Good morning, Sarasota.

The Bay launched its new Run and Walk Club for all ages on September 6, offering a 5K route over the John Ringling Causeway and a 1.6-mile option that avoids busy intersections—Coach Elisha DeMassa said the club promotes a safe, supportive community by encouraging participants to move at their own pace each weekend.

A film called Hello Beautiful, based on the book Walk Beside Me by breast cancer survivor Christine Handy, will screen Oct.

1 at CMX CinéBistro Siesta Key in Sarasota—sponsored by Wrapped in Love and featuring a Q&A session with Handy. The event offers a chance for the community to see a powerful story of survival and hope.

Superintendent Connor of the Sarasota County School District proposed closing Wilkinson Elementary due to low use—board members warned that additional school closures might lower home values and slow local business activity while leaders explore moving district offices to underutilized campuses.

Tim Enos returned as chief of police for Sarasota County Schools after he resigned from the school board on Aug 24—he said he is ready to enhance training, focus on mental health, and build stronger ties with local leaders to keep kids safe.

His return builds on his longtime commitment to the community and his deep personal ties in the area.

Another Sarasota Schools employee is under review for social media posts about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, making six staff members under investigation.

The district is asking employees to confirm if the posts were made on company time—further reviews may lead to disciplinary action.

Residents in Central Cocoanut have renewed efforts against the US Recycling facility amid complaints of dust and odors similar to a troubled North Port site from 20 years ago—county officials are inspecting the site and working with the permit holder to resolve open violations.

A notice of violation was sent on Sept. 11 and inspectors will continue to check for compliance.

Crews upgraded traffic signals at the intersection of Clark Road and Honore Ave last night between 7:30 p.m. and 6 a.m.—law enforcement and roadwork teams flagged traffic, causing delays and slower travel for motorists.

Motorists were advised to allow extra time on their journeys as a result.

Nikesh Patel became Sarasota’s new Public Works director on Aug.

20 — he took over from Doug Jeffcoat who retired on Sept. 2. Patel has over 21 years of work in engineering and will lead 106 staff on projects like road repairs and waste management while facing rising costs.

Angela Long, founder of Survivors in Sync and head paddling coach at Nathan Benderson Park, helped breast cancer survivors learn how to steer a dragon boat and form a competitive team.

The group competed internationally—finishing fourth and winning medals—after Long was named Team USA’s first-ever coach for breast cancer paddlers.

Residents in Sarasota and Bradenton can enjoy a weekend of free outdoor events including an energetic 80s-themed Venice Beach Party with live music and food trucks, a Family Fest at Van Wezel with interactive activities, and a free Family Movie Night at The Bay showing Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. The lineup also features Oktoberfest at Edelweiss and the Sarasota Opera Food & Wine Festival with local dining pairings + tastings.

Previews for high school football games in the Sarasota and Manatee area for today and Friday are out—local teams face key matchups with detailed predictions on game times, player stats and district impacts.

The forecasts note a long-awaited rivalry featuring Sarasota and Riverview and other contests that could shift regional standings.

Bri Rivera Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Marina Jack — Check event page for details — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Bri Rivera, a talented musician from Puerto Rico making waves in Sarasota's music scene.

Graphic Design Certificate Program

2-8 p.m. — American Graphics Institute — Check for tuition details — Enhance your design skills with a comprehensive graphic design certificate course.

Weekend Psychic & Holistic Expo

9 AM – 6 PM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Admission varies — Explore the realms of spirituality with psychics, mediums, and holistic products.

Community in Motion 5K & 1 Mile Walk

8:30-11:00 a.m. — Nathan Benderson Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate fitness and community spirit at this annual 5K and 1 Mile Walk event.

Justin Layman Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — The Ugly Grouper — Free entry — Experience an evening of Folk, Rock, and R&B from the talented Sarasota singer-songwriter Justin Layman.

Stories of Sarasota: A Conversation & Book Signing with Jeff LaHurd

6-7 p.m. — Bookstore1 — Free entry — Explore Sarasota's transformation with acclaimed historian Jeff LaHurd in an engaging book signing event.

We’ve Got Short Shorts at Sarasota Jewish Theatre

1:30-3:30 p.m. — The Players Centre for Performing Arts — $24 — Enjoy two contemporary comedic plays exploring faith and identity in a lively theatrical setting.

Cabana Dogs Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Freckled Fin Irish Pub — $ — Dance to high-energy beach rock and soulful tunes by Sarasota's own Cabana Dogs.

Tyler Farr Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Big Top Live — Tickets available — Experience the electric country-rock sounds of Tyler Farr with his chart-topping hits and engaging stage presence.

SHARDS of SKELLY

3-4 p.m. — Sarasota Sahib Shrine Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical family Halloween show featuring hilarious fairy tales and a lovable skeleton hero.