SRQ DAILY Jun 4, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"We want to be inclusive of all ages and abilities to enjoy the sport, build friendships, increase skills and give back to the community."
In the 2009 Academy Award-nominated film Up in the Air, the protagonist, Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) is a frequent flyer with a specific goal in mind: to reach 10 million miles on American Airlines. Don Stuart, president of the Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club (SMBC), also has a goal in mind, albeit on his road bike: 10,000 kilometers in 2026.
“It equates to roughly 6,200 miles,” says Stuart, who moved to Sarasota from Connecticut three years ago. “I’m at about 2,700 now—we’re not yet at the halfway point in the year, so I’m feeling alright, but you can always have a mishap or a change in life plans. It’s not about the personal goal, however, but rather about meeting new people. It’s about having fun, getting outside and staying in shape.”
Founded in 1974, SMBC is one of the oldest recreational groups in the entire region. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, SMBC has 600 members and hosts over 7,500 rides a year, frequently giving back to charitable causes, often those related to cycling. “We have rides that start as far north as Parrish, as far south as Venice, as far east as Myakka and as far west as the beautiful Gulf of Mexico and the barrier islands,” says Stuart. “We want to be the premier cycling club in Sarasota. We want to be inclusive of all ages and abilities to enjoy the sport, build friendships, increase skills and give back to the community.”
One does not have to be a member, however, to ride with SMBC. There are five different speed groups to choose from and, with 95% of all rides being designated as “non-drop” rides, no cyclist gets left behind. “We put a prime focus on safety. There is always a ride leader who has been trained in the rules of Florida Biking law and is responsible for the group. Fun follows very closely behind along with getting exercise and meeting new people,” says Don. “I’ve met so many new people because of how many different rides we have.”
Disclaimer: This interview was conducted on May 8. Don is likely well on his way to 10,000 kilometers for the year.
Provided photo.
Dalia Colon, award-winning journalist, storyteller and host of WUSF’s “The Zest” podcast, will discuss her book "The Florida Vegetarian Cookbook" on Thursday, June 4, 5–6:30 p.m., at Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, as part of the organization’s free “Joyful Journeys” Authors Series. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Registration is required at https://friendshipcenters.org/special-events/.
This summer, global soccer excitement comes to Sarasota Bay as The Bay and Sarasota Paradise launch a FREE World Cup Watch Party Series celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with large-screen match broadcasts, family-friendly festivities, and community programming in the heart of Sarasota. The series kicks off Sunday, June 14 with an all-day festival-style celebration at The Bay featuring World Cup matches shown on stadium-quality large screens beneath a massive shaded tent overlooking Sarasota Bay. The June 14 Kick-off Festival takes place from 12:30-7:00 p.m. For event details and registration information, visit https://www.thebaysarasota.org/event/world-cup/.
This summer, Sunshine from Darkness is proud to collaborate with Teen Court of Sarasota to help provide youth with tools for emotional wellness, confidence, and resilience. Through our Coping Skills Workshop, students will explore: emotional literacy, healthy coping strategies, confidence building, stress management, positive connection and communication. These programs create safe spaces for young people to grow, reflect, and feel supported during critical moments in their lives. Your donations help make these opportunities possible. Together, we’re helping build futures where resilience thrives and stigma fades - one spark at a time.
Join us for a Laser Light Family Night Double Feature featuring two high-energy musical experiences under the dome. The evening begins with Disney Movie songs, a dazzling laser celebration of beloved hits from classic and modern Disney favorites. Sing along to unforgettable songs from films that have inspired generations, all paired with colorful laser effects that light up the theater. After a short intermission, the excitement continues with songs from K-Pop Demon Hunters, featuring music inspired by the hit animated phenomenon. Experience an electrifying mix of K-Pop beats, action-packed energy, and vibrant laser visuals that transform the dome into a concert-style adventure. This double feature is perfect for families, music fans, and anyone looking for a fun night out together. Beer, wine, soda, water, and snacks will be available for purchase in the Planetarium Lobby. Drinks and snacks can be taken into the theater. No outside food or drink is permitted inside the lobby or theater.
Children First proudly celebrated the close of the 2025-2026 school year with two special traditions honoring the achievements of children and families across its programs: the annual Galaxy Awards and Kindergarten-Riser celebrations. Held at Hotel Venezia, the 2026 Galaxy Awards recognized families for accomplishments in education, employment, family life, and engagement in their child’s learning journey. The evening highlighted the important role parents and caregivers play in helping children succeed and featured inspiring remarks from parent leaders and alumni families. Children First extends sincere gratitude to Galaxy Award Sponsors Linda Monda, Valerie Donahue & Thomas Zahn; Reach for the Stars Sponsor Sir Speedy; and The Future’s Bright Sponsors Kathy & Tom Cook, Lisa & John Giglio, and the MITER Foundation and PGT Custom Windows & Doors. The agency also celebrated 74 Kindergarten-Risers preparing to enter elementary school this fall. Special thanks to TheZenith Insurance Company for providing backpacks and to University Park Country Club Nine Hole LGA for supplying additional school supplies to support children’s continued success.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota’s (SCF) health profession programs awarded pins, white coats, awards and scholarships to graduating students at ceremonies on May 6 and 7 at SCF Bradenton. All graduates earned degrees that prepare them for direct entry into the workforce.
Mayer explores the impact of technology on the human body through this interactive sculpture series. Slumpies invites viewers to sit and slump on these sculptures, much like furniture, and find a place of comfort while using their technological devices.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
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!
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
Art immersion class for children ages 6-18. Small classes with fine arts materials. Visit linarinconart.com for more information and to register.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, Gallery & Creative Academy, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Venice Theatre is a historic theater in a prominently-located area within the City of Venice. After it's flyloft was blown down during a hurricane, construction began only to have a second hurricane blow down any progress that was made on rebuilding. The owners then decided to look at resilience in their structural design in hopes of abating any more damage from storms. The structural system of the new 72' tall flyloft is considerable and is meant to weather even the worst of storms. On top of this new structure, the facade of the building uses a state-of-the-art StoTherm system for waterproofing and insulation and with careful coordination was designed to look similar to a stage curtain using precut foam flutes that were attached and coated with the Sto system. This hardhat tour will take a behind the scenes look at all of the systems being implemented in the new flyloft in order to protect the one-of-a-kind experiences that take place within this unique theater.
Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave W, Venice
This course looks at the history of jazz music, its evolution, who practiced the art, and the audience that appreciated it from its inception to the present day. Students will listen to the music and artists who led to its mainstream adoption.
Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
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
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
Step into the spotlight with One Hit Wonders, a toe-tapping celebration of those unforgettable songs that lit up the charts and became part of our lives. From the epic storytelling of “American Pie” to the carefree whistle of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” this show celebrates the artists who gave us a single great hit.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
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.
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