Lakewood, FL April 2026

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EVERY ABILITY BELONGS BRUNCH Presenting

Lakewood

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Sponsors

Investing in What Matters Most

As we welcome the April Investment Issue of Lakewood City Lifestyle, I find myself reflecting on how the word investment means something different to each of us. For some, it’s financial strategy. For others, it’s time, relationships, or the legacy we are building for the next generation. In our community, it is all of these things intertwined.

When I launched this magazine in August of 2023, it was not just a business decision. It was an investment in people. It was a commitment to create a platform that uplifts local businesses, strengthens connections, and tells the stories that shape the future of Lakewood Ranch. Over the past year, we have seen firsthand the power of strategic investment, both financially and relationship-wise. Through partnerships, events, and community initiatives, we have contributed more than $115,000 locally and brought together hundreds of families, entrepreneurs, and leaders who share a vision for growth and impact.

This issue is designed to bring clarity and confidence to the topic of investing. Whether you are navigating real estate, wealth management, lending, or business ownership, the experts featured here are not only professionals in their fields, they are neighbors who are deeply invested in this community’s future. They understand that true wealth is not built overnight. It is created through intentional decisions, long-term perspective, and a willingness to take calculated risks.

One of the most powerful lessons I have learned in both life and business is that the best investments rarely feel comfortable in the beginning. Starting this publication required faith, resilience, and the courage to move forward even when the outcome was uncertain. Many of the entrepreneurs and professionals you will read about in these pages share a similar story. They chose growth over fear, strategy over reaction, and vision over limitation.

As you read this issue, I encourage you to think beyond numbers. Consider where you are investing your time, your energy, and your influence. Are you building something that will outlast you? Are you creating opportunities for others? Are you aligning your resources with your values?

At Lakewood City Lifestyle, our mission is rooted in servant leadership, integrity, family, and excellence. We believe that when individuals invest in their gifts and in one another, entire communities are transformed. Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey, and for allowing us to continue investing in the people and stories that make this place extraordinary.

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jessi Neitzel | jessi.neitzel@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Sean Averso | sean.averso@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Numann, Kristi Sellers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alec Paris Photography, Photo Guru SRQ, Gulf Coast Realty Media, Visual Lift Media

JESSI NEITZEL, PUBLISHER @LAKEWOODCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Smart Homes Start at the Window

Smart investments go beyond markets.They elevate how you live every day. Blinds and Designs of Florida helps homeowners increase property value, privacy, and energy efficiency through custom window treatments designed for Florida living. From motorized shades to luxury drapery, every solution blends technology, design, and long-term durability. Because true wealth is comfort, control, and beauty, in the spaces where life happens. An investment in your home is an investment in your lifestyle. Call: 941.877.5878 to schedule your free consultation.

Investing in Strength, Energy, and Longevity

At HOTWORX UTC, members are redefining what it means to invest in themselves. Combining infrared heat, virtual instruction, and efficient 24-hour workouts, HOTWORX delivers powerful results in less time, helping busy professionals prioritize health without sacrificing their schedules. Strong bodies, increased energy, and mental clarity aren’t just benefits; they’re assets that support career growth, confidence, and overall quality of life. Schedule your first session and experience the difference. Call-:941-210-4606

Selling Florida Worldwide

Experience Real Estate Excellence

For my sellers, I provide strategic pricing, premium marketing, and strong negotiation to maximize your home’s value and ensure a smooth sale. For my buyers, I offer tailored guidance, property matchmaking, market insight, and full support from search to closing, making the process seamless and enjoyable. Whether buying or selling, my focus is simple: exceptional service and results that move you forward with confidence.

An Investment in Every Mile

Recognized as a three-time XPEL Signature Partner and Automotive Dealer of the Year from 2023 through 2025, Sage Auto Studios continues to set the national standard in vehicle protection and enhancement. Ranked among XPEL’s Top 10 shops in the country for four consecutive years, their expertise in paint protection film, ceramic coatings, and window tint preserves both performance and long-term value. For discerning owners, protecting your vehicle is not an expense, it’s a strategic investment in longevity and excellence.

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Clarity in Lending

Turning Mortgages into Strategic Financial Tools

Many buyers approach the mortgage process thinking in terms of approval amounts and interest rates. But seasoned financial planning goes far beyond qualification. It considers cash flow, long-term wealth building, lifestyle flexibility, and risk management.

Chris Galli, Regional Manager at Novus Home Mortgage, works with clients to reframe how they think about home financing, not as a transaction, but as a strategic financial decision.

Q: MANY PEOPLE THINK MORTGAGES ARE SIMPLY LOANS. HOW DO YOU FRAME A MORTGAGE AS A FINANCIAL RESOURCE RATHER THAN DEBT?

“A mortgage is fundamentally different from consumer debt,” explained Galli. “It’s leveraged capital tied to a tangible asset that has historically appreciated over time.”

Unlike depreciating purchases, such as vehicles, real estate has historically shown steady long-term appreciation. Even at a conservative 3–4% annual growth rate, a $500,000 property could grow to approximately $580,000–$610,000 over five years, depending on market conditions and compounding.

“When structured properly, a mortgage becomes a hedge against inflation and a longterm wealth vehicle,” he said. “It shouldn’t just be viewed as a monthly obligation.”

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN PHOTOGRAPHY BY GULF COAST REALTY MEDIA

Q: IN TODAY’S MARKET, HOW DOES BUYING A PRIMARY RESIDENCE DIFFER FROM BUYING AS AN INVESTMENT?

“The intention behind the purchase drives the entire strategy,” said Galli. A primary residence prioritizes lifestyle stability, family needs, and long-term personal equity growth. Investment properties, by contrast, focus on cash flow, return metrics, and tax efficiency.

“Once someone is clear about their goal,” he explained, “the mortgage structure becomes much more obvious. Strategy always follows clarity.”

Q: WHAT’S THE MOST COMMON MISCONCEPTION FIRSTTIME BUYERS HAVE ABOUT MORTGAGE READINESS?

“Many first-time buyers believe they have to be financially perfect before starting the process,” Galli noted. “In reality, preparation and clarity matter far more than perfection.”

He frequently meets buyers who assume:

• They must put 20% down.

• Their credit isn’t strong enough.

• They can’t qualify

“You can put as little as 0% with down payment assistance programs to 3 1/2% with FHA to 3% to 5% with conventional loans,” Galli advised.

Q: FHA, VA, AND OTHER LOAN TYPES CAN FEEL OVERWHELMING. CAN YOU EXPLAIN FHA IN SIMPLE TERMS?

“An FHA loan is designed to reduce barriers to homeownership,” Galli explained. “It’s especially helpful for first-time buyers or individuals rebuilding credit.”

• FHA loans typically allow:

• Lower down payments

• More flexible credit guidelines

• Competitive rates in certain credit tiers

“In some cases,” he added, “a borrower with a mid-600 credit score may actually receive a more favorable rate with FHA than with conventional financing.”

The key is evaluating which structure aligns best with the borrower’s long-term strategy.

Q: WHAT FINANCIAL HABITS IMPROVE MORTGAGE OPTIONS BEFORE APPLYING?

“Intentional credit management makes a significant difference,” said Galli.

He advises buyers to focus on:

• Stable income documentation

• Limiting new credit inquiries

• Maintaining low credit utilization

“A good benchmark is keeping utilization below 30%,” he explained. “For example, owing less than $300 on a $1,000 limit can help optimize scoring.”

Small adjustments made months in advance can meaningfully improve available options.

Q: HOW DOES AFFORDABILITY DIFFER FROM QUALIFICATION — AND WHY DOES THAT MATTER?

Qualification reflects what a lender will approve. Affordability reflects what a borrower can comfortably sustain.

“I always encourage clients to buy with margin, not at their maximum approval,” Galli said.

Flexibility protects lifestyle. Stretching to the limit can create financial strain, while conservative planning builds confidence and long-term stability.

“Comfort creates sustainability,” he added.

Q: WHAT OVERLOOKED COSTS SHOULD BUYERS CONSIDER BEYOND THE MONTHLY PAYMENT?

Homeownership carries expenses beyond principal and interest.

“Maintenance, taxes, and insurance often increase over time,” Galli explained. “Those variables should be factored into long-term planning.”

Rather than focusing solely on what’s technically possible, he encourages clients to consider what feels sustainable across changing economic conditions.

Q: FOR FIRST-TIME INVESTORS, WHAT STRATEGIES SHOULD BE EXPLORED EARLY?

“All simple, stable strategies tend to outperform overly complex ones,” Galli noted.

One example is house hacking: purchasing a duplex, living in one unit, and renting the other to offset mortgage costs.

Another option is a Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan, which qualifies based on the property’s income potential rather than the borrower’s personal income.

“These tools open doors for buyers who understand the math behind the property,” he said.

Q: WHAT LESSON CONSISTENTLY SEPARATES STRONG LONG-TERM OUTCOMES FROM SHORT-TERM DECISIONS?

“The clients who prioritize planning and flexibility over speed consistently achieve better results,” Galli shared.

Homeownership works best as a long-term strategy. When approached thoughtfully, it becomes a stabilizing financial pillar rather than a burden.

Q: IF READERS WALK AWAY WITH ONE TAKEAWAY, WHAT SHOULD IT BE?

“A mortgage shouldn’t be the goal,” he said. “Financial flexibility should be.”

When structured strategically, a mortgage supports life, it doesn’t restrict it.

To explore your options and build a mortgage strategy aligned with your longterm goals, visit novushomemortgage.com to connect with The Galli Team.

Novus Home Mortgage is a division of Ixonia Bank, NMLS 423065. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

INVESTING FOR EVERYDAY LIFE

Practical strategies to align your money with your life, goals, and future

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTO GURU SRQ

Investing is often portrayed as something complicated, exclusive, or reserved for people with advanced degrees or large bank accounts. For many everyday investors, the language alone can feel intimidating. Terms like diversification, risk tolerance, and asset allocation can sound abstract and overwhelming, especially when people are simply trying to plan responsibly for

“Investing is not about being bold. It’s about being aligned.”

their future. But financial education does not have to be complex to be effective.

At its core, investing is about purpose. Jorge Diaz, owner of Valor Guard Financial, begins conversations by reframing how people think about money. “Investing isn’t just about picking stocks or timing the market. It’s about giving your money a job so you can support your life later,” said Diaz. For families in Lakewood Ranch balancing careers, kids, and long-term goals, this mindset shift can be especially powerful.

One of the most intimidating concepts for new investors is diversification. Diaz often explains it using everyday experiences rather than financial charts. “Let’s say you only have one computer. One laptop, and that’s all you have. So what happens when the laptop breaks?” said Diaz. He shared that this exact scenario happened to him recently, reinforcing

the idea that relying on a single tool or investment can create unnecessary vulnerability.

Risk tolerance is another term that often causes anxiety, yet Diaz believes risk is already part of daily life. “People always talk about not wanting to be riskaverse, but in reality, we’re taking risks every single moment in our lives,” said Diaz. Understanding risk becomes less frightening when it is viewed through familiar experiences.

Many people delay investing because they believe they are not ready. Diaz sees this misconception frequently. “One of the biggest misconceptions that they believe is that they need to have a million dollars to get started,” said Diaz. Another common belief is that debt must be eliminated first. “They have to be debt-free to get started with any sort of financial planning, which is not true either,” he explained.

According to Diaz, planning is often what helps people move from debt toward stability.

Age also plays a role in how money should be approached. “In your 30s, your money forgives you,” said Diaz. “At your 50s, your money remembers.” Younger investors typically have more time to recover from market downturns, while older investors often seek greater predictability and protection.

Retirement planning can feel especially overwhelming, but Diaz breaks it down into manageable steps. “Retirement is not a lump sum problem,” said Diaz. “It’s not something that has to be completely resolved today.” Instead, he encourages people to think in stages. “We found something to break into chunks onto buckets and start filling those buckets out as time passes,” he explained.

When markets become volatile, Diaz reminds clients to stay focused. “For the long run, not for the short term,” said Diaz. He also uses simple explanations to describe asset allocation. “It’s how you decide where your money lives, right, based on when you need it and what it is for,” he said. Ultimately, “allocation is turning uncertainty into structure,” advised Diaz.

As a veteran, Diaz brings discipline and resilience to his work. “Everything we do has a purpose,” said Diaz. “Life is never going to be a one-trick pony.” That mindset shapes how he helps families adapt and plan through change.

“Investing is not about being bold. It’s about being aligned,” said Diaz. He often sums it up simply. “The right investment is the one you can stick with in real life.”

By breaking down complex ideas into relatable concepts, Diaz helps everyday investors gain clarity, confidence, and a stronger foundation for the future.

Local Experts

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9 4 1 2 4 1 7 9 4 9 | G u l f C o a s t H o m e s S e a r c h c o m

By Dick Smothers

I love 20 Minutes to Fitness... here’s why. I get a special joy from the fact that I’m doing something for myself that I know is helping me become a stronger, more fit, 75+ year old.

I first came to 20 Minutes to Fitness in 2008 and it was nothing I had ever experienced in my life. I had been around gyms for many years and I was quite aware of all sorts of workout philosophies, but never this one. In and out in about twenty minutes? This I had to see. I saw it and I’m still here.

In 2011, I embarked on an extended road trip in my RV that took me to the west coast and points in between and I couldn’t keep up my workout program. I didn’t pick it up again until last year. I knew that I had lost some muscle mass and was curious to see how soon I could get it back... I was amazed!

With every session I’m getting stronger. My stronger body makes my life easier and more enjoyable. My trainer is an excellent coach and, I think accepts the fact that I like to talk while I’m working out, but that’s just how I do it. It’s not mandatory to be a motor mouth.

I’ll ask her things like, “Did you add weight? How much? How much time did I do last time? How much time have I done so far? Is that all? You’re kidding... I don’t think I can do anymore!” She’ll say, “Yes you can, try one more.” I try, I do one more and it is not easy, but quite often I find enough strength to do another one after that.

That’s what it’s all about. That’s the genius of this program. I exhaust my muscle groups with a high weight for my ability and a low number of slow repetitions... once a week. I don’t have to do three sets of ten, two to three times a week at the gym. This is a medically based, scientifically proven training program performed on unique specialized equipment with extremely knowledgeable coaches in a semi-private non-gym environment.

I bike, swim, stand up paddle-board, dance, yoga, meditate, take naps and more. I live with a great sense of gratitude of the blessing God has given me. I don’t take anything for granted, including my muscles.

Since I added “20 Minutes to Fitness” to my life, I’m doing just fine, thank you!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Now living in Sarasota, Dick Smothers is best known for being the younger half of the musical comedy team the Smothers Brothers. He has trained at 20 Minutes to Fitness in Sarasota since 2008.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

INVESTING IN LIFE’S MOST IMPORTANT MOMENTS

How The Najmy Thompson Law Firm helps families and businesses protect wealth, legacy, and future generations

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS

In Florida, life tends to unfold in beautiful, vivid chapters. A longawaited move to the coast. The purchase of a dream home. The launch of a family business. Retirement plans years in the making. Each milestone carries excitement, joy, and often, a large amount of paperwork. For many, navigating those moments becomes much easier with a steady legal partner. Enter Najmy Thompson Attorneys at Law: not simply as a law firm, but as a trusted presence entering into the everyday lives of the people it serves.

A HISTORY GROUNDED IN RELATIONSHIPS

Najmy Thompson’s story is one of thoughtful growth. “Our firm started in early February 2009. The founding law partners of our firm are myself, my brother, Louis Najmy, Stephen Thompson and Rick Weller.” said Joe Najmy.

Over the years, the firm has evolved into a multi-practice legal team serving clients across Florida, while holding firmly to the values that shaped its foundation. Initially, Najmy Thompson worked out of two offices - one in Bradenton and the other in Lakewood Ranch. They also employed two associate attorneys and an additional ten staff members in various capacities.

According to Najmy, “We started our firm at a time when our local economy and our national economy (and certainly the worldwide economy) were at a very low point. Nevertheless, we were all then confident and seasoned lawyers----each of us having a very active client base that needed our legal services.”

Najmy Thompson has continued to build and grow in Florida. Their experience is evident in the day-to-day practice and the results they obtain.

“Now, over 18 years later, we have a total of 18 lawyers in our firm, and, including paralegals and legal assistants, we have a total (firmwide) of 50 employees. From the standpoint of our office locations, in addition to our original Lakewood Ranch and downtown Bradenton office sites, we have added an office in St. Petersburg”, said Najmy.

Najmy started his professional career as a practicing CPA in Sarasota in 1983. Since graduating Florida State law school in 1989, Najmy has practiced estate and trust law exclusively for over 35 years---with the last 25 of those years working full-time from the firm’s current Lakewood Ranch office – – dating back to some of the most earliest days of doing professional business in Lakewood Ranch.

MORE THAN JUST BUSINESS - IT’S FAMILY

At its heart, the Najmy Thompson law firm is guided by a philosophy that feels deeply personal. Beyond case files and legal strategies, the firm recognizes that every decision - from estate planning to business structuring - ultimately affects the people clients care about most.

According to Najmy, “We also place great emphasis on family values. We believe family values are very much a part of the estate planning process and very much a part of the culture of our firm. My son and nephew, Justin Najmy and Bill Najmy, come from large national law firms from Tampa and are now practicing with me in our estate and trust group. Michael Smith, our transactional and corporate and succession planning expert has been practicing at our firm since its inception.”

THE ESTATE AND TRUST GROUP AND OTHER PRACTICE AREAS OF THE FIRM

One of the firm’s defining strengths is the range of its practice areas, carefully aligned with the decisions and transitions many face.

Estate and Trust Planning for the future is deeply personal, yet it’s a task many delay. Najmy Thompson’s attorneys help clients move beyond hesitation, guiding them through wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives with patience and clarity.

Nearly all of the firm's estate planning and estate and trust administration work is carried out at its Lakewood Ranch office. In addition to Najmy, the firm has 7 LLM (advanced law degree educated) tax, estate planning, and elder care specialized lawyers. From a client service standpoint, the Lakewood Ranch estate planning and estate and trust administration group is as active as any in the Manatee and Sarasota county area.

According to Najmy, “Our bandwidth is broad. We work with clients that would view themselves as ordinary residents of our local area. At the same time, we typically perform some of the most sophisticated planning techniques for those clients that need specialized services.“

BUSINESS AND CORPORATE LAW

Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. The firm works with businesses at every stage, from formation and structuring to contracts, compliance, and succession planning. For many owners, the relationship becomes ongoing, built on trust and familiarity.

REAL ESTATE LAW

In a state where property is both an investment and a lifestyle choice, real estate transactions can quickly become complex.

From residential purchases to commercial matters, the firm assists clients in understanding contracts, protecting assets, and avoiding costly missteps.

CONDOMINIUM AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION LAW

The firm also maintains a dedicated community association law practice that provides comprehensive legal counsel to condominium associations, homeowners associations, developers, and individual owners, specializing in governance, bylaw amendments, assessment collections, covenant enforcement, dispute resolution, and litigation under applicable state statutes.

LITIGATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION

When conflicts arise, clients benefit from measured, strategic representation focused on resolution rather than unnecessary escalation.

MORE THAN A LAW FIRM

“In addition to providing highly competent and exemplary legal services, our firm places great emphasis on client communication and accountability. For example, no client call to our firm is ever answered by a voicemail response message” says Najmy.

Legal representation supports the life clients are working so hard to build. It protects dreams, provides safety for families, and creates structure for the future.

Through its history, wide-ranging services, and people-first philosophy, Najmy Thompson Attorneys at Law continues to demonstrate that law doesn’t have to feel cold or overwhelming. It can feel collaborative, and reassuring.

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in Passion INVESTING

Why Luxury Automobiles Are More Than Just Assets

ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEC PARIS PHOTOGRAPHY

In Florida, where sunshine shines off polished chrome and highways invite weekend drives, car culture feels less like a hobby and more like a lifestyle. At the center of that lifestyle for many enthusiasts sits Sage Auto Studios - an automotive studio that understands a truth often overlooked in conversations about vehicles: these machines are far more than assets. They are emotional investments, rolling expressions of identity, and in many cases, treasured works of art.

Sage Auto Studios has built its reputation by catering to owners who see their vehicles not simply as transportation, but as passion projects. Whether it’s an exotic supercar, a meticulously maintained classic, or a beloved daily driver, each automobile that enters the studio is treated with the same philosophy.

Meet Alex Nodel, founder of Sage Auto Studios. The passion he has for assisting his customers with protecting their investments is highly evident. He understands the obstacles with today’s auto market and how that affects the buyer.

According to Nodel, “After COVID, auto production went down and hasn’t returned. Manufacturers are producing less and making smaller runs. Now, prices are going up on new cars and used cars. EV cars didn’t really catch on and those sales are down.”

So what does that mean for the current market?

“Used cars can go up in value and people want to protect them”, says Nodel.

Sage Auto Studios has everything a customer could need to protect the investments they have made and keep them in great condition for years to come.

WHERE PASSION MEETS PRESERVATION

For collectors and enthusiasts alike, ownership is deeply personal. A vehicle may represent years of ambition or a lifelong dream. Sage Auto Studios recognizes that protecting such investments requires more than technical skill - it demands respect for the emotional value attached to it.

Paint protection film (PPF) has become one of Sage Auto Studio’s signature services, offering an almost invisible shield that guards against rock chips, scratches, and road debris. In Florida’s challenging environment - intense UV exposure, heat, and coastal elements -this protection becomes essential.

Ceramic coatings, another one of Sage Auto Studio’s offerings, amplify gloss while defending paintwork from contaminants and fading. The result is a finish that endures. For owners, that means less worry about decline and more freedom to enjoy the drive.

For drivers seeking the perfect balance of comfort and protection, Sage Auto Studios offers premium XPEL Ceramic Window Tint. Engineered with advanced nano-ceramic technology, this high-performance tint blocks excessive heat, reduces glare, and shields interiors from harmful UV rays — all without interfering with visibility.

LUXURY CARS AS EMOTIONAL INVESTMENTS

Traditional financial thinking tends to frame vehicles through the lens of depreciation. But Sage Auto

Studios works daily with clients who understand a broader perspective. While some luxury automobiles indeed appreciate in monetary value, nearly all deliver something equally significant: emotional return on investment.

There is the thrill of acceleration, the satisfaction of flawless detailing, and the pride of seeing a vehicle presented at its absolute best. Sage’s meticulous auto detailing services go beyond the typical wash-and-wax routine. Paint correction restores depth and clarity. Interior treatments revive materials to like-new condition. No detail is left unturned.

Luxury vehicles are expressive, but customization elevates that expression further. Sage Auto Studios has become known for helping owners translate personality into automotive design.

Vinyl wraps transform vehicles through bold color changes, satin finishes, or textured effects that would be impractical with traditional paint. Window tinting blends visual sophistication with functional benefits - heat rejection, UV protection, and enhanced comfort.

At Sage, each project becomes a collaboration between client and craftsman.

MORE THAN A STUDIO

Step inside Sage Auto Studios and you’ll immediately feel the difference. The space feels curated, polished, and welcoming.

Conversations flow easily between technicians and clients. Things just feel easy and “at home” here.

Nodel speaks highly of his team. “We have an amazing staff with hardly any turnover. It’s all a team effort and we are so honored to have such talent under one roof. I also have amazing business partners, Matt Ancona and Wyatt Misztak. Couldn’t imagine doing this business without them.”

Sage Auto Studios has cultivated an environment where relationships matter as much as results.

PROTECTING VALUE — FINANCIAL AND EMOTIONAL

For owners of high-end and specialty vehicles, proper care directly influences long-term value. Condition remains one of the most critical factors in resale and collectability. Sage Auto Studios operates at the crossroads of appearance and asset protection, ensuring vehicles retain their brilliance over time.

But the studio’s impact extends beyond future resale considerations. By preserving finishes, enhancing finishes, and maintaining pristine condition, Sage Auto Studios protects something less tangible yet equally vital: owner satisfaction.

Interested parties can drop by Monday through Friday to tour the facility and experience the possibilities to protect your own auto investment.

INVESTING IN Every ABILITY

How inclusion strengthens families, builds futures, and transforms our community

ARTICLE BY JESSI NEITZEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABILITY TO INCLUDE

In a world where investment is often measured by numbers, portfolios, and returns, some of the most meaningful investments cannot be quantified. They are measured in confidence gained, families supported, and futures made brighter. In Lakewood Ranch, one organization has been making this kind of impact for nearly two decades.

Ability to Include is more than an adaptive recreation program. It is a community movement rooted in the belief that every child, every adult, and every family deserves connection, opportunity, and belonging. Under the leadership of Executive Director Chris Collins, the organization continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact across our region. For 19 years, Chris has served children and adults of all abilities right here at Lakewood Ranch Park, becoming the region’s oldest and longest-running adaptive recreation program. Over that time, they have worked with more than 1,000 participants, including one athlete who has attended every season since 2007.

What makes Ability to Include truly unique is its holistic approach. Their programs go far beyond adaptive sports. They promote inclusion by welcoming siblings into activities, strengthening family bonds rather than separating them. They also provide wraparound services, including social skills development, advocacy, and case management, equipping families with tools and support that extend far beyond the playing field.

The ripple effect reaches even further. Through partnerships with more than 100 medical students from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), Ability to Include is helping shape the next generation of physicians. These future doctors gain invaluable experience learning to communicate, connect, and care for individuals of all abilities. The impact of this work will not only be felt in Lakewood Ranch, but throughout the state and across the country as these students go on to serve communities everywhere.

CONTINUED >

This is what investing in everyday life truly looks like. It is not always about financial growth. It is about strengthening the foundation of a community. When families feel supported, children build confidence, and future professionals develop empathy, the return benefits everyone.

However, programs like this do not grow or sustain themselves without the partnership of local businesses and community leaders. As Ability to Include continues to expand its services and meet the increasing needs of families in our region, sponsorship support has become essential. Community investment allows the organization to provide adaptive programs, professional support services, and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach for many families.

“Sponsorship is not simply about funding a program,” shared Collins. “It’s about investing in people, in families, and in the future of our community. When local businesses partner with us, they are creating opportunities for inclusion, confidence, and connection that impact lives for generations.”

At Lakewood City Lifestyle, we believe the strongest communities are built when businesses, organizations, and individuals come together to invest in people. That is why we are proud to support Ability to Include and its mission to create a more inclusive, connected, and empowered future.

You are invited to be part of that investment. Join us for the inaugural Every Ability Belongs Brunch: Mimosas with Meaning on Saturday, April 18, from noon to 2:30 p.m. at Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. Hosted by Ability to Include and supported by presenting sponsors Keys to Your Best Life with Jennifer Salome and Dawn Tillette, Edge Therapies, and Lakewood City Lifestyle, this inspiring afternoon will highlight the families and stories behind the mission while creating opportunities for new sponsors to engage and make a lasting difference.

To learn more, become a sponsor, or reserve your seat, visit abilitytoinclude.org/rsvp. Together, we can invest in a future where every ability truly belongs.

Why This Matters

Inclusion is not just a social value. It is a strategic investment in the strength and future of our community. When children and adults of all abilities are given opportunities to participate, families feel supported, social connections grow, and barriers are replaced with understanding. Programs like Ability to Include help build confident individuals who contribute meaningfully to schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. They also shape future leaders, educators, and healthcare professionals through hands-on experience and empathy. The return is lasting: stronger families, more connected communities, and a culture where every person is seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.

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gchomewatch.com | 941-241-3334 gchomewatch.com | 941-241-3334

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 3RD

Music in the Park – Spring Concert Series

Bradenton Riverwalk | 6:00 PM

family-friendly music series featuring local musicians. These outdoor concerts are held on Fridays in the spring at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion. The 2026 spring concerts will be held Fridays, April 3–May 1, from 6–8 p.m. at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion.

APRIL 4TH

Siesta Key Easter Egg Hunt

Siesta Key Chapel 4615 Gleason Avenue Siesta Key, FL 34242 | 9:00 AM

Annual Siesta Key Easter Egg Hunt. This fun-filled morning includes photos with the Easter Bunny, children’s games and activities. Registration is required. Fee is $15 per child and limited to 200 children ages 1-8. Each child who pre-registers will receive a festive Easter goodie bag. Children should bring a basket or tote bag to carry their collected eggs.

APRIL 10TH

Lakewood Ranch Block Party

8102 Lakewood Main St, Bradenton, FL 34202 | 6:00 PM

Join us on Lakewood Ranch Main Street as we celebrate life on the Ranch at our annual Block Party, in partnership with Lakewood Ranch Community Activities and Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance. This free event features live music, beer trucks, activities, and the chance to meet with local businesses, builders, groups and clubs that call Lakewood Ranch home.

APRIL 12TH

Sunday Polo

Sarasota Polo Club | 10:00 AM

Sunday Polo matches are open to the public every Sunday at 1pm, December 21st 2025 through April 12th 2026. Gates open at 10am. Join thousands of fans each week for exciting polo action, opening parade, live national anthem, theme weeks, half-time entertainment, wagon rides, food, drinks and traditional divot-stomping.

APRIL 18TH

Every Ability Belongs Brunch

7650 Legacy Blvd Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | 12:00 PM

Come listen directly from families who we have had the pleasure of working with through advocacy, recreation, and education and enjoy an amazing lunch prepared by @lakewoodranchgcc

APRIL 29TH

Assassins

3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130, Sarasota, FL | 7:30 PM

Our nation’s most notorious assassins gather on stage to violently pursue a twisted American Dream. A multiple Tony Award-winning theatrical tour-de-force, Assassins combines Sondheim’s signature blend of intelligently stunning lyrics and beautiful music with a panoramic story of our nation’s culture of celebrity and the violent means some will use to obtain it.