SRQ DAILY Nov 4, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"We built the pipeline from the maritime academies and made it known that Celebrity was a place women could rise, and we quickly became the brand accomplished women mariners wanted to work for. "
The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce hosted its 106th Annual Membership Meeting and Luncheon, presented by Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP on Friday, October 23, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
This year's keynote speaker was Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, former President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, bestselling author of Making Waves: A Woman's Rise to the Top Using Smarts, Heart, and Courage, and an internationally recognized business leader. Her presentation delivered an inspirational afternoon focused on leadership, connection and celebration.
Ahead of the event, Lutoff-Perlo spoke with SRQ Magazine about her journey, innovative leadership style and ability to navigate change. Below is an excerpt from the interview.
You took women on Celebrity’s bridge from roughly 3% to 33% and sailed the industry’s first all-women bridge and officer team. How do you move a number like that in a 100-year-old industry?
With a lot of help. You don’t move the needle like that alone, or with a memo, or if you’re the only one who thinks it’s important. I did it with an incredible team of male leaders who also believed gender diversity was long overdue in our industry, that there were accomplished women who deserved the opportunity, and that gender balance on the bridge and across our operation meant a stronger culture, a happier crew and better results. It was intentional and purposeful. We built the pipeline from the maritime academies and made it known that Celebrity was a place women could rise, and we quickly became the brand accomplished women mariners wanted to work for. The March 8, 2020 sailing with an all-women bridge and leadership team wasn’t a stunt. It was proof of five years of intentional work. Historic. Barrier-breaking.
Pick up the February 2027 edition of SRQ Magazine for the full Q&A. 
Photo by Wes Roberts.
This past weekend, environmental organizations Big Waters Land Trust and Sarasota Audubon celebrated the grand opening of the Southeast Quad Parcel adjacent to the Celery Fields. The SE Quad represents Phase I of a three-parcel re-wilding project that will improve a total of 33 acres, with the goal of improving wildlife habitat, buffering the Celery Fields from industrial uses and I-75 to the west, and providing low-impact public access. On Friday, the two organizations and Sarasota County marked the completion of the SE Quad with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting; on Saturday, approximately 500 community members enjoyed a morning in nature that featured guided nature and birdwatching tours of the 11-acre site, family-friendly activities, and information provided by Audubon and Big Waters, with Kona Ice on site to provide cool treats to all visitors. Now, the organizations will focus on Phase II, which will improve the Southwest Quad Parcel. This phase will include features for visitors of all ages: a Celery Fields history walk along a winding path, a natural play area for kids, shaded picnic tables, open areas, along with parking and facilities. Trails and walkways will be ADA-compliant. A $1 million community matching campaign has been funded by Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and several generous area philanthropic families to inspire giving.
Pictured: Young attendees enjoyed Kona Ice during the public grand opening of the SE Quad Parcel. Provided photo.
Senior Friendship Centers (SFC) expands support for local families during National Family Caregivers Month. The organization adds individual counseling for caregivers through a partnership with Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast and a new weekly peer support group for people living with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia.For more information or questions about other events or programs, call (941) 955-2122 or visit www.friendshipcenters.org
For adults juggling work schedules, childcare, transportation, or other demands, attending a traditional English class at a set time and place often isn't realistic. The Literacy Council of Sarasota is removing that barrier with a $215,000 grant from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation that will expand its flexible, online English-language learning program for adults. The expansion deepens access across Sarasota County and, for the first time, extends it into Manatee County through a new partnership with the Manatee Literacy Council. The program gives learners a path to build English proficiency on their own time. Through the partnership with the Manatee Literacy Council, adult learners in Manatee County will now have access to the same online instruction and support already available to students in Sarasota County.
Gather your friends and raise a glass for a meaningful cause at Pour 4 a Cause, a community fundraiser benefiting Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, on Sunday, November 8, from noon to 4pm at Flamingo Brewery in Bradenton. Visit NeuroChallenge.org/events/pour4acause to learn more.
Dr. Adam S. Greenberg, M.D., FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Sunshine State Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, serving patients in Venice and North Port, Florida. He provides comprehensive dermatologic care with an emphasis on skin cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Dr. Greenberg’s expertise includes thorough skin examinations, the evaluation of concerning skin changes, and Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized technique used to treat certain skin cancers while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. He also treats common skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and sun damage. With a patient-centered approach, Dr. Greenberg takes time to understand concerns, explain treatment options, and help patients feel informed about their care. He and the Sunshine State Dermatology team welcome adults and children, offering medical dermatology and aesthetic services in a welcoming environment. His goal is to help patients protect their skin health and feel confident through every stage of life.
Local arts organization Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has been awarded its second-year funding of $50,000 from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Last year, WBTT was awarded a three-year total of $150,000; this year's funding will support: education programs such as the free Stage of Discovery summer camp, the in-school Jazzlinks history program, and free, age-appropriate Rhythm & Tales productions for younger schoolchildren; the annual Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; WBTT’s signature fundraisers – the Fall Gala and April Fête; and the Juneteenth Arts Festival.
Pictured: Students from the Stage of Discovery program are featured each year during the April Fête, one of WBTT's signature events receiving recent grant support from the Community Foundation Photos by Sorcha Augustine.
On October 24, Project Pride SRQ and its partners presented the Gulfcoast Pride Festival & Street Party. Featuring an expanded layout in the Rosemary District, the event included approximately 75 vendors, food, interactive exhibits, family- and pet-friendly features, and live entertainment. Organizers estimate the attendance over the course of the day between 4,000 and 5,000.
Pictured: Attendees packed Pride Plaza for the Pride Street Party, produced by SRQ Beats Photos by Bekah Horsley/Project Pride SRQ.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has received a $60,000 grant from the Charlotte Impact NOW! Initiative, a partnership between Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Elsa and Peter Soderberg Charitable Foundation to support its program focused on the Charlotte County Beyond School Walls. This funding will enhance the Charlotte County Beyond School Walls initiative, ensuring greater opportunities for students. Beyond School Walls connects students in Charlotte County and across the Sun Coast with workplace mentors and career experiences that help them explore future opportunities, develop professional skills, and envision pathways to success beyond the classroom.
Sarasota Orchestra has received a $65,000 Empowering Arts Grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) in support of the 2026-2027 season and the Orchestra’s mission to engage, educate and enrich the community through high-quality, live musical experiences. The grant was made possible in part through the Elizabeth Miller Charitable Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Gulf Coast’s generous support will help bring several of Sarasota Orchestra’s signature programs to the community this season, including the Saturday Great Escapes concert series, the annual Sarasota Orchestra Brunch benefiting music education, and the Orchestra’s Pops Supper Club.
This November, local leaders are turning a milestone birthday into a massive, community-wide movement against hunger. The Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program has officially joined forces with Nathan Benderson Park to launch an ambitious Thanksgiving Food Drive running November 9–20, 2026.
November 9–20, Main Drop-Off Event: Friday, November 20, 9am-4pm, Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota, Goal: 108,000 lbs (54 tons) of nonperishable food, Beneficiaries: Emergency food pantries throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties.
With the equestrian season poised to begin, shared areas of interest plus a healthy dose of compassion and generosity have resulted in a mutually beneficial collaboration. The board of the TerraNova Equestrian Foundation has a need for community members to volunteer for its equestrian events; for every volunteer hour served, $20 will be donated to the Easterseals (Southwest Florida) Ranch in Nokomis. At this location, clients enjoy beneficial programs such as Therapeutic Riding and other therapies. Beyond the equine connection, the owners of the TerraNova Equestrian Center have visited and appreciate the beneficial services provided at Easterseals Ranch. To learn more about Easterseals’ programs and services, visit easterseals-swfl.org.
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
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
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
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
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
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
Laurie Maves has spent more than three decades exploring the emotional language of shape, color and abstraction. Inspired by coastal landscapes, travel and the natural world, she creates richly layered works where the quiet geometry of nature, repeated forms, color and gesture invite moments of reflection and calm. A reception for Shapes of Resonance will be held on November 12, and a meet-and-greet is scheduled for December 10.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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
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
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
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
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
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
This family-friendly celebration will spotlight young entrepreneurs alongside Black art, music, dance and soul food. Participating young business owners include Genesis Williams of Little Genny's Italian Ice, Zahi' Jennings of Jass Lemonade, Kay Gallego of Kay's Sweet Empire and more. The event gives young people a chance to introduce their ventures to neighbors, engage potential customers and see the wider community celebrate their ambitions.
The Historic Leonard Reid House, 2529 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
At this customer appreciation event, longtime customers and first-time visitors are invited to enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, appreciation gifts and exclusive showroom offers. The afternoon will also feature hourly raffles for Berlin Gardens chairs.
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Showroom, 3709 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota
Bring your pets in for photos with Santa and the Grinch on November 15 and 22, with no appointment needed. All proceeds benefit Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. The sanctuary's mission is to offer continued care for the animals, giving them a place to feel safe, find forever homes for adoptable pets and to teach a new generation the joy of caring for animals through their Critter Connection Animal Outreach Bus program.
Leo and Lucky's, 8943 US Highway 301 N, Parrish
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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