SRQ DAILY Feb 12, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I scored 32 points in that game, but I had no idea that I needed 15 to break the record."
On January 16, Paisley Binswanger etched her name in the record books of Sarasota High. The 5-foot-8 senior point guard, captain of the girls varsity basketball team, surpassed 1,611 career points, breaking Sarasota High’s all-time girls basketball scoring record. Although the Sailors (14-12), lost the contest against Port Charlotte, it was a crowning achievement for one of the top female basketball players in the school’s history.
“I scored 32 points in that game, but I had no idea that I needed 15 to break the record. I’d talked with my parents before I reached 1,000 and 1,500 career points, but I didn’t know what the all-time record was,” says Binswanger, who is averaging just over 18 points per game this season. “It wasn’t until after the game, in the locker room, Coach Nuxol came over and said, ‘I have a question: how does it feel to be the leading scorer at Sarasota High?’ that I found out.”
Binswanger, however, is more than just a scorer. A Samford University signee, Binswanger has had to develop her game to best fit the situation around her. In the past couple of years, she’s worked on her ball handling and perimeter scoring to combat the frequent face-guarding and double teams that comes with the territory of being the Sailors’ number one option. Over the past summer, she worked tirelessly to improve her defense. At Samford, Binswanger is set to be more of a pure point guard, a facilitator of the offense than the main scoring option. “That’s what I enjoy doing the most,” Binswanger admits. “I’d rather have 10 assists than 10 points.”
On Friday, Sarasota will square off with Sumner High in the regional quarterfinals of the FHSAA 7A state championship tournament. Although Binswanger’s career as a Sailor will end in the next month, her name and impact will live on long after she’s graduated.
Sarasota High vs Sumner High, February 13, 7:00pm, Sumner High School, 10650 County Rd, Riverview. 
Provided photo.
The Sarasota Ballet is proud to present the Martha Graham Dance Company as it celebrates its 100th anniversary—a once-in-a-century milestone for one of the most influential forces in modern dance. Founded by Martha Graham, whose bold artistic vision transformed movement into a powerful language of emotion and storytelling, the company continues to shape the future of dance while honoring its extraordinary legacy. Audiences will experience an electrifying program that blends iconic masterworks with contemporary pieces, performed by world-class dancers renowned for their athleticism, intensity, and expressive power. From stark, sculptural movements to moments of sweeping lyricism, each performance reveals the enduring relevance of Graham’s revolutionary technique and artistic philosophy. This engagement offers a rare opportunity to witness living dance history on stage—an evening that honors a century of innovation, resilience, and artistic daring. Join us for a performance that is as timeless as it is unforgettable.
The Van Wezel Education and Community Engagement Department is excited to announce the return of its Technical Theatre Camp, offering teens ages 12–18 a unique opportunity to explore the world behind the curtain. The immersive camp will take place over two sessions this summer, June 8-12 and June 15-19, continuing a popular program designed to introduce young people to careers in technical theatre. Presented in partnership with Stagehands Union Local #412, the camp gives participants hands-on experience working alongside skilled union technicians. Campers will gain unprecedented access to backstage areas of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall that audiences rarely see, learning directly from professionals who bring live performances to life. Daily sessions focus on essential elements of stagecraft, allowing students to build both knowledge and practical skills using real tools of the trade.
The Play That Goes Wrong is crashing onto The Out-of-Door Academy stage this February, and it’s pure theatrical chaos in the very best way. What starts as a classic “murder mystery” quickly unravels into flying props, missed cues, collapsing sets, and actors desperately trying to keep the show alive as everything goes hilariously off the rails. With perfectly timed slapstick, fast-paced physical comedy, and fearless performances from ODA’s talented student cast, this crowd-favorite farce delivers big, professional-level laughs and nonstop surprises. It’s the kind of night where anything that can go wrong… absolutely will. Join us for the fun on February 13 and 14 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, February 15 at 2 p.m. on the ODA Campus at 5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota.
Vintage Vinyl Productions is proud to present Almost EAGLES, in concert on May 8, 2026, at 7pm. The concert will be held at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota, FL. Ticket are on sale Friday at 10 a.m., and the direct link is available at www.VintageVinylProductions.com/events or www.VanWezel.org
We’re so excited to celebrate our youth in just a few weeks! Join us on Wednesday, March 4th at Michael’s on East as we honor this year’s scholarship recipients and celebrate the lives CHANGED FOR GOOD through Teen Court. This meaningful evening highlights the accomplishments of incredible young people and the community that continues to support their success. Tickets and sponsorships are available now. We hope to celebrate with you!
Sarasota County Schools and the University of South Florida College of Education are pleased to announce their latest partnership in the form of innovative programming at the Gulf Coast Academy of Innovation & Technology at Brookside. Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, Brookside Middle School will become the Gulf Coast Academy of Innovation & Technology at Brookside (GCA) and serve as a district-wide middle school magnet offering advanced and rigorous coursework delivered through hands-on learning. This reimagining is a component of the school district’s Future Focused Strategic Initiative, a long-range plan designed to expand educational opportunities for students in Sarasota County.
Join Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties on Friday, March 6th, at the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Clubs for the Youth of the Year Celebration, honoring outstanding Club members. This year's winner will be announced during the event, celebrating their remarkable achievements and wishing them luck as they advance to the next levels of the competition.
Youth of the Year Celebration, 3100 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, 6pm.
Fresh flavors, live music, and feel-good community vibes are on the menu when the Babcock Ranch Seafood & Music Festival returns for a three-day celebration from February 13–15, 2026. Set against the backdrop of one of Florida’s most innovative and walkable towns, this free, outdoor festival invites residents and visitors to gather at 42850 Crescent Loop for a weekend filled with fresh-prepared seafood, toe-tapping live music, and relaxed, family-friendly fun. Live music takes center stage throughout the weekend, featuring a rotating lineup of talented local and regional bands performing a mix of genres designed to keep the energy high and the good times rolling.
Art takes center stage in one of Southwest Florida’s most sought-after communities when the inaugural Wellen Park Fine Art Festival takes place on February 14–15, 2026, transforming the Downtown Wellen Great Lawn into an elegant open-air gallery. Debuting Valentine’s Day weekend, the festival offers a refined way to celebrate — inviting couples, collectors, and art lovers to stroll the Great Lawn, discover original works, and enjoy a relaxed, creative experience together. The festival will feature handcrafted works by accomplished artisans from Florida and across the United States, showcasing a wide range of fine art disciplines. Guests can explore striking paintings, expressive sculpture, refined jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, mixed media, woodworking, and more — with each piece created by the artist on site.
ensembleNEWSRQ (enSRQ) marks a milestone 10th anniversary with “Retrospektiv,” a program that reflects on the works that have shaped the ensemble’s artistic journey while introducing vibrant new voices. The evening begins with Sips & Sounds: A Decade with enSRQ, a special anniversary gathering at 5 p.m., at Michael’s On East Wine Cellar. The event features wine and cocktails, light bites, musical interludes and a few surprise announcements. The concert follows at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 7:30 p.m., at First Congregational Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota. Tickets for the celebration reception and concert are $150. Tickets for the celebration reception only are $125. Single tickets for the concert only are $30. For more information on ticket packages and student pricing, visit www.EnSRQ.org.
Wednesdays, 10:30am. Explore Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern (the Sarasota School of Architecture) and Mediterranean Revival Architecture buildings, homes and structures of Sarasota on this 90-minute mainland tour.
Wednesdays, 10am. Go back in time to the 1920’s in Sarasota to hear from three leading ladies (Bertha Palmer, Marie Selby and Mable Ringling) as portrayed by Kathryn Chesley, who shaped Sarasota into a cultural icon.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits delicious Sunday Brunch is from 11am-3pm. Guests are invited to indulge in a delightful brunch experience on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room with nautical touches. The brunch menu features a variety of mouth-watering dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast, savory Steak & Eggs, succulent Lobster Benedict, the flavorful Tripletail Brunch Burger and Crab & Shrimp Omelet. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa with the purchase of any entrée. Prices range from $13 to $26. Reservations can be made through Open Table or by calling 941-529-0555.
Tripletail Seafood & Spirits, 4870 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
Mondays, 1pm. Join Jerome Chesley as you explore more than 60 pieces of public art located in downtown and St. Armands.
Sundays, 1pm. Join psychic and tarot reader, Deni Dreazen on a metaphysical exploration trolley tour of Sarasota. Visit Pixie Dust gift shop, experience a sound bath at the Crocker Memorial Church with sound healer, Kaylene McCaw, and then walk the labyrinth.
Hatch’s newly commissioned “plate painting,” Amalgam (2023), was created specifically for Sarasota Art Museum. Consisting of more than 450 earthenware plates hand-painted in white, blue, and gold luster, the abstract lines and shapes in Amalgam are drawn from a variety of historical ceramics from around the globe.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Thursdays and Saturdays, 7:30pm. Step right up to solve the murder of Dahlia the Queen of the High Wire on this interactive murder mystery who-dunnit.
Join us under the stars for a night of good eating and great observing! We have partnered with the Local Group of Deep Sky Observers (LGDSO) to bring Sidewalk Astronomy to The Bishop. At this free event, you’ll have a chance to see Jupiter, Saturn, and much more through powerful telescopes!
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th Street West Bradenton FL 34205
From Billy Joel to Alicia Keys, from Ray Charles to Freddie Mercury, Three Pianos celebrates the piano legends who refused to play by the rules. These aren’t your cookie-cutter rock stars: they’re the rebels, romantics, and risk-takers who turned 88 keys into pure magic.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Experience an intimate look at award-winning and internationally recognized artist Janet Echelman’s artistic evolution, from early explorations in drawing, painting, and textiles to the monumental netted sculptures that have redefined public spaces around the world.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join us for the first of five family-friendly and Free Art Walks this Academic Year. Compelling exhibitions, food trucks and live music.
Galleries of Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234
2nd Fridays Creative Happy Hour brings the party to the gallery and transforms ArtCenter Sarasota into a vibrant hub of creativity, conversation, and connection. These lively monthly gatherings feature rotating themes, interactive art activities, live music, dance, film, and collaborations with local artists and arts organizations. It's a fresh take on the classic art salon, welcoming all ages to mix, mingle, make, and experience art in motion.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Enjoy live jazz weekly on Fridays with many of the area's best musicians and some visiting or touring artists. We present various genres of jazz; straight ahead jazz, music from the American Songbook, swing, dixieland, blues, bossa and cabaret jazz.
Unitarian Universalists of SRQ, 3975 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota
This new speaker series, Art, Actually, explores how art intersects with identity, community, and change through conversations with artists, curators, and cultural leaders.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Award-winning Hermitage Fellows offer a unique glimpse into their creative process, sharing original works in process with our Gulf Coast audiences. These free hour-long programs take the shape of musical performances, playreadings, concerts, visual art demonstrations, panel discussions, master classes, exhibitions, open studios,and more. The presentations are often works in process, giving Hermitage audiences a look into the creative process before these works go on to leading theaters, concert halls, and museums around the world.
Hermitage Artist Retreat, 6660 Manasota Key Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
Join us for a weekly guided tour of the night sky in our state-of-the-art planetarium. As Earth moves around the sun, different objects come into view. We'll not only discuss what you can see this season, we'll fly you there!
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton
This exhibition highlights contemporary Native design, craftwork, and art that employ the formal and aesthetic elements of abstraction as meaningful motifs and coded tools of Indigenous expression to communicate tribal cultures and histories, ancestral knowledge, and the lived experiences of the artists and their communities.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
This exhibition highlights contemporary Native design, craftwork, and art that employ the formal and aesthetic elements of abstraction as meaningful motifs and coded tools of Indigenous expression to communicate tribal cultures and histories, ancestral knowledge, and the lived experiences of the artists and their communities. Explored in a variety of media, including basket weaving, beadwork, collage, clay, textiles, photography, metalwork, and printmaking rooted in ancestral technologies, their work shares similar stylistic and social concerns, such as vibrant color, hard-edged geometries, curvilinear patterns, and bold mark-making, all infused with personal stories and those of their kin.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Stelliferous is your monthly guide to the night skies and the latest news from the world of astronomy. You can enjoy our upgraded Planetarium system and feel like an astronaut as you experience our 50-foot dome!
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton
Thursdays, 10am. Discover with our expert guide, Kendra Cross, why Sarasota is the only place in the world that the Amish and Mennonite communities come to vacation en masse. In Pinecraft, enjoy the tour stops at Alma Sue’s Quilt Shop, The Carlisle Inn and Der Dutchman Amish Kitchen Cooking Restaurant for shopping and a pie shooter sample of their delicious pie!
This long-term installation in Gallery 10 of the Museum of Art showcases five outstanding examples of 17th-century Dutch painting on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Featuring a dramatic seascape, an expansive landscape, and captivating portraits set in detailed interiors, this exhibition offers a window into the vibrant artistic production of the Netherlands as the small nation rose to global prominence in the 17th century. The five exceptional paintings from the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, complement The Ringling's holdings of Dutch art and provide additional perspective on the artistry, historical significance, and continuing appeal of Dutch painting from this period.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
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