SRQ DAILY Oct 6, 2025
Monday Business Edition
"Success is often remarkably better when you have industry partners working with you."
Suzanne Hackman, director of sales and industry relations at Visit Sarasota County, was recently awarded national recognition for her forward-looking approach to the industry. At a Smart Meetings annual summit, Hackman was awarded the 2025 Visionary Award for her collaborative work at Visit Sarasota County. Hackman recently sat down with SRQ to discuss her experience.
Since you began your time at Visit Sarasota County, what has been your approach to sales and industry relations?
“My main role here is to connect with our hotel partners. I’ve really built a relationship with them, and work as an extension of their sales team in many ways. In my previous roles, I’ve always been very successful at building those relationships and growing the market. Over the last year, I’ve aimed to meet with local hotels, find out what their sales goals are and what their tactics are, so that we can align our strategies with theirs, ensuring we're helping to market to the clients they want to reach. Success is often remarkably better when you have industry partners working with you. It shows destination cohesion.”
How did you learn your approach to sales?
“When I was in college, I was working in room service at a hotel, and I was bitten by the bug of sales. I would see the salespeople and what they were doing, and I thought that that just seemed really cool. So when I was graduating, I asked about the possibility of a job in the catering office, and I got it as an intake coordinator. The rest was history. Now, I have 17 years of destination marketing experience, working in sales, helping destinations get their sales and marketing off the ground and developing relationships with their hotels. Moving to work with Visit Sarasota County was attractive because the destination is smaller, but it's growing, and it's exciting to see the developments that are coming to Sarasota.”
What does receiving the visionary award mean to you?
“I was really humbled and honored. I was nominated for the award, so it was nice to be nominated by a peer. The Visionary Award, to me, was kind of sentimental, because I do feel like I've always had a forward-looking vision about what's happening in destinations and been blessed with the ability to come up with creative ideas to move the needle, see results and get return on investment. It just solidified that what I've been trying to achieve in my career is being noticed.” 
Pictured: Suzanne Hackman has always had a passion for sales and the relationships she builds through her career. Photo provided by Suzanne Hackman.
Discover Sarasota Tours is please to announce that the Venice City led in partnership with Ronnie Fernandez of Venice Florida Tours, and the Circus Secrets of Venice tour led by Discover Sarasota Tours’ circus expert, Bob Collins will be returning in 2026. These tours run on Tuesdays at 10AM (Venice City Tour) and 1PM (Circus Secrets of Venice ) from January-April. Both tours leave from the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce providing ample free parking. Tours sold out last year so book your tickets online now- DiscoverSarasotaTours.com or call 941-260-9818.
Pictured: Circus goers with Bob. Provided photo.
You're invited to an exclusive and dynamic panel discussion featuring leading experts in finance, venture capital, and emerging technologies. This event is focused on investing in our region's technology and innovation economy. You will hear from thought leaders who are shaping tomorrow, while exploring the cutting-edge innovations and investments happening right here today. Our region is uniquely positioned at a dynamic intersection of innovation, and you won't want to miss this opportunity to be part of it. Scott Albright: An industry disruptor and innovator leading the next generation of independent video game studios. Michael Dillhyon: A serial entrepreneur, health tech expert, and startup advisor with a track record for advancing emerging tech solutions. Vladimir Ljesevic: A game-changing tech leader in global tech ecosystems, bringing expertise and connectivity to the region. Travis Priest: A serial entrepreneur and business builder with a focused approach on scaling and pairing next era tech with venture investment.
October 28, 6:00 pm: Doors Open 6:30 pm: Panel + Q & A, Concourse A, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, Free parking.
Lakewood Ranch’s year-round farmers’ market has been named the #1 Farmers Market in America by American Farmland Trust, topping nearly 1,300 markets nationwide in the organization’s 17th annual celebration. The Market also earned the top spot in Florida. Every Sunday brings fresh food, arts, culture, live music, activities, and more, all of which are delivered by local vendors. Much like Lakewood Ranch itself, the Market has something for all ages. With more than 100 vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, prepared foods, and crafts, the Market reflects the region’s energy and diversity. However, the experience goes beyond browsing local stands. Families sip locally roasted coffee while seated in Adirondack chairs overlooking the water, neighbors dance to vibrant live music, and children and families share memorable moments at the Ranch’s lakefront town center, Waterside Place.
Ringling College of Art and Design, in partnership with community impact firm DreamLarge, will host its second annual AI Symposium, AI and Creative Innovation: Advocating for Artists and Designers, on October 10–11, 2025, at the Ringling College campus. This year’s event brings together leading voices in art, technology and education to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping creative industries—and how artists can respond with both innovation and integrity. Learn more and register for the symposium on the AI Symposium webpage.
Grimes Galvano recently announced the addition of William S. Galvano as an associate attorney, strengthening its team of legal professionals. The addition of William will also mean that Grimes Galvano will have two generations of the Galvano family at the firm, joining his father, firm partner and former Florida Senate President Bill Galvano. William recently passed the Florida Bar and, as an associate attorney, he will focus on general civil litigation.
Sarasota Memorial and Cigna are pleased to announce that they have approved a new agreement that ensures Cigna commercial plan members have in-network access to SMH’s two acute-care hospitals, outpatient and urgent care centers and SMH First Physicians Group. The agreement takes effect on Oct. 1.
From handshakes to hotel rooms, tourism sales is about relationships stewarded – and at Smart Meetings’ annual Summit, Visit Sarasota County’s own Suzanne Hackman received national recognition for her visionary efforts in the industry. As Director of Sales & Industry Relations for our local tourism bureau, Suzanne has spearheaded strategies to bring corporate groups and meetings to Sarasota County, helping keep hotels full, local businesses open, and residents employed. With this accolade, Suzanne now joins a network 1,000 women strong from the U.S. and Canada.
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce that the following global real estate advisors have affiliated with the company’s Sarasota area sales gallery locations: David Liberatore, Sarasota – Downtown, Danielle Merkel, Venice and Kaila Stickelman, Sarasota – Downtown. “We are delighted to welcome our new sales advisors to Premier Sotheby’s International Realty,” said Jackie Thiel, president. “Their exceptional expertise in real estate, profound understanding of their local markets, and dedication to delivering unparalleled service align perfectly with our mission. I look forward to their contributions in elevating our brand’s legacy of excellence.”
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
The figure is one of the oldest records of our existence as a species capable of storytelling; depictions of the human body constitute some of the oldest subjects in art. EMBODIED expands on the definition of the human figure by bringing together varied representations in painting, sculpture, fiber, video, and mixed media by some of the most exciting artists working in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
Every Wednesdat at 6 pm a 5k Fun Run starts and ends at 99 Bottles. Course runs through Downtown Sarasota and along the Bayfront, all skill levels, all fun. Each time you finish a run, you must get yout card punched to get an attendance credit and receive 99 bottles prizes. All runners are expected to obey all traffic laws, be courteous to other runners, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, etc.on the route and to know your limits - running and/or drinking!
99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236
The Ringling Museum of Art hosts a significant collection of Creative Prints produced by Japanese artists who believed in the practice of self-designing, self-carving, and self-printing their own work. The Creative Print movement was inspired by early 20th-century European prints that called attention to self-expression and artistic exploration through the medium of woodblock prints.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
If you are oyster curious or just craving the fresh coastal seafood & hand-crafted cocktails from your new Rosemary District favorite, join us at Lefty's for our daily Happy Hours Monday - Friday from 4 pm - 6 pm and our Late Night Happy Hours every night from 9:00-Close. With seafood offerings from the Steamer and Buck-A-Shucks on oysters plus our extensive wine, specialty and seasonal cocktails and draft beers, Lefty's has your recipe to get happier and explore our menus. Join us every day for Lunch, Happy Hours or Dinner and for our downtown neighbors and Hospitality industry colleagues, we'll have live music and keep the light on for you on the weekends!
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
A bi-monthly open jam session for professional and non-professional musicians in the Geldbart Auditorium at the downtown Selby Library. The jam begins at 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm. Event is free and open to all. A viewing audience is welcome and encouraged. Piano, bass and drum are on site. A fun, social and entertaining event. Come, sign up to play or sing, or just come out to watch and enjoy.
Selby Library, 1331 1st St, Sarasota
This promises to be a memorable evening of music that speaks to the heart, the mind and maybe even your feet! Doors open 6:30 pm for dinner and beverage service.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First Street at Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota
Treat yourself to a peaceful mind and body yoga experience at the beautiful Selby Garden Downtown Sarasota campus. This class will focus on alignment, breathing techniques, and relaxation. Open to all skill levels. Must be age 18 or older. Hosted Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Swing into an evening of style, swagger, and timeless charm with Feeling Good, a high-energy celebration of modern crooners. From the timeless elegance of Sinatra and the smooth sophistication of Michael Bublé to the sparkle of Bette Midler and Lady Gaga, this show delivers silky vocals, irresistible rhythms, and captivating personality. Savor swingin’ favorites like “Come Fly With Me” and “It Had to Be You,” fresh hits like “Home” and “Moondance,” and delightfully cheeky numbers such as “Stuff Like That There” and “Me and Mrs. Jones.” Equal parts class and sass, Feeling Good will leave you – well – feeling good.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Don’t miss the chance to see our Historic Spanish Point campus transformed into “Spooky Point” where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and bootanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts creepy, campy, and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens - Historic Spanish Point, 401 North Tamiami Trail Osprey, FL 34229
ArtCenter Sarasota proudly launches its Centennial Season with a vibrant evening celebrating three dynamic exhibitions. The juried Small Works Show, selected by artist and juror Samo Davis, honors the power of intimate scale across mediums. In Gallery 1, the SARTQ Artist Collective presents Legacy x Response, a collaborative tribute marking 100 years of ACS by reimagining the legacy of the Sarasota Art Association through fresh, contemporary lenses. Solo exhibitions include Earthly Glyphs by Juan Alonso-Rodríguez, whose work explores abstract geologic forms with layered cultural meaning. Reconstruction: Mwacha Mila NiSi Mtumwa by Njeri Kinuthia, who reflects on heritage, identity, and the power of textile traditions through intricate, mixed-media portraiture. Together, these exhibitions offer a rich, multifaceted reflection on artistic legacy, transformation, and the enduring impact of creative expression.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
A ‘not-so-scary’ Spooktacular returns to Venice featuring a harmonious collaboration of symphonic sounds and storytelling. Become entranced by Bernard Herrmann’s Psycho: A Short Suite for String Orchestra and travel to otherworldly dimensions with music from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and other mystical medleys.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave building 5, Venice, FL 34285
Giuseppe Verdi, the most influential Italian Opera composer of the 19th century, willed his vast fortune to build a retirement home in Milan, Italy for ageing opera singers and musicians, and the young music students who are mentored by and live among them. Many of the residents are living legends, who, because of Verdi, are living the third act of their lives with passion, dignity and purpose. This documentary uncovers the incredible stories of these living treasures found at Casa Verdi today.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Experience the visions and creative talents of artisans from across Florida and the United States as they transform St. Armands Circle into an extraordinary outdoor gallery of original fine art and crafts. Discover stunning works in sculpture, jewelry, painting, photography, glass, ceramics, mixed-media, metalwork, fiber art, woodworking, and more.
St. Armands Circle, 434 St Armands Cir, Sarasota
Delight your senses with A Taste of Art, where fine cuisine meets live creativity! Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evening, local artists demonstrate their craft live at Chaz 51 Steakhouse, offering diners a front-row seat to the artistic process. The restaurant also features a rotating gallery of local artwork available for purchase. Come for the steak—stay for the inspiration.
Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US-41 BYP, Venice, FL 34285
Joseph’s Coat: A Skyspace by James Turrell (2011) is a triumph of technology, engineering, and aesthetics. The Skyspace, created by internationally-renowned artist James Turrell, is a gathering place for contemplation and offers a unique experience. At sunset, a sophisticated system of LED lights is employed to change the color of the space. In doing so, the artist changes the context in which we view the sky through the 24 foot aperture in the ceiling, affecting our perception of the natural environment and the surroundings. As we gaze up at the sky we are invited to contemplate light, perception, and experience!
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
The Sarasota Art Museum partners with the Jazz Club of Sarasota to present live jazz on the second Thursday of every month on the Marcy and Michael Klein Plaza. Enjoy a beverage or food in the Bistro and extended hours in the galleries and shops! Concert begins 5:30 pm.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This long-term installation in Gallery 10 of the Museum of Art showcases five outstanding examples of 17th-century Dutch painting on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Featuring a dramatic seascape, an expansive landscape, and captivating portraits set in detailed interiors, this exhibition offers a window into the vibrant artistic production of the Netherlands as the small nation rose to global prominence in the 17th century. The five exceptional paintings from the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, complement The Ringling's holdings of Dutch art and provide additional perspective on the artistry, historical significance, and continuing appeal of Dutch painting from this period.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
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