The second annual senior prom, themed “Palm Trees and Pearls,” gave older adults the opportunity to experience or relive a memorable milestone, featuring a luncheon, dancing, the crowning of a prom king and queen, and a special celebration offered at no cost.

A committee representing local health providers, churches, and community organizations organized the “Palm Trees and Pearls” Prom, which Cyndi Calk of Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, Trish Vitaletti and Linda Young of San Pedro Church, Tonia Olsen of Seniors Blue Book, Wendy Nolan of Archwell Health, and Alexis Raptis of The Gallery of North Port coordinated. Their shared goal was to create a meaningful and accessible experience for area seniors.

Thanks to community sponsors, attendees could enjoy the event at no cost. The Gallery of North Port provided a catered meal, while Grand Living at Wellen Park created a dessert table. Additional support came from local partners and volunteers, including San Pedro Church members who helped the event run smoothly. Additional sponsors include House of Hormones, ActivAge Senior Care, Truewood by Merrill, TNG Real Estate, Mortellaro Law, Amerilife, Assisting Hands, Encompass Health, and Archwell Health.

Building on lessons learned from its inaugural year, organizers expanded the celebration with improved lighting, more decorations, and additional photo areas. A larger dance floor accommodated the crowd as guests enjoyed live music from “Andy’s 57 Chevy”, a five-piece band that kept attendees on their feet! Designated seating areas were also arranged for groups from communities such as Truewood by Merrill, The Gallery of North Port, Grand Living at Wellen Park, and local church groups.

The prom continues to hold special significance for many participants. Organizers noted that during the first year, 40 of the 180 attendees had never experienced a prom before. That impact remains central to the event’s mission.

Fellow attendees enthusiastically supported Frank and Honey Stroker when they crowned them this year’s king and queen, and they received crowns, sashes, and a gift basket.

The prom also featured emcees Trish Vitaletti and Tonia Olsen, while volunteers and sponsors, including bartenders Amber with ActivAge, Sidney Calk of Archwell Health and Brian of Truewood, contributed to the festive atmosphere.

Guests were each presented with a flower and a small gift as they departed, many expressing appreciation for the experience and plans to return next year. Organizers said roughly half of this year’s attendees had also taken part in the inaugural event, reflecting the prom’s growing popularity and lasting impact within the community.

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Residents say building this new stretch would destroy Manasota Key. The county’s behind the project, a $15 million extension that would connect Manasota Beach to Wellen Park. Pat Neal, who used to be a Florida senator and now runs Neal Industries, is developing it.

But many people aren’t on board. They organized before, back in February, when residents covered their cars with ribbons and signs and drove out to get the commissioners’ attention.

Over 2,000 people have already signed a petition to stop the extension. The county recently held a meeting to show off the road’s design, but from what the opponents say, nothing in those plans changed their minds.

Many residents living near the proposed road believe the county should spend its money and energy elsewhere. Spending money on River Road is a popular option.

The county has explored widening River Road and Winchester Boulevard, all hoping to ease the region’s notorious traffic. With new schools in Wellen Park, K-8 and High School, and growing neighborhoods, leaders argue solutions must be reached.

People in the community aren’t staying quiet about this. They’ve started petitions like “STOP PAT NEAL: Saving the Wetland, Wildlife, and Preserving Land – STOP MBR Expansion” to push back against the Manasota Beach Road expansion.

Residents from Englewood and nearby areas have come together, determined to stop the project. They believe property rights are being ignored, and the threat to wildlife is real. The campaign says Pat Neal, his company Neal Communities, and other developers keep chipping away at what makes Florida unique. Every new development means more wetlands and open land disappear. Their petition is just one part of a much bigger fight.

Protesters are also concerned about the wildlife living in the wetlands nearby. Residents plan to keep showing up and making noise.

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Circle February 21 on your calendar. That’s when Atlanta hits the field for their first Grapefruit League game, squaring off against the Rays over in Port Charlotte. The Braves’ training facility sits in the heart of Wellen Park, North Port, and it’s buzzing with energy.

There’s more to look forward to: big spring matchups against the Twins on February 22, and the Pirates on February 25 and March 20. Plus, the team’s got a special exhibition lined up—they’ll take on Team Colombia in a World Baseball Classic warmup on March 4.

To mark their return, the Braves are pulling out all the stops with Welcome Week at CoolToday Park. They’ve got an Open House and Party on the Plaza coming up February 14, a Cosmic Beer Run the next day, and then the Braves Country Block Party on February 16. Fans can catch open workouts, happy hours, and live music all week, leading up to the home opener against the Twins on February 22. That night brings a pregame ceremony and a concert after the final out. It’s shaping up to be a great start to the season.

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Wellen Park is gearing up for a lively, art-filled weekend on February 14 and 15, as the Wellen Park Fine Arts Festival comes back to Downtown Wellen. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, Wellen Park Boulevard transforms into a vibrant outdoor gallery, showcasing eye-catching work by artists from all over Florida and the country. Admission is free, and everyone’s invited.

“Art brings people together and sparks inspiration in ways nothing else does,” says Christine Masney, vice president of marketing at Wellen Park. “We love giving our residents and the wider community a chance to meet artists, talk about their creative process, and even commission pieces that speak to them.”

This year’s festival features a curated mix of original and handmade art, including paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, woodworking, glass, fiber, ceramics, wearable art, and mixed-media creations. Stroll through Downtown Wellen’s welcoming streets, grab a bite at one of the local restaurants, shop the boutiques, or just soak in the atmosphere. Live music will fill the air all weekend, adding to the creative energy as you explore.

The Wellen Park Fine Art Festival is brought to life in partnership with Paragon Events. Want more details? Head over to wellenpark.com/events/wellen-park-fine-arts-festival.

About Downtown Wellen

Downtown Wellen stands out as the region’s favorite spot for gathering, dining, and unwinding. You’ll find restaurants, boutiques, beauty salons, and a mix of medical and professional offices. They designed the outdoor spaces for both relaxation and fun, think cozy parks, a natural playground, a living room shaded by a massive, relocated live oak, and bigger spots like the Great Lawn for festivals, markets, and community celebrations. Solis Hall, Downtown Wellen’s rental venue, offers an outdoor stage, a lakeside patio, and a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

This walkable downtown draws people in with its easygoing waterfront vibe. The 80-acre Grand Lake sets the scene, inviting fishing and paddle sports, while a three-mile lakefront trail wraps around downtown. Kind Vibes Outfitters rents bikes, e-bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards, so you can get out and explore.

The Yard food park brings a playful twist, with outdoor seating, lawn games, and food served up from vintage shipping containers. It’s laid-back, social, and easy to enjoy.

You’ll find Downtown Wellen at 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice. Find out more at wellenpark.com/shop-dine.

About Wellen Park

Wellen Park puts wellness, community, and an active lifestyle at the heart of everything. The community offers a wide variety of homes and neighborhoods built by top national and regional builders. In 2025, real estate consultants RCLCO and John Burns named Wellen Park the nation’s No. 8 best-selling community. When fully built out, over 50,000 residents and 22,500 homes will call it home. Right now, about 10,000 residents already enjoy a full lineup of amenities, fitness options, events, and easy access to Downtown Wellen and the Gulf beaches.

New neighborhoods are constantly joining the mix, offering private amenities and options like low-maintenance villas, coach homes, condos, and custom or semi-custom single-family homes. There’s even a new enclave designed just for adults 55 and older. Rentals, both apartments and single-family homes, are available, along with independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

Curious? Call 941-960-7805, visit www.wellenpark.com or stop by the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Drive in Venice, open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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The Publix will serve as a primary anchor for North River Marketplace, a 51-acre ground-up development designed to meet the needs of a rapidly growing residential population in southern Sarasota County. The project is located near Interstate 75 and is positioned to serve residents of Venice, North Port and surrounding communities.

North River Marketplace is planned to feature a mix of retail, dining and specialty service businesses, creating a centralized shopping destination for the area. Benderson Development has not yet released construction timelines or an anticipated opening date for the Publix location.

The addition of Publix at North River Marketplace reflects continued commercial investment in the Wellen Park area, which has seen steady growth fueled by new housing, roadway improvements and expanding amenities.

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“The festival has become a tradition for our residents and the community to welcome the new year,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “Participants enjoy decorating their luminary bags and including messages for 2026 or remembrances of loved ones.”

The bags are available from 5 to 7 p.m. near the Heritage Oak Tree on a first come, first served basis with tables and supplies provided for decorating.

The Eighth Note Collective, a beloved Orlando-based jazz band which performed at the 2025 festival, marks an encore return. Known for its fresh take on classic jazz music, the band plays throughout the event on the Solis Hall stage. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs for seating under the stars on the Great Lawn.

The evening of illumination, music and reflection begins with a sunset over the Grand Lake and includes a commemorative fireworks show painting the sky in vibrant colors. New for 2026, the 10-minute display begins at 8 p.m. with prime viewing from the Great Lawn and Hammock Lawn. The fireworks display is weather-dependent and subject to change based on local drought concerns.

Semi-permanent projectors, located throughout downtown’s outdoor areas, immerse guests in light displays during the festival. The unique experience features a changing visual environment of moving color, shapes and viewer interaction.

Visitors will also enjoy Downtown Wellen’s popular restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines and The Yard food park, serving casual food and beverages from retrofitted shipping containers.

Festival parking is expected to fill fast. Carpooling, ridesharing, golf carts or walking are suggested.

Visitwellenpark.com/events/save-the-date-2026-luminescence-festival for more information.

Luminescence Festival Schedule

5 to 7 p.m. – Luminary bag pickup near the Heritage Tree
5:53 p.m. – Sunset over the Grand Lake
6 to 10 p.m. – Performance by The Eighth Note Collective
6 to 10 p.m. – Projection art displays
8 p.m. – Fireworks display over the Grand Lake

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Visitors can meet artists, learn about their techniques and explore a wide range of work, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, glasswork, ceramics, fiber and wearable art, mixed media and woodwork. Artists will also accept commissions for customized pieces.

“We believe in the inspirational and transformative power of art and are excited to bring the Holiday Festival of the Arts to our residents and visitors who are looking for unique gift giving pieces, or simply looking to pick up curated art for their own home,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park, the sixth fastest selling community in the United States.

Downtown Wellen’s boutiques, restaurants and businesses will be open throughout the festival. More information is available at wellenpark.com/events/holiday-festival-of-the-arts.

Downtown Wellen is located at 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice. Learn more at wellenpark.com/shop-dine.

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“Wellen Wonderland is an unforgettable holiday celebration for the entire family that captures Wellen Park’s spirit of joy and community connections,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “Guests enjoy a wide variety of unique events and experiences that celebrate the season of being together with family, friends, and neighbors.”

For full event details, visit wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.

Thursday, Dec. 4
Local School Performances, 6 to 7 p.m.: Students from across the community share the magic of music – from time-honored carols to holiday classics – during performances on the Solis Hall stage.
Ornament Decorating, 6 to 8 p.m.: Twinkling lights and downtown’s 80-acre Grand Lake provide the backdrop as families and friends create one-of-a-kind keepsake ornaments. Activity available while supplies last.
Live Holiday Music Under the Heritage Tree, 7 to 10 p.m.: Enjoy holiday tunes performed by Totally B under downtown’s beautiful Heritage Tree.

Friday, Dec. 5
American Sirens Holiday Performance, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.: Known for signature harmonies, captivating vocals and a timeless style, the American Sirens deliver an unforgettable evening accompanied by favorite holiday melodies.
Figure Skaters Performance, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Experience the magic of the season as talented skaters take to the ice for dazzling performances.
Tree Lighting with Santa, 6:15 to 6:30 p.m.: A Wellen Park holiday tradition, downtown sparkles to life during the annual tree lighting ceremony featuring a visit by Old Saint Nick. Gather by the Grand Lake as the switch is flipped on the community tree illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights, enjoy festive music, sip on seasonal treats and experience the magic as children visit with Santa. Registration is requested at wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.
Pictures with Santa, 6:30 to 8 p.m.: Capture a keepsake moment to treasure for years to come. Families create cherished memories while children share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus.
Ashley Lux Band, 6:30 to 10 p.m.: Gather with family and friends for a joyful night of music, community and celebration as this Tampa-based band performs seasonal favorites and soulful tunes.

Saturday, Dec. 6
Caddy Carts Parade of Lights, 6 p.m.: The night’s festivities kick off with the annual golf cart parade featuring carts decked out in lights and holiday decor as they make their way down Wellen Park Boulevard. Cue the squeals of delight as children spy a special guest getting a lift to his chair.
Dueling Pianos,6 to 10 p.m.: This year-round favorite gets a holiday makeover as dueling pianists tickle the ivories head-to-head, performing festive favorites and crowd requests. Expect a high-energy night of audience interaction and plenty of laughter.
Pictures with Santa, 6:15 to 8 p.m.: Kids relay their holiday wish lists with Santa as you snap an Instagram-worthy photo, set to the sparkling backdrop of downtown.

Sunday Dec. 7
Derek Roura Trio, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: This talented threesome performs holiday music on the Solis Hall stage during the weekly farmers market.
Snow Party, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; There’s a 100% chance of snow flurries today as children of all ages enjoy Wellen Park’s unique Snow Party. Downtown’s splash pad transforms to a winter wonderland – no mittens required.
Pictures with Santa, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: It’s the final opportunity for a picture with Santa before he returns to the North Pole.
Glow Bike Ride, 5:30 p.m.: Cyclists deck out their bikes in LED lighting and dress to impress during this beloved annual tradition – the brightest ride of the season. Enjoy the sights and sounds of holiday music from sidewalks or follow the lead of sponsor Kind Vibe Outfitters while cruising through downtown all aglow. The ride begins and ends at Solis Hall. Full details, including a route map and link to register, are available at wellenpark.com/wellen-wonderland.

Music under the Tree, Crownz Duo, 6 to 9 p.m.: Enjoy holiday music during this festive performance by Branco Costa.

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The request, filed by Winchester Florida Ranch, LLLP on behalf of itself and the City of North Port, seeks to change the Future Land Use designation for about 2,432.9 acres of a 3,148-acre property along South River Road. The proposal would shift the land from Semi-Rural and Rural to Moderate Density Residential, which allows between two and fewer than five homes per acre. The rest of the land already carries Moderate Density Residential or Major Employment Center designations.

The property is located south and west of the North Port city boundary. After the hearing, the Planning Commission will send a recommendation to the Sarasota County Commission for final consideration.

All interested parties are invited to appear, be heard, and submit relevant evidence. Copies of the proposed Amendment and supporting documents are available during normal business hours in the Planning and Development Services Department at 1001 Sarasota Center Blvd., Sarasota, Florida.  Copies of the petition and supporting documents will be available to view or download at www.scgov.net, Keyword:  Planning Commission, the Friday prior to the public hearing.  Written comments will be considered and may be sent to the Planning and Development Services Department prior to the public hearing at the above address or by e-mail to planner@scgov.net.   The public hearing may be continued from time to time as announced by the Board. 

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VENICE, Fla. — Downtown Wellen, the center of dining, shopping and entertainment in Wellen Park, is expanding with a new phase that will introduce restaurants, boutiques, wellness services and professional offices designed to serve residents and visitors alike.

“This next phase of Downtown Wellen reflects our commitment to creating vibrant, engaging spaces where people can connect and have conversations, whether they’re meeting for breakfast, enjoying a fitness class, browsing local shops or simply gathering with neighbors,” said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. “These new additions were curated with resident feedback in mind and are designed to enrich everyday life and strengthen the sense of community that makes Wellen Park so special.”

Merchant openings are expected in spring and summer 2026. The second phase of downtown also includes plans for a boutique hotel, new luxury apartments and a dog park. The newest retail phase is fully leased.

Restaurants and Cafes
Easy Does It Comfort Kitchen will serve comfort food with a creative twist, offering burgers, hearty sandwiches and “monstah” tater tots from Chef Spiros Stogiannis. La Maison, an authentic French patisserie, will offer breads, pastries and croissants. Agave Bandido, a Mexican-inspired restaurant and tequila bar, will feature artistic murals and contemporary cuisine. Grain & Berry, known for superfood bowls, toasts and smoothies, will round out the dining lineup.

Retail and Lifestyle
Seaside & Co. will combine coastal-inspired clothing, home décor and a wine bar and lounge. Hudson Square Boutique, founded by Wellen Park resident Danielle MacConel, will feature women’s resort wear and accessories. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming will provide gourmet treats and grooming services for pets.

Health, Beauty and Wellness
James Griffith Salon will offer full-service styling and color treatments. Club Pilates will provide low-impact workouts for all skill levels. The Mattamy Homes Design Center will guide homebuyers through flooring, cabinetry, fixtures and finishes to personalize their homes.

Professional Offices
AvSKY, a private aviation brokerage, will join several new professional tenants, including Allstate Fisher Family Insurance, J&B Insurance Partners and Mattamy Homes’ Southwest Florida Division headquarters.

Phase II of Downtown Wellen includes two mixed-use, two-story buildings totaling 44,000 square feet, designed by Trapolin-Peer Architects of New Orleans. The ground floors will house restaurants and retail, with professional offices above.

The Wellmar Hotel, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property, will also join downtown. The hotel will feature more than 120 rooms and a full-service rooftop bar. Future additions include new luxury apartments and a 2-acre fenced dog park with agility equipment, open space and shaded seating areas.

Wellen Park officials said the expansion continues their mission to foster community connections and provide spaces where residents can live, work and socialize in one place.

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