Venice, FL April 2023

Explore The Gulf Coast!

R E A L E S TAT E

E XPLO RI NG CA SE Y KE Y & BE YO N D WITH LISA N APO LITANO LI F E + C U LTU R E

WH ERE IN V EN I CE (O R O N E ARTH ) IS YOU R FAVO RITE N ATU RE SPOT? E D U C ATI O N

A N IGHT O F WO N DER: TH E EPIPHANY GAL A

A P R I L 2 02 3

Book the event that you desire! You can expect sophisticated luxury and impeccable service from the staff at Plantation. Our talented culinary team will prepare a variety of exquisite dishes that will delight your guests.

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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

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April 2023 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

EXPLORE The Gulf Coast!

It's said that 'April Showers Bring May Flowers'. Here on the Gulf Coast of Florida we can always use some rainfall to brighten up our gardens and lawns and help all kinds of blooms grow.

As I move and 'flower' through my days and weeks I realize more and more what an amazing privilege it is to live and work in the Venice area. There really is so much to EXPLORE, which is the theme for this issue of Venice City Lifestyle.

When I explore, however, it’s with “You,” our readers in mind. I’m always searching to bring you stories about the best new, and the finest established, people, places, and things I can.

So does top Premier Sotheby’s International real estate advisor Lisa Napolitano. In “Exploring Casey Key & Beyond,” Lisa takes us all on a deep dive into the history, lore, and real estate of the paradise she calls home.

And, talking about growing and exploring, in honor of Earth Day, we asked community members to tell us, “Where in Venice (or on Earth) is Your Favorite Nature Spot?” Then we asked them to weigh in on how to safeguard those places for future generations.

Now I'm inviting all our readers to join in and let Venice City Lifestyle know where your favorite places are, and your best strategies for eco-consciousness, by emailing me at Charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com.

Every April, for 25 years now, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s Epiphany Gala outdoes itself. This year is no exception, as it honors Venice notables Donna and Mike Pachota with a Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award.

There’s lots more to explore in this issue including a piece on the “New Venice Courtyard Homes" of Arcata del Sol, represented exclusively by Pro Group Realty. There's also a look at Venice City Lifestyle’s Olive Oil tasting party at Venice Olive Oil Co., and City Scene’s view into The Venice Symphony’s Imagine Ball.

Imagine that!

MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Emily Leinfuss, Lisa Napolitano CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Coastal Home Photography, CMS Photography, Prion Photography, ATELIER UNFORGETTABLE

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @VENICECIT YLIFEST YLEMAGAZINE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

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

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

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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

ail.com L 34285

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APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Epiphany Gala’s 25th

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Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Local Limelight EDU CAT I O N

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Open House HO ME + DES I GN

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Home Update R EA L ESTAT E

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Culinary Creations FO O D + B EV ER AGE

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Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

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Events

Anniversary Will be ‘A Night of Wonder’

Donna and Mike Pachota are Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award Honorees

24 Exploring Casey Key &

Beyond with Lisa Napolitano The Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Global

Advisor Curates Connections - Lifestyles to Homes.

30 A Good Time Was Had By Oil Venice City Lifestyle Hosts Olive Oil Tasting Class

34 Where in Venice (or on Earth) is Your Favorite Nature Spot?

In Honor of Earth Day (April 22) Community Members Suggest Ways to Safeguard Their Fav Spots On Our Planet.

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O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: CMS Photography 2305 Casey Key Road is masterfully crafted to create an unparalleled Gulf-front living experience, offering dazzling views of the Gulf of Mexico. (Courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty).

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Wellen, Solis Hall is a one-of-a-kind rental event venue

Learn more about

Picture this: elegant lakefront weddings square feet of outdoor gathering areas, Solis Hall and submit a and catered receptions with magnificent porches and patios along the water. reservation request. sunsets … special events and anniversaries The venue’s wide pergola-accented with loved ones ... community concerts and patio doubles as a stage overlooking grand galas. The possibilities are endless the emerald sweep of the Great Lawn, at Solis Hall, the new multifunctional event a grassy gathering spot for outdoor and space in Downtown Wellen. Now accepting community events, alfresco concerts and event reservations, Solis Hall offers the even exercise classes. The hall flows perfect venue to celebrate life’s milestone easily from indoor and outdoor areas, moments and private social occasions. spilling into the neighboring Canopy Tucked along Downtown Wellen’s Green, a beautiful lakefront destination 80-acre Grand Lake, in between the with benches and seating under picturesque Canopy Green and Great relocated oak trees. The green can be Lawn, Solis Hall provides an enchanting rented separately for intimate events or and romantic venue for couples to wed and with the interior space. families and groups to celebrate wedding Across the street, a future hotel anniversaries and engagements, birthdays, with approximately 150 rooms will corporate retreats, concerts and a host of homegrown events. accommodate out-of-town guests attending events at Solis Hall.

Even its name inspires vibrancy and happiness – solis is Latin The neighboring Banyan House, Downtown Wellen’s for sun. flagship restaurant and exclusive caterer, offers the convenience “Solis Hall is elegant yet comfortable – casual for a baby of on-site food and cocktail preparation and an extensive menu shower or gender reveal and elegant for black-tie events,” said of elegant catering options for events of all sizes. Offering a Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. large lakefront bar and outdoor patios, the restaurant can also “With its lakefront location, Solis Hall features amazing sunset be rented for private occasions. views. It’s absolutely stunning. There’s nothing like it in the Guests at Solis Hall will also enjoy a location in the heart region.” of Downtown Wellen. Created as the region’s social gathering The area’s premier wedding and party planners are taking hub for dining, entertainment and shopping, the pedestriannotice of Solis Hall’s unique and idyllic setting, as are newly friendly downtown also features a nature-inspired play area, a engaged couples, Wellen Park residents and those looking lakefront promenade, a 2.8-mile hiking and biking trail around for the perfect setting for their special celebrations. Designed Grand Lake and a floating dock for launching paddleboards and

by Khoury Vogt Architects in the charming style reminiscent kayaks. of New England town halls that marry building design with Solis Hall is ADA accessible, offers flexible floor plans and waterfront, Solis Hall’s 4,500 square feet features soaring 25accommodates up to 300 people, based on the event format. foot ceilings and expanses of windows and glass doors visually For event rental inquiries or more information about Solis Hall, and physically connecting to the lake and more than 4,000 visit wellenpark.com/venues.

WELLENPARK.COM 19745 WELLEN PARK BLVD, VENICE, FL 34293

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(941) 271-0116

APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1: The Venice Symphony President (l) & CEO Christine Kasten and Imagine Ball Chairperson Barbara Jackson. 2: Featured vocalist Jay Camaro gets people on the dance floor at the Imagine Ball. 3: Glenn and Barbara Jackson with Jodi and JJ Miranda. JJ is Market President of Truist - presenting sponsor of the Ball. 4: Lissa Ledbetter and Symphony Trustee Steven Ledbetter mingle with Maestro Troy Quinn. 5: Featured vocalist Jay Camaro of St. Petersburg is a former Top 40 American Idol contestant. 6: Jules and Kory Lee at the Maestro’s Champagne Reception before the Imagine Ball. 7: Members of The Venice Symphony Jazz Orchestra led by Conductor Pete BarenBregge performed at the Ball.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @VeniceCityLifestyleMagazine

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C I T Y SC E N E

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APRIL 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Good Happenings from Venice Pier Group's Justin Pachota Justin Pachota, President of Venice Pier Group gave Venice City Lifestyle an update on restaurant happenings! Here’s what he says: “Snook Haven is open and rocking. We are running the concessions at The Bay in Sarasota. Both Sharky’s on the Pier and Fins at Sharky’s are continuing to thrive. Fins was voted one of the top 10 area restaurants by Venice Foodies, and Sharky’s celebrated 36 years of offering Venice great fun and food. (sharkysonthepier.com, finsatsharkys.com)

Scan to read more.

'Glamping' Deal at Westgate River Ranch in Central Florida Looking to embark on a camping trip - or better yet, Glamping? Central Florida dude ranch Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo is offering a brandnew S’mores n Pours package. Now through August, families who book either a Luxe Conestoga Wagon or a Luxe Teepee will receive two complementary gifts: s’mores kits for the kids and the whole family to enjoy, and a bottle of Buffalo Trace, one of the smoothest bourbons in the south, just for parents.

Yummy! (westgateresorts.com).

Scan to read more.

Executive Director of Child Protection Center Presented With Prestigious Award The Rotary Club of Gulf Gate presented Doug Staley, Executive Director of the Child Protection Center, Inc. (CPC), with the highest award an individual Rotarian can receive – the Paul Harris Fellow Award. It is given as a token of appreciation for a member who's contributed significant time and funds to their local Club. With 27 years at the CPC, Staley has dedicated his life and work to protecting the children of our community (cpcsarasota.org).

Scan to read more.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Donna and Mike Pachota

Donna and Mike Pachota are Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award Honorees

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ED UCATI ON

EPIPHANY GALA’S 25TH

Students work and play together at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School.

ANNIVERSARY WILL BE ‘A NIGHT OF WONDER’ ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

You won’t want to miss the 25th anniversary of Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s annual major fundraiser, the Epiphany Gala, on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Plantation Golf & Country Club. Exciting things are planned for the evening, which is themed “A Night of Wonder," including a live and silent auction, dinner and for the first time in two years, live music by The Phase 5 Band (dancing is encouraged).

The focus of the evening is to raise money for Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School and to honor Epiphany’s Shining Star Lifetime Achievement recipients. Now celebrating its 10th year, Shining Star recognizes those who have built an enduring legacy at Epiphany Parish and School.

This year's award recipients, Donna and Mike Pachota, are an intrinsic part of Venice's history and development. Donna has long served our local community as a Family Medicine Specialist. Thirtyplus years ago Donna and Mike co-founded Sharky’s on the Pier. The now-iconic restaurant began as little more than a beach shack in 1987. Today it's part of the Venice Pier Group – a diverse family business whose president is former Epiphany student, and Donna and Mike's son, Justin Pachota.

“The Pachotas have been parishioners at Epiphany for 35 years, ever since they moved to this area.

Their two sons, Justin and Nick (who is currently Mayor of Venice), both attended Epiphany,” says Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s Director of Development Leah Mihm.

Leah explains that Donna and Mike were very involved as Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School parents.

Donna was a long-time member of the school board and Sharky’s on the Pier sponsored and provided food for the famous Knights of Columbus Fish Fry Fridays during Lent. “(The Pachotas) are such genuinely good people and have always supported the school, and not just financially,” says Leah, “They’ve also been pillars and advocates of Catholic education.”

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s enrollment period is open, and Leah invites parents to call and schedule a tour. The school offers a faith-based comprehensive curriculum that boasts instruction in language arts (reading comprehension, grammar, writing, and vocabulary), math, science, social studies, health, visual and fine arts, music appreciation and instrumental performance, foreign language (Spanish), technology and media, and physical education. Contact Admissions Director: Andrea Mitchell at Mitchell@ ecstigers.com

Epiphany employs a STREAM approach to learning, bringing Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics together.

316 Sarasota St., Venice.

941.488.2215 ecstigers.com.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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IT ’S NEVER TOO L AT E TO H AVE A

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N ew Ve nice C our t yar d Homes Have It All! THE MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE ARCATA DEL SOL OFFERS LUXURIOUS CONVENIENCE

The availability of a new, custom-built courtyard development located just minutes from downtown Venice and the Venice beaches – and priced affordably – seems too good to be true. But it's not. It's Arcata Del Sol! This beautifully landscaped, 20-home community offers the best of all possible worlds. For living spaces choose between three model floorplans. The Materia I is a single-story residence with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The Materia II plan is larger and has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a flex area. Both have a two-car garage.

Then there’s the Materia III plan. Nestled on a lot and a half, this significantly larger residence has three bedrooms, all with on-suite bathrooms. It also has a three-car

The new, Arcata Del Sol community is only minutes away from beautiful Downtown Venice Island

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O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

garage, and offers three different floor plan options. (See sidebar for exact specs).

Regardless of which plan you choose, Arcata Del Sol residences also boast a laundry room, a private courtyard that’s perfect for an optional swimming pool and spa, quartz countertops, Timberlake wood cabinetry, porcelain tile flooring, and much more. Plus, Arcata del Sol offers move-in ready homes now.

For out and about, Arcata Del Sol is conveniently located off E. Venice Avenue only a short drive away from almost anywhere you may want to go. Enjoy dining at one of the city's fabulous restaurants along downtown Venice Main Street. Explore the many boutiques and shops on the island

Arcata Del Sol’s beautifully landscaped 20-home community offers the best of all possible worlds - spacious living minutes away from almost anywhere you want to go. Enjoy dining at one of the city’s fabulous restaurants along downtown Venice Main Street. Explore the many boutiques and shops on the island of Venice, or take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the Venetian Waterway Trail or the Legacy Trail.

of Venice, or take a leisurely stroll or bike ride on the Venetian Waterway Trail or the Legacy Trail.

Overall, Arcata Del Sol, which means Archway to the Sun in Italian, is designed in the Mediterranean Revival style, evoking an Old World image with its decorative columns, arched windows, concrete barrel tile roofs, rough stucco walls, wrought iron and spindle gates guarding picturesque courtyards.

Interested? How can you not be? To learn more contact Pro Group Realty and Property Management, LLC (progroup-realty. com, 941.786.9403). The company boasts 30+ years of experience exclusively working with the highly regarded Venice-area builder, MPS Development and Construction, LLC. Let Pro Group Realty help you design your own little piece of paradise! The Arcata Del Sol sales model is located at 902 East Venice Ave. Come visit to have a look, and a listen (every townhome features super high-quality impact doors and windows so when you are inside you won’t hear a sound from the outside world).

ARCATA DEL SOL AT A GLANCE MATERA I Single Story: 2 Bedrooms/2 Baths: Living Area=1,491SF: Garage=459SF: Lanai=188SF: Covered Entry=11SF. Total=2149SF MATERA II Two-Story: 3 Bedrooms/3 Baths: Floor 1 Living Area=1,491SF: Floor 2 Living Area=554SF: Garage=459SF: Lanai=188 SF: Covered Entry=11SF. Total Area=2,793 SF MATERA III 1½ Lots: 3 Floor Plan Options: 3 Bedrooms all with on-Suite Bathrooms: Living Area=2,346SF: 3-Car Garage=773 SF: Lanai=113SF: Covered Entry=20 SF. Total Area=3,252SF CONTINUED >

The exterior of an Arcata Del Sol two story townhome.

The exterior of an Arcata Del Sol one story townhome.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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MORE VIEWS OF ARCATA DEL SOL TOWNHOMES Arcata Del Sol features two- or three-car garages.

Arcata Del Sol living areas are spacious and well-appointed.

The kitchens in Arcata Del Sol townhomes feature G.E. Stainless Steel Energy Star appliances and options for tile, sinks, fixtures and more.

A view of an Arcata Del Sol bedroom.

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A pool and spa (optional) are perfect for an Arcata Del Sol townhome’s private courtyard.

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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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ART | MUSIC | TECHNOLOGY | LIBRARY | SPANISH | P.E. AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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2305 Casey Key Road boasts dazzling views of the Gulf and 149 feet of private sandy walking beach (Coastal Home Photography).

Exploring Casey Key & Beyond with Lisa Napolitano The Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Global Advisor Curates Connections - Homes and Lifestyles Styled after a home in Bermuda, 1312 Casey Key Road is an exquisite and classic British West Indies estate (Coastal Home Photography).

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H OM E U P DAT E | R EA L ESTATE

Lisa Napolitano is passionate about connecting people who desire to make a change in their current living situation, to their dream homes. “I love what I do," she exclaims. Whether purchasing or selling a home, Lisa always put herself in the customer’s shoes. "Having relocated to many cities across the U.S., I'm always striving to have my clients feel confident and relaxed every step of the way."

Lisa’s years of experience representing buyers and sellers is all inclusive. “Everyone deserves the extraordinary because luxury is not about price – rather it’s about an experience. And when it comes to real estate, experience matters®.”

She is passionate, diligent, and responsive, but Lisa also understands each customer is unique, that communication is key, and her customers’ satisfaction is always her top priority.

Here Lisa takes Venice City Lifestyle readers on a tour of her beloved Casey Key and beyond, where she lives and works as a top ranked global advisor for Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

EXPLORE An eight mile long barrier island, Casey Key offers gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. It's home to small beach cottages and elegant beachfront estates, and it is surrounded by natural landscape, birds, and wildlife.

With just over 400 residents, Casey Key is one of the most private barrier islands and certainly one of the most sought-after pieces of Florida real estate. It is a rare place where commercial development was frozen in time. There are no traffic lights and no high-rise condominiums. New construction is restricted to single family homes. Your neighbor might be someone famous, or people who have chosen to call this idyllic isle their home.

“My husband and I moved to this area of Southwest Florida in 2009 to be close to my dad who lived in Venice.

We were thrilled when we found paradise on Casey Key. Whether enjoying the beauty of the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, walking on the beach, or simply reflecting on a breathtaking sunset, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to live on this small, pristine, barrier island."

OF INTEREST The one-lane, Blackburn Point Historic Swing Bridge is one of the few remaining swing bridges in Florida.

It was built in 1926 in Ohio and shipped to its location on the Intracoastal Waterway at the north entrance of Casey Key. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 29, 2001, it’s still operated by a bridge tender, who mechanically spins the bridge on its central axis to let tall boats pass.

There’s an interesting story behind the name Casey Key. Assigned with the task of removing the Seminole Indians from the area in the middle 1800s, Army Captain John Charles Casey also surveyed the area. Originally called Chaise's Key, it was published as Casey Key by mistake in 1856, when Casey produced a map which inadvertently changed the name. Since that time, several attempts have been made to right that mistake and change it back to Chaise’s Key. “We were so interested in the history; my husband and I named our golden retriever Chaise!"

For the public, Nokomis Beach - located on the south end of Casey Key - is noted as the oldest public beach in Sarasota County and is home to the County’s first-ever beach pavilion. Nokomis Beach opened in 1954 and was designed by Jack West in classic Sarasota School of Architecture style.

The North Jetty Park is a scenic and popular spot for Casey Key visitors and locals alike. It’s great for fishing, picnicking, or simply watching the boats come

“My husband and I moved to this area of Southwest Florida in 2009 to be close to my dad who lived in Venice. We were thrilled when we found paradise on Casey Key. Whether enjoying the beauty of the turquoise blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, walking on the beach, or simply reflecting on a breathtaking sunset, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to live on this small, pristine, barrier island.”

CONTINUED >

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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1604 Casey Key Road is a charming beach cottage with a private beach and breathtaking views of the Gulf (Prion Photography).

into the inlet between Venice and Casey Key from the Gulf of Mexico.

In addition to its beautiful stretch of white sandy beach, Nokomis Public Beach hosts an amazing, year-round sunset Drum Circle celebration every Saturday and Wednesday evening approximately two hours before sunset. Visitors from around the globe come to celebrate life, relax, and encounter rhythmic beats, dancing, hoopers, spinners, and a spectacular sunset. This unique event has taken place for decades. Come on over and enjoy sharing this special time with family and friends. Best to bring a blanket and beach chairs.

Sarasota County has the highest density of loggerhead sea turtles nesting on Florida’s west coast, and Casey Key is a favored spot for them. There’s less development, beach

obstacles artificial light, and other hazards for nesting here.

It is not easy being a sea turtle today, but conservation easements such as the one built on Casey Key ensure that there will always be a safe place for some of them. Turtle nesting season occurs between May 1 through October 31 every year.

Casey Key is close to The City of Venice, which easily offers the best of both worlds – small city living and beach town bliss. It’s sometimes called the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” due to an abundance of fossilized sharks’ teeth buried in its sands – particularly out at Caspersen Beach. Downtown Venice was master-planned in the 1920s to be pedestrian-friendly and reminiscent of its Italian namesake city. Thus, it is a very livable, walkable, and friendly place full of locally owned, one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants.

Lisa Napolitano and her work partner Valerie Dall’Acqua offer professionalism, experience, strong local knowledge, and expensive global connections. They are extremely passionate about what they do and are dedicated to achieving their client’s real estate goals.

Contact Lisa at 941.993.0025 or at lisa.napolitano@premiersir.com.

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H OM E U P DAT E | R EA L ESTATE

512 Casey Key Road is a Key-West style home on the bay with close access to the Gulf of Mexico (Coastal Home Photography).

All REAL ESTATE: Listed by Lisa Napolitano | Valerie Dall’Acqua This Carl Abbott Contemporary at 4019 Casey Key Road offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico (CMS Photography).

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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“We Care to Clean”

Family Owned and Operated

TEAM US

CARPET CARE Services we offer: Carpet Cleaning - Tile & Grout Upholstery - Hardwood Floors Residential and Commercial Serving the Communities of Sarasota County

(941) 661-5854

teamuscarpetcare.com 28

PAMELA FOR A COMPLIMENTARY Just Ask Pamela CALL MARKET EVALUATION

PAMELA H. PHILDIUS

Realtor® MBA, Multi-Million Producer

312.952.7907 • pamela.hogan2011@gmail.com

MISSION STATEMENT

Your Home • Your Lifestyle • Our Priority

“To provide real estate solutions for every chapter of your life” Need an expert opinion on your home value and current market conditions?

Know someone thinking of buying? Just Ask Pamela.

Allegro Bistro

981 Ridgewood Ave. Venice, FL 34285

1740 EAST VENICE AVE. | VENICE

(941) 484-1889 ALLEGRO-BISTRO.COM

ITALIAN - AMERICAN FUSION LIVE JAZZ

Tuesday & Thursday Night

OPEN MIC Wed Night

50’S/60’S LIGHT DANCE

Happy Hour 4-6 Nightly

FRI & SAT NIGHT

DOORS OPEN AT 4:00 PM Closed Mondays

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ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

A Good Time

WAS HAD

BY OIL The lovely Charmaine Tincher, Publisher of Venice City Lifestyle, wanted to treat some special guests to an evening of olive oil tasting and more at Venice Olive Oil Co. – and a good time really was had…by ALL! “I wanted to thank some of my best clients in a memorable way,” said Charmaine.

Presiding over the tasting was Marci Weidemiller, Venice Olive Oil’s retail store manager and a certified Olive Oil Sommelier.

Marci loves to educate people on how to properly taste oils, recognize flavor notes and much more.

Charmaine notes that Marci created all the charcuterie, utilizing dips, sauces and seasonings that are offered for sale at Venice Olive Oil. “It was amazing! I went back and bought the port wine jelly.

It was off the charts delicious with cheese and crackers,” she says.

Beginner Olive Oil Tasting classes are available at Venice Olive Oil Co. “As you taste the different oils, we will discuss history, geography, and harvest and milling techniques,” Marci explains.

“You will learn the differences between mild, medium, and robust oils and when best to use them. You will also learn the key role EVOO's play in a healthy diet,” she adds.

Learn more about Venice Olive Oil Co. and tasting classes at veniceoliveoil.com.

Venice City Lifestyle Hosts Olive Oil Tasting Class

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

At the tasting table.

Venice Olive Oil's Marci Weidemiller (l) with VCL Publisher Charmaine Tincher.

An amazing Charcuterie and spread of food!

A look before the festivities begin.

Ray & Pamela Fiume, Owners of Big Bam eBikes. (l-r) Anna Dodd, Director of Sales/Marketing at The Goldton at Venice; Lori Bailey (Owner) and Wendy Rose, The Contour Day Spa, VCL Publisher Charmaine Tincher.

Dennis Turner, Owner of Venice Olive Oil Co. The Good Time!

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Experience the Anti Aging Facial at Simply Renew Med Spa! Using only medical grade anti aging products along with skin tightening microcurrent see amazing results with this fabulous rejuvenating facial; only $99!

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Come Taste the Difference

Over 90 Olive Oils & Balsamic Vinegars Only the finest 100% Ultra Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils • Fresh is best • Great gifts

10% off Your 1st 2 bottles

Two locations

Historic Downtown Venice 101 W. Venice Ave., Suite 5 Venice, FL 34285 941.483.4200

Palmer Ranch

8459 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34238 941.926.1500

www.veniceoliveoil.com

I F YO U A R E R E A D I N G T H I S . . .

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH VENICE CITY LIFESTYLE™ L E A R N M O R E A T C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / V E N I C E 32

e r o l p x E

CASEY KEY

YOUR TRUSTED REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

...Your Dream Destination

LISA NAPOLITANO

Global Real Estate Advisor Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 400 Barcelona Avenue|Venice, FL 34285 Phone: (941) 993-0025 Email: Lisa.napolitano@premiersir.com Visit: lovefloridalivecoastal.com ©2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and used

with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Open the Door to

New Possibilities

Explore new passions and say goodbye to the hassle of home maintenance and chores.

Jacaranda Trace offers membership-exclusive senior living with everything you need to create one fulfilling day after another!

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possibilities into reality! possibilitie 941-499-0037

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERICAL INTERIOR DESIGN Con sul ta ti on | Con c e p t a n d De si gn D ev e l op men t, Proj e c t P l a n n i n g a n d Sp e c i f i c a ti on | Proc ur e men t an d I n sta l l a ti on | St y l i n g a n d Sta gi n g | Tur n Key Vac ati o n Re n ta l s De si gn , 3 D Re n d e r i n g Se r v i c e s

PRISCILLA GONZALEZ - INTERIOR DESIGNER, IIDA

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ALF10358 AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

33

FAVO R I T E N AT U R E S P OT

Where in Venice (or on Earth) is Your Favorite Nature Spot?

In Honor of Earth Day (April 22) Community Members Suggest Ways to Safeguard their Fave Spots On Our Planet.

34

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

RAY FIUME

Owner, Big Bam eBikes (bigbambikes.com)

The Laurel Highland mountains in Western PA, where I grew up, has the cleanest streams and the most beautiful maple and oak trees. The autumn colors are beyond words!

Safekeeping: Slow down or stop residential expansion in pristine areas and make more of those areas into designated state parks.

TONY MAGGIO

Vice President, Reflections in Gold (reflectionsingold.com)

Out on the water by Stump Pass in Englewood; I grew up going there all the time.

Safekeeping: Don’t just not litter - pick up any trash you see on the ground. I learned that from a

SHERRY SIMMONS

Co-Owner, Team Us Carpet Care (teamuscarpetcare.com)

book about Walt Disney - he had all his employees pick up trash as they worked at the parks.

Maegan’s Bay in St. Thomas Virgin Islands.

Safekeeping: Don’t litter, join or create a clean-up crew, clean up after your pets, ask the powers that be for more trash cans, and plant more trees.

DENNIS TURNER

Owner, Venice Olive Oil Co. (veniceoliveoil.com)

My favorite spot is anywhere

KARLA BLAKE

Medicare Specialist (karlablakemedicarespecialist.com)

close to water, salt or fresh: being a retired Navy veteran, water always seems to put me at peace with the world.

Venice’s South Jetty at sunset is where I can really appreciate the beauty of nature.

Safekeeping: We need to keep plastic out of our waters, but I

Safekeeping: Don’t leave things behind, whether that’s trash or, now that

wish I knew how. Maybe if, as

pets are allowed… And fishermen, please don’t leave fishhooks behind!

consumers, we become more aware of the damage plastic does to fish and wildlife then needed change would occur.

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D i ve r ti me nto No. 15 Th e Fo ur Temperaments Wester n Symph o ny

BALAN CHI N E

TRI B U T E TO

MEDIA SPONSOR

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and experience on some of the most challenging and rewarding projects in the Greater Sarasota Area and have lived here almost 40 Years!

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36

Call 941-479-2726 or visit SIMPLYTREESFL .COM

Come Enjoy the Luxuries of Fine Florida Living on Venice Island! Call Today!

As a Proven and Effective Real Estate Professional, let my experience work for you!

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You’re Invited!

Meet Our Pastor Rev. David J. Dahlke

Please Join us in Celebrating the Joy of Jesus in our Lives! (in person or online - God will meet you there)

Contemporary Celebration: Sunday 9 AM Traditional Service: Sunday 10:30 AM Childrens Sunday School | Bible Study | Ignite Youth Ministry Women's Guild | Stitch & Chatter | so many more!

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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

37

APRIL 2023

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

A P RIL 9 T H

Easter Services for the Community at Lakeside Lutheran Church

LAKES IDE LUTHER AN CHURCH | 6 :30 A M Lakeside Lutheran Church is holding three Easter services for the community at 6:30 AM, 9 AM, and 10:30 AM. It is also offering FREE Easter breakfast at Meyer Hall from 7:30 AM-9:30 AM. Join this uplifting service that celebrates Jesus. Come meet the congregation and Lakeside Lutheran Pastor Rev. David J. Dahlke while enjoying a hot breakfast. lakesidelutheran.net A P RIL 1 5T H

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School Gala 2023 “A Night of Wonder”

E P IPHAN Y CATHEDRAL CATHOL I C S C H O O L | 5 :30 P M Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School invites supporters to its Gala 2023: A Night of Wonder. This year’s Gala honors Donna and Mike Pachota as Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients. A silent auction will be followed by dinner and a live auction. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available. Learn more in this issue Venice City Lifestyle. Ecstigers.com A PR I L 2 1 ST- 2 2 N D

Fairytales and Flutes: The Venice Symphony with Jim Walker

VEN ICE PERFORMIN G ARTS CE NT E R | A P R I L 21 7 :30 P M-9 :0 0 P M, A P R I L 22 3:30 P M-5: 00 P M The season finale features one of the greatest flute players of our time. Jim Walker, former principal flute of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, solos on Mozart’s Flute Concerto in G Major, John Williams’ The Face of Pan and Mancini’s Pennywhistle Jig. The finale also features William Walton’s The Wise Virgins Suite, music from Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty, and Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. thevenicesymphony.org A PR I L 2 1 ST- 2 2 N D

34th Earth Day Festival & The 14th Annual Florida Scrub-Jay Festival

O SCAR S CHERER STATE PAR K | 1 0 :0 0 A M Get back to nature at Sarasota Earth Day at Oscar Scherer State Park with free admission, scheduled events and plenty of natural wildlife - 10 AM-4 PM. (friendsofoscarscherer.com). This year the 2023 Florida ScrubJay Festival is hosted in partnership with the Earth Day Festival, from 10 AM-3 PM with Earth-friendly vendors, scrub-jay presentations, guided hikes, and more fsjconservation.org/events/festival .

A P RIL 2 2 N D - 2 3 RD

Venice Sharks Tooth Festival

A P RIL 2 3 RD

"Graceland" and "Asleep on the Wind"

H ISTORIC DOW N TOWN VEN IC E | A P R I L 22 1 0 A M-5 P M, A P R I L 23, 1 0 A M-5 P M The Venice Sharks Tooth Festival is an exciting weekend filled with live music, delicious food, and fun activities for the whole family. It’s all for a good cause – to benefit the Special Olympics Florida-Sarasota county, held at Venice Airport. Hours on April 22 are 10 AM – 8 PM & April 23rd from 10 AM-5 PM. For more information visit venicesharkstoothfestival.com .

VEN ICE THEATR E | 2:00 PM A double bill from Playwright Ellen Byron. One ticket, two short plays! The place is the front entrance of Graceland, the late Elvis Presley's Memphis mansion, three days before the estate is to be opened to the public. Tickets: venicetheatre.org/events/graceland/.

Want to be featured?

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

38

EVE N TS

Another “NEW” Single Family community by

Where location is everything NOW SELLING! NO CDDPhase I Homesites Starting from $154,900 Phase II Coming Soon

Beaches

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.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital

CALL TODAY | 941.244.0982 | FURNISHED MODEL COMING 2023

ASK ABOUT OUR OTHER "NEW" COMMUNITIES: ARCATA DEL SOL FROM $599,900

20 Single-family (1 and 2 story) Courtyard Homes with two and three car garages and quaint courtyards for swimming pool, spas, fire pits and more; located along E. Venice Ave. just minutes from downtown Venice and the beaches.

“ASK ABOUT OUR READY HOMES” FURNISHED MODELS * OPEN DAILY!

941.786.9403

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

LAKESIDE COTTAGES

CASSATA SHORES

COTTAGES OF VENICE

14 cottage homes located on Albee Farm Road.

Furnished Model Coming Soon!

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

36 cottage homes located on E. Venice Avenue.

FROM $399,999

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941.244.0982

FROM $449,900

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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 CGC #061063 - 625 Tamlami Trail N., Venice, FL 34285 - 941.441.1441