Venice, FL November 2025

Grateful, Thankful, Blessed!

During this season of giving thanks, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving reminds us of the power of gratitude, the joy of gathering with loved ones, and the importance of giving back in meaningful ways.

Our November issue celebrates those themes through stories of people and organizations that embody thankfulness and generosity both in words and deeds!

First, you’ll meet Medicare Specialist Karla Blake, whose faith and purpose have guided her through ten years of helping seniors navigate their Medicare choices—a milestone worth celebrating.

We also look to the future with Englewood's Suncoast Humane Society, which celebrates 54 years of service by launching its new $17.5 million campus. This state-of-the-art facility broadens the nonprofit’s reach, strengthens community education programs, and enhances lifesaving care for animals in need.

Gratitude shines again at Venice lifestyle retirement community Village On The Isle, where a milestone luncheon honored 25 staff anniversaries, recognizing employees whose dedication has shaped the community for as many as 30 years.

Because gratitude is more than a once-a-year reflection, “Practicing Daily Thankfulness Matters” shares simple ways to weave appreciation into everyday life. Last, but certainly not least, as part of our parent company, City Lifestyle, we are supporting the Annual Giving Campaign. Turn to page 30 to discover how to nominate someone in need of a helping hand this holiday season.

Life has its challenges, as we all know, but I hope the stories in this issue remind us that gratitude, thankfulness, and simple acts of kindness and care can lift our spirits and bring joy to our lives.

We are deeply grateful to our advertising partners, whose support allows us to share these uplifting stories, and to our readers and local businesses whose commitment to community strengthens Venice’s vibrant spirit.

As we gather this Thanksgiving, let’s reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives and share our gratitude in ways that uplift others. From all of us at “Venice City Lifestyle,” we are thankful for you—our readers, neighbors, and friends. Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and meaningful holiday.

With love and gratitude,

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Emily Leinfuss

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Glantz-1st Glantz Media

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

inside the issue

Karla

city scene

1: Rene Perry, owner of Breakwater Home Fashions in Wellen Park, showcases stunning, complementary décor pieces. 2: Thanks to Lisa McKenzie, Macy’s Dress Ambassador, Charmaine found the perfect dress and shoes at UTC Mall. 3: Leadership Venice Social Hour at British Open Pub. 2023 Classmates, Cordy Crane, Charmaine Tincher, Paul Cernansky & Alison McGowan. 4: CHEERS! Celebrating 100 Years of the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce supporting our local businesses. 5: Venice Art Center exhibition, “Through Their Eyes,” featured artwork by local Holocaust survivors Rita Geifman, 91 (Photo 5), and Yakov Tsatskin, 86 (Photo 6). Hosted by JFCS the show marked Geifman’s exhibition debut (Photo 7 is her work “Lemon-Laced Lilacs”). Tsatskin exhibited prints of originals housed at Israel’s Holocaust Museum. The event was facilitated by Talia Eckstein, a volunteer with JFCS Holocaust Survivor Services. Learn more at https://bit.ly/JFCSHolocaustSurvivors.

business monthly

Trinity Presbyterian Hosts Benefit Concert for C.A.M. Featuring The Padkovskyi Brothers

Trinity Presbyterian Church of Venice will host an evening of music and giving on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m. featuring the Padkovskyi Brothers of Ukraine—violinist Andrii, 15, and clarinetist Yurii, 21—joined by Sarasota Opera’s Jesse Martins. Proceeds support Community Assistance Ministry, aiding South Venice and Englewood residents. Admission is $10 at the door; seating limited to 250. 4365 Englewood Road, Venice. Contact musicdirector@trinitypc.org.

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Wellen Park Wine Festival Returns with Culinary and Wine Showcase

The Wellen Park Wine Festival returns Nov. 14–15 for its second year, featuring nearly 40 distinguished vintners and Downtown Wellen’s top restaurants. Presented by John Cannon Homes, highlights include a five-course Silver Oak wine dinner, an introductory tasting class, and the Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard. Festival organizers promise guests exceptional wines, new discoveries, and signature culinary experiences. wellenpark.com/wine

Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club Supports Foster Families with Back-to-School Drive

Members of the Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club (pictured) once again supported The TWIG Cares in Venice, donating backpacks, notebooks, crayons, pencils, and other supplies to help children in foster care start school prepared. The TWIG Cares, located on Pinebrook Road, welcomes foster families the first three Saturdays each month, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., for free shopping. venice-nokomiswomansclub.org, thetwigcares.com

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Venicedentist.com

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ - 1ST GLANTZ MEDIA

KARLA BLAKE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF HELPING OTHERS— AND THE LIFE JOURNEY BEHIND IT

GUIDED BY FAITH, FUELED BY PURPOSE

When you first meet Karla Blake, she might introduce you to her Labradors, Charlie and Bella. They pad around her home office, ever-loyal companions she calls her “best assistants.” But what stands out most is not the dogs or her desk piled with files—it’s her availability.

Those lifelong ties—along with her mom and nephews—became part of her foundation when she returned to Venice as a single mother. “There’s an instant camaraderie among Venice alumni,” she said. Her youngest son Nick also attended Venice High. "I wanted

“I BUILT THIS BUSINESS ON A WING AND A PRAYER!”

Her phone buzzes constantly with texts and calls, many from clients who have long since become friends. Sometimes they need Medicare help. Sometimes they just want to say hello. And sometimes, they ask her to pray with them.

This year, Karla is celebrating her 10th anniversary as a Medicare insurance specialist—a milestone that represents much more than professional success. It’s the story of a woman who rebuilt her life after divorce, raised four children alone, and leaned on faith, resilience, and service to create not just a career, but a calling.

Karla’s roots in Venice run deep. Born in New Jersey but raised here, she attended Venice Elementary, Junior High, and High School. Back then, the community was smaller and close-knit. “We rode bikes until dark, doors weren’t locked, everyone looked out for each other,” she recalled. She was a cheerleader for eight years, and the friendships she formed still enrich her life today.

to live closer to my mom. Venice was the best choice for us and God blessed it. Not that it wasn't hard to leave Ft Lauderdale where she'd lived for 25+ years. "I have many close friendships and a close church family there that, to this day, still bless my life."

Before insurance, Karla studied fashion merchandising and interior design and worked in both design and advertising. But when her children were born, she made a deliberate choice. “I didn’t want anyone else raising my babies,” she said. “I wanted to be their first teacher.”

She called her years as a Domestic Executive—the title she still embraces— her most important role: home-cooked meals, church involvement, and daily presence in her children’s lives. “The days were long, but the years were short,” she reflected. Today, her four children are grown, but she remains closely connected. “They still text me every day.”

After 21 years of marriage, Karla found herself divorced, with four minor children and no financial support. “I had to figure out how to keep the lights on and food on the table,” she said.

She turned to baking under Florida’s cottage law, selling cookies, muffins, and pies door-to-door. She walked miles each day, sometimes in intimidating places, determined to provide for her kids. “It was humbling,” she admitted, “but it kept us going.” In the summer, even her youngest joined in, carrying a basket and learning to count change. Karla called this her “humble pie” phase, a season of survival and grit.

A friend suggested she pursue an insurance license. At first, Karla dismissed the idea. How could she manage coursework and exams while raising four kids alone? But friends helped pay for her study course and exam, and she pushed through—even when she felt too sick to sit for the test. She passed, and in October 2015, launched her career.

Just months later, tragedy struck when her brother died suddenly. Despite the loss, she pressed forward, fueled by faith and the responsibility of caring for her family. “I built this business on a wing and a prayer,” she said.

Karla insists her Christian faith is not just part of her life—it defines who she is. “It’s not what I do, it’s who I am.” Clients often call her not just for insurance help, but for prayer, companionship, and support. She has connected clients with resources during illness, grief, or transition to nursing care. “It’s about being a kind human to another person,” she explained.

Her approach has built extraordinary loyalty. She maintains one of the highest client retention rates in her field, with most of her business coming through referrals. “When someone shares me with their friends, that’s the best compliment I could ever get.”

Today, Karla ranks among the top 30 producers nationwide for United American, one of her favorite insurance companies. She sends handwritten thankyou notes to every client and prays gratitude over each policy she writes.

Her success has also allowed her to give back. She’s active with local Chambers—Venice and Nokomis/

“My clients become family,” she said. “When they call me just to say hello, or when I grieve with them over a loss—that’s what this is all about.”

Osprey—which she credits with establishing her Venice presence. She also participated in Leadership Venice (2024) and the Citizens Police Academy (2024), and she’s involved with Venice Main Street, Sertoma, and Family Promise.

With her children grown and independent, she’s embracing new freedoms—from traveling, to serving her community, to checking off items on her bucket list.

Looking back, Karla is proud of what she’s built. “People see the success now, but I started with no capital, no business plan. Just hard work and faith.”

For her, the true measure of success isn’t rankings or revenue, but the relationships she’s built. “My clients become family,” she said. “When they call me just to say hello, or when I grieve with them over a loss—that’s what this is all about.”

A THANKFUL FUTURE FOR Animals in Need

Englewood-based Suncoast Humane Society launches new campus designed for animal enrichment

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

This year, Suncoast Humane Society of Englewood marked its 54th year with the opening of a new $17.5 million, 11-acre campus. Designed to give dogs, cats, and smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs their best chance at adoption, the campus represents a giant leap forward for animal welfare in the region.

“Our animals are so thankful that during their time with us, they can eventually let their true personalities shine,” said Christine Varcoe, Director of Development and Communications. The organization is equally thankful for the donors, volunteers, fosters, and adopters who make its work possible, she added.

That gratitude is connected to the vision brought by CEO Maureen O’Nell, who joined the nonprofit five years ago. Her goal was to create the optimal living situations for both felines and canines while tending to their emotional, social, and medical needs.

“Everything is about enrichment for the animals,” Varcoe explained.

Instead of rows of small cages, animals now live in spaces designed with their well-being in mind. The dog shelter features soundproofing, private outdoor areas for each kennel, large play yards, and even a swimming pool for exercise and socialization. Cats and kittens roam freely in “cat pods,” complete with private retreats and “catios”—enclosed lanais that overlook a butterfly garden.

The new campus also boasts a modern, high-quality, low-cost clinic focused on preventative medicine. “Every animal that comes to us goes through the clinic for preventative care and to help reduce the spread of disease,” Varcoe said. "We even have our own X-ray machine, plus maternity wards, recovery rooms, and a serene endof-life area.”

The clinic is also open to the community, providing affordable services such as spaying and neutering—a vital step in preventing pet overpopulation and reducing the number of animals that might otherwise end up homeless or in shelters. Additional services include nail trims, heartworm tests, and flea and tick prevention.

YOU CAN HELP!

Though the campus is open and thriving, the work isn’t finished. Hurricanes, delays, and rising costs pushed the project beyond its original $14 million budget to $17.5 million. Suncoast has secured most of the needed support but continues its “Building the Future” campaign to close the gap. (See sidebar for how you can help).

Beyond Englewood, the nonprofit’s reach spans 24 Florida counties and several states, as well as Puerto Rico. “Sadly, in many of those places, if the shelter is full, they euthanize for space,” Varcoe said. “There’s nothing wrong with those animals—they just need a chance. That’s what we give them.”

Education is also central to Suncoast’s mission. Programs for children include seasonal camps and school holiday activities, where kids learn empathy and responsible pet care by meeting shelter animals, interacting with visiting creatures like parrots, goats, and bearded dragons and the campus’ three permanent residents—capybaras. Adults can take part in creative offerings like as puppy yoga or attend lectures on pet health topics like heartworm prevention.

For Varcoe, the rewards of her work go far beyond the impressive facilities or campaign milestones. “What’s amazing is seeing animals transform—coming in scared, then leaving confident and ready to join a loving home,” she said. “I’m so thankful to be part of that.”

Donations to Suncoast Humane Society support essential operating costs and provide animals with proper nutrition, vaccines, medication, and enrichment. Volunteers stretch resources further by reducing staffing needs, while fosters and adopters give pets safe homes and second chances. Together, this community makes lifesaving work possible.

For details on donating, adopting, fostering, or volunteering, visit humane.org.

THE C O RN EL L B EHA VIO RAL H EA LTH PAVI L ION

The Cornell Pavilion is a safe, welcoming place for those struggling with mental health issues. With evidence-based programs and services, and the most experienced clinicians, lives are transformed, smiles return and our community grows stronger.

COMMUNITY SUPPO RT IS C R ITICAL TO ITS SUCCESS

Only 17% of SMH’s behavioral health costs are reimbursed.

Learn how you can make an impact, call 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org.

Practicing Daily Thankfulness Matters

Insights to Inspire

This Gratitude Journal and Inspirational Card Deck provides space and guidance to recognize positivity, shift perspective, and strengthen gratitude daily. Available at insighteditions.com.

Gratitude Aromatherapy

Awaken your senses to thankfulness with “Gratitude,” a Young Living Oils blend recommended by essential oil expert Stella Kilbourne (photo above). Find Stella’s YLO booth Sundays at Wellen Park Harvest Farmer’s Market.

Your Year of Gratitude

The 2026 Page-A-Day® Calendar offers 365 days of inspiring quotes, reflective questions, and gratitude prompts for cultivating daily thankfulness. Available at pageaday.com.

Empathy is Thankfulness

This boxed set of eight sympathy cards helps you express empathy and support when words are hard to find. Loved ones will be grateful. Available at hachettebookgroup.com.

This 600-page memo pad keeps gratitude close at hand—ideal for jotting reminders, reflections, and thankful thoughts at work, school, or home. insighteditions.com.

Charmaine turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

Venice City Lifestyle

SIXTIESMANIA®

A Journey Through the Sixties

Sunday, November 16, 2025 | 3:00 pm

NIGHTBIRD SWFL

The Ultimate Tribute to Stevie Nicks

Sunday, November 23, 2025 | 7:00 pm

THE TEXAS TENORS:

Deep in the Heart of Christmas

Monday, December 22, 2025 | 7:00 pm

BEE GEES GOLD: The Tribute

Sunday, January 4, 2026 | 7:00 pm

THE HIGHWAYMEN SHOW: American Outlaw

Tribute Band

Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 7:00 pm

TOBY: Tribute to Toby Keith

Staring Hollywood Yates

Sunday, January 25, 2026 | 7:00pm

PIANO MEN GENERATIONS

The Music of Billy Joel & Elton John

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

MARY ANNE COSTANZO

Saturday, January 31, 2026

3:00 pm + 7:00 pm

DOG ‘N’ BUTTERFLY The Heart Experience

Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 7:00 pm

HOTEL CALIFORNIA

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER THE SATTERLEE HARRIS JOINT FAMILY TRUST

Saturday, February 14, 2026

3:00 pm + 7:00 pm

SEALS & CROFTS 2

Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 7:00 pm

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE

The National Dance Company of Ireland

Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 7:00 pm

BOYS OF D63

Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 7:00 pm

THE SWEET CAROLINE TOUR

STARRING JAY WHITE

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

MICHAEL AND ANITA MCROBERT

Sunday, March 8, 2026 | 3:00 pm

CHANGES IN LATITUDES:

Tribute to Jimmy Buffett

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

MARY ANNE COSTANZO Tuesday, March 10, 2026 | 7:00 pm

CELEBRATING CELINE WITH JENENE CARAMIELO Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 7:00 pm

THE WILDFLOWERS

America’s #1 Tom Petty Tribute Saturday, March 28, 2026 | 7:00 pm

NATURAL WOMAN: A Tribute to Carole King Sunday, March 29, 2026 | 3:00 pm

QUEEN NATION:

Tribute to the Music of Queen

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

MARY ANNE COSTANZO Monday, April 20, 2026 | 7:00 pm

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

MILESTONE LUNCHEON CELEBRATES STAFF ANNIVERSARIES FROM FIVE TO 30 YEARS!

VILLAGE ON The Isle HONORS LONG-TERM EMPLOYEES

Village On The Isle (VOTI), a not-for-profit Life Plan community in Venice, celebrated the tenure of its long-term employees during a celebratory luncheon this summer. The community honored 25 employees celebrating a milestone anniversary this year, including five employees who have been at the community for more than 15 years.

“We’re proud of our community and the culture at Village On The Isle,” said Doug Feller, CEO at Village On The Isle. “VOTI values, empowers, and recognizes employees for making a difference in the lives of others. The fact that employees stay with us for 10 and even 20 years is a testament to this environment and the dedication of our team.”

During the luncheon, VOTI recognized Sales & Marketing Coordinator Carol Muldowney who celebrated her 30-year anniversary with the community this year. Carol started in the marketing department in 1995 and has been an integral part of the team ever since. For Muldowney, the position at VOTI has provided a fulfilling career.

“It’s so rewarding to see how happy people are after they move to VOTI,” said Muldowney. “They don’t have the worries and stresses of home ownership. It’s almost like they have a new lease on life.”

Mary Ann Ociesa, a Wellness Nurse at VOTI, was also recognized for 25 years at the community. Her supervisor, Resident Services Director Holly Borrero, recognized Ociesa during the luncheon and spoke of her commitment to residents and the community during her remarks.

“We have a genuine appreciation for all the impactful things that Mary Ann does every day to contribute to VOTI’s success,” said Borrero. “Her intuition is incredible and there’s no way to count the number of lives she’s saved or impacted during her 25 years at the community.”

During the milestone luncheon, VOTI recognized the following employees:

• 30 years: Carol Muldowney, Sales & Marketing Coordinator, Marketing

• 25 years: Mary Ann Ociesa, Wellness Nurse, Resident Services

• 20 years: Roxanne Richardson, LPN, Health Center

• 20 years: Judy McWilliams, Transportation Driver

• 15 years: Tracy Lombard, Unit Secretary/Central Supply, Health Center

• 10 years: Chrismithe Dhaity, CNA, Health Center

• 10 years: Dolores Jandreau, CNA, Health Center

• 10 years: Sherry Tray, CNA, Health Center

• 10 years: Derrick Neath, CNA, The Lofts

• 10 years: Suzanne Velasquez, CNA, The Lofts

• 10 years: James Magruder, Security Guard, Security

• 10 years: Denise Falls, Prep Cook, Culinary

• 10 years: Teresa Carrubba, Senior HR Generalist, Human Resources

• 5 years: Christina Mulrain, RN, Health Center

• 5 years: Rachel Gibbs, Clinical Nurse Manager, Health Center

• 5 years: Megan Welsh, RN, Heath Center

• 5 years: Tonia Fonseca, CNA, Health Center

• 5 years: Anne Obsaint, CNA, The Lofts

• 5 years: Annie Arroyo, Housekeeper

• 5 years: Martha Garcia, Housekeeper

• 5 years: Cass Azera, Project Manager

• 5 years: Robert Gonzalez, Security Guard, Security

• 5 years: Bruce Willis, Security Guard, Security

• 5 years: Rosina Rhodes, Dietary Technician, Culinary

• 5 years: Michael Eckhoff, Executive Chef, Culinary

“The luncheon is just one way we can honor our employees and their commitment to VOTI and our residents,” said Feller. “We’re so grateful for their dedication, hard work and years of service. It is because of them that VOTI is an incredible place to live and work.”

“We have a genuine appreciation for all the impactful things that Mary Ann does every day to contribute to VOTI’s success,” said Borrero. “Her intuition is incredible and there’s no way to count the number of lives she’s saved or impacted during her 25 years at the community.”

Play More, Pay Less $500 for Golf & Fitness!

Receive $500 per year for GOLF, SWIMMING, and TENNIS on Freedom Health’s Active Fitness prepaid benefit card. Contact your local agent today to learn more!

Freedom Health, Inc. is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Freedom Health, Inc. depends on contract renewal. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in our health programs and activities. Hablamos español y podemos ayudarle a encontrar el plan ideal para usted. If you speak a language other than English, translation and alternate format services are available to you on a standing basis, free of charge. Just call 1-800-401-2740 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Friday. The Active Fitness benefit is a monthly allowance towards the payment of facility access fees for golf, tennis, or swimming. The amount rolls over to the next month, but not to the next year. Benefits vary by plan. H5427_25_VeniceGolfAd_M 06/02/2025

PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

NOVEMBER 1ST-2ND

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

37th Annual Venice Art Festival

Historic Downtown Venice

Now celebrating its 37th year, the Downtown Venice Art Festival, held along West Venice Avenue from 10 AM to 5 PM, features more than 100 prominent artists from across the nation showcasing their creations. Find a diverse array of mediums including photography, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glass, mixed media, and more. Free admission. Learn more at visitvenicefl.org/organizer/howard-alan-events/

NOVEMBER 10TH

The Venice Concert Band – “Red, White & Blue”

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

Join the Venice Concert Band as they open the 2025–2026 season with a stirring and patriotic program that celebrates America. The concert will honor the men and women of our military while featuring music that pays tribute to our nation. Learn more at veniceperformingartscenter.com.

NOVEMBER 16TH

Motown Community Tribute to the Holidays

Tuscany Ballroom / 4:00 PM

This lively “FUNdraiser” for the Osprey Nokomis Chamber of Commerce (ONCC) Foundation – Community Care features entertainer Motown Ross Brown performing classic favorites for a nostalgic musical journey, along with a BBQ feast to enjoy. Proceeds from the event and a silent auction go to support ONCC Foundation nonprofit members addressing health, hunger, and housing. For details, visit ospreynokomisflorida.com/events/motown-community-tribute-to-the-holidays.

NOVEMBER 21ST-22ND

Sarasota Ballet Program 2: “Written Motion”

Sarasota Opera House

The Sarasota Ballet’s Program Two features Sir Frederick Ashton’s long-lost "Valses nobles et sentimentales," revived in 2012 and praised as a “softly dazzling masterstroke.” A World Premiere by renowned choreographer Ashley Page debuts, marking his first collaboration with the Company. Rounding out the program is Mark Morris’ The Letter V, a lively work set to Haydn’s Symphony No. 88. sarasotaballet.org

NOVEMBER 23RD

Nightbird SWFL – The Ultimate Tribute to Stevie Nicks

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

Experience "NightBird," Florida’s premier Stevie Nicks tribute, at Venice Performing Arts Center. Renowned vocalist Angela Chang captures Nicks’ soulful essence, joined by elite musicians delivering Fleetwood Mac classics and solo favorites. With guitar, bass, percussion, and harmonies weaving magic, this nostalgic, high-energy performance promises an unforgettable evening by the sea. Don’t miss this enchanting tribute concert! veniceperformingartscenter.com

NOVEMBER 29TH

2025 Venice Holiday Parade – All Aboard the Centennial

Downtown Venice | 6:30 PM

The 2025 Venice Holiday Parade kicks off the city’s holiday season and launches Venice’s 18-month Centennial Celebration. This year’s parade, held in downtown Venice, will honor the city’s history with the Venice-Nokomis Woman’s Club serving as Grand Marshal. Find details on the parade route and more at venicegov.com/things-to-do/featured-events-attractions/venice-holiday-parade.

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