Issuu

Kids & Pets! LI F E + C U LTU R E

LO CAL PU PPY D O G TALES: VEN I CE LOVES ITS PO O CH ES S P O R T S + R E C R E ATI O N

TH E VEN I CE WAREHOUSE’ S ACTIVITIES FO R OU R TEENS LO C A L S E RV I C E S

MYAKK A CIT Y ’ S DAKI N DAI RY EDUCATES & ENTERTAI NS KI DS

AU G U S T 2 022

Another “NEW” Single Family community by

Where location is everything

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

A new 151 -Single Family Home Community superbly located north of Laurel Road along Kings Way Drive. Enjoy the convenience of being close to 1-75 (Exit 195) the new Sarasota Memorial Hospital, schools, beaches, restaurants and shopping. Call Today! 941.244.0982

Beaches Sarasota Memorial Hospital

ASK ABOUT OUR OTHER "NEW" COMMUNITIES: ARCATA DEL SOL 20 Single-family (1 and 2 story) Courtyard Homes with two-car garages and quaint courtyards for swimming pool, spas, fire pits and more; located along E. Venice Ave. just minutes from downtown Venice and the beaches. CALL OR VISIT TODAY! FURNISHED MODELS NOW OPEN! 941.786.9403

CASSATA SHORES

CASSATA POINTE

New luxury condominiums with direct gulf frontage on Venice

1 Remaining estate homesite along Roberts Bay in NokoMis, FL.

Beach. Units are 2,800 Living Sq. Ft., 3 Bedrooms, 3-1/2 Baths.

Docks with lifts included. Close to Schools, Beaches, restaurants,

Walking distance to downtown Venice.

shopping, and the new sarasota memorial hospital.

LAKESIDE COTTAGES

COTTAGES OF VENICE

14 cottage homes located on Albee Farm Rd.

36 cottage homes located on E. Venice Ave.

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

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

Limited apartments available— schedule your tour today by calling 941-275-6690 920 Tamiami Trail South, Venice, FL 34285 | 941-275-6690 | VillageOnTheIsle.com

88005

IT ’S NEVER TOO L AT E TO H AVE A

beautiful smile Doctor’s Associations • • • • • •

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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

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August 2022 LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Things We Love Best — Our Kids & Pets Happy August, Venice! The dog days of summer are almost over and season is just around the corner. This is the perfect time to cherish the slower pace of summer life here, to focus on those things we love best—our kids and pets! In this issue, we are pleased to introduce you to a half a dozen of our friendly neighbors and their adorable pets. In our main feature, ‘Loving Our Furry Friends,’ we visit with five Venice families and hear all about their love for their dogs and bunnies. The Bayside Pet Resort will soon expand into the ever-growing Wellen Park area, helping make this new ‘city’ in South County offer all the services we have come to expect. Any pet will be comfortable and happy to spend some time at the luxurious Pet Resort. Next, we take a tour of Dakin Dairy Farms, one of the last working dairy farms in our region. Dakin Dairy has been educating local kids on sustainable dairy farming for over two decades. It’s no surprise that this year Dakin Dairy’s owner, Jerry Dakin, has been nominated for Florida Farmer of the Year. Everyone at Venice City Lifestyle wishes Jerry the best for the competition finals! On our cover this month is the adorable Patti, the smart and loving pet of Chuck and Karen Daunch, shot by our amazing photographer Stephanie Snow of Stephanie Snow Photography. Chuck and Karen like to take Patti on rides around the island on the ebikes they purchased from Big Bam eBikes, a Venice City Lifestyle partner. Have you ever seen such a cutie? In City Scene, we offer a glimpse of the good times had at the Mad Hatter Event hosted by the United Way of South Sarasota County and Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County. Last but not least, we feature the Venice WareHouse, a local nonprofit organization focused on area teens that is almost 20 years old. From volunteering, to friendship, to community involvement, the WareHouse teaches local kids how to be engaged in the place we all call home. My Publisher’s photo this month is me with my grandson, Mason, having fun together at the Braves’ CoolToday Stadium. Happy reading, Venice!

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @VENICECIT YLIFEST YLEMAGAZINE

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

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

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

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Antanette Ray CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Tony D'Souza, Jennifer Hamilton, Kimberly Blaker CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Stephanie Snow Photography, Bayside Pet Resort , Agape Flights, United Way South Sarasota County, Atlanta Braves, Child Protection Center, Abby Duncan, Jaiden Johnson, Auremar, The WareHouse

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

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

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

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

ARCHITECTURE, OPEN SPACES AND OUTDOOR RECREATION DEFINE DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN WELLEN Advertisement

The 80-acre Grand Lake, the centerpiece of highly anticipated Downtown Wellen, sparkles in the sunshine, its coves and prime fishing spots waiting to be discovered by water. On land, a 2.8-mile trail passes a changing landscape of natural preserves and wetland areas as it meanders around the waterfront. The distinct personalities of Downtown’s first buildings, designed by four different architectural firms, foretell the unfolding story of a vibrant downtown and regional gathering destination for dining, retail, self-care, entertainment, events, and those just-because moments. Downtown Wellen is where people will interact and connect with nature and outdoor recreation, and thrive socially as a connected community. And this region eagerly awaits its arrival as construction progresses on schedule. “The local community is so excited about Downtown Wellen,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “They have shared with us that they feel like they have been listened to as we are bringing great restaurants with quality food and beverage, entertainment and engagement to their own backyard.” Nestled along the lake amid 26 relocated heritage live oak trees and a tapestry of parks, promenades and outdoor gathering spaces, Downtown Wellen’s unique architecture hints at the future intentions of each building with sidewalk cafes, sitting areas and rooftop patios. The twin 40-foot belltowers and terraces of Downtown’s mixed-use building, offering retail stores on the first floor and professional offices on the second, will eventually provide sun-filled conference rooms and prime sunset vantage points. The outdoor stage of Solis Hall, Wellen Park’s premier event venue, foreshadows communitywide events and concerts enjoyed from the Great Lawn. The breezy outdoor

patios of The Banyan House, the flagship lakefront restaurant, are destined to become a favorite dining spot while the upright shipping container at Kind Vibes Outfitters soaring skyward is a harbinger and exclamation mark of the building excitement. “Downtown feels so intimate and inviting,” said Severance. “It fits exactly with our vision of a place that was built over time, and it feels like it was designed to be together. Downtown Wellen is pedestrian-friendly, easily walkable and comfortable.” The entirety of phase one of Downtown’s 55,000 square feet is leased. Tenants will begin interior buildouts in the coming months with several planning soft openings by year’s end. Wellen Park and partner Willis A. Smith Construction began construction last August before any formal leases were signed. “It speaks volumes about Wellen Park as the developer and the trust our leadership, and this region, have placed in us to continue delivering quality offerings for the community as a whole,” said Severance. Later this year, carpets of velvety green grass and turf will transform open spaces to the Great Lawn, parks, play areas and places to gather, giving visitors an early opportunity to enjoy Downtown Wellen ahead of a full opening scheduled for early 2023. “We’ve created a safe environment for everyone to enjoy,” said Severance. “We’re already working on programming and will have events later this year. 2023 will be a phenomenal year full of exciting events and gatherings that will offer something for everyone. We plan to host food and culinary events, wine festivals, an organic farmer’s market, adventure triathlons, activities on the water and layer in experiences that the area has never had before.”

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

(941) 271-0116

AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

16 Loving Our Furry Friends

Venice Locals Share Heartwarming Tales About The Special Pups And Bunnies In Their Lives.

22 Bayside Pet Resort Coming To Wellen Park

Luxury Pet Day Care And Kennel Expected To Open In 2023.

26 The WareHouse

Local Nonprofit Provides Teens With Positive Activities, Volunteering Opportunities, And

22 D E PA RTM E NTS

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Pet Friendly

Pet Care

Giving Back

Party Planning

Hometown Hero

Events

LI FE + C U LT U R E

PR O FES S I O NA L S ERV I C E S S PO RTS + R EC R E ATION ENT ERTA I NM E N T LO CA L S ERV IC E S

The Chance To Be Part Of The Community.

32 Milking The Moment

Dakin Dairy Farms Educates Area Children About Healthy Milk Production. Now Jerry Dakin Is Nominated For Florida Farmer Of The Year.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Stephanie Snow Photography Patti, the photogenic pet pup of recent Venice arrivals, Karen and Chuck Daunch. Read all about Patti in our main feature this month on page 16.

Live Where People Vacation

GRIS BETTLE

Vice President, Mortgage Lending Gris.Bettle@Grarate.com | Grarate.Com/GrisBettle C: 941.545.4384 | F: 773.272.3775 NMLS ID: 371662

LORI TURKOVICS, REALTOR ® 941-441-7169

Global Luxury Advisor - Coldwell Banker Realty Broker Associate, CLHMS, PSA LoriSellsFL.Com | LoriSellsFL@gmail.com

SPECIALIZING IN:

Weddings Family Photography Headshots

305-849-3186 | stephaniesnowphotography.com AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

AUGUST 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: The Mad Hatter Event was co-hosted by Barbara Cruz, President & CEO of United Way South Sarasota County, and Barbara Coleman, Event Sponsor/Epilepsy Services of SWFL. 2: Co-Host of the Mad Hatter Event, Christina McCauley, CEO of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County with her husband, Don. 3: The United Way South Sarasota County’s Gwen Schafer, Judy Jankowski, Barbara Cruz, Teri Andrews, & Jaiden Johnson. 4: Evelyn Moya, Robin Stover & Jaiden Johnson. 5: Commissioner Jill Luke & Patty Simmons of Elegant Designs by Patty. 6: Neil Scott & Judy Jankowski, Vice President of Philanthropy at United Way South Sarasota County. 7: Christina McCauley, Angie Omicioli, Commissioner Jill Luke, Emily Shaw, Kristen Cawthorne of 941 Apparel, & Katrina Moyer of Mortgages and More. Photography by Jaiden Johnson

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

C I T Y SC E N E

When it comes to real estate agents...

Who You Choose Matters Responsive | Attentive | Honest The qualities of a true Midwesterner. Now a local resident of Wellen Park, I can assist you from Sarasota to Punta Gorda

SALLY ABDELLA Realtor® LPS RSPS SRES Coldwell Banker Realty - #1 Venice #1 Florida

(941) 587-0407 sally.abdella@cbrealty.com sallysellsneartheseashore.com | 331 W. Venice Ave, Venice |

Let’s talk about what

I can do for you!

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AUGUST 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Barbara Cruz Is Creating A Meaningful Change In Our Community! Barbara Cruz, United Way South Sarasota County's CEO, launched their Women United Affinity Group about a year ago. Women United is a group of local women who are dedicated to helping improve the lives of the community's most vulnerable residents. Strategically, these women raise money for eviction prevention and homeless mitigation. The needs in our community are greater now more than ever before. Join this group of women in creating a meaningful change in the community! 941.484.4811 uwssc.org

Photography: United Way South Sarasota County

Scan to read more.

Atlanta Braves Spring Training Launch New Website, CoolTodayPark.com CoolTodayPark.com is a resource for all events at CoolToday Park, from Spring Training season to events year-round. It has information on Spring Training Season ticket memberships, planning your visit, available hospitality areas, and much more. CoolToday Park hosts weekly live entertainment at the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill. Braves gear can be purchased at the Clubhouse Team Store, both are open 6 days a week all year. Visit CoolTodayPark.com or email Springtraining@braves.com

Photography: Atlanta Braves

Scan to read more.

Save The Date: CPC's Night Of Hope & Healing On November 3rd This Child Protection Center event is a celebration of what our amazing community does to help end child abuse, by bringing hope and healing to victims and their families, and will be held at the Suncoast Air Center. Tickets are $75 each. Enjoy delicious food and cocktails from local restaurants, and silent and live auctions. Change lives and bring hope to the children of our very own community. For event details contact Louannl@Cpcsarasota.org. 941.365.1277 ext.120.

Photography: Child Protection Center

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

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

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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REFLECTIONS

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

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

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(941) 777-4448 405 Commercial Ct., Suite A Venice, FL 34292 TheContourDaySpa.com CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared to treat visible fat bulges in 9 areas of the body. Some common side effects include temporary numbness, discomfort, and swelling.

The world’s f irst radiof requency microneedling platform is now in Venice, exclusively at The Contour Day Spa! VirtueRF treatments stimulate collagen to tighten loose or sagging skin on your face & body, improve f ine lines & wrinkles, scars, sun damage or stretch marks. The procedure is comfortable and requires no social downtime because of the exceptional ability to customize depth, heat and power. Results are natural, immediate and will continue to improve over time.

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

Loving Our Furry Friends

VENICE LOCALS SHARE HEARTWARMING TALES ABOUT THE SPECIAL PUPS AND BUNNIES IN THEIR LIVES ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

ROMEO/GREG HAMAN/AGAPE FLIGHTS Greg Haman is the Director of Flight Operations at Agape Flights, a Venicebased Christian nonprofit that flies supplies to missionaries working in the Caribbean. A few years ago, he and his wife Sierra adopted their dog, Romeo, a pit bull mix. The family includes sons Alexander, 3, and Nicolas, 1. “Alexander was a newborn when we got Romeo,” Greg says. “We have always had dogs and the previous year we had lost two dogs, one to an accident and one to old age. We took a year off and then the house felt quiet. A friend in Ft. Lauderdale found a dog hanging out at a bus stop, no collar, no identification, super friendly, just wanting to interact with people. He took him in and nobody responded to lost dog notices. My buddy knew we were looking for a rescue and he called me. When we flew over there, it was love at first sight. We named him Romeo because he’s a total lover. Our boys try to ride him like a horse and put him through the ringer and he’s a total sweetheart.” Romeo often accompanies Greg to Agape’s hangar, where he just loves ‘helping out’! 100 Airport Ave. E., Venice. 941.488.0990. Agapeflights.com

Co-pilot Romeo

Preparing for take off with his owner Greg Haman of Agape Flights. Photo by Abby Duncan

P E T F R IE N D LY | L IFE + CULTURE

Patti

On a bike ride with her owners, Karen & Chuck Daunch.

PATTI / KAREN & CHUCK DAUNCH

“Patti’s a great dog, very loving. Every morning she comes in our bed and lays there between us, then kisses us to wake us up.”

Chuck and Karen Daunch are recent arrivals from Atlanta. Their dog, Patti, is on our cover this month. “We got Patti about a year and a half ago from a breeder,” Chuck says. “She’s a Yorkie, Maltese, Lhasa, Poodle mix. We named her for my sister who died of cancer. She’s a great dog, very loving. Every morning she comes in our bed and lays there between us, then kisses us to wake us up. We’re getting her sister from her mother and father’s last litter. That’s going to be really special. We take Patti everywhere, on bike rides and walking downtown. Patti loves people and has never met a stranger.”

CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Karli, Cassie & Brindle

Cuddled with Lori Bailey, owner of the Contour Day Spa. KARLI, CASSIE & BRINDLE / LORI BAILEY/ THE CONTOUR DAY SPA Lori Bailey, owner of The Contour Day Spa, has three dogs. “The bigger of the three is Brindle, a rescue Lhasa mix,” Lori says. “She’s eleven years old. Cassie is ten, but she was just a twopound Shih Tzu-Pekingese puppy when I started fostering her. The rescue called her Hopalong Cassidy because her leg had been broken in five places, but she was never treated for her injury, so the breaks calcified. I was supposed to take care of her until she was strong enough for the rescue to amputate her leg and put her up for adoption. Instead, I took her to our vet who determined she wasn’t in pain and was managing fine, so I kept her and she kept her leg. Our third dog, Karli, is a Havashire—a Havanese and Yorkie mix—she’s four.” “As our four children grew and left for college, my husband, Dave, and I replaced them with dogs,” Lori laughs and says. “Dave was commuting at the time between Chicago and Texas. Right after we got Cassie in 2013, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. If I was ever feeling sorry for myself or crying, that little dog helped me get through. I’ve now been cancer free for nine years. You can cry on a dog’s shoulder and tell them anything you want and they don’t tell anybody or judge you. Now the dogs are our ‘spa mascots.’ They go to work with me on days when we’re not as busy – but some of our regular clients actually ask for the dogs to be here when they come.” 405 Commercial Court, Suite A, Venice. 941.777.4448. TheContourDaySpa.com

“As our four children grew and left for college, my husband and I replaced them with dogs.”

P E T F R IE N D LY | L IFE + CULTURE

Charlie Smiling

With his owner Karla Blake, Medicare Specialist CHARLIE/KARLA BLAKE/MEDICARE SPECIALIST Karla Blake has an eight-year-old female purebred yellow Labrador Retriever named Charlie. “Charlie was the pick of the litter,” Karla explains. “She was named by my youngest son, who was 10 years old when we got her. She’s an extraordinary dog. She’s so sweet, friendly and well-trained, and happy to show off her tricks! She’s an all-American family dog. My oldest daughter loved Charlie so much that she ended up getting a puppy from the same breeder years later, from the same parents. Her dog, Bella, is awesome, too.” Charlie has helped Karla through some tough times. “Charlie was the first dog I got on my own,” Karla says. “She became a therapy dog to me, helping me through big life adjustments. She’s a large Lab, from a champion line. People stop me because she is so beautiful. She’s a swimmer—this breed is a water dog. She loves Dog Beach and enjoys socializing with other dogs and people, especially children. If she has access to the pool, that’s permission to her and she will dive right in.” 954.612.1754. Karlablake.medicarespecialist@gmail.com. Karlablakemedicarespecialist.com

Shawn Lutz

Dental Hygienist at Davis & Beyer Dental Health Professionals, with her pet rabbit, Henry. HENRY/SHAWN LUTZ/DAVIS & BEYER Shawn Lutz is a Dental Hygienist at Davis & Beyer. Her pet is a rabbit named Henry. “His name is Henry, but we’re not sure yet if he’s a boy or a girl,” Shawn explains. “You can’t tell their sex until they’re six months old, so we have a month to go. If he winds up being a girl, she’ll be Henrietta and we’ll end up calling her Henry anyway.” Shawn’s ten-year-old grandson, Skyler, was concerned that Shawn needed a companion and suggested she get a dog. But Shawn isn’t home often enough for the needs of a dog. She has a terrible cat allergy, so that ruled out cats. “I did a little research on bunnies,” Shawn says. “They like to sleep during the day, are litter trainable, and I can easily carry him with me when I travel. I fell in love with Henry from the moment I saw him at the pet store. Whenever I get home from work, I just hold and pet him for thirty minutes. I am just in love with him. I just keep telling Skyler, ‘Thank you!’” 1218 E. Venice Ave, Venice. 941.488.1075. Venicedentist.com

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

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PremierSothebysRealty.com

VENICE

Colorful places to live and play. Global Real Estate Advisor | 941.993.0025 Lisa.Napolitano@PremierSIR.com | LisaNapolitano.PremierSothebysRealty.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

Karla Blake

MEDICARE SPECIALIST

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

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941.445.0319 WWW.NANCYSCONCIERGESERVICES.COM AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

Bayside Pet Resort is expected to open in February 2023.

Bayside Pet Resort Coming To Wellen Park ARTICLE BY JENNIFER HAMILTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BAYSIDE PET RESORT

Luxury Pet Day Care And Kennel Expected To Open In 2023

The CAT climbing equipment inside the kitty lodging area where Bayside Pet Resort offers two suite sizes; kitty condos or kitty penthouses.

P E T CA R E | PR OFESSION AL S E RVI CE S

Chrissi in the courtyard with her large daycare group.

Pet parents will soon have a convenient location for day care and overnight boarding in Wellen Park. Bayside Pet Resort has announced its fourth location – a freestanding 16,000-square-foot building on US 41 offering overnight accommodations for 100 dogs and 18 cats, two doggie day cares for large and small dogs, grooming, and obedience and agility training. Complete with a pool, shaded courtyards and a half-acre agility course, construction on the luxury pet resort is expected to start by September and be open in February 2023. “Wellen Park is home to many pet lovers who will be counting the days until Bayside Pet Resort opens,” says Rick Severance, Wellen Park President. “We look forward to bringing this quality and level of luxury in pet care to our residents and the neighboring communities.” Founded in Sarasota a decade ago by Bob and Lynne Huff, Bayside is the 2022 'Best Pet Boarder' and 'Best Pet Trainer' as voted by readers of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. “Wellen Park is a phenomenal location,” says Tyler Smith, Vice President of Development and Operations for Bayside Pet Resort. “With the expanded growth happening right now and continued growth in the future, we feel this is a great service for a lot of people who will be living in the community.” The building, situated on 2.5 acres, is a new prototype with larger dog runs and outdoor spaces. It will have various-sized kennels, including overnight boarding in 100 air-conditioned dog suites – most with popular indoor-outdoor runs – and 18 kitty condos and penthouses. The kennels are humidity-controlled with fresh air circulated every ten minutes and are equipped with webcams for owners to check in on their pets. Bayside Pet Resort also provides fresh linens and soothing music. “We’re a five-star pet resort that offers wonderful amenities for our guests,” says Angeline Pantazis, director of

operations for Bayside Pet Resort. “We take care of our clients’ pets as if they’re our own.” Bayside Pet Resort also accepts turtles, fish, bearded dragons, guinea pigs, rabbits and snakes. A pot-bellied pig is also a frequent guest. Horses, birds and poisonous animals are not accepted. Consistently ranked among the US’s 50 top fastest-selling master planned communities annually by prominent real estate consulting firm RCLCO, Wellen Park offers a mix of residential, commercial and recreational options. The community currently has approximately 9,500 residents, and at full build-out will have more than 50,000 residents and 22,500 homes within its three distinct districts: West Villages, Downtown Wellen and Playmore. Downtown Wellen, the vibrant gathering hub for Wellen Park and the region, is under construction with the first phase anticipated to open in the fourth quarter of 2022. The pedestrian-friendly downtown offers retail shops, waterfront dining, professional and beauty services, public community spaces, lakefront parks and outdoor recreational opportunities along the 80-acre Grand Lake and 2.8-mile lakefront trail. Kayak, paddleboard and bicycle rentals will be available from an on-site outfitter. Downtown Wellen also features a large events lawn, a hammock grove and alfresco lounge area under a nearly 100-yearold oak tree, a unique nature-inspired playground, and Solis Hall for concerts and community and private events. For more information about living at Wellen Park, call 941.960.7805, go to Wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice. The Welcome Center is open Monday-Saturday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM and Sunday, noon to 5 PM.

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

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

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE WAREHOUSE

The WareHouse Local Nonprofit Provides Teens With Positive Activities, Volunteering Opportunities, And The Chance To Be Part Of The Community

Over the past two decades, the nonprofit Venice WareHouse has provided thousands of local middle and high school students with positive, drug-free activities and volunteering opportunities. The WareHouse was founded by Executive Director Linda Banister, her son Justin Banister, and long time family friend, Debbie Eaton, based on an experience Justin had when they first moved to Venice. “Our vacation destination became home for Justin and I in 2001, shortly after he finished high school. We hadn’t been in Venice but a couple of weeks when he came walking in the house and I could tell that something was wrong. He said, ‘Mom, we have to do something.’ He’d gone to Blockbuster to rent a movie and was approached by a teen who asked to buy drugs from him. Justin let the young man know that was not something he was involved in. They chatted and Justin learned that teens here thought there wasn’t much for local teens to do.” Linda and Justin opened their home to local teens as a safe hangout spot. Then in 2005, they were offered a portion of a warehouse, which the teens furnished with a small coffee shop, a stage, a pool table and pingpong tables. The group was incorporated as a nonprofit under the name the WareHouse. Though they had outgrown the original warehouse space, the name stuck. Today, the WareHouse has a van, meets the 2nd Saturday of every month, has many generous local sponsors, and offers teens free activities like a croquet program with the Sarasota County

G IV IN G BAC K | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Croquet Club, bowling nights, USF basketball games, Rowdy Soccer tickets, the Venice Quest scavenger hunt, and much more. The WareHouse team has volunteered with over 250 local nonprofits. It also directs the local Drug-Free youth Rewards Program known as ‘Venice D-Fy’ at Venice High School and throughout the Venice area. “This generation is highly interested in being involved in a cause,” Linda says. “We offer them opportunities for that, as well as to learn how to be part of a community.” 941.497.7117. VeniceWareHouse.org.

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

Parties Your Kids Will Love!

Kimberly Blaker Shares Tips For Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUREMAR

PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | ENTERTAI NME NT

So your child's birthday is just around the corner, and you don't have time to plan and prepare the perfect party? Don't despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids' parties that'll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday child and guests will have a blast. Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many sites provide invitations, food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

SKATES & BLADES - Roller skating rinks are again gaining popularity, and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today's kids. Also, consider ice-skating and ice or a roller hockey party as a fun alternative. STRIKE IT BIG – Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow-in-the-dark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters. PIZZA AND PLAY – Preschool and early elementary children thrill at invitations to these parties. They can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coin-operated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE – Head to a wave pool or water park where big kids can ride the waves, swish down water slides, take a plunge, and go on tubing adventures. What better way to cool off and party on a hot summer day? Indoor water parks are a fun alternative for the colder months.

OLD MACDONALD HAD A FARM – Check with your nearby farm, ranch, or apple orchard to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays.

RECREATIONAL ROMP – Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays, including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

YOU SHOULD BE DANCIN’ – Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in, so the whole shebang is done right there.

CRAFT MAGIC – Young kids love to create. So schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids' activities are offered.

FAST FOOD FUN – For a simple and inexpensive toddler or preschool party, McDonald's, Burger King, and other fast-food joints are excellent choices. Children can crawl through a playscape and dive into a pool of balls while enjoying their favorites: hamburgers and French fries. Call ahead to make your reservation. PUTT-PUTT & MORE – Family fun centers offer a variety of entertainment, including batting cages, miniature golf, video games, bumper boats, and go-carts. BEACH PARTY – Give your teen some fun in the sun with a beach bash. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area. Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don't forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop.

PARTY TIPS: • Keep the guest list manageable to avoid chaos, confusion, and conflict. • Request an RSVP with a specific deadline, so there is time to invite others should the guest list fall short. • Offer your child choices for the party, ask for input, and allow them to assist in planning. • Send out written invitations. Verbal invitations are easily forgotten. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com.

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

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

MILK

ING THE

Kids of all ages love visiting Dakin Dairy Farms.

DAKIN DAIRY FARMS EDUCATES AREA CHILDREN ABOUT HEALTHY MILK PRODUCTION. NOW JERRY DAKIN IS NOMINATED FOR FLORIDA FARMER OF THE YEAR.

MOMENT

ARTICLE BY TONY D’SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAKIN DAIRY FARMS

H OM E TOWN H E R O | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Dakin Dairy Farms is a true local treasure. One of the last working dairy farms in our area, Dakin Dairy has welcomed families and school groups to tour its facilities for decades, treating kids to an immersive education in how a healthy, sustainable dairy operates, cares for its cows, produces milk, cheese and ice cream. The sprawling 1700-acre farm offers play areas and hands-on experiences. The Dakin Farm Café serves delicious breakfasts and lunches from 9 AM to 2 PM Monday through Friday, and the Dakin Farm Market, open 9 AM to 6 PM, has a wide variety of dairy products and Dakin Dairy Farms souvenirs. The continuing success of Dakin Dairy Farms is due in large part to owner Jerry Dakin, who has been named a finalist for Florida Farmer of the Year. The farm was started by his dad, Pete Dakin, in Livermore, Maine in 1948. From a modest sixteen cows, the operation grew over the post-World War II years. When Pete Dakin returned from a trip down south in October 1963, he informed his wife Jeannette that she and their four boys were moving to Florida. “Being the youngest of the children allowed me the opportunity to learn a great deal from my brothers,” Jerry says. “I learned all I could about farming and knew early on that it would become a lifelong passion. As most young people do, I tried my hand at a few other businesses and took different elective courses in community college, but I always came back to farming.” Jerry was nominated for Florida Farmer of the Year by Andy Neuhofer, District Field Supervisor at Florida Farm Bureau. “One of Jerry’s interests is involving and supporting young people in agricultural education projects and events through Farm Bureau programs and other organizations,” Andy says. “He’s also been a quiet but generous contributor, in terms of funds and product, to a number of local charities and events. He hosts students at his dairy farm, introducing many children of all ages to Florida farming and agritourism opportunities. He moves 100 percent of his own milk, using his own trucks, thereby ensuring quality and freshness.” Visiting Dakin Dairy Farms is a tradition not to be missed. Kids love watching the cows being milked, and then petting the farm’s cute calves. A delicious, homemade ice cream cone makes for a perfect day. From everyone at Venice City Lifestyle, congratulations Jerry on your much deserved award!

Dakin Dairy Farms teaches children all about raising health cows and quality milk. Jerry Dakin, nominated for Farmer of the Year, with his dog, Brie.

30771 Betts Rd, Myakka City. 941.322.2802 Dakindairyfarms.com.

ENJOY $1 SCOOPS OF HOMEMADE ICE CREAM AT DAKIN DAIRY FARMS. AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

AUGUST 2022

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

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Key Culinary Tours’ Historic Venice Culinary Walking Tours

CEN TEN N IAL PAR K | 2:00 PM These three-hour culinary walking tours visits downtown streets rich in architecture and history and are delicious ways to learn about Venice and its creative cuisine scene. Reservations required at Keyculinarytours.com . Ticket ($79.95) includes all food and restaurant gratuities. If you enjoyed your tour, tips are greatly appreciated. Meet at the Centennial Park kiosk for the 2 PM to 5 PM tours.

Summer Party: Splash Sundays at Hotel Venezia

H OTEL VEN EZIA, VEN ICE | 12: 0 0 P M Join the party at Splash Sundays at the Hotel Venezia! Every Sunday from noon to 7 PM, everyone 21 years old and up are invited to party at the pool with live music featuring DJ Derek Bowden. Five dollar entry for ladies, ten dollar for gents, with drink specials and zero entry pool! 425 U.S. 41 Bypass N, Venice. Hotelveneziafl.com.

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Boating Skills And Seamanship Course

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City of Venice Monthly Bicycle Ride

ZOOM | 6:00 PM The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 86 Venice's Boating Skills and Seamanship course meets on Monday and Thursday evenings from 6-9 PM for five sessions, August 8, 11, 15, 18, 22. Completion of the course and successfully passing a test earns a lifetime Florida Boaters Card. Course costs $40 plus the textbook, Boating Skills & Seamanship, 14th edition, about $20 on Amazon. 941.492.5904.

CITY HALL | 10:00 AM The City of Venice's Monthly Bicycle Rides led by Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper, are the second Thursday of each month. The 6-mile casual ride is around the island of Venice starts at 10 AM. Bring your bike and a helmet to the west parking lot of City Hall. Email Darlene at Dculpepper@venicefl.gov to register or for more information. AUG U ST 1 2 T H, 2 6T H

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Friday Night Concert In The Park: Dean Johanesen, Clover's Revenge

CEN TEN N IAL PAR K | 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. Friday August 12th features Dean Johanesen, and Friday August 26 features Clover's Revenge.

Pop-Up Outdoor Bootcamp With Apex Boxing + Fitness

CEN TEN N IAL PAR K | 8 :30 AM Meet at the Centennial Park gazebo at 8:30 AM every third Saturday of the month for a complimentary popup outdoor bootcamp with Apex Boxing + Fitness. Read our feature about Apex trainer Danielle Neri in our May, 2022, issue. Apex is an open and class-based gym in Nokomis offering boot camps, boxing, and personal training. 249 Tamiami Trail South, Nokomis. 941.786.9491. Apexboxingandfitness.com

Want to be featured?

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

EVE N TS

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Thursdays - Kids’ Night + Karaoke Canoe or Kayak the Myakka River WWW.SNOOKHAVEN.COM