SRQ DAILY Jul 9, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I want to make sure that you are good before you are fast."
To some, the road just calls. It called Dawn Zielinski, president of the Village Idiots Cycling Club, some years ago after a car accident interrupted her running regimen. “My physical therapist told me that I should become a triathlete if I wanted to continue running so that I didn’t just work one part of my body,” says Zielinski. “Two of my friends and I were into triathlon training and would cycle around the same time that the Village Idiots Club was riding. One night they just asked, ‘why don’t you join us?’”
That was 12 years ago. Zielinksi, who was the first social director for the club, has been president for the past seven years. What began as just another method for training has become for Zielinkski, more than just “a second full-time job.” It has become a way of life. Over the years, the friends Zielinski has made through the club have changed as the natural cycle of people moving from and to the state has occurred.
“When I initially came into the group, I had a core group of girls that I was riding with, but then one moved away and another stopped riding. You have to kind of keep reinventing your friend group, but the nice thing is that people move in and you make new friends,” says Zielinski. “I’m on my third set of core friends in the Village Idiots group—most of them are on the board now—and they’re my right-hand people, I couldn’t do it without them.”
The Village Idiots, which hosts rides starting in Lakewood Ranch by the Village Bikes shop, offers an assortment of rides for cyclists of every level. There are the high level groups such as A— riding at 25 mph and above— all the way down to the more beginner friendly D group, which paces itself at 14-16 mph. An emphasis is placed on road safety and learning how to ride in a group. In recent years, the group has also incorporated mountain biking. “A lot of people can get fast before they get good. I want to make sure that you’re good before you’re fast,” says Zielinski.
Village Idiots Cycling Club, Weekly Rides Wednesday from Lakewood Ranch Main St and Saturday from Waterside Place 
Dawn Zielinski (center) and members of the Village Idiots Cycling Club. Photo by Wes Roberts.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) drives student success in college and graduation through affordable tuition, flexible classes and high-quality education, resources and support. SCF team members helping students succeed include: Tommy Gregory, J.D., the seventh president of SCF, brings more than 30 years of leadership in business, military service, law and public office. A retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and former state legislator, he focuses on accelerating student success, expanding opportunities and strengthening Florida's workforce. Liz Lux, assistant director of enrollment services, leads recruitment and orientation services and develops community partnerships. She helps guide students from inquiry through registration. Elliott Anderson, director of financial aid, oversees most federal, state and institutional aid programs. He helps remove financial barriers for students. Renee Davies, coordinator of student life, builds student community, programs and experiences. She helps support students from orientation to graduation.
The Sarasota County Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) invites you to join us on July 14, at the Gulf Gate Library for an important discussion on hurricane preparedness and emergency management.
CONA Monthly Meeting, Tuesday, July 14, 6:00 – 7:30pm, Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtis Ave, Sarasota.
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources (PRNR) invites the community to celebrate Park and Recreation Month this July by enjoying parks, beaches, natural areas and special events. This year's National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) theme, "The Power Of," highlights how parks and recreation strengthen communities by fostering connection, well-being and a sense of belonging through welcoming public spaces and engaging programs that enrich everyday life.
Join us for Historical Briefings with John McCarthy, Regional Historian at Selby Gardens, as he showcases historic photographic images of Sarasota from 1885 through 1940. Inspired by our current exhibition “Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith”, this program highlights early photographers who captured the personalities and development of Sarasota on film. This illustrated lecture will take us on a photographic journey through Sarasota’s growth from a small fishing village to a modern city. Featured photographers include Felix Pinard, Thomas Arnold and Marion Post Wolcott. This Historical Briefing is free with paid admission and free to members. Registration is required.
Wednesday, July 15, 11am – 12pm.
This week, July 9 - 11, is the perfect time to fill up your gift closet. You will find deals and discounts throughout the entire Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. For every $10 you spend, you will receive an entry to win one of three prizes valued over $300 each. On Saturday, there will be holiday cookies and live music. The Bazaar is open Thursday - Saturday, 10-3 at 821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota. Bazaaronapricotandlime.com
This November, Embracing Our Differences is calling on volunteer readers to bring the joy of reading to classrooms across Sarasota, Manatee, and Pinellas County schools during our Bucket Fillers Reading Day. Volunteers will visit local classrooms to share uplifting, age-appropriate stories that celebrate kindness, respect, and inclusion. No experience necessary, just a love of reading and a desire to make a difference in a child's day. It's a simple way to make a big impact: support literacy, inspire young learners, and help fill buckets across our community, one story at a time.
Grab your family, friends, coworkers, or bowling team and roll on over to Project 180's Fifth Annual Changing Lanes Bowling Tournament! Whether you're aiming for a perfect game, competing for bragging rights, or simply coming to cheer everyone on, there's something for everyone at this family-friendly afternoon of fun.
Sunday, August 16, Bowling begins at 1:00pm, Bowlero Gulf Gate, 7221 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
Easterseals released a new short film about family caregiving as part of a docuseries marking the nation's 250th anniversary. The nonprofit is highlighting one of America’s most urgent challenges: ensuring family caregivers also receive the vital support they need while caring for others. To learn more about Easterseals Southwest Florida or to support its mission, visit www.easterseals-swfl.org or follow us on social media.
Provided photo.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) is launching a new Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Cybersecurity Operations beginning Fall of 2026, preparing students for careers in one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most in-demand fields. The Cybersecurity Operations A.S. degree prepares students for careers in cybersecurity, digital defense and threat analysis through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences. Students can complete the program in approximately two years and may choose to continue their education through bachelor’s degree pathways or pursue industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ and Cisco CCNA. Graduates will be equipped with the technical skills needed to enter a rapidly growing and evolving field. The curriculum combines technical knowledge with applied learning opportunities in cybersecurity operations, digital forensics, incident response and network defense. Students will develop the skills needed to monitor, detect and respond to security threats while gaining experience with the tools and technologies used by cybersecurity professionals.
SRQ Magazine's Special E-Newsletter Back to School season engages with families in Sarasota and Manatee Counties at an ideal time for thinking through their choices for childcare, private and charter schools, after-school activities, tutoring and academic coaching, sports, and neighborhoods. Last chance to reach families as they prepare for the school year!
Space Closing July 10, 2026
Featuring works by such acclaimed modern and contemporary artists as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, Yoko Ono, David Hockney, Ai Weiwei, and more, this never-before-seen exhibition offers a rare glimpse into private collections held throughout Southwest Florida.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, 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.
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
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
The summer 2026 exhibition at Selby Gardens will celebrate the creative collaboration between two legendary figures and longtime friends, photographer Lynn Goldsmith and singer-songwriter Patti Smith, who is Selby Gardens’ artist in residence. The exhibition will feature Goldsmith’s photographs of Smith, past and present, in the Museum of Botany & the Arts. The images will offer an intimate portrait of an iconic artist over the course of her remarkable career.
Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236
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
Celebrate five years of the Manatee County Agricultural Museum's Little Free Library with free books and popsicles! Browse adult and children's books to take home, and also bring books to swap. Enjoy arts and crafts, along with exhibits on Manatee County agriculture. Also, consider bringing packaged food donations for the Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T.) food drive.
Manatee County Agricultural Museum, 1015 6th St. W, Palmetto
Travel back through Sarasota's history with John McCarthy, regional historian at Selby Gardens, at this historical briefing on photographers of the Sarasota region from 1885 to 1940. Inspired by the current exhibition at Selby Gardens, Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith, this briefing highlights photographers who captured Sarasota's growth from a small fishing village to a modern city. See pictures by Felix Pinard, Thomas Arnold and Marion Post Wolcott.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
This July at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's Donelly Theatre, hear two hours of thrilling hits by legendary American singer, songwriter and producer Marvin Gaye. WBTT founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs leads nine singers in performing classics from Gaye's discography, including "How Sweet It Is," "Can I Get a Witness," "Heard It Through the Grapevine" and many more. This musical celebration explores Gaye's journey from early Motown to his electrifying solo hits.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota
Don't miss William Shakespeare's timeless comedy of love, identity and finding yourself in unexpected places. The play delivers one of The Bard's most hopeful messages: people can change, grow and discover who they truly are. Experience wit, romance and how theatre can be a place where humanity explores itself.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Tee off for a great cause at the Communi-Tee Golf Classic, a day dedicated to golf, community, and connection. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a fun way to support local initiatives, this event offers an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. Participants will enjoy a beautiful day on the course while helping strengthen programs that bring neighbors together. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations looking to make an impact. Gather your foursome, enjoy friendly competition, and help build a stronger, more connected community.
Calusa Country Club, 18812 Scallop Lp, Lakewood Ranch
Play for a cause this September in support of the Venice YMCA with this charity golf classic. Golfers of all skill levels are invited to tee off with a shot gun start at 8:30am, with lunch to follow. Build community and camaraderie with fun games and prizes throughout the day. Proceeds support children, families and individuals in the Venice community.
Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd, Venice
Ever wonder what goes into creating a circus? The Ringling's Canvas City exhibit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make the spectacular entertainment venues come to life, from tentmakers and photographers to costume designers. See over 1,500 pieces, including circus costumes, leotards, band uniforms, animal blankets and more. Costumes on view will be rotated throughout the year as museum registrars review the collection and add notes and new photography to their records.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
This summer, Selby Gardens is excited to present an indoor and outdoor exhibition featuring the work of legendary American photographer, Lynn Goldsmith, who is renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images. Goldsmith’s exhibition at the Downtown Sarasota campus will combine stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence – Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota
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
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
The exhibition at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition features photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin. Accompanying the photographs are simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. Audio recordings enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
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