Issuu

New Kids In Town

LI F E + C U LTU R E

PAM, SAW YER & SCH RO EDER FIN D A TRU E CO M MU N IT Y SW FLO RIDA’ S U KRAI N IANS SU PPO RT TH E WAR EFFO RT A R T S + C U LTU R E

VEN I CE’ S DAN IELLE N ERI SU RVIVES A D OU BLE WHAM MY

M AY 2 022

Another “NEW” Single Family community by

Where location is everything

Phase I Homesites Starting from $154,900 Phase II Coming Soon

A new 151 -Single Family Home Community superbly located north of Laurel Road along Kings Way Drive. Enjoy the convenience of being close to 1-75 (Exit 195) the new Sarasota Memorial Hospital, schools, beaches, restaurants and shopping. Call Today! 941.941.0892

Beaches Sarasota Memorial Hospital

ASK ABOUT OUR OTHER "NEW" COMMUNITIES: ARCATA DEL SOL 20 Single-family (1 and 2 story) Courtyard Homes with two-car garages and quaint courtyards for swimming pool, spas, fire pits and more; located along E. Venice Ave. just minutes from downtown Venice and the beaches.

CALL TODAY! FURNISHED MODEL NOW OPEN!

CASSATA POINTE 1 REMAINING ESTATE HOMESITE ALONG ROBERTS BAY IN NOKOMIS, FL. DOCKS WITH LIFTS INCLUDED. CLOSE TO SCHOOLS, BEACHES, RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING, AND THE NEW SARASOTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL.

LAKESIDE COTTAGES

COTTAGES OF VENICE

14 cottage homes located on Albee Farm Rd.

36 cottage homes located on E. Venice Ave.

DON’T MISS OUT, CALL TODAY! Pro Group Realty and Property Management, LLC • ProGroup-Realty.com • 941.786.9403 or 941.244.0982 All community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change, prior sale or withdrawal at anytime without notice or obligation. Drawings, photographs, renderings, video, scale models, specific home or lots are approximate for presentation purposes only and may vary. Nothing on any of our websites should be construed as legal, accounting or tax advice. Although this information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and should not be relied upon without personal verification. MPS DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION, LLC - 625 N. Tamlami Trail, Venice, FL 34285 - 941.441.1441

A Change of

Scene A Change of

Pace

Village On The Isle—your destination for peace of mind, community, security and so much more. Village on the Isle is not just any retirement community. It’s also a never-ending vacation community. With ocean breezes and coastal sunshine, f riendship and fun, laid-back luxury, and peace-of-mind plus on-site health care—for life. So, make a change. Enjoy a new view and a new, caref ree you. Village On The Isle is Venice’s only Continuing Care Retirement Community (Life Plan Community). Come discover for yourself why savvy seniors choose Village On The Isle!

920 Tamiami Trail South, Venice, FL 34285 | (941) 202-2533 www.VillageOnTheIsle.com/Change OIR #88005

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Women's Issue

May 2022 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Happy May, Venice! We love to celebrate these gorgeous Spring days with our annual Women’s Issue. It’s an opportunity for us to feature some of the many great women in our community, who are always up to amazing things and doing so much good for their friends and neighbors. This issue is also a chance for us to give you some Mother’s Day gift and celebration ideas. Life has changed dramatically in our community over the past few years with growth like few of us have ever seen. The current boom has brought a whole new set of folks to Venice who are younger, with many still raising children. The women in this issue reflect these new arrivals. On our cover this month—shot by our intrepid and talented photographer Stephanie Snow—we are pleased to feature Pam Hilse—Member Relations Manager at the Venice Yacht Club—her son Sawyer, and their dog, Schroeder. Make sure to read our feature on Pam on page 24. You’ll learn about her amazing career in Hollywood and why she feels like she’s found a true community here on the Gulf Coast. Next, turn to page 30 and meet the plucky Danielle Neri. Danielle sold a business in Chicago to move here for the laid back lifestyle we all enjoy. Unfortunately, the pandemic began soon after she arrived, and then she tore her ACL. Her story about what she did next is one of optimism and creativity. Sandra Rieth at Simply Renew Med Spa in North Port has a new endeavor: Simply Boutique, a new store right in her luxurious spa where she offers fine, American made clothing and accessories. In our Events section this month, you’ll find details on everything happening at The Venice Symphony, Apex Boxing & Fitness, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, and more. Our City Scene section covers major fundraising events that happened recently including Agape Flights’ Open House, the Venice Yacht Club Foundation’s annual bicycle ride, and the Venice Symphony’s Roman Holiday Ball. Again this month, Venice City Lifestyle is offering you the chance to win a trip to Denver. Check out the details on page 38. Lastly, we are proud to feature the efforts of our Ukrainian-American neighbors to raise funds and materials to help refugees and the war effort in Ukraine. Learn how you can help! Happy reading, Venice! And Happy Mother’s Day to all!

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @VENICECIT YLIFEST YLEMAGAZINE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ VENICE |

Tony D'Souza | tony.dsouza@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Antanette Ray CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Tony D'Souza, Lori Nuti, Wendy Rose CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Stephanie Snow Photography, Serenko Natalia, Oleksandrum, Tiki Taxi, Dr. Barry Gordon, Mel-Haven, The Goldton At Venice

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Venice City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Venice area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Venice City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

WELLEN PARK WELCOME CENTER RECOGNIZED AS NATION’S BEST

Original and community-focused, the Wellen Park Welcome Center captures a true sense of place, telling the story of Wellen Park through art installations, interactive displays, and even a vintage Piaggio Apé Italian truck. It’s also the best in the United States. The center won the National Association of Home Builders’ prestigious 2022 gold award for Best Community Welcome Center. Winners are decided by industry leaders and announced during The Nationals, the NAHB’s annual awards program lauding the best in communities, homebuilding and interior design. “Our Welcome Center was thoughtfully and intentionally designed to convey the story of Wellen Park in an authentic and genuine way that reflects the community,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “We’re honored by this national recognition and are reminded every day how truly special our Welcome Center is when residents and locals stop by for breakfast or a craft beer, to meet up with friends or to see the newest exhibit by our artists in residence.” Vivid orange and blue accents, pulled from the local landscape of fiery sunsets and the waters of the nearby Gulf of Mexico, speak to the community’s vibrant lifestyle of imagination and innovation, where anything is possible. Featuring the retrofitted Apé truck as the center’s reception desk, the 5,000-square-foot Welcome Center was created as a social gathering destination, encouraging guests to hang out in the large living room and lounge areas or outside on the patio shared with the Barrel & Bean cafe overlooking Downtown Wellen, now under construction. It’s also the spot where residents of Wellen Park and the wider region enjoy a variety

of events related to the months-long “Countdown to Downtown” series celebrating the future downtown. “The Welcome Center is the precursor of more wonderful things coming soon in Wellen Park, especially the completion of Downtown Wellen later this year,” Masney said. “It embodies the easygoing spirit of this special place, heartfelt connections, and the community’s emphasis on wellness, fitness and time outdoors.” Wellen Park’s vibrant lifestyle, homes and neighborhoods are introduced as guests explore the center. Video walls, touchscreen maps and interactive digital displays give visitors the opportunity to view sideby-side comparisons for neighborhood and floor plan options to start their homebuying journey. A gravity-defying vertical bicycle display speaks to the community’s 18 miles of trails while a floor-to-ceiling moss wall provides a topographical site map highlighting Wellen Park’s proximity to the Myakka River. A mobile cart serves as an art pop-up for local artists and underscores Wellen Park’s partnership with the North Port Art Center. In homage to Wellen Park’s relocation of 26 heritage live oaks, Sarasota artist Alexis Fraser (known as Lipstick Lex) created “Heartfelt Connections,” an 8-by-10-foot commissioned work featuring a tree comprised entirely of lipstick kisses. Masney said the piece represents love, joy, positivity and the empowerment of doing right by the trees. “It’s a popular spot for residents and visitors to engage, take photos and truly connect,” she noted. Consistently ranked among the U.S.’s top fastestselling master planned communities annually by prominent real estate consulting firm RCLCO, Wellen Park offers a mix of residential, commercial and recreational options.

WELLENPARK.COM VISIT OUR WELCOME CENTER 12275 Mercado Drive, Venice, FL 34293

(941) 271-0116

M AY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Ladies’ Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

20 ‘Slava Ukraini!’

Lifestyle Letter

Efforts To Aid Ukraine Are Underway Through The Local Ukrainian-American

City Scene

Community, Local Ukrainian Churches, And Many Others.

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Our Town

Local Limelight

LI FE + C U LT U R E

Maker’s Studio

A RTS + C U LTU R E

30 Double Whammy!

Gift Guide

Danielle Neri Came To Venice For The Laid Back Vibe And The Weather. Then The

Events

Pandemic Hit And She Tore Her ACL.

Travel Journal

24 New Kid On The Block

After Years In Los Angeles And Utah, Pam Hilse And Her Son, Sawyer, Are Thriving Here In Venice

34 The Boutique At The Spa

Simply Renew Med Spa In North Port Has Expanded Its Retail Offerings By Opening Its Own Store: Simply Boutique

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Stephanie Snow Photography Pam Hilse, her son Sawyer and their dog Schroeder are part of a younger wave of new arrivals giving our region a fresh, new makeover. Pam is the Member Relations Manager at the Venice Yacht Club.

LI FE + C U LT U R E

S HO PPI NG

T R AV EL

M AY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: Agape Flights held its annual Open House for the community this past March. Sponsors Nick Girka of Girka Design Build and Kory Elleby of Sunshine Electrical Services. 2: Attendees enjoyed pizza from Michael Bacon’s Brew-Za-Bagels, a Venice City Lifestyle advertising partner. 3: Agape Flights was featured in our March issue. It flies supplies to missionaries in the Caribbean. 4: Kids had the opportunity to practice ‘flying’ on a flight simulator at the event. 5: Superheroes including Superman, Spiderman and Batman were on hand, and the Batmobile made an appearance! 6: Over 700 community members attended. 7: The event raised $54,000. Pictured here are Venice’s Vice Mayor Nick Pachota with his wife, Kate, of Sharky’s On The Pier. Photography by Agape Flights

C I T Y SC E N E

11 14

8: The Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation held it’s 5th Annual ‘Ride For A Better Community’ in February. 9: The 12 mile ride around Venice Island is the foundation’s major annual fundraiser. This year raised $74,000. 10: Many of the riders will be donating volunteer hours to a Habitat for Humanity house, the eighth house for the foundation. 11: The riders departed and finished at the Venice Yacht Club. 12: The winners of the ride were celebrated at the pancake breakfast held at the club. 13: Volunteers at the event. Since 2010, the foundation has donated $860,000 to more than 25 local charities. 14: Wayne Hall crosses the finish line! It was a beautiful, fun day on the island. Photography by Venice Yacht Club Foundation

CONTINUED >

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

15: More than 200 guests attended A Roman Holiday Ball, The Venice Symphony’s biggest social event and fundraiser of the season. Pictured: Glenn and Barbara Jackson, Committee Chair. 16: Christine Kasten, President and CEO of The Venice Symphony, and Chad Kasten. 17:The event was held at the Plantation Golf and Country Club. From left: Debbie Mahle, Karen Herman, Jill Yelland and Karen Riley. 18: Patricia Dunlap, Penny Corell, Christine Kasten, Maureen Bentley and Barbara Jackson. The fundraising goal was exceeded by 100%. 19: The evening included dinner, dancing & live auction. Pictured: Brad Speckerman and Maria Pappas. 20: From left: Lissa and Steven Ledbetter, Victoria and Andy Stultz, Dee Dee and Alex Osley, and Caitlin and David Joyner. 21: Music Director Troy Quinn with Emma McCormack and Symphony Board Member Casey Riley, who won the chance to guest conduct the orchestra at the 2022 Holiday Concert. Photography by The Venice Symphony

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @VeniceCityLifestyleMagazine

C I T Y SC E N E

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M AY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. The Contour Day Spa's Lori Bailey Joins AMI Faculty The Contour Day Spa is proud to announce that founder Lori Bailey has been selected to join the faculty of Allergan Medical Institute (AMI). As AMI faculty, Lori is part of an elite group of professionals who are recognized as leaders in CoolSculpting and body contouring who now train other providers nationwide. This new role is a vote of confidence in Lori and the excellent reputation of her Venice spa, which opened in October 2019. 405 Commercial Court, Suite A, Venice. 941.777.4448. TheContourDaySpa.comStephanie Snow Photography

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Melanie Smith Founds Her Own Firm: 'Mel-Haven Engineering' After 15 years working on some of the most notable engineering projects in Sarasota County, Melanie Smith founded her own firm, Mel-Haven Engineering, LLC, in January. Mel-Haven Engineering provides civil engineering, design and permitting support for all types of land development, from mixed-use, to residential and commercial. The new company's philosophy and motto is 'Passionate Engineering.' 941.468.3742. Melhavenengineering.com

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New Director Of Sales & Marketing At Goldton At Venice Lori Nuti has been named Director of Sales & Marketing at The Goldton At Venice, an exciting new upscale retirement community. Lori has more than two decades of experience in senior living. She was a Board-Certified Music Therapist for individuals with dementia, Director of Resident Programs & Company Programming Mentor for two large senior living companies, and the Marketing & Sales Director for high-end luxury retirement communities. Lori relocated from Houston with her rescue Yorkie, Milo. Welcome, Lori! 108 Bella Verde Blvd. Nokomis. 941.259.6412. TheGoldtonatVenice.comThe

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Venice

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M AY 2 0 2 2

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Looking for new and exciting ways to have a fun daytime adventure or a memorable girls' night out? Grab your gal friends and get out on the town! The staff here at Venice City Lifestyle have put together a list of offbeat, quirky and wild experiences that are all available right here in our very own Venice. After all, friendship is built through sharing great times and making hilarious, unforgettable memories. Be safe, take good care of one another, and most of all have fun!

Gals on the Town TIKI TAXI OF SAR ASOTA: Cruise the lovely waters in and around Venice with

five girlfriends on the Tiki Taxi! Enjoy adult beverages and leave the driving to Captain Eric.421 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey, FL TITO GAONA'S TR APEZE ACADEMY: Take a leap with a few adventurous girlfriends. Tito Gaona, the premier trapeze artist in the history of circus, helps even beginners learn to fly. 1401 Ringling Dr, Venice, FL KEY CULINAR Y TOUR S: Take a culinary walking tour with your girlfriends! Key Culinary Tours stops at Venice restaurants and specialty shops, and gives fun facts about Venice's history. 1235 2nd St, Sarasota, FL NOKOMIS PUBLIC BEACH: Head to the Nokomis Beach Drum Circle on Casey Key. Every Wednesday and Saturday evening join together with Drummers, Musicians, Dancers, Hoopers and Spinners. 201 S Casey Key Rd, Nokomis, FL WAR M MINER AL SPR INGS PAR K: Relax in the soothing waters and enjoy spa services at Warm Mineral Springs in North Port. Featuring Swedish, Signature, Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone massages. 12597 Tamiami Trl S, North Port, FL

Tiki Taxi

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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IT ’S NEVER TOO L AT E TO H AVE A

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‘Slava Ukraini!’ EFFORTS TO AID UKRAINE ARE UNDERWAY THROUGH THE LOCAL UKRAINIAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY, LOCAL UKRAINIAN CHURCHES, AND MANY OTHERS.

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY DR. BARRY GORDON, OLEKSANDRUM When Russia invaded Ukraine in February, the Ukrainian-Americans of Southwest Florida went into action to help provide relief. According to Ihor Hron, the former National Commander of the Ukrainian-American Veterans and the current President of the Ukrainian-American Men’s Club of Southwest Florida, there are around 12,000 to 14,000 UkrainianAmericans living between Sarasota, Venice, and especially North Port. “We are sending aid through our churches,” Ihor says. “If other people want to help, giving monetary contributions is the easiest way. The churches are partnering with different organizations within Ukraine such as the Ukrainian Humanitarian Fund to get the donations to the right people.”

Pictured from left: Irinia Strylka, Donna Sachse, Bob Jordan, Jurga Lee, Ruta Jouniari, Andrius Butkus, Nadija Packauskas, Cara Whisenant, Dennelle Winnans.

D EUR O PATOWN RT M E N|T L|IFE CATEG + CUORY LTURE

Ihor’s very own priest, Father Vasyl Petriv of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, left North Port in March to serve as a chaplain in the Ukrainian Army. “The last we heard from him, he was on the Polish border,” Ihor says. Money donated to Ukraine will be used for humanitarian aid and to purchase equipment for the Ukrainian Army. It’s not just Ukrainian-Americans working to help democratic Ukraine survive Russia’s brutal invasion. Epiphany Cathedral Catholic Church in Venice donated all of its Ash Wednesday collections to Ukraine relief. (Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School is a Venice City Lifestyle partner.) Cash and material donations are also being raised by the Lithuanian Society of Sarasota. That organization’s President, Ruta Jouniari, takes collections during business hours at the Compassionate Cannabis Clinic, where she is Chief Operating Officer. “We check in with the Ukrainian Embassy and they tell us the things that Ukraine needs,” Ruta explains. “Right now it’s baby formula, Army grade bandages, sutures, burn treatments, medications. A group of pharmacists in North Port and Englewood came through with a huge $200,000 donation of medical

materials. We are working with a shipping company in New Jersey that sends everything directly to the Lviv Hospital in Ukraine. We’d really like to thank Dr. Barry Gordon (the clinic’s founder) for supporting these efforts with the donated space.” While much of the world is surprised by the strong defense being waged by Ukraine, Ihor is not. “MacDill Air Force base has a program that trains foreign officers,” he explains. “When Ukrainians have been there over the past ten years, some of our Ukrainian-American Veterans go to meet them. We have seen them getting better. The past two to three years, these young soldiers, both male and female, are dedicated and professional. The training they have received from the United States and other NATO countries has made them a formidable fighting force.” St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, North Port 941.426.7931 St. Andrews Ukrainian Church 941.426.9745 Compassionate Cannabis Clinic 425 Commercial Ct., Suite C, Venice. 941.586.2426

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

CoolSculpting® is the world’s leading non-invasive fat reduction procedure. It is FDA cleared and requires little to no downtime. Contour is the only spa in Venice dedicated to CoolSculpting® with certif ied specialists focused solely on helping you achieve optimal results. Feel more conf ident and more comfortable in your clothes in just a few months!

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The world’s f irst radiof requency microneedling platform is now in Venice, exclusively at The Contour Day Spa! VirtueRF treatments stimulate collagen to tighten loose or sagging skin on your face & body, improve f ine lines & wrinkles, scars, sun damage or stretch marks.

BEFORE

AFTER

(941) 777-4448 405 Commercial Ct., Suite A Venice, FL 34292 TheContourDaySpa.com

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW

AFTER YEARS IN LOS ANGELES AND UTAH, PAM HILSE AND HER SON, SAWYER, ARE THRIVING HERE IN VENICE

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

New Kid In Town Sawyer, Schroeder, and Pam.

Pam Hilse is the ‘new kid in town’. She’s part of a welcome and refreshing wave of newcomers here in Venice who’ve brought tons of energy and vitality with them. These new arrivals are younger, extremely professionally savvy, and many are raising children. They’ve been attracted to Venice by our strong sense of community. Member Relations Manager at the Venice Yacht Club, the lovely and vivacious Pam made the decision to move here with her son, Saw yer, and dog, Schroeder, after enjoying a piña colada and sunset at Shark y’s. “I visited a friend here in April, 2019, and loved it,” Pam says. “I began working with Michael Saunders’ Margaret Kennedy to find a home. In June, 2019, I bought in Gran Paradiso, and by July, was living here. I’m a single mother and my son and I have always been a team. I quickly began meeting other people who had moved here to give their kids a better quality of life like I had.” Born and raised in Milwaukee, after high school Pam left for Los Angeles where she landed a position at a post-production film facility. She quickly moved up the ladder, and over the next decade, worked on blockbuster films like Seabiscuit, 8 Mile, Jurassic Park 3, and many others. As a freelance production and travel coordinator for Universal Studios, she spent her days with people like Eminem and General Hal Moore, whose story was the basis for the highly acclaimed We Were Soldiers.

The desire to start a family and escape LA’s gridlock saw her move to Midway, Utah, near Park City. Even though her job as manager of the Silverado Lodge at the base of Canyons Ski Resort kept her busy, Midway’s traditional Mormon community remained closed to her. She found herself deeply unhappy, something she's rarely felt. “Midway’s families had been there for generations,” Pam explains. “I’m Catholic and I could not find a way in. It was certainly a beautiful place and I have fond memories of sledding with Sawyer and Schroeder, and learning to ski myself. But Sawyer wasn’t invited to his classmates’ birthday parties and I became a shell of who I’d been. I learned that I need a supportive community around me to thrive.” She quickly found that community here in Venice. “The smell of the sea, seeing Sawyer play on the beach—Venice has been heaven,” Pam says. “We’re certainly thriving. Sawyer earned a perfect score on his fifth grade FSA Math test and received a medal and certificate from the governor. He’s in the Young Marines at Venice Middle School and wants to play tackle football next year as a wide receiver. We’ve been through a lot, that’s for sure. But I’ve lived by my motto, ‘Laugh a little everyday, even if it’s at yourself,’ and we’ve gotten through our hard times and now are surrounded by community. I couldn’t be happier to be here in Venice.” 1330 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice. 941.488.7708. VeniceYachtClub.com

CONTINUED >

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Sawyer & Pam

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941.451.9668

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Double Whammy!

DANIELLE NERI CAME TO VENICE FOR THE LAID BACK VIBE AND THE WEATHER . THEN THE PANDEMIC HIT AND SHE TORE HER ACL.

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

D EAK M PAERT R’SM ESTNUT D|IOCATEG | A RTS ORY+ CULTURE

Danielle has been grooming dogs for nearly 20 years. Her business in Chicago was called 'Magic Scissors.'

The year 2020 delivered Danielle Neri a true ‘double whammy’. Not only had the pandemic struck just after she moved here from here native Chicago, costing her the dog grooming job she had lined up in Englewood as her prospective employer saw a sudden dip in business, but that September, Danielle also tore her ACL while preparing for a jiu-jitsu competition. “I’d sold my dog grooming business that I’d had for almost 20 years because I was done with the winters,” the plucky Danielle explains. “I visited everywhere in Southwest Florida, and loved Venice because it wasn’t hectic. As soon as I bought a home, a perfect storm of bad things happened. I decided to look on the positive side and to find new opportunities.” Danielle built a network of friends through Nokomos Sunset Hut in Nokomis, people who were also suffering setbacks because of the pandemic. She stayed connected to the community through them and used social media— specifically Next Door—to share her love for dog grooming and art. Based on designs she’d seen at Pop’s Sunset Grill, she began painting the palm fronds that fell in her yard. She made funny, glow-in-the-dark adult-themed

Danielle's palm frond artwork.

key chains that turned into hot sellers, and also decorated concrete skulls, honoring her fire fighter and police friends. “I don’t know if it's the sunshine here or what, but I’ve just been in a better mood no matter what’s happened,” Danielle says. “I love not living under the noise of O’Hare Airport, not being stuck in traffic. People are more laid back here. It’s all good vibes.” By October 2021, Danielle had recovered from her injury and surgery. The extended downtime had allowed

“I don’t know if it’s the sunshine here or what, but I’ve just been in a better mood no matter what’s happened.” - Danielle Neri CONTINUED >

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

her to focus her attention on her two dogs, Luna and Cora, and her two cats, Cubbie and Gloria. She found peace in her artwork, was soon teaching kickboxing and offering personal training at Apex Boxing & Fitness, and again practicing with her Gustavo Machado jiu-jitsu team. “I had huge responses when I put my artwork on Next Door,” she says. “And my dog grooming took off immediately. I learned so much about myself during that year, as well as about this community. Everything that happened to me taught me that I really am where I am supposed to be. It’s all made me better and stronger.” Contact Danielle at: Danielleneri@yahoo.com Danielle is a kickboxing teacher and personal trainer at Apex Boxing & Fitness.

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | A RTS + CULTURE

Allegro Bistro

1740 EAST VENICE AVE. | VENICE

(941) 484-1889 ALLEGRO-BISTRO.COM

ITALIAN - AMERICAN FUSION LIVE JAZZ

Tuesday & Thursday Night

OPEN MIC Wed Night

50’S/60’S LIGHT DANCE

Happy Hour 4-6 Nightly

FRI & SAT NIGHT

DOORS OPEN AT 4:00 PM Closed Mondays

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

The

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Boutique At SIMPLY RENEW MED SPA IN NORTH PORT HAS EXPANDED ITS RETAIL OFFERINGS BY OPENING ITS OWN STORE: SIMPLY BOUTIQUE

STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

The Spa

The next time you head down to Simply Renew Med Spa in North Port for a facial, skincare or Botox, make a little extra time for shopping! Simply Renew has recently opened its own retail store, Simply Boutique, right inside the luxurious spa. “We had an unused space in the spa and our clients like to browse products and look at new items as they wait for their appointment,” says Sandra Rieth, Simply Renew’s owner and founder. “Lisa Valby who works with me has owned boutiques in the past. I asked her for her advice and she helped me get everything organized and going. In December, Simply Boutique had a successful open house, and has been growing through word-of-mouth ever since. Lisa’s now the boutique manager. We chose our products based on input from our clients and the things we like ourselves. We both travel to some of the major national clothing shows to find new, unique lines that are an affordable price point along with great quality. Our clients like soft fabrics and colorful things that work here in Florida. We look to showcase lines made by women-owned businesses in the US. We offer a different and eclectic variety of clothes, accessories and beautiful candles made locally. Come in and take a look!” 2564 Commerce Parkway, North Port. 941.893.4677. SimplyRenewMedSpa.com.

G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G

Simply Boutique’s model Ericka Wood

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

M AY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

M AY 4 T H

The Goldton at Venice Reveal & Taste of Italy Event

PLAN TATION G OLF & COUN TRY C LUB | 5 :30 P M The Goldton at Venice will hold its 'Reveal & Taste of Italy Event' at the Plantation Golf & Country Club on Wednesday, May 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Currently under construction in Nokomis, The Goldton at Venice is an exciting new luxury retirement community. Attendees will be treated to delicious Italian food and beverages. Please RSVP to attend. 941.259.6412. TheGoldtonatVenice.com

M AY 6T H & 7 T H

Venice Symphony's Special Event: Songs From the Screen & Stage With Linda Eder

VEN ICE PER FOR MIN G ARTS CENT E R | 7 :30 P M Broadway Star Linda Eder performs stage and film favorites with The Venice Symphony. Linda has been compared to Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand and sells out concerts all over the world. Stephen Mosher wrote in Broadwayworld.com in December 2019, “Being in a room with Linda Eder when she sings is to experience pure musical mastery and heaven on earth." Thevenicesymphony.org

M AY 1 7 T H

4th Annual 'BFF' May Celebration: Business & Professional Women Englewood/Venice

PLAN TATION G OLF & COUN TRY C LUB | 5 :1 5 P M In honor of the special women in their lives, BPWEV hosts its 4th Annual 'BFF' May Celebration. Invite the special female in your life: mother, daughter, sister, niece, granddaughter, friend, neighbor, co-worker etc., for a delicious dinner. Fun entertainment provided by 'The Shark Sisters' and Katie Malloy. Chances for great prizes! Contact Irene Slattery 941.416.2360-$35. Advance registration required.Bpwev.org

M AY 2 1 ST

Epiphany Home And School Association Presents: First Annual Epiphany Golf Classic

WATERFORD G OLF CLUB | 8 :30 A M Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School's mission is to provide excellence in education, nurture a loving relationship with God, and build a caring community that serves others. The first annual Epiphany Golf Classic will be hosted by Epiphany's Home and School Board Association at the Waterford Golf Club. Green fees and lunch for a foursome is $400. Other sponsorship levels available. Ecstigers.com

M AY 2 1 ST

Pop-Up Outdoor Bootcamp With Apex Boxing + Fitness

CEN TEN N IAL PARK | 10:30 AM Meet at the Centennial Park gazebo at 10:30 AM every third Saturday of the month for a complimentary popup outdoor bootcamp with Apex Boxing + Fitness. Read our feature about Apex trainer Danielle Neri on page 30 of this issue. Apex is an open and class-based gym in Nokomis offering boot camps, boxing, and personal training.249 Tamiami Trail South, Nokomis. 941.786.9491. Apexboxingandfitness.com M AY 2 8T H

Patriotic Pops Concert And Fireworks

ATLAN TA BRAVES ' COOLTODAY PA R K | 6 :30 P M The Atlanta Braves' CoolToday Park will host a Patriotic Pops Concert featuring Troy Quinn and The Venice Symphony with Rockpella. Fireworks will be a part of this amazing show! Tickets will go on sale starting March 10 at CoolToday Park, as well as at Ticketmaster.com. CoolToday Park is the Braves' beautiful, new Spring Training facility. Please call 941-207-8822 for more information.Thevenicesymphony.org

EVE N TS

A Mad Hatter Event benefiting

ALICE

ASSET LIMITED, INCOME CONSTRAINED, EMPLOYED

SAVE THE DATE!

Full service jewelry repair

May 21, 2022 6 - 10PM United Way of South Sarasota County 4242 S Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34293

Couples Tickets: $75 Individual Ticket: $50 FOOD/DRINKS | DANCING | COSTUMES/KARAOKE Women United is a division of United Way and this event helps us to raise donations in support of our mission against evictions. You can help keep people in their homes and stem the tide on evictions in our community! For more information call 941-484-4811 or email Barbara Cruz at Barbara@uwssc.com

or Christina McCauley at

cmccauley@habitatsouthsarasota.org

• Chain soldered • Clasps replaced • Watch links removed/added • Tight rings made loose • Loose rings made tight • Prongs replaced • Engravings • Tips rebuilt • Rolex & Watch Repair • Heads replaced • Eyeglass Repair • Shanks replaced • Custom Jewelry Designs • Stones tightened • And more! • Pearls re-strung Jewelry repair while you wait i s b y a p p o i n t m e n t o n l y.

REFLECTIONS

In Gold

EST. 1982

1975 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL VENICE, FL 34293

A joint CEO event hosted by:

941-493-1911 I ReﬂectionsInGold.com

Christina McCauley & Barbara Cruz United Way of South Sarasota County is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit agency. Sponsorships and donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. The tax treatment of corporate sponsorship contributions should be discussed with your tax professional or legal advisor. UWSSC Federal ID number is 59-1100846.

@rigjewelry

@reﬂections_in_gold

@reﬂecionsingold941

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Get Away to the Mile High City Where the Mountains and Metropolitan Lifestyle Vibrantly Coincide

Visit Denver When you think about Denver, what immediately may come to mind is the gateway to the stunning landscape of mountain peaks with an abundance of recreational activities. But what you might not realize is just how unbelievable the urban experience is in this extraordinary city set at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Our team of local lifestyle fanatics at City Lifestyle are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Denver to present a customized visitor’s guide and exclusive GIVEAWAY* to this mile-high destination.

WIN a 3-night Weekend GETAWAY to Denver! City Lifestyle and Visit Denver are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Denver and Cherry Creek North with a uniquely curated hospitality itinerary. With three days filled with complimentary hotel, food, entertainment and shopping experiences, the only thing you need to do is arrange transportation to and from Denver. This giveaway closes on May 31, 2022. The trip must be taken by the end of 2022. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitdenver on Instagram and tag unlimited friends and family on the May 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

$4,000 DENVER GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • • • •

3-nights at Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek North Dinner at Local Jones After dinner cocktails at B&GC $500 Cherry Creek North Shopping Spree Admission to Denver Art Museum Dinner & Drinks at Bigsby’s Folly Craft Winery Tickets to Red Rocks Amphitheatre Admission to Meow Wolf: Convergence Station Immersive Art Experience

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Photography @so_gnarcreativedivision

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

WE ARE YOUR TRUSTED ADVISORS FOR ANYTHING VENICE. Ho m e Wa t ch / Ma n a ge m e n t , Pa rt y Pl a n n i n g & Cate ri ng, Ge n e ra l Ho m e Du t i e s A s s i s t a n ce .

Our Retirement Lifestyle Lets You Be You! Personalized Full-Service Independent Living with Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Healthcare Services On-Site.

Make An Appointment To Visit Today!

941.445.0319

Call (941) 408-2050 Get To Know Us On A Personal Tour...

3600 William Penn Way, Venice Florida • www.JacarandaTrace.com ALF10358

WWW.NANCYSCONCIERGESERVICES.COM MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E