Morning Sarasota! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Earth Day Market 🌍 at Talon Preserve in Palmer Ranch and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you get when you cross a snowman and a dog? 🤔 (Answer below!)
Weather forecast:
1. Sarasota's property appraiser is moving millions from AI moguls to support Byron Donalds (wusf.org) — Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst is chairing a political committee that’s funnelling millions from pro‑AI donors, including OpenAI’s co‑founder, to support Byron Donalds’ run for Florida governor. The story explains how this Sarasota-based PAC fits into a national push for AI-friendly candidates and notes related controversy over a new AI data center project just inland from the Suncoast.
2. Big downtown Sarasota housing plan suddenly back in play (heraldtribune.com) — Downtown Sarasota’s long-discussed attainable housing project across from City Hall is back on the table as commissioners move to restart negotiations for the First Street Credit Union site. The city already owns nearby First Street parcels bought in 2024, positioning this block for a potential multi-tower housing complex. Locals could see a significant change in how central downtown land is used.
3. Suncoast Boat Show returns for 44th year, driving regional economy (mysuncoast.com) — The Suncoast Boat Show is back at Marina Jack, drawing visitors and big spending to Sarasota’s waterfront and local businesses. Organizers and marine experts say the region’s boating industry now drives hundreds of millions in economic activity, from boat sales to charters, hotels, and restaurants, with demand for water recreation still climbing.
4. Burn ban reinstated in Sarasota County as dry weather conditions continue (wfla.com) — Sarasota County is back under a burn ban as ongoing drought pushes fire danger higher, banning nearly all outdoor burning in the county and City of Sarasota without a permit. Fire officials urge residents to clear dry debris, create defensible space around homes, and be extremely careful with grills, cigarettes, and anything that could spark. The ban will lift only after safer moisture levels return for a full week.
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Ok Sarasota! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: Frostbite (Thank you Peggy H. for sending it in!)Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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