SRQ DAILY May 8, 2025
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I would consider Nokomis Beach the skimboarding mecca of the Gulf Coast."
The world’s most famous surfing destinations are near household names in even the most landlocked of states around the country. Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline. California’s Mavericks. Nazaré, Portugal’s 100-foot waves. Sarasota County’s…Nokomis Beach?
While Nokomis Beach is not a world-famous surfing destination, it is one of the premier spots on the East coast for another popular waterboard sport—skimboarding. From May 16-18, local skimboard manufacturer ZAP Skimboards will host its fifth annual Spring Fling Skim Jam. ZAP Skimboards, which is based in Venice and has grown into one of the most prominent names in skimboarding since its inception in 1986, is partnering with SkimUSA to host the three-day event.
“I would consider Nokomis Beach the skimboarding mecca of the Gulf Coast,” says Max Smetts, vice president of ZAP and professional skimboarder. “It’s one of the best beaches for skimboarding and as far as community involvement, there are a ton of skimboarders here—I feel like the event has helped grow that community over the last few years.”
The three-day event will consist of a free skimboarding clinic, a Pro/Am Skim USA-sanctioned contest, a pro signing and an awards ceremony. The Skim Jam is one of the stops on Skim USA’s East Coast tour, which will culminate in the Pro/Am World Championships in August. Skimboarding competitions are divided into age groups and broken up into heats—riders sprint from the shoreline, mount the board and ride it into the incoming waves, where they perform a variety of tricks and airs as they ride back to the shore.
“Depending on the conditions, the riders are judged on the size of the wave, the length of the ride and the style in which they ride. There are a lot of different maneuvers riders can do on the skimboard from airs to more technical tricks,” says Smetts. “Unlike surfboards, skimboards don’t have fins, so riders have more freedom to do spin tricks, like a 360 shove–it where the rider flicks the board 360 degrees.”
Numerous riders from ZAP’s professional and amateur skimboard teams will be participating in the Skim Jam, including world champion Gerardo Valencia, Skim USA’s third-ranked rider Dylan Duncan, women’s world champion Casey Kiernan-McCullough and 2024 Skim USA tour winner Nicole Phillips.
Spring Fling Skim Jam, May 16-18, 115 S Casey Key Rd, Nokomis. Competitors must register online prior to the event. 
ZAP Skimboard's Trent Moranda catches a wave. Provided photo.
Baseball is back at CoolToday Park. Come join us as the Florida Complex League (FCL) returns for its 2025 summer season. Come watch the FCL Braves squad take on other FCL teams, including the FCL Pirates, FCL Orioles, FCL Rays and more. You can find the FCL Braves schedule on the Cooltodaypark.com website. Weekday games start at noon. Come enjoy lunch at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar as you watch the action on the field. Saturday home games start at 10am. Join on Tuesday, May 13th for Tail Wagging Tuesday at the FCL night game between the FCL Braves and the FCL Orioles. Purchase a registration Pup Pass for $10 and bring your dog to the game. This includes a prize pack, parade around the warning track, and prizes for the best dressed dog. Proceeds to benefit the Atlanta Braves foundation. To register your dog, please click on the link below.
Florida Studio Theatre (FST) kicks off its 2025 Summer Cabaret Series with How Sweet It Is, a dynamic celebration of Motown’s enduring legacy. The show explores how Motown influenced music across genres and generations, enriched by personal stories of real-life collaborations with legends like Smokey Robinson, The Beatles, and other industry icons. Led by acclaimed vocalist and songwriter Luke McMaster, a powerhouse trio breathes new life into Motown favorites like “Tracks of My Tears,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and “Stop! In the Name of Love.” How Sweet It Is begins performances May 27 in FST’s Goldstein Cabaret. Single tickets range from $18–$42 and are available at FloridaStudioTheatre.org or by calling (941) 366-9000.
Make Mom’s Day extra special with a Taste of Spain, now accepting pre-orders for Mother’s Day paellas – pick-up only at store. Each order will include a complimentary handcrafted dessert for Mom — our sweet way of saying gracias. Surprise her with a delicious, authentic paella made with Spanish olive oil and premium ingredients. You can also add our tapas and desserts to complete your celebration.
Taste of Spain, 2667 Mall Dr., Sarasota, 941-580-8663.
This Saturday from 11-3pm, Music Compound will be taking over the stage at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. Enjoy live music from students of all ages, some even have albums coming out. These talented musicians will be playing your favorite tunes to original music. Have lunch at Hamlet’s Eatery, and browse the 40 shops inside The Bazaar. Located at 821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota. www.bazaaronapricotandlime.com
Get ready for giggles, splashes, and big summer smiles at Starfish Academy’s Summer Camp Program! Our nationally accredited preschool isn’t just a place to learn—it’s a place where kids shine. With locations in Sarasota and North Port, Starfish welcomes children ages six weeks to five years for a summer packed with discovery, play, and growth. Each week brings new adventures, including water play days, hands-on activities, and lots of laughter with our caring teachers and on-site therapists. Starfish blends fun with purpose—combining early learning with speech, occupational, and mental health support to help every child thrive. Whether your little one is mastering their ABCs or making their first friend, they’ll feel right at home in our inclusive classrooms where kindness, curiosity, and creativity come first. Summer at Starfish isn’t just a camp—it’s a launchpad for little learners to grow, explore, and sparkle.
Please join Sarasota County Schools’ Human Resources department for a virtual job fair on Tuesday, May 13 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST. This virtual event is a great opportunity for individuals interested in joining Sarasota County Schools for the 2025 2026 school year. Participants will be able to explore current job openings, learn more about the district, and connect with hiring representatives. Those interested in attending the Virtual Job Fair can register by visiting https://scsvirtualevent.easyvirtualfair.com/ For questions or additional information, please contact the HR Recruitment team at recruitment@sarasotacountyschools.net
Forty Carrots Family Center received a Bishop-Parker Foundation grant for parenting education for expecting and post-partum parents and infants. Forty Carrots provides services at no cost to clients, and groups are supportive learning environments where parents can safely discuss the feelings, struggles, and accomplishments of being an expecting or new parent. Parenting education is essential to the prevention of mental health issues in children, as it addresses the emotional well-being of parents and its significant influence on a child's developmental outcomes. "At Bishop-Parker Foundation, we believe in investing early to build strong foundations for the future of Manatee County. We are proud to partner with Forty Carrots in their vital work to create nurturing environments where children can thrive," said Wendy Deming, Bishop-Parker Foundation CEO.
Sarasota County Schools is pleased to announce that Mr. Mark Grossenbacher – the current Principal of Woodland Middle School – has been selected as the first-ever Principal of Wellen Park High School. He will assume his new role effective Tuesday, July 1. Wellen Park High School is scheduled to open in August 2026 at the start of the 2026 – 2027 school year.
The Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) was named a PEDReady Gold-Tier recipient in the Florida Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Recognition Program (PRRP), marking the department’s commitment to providing and enhancing pediatric emergency care through training and preparedness. SCFD is the first metro-sized department in the state to receive this designation and the fourth EMS department. The Florida Prehospital Pediatric Readiness Recognition Program acknowledges EMS and fire-rescue agencies that demonstrate a strong commitment to pediatric emergency care, including education, disaster preparedness, and community outreach. The program looks at eight major areas of how the department handles pediatric responses including every facet of care, equipment, training, procedures, and certifications. Sarasota County Fire Department is proud to be a leader in pediatric emergency readiness and provide safety, education, and resources to families in the community.
The Suncoast Music Scholarship program awards up to $20,000 annually in music scholarships to 9th through 12th grade students who reside in Sarasota and Manatee counties and qualify through a competition that is open to all instruments. Come and hear 11 talented young musicians, including 12th-graders Matrick Thorpe, 1st place cello, and Jacob Mazzone, 2nd place voice. Small reception to follow the concert. No RSVP required!
May 10, 3:00pm, First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street, Sarasota.
Step into the charming world of A Year with Frog and Toad, a Tony-nominated musical that brings Arnold Lobel’s beloved characters to life through delightful songs and heartwarming storytelling. This enchanting production follows two best friends, Frog and Toad, as they navigate the four seasons, learning lessons of friendship, perseverance, and joy along the way.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243
This time of year had a special significance in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, and the term originates from their studies of astrology. Nowadays, the term has taken on new meanings as pet parents associate it with lazy days when dogs are so hot they just want to lay in the shade and sip an ice-cold Puppuccino. Artists are invited to share their favorite fur-baby creations of dogs and cats.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce) is a remarkably talented young Viennese composer who unwittingly finds a fierce rival in the disciplined and determined Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham). Resenting Mozart for both his hedonistic lifestyle and his undeniable talent, the highly religious Salieri is gradually consumed by his jealousy and becomes obsessed with Mozart's downfall, leading to a devious scheme that has dire consequences for both men.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236
This half-day experience is designed to equip you with the tools, strategies, and connections to elevate your career and amplify your impact. Through dynamic speakers and interactive sessions, you’ll gain the confidence to step beyond self-doubt, embrace new opportunities, and take ownership of your success.
Carlisle Inn and Conference Center – Sarasota, 3727 Bahia Vista Street 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
The Venice Symphony proudly announces the return of its annual Patriotic Pops Concert, taking place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at CoolToday Park in the Wellen Park community of south Sarasota County. This year's event, Salute to the Greatest Generation: A WWII Tribute, commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and will feature beloved WWII-era music, a tribute to U.S. Armed Forces veterans, and a dazzling fireworks display to conclude the evening. The Community Foundation of Sarasota County returns as the presenting sponsor for this beloved tradition. Now in its sixth year, the Patriotic Pops Concert has become a signature event, celebrating patriotism, music, and community spirit as the unofficial start to Memorial Day weekend.
The Venice Symphony , CoolToday Park, Wellen Park, Sarasota County
This 2nd Annual Art & Health Fair event will be one you don't want to miss! There will be something for everyone! Not only will you get a chance to learn about MCR Health and The Ringling Museum, you'll also have an opportunity to learn more about your local community partners. What's more is there will be FREE admission as to The Ringling, LIVE music, great food, entertainment for the kids and beautiful surroundings!
The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Alan Dershowitz and Steven Donziger have spent their legal careers standing up for the unfairly targeted. Both have seen the government and private industries manipulate the legal system as a way to punish their adversaries. Donziger himself was disbarred and incarcerated after his international legal victories over Chevron, and his conviction has drawn calls for a pardon from leaders across the political spectrum. Two grizzled courtroom veterans relive their toughest fights, both in triumph and defeat, while conveying just how easy it can be to find the target landing on your own back.
Mildred Sainer Pavilion, 5313 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
The Manatee Chamber’s Headliners luncheons are designed to equip business leaders with key insights into critical community issues. They are also a great opportunity to make new connections while discussing important business and community topics. These events are informative and offer valuable networking. Whether you choose individual open seating or prefer the reserved, guaranteed group seating of full and half tables, you will be part of a dynamic and engaging experience.
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, 7650 Legacy Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
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
On Saturday, May 10 Relay for Life is hosting a Charity Golf Outing at Sarasota National Golf Club in Venice to benefit the American Cancer Society. The event will be a Shotgun start at 8:30 with breakfast, luncheon, prizes and many fun add-ons including a chance to win a new Ford Mustang Convertible with a hole-in-one. The event is open to the public and the cost is $125/golfer which includes all golf, gratuities, breakfast, luncheon, prizes and a donation to the American Cancer Society. If you would like to register, call or text 941-218-3281. Please leave your contact info if we don't answer. Time: 8:30 tee off, Cost: $125.
Sarasota National Golf Club, 25510 National Blvd. Venice, FL 34293
VOICES is a creative project that, through the narratives of multiple voices, seeks to foster an open conversation about issues relevant to the community and realities we want to make visible through oral testimonies. It is based on conversations with members of the Hispanic community in Manatee and Sarasota County, whose stories are interwoven to create a narrative that will be performed in Spanish (with English subtitles) by actors and actresses on stage. The performance will conclude with a bilingual discussion between the audience, directors, testimonial participants, and actors.
CreArte Latino, 1913 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34234
This year, we’re turning up the fun with Bourbons & Barks - Raising Spirits for Rescues! Join us on May 8th for a fantastic evening dedicated to supporting our furry friends in need. The event will include spirit tastings and raffles on the patio and a VIP dinner in the M&M lounge (limited availability). Join us for a night of tastings and cuddling with rescue pups, all for a good cause!
Gecko's Grill & Pub, 351 North Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34232
ArtCenter Manatee once again joins with the School District of Manatee County to showcase the work of K-12 visual arts students. By partnering with ArtCenter Manatee, that commitment is furthered by giving these young artists a 'voice' - three museum-quality galleries, where their work can be professionally displayed and where the artists can receive positive recognition by a wider audience.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!
Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240
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