Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 1st of August.
Good morning, Sarasota.
💼 Business
Megan Sorby's Pine Island Redfish is raising redfish in aquaculture tanks at Mote Marine Research Park to supply select Publix stores and restaurants like Indigenous with clean, sweet white meat.
The company will expand operations with a permitted site on Pine Island that will create over 40 full-time jobs and boost production several thousand pounds per week—while also using tank wastewater to grow mangroves for coastal restoration.
📰 Economy
Florida’s minimum wage will increase to $14 an hour on September 30—after voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2020, tipped workers will earn $10.98 at the end of this month.
The wage will rise by $1 each year until it reaches $15 by 2026 and then adjust annually for inflation.
🏛️ Government
Today, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law that makes sales tax exemptions for hurricane supplies and back-to-school items permanent, letting families buy things like batteries, generators, and school supplies without extra tax.
Emergency management officials say the change may help people on fixed income plan ahead for storms and school needs—reducing last-minute rushes.
🏥 Health
Sarasota Memorial Hospital has launched a Pregnancy Care Team to help pregnant women get the prenatal care they need.
The team is led by three experienced OB nurse navigators who work with local partners to guide patients to services like prenatal education and breastfeeding support.
📰 Real Estate
Serenissima—a Longboat Key beachfront home at 845 Longboat Club Road—closed Thursday for $30.3 million, setting a new Sarasota County record that beats its 2020 sale of $16.5 million.
Realtor Rich Polese said the home has an infinity-edge pool and Italian design features that make it unique.
🏈 Sports
Sarasota Paradise will join USL League One in 2026 to become our area's first professional soccer team as it upgrades facilities at Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch and connects with local fans by accepting season ticket deposits.
The club also plans to launch a semi-pro women's team soon—steps that aim to build a lasting soccer culture in our community.
🎉 Sarasota Events
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Back to School: Fuel the Future
10 AM – 2 PM — Florida Blue Center - Sarasota — Free school supplies — Prepare for the school year with fun activities and valuable resources for students.
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.
🏠 Sarasota Real Estate
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💼 Sarasota Job Board
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📣 Sarasota Announcements
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