Venice, FL May 2023

FASCINATING PEOPLE. FASCINATING LIVES.

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

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

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

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

Ladies First!

I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who make life more beautiful and infinitely better. Mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends fill my cup every day. I suspect that is the same for all our Venice City Lifestyle Readers.

But it’s not just the people we are personally close to who enrich our lives. Wonderful women are doing amazing things in and for our community all the time. Their awesomeness pours into our lives and enriches us all and the world around us. Plus, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on Moms and their marvelousness.

When talking about wonderful women I can’t help but think of my sister Bonnie who we lost just this February. She was (a mother, a grandmother, a niece, a friend, my crazy funny sister who was loved by all who knew her). I will miss her every day! The photo above was our last time together.

This issue of Venice City Lifestyle has highlighted some unforgettable and irreplaceable women, starting with Simply Trees' Owner Amber Delehanty. Amber is a successful entrepreneur and mother of three who is passionate about everything she does.

We also profile two community leaders. Karen Fordham is a 25+ year healthcare executive and former CEO of Venice Regional Bayfront Health Hospital. Today she's working for the wellbeing of the Venice community as COO of AMA Health Providers.

As President and CEO of The Venice Symphony Christine Kasten has grown the almost 50-year-old organization (next season!) in reputation, ticket sales, staff numbers and more.

Executive Director Laura Blakeman oversaw the construction of the newly opened The Goldton at Venice - a luxurious and vibrant independent living community in Nokomis. Also in this issue, learn how the (now 763) women of Impact100 SRQ are a collective force for good in the community.

While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our community. That’s one of my favorite parts of this roleconnecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to Venice’s women.

I also hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.

May 2023

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Emily Leinfuss

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stephanie Snow Photography, Debbie Parker Photography, Lori Sax, Jacqueline Weder, Donna Boldt, Heather Lauren Photography

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

Your Friends Are Waiting

When was the last time you swung a racket or hit a golf ball, biked the trail or simply took a long walk with your favorite person to talk to? Joint pain can creep up on us, faster than we’d expect, robbing us of the activities and experiences we used to treasure. Shoulders get stiff. Hips hurt. Knees creak and the back aches. Before you know it, you’re spending more time watching Friends than seeing your own.

At Sarasota Memorial, our award-winning team of orthopedic specialists and surgeons is nationally recognized for excellence in joint repair and joint replacement, using the latest robotic and minimally invasive techniques to rebuild and restore, so you can get back to the things you love and the people you love sharing them with.

So don’t wait . Life’s too short to spend it on the sidelines.

PARK EMPHASIZES A

WELLNESS-ROUNDED LIFE

When you live in Wellen Park, you can get the life you always imagined. With miles of nature trails to explore, a place to fish or have a picnic, or even enjoy a baseball game down the street, there’s something for everyone.

Throughout Wellen Park, residents enjoy living in know-your-neighbors neighborhoods, health and wellness woven into the very fabric of the community, and Downtown Wellen, the hub of heartfelt connections to community and nature with outdoor recreation, trails and pathways, shopping, dining and sunsets over the picturesque Grand Lake.

“Wellen Park and Downtown Wellen celebrate the physical and psychological benefits people experience by being active, spending time outside in nature and with friends,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “Many communities today are far removed from the quintessential village square and its inclusive community experience. Our homebuyers appreciate having a central gathering area with parks, outdoor activities, shops and restaurants so close to home. They like the vibrancy of Downtown Wellen as a destination close to home. With the constant influx of new people, every visit is a dynamic, engaging and fun experience.”

Unique alfresco areas overlooking the Grand Lake are peppered throughout downtown – from parks, and play areas to a fountain and splashpad, the Great Lawn for community events, and The Yard food park. Relocated decades-old live oak trees provide shade for an outdoor living room and the intimate lakefront Canopy Green next to Solis Hall, downtown’s elegant event venue available for rent, while a vividly colored canopy soars above a sitting area furnished with cafe tables and built-in benches.

Kind Vibes Outfitters enhances the outdoor lifestyle and waterfront vibe at Downtown Wellen, offering onsite paddleboard, kayak, pedal-powered and electric bike rentals. Visitors enjoy adventures on the lake or on land while exploring the new 3-mile trail circling the lake as its ambles past

wetlands, island preserves and panoramic vantage points skimming across the water to Downtown Wellen. Featuring paved and crushed shell surfaces, the trail is well-suited for pedestrians, cyclists and joggers and connects to Wellen Park’s growing network of trails and parks.

The Grand Lake also offers recreational catch-and-release fishing for largemouth bass and channel catfish, plus redear sunfish, bluegill and threadfin shad. The Landing, a fishing pier and shade structure on the lake’s farthest shore, is expected to open this July.

Wellen Park is also introducing a community garden, where residents can learn from the land and local experts, share their bounty with local restaurants, and enjoy a unique destination for outdoor farm table dinners, small gatherings and weddings. Nestled along a beautiful wetland area, the two-acre garden will offer 85 individual rental plots for residents only and feature guest speakers knowledgeable of sustainable farming and the area’s unique agricultural conditions, crops and fall-winter growing season. Centrally located near CoolToday Park, the garden is expected to be ready this fall.

Wellen Park’s regular event programming is underway in Downtown Wellen, including Wellen Wednesdays featuring cornhole and live music at 6 p.m., the Friday Night Concert Series, from 6 to 9 p.m., yoga classes Saturdays from 9 to 10 a.m., and Zumba classes Mondays from 9 to 10 a.m. The Wellen Park Race Series also offers fitness enthusiasts the opportunity to walk, run and even bike in friendly competitions in and around the master-planned community. The race series was created to inspire the community to reach their physical and mental wellness goals through fitness challenges, such as running, walking, and cycling of varying distances.

For more information about about wellness activities, amenities and living at Wellen Park, call 941-271-0116, go to wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice, Fla.

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1-7: The Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation held its 6th Annual “Ride For A Better Community” in February. Participants biked either 6 or 12 miles of beautiful Venice Island to raise over $90,000 dollars this year. 100% of the funds go to help support community members in need through donations to local charities. Everyone enjoyed a post ride pancake breakfast on the grounds of the Venice Yacht Club with music provided by WC Sounds. A special “Thank You” to our local Venice Police for securing the safety of the bike route and its riders, and for joining in on the bike ride!

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @VeniceCityLifestyleMagazine

DONNA BOLDT

DONNA BOLDT

DONNA BOLDT

DONNA BOLDT

DONNA BOLDT

DONNA BOLDT MARIA

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Cat O'Hara Can Help Eligible Businesses Win Employee Retention Credit!

Cat O'Hara is an Independent Field Agent for Jorns and Associates CPA who helps eligible businesses receive monies from the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) program. “It’s critical to work with the best,” says Cat. With CPAs doing the filing using proprietary software, Jorns has helped 10,000+ businesses recover  $5+ billion. There are a lot more details, which Cat would love to impart. Just text “ERC” to 303.669.6933 and she will get in touch.

Scan to read more.

Paint Nail Bar Brings Luxury Nail Salon to Wellen Park

The PAINT Nail Bar philosophy is simple: provide a luxurious and elegant experience for all. Owner Jessica Haworth is bringing this experience to Downtown Wellen Park in June 2023. Promoting the health and integrity of your natural nail is paramount to this non-traditional salon. PAINT is fume free, upholds high sterilization standards, and has a large selection of premium products and accessories –  ensuring the utmost perfection in aesthetics, comfort, and cleanliness. 19790 Wellen Park Blvd, Suite 105, Venice. paintnailbar.com/venice-fl

Scan to read more.

Cindy Toepfer's Island Optical Helps Customers See and Be Seen

When Cindy Toepfer launched Island Optical at 264 S. Tamiami Trail in Venice, she achieved a long held dream to own her own optical store. As a Florida board-certified optician with nearly 40 years of local experience, Cindy is “delighted to be out of the big box stores.” Venice is glad to have her too, as evidenced by Island Optical winning “Best of Venice” all three years that it’s been open. Come in and see for yourself. facebook.com/IslandOptical.

Scan to read more.

Photography Stephanie Snow Photography

Want to be featured?

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

AMA Health Providers Welcomes Tammy Baker, APRN Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine

Tammy Baker, APRN, has joined the Venice-based multidisciplinary medical practice of AMA Health Providers. As a specialist in Pulmonary Medicine and Sleep Medicine Tammy treats conditions such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), interstitial lung diseases, lung cancer, and pleural disease. She is certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and is a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. AMA Health Providers is accepting new patients and covers most insurance providers including Medicare and Medicaid.  amahealthproviders.com

Scan to read more.

Photography Heather Lauren Photography

2023 Leadership Venice Begins!

The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation is proud to announce the 5th annual Leadership Venice Class of 2023. Leadership Venice is an eight-month community immersion program where participants visit local businesses and organizations to learn from community leaders about the successes and challenges facing our area. The class is also tasked with completing a project to benefit the community and leave a legacy.

2023 Leadership Venice members are (in alphabetical order): Steve Ault, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty; Priscilla Boward, Gulf Coast Community Foundation; Clint Branam, Catholic Charities Diocese of Venice; Paul Cernansky, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office; Cordy Crane, City of Venice; Rob Dinerman, Dinerman Leadership Solutions; Jason Edwards, Willis Smith; Allison Evanitz, Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County; Frank Giddens, Venice Fire & Rescue; Brooklynn Graybill, Agape Flights; Kyle Hartley, Venice Fire & Rescue; Michelle Hazeltine, Hazeltine Nurseries;

Tracy Jones, Gulf Shores Realty; Candace Kurtz, The Venice Symphony; Alison McGowan, Weber Manufacturing; Mariah Miller, Berlin Patten Ebling PLLC; Dawn Mills, YMCA of Southwest Florida; Chris Morton, The Coastal Concierge; Julie Polaszek, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare – Venice; Charmaine Tincher, Venice City Lifestyle Magazine; Olivia Turpening, Visit Sarasota County; Cassy Verlarde, YMCA of Southwest Florida; Louis White, Venice Police Department; Becky Wright, All Faiths Food Bank; Omar Zucco, Venice Gondolier.

To learn more contact Barbara Hines at bhines@venicechamber.com.

Venice Area Chamber of Commerce

597 Tamiami Trail S., Venice 941.488.2236

VeniceChamber.com

“Leadership Venice is an eight-month community immersion program where participants visit local businesses and organizations to learn from community leaders about the successes and challenges facing our area.”

The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Reveals Program’s Newest Class Members

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

Summer Special

A COMPLETE REJUVENATION WITH LONG LASTING RESULTS. THIS TREATMENT TARGETS AGING SKIN, TEXTURE, LAXITY WRINKLES, DULL SKIN, WHILE PROVIDING SMOOTHER, TIGHTER & BRIGHTER SKIN $950.00 INCLUDES 4

2023

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Live Your Best Life

THE GOLDTON AT VENICE OFFERS A NEW AND VIBRANT INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

The wait is over!

The Goldton at Venice has arrived, offering everything the discerning senior may need or want in an independent living community. The Goldton makes it easy and fun to have a healthy and energetic lifestyle, and it also provides a dazzling array of choices for dining, entertainment, lifelong learning, pampering, and much more.

“Everything here was purposefully built to offer the greatest amount of ease by locating all of our lifestyle services and amenities along our signature Main Street,” says Executive Director Laura Blakeman, who oversaw construction of The Goldton’s brand new building.

Laura explains that The Goldton was designed with the most up-to-date trends and special services in mind. For example, its Freedom Dining culinary program, overseen by Executive Chef Scott Mullen, offers residents two meals a day –wherever and whenever they want.

“Goldton residents have complete freedom of choice when it comes to dining,” says Laura.

“The Goldton makes it easy and fun to have a healthy and energetic lifestyle, and it also provides a dazzling array of choices for dining, entertainment, lifelong learning, pampering, and much more.”

(L-R) The Goldton at Venice’s Sales & Marketing Director Anna Dodd with Executive Director Laura Blakeman.

The Blu Ocean Bistro offers lighter fare or a casual meal.

The Hamilton Library at The Goldton at Venice.

Executive Chef Scott Mullen.

That means complimentary daily continental breakfast and the daily choice of lunch or dinner are available from each of The Goldton’s four distinct dining venues: Palmer's Restaurant, Blu Ocean Bistro, Bernard's Bar or The Terrace Grill.

• The Blu Ocean Bistro offers lighter fare or a casual meal.

• Palmer's Fine Dining Restaurant provides a fine dining experience to share with friends and family.

• Bernard's Sports Bar is the place to go to catch a game or enjoy a burger. It features happy hour specials and provides multiple televisions for your viewing pleasure, plus billiards and outdoor patio seating.

• The Terrence Grill has outdoor patio seating for seasonal outdoor dining and is set with a beautiful water fountain. It even has a putting green.

That same freedom and variety is built into The Goldton’s Academy Programming. “We are always offering fun and educational seminars, social events, lifelong learning opportunities, exciting excursions, themed parties, and more. We offer more than 100 things to do a month that are all resident-driven,” says Laura.

“On top of that, our activity calendar is filled with wellness activities, movement classes, crafts, and music,” she adds.

Another great feature along The Goldton’s Main Street is its Emory Theatre. This wonderful venue is set to host movies, seminars, musical performances, and education classes. And, on the third floor of Main Street is a well-equipped Creative Arts Center, where anyone can come and get artsy.

MORE DETAILS ABOUT LIVING THE BEST LIFE AT THE GOLDTON:

SALON & SPA SERVICES

Also located on The Goldton’s Main Street is the Serenity Day Spa & Salon, which features hairstyling, skin care, manicures & pedicures and more, so you can look and feel your best, every day.

FITNESS & WELLNESS

Residents have unlimited access to a pristine outdoor saltwater pool and state-of-the-art fitness center, which offers an array of classes including yoga, strength training and Tai Chi, taught by a certified fitness instructor.

Take a virtual walk down Main Street and see for yourself here: atlasseniorliving.com/the-goldton-at-venice/

The Goldton at Venice

108 Bella Verde Blvd., Nokomis 941.259.6412

thegoldtonatvenice.com

Macarena Gimenez in Ashton’s Rhapsody | Photography Frank Attura

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

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

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

Let us help you turn back the clock!

Now offering SkinMedica Skincare! Buy at the spa or on our website.

ONE WOMAN, ONE VOTE, ONE MISSION

Impact100 SRQ is a Collective Force for Good in the Community

They say numbers don’t lie. That means the following facts and figures, recently announced at Impact100 SRQ’s annual “Big Reveal” event, prove that this all-female, all volunteer powered philanthropic organization is making a sizable difference in our community.

• 763 women, each donating $1,000 to benefit nonprofits in Sarasota and Manatee Counties – up from 663 in 2023

• 7 – The number of transformational grants that will be awarded to local nonprofits in the 2023 giving year.

• $109,000 – The dollar amount of each 2023 grant. Winners will be announced following a member vote at the Annual Celebration and Awards Ceremony in November.

By the end of 2023 (its fifth giving year), Impact100 SRQ will have funded 33 grants in all, totaling $2.4 million, to nonprofits located in both Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Past years' recipients include Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, Crowley Museum & Nature Center, Girls Inc., Senior Friendship Centers, and more.

Member numbers have also climbed each year since Impact100 SRQ’s 2019 launch. “We had 212 members our first year, which was really spectacular,” says Tonya

Tremitiere, Vice President of Marketing & Communications. “The second year we grew to 324, and the fourth year to 404. Then we leaped to over 663 members," and now to 763, she adds.

All 60+ chapters of Impact100 employ a collective giving model wherein at least 100 women come together, each makes a $1,000 tax-deductible donation, and grants are funded in increments of no less than $100,000 to local nonprofits. As membership grows, so does the number and dollar amount of grants.

“Our women come from all walks of life, all ages, and backgrounds. We also offer a scholarship program so that women without the budget to give $1000 but have the passion to give back to the community, can join us,” says Tonya.

The community of women created by Impact100 SRQ is also important. Its "Venice Engagement Team" offers monthly morning walks and coffee chats in downtown Venice, and more events are expected soon. To be kept in the loop on upcoming Venice activities email barbwoodrow@gmail.com.

To learn more, or to join for 2024, visit impact100srq.org or email info@ impact100srq.org.

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY IMPACT100 SRQ

The members of Impact100 SRQ gathered for its 2023 "Big Reveal" event at Nathan Benderson Park.

VENICE’S OWN KAREN FORDHAM

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBBIE PARKER PHOTOGRAPHY

DELIVERING HEALTHCARE TO THE VENICE COMMUNITY AS COO OF AMA HEALTH PROVIDERS

Karen Fordham

Anyone familiar with Karen Fordham from when she was President and CEO of Venice Regional Bayfront Hospital (ShorePoint Health) knows that she is an accomplished healthcare executive who genuinely wants to deliver the best care possible to patients.  And that’s just what she’s doing now as Chief Operating Officer for the multispecialty medical group AMA Health Providers, LLC.

Karen explains that when ShorePoint closed in October 2022, she realized there could be a large void and/or delay in care for patients in Venice and its surrounding communities.  Luckily, AMA Health Providers was already building a medical practice to serve the Venice community. “We started conversations with ShorePoint’s specialists, knowing some of them had just moved their families here,” says Karen.

“As a healthcare administrator for two decades I know that one of the most important things I have is my word. My strength lies in building trusting relationships,” she adds.

When AMA Health Providers opened on March 6, 2023 - exactly 17 years to the day from opening its first clinic in Arcadia - Karen knew the clinic would provide Venice with the same quality medical care it delivers to surrounding communities.  AMA’s new Venice location will include specialty services such as gastroenterology, cardiology, pulmonary, general surgery, podiatry, and endocrinology.

Even better, “local patients could continue to see their own provider and in their own backyard,” says Karen.

MEET OUR NEW PROVIDERS IN OUR NEW VENICE LOCATION

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

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

• Serving patients 18 years and older.

• We are accepting new patients.

• No waiting list.

• Same-day appointments are available.

• Most insurances are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Walid Tanyous, MD Pulmonology Critical Care & Sleep Medicine

Jaime Baquero, MD Gastroenterology

Lawrence J. Elliott, DO, FACC Cardiology

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

Antonio Lubrano Heinsen, MD Endocrinology

Wesley Hendricks, DO, FACOS General & Robotic Surgery

Tammy Baker, APRN Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine

Work Hard, Play Harder, Climb Trees

Simply Trees Owner Amber Delehanty Talks about Her Passion for Business Ownership, Motherhood, and Snowboarding!

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Amber Delehanty didn’t set out to become an ISAcertified arborist and the owner of Simply Trees LLC. But she did grow up in an entrepreneurial family that inspired a long-standing desire to own her own business.

“My dad was an irrigation specialist and ever since I was four years old, I can remember going to work with him and playing in a driveway with pipes,” she says. After graduating high school, she worked at her father’s company for nearly seven years.

Then, in 2014, after graduating from Ringling College of Art and Design with a BFA in Architectural Interior Design, she set out to explore that career.

“I worked for a few architects, but I didn’t feel it was rewarding enough for me,” she said.

Around the same time, she met an arborist who introduced her to working with trees and that’s when she knew she had found her calling. “We started the company from the ground up in 2015. We really went out on a limb to do it, and we struggled in the beginning,” says Amber.  “But I’ve always had that entrepreneurial mindset and we both had a passion for the work,” she adds.

That passion is shared by all of Amber's 17 employees and is one of the qualities in Simply Trees’ “Core

Simply Trees’ General Manager and Technical Climber Joseph Vibonese.

Tree Biotics co-owners (L-R) are Heather Bingle, Ed Bingle, and Amber Delehanty.

Amber Delehanty is an ISA-certified arborist and the owner of Simply Trees LLC.

The four managers of Simply Trees (L-R) Joseph Vibonese, Paul Warinner, Amber Delehanty and Ed Bingle.

Values” mission statement. As Amber says, “We build from our integrity, honesty, passion, and education, and make sure it is a fun workspace.”

The company also strictly adheres to all industry standards for safety. “This is one of the most unsafe jobs, but we make sure to mitigate those risks as best we can,” she says. Senior Risk Manager Paul Warinner is on board to make sure the Simply Trees’ team always wears proper safety equipment that meets OSHA and ANSI standards.

GROWING THE BUSINESS

The company’s first employee, who came on board in 2015, was Joseph Vibonese. “We met Joseph when he was on the road pushing his motorcycle. We helped him get home and then gave him a job. Joseph is a big asset to our company,” says Amber. Now Joe is Simply Tree’s General Manager and Technical Climber. More recently, in 2020, Amber hired industry veteran Edward Bingle. “Ed and his family are our dear friends, and he is an absolute gem.” An arborist for more than 25 years, Ed is also an international trainer and has great business management skills. “Since we brought Ed on, we have more than doubled in size.”

Amber hones her own business skills by consulting with business management coach Dan DeSantis. “Dan is a huge influencer who encourages me and has a lot of

knowledge to help keep the company on track,” she says.

She has also launched two new companies in the past three years. Tree Biotics LLC, (treebioticsfl.com) is co-owned by Amber, Ed Bingle, and his wife Heather Bingle. It has offered Plant Health Care (PHC) and landscaping services since September 2020. ZKE Hauling (zkehauling.com) was set up in June 2021 to remove large horticulture debris using a grapple arm, and to clear lot vegetation.

KIDS, DEVOTION & FUN

When asked how she manages three companies, and three young children, Amber points to a strict routine that helps her stay grounded and focused, and to a nanny who looks after “the kiddos".

“Most days I get up between 3:30 and 4:00 AM to work out and I get to the office by 6:00 AM. I also have my daily devotions – my faith is super important.” A crucial part of her routine is to leave work at work, as best she can, so she can give the kids her full attention.

Being intentional with her children also includes going on awesome, snow-filled vacations. “My biggest passion for a hobby is snowboarding and the kids love it too. We go on snow trips to Colorado and have long wanted to snowboard in Japan.

With a motto like ‘work hard, play harder or hardest,’ it’s likely that wish will come true.

Passion is one of the qualities in Simply Trees’ “Core Values” mission statement.

As Amber says, “We build from our integrity, honesty, passion, and education, and make sure it is a fun workspace.”

Clockwise from bottom left: Tree Biotics GM Ron Simmens; For all companiesAccounting Manager Joanne Bingle and Owner Amber Delehanty; For Tree BioticsOffice Manager Kaycee Bingle, Co-Owners Ed & Heather Bingle.

Simply Trees’ expert arborists keep your trees healthy, thriving and beautiful.

Mother, Mover & Rain Maker

The Venice Symphony’s President and CEO Christine Kasten’s background in sales and marketing, and her leadership skills, have more than made up for her self-declared “lack of musical talent” as she leads the organization into its 50th anniversary season. “I like to say I play the calculator,” she quips.

After living in Western MA and New Zealand, the native Iowan moved to Lakewood Ranch with her husband Chad and three children in 2014. Almost as soon as she arrived, she learned that The Venice Symphony was looking for a marketing consultant.

Back then, the organization was in transition, and the city was putting the finishing touches on the Venice Performing Arts Center. “I was able to see the last concert The Venice Symphony held at the Church of the Nazarene before it moved to the new performance space,” she says.

After the consulting gig, Christine went to work elsewhere. But, when The Venice Symphony asked her to come back as Executive Director, Christine followed the musical call. She returned to oversee the Symphony’s pivotal Finding Maestro conductor search that resulted in the hiring of Music Director Troy Quinn and the sold-out concerts the Symphony experiences today.

Christine recently moved to Venice, which cut two hours off her daily commute, something she admits, “I should have done a long time ago.” Under her nimble stewardship, The Venice Symphony has grown in reputation, ticket sales, staff numbers and more. “I’m here to make sure my staff has everything they need. Folks spend most of their time at the office, and we all want to enjoy what we do.”

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

CHRISTINE KASTEN MOVES FULL STEAM AHEAD AT THE VENICE SYMPHONY

Photo By Lori Sax

events

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

MAY

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare: (abridged) [revised] [again]

VENICE THEATRE

Elizabethan Theatre like you’ve never seen! Three female charismatic comics play all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in just over ninety whirlwind minutes of hilarious condensation. Physical, witty, and shamelessly outrageous, it’s a cascade of joyful hijinks for those who love Shakespeare and those who don’t. Be warned – you might laugh so hard, it’ll hurt. Times: Tues.-Sat. 7:30 PM, Sun. 2:00 PM. venicetheatre.org.

MAY

Cash Killer & The King

VENICE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | 7:00 PM

Cash Killer & The King celebrates the 1950’s birth of Rock & Roll in Memphis at the Sun Record Company: featuring the music of Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Preserving the original authentic sound of the music combined with high energy showmanship, it explores the melting pot of styles that created pop music’s most innovative decade. Tickets $36-$100. veniceperformingartscenter.com.

Venice High School Spring Concerts: Chorus, Jazz Band, JV Band, and Orchestra

VENICE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

It’s time to listen to Venice High School musicians perform for the community. May 9 will be the VHS Chorus at 7 PM. On May 10 the VHS Jazz and JV Bands play at 7 PM. May 11 it’s the Jazz Band at 7 PM, and May 12 is the VHS Orchestra End-of-Year Concert at 6 PM. Shows are free. veniceperformingartscenter.com.

Friday Night Concert in the Park Featuring Tiki Tribe

CENTENNIAL PARK - HISTORIC DOWNTOWN VENICE | 7:00 PM

Join the fun at the Friday Night Concert Series at the Gazebo in Centennial Park. Hosted by Venice MainStreet every second and fourth Friday of each month. Free. On May 26 Joe Mullens will be performing. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. For more information go to visitvenicefl.org/friday-night-concert-series.

Mother's Day Service With Gift & Blessing

LAKESIDE LUTHERAN CHURCH | 9:00 AM AND 10:30 AM

Join Lakeside Lutheran Church for its Mother's Day Service and receive a Mother's Day gift to say ‘thank you’ to all mothers. Pastor David Dahkle will be happy to offer his blessings at the end of each service: Contemporary Celebration is at 9 AM and a Traditional Service is held at 10:30 AM. "Our congregation is a warm and welcoming parish as we share the love of Jesus. We look forward to meeting you and your family."  lakesidelutheran.net.

“Memories” Art Exhibit

VENICE ART CENTER

International, multiple prizewinning watercolor artist Cheryl Fausel will jury “Memories” for Art Center Sarasota. Reception for the show’s opening is May 19 from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. The Venice Art Center is open from 9 AM - 5 PM on weekdays. veniceartcenter.com.

Patriotic Pops and Fireworks with The Venice Symphony at CoolToday Park

COOLTODAY PARK, THE HOME OF ATLANTA BRAVES SPRING TRAINING | 7:30 PM

Plantation Golf & Country Club Stays the Course

Special Events Shine at its Beautiful Bermuda-Style Clubhouse Complex

Plantation Golf & Country Club has held a unique position among Southwest Florida country clubs for over 30 years. The property’s golf, tennis, and social facilities are some of the finest in the region, and its Clubhouse complex is the go-to spot for weddings and special events.

That’s why, when Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction in South West Florida, Plantation GCC was asked to host events that its neighbors to the south weren’t ready to accommodate.

For example, traditionally the “Best of Englewood” luncheon is held at the Englewood Elks Club, but it hadn’t yet recovered from the hurricane, explains Plantation GCC’s Catering Director

Christine Bouchard.  Since Plantation has hosted similar “Best of Venice” events, the Club was asked to step in and step up. Similarly, Boca Royale and Pelican Pointe Country Clubs also reached out to Christine and Plantation GCC.

Bouchard says that Hurricane Ian also caused serious damage at Plantation GCC. The property lost 540 trees, had extensive water damage inside the clubhouse, and more.  But recovery came quicker due to the proactive support of Plantation’s parent company, the Lake Mary, FL-based Concert Golf Partners.

“With 29 golf clubs across the nation, Concert Golf quickly brought in tree removal companies, construction workers

and electricians from other states to help with our repairs,” says Christine.

Plantation GCC’s members also get to experience the benefits having a boutique-style owner-operator of nearly 30 other upscale private golf clubs. “Our members have reciprocal (golf club) privileges at CGP properties,” says Christine. “And we are growing our portfolio at a rapid rate. We purchased four clubs in 2022, and we have nine clubs in Florida alone!”

Plantation Golf & Country Club

500 Rockley Blvd., Venice plantationgcc.com 941.497.1494

Plantation GCC's Clubhouse complex.

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

SHORES

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

COTTAGES OF VENICE

FROM $449,900

36 cottage homes located on E. Venice Avenue. 941.786.9403