SRQ DAILY Jul 20, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"We're really excited about being the first hospital in North Port and bringing our five-star health care closer to the people in that market."
In response to rapid growth in North Port and Sarasota County, Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) is expanding to a North Port hospital, projected to open in late 2028.
“As the population in North Port grew, we knew we needed to build a hospital there,” says Jeffrey Wesner, President of SMH-North Port.
The construction marks the third hospital SMH has built in its 100-year history, and it will also be the city’s first acute-care hospital. SMH released a virtual tour on June 22 of the hospital’s layout.
Wesner says the project will result in improved access to high-quality healthcare and a stronger local economy through job creation.
“We’re really excited about being the first hospital in North Port and bringing our five-star health care closer to the people in that market,” he says.
This $507 million hospital campus will be a nine-story building–the city’s first high-rise–and will feature an adjacent three-story medical office building. SMH-North Port will offer emergency care, in-patient and surgical services, full imaging, intensive care and specialty care, including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, neurology, urology and pulmonology.
“The medical office building will bring much needed physician space to the community,” Wesner says. “There are not a lot of physician offices in North Port.”
While the hospital will open with 100 beds, the top three floors have shell space that allows expansion to 208 beds. Wesner adds that already constructing shell space is something no other SMH has implemented on an initial build. The campus design has the capacity to increase to more than 400 beds in the future. It will also house six surgical suites, two cardiac cath labs and two endoscopy labs.
Wesner says SMH-North Port will help recruit additional physicians to the community and will support greater regional growth.
“By having a hospital in North Port, it will help the community grow significantly,” he says.
941-917-9000, news@smh.com 
Pictured: SMH-North Port is slated to be on a 32-acre site in the 4800 block of North Sumter Boulevard. Photo courtesy Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
The Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller has launched Equity Bridge Pro, a new online platform for filing a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) — becoming the first county in Florida to use this particular system. Previously, petitioners filed by mail, email, or in person, and staff manually processed each case — collecting the $50 filing fee, entering data by hand, and coordinating hearing dates individually. That process could take several weeks before a case was fully scheduled. Equity Bridge Pro consolidates each step into a single online system. To create a free account and file a petition, visit https://www.manateeclerk.com/departments/value-adjustment-board/.
Bliss Dermatology + Wellness will mark its third anniversary with a community open house on Thursday, July 23, from 4:00–6:00 PM at its Englewood location, 699 S. Indiana Ave. The drop-in event is open to the public with no RSVP required. Since opening its doors three years ago, Bliss Dermatology + Wellness has grown to serve more than 9,000 patients across its Englewood and Venice locations, offering medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology alongside wellness services including medical weight management and hormone replacement therapy. The practice is led by Dr. Michelle Pennie, a double board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon, and founder of the practice. Learn more at www.BlissDermatologyGroup.com. Offices are located at 315 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice and 699 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood.
Fergeson Skipper is pleased to announce the addition of three new Associate Attorneys, Carolina Zaccari, Eric Lipomi, and Morgan Waltimyer, to the firm. Their diverse legal experience and practice areas reflect the firm's commitment to exceptional client service while honoring a legacy of professionalism and trust as Fergeson Skipper celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Visit Sarasota County (VSC) is encouraging all local hospitality and tourism businesses to celebrate their star employees, volunteers, and leaders through its annual Haley Hall of Fame Awards. Nominations are open now through August 28. Local businesses can submit nominations now through August 28 at bit.ly/haleyawards. All nominees will be notified in early Fall, and the awards celebration will take place at the tourism bureau’s Indicators and Insights Summit, to be hosted at the Art Ovation Hotel on November 19. Early-bird tickets and sponsorships are also on sale now at bit.ly/VSCSummit.
Pictured: Erin Duggan, President & CEO of Visit Sarasota County (VSC), Virginia Haley, Past President of VSC, and John LaCivita, Board Chair of VSC and President/CEO of Willis A. Smith Construction, recognize Watershed Hospitality Concepts with the 2026 B
BayCare marked a major milestone today with a topping out ceremony for BayCare Hospital Manatee, placing the final steel beam for the health system’s first hospital in Manatee County and advancing its efforts to expand access to care for a rapidly growing community. For more information, visit BayCare.org.
MITER Brands, a family of leading window and door brands, recently unveiled the launch of Triton Advanced Glass Systems. Thoughtfully engineered, manufactured with precision, and powered by a suite of industry-leading innovations, Triton Advanced Glass Systems are bolstered by a strategic collaboration with Corning Incorporated, the world’s leading innovator in glass, ceramics, and materials science, to deliver meaningful advantages for homeowners and window and door dealers. Triton Advanced Glass Systems are easier to install, provide greater comfort, improve energy efficiency, and offer enhanced storm protection. To learn more, visit miterbrands.com/triton.
Provided photo.
When you request that a court record be sealed, wait for unclaimed funds owed to you, or trust the Clerk's office to invest public dollars responsibly, you're counting on that office to follow the rules correctly. For the sixth consecutive year, the Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller is doing exactly that — earning Recognition of Excellence in all 10 categories of the Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers' (FCCC) Best Practices Excellence Program. The recognition, presented during a ceremony at FCCC's summer conference, covers areas that directly affect residents: protecting exempt personal information from public exposure, sealing and expunging criminal records, returning unclaimed funds to their rightful owners, and following sound investment and procurement policies with public money. It also covers areas that keep the court system fair and efficient for everyone who uses it, including how fee waivers, case transfers, and vexatious litigants are handled.
Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is proud to announce the promotion of two sheriff’s office members during a ceremony held on Thursday. Deputy Logan Mayer was promoted to sergeant assigned to the Patrol Bureau. Creative Communications Specialist Doug Johnson was promoted to Community Affairs Manager.
Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is proud to announce the release of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office 2025 Annual Report. This report highlights accomplishments across each of our divisions, community partnerships and outreach efforts, and key statistics that reflect the dedication and hard work of our members. To view or download a copy of the 2025 Annual Report, visit www.SarasotaSheriff.org under the “News & Publications” tab, select “Publications”, and then choose “Annual Reports”. Printed copies are available at the agency’s Sarasota headquarters located at 6010 Cattleridge Blvd.
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
The exhibition at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition features photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin. Accompanying the photographs are simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. Audio recordings enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
ArtCenter Sarasota continues its Centennial Season with Medium Mutiny, a juried exhibition selected by Ed Swan Jr. that celebrates boundary-pushing works challenging tradition through bold experimentation in form, material, and concept. Solo exhibitions include Living by the Water by Cat Tesla, whose serene, abstract paintings reflect a journey of healing and transformation inspired by Florida's landscapes. A new body of work by Anja Palombo, blending her deep love of nature and art history into expressive visual narratives. In Architect as Artist, co-curated by Morris Hylton III, Sarasota-based architects including Carl Abbott, Jerry Sparkman, and Javi Suárez present multidisciplinary works that blur the line between design and fine art.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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
This July at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's Donelly Theatre, hear two hours of thrilling hits by legendary American singer, songwriter and producer Marvin Gaye. WBTT founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs leads nine singers in performing classics from Gaye's discography, including "How Sweet It Is," "Can I Get a Witness," "Heard It Through the Grapevine" and many more. This musical celebration explores Gaye's journey from early Motown to his electrifying solo hits.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N. Orange Ave., 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
This summer's children's musical at Asolo Repertory Theatre will take you on a trip down the Yellow Brick Road. Adventure awaits at this family-friendly production at the Cook Theatre. The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition is directed and choreographed by Cat Brindisi and is under the music direction of Carl Haan. Join Dorothy, Toto and friends from Oz as they embark on a musical journey to find their way home.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Skip the intimidation and discover wine the way it’s meant to be enjoyed—relaxed, social, and a little indulgent. Sommer School s is designed for those who want to learn the basics without the pressure, guided by our very own Jason Waganheim, in a lively, welcoming setting. You’ll taste a curated selection of wines, explore what makes each one unique, and pick up simple techniques to help you order, pair, and enjoy wine with confidence. No prior knowledge required—just bring your curiosity. This three part series begins July 8,2026 and meets the two consecutive Wednesdays.
State Street Eating House, 1533 State St, 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
Come one, come all to the circus this summer at The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota. Kids ages 6 to 15 are invited to learn circus skills and make new friends with attendees from all over the country. Try the trapeze, rolling globe, aerials, juggling and more. Each Friday, friends and families are invited to a costumed showcase performance where campers share the skills they developed throughout the week. Pre-registration is required, and walk-ins are not accepted.
Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota
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
By audience demand, Florida Studio Theatre is extending Dog Mom through August 2. This comical play created by writer, producer and filmmaker Tate Elizabeth celebrates the unconditional bond between a dog and its human–even if that human is the least dog-friendly person on the planet. Director Nancy Rominger delivers a heartwarming and hilarious production that journeys through self-discovery and unlikely friendships.
Keating Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
The EMMY Award-winning Derek Hough returns to Van Wezel in this high-energy stage production. Experience a true fusion of dance and music as this Dancing with the Stars judge performs dance styles ranging from ballroom and tap to salsa and hip-hop. Doors open at 6pm. Meet and greet, Q&A and VIP tour packages are available.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This chamber-sized string orchestra performs masterpieces of the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, along with contemporary concert music, movie classics and Broadway selections. Guest vocalist Michael Bodnyk, tenor, will perform Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany's, Stephen Foster's Beautiful Dreamer and more. The program celebrates the enduring appeal of great music across generations, from classical repertoire to well-loved American melodies.
Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota
Two of the most famous, most successful songwriters in American music are composer and pianist George Gershwin(1898-1937) and his brother, lyricist Ira Gershwin (1896-1983). Scotty Wright, jazz voice, presents a program of their most popular works, found in the repertoire of performers as varied as Al Jolson, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Linda Ronstadt, Sammy Davis Jr, Sarah Vaughan, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Janis Joplin, Ray Charles and Chaka Khan. Judi Glover on piano; Joe Porter on bass; Pete Carney on saxophone and flute, and David Hardman on drums will be Scotty’s musical partners, as they explore an amazing chapter of the Great American Songbook: The Gershwin Brothers
John C. Court Cabaret , 1265 1st Street, Sarasota
Visit Oscura for an open jazz night this July. Musicians of all levels are invited to hop in and play alongside The Chaunces Trio. Sit and listen to vibrant tunes or play as the music unfolds. Doors open at 7pm and music begins at 8pm.
Oscura, 816 Manatee Ave. E, Bradenton
Sarasota and Manatee County residents are invited to trade their everyday routine for a day full of Caribbean culture, craft cocktails, and live music when Pina Colada Fest 2026 takes over The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 10am-6pm. With a day pass, you will enjoy for a whole day a lineup of live Caribbean entertainment, including a Steel Drum Band, Sarasota's beloved Latin American fusion group Combo Fusion, Fleming, and high-energy sets from our Host, DJ Platinum.
The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa , The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa, Palmetto, Florida
See a haunting and powerful musical that reimagines two ancient Greek myths, the love story of Orpheus and Eurydice and the troubled marriage of Hades and Persephone. With a New Orleans-inspired folk and jazz score, Hadestown: Teen Edition follows stories of love, hope, doubt and the cost of following your heart. The musical combines a soulful score, poetic storytelling and a striking visual world to create an intimate and epic retelling of a culturally significant story.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
In its seventh annual tournament, Prospect Wire will host a multi-day event across several premier baseball venues in the region. Tournament locations include CoolToday Park, Charlotte Sports Park, Buck O'Neil Complex, Ed Smith Stadium, Englewood Sports Complex and Centennial Park. This event brings together more than 80 teams, 1,700 participants and 2,300 spectators from across the state and country.
Sarasota County
Here is your chance to try Lakewood Ranch's vibrant food scene at this premier restaurant week event. Try prix-fixe brunch/lunch and dinner menus, specialty cocktails and wine pairings at participating restaurants in Waterside Place and along Main Street. Visit Agave Bandido, Carved Crafted Sandwiches, Quincy's Original Lobster Rolls, Kuro Sushi, Station 400 and more.
Waterside Place and Lakewood Ranch Main Street
Participants will experience a variety of styles including, African, Jazz, Contemporary Floorwork, and Improvisation!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Blvd of the Arts Ste 300, 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 |
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