SRQ DAILY Oct 29, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I'm hoping that it's a unique experience for the students."
Although NASA astronaut Luke Delaney was some 250 miles above, his voice could be heard loud and clear in the second-floor classroom at Sarasota Military Academy (SMA) high school. On October 22, SMA became one of 13 schools in the nation to make radio contact with the International Space Station (ISS) this school year. SMA did so through the use of two Icom 9700 radios, handled by members of the Tamiami Amateur Radio Club.
The radio contact lasted around 10 minutes and featured a list of questions asked by SMA cadets that were dutifully answered by Delaney aboard the ISS. With the ISS traveling roughly 17,500 miles per hour, the window of opportunity was small. In fact, the contact almost didn’t happen—operators of SMA’s W4SMA Amateur Radio program at SMA had to switch to the backup channel after initial attempts at contact failed.
“This is a giant relief,” says SMA-CPT John Geimer, Instructor of the Radio 1 class at SMA. “When you start this process, it’s very time-consuming, labor-intensive and paperwork-intensive and there’s no guarantee that it’s going to work. I’m hoping that it’s a unique experience for the students. It’s probably safe to say that they’ll look back on it with more reverence and fond memories than they might have anticipated.”
Through the Radio 1 class at SMA, students can earn their amateur radio license and are sent out into the school with HAM radios. For both military and civilian applications, earning an amateur radio license can pay dividends in the future. For many of the cadets, however, having the chance to speak to—or even just witness—radio contact with an astronaut was just plain cool.
“I am a massive space nerd,” says junior Annalena Kayan. “When I learned that I was able to sit in and listen to them make contact with the ISS, I was so excited. I don’t know anybody else who can say that they’ve spoken to an astronaut who is in space.” 
Pictured: left to right: SMA Cadet Joey Miguel, Tamiami Amateur Radio Club Operator Stephen Phillips, W4SMA Amateur Radio Program Founder George Becht, SMA-CPT John Geimer. Photo by Wes Roberts.
The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, in partnership with the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College, will host Arts in Education Celebration on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sarasota Art Museum. This free, open house-style event invites families and community members to see and hear the arts education programs thriving in Sarasota County public schools. Student performers from across the district will fill the museum throughout the day. Guests can hear the Southside Elementary School Jazz Band, the Venice High School Orchestra, the Venice High Trumpet Fanfare, and a solo by a Venice High vocalist. Booker High School VPA students appear twice, with a guitar and vocalist, and a performance by Typhoon, the school’s modern band. Sarasota Middle School’s Joyful Voices Choir also takes the stage. A Celebration Choir brings together singers from eight elementary schools: Ashton, Brentwood, Cranberry, Emma E. Booker, Garden, Glenallen, Phillippi Shores, and Taylor Ranch. For more information about the Arts in Education Celebration and the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County's education initiatives, visit https://sarasotaarts.org/arts-in-education-celebration/ or call 941-365-5118.
Starting this fall, Sarasota County Schools will be offering two K-12 Controlled Open Enrollment (COE)/School Choice application windows – one in the fall and one in the spring – in preparation for the next academic year. This change will help the school district’s K-12 COE/School Choice process run more efficiently and ensure that families have extra time to plan and finalize admissions decisions for the upcoming school year. The district’s K-12 COE/School Choice process requires that an online application be completed through the Focus Parent Portal. If you need help accessing and/or submitting an online application, please contact the Office of School Choice at 941-927-9000, ext. 32255.
Best of The Bay Music Fest takes place THIS Sunday, November 1, from 1:00–7:00 pm, bringing five musical acts, family-friendly activities and special surprises to the Sarasota bayfront. Admission is FREE! The festival serves as the Grand Finale of the “One Park FOUR All” 4th Anniversary Community Celebration.
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Don't miss our popular Halloween-inspired light show, open nightly now through Saturday, October 31! Follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and bootanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy, and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages! Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged -- buy yours soon to secure the dates and times of your choice.
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What if one extraordinary evening could help create a brighter future for a child?
A child struggling to speak finds their voice. A little one overwhelmed by fear discovers safety. A family facing unimaginable challenges finds hope.
At The Florida Center for Early Childhood, these aren't simply possibilities. They're the transformations made possible through compassionate care, specialized therapies and inclusive early education at Starfish Academy.
But none of it happens alone.
Behind every breakthrough is a community that believes every child deserves the chance to thrive.
On December 4, that community comes together for an extraordinary evening of generosity and purpose.
Join us at The Florida Center's 2026 Wonder Gala and help make more life-changing moments possible.
See what generosity can make possible!
Friday, December 4, 6:30 p.m., at The Ora in Sarasota. For tickets and sponsorship information, visit https://www.thefloridacenter.org/wonder/
Bring your pet(s) in for photos with Santa AND the Grinch! There will be two dates to choose from and will be held from 12pm-3pm with no appointment needed. A $10 donation is asked, with all proceeds benefitting Farmhouse Animal & Nature Sanctuary. To learn more visit farmhousesanctuary.org.
Paws and Claus, Leo and Lucky's 8943 US-301 N, Parrish, Sunday November 15th and 22nd 12pm-3pm no appt needed.
Great Place to Work and Fortune magazine have selected BayCare for the 2026 Fortune Best Workplaces for Women list, marking the sixth time BayCare has earned a spot on this prestigious national list.
After more than 20 years serving the Sarasota community, 20 Minutes to Fitness of Lakewood Ranch is entering a new chapter. Longtime team members Angela and Travis Begin have assumed full ownership of the strength training studio, which will now operate under the name Strengthening the Suncoast. While the name and ownership have changed, the studio’s training protocol, certified coaching team, equipment, appointment-based model and commitment to its clients remain in place. Strengthening the Suncoast is located at 6257 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34240. For more information, visit strengtheningthesuncoast.com
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture is hosting Crafted with Gratitude, a customer appreciation event on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m. at its Sarasota showroom, located at 3709 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota.
Join us on November 6 at Michael’s On East for the 2026 Women Who Roar Leadership Awards, a celebration of the exceptional women shaping the Sarasota and Bradenton community through business, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, innovation and leadership. This inspiring gathering brings together women in business and community leaders to connect, celebrate and honor the remarkable women whose vision and contributions are making a lasting impact across our region.
November 6, 2026 at Michael's On East
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
More than 30 Creative Liberties artists come together for a group exhibition showcasing the range of talent, styles and perspectives within the Creative Liberties community. An opening reception will be held on September 16 from 5pm-7pm.
Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Ave., Sarasota
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
This spirited musical ghost trolley tour with an historic bent returns for its 8th year with tour times at 7pm or 8:30pm. Talented cast members Kaylene McCaw and MariAnne Hernandez alternate as Lady Melody, the tour's ghost hostess, and tell stories of haunted buildings as they welcome aboard mystery spirits played by David Springer, Michael De Mocko, Olivia Turpening and Sarah Van Keuren. Prizes are awarded for best costume each night. Tickets include complimentary beer or wine before boarding and free parking.
Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th St., Sarasota
The popular Halloween-inspired light show returns to Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point! The campus is transformed into Spooky Point where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and boo-tanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Tickets go on sale August 24.
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey
A work doesn't have to be monumental to demand our attention. The fifth installment of 502 Gallery's popular annual invitational exhibition, Shopliftable, is a celebration of small-scale works by 20 artists. Each artwork is modest in size but full of possibility, inviting viewers to look closely and discover how much an artist can say within a limited physical space. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
This Tony-winning stage musical is about a shy high school student with social anxiety who becomes entangled in a lie after a classmate’s suicide. By fabricating a friendship with the deceased, Evan finds the popularity and connection he always craved. He faces a crisis when his deception threatens to unravel his life and ruin his relationships. Dear Evan Hansen reminds us all that–even in our loneliest moments–you will be found.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Get ready for a fang-tastic afternoon of fun at Wellen Park's Spooktacular Halloween! Bring family and friends for trick-or-treating, music, costumes and spooky good vibes.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Experience a morning of fall fun at the Runaway Pumpkin 5K and free family festival. Food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, costume contest and PAWS therapy dogs are featured. Kids ages 12 and under can participate in the mini monster dash. Consider donating non-perishable food items that will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity through partnering organizations.
The Child Protection Center's Monda Campus, 5600 Peace River Rd., North Port
Across from Marina Jack's in downtown Sarasota, see a variety of original fine art pieces. Peruse and purchase drawings, fiber works, jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures and other media. Hot Works focuses on visual arts that are juried by art professionals.
J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
The only U.S. stop of the 2026 UCI World Cup brings the world's elite BMX Racing riders to Sarasota on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Sarasota BMX was selected by the UCI to host two UCI World Cup final rounds in 2026 and two in 2027. The facility is home to a year-round local racing program with USA BMX-certified coaching for riders at every level.
Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
Throughout November, visit all 10 library locations of Sarasota County Libraries for a literary celebration featuring author talks, book signings, writing workshops and family activities. See bestselling authors including Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Nathaniel Philbrick and Kate Quinn. This annual event will kick off on November 1 with a publishing day and local author fair, and a family day will be held on November 7.
Sarasota County Libraries
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
A celebration of American passion for freedom, opportunity and expression, this concert features choral and instrumental music by Benjamin Britten, Anton Dvorak and a host of American composers part and present, performed by choir and string orchestra.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
Think big on a small scale. This playful exhibition at Creative Liberties features imaginative, affordable original artworks that make memorable holiday gifts. An opening reception will be held on November 6 from 5-7pm.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Ringling College's first art walk of the academic year presents seven galleries including Nancy Hartman: Dreams and Fancies, Illest of Ill: Out of This World, Rob Tarbell: Illuminations and more. Whether you're a longtime gallery-goer or stepping into a contemporary art space for the first time, this free art walk is designed to feel welcoming—a night to explore, discover and connect. Enjoy live music and food trucks throughout the evening.
The Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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