SRQ DAILY Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Family and Recreation Edition
"I had enough experience at second base last year, where if I go over to shortstop and move back to second, it feels a lot more comfortable than it did before."
For the Baltimore Orioles, the Jackson Holliday era has officially begun. Taken first overall in the 2022 MLB Amateur Draft, the 21-year-old infielder made his big league debut last April after just two short years in the minor leagues. Although a proven phenom in the minor leagues, Holliday struggled initially, going just 2-for-34 at the plate in 10 games before being demoted to Triple-A Norfolk on April 26.
Holliday’s struggles, however, weren’t completely unexpected. According to FanGraphs, the average amount of time for a first overall pick to make it to the Major Leagues is 3.6 years—the time for a high school draft pick is typically longer, around 4-6 years. Holliday’s demotion to the minor leagues, however, strengthened him as a player. After dominating Triple-A, hitting .259 with 20 doubles and eight home runs in 63 games, Holliday was promoted to Baltimore on July 31. While Holliday’s stats at the plate weren’t otherworldly, they were better than his initial call up—in August of 2024 he posted a .219 batting average, driving in 15 runs and slugging four home runs.
In 2025, Holliday will start his season in Baltimore after making the Orioles’ Opening Day roster. The young infielder will look to capitalize on a strong Spring Training in Sarasota, which saw him hit .333/.407/.865, with a home run and five stolen bases across 16 Grapefruit League games.
“If I can carry what I’ve done in spring into the regular season, then I’ll be very happy,” said Holliday after the Orioles' Grapefruit League game against the Atlanta Braves on March 23. “I’d be happy with continuing to hit low line drives and hard ground balls that turn into doubles and triples.”
A shortstop by trade, Holliday switched over to second base at the big league level to accommodate the Orioles’ All-Star shortstop Gunnar Henderson. With Henderson on the injured list to start the year, Holliday will likely see increased time at shortstop, a more demanding defensive position than second base.
“I had enough experience at second base last year, where if I go over to short and move back to second, it feels a lot more comfortable than before,” said Holliday. “I don’t think that you can ever say that you’re exactly ready to play short stop every day in the big leagues, but I think that I’ve got a good understanding of what needs to be done.”
MLB Opening Day: Baltimore Orioles at Toronto Blue Jays, March 27, 3:07 pm
Jackson Holliday gets into his defensive stance. Provided photo.
On March 11, Embracing Our Differences’ annual Reading Day reached 14,013 pre-K through third-grade students from 100 elementary schools and early learning centers in Manatee and Sarasota counties for a day of storytelling, connection and shared values. This year, 727 classrooms participated in the event, with students receiving a total of 14,740 books—an unprecedented milestone in the program’s history. For 11 years, Embracing Our Differences’ Reading Day has inspired thousands of young readers through this initiative, fostering meaningful conversations about inclusion, kindness and respect.
Pictured: Tobi Schnieder poses with Ms. McConnell's 2nd  grade class at Ashton Elementary during Embracing Our Differences Reading Day in March. Photo courtesy of EOD.
Hershorin Schiff Community Day School (CDS) Cheer Team is off to a victorious start this season, taking home first place at the Florida Cheer & Dance Association Spring Break Fun Fest Cheer & Dance Competition in Winter Haven earlier in March. Competing in their first event of the season, the Panthers showcased their dedication and skill by flawlessly executing their routines and hitting every stunt. This win marks another milestone for the CDS Cheer Team, which has gained recognition for its excellence in competing. Last year, the team excelled at the national level during their first competition as a team.
Provided photo.
Ringling College of Art and Design has launched the Author/Illustrator Undergraduate Certificate program. The certificate equips students with the skills to combine writing and illustration into market-ready books, emphasizing industry relevance and creative control. It is ideal for students interested in creating children’s books, comics, and graphic novels. The certificate is a collaboration between the Illustration and Creative Writing majors but is open to students from every major.
Hershorin Schiff Community Day School second graders are exploring immigration through real-life stories. On March 12, alum Michel Mayer shared his family’s journey from Brazil, helping students connect classroom lessons to real-world experiences. Barbara O’Brien, K-5 Director, said, "Hearing from Michel will give our students a meaningful connection to immigration, fostering empathy and awareness."
The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County (ELC) has done what no other noncollegiate, nonprofit agency could—launch a one-of-a-kind, state-recognized Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) for early childhood education. Tapping into a niche market, 28 applicants signed up within the first month. With the help of CareerSource Suncoast, ELC Sarasota is the first among all ELCs in Florida to receive this prestigious sponsor designation, effectively meeting the local demand and filling a critical void in the community. Fully operated in-house, this independent RAP provides a seamless pathway for aspiring early educators, removing the need for technical school enrollment or student loans. Supporting career development in a field often overlooked and overshadowed, the ELC’s program addresses the critical need for more qualified preschool teachers who are trained and ready from the moment of hire. Unsurprisingly, 30 childcare employers jumped onboard to partner with the program within the first year. The RAP offers two distinct paths: a Pre-Apprenticeship program for individuals ages 16+, who are new to the field, no experience necessary, and an Apprenticeship program designed for those currently working in a classroom and pursuing a teacher credential. Virtual class options, customized learning, and strong mentorship lie at the heart of this impactful program. Hands-on, in-depth training from seasoned ELC early childhood specialists, who local teachers already know and trust, boosts their confidence and commitment to the field as they now view their role as a meaningful career rather than just a job.
Please join Sarasota County Schools’ Human Resources department for a job fair on Wednesday, April 2 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the conference center at the Carlisle Inn (3727 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota. Sarasota County Schools is excited to offer a variety of instructional and non-instructional positions across the school district. Whether you are a passionate educator or looking for a fulfilling role in support staff, there is an opportunity for you. Come meet our HR team, learn more about open positions, and take the first step towards an exciting new career! Questions? Please email recruitment@sarasotacountyschools.net.
Match Day 2025 made one thing clear: new residents want to be part of BayCare’s pursuit of clinical excellence. All our BayCare-sponsored Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs received a 100% match for Match Day. More than 170 health care leaders of the future, including resident physicians and fellows, have joined us to make BayCare their GME home. This brings the total to nearly 300 doctors currently in BayCare Residency programs. For more information: Graduate Medical Education Programs at BayCare.
After stormy weather postponed its January grand opening, Embracing Our Differences has reimagined the celebration as "Embracing Our Community: A Celebration of Kindness." This free event takes place on Sunday, March 30, from noon to 3 p.m., at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. The celebration features three performances by the phenomenal musician, singer and songwriter, Shelby Sol. Local arts and education organizations, including ALSO Youth, CreArte Latino, EOD Coexistence Clubs, Sarasota Art Museum, Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, The Ringling, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, and Van Wezel will have booths featuring interactive, kid-friendly activities. The Big Blue Grilled Cheese Company, Empanada Girl and One Two Tea! trucks will be stationed at the event. EOD will also recognize Best-in-Show winners and many of the artists and writers who had their works selected for display. For more information, visit EmbracingOurDifferences.org.
The Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open recently named Coastal Orthopedics, a full-service provider of comprehensive orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, spine care, diagnostic imaging and physical therapy service, as its medical partner for the 2025 tournament. Dr. R. Stephen Otte will serve as the on-site physician for the event activities taking place April 6 – 13, 2025 at the Sarasota Sports Club. The professional tennis tournament is part of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger Tour. With a huge economic impact, the tournament also brings top-tier tennis talent to the area. During tournament week, Dr. Otte will assist with any medical issues that arise amongst the players, including evaluating injuries to make sure competitors are fit to continue the tournament and filling out appropriate forms for medical disqualification.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota invites guests to immerse themselves in an unforgettable Easter celebration set against the breathtaking backdrop of Florida’s Gulf Coast. From Wednesday, April 16th to Sunday, April 20th, the resort will present a thoughtfully curated lineup of holiday experiences designed to delight guests of all ages. At the heart of the celebration is Executive Chef and French Master Chef Yann Chupin, whose culinary artistry will shine through a selection of exquisite Easter-inspired creations. Complementing these exceptional dining experiences are exclusive indulgences, from luxurious wellness treatments to elevated shopping opportunities, as well as engaging family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
The first-ever Palmetto Blues Festival set the stage for what promises to be a must-attend annual tradition, bringing two days of electrifying performances, soulful melodies, and a community united by the power of music. The festival, held on March 21-22 2025, drew an enthusiastic crowd, all eager to experience the heart and soul of blues music in an unforgettable setting.
The Sarasota Farmers Market Vendors Incorporated (“SFMV”) has been established as a not for-profit organization under laws of the State of Florida, continuing the 40+ year tradition of enhancing and improving the quality of life in Sarasota. Our charitable mission is to create a social opportunity for residents and visitors to gather and interact, to bring foot traffic to downtown Sarasota sustaining the economic viability of the entire downtown area, and to provide a venue for other not-for-profit organizations benefiting Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer's Market, N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Think while you drinks! 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.
Gecko's Grill & Pub, Multiple Locations
Join us every Sunday morning at 9am for a walk to the Bayfront and back on a route that is just under 2 miles. Meet at 99 Bottles Downtown Sarasota and end at the same location in approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on pace. This weekly walking social club is an opportunity to connect with other locals.
99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236
Program Six sees the long-awaited Company premiere of Sir Frederick Ashton’s full-length story ballet Romeo and Juliet, bringing the grandeur and passion of Shakespeare’s beloved tragedy to the Sarasota stage. Choreographed in 1955 to Sergei Prokofiev’s score, the ballet brought great success for the Royal Danish Ballet. Unlike many other productions, Ashton decided to truly focus on the “intimate tragedy of two young people caught in an all-consuming passion” (David Vaughan, Frederick Ashton and his Ballets, 1977). Infused with Ashton’s musicality and penchant for heart-fluttering pas de deux, Romeo and Juliet clearly demonstrates Ashton’s choreographic genius and his ability to portray the nature of humanity through dance.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Each year, My Hometown Fest draws thousands of people from Florida’s Suncoast for a day of fun featuring food from dozens of area restaurants, craft beer samples from around the country, and live music from the region’s best bands. The event features plenty of family friendly activities as well.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235
After stormy weather postponed its January grand opening, Embracing Our Differences has reimagined the celebration as "Embracing Our Community: A Celebration of Kindness."; This free event takes place on Sunday, March 30, from noon to 3 p.m., at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. The celebration features three performances by the phenomenal musician, singer and songwriter, Shelby Sol. Local arts and education organizations will be in attendence.
Sarasota's Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
10 speakers will be invited to present 10 images of their work, interest, or inspiration. Slides advance automatically every 30 seconds with brief introductions between the speakers. The informal and fast paced event is intended to showcase and introduce a diverse group of leaders and creative minds from our community. The event is organized by architect Michael Halflants and painter Tim Jaeger.
Sarasota Art Museum , 1001 S Tamiami Tr, Sarasota, FL 34236
We’re back with the incredible 2025 TGIF | BEST OF SRQ LOCAL PARTY celebrating the winners recognized and voted on by our readers in SRQ Magazine’s epic 2025 Best of SRQ Local Readers Competition. Join us on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 5-8 pm at the Aloft Hotel in Downtown Sarasota to taste and experience some of this year's "Best of SRQ Local" restaurants and cocktails. Share a hip evening with our area’s passionate localvores and foodies.
Aloft Sarasota, 1401 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236
BAM!Fest (Bradenton Art & Music Festival) is a free event that will transform the Riverwalk into a dynamic, diverse, immersive art and music experience from bridge to bridge! This community collaboration is coordinated by Realize Bradenton and includes: musicians from a variety of genres on multiple stages, pop up performance acts along the Riverwalk, live creation of large scale visual art, interactive art projects, local art for sale, and culinary treats from local food vendors.
Bradenton Riverwalk, 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Jump into Spring at the Meadows Market! Catch the Easter Bunny on the lawn for a Family Photo or search for the Golden Egg at the Egg hunt
The Meadows, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Sarasota, FL 34235
Longtime friends Chef Charles Amherst of Chaz 51 Steakhouse in Venice and Barbara Gerdeman, co-founder of Creative Liberties Artist Studios in Sarasota, have joined forces to create a series of interactive “live art dinner showcases.” Join us every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings from 5-8:30 pm.
Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US-41 BYP, Venice, FL 34285
Join us on the Bolger Campiello for live music and dancing. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on the bayfront. One chair per person will be available. No outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted. Members please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
SCFD is proud to welcome the community into the fire stations, continuing the tradition of open houses. These open houses are a wonderful opportunity for residents to engage directly with neighborhood firefighters. Visit our website to view the open house schedule.
Multiple Location, Multiple Locations
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources is excited to announce the return of the popular sunrise beach walks.The walks will be held every Wednesday and Thursday at Siesta and Nokomis beaches. Walkers are asked to check in with staff before or after their walk between 8-9:30 a.m. Enjoy a fun and energizing start to the day with this community-favorite event. For just a one-time registration fee of $5, participants will receive a punch card and have an opportunity to receive an event T-shirt and gift from the Florida Department of Health.
Siesta and Nokomis Beaches, Various Locations
Join The Market on Dearborn every Friday evening from October 2024 - May 2025 from 3pm-7pm on Historic Dearborn Street in Englewood, Florida as we launch an evening market to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs and provide an additional family-friendly event for local residents and guests of Englewood
The Market on Dearborn, 232 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL, United States, Florida 34223
Two operas, two betrayed husbands, two tragic ends. In Cavalleria rusticana the calm of a Sicilian Easter morning is broken by a betrayed lover who sets off a chain of events ending in violent tragedy. In true theatrical tradition Pagliacci's clown tries to go on with the show, but his real-life humiliation and despair lead to a grim climax. The violent passions and raw emotions of these two works changed the direction of Italian opera forever.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota FL 34236
The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) announces “Creating Your Success,” a dynamic six-part workshop series designed to empower women with personal and professional growth tools. From mastering stress and improving communication to developing negotiation skills and building better relationships, this free series is a comprehensive roadmap for achieving success and balance in life.
Women's Resource Center Sarasota, 340 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237
502 Gallery is pleased to present ‘TOM STEPHENS: Textures of Experience’, a solo exhibition showcasing a compelling new body of work by Florida-based artist Tom Stephens. Known for his ability to capture the essence of Florida’s natural and built environments, Stephens' paintings masterfully balance realism and abstraction, inviting viewers to engage with his dynamic use of light, texture, and form.
502 Gallery, 502 S. Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236
Artists Anthony Mancuso and Bobby Aiosa explore the complexities of our built environment and how designed spaces, both public and private, impact our daily lives. Both artists examine the dynamic interplay at the threshold of domestic and public spheres, investigating how one influences the other. Anthony Mancuso’s paintings focus on visualizing the psychology of everyday domestic scenes of cohabitation through multiple perspectives, askew angles, and saturated colors.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St. Sarasota, FL
Conjuring the Spirit World: Art, Magic, and Mediums explores the essential role art and objects played for mediums and magicians “communicating” with the dead during the 19th- and 20th-century Spiritualism movement in the U.S. and Europe—a time when people actively debated and wondered, "Can spirits return?" See paintings, posters, photographs, stage apparatuses, costumes, film, publications and other objects that will transport visitors to the age of Harry Houdini, Margery the Medium, Howard Thurston, and the Fox Sisters, among others. Whether you’re a believer, skeptic or somewhere in between, gain a new perspective on the timeless draw of mediums and magicians, séances and magic shows.
The Ringling - Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
An exuberant tribute to the music of rhythm and blues pioneer and alto saxophonist, Louis Jordan, Five Guys Named Moe is an international sensation. Five Guys Named Moe is about our hero, Nomax – he's broke, his lovely girlfriend Lorraine left him and he's listening to the radio at 5:00 in the morning. Out of the radio, five guys named Moe - Big Moe, Four-Eyed Moe, Eat Moe, No Moe, and Little Moe emerging from his 1930s-style radio to comfort him.
The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
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