WHAT'S HAPPENING | Week of Oct. 29

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?

Trump this news: Donald Trump has thrust Sarasota County into national headlines with his announcement that he will his first Florida office here by Nov. 1. The Donald has chosen local GOP Chairman Joe Gruters to lead his campaign in the state. Here's what our readers on Facebook had to say:

"Well, we are the circus capital of the world ... " – Lori Wink Denison

"It is good for the Sarasota economy. Democrats need not be concerned; it's none of their business." – Ann Elizabeth St George

"Embarrassing for all involved." – Pamela Lyon

"I want to see everyone's face if he gets the nomination and gets elected, AND makes this country great again." – Albert Parente

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I have confidence in him. I want to know if he has confidence in his team." Sarasota County Commissioner Paul Caragiulo, referring to County Administrator Tom Harmer, whom commissioners gave a 3% raise Wednesday

BY THE NUMBERS

4 days 
The length of Thunder by the Bay, an outdoor motorcycle festival, will be in downtown Sarasota. 

20%
Less sand will be placed on south Siesta Key beaches in 2016 than in 2008, when it was last renourished.

1 year 
The reprieve Sarasota County granted the city of Sarasota on paying a fire benefit assessment on 13 parcels leased to nonprofits.

MEETINGS

Regular City Commission meeting — 2:30 and 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 2, Commission Chambers, City Hall, Sarasota

Siesta Key Association Board meeting — 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, Room F, St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key