Venice, FL May 2025 by City Lifestyle

Women with Heart

LIFE + CULTURE

THIS YEAR’S “REMARKABLE WOMAN” IS SALLY ABDELLA

FOOD + BEVERAGE RECIPES, INSPIRATION, GENEROSITY & MORE!

FASCINATING PEOPLE. FASCINATING LIVES.

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

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

Limited apartments available— schedule your tour today by calling 941-275-6690 Ride. Enjoy. Live life to its fullest. Repeat.

Women with Heart

Happy May, Venice!

We’re celebrating these gorgeous spring days with our annual Women’s Issue, one of our favorite traditions. It’s our chance to spotlight some of the incredible women in our community who inspire us with their kindness, creativity, and drive to do good.

I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly in awe of the women in my life. They lift me up, make me laugh, and remind me what’s possible. One such woman, who embodies passion, positivity, and purpose, is our Second Annual Remarkable Woman of the Year: Realtor Sally Abdella. Her energy is contagious, and her impact is undeniable.

We also shine a light on “Venice’s Thrifting Queen,” Patti Clark, and how she turned The Happy Thrifter into a business that supports local economies and builds community, all while making shopping a fun adventure. And, in “A Woman Determined to Bloom,” you'll find encouragement and grace in the face of life’s challenges.

Of course, with Mother’s Day this month, we’re celebrating not only moms, but all the women who nurture, lead, and love in countless ways: grandmothers, aunts, mentors, teachers, and friends. That includes the generous and community-minded women of Venetian Golf Club, who raised $42,000 for foster kids through their event, “A Swing for a Cause.”

In that same spirit of giving, the Women & Medicine Luncheon raised $70,000 for Sarasota Memorial Hospital while educating and empowering women on heart health. We also congratulate Callie W. Cowan, Esq., a newly named partner at the Ledbetter Cowan Law Group.

To wrap things up with something delicious, we’ve included an “Elegant Indulgence” recipe for grilled rack of lamb from Celebrity Chef Jimmy Nadel, perfect for a celebratory dinner. And don’t miss a fresh, vibrant salad idea from Marci Weidemiller of Venice Olive Oil Co. in “A Taste of Freshness.”

Here’s to the women who make life richer, more beautiful, and full of love.

I want to dedicate this issue to the memory of my precious grandson Cameron, whom we tragically lost last year. Cameron’s birthday shares the same date as Mother’s Day this year, May 11th. Wishing our angel a happy heavenly 24th birthday. You are loved and missed immensely!

May 2025

PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Leinfuss, Chef Jimmy Nadel, Janice Marie Meidel, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Debbie Parker, Judy Gaspar, Adam Hutchinson Photographer, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Passionate, Positive & Purposeful!

Sally

How Patti

city scene

1: Pamela Sparks entered our raffle at the Italian Feast and was the lucky winner of a $250 Spa Basket from Davis & Beyer! 2: Venice Nokomis Women’s Club Fundraising Chair Gail Mandel with Venice Mayor, and Master of Ceremonies, Nick Pachota, at VNWC’s 3rd Annual Fashion Showcase. 3: VNWC check-in team at Hotel Venezia (L-R): Amy-Jean Carlson; Lorraine Finizio; Lisa Cavalea. 4: VNWC Fashion Showcase Team (L-R): Karen Phillips; Liz Mazzu; Joan Brinton; Kara Morgan, Venice Main Street CEO; Gail Mandel and Lorriane Finizio. 5: Seaside Chic models (L-R): Lorraine Finizio; Liz Mazzu; Staci Ragsdale. Show also featured fashion from Abode; Island Way Boutique; Eyes on You; Krystyna’s Designs; Lisa’s Classic Rose; Nest; Scarlet Macaw Resort; Sunbug; and Twist. 6: Venice High School’s Rotary Futures Team (L-R): Heather Madsen; Caitlin Joyner; Liz Mazzu, VNWC Scholarship Chair; and Tami Wesner. 7: Modeling for Twist (L-R): Karen Phillips; Kathy Enamm, and Mary Moscatelli, CEO Venice Art Center.

8: Aimee Odette & Michael Rank owners of Collectors Gallery & Framery hosted a benefit exhibit in partnership with Venice Plein Air to honor Casperson Beach from recent hurricanes. 9: Abby Ober (R) wins Best Depiction for her Acrylic Painting “Reminiscence” 10: Tony D’Amico wins Best in Show for his oil painting “The Splendor of Caspersen.” 11: Women Empowering Women Guest Speaker Dr. Darcy Lord & Charmaine Tincher. Luncheon was held at The Venice Yacht Club by VCC. 12: The Bammers Team, sponsored by Big Bam Ebikes, came in 5th place at the VYC. Charitable Foundation’s 8th Annual Ride or Walk for a Better Community. 13: Charmaine, Sue & Jim had a Boot Scootin Boogie time at the 97th Annual Arcadia Championship RODEO. 14: Karen Ann Hitt, founder of Venice Plein Air partnered with Collectors Gallery & Framery to honor Caspersen through an Artist - Benefit Exhibit.

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Tee Off for a Cause: Relay for Life Charity Golf Outing on May 10

Relay for Life is hosting a Charity Golf Outing at Sarasota National Golf Club in Venice to benefit the American Cancer Society on May 10. The 8:30 a.m. shotgun start includes breakfast, lunch, prizes, and a hole-in-one chance to win a Ford Mustang Convertible with a hole-in-one. Open to the public, $125/golfer covers all fees and a donation. To register, call or text 941.218.3281 and please be sure to leave your contact info.

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Venice Chamber Welcomes New Member Engagement Director, Cara Coté

The Venice Area Chamber of Commerce has named Cara Coté as its new Member Engagement Director. Dedicated to fostering connections and strengthening local ties, Coté is also the President-Elect for the Rotary Club at Wellen Park. Passionate about community impact, she looks forward to enriching Venice through meaningful initiatives. Outside of work, she enjoys family time and embracing Venice’s natural beauty. venicechamber.com.

Audrey Townsend Joins Ledbetter Cowan Law Group as Marketing Director

Ledbetter Cowan Law Group welcomes Audrey Townsend as its new Director of Marketing. With expertise in advertising, branding, and real estate marketing, she brings a strategic approach to the firm’s outreach in estate planning, probate, and real estate law. Audrey’s career spans national brand management, startup consulting, and real estate, making her a dynamic addition to the team. She will focus on branding, client engagement, and education to enhance the firm’s visibility and impact. ledbetterlawfl.com

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PASSIONATE, POSITIVE & PURPOSEFUL!

Venice City Lifestyle Names Realtor

Sally Abdella Second Annual Remarkable Woman of the Year

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

When Sally Abdella received the news that she had been named Venice City Lifestyle’s Remarkable Woman of the Year, her reaction was disbelief.

“My first thought was, ‘are you kidding me?’” she said with a laugh. “I was somewhat embarrassed. I’m just doing my thing on a daily basis, trying to live a life I can be proud of.”

Venice City Lifestyle’s “Remarkable Woman” is Sally Abdella (photo by Adam Hutchinson Photographer).

“We only have so much time on this earth, and there’s so much I want to experience and do.”

But to those who know her, this recognition can’t be a surprise. Sally is a force of nature—a real estate professional with Coldwell Banker with a business website called sallysellsneartheseashore.com, a passionate community volunteer, and someone who approaches life with unshakable positivity and purpose.

“For me, there’s just this fire in my heart to help others,” Sally explained. She’s always been this way, but two years ago, she experienced a deeply personal transformation at Lift Church. “I received a peace from God,” which she described as a deep trust in the way things will unfold. “I hadn’t realized it was missing, but it changed everything—my perspective, my approach to challenges, and my outlook on life.”

That sense of peace now guides her in real estate, charity work, and daily life. “Real estate is a crazy business, and I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and let go of what I can’t,” she said. “I coach my customers to trust that things will happen in their own time. Patience is key.”

Her generosity extends far beyond her career. Sally is actively involved in Foster the Family Florida, a program in partnership with Lift Church that supports foster families and adopted children. "Within 48 hours of placement, we provide foster children with food, clothing, and essentials. We also offer wraparound care and a Kids Night Out, giving foster parents a break while children connect with peers in a safe space."

Sally is a member of the fun-loving gals group FOF (Flock of Flamingos). Here she is at a Coldwell Banker Cares event.

Top: As a Brand Ambassador for Sunbug boutique Sally models an outfit for the store. Bottom: Sally is a team lead for Coldwell Banker CARES fundraising initiative to benefit local nonprofits.

This month, Sally is leading a fundraiser for teens in foster care. “People can drop off items at my Venice office, Coldwell Banker on Venice Avenue,” she said. “We’re collecting gift cards, pajamas, shorts, T-shirts, and underwear. I might even take some teens shopping—I have no idea what they like anymore!”

Abdella’s commitment to charity doesn’t stop there. She’s also a team lead within Coldwell Banker CARES, a massive fundraising initiative for all of Florida that raises money for local nonprofits.

In addition, Sally officiates weddings as an ordained minister, and creates engaging videos showcasing wedding venues, local entrepreneurs and her real estate business. “I just made one about affordable wedding locations, including under the banyan trees on Venice Avenue,” she said.

Sally also highlights inspiring women, including Barbara Bria Pugliese of Just/Because, who temporarily reopened in Venice’s Mercado after Hurricane Milton destroyed her St. Armands shop, and Norhala Houck, owner of Sunbug and Twist boutiques. “These women have overcome so much—they’re like mentors to me.”

What makes Sally remarkable? “I thrive even in adversity,” she said. “I wake up every morning and choose joy. The real estate market is challenging right now, but I believe everything will work out.”

Where does she find the energy to do it all? “We only have so much time on this earth, and we all know people who have passed away too soon,” she reflected. “There’s so much I want to experience and do. Whether it’s going to a concert or traveling with my mom, I want to embrace every moment.”

At 59, Sally is focused on making memories. “My mom is turning 83, and I want to travel with her. I want to spend time with my sister, family, and friends.

“I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and let go of what I can’t. I coach my customers to trust that things will happen in their own time. Patience is key.”

I’m always looking forward to new experiences and new friendships. The windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror, after all.”

At her core, Sally is a deeply genuine person. “When I meet people—whether they’re buying a house or not—I want to hear their story. Their greatest joys, their hardest struggles. People want to be seen and heard.”

She also believes in surrounding herself with exceptional professionals. “I have a high emotional quotient and a strong drive for leadership and personal excellence. That energy rubs

off on people. I surround myself with the best lenders, bankers, insurance agents, and tradespeople—people I know I can count on.”

What’s next for this remarkable woman? “I’m not one to plan things out too much,” she admitted. “I just stay open to whatever wonderful opportunities come my way.”

Her advice for others? “Get up earlier and do something good for yourself. It takes 21 days to change your mindset. Start by waking up 15 minutes earlier, then read something inspirational, stretch, find a yoga class on YouTube. Just start.”

Posing on a cruise vacation, she’s positively electric!

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS

How Patti Clark built The Happy Thrifter into a thriving business that fuels local economies, connects communities, and turns shopping into an adventure.

The Thrifting

Queen’s Reign

If you look back on Patti Clark’s life, it all seems to have led to this—celebrating the 10-year anniversary of her multi-faceted business, The Happy Thrifter LLC. From her first job in newspaper advertising to a corporate position at Goodwill Manasota in Mission Services, her skills and entrepreneurial spirit coalesced into a thriving resale shopping enterprise.

The Queen of Happy Thrifters, Patti Clark!

Originally from Kansas City, Clark sold her medical equipment business and moved to the Sarasota area in 2002. Before that, her career had always centered on marketing and media, beginning with her first post-college job as a newspaper advertising manager. Prior to launching The Happy Thrifter, she served as Neighborhood Resource Marketing Director at Goodwill Manasota.

Then, during the 2008 recession, Clark was laid off. She considered a Goodwill store management role but knew it wasn’t the right fit. A lifelong entrepreneur, she had also been selling vintage clothing on eBay since 1997—long before thrifting was trendy.

As Clark thrifted from Sarasota to Naples, shop owners recognized her, and shoppers kept asking for recommendations. Her friends wanted in too, but her car was unreliable. “The joke was, one day I’ll just rent a bus,” she said. A simple idea—making a brochure—soon grew into something bigger. Her love for resale shopping and marketing skills turned it into a full-blown business.

In 2016 The Happy Thrifter became an LLC. The following year, Clark launched "The Happy Thrifter Resale Guide Newspaper" and introduced the now-iconic Mystery Resale Shopping Bus Tours, taking thrifters to undisclosed locations for a day of exclusive deals and camaraderie. Since then, the business has expanded to 70,000 printed guides annually, thrifting cruises with Royal Caribbean, and a growing network of resale merchants from North Central Florida to Naples. Beyond offering great shopping opportunities, The Happy Thrifter has had a real economic impact, contributing over $436,000 back into local communities.

Widowed two years ago, Clark now finds fulfillment in connecting with others, building friendships through thrifting, and expanding The Happy Thrifter’s reach. “I’m an extrovert, a connector,” she says. “And I love bringing people together.”

Happy Thrifters loving their Mystery Resale Shopping Bus Tour

Patti putting on the glitz on The Happy Thrifter Cruise!

Callie W. Cowan Esq. Named Partner

ENHANCING LEGAL CAPABILITIES AND SERVICES AT LEDBETTER COWAN LAW GROUP

T he newly named Ledbetter Cowan Law Group is proud to announce that Callie W. Cowan, Esq., has been named partner, marking a milestone in her distinguished legal career and reinforcing the firm’s commitment to growth and excellence.

“Callie’s promotion enhances our capabilities and aligns with our mission to serve families with compassion and reliability,” said founder Steve Ledbetter. The firm specializes in Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Business Succession Planning, and Real Estate. “Her leadership strengthens our ability to support clients through life’s important transitions,” he added.

Since joining the firm in 2021, Callie has demonstrated unwavering dedication to estate planning, probate, and trust administration. Licensed since 2008, her compassionate approach has helped families navigate complex legal matters with confidence.

"From the moment I joined, it felt like home," Callie shared. "Becoming a partner is a dream come true, and I’m honored to help shape the firm’s future. Together, we’ll continue delivering personalized, reliable legal services that make a lasting impact."

A Venice native, Callie graduated from Venice High School, earned a Bachelor of Arts from UNC-Chapel Hill, and a Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law. She and her husband, Nate, are raising their three children— Patrick, Grace, and David—in the community they love.

Beyond her legal work, Callie serves on the boards of The Venice Chorale and the Sarasota County Bar Association South County Division and is an active member of Lift Church. Her leadership reflects the firm’s values of fostering a connected, thriving community.

Steve Ledbetter and Callie W. Cowan of Ledbetter Cowan Law Group with their "Best of Venice" Awards.

WOMEN & MEDICINE LUNCHEON RAISES $70K

Sharon Roush, President SMH-Venice, with speakers Lindsey Soltis, Meredith Cleveland and Lorraine S. Cho-Chung-Hung, M.D., M.S.

INAUGURAL EVENT EDUCATES AND INSPIRES WITH WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH FOCUS

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s inaugural Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon made a remarkable debut at Plantation Golf & Country Club. The sold-out event drew over 300 guests and raised more than $70,000 to support world-class healt care in the community.

The luncheon featured an interactive panel discussion on women’s heart health, a crucial topic as cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women—claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. Yet only 44% of women recognize it as their greatest health threat.

Event co-chairs Jennifer Douglas and Cindy Stuhley welcomed attendees, followed by Sharon Roush, President of Sarasota Memorial Hospital-Venice, who provided an update on SMH’s ongoing advancements. The panel discussion, moderated by Suncoast View’s Stephanie Roberts, featured the following esteemed female healthcare professionals: Dr. Lorraine S. Cho-Chung-Hing (Nephrology), Lindsey Soltis (Clinical Dietitian), and Meredith Cleveland (Cardiac Rehabilitation). Guests engaged in a dynamic Q&A session, deepening their understanding of heart health and prevention.

“We’re so excited to bring this impactful event to Venice,” said Stacey Corley, SMH Foundation President. “It’s an opportunity for women to learn about their health from top female experts at SMH.”

With an enthusiastic turnout and meaningful discussions, the Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon has set the stage for future events, furthering awareness and support for women’s health in the Venice area. Learn more at smhf.org.

The SMHF Women & Medicine event was a beautiful thing!

Stacey Corley, President SMHF, with Event Cochairs Jennifer Douglas and Cindy Stuhley.

ELEGANT INDULGENCE

(Photo by Judy Gaspar)

ARTICLE BY CHEF JIMMY NADEL OF TUSCANY NOKOMIS

Tender grilled pomegranate rack of lamb—rich, flavorful, and perfect for celebrating Mom’s special day

The association of pomegranate juice and lamb dates back almost 3,000 years to the Middle East. Here, the sweetness of the pomegranate marinade balances the flavor, while its acidity helps tenderize the lamb.

Ingredients

• 1 large, Frenched, eight-bone rack of Colorado lamb

• Pink sea salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Aluminum foil

For the marinade:

• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 cup pomegranate juice

• 1/2 cup honey

• 1 tbsp. chopped garlic

• 1 tbsp. fresh thyme

Instructions

1. Cut the lamb rack into four large chops by removing every other bone.

2. Prepare the marinade by combining all ingredients.

3. Submerge the chops in the marinade and refrigerate for two hours.

4. Before grilling, season with pink sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

5. Wrap the bones in foil to prevent burning.

6. Grill to medium rare - about 4 to 6 minutes per side over medium-high heat (400–450°F). Serves 2.

Serve with your favorite red wine—an unforgettable meal for a truly special Mom!

Author Marci Weidemiller

ARTICLE BY MARCI WEIDEMILLER

A TASTE OF FRESHNESS

Discover a vibrant, flavor-packed salad recipe from “The Savory Sommoilier Salads” by Marci Weidemiller of Venice Olive Oil Co.

Salads are beautiful and delicious – good and good for you. So says Marci Weidemiller, Venice Olive Oil’s retail store manager, a certified olive oil sommelier, and author of the new book, “The Savory Sommoilier Salads.”

Organized by season, “Salads” celebrates special occasions while showcasing the peak freshness of fruits and vegetables. With more than 50 recipes and full-color photographs, it’s an inspiring guide to creating vibrant, flavorful dishes year-round.

Here, Weidemiller shares her recipe for Antipasto Salad With Basil Honey Mustard Vinaigrette and the secret of how to make ‘salami roses.’

Find “The Savory Sommoilier Salads” for sale at Venice Olive Oil Co. (veniceoliveoil.com), and amazon.com.

Antipasto Salad With Basil Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Ingredients

For the Vinaigrette:

• 2 tbsp. Sicilian lemon balsamic vinegar

• 4 tbsp. basil olive oil

• 3 tbsp. honey mustard

• ½ tsp. sea salt

For the Salad:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves

• 1 yellow tomato, sliced

• 4 oz. prosciutto, rolled into roses

• 16 oz. dry salami, rolled into roses

• 4 oz. fresh mozzarella, sliced and cut into flower shapes (use a cookie cutter)

• 1 bunch green onions, cleaned and trimmed

• Mini peppers, sliced into rings

• Pear tomatoes, halved

• Kalamata olives, pitted

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, 2 tbsp. of the honey mustard, and sea salt until well emulsified. Chill until ready to serve.

2. Assemble the Salad: Arrange the spinach leaves as a base on a serving platter. Layer the yellow tomato slices on top. Place the prosciutto and salami roses around the platter. Add the mozzarella flowers and place a small drop of the remaining honey mustard in the center of each. Tie the green onions into a bow and place them at the edge of the platter to resemble flower stems. Scatter the mini pepper rings, pear tomato halves, and Kalamata olives throughout. Tuck fresh basil leaves around the edges for a finishing touch.

3. Serve: Drizzle with the vinaigrette or serve it on the side.

Enjoy your beautifully arranged, flavorful antipasto salad!

How to Make a Salami Rose

First, prepare by allowing the salami slices to come to room temperature for easier handling. You will need a tapered glass with a circular top and a smaller circular bottom and toothpicks at the ready.

Step 2: Build the Next Layers

Step 1: Layer the First Row

• Place a slice of salami on the rim of a glass so that half of it rests inside the glass and half remains outside.

• Add the next slice, slightly overlapping the first. Repeat this process, working around the rim of the glass.

• For the second layer, position each new slice so that its center overlaps the seams of the first layer.

• Continue layering in this pattern until you’ve used about 30 slices.

Step 4: Secure and Serve

Step 3: Shape the Rose

• Hold the glass firmly and press the salami layers into your palm to help secure their shape.

• Carefully invert the glass, letting the salami rose slide out.

• If needed, use toothpicks to hold the layers together until ready to serve

• Enjoy your beautifully crafted salami rose as a decorative and delicious addition to your charcuterie board!

A Swing for a Cause

The women golfers of The Venetian Golf & River Club turned their passion for the game into a force for good. At a recent fundraiser, they raised $21,000 for The Twig Cares Inc. Thanks to a generous matching grant from an anonymous donor, procured by the golf club, the donation doubled to $42,000.

The funds will provide clothing, shoes, and accessories—free of charge—to nearly 400 foster children who shop with dignity at The Twig’s Venice and Bradenton locations.

“The mission is so inspiring that our membership and local businesses went above and beyond,” said event chair Tiffanie Papp.

A day filled with raffles, contests, and camaraderie led to a record-breaking contribution.

“This donation ensures we continue meeting the needs of foster children,” said The Twig Executive Director Nicole Britton, extending heartfelt thanks to the community for their generosity and support.

For more information about The Twig Cares, visit thetwigcares.com.

Venetian Golf Club women raise a total of $42K for foster children

TOP LEFT: Excitement fills the air as participants check in for The Venetian Golf Club’s women’s fundraiser for The Twig. MIDDLE: The Twig Executive Director Nicole Britton.

TOP RIGHT: The Event Committee for The Venetian Golf Club’s women’s fundraiser for The Twig was thrilled with the event’s success.

BOTTOM LEFT: Wow! What an incredible turnout for The Venetian Golf Club women’s fundraiser for The Twig!

BOTTOM RIGHT: The day was just beginning for the women registering to tee off at The Venetian Golf Club’s fundraiser for The Twig.

A Woman Determined to Bloom

“Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.” – Charles Swindoll

There is a common thread woven into the tapestry of every woman who leads a happy and meaningful life. That colorful strand refuses to allow negative circumstances to define her. She is tenaciously aware of what goes into her mind, knowing that it will land in her emotions, find expression in her behavior, and thereby reap positive or negative consequences.

“Stinking thinking” can find us replaying past hurts, obsessing on fear and worry, or putting our toe in the water of self-pity one too many times. Like a lingering fog that just hangs on, we may tend to dwell on difficult people, sabotage our self-worth, or slump from the toxic overload of jealousy. Without realizing it, we erode the path to realizing goals and finding pleasure in life.

An overcoming woman is empowered through a practice called ‘the renewing of the mind.’ With origins in the biblical book of Romans, it unlocks a determined decision to interpret life through the lens of God’s point of view rather than through the lens of one’s own subjective filters. For example, strong feelings may insist, “Oh nobody cares!” Contrast that with, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). It is then up to each woman to decide which perspective is more accurate.

ARTICLE BY JANICE MARIE MEIDEL

She may also think, “I’ve made so many mistakes – I guess that’s just me,” as opposed to, “I am God’s masterpiece” (Eph. 2:10), “remarkably and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). The intentionality of mindset is pivotal. On stressful days will she run with her most compelling thoughts saying, “I just can’t deal with this,” or will she prioritize renewed thinking that believes, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13)?

Be encouraged that we all have the ability to alter our thoughts and reactions, making it possible to vibrantly bloom despite the odds.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

From Stem To Vase:

TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART

Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the

Florals and Fruit

Add a burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase. Fill the surrounding space with water, then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.

superstitions associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.

In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.

Hanging Florals

For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.

No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.

Flower Frogs

Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 6TH-9TH

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

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

It’s once again time to enjoy Venice High School musicians as they perform their annual spring concerts for the community. The VHS Chorus is May 6 at 7 p.m. VHS Jazz and JV Band is May 7 at 7 p.m., VHS Advanced Band is May 8 at 7 p.m. and on May 9 the VHS Orchestra performs at 6 p.m. All performances are free. veniceperformingartscenter.com.

MAY 9TH

Friday Night Concert in the Park Featuring Dwight Sullivan

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 23 the entertainment will be Bridget Phillips. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets. For more information go to visitvenicefl.org/venice-mainstreet-events.

MAY 10TH

3rd Annual Epiphany School Golf Classic

Lake Venice Golf Club | 8:30 AM

The Home & School Association of Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School is pleased and grateful to host the third 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, and to purchase tickets go to onecau.se/eccsgolf2025

MAY 16TH & 17TH

Downtown Venice Spring Sidewalk Sale

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

Enjoy fantastic deals along the avenues while supporting small, local businesses during this lively two-day sidewalk sale! Stroll through charming downtown Venice, discovering unique finds and savoring delicious bites along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop, dine, and celebrate the heart of the community. Sponsored by Venice MainStreet. Learn more at visitvenicefl.org.

MAY 21ST

Performances at the Point – Allie Sawicki

Selby Gardens Historic Spanish Point Campus | 6:30 PM

Enjoy an evening of live music with Allie Sawicki, a talented folk/pop vocalist, songwriter, and musician from Central Florida. Known for her acoustic, stripped-back style, Allie delivers unforgettable performances featuring covers of Fleetwood Mac, Lady Gaga, Amy Winehouse, and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from Michael's on East. $35. Purchase tickets at selby.ticketapp.org/portal/product/56/events.

MAY 30TH

City of Venice Hurricane Expo

Venice Community Center | 9:00 AM

The City of Venice hosts its annual Hurricane Expo as a public service prior to hurricane season (June–November). Speakers cover storm prep, emergency services, evacuation plans, flooding, and post-storm recovery. Vendors provide hurricane-related information, products, and services, with raffles and giveaways. The City of Venice table will also raffle three weather radios. Food and drinks available for purchase. scgov.net.