Dr. Fabian Ramos is Passionate About Maximizing Your Investment in Pain-Free Living!
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.
The Power of Investment
Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in many things—our community, our relationships, our finances, our creativity, and our health—all with the hope of making a positive impact.
If health is wealth, then the patients of Dr. Fabian A. Ramos and the Ramos Center are indeed rich.
In “Pain-Free Living – What a Relief!” discover how this practice has been providing comprehensive, patient-centered pain management for more than 25 years, helping individuals reclaim their lives through innovative, minimally invasive treatments.
We also invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations. A shining example is Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School, which recently celebrated 27 years of legacy, education, and community at its “Blue & Gold” Gala. Read all about this special event in “A Night to Shine.”
Another meaningful investment is service—giving time and resources to support others, especially future generations. Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County embodies this mission, helping families build stability through homeownership. In “Investing in Hope,” we highlight how the organization is giving the Torres family the chance to achieve their dream of owning a home.
Even small, everyday choices can be a powerful investment. In “5 Tips for EcoLiving,” learn simple, impactful ways to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle and contribute to a healthier world for future generations.
In the arts, dedication and persistence pay off in unexpected ways. Linda Zentz, Lynne Railsback, and Laura McElhinney were overjoyed to learn they’d won first, second, and third place, respectively, at the Venice Art Center’s “It’s All in Your Head” exhibition, sponsored by Venice City Lifestyle. Their commitment to their craft is a true testament to the power of investing in one’s passion.
And for those looking to grow their financial portfolio, “Spring Investing with Kate Hyland Mercer” offers valuable insights. As the founder of Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc., an independent Venice-based financial planning and investment firm, Mercer helps clients make wise financial decisions with a foundation of trust, integrity, and personalized service.
As we embrace this season of renewal, I hope this issue inspires you to reflect on the many ways we invest in ourselves and others. Whether it’s through health, community, service, art, or financial planning, every investment we make shapes a better future. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.
Warmly,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Kate Hyland Mercer, Amy Salvagno, Susan Lanier-Graham
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Stephanie Snow Photography, Prion Photography, Simon and Schuster
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
Learn
city scene
1: L-R: Cherie Major, Drew Bledsoe, Sandy Welch, Tammy Carper & Pam Hilse enjoy Venice Yacht Club’s wine tasting dinner featuring Bledsoe Family Winery and former Patriots quarterback, Drew Bledsoe. 2: Pamela Fiume shows off Big Bam eBikes wins: Best of Venice 2024 for “E-Bikes” and finalist for “Bike Shop.” 3: At Agape Flights’ “Night of Worship,” we caught Robin Monday, Donor Database Coordinator, browsing our February issue. 4: Dee & Mike Miller from Michigan displaying their gorgeous handmade “Wooden Flowers and Vases” at Wellen Park. 5: At Tuscany Nokomis the new custom built VIP booths are always adorned with fresh roses. 6: Venice Art Center CEO Mary Moscatelli (L) with VCL Publisher Charmaine Tincher, sponsor of exhibition “It’s All in Your Head.” 7: One of our favorite Starbucks baristas is Phoenix, a longtime friend of the publisher’s granddaughter. Small world!
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Fun for All at Hunsader Farms’ 2nd Annual Flower Festival
Hunsader Farms, family-owned since 1967, hosts its 2nd Annual Flower Festival on the weekends of April 5-6 and April 12-13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can enjoy cut-your-own flower fields featuring zinnias, wildflowers and sunflowers, live music, hayrides, train rides, pony rides, food and craft vendors, a petting zoo, gem mining, and more. Admission: $15 (cash only; kids under 10 free). Leashed dogs are welcome but must be cleaned up after! For more details visit hunsaderfarms.com/flower-festival.
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Erin Minor Joins Gulf Coast Community Foundation as VP of Community Leadership
The Gulf Coast Community Foundation recently appointed Erin Minor as Vice President of Community Leadership. Formerly CEO of Harvest House, Minor is charged with creating and implementing key strategies for achieving the Foundation’s vision of thriving communities with opportunities for all, together with donors and nonprofit partners. “As a leader in affordable housing and mental health support, Erin is poised to deepen our impact and elevate our team,” said President/CEO Phillip Lanham.
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The Ringling Joins Global Celebration for Robert Rauschenberg’s Centennial
The Ringling Museum in Sarasota is honoring the centennial of renowned artist Robert Rauschenberg with a special exhibition on view through August 3, 2025. Supported by the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation (rauschenbergfoundation.org), it is part of a yearlong global celebration highlighting his enduring influence on art and social progress. Rauschenberg, who lived and worked on Captiva Island for nearly 40 years, was known for his innovative, cross-disciplinary approach. The Centennial fosters critical dialogue on his legacy, inspiring new generations. ringling.org.
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For over 25 years, the Ramos Center has offered comprehensive pain management, helping patients like Gayle Sharp reclaim lives
Pain-Free Living
– What a Relief!
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
Dr. Fabian A. Ramos, FIPP, DABA, DABIPP, DABPM is a peer-reviewed “Top Doctor.”
Gayle Sharp was so impressed with the pain-relieving results from just one treatment at the Ramos Center for Interventional & Functional Pain Medicine that she even filled out a review request—something she rarely does.
Here’s what happened:
First, she fell in the bathtub and injured her shoulder. Then, a couple of weeks later, the 72-year-old was moving heavy deck furniture by herself, prepping for the arrival of Hurricane Ian, and injured her other shoulder. But it was only after both shoulders were repaired that the excruciating neck pain began.
Sharp had been referred to the Ramos Center by her shoulder surgeon and had already gone for a consult before the severe neck pain started. “They told me to come back if it gets to the point where you need pain management,” she said. After traveling to Michigan to visit her two small granddaughters, her neck pain worsened significantly.
“That was when I sought out the Ramos Center. They got me in very quickly and told me they could do a series of two injections and then an ablation to relieve my pain,” she said. So far, she’s only had one of the three treatments—and has been painfree ever since.
“I was so surprised. First, because Dr. Ramos himself administered the injections. He told me, ‘You are in good hands. I’ve been doing this for 25 years.’ Then, within a day or two, the severe pain subsided, and I was able to go out of town,” she said. “I never followed up, although I certainly will if I need to,” Sharp added.
“My neck is never going to be perfect. But from where I was before the injections to now, it’s just been wonderful.” Sharp has happily traveled three times since then. She spent Thanksgiving and Christmas with her family in Michigan and just returned from a trip out West. “I’m able to roll my heavy suitcase and do all the physical things involved in traveling,” she said.
Gayle Sharp, a patient at the Ramos Center for Interventional & Functional Pain Medicine, is pain-free today!
Dr. Ramos and the Ramos Center specialize in non-surgical pain relief.
The Ramos Center team is dedicated to reducing pain and enhancing quality of life for patients like Gayle Sharp, who
“had such a positive
experience.”
What’s more, Sharp is now able to exercise. “I live in a senior housing community just off Venice Island. There’s a little gym a few doors down from my apartment. I get on the treadmill and lift light weights,” she explained.
“My only son and my two granddaughters are in Michigan, so my main motivation is to stay healthy, agile, and keep my upper body strong so I can travel to see them as much as possible,” she said.
That’s why Sharp filled out that review. And if asked, she would highly recommend the Ramos Center for any
kind of pain relief. “I had such a positive experience. They got me in quickly, the staff was very courteous and professional, and I saw Dr. Ramos personally. It doesn’t get any better than that!”
ABOUT THE RAMOS CENTER
The Ramos Center for Interventional & Functional Pain Medicine is a leading pain management practice on Florida’s west coast. For over 25 years, it has used advanced technologies to alleviate chronic pain. Led by Dr. Fabian A. Ramos, FIPP, DABA, DABIPP, DABPM, the center takes a patient-centered, multi-modality approach to address both the physical and mental aspects of chronic pain.
Dr. Ramos is triple board-certified and ranked in the 99th percentile nationwide for anesthesiology. He received the 2018 Champion of Prevention in Healthcare Award from Drug Free Manatee and the Community Health Advocacy Award from the Sarasota Medical Alliance Foundation & Society. Since 2019, he has been listed in Castle Connolly Ltd.'s Top Doctor Database. At the Ramos Center, no two treatment plans are alike. Each patient receives a personalized, comprehensive
At the Ramos Center, no two treatment plans are alike. Each patient receives a personalized, comprehensive plan crafted by a team of advanced practitioners.
plan crafted by a team of advanced practitioners. Treatment strategies are continuously monitored and adjusted based on patient outcomes to ensure optimal relief. The center's non-surgical treatments include imaging-guided injections, nerve blocks, nerve ablations, physical therapy, balance impairment therapy, opioid weaning programs, PRP & stem cell interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, clinical hypnotherapy, and more.
Understanding that chronic pain affects more than just the body, the Ramos Center is committed to treating the whole patient. In addition to medical interventions, they offer physical therapy and access to a clinical hypnotherapist to help patients to help alleviate the mental and physical limitations that come along with chronic pain.
The Ramos Center team is dedicated to reducing pain and enhancing quality of life. They are committed to responsible prescribing, superior education, and utilizing revolutionary techniques in pain management. Their patient relations team ensures individuals are supported throughout their entire journey to pain relief.
The Ramos Center’s excellence has been recognized locally and nationally, including awards for community health advocacy and prevention efforts. Their mission is clear: to minimize pain and maximize life, delivering five-star treatment and patient care every step of the way.
If you are experiencing life-interrupting pain or want to learn more, visit ramoscenter.com or call the Venice location at 941.708.9555.
Dr. Ramos is dedicated to responsible prescribing, advanced education, and innovative techniques in pain management.
Walking and traveling is such a pleasure for Gayle Sharp.
Here’s Gayle working with light weights.
Ramos Center patient Gayle Sharp stays committed to building upper body strength using resistance bands.
Dr. Frank Lewicki
Dr. Brent Beyer
Dr. Charles Davis
Dr. Cassandra Brower
The Spa
SPA SERVICES PERFORMED BY LICENSED ESTHETICIAN THERESA FAVIA
Deluxe Custom Facials | Dermaplaning | Chemical Peels | Micro Needling
Lash Lift & Tint | Eyebrow Lamination | Eyelash Extensions | Acne Treatments
CERTIFIED DMK PROVIDER
SERVICES PERFORMED BY DR. CHARLES DAVIS, DR. BRENT BEYER & DR. CASSANDRA BROWER
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ENZYME MASK FACIAL W/FREE BROW WAX
PRODUCT OF THE MONTH PURCHASE CLEANSER, MOISTURIZER & TINT FOR $100 (VALUE $123)
EXPIRES: APRIL 30, 2025
1218 East Venice Avenue, Venice (941) 488-1075
Venicedentist.com
INVESTING IN HOPE
The Torres family breaks ground on their future home, with plenty of 'sweat equity' ahead.
HOW HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
SSC HELPS FAMILIES AND THE COMMUNITY BY PROVIDING FOREVER HOMES
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County (SSC) provides affordable housing while requiring homeowners to contribute time, effort, and pay a mortgage at an adjusted rate. In Venice—and everywhere Habitat builds—this not only creates homes but also fosters long-term stability. In return, these new homeowners gain a foundation for a better future, improving their lives and strengthening their communities.
(L-R) Venice City Manager Edward Lavallee joins CEO Christina McCauley and Homeowner Services Director Mary Ouellette of Habitat, Genna Torres, Luisa Vargar, Luz Torres, and John Truland.
Such is the case for the Torres family, who recently celebrated their future home's groundbreaking. "It was such a happy, joyous time. All the family members were hugging each other—what a wonderful thing to see,” said Christina McCauley, CEO & Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity SSC. McCauley was referring to Genna Torres and her extended family. A single mother raising two children, Torres was following in the footsteps of her own mother, Luz, who moved into a Habitat home a few years ago. Seeing firsthand the impact of homeownership, Torres was now doing the same—investing her time and effort to help build her own Habitat home in Venice.
HOW HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WORKS
Habitat selects families based on three criteria:
1. Need: The applicant must demonstrate a need for better housing.
2. Local Connection: They must live or work in the area.
3. Ability to Pay: Homeowners pay a zero-interest mortgage set according to income.
“We make sure it is affordable for them. In most cases, Habitat takes out a silent second mortgage that is forgiven at the end of their first mortgage,” McCauley explained.
In addition to financial requirements, families must complete “sweat equity” hours by
Family members John Truland, Genna Torres, Luz Torres, and Luisa Vargar smile as they look forward to their future Habitat home.
“We are always looking for volunteers to help with construction and fundraising.”
helping build their own homes and others. They also take classes in budgeting and home maintenance.
A HAND UP, NOT A HANDOUT
“We are building homes, and the people who move in become contributors—as taxpayers, employees, and more,” McCauley said when asked how the agency invests in Venice.
Habitat also partners with local organizations and steps in during emergencies. “We hold Christmas fundraisers for THE TWIG, help with hurricane recovery—we
step out of our main mission for our community,” she added.
Families applying for a Habitat home often don’t qualify at first. “We work with them to help pay off debt, reevaluate their job situation, and push for promotions or better jobs,” McCauley explained.
GENERATIONAL CHANGE
This process was especially challenging for Torres, who became ill while working toward homeownership. She is profoundly aware of how fortunate she is and how owning a home will positively impact her children.
it out!
Christina McCauley, CEO & Executive Director of Habitat
“Genna has two kids to take care of, and now she is healthy and will have her own home. These advantages will trickle down to her kids,” McCauley said. For many families, homeownership leads to better stability, she explained. “Parents can focus on work or education, and children experience fewer disruptions in school.”
VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS KEEP THE PROGRAM RUNNING
Habitat depends on volunteers for construction and fundraising. “We are always looking for new groups to be our workday warriors,” McCauley said. Many volunteers have decades of experience, while others are new and learn on the job.
Fundraising also plays a key role, as it supports six to ten home builds each year. Events, sponsorships, and donations make this possible. The Habitat ReStore in Venice also generates revenue by selling donated furniture, appliances, and home goods.
FACING CHALLENGES
Recruiting volunteers has been difficult. “As our volunteers age out, we are struggling to capture the next generation,” McCauley said. Without enough volunteers, Habitat must pay contractors, increasing costs despite contractor discounts.
Hurricanes also pose setbacks, delaying construction and shifting resources. Despite these challenges, Habitat for Humanity SSC continues its mission, helping families gain the stability of homeownership while strengthening the Venice community.
To support Habitat for Humanity SSC—through donations or volunteering— visit habitatsouthsarasota.org.
for Humanity SSC.
Hugging
On Investments & Savings
As you plan for a secure and comfortable future, it’s essential to adopt investment strategies that align with your financial goals. Whether you’re in Venice, Englewood, or Sarasota, here are three key strategies to consider:
1. Diversified Income Streams – Investing in dividend-paying stocks, bonds, and real estate can help generate a steady income while preserving capital.
2. Tax-Efficient Investments – Utilizing IRAs, Roth conversions, and tax-free municipal bonds can help reduce your tax burden and maximize your returns.
3. Healthcare & Long-Term Care Planning – Factoring in rising healthcare costs and considering options like long-term care insurance can help protect your assets in retirement.
WHAT IF YOU HAVEN’T STARTED TO SAVE?
It can feel embarrassing to admit, “I’m in my 50s and haven’t really started saving for retirement.” But don’t worry—it’s not too late. Working with a fiduciary financial advisor, you can begin taking steps to build your wealth and savings right now. Just start; saving even $50 a week is far better than doing nothing. You’ve likely heard that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, but the second best time is now. Investing is the same: just start saving today.
Talk to your financial advisor. If you don’t have one or if yours isn’t local, we’d love to discuss these strategies with you in more detail. We’d be happy to set up a time to chat, review your current situation, and tailor a plan to meet your specific needs in a no-obligation, complimentary consultation. Give us a call at 941.483.3600.
Advisory services are offered by Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor in the State of Florida. Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc., is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency, and are not engaged in the practice of law.
Kate Hyland Mercer is a Financial Advisor for Ferris Wheel Financial, Inc. She can be reached at: 871 Venetia Bay Blvd, Suite 201 Venice, FL 34285 941.483.3600 / Kate@FerrisWheelFinance.com
ARTICLE BY KATE HYLAND MERCER
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE: JUST START NOW!
Kate Hyland Mercer
(photo by Prion Photography).
Venice Art Center’s latest exhibition proves that art is truly “All In Your Head”
Juried Exhibition Showcases Inspired Works
The Venice Art Center’s juried exhibition, “It’s All in Your Head,” was a captivating showcase sponsored by “Venice City Lifestyle.” It featured the works of 72 talented artists and was juried by artist Mary Voytek. Now, let’s meet the winners! veniceartcenter.com
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY
FIRST PLACE: Linda Zentz
Artist Linda Zentz won first place at the Venice Art Center with her painting “JOY.” Zentz completed the piece in acrylics just months before the show’s call to artists and felt it perfectly embodied the theme. “I want as much joy in my head as possible,” she said, describing the pure, uncomplicated happiness her work captures. Zentz’s artistic journey began in childhood, leading her to study fine arts at Ohio University and Mexico’s Instituto Allende. Her passion for painting rekindled upon moving to Florida in 2012.
Title: JOY, Acrylic/ NFS
SECOND PLACE: Lynne Railsback
Lynne Railsback won second place with her watercolor painting “GINSENG,” inspired by the plant’s intricate, human-like details. “It was such an interesting design with all the roots,” she said, reflecting on its organic complexity. A member of the American Society of Botanical Artists, Railsback noted that she was honored by the recognition, given the exhibition’s many outstanding works. Raised among artists, she earned a graphic design degree, leading to a career in interior design. After retiring, she embraced botanical art, working from live specimens with a limited palette and no sketches.
Title: GINSENG, Watercolor, Available for purchase.
THIRD PLACE: Laura McElhinney
Laura McElhinney won third place with “WOMAN IN BLACK,” which was inspired by a vivid dream of a woman reflecting on her life. “It evoked that feeling for me and was, indeed, all in my head,” she shared. Influenced by black and white lighting design, McElhinney used charcoal on black paper to explore creating dramatic contrast. Thrilled by the award, she shared that it’s only her second exhibited portrait, as she usually depicts Florida’s endangered wildlife. With an MFA from CalArts, McElhinney’s diverse career spans theatrical design and teaching at the Venice Art Center.
Title: WOMAN IN BLACK, charcoal/mixed media paper
Now Taking
New This Season At Tuscany:
- Romantic VIP Booths with Fresh Roses
- New Italian Crystal Chandeliers
- Free Valet Parking
- New Parking Lot with 100 more Spaces
- New Tuscan Grand Ballroom, Opening Soon
- Tuscany Monster Smoker
-Live Entertainment Tuesday - Sunday
Chef Jimmy’s Exciting New Menu Items:
- Spicy Italian Smoked Sausage Lollipops
- Ahi Tuna & Apple Tartare in an Illuminated Ice Bowl
- Lobster Newburg in an Open Flame Crock
- Pork Osso Buco with White Truffle Polenta & Gremolata
- Tuscan Flaming 12oz “Prime” White Truffle NY Steak
A NIGHT TO SHINE: EPIPHANY GALA CELEBRATES 27 YEARS OF GIVING
The 27th anniversary of Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s annual major fundraiser, the Epiphany Gala, was a “Shining Star” in more ways than one.
Held last month at Plantation Golf & Country Club, the event was a stunning display of elegance, sophistication, and timeless charm. With a “Blue & Gold” theme, the gala sparkled—both figuratively and literally—creating a night of artfully curated celebration in support of the school.
HONORING EPIPHANY’S SHINING STARS
Beyond fundraising, the evening also honored Epiphany’s Shining Star Lifetime Achievement recipients, a tradition now for more than a decade.
The honorees, Dr. Noel and Mrs. Erica Maun, were recognized for their unwavering dedication and generosity toward the school and parish.
“Dr. and Mrs. Maun consistently give selflessly to the school, the parish, and the broader community, never seeking recognition for their efforts. Their generosity comes from the heart. Their children thrived at Epiphany School for many years, and even now, they continue to support the school and the children at Epiphany with love, care, and unwavering dedication,” said school representatives.
LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE
Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School continues to offer a STREAM-integrated approach to learning, blending Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics—mirroring how these subjects intertwine in the real world.
Enrollment is still open, and families are encouraged to schedule a tour. For more information, contact Roberto Pugliares at Pugliares@ecstigers.com.
Dr. Noel and Mrs. Erica Maun were named Epiphany School’s Shining Stars in March 2025!
Book Your Glamping Getaway!
Nestled between Venice and Sarasota, FL, our Glamping Tents and campsites offer spacious, air- conditioned and furnished retreat creating outdoor fun for all ages. Experience grilling by the campfire, stargazing in the hammock, biking on The Legacy Trail, and kayaking along the South Creek for unforgettable memories. Timberline Glamping Sarasota is located inside of the Oscar Scherer State Park, a hidden oasis of hiking and biking trails, freshwater lake, Nature center and fishing pier close to dining, shopping, and the world’s most beautiful beaches- our retreat promises a perfect escape.
Prongs replaced
Planetary Investment
April 22, 2025 marks the 55th anniversary of Earth Day, with local celebrations including events that week at Sarasota Audubon/Celery Fields (sarasotaaudubon.org) and Oscar Scherer State Park (friendsofoscarscherer.com). But being eco-conscious isn’t just for one day— here are some ways to make a difference all year long!
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
1. Unplug electronics when not in use and switch to LED bulbs. | 2. Plan a bee and butterfly-friendly garden: no chemicals! | 3. Avoid plastic by using bags made of cotton or hemp. | 4. Keep a compost bin and recycle the rest. | 5. Use stainless or glass water bottles.
5 TIPS FOR ECO-LIVING EVERY DAY! I 2 3 4 5
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
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make
the
best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an afterschool ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room
dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
BB Living at Wellen Park Unveils Luxury Gated Community for Rental Homes
Residential rental opportunities expand at Wellen Park with the introduction of BB Living at Wellen Park in the Playmore District. Under development by BB Living, this gated community offers 200 three- and four-bedroom single-family homes in a scenic setting with natural wetlands, lakes, and exclusive amenities—all professionally managed by an onsite team.
Designed for diverse residents, BB Living at Wellen Park provides five floor plans ranging from 1,628 to 2,435 square feet in both single- and two-story designs. Homes feature attached two-car garages, covered and screened patios, smart technology, open layouts, and upgraded finishes including granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances. Highspeed internet is provided, and the neighborhood is pet friendly.
BB Living residents can also enjoy exclusive access to the lakeside community amenity center, complete with a resortstyle pool, fitness center with outdoor workout and yoga space,
outdoor kitchen and living areas, fire pits, playground and pickleball courts. Walking trails will connect to the rest of Wellen Park, and there are several smaller parks and a dog park.
“We’re thrilled to welcome BB Living and introduce a new neighborhood of build-to-rent single-family homes to Wellen Park,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “BB Living at Wellen Park helps us meet the continued demand for rental properties from people looking to make Wellen Park their home while enjoying a flexible and maintenance-free lifestyle. With incredible elevations and a unique product that can meet anyone’s needs, there is nothing else like BB Living at Wellen Park."
"We’ve been doing this for a decade and have learned important lessons," said BB Living President Branden Lombardi. "The key is to build in the best locations, and Wellen Park delivers. By developing unique, luxury neighborhoods in great communities, with great amenities and a focus on the resident experience, BB Living Wellen Park delivers all of that, and more, to our future residents.”
BB Living at Wellen Park is available for leasing. Interested residents can contact the office with any questions or schedule a home tour Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about BB Living Wellen Park call 941.496.7380 or visit bbliving.com.
BB Living at Wellen Park
An aerial view of BB Living at Wellen Park
BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 3 4 5 6
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 4TH
Renowned Guitar Virtuoso and Humorist Clive Carroll Performs in Venice
Troll Music | 8:00 PM
Don’t miss English guitar virtuoso Clive Carroll for an evening of masterful original compositions, Celtic sound poetry, and decidedly British humor. Carroll has performed across Europe, Australia, the Middle East and North America, and has toured our area with Australian guitar master Tommy Emmanuel and English guitarist John Renbourn. trollmusic.com/events.
APRIL 12TH-13TH
The Annual Venice Shark’s Tooth Festival 2025!
Centennial Park in Historic Downtown Venice
Enjoy live music, food trucks, speakers, fossil vendors, a kid’s corner, and more at this popular annual event hosted by Venice MainStreet. Savor everything from seafood to barbecue, and groove to bands playing beachy rock, Motown, and more. It's a fun-filled weekend for the whole family! Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. venicesharkstoothfestival.com.
APRIL 16TH
Eirinn Abu: ANTHEM Tour Live in Venice
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Renowned platinum-selling saxophonist and just-named 2025 World Entertainment Award winner Eirinn Abu (eirinnabu.com), returns to his hometown with his ANTHEM Tour, featuring Grammy-winning members of The Miami Sound Machine! Known for blending instrumental pop with epic classics, Abu's soaring melodies have captivated audiences worldwide. Don’t miss this unforgettable live performance at the Venice Performing Arts Center! veniceperformingartscenter.com.
APRIL 25TH-26TH
Sarasota Ballet Program Seven - Movements of Genius
Sarasota Opera House
Enjoy a triple bill with works by some of the greatest choreographers of the 20th Century: “Serenade” - Choreography by George Balanchine and Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky; “In the Night” - Choreography by Jerome Robbins and Music by Frédéric Chopin; “A Wedding Bouquet” - Choreography by Sir Frederick Ashton and Music by Lord Berners. Accompanied by the Sarasota Orchestra. Learn about showtimes and more at sarasotaballet.org.
APRIL 27TH
The Venice Chorale Presents: Black & Blue – A Journey Along the Danube
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Join The Venice Chorale for a breathtaking musical journey evoking the Blue Danube’s voyage to the Black Sea. This enchanting concert will transport you along the river’s banks through stunning classical masterpieces, performed in collaboration with The Venice Symphony Ensemble. Experience the beauty and grandeur of this unforgettable evening. veniceperformingartscenter.com.
APRIL 29TH
Images of Dance With The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company and
The Margaret Barbieri Conservatory
Sarasota Opera House | 7:30 PM
Experience the future of ballet with dancers from The Sarasota Ballet Studio Company and The Margaret Barbieri Conservatory, performing alongside live music from Sarasota Music Conservatory and Sarasota Youth Opera. The 2025 program features a World Premiere by Ricardo Graziano; “Sing, Wearing the Sky” by Gemma Bond; and a suite from “Le Corsaire.” sarasotaballet.org.
CASSATA LAKES
