Venice, FL May 2024

Pam Duke & Leah Rae Shafer A Celebrity Collaboration

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

Celebrating Remarkable Women Who Shape Our Lives!

Readers, I am thrilled to present to you the May Women's Issue of Venice City Lifestyle, a celebration of the remarkable women who shape our lives and communities. As we approach Mother's Day, it's a time not only to honor biological mothers but also to recognize the countless mother figures, mentors, and role models who leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

In this special issue, we highlight the extraordinary contributions of women like Kelly Olliver, our inaugural Remarkable Woman. Kelly's dedication to community service, alongside her role as co-owner of The British Open Pub, embodies the spirit of empowerment and support that defines our city.

Our feature stories include a glimpse into the lives of three community-driven women who all happen to be realtors: Sally Abdella, Lori Turkovics, and Pamela H. Phildius. Their stories exemplify dedication while they inspire us to become our best selves.

Additionally, we're excited to share the collaboration between Nau-T-Girl Jewelry's Pam Duke and Leah Rae Shafer, the partner of Below Deck Med Star Captain Sandy Yawn. Pam & Leah’s new line of bold bracelets and rings, Cuff Me, are fashion-forward ‘wows!’

In "What's In Her Bag?" we take a peek into the daily essentials of a busy career woman and mother of five, offering insights into balancing professional success with family life.

Furthermore, we delve into the world of STEM education with Susie Bennett, a dedicated teacher at Venice High School whose passion for science and space exploration is truly out of this world.

And of course, no issue would be complete without a taste of culinary delight, thus we offer a recipe for seasonal Roasted Beet Salad by Venice Olive Oil that’s crafted with the store’s original OO’s and vinegars.

As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women everywhere, let us continue to uplift, empower, and support one another on the journey ahead.

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @VENICECITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Leinfuss, Jodi Rall, Ellen Brakman, Marci Weidemiller, Leann Parker

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stephanie Snow Photography, Jodi Rall, Everett Dennison, Kelly Martucci, Venice Olive Oil Co., Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

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

WELLEN PARK’S NEW SCHOOLS

PROVIDE MORE OPTIONS FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS

Wellen Park is at the head of the class for education, offering options for students of all ages.

In addition to nearby, top-rated public schools serving the community, Wellen Park is home to State College of Florida and its dual-enrollment Collegiate High School, as well as College Preparatory Academy, a tuition-free charter school managed by Charter Schools USA.

More new schools are on the horizon for Wellen Park, ranked among the U.S.’s top 10 best-selling master-planned communities in 2023 by prominent real estate consulting firms RCLCO and John Burns. Prodigy Early Learning, an innovative preschool for 200 children, infants to kindergarten, is expected to open this fall. Sarasota County is building two schools: a 2,100-student high school, the district’s first new secondary school in 30 years, and a K-8 school on an adjoining site, which will accommodate 1,500 students.

“Parents are excited about the many different choices they now have for their children’s education,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “Neighborhood schools are important to a community’s identity and are the heart of everyday life for parents and children. They provide a sense of belonging, strengthen social interactions, and improve a community’s overall well-being.”

The College Preparatory Academy opened to kindergarten through sixth-grade students last August and will add seventh grade during the 2024-25 academic year and eighth grade the following. The school emphasizes college and career readiness through experiential learning and academics. Middle and elementary-age students from Wellen Park are also assigned to Sarasota County’s Taylor Ranch Elementary, A-rated every year since 2001, and Venice Middle School, A-rated since 2018.

High school students in Wellen Park can choose from Venice High School or the State College of Florida Collegiate School, both A-rated. SCFCS fast-tracks a college degree for motivated students: students attending full-time will graduate with an Associate in Arts degree and can continue their education tuition free at New College or Florida Gulf Coast University.

For adult learners, State College of Florida offers a variety of degree options which serve as important building blocks for a student’s next chapter, from an Associate in Arts program, to multiple Associate of Science degree programs and Bachelor’s Degree programs, both with the ability to amplify the degree with a variety of workforce certificates. Construction is winding down on the college’s new science and technology building, the campus’ first new structure since 1995. It offers classrooms, as well as recreational spaces, including basketball and volleyball courts. Those a little beyond their “college years” can explore new hobbies, focus on professional development and enhance personal growth through State College’s lifelong learning opportunities.

Wellen Park also regularly hosts speakers and lecture series, including programs led by Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, as well as free business workshops by Sarasota County.

A multigenerational community, Wellen Park offers a variety of homes for families of all sizes in neighborhoods close to schools.

For more information about education opportunities in Wellen Park, call 941-271-0116, visit wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Dr. in Venice.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-3: Over 200 women attended The Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club’s annual Fashion Showcase, featuring fashions from area boutiques. Proceeds were donated to Venice Art Center’s children’s programs. P1. VNWC Decorating Committee Members (l-r) VNWC President, Liz Mazzu; Event Chair, Laura Jo; Venue & Food Chair, Linda Ecker; VP, Joan Brinton (in Lavender); Ticket/Check-in Chair, Lorraine Finizio (in tan dress) and Silent Auction Chair, Gail Mandel. P2. VNWC’s map mannequin. P3. These crafty VNWC members made a mannequin dress out of maps. 4: Prion Photography’s Petra Prion and Sotheby’s Real Estate Professional Crystal Cosby at the Venice Chamber’s 2024 Women Empowering Women Luncheon.

5: At Chamber luncheon: Front (l-r) - Capstan’s Stacey Crawford, CBC’s Lou Ann Linn and Sheila Miller; Back- VCL’s Jodi Rall, Dr. Stacie Herrera.

6: At the Venice Area Chamber’s Spring Luncheon: Chamber President/CEO Kathy Lehner with Melanie Griffin, secretary of the Florida Dept. of Business and Professional Development. 7: Melanie Griffin presents a proclamation to Nancy Jordan of Caldwell Banker at the WEW Luncheon.

JODI RALL

JODI RALL

JODI RALL

JODI RALL

8: Table of ladies enjoying the Venice Chamber’s 2024 Women Empowering Women Spring Luncheon. 9: Allen Speer, CEO of Agape Flights, welcomes 100s of people attending the Annual Open Hangar “Pie in the Sky” Fundraising Event. 10: Missionary Services Director, Brooklynn Benitez serves slices of pie with Maria & Hayle at Agape Flights’ “Pie in the Sky” event! 11: People waiting in line to learn more about Agape Flights’ Mission & to tour the inside of the planes. 12: Karla Blake “Pretty in Pink” stopped at VCL’s booth at the Italian Feast to grab the March Issue on her way out! 13: Idil Greenberg, Practice Administrator at Sunshine State Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in North Port handed out sunscreen to all the Italian Feast goers. 14: Venice High School Marching Band opened up the 35th Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival at the Venice Airport Fairgrounds. 9-14 Photography by VCL

beautiful smile

Doctor’s Associations

• The American Dental Association

• Academy of General Dentistry

• The International Congress of Oral Implantologists

• Florida Dental Association

• West Coast Dental Association

Sarasota County Dental Association

Dr. Frank Lewicki

Brent Beyer

Charles Davis

Cassandra Brower

DO YOU NEED TO FEEL

Refreshed and Less Stressed

SPA SERVICES PERFORMED BY LICENSED ESTHETICIAN

Deluxe Custom Facials | Dermaplaning | Chemical Peels | Micro Needling

Lash Lift & Tint | Eyebrow Luminant | Acne Treatments

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BOTOX® | Juvederm ® CERTIFIED DMK PROVIDER

2024

Venice Symphony’s 5th Annual Patriotic Pops & Fireworks Concert – American Heroes

On Saturday, May 25 at CoolToday Park, Maestro Troy Quinn will lead The Venice Symphony orchestra in a concert of great American music, including a salute to the Armed Forces. Liberty Voices, a world-famous, eight-part acappella group that sings Americana, folk, and patriotic songs will perform with the Symphony. Fireworks to follow. Free parking. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. For tickets call CoolToday Park Box Office at 941.413.5004 or visit ticketmaster.com

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Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

The Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, headquartered in  Osprey, is celebrating twenty years of conservation and community that has resulted in the permanent conservation of nearly 20,000 acres across five Florida counties and 58 properties. Learn more details at a free “Lunch and Learn” on May 8. For registration (required) contact Tianna Boswell-Porter at tianna@conservationfoundation.com.

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Downtown Wellen: A Must-Visit Hotspot & Regional Gathering Hub

Spring Training may have ended, but the options for dining, shopping, live music, outdoor recreation and more at Downtown Wellen continue! For foodies there’s everything from casual eats at Lakeside Bites to upscale American fare at The Banyan House. Want to go shopping? A great spot to find treasures for your home is Breakwater Home Fashions (breakwaterfl.com) featuring a curated collection of coastal-inspired décor. Learn more and access a complete list of Downtown Wellen businesses at wellenpark.com/shop-dine

Photography by Everett Dennison

SEASONAL ROASTED BEET SALAD

ARTICLE BY MARCI WEIDEMILLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY VENICE OLIVE OIL CO.

Venice Olive Oil’s Orange & Roasted Beet Salad with Lavender Balsamic, Herbs de Provence OO & Greek Honey

ingredients:

• 4 tbsp. Lavender Balsamic Vinegar

• 2 tbsp. Liokareas Greek Honey

• 4 tbsp. Herbs de Provence Olive Oil

• 1 lb. red beets, trimmed

• 1 lb. golden beets, trimmed

• 2 cups spring mix

directions:

Step 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

• 1 navel orange

• 1 blood orange

• 1/2 cup red onions, sliced thinly

• 1 tbsp. rosemary

• black pepper

Step 2. Whisk balsamic vinegar, olive oil and honey in a jar until well blended

Step 3. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the beets on the pan and roast until tender (40-60 min.).

Step 5. Allow the beets to cool completely.

Step 6. Peel and slice into coins. Keep red and golden beets separate until ready to serve.

Step 7. Slice oranges into coins. Trim the pith and peel.

Step 8. To serve: make a spring mix bed, then alternate beets and oranges layers.

Step 9. Top with red onions, rosemary, and fresh ground black pepper.

Lavender Balsamic, Liokareas Greek Honey and Herbs de Provence Olive Oil from Venice Olive Oil Co.

A savory, seasonal Roasted Beet Salad.

VCL’s Inaugural Remarkable Woman

KELLY OLLIVER UPLIFTS THE VENICE COMMUNITY THROUGH HER WHOLEHEARTED SERVICE

Kelly Olliver

Kelly Olliver’s primary mission is to “make things better for people.” It’s clear to see that she takes it seriously, while also maintaining a convivial sense of humor–she IS the co-owner of Venice’s The British Open Pub, after all.

For Olliver, making things better is a remarkably large container that holds the many ways she offers service to the Venice community. That includes “finding people a place to live through attaining affordable housing, getting them the help they need to leave abusive situations, helping to clean up the environment, and making people smile when they’ve had a rough day,” she explained.

Born and raised in the Venice area, Olliver left for college and career right after graduating Venice High School in 1995. Then in 2003, just after she’d planned to move back and start a business with her father and brother, her brother was killed in a boating accident.

“Nearly 600 people attended his service: friends and family, but also every teacher and every principal still in town and everyone from all the jobs my mom and dad ever held,” she said. The outpouring of support “cemented to me that this really is an incredible town, and I realized how much a small community can do for a person. That is when I became

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

recommitted and passionate about the area,” said Olliver.

The British Open Pub has been an important conduit for her remarkable generosity. “Through the restaurant, I’ve been asked to donate food for benefits and that’s when I started to learn all about these local organizations (that she’s worked with):  The Child Protection Center, The TWIG, and Family Promise are just a few.

In addition, as a dedicated member of the Venice Sertoma Club, Olliver helped with the expansion of the Sertoma Speech Clinic of Venice, which provides exceptional care to children challenged with communication impairment. She’s also been involved with the Suncoast Foundation for Handicapped Children (SFHC) ever since she was a young girl when handing out flyers and tee shirts with her dad. Olliver continued to return to Venice every year to help with SFHC’s Suncoast BBQ Bash and Hoot N’ Annie.

Then, in 2019, Olliver joined the Venice Chamber of Commerce’s first annual "Leadership Venice" class and served as project leader for its community project, “Vision Quest.” She was so impressed with the program’s importance to the community that she’s stayed on to lead and guide subsequent Leadership classes.

“It’s imperative as a leader that we learn who does what and how they do it (across a wide range of businesses and organizations),” she said. “That makes you unstoppable because you can always get the answers or assistance you may need.”

“I realized how much a small community can do for a person. That is when I became recommitted and passionate about the Venice area.”

The British Open Pub helps Kelly connect with community service.

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We offer SkinMedica® skincare, customized anti-aging facials and peels! Combining our revolutionary in-office treatments with regular facials, and using sciencebacked skincare at home, maximizes your results! Visit our website to view the menu of services.

3 Community-Dedicated Women of Real Estate

Spotlight On:

Sally Abdella, Lori Turkovics, and Pamela H. Phildius

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

Sally Abdella: A Passionate Realtor with a Heart of Gold

More than just a dynamic professional real estate agent, Sally Abdella is a woman who embodies empathy, compassion, and community spirit. She is both a caring individual and a successful businesswoman.

Originally from Wisconsin, Sally and her husband relocated to Venice at the end of 2018. Shortly thereafter, she started working at Sunbug Boutique. But after the COVID-19 pandemic forced store closures Sally pursued the education needed to become a licensed real estate agent – something she’d long wanted to do. After passing the exam on the first try in October of 2020, she quickly flourished.

Sally attributes much of her success and personality to her father, who instilled in her a love for people and a deep curiosity about human nature. She believes that understanding and appreciating the differences among individuals can lead to better relationships and a more harmonious society.

That empathy is evident in her interactions. She goes above and beyond for clients, handling not only the intricacies of the job, but by personally taking on necessary tasks–like finding a place to donate a grandfather clock or replacing a malfunctioning garbage disposal.

Her compassion also extends beyond the professional. As a member of Coldwell Banker, she participates in the firm’s annual “CARES” event, raising funds for local charities to help make a difference. Plus, her involvement in Lift Church reflects her commitment to spreading kindness and support to those in need.

Carving out time for self-care and personal pursuits is important too. From her dedication to fitness to her love for exploring area beaches and our vibrant downtown, Sally finds joy in the simple pleasures of life in Venice.

Lori Turkovics: Dedicated Realtor and Community Leader

As someone who used to make a lot of moves, Lori Turkovics knows first-hand what to look for in a realtor. So, when the opportunity came to become one herself, she knew what to focus on to truly excel in her career.

That go-getter attitude, shaped by her own experiences, led Turkovics to develop a concierge approach to real estate. As such, she is committed to providing VIP services for her clients, ensuring transparent communication and reliable recommendations for contractors, service providers, lenders, etc.

Turkovics’ meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills extend beyond her professional life into her personal endeavors. Lori excels in planning and coordinating activities for her family and friends, from group events to holiday parties – always with plenty of entertainment. She also believes in fostering meaningful connections between people and doing service for her community.

Case in point: When she was a member of the Venice Yacht Club, Turkovics recognized the need for more activities for kids, enhancing the club experience for children and families. Despite the demands of her career, Lori prioritizes maintaining a healthy worklife balance, dedicating time to family, friends, and personal interests such as golfing at Mission Valley Country Club in Nokomis.

Lori’s success in real estate is driven by her commitment to her client’s best interests and her unwavering dedication to excellence. With a business built entirely on referrals, she continues to thrive in Sarasota County’s booming housing market, guided by her expertise, integrity, and genuine passion for helping others.

Pamela H. Phildius: Committed to Caring for Clients and Community

Pamela H. Phildius’s passion for real estate goes beyond mere career ambitions—it embodies a lifelong commitment to serving others. With a background in pharmaceutical and medical sales, she embarked on her real estate journey in Chicago, in 2001, driven by a desire for autonomy and freedom from corporate constraints.

“I wanted more flexibility of where I worked and who I worked with,” Phildius recalled. “Real estate seemed like the perfect fit.”

Her seamless transition into the industry was fueled by natural charisma and dedication to nurturing strong relationships. Phildius’s adeptness at communication and collaboration soon earned her recognition within her then brokerage, where she excelled in teamwork and complex transactions.

Raised among nine siblings in Northeast Ohio, her upbringing instilled resilience and independence, shaping her into the empathetic and approachable professional she is today.

Beyond her realtor role, Phildius is deeply engaged in the Venice community. As an active member of the Venice Yacht Club’s Charitable Foundation Committee, she plays a pivotal role in supporting local organizations through fundraising events and community outreach initiatives.

“I believe in giving back to the community,” Phildius affirmed. “It’s important to be actively engaged and make a positive impact wherever you can.”

Despite the demands of her career and community commitments, Phildius prioritizes work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries to maintain personal well-being. “Setting clear expectations with clients ensures that I can dedicate time to my family and personal pursuits,” she shared.

Now, as she approaches her 60’s, Phildius is focused on healthy changes. From incorporating more physical activity into her routine to exploring new areas of Venice, she remains committed to living life to the fullest.

Cuff Me Celebrity Collaboration

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY MARTUCCI

NAU-T-GIRL JEWELRY’S PAM DUKE & BELOW DECK MED STAR’S FIANCÉ LEAH RAE SHAFER LAUNCH NEW LINE OF BOLD BRACELETS AND RINGS

Leah Rae Schafer is wearing silver and Pam Duke's wrists are covered in gold from their new line of Cuff Me jewelry.

“We’ve launched this creative journey with immense excitement. Our focus is on delivering designs that resonate with individual styles, preferences, and price points.”

Pam Duke, Owner/Designer of Nau-T-Girl Jewelry, and Leah Rae Shafer, a Medical Esthetician and Professional Singer, and soon to be the wife of Captain Sandy Yawn from Bravo’s Hit Show Below Deck Med, have joined forces to create a new and unique line of cuff bracelets they’ve named Cuff Me!

"We’ve launched this creative journey with immense excitement. Our focus is on delivering designs that resonate with individual styles, preferences, and price points," said Duke, who is also co-owner of Venice’s Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold. “We are featuring exquisite designs from carefully selected brands, setting the stage for the debut of our own, original designs later this year,” she added.

Hammered Silver and Gold Cuffs from Cuff Me are bold and beautiful.

An exquisite selection of rings from the new Cuff Me line of jewelry.

Nau-T-Girl Jewelry: Owners/Designers

Pam Duke and Leah Rae Shafer

The Cuff Me line of rings and cuffs are co-created by Nau-T-Girl Jewelry Owner/Designer Pam Duke and Leah Rae Shafer, Medical Esthetician, Owner of SKIN BY LEAH, and the fiancé of Captain Sandy Yawn from Bravo’s Hit Show Below Deck Med.

Discover the full spectrum of Pam & Leah’s collection at www.CuffMe.shop, and follow the brand on Facebook @cuffme.shop and Instagram @cuffme. shop for updates and more!

Captain Sandy Yawn and Duke first met a couple of years ago after Duke took a chance and sent her an email asking if she would like a custom-made piece of nautical jewelry. Captain Sandy now wears the black diamond anchor necklace designed by Pam. Classic Creations then made the engagement ring and wedding ring for her fiancé Leah. When Pam and Leah met, they connected over their mutual love for jewelry.

Duke emphasized that there will be a range of pricing, dependent on what materials the cuffs are made with. Some will be plated with sterling silver, yellow or rose gold, and others will be solid sterling silver, and 14k or 18k gold. You’ll see pieces made with crystal’s, cubic zirconia, and genuine diamonds.

Leah Rae Schaffer is all about cuffs and rings too!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JODI RALL

What’s In Her Bag?

Nicole Britton, director of development for The Twig, juggles a busy career while raising five children. Let’s look at what she carries in her Kate Spade bag, or should we say, bags…

Britton said she knows it’s funny to carry a purse inside another purse. But together they cover what she called, “a multitude of functions.”

For work, there’s a laptop, planner, notebook, Twig brochures and a smaller purse.

For mom, it’s baby socks, crayons, apple sauce, glasses, a baby bonnet, Chapstick, hair clips, a Sharpie, bandages, and Tylenol.

There’s one item Britton always makes sure to have with her that’s just for herself, “A good book. I do not go anywhere without a book to read.”

The Twig (thetwigcares.com) is a nonprofit organization that provides no cost shopping experiences to children in foster care.

ARTICLE BY ELLEN BRAKMAN

VENICE HS STEM TEACHER SUSIE BENNETT AIMS FOR THE STARS, EYEING A JOURNEY TO NASA AS A SCIENTIST-ASTRONAUT

FROM CLASSROOM TO COSMOS!

Young Susie Bennett was captivated by Space Shuttle launches seen from her North Port backyard. Today, intent on joining NASA, Bennett would more likely encounter SpaceX Rockets, like this Falcon 9 lifting off from Cape Canaveral (NASA/Glenn Benson).

Inspired by her father, an engineer who brought the family to the US from Honduras when she was two years old, Susie Bennett felt the lure of science

Then, while working as a Microbiologist and Quality Assurance Analyst at Motorworks Brewing in Bradenton, Bennett was granted the opportunity to

“MY MOM GAVE ME THE CONFIDENCE TO ALWAYS STRIVE FOR MORE AND TO FOLLOW MY DREAMS.”

early on. “I was a third-grade student reading science textbooks,” she said.

From their home in North Port, Bennett’s dad taught her about the impact and wonder of the sciences, explaining the details of the space program while sitting in their backyard watching NASA launches in real time. A loyal follower of “Star Trek” he ultimately convinced Susie and her siblings to love the TV show and, as a result, become fascinated by the future of space travel.

After attaining a BA in Business and working in the retail industry in her 20s, Bennett’s passion for science won out. “I decided to just go for it,” she said, and went on to earn a BS in Biology from the University of South Florida and an MS in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida.  “My mom gave me the confidence to always strive for more and to follow my dreams,” she added.

intern at the Kennedy Space Center and study microgravity research.

She continued her space exploration last summer when she participated in spacesuit and emergency egress training at the Center for Human Space Exploration at the University of Arizona, Biosphere 2. More recently, she participated in a Life on Mars simulation experience with the Space Foundation, in collaboration with NASA and sponsored by SpaceX.

Bennett currently teaches IB Chemistry, Pre-IB Chemistry, Pre-IB Biology at Venice High School (VHS), where she encourages and informs her students to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. She inspires them to recognize the interdisciplinary and connectiveness of science to the real world.

Ananya Kakayadi, a junior at VHS, has experienced that inspiration firsthand.

“Mrs. Bennett definitely affirmed my decision to pursue (the) STEM-related career of medicine,” said Kakaydi, who ultimately wants to be a neurologist. She affirmed that Bennett is a role model who has a wealth of valuable information about STEM career paths “One of the biggest things she's taught me is that STEM careers don't have to solely be in traditional fields like medicine or engineering. STEM is used in every industry, including the cosmetic industry, food industry, etc.”

For example, recently she’s been teaching her students about the chemistry and engineering behind NASA’s Artemis program. Many of them hadn’t even realized that practice launches can be seen from their own backyards in Southwest Florida.

In addition to being a science lover and advocate for STEM, Bennett enjoys the beaches and diverse wildlife of living in the Venice area.  She finds the region to be calming and beautiful.

Bennett hopes to become certified as a Scientist-Astronaut with the International Institute of Aeronautical Sciences in the near future and participate in some analog astronaut missions. With Bennett’s amazing work ethic and confidence, she will undoubtedly achieve her ultimate goal: to work as a Scientist for NASA.

Susie Bennett dons a spacesuit for training at Univ. of Ariz.'s Center for Human Space Exploration/Biosphere 2.

Bennett's dream is to work for NASA.

DIY VANILLA ORANGE SUGAR SCRUB

Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.

To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

• 3/4 cup of sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 10 drops of orange essential oil

Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!

Patriotic Pops Concert and Fireworks at CoolToday Park

May 25 • 7:30 pm

Gates open at 5:30 pm

Music Director Troy Quinn will lead The Venice Symphony in a concert of great American music, including a salute to the Armed Forces. Liberty Voices, a world-famous, eight-part a cappella group that sings Americana, folk, and patriotic songs, will perform with The Symphony.

*Rain Date May 26

c h a n d e v e r y o n e o f o u r c u s t o m e r s .

P a i n t p r o b l e m s o r q u e s t i o n s ? W e ’ v e g o t

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Spring Floral Bowl

BRING THE BRIGHTNESS AND FRESHNESS OF SPRING INDOORS BY CREATING YOUR OWN FLORAL BOWL ARRANGEMENT.

Spring, come quickly! And if not, bring spring indoors anyway. Flowers brighten any room, any day of the year. No need to wait for a special occasion or holiday – give yourself permission to brighten everyday life with a bowl full of flowers. Place florals in an entryway, kitchen, living room space or even bathroom. Florals make any room come alive with pops of color and the smells of spring that’s just about ready to burst outside.

Consider this your personal invitation to play with flowers by creating your very own Floral Bowl Arrangement. Use any cereal bowl in the kitchen and a bundle of store bought flowers. For extra texture and depth, look for small spring branches and ornamental grasses found in your yard to pop into the arrangement, like I did here. Then, place your floral bowl in a place where you need that burst of joy most. Enjoy!

Supplies:

• 1 bundle of flowers (about 24 stems) + floral food packet

• spring branches & ornamental grasses found in your yard (optional)

• 6” bowl (cereal bowl size)

• floral shears (or garden clippers, kitchen shears, even craft scissors in a pinch)

• 12” square cut chicken wire

• wire cutters

• garden gloves to protect your hands when forming chicken wire

• clear floral tape (scotch tape will also do)

• lazy susan to easily move your arrangement and work from all sides (optional)

Preparation & Assembly:

• First prepare the mechanics. The mechanics are the non-floral elements used to assemble a floral arrangement. These materials will act as a grid in which the flowers are built into to hold each stem in its place.

• Wearing garden gloves, cut chicken wire roughly into a 12” square. Loosely form the chicken wire into a ball and place inside the bowl.

• Use clear floral tape to make an X shape over the top of the bowl to hold the chicken wire securely into place. This will also give extra support when adding the floral elements later.

• Fill the bowl with water and mix in a flower food packet, if your flowers came with one.

• Begin to arrange floral elements into the bowl. As a general rule, you will want to start with the strongest, thickest stems and end with the most delicate stems. Here, I began with branches, then the largest base flowers followed by taller focal flowers, and finally delicate stems, grasses and wispy greens.

MAY 3RD - 19TH

"Bank Job"

Venice Theatre | 7:30 PM

Two brothers pull off a bank heist. But their escape plan through an executive washroom hits an unexpected snag. Then, a young woman, a cop, and a hostage show up. What ELSE could go wrong? The steal gets stopped in this comic romp that explodes in hilarious, high-energy shenanigans…with a little romance thrown in. Showtimes: Tues.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. $15.-$32. venicetheatre.com.

MAY 7TH - 10TH

Venice High School Spring Concerts: Chorus, Jazz Bands & Orchestra

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

It’s once again time to see and hear Venice High School musicians perform their annual spring concerts for the community. The VHS Chorus is May 7 at 7 p.m.  VHS Jazz Bands’ shows are May 8 & 9 at 7 p.m., and on May 10 the VHS Orchestra performs at 6 p.m. All performances are free. veniceperformingartscenter.com.

MAY 10TH

Friday Night Concert in the Park Featuring Latitude

The Gazebo in Centennial Park | 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 Friday, May 24 the entertainment will be Ryan Judy Music. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. For more information go to visitvenicefl.org/venice-mainstreet-events.

MAY 13TH

"Long Time Gone": The Music of Crosby, Stills & Nash - A Venice Theatre Production

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM

The alchemy of "Long Time Gone" is in the commitment to the special tunings, keys, and sounds of Crosby Stills & Nash’s iconic songs and bewitching vocals. It’s all the songs of peace and love that you remember, in a way you’ve never heard. Come be inspired by the magic! Tickets are $56 and can be purchased by calling 941.488.1115 or online at venicetheatre.org.

MAY 17TH - 18TH

Downtown Venice Sidewalk Sale

Downtown Venice District (Miami, Tampa & West Venice Avenues) | 10:00 AM

Enjoy great deals on the avenues and shop your way through the district! Venice’s downtown shops and restaurants are grateful for your support of small, locally owned businesses. Learn more at visitvenicefl.org.

MAY 18TH

Second Annual Epiphany School Golf Classic

Waterford Golf Club | 8:30 AM

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School is pleased and grateful to hold its second annual Golf Tournament in support of the school and its mission – to provide excellence in education, nurture a loving relationship with God, and build a caring community that serves others. For more information email Nick Kearns at ndkearns@gmail.com or visit ecstigers.com

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