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.
While the dog days of summer will soon begin to abate, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the season’s slower pace, and to focus what we most cherish. Both our children and our pets bring so much joy to our families, and they can have a wonderful impact on our community as a whole.
In this, our “Kids & Pets” issue we are highlighting how some of our most inventive community members are creating works - including books, toys and more - that inspire, educate, enhance, and just totally ‘wow’ us. One of them is Dr. Michael Sternberg, a retired ophthalmologist living in Venice with his wife Angie who, over the past five years, has built a Lamborghini, the Titanic and about 40 more LEGO constructions.
There’s nearly a whole village of people at Village on the Isle (VOTI), who’ve contributed to the expansion of this faith based-retirement community’s woodshop – to six times its prior size – in order to support a wooden toy building-and-gifting ministry for underprivileged children locally and worldwide.
Talking about animals and children, how about the mother and son (writing and illustration respectively) team of Patricia and Craig Cartwright? With “Oscar the Otter,” and "Meet Rusty the Red Panda" already published, they are currently collaborating on their third children’s book, "Meet Zoey, the Zebra." We also have a piece about the benefits of pets to kids and families.
On another note, Dr. Michael R. Gallina, DPM, of AMA Health ProvidersVenice, provides a look at how platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy can help harness the healing power of our own bodies.
Happy Reading and Happy August, Venice!
August 2023
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss; Dr. Michael Gallina, DPM for AMA Health Providers, Venice
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephanie Snow Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
CONTROLLER Gary Johnson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
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Proverbs 3:5-6
Wellen Park’s focus on well-being is designed to give residents greater opportunities to take care of themselves and encourage a healthy vibrant lifestyle. Access to highquality, close-to-home healthcare is a top priority for Wellen Park and its existing 9,500 residents and the more than 50,000 residents planned at build-out. Wellen Park continues to attract primary care physicians, specialists and medical facilities dedicated to serving the community, one of the fastest-growing in Southwest Florida – and the United States.
“We’re excited to expand access to quality healthcare for residents of Wellen Park and the south Sarasota County region,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “Convenient access to top-rated primary doctors, specialists, urgent care and medical centers always factors into the decision of where to live. Existing and planned facilities will serve from the youngest to senior members of our community – from routine wellness exams, management of existing conditions and more immediate needs.”
HCA Florida Healthcare’s primary care center became Wellen Park’s first medical office when it opened last year in the Publix-anchored Marketplace Plaza. The HCA Wellen Park medical office, located at 12169 Mercado Dr., offers exam rooms, physical therapy services and a pharmacy. HCA, one of the largest health systems in Florida with 50 hospitals, closest location is the 100-bed Englewood Hospital.
HCA Florida Englewood is expanding its emergency healthcare services to Wellen Park after purchasing 30-acres of land in the master-planned development. The expansion will be located at the intersection of Preto Boulevard and US 41. HCA’s emergency center is the first phase of its Wellen Park expansion plan.
“We look forward to bringing a free-standing emergency center to the rapidly growing Wellen Park area and are excited with it being part of a well-planned community designed around improving healthcare access,” said Steve Young, Chief Executive Officer of HCA Florida Englewood Hospital.
Southwest Florida-based Millennium Physician Group’s new 12,000-square-foot medical office building is under construction in Wellen Park. Millennium Physician Group’s new building will provide medical offices for primary care physicians and offer a full-service radiology department, a lab and walk-in medical clinic for urgent-care needs with extended hours. The building is expected to welcome patients in late 2023.
“Providing residents with easy access to opportunities promoting improved wellness and a healthy, active lifestyle within the community is central to our vision for Wellen Park,” said Severance. Casto Healthcare Real Estate is also developing a three-story, 75,000-square-foot medical office building for healthcare professionals in the Wellen Park community. All the space in the building will be allocated and leased to healthcare professionals.
With numerous hospitals and medical providers nearby and even more to come, the best care is just around the corner in Wellen Park.
Sarasota Memorial Hospital-Venice offers a full slate of medical and surgical care – from cardiology, orthopedics and intensive care to surgery and comprehensive labor, delivery, recovery and post-partum care. SMH-Venice is also exploring opportunities for a nearby medical campus.
Sarasota Memorial Health Care Center and ER at North Port offer both comprehensive outpatient care and emergency services at its centrally located south county campus.
The new medical facilities are close to Downtown Wellen, the region’s new gathering and social hub, and Wellen Park’s neighborhoods, offering an array of single-family homes, paired and attached villas, coach homes and condominiums in picturesque surroundings.
To learn more about healthcare options 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. The Welcome Center is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m
And though mom and dad can take care of most of those bumps and bruises along the way, when the runny nose turns into a running fever, it’s comforting to know that a little help is right around the corner.
Whether it’s a quick fix at one of our six Urgent Care Centers, a check-up with a First Physicians Group pediatrician, or even the expert attention of our dedicated pediatric unit, where specialized pediatric hospitalists from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital are on-site 24 hours a day, Sarasota Memorial is always committed to being there when you need us.
1: A beautiful, relaxing view from the dental chair at Davis & Beyer Dental Health Professionals in Venice. 2: Destiny Crum and Sidney Jones, Administrative Assistants at AMA Health Providers, loved seeing AMA’s physicians featured in the June VCL. 3: VCL Publisher’s grandson Mason had fun talking “LEGO Wild” with Mike Sternberg, who is featured in this issue. 4: Mason, the grandson of VCL Publisher, loves his Cookies & Cream and GRAMMY TIME, at Jetty Jacks. 5: Big Bam eBikes owner Pamela Fiume with celebrity customers from “The Walking Dead”. Michelle Dziak (Costumes Ager/Dyer) and Tim Burton SPFX Tech (explosive special effects)! 6: Rita Porvaznik, Sales Associate at Reflections In Gold, enjoys the June “Gentlemen’s” issue of Venice City Lifestyle. 7: Topping off VCL’s “Kids & Pets” issue: there’s nothing better than being a Grammy! Love you too, Grace.
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Join UWSSC on October 4 at Plantation Golf & Country Club to learn about the pressing issues in our community. Find out how your business or organization can make a difference! UWSSC is always seeking donations, volunteers, and will gladly speak to any business or organization about how your donations support our community. To learn more about how you can become a sponsor of this event, or for ticket information, call 941.484.4811 ext. 107 or visit us at uwssc.org.
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State Farm awarded $90,000 to support career and college preparedness programs at Pace Centers for Girls, Florida. Pace’s vocational and education programs provide at-promise girls with the tools and skills needed to obtain a high school diploma or GED, gain long term employability, and pursue an education past high school. For example, Emily (photo) will study psychology at Broward College this summer then transition to Florida International University to eventually become a therapist.
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Neil Rainford was sworn into office by Karen E. Rushing, the Sarasota County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller. Commissioner Rainford fills the seat of the late Commissioner Nancy C. Detert. "This is a great opportunity that the governor has bestowed upon me. I'm humbled by the appointment," says Rainford. "I look forward to serving District 3, and to hearing from the community." Sarasota County’s District 3 includes Venice and parts of Nokomis and North Port.
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Breakwater Home Fashions is a new, coastal-themed boutique in the heart of downtown Wellen Park. We carry a unique selection of furniture and décor curated exclusively for the distinctive Southwest Florida home.
From credenzas and all kinds of tables to lighting, artwork, area rugs, giftware, accessories and more, we’re sure to have that perfect item you’ve been looking for. Ask about our in-home design services. Special ordering is available and we also offer a loyalty program to save on future purchases.
19795 Wellen Park Blvd, Ste B, Venice • 941-584-5234 •
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.
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Patricia Cartwright and her son Craig Cartwright are in the midst of working on their third children’s book, "Meet Zoey, the Zebra." She is the writer and he is the illustrator. It’s a dream come true for them both.
Patricia, now in her early 80s, had never written a book before she collaborated with Craig on their first one, “Meet Oscar the Otter,” followed by "Meet Rusty the Red Panda."
“I always wanted to be a writer,” says Patricia. “I was even editor of my high school newspaper. But after I met my husband Bill, when he was at Naval Academy, I embarked on a different life. I became an Air Force wife and mother, and an elementary school librarian.”
The couple moved to Venice in 2000 from Virginia. Coincidentally, Craig lives in Venice, California. He is a successful illustrator who has designed products for Disney and “The Simpsons”, done storyboarding for Pixar, and worked on numerous other children's books.
Craig started drawing at a young age and his talent was noticed from
the start. “People would tell me ‘you have to go to school for this’ (drawing).” So, he did, earning a BFA degree in Illustration from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1991.
Patricia has wanted to write a book about a friendly otter named Oscar for years – ever since the Cartwrights, when hiking as a family in New Hampshire, came across some very playful otters. “They were so enjoyable to watch. Then it got to be a family joke. I'd be greeted with ‘Hey mom, how’s the Oscar book going,’” says Patricia, adding, “I always knew I wanted Craig to be my illustrator.”
It was only after Patricia was waylaid by a broken hip and the COVID-19 pandemic, that the two finally started collaborating. “The isolation made it so there were no more excuses to delay,” she says. They started “Oscar” towards the end of 2020, and it was in print by 2021.
Working together, sharing their creativity, and being in constant contact turned out to be the biggest gift of all. Patricia wrote the story; Craig brought the characters to life with CONTINUED >
Mother & Son Literary Team, Patricia and Craig Cartwright. Inspiration for the Cartwright's Animal Tales!
pictures and illustrations. “We did really well together, feeding ideas off each other,” says Craig.
“I like to incorporate things that really happened,” says Patricia. For example, there's a scene in "Oscar" that was taken straight from real life. “We were on a chartered boat trip to Sanibel island. We disembarked, but when we returned there were two otters on the boat, eating my bait fish. It was such a hilarious scene.”
They also decided to include an educational component in the book after Patricia's son (and Craig's brother) Scott pointed out that some words in the story were more advanced for the age group it was intended for (ages 5 and up). Instead of replacing those challenging words, they were highlighted in the text, and Craig ‘hid’ them in the accompanying illustration.
A special note to young readers was added explaining that, if they came across unfamiliar words, their job was to be a detective and find the hidden word in the drawing that will help to understand its meaning. There's also a crossword at the end of the book using all the words that were highlighted.
“We've got a lot of compliments from teachers about that,” says Patricia.
Even more books are coming from this very special mother and son team, says Patricia. “We want to introduce interesting animals from around the world, emphasize their unique abilities, what makes each of them special, and instill curiosity about learning about animals you might not see in your backyard.”
Find "Oscar" and "Rusty" at Celebration Corner (celebrationcornervenicefl.com), an educational toy store on Venice Ave. in downtown Venice, or contact Patricia Cartwright at plcwec@aol.com.
Author Patricia Cartwright with her published creations.
Illustrator Craig Cartwright makes stories come to life.
LEFT PAGE:
TOP: “Meet Oscar The Otter” was Patricia & Craig’s first published book.
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2023
There’s a Mouth-Dropping Display of Over 40 Lego Buildouts in Michael Sternberg’s Spare Room
Dr. Michael Sternberg was born and raised, and practiced optometry for 32 years, in Williamsburg, VA. After he retired and moved to Venice with his wife Angie in 2007, he started checking off bucket list activities.
For example, after a few years, the couple moved back to Virginia for a while. When they left for good, Michael captained a 45-foot boat down the Intercoastal to Englewood where he became the Dockmaster at the Royal Palm Marina. Then, after he met Venice restauranteur - Brewburger's owner Michael Bacon - he got on board to help with the construction of Brewburger's second location. Today he still works part-time at Shuck & Ale.
But LEGO took him by surprise.
“About five years ago I saw a (LEGO) kit to build a Lamborghini (car),” says Michael. Fast-forward from that first LEGO build to today where, due to the kindness of his wife, the couple’s spare room displays more than 40 constructions from LEGO's sophisticated “Icons” line. That number of constructions would likely total more than 100,000 pieces and more than 600 hours. “Most of the ones I’ve completed are vehicles, but I also have a Treehouse, a Motorized Lighthouse with a rotating beam, and one with a Thanksgiving theme that acts as a centerpiece.”
Michael admits he enjoys seeing peoples’ reactions, especially kids – to his LEGO creations. “It’s absolutely amazing. When they walk in the room their jaws drop.”
So far, of the couple’s four children and four grandchildren, only one – 10-year-old Wyatt – has become a LEGO champion like his Pop Pop. “Wyatt has been building LEGO for as long as I have. He builds kits I send him, then he dismantles some to make projects of his own.”
After he had had 15 or 20 kits under his belt, Michael deemed himself ready to make what he calls, “the ultimate move.” He began tackling the Titanic, which is a 53-in., authentic scale
Michael enjoys seeing peoples’ reactions, especially kids – to his LEGO creations. “It’s absolutely amazing. When they walk in the room their jaws drop.”
LEGO Technic Heavy-Duty Tow Truck.
model designed to be built in three sections. The model boasts interior views of the firstclass dining room, grand staircase, boiler room and more. “My wife is going to Costa Rica with her girlfriends and I’m planning on taking it apart to put in the lights and sound,” he says.
Although he never played with LEGO blocks as a child, these newer, more-challenging LEGO kits turned out to be the activity Michael had always needed. “I just have to be doing stuff with my hands. I used to get in trouble in elementary school for it. I’m 70 years old now, so can’t do some of the repairs and fixes around the house like I used to,” he says. But he can do LEGO!
“I find it very mentally challenging,” says Michael. However, as he ages, putting them together has become increasingly physically stressful. “Some pieces are very tiny, so my fingers get stiff, and I wear a back brace to keep from hurting myself,” he explains.
Although it seems like a solo thing to do, it’s not, says Michael. “While ‘Dr. Mike’ sits and builds models, Angie is working in the yard, making the garden look great. We have one of the nicest yards in our neighborhood of Venice Gardens,” he says.
There’s also a huge Internet-based LEGO community to tap into when he gets stumped. “I can post a picture of the project I’m working on, and people will help me get unstuck.”
Pets have long been a part of many children's lives, and there are numerous benefits that come with pet ownership. From teaching responsibility, to fostering compassion and empathy, pets can play a crucial role in a child's development. Here are five reasons why having a family pet can be beneficial for children, as suggested by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP.org).
1. Teaching Responsibility : Pets offer an excellent opportunity for children to learn about responsibility. Caring for a pet involves feeding, grooming, exercising, and providing love and attention. By assigning age-appropriate tasks related to pet care, children can develop a sense of responsibility and understand the importance of fulfilling their obligations.
2. Building Trust: Pets, whether dogs, cats, or other animals, can provide unconditional support and companionship to children. This bond helps children develop trust, not only in their pets but also in themselves and in building relationships with others. Pets offer a safe space for children to express their emotions and seek comfort during difficult times.
3. Fostering Compassion and Respect: Taking care of a pet requires children to understand and meet their furry friend's needs. By fulfilling these needs, children learn to be kind, compassionate, and respectful towards others, including animals and people. They develop an understanding of boundaries, such as gentle touching and respecting the pet's space during mealtime or rest.
4. Promoting Physical and Emotional Well-being: Pet ownership encourages physical activity and promotes a healthier lifestyle for children. Walking a dog or playing with a pet provides an opportunity for exercise,
helping children develop gross motor skills and overall fitness. Pets also offer comfort, love, and affection, which contribute to a child's emotional well-being and self-esteem.
5. Enhancing Social Skills: Pets can serve as a social catalyst, helping children improve their social skills. Dogs, for example, encourage conversations and interactions with others while on outings. This interaction with their pet and other people can enhance a child's communication skills, confidence, and ability to connect with others.
In addition to these reasons, there are other advantages to having a family pet for children. Pets can become trustworthy confidants for children, as they often share secrets and private thoughts with their furry companions. They also provide opportunities for children to learn about the cycle of life, including reproduction, birth, illnesses, accidents, death, and bereavement.
Pets fulfill children's physical and emotional needs, offering comfort, love, loyalty, and affection. They create a connection to nature and teach children to respect and appreciate other living beings. Furthermore, research suggests that children growing up with pets may experience fewer ear infections and respiratory tract infections, possibly due to the stimulation of their immune system through exposure to animals.
When considering adding a pet to the family, it is essential to choose one that fits the family's lifestyle and the child's capabilities. Different pets have varying needs and require different levels of care and attention. Fish, turtles, or hamsters, for instance, may require less playtime and maintenance compared to dogs or cats. Proper planning and discussions with children about their responsibilities and the permanency of owning a pet are crucial to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
“Proper planning and discussions with children about their responsibilities and the permanency of owning a pet are crucial to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
Dave and Marie Sutherlin started the toy-making ministry that's now at VOTI.
Cas Azera, Project Manager for VOTI, helped manage the woodshop’s expansion.
Oscar Isabel is VOTI's Woodshop President.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY
BY STEPHANIE SNOW
Previously, the Sutherlins operated their toy-making woodworking shop from their Nokomis home garage. However, about four years ago, they approached Doug Feller, the CEO of the extraordinary retirement community Village On The Isle (VOTI), with a compelling proposition: to donate their equipment and continue their toy ministry at VOTI.
After visiting the Sutherlin's home workshop, Doug realized that the donation of equipment would not only significantly expand VOTI's woodworking facilities, but also align with VOTI's purpose as a faith-based social ministry affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. "It was a wonderful thing!”
With the decision made, planning commenced to repurpose an existing building on the campus. This former skilled nursing facility is now known as the Village Commons, says Cas Azera, a retired master carpenter who is Project Manager for VOTI.
In 2020, after selecting a general contractor, VOTI began the buildout. Multiple spaces were combined to create a woodshop six times larger than the previous one. Within this expansion, five rooms were designated for specific functions related to toy production, such as the drying room and finishing room, as well as for the residents' woodworking needs.
"We have worked with some great vendor/partners, some of whom donated their time, and others donated materials," Doug adds. "We all came together for this wonderful mission."
Unfortunately, the unexpected occurred when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, causing plans to be put on hold. It was a challenging time for everyone involved, but the spirit of perseverance prevailed. Today toys are being produced and will be ready for distribution in time for the 2023 holiday season.
And these toys are truly amazing! There are race cars with rolling wheels, a movable dragon, a bird with eggs, a dog that moves, and more. Dave Sutherlin, a former boatbuilder with diverse professional experience, now oversees toy production at VOTI. He emphasizes the importance of using natural wood for the toys. "When the kids receive them, they can paint them if they want," he explains.
Marie Sutherlin, a retired nurse, explains that the toys are distributed to underprivileged children through local organizations, including Big Brothers/ Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, the Sarasota County Sheriff and Police Departments, among many others. "The Venice Police even keep (the toys) in their cars for children who may be present during domestic abuse situations," she says. Worldwide distribution is achieved through the shoebox gift programs of Franklin Graham's International Relief Program, and Samaritan's Purse.
VOTI's woodworking shop is not exclusive to the toy ministry; it is open and welcoming to all residents eager to explore the craft. "We have enough people who love to share their knowledge and skills that anyone can come in and learn how
CONTINUED >
VOTI resident, and woodshop whittler Tony Armagno.
Children in Haiti painting their new wooden toys.
to work with wood," says Woodshop President Oscar Isabel. Newcomers will also receive instruction on the correct and safe usage of equipment, he adds.
Safety measures have received particular attention, says Cas. The woodshop is equipped with video cameras in all rooms, an emergency phone and pull cords that directly connect to VOTI security, first aid and eye wash stations, smoke detectors, and more. "We have made sure that residents can receive immediate assistance if needed," he says.
Doug further emphasizes that anyone at VOTI can enter and learn the art of woodworking in a safe and responsible manner. He recalls a resident who diligently crafted unique Christmas ornaments for each grandchild every year, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity flourishing within the retirement community.
Village on the Isle's woodshop is not simply a workshop; it is a place where dreams come to fruition, talents are nurtured, and a strong sense of community thrives. With the Sutherlin's generous donation, and VOTI's unwavering dedication, it will continue to be a haven for residents, and a boon to underprivileged kids who love toys, for years to come.
“The toy ministry aligns with VOTI’s purpose as a faith-based social ministry affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.”A wooden plane is one of the toys made for kids.
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
AUGUST 9TH
Venice Chamber's Coffee Connections
APPLEBEE’S VENICE | 8:00 AM
The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce hosts Coffee Connections every month at different locations. On August 9 join area business professionals for a cup of coffee at Applebee’s in Venice. Door prizes are welcome to promote your business. Pre-register (required) at venicechamber.com.
AUGUST 10TH
City of Venice Monthly Bicycle Ride
CITY HALL PARKING LOT | 10:00 AM
The City of Venice's Monthly Bicycle Rides, led by Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper, are the second Thursday of each month. The 6-mile casual ride around the island of Venice starts at 10:00 AM. Bring your bike and a helmet to the west parking lot of City Hall. Email Darlene at Dculpepper@venicefl.gov to register or for more information.
AUGUST 11TH & 26TH
Friday Night Concert In The Park: George McVey River Road, Latitude 26
CENTENNIAL PARK | 7:00 PM
Join the fun in Historic Downtown Venice for the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series at the gazebo in Centennial Park! This event, hosted by Venice MainStreet, is held every second and fourth Friday of each month and is free and open to the public. Friday, August 11 features George McVey River Road and Friday, August 25 features Latitude 26.
AUGUST 18TH-20TH
Summer Splash 2 – Vacation in Venice at Hotel Venezia
HOTEL VENEZIA RESTAURANT & BAR | 4:00 PM
Essential Freaks, Sundown Sounds, We R Promotions and Groove Cruise present Hotel Venezia’s second annual Summer Splash! The event has been expanded to feature three days of music and three areas of sound for $50. For more details visit hotelveneziafl.com.
AUGUST 24TH
Casey Key Tour: Antique Automobile Club of America, Venice Region
EGGSTRAORDINARY CAFE | 8:30 AM
Enjoy a leisurely drive with the Venice AACA Club as members take their old cars on a tour of scenic Casey Key. Meet for breakfast at 8:30 AM at the EGGSTraordinary Cafe in Nokomis. The tour of Casey Key departs the cafe at 10:00 AM. Go to veniceaaca.com/casey-key-tour-august-2023 to sign up (requested).
AUGUST 24TH
PLANTATION GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB | 4:00 PM
Join the Venice, Englewood and North Port Area Chambers of Commerce as they host the Annual Tri-Chamber Business Connections from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Plantation GCC. Attendees get to connect with businesspeople from all three Chambers! Members $15, Future Members, $24. Pre-register (required – no walk-ins) at venicechamber.com.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Venice
In recent years, doctors have learned that the body has a remarkable ability to heal itself. This is known as regenerative medicine. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that can harness the ability of your body to heal itself.
Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood. It is made up mostly of water and proteins. Your blood also contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Platelets are small pieces of cells that are responsible for forming blood clots, but also contain some very valuable and necessary proteins that aid in healing.
PRP therapy uses injections of a concentration of the patient's own platelets to speed up the healing process. The injections are prepared by taking the patient’s blood and running it through a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and the plasma. This process concentrates the healing factors up to 10 times their normal levels. The doctor will then inject the
platelets directly into the injured area to aid in healing, releasing proteins that stimulate your body to heal.
PRP has also been shown to be more effective than cortisone for conditions such as arthritis of the foot and ankle. It allows patients to return to activity faster after an injury. It has proven to be an asset in returning patients to normal activity without the use of surgery.
Michael R. Gallina, DPM, podiatrist/foot and ankle surgeon, is now a part of AMA Health Providers in Venice. He is a well-respected podiatrist who specializes in conditions of the lower leg, ankle, and foot. Dr. Gallina uses PRP injections to help patient's heel injuries of the lower extremities such as Achilles tendon injuries, sprained ankles and plantar fasciitis.
To make an appointment with Dr. Gallina, call 941559-0262 today. Visit amahealthproviders.com or go to AMA Health Provider’s Facebook and Instagram pages @amahealthproviders.
As the former podiatric surgeon for the Atlanta Braves, Cleveland Indians and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, foot and ankle surgeon/podiatrist specialist Michael R. Gallina, DPM is an important member of the team at AMA Health Providers-Venice.
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.
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