Good morning, Sarasota.

The Venice Municipal Fishing Pier reopened to the public Sept.29, 2024 after contractors repaired decking and railing damaged by hurricanes Helene and Milton—restoring a popular spot for local fishing and leisure.

Sarasota Publix stores now allow customers to openly carry guns after an appeals court overturned Florida’s ban on visible firearms, and the chain said it will enforce store rules and ask patrons to leave if a safety issue arises — local law enforcement has updated its training on the new policy.

SpaceX is preparing for its 11th Starship test flight from Texas on October 13 as the company develops infrastructure at Kennedy and Cape Canaveral that could bring in over $1 billion in investment and create hundreds of jobs.

Meanwhile, Florida residents and officials have expressed concerns—citing potential road closures and environmental risks—about shifting launch operations to the local Space Coast.

This week, Sarasota area concerts include a tribute to John Prine at Fogartyville and a performance by Melba Moore at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe — with shows by Igor & Red Elvises, Tyler Farr, and Johnny Rawls planned in Sarasota, Englewood, and Punta Gorda — as part of a lively local music scene.

St. Armands Circle will host a free fine art festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 18-19 where local artists will show works in various media—photography, painting, sculpture, jewelry and more, while nearby public parking costs $5.

Manatee educators plan to use the new Mote Science Education Aquarium for field trips and virtual tours starting Oct.

20—offering free STEM programming in labs for students from pre-K to high school. Teachers believe the hands-on experience will help students learn science in a real-world setting.

Mater Academy, a charter school operator from Hialeah Gardens, requested to share space at Booker Elementary, Brookside Middle, and Oak Park School under Florida’s Schools of Hope provisions – a rule that allows approved charters to use under-capacity schools.

Sarasota County Schools said the proposal is invalid until the rule takes effect on Oct. 28 – and district officials will file formal objections on time.

One year after Hurricane Milton struck, a mobile home in Sarasota County was raised 7 feet above base flood elevation—improving its ability to withstand future storms.

Local officials say that checking flood maps and alerts is key for coastal neighborhoods—helping residents prepare for severe weather.

Brista Commons on Longboat Key will open to the public in December as tenants such as Couch Longboat Key and ClearView Windows expand options for home building and decorating—marking a new shopping experience on the island.

Owner Mark Ursini said tenants will begin moving in during November to ensure convenient access for local customers.

The Sapphire Shores home Lunara is a nearly $19 million California-style house with a tall glass elevator, 10-car glass garage, and no hallways — listed by Andrew Tanner for buyers seeking unique design.

It has five bedrooms, a private spa balcony, and sits on South Shore Drive overlooking Sarasota Bay near Ca’d’Zan.

Jadyn Brester of Riverview High was named the Herald-Tribune Girls Athlete of the Week for Sept.

22-27 after recording 15 kills, one block, and six digs in a win over Sarasota. The senior outside hitter, who began playing volleyball at 13 after she stopped swimming, now plans to play in college.

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.

Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival

10 AM – 5 PM — Selby Five Points Park — Free entry — Explore diverse crafts and a Green Market in the heart of vibrant Downtown Sarasota.

Art at Noon Gallery Talk with Christopher Wilson

12-1 p.m. — Sarasota Art Museum — Free entry — Engage in a discussion about the Art Deco exhibition with an architecture historian.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Play

6-7:45 p.m. — Sarasota Polo Club — $15-$30 — Experience the spooky tale with a costume contest and encounter the Headless Horseman.

Repticon Reptile and Exotic Animal Show

10:00 – 11:30 AM — Sarasota Sahib Shrine — Admission varies — Explore reptiles and exotic animals while connecting with suppliers and enthusiasts.

Dovydas Concert

6-11 p.m. — Big Top Live — Tickets from $45 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Dovydas in Sarasota.

Live Music with Bri Rivera

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy captivating performances from a rising star in the local music scene, inspired by her Puerto Rican roots.

Ryan Faraday Live Performance

5-9 p.m. — Marina Jack — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music with professional guitarist Ryan Faraday and his eclectic band mix.