Calendar by kids; free surrey rides; raining barrels

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Holiday office closings  Most Sarasota County government offices and services, including libraries, the History Center and recreation centers, will be closed Friday, Dec. 23, and Monday, Dec. 26, for the Christmas holiday. Here is a complete list of those closings, along with some exceptions. Annual kids' calendar   Sarasota County's annual Neighborhood Environmental Stewardship team (NEST) calendar has been released. For 2012, students celebrate locally grown and produced food. Here are photos of all the winners. Cut-rate fees for energy class   Learn how to achieve more energy efficiency in your home. Sarasota County is offering reduced class fee incentives for a limited number of residents who register for courses at the Florida Solar Energy Center Take a slow surrey ride Friends of The Legacy Trail is giving a lift to those who  cannot otherwise share in the trail experience. The Legacy Trail surrey departs the Laurel Community Center and Trailhead every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Rides are free. It's raining barrels  Come see why rain barrelsare a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Free workshop  Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m., at North Sarasota Library. Barrels are available for $37, including tax. Pay by check or cash. More stories Free and low-cost health services Contracts approved for Gulf Gate Library and ATMS November Economic Report Details on population, employment, top employers and more. New videos this week Sarasota County now has one convenient place to find information on permits and other requirements needed to build or improve exciting properties. PLUS: Hear how homeowners in Sarasota County and surrounding cities are using the Get Energy Smart program to save energy and money.   Speakers Bureau Request a member of our Speakers Bureau to share their expertise with your community, homeowners association or other civic group. We want your input   Small Business Owner Survey  Calendar of Events  scgov.net  Weekly Calendar  Construction Updates  Contact Us Sarasota County Government 1660 Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, Florida 34236 941-861-5000 pubcom@scgov.net