SRQ DAILY Aug 10, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"We have made classrooms wonderful places for students to be in and for teachers to teach in."
A ribbon-cutting on August 6 marked the beginning of a new era for Sarasota Christian School as it celebrated the opening of a dedicated high school facility. The private K-12 school has been in operation since 1958 and began teaching high school in the ’80s. Joseph Stokes, head of school, says plans for a high school building have been in the works for over a decade.
“It’s very important for adolescents to feel like they’re a part of something and have their own community, so this is definitely a big step forward for them to have their own high school,” he says.
Stokes says a lot of the new school’s inspiration relates to faith and helping families who want Christian education combined with academics, socialization and physical fitness.
“Even in our textbook system, which is a biblical worldview, Christian families want options,” he says.
This new building project comprises four phases–the first with 13 classrooms now available to roughly 240 students attending the high school this fall. Stokes says there are both improvements in aesthetics and teaching environments.
“Having the student classroom space first is also a statement of priority–having these before the administrative area,” he says.
Construction of phase two will begin this fall with a science lab–which Stokes describes as a tremendous asset to the school–and four more classes, as well as the administrative area with six offices. Phase three will feature the auditorium that will sit around 450 people, and the last phase will include the cafeteria and kitchen, enabling the school to cook on campus and improve food delivery for students and staff.
“We have not skimped on square footage,” Stokes says. “We have made classrooms wonderful places for students to be in and for teachers to teach in.”
Now with a central location for high school classrooms and core subjects, Stokes says he thinks this new development will present a school people are proud of.
“It shows that this school, which has been here for 67 years, continues to improve its campus on our 25 acres,” he says. “We want our kids to be a name–never a number.”
Sarasota Christian School, 5415 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, 941-499-8557 
Pictured: The new high school building for Sarasota Christian School is a 43,500-square-foot project that will include four phases of construction. Photo by Sarasota Christian School.
Christopher Alan Homes has been named one of Florida Trend’s 2026 Best Companies to Work For in Florida for the second consecutive year, recognizing a workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being, collaboration, community involvement and shared success. The company is featured in the magazine’s August 2026 issue honoring Florida businesses with high levels of employee satisfaction. The recognition follows another recent milestone for Christopher Alan Homes. In its July 2026 issue, Florida Trend ranked the company No. 221 on its annual list of Florida's 225 Biggest Private Companies, reflecting the builder's expanding presence across the state. For more information about Christopher Alan Homes, visit christopheralanhomes.com or call 855-44-MYCAH (69224).
Pictured: Christopher Alan Homes is recognized as one of Florida Trend’s 2026 Best Companies to Work For in Florida. Provided photo.
The Board of Governors of Leadership Manatee is proud to announce the selection of the 2026 - 2027 Leadership Manatee Class. A program of the Manatee Chamber Foundation in partnership with Bradenton Kiwanis, Leadership Manatee has served as the region’s premier leadership development program since 1982. Now entering its 43rd year, the program is designed to identify and cultivate a diverse group of emerging and established leaders, exposing them to the challenges and opportunities that shape life in Manatee County. With more than 1,500 graduates, Leadership Manatee has a long-standing legacy of inspiring civic engagement and community stewardship. Class members participate in a series of immersive, full-day sessions throughout the program year, gaining in-depth knowledge across sectors such as education, local government, healthcare, agriculture, business, transportation, law enforcement, and more. The program helps hone leadership skills while encouraging participants to take an enhanced role in shaping the future of our community. Participants are selected through a competitive application process. A key criterion for acceptance is a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and the potential for long-term impact.
NDC Construction’s Project Manager, Madison Bittner, has been selected for the Manatee Chamber Foundation and Bradenton Kiwanis' Leadership Manatee Class of 2026-2027. Over the last 40 years, Leadership Manatee has given local professionals a deeper understanding of the area’s opportunities, challenges, and civic landscape. The program is designed to build informed, engaged leaders who are committed to strengthening the community through service and collaboration. Students are selected based on demonstrated leadership within their organizations and communities. To learn more, visit ndcconstruction.com.
U.S. News & World Report has once again recognized Sarasota Memorial Hospital as one of Florida’s best and the #1 hospital in the Sarasota-Manatee metropolitan area. SMH’s flagship Sarasota campus made the list for earning “high performing” ratings across a range of complex conditions and procedures, including rehabilitation, cancer, cardiac, orthopedic and stroke care, while SMH-Venice was spotlighted as a high performer for excellence in cardiac, orthopedic and diabetes care. The full list of U.S. News' “Best Hospitals” rankings and ratings is available at: usnews.com/best-hospitals
Erin Gerner is BayCare’s new vice president and chief financial officer for the physician and ambulatory division, effective Aug. 3. She will report to Janice Polo, BayCare’s chief financial officer. Gerner, a certified public accountant, brings more than 20 years of experience leading physician and ambulatory portfolios and developing financial strategy for health systems. Most recently, she served at PeaceHealth, a not-for-profit Catholic health system with nine medical centers and more than 160 specialty clinics in Alaska, Oregon and Washington. For more information, visit BayCare.org.
Michael Saunders & Company is pleased to announce that Rodney Riley has joined the firm as Regional Commercial Market Leader, where he will lead the growth of the company's commercial real estate presence throughout St. Petersburg and the greater Tampa Bay region. Riley brings more than 35 years of commercial real estate leadership experience spanning development, investment, brokerage, and asset management. Throughout his career, he has overseen the planning, financing, development, marketing, and operation of large-scale commercial and mixed-use projects across the country, including master-planned communities, office and industrial developments, and hospitality-integrated properties. Most recently, he served as principal and CEO of RSR Capital Advisors, advising high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional investors on commercial real estate investments and development opportunities.
Wellen Park has risen to No. 3 among the nation’s top-selling master-planned communities, reporting 727 new home sales during the first half of 2026, according to the midyear rankings released by national real estate consulting firm RCLCO. Wellen Park’s sales increased 37% compared to the same period in 2025, far exceeding the nearly 3% sales increase reported collectively among RCLCO’s 50 top-selling master-planned communities. The growth also comes amid a challenging national housing market, with U.S. new home sales declining 5.6% year over year in June. For more information about Wellen Park, call 941-960-7805, go to wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center, open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice.
Pictured: diverse residential offerings supporting continued buyer demand. Provided photo.
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
As part of Sarasota Jewish Theatre's Newish Jewish Plays series, Yinoelle Colon directs Un Hombre: A Golem Story, written by Stephen Kaplan. A sculptor is trying to get back on track after her husband's death. She is suffering from intense artist's block, and her son is withdrawn and unprepared for his upcoming Bar Mitzvah. All seems hopeless until a lot of wine and a little magic transform a hunk of clay into the answer to all of their problems.
The Sarasota Players, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Browse available items and take home clothes for free at this clothing swap. Find back-to-school options for kids while supporting a more sustainable community. Whether you're donating, swapping or browsing, every item reused helps conserve valuable natural resources. Before the event, you can drop off clean, gently used clothing at the Agriculture and Extension Service Office. Donations will also be accepted during the clothing swap. Men's, women's and children's clothing, as well as shoes, hats, purses and backpacks, are accepted.
UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St. W, Palmetto
As Art Sarasota Center closes its centennial season and begins another century, it welcomes four artists and their works for the upcoming August and September season. Molly Duff-Clarke will showcase Home for Dinner, and curator Alecia Harper will present Shaping Sarasota: A Century of Art, which presents a chronological visual history spanning 100 years of creativity. Antoine Williams presents a new body of work that reimagines Black southern cultural folklore and traditions with Putting Breath in the Body. Finally, juror John Pirman presents the juried show, Icons.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Whether you're a gardening newbie or a plant pro, visit Palma Sola Botanical Park to learn all about plants that thrive in the heat. Hear cool tips to keep your garden flourishing even when the temperature rises and see how sun-loving plants can handle the extreme summer heat.
Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton
Learn what fertilizers are, how nutrients work and how to choose the right products for your garden at this Plant Food 101 workshop. Instructor Mack Lessig will help you gain the practical knowledge to choose the right products and feed your garden for peak seasonal performance. Also, you'll decode the essential elements of what fertilizers contain and how plants utilize these nutrients at a cellular level.
UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St. W, Palmetto
Join Project 180 for its fifth annual Changing Lanes Bowling Tournament and experience an afternoon of family-friendly fun. This two-hour event includes bowling shoes, pizza and fries, unlimited soft drinks and an arcade card. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a beginner, this tournament is a great way to strike up some friendly competition, connect with the community and celebrate some of Project 180's recent graduates.
Bowlero Gulf Gate, 7221 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
If you're looking for a Queen tribute band that is scarily similar to original icons that shaped the rock world so many decades ago, you've come to the right place. Led by frontman and lead singer Emo Alaeddin, The Kings of Queen deliver a fully live performance of some of Queen's greatest hits. Band members include Gregg Thompson on guitar and vocals, Chris Trimmer on bass and vocals, Matisse Passillas on drums and vocals, and multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Joel Case.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
To commemorate the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment that granted many women in the United States the right to vote, a luncheon at the Grove will showcase women-owned businesses and celebrate Women's Equality Day. A guest panel will be moderated by Mercedes Solar, co-owner and president of Solmart Media. Attendees can learn about local women-owned businesses, participate in networking and hear from a multi-generational panel about the strides women have made and can continue to build.
The Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch
Hear Sarasota native and award-winning actress, singer and teaching artist Delores McKenzie as she performs Hello, Gorgeous! A Barbara Streisand Tribute. This intimate cabaret celebrates one of the greatest entertainers of all time through iconic songs, engaging storytelling and theatrical flair. McKenzie will perform beloved classics from Streisand's legendary career, woven together with personal reflections and dynamic performances.
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota
Buckle up for a high-energy musical ride that features guest soprano Jenny Kim-Godfrey and guitarist Jonathan Godfrey. This spirited concert will take audiences on a joyful journey filled with movement, memories and music that captures the thrill of the open road, the rhythm of the rails and the freedom of flight. Songs include Leaving on a Jet Plane, Little Deuce Coupe and Midnight Train to Georgia.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
Take a musical journey across America as the Venice Chorale celebrates the people, places and landscapes that have shaped our nation's history. The concert also features the world premiere of the winning work from the Chorale's 3rd Annual Choral Composition Competition. You'll hear Route 66, California Dreamin', Georgia on My Mind and more.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
With a theme of The Future is Not What It Used to Be, EcoSummit 2027 will bring together scientists, innovators and community leaders to explore real-world solutions for protecting natural lands and waterways in Florida. At The Bay Park in Sarasota next February, the summit addresses action in four domains: natural lands, resilient waterways, human health and living cities. Join the email list on the event website to learn when speakers, performing artists and ticket sales are announced.
The Bay Park, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota
Celebrate the magic of the holidays with guest soprano Barbara Grizer, the Venice Symphony and the cheerful voices of the Venice Chorale's Youth Choir. This festive event includes O Holy Night, Santa Baby and the premiere of The 12 Days of Venice Christmas–the perfect way to share the joy of the holidays with family and friends.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice
Hear beloved holiday classics and heartfelt originals from Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Leslie Odom, Jr., known for his role as Aaron Burr in Hamilton. His Sarasota debut promises a show that's equal parts soulful, uplifting and unforgettable. Meet and greet experiences are available, and tickets go on sale July 17 at 10 am.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Experience an evening of warmth, reflection, joy, and musical intimacy as Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota presents Close to the Heart: Diversity Unplugged, a unique concert that strips away the electronic layers to reveal the pure emotional connection between singers, musicians, and audience. For two nights only on December 13 and 17, these performances feature acoustic instrumentation, luminous harmonies, seasonal favorites, heartfelt ballads, uplifting anthems and moments of humor and celebration. Diversity Unplugged creates an atmosphere that is both deeply personal and universally welcoming.
St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota
Following their blockbuster ASC appearance during the 2024-25 season, PROJECT Trio performs another genre-blending concert spanning everything from Mozart and Bach to Charlie Parker and The Beatles. PROJECT Trio combines classical training with jazz, hip-hop and rock–performed with the spontaneity of a jazz club and the precision of a concert hall. A dinner menu for this event will feature a salad, entree, dessert, various drinks and a cash bar.
Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd, Venice
The Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble, Chanticleer, is known around the world as an orchestra of voices for its wide-ranging repertoire and dazzling virtuosity. One of the most prolific recording and touring ensembles in the world, Chanticleer has sold more than a million recordings. Back by popular demand, Chanticleer returns to Sarasota to perform an all-new program of Renaissance classics and holiday favorites.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
In demand throughout the world, Grammy Award-winning pianist Daniil Trifonov will at last make his Sarasota recital debut. Trifonov has made a spectacular ascent in the classical music world as a solo artist, as well as a champion of the concerto and chamber music repertoire. Combining consummate technique with rare sensitivity and depth, his performances are a perpetual display of astounding virtuosity and lyrical intensity.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Ring in the holiday season with Key Chorale's annual collaboration with the Sarasota Ballet Studio Company. This performance highlights the 100 voices of Key Chorale, Key Chorale Orchestra, acclaimed soprano Jessica Beebe and The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company. Experience breathtaking music and expressive dance with Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Danses de Noel suite inspired by French carols, John Rutter's Magnificat and more.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
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