Venice, FL September 2023

FASCINATING PEOPLE. FASCINATING LIVES.

The active, wellness-centered lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of in a community filled with fun and (you guessed it) fascinating people. Spacious residences and amenities that put the good life right at your fingertips. A hoppin’ social calendar that includes exercise classes, lifelong learning, celebrations and events including our wildly popular “VOTI Cabaret”. If you’re bored here, there’s a good chance you’ll be bored anywhere. Seriously.

Add guaranteed priority access to 5-star healthcare and you’ve got the perfect combination of independence and security you’ll only find at Venice’s only licensed Life Plan Community (also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC).

Limited apartments available— schedule your tour today by calling 941-275-6690

Ride. Enjoy. Live life to its fullest. Repeat.

Dr. Frank Lewicki | Dr. Brent Beyer | Dr. Charles Davis

Fall Special

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Style!

The well-known adage that 'beauty is only skin deep' says that it's important to look beyond someone's outside appearance, and that the real measure of beauty is 'an inside job.' The same is true about what constitutes Style!

As you peruse and read through this, Venice City Lifestyle's September Style issue, you'll see what we mean. Style is not limited to the clothes we wear or the way we adorn ourselves; it encompasses every aspect of our lives. From the way we decorate our homes to the way we contribute to our community - style permeates every facet of our existence. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives.

That's why, for our cover story, we asked our lead photographer, Stephanie Snow, to capture the spirit of the inimitable Lori Bailey. Lori, the Co-Founder, and Spa Director of Venice's Contour Day Spa, reveals how she cultivates the joie de vivre (enjoyment of life) she so clearly embodies in "5 Tips for Embracing Personal Style & Ageless Elegance."

In "2023 Bathroom & Kitchen Trends Revealed," Interior Designer Patty Morton asserts that marrying beauty with function is essential for the way we live today, and that 'practicality' is one of this year's biggest design trends.

Take a look, with us, at the newest boutique-style home furnishings and décor emporium in Downtown Wellen Park – Breakwater Home Fashions. A labor of love for its owners, Mike and Rene Perry, the store is a shopping must for anyone who wants to bring the feeling and energy of the outdoors and the seashore into their homes.

Also highlighted in this issue are the wonderful Playhouses built by Wellen Park and its construction partners for Habitat for Humanity of South Sarasota County's Cottages for Kids Program. They truly are a testament to the creativity and community of everyone involved.

Of course, every month we bring you, our readers, community news (Business Monthly), goings-on (City Scene), and an expert medical update from AMA Health Providers of Venice.

As individuals, we have the freedom to embrace established styles, blend them together, or forge entirely new paths, becoming trendsetters ourselves. We hope this issue inspires you to forge new paths or perhaps explore familiar ones. There is so much here in Venice to uplift our spirits, boost our productivity, and ignite our creativity.

What I've found is that the best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that's something no one on earth can duplicate!

Here's to being uniquely you!

September

PUBLISHER

2023

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Leinfuss, Lori Bailey, Dr. Wesley Hendricks

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stephanie Snow, Emily Leinfuss, Wellen Park

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

@VENICECITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

Proverbs 3:5-6

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER

Wellen Park introduces two new neighborhoods

Wellen Park, one of the nation’s top-selling communities, introduces even more choices for a fun-filled lifestyle and single-family homes with EVERLY and Lakespur, two new neighborhoods with amenities designed to foster connections and elevate every day. The neighborhoods also mark the debut of new homebuilders, are close to Downtown Wellen, CoolToday Park, and planned schools, and will connect to Wellen Park’s future Oakheart Nature Trail.

“We’re pleased to introduce new builders in EVERLY and Lakespur,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “The neighborhoods enhance the character of this special community and appeal to homebuyers representing all age groups and stages of life.”

EVERLY, Wellen Park’s first multi-builder neighborhood, features custom homes by John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes and Neal Signature Homes, as well as luxury homes by Homes by WestBay, with many homesites and an amenity campus nestled along its signature 50-acre lake. Home sales have started, and six models are under construction.

The professionally decorated models, expected to open from late 2023 through second quarter 2024, showcase EVERLY’s collection of 2,550- to 4,200-square-foot homes and the infinite custom possibilities available to homebuyers – from sweeping outdoor living areas with fire features, pools and spas to exciting new concepts for libraries, media rooms and primary spa bathrooms.

EVERLY exudes luxury from its entry, guiding motorists and pedestrians across a land bridge bordered by a fountained lake and introducing the coastal-inspired clubhouse and separate fitness center in grand style. Amenities include a social hall with a kitchen, a resort pool, private cabanas and indoor and alfresco gathering destinations for soaking in the Florida

sunshine and lakefront sunsets. EVERLY also offers pickleball courts, a chip-and-putt golf facility and event lawn. There’s also a fishing platform and a fireside lounge overlooking the lake.

Lakespur features homesites along lakes, heavily forested preserves and wetlands. With home sales beginning this fall, the first phase offers 138 single-family homes by national builders Lennar and Wellen Park newcomer Pulte Homes. Planned with a neighborhood amenity center and additional phases of single-family and multi-family residences, Lakespur offers a convenient walkable location to future school campuses. The multi-generational neighborhood was designed for families of all sizes and homebuyers of all ages.

“We believe residents of every age benefit from the energy and vibrancy of a multigenerational community,” said Severance. “In today’s society, a growing number of people say they only know a handful of their neighbors. They long for the social interaction and experiences they remember as kids, when their parents knew everyone on the street. Lakespur features a spot for food trucks and a lawn with outdoor games for intimate, community-centric events and activities.”

The neighborhood also offers a cabana building with a party kitchen, a pavilion, fire pit lounge, dog park and a shaded playground. Canopies create a lounge area around the pool, which features a sun shelf and lap lanes.

Lakespur home sales start this fall with the anticipated opening of professionally designed models. Lennar and Pulte offer a variety of one- and two-story floor plans featuring builtin flexibility, an emphasis on outdoor living and open-concept designs creating large main living areas.

For more information about Wellen Park, call 941-271-0116, 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice, Fla. The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mystique home plan at Lakespur

Mainstay II home plan at EVERLY

Starting from $159,900

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20 Single-family (1 and 2 story) Courtyard Homes with two and three 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.

“ASK ABOUT OUR READY HOMES”

FURNISHED MODELS * OPEN DAILY! 941.786.9403

SWIM IN YOUR OWN PRIVATE POOL | ENJOY HOW QUIET INSIDE | CLOSE TO SHOPPING, DINING AND BEACHES

LAKESIDE COTTAGES NOW SELLING FROM $399,999 14 cottage homes located on Albee Farm Road. NEW FURNISHED MODEL NOW OPEN! 941.786.9403

CASSATA SHORES

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New luxury condominiums with direct gulf frontage on Venice Beach. Units are 2,800 Living Sq. Ft., 3 Bedrooms, 3-1/2 Baths. Walking distance to downtown Venice. 941.244.0982

COTTAGES OF VENICE

NOW SELLING FROM $420,000

36 cottage homes located on E. Venice Avenue. MODEL UNDER CONSTRUCTION 941.786.9403

CASSATA POINTE

HOMESITES FROM $499,000

Estate homesites along Robert’s Bay in Nokomis, FL. Close to schools, beaches, restaurants, shopping and the new Sarasota Memorial Hospital. 941.244.0982

V E N I C E V E N I C E

LISA NAPOLITANO

Global Real Estate Advisor

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

400 Barcelona Avenue Venice, FL 34285

M: +1 941 993 0025

O: +1 941 412 3179

E: Lisa Napolitano@PremierSIR com

W: Lisanapolitano.premiersothebysrealty.com

Y O U R D R E A M H O M E A W A I T S .

A n a t i v e o f N e w J e r s e y , L i s a r e l o c a t e d t o t h e V e n i c e , F l o r i d a a r e a i n

2 0 0 9 S h e p o s s e s s e s e x c e p t i o n a l l o c a l k n o w l e d g e , s t r o n g r e l a t i o n s h i p s w i t h i n t h e c o m m u n i t y , a n d a g e n u i n e p a s s i o n f o r u n d e r s t a n d i n g y o u r u n i q u e n e e d s L i s a c o n s i s t e n t l y r a n k s i n t h e T o p 1 % o f F l o r i d a R e a l t o r s a n d t h e T o p 1 5 % n a t i o n a l l y

W h e t h e r y o u ' r e b u y i n g o r s e l l i n g , L i s a i s d e d i c a t e d t o d e v e l o p i n g a w e l c o m i n g a n d t r u s t i n g r e l a t i o n s h i p w i t h y o u

city scene

1: VHS junior Summer Kohler, 2022 Volleyball State Champion with mom Stacy, at Reflections in Gold garnering support for the 2023 Championship season. 2: FSU economist Dr. Jerry Parrish was keynote speaker at Venice Chamber’s 5th Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast held at Venice Yacht Club. 3: (L-R) Christa Sweeney, Bob Hite & Charmaine Tincher support ONCC Appreciation for Nonprofits, hosted by Paradise Grill & sponsored by START of SC. 4: (L-R) John Holic, Venice Yacht Club Commodore; Bob Mudge, Venice Gondolier; and Charmaine Tincher, VCL at the Venice Chamber’s 5th Annual Economic Outlook Breakfast. 5: Lori Bailey (L) & Wendy Rose enjoying the Watermelon Rosemary Crush recipe from VCL’s July Issue. 6: Venice Chamber Board Chair David Joyner, Joyner Family Insurance, at the Chamber’s Economic Outlook Breakfast held at the Venice Yacht Club. 7: Epiphany Cathedral student Madalynn is all smiles after winning first place at the National AAU Gymnastics Championship. Venice YMCA Coach Natalia Obraztsova was instrumental in Madalynn’s success.

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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8: Margarita’s anyone? (L-R) Andrea, Charmaine, Kim & Michelle having fun at Pineapple Tequila’s Ribbon Cutting. 9: Ray & Pamela Fiume hosted the Venice Chamber Coffee Connection welcoming everyone to their Big Bam Brew Cafe! 10: Ray & Pamela Fiume’s Ribbon Cutting event for the opening of Big Bam Brew Cafe. 11: (L-R) Octavio, Mgr. of Lime Tequila; Irene, Mgr. of Blue Tequila; Hugo, District Mgr. of Pineapple Tequila and Desiree at the newly-opened Pineapple Tequila in Venice. 12: The Venice Chamber of Commerce welcomes Pineapple Tequila Mexican restaurant to Venice with a Ribbon Cutting. 13: Tacos, rice & bean’s, queso, chip’s & salsa, delicious margaritas, colorful decor and music! A must visit to Pineapple Tequila. 14: The Bammer Family of Big Bam Brew Cafe and Big Bam eBikes celebrate with owners Ray & Pamela Fiume.

We are proud to offer two of the most sought-after treatments to rejuvenate your skin: Morpheus8 and Lumecca by InMode.

Morpheus8 uses a combination of radiofreqency and microneedling to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and visibly tighten skin on the face and body. This fractional treatment stimulates collagen production, and by targeting the deeper layers of the skin, tissues are remodeled to reveal a more radiant, youthful appearance.

Lumecca is the most powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) to improve skin complexion and clarity. Lumecca is a superior solution to reduce age spots, vascular lesions, rosacea and sun damage on all areas of the body. Results can be seen in as little as one treatment and the skin continues to look younger and more brilliant over time. Multiple photofacial sessions will improve the final result.

Let us help you turn back the clock!

Now

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Senior Advocacy Group Expands Services to Venice and South Sarasota, Grows Team

The Senior Advocacy Group (SAG), a public benefit corporation founded by Shelley Rhoads Perry and Linda Flores (pictured) to advocate for older adults’ wellbeing, has opened an office in Venice at 871 Venetia Bay Blvd., Suite 201. The move expands the reach of the Naples-based SAG to serve more families in Southwest Florida and host educational events locally. In addition, SAG announced new team members - client care director Ashley DeVries and operations manager Emma Barnes. senioragroup.com

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Wellen Park Summer Music Series through September in Downtown Wellen

Enjoy live music through September at Wellen Park, with Wind Down Wednesdays, Thursday Tunes, and Saturday Sounds weekly, under the Heritage Tree. Friday, Sept 1, musicians will perform on the Solis Hall stage overlooking the Great Lawn.  Fridays from Sept. 8-29 the music is back under the Heritage Tree. All those shows are from 5-9 PM. Every Sunday the music under the Heritage Tree is 9 AM-1 PM and 2-6 PM. For more information, visit  wellenpark. com/events/summer-music-series

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Be a Part of An Important Community Legacy. Please Donate Today!

Leadership Venice Class of 2023 is raising funds for its public service class project, which is restoring Venice’s fire station’s first flagpole and constructing a tribute area in Heritage Park to honor first responders. If you would like to be part of this legacy please donate today, any amount is appreciated, and excess funds will go toward scholarships. You’re invited to our Ribbon Cutting Sept. 23rd, 9:00 AM. Donations can be made at  square.link/u/Nw2oyhka or send check, payable to Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (597 S. Tamiami Tr., 34285), noting “class project” on the memo line. Thank you for your consideration.

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Wellen Park donated the playhouses to Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County to give to Habitat homeowners, children recovering from traumatic events, children of veterans and active-duty military personnel and nonprofits serving children in the community.

Wellen Park & Partners Contribute to Habitat for Humanity of South Sarasota County’s Cottages for Kids Program

PLAYHOUSE STYLEA TESTAMENT TO CREATIVITY & COMMUNITY

Earlier this year a wonderful partnership was ignited when Wellen Park, along with select area developers, built and donated more than 15 imaginative playhouses to the Cottages for Kids program at Habitat for Humanity of South Sarasota County (HHSSC).

Wellen Park also gave $15,000 in support of the nonprofit’s mission to build homes, develop communities, and support children and families. Wellen Park’s support of Habitat for Humanity of South Sarasota County was fueled by shared ideals and goals: namely a belief in the power of home and community.

During the check presentation in June 2023, families selected by Habitat for Humanity were present to receive the playhouses that Wellen Park and its residential and commercial partners had built earlier in the year. These donated cottages brought smiles and happiness to the Habitat families, further strengthening the partnership between the two organizations.

“We are honored to partner with Habitat for Humanity to host the Cottages for Kids build and support this program for future builds,” says Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “It has

been wonderful seeing how many residents, guests and children have enjoyed the cottages while on display in Downtown Wellen (from February to June 2023). This project gave Wellen Park development partners a chance to come together to support a worthy organization,” she adds.

The Cottages for Kids program has a profound mission – to raise awareness for affordable housing and broaden support to raise sustainable funding. For the young recipients of these playhouses, the experience has been overwhelming with joy and gratitude, as many of them have never had a real home to call their own, let alone a playhouse.

The idea for the program originated when Rick Severance, CEO of Wellen Park, reached out to Christina McCauley, CEO and Colleen Donahue, Donor Relations at HHSSC, proposing a collaboration to build playhouses. After several meetings and discussions, a plan was put in place, and the lucky recipients of the playhouses were chosen through a lottery.

“Habitat is so grateful to Wellen Park and the many generous builders that contributed to this unique program,” says Christina. “Without solid community partners like Wellen Park, CONTINUED >

Wellen Park presented a $15,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County to support its mission and Cottages for Kids program.

This playhouse, by developer Lennar, includes its own putting green so kids can practice their golf swing.

The playhouses were on display in Downtown Wellen from its Model Home Showcase event in February until they were distributed in June.

During the presentation, families selected by Habitat for Humanity were present to pick up cottages Wellen Park and its residential and commercial partners built earlier this year.

we could not accomplish our mission of providing safe, affordable forever homes to hard working families and individuals in our community. We look forward to future collaborations and growing our partnership,” she adds.

The playhouses themselves are a testament to creativity and community spirit. Meticulously designed by Wellen Park and its development partners, each 6-by-6foot structure is unique in terms of styles, paint colors and details, yet they all display a unique home-like charm.

Wellen Park built two playhouses: one has a cute seating area inside and outside and is painted with bright blue and yellow colors, and the other was designed to look like a barn, with bundles of wood, fruits and vegetables, and stuffed animals.

One of the developers, Mattamy Homes, also built two playhouses: the first with different murals painted on every side of the playhouse, including a beach scene and another barn-style cottage with painted images of a dog and a car.

Other entries included Ryan Companies, which created a playhouse styled after modern buildings with large floor-to-ceiling windows, and "Sam's Coffee Cafe," a fauxcafe built by Sam Rodgers Homes, complete with a menu, a kitchen, and seating area.

Another one of the developers, PulteGroup, went with a "nontraditional route," according to the Wellen Park press release; instead of building a playhouse, the PulteGroup team created "a swing set with a slide and rock-climbing wall" for kids to enjoy.

Building on the success of the program, Wellen Park is already planning another Cottages for Kids buildout later this year. The new round of cottages will grace Downtown Wellen as part of Wellen Park's holiday series, expanding participation to Wellen Park neighborhoods and residents. To further support the cause, a Cottages CONTINUED >

Sam Rodgers Homes’s playhouse features "Sam's Coffee Cafe," complete with a menu, kitchen, and seating area.

This one (of two) Mattamy Home playhouses was designed as an animal friendly barn.

for Kids auction is scheduled for December, aiming to raise awareness and funds to continue supporting Habitat for Humanity of South Sarasota County's mission.

The partnership between Wellen Park and Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County exemplifies the power of collaboration and the impact of aligning visions. Together, they have created a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of families in need, proving that building dreams and communities can go hand in hand.

As the Cottages for Kids program continues to flourish, its impact on the community will be immeasurable. Wellen Park and Habitat for Humanity serve as an inspiration to other organizations, showing what can be achieved when working towards a common goal. Through their dedication and generosity, they are bringing hope, stability, and joy to families, one playhouse at a time.

PulteGroup (l) and Mattamy Homes playhouse cottages on display in Downtown Wellen.

Coastal Decor Makes Waves at Breakwater Home Fashions

Bringing

the Beauty of Sun, Sea & Shore to Downtown Wellen Park & Into Your Home

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY LEINFUSS

If you’re looking to brighten up your home design and décor with a fresh, elevated coastal style, then Breakwater Home Fashions, Inc. is the place to go. This stylish boutique-style store brings contemporary, coastal-themed, one-of-a-kind furniture and a wide variety of decor to Downtown Wellen Park.

A labor of love for its owners, Mike and Rene Perry, Breakwater Home Fashions has quickly become a home design and shopping must for residents of Wellen Park and beyond who seek to bring the feeling and energy of the outdoors and the seashore into their homes.

The 1,500 sq. ft. store opened its doors in June 2023, about a year after the Perrys moved to the Wellen Park neighborhood of Island Walk. The location of the store in Downtown Wellen is perfect, says Rene. “Wellen Park is welcoming, with a thoughtful design. Having so much outside usable space compliments the coastal feel of the area. Plus, I can take a golf cart to work.”   Rene previously worked as a wholesale account executive and real estate investor in Atlanta, but she has nurtured a passion for design. “I always enjoyed the design aspect of what helps to sell a home,” she says. Mike, a former tennis pro, spent his time in

Mike and Rene Perry launched Breakwater Home Fashions in June 2023.

Breakwater Home Fashions brings contemporary, coastal-themed furniture and decor to Downtown Wellen Park.

Nautical elements are touchstones to Coastal Style, like this 40" by 48" artwork.

This fantastic driftwood lamp adorning this beautiful textured wood credenza exemplifies Coastal Style!

Atlanta as a Director of Tennis, and brings his organizational skills to the business.

Married just over 10 years, Mike and Rene’s decision to launch Breakwater Home Fashions was driven by their desire to work together and build something they were both passionate about. They also wished to take advantage of the fantastic opportunities Florida has to offer, including the beautiful weather, breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, and stunning beaches.

Coastal style is at the heart of Breakwater Home Fashions, where the surf, sand, and sky are welcomed into homes, says Rene, who offers these tips on how to bring coastal style into your home.

1. Incorporate natural textures and materials like jute, driftwood, linen, rope, rattan, grass cloth, and sea glass.

2. Use watery hues such as blues and greens to accent a neutral base such as warm gray, beige, white and ivory.

3. Juxtapose whites and neutral colors with a mix of different wood accents and finishes.

4. Choose décor, such as light fixtures, accessories and artwork, that have a seascape or nautical motif.

5. Add accent pieces with color, texture and materials that make you think of the outdoors.

Breakwater Home Fashions sources from a variety of vendors so it can offer a selection of unique pieces to its customers. Plus, everything in the store is curated to perfectly complement homes in Wellen Park and Southwest Florida.

By working closely with vendors, the store is able to provide exclusive inventory, ensuring that customers can find home decor and furnishings that are not available through larger retailers or e-commerce platforms. The store's inventory is constantly evolving, ensuring customers discover new and unique coastal-inspired items with each visit.

To enhance the shopping experience, Breakwater Home Fashions offers personalized services such as consultations and commissioned pieces. Its team of designers provide expert advice and tailored recommendations upon request. In-home design services and whole room packages are also available, allowing customers to revamp a single space, or transform their entire home, with the guidance of experienced professionals.

Breakwater Home Fashions is more than just a store; it is a destination for those seeking the coastal elegance style and, like a ripple in a pond, word is spreading.  “Our customer feedback has been great. We have had a lot of community support and people are coming all the way from Naples, Ft. Myers and Boca Grande too,” says Rene.

She adds that Breakwater Home Fashions is also starting to work with area developers. “There are a lot of homes being put up around here and several builders have come into the store wanting to refer their clients out to us.”

Also, stay tuned for news about Breakwater Home Fashions showcasing artwork by local artists from Wellen Park

Mike and Rene’s decision to launch Breakwater Home Fashions was driven by their desire to work together and build something they were both passionate about.

Breakwater Home Fashions curates everything in the store for homes in Wellen Park and Southwest Florida.

and surrounding areas. “We want to foster support for the local arts scene, while offering customers the opportunity to find the perfect piece to complement their home," says Rene.

Whether you are looking to add a touch of coastal charm or completely redesign your home, Breakwater Home Fashions, Inc. is sure to have the perfect pieces to create the beachy vibe you desire. Visit the store and let their expertise guide you toward transforming your living space into a coastal oasis.

Breakwater Home Fashions offers a selection of unique pieces to complement any home, and provides a consistently evolving inventory, so that customers can find new and unique coastal-inspired items with each visit.

Coastal Style is at the heart of Breakwater Home Fashions, where the surf, sand, and sky are welcomed into homes.

Dr. Cassandra Davis Brower was born and raised in Venice, Florida. As the daughter of Dr. Charles Davis, she has been an active part of our practice for most of her life but joined our team in 2023. Following graduation from Venice High school, she completed her undergraduate education which included studies at The Universidad de Granada in Spain and a degree from The University of Florida.

Dr. Brower received her Masters of Medical Sciences and Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. During her post graduate training she completed research in Orthodontics, which was published in the Journal of Orthodontic Science. After dental school, Dr. Brower began her advanced training in conscious sedation through Idaho State University Department of Dental Sciences and Meharry Medical College.

Dr. Brower is a member of the American Dental Association, along with the Sarasota County Dental Association.

Dr. Brower believes a commitment to continuing education is essential to provide the best advanced care to her patients. She works hard to remain current with the latest advances in dental technology.

From Dr. Brower: “I strive to deliver dentistry that is needed in a kind, fair and affordable way to members of my hometown community”.

Style & Ageless Elegance 5 Tips for Embracing Personal

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor’s Note: Lori Bailey is Co-Founder of Venice’s Contour Day Spa (thecontourdayspa.com) with her husband Dave, and serves as Contour’s Spa Director. She is a registered nurse, a mother of four, a business owner, and a great example of how to become your own style icon by embracing an attitude of ease, openness and confidence.

When it comes to personal style, it’s not about the clothes you wear, but rather the attitude you embody. It’s not about looking like a model – it’s about doing whatever makes you feel happy, self-assured and fulfilled. I’m turning 60 next year, and I’m more confident now than I’ve ever been. I’ve learned a lot of style lessons along the way and want to share them with you.

The Contour Day Spa’s Lori Bailey on Living & Looking Your Best

Lori Bailey is all about personal style!

1- Take time for yourself. Don’t be afraid to do things for yourself. When my children were little – and for many years we had four kids in the house – I still did my makeup every day. I went into the bathroom and took one half hour for myself because It made me feel better. Whatever you do for you: meditate, listen to a podcast, give yourself permission and time to do it. Take care of yourself!

2- Don’t let anyone tell you who you should be, or how you should or shouldn’t look.  Sometimes I buy an outfit, and my husband says, ‘That’s not my favorite.’ But I like it. I buy what I like. For example, I bought this particular outfit for a cruise. It’s a pair of pants, but the backside has a

skirt attached. I loved it! When I wore it on the cruise, I got so many compliments.

3- Step out of your comfort zone . If you find yourself thinking, ‘I could never wear that,’ take a moment to question why you feel that way. Trying something new may feel uncomfortable at first, but it will also help evolve your personal style. For me, with clothing, I feel like I’m playing ‘dress up.’ There’s nothing I’m uncomfortable trying on. You won’t know if you don’t try. For example, when my daughter got married, she said she didn’t want to wear a ball gown. I told her, ‘You don’t have to, but at least try it on to see how it looks. Guess what she wore for her wedding…?

Lori sparkles in her beautiful dining room.

4- See yourself with kinder eyes . I’m a spa owner. We have beautiful women come in who stand in front of a mirror and criticize their bodies. Things they focus on but no one else would notice or see as a flaw. So, it’s all relative. Everyone has something, even the most (seemingly) put together person.

5- Love what you wear, wear what you love. Style and fashion are really about finding what makes you happy and what makes you feel like yourself. For me, things are pretty black and white. I either love it or I don’t. If I love it, even if I see it on someone that’s 20 years old, I want to at least try it on. (And if you know me, it probably sparkles!)

Blues are Lori's favorite color.

Lori with her dog Karli, who is the best style accessory.

Gorgeous in green.

Perfect outfit for a cruise.

2023 Bathroom & Kitchen Trends Revealed

An increasing priority for today’s homeowners is to transform frequently used spaces, like bathrooms, kitchens, and utility areas, into attractive, user-friendly, space-saving, storage-rich spaces.

That makes practicality one of 2023’s biggest trends, says Interior Designer Patty Morton, CID. And, as the founder of Pretty Places in Paradise, Patty excels at making functional design beautiful. Here are more of her right-now kitchen and bathroom design trends:

Kitchens: Convenience and easy access to appliances take precedence in kitchen design. Incorporating space-saving measures such as rollouts for drawers, kitchenware, spices, and efficient recycling systems is a must. Pantry buildouts are also favored to enhance food and small appliance storage.

Aesthetically, homeowners are selecting wood mid-tones, combinations of wood and whites, coastal two-tone themes, slab front sinks, striking stone elements, stone ledges, and glass-front cabinets. There’s also a growing preference for more dramatic and natural statement stones in

features like waterfall islands, sink apron fronts, ledges, and full-height backsplashes. Handcrafted textured tiles in a 4x4 size are gaining popularity, as well as wallpaper accent walls.

Bathrooms: Cultivating a spa-like environment and promoting wellness for homeowners as they age in place is trending this year. This can mean removing bathtubs to accommodate larger, zero-entry or wheel-in showers and/or choosing bath fixtures that are designed for ease of entering and exiting.

Aesthetically, rustic wood tones ranging from light to medium hues dominate bathroom design. Vanities feature light wood tones, including white oak, while also incorporating textural cane doors and drawers paired with marble countertops. Coastal colors, spanning from light powder blue to aqua blue, and dark teal to navy, are prevalent. Countertops are adorned with quartzite natural stone or dramatic quartz vanity tops. Handcrafted, textured tiles in a 4x4 size, along with hand-painted square accent tiles, are favored choices.

prettyplacesinparadise.com

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

Interior Designer Patty Morton Weds Beauty & Function for Kitchens, Bathrooms & More

Interior Designer Patty Morton

Gorgeous stone backsplashes and added shelving are on-trend for kitchens.

Coastal-themed

Light wood tones and textural doors for bathrooms are all the rage, says Morton.

wallpaper and wood-toned flooring from a bathroom remodel by Patty Morton.

Spa-like, larger showers are ideal for aging in place.

Handcrafted textured tiles add fun and colorful accents to any bathroom or kitchen remodel.

events

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

14th Annual Labor Day Weekend Downtown Venice Craft Festival

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN VENICE | 10:00 AM

Enjoy arts and craft vendors offering everything from functional art to gift items. Range of work includes a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal pieces and much more. Plus a green market with plants and other eco-friendly items.  10:00 AM. - 4:00 PM. Learn more at VisitVeniceFL.org

SEPTEMBER 8TH

Friday Night Concert In The Park

CENTENNIAL PARK | 7:00 PM

Join the fun in Historic Downtown Venice for the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series at the gazebo in Centennial Park! This event, hosted by Venice MainStreet, is held every second and fourth Friday of each month and is free and open to the public. Sept. 8, Robert Garcia. Sept. 22, 2 Peace. visitvenicefl.org

SEPTEMBER 9TH

The Party on the Plaza

COOL TODAY PARK | 7:00 PM

The  Party on the Plaza will feature Pure Country - a premier country band that performs tunes you will remember from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s. Gates open at 5:00 PM. Music at 7:00 PM. Tickets $15. VIP $120. Purchase tickets at the CoolToday Park box office by calling 941.413.5004. cooltodaypark.com

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Sunrise Sale & Craft Fair

COOL TODAY PARK | 7:00 AM

Cool Today Park's Sunrise Sale & Crafts Fair, featuring shopping, drinks and fun activities. Enjoy live music, arts, crafts, resell goods, and thrifting vendors. Drinks, cocktails, and concessions are available, plus lawn games, speed pitch, and kids activities. cooltodaypark.com.

SEPTEMBER 16TH

Veterans Charity Golf Tournament

PLANTATION GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB | 7:00 AM

Golf Tournament sponsored by Keller Williams Island Life and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8203, with proceeds earmarked for suicide prevention and addressing the unmet needs of veterans. 7:00 AM check in, 8:00 AM shotgun start. Poker Hand Scramble format.  An awards luncheon will follow. $125 per person. Secure your spot in the tournament today at forms.gle/9y3Mt1vVQNxok7FWA.

SEPTEMBER 26TH

Incredible Insects EcoWalk for Take A Child Outside Week

SLEEPING TURTLES PRESERVE NORTH | 9:00 AM

Join a UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County educator on a tour through Sleeping Turtles Preserve while learning interesting facts about insects, as well as how to collect, identify, and appreciate all the six-legged crawlers among us. Families of all ages welcome. Register at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information call 941.861.5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu

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

Do I Have a Hernia? Will I Need Surgery?

AMA Health Providers’ Dr. Wesley Hendricks Answers Your Questions

If you suspect you may have a hernia, your first plan of should be to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider (PCP). Hernias will not go away on their own, explains Wesley Hendricks, DO, MSc, FACOS. Your PCP can diagnose a hernia and, in most cases, will refer you to a general surgeon for a surgical evaluation.

That’s where Dr. Hendricks comes in. The board-certified, general, minimally invasive and robotic surgeon at AMA Health Providers is a hernia specialist. As such, he sees patients diagnosed with a hernia on a regular basis. A hernia is the bulging of abdominal content through weakening area of the abdominal wall.

There are many kinds of hernias, but the most common hernias occur in the groin (inguinal), an earlier surgical site (incisional), the navel (umbilical), and in the diaphragm (hiatal). Patients often report a bulge or pain in one of these areas which worsens with bending, coughing or lifting.

“Although hernias are common, men are eight to 10 times more likely than women to develop

inguinal hernias. However, adults who are overweight and those who carry heavy loads are at higher risk,” says Dr. Hendricks.

Dr. Hendricks states, “Hernias can occur suddenly and can be extremely debilitating and painful.  However, hernia surgery can address this in a safe manner before it may become life threatening.”

Whenever possible, Dr. Hendricks uses minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery techniques for hernia repair. This surgery utilizes small incisions and laparoscopic and robotic instrumentation that go through small holes in the abdomen. Most of his patients do not even require narcotics after surgery.  Minimally invasive surgery techniques provide patients with less scarring, reduced discomfort, faster recovery, and gets you back to doing the things you love faster.

To make an appointment with Dr. Hendricks, call 941.559.0262 today. Visit amahealthproviders.com or AMA Health Providers’ Facebook and Instagram pages @amahealthproviders.

Dr. Wesley Hendricks, DO, MSc, FACOS

MEET OUR NEW PROVIDERS IN OUR NEW VENICE LOCATION

AMA Health Providers is pleased to welcome seven new healthcare providers to our new Venice location. All our providers have extensive expertise and experience in treating a wide range of individuals.

AMA Health Providers is committed to providing quality healthcare and outstanding customer service to all patients in Venice and its surrounding communities.

• Serving patients 18 years and older.

• We are accepting new patients.

• No waiting list.

• Same-day appointments are available.

• Most insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Walid Tanyous, MD Pulmonology Critical Care & Sleep Medicine

Jaime Baquero, MD Gastroenterology

Lawrence J. Elliott, DO, FACC Cardiology

Michael R. Gallina, DPM Foot & Ankle Surgery/Podiatry

Antonio Lubrano Heinsen, MD Endocrinology

Wesley Hendricks, DO, FACOS General & Robotic Surgery

Tammy Baker, APRN Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine

YOUR NEW HOME YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE

MATTAMY AT WELLEN PARK

Three great communities, one incredible location

Brightmore

Coming late 2023

A fresh 55+ community

Coming soon: single-family and paired villas with vibrant resort-style amenities

Sunstone 13 single-family and attached villa floorplans

Amenities opening this fall

Renaissance 13 single-family and paired villa floorplans

Clubhouse and amenities open now

All communities are located in Venice, FL and offer prime locations with fun-filled private amenities.

From resort-style pools and pickleball courts to nearby attractions like the new Downtown Wellen, CoolToday Park and the Marketplace, all of Mattamy’s Wellen Park communities offer something new to discover every day. Come visit and find your dream lifestyle and home built by Mattamy Homes — the award-winning developer of Wellen Park.

Special savings* are available on quick move-in homes