SRQ DAILY Aug 13, 2026
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"As a catcher, you have to separate quickly from hitting to playing defense."
In baseball, there is no relationship more important than that between the pitcher and the catcher. The pitcher is unabashedly the most crucial player on the field—the ability to get the opposing batters out is half of what decides the difference between a win and a loss. The catcher, however, makes a strong case for the second most important players on the field. It is the catcher that helps dictate the pace of the game, calling each and every pitch the pitcher throws, managing how the pitcher attacks the opposing offense. Together, the two positions make up what is known as the battery.
“When you have a catcher that you can tell cares for you and wants you to succeed, it’s huge,” says Levi Sterling, a right-handed pitcher for the Bradenton Marauders, the Single-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. “Then you have someone supporting you instead of just being alone out there on the mound. As a pitcher, you need to trust that the catcher knows what they’re doing—they’re scouting a lot of the hitters and they might know better than you about what pitches of yours are more effective against certain hitters.”
One of the catchers that Sterling has worked with this season is Edgleen Perez, a 20-year-old from Valencia, Venezuela. Although Perez’s season ended prematurely due to injury in August, the Pirates’ 8th-ranked prospect made a name for himself this season with both his glove and his bat, hitting .296 with 45 RBIs across 287 at-bats in 2026 and throwing out 21 of 66 stolen base attempts. “I worked hard on my receiving and arm strength this off-season,” says Perez. “At the plate, I’ve been working more into my back leg in my swing.”
While all fielders must balance hitting with defense, Perez and other catchers have a larger load to carry. Pre-game scouting and in-game management of the pitcher require complete focus. To be as effective as possible, Perez has worked on strengthening his mental approach to the game. “As a catcher, you have to separate quickly from hitting to playing defense,” he says. “I think I’ve done a good job of that, even when I lose an at-bat, in my mind I can zero back in on catching.”
Bradenton Marauders, LECOM Park, 1611 9th St West, Bradenton 
Edgleen Perez of the Bradenton Marauders. Provided photo.
What began as a personal way to honor the memory of a beloved mother has grown into a community-wide effort that has now placed 10,000 books into the hands of local children and families. Mom’s Book Nook, a community outreach initiative of Think Donson, was founded by Felicia Donson in honor of her late mother, Elaine Rothberg, a retired nurse from Sarasota Memorial Hospital whose compassion, generosity, and love for children inspired Felicia to continue her legacy of giving.
Pictured: Mom’s Book Nook founder Felicia Donson shares the joy of reading with young readers from Baby Fox Academy. Mom’s Book Nook recently reached a milestone of 10,000 books donated to children and families throughout the Sarasota community. Provi
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is proud to celebrate the 20th Annual IPG Leadership Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club in Sarasota. During this milestone event, BGCSDC will honor two decades of our community’s collective impact on its next generation of leaders and look ahead to the future we’re creating together. Event proceeds will benefit BGCSDC’s award-winning Teen Programs, providing local youth with opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore career pathways, build confidence, serve their communities, and prepare for successful futures. Individual tickets are $50 and can be purchased at bgcsdc.org/event/20thlb. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Please contact Valerie Knapp, Community Engagement Manager at BGCSDC, for more information by emailing vknapp@bgcsdc.org or calling 941-366-3911.
Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design is proud to present “Painting the Floating World,” the first mid-career survey of works by Japanese American painter Chie Fueki. Running October 18, 2026–April 4, 2027, this exhibition highlights the 25-year trajectory of Fueki’s artistic practice, celebrated for transforming scenes of everyday life into luminous, extraordinary spaces.
Pictured: Chie Fueki (Japanese, b. 1973). Aiko and John, 2010. Acrylic, pencil, colored pencil, collage on wood panel, 84 x 72 in. Private Collection, Courtesy DC Moore Gallery, New York.
The Sarasota Ballet is pleased to welcome Bloch as its Official Education Partner beginning with the 2026-2027 Season. The two-year agreement will support students across The Sarasota Ballet School, Margaret Barbieri Conservatory, and Dance – The Next Generation (DNG). To learn more visit sarasotaballet.org
The Sarasota Tiger Bay Club invites the public to attend its September 3 meeting featuring Sarasota County’s five constitutional officers. Check in begins at 11:30 a.m. at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Avenue South in Sarasota. For more information, and to register for this luncheon, visit SarasotaTigerBay.com or call 941-228-9144.
The Jazz Club of Sarasota's Monday Night Jazz concerts have become so popular that performances routinely sell out—often leaving jazz lovers disappointed. Thanks to a recent $8,000 grant from The Exchange, which supports initiatives that enrich the region's arts and cultural experiences, the Jazz Club is launching “Saturday Night Jazz SRQ” at The Venue @ LEC. The ambitious new series, which debuts in October, will more than double audience capacity and expand programming with nationally acclaimed artists, outstanding local musicians and a broader range of jazz styles. "This series represents an exciting new chapter for the Jazz Club,” says Ed Linehan, president of the Jazz Club’s board of directors. "We're deeply grateful to The Exchange for investing in a vision that expands affordable access to live jazz, allows us to present even more exceptional artists, and creates new experiences for audiences to enjoy for years to come.
Pictured: Take 6 is the Grammy Award-winning vocal group that will launch the Jazz Club of Sarasota's new Saturday Night Jazz SRQ series in October. The series is supported by a recent $8,000 grant from The Exchange, which expands community access to
Maria A. Guzman Capron explores the complexities of identity through vibrant figurative textiles. Drawing inspiration from her own multicultural heritage, the artist creates layered portraits of exuberant, multi-faceted characters.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
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.
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
As the winner of The Sarasota Players' 2025 New Play Festival, Radical Honesty explores desire, devotion, vulnerability, identity and the complicated cost of allowing yourself to be truly seen. The play follows an engaged couple who invite an actress into their home following a performance by her husband, a playwright whose work has unsettled them both. What begins as an evening together gradually takes an unexpected turn as seduction gives way to confession and the boundaries between love, performance and identity begin to collapse.
The Players Studio Black Box, 1400 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
FST's resident improv team returns with Out of Bounds, an audience-favorite competition where two teams battle for laughs in a fast-paced series of games. Every scene is inspired by audience suggestions, and the winning team is up to the spectators to decide–and the method of voting is applause! This no-holds-barred comedy showdown runs 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
Bowne's Lab, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
From the smooth soul of Motown to the irresistible hooks of pop and R&B, this dynamic tribute spans the greatest classics from the 1960s through today. Relive beloved hits made famous by icons like The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Four Seasons and The Temptations. Featuring tight harmonies and charismatic showmanship, this energetic revue delivers constant hits and fresh takes on old favorites.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Set at New York City's Legendary High School for the Performing Arts from 1980 to 1984, this show follows a group of young artists from their first audition to their graduation. The production explores the dedication and passion required to succeed despite artistic, academic and personal challenges. See electrifying pop and dance numbers in this celebration of youth, artistry and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Win prizes while you think, drink and enjoy food at Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar at trivia nights every Tuesday. Trivia Nation hosts a Game Show Loco Trivia experience inspired by classic game shows like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Test your knowledge across a variety of categories, make strategic choices and try your luck with games of chance. Bring your friends, family and coworkers, or jump in and join a team when you arrive.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
When widower Ralph takes a different path on his daily walk, he meets Carol, an elegant woman who just might change his life. What begins as a simple conversation blossoms into an unexpected journey of second chances. Directed by Kate Alexander, this warm, witty comedy is about discovering how love can arrive when you least expect it–at any age.
Gompertz Theatre, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
Intensive B will focus on a variety of Jazz classes. Participants will experience influences from Fosse, Broadway, Afro-Fusion, to Commercial Jazz!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Blvd of the Arts Ste 300, Sarasota
At the Court Cabaret, Nancy Allen presents a powerful tribute to era-defining artists in the 1970s, featuring hits from Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, Linda Ronstadt and more. A singer trio of Victoria Boland, Samantha Duval and Madalyn McHugh deliver powerhouse vocals that capture the soul and strength of the female artists who wrote their own rules. This show is part of a three-show Summer Cabaret subscription that also includes Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey and Legacy: Motown and More!
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota
Start studying for Gecko's Grill and Pub's 24th Annual Summer Trivia Tournament. This six-week competition features weekly trivia nights on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at participating Gecko's locations throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Teams can enjoy food and drink specials while competing for a share of $1,000 in Gecko's Bucks. The three teams with the highest cumulative scores are invited to the championship tournament, which is scheduled for Gecko's on Clark Road on August 17.
Gecko's Grill and Pub, All Gecko's Grill and Pub locations
Curious about the Mediterranean Way of Eating? Join us for Cooking Up Health: The Mediterranean Way, an engaging, educational series that will transform your approach to food! Discover seven simple steps to healthier meals, learn easy recipes, and pick up practical tips that fit right into your everyday life. Registration includes a recipe book. 6-Week Program, Mondays: 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24, and 8/31 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will be virtual and will have a cost of $10 per person. Zoom link for the class will be emailed to participants before the start of class.
Virtual, Virtual
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
SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. The views expressed by individuals are their own, and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email |
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe
