Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

Newtown Thriving Community Conversation

HOSTED BY THE NEWTOWN BUSINESS COUNCIL

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 • 5:30-7:30PM • R. L. TAYLOR COMMUNITY COMPLEX • 1845 JOHN RIVERS ST., SARASOTA, FL 34234

The Newtown Business Council invites the public to join a Community Conversation on August 25 at Robert L. Taylor Community Complex, to hear updates on the Newtown Thriving Community Action Plan, current work, and MLK Redevelopment – including a presentation from the Newtown CRA.

The conversation will take place from 5:30–7:30PM, with food and drinks served beginning at 5PM.

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

2026 Newtown Juneteenth Festival

SATURDAY, JUNE 20 • 1:00-6:00PM • MLK Way Between Links Ave & Pershing Ave

The 2026 Newtown Juneteenth Festival, hosted by Culture Queen, Inc., returns for its seventh year on Saturday, June 20 from 1PM - 6PM on MLK Blvd between Links Ave & Pershing Ave. The celebration will feature food, live music, vendors, and family activities.

Join the community festivities and be sure to stop by the Newtown CRA vendor tent!

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

This session will provide participants with practical skills for analyzing monthly financial performance by comparing current results to both the prior month and the same period in the previous year. Through hands-on exercises, participants will learn how to identify trends in revenue, expenses, and profitability, enabling them to pinpoint areas of improvement and emerging risks. 

Seminar presented by: Alan Gorlick

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

This session will introduce participants to the fundamental components of a pro forma income statement—a critical tool for startup and growth-stage financial planning. The session demystifies each section of the statement, guiding participants through revenue projections, cost of goods sold, gross profit, operating expenses, and anticipated net income. Through practical examples and hands-on exercises, attendees will learn how to make realistic assumptions, apply industry benchmarks, and interpret the financial implications of strategic decisions.

Seminar presented by: Tim Nelson

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

This session guides the development of actionable operational steps, align processes with company goals, and build flexibility for future growth. By exploring real-world examples and practical frameworks, participants will be equipped to describe operational structures, identify the right partners, project staffing needs, develop production timelines, and anticipate risks—ultimately laying a strong foundation for sustainable business success.

Seminar presented by: Tatiana Medina

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

This session provides participants with a practical framework for developing an effective sales strategy. Participants will explore the full spectrum of sales and distribution channels, learn how to evaluate and select the most suitable options for their products or services, and understand how to build relationships with key partners.

Seminar presented by: Marla Oppenheim

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

This session covers the exploration of marketing strategy, guiding participants through the crucial decisions surrounding marketing channel selection and effective market positioning. Participants will examine the various types of marketing channels—traditional and digital—and evaluate how each aligns with specific business goals and customer segments. The session also delves into the art of market positioning, equipping participants with frameworks to differentiate their offerings and communicate unique value in a competitive marketplace.

Seminar presented by: Bob Melberth

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

This session focuses on equipping participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to conduct effective market research—an essential step in building a robust business plan. Participants will learn how to systematically identify and analyze their target market, examining demographic, geographic, and psychographic characteristics to create detailed customer profiles. The course will also delve into competitive analysis techniques, enabling participants to map the competitive landscape.

Seminar presented by: Yana Stockman

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

Are you looking to secure funding to grow your business? This informative and empowering session will show you exactly how to prepare for a successful loan application with your local bank. You’ll learn what lenders are really looking for—from your FICO score and collateral to tax records and other essential documentation. The presenter will also walk you through how to craft a compelling business plan and organize your materials to make a strong impression. Whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, this session will give you the confidence and clarity to approach the loan process with a winning strategy.

Seminar presented by: Cyndi Miller

Build Your Success in Newtown is a seminar series designed to help existing and aspiring Newtown entrepreneurs turn ideas into action! Join us for multiple sessions throughout the first half of the year for insights and lessons on growing with confidence, creating opportunity, and helping shape a vibrant future for our community.

5:30PM - 6:00PM: Networking
6:00PM - 7:00PM: Seminar Session

Presented by

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation is hosting Resilient Roots, a FREE community workshop designed to help historic property owners in the Newtown National Register Historic District protect and preserve their homes for generations to come.

What You'll Discover: ✨ Interest-free financing options for essential home repairs ✨ Free title assistance for properties with generational ownership concerns ✨ Expert guidance on roofs, HVAC, structural repairs, and more ✨ Tools and resources to help keep Newtown's legacy thriving

Featured Speakers:

• Frank Sparkman, SAHP Project Coordinator

• Erin DiFazio, SAHP Managing Director

• Pam Fields, Legal Aid of Manasota

• Brooke Peterson, Atlas Insurance

Plus: Enjoy delicious local food and connect with neighbors who care about our community's future!

Whether your roof needs repair, you're dealing with water damage, or you want to learn how to protect your family home for the next 100 years—this workshop has answers.

Who Should Attend: Property owners of contributing historic buildings in the Newtown National Historic District (generally homes 50+ years old)

Cost: FREE! No obligation to apply for anything—just come learn about your options.

To learn more and register, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/resilient-roots-empowered-preservation-of-the-newtown-historic-district-tickets-1770873974729?aff=oddtdtcreator

This grant-funded initiative is made possible by the Newtown CRA, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, The 1772 Foundation, and dedicated community supporters.

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

We invite you to be part of shaping the future of our community! Join us for the Newtown Thriving Community Action Planning Meeting on Tuesday, October 28th at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex 1845 John Rivers St, Sarasota, FL 34234. 

🕠 Refreshments: 5:30 PM
🕕 Meeting: 6:00 – 8:00 PM

This is your opportunity to share ideas, connect with others, and help guide community priorities in five key areas:

🌿 Health & Wellness — Building balance through education and compassionate care
🎭 Arts & Culture — Using creativity to drive community and economic vitality
💵 Business & Finance — Fostering innovation, job creation, and stability
🎓 Youth Education & Mentorship — Empowering the next generation of leaders
💪 Community Safety & Resiliency — Strengthening our neighborhood through collaboration

Your participation helps make Newtown a thriving, connected, and resilient community. Come ready to share your perspective and be part of the progress!

PLEASE RSVP by replying back to this email.

For more details, email us at NewtownBusinessCouncil@gmail.com.

Let’s plan together for a stronger Newtown!

Join us for the 9th Annual Big Mama’s Collard Green Festival (BMCGF) — Sarasota’s premier cultural food festival celebrating community, heritage, and healthy Southern cuisine. This family-friendly event brings together vibrant traditions from Cajun, Creole, Southern, and Caribbean cultures, offering a full day of food, music, and fun for all ages.

Why You Should Attend

• Taste award-winning collard greens and soul food

• Support local chefs, restaurants, and food vendors

• Enjoy live music and community performances

• Celebrate Black culinary heritage and Southern food traditions

• Spend quality time with family in a positive, welcoming environment

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.

Newtown CRA Advisory Board Meetings are regularly scheduled public meetings where board members, city staff, and community members come together to discuss projects, programs, and priorities that support the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization of the Newtown community.

These meetings are an opportunity for residents to stay informed, share feedback, and participate in shaping the future of Newtown.

Opportunities to share your input are available at every meeting.

During every meeting, citizens have the opportunity to address the Board on topics NOT on the Agenda. Questions and answers are not permitted by the Board during this period. A Request to Speak Form must be submitted to Staff prior to speaking. Three (3) minutes time limit per speaker and Fifteen (15) minutes maximum time for all public input per meeting. 

Note: Should a citizen(s) have concerns regarding a topic on the agenda, they MUST wait until the end of the presentation, complete a Request to Speak form and then provide their input on said topic, at which time the board or presenter may address the citizen’s concern.