SRQ DAILY Aug 6, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"It is the great adventure."
By the time you’re reading this, Sally Lippert and Mark Shrosbee are already knee-deep in the adventure of a lifetime. Well, keel-deep is probably the better term for it. Lippert, a 69-year-old local real estate broker and Shrosbee, a 65-year-old South African, met about a year ago. Shrosbee was well on his goal of sailing around the world—he’d started in 2016, going from South Africa down to the Caribbean, running into various boat-related troubles along the way, before eventually coming to a halt in Panama. “I told my kids in 2016 that I would have circumnavigated the world in three years and that was 10 years ago,” says Shrosbee. “You can do it in three years, but then you just see nothing of the world.”
Just over a year ago, Shrosbee, staying in the United States on a visa, met Lippert, who was selling her boat. Although Lippert’s boat proved too large for Shrosbee, the pair clicked. Lippert is a self-described “sail bum”, who has sailed all around the world, but never with a romantic partner. “It is the great adventure,” says Lippert. “I’ve been looking for somebody to share an adventure with.”
The couple’s adventure first will take them across the state, from Fort Myers through the Caloosahatchee River into the Atlantic. The idea is to get outside of the country prior to when Shrosbee’s visa runs out of time. “From there, if the weather is good, we’ll shoot across to the southern Bahamas, the Exuma chain, which could take up to three weeks. From there, I can fly back and forth—I have three kids and four grandchildren here, so I’ll need to return to see them,” says Lippert.
The ship on which Lippert and Shrosbee are sailing has been an adventure in and of itself. Dubbed “Ra” after the Egyptian Sun god, the 40-foot Chinese junk rig, is Shrosbee’s “dream build”. Replete with a center cockpit, a shallow draft and twin masts constructed from former street lamps, the couple is confident that Ra will get them to where they need to go, swiftly and safely. “I always wanted to build a schooner junk rig,” says Shrosbee. “This build has been in my head since I was probably 25 years old.” 
Sally Lippert and Mark Shrosbee aboard their boat, Ra. Photo by Alex Alfaro.
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Discover how innovation and environmental stewardship are helping restore the Manatee River. Join a panel from the Palmetto Community Redevelopment Agency to explore the award-winning Palmetto Bay Oyster Restoration Project and learn how more than 300 Reef Balls are rebuilding oyster habitat, improving water quality, and creating a healthier ecosystem for marine life. Hear about the project’s promising early results, the ongoing scientific monitoring that tracks its progress each quarter, and the important role of nearby Connor Park. Its 550,000-gallon stormwater reservoir helps filter runoff before it reaches the restoration site, demonstrating how thoughtful infrastructure and habitat restoration can work together to protect our local waterways.
$10/$3 for Members/Members under 17; $15/$5 for Non-Members/Non-Members under 17.
Florida Studio Theatre (FST) has added new performances of The Last Romance, the final production of its 2026 Summer Mainstage Series. Due to popular demand, audiences now have even more opportunities to embrace this heartwarming romantic comedy through August 16, 2026. The Last Romance is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Dramatists Play Service. www.concordtheatricals.com
Knowing the best recommendations come from the collective voices of our community, Visit Sarasota County (VSC) in partnership with six Chambers of Commerce, created a seasonal tourism marketing campaign to authentically represent the entire region. The "Regional Spotlight Campaign," which ran from April 1 through June 30, targeted potential travelers in key U.S. markets who were actively considering booking a trip, directing them to chamber-curated recommendations. In its three-month span, the campaign generated 9.5 million impressions and 36,000 conversions, significantly underscoring Sarasota County as a collection of destinations. The campaign represents a $72,000 advertising investment by VSC, with $12,000 dedicated to each area represented by its respective Chamber of Commerce. ParticipatingChambers of Commerce included Englewood, Greater Sarasota, Longboat Key/Lido Key/St. Armands, North Port Area, Siesta Key, and Venice Area. Each Chamber provided local insight, creative assets, and messaging that reflected the personality and appeal of its community. For the latest data on VSC’s marketing campaigns, visit www.visitsarasotacountytransparency.com.
Provided photo.
Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has announced the top five finalists for its 2027 One Book, One Community program. Each year, a committee reviews dozens of titles before selecting one book. The chosen author is invited to Sarasota County in March for community discussions and book signings at locations in north and south county. For more information, visit SarasotaCountyLibraries.org/OneBook or call 311 or 941-861-5000.
Big Waters Land Trust, is excited to announce the return of the summer trivia showdown at Bay Preserve. This year the non-profit land trust is bringing back their annual summer trivia -a one-night-only, winner-takes-all event! The free community event will take place at Big Waters’ Bay Preserve headquarters in Osprey from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on August 19, 2026. Participants can expect a wide range of questions touching on topics including movies, music, and more, with a conservation theme woven throughout. Trivia begins at 6:00 pm. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.
Join Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for the 20th Annual IPG Leadership Breakfast at the Lee Wetherington Club as we celebrate two decades of community leadership and the lasting impact of investing in young people. Through inspiring stories and a look back at 20 years of leadership, we'll honor the legacy of those who have helped shape great futures while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders. Purchase your tickets today!
Following a highly successful first round with over 85 entries from high school students nationwide, Ringling College of Art and Design is opening the gates on the second annual Theme Park Design Competition this September—as last year’s grand-prize winner arrives on campus this fall as a full-time Entertainment Design degree student. Held in partnership with Universal Creative in Orlando, Florida, the competition challenges high school juniors and seniors to solve a real-world design challenge; this year, entrants will conceive an original parade float worthy of a major theme park boulevard parade. Dates and deadlines, the full project brief, FAQs, and more can be found at ringling.edu/themeparkdesigncompetition
Be part of SRQ Magazine’s WE ROAR 2026 special edition, highlighting the women making an impact across Sarasota and Manatee’s business, cultural and philanthropic communities. Whether sharing your own leadership story or celebrating the women within your organization, WE ROAR provides a meaningful platform to amplify your brand and connect with an engaged local audience. Reserve your space by August 7, 2026, before this special October issue fills and request more information today.
Space Closing August 7, 2026
Buckle up for a high-energy musical ride that features guest soprano Jenny Kim-Godfrey and guitarist Jonathan Godfrey. This spirited concert will take audiences on a joyful journey filled with movement, memories and music that captures the thrill of the open road, the rhythm of the rails and the freedom of flight. Songs include Leaving on a Jet Plane, Little Deuce Coupe and Midnight Train to Georgia.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
Take a musical journey across America as the Venice Chorale celebrates the people, places and landscapes that have shaped our nation's history. The concert also features the world premiere of the winning work from the Chorale's 3rd Annual Choral Composition Competition. You'll hear Route 66, California Dreamin', Georgia on My Mind and more.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
With a theme of The Future is Not What It Used to Be, EcoSummit 2027 will bring together scientists, innovators and community leaders to explore real-world solutions for protecting natural lands and waterways in Florida. At The Bay Park in Sarasota next February, the summit addresses action in four domains: natural lands, resilient waterways, human health and living cities. Join the email list on the event website to learn when speakers, performing artists and ticket sales are announced.
The Bay Park, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota
Celebrate the magic of the holidays with guest soprano Barbara Grizer, the Venice Symphony and the cheerful voices of the Venice Chorale's Youth Choir. This festive event includes O Holy Night, Santa Baby and the premiere of The 12 Days of Venice Christmas–the perfect way to share the joy of the holidays with family and friends.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
Hear beloved holiday classics and heartfelt originals from Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Leslie Odom, Jr., known for his role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton. His Sarasota debut promises a show that's equal parts soulful, uplifting and unforgettable. Meet and greet experiences are available, and tickets go on sale July 17 at 10 am.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Experience an evening of warmth, reflection, joy, and musical intimacy as Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota presents Close to the Heart: Diversity Unplugged, a unique concert that strips away the electronic layers to reveal the pure emotional connection between singers, musicians, and audience. For two nights only on December 13 and 17, these performances feature acoustic instrumentation, luminous harmonies, seasonal favorites, heartfelt ballads, uplifting anthems and moments of humor and celebration. Diversity Unplugged creates an atmosphere that is both deeply personal and universally welcoming.
St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota
Following their blockbuster ASC appearance during the 2024-25 season, PROJECT Trio performs another genre-blending concert spanning everything from Mozart and Bach to Charlie Parker and The Beatles. PROJECT Trio combines classical training with jazz, hip-hop and rock–performed with the spontaneity of a jazz club and the precision of a concert hall. A dinner menu for this event will feature a salad, entree, dessert, various drinks and a cash bar.
Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd, Venice
The Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble, Chanticleer, is known around the world as an orchestra of voices for its wide-ranging repertoire and dazzling virtuosity. One of the most prolific recording and touring ensembles in the world, Chanticleer has sold more than a million recordings. Back by popular demand, Chanticleer returns to Sarasota to perform an all-new program of Renaissance classics and holiday favorites.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
In demand throughout the world, Grammy Award-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov will at last make his Sarasota recital debut. Trifonov has made a spectacular ascent in the classical music world as a solo artist, as well as a champion of the concerto and chamber music repertoire. Combining consummate technique with rare sensitivity and depth, his performances are a perpetual display of astounding virtuosity and lyrical intensity.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Ring in the holiday season with Key Chorale's annual collaboration with the Sarasota Ballet Studio Company. This performance highlights the 100 voices of Key Chorale, Key Chorale Orchestra, acclaimed soprano Jessica Beebe and The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company. Experience breathtaking music and expressive dance with Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Danses de Noel suite inspired by French carols, John Rutter's Magnificat and more.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Harpists Cheryl Losey Feder and Phoebe Powell showcase their two concert grand harps in a heavenly musical program. Selections include Debussy's Dances for Harp and Strings and Caplet's Masque of the Red Death for harp, string quartet and narrator. A post-concert meet and greet reception with light refreshments is included with concert tickets.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota
Sarasota Ballet's second program, featuring live music by the Sarasota Orchestra, brings together three works–two of them Company premieres–that explore imagination and characterization. Solitaire by Sir Kenneth MacMillan follows a solitary figure who drifts between observer and participant in a series of elegant, interconnected sections. In Lyric Pieces, Jessica Lang creates a sequence of poetic scenes that feel both playful and refined. Alexei Ratmansky's Pictures at an Exhibition bursts with color and energy, inspired by Mussorgsky's famed piano score and the vivid watercolor imagery of Wassily Kandinsky.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Through painting, collage, paper-based processes and mixed media installations, Inheritance of Place brings together the work of Isveydi Moreno and Luz Estrella Cruz in an exploration of place, memory and belonging. Both artists examine how personal and collective histories are carried through objects, images and cultural narratives. See how identity is shaped by the places we inhabit and the stories we inherit. A free performance by Tania Vergara Dance is featured on opening night at 6pm.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
Set in 1927, this beloved musical comedy is about Hollywood’s tumultuous transition from silent films to talkies. The story follows dashing silent film star Don Lockwood as he falls for an aspiring actress while struggling with his screechy-voiced co-star, Lina Lamont, who stands poised to sabotage both his love and his career. A hilarious send-up of Hollywood’s foibles, this beloved musical has it all: sweeping romance, show-stopping choreography, and some of the greatest tunes ever written.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
As part of ASC's Lighter Fare series, the joyful trio Biriba Union performs original compositions that draw on the freestyle theatrics of hip-hop and Go-go music, the effortless beauty of Brazilian forro and choro, the earthiness of American roots music and the improvisational spontaneity of jazz. Hear Mike Block on cello and vocals, Christylez Bacon on beatbox, guitar and rhymes, and Patricia Ligia on electric bass and vocals. This open seating concert will be held outdoors at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, weather permitting. A cash bar by Michael's on East will also be available.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Presented by Key Chorale, the Chamber Singers invite you into a world of beauty, reflection and wonder at this candlelit choral experience. The choir is joined by renowned organist Jeremy Filsell, violinist Jeff Thurston and cellist Susan Dobronsky. Here contemplative and sacred selections by Faure, Paulus, Gjeilo and Esenvalds at this evening of serenity and inspiration.
Christ Episcopal Church, Bradenton, 4030 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
Join climate leaders, researchers, community partners, business professionals and students for the 6th Annual CAC Florida Climate Conference: From Climate Risk to Climate Resilience. Experience a full day of inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and networking with the exciting vision of the Living Laboratory for Coastal Resilience. This collaborative initiative brings together science, technology, education and community partnerships to build a stronger Suncoast. For an early bird bonus, register by August 15 to enjoy a complimentary catered lunch.
Selby Auditorium at the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, 8350 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
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