SRQ DAILY Oct 19, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"Every space is considered for connection, leisure, wellness and multifunctional use, making the clubhouse a true extension of the Wild Blue lifestyle."
This November, architects and designers will flock to Sarasota for the Sarasota Design Conference. The conference, which has taken place every two years since 1988, is themed Duality: Harmony in Contrast and will take place in St. Paul Lutheran Church, a Victor Lundy-designed campus and a sterling example of the Sarasota School of Architecture. Organized by the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the conference’s focus has always been firmly on design. Featuring lectures and a panel discussion with four prominent industry professionals, the conference intends to inspire and creatively invigorate the minds of those in attendance. Below is an excerpt from an interview with one of the conference’s keynote speakers, Amy Donohue, AIA, NOMA, LFA, a principal at Bora Architecture and Interiors, set to appear in the January 2027 issue of SRQ Magazine.
SRQ: Can you speak on specific projects in which workplace design can change how people work and collaborate?
Donohue: I would use our own office as an example. We moved into our current space about three and a half years ago. Previously, we were downtown in a 1923 masonry building with an E-shaped floor plan. That was great for daylight and natural ventilation, especially when the building was originally designed, but it split the studio into two sides, east and west. We did our best to pull people toward the center, but in our daily work on projects, we were always separated. We went looking for a space that would bring everyone together in one big studio, and we found a large old warehouse that the Oregon Electric Group was selling. We cleared it out, sandblasted the beautiful wood trusses, added a few more clerestory windows and brought everyone together in the center of the space.
Being underneath those beautiful wood materials, with lots of plants and an open layout, makes a difference. You can see what's going on around you. All the resources, including the materials library, wood shop, phone rooms and conference rooms, surround the main studio. While it's a large, open office, almost everybody has an assigned desk. The partners don't have offices or assigned desks. One of the biggest changes is that it's made us much more accessible. We're not sitting in offices behind closed doors.
Sarasota Design Conference, November 12-14, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Sarasota. 
Provided photo.
Experience the arts, music, and culture at Temple Beth Sholom! All are welcome to join us for two special events celebrating our Centennial year.
November 1 at 2:00 PM: Experience I Dissent, a powerful one-woman performance by Sheryl Faye, portraying U.S. Supreme Court Justice and equality advocate Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the longest-serving Jewish Justice.
November 15 at 3:00 PM: Enjoy our Centennial Concert – Music Through the TBS Decades, featuring TBS’s Cantor Neal Taibel and guest cantor, Cantor David Childs, of Temple Beth Israel in Port Washington, N.Y., accompanied by pianist Don Bryn. This musical revue celebrates a century of music, beginning in the 1920s.
Reserve your seat today! Visit the TBS Calendar for event details and to RSVP.
In collaboration with Stock Development, Humphrey Rosal Architects and Clive Daniel Hospitality, a resort-style clubhouse in Wild Blue at Waterside is projected to open in January. This 30,000-square-foot building will feature indoor and outdoor dining venues, two swimming pools—lap and resort-style—a movie theater, fitness center, nine-hole premier putting course and much more.
“We’re in the luxury lane and we know our buyers’ lifestyle is really important to them; they’re looking for an elevated lifestyle,” says Claudine Leger-Wetzel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Stock Development. “A lot of our buyers are new to the area, and the clubhouse is the social center of the community.”
Nancy Woodhouse, Vice President of the Hospitality Division at Clive Daniel Home, says the design process leaned into a coastal-inspired palette of blues, natural textures and sun-washed neutrals. One side of the lobby has a wave tile design that she says speaks to the different elements of textures throughout the building.
“The resort style of this clubhouse had us embrace this style because it’s right near the waterfront,” Woodhouse says. “It gives people some great experiences for the finest aspects of that lifestyle. You can have large parties or small gatherings.”
One of the major features is the barn-style doors that line the private dining space, Woodhouse adds. The wellness center also features cool color palettes and offers breathtaking lake views.
“Every space is considered for connection, leisure, wellness and multifunctional use, making the clubhouse a true extension of the Wild Blue lifestyle,” Woodhouse says.
Wild Blue only has 505 single-family homes, and Leger-Wetzel describes the complex as “the most luxurious community in Lakewood Ranch. There is really nothing like this amenity space.”
Woodhouse says the clubhouse will offer ample activities, and that today’s buyers are very interested in wellness and entertainment.
“It will bring friends, family and neighbors together for holiday celebrations, sporting events—it’s just an amazing space,” Woodhouse says.
8396 Sea Glass Ct., Sarasota
Pictured: Wild Blue's new clubhouse will feature an illuminated wine display with a cork backing in the dining room. Photo courtesy Clive Daniel Home.
Great Place To Work and Fortune magazine have named BayCare Health System to the national list of 2026 Fortune Best Workplaces in Health Care. This marks the 10th consecutive year BayCare has earned a place on this prestigious list, reflecting the health system’s longstanding commitment to creating a rewarding and supportive workplace for its team members. Great Place to Work builds the annual Best Workplaces in Health Care list by gathering confidential feedback from employees of companies in the health care industry. Learn more: Careers at baycare.org/careers
Lee Wetherington Homes, a top rated, privately owned custom luxury home builder in Sarasota, recently welcomed two new hires to its team: Mark Dolan as purchasing manager and Tina Rusk as purchasing agent.
To learn more, visit LWHomes.com.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital heart surgeon Jonathan Hoffberger, DO, has performed the world’s first heart procedure combining two new cardiac implants from Edwards Lifesciences to replace a failing tricuspid valve and reduce stroke risk associated with atrial fibrillation (Afib). According to Edwards Lifesciences, the milestone procedure marks the first time its TRIFORMIS RESILIA tricuspid valve and ECLIPTIS left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion system have been implanted together in the same patient anywhere in the world.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) has been voted the nation’s No. 1 Best Resort Airport in the 2026 USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards, repeating its 2025 win. Nominations were carefully curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10BEST editors before being voted on by the public. With passenger numbers projected to reach approximately 4.64 million in fiscal year 2026, SRQ remains committed to preserving the relaxed resort feel, convenience and warm hospitality that travelers value, even as the airport grows.
Shumaker Partner, Intellectual Property Service Line Lead, and Technology Industry Sector Co-Chair Douglas A. Cherry and Associate Samantha Regalahave joined the newly formed Florida Intellectual Property American Inn of Court, a statewide organization bringing together judges and intellectual property (IP) practitioners. Launched in September, the Florida Intellectual Property American Inn of Court operates as part of the Linn Inn Alliance, a network of 30 IP-focused Inns. Modeled on the broader mission of the American Inns of Court, members have opportunities to exchange knowledge, discuss legal developments, and strengthen connections across Florida’s IP community.
Explore the collection of photographer and humanitarian Judy Glickman Lauder in this exhibit featuring approximately 100 photographs by over 50 artists. Presence creates an inspiring dialogue through tender portraits, candid photojournalism and spontaneous cityscapes. See works by Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Danny Lyon, Gordon Parks and more.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, 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
Opening the fall 2026–spring 2027 season at SPAACES, this exhibit showcases artists who work outside the public eye. Curator Yosnier Miranda brings together artists who maintain dedicated, disciplined studio practices while choosing not to exhibit their work publicly. Bedroom Communities offers a rare opportunity to encounter work that has largely remained unseen despite years of thoughtful and passionate creation.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
From fiery chemistry and haunted experiments to escape rooms and flying pickles, STEAM Saturdays classes return this fall. Every Saturday, students in grades 2-3, 4-5 and 6-8 are invited to participate in hands-on, project-based activities with themes including Haunted Alchemy, Autumn Escape Room, Fireball Chemistry and a pickle-powered aerospace class. Younger students have the chance to build technical skills, confidence and creativity while learning alongside near-peer role models.
Faulhaber Fab Lab, 4452 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota
A work doesn't have to be monumental to demand our attention. The fifth installment of 502 Gallery's popular annual invitational exhibition, Shopliftable, is a celebration of small-scale works by 20 artists. Each artwork is modest in size but full of possibility, inviting viewers to look closely and discover how much an artist can say within a limited physical space. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Drawing on the ephemeral and fragile properties of smoke and mirroring, along with the purity, fragility and apparent permanence of porcelain, the work exposes false narratives, conflicted virtues and fractured identities. Using transience and tension as both visual and material metaphors, figures formed with smoke hover between presence and evasion across pristine porcelain and mirrored, color-shifting grounds. The opening reception will be held on October 3 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Each Saturday in October at the Arts Advocates Gallery, guests can view Elisabeth Trostli's new exhibition. The artist's work explores artificial intelligence as a provocative tool for expanding the artist's imagination and invites viewers to look beyond the technology itself and consider what it means to create art in an era when the boundaries between imagination, digital tools and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing. Trostli will present a demonstration on October 3 at 3pm.
Art Advocates Gallery, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Enjoy fresh produce, local art, music and free family activities on Bradenton's Old Main Street every Saturday from October through May. Local farmers, artisans and chefs share their talents, and you'll always be greeted with a smile from the market vendors.
Old Main Street, 400 12th St. W, Bradenton
Based on the novel by Bram Stoker and adapted by Ren Pearson, The Players Studio Black Box invites audiences into the shadows with one of the most iconic Gothic tales ever written. Mysterious, thrilling, romantic and terrifying, Dracula will explore fear, obsession and the darkness that lives just beneath the surface.
The Players Studio Black Box, 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota
The popular Halloween-inspired light show returns to Selby Gardens' Historic Spanish Point! The campus is transformed into Spooky Point where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and boo-tanically-themed decorations along the way. Equal parts campy, creepy and cute, this walk-through show is fun for all ages. Tickets go on sale August 24.
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trl, Osprey
This spirited musical ghost trolley tour with an historic bent returns for its 8th year with tour times at 7pm or 8:30pm. Talented cast members Kaylene McCaw and MariAnne Hernandez alternate as Lady Melody, the tour's ghost hostess, and tell stories of haunted buildings as they welcome aboard mystery spirits played by David Springer, Michael De Mocko, Olivia Turpening and Sarah Van Keuren. Prizes are awarded for best costume each night. Tickets include complimentary beer or wine before boarding and free parking.
Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th St., Sarasota
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta's famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food and drink, shopping, sand sculpting demonstrations and family-friendly activities–all set against the backdrop of one of America's top-ranked beaches. Whether you're an art lover, beachgoer or local supporter, the Crystal Classic offers a truly unique experience that inspires creativity and brings the community together year after year.
Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter is proud to announce the upcoming Sarasota Design Conference, scheduled for November 12–14, 2026. This year’s highly anticipated event will take place at the iconic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sarasota, a mid-century masterpiece designed by legendary architect Victor Lundy. For the first time, this event will be held in conjunction with Architecture Sarasota, an organization dedicated to the stewardship of the globally renowned Sarasota School of Architecture. The conference coincides with the 13th annual Sarasota MOD Weekend and conference attendees will receive a discounted rate for tickets.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota
Join climate leaders, researchers, community partners, business professionals and students for the 6th Annual CAC Florida Climate Conference: From Climate Risk to Climate Resilience. Experience a full day of inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and networking with the exciting vision of the Living Laboratory for Coastal Resilience. This collaborative initiative brings together science, technology, education and community partnerships to build a stronger Suncoast. For an early bird bonus, register by August 15 to enjoy a complimentary catered lunch.
Selby Auditorium at the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, 8350 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Olympic Medalist Nancy Kerrigan joins Our Mother's House for An Afternoon with a Champion, celebrating resilience, determination and the power of community. Nancy's journey from a hardworking family to the Olympic stage was shaped not only by determination but by the sacrifices and support of those around her. During the luncheon, she will share her personal story of perseverance and overcoming adversity, offering an inspiring perspective on resilience and finding the strength to keep moving forward.
Michael's On East, 1212 S East Ave., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Celebrating 20 years, Bowls of Hope attendees select offerings from dozens of the community's finest restaurants and caterers as they serve delicious soups, bread, desserts and more. Guests choose from beautiful, handcrafted bowls–all donated by local potters, artists and students–to keep, while enjoying a modest meal as a reminder of the empty bowls they help to fill. This year's event is chaired by Ruth Hochman. Individual tickets go on sale October 1.
Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
A longtime Sarasota resident, Pirman has developed a distinctive visual language that blends the precision of graphic design with the sensibility of fine art. His work transforms familiar places, architecture and characters into sophisticated compositions of color, shape, pattern and line. The opening reception will be held on November 7 from 5-8pm.
502 Gallery, 502 S Pineapple Ave., 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 |
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe
