Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 19th of August.
Good morning, Sarasota.
🌲 Environment
Suncoast Waterkeeper is launching its Forever Free program in North Port after a study showed the city has the highest levels of PFAS in Sarasota County water.
The program will test 200 household taps and provide free glass pitcher filters at community meetings on August 20, August 22, August 26, and August 29—arming residents with information to reduce exposure.
Sarasota Bay Watch is hosting its annual citizen science scallop survey on Aug.
23, and volunteers will meet at 8:30 a.m. at either the Sarasota Sailing Squadron headquarters—at 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway or the North Coquina Boat Ramp at 1507 Gulf Drive South—to record scallops and other marine signs that help gauge water health.
Hurricane Erin strengthened and grew larger on Aug.
18, reaching Category 4 with winds near 145 mph and threatening dangerous surf and rip currents along the Atlantic coast from Florida to Canada. Officials urged residents to monitor the storm and prepare — a reminder to check supplies and safe areas.
📰 Finance
A new analysis shows Florida retirees risk high federal taxes and extra Medicare premiums when they convert large amounts from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA.
In Sarasota, Bob and Linda could face nearly a 24% tax burden on a $100K conversion—forcing them to adopt partial conversions over multiple years.
🏛️ Government
Congressman Vern Buchanan hosted the 15th annual Congressional District Law Enforcement Awards at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, where over 50 first responders were honored for exceptional service.
The awards—such as Above and Beyond the Call of Duty and Preservation of Life—recognized the dedication of law enforcement personnel in the 16th District.
Sarasota is drafting a new special event ordinance to limit downtown block parties that disrupt residents with noise and street closures—city officials plan to set clear limits on event numbers and require extra approvals for gatherings with high impact.
The revised rule will aim to balance lively public events with the needs of residents and local businesses.
🏥 Health
CenterPlace Health named Dr. Fred Bearison as its new chief medical officer to lead clinical operations at four local clinics—replacing Dr. Lisa Gonzalez-Abello who left for John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.
Mallory D. Osteen was also appointed to the Judicial Nominating Commission and the Wilson-Wood Foundation awarded $450,000 to 29 organizations while JFCS of the Suncoast earned accreditation through 2027.
🏈 Sports
The high school football season is underway as teams in Sarasota and Manatee begin practices and prepare for upcoming games.
The Herald-Tribune will track every match—offering schedules, scores and live streams—as the season unfolds.
🎉 Sarasota Events
Submit an event →
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.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an eclectic evening of music with accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts and his canine companion, Apollo.
Justin Layman Live Performance
1-5 p.m. — Siesta Key Oyster Bar — Free entry — Experience the unique blend of Folk, Rock, and R&B music from local Singer/Songwriter Justin Layman.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check venue for entry fees — Enjoy an evening of unique loop-style music from accomplished singer-songwriter Scott Curts.
Bri Rivera Concert
6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Visit Artist's Website — Experience the vibrant sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician rooted in Puerto Rican tradition, as she lights up the local music scene.
Discussion on Plato's Phaedo
10:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. — Friends of the North Sarasota Public Library — Free entry — Engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the nature of the soul and Socrates' beliefs on immortality.
Scott Curts Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Experience the eclectic sounds of singer-songwriter Scott Curts with his unique loop styling accompanied by his beloved dog, Apollo.
Sarasota Bradenton Home Show
10 AM - 7 PM — Robarts Arena — Free entry — Explore the latest in home improvement and renovation ideas from expert exhibitors.
🏠 Sarasota Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Sarasota Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Sarasota Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Sarasota.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.