SRQ DAILY Nov 2, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"You go on about your life and then someone says they want to recognize you ... It was such a privilege."
On September 9, Angel Colonesso was honored for a lifetime of leadership in her over 30 years of public service. Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida presented Colonesso, along with two other women, with this honor at its annual Denim and Pearls Lifetime of Leadership Luncheon. The award recognizes women whose lives reflect the leadership qualities Girl Scouts works to instill in girls.
“I was shocked,” Colonesso says about receiving this honor. “You go on about your life and then someone says they want to recognize you. I was so excited, and it made me think of my badges—and I still have my sash. It was such a privilege.”
Colonesso began working at the clerk’s office in 1990, and now, she is the first woman to serve as Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller in Manatee County. Her public service experience spans from Assistant State Attorney to the General Counsel to former Clerk R.B. “Chips” Shore. In her current role, Colonesso still remembers the skills and confidence she learned as a Brownie at St. Joseph Catholic School, earning badges with Troop 369.
“I felt like the sky was the limit,” she says. “I had the campfire cooking and medical badges…you could learn anything and do anything while being a part of Girl Scouts.”
In her office, Colonesso is exposed to about 100 different reports throughout the year and works with the county to examine spending, investments and accounting. She says she is very forward-thinking in delivering services to the community, such as creating an in-house Child Support Program which partners with Goodwill.
“We’re big on preserving our local history,” Colonesso says. “Our records library has records dating back to the 1800s. My big goal is to open a genealogy lab and have the upstairs be ADA accessible.”
Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller: 1115 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton 
Pictured: Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida CEO Mary Anne Servian (left) and Board President Juliana Meek (right) present Clerk and Comptroller Angel Colonneso with her award. Photo courtesy Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller.
BayCare, the largest not-for-profit academic health care system in West Central Florida, is developing plans to become the first health system in Florida to pilot Aletta®, an FDA-approved, image-guided robotic blood-draw device from Vitestro. Expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2027, the 18- to 24-month pilot will include two Aletta devices at BayCare's Suncoast Medical Office Building and BayCare HealthHub® (Bardmoor) locations.
Provided photo.
HCA Florida Englewood Hospital has earned five-star ratings from Healthgrades in five clinical areas, recognizing the hospital's commitment to delivering high-quality care and exceptional patient outcomes. The latest distinctions include 12 consecutive years of five-star ratings for hip fracture treatment.
Pictured: Dr. Brandon Coffey, emergency care medical director at HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, visits with Cathy Pavan. Provided photo.
The holidays are a time for gathering around the table, sharing festive foods and making memories. But for thousands of families across Sarasota and DeSoto counties, rising costs and cuts to federal food and health assistance are making it harder to afford groceries – let alone a holiday meal. Nearly 220,000 people in our community face food insecurity each year, including working parents balancing household bills, seniors stretching fixed incomes and children whose families are struggling to make ends meet. All Faiths Food Bank’s annual ThankFULL campaign is helping to change that. With community support, the food bank aims to provide 14,500 turkey dinners and 4.1 million holiday meals – bringing the ingredients for a memorable holiday to tables throughout Sarasota and DeSoto counties. “Everyone deserves to enjoy the comfort and connection that come with sharing a meal,” said All Faiths Food Bank President and CEO Nelle S. Miller. “Together, we can help ensure our neighbors have the food they need this holiday season.”
Michael Saunders & Company, the Gulf Coast's leading independent real estate brokerage, today announced that the commercial real estate team and business operations of Florida ROI Commercial Property Brokerage, a respected Tampa-based firm established in 2008, have transitioned to its commercial division, MSC Commercial. As part of the transition, the property portfolio previously managed by Florida Investment Real Estate (FIRE) will also move to MSC Commercial, extending its presence into the greater Tampa Bay market.
Williams Parker is pleased to announce Amy L. Concilio, Gail E. Farb, and George Parpas as partners of the firm, strengthening the firm’s depth of experience in real estate, labor and employment, and complex litigation.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital was again named one of Florida’s best in Newsweek’s national list of “Best-in-State” hospitals released today. This year's rankings spotlight 800 leading hospitals from across the United States. Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s flagship Sarasota hospital (SMH-Sarasota) was the only hospital in Southwest Florida recognized on the 2027 list, ranking among the top 10 of 30 Florida hospitals on Newsweek's list.
Join award-winning writer and artist Tom McCarthy for an interactive lecture and reading. McCarthy will be joined by Aaron Jaffe, PdD, Frances Cushing Ervin Professor from the Center for Humanities at Florida State University, who will guide an interactive interview with McCarthy following a special reading from McCarthy’s newest novel, The Rhys Poster. A wine and beer reception will follow the lecture.
Nov 4, 5:30 pm, Museum of Art, Chao Lecture Hall, $10 | $5 Members
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 region.
November 6, 2026 at Michael's On East
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
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
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
Ringling College of Art and Design alum Chie Fueki synthesizes Japanese ukiyo-e atmospheric techniques with Western abstraction, perspectival space and practices of overlay and juxtaposition. Drawing from her own Japanese and Brazilian heritage, Fueki's vibrant and densely layered works dance with an elaborate interplay of painting, drawing and constructed mulberry paper compositions. Spanning 25 years of Fueki's career, these works carve out familiar scenes that fuse figuration and abstraction to create an intricate floating world.
Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College Museum Campus, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Throughout November, visit all 10 library locations of Sarasota County Libraries for a literary celebration featuring author talks, book signings, writing workshops and family activities. See bestselling authors including Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Nathaniel Philbrick and Kate Quinn. This annual event will kick off on November 1 with a publishing day and local author fair, and a family day will be held on November 7.
Sarasota County Libraries
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
From visual art to live entertainment, November's Fresh Fridays event brings the community together to explore the many ways art inspires and connects. Beyond The Canvas is dedicated to the local artists, creators and creative energy that make Sarasota such a vibrant place. Spend your evening strolling through downtown, discovering something new and enjoying the energy of Sarasota's arts scene on North Palm Avenue.
North Palm Avenue, N. Palm Ave., Sarasota
Think big on a small scale. This playful exhibition at Creative Liberties features imaginative, affordable original artworks that make memorable holiday gifts. An opening reception will be held on November 6 from 5-7pm.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
A celebration of American passion for freedom, opportunity and expression, this concert features choral and instrumental music by Benjamin Britten, Anton Dvorak and a host of American composers part and present, performed by choir and string orchestra.
First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak 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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
In this Joyful Journeys Author Series, learn how the Sarasota Audubon Society is dedicated to the protection, conservation and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment. Discover the significant history of this organization and recognize the many volunteers who have dedicated a substantial amount of their time and effort in service. Their persistent efforts to preserve the Celery fields as a prime birding location have resulted in the area designated as part of the extensive Great Florida Birding Trail.
Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, 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
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
Presented by Key Chorale, the Chamber Singers invite you into a world of beauty, reflection and wonder at this candlelit choral experience. The choir is joined by renowned organist Jeremy Filsell, violinist Jeff Thurston and cellist Susan Dobronsky. Here contemplative and sacred selections by Faure, Paulus, Gjeilo and Esenvalds at this evening of serenity and inspiration.
Christ Episcopal Church, Bradenton, 4030 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties will host their annual Champions for Children Gala, beginning with a reception at 6pm, followed by a delicious 3-course gourmet dinner catered by Michael's on East. There will be live auctions and raffles, along with inspiring performances by Boys and Girls Club members. Black tie is optional. Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties' award-winning slate of teen programs and provide transformational services to thousands of young individuals across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
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