Michelle Held is an award-winning fine artist living in Sarasota. Often commissioned for custom paintings and murals, her vibrant paintings express her passion for wildlife, the natural world, interesting places, and colorful things. “I love exploring the outdoors from serene marshes to rickety oyster towns with their rainbow colored buoys and boats,” she said. “I’m guided…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with Joe Monach and Andrea Meythaler, the owners of Bambooty Bodygear. You can shop at their mobile store at the Venice or Sarasota Farmers Market Saturday morning and the Englewood Farmers Market on Thursday. Shop online at BambootyBodygear.com. Joe, what makes bamboo fiber appealing?The initial appeal is the softness. Many of our sales begin with…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with Pamela Fiume, the owner of Big Bam Bikes with her husband Ray. The popular store is located at 412 E. Venice Ave. near the Venice Train Depot. Call 941-240-1717 and visit BigBamBikes.com. Big Bam Bikes received one of our Venice Spirit Awards in 2022. Pamela, please introduce Big Bam Bikes.We…
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By Mary Lundeberg – Black Skimmers are one of Florida’s more unique birds. Although related to terns, the skimmer doesn’t dive for fish. Instead, this amazing bird forages for fish in flight. It uses its brilliant orange-red bill to plow through the surf as it glides expertly over the water. Their long, broad wings beat…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with Christopher and Kimberly Recchia, the owners of Seed to Table Vegan Eatery located at 2357 Tamiami Trail S. in Venice. Call 941-492-6232. Visit EatSeedtoTable.com to see their menu. Open Tues-Sat, 11am to 3pm with dine in, pick up and local delivery. Why is vegan cuisine important to health and longevity?A…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with Mike Austin, the new owner of Austin’s North Port, also known locally as Olde World Restaurant. The popular full-service family style restaurant is located at 14415 Tamiami Trail in North Port. Please call 941-426-1155. Visit their Facebook page. Mike also owns Coastal Automotive in Englewood managed by his wife, Kelly.…
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By Randy Moore, Publisher – I spend a lot of time prioritizing healthy living as a way of life. It’s always important and especially given the consequences of so much stress and toxins in our modern society. My foundation for better health involves daily fitness, healthy eating and meaningful activities. Photo shows me with my…
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A deep reverence for animals has inspired Marjie Goldberg’s passion for photography. It’s something she learned from her father growing up in New England. “He owned and operated three zoos,” said Marjie. “I spent a lot of time observing animal behavior and providing care for some of the babies at our home.” Born in Miami,…
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By Randy Moore, Publisher– I’m pleased to announce that Aspire DPC owned by Dr. Michele Gero (photo) has earned our Venice Spirit Award. DPC is an acronym for Direct Primary Care. Other local award winners include Lolablue in North Port and Sarah and Kevin Gleba in Englewood. Lolablue is receiving our North Port Spirit Award,…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with psychologist and life coach Dr. Mary Macedonio of Empathea located on Venice Island. Learn more at Empathea.com. Call 941-867-0867. Mary, please introduce Empathea.Empathea is an integrated medical spa focused on beauty, relaxation and total wellness. All of our services help clients reset and transform in response to various life challenges…
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Award-winning artist Debra Rhoads of Port Charlotte did early paintings on rain barrels and furniture before showcasing her love for birds, fish and flowers on canvas. The transition has delighted many art enthusiasts who appreciate Debra’s sensitive style and use of bright acrylic colors. A late bloomer, she took up art full-time after moving to…
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Editor’s Note: We spoke with Jennifer Loftus, the owner of Music Moves the Soul in North Port. Visit MusicMovestheSoul.com and call 1-808-283-3774. Jennifer, please introduce Music Moves the Soul?Music Moves the Soul expresses how both sound and stillness can open your heart and make you feel more alive, peaceful and present. Being able to really…
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