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MAY 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Venice

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tony D'Souza | tony.dsouza@lifestylepubs.com

Celebrating Our Women! WOMEN OF VENICE, WHERE WOULD WE BE WITHOUT YOU? This month, we celebrate mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, and all the women we love. Here at Venice Lifestyle, we also want to recognize the women who help build our great community. We have worked extra hard this month to highlight some of the women whose volunteerism, smart business sense, and inspiring ways of living make Venice

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tony D’Souza, Norhala Houck CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Prion Photography, Debbie Parker Photography, Stephanie Snow Photography

the great place that it is. We are pleased to highlight the ‘lift yourself up by your bootstraps’ life story of Dr. Jill Morris at World Class Dentistry. From humble beginnings, Dr. Morris has expanded her practice into one with an international reputation. We owe a huge ‘thank you’ to Island Way Boutique and owners Emmanuel and Shauna Boichut for dressing the models in our feature on successful Venice business women, including Shauna herself, Nella Valenti of Allegro Bistro, Kate Hyland-Mercer of Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc., Karla Blake of Karla Blake Medicare Specialist, and MaryBeth Hansen, owner of Paradise Grill in Nokomis. The shoot included champagne and treats, and a great time was had by all!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

This month, we also highlight the women’s networking groups Sassy Sisters, which

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

has grown rapidly over the past few years into a five-chapter organization, and the

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Business and Professional Women of Englewood and Venice, which has been working

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

to aid women in need locally since 1960. A few mothers on staff at Janoff & Khatri

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Pediatric Dentistry share what they really want for Mother’s Day, and MJ Johnson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

of the Healthcare Solutions Team tells us all about the life change she experienced which led her into a career as a concierge healthcare specialist. Last but certainly not least, Venice Lifestyle is pleased to feature a fashion column by our friend, Norhala Houck, owner of Sunbug and Twist Boutique. With our nation continuing to deal with COVID-19, now more than ever our local businesses and nonprofit organizations need our support. Everyone here at Venice Lifestyle wishes that you, our readers, and everyone in Venice, stays safe and well! Together, our community can get through anything. Happy reading, Venice!

Charmaine Tincher, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/Venice ON THE COVER Beautiful water lily flowers PHOTOGRAPHY BY YOTSARAN 6

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 Venice Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Venice areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Venice Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020 FEATURES 14 Women's Networking Groups Thrive In Venice Sassy Sisters Has Expanded To Five Chapters; Business And Professional Women Celebrate Centennial

22 Dressed For Success! Five Local Business Women Share Success Stories And Show Off Fashions From Island Way Boutique

28 World Class Dentistry’s Dr. Jill Morris Defines The American Dream Dr. Jill Morris Pursued Her Goals Through Hard Work. Now, Her Children Join Her Practice.

34 'How Can We Make You Smile Today?' Staff Moms At Janoff & Khatri Pediatric

28 22

Dentistry On What They Want For Mother's Day

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Our Town

Healthy Lifestyle

28 Inspired By 32 Local’s Choice 34 Parting Thoughts

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GOOD TIMES 1.

Our Mother's House Gala Fundraiser At The Venice Community Center Our Mother's House held its annual gala in February. Joanna Morales Lopez, a graduate of Our Mother's House, gave a special talk about the program, which helps single mothers with housing. The event was underwritten by Lynne and Robert Keller, wine was provided by Megan Verdoni, and music by The Alie Kats Band. Ourmothershousedov.org 941.485.6264 PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

1. Event underwriters Lynne and Robert Keller | 2. Program Director Joyce Scott | 3. Joanna Morales Lopez

Sassy Sisters Hosts Monthly Networking Events Through Its Five Chapters Founded by Kari Myroniuk and Kim Smith, Sassy Sisters is a networking group for women which began locally in 2015, and has now expanded to five chapters. Check out our feature on the founders and the organization in this issue of Venice Lifestyle! These photos, provided by Stephanie Snow Photography (StephanieSnowPhotography.com, StephanieSnowPhoto@yahoo.com, 305.849.3186) are from a recent event. Sassysistersinc.com, SassySistersVenice@gmail.com

1. Our Publisher Charmaine is a Sassy Sister! 10

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

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AROUND TOWN

VENICE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE WINS 2020 ADDY AWARD Venice Lifestyle Magazine is happy to announce

OLALA EVENTS OFFERS FRENCH BEAUTY AND RELAXATION THROUGH POP-UP EVENTS

that we have won a Silver Addy Award for the cover of our December issue--'Believe'. The American Advertising Federation's highest creative arts

Olala Events is a collaboration of friends Mélissa

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superior creative content and design. The awards

bring the luxurious and relaxing aspects of French

event was held at Sarasota's CineBistro and

culture to Southwest Florida through ‘Beauty & Chill’

attended by the whole Venice Lifestyle Magazine

pop-up events. These catered events include pro-

team. It was a fine way to celebrate our first com-

fessional make up, hair styling, yoga, meditation,

plete year in publication. Thank you to everyone in

acupuncture, massage, personal shopper advice,

our community for your support!

eyebrow tinting, reflexology, nail bar, skin advice, do-it-yourself workshops, and so much more. They are opportunities for women to meet talented, local

Would you like to get in touch with us? We

professionals, and have fun. Call to schedule or plan

would love to hear from you! Contact us at

an event! 941.303.0577 OlalaEventsFl@gmail.com.

CityLifestyle.com/Venice using the Get In

Facebook.com/olalaeventsfl/

Touch link and let us know what you think.

Volunteers Needed Construction and ReStore 12

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

Visit habitatsouthsarasota.org/volunteer

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OUR TOWN

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA

Wo m e n ' s Networking

PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY, PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

GROUPS THRIVE IN VENICE THE SASSY SISTERS HAVE EXPANDED TO FIVE CHAPTERS; THE BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN OF ENGLEWOOD AND VENICE CELEBRATE CENTENNIAL

Sassy Sisters Founders Kim Smith and Kari Myroniuk 14

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

SASSY SISTERS SOCIAL NETWORKING GROUP FOUNDED IN JULY, 2015, THE SASSY SISTERS SOCIAL NETWORKING GROUP BEGAN AS A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN FRIENDS KARI MYRONIUK, A NETWORK MARKETER WITH HER OWN COMPANY CALLED WOW! Marketing, and Kim Smith, owner of Kim’s Connections, Kranenburg Painting, and an AAA Independent Travel Agent. These two energetic and lively

Sassy Sisters' Venice Chapter Monthly Social at the Venezia Hotel.

Venice residents met through hostessing for another social networking group, and quickly discovered an affinity for friendship, leadership and independence.

The Sassy Sisters quickly discovered that they were filling a need in the community.

“Kim and I work well together,” explains Kari. “She is very

“I could not imagine we would become anything more than just one chap-

detail oriented and practical, and I am very creative and

ter in Venice,” says Kim. “But once we started, people just kept asking us

good at thinking strategically. When that networking group

to grow and do more, and we kept branching out. It’s been so exciting and

went through some changes, we saw an opportunity to

rewarding. Sassy Sisters is all about women helping women, networking,

branch off on our own and take a direction that was more

mentoring, and helping one another build our businesses. If someone needs

suited to who we are, to add the social element and have

something, everybody jumps in and helps. It’s not all about, ‘What can you do

more freedom and fun. Kim came up with the name ‘Sassy

for me?’ It’s more about, ‘How can I help you?’”

Sisters’ and I came up with the logo. We both have big ideas and you cannot hold us back.”

In their own words, the Sassy Sisters are, ‘The most fun you’ll ever have networking! We are an informal group of sassy (bold, lively, spirited, jaunty)

“We wanted our group to be less rules-oriented and

savvy and successful women who are committed to building relationships,

more fun-oriented,” Kim adds. “Sassy Sisters is where we

growing their business and helping others do the same. What better way

get to be ourselves, and where our members get to be

to relax and catch up on each other’s joys and struggles than by kicking

themselves in a relaxed, friendship-focused environment.”

back and sharing a glass of wine at the end of the work day? Come laugh

Starting their group from scratch, this dynamic duo has built Sassy Sisters into five chapters (Venice, Sarasota, Bradenton,

with us and meet a group of FUN, sharp and lively professional women. You might just meet your new best friend!’

Lakewood Ranch and Englewood) with over 150 active mem-

The monthly chapter socials are held at well-known area restaurants and

bers. Membership requires filling out an application online or

hotels. The Venice chapter meets at the Hotel Venezia. The organization sup-

at a monthly chapter social, and costs $89 per year.

ports the nonprofit Our Mothers House (featured in the Good Times section

“The only thing we require for membership is that you need to be ‘sassy,’” Kari says and laughs. “We pride ourselves on the fact that we don’t have a lot of rules or requirements. Women join because they want to promote their businesses, socialize, and build relationships with one another. When we started this, our vision was to have events where we could have glasses of wine, where we could be silly and laugh, and where we could network.”

of this issue) which provides housing for single mothers. Last year, the Sassy Sisters donated $14k to the charity. “We believe that face-to-face networking is the true heart of building any business,” Kim says. “It grows relationships and builds friendships.” “Sassy Sisters is something I love to do,” Kari adds and laughs. “Through Sassy Sisters, I feel that I have made 150 really good friends.” PO Box 252, Venice FL 34293. Kari: 941.350.6101. Kim: 941.468.8377. SassySistersVenice@gmail.com. SassySistersinc.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Venice

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

THE BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN OF ENGLEWOOD AND VENICE The Business And Professional Women of Englewood and Venice began in 1960 as a local chapter of the national organization that was founded in 1919. The organization’s mission is to ‘achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information.’ The Englewood and Venice chapter pursues its mission through a monthly meeting at The Plantation Golf & Country Club, various fundraising and social events such as its annual golf tournament, and awarding continuing

education scholarships to women in need. “When we have our monthly meeting, we have dinner and really treat ourselves,” explains Syd Gibson, president of the chapter. “We each stand up and introduce ourselves and give a 30-second ‘commercial’ on what we are doing in our professional lives or what we are currently involved in

President Syd Gibson and Incoming President Morina Chmielak of the Business And Professional Women of Englewood And Venice

in terms of volunteerism or nonprofit work. These are strong, accomplished, intelligent women. It’s an honor just to be in the room with them.” Joyce McCaffrey, owner of Venice’s go-to eyewear boutique Eyes On You, heads up the group’s annual wine tasting event, with wine provided by a distributor and sold to members and friends as a fundraiser. Proceeds provide scholarships for women reentering the workforce. At Christmas, funds are raised for struggling single parents and donated to the Salvation Army. “We are not simply a networking organization,” Syd explains. “We have a 100 year history through the national organization of working towards empowering women; we’re focused on helping other women however we can. I joined BPW after my husband passed from cancer in 2000. It took me a couple of years to really put myself back together again after that, and then I began looking to become involved in the community and to help women. A couple of the BPW ladies invited me to attend a meeting and I found the other women to be very uplifting. It’s wonderful to work with other women to help those who are in need. The good work we do at the Business and Professional Women of Englewood and Venice always gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling.” PO Box 611, Englewood, 34295. Info@bpwev.org. Bpwev.org

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

Joyce McCaffrey, owner of Eyes On You, is 1st Vice President of BPWEV and helps organize the annual wine tasting fundraiser.

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AFTER THIRTY YEARS AS AN MSN NURSE AND HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR, MJ SWITCHED FIELDS TO HELP PEOPLE NAVIGATE HEALTH CARE

MJ Johnson Finds Solu tions

health care guidance, options, and assistance with difficult costs. After all, MJ has been caring for people her whole life. A Masters prepared nurse and hospital administrator with cardiology and wound care specialties, MJ spent thirty years at hospital bedsides, or overseeing ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

those at the point of care. She traveled the nation and the world in this capacity, from Alaska to London and back again. Then three years ago, MJ had an epiphany so profound, it caused a major life change for her. “I saw too many patients not getting the care they needed because their health insurance wouldn’t pay for it,” she explains at her Nokomis home. “I was getting physically and emotionally sick trying to get these patients the appropriate care. They were older folks with no family, no one to help them. I have a friend who is also a hospital administrator. I said to him, ‘I’d love to change the system.’ He said, ‘Well, you can’t. But what can you do to help people?’ I realized I could go back to school. So I did. I went back to school and became a broker.” MJ acknowledges that changing professions was challenging. “It was not easy,” she says. “I have to thank my mom, Nancy, and sister, Vicki, and all my friends. Their love and support have helped me be successful.”

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

WHEN YOU BRING YOUR HEALTH CARE

Now with the Lombard, Illinois based

NEEDS TO MJ JOHNSON, YOU’RE IN THE

Healthcare Solutions Team, MJ spends

HANDS OF AN EXPERT WHO CARES.

her days navigating the maze of the many

Friendly, warm and deeply knowledgeable

insurance companies, finding the best mix of

about the health care industry, MJ has made

policies to help her clients. Hers is an inti-

it her life’s mission to help those in need of

mate, concierge service. Through her intake

protocols, she discovers just what her clients need based on their

She attributes this success to how well she has helped her clients,

ages, incomes, ailments, and prescription drug regimens. Then she

and how satisfied and loyal they are.

devises a unique plan for each and every one to get them the best care at the lowest costs.

“I don’t care how much my clients make,” MJ says. “The only thing I care about is helping them. I have researched health savings

“I do not work with just one health insurance company,” MJ explains.

plans and health matching accounts managed by actuaries doing

“I work with as many as I need to build the best portfolio for each of

risk management. My dad told me early on, ‘If you cannot give, you

my clients. I am the only one who does that. I pick your hospitalization

cannot get.’ I work so hard at researching all the different options

from one company. Then I get you on another plan that covers all your

available so I can help the most people. I can work health care won-

wellness visits with no deductible and no copay. I find you separate

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People just need to call me. They’ll be amazed at the healthcare

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tion drug costs and in that case only charge a modest consulting fee.” Regularly profiled on ABC 7 for her work, MJ received prizes last year for reaching $1 million in sales, and for Top Personal Production.

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MJ Johnson offers concierge health care options to her clients as part of the Healthcare Solutions Team.

CityLifestyle.com/Venice

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S D R D S E E

FIVE LOCAL BUSINESS WOMEN SHARE THEIR SUCCESS STORIES AND SHOW OFF FASHIONS FROM ISLAND WAY BOUTIQUE

SHAUNA BOICHUT OWNER + ISLAND WAY BOUTIQUE

(Venice Lifestyle thanks Shauna for graciously styling this photo shoot with fashions from her boutique!)

I LOVE …M Y CUSTOMERS AND COMMUNIT Y WHAT DO YOU LOVE BEST ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? I love the interaction I have with my customers, seeing the joy they experience when they are browsing in the store and they find something they love. We shop very carefully to stock our store, we source from over 40 different vendors. It’s totally fun to buy things and then see the customers find them and love them. It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. We have customers who bring every one of their family members to us, every one of their guests. WHAT ARE SOME BUSINESS CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED AND OVERCOME? We certainly suffered during the red tide outbreaks and again during the road construction downtown last year. We just didn’t have the usual foot traffic. But we managed to come through all of it just fine because the community supported us. We had friends come to the store and say, ‘I’m just going to buy something so you don’t close.’ It’s wonderful to feel that loyalty and support. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS? She must love what she does, she has to dig in her heels and go for it, but she also has to be willing to change. If the concept is not attracting customers, she’ll have to admit it is wrong and redirect herself. 225 West Miami Ave., Venice. 941.451.9668 Facebook.com/DownIslandWayBoutique

FOR 22

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

C U C

S E

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA

PHOTOGRAPHY DEBBIE PARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

N E L L A VA L E N T I OWNER + VALENTI’S AND ALLEGRO BISTRO

I WOULDN’ T CHANGE THIS FOR ANY THING WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING A BUSINESS OWNER? I love everything about it! I love my customers who have come to my restaurants for years and years and I love serving them. I have known some of them from the beginning, for 32 years. I love when they dance at Allegro and have a good time. I love seeing them come back over and over again. I wouldn’t change this business of mine for anything. WHAT IS A SPECIFIC CHALLENGE YOU FACE IN YOUR BUSINESS? Some of the people who come to work here don’t love the job they are doing as much as I do. It can be hard for me to make them understand how important their work is to the business. But I don’t just let them go; I love my people. I talk to them. A lot of them are young. I try to teach them that if they learn to love their work and do a great job, their customers will know it and reward them. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR A YOUNG WOMAN HOPING TO START A BUSINESS? You have to work to succeed. You cannot leave a manager to do the work while you go off to act like a millionaire. You have to be here to serve your customers. I came from Italy with nothing and decided to work hard. And that’s what I did. 1740 E. Venice Ave., Venice, 941.484.1889, Allegro-Bistro.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Venice

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS! (CONTINUED)

MARYBETH HANSEN OWNER + PARADISE GRILL

FINDING A MENTOR IS KE Y AFTER DECADES AS A RESTAURANT OWNER IN BOTH MICHIGAN AND FLORIDA, WHAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE YOU? I love the independence, the satisfaction of knowing we put out an excellent product, and the pride I feel in my team. I have 42 employees. There’s a sense of accomplishment in seeing people grow in the positions you give them. I love seeing each one become great at what they do. In turn, they help the business thrive. HOW DO YOU FACE DOWN A BUSINESS CHALLENGE? I have faced more challenges in my 20 years in Florida than I did in Michigan! The hurricanes are the big ones. You have to be a strong leader to weather a crisis, you have to move your people forward and you have to do it so they are not afraid. You stay optimistic, you think outside the box, and you tell your team, ‘We are going to get through this.’ WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN BUSINESS? Find a mentor. Mine was one of my customers, a Michigan State social science professor named Louise Segal. When I opened my first restaurant at 23, I was a young girl and had no business in having a restaurant. Louise taught me to believe in myself. She gave me the encouragement and inspiration to succeed, and sent so much business my way. 1097 N. Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, 941.786.1524, ParadiseGrillFL.com

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

K AT E H Y L A N D - M E R C E R OWNER + FERRIS WHEEL FINANCE, INC.

P U R S U E Y O U R PA S S I O N WHAT DO YOU ENJOY BEST ABOUT BEING A BUSINESS OWNER? I love being at the helm of Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc., because I can help my clients as effectively as I have always wanted to--I can spend extra time with those who need it. I’m independent and able to offer the sort of client care I really believe in. WHAT IS A MEMORABLE BUSINESS CHALLENGE YOU FACED AND OVERCAME? All the times I haven’t known ‘how to do something in the business’. You have to learn to do everything when you are your own boss, from creating a scanned document or getting the phones to transfer correctly, all the way to learning how to manage employees. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR A YOUNGER WOMAN STARTING OUT IN A BUSINESS OF HER OWN? Only go into business for yourself if you love the business of the business, not just your trade. While eventually you can hire people to set up the computers and balance the bank accounts, in the beginning it is all up to you. Generally, there is more of that than the work of your work. So, you have to love the game of owning your own business as much, or more, than just the trade work. The trade work is what you get to do. The office work you have to do to stay in business, and often people forget how important that is. 417 Commercial Court Suite F, Venice. 941.483.3600, Info@FerrisWheelFinance.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Venice

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS! (CONTINUED)

K ARL A BL AKE OWNER + KARLA BLAKE MEDICARE SPECIALIST

FAITH WILL SEE YOU THROUGH WHAT DO YOU ENJOY BEST ABOUT BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? I love that I have control over my business, and that I am compensated for my efforts. I get to create my own hours. As a single mother of four, being my own boss gives me the flexibility to not miss events, to be home to cook dinner, to be present whenever my children need me. WHAT IS A MEMORABLE BUSINESS CHALLENGE THAT YOU FACED AND OVERCAME? I started my business from scratch and without a safety net. I had a vision, but no start up capital, and it was unsettling to say the least. Determined, hungry, and needing to be successful, I met my clients with a bubbly personality, sincerity, and a big smile. I offered exceptional customer service, and asked for referrals. With a strong faith in the Lord and a conviction for excellence, my business was built. WHAT BUSINESS ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR A YOUNGER WOMAN? Take that leap of faith, believe in yourself, and work hard. Keep it cheeky, fun, but be sincere and personable. Always ask for the referrals. Writing an application, or for you it may be closing a deal, will be the easy part; it’s your customer service that will set you apart. Send out handwritten thank you notes, personal touches make a difference. Get out in your community, be involved and network. Marketing your business and advertising is crucial and beneficial. 954.612.1754. KarlaBlake.MedicareSpecialist@gmail.com KarlaBlakeMedicareSpecialist.com

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

Full service jewelry repair

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REFLECTIONS

In Gold

EST. 1982

1975 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL VENICE, FL 34293

941-493-1911 I ReﬂectionsInGold.com

Monday - Saturday 10 to 5

941.451.9668

@rigjewelry

@reﬂections_in_gold

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CityLifestyle.com/Venice

INSPIRED BY

World Class Dentistry’s Dr. Jill Morris Defines The American Dream Starting From Hardship, D r. M o r r i s Pursued Her Goals Through H a r d Wo r k , Vision, And Dedication. N ow, H e r Children Join Her Practice.

ARTICLE TONY D'SOUZA PHOTOGRAPHY PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

IF ANYONE DEFINES THE AMERICAN DREAM, IT’S DR. JILL MORRIS OF WORLD CLASS DENTISTRY. A child of economic hardship, Dr. Morris worked hard at school, devised lofty goals for herself, and pursued them relentlessly. Today, her practice with her husband Dr. Burr Bakke has an international reputation, and all three of her children, Cameron, Kelton and Sydney, are following in her footsteps. “It’s so exciting to have my children join the practice,” Dr. Morris explains. “I didn’t encourage any of them to go into dentistry, they chose it. Working with them has renewed my purpose. Now they will continue my legacy and take it much further.” Dr. Morris was born in rural Indiana and at age 12 had to chose which of her parents she would live with. Given to caring for people, she chose to relocate with her mother to Arcadia, where they lived in hardship. “I chose her because I felt someone needed to keep an eye on her,” Dr. Morris says.

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

“ I a m s o d r i ve n t o ke e p l e a r n i n g t o o f fe r t h e b e s t fo r m y p a t i e n t s .”

On the advice of a friend’s family, Dr. Morris decided to attend the University of Florida dental school at a time when almost no women were practicing in the field. She saw dentistry as a way to have a stable career that would allow her to give her own children everything she herself had had to go without. Entering the job market after graduation, however, she discovered a world that was in many ways closed to her. “I came to Sarasota to look for a job at a dentist’s office because my grandmother lived here,” Dr. Morris says. “I went to interviews and nobody would hire me. It was just so unusual for a woman to be in the profession. After six months, my dad found a retiring dentist in Bradenton who was ready to sell his practice. I was terrified, but my dad said, ‘You can do it, Jill.’ It was 1986 and I could not get a loan. My fellow dentists who were male could get loans, but I couldn’t. My dad put up the collateral, and suddenly I was the only female dentist in Bradenton. My patients were shocked.” As she had done all through her life, Dr. Morris pressed forward. Unable to socialize on the golf course with the other local young dentists because their wives were jealous, Dr. Morris poured herself into her work and continuing her education, always learning new skills, treatments and specialties. Today, her World Class Dentistry is our region’s headquarters for life-changing restorative cosmetic, implant, and laser dentistry. World Class Dentistry’s state-of-the-art facilities and on-site labs eliminate the need to visit multiple locations to receive care. Dr. Morris is one of only 450 dentists accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, is a fellow of the International Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics, entered the Dental Hall of Fame in 2000, and trains dentists and other health care professionals in cosmetic dentistry, neuromuscular dentistry, full mouth reconstruction, facial and dental lasers, Botox®, and dermal fillers. She is also holistically certified in the safe removal of mercury fillings. Dr. Bakke does implants, sinus grafts, bone grafts, gum surgeries, and restores implants to correct neuromuscular bite position. World Class Dentistry also offers nonsurgical face-lifts, anti-aging treatments and skincare, and All-on-4 dental implants. “I am so driven to keep learning to offer the best for my patients,” Dr. Morris says. “I’m turning 60 and feel 40. I worked until the day of delivery with all my children. Now, my oldest becomes a dentist in June, my daughter starts dental school in July, and my younger son runs our dental lab. We all love what we do and we care about our patients.”

Dr. Jill Morris

Sarasotadentist.com, marketing@sarasotadentist.com, 941.451.5543. CityLifestyle.com/Venice

Focused on results, true customer service, and superior local knowledge.

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Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

A Full-Service Independent Retirement Lifestyle With Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Healthcare Services Provided On-Site. Voted Venice’s Best Retirement Community

Schedule a Personal Tour Today! Call (941) 408-2050 JacarandaTrace.com • 3600 William Penn Way, Venice Florida AL#10358

Karla Blake

MEDICARE SPECIALIST “I love what I do, it is my passion, my job and my ministry.” + Licensed Insurance Agent in 12 States + Exceptional Customer Service + Call Karla to Schedule Your Appointment Make an informed decision and gain a comprehensive understanding of the differences between Advantage Plans & Original Medicare with a Supplemental Policy.

954-612-1754 karlablakemedicarespecialist.com

Celebrate Mother's Day in Style with a new dress f rom Tyler Boe or any of our designer collections. In Store or Online at VeniceTwist.com YOUR SOUR CE FOR ME N’ S & W OMEN ’ S FASHIONS ON THE AVE NUE

941.786.1025 VeniceTwist.com

137

West Venice Avenue Venice | Florida CityLifestyle.com/Venice

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE NORHALA HOUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY NORHALA'S PHOTO BY PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

SUNBUG AND TWIST BOUTIQUE'S NORHALA HOUCK'S TIPS ON WHAT'S HOT IN STYLE & DESIGN THIS SEASON

FASHION NOTES BY NORHALA AS THE CLOTHING, SWIMWEAR AND ACCESSORY BUYER FOR MY STORES SUNBUG AND TWIST BOUTIQUE, I’M FREQUENTLY ASKED HOW I KNOW WHAT TO BUY AND WHAT FASHION TRENDS ARE WORTH FOLLOWING. Some choices are based on my personal style, but many are guided by what I see popping up in design and what I think will resonate with our customers. This year, wide leg pants are making a comeback – both full and mid-lengths. How you wear them depends on your body type. Some ladies can rock a cropped top with a mid-length gaucho, while others will feel more comfortable in an a-line blouse with their full-length option. I’m also noticing the return of polka dots, a timeless classic worn by style icons like Jacqueline Kennedy and Zoe Kravitz. Following the yellow polka dot bikini trend last year, polka dots are now appearing in knit dresses, sweaters and pants. Choose where to add them into your wardrobe based on your style. Also trending is clothing with built-in sun-protection. UPF fabric is becoming more popular in swimwear, athleisure and even party dresses as we learn how vulnerable we are to the sun’s rays. It is an especially smart investment here in our sun-kissed Venice! SUNBUG

TWIST BOUTIQUE

141 W. Venice Ave., Venice

137 W. Venice Ave., Venice

941.485.7946

941.786.1025

TheSunbug.com

Facebook.com/TheVeniceTwist

Follow Norhala on IG and FB @thesunbug and @thevenicetwist

1. Polka dot V-neck sweater by Tyler Boe | 2. Wide leg pants by Compli K | 3. IBKUL, UPF 50+ Rating

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

FUN. MAGIC. NO SECRETS. NO HIDING. SINCE 1977. We are your favorite place for whacky and whimsical times when you take your little ones to the dentist.

Kids choose us. We think you’ll be happy you did too. 333 Miami Avenue in West Venice » 941-484-2629 » janoffandkhatri.com B Janoff & Khatri Pediatric Dentistry V @kidschooseus

HAIRCUTS MEN AND WOMEN MASTER COLORIST

⁄ ⁄

HIGHLIGHTING

FORMALDEHYDE FREE HAIR STR AIGHTENING P R I VAT E R E L A X I N G S T U D I O AT M O S P H ER E

Stylin & Design Salon, Inc. E X P E R E N C E O U R PA S S I O N & P R I D E W I T H E X C E P T I O N A L S ER V I C E

3 9 8 0 TA M I A M I T R A I L S O U T H , V E N I C E 941.73 5.98 52

⁄ ⁄

ST YLINDESIGNSALON.COM

CityLifestyle.com/Venice 33

PARTING THOUGHTS PHOTOGRAPHY PRION PHOTOGRAPHY

' H O W C AN W E M AK E YO U SM I L E TO DAY? ' STAFF MOMS AT JANOFF & KHATRI PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY ON WHAT THEY REALLY WANT FOR MOTHER'S DAY

DR. NILOFER KHATRI, ORIGINALLY FROM TALLAHASSEE AND EDUCATED AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA AND NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, RUNS A LIVELY, FRIENDLY AND WELCOMING PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY PRACTICE, WHERE HER EXCEPTIONAL TEAM MAKES VISITING THE DENTIST FUN! HERE, JUST A FEW OF THE MOMS ON HER STAFF SHARE WHAT THEY WOULD REALLY LIKE THIS MOTHER’S DAY. 333 Miami Ave. W., Venice.941.484.2629. Janoffandkhatri.com Facebook.com/JKPedDent

The main thing that I ever want

“This Mother’s Day, I just want

For Mother’s Day, I want them

from them is something they

my kids to always know how

to know they complete me.

think is truly special. Whether it

much I love them and that

Without them I wouldn’t be

be a flower that they’ve picked

they can walk through the

so lucky to hold the title of

just for me, a drawing that

rest of their lives knowing

‘mother’. They make my life

they’ve worked really hard on,

I’ll always be there for them

worth living, and I hope they

or even just sitting and sharing

anyway I can.

breakfast in bed with me.” -Nicole Gartley with Adaline and Aidan

Venice Lifestyle | May 2020

feel that this Mother’s Day more than ever.”

-Ashley Giangreco with

daughter Tyler and Dr. Khatri

-Ashley Vickers

with son Parker

COVI D -1 9 U PDAT E Covid-19 Coronavirus has forced us to suspend performing elective dental procedures for our patients . However, we are looking forward to resuming business as usual when the mandate is lifted. If you are experien cin g a dental em ergen cy, please call the off ice for advice f rom one of our dental professionals. 1218 East Venice Avenue Venice, FL. 34285

Doctor’s Associations • • • • • •

(941) 488-1075 venicedentist.com

The American Dental Association Academy of General Dentistry The International Congress of Oral Implantologists Florida Dental Association West Coast Dental Association Sarasota County Dental Association

RESTORATIVE/ REHABILITATION DENTISTRY CROWNS & BRIDGEWORK/ O N E DAY C R OWN S DENTAL IMPL ANTS/ IMPL ANT RETAINED RESTORATIONS R E M OVA B L E D E N TU R E S TEETH WHITENING IV CONSCIOUS SEDATION

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

Live It!

Don’t Just Dream the Venice Island Lifestyle...

PORTO VISTA CONDOMINIUMS

A 40-unit Luxury Condominium offering breathtaking views of the Intracoastal plus great amenities. Located at Fisherman’s Wharf Marina. NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS

TRA PONTI VILLAGGIO

4 Luxury Waterfront Townhomes and 19 Luxury Single Family Courtyard Homes. Walk to downtown, theatre, shopping and dining. From the $700s. NEW MODEL NOW OPEN!

ARCATA DEL SOL

20 Single-family (1 and 2 story) Courtyard Homes, to be located along East Venice Avenue. Two-car garages and quaint courtyards are among the amenities. NOW SELLING !

CASSATA PLACE VILLAS

28-Paired Villa Community just minutes to downtown Venice and beaches to be located along East Venice Avenue. Will feature 1,500 living sq. ft. 2B/2B, den, screened lanai and oversized 2-car garage. NOW SELLING!

NEWLY RELEASED

4 Venice Island homes and homesites within walking distance to Venice Avenue shops, restaurants and beach. 7 Estate homesites along Sarasota Bay in Nokomis at our newest community, “Cassata Pointe”. Docks available. DON’T MISS OUT! CALL TODAY! Pro Group Realty and Property Management, LLC • ProGroup-Realty.com • 941.786.9403

Prices, terms, and availability are subject to change. Floor plans, photographs, renderings, elevations and sizes are approximate for presentationpurposes only and may vary. Photos by Victoria Dietz.