"Celebrate The Sparkle & Spirit Of The Season"
The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights along downtown Venice avenues, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.
This month, our Holidays & Giving issue celebrates both the sparkle and the spirit of the season here in Venice. In “Holiday Sparkle,” Evan Duke of Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold carries forward a family tradition that honors love, gratitude, and lasting memories—reminding us that some of the most meaningful gifts can’t be wrapped.
In “Venice’s Giving Spirit,” local nonprofit leaders share their holiday hopes for our community, offering inspiring perspectives on compassion and connection. Their words are a testament to how deeply generosity runs through our town.
“Tradition Meets Whimsy” brings two fresh takes on holiday décor, style, and gifts—proving there’s no single way to create magic at home. Whether you prefer timeless elegance or playful charm, inspiration awaits.
If you’re looking for something delicious to gift (or keep), “Inspired Gifts from Venice Olive Oil” spotlights artisan oils and vinegars that elevate every meal with flavor, freshness, and joy. And at “Holiday Cheer at Paradise Grill,” festive dining, live music, and a milestone year make it the perfect spot to toast the season.
While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving.
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Marci Weidemiller
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brian Glantz-1st Glantz Media, Marci Weidemiller
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
inside the issue
Holiday Sparkle
Classic
Venice’s Giving Spirit
Local
December 19 - 20, 2025 | Sarasota Opera House
Accompanied by the Sarasota Orchestra
George Balanchine’s
Divertimento No. 15
George Balanchine’s Mozartiana (Company Premiere)
Sir Frederick Ashton’s Jazz Calendar
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN DECEMBER
city scene
1-7: What an amazing turnout for the Child Protection Center (CPC) Celebrity Bartender Challenge! Our eight bartenders truly gave it their all, raising more than $9,850 to support local programs and services dedicated to the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse. Each of those dollars helps bring children to safety—what an incredible gift to give. Congratulations to Casey Riley and Dane DeSantis for winning the Shaken and Stirred Award for their infectious spirit and showmanship! And cheers to the big winners of the night—Phil Adams and Kelly Olliver—who earned both the Favorite Drink Award for their “Ebony and Ivory” Chocolate Orange Martini and the coveted title of Shaker Cup Champions! The truest winners of all are the children receiving services from CPC, who are waking up to safer, more loving futures thanks to this funding and an incredible community of support. Our gratitude is endless.
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business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Venice City Lifestyle Proudly Sponsors Sarasota Ballet’s The Nutcracker at VPAC
We’re delighted to share that Venice City Lifestyle is once again the Media Sponsor for Sarasota Ballet’s beloved holiday production of "The Nutcracker". This timeless family favorite features lavish sets and costumes, live music, and more than 100 talented students from The Sarasota Ballet’s Education programs. Enjoy two performances at the Venice Performing Arts Center—Friday, December 12 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, December 13 at 3 p.m. Learn more at VenicePerformingArtsCenter.com and SarasotaBallet.org
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Nature Preserved: Selby Garden’s The Orchid Show 2025
The Selby Gardens Orchid Show 2025, “Rebecca Louise Law,” runs October 11–December 7 at the Downtown Sarasota campus. British artist Rebecca Louise Law presents an immersive installation of preserved flowers exploring survival, featuring materials gathered from Selby’s Historic Spanish Point campus in Nokomis. Complementing her work, Selby’s horticulture team showcases living orchids and plants in the Display Conservatory, blurring the boundaries between art and nature. Learn more at Selby.org
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Sarasota Memorial Hosts “Hello Beautiful” Film Premiere to Support Breast Health
Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation hosted the Sarasota premiere of “Hello Beautiful”—based on Christine Handy’s bestselling memoir “Walk Beside Me” in support of comprehensive breast health programs at SMH's Jellison Cancer Institute. The event drew donors, community members, and breast cancer survivors for all three showings at Sarasota's CineBistro. Handy and filmmaker Ziad H. Hamzeh joined Q&A sessions, sharing insights into the film’s powerful message of resilience, hope, and healing. Learn more at smhf.org.
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Photography by Mikenna Bowers
Photography by Matthew Holler.
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A Texas-Sized Christmas Celebration Dec. 22 at Venice Performing Arts Center
Make magical holiday memories for the whole family with Emmy Award–winning recording artists The Texas Tenors . Their heartwarming concert, "Deep in the Heart of Christmas," takes the stage December 22 at 7 p.m. Enjoy holiday classics like “O Holy Night” and “Joy to the World,” plus fan favorites like “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” and “Bootdaddy.” With soaring harmonies and signature Texas charm, JC, Marcus, and John deliver pure Christmas joy. Tickets: veniceperformingartscenter.com
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Relay for Life's "For the Cure" Dinner & Dance at Plantation GCC
Join Relay for Life’s "For the Cure" Charity Dinner & Dance on Friday, January 16, 5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. at Plantation Golf and Country Club. Enjoy dinner, a silent auction, guest speakers, and live music by Paisley Craze (seen here) as the evening honors survivors and supports the mission to end cancer. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Don’t miss this inspiring night of hope and celebration. Learn more at ForTheCure.Givesmart.com.
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VNWC Gears Up for Holiday Parade & Centennial Celebration
Venice Nokomis Women’s Club (VNWC) members gave Old Betsy, Venice’s 1926 LaFrance fire truck, a festive shine ahead of the city’s 2025 Holiday Parade and Kick off of its Centennial Celebrations on November 29. Celebrating their own 100th anniversary, VNWC is proud to serve as Grand Marshal for the parade. For more, visit venice-nokomiswomansclub.org.
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HOLIDAY SPARKLE
Classic Creations’ Evan Duke continues a family tradition of love, gratitude, and lasting memories
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ - 1ST GLANTZ MEDIA
When Evan Duke was eight, he wasn’t just tagging along to his parents’ jewelry store—he was behind the counter, helping customers, polishing jewelry, and learning lessons that would shape his future. “Most kids go to work with their parents but don’t really take part in the work,” Evan recalled. “For me, it was hands-on from the start,” he said.
Evan and Pam Duke behind the counter at Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold.
“We joke that we’re the ‘Cheers’ of jewelry stores— my staff usually knows customers by name. It’s casual, friendly, happy.”
His parents, Chuck and Sylvia Duke, opened Venice Jewelry Coin Exchange in 1981 and, in 1989, opened a second store, Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold. After graduating from Jacksonville University Evan joined them full time. As the business and Venice grew, his vision led to the 2010 opening of the freestanding Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold and Coins, Loans & Collectibles at 2389 S. Tamiami Trail.
Though he once imagined a different career path, Evan’s ease with the business is second nature. And that instinct—along with the values his parents modeled— has guided Classic Creations ever since. After officially purchasing the business in 2017, Evan continues to honor his parents’ legacy while embracing the innovations and tastes of a new generation.
Among the biggest trends, he said, is the popularity of lab-grown diamonds. “If you’d asked me four years ago to sell you a lab-grown diamond, I’d have said ‘no
thank you,’” he admitted. “But customers started asking, and we listened.”
Now, Classic Creations carries one of the area’s largest selections of both natural and lab-grown diamonds, clearly labeled with color-coded tags— white for natural, pink for lab-grown. This helps both the customer and staff from confusing the two products. “There’s up to an 85 percent savings with lab-grown stones,” Evan explained. “They’re 100 percent real diamonds, and we only carry high-quality diamonds that hold their own next to natural stones.”
Yellow gold has also made a comeback, and the look of the season is classic and delicate. “Big halo rings have given way to simpler, timeless designs— think Tiffany-style settings,” he said. “We’re seeing people gravitate toward jewelry that feels meaningful and wearable every day.”
Sparkly choices as gifts abound at the store.
That sense of sentimentality takes center stage during the holidays, when jewelry often becomes part of family tradition—a gift that holds memory and meaning. “Jewelry is important not just for its dollar value, but because of what it represents,” Evan said.
“We love helping people repurpose cherished items—maybe turning a ring into a pendant or resetting grandma’s diamonds into a modern design. We bring those memories back to life and create new ones for future generations.” The store also carries a large and varied selection of fine estate jewelry.
At Classic Creations, the joy of giving extends beyond the jewelry case. “We joke that we’re the ‘Cheers’ of jewelry stores,” Evan said. “My staff usually knows customers by name. It’s casual, friendly—a happy experience.” Some of his team members have been with the business for more than a decade, helping to create that welcoming, family-like atmosphere.
And the connection with customers runs deep. “We’re starting to see the grandchildren of my parents’ original customers,” Evan said. “It’s incredibly special—three generations of trust. We’re the family-run jewelry store people know they can count on.”
That spirit of gratitude and giving also shines through in Evan’s community involvement. He has served as president of the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of South Sarasota County, among other local organizations. The store still sponsors a Little League team—the same one he once played on—and remains active with the Loveland Center and the Child Protection Center.
“My parents always taught me that giving back is part of what we do,” Evan said. “Without our customers, we wouldn’t have a business. So it feels good to share our success with the community.”
Top: Diamonds, Diamonds, Diamonds! Bottom: Quality and honesty are two of Classic Creation’s hallmark values.
As the holidays approach, Evan and his team are restocking cases with hundreds of new pieces. He also offers timely advice: “With gold prices so high, we’re always buying old jewelry—a single earring, a broken chain or bracelet, an old high school ring or wedding band, even a gold tooth. Customers can get cash or apply that value toward something new and sparkly,” he said. “And we’re not repricing our existing inventory to reflect rising gold prices, so people can still find beautiful gifts at last year’s gold prices.”
At its heart, Classic Creations remains what it has always been—a business built on trust, gratitude, and the joy of giving. “We help people celebrate life’s milestones,” Evan said. That’s what jewelry is all about, he added: love, memories, and the sparkle that connects generations.
Ringing in the New Year?
New jewelry makes for happy faces.
The Classic couple have been married 20 years.
Celebrate Season at VENICE
THE TEXAS TENORS: DEEP IN THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS
Mon., Dec. 22, 2025 | 7 pm
The Texas Tenors bring holiday magic with Deep in the Heart of Christmas! Enjoy “O Holy Night,” “Joy to the World,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” and their hit “Bootdaddy.” Soaring harmonies and festive fun—perfect for the whole family!
THE HIGHWAYMEN SHOW: AMERICAN OUTLAW TRIBUTE
Sat., Jan. 17, 2026 | 7 pm
Don’t miss The Highwaymen Show in Venice—celebrating Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson with hits like “Highwayman,” “Mama Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys,” “Always on My Mind,” and “Me and Bobby McGee.”
BEE GEES GOLD: THE TRIBUTE Sun., Jan. 4, 2026 | 7:00 pm
John Acosta’s Bee Gees Gold Tribute brings Barry, Robin, and Maurice to life with uncanny vocals, look, and energy. Backed by a live band, this exciting show captures the magic of the Bee Gees in their prime—performing hits from “Massachusetts” and “I Started a Joke” to “Stayin’ Alive” and “You Should Be Dancing”!
TOBY: TRIBUTE TO TOBY KEITH | Starring Hollywood Yates Sun., Jan. 25, 2026 | 7 pm
TOBY brings the fire of Toby Keith to the stage with Hollywood Yates leading the charge. From “How Do You Like Me Now” to “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “I Love This Bar,” it’s hit after hit, pure country energy, and nonstop fun.
DOG ‘N’ BUTTERFLY
The HEART Experience Sun., Feb. 1, 2026 | 7 pm
Experience DOG ‘N’ BUTTERFLY — the ultimate Heart tribute!
Since 2003, this powerhouse band has thrilled audiences nationwide with spot-on renditions of Heart’s biggest hits — including “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You,” and “Magic Man.” The only Heart tribute endorsed by Ann and Nancy Wilson, they’ve been featured on AXS TV’s World’s Greatest Tribute Bands and even shared the stage with original Heart members.
Don’t miss the next best thing to Heart — LIVE!
VENICE’S Giving Spirit
LOCAL NONPROFIT LEADERS SHARE HOLIDAY WISHES AND HOPES FOR VENICE’S FUTURE
This holiday season, three local nonprofit leaders share their hopes, wishes, and gifts they’d most love to receive—for themselves, their organizations, and the community they serve. Jennifer Fagenbaum, Executive Director of Family Promise of South Sarasota County and The Venice Chamber’s 2025 Empowering Woman of the Year, helps families with children find housing stability and self-sufficiency. Kara Morgan, CEO of Venice MainStreet, is the city’s tireless advocate for preserving and energizing Historic Downtown Venice. And Bill Willson, president of Venice Area Beautification, Inc. (VABI), continues his 35-year mission to keep Venice beautiful and thriving.
1. IF YOU COULD RECEIVE ONE “GIFT” FOR YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AS A NONPROFIT LEADER THAT WOULD RECHARGE OR SUSTAIN YOU— WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Quiet time to reflect and recharge. Leading a nonprofit is deeply rewarding but also emotionally and mentally demanding. A few stress-free days, ideally spent fishing, would refill my cup and help me continue to pour into others.
2. WHAT PROFESSIONAL “GIFT” WOULD MAKE YOUR WORK EASIER OR MORE EFFECTIVE AS YOU HEAD INTO A NEW YEAR?
A few extra hands in the form of long-term volunteers—as board or committee members, meal providers, or office angels—who share our passion for helping families. With more people to carry the load we could expand programs and reach even more families in need.
3. IF YOUR ORGANIZATION COULD UNWRAP ONE BIG HOLIDAY PRESENT, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
It would most definitely be more affordable housing units—keys in hand. Also, partnerships to help families achieve lasting stability.
4. WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WISH FOR OUR COMMUNITY IN THE COMING YEAR?
That compassion continues to guide us. South Sarasota County is full of generous people, and I hope we keep lifting our neighbors and ensuring every child has a safe place to call home.
5. WHAT PERSONAL NEW YEAR’S WISH DO YOU CARRY FOR YOURSELF AND THOSE YOU SERVE?
JENNIFER Fagenbaum
Love, hope, and new beginnings—for the families we serve and for me. Each year brings a chance to heal, grow, and build a stronger future. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR | FAMILY PROMISE
KARA Morgan
1. IF YOU COULD RECEIVE ONE “GIFT” FOR YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AS A NONPROFIT LEADER — SOMETHING THAT WOULD RECHARGE OR SUSTAIN YOU— WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Definitely an art or cooking class. It’s been on my to-do list for a while to take my three staff members to throw pots, paint, or cook a new dish together. I love creative, hands-on activities—they help me relax, center myself, and connect with others in a fun, low-pressure way.
2. WHAT PROFESSIONAL “GIFT” WOULD MAKE YOUR WORK EASIER OR MORE EFFECTIVE AS YOU HEAD INTO A NEW YEAR?
A smart digital filing system! Something designed to save time, reduce clutter, and make information retrieval effortless—especially valuable for a busy nonprofit CEO juggling projects, grants, and endless correspondence.
3. IF YOUR ORGANIZATION COULD UNWRAP ONE BIG HOLIDAY PRESENT, WHAT WOULD YOU MOST HOPE TO FIND INSIDE?
Abundant Christmas spirit! For us, that means lights, garlands, and décor throughout downtown Venice. Turning Venice into a true Christmas destination is one of our big goals, and I believe we can get there. What we need most is for more people to embrace that vision and help make it happen.
4. LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WISH FOR YOUR COMMUNITY IN THE COMING YEAR?
That would be a year without business interruptions. Venice deserves a period of stability, free from hurricanes, pandemics, and environmental disruptions like red tide. We need a little peace and normalcy to allow our community and local businesses to thrive.
5. AND FINALLY, WHAT PERSONAL NEW YEAR’S WISH DO YOU CARRY FOR YOURSELF AND THOSE YOU SERVE?
I hope the community joins in celebrating our city’s Centennial in 2026. It’s an opportunity to come together, strengthen community bonds, and celebrate 100 years of Venice—one of the best places to live, work, and play.
“I hope the community joins in celebrating our city’s Centennial in 2026. It’s an opportunity to come together, strengthen bonds, and celebrate 100 years of Venice—one of the best places to live, work, and play.”
BILL Willson
PRESIDENT | VENICE AREA BEAUTIFICATION, INC.
| VABI.ORG
1. IF YOU COULD RECEIVE ONE “GIFT” FOR YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AS A NONPROFIT LEADER—SOMETHING THAT WOULD RECHARGE OR SUSTAIN YOU— WHAT WOULD IT BE?
After more than 35 years with VABI (Venice Area Beautification, Inc.), including several terms as president, I’d love the gift of everyone in Venice knowing what VABI does. Many don’t realize our first major project was the Venetian Waterway Park—funded, granted, and championed by VABI over many years. We also support the Bloom Team’s downtown flowers, Keep Venice Beautiful, the Urban Forest, the Public Art Committee murals, and more.
2. WHAT PROFESSIONAL “GIFT” WOULD MAKE YOUR WORK EASIER OR MORE EFFECTIVE AS YOU HEAD INTO A NEW YEAR?
Corporate support and sponsorships are invaluable to our mission of beautifying Venice. Local businesses help with everything from tree and plant pricing to excavating services, and we’re deeply grateful. More partnerships like these would truly be a gift.
3. IF YOUR ORGANIZATION COULD UNWRAP ONE BIG HOLIDAY PRESENT, WHAT WOULD YOU MOST HOPE TO FIND INSIDE?
New business partners and volunteers to join our dedicated team—and a sustainable funding source to maintain our projects. This year we’re celebrating the grand opening of the Urban Forest, transforming an old rail line into a natural haven for birds, wildlife, and people. Thousands of trees and plants now thrive there, along with a frog habitat that supports scrub jays and migratory birds. The Urban Forest is a living legacy of beauty that will endure long after its creators are gone.
4. LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WISH FOR YOUR COMMUNITY IN THE COMING YEAR?
A grander entrance to downtown from the bypass—perhaps turning the long-vacant corner of 41 and Venice Avenue into a landscaped connection with Ruscelletto Park. I’d also love to see a unified public art fund guided by a citizens committee. VABI would be eager to help.
5. WHAT PERSONAL NEW YEAR’S WISH DO YOU CARRY FOR YOURSELF AND THOSE YOU SERVE?
Health, happiness, and fulfillment for all our VABI volunteers—and for everyone serving in Venice’s nonprofits. As each thrives, our whole community flourishes.
TRADITION MEETS WHIMSY
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Two takes on holiday decor, style & gifts
This holiday season, two area retailers—Collectors Gallery & Framery (and its sister shop, The Island Bookshop) in downtown Venice and Breakwater Home Fashions in Wellen Park— offer very different ways to deck the halls, yet both circle back to a shared theme: home as a place of memory, joy, and play. At Collectors Gallery & Framery, co-owner Aimee Odette sees customers gravitating toward timeless pieces that evoke family traditions and stories meant to last. “People want something that reminds them of the season, that will become a memory,” she said. Pottery by Gary Skelly and glassworks by Esther Jensen embody that enduring quality—functional art that’s beautiful, meaningful, and crafted to last for generations. Even framing choices, Odette noted, are returning to the classic and simple, often preserving family heirlooms or moments like a grandchild’s first baseball. Odette also finds that the love of tradition extends to the adjoining Island Bookshop, where the Chiltern line of special edition classic gift books—with gold-edged pages and decorative covers—has become a favorite. “Another trend really is decorating with books,” she said. “They’re not only beautiful to read but beautiful to display.” Whether it’s a cherished story or a carefully chosen art piece, changing things up is good. "Homes are not museums—they’re living, breathing spaces.”
A ‘Santa with Surfboard’ painting is a holiday décor must-have at Breakwater Home Fashions.
This luminous glass vase catches the light—and the spirit—of the season at Collectors Gallery & Framery.
Rene Perry of Breakwater Home Fashions embraces the other end of the spectrum: exuberant fun. Her coastal-themed boutique glitters with oversized glass ornaments—sailboats, turtles, martinis, even octopuses—each a wink of seaside cheer. “People want to bring on the fun,” she said, describing two prevailing trends: earthy nostalgia in deep forest greens and burgundies accented with warm brass, and the whimsical sparkle of mint, pink, and silver. “It’s either really glittery or very natural—there’s no in-between.”
Still, the two sensibilities—Aimee’s tradition and Rene’s whimsy— aren’t opposites so much as complementary moods of the same season. One celebrates quiet reflection, the other playful delight. Both remind us that decorating for the holidays isn’t about trends—it’s about creating memories that last year after year.
Collectors Gallery artist Gary Skelly creates whimsical ceramic 3D books that truly come to life.
Capture the season with light and scent with a candle from Breakwater.
Oversized glass ornaments are the thing at Breakwater Home Fashions.
Whimsical meets holiday with this table centerpiece from Breakwater Home Design.
ARTICLE BY MARCI WEIDEMILLER
Inspired Gifts from Venice Olive Oil
ARTISAN OILS AND VINEGARS BRING FLAVOR, FRESHNESS, AND JOY TO EVERY TABLE
Customer Favorites: Two 60 ml. sets of 18-year-old traditional balsamic vinegar and Tuscan herb olive oil in organza bag - $14.99. Find gift items and locations at VeniceOliveOil.com
Customer Favorites: Two 200 ml. sets of 18-year-old traditional balsamic vinegar and Tuscan herb olive oil in gift tote - $35.99
Deluxe Dipping Set includes one 200ml 18 year-old traditional balsamic: one 200ml ultra-premium EVOO: two teak bowls: two pouring spouts: & VOOC bread dipping herb blend - $68.99
Customer Favorites Gift Set: Four full 60 ml bottles with one 18-year-old traditional and one cranberry pear balsamic, plus one Tuscan herb olive oil and one orange olive oil - $28.99
Venice Olive Oil gift cards make great and easy gifts! Purchase $100.00 in gift cards and receive a complimentary 375 ml bottle of flavored balsamic vinegar (offer valid for in-store purchases only)
AT PARADISE GRILL
Next up is the always-popular Ugly Christmas Sweater Party on Friday, December 19 at 6 p.m., featuring DJ Harry and plenty of laughs. On New Year’s Eve, guests can ‘Dress to Impress’ and ring in 2026 with prime rib, specialty cocktails, karaoke, food and drink specials, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight.
The celebrations continue into the new year with a 10th Anniversary Party on Friday, January 16, 2026. “Thank you for 10 incredible years!” said Hansen. “Paradise Grill is what it is today because of our loyal guests, neighbors, and friends. Your support has allowed us to grow, celebrate, and serve this community we love.”
Closed Christmas Day so the staff can be with family, Paradise Grill embodies what makes the holidays special: great food, good company, and heartfelt gratitude.
Check it all out at paradisegrillfl.com.
Festive dining, live music, and a milestone year make spirits bright
At Paradise Grill in Nokomis, the holidays sparkle with festive food, lively entertainment, and a spirit of community that defines this family-owned favorite. "The team goes above and beyond to make our customers feel welcome—whether they’re new to the restaurant or regulars,” said general manager Brenda Nava. The holiday décor sets the tone with an impressive Christmas tree, festive shirts worn by staff, and holiday music filling the air, she added.
The season kicks off Friday, December 5, with a birthday bash for owner and founder Mary Beth Hansen that also serves as a chance to give back— guests are invited to bring a toy for the restaurant’s annual Toys for Tots Holiday Drive.
Specialty holiday cocktails at Paradise Grill (l-r) mistletoe martini, ‘naughty’ nog, and a candy cane martini.
Enjoy prime rib, Christmas salad and stuffed pork loin specials over the holiday season.
To find out more about Medicare Advantage enrollment eligibility, visit freedomhealth.com.
*The benefits mentioned are Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill (SSBCI). You may qualify for SSBCI if you have a high risk for hospitalization and require intensive care coordination to manage chronic conditions such as Chronic Kidney Diseases, Chronic Lung Disorders, Cardiovascular Disorders, Chronic Heart Failure, or Diabetes. For a full list of chronic conditions or to learn more about other eligibility requirements needed to qualify for SSBCI benefits, please refer to Chapter 4 in the plan’s Evidence of Coverage.Freedom Health, Inc. is an HMO C-SNP with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Freedom Health, Inc. depends on contract renewal. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities. Freedom Health, Inc. konfòm ak lwa sou dwa sivil Federal ki aplikab yo e li pa fè iskriminasyon sou baz ras, koulè, peyi orijin, laj, enfi mite oswa sèks. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 800-401-2740 (TTY: 711). Hablamos español y podemos ayudarle a encontrar el plan ideal para usted. Llame al 800-401-2740 (TTY: 711). We speak Spanish and can help you find the ideal plan for you. Call 800-401-2740 (TTY: 711). If you speak a language other than English, translation and alternate format services are available to you on a standing basis, free of charge. Just call 800-401-2740 (TTY: 711). From October 1 through March 31, we are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (our office will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). From April 1 until September 30, we are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (our office will be closed on federal holidays). This plan has exclusions, limitations, and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For costs and complete details of coverage, please contact your agent or the health plan. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B Premium. Y0114_26_3016331_0000_U_M 10/01/2025
Shop Local!
Discover sophisticated and elegant décor at Breakwater Home
Fashions in Downtown Wellen Park. We’ll help you enhance your space with exquisite coastal-inspired and transitional decor from around the world. We continually add new inventory to our collection. Stop by to see what’s new. Visit Breakwater Home Fashions today. 19795 Wellen Park Blvd, Ste B, Venice • 941-584-5234 • breakwaterfl.com Breakwater
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 3RD
CoolToday Park's 7th Annual Tomahawk 5K
CoolToday Park | 7:30 AM
Lace up for the fan-favorite 5K at CoolToday Park! Enjoy a flat course through stadium grounds, a thrilling on-field loop, and a 3rd-base finish on the giant scoreboard. Registration includes a shirt, custom medal, post-race breakfast, and two drink tickets for the Tomahawk Tiki Bar. Fun for the whole family! cooltodaypark.com
DECEMBER 4TH
Venice MainStreet’s Annual Christmas Walk
Historic Downtown Venice | 5:00 PM
Enjoy extended hours at local shops (5 p.m.-8 p.m.), plus treats, live music, and the twinkle of lights on decorated trees along the downtown avenues. Take a stroll and delight in the warm glow of decorated holiday storefront windows. visitvenicefl.org
DECEMBER 6TH
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade
Viewing; South Nokomis Beach to North Venice Beach | 6:00 PM
The Venice Christmas Boat Parade returns with a spectacular display of holiday lights and creativity along the Intracoastal Waterway. Starting at 6 p.m. at the Albee Road Bridge in Nokomis, the parade cruises south toward the Circus Bridge in Venice. Spectators can enjoy prime views from Nokomis and Venice jetties, downtown, and waterfront areas. Admission is free; rain date is the following day. venicechristmasboatparade.net
DECEMBER 6TH, JANUARY 3RD, 2026
Annual Selby Gardens Lights in Bloom
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus | 6:30 PM
Step into a tropical winter wonderland at Selby Gardens during Lights in Bloom®, featuring more than two million dazzling lights, festive photo ops, and family-friendly entertainment. Ranked #6 in USA Today’s 10Best for Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights, this magical event also offers food and beverages for purchase. Open every night except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. selby.org
DECEMBER 15TH
The Venice Chorale – Classically Christmas
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a beautiful musical portrait of the Nativity brought to life through choral masterworks and fresh perspectives. Music by Handel, Berlioz, and new works by Ben Ponniah and Brent Douglas. veniceperformingartscenter.com
DECEMBER 19TH-20TH
Sarasota
Ballet
Program 3- Masters of Movement
Sarasota Opera House
Sarasota Ballet’s Program 3 blends classical elegance with narrative flair, featuring Balanchine’s “Divertimento No. 15” and the Company Premiere of “Mozartiana,” both inspired by Mozart’s music. The evening concludes with Ashton’s “Jazz Calendar,” a witty, 1960s-inspired ballet set to Richard Rodney Bennett’s jazz score. Performances highlight masterful choreography, rich musicality, and striking visual artistry. SarasotaBallet.org.
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