SRQ DAILY Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I remember handing the trophy to Frances Tiafoe in 2017 and today he was on the TV in the clubhouse playing at the Monte-Carlo Masters."
Professional tennis has touched down in Sarasota. The Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open is currently underway at the Sarasota Sports Club and is set to finish on Saturday, April 13. The tournament, which has been held in the area since 2008, is one of the stops on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger Tour, the second-highest tier of tennis competition behind the ATP Tour.
While the Challenger Tour is technically a tier below that of the ATP Tour—which includes tournaments such at the US Open, Wimbledon and the French Open—the competition is just as intense. Players in the Challenger Tour are often either at the beginning of their professional careers, ATP Tour players recovering from injury or former stars seeking to get back to the top level of professional tennis. Past singles winners of the Sarasota Open include world no. 17 player Frances Tiafoe (2017) and world no. 13 Tommy Paul (2019). Last year’s singles winner Thanasi Kokkinakis earned a spot in the 2024 French Open with his victory.
“One of the things that I’m very proud of with this tournament is that we have launched the careers of a lot of players that are just starting on the tour,” says tournament co-owner and title sponsor Elizabeth Moore. “I remember handing the trophy to Frances Tiafoe in 2017 and today he was on the television in the clubhouse playing in the Monte-Carlo Masters.”
Top singles players in this year’s tournament include world no. 134 Eliot Spizzirri, world no. 138 Federico Agustin Gomez and world no. 141 Mitchell Krueger. The top doubles team consists of Americans Robert Cash and JJ Tracy, currently ranked 134th in the world.
2025 marks the first time that the tournament has been held at the Sarasota Sports Club, after operating in Payne Park since 2019. The venue, which the tournament will call home for the next decade, positions the Open to become one of, if not the premier event on the Challenger Tour.
“It’s a hugely successful tournament this year,” says Moore. “It’s expanded from what we used to do at Payne Park. The most important thing is that we have two ATP regulation-size courts that are 130 feet long. We’ve fixed up more of the courts and revamped the clubhouse as well. We’re aiming for continuous improvement over the next 10 years.”
Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open, April 7 to 13, Sarasota Sports Club, 3600 Torrey Pines Blvd 
Thanasi Kokkinakis, 2024 Sarasota Open Champion. Provided photo.
On Saturday, April 5, the New College of Florida campus came alive with the sound of ideas in motion. As host of the 2025 Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (FCDI) State Championship, New College welcomed more than 800 students, educators, and families for a powerful day of discourse, debate, and civic engagement. The event was more than a debate championship—it was a gathering of critical thinkers engaged in civil dialogue and the exchange of ideas, reflecting the New College spirit of leadership. Students from across Florida gathered to discuss ideas, challenge assumptions, and strengthen the skills that will prepare them to govern America and change the world. As a liberal arts institution committed to cultivating leaders who are intellectually curious, ethically grounded, and socially engaged, New College continues to serve as a home for students who challenge the status quo and move the earth.
Registration is open now! Art Center Sarasota is once again encouraging young children and teens to set their inner artists free at its summertime art camps. The 10 weekly sessions run June 2 to August 8. The programs target two different age groups: Creative Kids serves children, ages 6 to 9; Emerging Artists is for aspiring artists, ages 10 to 14. The camps are Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Before- and after-care is offered. Fees are $275 per week for Art Center Sarasota members with a family membership; $350 per week for non-members. Scholarships are available to those eligible. Art supplies are included; participants will also receive a free art camp t-shirt. Art Center Sarasota is also looking for teens, 15 and over, to volunteer as teaching assistants. Volunteer hours count towards high school and Bright Futures and National Honor Society requirements. For more information about Art Center Sarasota’s summer art camp, scholarship eligibility and teen volunteer programs, visit www.artsarasota.org; or call 941-365-2032; or email youtheducation@artsarasota.org.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (The Ringling) is pleased to announce its inaugural Teen Guide Program that will give 16- to 18-year-olds the opportunity to learn public speaking, develop leadership skills, and dive into art history. Applications for the program are due by May 15, 2025. The Teen Guide Training Program is a summer intensive beginning July 8 running across four weeks through July, with sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The program includes in-gallery learning, art history lessons, and hands-on teaching activities, culminating in a group-led gallery activity presentation. Once accepted, the program is free, however, students should have their own transportation to and from the museum. You can find out more information on ringling.org.
The Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is thrilled to announce that Rachel Lenard, a dedicated local teacher from Parrish, has been named the winner of the Palmetto Blues Festival 2025 Dream Weekend Giveaway! Rachel was overjoyed when she received the news, sharing that she was completely surprised and beyond excited to win. “I couldn’t believe it! It was such an amazing surprise,” she told us. She also shared that her family absolutely loves the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, and they were just as thrilled as she was to hear about her big win. As the lucky recipient of this exclusive giveaway, Rachel and a guest will enjoy a luxurious weekend at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, including a King Room stay, dinner for two at Oyster River, and full access to the Beach Club at Rivera Dunes—a package valued at $1,500!
Selby Gardens is honored to partner with the Toulmin Foundation to announce the continuation of the Virginia B. Toulmin Leadership Scholarship, available for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation envisions a world in which all people have opportunity to fulfill their potential and succeed in life. The Foundation reflects the legacy of its namesake, the late Sarasota-area philanthropist who made a lasting impact on numerous entities and charitable endeavors. The scholarship will provide a pathway for successful leadership in the business and nonprofit world by providing mentorship, opportunities to observe leadership in action, and financial support to high-achieving juniors or seniors pursuing bachelor’s degrees in the greater Sarasota region and holding a minimum GPA of 3.5. In addition, the scholarship will be awarded in honor and partnership with a local leader in the Sarasota community – and that distinction has been bestowed to Selby Gardens’ President and CEO Jennifer O. Rominiecki, who served as the scholarship’s inaugural mentor during the 2024 award cycle.
To apply to the Virginia B. Toulmin Leadership Scholarship visit SELBY.ORG
Sprinkles, sea monsters, and more — straight from the minds of young creatives, these whimsical elements take center stage in Florida Studio Theatre (FST)’s beloved 2025 Young Playwrights Festival on May 17! Each year, FST’s WRITE A PLAY program brings the joy of playwriting to K-12 students across the state and beyond. After crafting their own plays, students submit their finished works to FST for consideration in the annual Young Playwrights Festival. This exciting event rolls out the red carpet for students, educators, and families, celebrating the thousands of submissions received throughout the year. To learn more about how you can support FST’s mission to nurture the next generation of playwrights, please contact Caroline Saldivar at csaldivar@floridastudiotheatre.org.
The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime is staying open this Friday, April 11, until 7pm. There will be live music bingo on the patio at 5:30 and dinner available from Hamlet’s Eatery. Browse the 40 shops inside and enjoy playing Bingo for free!
821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota, bazaaronapricotandlime.com
The Juice Plus+ Pickleball Championship is set to bring an exciting conclusion to a series of sporting events supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) Foundation. The event will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Dill Dinkers Sarasota, located at 500 Tallevast Road, Suite 110, Sarasota, FL 34243. Registration is $50 per person and can be completed online at bit.ly/juice-plus-pickleball. Spectators are welcome to join the fun and cheer on their favorite teams.
Courtesy photo.
Wellen Park is rolling out its inaugural Family Fun Day Saturday, April 12, from noon to 4 p.m. in Downtown Wellen — and everyone’s invited. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket to relax on the Great Lawn, and pack a bathing suit, change of clothes and towel for the foamboree. Delicious food and drinks will be available at Downtown Wellen’s restaurants and The Yard food park. For more information about Family Fun Day, visitwellenpark.com/events/family-fun-day.
LGBTQ+ advocacy group Project Pride SRQ is proud to announce its Pride Month events: on May 31, it will present the "Grand Carnival: Palm Royale"; on June 7, it will present - along with partners Senior Friendship Centers and Golden Girls Solutions - the free Silver Pride Sarasota. Visit ppsrq.org for more information.
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota (ASC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Keren Shani-Lifrak as executive director. Lifrak will begin her duties with ASC on May 1, working alongside Marcy Miller, current executive director, until her retirement on June 30. With over 25 years of experience in performing arts, nonprofit management, event production, marketing, and fundraising across Tel Aviv, New York, and Sarasota, Lifrak brings a strategic vision, operational expertise, and a passion for fostering vibrant performing arts communities. As director of marketing for IMG Artists, and director of development for IMG Academy, she worked with world-renowned artists like Itzhak Perlman and the Joffrey Ballet, and elite athletes, curating programming that balanced creative excellence with audience engagement while cultivating donor and sponsor relationships. She also led Arts Day in Sarasota, which united 30,000 visitors and key stakeholders, and directed events for the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, the Sarasota Film Festival, and Selby Gardens.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call (941) 306-1202.
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota (ASC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Keren Shani-Lifrak as executive director. Keren will begin her duties with ASC on May 1, working alongside Marcy Miller, current executive director, until her retirement on June 30.David Chivas, chairman of the Artist Series Concerts board of trustees, said, “Keren comes to Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota with an impressive background of leadership in arts management, development, and programming. She recognizes our mission of being a champion for emerging artists and intends to continue that goal.”
The Sarasota Concert Association has announced its 2025-26 Great Performers Series, marking the organization’s 81st season. The series features an outstanding selection of internationally recognized orchestras, chamber ensembles, and soloists, with performances at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Riverview Performing Arts Center. The season also includes a special holiday concert featuring Canadian Brass at the Sarasota Opera House. Subscriptions are on sale now for the 5-concert Great Performers Series. Three-concert mini subscriptions will be available in July, and single tickets will go on sale in September. For more information and to subscribe, visit www.SCAsarasota.org or call 941-966-6161.
GEA Live, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, in association with Lionsgate, today announced the highly-anticipated 60-city national tour of the first-ever Twilight In Concert will visit Sarasota on October 17 for one show only. As the novel, “Twilight”, celebrates its 20th anniversary, the live-to-film cinematic experience featuring the original movie accompanied by a 12-piece ensemble of rock and orchestral musicians on stage will transport audiences on a journey deep into the heart of this romantic story. Tickets for Twilight In Concert go on sale Thursday, April 17 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) welcomed over 150 supporters to the 25th Anniversary Celebration Kick Off on March 23 at the Sarasota Polo Club. The inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award, Exemplifying Community, was presented to C. John A. Clarke. The Junior Humanitarian Award was presented to Cecile Visa, who attends Out-of-Door Academy, and nominees Danica Kovacevic and Kaitlyn Roman were also recognized. For more information about LWRCF, visit www.LWRCF.org, email info@LWRCF.org, or call 941-208-6799.
Check out the latest edition of RocketKids: Guide to Summer Camps—your ultimate resource for fun, learning, and adventure across the Suncoast. From arts to athletics, there’s something for every kid. Dive in and start planning the best summer yet!
Nominate your peers for SRQ Magazine’s 2025 Elite Top Attorneys! Help us spotlight outstanding legal professionals across the region. Your nomination supports a trusted guide to the area’s top attorneys. One week left to submit—don’t miss the chance to recognize excellence in the legal field. Nominate now!
The longest-running egg hunt in Lakewood Ranch is hopping up on us! EGGstravaganza, presented by Grace Community Church. Join us for a fun-filled morning of photobooth with the Easter bunny, face painting, food and sweet treats.
Waterside Park at Lakewood Ranch, 7301 Island Cove Terrace Sarasota, FL 34240
This free, family-friendly event is packed with exciting activities for all ages, from classic carnival games and face painting to a high-energy dance party and the ultimate foamboree — a bubbly, laughter-filled twist on the classic slime experience. Kids and parents alike can test their pitching skills at the Atlanta Braves’ fast-pitch batting cage and explore Downtown Wellen’s many kid-approved attractions, including the nature-inspired playground, splashpad, The Yard’s unique shipping container food kiosks and the brand-new Pop-Up Park in Hammock Green.
Downtown Wellen, 19725 Wellen Pk Blvd, North Port, FL 34293
Jump into Spring at the Meadows Market! Catch the Easter Bunny on the lawn for a Family Photo or search for the Golden Egg at the Egg hunt
The Meadows, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Sarasota, FL 34235
Join us every Sunday morning at 9am for a walk to the Bayfront and back on a route that is just under 2 miles. Meet at 99 Bottles Downtown Sarasota and end at the same location in approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on pace. This weekly walking social club is an opportunity to connect with other locals.
99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236
The 27th annual Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) is recognized as a world-class cultural event featuring thought-provoking films from some of the best-known and emerging independent voices. Held in Sarasota, FL, SFF emphasizes the best in cinema alongside exciting programs and events with filmmakers and celebrity guests. It screens over 200 films each year, including features, documentaries, shorts, and a robust educational program.
Various Locations, Various Location
Enjoy Mother’s Day Brunch at Selby Gardens! Ticket price includes a hot and cold brunch buffet catered by Michael’s on East featuring an omelet and pancake station, carvings station, dessert bar, plus coffee, tea, and water. All other beverages will be available for purchase. Your brunch ticket also grants you full access to our Downtown Sarasota Campus to view the gardens and Spring Exhibition, George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life, before or after your seating time.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Sarasota Farmers Market Vendors Incorporated (“SFMV”) has been established as a not for-profit organization under laws of the State of Florida, continuing the 40+ year tradition of enhancing and improving the quality of life in Sarasota. Our charitable mission is to create a social opportunity for residents and visitors to gather and interact, to bring foot traffic to downtown Sarasota sustaining the economic viability of the entire downtown area, and to provide a venue for other not-for-profit organizations benefiting Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer's Market, N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.
Experience some of the best food and flavors of the region with more than 100, and still growing, curated vendors. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch has fast become a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, delicious prepared foods, and specialty items and gifts. Aside from all the goodies you can shop at the Farmers Market, find your flow in a free yoga class or have the kiddos get creative during weekly-hosted workshops. 1561 Lakefront Dr., Lakewood Ranch.
The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.
Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd
Welcome to the Bradenton Public Market, a place where the community meets each week to enjoy fresh produce, local art, music, and free family activities on Old Main Street.
Old Main Street Downtown Bradenton, Old Main ST. Bradenton, 34205
Celebrate the women who have captivated the world with their dynamic personalities and fierce vocals. Starting in the 1960’s, female artists such as Cher, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion have been pushing boundaries and shattering records with hits such as, “Turn Back Time,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and “My Heart Will Go On.”
John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St, Sarasota, FL 34236
In the 60s and 70s, a new sound came into mainstream music that changed the scene forever. Led by early folk-rock artists like John Denver, Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez, this musical revue celebrates their top hits and the songs that transcended generations. 59th Street Bridge is a celebration of the timeless music such as, “Annie’s Song,” “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” and “Both Sides Now.”
Florida Studio Theatre, 1239 North Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
When Myah punches her boss in the nose and walks out of a soul-crushing corporate job, her life unravels in ways she never expected. Crashing into the spare room of an older woman with her own hidden wounds, Myah embarks on an unpredictable transformation journey. Filled with raw emotion and poignant story-telling that captures the painful process of letting go, finding connection, and embracing change.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First Street Sarasota, FL 34236
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa is excited to announce that the April Sunset Music Series is now afree event with free parking! Guests are invited to unwind and enjoy the harmonious blend of live music and picturesque sunsets at our scenic venue.
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 US HWY 41, Palmetto Florida 34221
When young children thrive, communities thrive. That belief is at the heart of “Childhood Matters,” presented by The Florida Center for Early Childhood to spark meaningful conversations about the importance of early care and education. Nationally recognized early childhood policy expert Dr. Dan Wuori—a senior fellow at the Hunt Institute and former director of early learning for South Carolina—will headline the program.
Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N. Palm Avenue in Sarasota
This incredible evening will feature inventive cocktails, an elegant dinner, and a one-night-only Pops performance by YOUR Sarasota Orchestra. The performance will feature sensational songs by Marvin Hamlisch and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota FL 34232
The 34th National Juried Exhibition showcases the best representational paintings produced across North America. With nearly 200 juried artists and many invited Master Signature artists, it serves as a showcase for both up-and-coming talent and some of the most celebrated artists working today. The exhibition does not focus on a single style or theme but instead celebrates the diversity and art produced within the representational oil painting tradition. The exhibition & opening is in conjunction with the OPA National Convention, which features numerous lectures, painting demonstrations, and social events geared to artists and collectors.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email |
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