SRQ DAILY Apr 30, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"Our guys showed resilience and that they can play under pressure."
Success, for the Sarasota Paradise, has not come easily. At 2-4-1 the Paradise, roughly one fifth of the way through the 34-game United Soccer League One regular season, are ranked ninth in the league. The top eight teams from the league will advance to the playoffs at the end of the regular season. That is not to say, however, that the young team hasn’t found success on the pitch at all—or that there isn’t reason for optimism moving forward.
While the Paradise may have fallen 2-0 to the USL Championship juggernaut Tampa Bay Rowdies in the first match of the USL Cup Group stage, the team did earn a coveted regular season win over Corpus Cristi FC on April 21. The 2-1 victory came on the heels of three straight losses, including two consecutive shutouts.
“We felt like we needed to right the wrongs of the results of the last couple of games,” says Head Coach Mika Elovaara. “Obviously it’s great to win, but I’m more grateful that the work the guys have put in was rewarded. Our guys showed resilience and that they can play under pressure.”
In what has been typical for the club, Paradise created a multitude of scoring chances in the first half, but were unable to capitalize until the 41st minute, when defender Anderson Rosa snuck a shot from inside the box past Corpus Cristi’s goalkeeper to take a 1-0 lead. Midfielder Sander Roed, back from a month’s absence due to injury, tacked on another goal in the 63rd minute to increase the lead to 2-0. “We were able to get the break at the counter and I’m running up the middle,” says Roed. “Suddenly the ball is at my feet and I’m completely open at the 18 yard box. It bounced perfectly and then it was time to pick a corner and let it fly.”
Sarasota Paradise vs Forward Madison FC, March 2, 7:30pm, Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, 5895 Post Blvd, Lakewood Ranch. 
Sarasota Paradise's Anderson Rosa, Sander Roed and Jonathan Bolanos celebrate during the team's victory over Corpus Cristi FC. Provided photo.
On Sunday, April 26, the Education Foundation of Sarasota County hosted the Ringling Bridge Run. The 5K/10K and Fun Run, held at The Bay Park, served to unite the community to support students and teachers across the county. Over 1,300 runners, families, friends, and community partners showed up for the Education Foundation’s third annual run, which was presented by sponsor Lexus Sarasota. At sunrise, participants of the 10K and 5K crossed the iconic Ringling Bridge. The opening ceremony featured the Glen Allen Elementary School Melody Makers singing the national anthem, followed by the 10K and 5K. A free Fun Run was part of the Suncoast Remake Learning Days to promote connection, resiliency, and well-being.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is proud to announce Milordije C. and Thaliana R. as the 2026 Drs. Robert and Patricia Gussin Endowed Scholars, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to building a bright future through a four-year, full-ride scholarship to Duquesne University. For more information, visit bgcsdc.org or call 941-366-3911.
Emmy Award-winning commercial film director, Ringling College of Art and Design alum, and member of the College's Board of Trustees, Ray Dillman, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony. Dillman will address the College’s 382 graduating students from 13 majors. Dillman's career traces an arc that began at Ringling College, where he studied before embarking on a decades-long journey through global advertising and film industries. After rising through Tampa Bay agencies as Art Director and Associate Creative Director, he was recruited to The Leo Burnett Company in Chicago, where he worked on major accounts including Oldsmobile, Tropicana, and Philip Morris. For more information, visit www.ringling.edu and follow the College on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
In classrooms across Sarasota, Manatee and Pinellas counties, thousands of children gathered this spring around stories designed to spark conversations about kindness, resilience, respect, and what it means to belong. Through Embracing Our Differences’ annual Reading Day initiative, students, teachers, community volunteers and teaching artists came together to explore books that celebrate both individuality and shared humanity. This year marked Reading Day’s first expansion into Pinellas County Schools. To learn more, visit www.embracingourdifferences.org.
Children First hosted its 26th Annual Fairytale Ball on April 11 at Michael’s On East, bringing together a sold-out audience to celebrate the organization’s 65th anniversary and CEO Philip Tavill’s 30 years of leadership. The event raised more than $750,000 through a live auction and paddle raise. Themed Little Lives, Lasting Legacy, the evening featured remarks from VP of Organizational Engagement Jessica Rogers and event co-chairs Leslie Jones, Dr. Jacque Ray, and Elenor Maxheim, with Rod Hershberger, co-founder of PGT Innovations, representing Presenting Sponsor MITER Foundation and PGT Custom Windows & Doors. A commemorative video highlighted the organization’s history, followed by a live auction featuring a one-of-a-kind Heisman Trophy jacket signed by 2025 winner Fernando Mendoza and past recipients. A video introducing keynote speaker Claudia Olivares, a Children First alumna and educator, reflected the program’s long-term impact. The evening concluded with recognition of Tavill’s leadership, as past board leaders Hank Battie and Trevor Harvey honored his 30 years guiding the organization’s growth and national distinction.
Forty Carrots Family Center marks its 20th anniversary of their signature fundraising event Wine Women & Shoes. Forty Carrots promises to toast the occasion with all the sparkle and razzle Sarasota’s most fashionable ladies expect in addition to some big, special surprises. Wine Women & Shoes will take place on November 13th, featuring MARLOW Med Aesthetics as first-time presenting sponsor. The event will feature fabulous wines, a luxury shopping experience, a dynamic fashion show, and a high-energy auction. Guests will be entertained by volunteer Solemen and bid on exclusive online auction items. This is truly an event not to be missed; sponsorship opportunities and tables are on sale now! For more information or to reserve your table now, please contact Geri Jo Manson at events@fortycarrots.com.
The Glenridge at Palmer Ranch is continuing a long-standing tradition of supporting its community by awarding scholarships to staff members and their families. Since the program began in 2010, more than $650,000 has been distributed to help employees and their children pursue higher education. The program was founded by the late Mary Nesbit, former dean of The Glenridge Academy, the community’s lifelong learning program.
The Military Heritage Museum has announced the discovery and verification of a remarkable collection of original and draft correspondence from General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower and General Omar N. Bradley, offering an extraordinary glimpse into the post-World War II era and the personal leadership of two of America’s most iconic military figures. Recently uncovered within the museum’s archives, the collection includes letters primarily dating to the late 1940s, a pivotal period when Eisenhower was transitioning from his role as Supreme Allied Commander to President of Columbia University from 1948 to 1953. Many documents are typed on official letterhead bearing the five-star insignia and DDE initials, while others are draft copies preserved on thin carbon paper, complete with handwritten edits, annotations, and corrections. The collection also includes material connected to General Omar Bradley, further enriching the historical scope of the discovery. The Military Heritage Museum is located at 900 West Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda. For more information or reservations, please go to the website and sign up at www.militaryheritagemuseum.org or call 941-575-9002.
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources received two national awards from the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) for outstanding achievements in parks and recreation. The Nokomis Community Park Improvements Project was honored in the Developed Recreation Parks and Facilities category, recognizing excellence in the design, development, and operation of the park and its amenities. In addition, Sarasota County earned a Park and Recreation Program award for the Agents of Discovery app, an innovative program that inspires engagement and participation. Learn more at scgov.net
The 10th anniversary of the Franklin US Open Pickleball Championships concluded this past weekend at the USOP National Pickleball Center, drawing more than 60,000 spectators and over 3,800 amateur and professional players from around the world. The eight-day tournament featured more than 6,000 matches across 59 courts at the Naples facility, widely recognized as the “Pickleball Capital of the World.” The championship match saw world No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters and partner Jay Devilliers secure gold in a three-game final on Championship Court before a sellout crowd of 1,300. The event continues to distinguish itself through its open format, allowing players of all skill levels to compete alongside top professionals. For more information, visit www.usopenpickleball.com
A Champagne Luncheon Where Fashion Takes Flight to Benefit Youth Education Programs: For one day only, the Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC) will unveil an extraordinary new production, Cirque Vogue, an immersive fusion of fashion and the artistry of circus performance. Taking place on Thursday, May 14 at the Circus Arts Conservatory Arena, this champagne luncheon event will transform the traditional runway into a dynamic arena where couture and circus collide in a visually stunning showcase.
The Fabulous Arts Foundation proudly announces the return of the Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest, taking place May 7–9 across Sarasota. Formerly known as the Harvey Milk Festival, the event continues its longstanding mission of uplifting LGBTQIA+ voices through music, visual art, performance, and community-centered programming. Now operating from its new home having moved into the 925 Maddox Gallery Studios + LGBTQIA+ Center in February 2026 the organization continues expanding year-round programming, creative space, and access to mental health support services for the LGBTQIA+ community. This year’s festival brings together an expanded lineup of artists, performers and community.
The New College Foundation is proud to announce its upcoming Golf Tournament, an exclusive community event bringing together business leaders, philanthropists, and supporters of higher education for a day of purpose-driven play. The tournament will be held at the renowned The Concession Golf Club, one of Florida’s most prestigious and visually stunning courses. This highly anticipated event will support critical initiatives at New College of Florida, including student scholarships, the continued expansion of intercollegiate athletics, and hands-on academic opportunities that prepare students for success beyond graduation. For more information on sponsorships, team registration, or attendance, please contact Jeffrey Pourchier at 941.487.4673.
A gala performance by Summer Intensive dancers from around the world.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Get ready to move this summer with Sarasota Contemporary Dance and guest teachers in sunny Sarasota for a week-long dance intensive, unlike any other! You have three weeks to choose from-or do all three!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Suite 300, Sarasota, FL 34236
There's much ado about something in this whip-smart, laugh-out-loud new romantic comedy from Lauren Gunderson. Lady Disdain is a fast-paced, razor-sharp riff on the deliciously dramatic world of Fantasy Romance novels (yes, those ones-you know them, you love them). Beatrice and Benedict, rival audiobook narrators with voices made for swooning and tempers made for sparring, are locked in a battle of wits, words, and wildly inconvenient attraction. Asolo Rep proudly presents this world premiere from one of America's most celebrated and funny playwrights.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
The sharp-witted, glamorous, incomparable Eartha Kitt commands the spotlight. But backstage in her dressing room, in the quiet between songs, she peels back the glitz to reveal Eartha Mae: a girl from the South Carolina cotton fields, orphaned by her mother until an audience adopted her. Told through both story and song, Urbanite Theatre’s first-ever musical production unearths the complex truth behind the icon.
Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St, Sarasota, FL 34236
ArtCenter Sarasota continues its Centennial Season with Medium Mutiny, a juried exhibition selected by Ed Swan Jr. that celebrates boundary-pushing works challenging tradition through bold experimentation in form, material, and concept. Solo exhibitions include Living by the Water by Cat Tesla, whose serene, abstract paintings reflect a journey of healing and transformation inspired by Florida's landscapes. A new body of work by Anja Palombo, blending her deep love of nature and art history into expressive visual narratives. In Architect as Artist, co-curated by Morris Hylton III, Sarasota-based architects including Carl Abbott, Jerry Sparkman, and Javi Suárez present multidisciplinary works that blur the line between design and fine art. This group exhibition honors Sarasota's architectural legacy and highlights the creative synergy between structure, space, and artistic vision.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Delight once again in the inspiring performances of Pinky's Players, Venice Theatre's Community Engagement Program that partners with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to develop and share their artistic talents.
Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave W, Venice, FL 34285
In conjunction with his exhibit, Venti will present an artist talk, Meet Art Venti, on May 19, 4:00-6:00 pm., in the Arts Advocates Gallery. Venti will talk about his incredibly meticulous technique of applying layers of color to the surreal landscapes he has imagined and brought to life. He will demonstrate the techniques he has developed to achieve the wondrous effects in his work. Admission is free; registration is not required.
Arts Advocates Gallery, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail
La Lucha blends jazz, Latin roots, and playful improvisation into a vibrant, modern sound that feels both intimate and electrifying onstage.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 1st Street, Sarasota
The Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage tour takes place on May 18 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. The art in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, was created by noted Florida artists and is part of the Arts Advocates collection. A docent leads a tour of the paintings and sculptures including those by Sarasota Art Colony artists. Participants then step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business. Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased at the Van Wezel box office or by calling (941) 263-6799. Presented in partnership with the Van Wezel, proceeds benefit the education/outreach programs of Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail
Join us for live jazz at Sarasota Art Museum, co-hosted by the Jazz Club of Sarasota, featuring Barbara King and the Spirit of Jazz, and extended hours in the galleries, Bistro, and SHOP!
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Arts Advocates’ final luncheon program of the season is its annual scholarship awards luncheon, May 14, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd. in Sarasota. This year, 10 students from Sarasota and Manatee counties will each receive a $5,000 scholarship to continue their studies in the arts. Learn about these talented students, view their artwork, see their performances, and hear how Arts Advocates scholarships have impacted their lives. $45 for Arts Advocates members, $50 for non-members, with sponsorship opportunities available. Lunch is included; register no later than May 8.
Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd.
Geckos Grill and Pub is excited to announce our much-anticipated Annual Iron Chef Competition, a thrilling event that brings together culinary creativity and team spirit! This years competition will run for a total of seven weeks, beginning on May 11th and culminating in a championship finale from June 22 to June 28. This competition offers our teams a unique opportunity to work together in the kitchen, fostering collaboration and camaraderie as they prepare dishes daily. Each participant must assist one another, transforming the kitchen into a hub of creativity and teamwork. We approach this promotion with an Everybody Wins. mentality. Each location will celebrate innovation and teamwork throughout the competition. Participants are encouraged to unleash their culinary imagination! Competitors must create a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 dishes, featuring items from all cooking stations: fry, grill, saute,and pantry. Exciting Prizes Await! Our top three finalists at each location will earn fantastic cash awards. During finals week, the ultimate victors will each receive a cash bonus, an embroidered chef coat commemorating their Iron Chef winning year, and the honor of displaying the Iron Chef trophy at their location for an entire year. Join us for a flavorful time of competition, creativity, and camaraderie at Geckos Grill and Pub. We can’t wait to see the incredible dishes our teams will create. Let the culinary battle begin! Geckos Grill and Pub – Where Good Food Meets Great Friends.
Gecko's Grill and Pub
This Mother's Day, treat the mother figure in your life to a beautiful waterfront experience at Rufa. Set against stunning Sarasota Bay, guests are invited to celebrate the women who make life blossom. Moms can create something uniquely their own with a DIY flower bar, selecting fresh stems to design a custom bouquet to take home. Sip, stroll, and savor the moment with refreshing drinks, gentle coastal breezes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere made for creating meaningful memories with someone special. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
Rufa at The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota
Two of Sarasota’s finest step into the spotlight with a program that basks in the magical sounds of their ancient instruments. Accompanied by strings and harpsichord, Sarasota Orchestra principal oboe Bobby Nunes and principal harp Phoebe Powell each perform a concerto for their instrument by baroque master G.F. Handel. The two also join forces for Debussy’s enchanting Album of Five Pieces for Oboe and Harp.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street, Sarasota FL 34237
The Arts Advocates Gallery hosts monthly exhibits by member artists. The Imagination of Art Venti is on display through May 30, Saturdays only from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Art Venti's “pencil paintings” are extremely detailed works created with layers and layers of delicate colored pencil strokes on very large paper. His compositions often address environmental and socio/political issues. Since moving to Sarasota, Venti has produced his largest and most complex works with sizes having increased up to 110 inches in width. Admission is free; registration is not required.
Arts Advocates Gallery, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail
Catch the first glimpse of the newest performances being made in the Sarasota-Manatee area. Now in its third year, the HAT’s MicroWIP (Micro Works-in-Progress) presentations provide local creatives with a platform to advance new work. This evening features ten-minute max excerpts of freshly made performances and represents the museum's commitment to supporting local artists. By presenting works-in-progress, we offer a semiformal way for artists to experiment with new ideas.
Historic Asolo Theatre, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence, but not until she becomes unexpectedly entwined with the Tuck Family does she get more than she could have imagined. When Winnie learns of the magic behind the Tuck’s unending youth, she must fight to protect their secret from those who would do anything for a chance at eternal life.
Rise Above Performing Arts Centre, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34239
A huge influence of Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash and Jimi Hendrix, Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a legend in her time, adding fierce guitar and swing to traditional gospel music, becoming the Mother of Rock n Roll. Marie and Rosetta chronicles her first rehearsal with a young protégée, Marie Knight, as they prepare to embark on a tour that would establish them as one of the great duos in music history.
Asolo Repertory Theatre , 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
This Cinco de Mayo, Rufa will set the scene with coastal inspired décor, irresistible taco specials, and a specialty Patron cocktail menu designed to keep the fiesta going all night long. It’s the ultimate mix of laid back luxury and high‑spirited celebration, perfect for margaritas, mingling, and making memories.
Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
Rufa at The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota
The Images of Dance showcase features dancers from The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company and the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
HOT CLUB SRQ ignites Sarasota with sizzling gypsy jazz—elite musicianship, electric energy, and a show that leaves crowds buzzing.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 1st Street, Sarasota
Join us to celebrate the greatest two minutes in sports. Come dressed in your Derby best. Enjoy live entertainment from a bluegrass band from 3-6 p.m. and a DJ from 6-10 p.m. Photo ops and a bar featuring Angel's Envy mint juleps and Jack Dusty's famous Sirens will be available throughout the afternoon. There will be multiple televisions to ensure the Derby is visible to all attendees. The running of the 152nd Kentucky Derby is set for 6:57 p.m. Please note that this is not a ticketed event.
Jack Dusty at The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota
Arts Advocates recently acquired two paintings by Sarasota Art Colony artist Beth Arthur: “Flowing Oil” and “Bryce Canyon.” On May 2, 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the Arts Advocates Gallery located in the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Arts Advocates presents A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Beth Arthur. Arthur, now 100 years old, was painting during the highpoint years of the Sarasota Art Colony (1950s and 1960s) and continued working into the 2020s. She was a student of Hilton Leech and Syd Solomon, among others. In her decades-long career, Arthur had more than 30 one-woman shows and exhibited internationally in Italy, Switzerland, and Haiti. Arthur and her daughter Robin Draper will be in attendance for this free event. Registration is requested but not required.
Arts Advocates Gallery, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail
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