Venice, FL July 2023

FOOD + BEVERAGE

SUPER-REFRESHING DRINKS

LIFE + CULTURE

EASY WEEKEND GETAWAYS

ENTERTAINMENT

AN ACTION-PACKED VENICE DAY

Summer Fun

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.

Summer Fun!

Welcome to the Summer Fun issue of Venice City Lifestyle! As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, we understand the need for a little relief and a whole lot of fun. That's why we’re offering lots of exciting ideas and experiences to help you make the most of the summer in Venice.

In this issue, we've enlisted the expertise of Chris Morton from The Coastal Concierge to bring you a day filled with fun and action-packed activities. From morning to evening, Chris has curated an itinerary that will make your time in Venice unforgettable.

When the summer heat becomes too much to bear, we've got you hydrated with our feature on Paradise Grill. Discover their refreshing summer drinks, made to order and guaranteed to quench your thirst. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a day at the beach, these breezy beverages (the recipes are included!) can be your perfect hot summer day companion.

Speaking of pools, check out how Bluwave Pool Services keeps your pool as clean and blue as the pristine waters of the Bahamas, allowing you to focus on having fun and creating lasting memories with friends and family.

And if you're looking for a unique blend of electric bikes and coffee, look no further than Big Bam eBikes' new cafe, Big Bam Brew – bringing together the thrill of riding and the joy of sipping a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. Find out more about this happy place where bike enthusiasts and coffee lovers meet.

In addition to these highlights, we have a wealth of articles and features that will inspire and entertain you throughout the summer months. From our suggestions for Staycation Day Trips to details on the upcoming Fourth of July fireworks at the Venice Jetty, there's something for everyone in this issue.

We hope that the pages of our Summer Fun issue will serve as your guide to creating amazing memories and embracing all that Venice has to offer.

A special “Happy 25th Anniversary” to my daughter, Dawn and son in law, Jeff. Here’s wishing you a season filled with joy, adventure, and endless fun!

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chris Morton, Emily Leinfuss

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stephanie Snow Photography, Prion Photography, Sofia Velasquez, VisitFlorida.com, VisitSarasota.com

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 @VENICECITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

WELLEN PARK WELCOME CENTER INVITES ALL TO STOP BY, SAY “HELLO”

Original and community-focused, the Wellen Park Welcome Center captures a true sense of place, telling the story of Wellen Park through art installations, interactive displays, and even a vintage Piaggio Apé Italian truck.

Vivid orange and blue accents, pulled from the local landscape of fiery sunsets and the waters of the nearby Gulf of Mexico, speak to the community’s vibrant lifestyle of imagination and innovation, where anything is possible.

Featuring the retrofitted Apé truck as the center’s reception desk, the 5,000-square-foot Welcome Center was created as a social gathering destination, encouraging guests to hang out in the large living room and lounge areas or outside on the patio shared with Louie’s Bistro cafe overlooking Downtown Wellen.

Wellen Park’s vibrant lifestyle, homes and neighborhoods are introduced as guests explore the center. Video walls, touchscreen maps and interactive digital displays give visitors the opportunity to view sideby-side comparisons for neighborhood and floor plan options to start their homebuying journey.

A gravity-defying vertical bicycle display speaks to the community’s 18 miles of trails while a floor-to-ceiling moss wall provides a topographical site map highlighting Wellen Park’s proximity to the Myakka River. A mobile cart serves as an art pop-up for local artists and underscores Wellen Park’s partnership with the North Port Art Center. In homage to Wellen Park’s relocation of 26 heritage live oaks, Sarasota artist Alexis Fraser (known as Lipstick Lex) created “Heartfelt Connections,” an 8-by-10-foot

commissioned work featuring a tree comprised entirely of lipstick kisses.

“Our Welcome Center was thoughtfully and intentionally designed to convey the story of Wellen Park in an authentic and genuine way that reflects the community,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “If someone is interested in Wellen Park, the first place they visit for information is the Welcome Center.”

In 2022, the Wellen Park Welcome Center won the National Association of Home Builders’ prestigious gold award for Best Community Welcome Center.

Wellen Park Welcome Center ambassadors are team members who are experts on all things Wellen Park. They can provide details on featured homebuilders and onsite amenities, news on surrounding communities’ offerings, upcoming events and Downtown Wellen.

Wellen Park offers a mix of single-family and multifamily residential, commercial and recreational options, including a golf community. Rental options range from one- to three-bedroom luxury apartments and single-family homes to an apartment community for adults 55 and older, and world-class independent, assisted living and memory care.

To learn more about living at Wellen Park, call 941-2710116, go to wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice, Fla. The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Physical activity is great for your mental and physical health and can help keep you independent as you age.

But the intense heat in southwest Florida can make it a challenge—even dangerous—to exercise outdoors.

Here are some tips to keep you safe this summer without sacrificing the activities you love.

• Stay hydrated

• Wear protective clothing

• Get in the pool

• Remember to eat healthy

• Practice self care

• Choose less strenuous forms of exercise such as yoga, bowling, biking and walking

Before beginning any new exercise program, check with your heathcare provider for recommendations based on your health, activity level and medication regimen.

To learn more about our providers and services, call 941-559-0260 or visit amahealthproviders.com.

PROVIDERS

Jaime Baquero, MD Gastroenterology

Lawrence Elliot, DO, FACC Cardiology

Michael Gallina, DPM Foot & Ankle/Podiatry

Antonio Lubrano Heinsen, MD Endocrinology

Wesley Hendricks, DO General, Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery

Walid Tanyous, MD Pulmonology, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine

Tammy Baker, APRN Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Big Bam eBikes owner Pamela Fiume; employee Mitchell Dauria; and Sgt. Hammett (c) with Venice Police’s first electric bike! 2: Fifi Abdian and David Fouche at Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s (SMHF) 21st Annual Golf Tournament. 3: (l-r) Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club (VNWC) Treasurer Kathy Moller; VNWC President Liz Mazzu; two of three VNWC scholarship winners; Lynn Gnaegy and Joan Brinton of VNWC.

4: VHS student Logan Lang receives the Venice Rotary Club’s first $1000 Shark Tooth Sports Car Club scholarship. 5: Target Masters Club members present their first $1000 scholarship to Madisyn Crites (not present) a VHS graduating senior who plans to major in Criminology.

6: Jeff Wesner and Justin Angell tee off at SMHF’s 2023 Golf Tournament, which raised $128,000+ for SMH’s Physicians Endowment. 7: STSCC scholarship winner Logan Lang (here with parents Laura and Matt Loge) plans to study Aerospace Engineering.

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Samuel Scott III Named to Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Board

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation (SMHF) appointed a new board member: Samuel “Sam” C. Scott III. Scott is the retired Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Corn Products International, Inc., today known as Ingredion. With his extensive experience in business and board leadership, he "will be an invaluable asset to the Healthcare Foundation and the health system as we continue growing to meet the needs of our community,” says SMHF board chair Deb Kabinoff.

Scan to read more.

Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club Donates $20,000 to VABI

The members of the Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club (VNWC) worked very hard on three fundraisers this past year – a wonderful fashion show, a night at Fox Lea Farms Horse Jumping Competition, and a Caribbean Nights Party. As a result, VNWC presented a whopping $20,000 to the Venice Area Beautification’s Urban Forest (VABI) project. Photo (l-r) Liz Mazzu, President VNWC; Greg Vine, VABI; Phil Ellis, VABI and Laura Jo, VP Fundraising VNWC.

Scan to read more.

Support Leadership Venice in Restoring Fire Station Flagpole in Honor of First Responders

Leadership Venice 2023 is raising funds for its public service class project, which is restoring Venice’s fire station flagpole and constructing an area of tribute in Heritage Park to honor first responders: past, present and future. Your support is needed! Donations of any amount are appreciated, and can be made at square.link/u/Nw2oyhka, or send check, payable to Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (597 S. Tamiami Tr., 34285) noting “class project” on the memo line. Excess funds will go toward scholarships. Community is invited to Ribbon Cutting, Sept. 23rd, 9 AM (more details to come).

Scan to read more.

Photography Venice Chamber of Commerce

International

©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.

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

A Fun, Action-Packed Day in Venice

Curated By The Coastal Concierge

ARTICLE BY CHRIS MORTON

Whether you're a Venice local or a visitor to our beautiful coastal town, The Coastal Concierge is your go-to expert by providing customized and unforgettable experiences for residents and guests alike.

The following itinerary was specially curated for Venice City Lifestyle’s Summer Fun issue to provide a fun and action packed day, with plenty of opportunities to explore Venice’s local culture, nature, and cuisine. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen!

WHEN: 8:00 AM

WHAT:  Grab a cup of joe, Head to Venice Island Coffee (200 W. Miami Ave./ 941.485.6789), and be served a cup of joe by the ever gracious Bailey. Then head on over to Caspersen Beach at 4100 Harbor Dr. S. for a nice morning walk. This secluded spot is renowned as a place to search for sharks’ teeth in the sand.  Maybe you can find some to take home with you as souvenirs!

WHEN: 9:00 AM

WHAT: For breakfast we suggest you head over to Croissant & Co. (323 W. Venice Ave./ 941.480.1700) a local favorite serving French pastries, quiches, and sandwiches. Here you will feel as if you were transported to Europe with every detail, from the decor to the menu, which contributes to the café’s enchanting ambiance. Indulge in the delightful homemade macaroons, which are so delicious and simply irresistible.

WHEN: 10:00 AM

WHAT: If it’s Saturday, it’s time to walk on over to the Venice Farmers Market, starting at City Hall, where you can shop and browse through a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. Take your time and enjoy the lively atmosphere, where dogs are welcome. Otherwise, you can peruse the unique boutiques and art galleries of downtown Venice.

Chris Morton combined 30+ years of business expertise with his vast travel experience to create The Coastal Concierge. Its mission is to revolutionize how people spend their precious vacation time by providing unforgettable personalized experiences. Learn more at thecoastalconcierge.com.

TOP: Head over to Island Coffee for your morning jolt!

RIGHT: Bailey at Venice Island Coffee provides amazing service.

LEFT: As you’d expect, the fruit tarts at Croissant & Co. are ‘to die for!’

Venice Island Coffee

Yummy Treats at Croissant & Co.

(Photo by Sofia Velasquez).

WHEN: 11:30 AM

WHAT: Visit the Venice Museum & Archives (351 Nassau St. S./ 941-4862487) to learn more about the history of Venice, FL, and our surrounding area – especially early pioneers such as Bertha Honore Palmer, Dr. Fred Albee (the surgeon who invented bone grafting) and John Nolan.

WHEN: 1:00 PM

WHAT: Work up an appetite? Head back downtown for lunch at Café Venice Restaurant & Bar (101 W. Venice Ave./ 941.484.1855). This small, intimate bistro features an exquisite menu of American cuisine and a fine selection of wines.

WHEN: 2:30 PM

WHAT: Rent a trendy ebike from “The Happiest Place in Venice,” Big Bam eBikes (412 E. Venice Ave./ 941.240.1717), then go for a scenic ride along the water at Venetian Waterway Park (200 N. Tamiami Tr.). Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife, and don’t forget to take a selfie!

TOP: The Venetian Waterway connects to the Legacy Trail for a beautiful, scenic ride.

BOTTOM: Find a variety of the hottest ebikes for purchase or rent at Big Bam eBikes.

Venice Legacy Trail (Photo courtesy of VisitSarasota.com).

Big Bam eBikes

WHEN: 4:00 PM

WHAT: I ndulge in a parasailing adventure with Venice Parasailing (509 N. Tamiami Tr./ 941.961.2041) and take in stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Venice Beach from high above. Make sure you ask for Dom –you’ll be blown away by the exceptional service he delivers!

WHEN: 5:30 PM

WHAT: Head over to Nokomis Beach, which is Sarasota County's oldest public beach. Once there you can spend some 'toes in the sand' time or, alternatively, it's only a short walk down the beach to the North Jetty. Either way, dinner will be at Pop's Sunset Grill (112 Circuit Rd./ Marker 10/ 941.488.3177). This waterfront restaurant, which dates back to the 1940s, serves fresh fish and seafood dishes. Catch a stunning sunset view from the deck, hang out at the tiki bar, and enjoy the live music.

WHEN:  8:00 PM-10:00 PM

WHAT: Top off the night at The Old Venice Pub (100 W. Venice Ave./ 941.484.3031), which offers a solid selection of craft beer and wine. The patio overlooks Venice Main Street and is the perfect place for a nightcap.

*Find all Florida Park information at floridastateparks.org.

TOP: Historic Downtown Venice offers fine food, shopping and more.

RIGHT: Nokomis Beach is great for swimming, shelling, and all kinds of fun in the sun.

BOTTOM: The Old Venice Pub is the perfect place to cap a great day in Venice!

Old Venice Pub.

Historic Downtown Venice (Photo courtesy of VisitSarasota.com.

North Jetty. (Photo courtesy of VisitSarasota.com).

TOP: Aerial View of Nokomis Beach.

BOTTOM: “Our City on the Gulf.” (Photo courtesy of VisitSarasota.com).

Water as Clean & Blue as the Bahamas

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Robert Macklin, Owner of Bluwave Pool Services.

If you’d had told Robert Macklin a few years ago that he would launch a pool service company in Nokomis Florida by October of 2022, he might not have believed you. Today Robert is growing his Bluwave Pool Services Co. into an exceptional and uniquely qualified business.

How it all happened is a testament to his resilience and his passion for entrepreneurship.

Robert trained as an electrical engineer while serving in the US Air Force and he continued in that profession for many years. Ultimately, he was working for CHI Engineering in New Hampshire when his life took an unexpected turn. In 2021 he visited Nokomis, Florida with his significant other, Audrey. They fell in love with the area, purchased a new home, and relocated here. Audrey, a nurse, even landed a great job at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

His journey to becoming a pool service company owner began when he had a problem with his pool cage. First, the repair person put the idea into his head. Later, the owner of his own pool service company had health issues and sold the business to Robert. Since then, he’s been all about providing the best services possible to his clients.

Having an electrical engineering background gives Robert a business advantage. For one, fixing pool machinery and instrumentation comes naturally. “A lot of pool companies only clean the pool. I repair and rebuild equipment,” he says. Plus, his experience treating power plant wastewater transposes to having an expertise in using chemicals and machinery for pool cleaning.

At  60 years old, Robert is full of energy for the business. “Normally people my age start to slow down. I decided to speed up," he says.  Having grown up on an island in New England, and also being a Pisces, he's powered by a love of bodies of water, he explains. “My happy place is seeing the pristine blue waters of the Bahamas,” he says.

Believe it or not, Robert never had a swimming pool before now. He never even saw a resort-style pool until about 15 years ago. "The water reminded me of the Bahamas. Taking care of pools like that now, my objective is to see the light reflecting off a cool blue swimming pool that is perfectly clean.”

Robert's most challenging job so far was after Hurricane Ian. One of his clients didn’t have a pool cage, and it completely filled up with branches and leaves. The client entreated Robert to get his pool back in service. “I learned from my mistakes cleaning this pool, but in the end, I got everything, even the smallest dust particles, cleaned up,” he says, adding that now the client tells everyone that Robert saved his pool.

Making sure the job gets done right, along with customer service that's embedded in building lasting relationships with clients, is what makes Bluwave an exceptional company.

In conclusion, Robert Macklin's journey to starting Bluwave Pool Services is a testament to his determination, hard work, and passion for his craft. His love for water and the ocean inspired him to start his own pool service company, and his engineering background has given him a unique perspective on pool maintenance.

SUPER REFRESHING SUMMER DRINKS

Quench Your Thirst With Breezy Beverages Made to Order at Paradise Grill

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

When Paradise Grill proprietor Mary Beth Hansen dons her mixology apron to create new cocktails for her popular restaurant/bar in Nokomis, she prioritizes seasonal fruit and fresh herbs – like rosemary she grows on the premises.

“We had fun making the drinks and the staff and I had fun drinking them,” says Mary Beth. The Pineapple drink was the hardest to pin down. “We made four of those. The other two we got on the first try,” she adds.

To complement these summer drink specials, Paradise Grill introduced a new summer menu featuring an abundance of fresh fish.

STRAWBERRY MINT LEMONADE PINEAPPLE UPSIDE DOWN COCKTAIL WATERMELON ROSEMARY CRUSH

Drink Recipes

STRAWBERRY MINT LEMONADE

Muddle 2-3 crushed strawberries and 3 mint leaves in a glass. Add 2 oz vodka. Top the glass with lemonade. Stir the drink gently for about 15 seconds then garnish with a strawberry and a sprig of mint.

WATERMELON ROSEMARY CRUSH

In a glass, muddle ¼ cup of watermelon with a few rosemary sprigs. Add 2 oz of gin and a few ice cubes. Top the glass with grapefruit soda. Use a toothpick to skewer the rosemary to the watermelon for a garnish.

PINEAPPLE UPSIDE DOWN COCKTAIL

Combine 3 oz pineapple juice, 1 oz coconut rum, 1 oz vanilla vodka, and 1 oz amaretto in mixing glass. Stir gently. Fill a serving glass with ice cubes, pour the mixture over the ice, then add 1 oz cherry juice or brandy. Garnish with a pineapple slice and cherry.

Mary Beth Hansen

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

Where Electric Bikes and Coffee Drinks Unite!

Big Bam eBikes’ New Cafe, Big Bam Brew, is a Happy Place!

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

Big Bam eBikes has expanded into the wonderful world of coffee and tea with the opening of Big Bam Brew. To celebrate, a ribbon-cutting event is scheduled for July 12. (see details in Events).

"Coffee and bikes go well together," says Pam Fiume, who is co-owner with her husband Ray. Both Big Bam enterprises are happy, friendly businesses that add up to more than the sum of their two parts. "We are about socializing and creating a sense of community," says Pam.

For example, the couple organizes a regular Friday morning biking "Coffee Run." This open ride takes place weekly from October to April, and occasionally in the summer. It has fostered strong friendships and a welcoming atmosphere for new riders.

Pam’s goal for Big Bam Brew is for it to emerge as the go-to spot for Venice cyclists, and to serve as a starting point for their rides along the Legacy Trail. Sarasota riders can also make a mid-ride stop at Big Bam Brew for a needed pick-me up, she adds.

That wine bar is also still in her sights!

The menu board at Big Bam Brew, which is fondly referred to as The Happy Bicycle Cafe.

(l-r) Big Bam Bikes and Big Bam Brew’s owners Ray & Pamela Fiume with senior bike mechanic extraordinaire Kenny Britton.

July's special drink at Big Bam Brew is an Iced Matcha Latte.

Big Bam Brew’s co-owner Pamela Fiume.

EASY WEEKEND GETAWAYS

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISITFLORIDA.COM

Escape the Everyday With a Day Trip to One of These Memorable Destinations

BOCA GRANDE

Boca Grande, situated on Gasparilla Island, is known for its breathtaking scenery and epic fishing adventures. Celebrities flock to this tranquil fishing village during winter, while summer offers sightings of the impressive tarpon and sunbathing iguanas. It’s also home to the circa 1912 Gasparilla Inn (the-gasparilla-inn.com) – one of the longest surviving resort hotels in Florida.

Whether lounging on the beach, cycling through the village, or indulging in coastal cuisine at South Beach Bar and Grille (southbeachbarandgrill. com) Boca Grande has something for everyone. At nearby Gasparilla State Park (home of the 1890 Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and museum)*, anglers can enjoy thrilling offshore charters or try their luck from kayaks, piers, or by surf fishing.

Exploring the area by bike along the 6.5-mile Boca Grande Bike Path allows you to discover historic sites and lighthouses. Sandy beaches offer leisurely strolls and shelling opportunities, while guided paddle boarding through the mangroves completes a perfect day.

Port Boca Grande Lighthouse.

LAKELAND

Dotted by picturesque lakes, Lakeland’s name is no surprise. It is also known as “Swan City” for the scores of swans, descended from Queen Elizabeth II’s gift of a pair from her own Royal Flock in the 1950s. See them in the center of town on Lake Morton!

Although Lakeland is nearly eclipsed by the nearby mega theme parks, this quiet Central Florida city offers a host of experiences that would more than fill a day or two.

Explore the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College. Launch tomorrow’s astronauts, pilots, and engineers with a visit to The Florida Air Museum (floridaairmuseum.org) – Florida’s “Official Aviation Museum and Education Center.” You can keep the science coming at Exploration V Children's Museum (explorationsv.com) or go wild at Safari Wilderness Ranch (safariwilderness.com) where exotic game roams across its 260 acres.  Satisfy your appetite with fragrant bites from Café Roti (facebook.com/phillip.theard/) and delight your sweet tooth with artful cupcakes at Cake Makers Studio (cakemakersstudio.com). Taste upscale Spanish-Cuban-Modern fusion cuisine by Chef Marcos Fernandez at Nineteen61 (nineteen61.com).

A Lockheed XFV plane outside the Florida Air Museum in Lakeland.

A pair of swans on Lake Morton in Lakeland.

MORE THAN 24 RESTAURANTS –RANGING FROM AMERICAN, ITALIAN AND GREEK TO LATIN, THAI AND JAPANESE – MAKE DOWNTOWN DELAND A FOODIE HAVEN.

DELAND

DeLand and its surroundings enjoy a rich history. There’s a vibrant Main Street full of shops and restaurants, as well as Stetson University. Downtown DeLand offers a foodie haven with over 24 restaurants featuring various cuisines.

Nearby Sanford has Lake Monroe, St. Johns River, and the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens (centralfloridazoo. org). Visit Blue Spring State Park, home of the largest spring in the St. Johns River basin, or explore the nearby spiritualist community of Cassadaga (cassadaga.org) – a 125-year-old Victorian-era village where mediums and healers reside.

Downtown DeLand's many eateries offer savory and sweet options.

Blue Spring State Park in DeLand.

Enjoy

DUNEDIN

Dunedin has a relaxed and funky vibe, offering a charming experience. Spend a day exploring the bustling Main Street filled with quaint boutiques and popular watering holes.

Enjoy the mix of activities that Dunedin offers, including sipping coffee at a sidewalk café, browsing shops, or taking a brisk walk, run, or bike ride along the 38-mile Pinellas Trail that intersects Main Street. When evening comes, there are numerous pubs and microbreweries serving local craft beer nearby.

Downtown Dunedin also offers a variety of lunch spots, including the dog-friendly patio of The Living Room (thelivingroomonmain.com). In fact, this dog-friendly community is affectionately known as "Dogedin" due to its love for furry friends.

Beautiful and secluded beaches await on Honeymoon and Caladesi islands, accessible by a drivable causeway or ferry, respectively. As one of the oldest towns on the west coast, Dunedin is rich in history and Scottish pioneer heritage, showcased at the Dunedin Museum (dunedinmuseum.org).

beautiful, secluded beaches on Dunedin’s Caladesi Island.

MICANOPY

Micanopy, pronounced mik-ə-NO-pea, is a peaceful town south of Gainesville that preserves its 1823 origins with oak-shaded streets and a Southern charm enriched by antique shops, outdoor cafes, and more. Check out the Old Florida Café (facebook.com/ OldFloridaCafeMicanopy/), which offers delicious yet affordable fare, including the highly praised Reuben sandwich and Florida-style Cuban.

Micanopy's main street, Cholokka Boulevard - once an important Indian trading route, - now attracts visitors with its antique shops and rustic storefronts. And, for a glimpse into Native American history, the Tuscawilla Preserve (alachuaconservationtrust.org/tuscawilla-preserve-guide) features a 0.8-mile hiking loop where you can follow in the footsteps of the native Timucuan Indians and discover the Alachua Tradition burial mound— an archaeological gem dating back to AD 750-1565.

Just beyond Micanopy’s boundaries is Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, providing miles of hiking trails that showcase its unique landscape

and abundant wildlife, including wild horses and bison that roam freely—an extraordinary sight. The 50-foot observation tower near the visitor center offers a breathtaking panoramic view. A short drive north leads to the vibrant college town of Gainesville, but for a historical experience, visit the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park. Here, you can explore the cracker-style homestead of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is just outside Micanopy.

CITY LIFESTYLE

Summer Bucket List

Welcome, summer! As a hyper-local publication, we thrive on helping our readers make connections with the cities they live in, the businesses that make up their communities and the inspiring individuals making a positive mark. Are you ready for your most adventurous, fun summer? Here are summer bucket list ideas for you to accomplish this year. We hope you’ll explore a new neighborhood, spend a lazy Saturday afternoon at a new winery or taste the flavors at a local ice cream shop. Let us know what you discover and enjoy! We’d love to hear.

KIDS ADULTS

Make the most of this Summer! Check off these activities on our Kids Summer Bucket List as you complete them throughout the summer. P.S. You might need an adult’s help with some of these!

Make Popsicles

Go Swimming

Play Sand Volleyball

Have a Family Movie Night

Stargaze

Go on a Picnic

Watch Fireworks

Build a Fort

Make Tie-Dye Shirts

Build a Sandcastle

Bake Cookies

Splash at a Waterpark

Have a Water Balloon Fight

Make Homemade Pizza

Pick Your Own Fruit

Explore a New Local Park

Go Fishing Camp in the Backyard

Sleep In

Play Board Games

Do a Random Act of Kindness

Write a Kind Note to a Friend

Ride a Rollercoaster

Visit a Carnival Go

Summer is finally here. Take advantage of the season with our Adult Summer Bucket List. Check off these activities as you complete them with your family and friends and congratulate yourself on a Summer well-spent!

Learn Something New

Take a Cooking Class

Visit a Local Winery

Go on a Bike Ride

Explore a New Area of your City

Try a New Restaurant

Try a Local Ice Cream Shop

Hike a New Trail

Explore a National Park

Read a New Book

Book a Self-Care Service at a MedSpa

Take a Roadtrip

Go Whitewater Rafting

Barbeque New Recipes

Visit the Local Farmers’ Market

Go Snorkeling

Go on a Bar Walk

Go Rock Climbing

Have a Bonfire

Go Zip Lining

Plan a Family Camping Trip

Go to a Film Festival

See an Outdoor Concert

Host an Adult Scavenger Hunt Volunteer at

AllegroBistro

events

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

Key Culinary Tours' Historic Venice Culinary Walking Tours

CENTENNIAL PARK | 2:00 PM

These three-hour culinary walking tours are delicious ways to learn about Venice and its creative cuisine scene. Ticket ($84.95) 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. keyculinarytours.com

City of Venice’s Independence Day Fireworks Celebration

SOUTH JETTY HUMPHRIS PARK | 9:00 PM

The City of Venice’s 4th of July Fireworks Show will be shot from the South Jetty on Tuesday, July 4, shortly after 9 p.m. The free show will last about 30 minutes. The South Jetty will be closed for safety, but the fireworks display may be viewed on area beaches from Caspersen to Nokomis, as well as from other locations around Venice. Arrive early to secure your spot.

JULY 9TH, 16TH, 23RD, 30TH

Movie Nights At The Atlanta Braves' CoolToday Park

COOLTODAY PARK | 5:00 PM

Movie Nights are on the scoreboard at CoolToday Park, presented by Sharky’s on the Pier, Fins & Snook Haven. The movies will be as follows: July 9th- Thor- Love & Thunder; July 16th- Jaws; July 23rd - Christmas in July- Elf; July 30th - Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. cooltodaypark.com.

JULY 12TH

Big Bam Brew Ribbon-Cutting with the Venice Chamber of Commerce

BIG BAM BREW AT BIG BAM EBIKES | 8:00 AM

Big Bam Brew 'officially' opens with a ribbon-cutting by the Venice Chamber of Commerce. The event dovetails with the Chamber's monthly Coffee Connections, which is for Chamber professionals who like to do business first thing in the morning and enjoy drinking coffee and connecting with other Chamber Members.

8 AM – 9 AM. FREE to Chamber Members. (bigbambikes.com).

JULY 14TH

Friday Night Concert Series in the Park

CENTENNIAL PARK | 3:00 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. July 14 is Sara Nelms; July 28 is Larry & Jeannie.

JULY 15TH & 16TH

Historic Downtown Venice's Christmas In July

DOWNTOWN VENICE | 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

Get ready for the biggest sale of the season at participating locations! The businesses in Historic Downtown Venice and beyond will have Christmas themed windows, great discounts and a whole lot more. This twoday event will take place 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday, July 15th, and Saturday, July 16th. Hosted by Venice MainStreet. Visit VisitVeniceFL.org for more information.

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