SRQ DAILY Nov 5, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"If you closed your eyes and listened to the beach during a bad bloom, it was just one continuous cough."
Red tide has plagued the Gulf of Mexico since the 1800s. Outbreaks of Karenia brevis, a harmful algae bloom, often worsened by runoff from pollution, has long been known to wreak havoc on marine ecosystems, killing off large swaths of fish, birds and other marine life. Red tide’s effect on humans—both here and across oceans—is the topic of Dr. Babara Kirkpatrick’s lecture, Florida & Australia: Red Tide “Cousins” and Their Impacts, November 6 at The Roskamp Institute.
A senior advisor at the Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS), Dr. Kirkpatrick has made a career in researching what harmful algae blooms can do to human health. A former respiratory therapist, Dr. Kirkpatrick began researching the effects of red tide on the respiratory system in 1996, during an extended red tide bloom that lasted for 30 months on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
“The group I worked with brought asthmatics to Siesta Key Beach, did a series of pre-testing, had them stay there for an hour during a red tide bloom, and found that there was a significant change in their pulmonary function after just that hour,” says Dr. Kirkpatrick. “It is an irritant to the upper airway as well as the lower airway. If you’re out on Siesta Key Beach on a busy Saturday there can be 10,000 people there. If you closed your eyes and listened to the beach during a bad bloom, it was just one continuous cough.”
Dr. Kirkpatrick’s expertise in the field came in handy in 2025, when an unprecedented red tide bloom—driven by Karenia cristata as opposed to Karenia brevis—hit Australia’s southern coastline. Dr. Kirkpatrick was contacted by Australia’s ABC Radio National to counteract claims from tourism agencies that red tide was harmless. “The nice message is that science is actually a lot more collaborative than I think people perceive it to be,” says Dr. Kirkpatrick.
Florida & Australia Red Tide “Cousins” and Their Impacts, Nov 6, 4pm, The Roskamp Institute, 2040 Whitfield Avenue, Sarasota. 
Siesta Key Beach. Photo by Dylan Campbell.
With continued support from the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation, Forty Carrots’ Partners In Play® (PIP) program is entering its third year at Lakewood Ranch Library. Serving 399 unduplicated children and families last year, PIP at Lakewood Ranch Library continues to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where play leads the way to empowering parents to nurture their children’s early learning while also strengthening parent-child relationships.PIP groups at Lakewood Ranch Library are ongoing on Fridays beginning at 12:30pm, welcoming any parent, grandparent, or caregiver with a child aged from babies to five years old.
Pictured: Families participating in Forty Carrots Family Center's Partners In Play at Lakewood Ranch Library. Provided photo.
The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab is proud to announce a $25,000 grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to enhance hands-on STEAM education and learning opportunities for the Sarasota-Manatee community. As part of this support, Suncoast Credit Union Foundation will serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the Fab Lab’s 12th Annual RC Custom Car Open, an engineering and design competition for students in kindergarten through 8th grade. The grant will also support the Science Lending Library, which provides standards-aligned science kits and equipment to area teachers at no cost; scholarships that help children from families with financial need participate in Fab Lab programs; and general operating support to help the organization adapt to emerging needs and continue developing innovative educational opportunities for the community.
The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Dental Medicine will host its annual Super Smile Saturday on November 7, offering free preventative dental care to children ages 2–17.
Under faculty supervision, LECOM dental students will provide exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. Families can also enjoy oral health education, games, prizes, and free dental care kits.
Saturday, November 7, 9am-2pm, LECOM School of Dental Medicine, 4800 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton.
Sarasota County Schools has, once again, been designated an Academically High-Performing School District for 2025–2026 by the Florida State Board of Education. The recognition reflects strong academic performance, compliance with class-size requirements, and financial accountability. Additionally, 17 district-managed schools across Sarasota County earned the state’s School of Excellence designation, recognizing sustained high academic performance compared with schools throughout Florida. This distinction reflects a record of student achievement rather than a single year’s results.
Building on three years of bringing its celebrated outdoor art exhibition to St. Petersburg, Embracing Our Differences (EOD) is expanding its reach in 2027 with a $40,000 grant from the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg. The funding will support the organization's free exhibition at the St. Pete Pier, February 12–March 14, while expanding educational opportunities and strengthening community connections through art. Visit www.embracingourdifferences.org to learn more.
Pictured: Students participate in an interactive learning activity at an Embracing Our Differences exhibition. A $40,000 grant from the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg will help expand the organization's educational outreach in Pinellas County
Suncoast Charities for Children, organizer of the 29th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motors Festival, is excited to announce George Thorogood & The Destroyers – The Baddest Show On Earth as the new headline act for opening night on Friday, February 19, at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. The announcement follows the unexpected cancellation of all of Cheap Trick’s 2027 concert dates, along with the band's announcement of an indefinite break from touring after five decades on the road. General admission, Party Pit and VIP tickets are on sale now at discounted prices through December 31. For tickets and complete festival information, visit Thunderbythebay.org
Provided photo.
The Palmetto Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) received two statewide awards at the 2026 Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Annual Conference, held last week in Charlotte Harbor, Florida, recognizing the Palmetto CRA’s efforts to restore environmentally sensitive land and attract major private investment. The awards honor its Estuary Preserve Cleanup and Environmental Stewardship Initiative in the Innovative Blight Management Programs category and the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa in the Outstanding New Building category. This recognition comes as the Palmetto CRA celebrates 40 years of community investment and highlights two distinct approaches to redevelopment: transforming a neglected waterfront preserve into a safe, accessible natural asset and supporting the development of the city's first full-service hotel, bringing new jobs, tourism, and economic activity to Palmetto.
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System honored two longtime physicians for outstanding service and announced its 2026-2027 chiefs of staff for the SMH-Sarasota and SMH-Venice campuses. John Abu, MD, received Sarasota Memorial’s 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award and Steven Halbreich, MD, was named 2026 Physician of the Year. After input and recommendations from the medical staff, a committee of physician leaders recognized Drs. Abu and Halbreich at SMH-Sarasota’s annual medical staff meeting on Oct. 29.
Pictured: Dr Abu left and Dr Hill right. Provided photo.
Sarasota’s biggest celebration of local businesses is back and nominations are open until November 18!
The Best of SRQ Local Readers Competition celebrates the locally owned restaurants, shops, arts organizations, people, experiences and can't-miss spots that make our community one of a kind.
If your brand is ready to get on the ballot, now is the time to rally your customers, clients and community! There is only two weeks left so make sure you keep nominating!
Nominations close November 18, 2026
Enjoy fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities on Bradenton's Old Main Street every Saturday from October through May. Local farmers, artisans and chefs share their talents, and you'll always be greeted with a smile from the market vendors.
Old Main Street, 400 12th St. 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
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
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
Celebrate the rebellious nature of America through the music of artists who challenged convention, inspired change and gave voice to generations of Americans. Featuring unforgettable songs like Born in the U.S.A., Blowin' in the Wind, What's Going On and True Colors, this joyous musical journey celebrates the rebels, dreamers and visionaries who helped shape the American story. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
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
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
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Join Sarasota artist Jing Herman for an interview on her American flag artworks in The Beautiful Country at the lobby of One Sarasota Tower. Herman's artwork, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, which resides in the White House Historical Association's permanent collection, will be represented by a full-size fine art reproduction on view at the event and through the end of the year. This in-person exhibit and artist interview is designed for professionals, community leaders and art and history lovers. A light lunch will be served, and parking is available at Palm Avenue Parking Garage.
One Sarasota Tower, 2 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta's famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food and drink, shopping, sand sculpting demonstrations and family-friendly activities–all set against the backdrop of one of America's top-ranked beaches. Whether you're an art lover, beachgoer or local supporter, the Crystal Classic offers a truly unique experience that inspires creativity and brings the community together year after year.
Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Presented by Key Chorale, the Chamber Singers invite you into a world of beauty, reflection and wonder at this candlelit choral experience. The choir is joined by renowned organist Jeremy Filsell, violinist Jeff Thurston and cellist Susan Dobronsky. Here contemplative and sacred selections by Faure, Paulus, Gjeilo and Esenvalds at this evening of serenity and inspiration.
Christ Episcopal Church, Bradenton, 4030 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton
Kick off the holidays with a merry celebration along N. Cattlemen Rd. that features giant balloons, fantastical floats, marching bands, dance troupes and a special appearance by the one-and-only Santa Claus. The excitement continues with thrilling FMX stunts by Nik Wallenda's Wonderland Circus, the lighting of UTC's 50-foot holiday tree, dazzling fireworks and an after-party concert. Visit the kids zone for games and crafts from 3-5pm, and pre-party entertainment begins at 4:15pm.
UTC District, N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
At this customer appreciation event, longtime customers and first-time visitors are invited to enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, appreciation gifts and exclusive showroom offers. The afternoon will also feature hourly raffles for Berlin Gardens chairs.
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Showroom, 3709 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Bring your pets in for photos with Santa and the Grinch on November 15 and 22, with no appointment needed. All proceeds benefit Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. The sanctuary's mission is to offer continued care for the animals, giving them a place to feel safe, find forever homes for adoptable pets and to teach a new generation the joy of caring for animals through their Critter Connection Animal Outreach Bus program.
Leo and Lucky's, 8943 US Highway 301 N, Parrish
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of CycleFest at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. This annual event features scenic, custom-designed routes through Sarasota and Manatee Counties, with 20-, 35- and 66-mile options for riders of varying experience levels. Participants can enjoy a light breakfast, rest stops and a post-ride lunch while supporting local bicycle charities. The celebration also includes a special $2,500 Ryder Bikes gift certificate drawing and a Goodwill donation drive.
Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton
At the Living Arts Festival's opening party, expect color, connections and surprises around every corner. It's the perfect way to kick off a week of art, music, dance and theatre. Experience live performances, singing, dancing and visual art, plus a first look at everything during festival week.
Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
This competition will showcase the best in music, art, theatre, dance and acrobatics. The energy is electric, the talent is real and the winners take home cash prizes. Join the excitement as a panel of celebrity judges chooses the champion. Awards and prizes are presented at the end of the competition.
Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, 6116 Crestwood Ave., Sarasota
This family-friendly event features local music, dance, theatre and arts groups performing all day. Kids can jump into hands-on art and theatre workshops for budding creatives of all ages, while food trucks keep everyone fueled. Bring the whole family and let your little ones discover what they love.
Civic Green, adjacent to the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This kaleidoscopic closing performance wraps up the 2026 Living Arts Festival with a world of entertainment. You'll experience the sights and sounds of your favorite area performers, plus surprise appearances. Sit on the edge of your seat to hear awards including Best of the Festival, Small But Mighty and Creativity At Its Finest. Highlights include the 2nd annual presentation of the Teacher Tribute Awards to two area art teachers who inspire and motivate youth in music, art, theatre and dance.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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