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.
All About Style!
Dear Reader,
I hope this letter finds you in high spirits and full of creative energy as we take a moment to celebrate and explore the fascinating world of style.
Style isn't just about the clothes we wear or how we adorn ourselves; it touches every aspect of our lives. In our wonderful town of Venice, this is especially true. Since this is Venice City Lifestyle’s “Style” issue, our job is to show you the many stylish ways we love our city.
From the vibrant clothes featured in "Where Art Meets Fashion," about the long-time area boutique Scarlet McCaw, to celebrating the 10th anniversary of our cultural beacon – the Venice Performing Arts Center – Venice offers historic elegance, grace, and beauty like no other.
Gracing our cover this month is an image of Sarasota Ballet dancer Jessica Assef performing in Sir Frederick Ashton’s "Illuminations" at the Royal Opera House. The accompanying story, “The Sarasota Ballet’s London Triumph,” tells of the ballet company’s invitation from London's The Royal Ballet to help kick-off a fiveyear celebration of the renowned choreographer.
Style is also deeply personal, evolving as we celebrate our quirks, passions, and desires. It's a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world, and what we value. That’s why we asked three Venice locals to share their unique perspectives on what defines inner style in “From the Inside Out.”
Another aspect of style is how and where we live. “Living in Style: Village On The Isle Provides a Friendly and Active Place to Call Home," takes a look at one woman's happy move to Venice’s premier retirement community.
In this issue, we also highlight Sage Auto Studios in “Crafting Automotive Excellence.” Our Business Monthly column gives some love to the virtual exterior design company Dzinly, the “Florida Highwaymen” exhibit at Selby Gardens, and looks forward to the 36th Italian American Feast coming in 2025 from the Italian American Club of Venice, with Venice City Lifestyle as a sponsor.
For me, and for all of us who love Venice, there really is no place like this city we call home, in all its stylish beauty! And, talking about beauty, feast your eyes on photographer Liesl Walsh’s award-winning image, "Venice Theater at Sunrise in Florida."
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Brooke Bezet
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Foteini Christofilopoulou, Liesl Walsh, Olive Grey Photography, Scarlet Macaw, VOTI
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Dr. Frank Lewicki
Dr. Brent Beyer
Dr. Charles Davis
Dr. Cassandra Brower
Davis & Beyer at
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inside the issue
Iain
Local
During
Victoria Hulland and Daniel Pratt in Ricardo Graziano’s Amorosa | Photo by Frank Atura
Jessica Lang’s World Premiere
Ricardo Graziano’s Amorosa
Johan Kobborg’s Napoli Act III
Xin Ying in Martha Graham’s Errand into the Maze | Photo by Hibbard Nash
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Dzinly Launches Realtor Package That Transforms Niche Appeal Into Mass Desirability
Helping homeowners reimagine their home's exterior with expert recommendations on colors, materials, and architecture with their virtual technology platform, Dzinly’s toggle function ensures perfect selections. Now, the Royal Oakbased company, helmed by COO Jackie Mosher (in photo) offers a realtor-specific membership (as well as builders and trades) to showcase diverse design choices, increasing exposure and interest. Dzinly has been featured in MarthaStewart. com, the Spruce, Southern Living, Architectural Digest, Realtor magazine, HGTV. com, Beyond the Belt podcast and more. Dzinly.com
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Final Month to View Iconic African American Artists "Florida Highwaymen" at Selby Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ summer exhibition, The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections, showcases the legendary African American landscape artists who emerged in Southeastern Florida in the 1950s. Largely self-taught, the Highwaymen were prolific painters who sold their vibrant Florida landscapes from car trunks post-WWII due to racial barriers. Their iconic art, capturing the Sunshine State's beauty before urbanization, appeals to both residents and tourists. "Their work is perfect for our bayfront sanctuary," said Selby Gardens' CEO Jennifer Rominiecki. selby.org.
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VCL Honored for Sponsorship of 35th Italian American Feast…Looking Forward to 2025’s Event
In recognition of its sponsorship of the 35th Italian American Feast this year, Venice City Lifestyle received a plaque of appreciation. Publisher, Charmaine Tincher, accepted the honor. Pictured with Charmaine (C) are Denise D’Amico, Feast Sponsorship Chair, and Dave Okun, Feast Chair. We eagerly anticipate the 36th Annual Italian Feast & Carnival, Feb. 20-23, 2025. Proceeds support scholarships for graduating students at Venice High School, and organizations aiding veterans and first responders, and more. italianamericanclubofvenice.com.
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SOCIAL CONNECTIONS, VACATION LIFESTYLE IN WELLEN PARK
Resort-inspired swimming pools, relaxing spas warmed to just the right temperature, and playgrounds and pickleball courts impart a tropical vibe and a vacation-everyday lifestyle for residents of Wellen Park. Neighborhoods throughout Wellen Park, one of the country’s best-selling master planned communities, offer an array of private amenities, evoking those pinch-me-I-can’t-believe-it’s-true moments that create vibrant active and leisurely lifestyles – wherever the day takes you.
“Today’s neighborhood amenities rival the top resorts with incredible pools, clubhouses and fitness centers,” saidChristine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “Not only do they elevate the everyday lifestyle, but amenities are the heart of each neighborhood, the place you really get to know your neighbors and enhance your social connections.”
Newly opened amenity campuses in EVERLY, Brightmore, Lakespur and Sunstone quickly became the epicenter of each neighborhood. They complement Wellen Park’s own amenities – multimodal nature trails, parks and boundless outdoor recreation in Downtown Wellen –plus, a location minutes from local beaches.
Residents of EVERLY, Wellen Park’s first multi-builder neighborhood, enjoy luxury waterfront amenities and custom homes tucked along a meandering 50-acre lake and large wetlands. At the center of EVERLY’s engaging social and active lifestyle are an elegant social hall and separate fitness center with covered and open-air verandas, a kitchen and reception area. Enhancing the resort-style experience, fountains and spillways create an inviting outdoor soundtrack for poolside cabanas by day and a tropical rhythm for breathtaking sunsets come nightfall. EVERLY offers a resort pool with lap lanes, large firepit lounge for conversations with neighbors, putting green, pickleball courts, beach area and pavilion with grilling stations.
Rooted in well-being, a true sense of community and a robust joy-filled everyday experiential lifestyle, Brightmore’s 11 acres of amenities offer everything from cornhole with friends to yoga on the lawn. Wellen Park’s first 55+ neighborhood with single-family homes and paired villas, Brightmore features a grand 21,000-square-foot
clubhouse offering a social hall, clubroom, cafe and bar, fitness center and group fitness studio, and year-round events planned by a full-time activities director. It offers a zero-entry resort pool, separate lap pool, sandy beach, shade cabanas and multiple firepit lounge destinations. Brightmore also has a Paw Park and nine pickleball courts, including a stadium court.
Lakespur, a multigenerational neighborhood of single-family homes nestled along lakes, heavily forested preserves and wetlands, features newly opened amenities appealing to all ages. Venues range from a resort-style pool with lap lanes to a coastal-inspired poolside cabana featuring a party kitchen, restrooms, under-roof gathering venues and terraces overlooking a fireplace. Emphasizing social connections, the private amenities also include an event lawn for fitness classes, cornhole and outdoor games, an area for food trucks, a dog park and a playground.
In Sunstone, a neighborhood of single-family homes and villas, amenities cater to everyday whims and lifestyles. The new lakeside amenity campus features a private clubhouse with multipurpose rooms, a fitness center and group fitness studio. Elevating Wellen Park’s outdoor lifestyle, Sunstone also offers a beach-entry pool with lap lanes, a heated spa and pickleball courts. Residents also enjoy a grilling pavilion, event lawn, cornhole, Paw Park, tot lot and treeshaded sitting area circling a firepit. Engaging events and unique programs provide even more ways to connect over shared interests and experiences.
In Solstice, a neighborhood of single-family homes, private amenities can be found in a central location. Solstice’s clubhouse offers a fitness center, yoga lawn, large social hall, covered veranda and open-air terrace – all overlooking the resort-inspired pool and expansive sundeck. Alfresco destinations also include a tennis court, pickleball courts and playground.
To learn more about living at Wellen Park, including move-in ready homes in each neighborhood, call 941-271-0116, go to wellenpark.com or visit the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice, Fla.
Ricardo Rhodes and Jennifer Hackbarth in Friday’s Child from Jazz Calendar at the Linbury Theatre of London's Royal Opera House.
IAIN WEBB AND MARGARET BARBIERI’S REMARKABLE CELEBRATION OF SIR FREDERICK ASHTON’S LEGACY AT LONDON’S ROYAL OPERA HOUSE
The Sarasota Ballet, under the visionary leadership of Director Iain Webb since 2007 and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri since 2012, has earned international acclaim for its dedication to the works of Sir Frederick Ashton. In June 2024, at the invitation of The Royal Ballet Director Kevin O’Hare, Webb and Barbieri brought their Company to London’s Royal Opera House for a significant celebration of Ashton’s legacy, marking the kickoff of a five-year tribute to the renowned 20th century choreographer.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOTEINI CHRISTOFILOPOULOU
Opening Night! Doreen Wells, Marchioness of Londonderry and former Ballerina of The Royal Ballet (C) with dancers and VIPs of The Sarasota Ballet.
This historic opportunity was not only a testament to The Sarasota Ballet’s caliber but also a personal and professional milestone for Webb and Barbieri. Both former dancers with The Royal Ballet, they had worked closely with Ashton and many leading ballet stars of the times. Their deep connection to Ashton’s work and their commitment to preserving his legacy were key factors in their invitation to London.
THE INVITATION AND PREPARATION
The invitation to perform in London came from Kevin O’Hare, who Webb has known since he was a young dancer. About a year before the June 2024 performances, O’Hare proposed that The Sarasota Ballet could join The Royal Ballet in a grand celebration of Ashton’s work. “It wasn’t something I’d ever thought would happen,” Webb admitted. “I always had a dream to
The Sarasota Ballet in “Façade” at the Linbury Theatre.
“To be invited to perform with The Royal Ballet, at the Royal Opera House was unbelievable.”
have a great celebration. We even had a Ashton Festival in Sarasota in 2014 – but to be invited to perform with The Royal Ballet, at the Royal Opera House was unbelievable,” said Webb.
The preparations were intense, requiring meticulous planning and significant fundraising efforts. Webb and Barbieri worked tirelessly with their dancers, ensuring every detail was perfect for the London performances. “The schedule in London was hair-raising,” Barbieri recalled. “We were working non-stop, but
the dancers were amazing, and it was surreal to see it all come together.”
TRIUMPH IN LONDON
The London shows were a resounding success, elevating The Sarasota Ballet’s status in the global ballet community.
Their performances at the Royal Opera House’s Linbury Theatre and on the Main Stage, including pieces like The Walk to the Paradise Garden, received rave reviews.
For example, “The Guardian” lauded The Sarasota Ballet for its “loving preservation”
of Ashton’s work, highlighting the company’s grace and care in their performances.
Webb and Barbieri were deeply moved by the reception. “It was a tribute to Sarasota and the amazing, loyal donors and fans who understood the significance of this opportunity,” said Webb. The experience not only showcased The Sarasota Ballet’s talent but also reinforced the importance of Ashton’s work in their repertoire.
LOOKING AHEAD
With the London triumph behind them, The Sarasota Ballet is poised for an extraordinary upcoming Season. “We’re not lowering the standard,” Webb asserted. “The Season has to be extra special, both artistically and financially.” Productions include a truly special and rare performance of Sir Frederick Ashton’s Romeo and Juliet in March 2025 (Program 6), as well as world premieres by contemporary choreographers like Jessica Lang in October 2024 (Program 1) and much more.
The Sarasota Ballet’s commitment to excellence and innovation continues to drive its success. “We just have to keep doing what we do–bringing new creations and always having Ashton’s works as the backbone of our Company,” said Webb.
As The Sarasota Ballet moves forward, the legacy of Sir Frederick Ashton remains a guiding light. Webb and Barbieri’s dedication ensures that Ashton’s remarkable choreographic contributions will continue to inspire and delight audiences for years to come. The London experience was a testament to their passion and vision, and the future looks incredibly bright for The Sarasota Ballet. On with the show!
The Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb accepting the 2024 British National Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement.
The Sarasota Ballet in "Sinfonietta" at the Linbury Theatre.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16
COOLTODAY PARK ON THE CONCOURSE
FIRST 250 ATTENDEES WILL RECEIVE A SWAG BAG AT THE DOOR! ENTERTAINMENT, PRIZES, AND GIVEAWAYS
THE BIG PICTURE…
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCARLET MACAW
Where Art Meets Fashion Scarlet Macaw:
HAND-PAINTED CLOTHING, EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Fridaze Linen tops (left and right) with a Jess & Jane top made in the USA (center). Fridaze is available XS – 2X and Jess & Jane comes S – 3X.
Nestled in the heart of Venice’s historic downtown, Scarlet Macaw Boutique has been a fashion staple since 1993. The boutique, as colorful and unique as its namesake bird, offers hand-painted sweaters and shirts, along with name-brand fashions, jewelry, and accessories.
Simone Killoren, the current owner and one of the artists behind Scarlet Macaw’s distinctive art wear, moved to Venice in 2015 from South Carolina. Initially, she joined the boutique to assist her aunt, Peg Matsko, who was nearing retirement.
"My aunt asked if I wanted to run the boutique. She thought I’d be good at it," Simone recalled. After a successful trial period and overcoming the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, she took over the shop in April 2021.
Killoren’s background is diverse; she studied communications, worked in freight forwarding, and pursued a master’s degree in elementary education. At Scarlet Macaw, she discovered her talent for sourcing fashion that is distinctive, attractive, and comfortable.
One unique aspect of Scarlet Macaw is its handpainted sweaters and shirts. "We have three artists who paint for us, including myself," said Simone. "All three have very distinctive styles, and Aunt Peg enjoys contributing her creative flair whenever she can."
Inspiration for their designs comes from the world around them. "We have sweaters with dogs, bird of paradise, dragonflies, anchors, and more. These bright and unique designs, exclusive to Scarlet Macaw, are a big draw for both locals and visitors."
Locally hand-painted MoMo holiday sweaters (shown on Alyssa & Simone Killoren). Sweater & artwork made in USA.
Simone Killoren, owner of Scarlet Macaw, stylin for the upcoming holidays in her MoMo hand-painted sweater.
Abakiki UPF Island Dolphin shirt designed by artist Kelly Tracht of Jupiter, FL. 10% of the sale price donated to Mote Marine and many designs are available.
Furthermore, Scarlet Macaw is renowned for providing exceptional customer service. “We treat every customer with respect and excitement and truly look forward to helping people look great,” said Simone. The staff’s in-depth knowledge of the store’s inventory helps customers find pieces that fit well and flatter their individual styles.
The shop’s location in Venice’s historic downtown is a source of pride for Killoren. “We get to spend time with so many different types of people. We enjoy helping visitors who stop by as much as we form relationships with people we’ve seen regularly over the years. It is a beautiful downtown area, and we are really proud and honored to be here!”
Scarlet Macaw also supports the local community through charitable efforts. “Any item in our store with dogs or cats, we donate 10 percent of the sale price to the Humane Society of SRQ. Similarly, with sea life, 10 percent goes to Mote Marine,” noted Simone.
As Scarlet Macaw continues to thrive, Killoren ensures the boutique stays true to its roots while also evolving with the times. She has added younger lines to attract a broader audience while maintaining the classic appeal that long-time customers love. The boutique’s inclusive size range, from XS to 3X, ensures that everyone can find something stylish and comfortable.
With an eye on future trends, Simone mentioned that lavender, lilac, and purple will be significant colors for the upcoming season. “We’re not overly trendy; we try to have things you can wear all the time. They will not be going out of style,” she emphasized.
Lost River dress with pockets (left) and tunic tank (right). Lost River (select styles) available XS – 3X.
Hand-painted sweaters by Venice artist MoMo. 10% of the sale price is donated back to the Humane Society of Sarasota County.
(L-R) Simone Killoren and her aunt Peggy Matsko who was the original owner of Scarlet Macaw.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VILLAGE ON THE ISLE
VILLAGE ON THE ISLE PROVIDES A FRIENDLY AND ACTIVE PLACE TO CALL HOME
LIVING IN STYLE AT VOTI
It’s not the size of her apartment that makes Kitty Ramey’s life big; it’s her appetite for life. Kitty, along with her friends Holly, Rahye, and Toni, moved from their condos on Venice Island,
“INTERIORS
putting oneself out there is far more enjoyable than sitting around.
Despite her active lifestyle, Kitty values her private time. “The turtle is my spirit animal because I go out and
ARE BEAUTIFUL HERE.
I OFTEN CATCH MYSELF ADMIRING THE DESIGNER’S GREAT TASTE.”
FL, to Village On The Isle. Though their apartments vary in size, their shared enthusiasm for fun expands their living space across the community’s beautiful, amenity-filled campus.
LIVING LARGE IN RETIREMENT
“We’re all very involved because the people here are so friendly,” Kitty explained. Holly is an artist active in the woodworking and art departments, Rahye runs the Trinity neighborhood library, and Toni, a recent resident, plans to join the sewing group. Kitty, who is sporty and outdoorsy, hasn’t settled on a specific volunteer activity yet, but her schedule is already packed.
“I play Pokeno on Monday, Mahjong on Tuesday, dominoes on Wednesday, and bingo on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Every Sunday, we have a big event or brunch,” Kitty shared. Her busy schedule reflects her belief that
do stuff, but I’m a ponderer, so I like my private time. Everyone here honors that privacy.”
594 SQUARE FEET OF PEACE
Village On The Isle offers various maintenance-free residences, but Kitty chose a one-bedroom Cocoa floor plan in Matthew Hall. “I wanted every room to have a purpose. I moved from a two-bedroom villa with rooms I never used. Everything I wanted to bring fits perfectly.”
The residence’s 594 sq. ft. may sound small, but she assures it isn’t. “These apartments are surprisingly bigger than people think. I have more closet space here than in my villa.” Her home features a full-size kitchen with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, deep storage cabinets, a large full bathroom with a walk-in shower, and ample storage. The bright, open-concept
“WHAT WE’VE ALL FOUND IS THAT YOU NEVER MISS ANYTHING YOU GIVE AWAY. IT FEELS GREAT. IT FEELS LIGHT.”
layout flows from the kitchen to a large living room, opening onto a lanai, adding outdoor space. An equally large bedroom with a wall of windows and a large closet is on the other side of the living room. A stackable washer/dryer is inside the very large bathroom.
While some residents customize their homes, Kitty was pleased with what she found. “They do a beautiful job with interiors here. I often catch myself admiring the designer's great taste.”
RIGHTSIZING FOR A LIGHTER LIFE
Moving to a senior living community often means downsizing. Kitty has “rightsized” her life twice, experiencing its logistical and emotional benefits. “What we’ve all found is that you never miss anything you give away. It feels great. It feels light.”
If the idea of a full, fun, secure, and maintenance-free life at Venice’s only not-for-profit Life Plan Community appeals to you, visit Village On The Isle. Schedule your visit or learn more by calling 941.202.4451.
Top: Kitty Ramey in her new apartment at Village On The Isle.
Middle: Kitty’s new apartment is decorated in a coastal style.
Bottom: A view of the Cocoa apartment at VOTI.
FOUNDERS REFLECT ON THE FORMATIVE YEARS OF VPAC & VIPA
VPAC: A Decade of Cultural Impact
Venice Performing Arts Center.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Mike and Bonnie Hartley circa 2015.
Mike and Bonnie Hartley are surrounded by the Broadway Boys in 2017.
“
We developed a flourishing apprentice program for juniors and seniors to work in all areas of theatre management. From the very beginning, it mattered a lot to both of us. My background in performing arts and academia helped shape our educational goals.
While celebrations are, and will be, in order, right now the Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC) is quietly turning 10 years old. Mike and Bonnie Hartley were there at the beginning. They are also the founders of the Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA)–formed to manage and operate VPAC. Here, they reflect on significant milestones that brought the cultural cornerstone to fruition.
"The formation of the Venice Performing Arts Center goes back a couple of decades," Mike explained. "People in the city commissioned a feasibility study to see if our market could support a performing arts center. The first study was negative, but a second study in the early 2000s came back positive."
With Venice High School scheduled to be rebuilt, an opportunity arose to create a joint facility, Mike explained. The town convinced the city council to set aside a 1-cent tax, raising an additional $7.5 million, which, combined with the school district's funding, would support a state-of-the-art performance space.
SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION:
TILT-WALL
Construction began in 2012, utilizing innovative tilt-wall construction to erect the structure quickly and efficiently. The VPAC opened its doors in 2014. An interlocal agreement required an oversight committee, and Mike was asked to provide leadership.
Early challenges included determining staffing and ensuring the facility provided cultural and social returns on investment. They envisioned a non-profit organization, the Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA), to manage the venue, raise funds, and support school activities.
Bonnie Hartley, a former academic, emphasizes the importance of education in their mission. "We developed a flourishing apprentice program for juniors and seniors to work in all areas of theatre management. From the very beginning, it mattered a lot to both of us. My background in performing arts and academia helped shape our educational goals." Bonnie's background includes a PhD in contemporary Spanish poetry, an MBA, and extensive work in family business and conflict resolution.
100'S OF PERFORMANCES ANNUALLY
Today, VPAC is a resounding success. It hosts hundreds of performances annually and has seen significant growth each year, except during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hartleys are no longer involved in day-to-day management but remain active as board members. They are helping to plan anniversary celebrations for the 2024-25 season to honor those who have been instrumental in VPAC's success, particularly Venice High School.
Bonnie noted, "From the very beginning, we collected every piece of data to understand our demographics and make informed decisions. We have people driving from Miami to see certain programs." Mike added, "We've hosted the Vienna Boys Choir, the Dallas Brass, and many other notable performers, engaging artists for extra educational activities."
Grateful for the community's support, the Hartleys continue to cherish their work with students and the backing from the school district and faculty. "We are thrilled that it works and continues to grow," said Bonnie, who then expressed the couple’s deep appreciation for the collaborative effort that has made VPAC a cultural cornerstone in Venice.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIESL WALSH
“Venice Theater at Sunrise” Wins Gold
Local Photographer Liesl Walsh Captures Award-Winning Image During an Early Morning Photoshoot in Venice.
Photographer Liesl Walsh’s "Venice Theater at Sunrise in Florida" recently won first place in Fine Art America’s “Historic Theaters and Opera Houses” contest. Inspired by her passion for local landmarks, Walsh captures stunning images during early morning light, when the city is quiet and the sky is dynamic. Despite rain on the day of the shoot, her perseverance paid off with a brilliant sunrise and reflective wet pavement. Walsh’s award-winning work is available at liesl-walsh. pixels.com. She also teaches online courses about art, photography, and how to sell your images online. Learn more at lieslwalshphotos.com.
Three Venice Locals Share Their Unique Perspectives on What Style Means to Them
Style: From the Inside Out
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Brad Clark, Plantation GCC
Brad Clark, Clubhouse Manager at Plantation Golf & Country Club (plantationgcc.com), brings his vibrant philosophy about style to Venice by way of his birthplace of Wisconsin, as well as Illinois and California. Clark believes true style transcends appearances—it’s about lifestyle choices and the company you keep. Known for his bold jackets that break the ice, he emphasizes confidence and the joy of self-expression. For Clark, style reflects in everything from home decor to leisure activities. Influenced by his father’s legacy and a love for sports, Clark champions being proud of your roots and having fun with your personal flair.
Christina McCauley, Habitat for Humanity SSC
Christina McCauley believes inner style is all about confidence and approachability. And, as CEO/Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County (habitatsouthsarasota.org), it’s not surprising that she emphasizes kindness and empathy in all aspects of life. McCauley’s style philosophy combines comfort with chic, ensuring she’s always ready to help others while looking and feeling her best. Balancing her roles as a professional, wife, and mom, she prioritizes mental health and self-care, from salon visits to fun spa days with her daughter. For this Venice local since age seven, true style radiates from within, reflecting both inner beauty and genuine kindness.
Karla Blake, Medicare Specialist
Medicare Specialist Karla Blake, (karlablakemedicarespecialist. com), a Venice local since childhood, believes inner style is deeply rooted in faith and identity. For Blake, true beauty shines from within and is grounded in her strong faith in the Lord. As a single mom of four and a dedicated business owner, she emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s true identity and radiating kindness, generosity, and joy. Karla sees her work as a ministry, caring deeply for her clients and always putting others first. Her positive outlook, empathy, and inner peace not only define her style but also inspire those around her to see the brighter side of life.
Where Passion Meets Precision and Every Detail Matters
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BEZET
In the bustling world of automotive care, Sage Auto Studios emerges as a beacon of excellence, redefining the standards of service and craftsmanship. Founded in 2016 by Alex Nodel, then Wyatt Misztak partnered in 2018, followed by the partnership of Matt Ancona in 2020. Sage Auto Studios embodies a passion for cars and a commitment to unparalleled customer satisfaction.
Sage Auto Studios is Xpel certified, a testament to their dedication to quality. Xpel, one of the only products left in a sea of foreign products that is USA-made in Texas since 1999, is renowned for its superior paint protection film. Having won awards from Xpel, Sage Auto Studios ranks among the top 20 shops in the USA and holds the prestigious title of the top shop with Xpel in the Eastern United States and is the top shop in Florida.
Beyond paint protection film, Sage Auto Studios offers a plethora of auto styling services, ensuring every aspect of a customer's vehicle receives meticulous attention. From caliper wraps to headlight and window tinting, powder coating to full-body color wraps, lettering to branded wraps, aftermarket kits to custom stripes. Sage Auto Studios is a one-stop destination for automotive customization.
Their expertise extends to full-service car detailing, both interior and exterior, ensuring every vehicle leaves their studio looking pristine. With specialized window tint recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, Sage Auto Studios provides protection against harmful UV rays and heat, ensuring customers can enjoy both style and safety. The special thing about this film is that it is clear; it does not have to be a dark tint on your windows.
Located in Sarasota on Clark Road and in Lakewood Ranch off Lena Road, Sage Auto Studios caters primarily to sports cars, rare cars, classics, and exotics, but they treat all daily cars with the same intention. The vinyl shop is also off of Lena Road. Each of the three partners brings unique expertise to the table – Matt is the operations director, Wyatt is the director of film and an education expert, having achieved 4th place in national competitions for his skills, while Alex manages client communication and marketing.
Sage Auto Studios' mission is to prioritize customer care and treat each car as if it were their own. From the moment a car is dropped off at their shop, customers receive regular updates, including photos and videos of work in progress. With 26 employees maintaining a 90% retention rate, Sage Auto Studios fosters a supportive work environment, offering bank holidays, a 401K program, and financial education to its staff. The team feels more like family, attending one another's special life events like birthday parties, weddings, and more.
In addition to their commitment to excellence, Sage Auto Studios is deeply ingrained in the community, participating in events like Cars and Coffee and Ferraris on the Circle at St Armand's. They contribute to charitable causes such as Flight To The North Pole, Seeing Eye Dogs, and Take Stock in Kids, and offer discounts to first responders and military personnel.
But Sage Auto Studios goes beyond mere automotive care – they empower car enthusiasts with knowledge through educational sessions with car clubs like the Corvette Club, Ferrari Club, and Jeep Club. Alex expresses gratitude to all team members, acknowledging their contributions to Sage's success. He mentions Alec Paris Photography for all his help with social media and his
incredible photography. He also recognizes the continuous support of their families from the business's early years to now.
Sage Auto Studios isn't just a place for automotive care – it's a destination where passion meets expertise, community meets compassion, and cars are treated with the utmost care and respect. Come to one of the shops to see what it is all about with their open-door policy.
CONTACT SAGE AUTO STUDIOS
ADDRESS: 4702 Lena Road, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
PHONE: 941-306-9659
EMAIL: info@SageAutoStudios.com
WEB: REQUEST FREE QUOTE
"SAGE AUTO STUDIOS TREATS CARS AS THEIR OWN, PRIORITIZING CUSTOMER CARE. BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS IS OUR GOAL." - ALEX
WeBuildVenice.com
36 New condominiums on the Island of Venice. 2 and 3 bedrooms with a 1-car detached garage and community heated swimming pool and cabana. Close to shopping, beaches, restaurants and Downtown Venice. 941.244.0982
COTTAGES OF VENICE
New 36 cottage homes located on East Venice Ave. 2 bedroom, 2 bath with 1 -car detached garage. Close to shopping, restaurants, beaches and Downtown Venice. 941.786.9403
CASSATA LAKES
MOVE IN READY HOMES!
Newly constructed custom model home on lake. 2,497 Living s.f. with 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, 2 car side entry garage with swimming pool, spa and large outdoor kitchen. Beautifully appointed cabinets, counter-tops and flooring.
Newly constructed custom ready home on standard homesite. 2,172 living s.f. with 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths and 2 car garage. Home-site has room for a pool to be added. Beautifully appointed cabinets, counter-tops and flooring. CALL TODAY TO VIEW! 941.244.0982
COTTAGES
CASSATA SHORES
POINTE
Single Family home-sites directly on Roberts Bay in Nokomis, FL. 941.244.0982
ISOLA CASA CONDOMINIUM