SRQ DAILY Sep 7, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"My goal is to make sure we're producing and educating students in a way that they'll be able to utilize skills to be successful in the workplace."
This fall, students at State College of Florida (SCF), Manatee-Sarasota now have the opportunity to pursue an Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity Operations.
“Every company needs some type of cybersecurity solution,” says Jason Reed, Associate Professor, Department Chair and Program Manager of Cybersecurity Operations at SCF, Manatee-Sarasota.
At an annual advisory meeting, Reed said the school identified a need for more cybersecurity professionals in the area and decided it was time to offer this new degree. Students choosing to study cybersecurity operations will be prepared for careers in cybersecurity, digital defense, security analysis, networking engineering and management-level positions.
“Cybersecurity and networking go hand-in-hand,” Reed says. “Most of the time when you think of cybersecurity, you’re trying to secure a company’s network.”
Although Reed says students would ideally complete the degree in two years, SCF, Manatee-Sarasota offers a full-time and part-time schedule of study. The curriculum includes Cisco certification classes, cybersecurity courses, ethical hacking, data forensics and general computer classes, such as hardware and networking.
Jamie Smith, Public Information Officer and Associate Vice President of Government Relations at SCF, Manatee-Sarasota, emphasizes the affordability and accessibility of not only this degree, but of the entire institution. Coursework is designed for not only first-time college students, but also older adults and those pursuing online coursework.
“We really try to cater to the local workforce community and make it easy to do so,” Smith says.
Additionally, smaller class sizes allow students to have easier access to their instructors, as most classes average around 25-30 students.
“My goal is to make sure we’re producing and educating students in a way that they’ll be able to utilize skills to be successful in the workplace,” Reed says.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, 5840 26th St. W, Bradenton, 941-752-5320, SCF.edu 
Pictured: Students pursuing an Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity Operations at SCF, Manatee-Sarasota can choose between full-time and part-time schedules. Photo courtesy of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.
HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital is now performing renal denervation, a minimally invasive treatment option for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Renal denervation is for patients whose blood pressure remains high even after lifestyle changes and medication. If high blood pressure is left untreated, it can increase a person’s risk for heart disease, heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease. According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is the leading preventable risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Pictured: Cardiologist Jeffrey Sack, MD with the cardiac team after performing renal denervation procedures at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. Provided photo.
Shumaker Partner Douglas A. Cherry and St. Petersburg Managing PartnerMindi M. Richter have been selected as Florida Trend Legal Elite NOTABLE Intellectual Property Attorneys, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the field of intellectual property (IP) law and their leadership in serving clients across Florida and beyond. Florida Trend’s Legal Elite NOTABLE program recognizes exceptional attorneys across various practice areas and disciplines. Honorees are selected through nominations by industry peers and business associates, followed by an editorial review process that highlights attorneys who demonstrate professional excellence, leadership, and meaningful impact within the legal community.
As Sarasota County plans to host the UCI BMX Racing World Cup in 2027, the region’s tourism bureau has tapped local talent with global name recognition as an ambassador of its sports marketing efforts. Visit Sarasota County has entered into a content partnership with Rayne Lankford, a professional BMX athlete and area resident, to strengthen Sarasota County’s reputation as a premier destination for BMX athletes to train, compete, and pursue high-performance development. As part of the services agreement, Visit Sarasota County will capture photos and videos of Lankford around the destination and put this content to work across print, digital, and social media to reach potential visitors heading into 2027.
To learn more about Visit Sarasota County’s sports tourism efforts, visit sports.visitsarasota.com/.
Pictured: Rayne Lankford. Photo Credit Rayne Lankford.
Michael Saunders & Company has appointed experienced real estate leader Mick McCalley to oversee its Venice and Wellen Park offices, bringing more than a decade of industry experience spanning residential sales, new home sales, and brokerage leadership. As Managing Broker, McCalley will lead agent support and day-to-day operations across both offices as the company continues its growth in southern Sarasota County.
Get ready for a special evening at Big Cat Habitat! Join us for a wild Members Night — an exclusive opportunity to explore the park after hours while enjoying appetizers and beverages! Come spend an unforgettable evening amongst the wildlife that you support by being a member! This a complimentary special event that is EXCLUSIVELY for current Big Cat Habitat members. It’s our way of saying thank you for supporting the animals and the work we do every day! Space is limited, so be sure to RSVP online or call our office (941)371-6377 to reserve your spot! We can’t wait to see our amazing members for a wild evening!
Saturday, September 12, 5-7pm, Big Cat Habitat
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is heading into the fall season with a notable round of local growth: nine new global real estate advisors have joined the brokerage across its Sarasota-area sales galleries. Spanning Sarasota, Venice and Lakewood Ranch, the new additions include four advisors in Venice alone and expand the firm’s roster across key markets throughout the region.
Sheriff Hoffman is proud to announce the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Corrections Training Academy’s sixth graduating class. On Wednesday, the five newest recruits of the Courts and Corrections Division gathered at the sheriff’s office headquarters to celebrate with family, friends and agency members. The graduation ceremony followed their extensive academy curriculum, where the recruits were instructed in physical fitness, firearms, defensive tactics, first aid, legal, officer safety, and correctional supervision. In addition, they trained in emergency response, communications, and were made familiar with the agency’s facility and equipment.
Join us on November 6 at Michael’s On East for the 2026 Women Who Roar Leadership Awards, a celebration of the exceptional women shaping the Sarasota and Bradenton community through business, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, innovation and leadership. This inspiring gathering brings together women in business and community leaders to connect, celebrate and honor the remarkable women whose vision and contributions are making a lasting impact across our regio
November 6, 2026 at Michael's On East
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
The Annual Giving Coast Luncheon celebrates the independent sector in the Sarasota and Manatee region featuring the Philanthropic Agenda With Community Foundations and the Good Hero Awards Program. Join us on December 9, 2026 at Michael's on East to celebrate our local heros. Tickets and tables are now available!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
FST's resident improv team returns with Out of Bounds, an audience-favorite competition where two teams battle for laughs in a fast-paced series of games. Every scene is inspired by audience suggestions, and the winning team is up to the spectators to decide–and the method of voting is applause! This no-holds-barred comedy showdown runs 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
Bowne's Lab, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
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
Win prizes while you think, drink and enjoy fresh seafood and signature cocktails at Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar when Trivia Nation hosts Trivia Tuesdays. Test your knowledge across a variety of categories, bring your friends, family and coworkers, or jump in and join a team when you arrive. Win a $100 gift card every week and the admiration of your smartest friends.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
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
Celebrate 31 years of Anna Maria Oyster Bar's five-star fun for everyone with Rollback Day, bringing back throwback prices for one day as a thank-you to the guests and community who have supported AMOB for more than three decades. Guests can enjoy lighter-bite fish and chips, lighter-bite popcorn shrimp, hushpuppies, domestic drafts and house margaritas.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar Locations
This two-week dining event at University Town Center features delicious deals from your favorite restaurants and dessert shops. Enjoy three-course prix fixe lunch and dinner menus, plus sweet specials you won't want to miss. Participating restaurants include Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Blu Kouzina, Florence and The Spice Boys, Mademoiselle Paris, Selva Grill, Norman Love Confections and more.
University Town Center Sarasota, 210 N Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
A pioneering artist, world traveler and champion of women in the arts, Yoshida Fujio was one of the first Japanese women to receive formal training in Western-style painting and build an international career. Yoshida Fujio: Secret Gardens is the first exhibition in the southeastern United States devoted to this remarkable artist. It brings together a selection of woodblock prints and one painting spanning key moments in Fujio's long career, from her early naturalistic works to the striking abstractions of her later decades.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
SCF, Manatee-Sarasota will host its 9/11 Memorial Ceremonies in remembrance of the lives lost during the September 11, 2001 attacks. The college's Veteran Services Office and Student Veterans of America Club will present the events. SCF Bradenton's ceremony from 9:00-9:45am will feature remarks from guest speaker John Phillips, a retired U.S. Coast Guard chief warrant officer 4 with more than 31 years of distinguished service.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota Venice Campus, 8000 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
During the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities invites the community to this commemoration at the pavilion at Greenbrook Adventure Park. The event will honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and will pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who answered the call. Nominations are encouraged for residents who served in response to the 9/11 events, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, medical professionals, military members and others.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Pl, Bradenton
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Featuring Isabella Ling Sun on violin, Ching-Yu Tseng on cello and Daniel Chen-Wang on piano, Trio Sinfonia opens the season for Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota. Born out of the chamber music department at the New England Conservatory, the ensemble unites three passionate musicians who share a deep love for chamber music. Their program will feature Brahms' Trio in B Major and Mendelssohn's Trio in C Minor.
Fischer/Weisenborne Residence, 7459 Cabbage Palm Ct., Sarasota
Celebrating 15 years of Strider Cup World Championships, this event will bring together hundreds of toddlers and preschoolers from across the globe to the same track that Olympians will be racing on to qualify for LA28. Register your 2-, 3- or 4-year-olds to race on their Strider Bike; no other balance bike brands are allowed. Non-racers and families are welcome to join in and attend the event. Local vendors, games and giveaways are available, along with a beach party on October 11.
Sarasota BMX, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
This gripping musical journey by Karl Jenkins is widely recognized as the most performed classical work by a living composer. Hear musical traditions and texts from cultures around the world that echo a universal plea for peace. The Armed Man moves audiences from conflict to hope in this unforgettable concert experience presented by Key Chorale, with guest artist Amanda Crider.
First United Methodist Church, 104 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Experience the Englewood Pioneer Days Parade on Dearborn Street this September, which runs from Obee's parking lot down W Cowels Street, to McCall Road to Dearborn Street and finishes at Veterans Memorial Pavilion. After the parade, family activities include a pie-eating contest, a watermelon-eating contest, children's games, crafts and live music. Snacks, water and food are provided by Florida Bible Church and Hippie Squeeze Lemonade.
Pioneer Plaza, 325 W Dearborn St., Englewood
Joseph Kesselring's classic comedy is coming to Bradenton this fall with a blend of mystery, mayhem and outrageous humor. Drama critic Mortimer Brewster discovers that the sweet, elderly aunts who raised him have an unsettling hobby: poisoning lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. Brewster tries to manage his aunts and his psychotic brother while frantically attempting to cover up the crimes.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Facilitated by poet Doug Knowlton, Bookstore1Sarasota hosts an advanced poetry writing workshop every Wednesday this September. Expect close reading, generative exercises and thoughtful critique in this five-session, five-week program. Participants should come ready to share work and engage seriously with others' writing in a collaborative and supportive space. Tickets include a writing journal.
Bookstore1Sarasota, 117 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
More than 30 Creative Liberties artists come together for a group exhibition showcasing the range of talent, styles and perspectives within the Creative Liberties community. An opening reception will be held on September 16 from 5pm-7pm.
Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Ave., Sarasota
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