SRQ DAILY Nov 9, 2026
Monday Business Edition
"As I reflect on this journey and two companies forged in best friendship, the highs and lows, side-splitting laughter, the crazy situations and the devastating tragedy, what I feel is immense gratitude."
On Friday, November 6 SRQ MEDIA hosted the 2026 Women Who Roar Leadership & Awards Luncheon at Michael's on East, recognizing exceptional women in the region. The event featured a pop-up boutique salon with gifts from Bia Candle Co., Camilyn Beth, Discover Sarasota Tours, Simply Jo’s, Manatee County Habitat ReStore, Just Because, Scout + Molly, Boutique, Surge Style Boutique, Figgy & Co, Driftwood Beach Home and Garden and Bookstore1.
The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from Lisl Liang, President and CEO of SRQ Media Group, who thanked event partners, including Michael’s on East, United Community Bank, Manatee County Habitat for Humanity, Tropical Interiors Florist, Palm Printing, The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, Leaders Uplifted, Diamond Vault, Sarasota Trophy and Dolphin Transportation. “At SRQ Magazine, we believe that when women have the opportunity to share their stories, celebrate their accomplishments and connect with one another authentically, something amazing happens. New ideas take shape, meaningful relationships are formed, doors are opened and perhaps most importantly, the next generation of leaders begin to see what's possible,” she said. “That belief is at the heart of Women Who Roar."
Ashley Grant, SRQ Media’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement, took the stage to introduce the 2026 Trailblazer Award Recipient, iconic fashion entrepreneur Elyce Arons, co-founder of Kate Spade and CEO and founder of Frances Valentine.
Arons spoke of her experience growing up on a farm, her lifelong friendship with Kate Spade, her career and her New York Times bestselling book, We Might Just Make It After All: My Best Friendship with Kate Spade.
“Today, I am proud to be leading Francis Valentine, a woman-led company that continues to celebrate friendship, personal confidence and American style. Our designs are inspired by the vintage pieces that Katie and I have collected together and that I continue to collect. Our shared belief is that getting dressed should be joyful," Arons said.
"When I look back on my journey from a farm in Kansas to New York City, from starting Kate Spade to building Francis Valentine, I realize that the most important things were never just the business we created. They were the friendships and the people who believed in us," she said. "As I reflect on this journey and two companies forged in best friendship, the highs and lows, side-splitting laughter, the crazy situations and the devastating tragedy, what I feel is immense gratitude. I often think back to my favorite TV show when I was a young girl, and those words still ring true today: We might just make it after all.”
Blair Bloomston of Leaders Uplifted then led the audience in an interactive presentation, bringing lots of cheers and camaraderie. The special afternoon concluded with the presentation of the 2026 Leadership Circle awards. 
Pictured: Elyce Arons, 2026 Trailblazer Award Recipient. Photo by Daniel Wagner, Wagner Visuals.
On October 9, Nopetro Energy and Johnson Controls broke ground on the first renewable natural gas (RNG) facility on Florida’s West Coast. This marks the second plant for Nopetro Energy, and the $50 million facility at the Lena Road Landfill in Bradenton is a major milestone for Manatee County.
“RNG presents the heavy-duty transportation industry with a compelling alternative to diesel,” says Jorge Herrera, CEO of Nopetro Energy. “Not only does it reduce the fuel cost, but it’s a much more stable fuel, and it’s now a renewable form of fuel.”
With the evolution of RNG technologies, Nopetro is able to capture and process landfill gas and refine it into pipeline-quality natural gas. Herrera says his company is designing, processing, building and operating the plant, with Johnson Controls measuring and verifying some of the operational parameters in respect to the landfill.
“The ultimate goal for the facility is to produce approximately 4.5–5 million gallons of fuel each year,” he says. This fuel will power more than 4,500 homes each year and deliver a carbon reduction impact comparable to 22,000 acres of forest.
Herrera says the facility will benefit the community in three ways, beginning with addressing an environmental concern by capturing a pollutant that would alternatively be admitted into the air. The plant will generate meaningful revenues for the County without having to incur any risk or invest any capital, with about $1.5 million each year. Thirdly, it will create a local source of natural gas production that will be generated in Manatee County, as the pipeline grid will be more resilient by being able to produce RNG locally.
“The financial benefits for heavy-duty transportation fleets are compelling, and renewable natural gas makes it completely sustainable,” Herrera says.
Commissioning will begin in quarter 4 of 2027, with substantial completion in quarter 1 of 2028.
3333 Lena Rd., Bradenton
Pictured: Rendering of the Nopetro Manatee County facility at Lena Road Landfill. Photo courtesy Nopetro Energy.
When Tres Leches arrived at the Humane Society of Sarasota County, she was just one year old and fighting for her future. After suffering devastating injuries, her front leg could not be saved. But thanks to HSSC’s dedicated medical team, she received lifesaving surgery, compassionate care, and a second chance. Her journey didn’t end with recovery. Volunteer foster McKenzie opened her heart and home to Tres Leches, giving her a safe place to heal. What began as temporary foster care became something extraordinary: a forever family. Today, Tres Leches is thriving alongside her two canine siblings, Myles and Lulu, proving that three legs are more than enough for a life filled with love. Stories like hers are possible because of the generosity of our community. Your support helps provide lifesaving medical treatment, shelter, and second chances to animals in need.
2331 15th Street, Sarasota, FL 34237 T: 941.955.4131
Tiona Settles has joined Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation as Community Impact Officer, a new position focused on strengthening the Foundation’s relationships and understanding of the communities it serves. As part of the Foundation’s Collaboration and Impact team, Settles will support grantmaking, strategic initiatives, and community partnerships. Central to her work will be listening to nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and residents to learn more about local needs, opportunities, and the experiences of people closest to the issues that the Foundation seeks to address. Learn more at barancikfoundation.org
Lee Wetherington Homes, a top-rated, privately owned custom luxury home builder in Sarasota, and Homes by Towne, a privately held, boutique home builder, are hosting an amenity showcase to unveil The Summit at Shellstone at Waterside.
Saturday, November 7 from noon to 4pm, The Summit at Shellstone at Waterside, 1451 Lions Paw Path, Sarasota.
John Cannon Homes announces the opening of The Wellington, its newest model home in Everly at Wellen Park. Located at 11481 Brightly Drive in Venice, the home showcases a transitional coastal aesthetic that blends clean architectural lines with warm, inviting details.
The Wellington Model, 11481 Brightly Drive | Venice, FL 34293, Everly at Wellen Park, Model phone: 941.361.1371, Sales contact: Bob Boyd | 941.299.9500 | BBoyd@johncannonhomes.com
PulteGroup is celebrating Black Friday with big savings on new construction homes in sought-after communities throughout Southwest Florida. From Nov. 9-30, 2026, homebuyers can take advantage of a limited-time promotion offering a pool included or savings of up to $100,000 toward design options, closing costs, interest rate buydowns and quick move-ins on select new homes. The special event spans PulteGroup’s four brands – Pulte Homes, Del Webb, DiVosta and Centex – in communities from Sarasota to Naples. The Black Friday sale offers homebuyers more ways to save and find the perfect home fit for their dream Florida lifestyle. With significant savings available across PulteGroup’s Southwest Florida communities, buyers can explore a variety of innovative home designs, personalized options and resort-inspired amenities while taking advantage of limited-time incentives that make homeownership more attainable.
Pictured: PulteGroup’s thoughtfully designed communities offer inviting spaces for residents to gather with neighbors, build lasting friendships and enjoy a vibrant Florida lifestyle. Provided photo.
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce has once again earned statewide recognition for its leadership and impact, being named the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) 2026 Chamber of the Year. With this latest honor, the Manatee Chamber is the only chamber to have received the prestigious distinction six times. The recognition was made even more special with the announcement that Manatee Chamber President & CEO Jacki Dezelski was named the FACP 2026 Chamber Executive of the Year. This historic achievement makes Dezelski the first Florida chamber professional to have received both the inaugural FACP Chamber Professional of the Year (2015) and Chamber Executive of the Year awards.
Provided photo.
Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota has been honored with the prestigious International Property Awards for Best Branded Residence Development and Best Residential High-Rise Architecture in the state of Florida. Rising 22 stories at the intersection of Main Street and Pineapple Avenue in downtown Sarasota, the property is set to become the tallest residential building in the city’s history. Waldorf Astoria’s first residential address in the Sarasota market, the standalone residential-only tower will bring together the elegance of Waldorf Astoria with thoughtful architecture and a lifestyle shaped by service, discretion and design, offering an opportunity to own a private home infused with legendary hospitality. To learn more about Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota, visit https://waresidencessarasota.com/.
A penthouse at the newly completed Rosewood Residences Lido Key has sold for $14.5 million, the highest price ever paid for a condominium in Sarasota, The Ronto Group announced. The sales gallery is at 540 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236. Appointments are available by calling 941-888-3131. For more information, visit residenceslidokey.com.
Provided photo.
The Office of Angel Colonneso, Esq., Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller for Manatee County, will be closed in observance of Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The office will reopen with regular business hours Thursday, November 12, 2026. Customers can continue to access online services, including searching court records, official records, and making payments on the Clerk & Comptroller’s website at https://www.ManateeClerk.com/ or download the Clerk & Comptroller's mobile app from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Best of SRQ Local 2027 is now here, giving Sarasota-area businesses, organizations, and community favorites the chance to make the official ballot. Encourage your customers, clients and community to show their support and nominate your brand during the five-week nomination round running through November 18. Now is the time to rally your community!
Nominations close November 18, 2026
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
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
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 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
This competition will showcase the best in music, art, theatre, dance and acrobatics. The energy is electric, the talent is real and the winners take home cash prizes. Join the excitement as a panel of celebrity judges chooses the champion. Awards and prizes are presented at the end of the competition.
Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, 6116 Crestwood Ave., Sarasota
Join Selby Gardens' President and CEO Jennifer O. Rominiecki for a talk and an inspiring look at Phase Two of Selby Gardens' visionary three-phase Master Plan. Registration is required to attend. Stay for lunch at The Green Orchid by Michael's On East or Selby House Cafe.
Selby Gardens' Event Center, 811 S Palm 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
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
Residents and visitors are invited to join the Walk to End Alzheimer's Sarasota County. Registration begins at 8am, followed by the flower ceremony at 8:45am before the walk commences at 9am. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, with each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Nathan Benderson Park-Regatta Island, 5851 Nathan Benderson Park Cir, Sarasota
Shop local and support talented artists, independent businesses and the heart of the Sarasota community this holiday season at this art and gift showcase. Explore one-of-a-kind gifts, meet the artists, enjoy special signings and sip and savor while discovering something truly unique. Featured artists include Michelle Romine with Coastal Magpie Studios, Tia Kilduff with Stitch and Gather, Carolyn Nielubowicz with Created by Care and more. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Payton Wright Foundation.
Morton's Market, 1924 S Osprey 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
In collaboration with local women-owned wellness business, Avida Luna Wellness invites guests to try something new, on their own or with a friend. Imagine three hours surrounded by nature, with intentional experiences to care for your body from the inside out. Tickets include IV hydration, yin yoga, a soothing sound bath, a take-home floral activity, light bites and a wellness beverage. The exact address of this event will be shared with registered attendees upon ticket purchase.
The Sarasota Speaker Series presents Building an Unconventional Business, bringing together three local leaders at distinctly different stages of the journey: from a rapidly expanding young brand, to an established company navigating growth, to a Sarasota institution that has been making people laugh for nearly four decades. Hear Stacey Marks of Fly Dance Fitness, Bill Johnson of Brilliant Harvest and Les McCurdy of McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute. Networking opportunities and a VIP afterparty are included.
Community Center at The Bay, 803 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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
One Stop Cares presents its annual Thanksgiving community event, Hope Starts Here, bringing neighbors together for a traditional Thanksgiving meal while connecting people with local nonprofits, community organizations, county agencies and employment opportunities. MCR Health will bring its Dental Mobile Unit to the event, expanding access to oral health resources directly within the community.
The NEST Apartments Parking Lot, 2111 1st St., Bradenton
This walkathon and community celebration benefits the Sarasota community through grant funding, leadership development and volunteer projects. After the 4pm walk, a community celebration will kick off at 5:30pm with a DJ, food trucks, local businesses and wellness vendors. Continue the fun with an after par-tee at PopStroke UTC from 8-10pm.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota
Celebrate creativity at the Wellen Park Fine Art Festival and explore an outdoor gallery featuring original work by artisans from Florida and across the county. View paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber art, mixed media, woodworking and more. Meet the artisans, learn about their techniques and find one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, office or personal collection.
Downtown Wellen Great Lawn, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
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
