Dr. Ed Rosenthal, Space Technology Hall of Fame inductee, will share his expertise on space agriculture at Selby Library in Sarasota on Wednesday, December 3, at 5 p.m.

 

Known for inventing a groundbreaking controlled-release fertilizer for microgravity, Dr. Rosenthal was key in helping astronauts grow fresh crops aboard the International Space Station.

 

His fertilizer innovation benefits both space missions and terrestrial farming, emphasizing the critical role of fresh produce in long-duration spaceflight.

 

The free, public event — hosted by the Sarasota Sister Cities Association — will also feature a video message from an astronaut headed to NASA’s Artemis mission.

 

Sarasota County’s focus on agricultural education continues with ‘The Farm,’ a 40-acre learning facility at McIntosh Middle School, providing hands-on opportunities for students.

 

The county’s recent $19 million purchase of Albritton Fruit Farms will supply landfill cover, saving taxpayers millions, while underscoring Sarasota’s dedication to innovation in agriculture.

Sarasota is welcoming December with mild, sunny days and refreshingly cool evenings.

 

Daytime highs will linger in the mid-70s, while nights dip into the comfortable mid-50s.

 

Minimal rainfall means residents and visitors can look forward to abundant sunshine and outdoor fun.

 

The forecast calls for mostly clear skies, with only a slight chance of brief afternoon showers mid-week.

 

Excitement builds as the holiday season arrives, with Sarasota’s event calendar sparkling.

 

This Friday, December 5, enjoy the lively ‘Light Up the Night’ celebration at Selby Five Points Park — complete with live music, Christmas tree lighting, and falling snowflakes.

 

The festivities continue on Saturday, December 6, with the 47th Annual Holiday Night of Lights at St. Armands Circle and its grand 60-foot tree.

 

Dress in layers for evening celebrations, as temperatures gently fall after sunset, perfectly capturing Sarasota’s winter charm.