Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group.

We want your input

Small Business Owner Survey

Calendar of Events

scgov.net

Weekly Calendar

Construction Updates

Contact Us

Sarasota County Government
1660 Ringling Blvd.
Sarasota, Florida 34236
941-861-5000

pubcom@scgov.net

From the Sarasota Sheriff

2011-12-15T14:37:00.005-05:00

Sheriff's press release:

Scam Warning

The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about seasonal door-to-door scams, most recently a scheme where people pose as students involved in a fundraiser.

Reported incidents indicate that well-dressed college-age young men are approaching people under the guise of raising money for a school trip. They claim that they attend local universities and that their parents live nearby.

The pitch differs, but on some occasions the suspects ask for $118 for a trip to an overseas sports tournament. If the homeowner seems hesitant they reduce the price and offer magazine subscriptions. The suspect will even present an official looking flyer and receipt, but they do not contain valid information.

In a separate but similar scam, the perpetrator claims to be a state or county worker doing tree work or other contracting in the area. On at least one occasion, the suspect has distracted the victim, entered their home and left with their checkbook or valuables.

However the scam plays out, we want to remind residents to not open their door to uninvited guests, even if they claim to be neighbors or claim to be doing official work.

Anyone who feels unsafe should call the Sheriff’s Office immediately so deputies can contact the individuals and verify the nature of their business. Call 9-1-1 or the non-emergency number 941.316.1201.

Bee Ridge Widening Details Presented

2011-12-08T21:37:00.001-05:00

This is a bare bones summary of changes apparent in the plans presented by the county to the community at this evening's Bee Ridge Widening workshop - more detail will be available soon. A second community workshop will take place when plans are further along, possibly Summer/Fall 2012.

Because of a greater number of changes along the Lake Sarasota stretch of Bee Ridge Rd., more details will be presented to Lake Sarasota residents, possibly in January. Stay tuned.

1. Overview

The road will be four lanes to Bent Tree / Laurel Oak, and two lanes on to Bee Ridge Extension.

It will have streetlights, a median, bicycle lanes, bus stops and sidewalks on both the north and south sides. In places where the county succeeds in purchasing homes, there will be a deeper buffer between the roadway and the communities bordering the roadway.

2. Four new Culs de Sac

Lake Sarasota roads that connect to Bee Ridge are currently planned to be closed off:

Maui
Allen
Coleridge
Chaucer

2. Four Roundabouts:

These will be two-lane roundabouts, about 120' in diameter - smaller than the large one at Jacaranda, but considerably larger than those on Honore.

Four roundabouts are currently envisioned:

Tora/Golf Course Boulevard
Aberdeen
Laurel Oak/Bent Tree entrances
Iona/Bee Ridge Extension

Feel free to share your thoughts on the Lake Sarasota Facebook Page or via email to lakesarasota@gmail.com.