The Giving Issue
December - Embracing the Spirit of Giving
The holidays are here, and the spirit of the season is among us. We have worked together and shown real strength and resilience as a community. I have witnessed so much teamwork, empathy, generosity and love in the purest forms.
The holidays are a time that sets expectations and creates a “Buzz” for all things festive. Colorful trees, lights all around, fuzzy socks and hot chocolate, yes even in Florida!
This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our city has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve highlighted some of the businesses with their offerings. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment.
While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially to those who have lost so much from the storm and those that may be celebrating without a loved one. We took the initiative to show the efforts of recovery of our city and communicate some ways you can GIVE directly to those in need in our community. I also want to personally issue a call to action for every reader to nominate an individual in our community who is worthy of help to the City Lifestyle National Giving Campaign. You’ll find information and a QR code to submit your nomination in the “Making Spirits Bright” article.
Finally, this season the biggest gift you can give our small business community is YOUR BUSINESS! Shop local, eat out, explore the many businesses in our zip codes. DONATE your time and help rebuild the community and give to the organizations in this magazine to help those in need. Your contribution is the joy a small child feels opening a gift, and it’s also the pride the parent feels seeing their child smile! Be the reason this season. Be a gift to someone else!
Cheers & Happy Holidays!
AMY WALTERS, PUBLISHER
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Amy Walters | amy.walters@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
JoAnn Chang | joann.chang@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Numann | michelle.numann@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Brandon & Rose Fabian with Lux Content Co. info@luxcontentco.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Michelle Numann
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lux Content Co., Ryan Thompson, Pasco Brave, Magical Memories Photography and New Port Richey Main Street Inc.
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Pairings
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: BadgeWives Board Members at the 5th Annual Night in Vegas Fundraiser enjoyed the moment! 2: Caliper Wellness celebrated its grand opening with a joyful ribbon-cutting ceremony. 3: The “Taste of New Port Richey 80’s Jam” brought style, music, food, and fun! 4: Commissioner Jack Mariano and Chaila Genovese delivered delicious meals to our dedicated first responders. 5: Smiles from volunteers at All Hands and Hearts while they continued to rebuild our community. 6: Volunteers gathered to support the community, offering essential aid and relief during the recent storms. 7: Sheep Dog Impact Assistance volunteers delivered supplies and helped with drywall and debris removal.
PASCO BRAVE
MAGICAL MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY
PASCO BRAVE
PASCO BRAVE
RYAN THOMPSON OF HYDRUS CONNECT
PASCO BRAVE
NEW PORT RICHEY MAIN STREET INC
Personalized Pain Relief
Jerrica Glaeser, licensed massage therapist and owner of Gulf Harbors Therapeutic Massage (MM42996), specializes in relieving chronic low back and neck pain. Each massage is personalized, targeting specific pain points with adjustable pressure for your comfort. Enjoy a mobile massage at regular office rates! Book a 60 or 90-minute session at thedeeptissuequeen.com and experience the best care tailored to your needs.
Photography by Tracy Croushorn with TLC Studios
Unlock Your Best Self This Holiday Season
The holiday hustle can take a toll on your well-being. Gift yourself renewed vitality this holiday with hormone replacement therapy, designed to boost energy, elevate your mood, and improve your overall health. Book a consultation this month for a discount, plus extra savings when you refer a friend. Don’t let stress hold you back—visit www. rejuvagenix.com to learn more and start celebrating your best self!
Experience the Magic
LaDee-Da Kids Spa brings children’s imaginations to life with dress-up, dancing, spa treatments, and birthday parties! Offering a unique birthday party destination with over 500 costumes for kids to dress up in, a fashion show on their runway, and dance parties! The spa offers haircuts, spa parties, tea parties with princesses, and more. Visit www.ladeedakidsspa.com today for on-site and off-site services—where pampering is no longer just for adults!
Photography by Wendy Long
Photography by Rejuvagenix
AFTER TH E STORM
After recent hurricanes devastated New Port Richey, entire neighborhoods were left in ruins. Areas like Gulf Harbors and Hudson Beach suffered the most, with over 7,000 homes sustaining more than 50% damage, making them unlivable. An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people have been displaced. Pasco Brave and several other organizations, such as All Hands and Hearts VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster), made all the difference in helping our community move forward. Angel Cook, Jennifer Verge, and eight other local leaders came together quickly and saw a bigger need that wasn’t being filled, and Pasco Brave was born. Within hours, they fed over 600 people cookout style. They didn’t stop there, sending teams of volunteers to help individuals with clean up, laundry, and more. Pasco Brave also provided essential supplies like non-perishable food, cleaning materials, and hot meals. While these efforts were critical, the greater challenge was and still is rebuilding homes, which can’t happen without help from our neighbors through volunteer-based organizations such as All Hands and Hearts VOAD.
We are, and will forever remain, Pasco Strong.
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PASCO BRAVE
Angel Cook, Co-Founder of Pasco Brave, shared, “We had a woman who was elderly, had nobody, called us, and was crying. She had nowhere to go; immune-compromised, she could not go to a shelter. We were able to go out and clean out her home. Although it wouldn’t be considered livable. We got it to where it was drying out, and all her things were out. It’s very emotional, and sending strangers into a person’s home and saying you can’t keep this is very hard,” emphasizing the emotional toll involved. The woman has since become a volunteer for Pasco Brave, delivering meals to those in need. It’s usually the people who need help the most who are willing to help the most.
We as a community can still make an impact by donating to organizations such as Metropolitan Ministries, which is still actively helping hurricane victims. Donating to All Hands and Hearts VOAD can actually help them stay longer and continue to rebuild our beautiful neighborhoods. Boots on the ground are still needed and even donating two hours of your time can help neighbors be back in their homes before the new year.
These acts of kindness within our community became a symbol of hope, showing that even in the face of devastation, unity, and solicitude can uplift and sustain those affected. To learn more about how you can still impact our community after the storms, visit www.pascostorm.org.
PERFECT PAIRINGS
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO.
ENTERTAIN IN STYLE WITH WINES PAIRED WITH HOLIDAY APPETIZERS CURATED BY BRIX 33.
Hosting a memorable holiday party starts with the perfect blend of flavors and a warm, welcoming ambiance. Chef Elijah Rock and Sous Chef Jeremy Phillips at Brix 33 share how to amp up your party by perfectly pairing wines with great appetizers for your holiday soiree.
Wine pairing isn’t as hard as some may think. “You have to look at the acidity. There are great references you can get from The Wine Lovers Bible. If you’re not perfect at pairing, it gives you the basic things that pair really well. If it’s red meat with red wine or, sparkling with oysters. It all depends on what you cook and your taste, “ Chef Elijah shared.
You’ll know your holiday gathering was successful when the dining room is filled with full bellies and laughter.
TENDERLOIN BEEF CARPACCIO & BOEN PINOT NOIR
The delicious, delicate flavors of tenderloin beef carpaccio orchestrate perfectly with Boen Pinot Noir’s dynamic cherry notes and subtle earthy undertones. This wine’s balanced acidity and smooth finish boost the carpaccio, cutting through the richness while intensifying each bite with a fresh, refined twist.
FIG & BRIE BRUSCHETTA WITH BERRY-INFUSED PROSECCO
The lush brie, honey, mouth-watering fig jam, and prosciutto atop the grilled baguette find an ideal partner in berry-infused Prosecco. The wine’s bright fruit essence and bubbles lift the richness of the brie while savoring the fig’s taste sensation, resulting in the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
PARMESAN-CRUSTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS & BOEN PINOT NOIR
The crispy, umami parmesan crust on the Brussels sprouts pairs classically with Boen Pinot Noir’s smooth texture and berry accents. The wine’s acidity livens up the dish, while its robust taste compliments the sprouts, creating a balanced and incredibly flavorful combination.
BURRATA & BAILEY’S CHOCOLATE MINT MARTINI
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The velvety burrata with arugula, artichokes, and fruity pomegranates pair unpredictably well with a Bailey’s chocolate mint martini. The cool mint and bold chocolate contrast with the fresh, delectable appetizer, adding a flavorful finish to each balanced, unique, and tasty bite.
LIGHT IT UP
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUX CONTENT CO.
As November comes to a close and the holidays approach, homeowners start planning how to transform their homes into astonishing showcases. Here are current holiday lighting trends as well as safety tips to consider while installing those glistening light displays.
“One of the most popular trends right now is permanent LED roofline lighting. These permanent track systems are mounted on the underside of your soffit, and you can control them with your phone via an app. You can display colorful scenes and movement patterns for holidays,
sporting events, seasonal changes, and you can even display a nice warm white every day for some architectural lighting on your home,” shared Michael Perez, owner of Grounded Lighting Tampa and light display expert.
In 2024, Christmas-dimensional light displays such as large-lit Christmas arches and walkthrough lighted bulbs are the most popular. Many others prefer minimalist lighting displays, including Perez. “Simplicity, warm white, clean lines, subtle shadowing. It makes homes absolutely beautiful if you have the right architecture,” he said.
Trending Light Displays & How Not to End Up Like the Griswolds.
While a breathtaking light display is always a hit, safety is always the most important. Abbie Faulkner, third-generation expert and owner of Faulkner Electric, shared, “It is always recommended that Christmas lights are plugged into a functioning GFCI-protected receptacle. Also, ensure that if you use extension cords, timers, or plug strips, they are outdoor rated. If they are older Christmas lights (non-LED), go to Home Depot or Lowes and buy some new ones. Older-style Christmas lights get hot and are not to today’s code.”
Following these trends will light up your holidays in elegance, just remember to take safety into consideration so you don’t end up like the Griswolds.
Grounded Lighting
Tampa Offers:
• Permanent roofline lighting
• Customizable colors and scenes for the holidays
• Traditional holiday lighting services
• Landscape lighting, architectural lighting, pool-cage, and lanai lighting
• Outdoor audio
Visit www.groundedlightingtampa.com to learn how to make the most of your light display every season.
Faulkner Electric Safety Tips:
• Older-style Christmas lights are hot and not to today’s code. If they are older, it’s time to get new ones.
• Stay away from powerlines. They are dangerous without proper training.
• Ditek is the go-to surge brand. It is made in Florida and has some of the best-quality surges Faulkner Electric has encountered.
In need of an expert electrician? Faulkner Electric is one of the best in the industry. Visit www.faulkner4electric.com for more information.
These organizations seek community support and generosity this holiday season.
Give A Little
Sponsor a Child This Season
Join the James P. Gills YMCA this season of giving with the Giving Tree, where you can sponsor a child in need by selecting an ornament. The celebration culminates on December 14th with Breakfast with Santa. For details, visit www.ymcasuncoast.org/give.
Join Jericho Road Ministries in Transforming Lives
Jericho Road Ministries provides a free, 5-month recovery program for men and women overcoming substance abuse. Support this ministry during the holiday season to make a lasting impact on these individuals and their families. Give the gift of hope through Ornaments of Hope at www.jericho-road.net/ornaments .
Offer Hope Through Community Support
Holiday stress peaks for families living paycheck to paycheck. Metropolitan Ministries provides hope through community support, allowing families to shop for groceries and gifts with dignity at their holiday tent. Last year, they served 32,000 families. Learn how you can help by visiting www.metromin.org.
HOLIDAY favorites GIFT 5
Shop local businesses to come out looking better than Santa!
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE NUMANN
1 - ELEVATE BOUTIQUE : Elevate your holiday gifting with trendy fashion and unforgettable accessories from www.theelevateboutique.com.
2 - TREK LAND O LAKES : Snag top quality bikes and expert repairs for your active family at www.treklandolakes.com
3 - MADE ARTISAN HALL : Shop for one-of-a-kind, artisanal gifts from several businesses, perfect for friends and family, at www.madeartisanhall.com.
4 - TANGLED ACRE FARM : Pamper yourself this holiday season with luxurious goat milk soaps from www.facebook. com/TangledAcreFarm .
5 - PINK BRICK BOUTIQUE : Handbags, lace dresses, and kimonos are some of our favorites at www.pinkbrickboutique.com
Photography provided by Nadine B. Photography
Photography provided by Trek
Photography provided by Sallie Solie
Photography provided by The Scented Barn
Photography provided by Elevate
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
Take
Personalized
Estate
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Expertise
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Birthday Cake for Your Pup
Ingredients:
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.
events
DECEMBER 7TH
Cotee River Christmas Boat Parade
Downtown New Port Richey | 6:00 PM
Celebrate the holiday season at the Annual Cotee River Christmas Parade! Starting from Miller’s Bayou, the parade winds its way to Sims Park with great views along the Cotee River. Enjoy music, festive lights, and holiday fun. Cash prizes for the best-decorated boats! Visit www.nprmainstreet.org/events for more information.
DECEMBER 8TH
The Nutcracker
Richey Suncoast Theatre | 2:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of festive magic and enchanting music at The Nutcracker with friends and family. Don’t miss this timeless classic! Visit www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information and ticket details.
DECEMBER 10TH
Mixer at Brix 33
Brix 33 | 6:30 PM
Join us on the second Tuesday of each month at Brix33 to network with local professionals in a relaxed setting. This is your chance to build connections, share ideas, and have a great time. Bring your business cards, energy, and appetite for success—and appetizers!
DECEMBER 14TH
New Port Richey Holiday Street Parade
Downtown New Port Richey | 6:00 PM
The Holiday Rotary Club hosts the New Port Richey Holiday Street Parade. Bring the whole family to celebrate the holiday with festive floats and glistening Christmas lights on Main Street! Visit the Holiday Rotary Club Facebook Page for details.
DECEMBER 21ST
A Christmas Carol
Richey Suncoast Theatre | 7:00 PM
Immerse in the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come at the A Christmas Carol performance, where storytelling and holiday magic come together in a live performance, perfect for the whole family. Visit www.richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information and ticket details.
DECEMBER 31ST
New Year’s Eve Gala at The Hacienda
5621 Main Street, New Port Richey | 8:30 PM
Ring in the New Year at The Hacienda’s Roaring 20s Gala! Enjoy live music from The Jazz DaddyOs, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast, 1920s costume contest, raffles, and more. A night of timeless elegance awaits! Visit www.facebook.com/TheHaciendaHotelNPR for details.
Photo Credit: Elisha D. Perry