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SRQ DAILY May 4, 2026

Monday Business Edition

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Monday Business Edition

"I want to stay true to our model of community, small studio and having people feel special."

- Tory Dolan, Founder, Uplift on Orange.
 

[Health and Wellness]  Small Studio, Big Lift at Uplift on Orange
Olivia Fanders, olivia.fanders@srqme.com

Classes at Uplift on Orange leave clients feeling stronger.

In the midst of Sarasota’s rapidly evolving fitness scene, Uplift on Orange is focused on redefining what a workout space can feel like. The studio emphasizes community and seeks to rethink how fitness is structured. Most other fitness studios only offer one option, but Uplift on Orange offers a mix of yoga, sculpt, mat Pilates and barre classes. This allows clients to move between styles without committing to just one. “You can get all five things in one studio, so you’re not paying for just one thing only,” founder Tory Dolan says.

Dolan explains that the studio is intentionally small, with a maximum capacity of sixteen clients at a time. “I was trying to create a studio where everyone feels welcome—where everyone felt like they got individual attention, and it was super welcoming when you come in—trying to create just a community for people to work out and feel safe, and like everybody matters and everyone knows everybody,” she says.

The impact of Uplift’s model is already starting to show, even four months after opening. Dolan explains that many of her clients have seen amazing results. “We’ve had one person come in and show me before and after pictures of how their body has completely changed,” she says, with another client sharing that “they go to their job… and they say, I can hold my tray up, no problem. I’ve gotten so much stronger.”

Dolan also highlights the studio's emphasis on making classes fun and engaging. She explains how Uplift’s instructors purposefully incorporate relatability and humor to create the most welcoming environment possible.

The studio has continued to grow through social media platforms like TikTok, where clients have been posting about its impact. Dolan has already gotten requests to open another studio, but she’s trying to take it slow and focus on Uplift’s mission. “I want to stay true to our model of community, small studio and having people feel special,” she explains.

536 South Orange Ave, Sarasota, 941-233-4273, upliftonorange.com


 

Pictured: Classes at Uplift on Orange leave clients feeling stronger. Photo courtey of Uplift on Orange.

[Tourism]  Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce Announces Keynote Speaker for 2026 Tourism Brunch

The Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Kourtney Sanchez, Chief Impact Officer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Executive Director of the Glazer Family Foundation, as the keynote speaker for the 2026 National Travel & Tourism Week Brunch. A third-generation Tampa Bay native, Sanchez brings extensive experience in philanthropy, communications, and community impact. In her role with the Buccaneers and the Glazer Family Foundation, she helps lead and execute initiatives that support meaningful, long-term investment in the Tampa Bay region. Working alongside the Glazer family, Sanchez has played a key role in advancing efforts that directly support local businesses and strengthen the regional economy. Most notably, the Glazer Family Small Business Fund provided $1 million in grants to small businesses across the Greater Tampa Bay area recovering from recent hurricanes—delivering critical support to the entrepreneurs who help drive the area’s tourism industry. 

To learn more, visit

[Health and Wellness]  CenterPlace Health Appoints CEO, Kathleen Marshall

CenterPlace Health, a leading provider of accessible, high-quality health care serving the greater Sarasota County community, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kathleen Marshall as Chief Executive Officer, effective May 4, 2026. A seasoned healthcare executive with over 20 years of experience in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Marshall brings a proven track record of expanding access to care and driving operational excellence in community health. Marshall joins CenterPlace Health following a distinguished career where she has led organizational transformations, program expansions and fiscal and financial stewardship. Most recently, she served as an Interim CEO and previously as Chief Operating Officer at Western Sierra Medical Clinics. To learn more visit centerplacehealth.org 

[Hurricane ]  Rebuilding Together Greater Florida Expands Statewide Capacity with New Tampa Headquarters

 Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGFL) is strengthening its ability to serve communities across the state following the grand opening of its new headquarters in Tampa’s Ybor City on April 28, 2026. The new headquarters represents a major milestone for RTGFL, which has grown from a small, local effort into a multi-region nonprofit serving homeowners across Tampa Bay, Orlando, Sarasota, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, and beyond. For the first time, the organization now owns its own facility, marking a new level of stability and a stronger foundation for long-term growth and impact. As Florida enters hurricane season, the new facility with an included Hurricane Distribution Warehouse positions RTGFL to respond more quickly and effectively to disasters across the state. By bringing operations and resources together in one central location, the organization can better deploy services and supplies wherever they are needed most. 

To learn more, visit

[Children First]  Join Us in Celebrating Our Legacy

As Children First celebrates 65 years of service and CEO Philip Tavill marks 30 years of leadership, these milestone moments serve as an invitation for you to be part of what comes next. For over six decades, Children First has helped shape stronger futures for children and families across Sarasota County, growing into a nationally recognized leader in early childhood education. Today, our organization ranks in the top 1% of Head Start programs nationwide, is a five-time designated Program of Excellence, and was recently named a 2026 Top Workplace USA - reflecting both impact and a strong culture of care. There are many meaningful ways to get involved: attend signature events, volunteer in classrooms or across the community, support initiatives like early literacy and family strengthening, or serve as an ambassador. Every connection, contribution, and conversation helps extend this legacy - ensuring the next generation has the opportunity to thrive! 

Click Here To Learn More

[Law]  Shumaker Wins Employment Discrimination Case in Federal Appeals Court

A team of attorneys from Shumaker has secured a significant win at the federal appellate level, successfully defending a subrogation services company against claims of age and disability discrimination and retaliation. Attorneys Jason Collier, Duane Daiker, and Ryan Guerin represented Vengroff Williams, Inc. and its division, Second Look, Inc., in a case that reached the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. The court ultimately upheld a lower court’s decision to dismiss the lawsuit, finding no evidence that the employee’s termination was based on unlawful discrimination or retaliation. The case involved Deborah Grey, a former salesperson who alleged she was fired because of her age and lingering health issues following COVID-19. Court records show Grey was hired in 2021 and later raised concerns about returning to in-person work after experiencing COVID-related symptoms. She was terminated shortly thereafter. However, the court found that the company’s decision was based on documented concerns about her workplace behavior, attitude, and productivity, not discriminatory intent. Learn more at shumaker.com  

[Appointment]  Jewish Federation names Pat Robinson to Lead SafeSRQ

A team of attorneys from Shumaker has secured a significant win at the federal appellate level, successfully defending a subrogation services company against claims of age and disability discrimination and retaliation. Attorneys Jason Collier, Duane Daiker, and Ryan Guerin represented Vengroff Williams, Inc. and its division, Second Look, Inc., in a case that reached the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. The court ultimately upheld a lower court’s decision to dismiss the lawsuit, finding no evidence that the employee’s termination was based on unlawful discrimination or retaliation. The case involved Deborah Grey, a former salesperson who alleged she was fired because of her age and lingering health issues following COVID-19. Court records show Grey was hired in 2021 and later raised concerns about returning to in-person work after experiencing COVID-related symptoms. She was terminated shortly thereafter. However, the court found that the company’s decision was based on documented concerns about her workplace behavior, attitude, and productivity, not discriminatory intent. Learn more at shumaker.com  

[Health and Wellness]  Prioritize Your Skin Health this May

In recognition of Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, Bliss Dermatology + Wellness is rallying the local community to take action against the rising rates of skin cancer through its Skin Check Challenge. Throughout the month of May, individuals are encouraged to schedule their annual skin exams with Bliss’s expert dermatology providers at their Englewood and Venice locations. The practice has set a goal of completing 500 skin checks, welcoming both new and existing patients to participate. Skin cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, yet it is highly preventable and very treatable when detected early. “Routine skin exams play a critical role in identifying unusual moles or spots before they progress into something more serious, often before any symptoms are noticeable,” said Dr. Michelle Pennie, founder and owner of Bliss Dermatology + Wellness. Learn more at www.BlissDermatologyGroup.com.  Offices are located at 315 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice, FL, and 699 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood. 

[Construction]  NDC Construction Announces Brand Refresh to Support Growth and Integrated Project Delivery

NDC Construction has introduced a refreshed brand that reflects the company’s continued growth across Florida’s Gulf Coast and its evolving role within the integrated NDC Family of Companies. The update includes a refined visual identity, the launch of a new website, and a new company tagline, “Trust is the most important thing we build.” Company leadership says the refresh is designed to better represent how NDC serves clients today and how it plans to grow in the years ahead.  To learn more, visit www.ndcconstruction.com. 



[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Weekly Sunset Artist Programs , September 1 – August 1

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

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Art Immersion with Lina Rincon , August 6 – September 3

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

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Lynn Goldsmith and Patti Smith: Flowers and Friendship , June 20 – September 13

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

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Juana Romani: Forgotten No More , May 10 – May 31

Juana Romani (1867–1924) was one of the most fascinating and successful painters in late-nineteenth-century Paris. Born in Italy, Juana—whose given name was Giovanna Carlesimo—moved to Paris with her mother and stepfather at the age of ten. She took up painting, studying under the well-known painters Jean-Jacques Henner (1829–1905) and Ferdinand Roybet (1840–1920). Romani quickly earned both critical praise and significant fame for her deftly painted, richly colorful depictions of strong, sensual women adorned in lavish textiles.

Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: On Stage 2026 , July 18

A gala performance by Summer Intensive dancers from around the world.

Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  DANCE: SCD Summer 2026 Intensives , June 6 – July 24

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

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Lady Disdain , June 6 – June 27

There's much ado about something in this whip-smart, laugh-out-loud new romantic comedy from Lauren Gunderson. Lady Disdain is a fast-paced, razor-sharp riff on the deliciously dramatic world of Fantasy Romance novels (yes, those ones-you know them, you love them). Beatrice and Benedict, rival audiobook narrators with voices made for swooning and tempers made for sparring, are locked in a battle of wits, words, and wildly inconvenient attraction. Asolo Rep proudly presents this world premiere from one of America's most celebrated and funny playwrights.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Who is Eartha Mae? , May 29 – June 21

The sharp-witted, glamorous, incomparable Eartha Kitt commands the spotlight. But backstage in her dressing room, in the quiet between songs, she peels back the glitz to reveal Eartha Mae: a girl from the South Carolina cotton fields, orphaned by her mother until an audience adopted her. Told through both story and song, Urbanite Theatre’s first-ever musical production unearths the complex truth behind the icon.

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  MUSIC: La Lucha , May 18, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

La Lucha blends jazz, Latin roots, and playful improvisation into a vibrant, modern sound that feels both intimate and electrifying onstage.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 1st Street, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage tour , May 18, 1:30 PM - 3 PM
The Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage tour takes place on May 18 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. The art in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, was created by noted Florida artists and is part of the Arts Advocates collection. A docent leads a tour of the paintings and sculptures including those by Sarasota Art Colony artists. Participants then step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business. Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased at the Van Wezel box office or by calling (941) 263-6799. Presented in partnership with the Van Wezel, proceeds benefit the education/outreach programs of Arts Advocates and the Van Wezel.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail

[SOON]  MUSIC: Barbara King , May 14, 5:30 PM - 8 PM

Join us for live jazz at Sarasota Art Museum, co-hosted by the Jazz Club of Sarasota, featuring Barbara King and the Spirit of Jazz, and extended hours in the galleries, Bistro, and SHOP!

Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon , May 14, 11 AM - 1 PM
Arts Advocates’ final luncheon program of the season is its annual scholarship awards luncheon, May 14, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd. in Sarasota. This year, 10 students from Sarasota and Manatee counties will each receive a $5,000 scholarship to continue their studies in the arts. Learn about these talented students, view their artwork, see their performances, and hear how Arts Advocates scholarships have impacted their lives. $45 for Arts Advocates members, $50 for non-members, with sponsorship opportunities available. Lunch is included; register no later than May 8.

Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Blvd.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Baroque Treasures , May 10

Two of Sarasota’s finest step into the spotlight with a program that basks in the magical sounds of their ancient instruments. Accompanied by strings and harpsichord, Sarasota Orchestra principal oboe Bobby Nunes and principal harp Phoebe Powell each perform a concerto for their instrument by baroque master G.F. Handel. The two also join forces for Debussy’s enchanting Album of Five Pieces for Oboe and Harp.

First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street, Sarasota FL 34237

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Marie and Rosetta , May 6 – May 31

A huge influence of Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash and Jimi Hendrix, Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a legend in her time, adding fierce guitar and swing to traditional gospel music, becoming the Mother of Rock n Roll. Marie and Rosetta chronicles her first rehearsal with a young protégée, Marie Knight, as they prepare to embark on a tour that would establish them as one of the great duos in music history.

Asolo Repertory Theatre , 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  FOOD: Viva Rufa! A Cinco de Mayo Celebration , May 5, 4 PM - 11 PM

This Cinco de Mayo, Rufa will set the scene with coastal inspired décor, irresistible taco specials, and a specialty Patron cocktail menu designed to keep the fiesta going all night long. It’s the ultimate mix of laid back luxury and high‑spirited celebration, perfect for margaritas, mingling, and making memories.

Reservations can be made via OpenTable.

Rufa at The Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Emma , April 24 – May 10
Jane Austen’s Emma gets a witty, high-energy makeover in this screwball comedy. Confident matchmaker Emma meddles in love lives—until she discovers her own heart may be the one most in need of guidance.

Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave W, Venice, FL 34285

[SOON]  GALLERY: Best of Ringling and Senior Thesis Exhibitions , April 24 – May 9

Annual juried show and graduating seniors’ capstone exhibitions in all media and disciplines.

Galleries of Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Big Fish , April 23 – May 10

A magical and deeply moving musical that celebrates the power of storytelling, the love between father and son, and the extraordinary hidden in the everyday. As Edward Bloom’s fantastical life unfolds—featuring witches, giants, mermaids, and more—his skeptical son embarks on a journey to separate myth from memory. What he discovers is a story far richer than he ever expected. Based on the beloved novel and Tim Burton film, Big Fish is a whimsical, emotionally rich production filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable stagecraft.

Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Maria A. Guzmán Capron: New Works , April 19 – September 27

Maria A. Guzmán 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

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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

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