Business Connections 2023

Director of Annual Giving, YMCA of Southwest Florida (941) 492-9622 • ymcaswfl.org Director of Annual Giving for YMCA of Southwest Florida, Chris Naletko, has been involved in graphic design, marketing, and development in some capacity for over 20 years, but she knows that, "experience, knowledge, and creativity come from all ages and diversity." With this in mind Chris advises to, "always be open minded and willing to learn from those around you." Christina "Chris" Naletko Justin Pachota Co-Owner, The Island Bookshop Collectors Gallery & Framery Gallery (941) 488-3029 Bookshop (941) 416-5511 theislandbookshop.com Aimee Odette (941) 244-9300 • ContemporaryHearing.com Blair Post, HAS, BC-HIS, ACA President, Venice Pier Group Sharky's on the Pier, Fins at Sharky's, Snook Haven, Siesta Beach Eats, The Nest at the Bay I love creating amazing dining experiences and representing a brand of hospitality for vacationers and locals alike. My team of over 400 employees is both strong and resilient; I enjoy watching them continue to grow professionally and personally. The knowledge I have today can mostly be attributed to being involved in the operations from the ground up. The key to doing this job right is by being present, feeling the pulse of the restaurants, talking to our guests and team every day, to ensure the vision of the business is carried on from beyond the ownership and through to our guests. My dad made sure I understood that process and continues to mentor me every day. Owner, Hearing Aid Dispenser, Contemporary Hearing Owner of Contemporary Hearing, Blair Post, enjoys "seeing the immediate impact of helping people heal relationships" with properly fitted hearing aids the most in his work. With 23 years of experience Post says that, "misunderstandings [from hearing loss] are significant and removing that hurdle from couples and families while helping them enjoy their time together is my reward." Though Post also states that he is proud of the year over year customer voted Best of Venice awards Contemporary Hearing has been honored with. adno=3898909-1 TOP 40 BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS 36 Business Connections I August 2023 Aimee Odette is a voice for both book and art lovers in Venice. She and partner Michael Rank, both university professors, co-own The Island Bookshop and the Collectors Gallery & Framery. "Our shared vision and love of books and art fueled our passion for opening the bookshop and purchasing the established gallery and framery, realizing a long-standing dream of ours. We feel a local bookshop and art gallery is an extension of home and the anchor of a strong community." Aimee expressed. The Island Bookshop, named in the Top 20 Bookstores in Florida by Southern Living, is a small community-oriented bookshop for all ages. Renovations are underway to expand the gallery.

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