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.
A Thankful Season
In this season of gratitude, Thanksgiving invites us to pause, reflect on the blessings that enrich our lives, and share our abundance with those in need.
In that spirit, this issue of Venice City Lifestyle presents a trio of stories that explore what gratitude and blessings mean to local faith and business leaders. First, two local pastors—Pastor David Dahlke of Lakeside Lutheran Church and Pastor Tom Hodge of First Baptist Church—share about faith, blessings, and God’s gifts. In “Choose Joy,” the Jewish Congregation of Venice’s Rabbi-Cantor Marci Vitkus reflects on gratitude, blessings, and embracing life. Lastly, in “Gratitude in Action,” three local business leaders discuss how thankfulness shapes their personal and professional lives.
As the holidays approach, All Faiths Food Bank continues its mission of “Feeding Hope This Thanksgiving,” providing meals for families from North Sarasota to Englewood and beyond. And for those looking to transform their home, we feature Dzinly, a design platform offering virtual makeovers to bring your dream home to life.
While Thanksgiving serves as a reminder, gratitude and giving should be practiced all year long. This issue highlights opportunities to pay it forward and celebrates those who dedicate their time and resources to helping others.
We are deeply grateful to our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring these uplifting stories to you. Their partnership enables us to keep you connected to the good news happening in Venice.
As we gather with loved ones this season, let’s reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives, embrace the blessings we may take for granted, and share our gratitude in ways that make a difference.
All of us at Venice City Lifestyle are truly thankful for your ongoing support. May we all enjoy a grateful, meaningful Thanksgiving.
With love and gratitude,
November 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, Lynne Konstantin, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Cliff Roles, Stephanie Snow Photography, Janie Jones, DZINLY
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
All The Support You’ll Ever Need
1
in
8 Women
will face Breast Cancer in their lives.
All of them deserve the Highest Quality Care.
This is why Sarasota Memorial designed a state-of-the-art Breast Health Services Program combining accessible screening with the very latest in treatment options, for a groundbreaking approach to cancer care as comprehensive as it is personalized.
With eight locations for 3D mammography, yearly screening is easier and more accessible than ever before, while advanced diagnostics at our breast health centers ensure accuracy is second to none. And for those in our care, dedicated nurse navigators explain and coordinate treatment plans, while an award-winning team of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons and pathologists equipped with the latest in medical technology, leading-edge treatments and clinical trials, ensures they have more options than ever before.
Because at the Sarasota Memorial Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute, No One Faces Cancer Alone.
Victoria Hulland and Ricardo Rhodes in Sir Peter Wright’s Giselle |
Photo by Frank Atura
MEDIA SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSOR
Dr. Frank Lewicki
Dr. Brent Beyer
Dr. Charles Davis
Dr. Cassandra Brower
city scene
Celebrating 15 Years of the Inspiration & Impact that City Lifestyle has made across the Country. Proudly Serving 207 Communities in 38 States! Delivering to 1,800,000 Homes & Businesses and Reaching 5,000,000 Readers Every Month! Elevate 2024 was held in Kansas City, Mo. 1: Charmaine Tincher & Rynni Henderson at the National City Lifestyle Conference in Kansas City. 2: Our tastebuds were tantalized by amazing appetizers at NOKA during the Founders Dinner in Kansas City! 3: There’s nothing better than hanging out with like-minded publishers from across the country in the Concierge Room! 4: A special dinner with CEO Steven Schowengerdt and publishers Gordon & Kelley Montgomery at NOKA in Kansas City. 5: Amy & Charmaine happily enjoying the exclusive Founders Dinner at NOKA in Kansas City. 6: Our private CL Founders Dinner was held at NOKA, a beautiful and elegant yet cozy and warm Japanese-style restaurant in the heart of Martini Corner. 7: City Lifestyle is experiencing exponential growth, ranking #41 on the Top Circulated Magazines list out of over 5,000 U.S. publications!
8: World-class sports trainer Bobby Stroupe was a guest speaker at CL’s Conference. See him coaching Patrick Mahomes in Netflix’s “Quarterback”. 9: Amazing Beth (center) introducing City Lifestyle’s talented support team! 10: City Lifestyle’s National Support Team at your service with a SMILE! 11: Dan Fromm, President at Barkley OKRP, emphasizes building whole brands for modern consumers: “Brands must be relentlessly consistent!” 12: Congratulations, City Lifestyle! Reaching affluent homes is clear in these numbers! 13: Here’s Ajay Krishnan, City Lifestyle’s Chief Technology Officer, beta testing solutions to enhance our print and digital presence! 14: The corporate and media savvy Jamie Pentz, of CL’s executive team, predicts a bright future for VCL and its advertising partners.
of hope for cancer patients and their families. Today, as our population grows, so does the need for cancer care. The new outpatient Milman Cancer Pavilion will expand critical patient programs and services. Many are fully supported through philanthropy.
You can play a vital role in ensuring that families continue to find the hope and healing they deserve.
Learn how you can make an impact, call 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org.
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Child Protection Center Wins 2024 Best of Florida Award
The Child Protection Center, Inc. (CPC) was recently named a 2024 Best of Florida Regional Winner for Charitable Organizations. Celebrating 45 years of child abuse prevention and intervention in Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, CPC reached over 65,000 individuals last year. “Recognition such as this raises awareness of CPC and the vital work we do in protecting children from abuse,” said Executive Director Douglas Staley. The result, he added, “means more safe childhoods!” cpcsarasota.org
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Don’t Miss Wellen Park’s Inaugural Wine Festival, November 15-16!
Wellen Park presents its inaugural Wine Festival, an outdoor event celebrating top vintners and local culinary talent. Enjoy wine tastings from over 30 vintners, live jazz at Solis Hall, and small bites from top restaurants. Admission includes a souvenir glass and four food tickets. Kickoff is Friday, 11/15 from 6:-8:30 PM with an exclusive VIP Dinner and Preview Tasting, and the main Wine Festival is Saturday from 1-4 PM. VIP and General Admission tickets available. wellenpark.com/events/wine-festival/
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Inaugural Living Arts Festival – All Roads Lead to Venice on Thursday, Nov. 14
Venice will be the heart of the arts during the Living Arts Festival, running from November 10-17 across Sarasota. On Thursday, November 14, "the epicenter of the festival will be downtown Venice," said Executive Director Jeffery Kin, as major arts organizations, including Venice Arts Center, Venice Symphony, and Venice Theater, transform the city into a vibrant hub of creativity. Expect pop-up exhibitions, street performances, and a celebration of artistic collaboration that highlights the city’s dynamic arts community. sarasotarising.org/the-festival
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ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Action GRATITUDE IN
3 VENICE BUSINESS LEADERS REFLECT ON THANKFULNESS
In this season of gratitude, three local leaders—Lori Turkovics, David Jasik, and Melanie Delehanty Smith—share what they’re most thankful for. From community connections to family traditions, each reflects on the values that shape their lives and their work in Venice.
Venice still has that same sense of connection my family sought out years ago, and being part of projects tied to schools, churches, 501c3 groups, and sports clubs is truly rewarding.
Lori Turkovics on Venice, Family, and Giving Thanks
For Lori Turkovics, Venice is at the heart of her family and business. Twenty-five years ago, she visited with her husband, who grew up here, and they quickly realized it was the perfect place to raise a family. Today, she is a Certified Global Luxury Broker Associate at The Turkovics Group/Coldwell Banker Realty. “I sell this area because I love it,” she said. “I’m deeply rooted in the community and have firsthand knowledge of the wonderful lifestyle it offers.”
What Turkovics is most thankful for about Venice is the sense of community. “This is a place where people rally together, especially in difficult times,” she explained. During Hurricane Ian, her neighborhood came together to help one another by clearing fallen trees and offering food, electricity, and cell service. “That’s what makes Venice special—the way people show up for each other,” she said.
Through her work as a realtor, Turkovics doesn’t just sell homes; she sells the Venice lifestyle. “From Friday night high school football games to the incredible local organizations like The Child Protection Center and The Twig, Venice is a town that gives back,” she said. “It’s a small-town feel with big-city conveniences, and I love being a part of that.”
Turkovics is incredibly grateful to the Venice community for supporting her business, since the lion's share is built on referrals. “My friends, family, and clients are my greatest cheerleaders,” she said. “I’m so blessed that my clients share their positive experiences with others—that’s the best marketing you can get.”
When Thanksgiving rolls around, Turkovics’s family celebrates with friends who have become like family. “We play themed games and make memories year after year,” she said. “It’s all about sharing gratitude and joy with those we love. We are truly blessed.”
Luxury Broker
Lori Turkovics
David Jasik: Painting Life with Thankfulness
David Jasik is the owner of seven Sarasota Paint stores across Sarasota and Manatee Counties, with the newest location set to open the first of this month. "This store was previously Venice Paint, and the owner was simply ready to retire."
However, Jasik’s connection to Venice started years ago when he bought Gulf Harbor Marina in Nokomis. "I’d come down here to have fun. Boating was my passion. If I could go offshore twice a month, I was happy. Four times? I was ecstatic and thankful," he observed.
Five years ago, he opened his first paint store in Venice after frequently passing by Palm Square Plaza during its construction. "I always thought that would be a great place to open a paint store," he said. "My customer base in Nokomis and Venice is fantastic. I love the culture here. It’s a retired community, and the people have enjoyed their lives. They want to enjoy the fruits of their labor, and the stress is lower in Venice," he noted.
When asked what he’s most grateful about doing business in Venice, Jasik pointed to his core values. "Thankfulness, relationships, diligence, and consistency—they’re everything. I appreciate each moment. I’m thankful for all my employees and customers. Even if there’s a problem to solve, I appreciate it. It’s cool when you finish. Every day there’s something new, and now, with the new store in Venice, I think about the opportunities and all the things to be thankful for," he said.
Jasik also reflected on Thanksgiving itself: "I think about the people who risked their lives to come to America, searching for freedom. And personally, I’m thankful for the amazing relationships I have with family, friends, and coworkers. That’s just wonderful," he shared. Learn more at sarasotapaint.com.
David Jasik, Sarasota Paint
Melanie Delehanty Smith Community and Connection
Born and raised in Venice, Melanie Delehanty Smith, PE, is deeply thankful for the support and connections that shaped her. A proud graduate of Venice High School, Smith’s family moved to the area when her grandparents retired, drawn to its welcoming and close-knit spirit. “Venice was always about coming together,” she said. In 2021, she opened Mel-Haven Engineering, LLC, with a goal of giving back. “I’m grateful to be able to make a positive impact on the place that’s given me so much.”
For Smith, the sense of connection in Venice is what she’s most thankful for. “The rich, active community here is incredible,” she shared. “From local charities to sports, theater, and outdoor events, Venice has so much to offer. It’s a great place for families, and I’m thankful to be a part of it.”
Though she lives in Sarasota now, she spends plenty of time in Venice, enjoying old stomping grounds like Venice Main Street, Fins, and the Jetty with family and friends.
As a civil engineer and the President and Owner of MelHaven Engineering, LLC, Smith sees her work as a way to give back. “We design public works and infrastructure that shape Venice’s future,” she explained. “I’m thankful to play a part in ensuring thoughtful, sustainable growth for this special place.”
The support she’s received from the Venice community is something she treasures. “I’m so thankful for the friends, family, and connections I’ve made here over the years,” she said. “Venice still has that same sense of connection my family sought out years ago, and being part of local projects is truly rewarding.”
Thanksgiving is a time for Smith to reflect on her blessings. “I’m so grateful for the chance to work and live where I grew up,” she said. Her favorite memory? A blue crab feast her pop once prepared—a reminder that thankfulness often comes from shared moments.
Melanie Delehanty Smith, Mel-Haven Engineering, LLC
Choose Joy
Cantor-Rabbi Marci Vitkus Discusses Gratitude, Blessings, and the Power of Embracing all of Life’s Moments
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Jewish Congregation of Venice's Rabbi-Cantor Marci Vitkus
"Shalom" is a Hebrew word that means "peace," and it also conveys a sense of wholeness, completeness, welfare, and harmony.
Rabbi-Cantor Marci Vitkus hadn’t planned on becoming a Cantor, much less a Rabbi. Her career began in early childhood education. “I always wanted to be a teacher,” she said. “I stayed on that path for years and loved it.”
Twenty-three years ago, she got a call from a choir director for the Jewish Congregation of Venice (JCV). They were searching for a new Cantor. She thought, “Why not?” Vitkus auditioned and was hired that very night. “Cantorial singing wasn’t even on my radar,” she admitted. “But the opportunity came at just the right time.”
It turns out cantorial singing is in her blood. “I didn’t know it at first, but I come from a long line of cantors—17 generations!” Rabbi Marci explained that her great-aunt put together a family history, revealing her father was the 16th generation of family Cantors.
Originally from the Chicago area, Rabbi Marci attended Indiana University. After a stint teaching in Chicago, she and her husband moved to Venice, FL. She began as a part-time Cantor at the JCV, but that role grew over time.
Her journey to becoming a Rabbi was one of gradual realization. “Over the years, we had four different Rabbis at the JCV,” she said. “I had such a deep connection to the congregation, but it seemed like nobody else stayed long enough to feel the same way.” Eventually, she decided to put her name in for the role, and in June 2024, was ordained as a Rabbi through the Jewish Spiritual Leader’s Institute.
For Rabbi Marci, gratitude is central to both her life and her work. “Thankfulness is a mindset,” she said. “It’s how I try to see the world. Everything feels more positive when you look at it through the lens of gratitude.” She explained that Judaism itself is a religion of gratitude. “We’re supposed
Her advice for strengthening faith and connection with others is simple: “Choose joy,” she said. “Every day, we have to wake up and make the decision to choose joy. That joy comes from gratitude, no matter what else is happening around us.”
to say 100 blessings a day—that’s a reminder to appreciate everything, from what we see to what we experience.”
As Thanksgiving approaches, she reminds her congregation, “It’s okay to be grateful for what you have, even if there’s pain in the world. You can hold both emotions at once.”
Her advice for strengthening faith and connection with others is simple: “Choose joy,” she said. “Every day, we have to wake up and make the decision to choose joy. That joy comes from gratitude, no matter what else is happening around us.”
ON FAITH, BLESSINGS, and GOD’S GIFTS
TWO LOCAL PASTORS REFLECT ON HOW THANKFULNESS IMPACTS THEIR LIVES AND CONGREGATIONS
In this season of gratitude, two local pastors share their heartfelt reflections on the power of thankfulness. Lakeside Lutheran’s Pastor David Dahlke offers insight into how gratitude shapes his ministry, while First Baptist Church’s Pastor Tom Hodge reflects on how faith and thankfulness transform life’s challenges. Their thoughts remind us of the profound impact of living with a grateful heart.
First Baptist Church of Venice’s long-time leader, Pastor Tom Hodge, shares biblical insights and personal reflections on the power of thankfulness.
— Pastor Tom Hodge, First Baptist Church BLESSED AND HIGHLY FAVORED
Q: How has thankfulness shaped your life and ministry?
A: The Bible says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” (James 1:17). I am thankful to God for everything we have—life, family, friends. I especially thank God for my parents and grandparents who poured love and meaning into my life, and for my wife, Tassie, the mother of our four sons, who supports me and my ministry.
Q: How does the concept of thankfulness align with the core teachings of your faith?
A: Three scriptures come to mind:
1. John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” I’m thankful that God gave us Jesus, and when we trust in Him, we have everlasting life. 2. Romans 8:1-2 – “…Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” We are set free, despite our sins, and that’s impossible not to be thankful for. 3. Psalm 100:4 – “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.” We stop and take inventory of the blessings God has given us as we come into His presence.
Q: How do you encourage thankfulness in times of hardship or challenge?
A: Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Even in times of trouble, God will make things work out for the best. He just will. An example: I recently spoke with a man I’d prayed with 20 years ago. Then, he’d lost his job when the company went bankrupt. But through that experience, he met someone who led him to a new opportunity out of town. Today he has a thriving business and has moved back to Venice. He told me, “What was the worst day of my life at the time has become the best day of my life.” When we stay faithful, God takes what looks like a curse and turns it into a blessing.
Q: What makes Venice a special place for you?
A: Venice brings people together from all over into a community. Many of us don’t have family here, so we become each other’s family. If you go to a Venice High School football or volleyball game, you can see how supportive this community is, and I’m very grateful for that.
“When we stay faithful, God takes what looks like a curse and turns it into a blessing.”
Q: As Thanksgiving nears, what message do you hope to share with your community?
A: Thanksgiving is a time to focus on how wonderfully blessed we are. When someone asks, “How are you doing?” we could start answering, “I am blessed and highly favored” or “I am so blessed.” Gratitude and bitterness cannot coexist. When we practice gratitude and thankfulness, bitterness goes away. Imagine a world where all people are kind and generous, just like Jesus.
CONTINUED >
First Baptist Church's Pastor Tom Hodge with his wife, Tassie, for whom he is thankful.
“(Thankfulness) is about building self-confidence, showing kindness, and understanding that these actions come back around, bringing great joy and fulfillment.” — Pastor David Dahlke, Lakeside Lutheran Church
THE MULTIPLICATION OF THANKFULNESS
Pastor David Dahlke’s reflections offer a glimpse into how gratitude shapes his life, ministry, and the lives of others.
Q: How has thankfulness shaped your life and ministry?
A: Personally, thankfulness is a response to having received God’s gifts: the people He’s put in my life and the blessings I’ve received through them. How that has shaped my life is that all those blessings come through me and then enter the lives of other people, as I try to bless others as I’ve been blessed.
Q: How does the concept of thankfulness align with the core teachings of your faith?
A: It’s the same thing! Being people of faith, our core value system is to respond with thanksgiving, back to God and with other people. Part of our identity is to be thankful people because we are in thankful circumstances and, to take it one step further, to help those other people deliver their thankfulness beyond themselves. I’d call that the multiplication of thankfulness. It comes through me and gets passed on to others, and they pass it on as well.
Q: How do you encourage thankfulness particularly in times of hardship or challenge?
A: I encourage thankfulness in our congregation by helping people gain clarity on their mission, purpose, identity, and direction in life in Christ. When they understand who they truly are and find themselves in a healthy place, gratitude naturally flows—not just for themselves, but it overflows into the lives of others. And we don’t just focus on the serious aspects; I believe it’s important to have fun while doing this! It’s about building self-confidence, showing kindness, and understanding that these actions come back around, bringing great joy and fulfillment.
Q: What role does gratitude play in a believer’s relationship with God?
A: Gratitude is a proper response to the gifts given to us. Gratitude is less intentional (thinking it through) and more supernatural because it’s coming from God, without intentionality—coming from our heart, from our soul, and our identity. It organically flows out of our lives into the lives of other people.
Q: As we approach Thanksgiving, what message about gratitude do you hope to share with your community?
A: The message of gratitude is seeing who God is, what role He is playing in your life, and where He’s sending you to live that out, or to whom He’s sending you to live that out. It’s the concept of gratitude, emulating and reflecting what God has already done for us in Christ Jesus, and reflecting it back to others.
Pastor David Dahlke of Lakeside Lutheran Church.
VIRTUAL MAKEOVERS BRING YOUR DREAM HOME TO LIFE
Transform Your Home with Dzinly
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY
That same home (left) after utilizing
DZINLY
Dzinly's virtual exterior makeover tools. A home exterior before a redesign with Dzinly's advanced digital design tools. Dzinly specializes in making virtual exterior makeovers
We truly built this ourselves, with a full-time tech team. We were involved in every storyboard, every icon, every button—there’s not one thing we did not purposefully build.
In 2021, Dzinly launched with the goal of transforming how homeowners approach exterior home improvement by utilizing advanced digital design tools. As a digital home design company, Dzinly specializes in creating virtual exterior makeovers, allowing homeowners to upload a photo of their property and explore various design options like different paint colors, siding, roofing, and landscaping choices. The service is designed to simplify the home renovation process by offering easy-to-use previews, helping homeowners reimagine their exteriors before making any physical changes.
While many AI-generated design tools produce exciting visuals, they often fall short of being practical or affordable. These tools might be fun to explore, much like imagining yourself with a radical new hairstyle, but they rarely offer a realistic path forward for homeowners looking to make serious improvements. Dzinly, on the other hand, is different. It provides homeowners with not only visually appealing options but also actionable, realistic plans to turn their ideas into reality.
“We’re not just showing you a pretty picture. We’re showing you a real, actionable plan to transform your home,” says Jackie Mosher, Dzinly’s COO. By removing guesswork, Dzinly gives homeowners confidence in their decisions without the usual indecisiveness. The program also allows users to experiment with unlimited color, material, and brand combinations, guided by human design expertise. This makes the design process both fun and functional.
This innovative service quickly caught the attention of builders, architects, realtors, and painters, who see it as a powerful tool to streamline projects.
“We noticed the growing interest and developed a tailored process specifically for these industries,” says Mosher. The Realtor Package, for example, allows potential buyers to virtually redesign home
listings, making even less-than-perfect properties more appealing.
Dzinly also offers professionals a membership package that includes significant discounts and exclusive services not available to typical homeowners, such as front and rear yard designs and detailed as-built drawings. “Think of it as having your own in-house team of experts, dedicated to helping you complete your projects with ease and exceptional craftsmanship,” Mosher adds.
“The process is simple for homeowners and professionals alike.” They start by uploading a clear image of their home or project, along with detailed notes, inspirational photos, or links to Pinterest boards. Dzinly’s in-house designers then create one to three palettes, depending on the package selected. After approval, the design is rendered and delivered the next business day.
"We built this awesome toggle function that lets users experiment with every aspect of their home’s design," Mosher says. "You can change colors, materials, and architectural elements until you find the perfect combination."
For those considering larger changes like adding a dormer or porch, Dzinly’s in-house architects can include these features. Once the design is finalized, Dzinly connects homeowners with local contractors to execute the project. "It’s a one-stop shop," Mosher says.
What started as a passion project has now grown into a rapidly expanding platform. "We truly built this ourselves, with a full-time tech team. We were involved in every storyboard, every icon, every button—there’s not one thing we did not purposefully build," Mosher says. "Now the train has left the station and it's picking up speed. There are so many amazing things coming, and it’s such an exciting time. I can’t believe we’re here." Find out more at dzinly.com.
NOURISHING HOPE THIS THANKSGIVING
All Faiths Food Bank Steps up its Efforts to Provide Thanksgiving Relief to Community Members in North Sarasota, through Venice, Englewood and Desoto Counties
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Thanksgiving is a time when many families gather and enjoy a heartfelt holiday feast–but what about people in our community who are experiencing the crisis of food insecurity? Enter All Faiths Food Bank.
Each year, the 35-year-old nonprofit ramps up to address the problem of hunger during the holiday season–and 2024 is no different. Through its annual "ThankFULL" campaign, All Faiths will distribute more than 13,000 frozen turkeys and side dishes to families in need across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.
“Thanksgiving is slightly later than usual this year, which is why the nonprofit’s annual frozen turkey and sides distribution for Thanksgiving will begin Nov. 13, said Community Development Officer Denise Colter. “We will be sending
Founded in 1989, All Faiths Food Bank is the only food bank and largest hunger relief organization in Sarasota and DeSoto counties.
(Photo by Cliff Roles).
out postcards to all our neighbors who currently use our services, and our agency partners involved in this effort,” she said.
Funds for All Faiths Food Bank’s turkey distributions are being raised through individual, foundation and corporate gifts to the ThankFULL campaign. “We are thankful to our community donors who make this all possible,” said Colter.
For families in need who are not yet a part of All Faiths Food Bank's 'next-door neighbors' food distribution, or for more information call 941.379.6333. allfaithsfoodbank.org.
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2ND-3RD
The 36th Annual Venice Art Festival
Historic Downtown Venice | 10:00 AM
Now celebrating its 36th year, the all-outdoors, annual Downtown Venice Art Festival on West Venice Ave. features more than 100 artists. Work ranges from photography to jewelry, paintings to sculpture, ceramics, glass, mixed media and more. Free admission. Learn more at visitvenicefl.org/organizer/howard-alan-events/
NOVEMBER 4TH
The Venice Concert Band
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Join the Venice Concert Band as they return to the stage with a concert that will honor not only our military veterans, but also our great country! $10-$12. Learn more at veniceconcertband.com/2024-2025-vcb-concert-series/
NOVEMBER 12TH
Thankful Potluck Dinner
Lakeside Lutheran Church | 6:00 PM
Join Lakeside Lutheran Church for a community potluck dinner. Celebrate with World Renew volunteers, honor Veterans, and give thanks for the safe return of associate members. Those new to the area are warmly welcomed. RSVPs can be made by contacting the church office at 941.493.5102. lakesidelutheran.net
NOVEMBER 15TH-16TH
Instrumental Influencers - The Venice Symphony
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Meet the original classical influencers. From Beethoven to Vivaldi, Hadyn, and Brahms, at this concert you’ll discover their common connection! Celebrate the legacy of classical music and composition with timeless works from the masters. Nov. 15 at 7:30 PM and Nov. 16 at 3:30 PM. venicesymphony.org
NOVEMBER 22ND-23RD
Sarasota Ballet Program 2: Giselle
Sarasota Opera House | 7:30 PM
The iconic romantic full-length classic, Giselle is revered as one of the greatest and most faithful productions of this beloved story ballet. Sir Peter Wright’s production brings to life a story of young love, foolish betrayal, haunting tragedy, and finally redemption through forgiveness. Considered by many as the crowning achievement of the romantic ballet era. Tkts: $35-$125. To learn more or purchase tickets go to sarasotaballet.org/productions/p2-giselle
NOVEMBER 30TH
Venice Holiday Parade
Downtown Venice | 6:30 PM
The Venice Holiday Parade is the perfect ‘kickoff’ to Venice’s holiday season. Thousands of enthusiastic and creative participants representing over 100 local companies, schools, churches, social organizations and music groups join together to make this community family event fun for all ages. Learn about the route and more at venicegov.com/things-to-do/featured-events-attractions/venice-holiday-parade
Thursday | November 21, 2024 | 6-9 PM Venice Community Center | 326 Nokomis Ave S, Venice
Meet & greet with PAWS therapy pups Tastings & cocktails from 12+ local restaurants
Casino games- winner gets a COOL prize
Chance drawing for a ladies ROLEX changing lives! Exciting live & silent auction items
CHILD ABUSE: Prevention. Intervention. Treatment.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Contact Lou Ann Linn: LouAnnL@CPCSarasota.org 941-365-1277x120
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