Venice, FL March 2022

At Home With Daphne Oz!

A R T S + C U LTU R E

B OU LEVARD FI N E ART M AKES N O KO M IS HO M E R E A L E S TATE

RE ALTO R SALLY ABDELL A GO ES TH E E X TRA M I LE LI F E + C U LTU R E

DESTIN ATIO N CARIBBE AN: VEN I CE' S AGAPE FLIGHTS

M A R C H 2 022

Don’t Just Dream the Venice Lifestyle...

OVER D OL 85% S

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Prices, terms, and availability are subject to change. Floor plans, photographs, renderings, elevations and sizes are approximate for presentation purposes only and may vary. Photos by Victoria Dietz.

A Change of

Scene A Change of

Pace

Village On The Isle—your destination for peace of mind, community, security and so much more.

Village on the Isle is not just any retirement community. It’s also a never-ending vacation community. With ocean breezes and coastal sunshine, f riendship and fun, laid-back luxury, and peace-of-mind plus on-site health care—for life. So, make a change. Enjoy a new view and a new, caref ree you.

Village On The Isle is Venice’s only Continuing Care Retirement Community (Life Plan Community). Come discover for yourself why savvy seniors choose Village On The Isle!

920 Tamiami Trail South, Venice, FL 34285 | (941) 202-2533 www.VillageOnTheIsle.com/Change OIR #88005

WATER IS A WAY OF LIFE AT WELLEN PARK When you live in Wellen Park, a day at the beach or on the water is mere minutes away. White-sand Gulf of Mexico beaches, scenic rivers and beautiful bays offer virtually endless opportunities for fun in the sun – from watersports and fishing to beachcombing, shelling or just relaxing to the lulling sound of waves and water. All under 20 minutes away – in less time than it takes to fold a load of laundry.

Most Wellen Park residents have their favorite waterfront destinations. Manasota Beach, Venice Beach, Casperson Beach and Brohard Park feature miles of sugary sand along the Gulf, spectacular sunsets and distinct personalities. Venice is renowned for fossilized shark teeth that wash ashore. So much so, it’s earned the title of “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.” Casperson offers great shelling and

a more secluded beach experience; most of its beachfront is left in a natural state. Manasota also boasts a quiet awayfrom-civilization vibe.

Dog-friendly Brohard allows man’s best friend to frolic in the surf and sand off leash. Residents often pack a picnic or pick up their favorite to-go finger foods like sandwiches and wraps from Barrel & Bean, pizza from Bocca Lupo and other delicious dishes from Wellen Park restaurants.

The 720-foot Venice Pier offers prime fishing 24 hours a day plus the convenience of an on-site bait shop with rental rods and live bait. The city of Venice holds the fishing license, so the public doesn’t need one. The South Jetty is another popular fishing hole; however, individual anglers must have a state license. For the ultimate fishing expedition,

AWARD-WINNING HOMES AWAIT, STARTING IN THE $300s

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIVING YOUR BEST DAY EVER, EVERY DAY AT WELLENPARK.COM

local fishing captains offer half- and fullday deep-sea fishing charters on the Gulf, Lemon Bay and backwaters in search of tarpon, grouper, snook and other prize catches.

Those who feel the need for speed can rent powerboats and jet skis from vendors along the coast or harness the wind aboard a sailboat or catamaran. For serenity sans a motor, the nearby Casperson, Lemon Bay and Myakka River blueway trails offer paddlers dozens of miles of solitude, several launch sites, upclose encounters with wildlife and winding waterways through mangrove tunnels.

Senator Bob Johnson’s Landing, just two miles from Wellen Park, launches right into the Myakka River, recognized as Florida’s first Wild and Scenic River because of its natural, undeveloped beauty and unique ecology. The mighty Myakka meanders some

66 miles, passing moss-draped live oaks, sabal palm trees and mangroves. A mangrove island just south of US 41 is home to a nesting colony of threatened wood storks and designated as a critical wildlife area.

Residents will soon enjoy a large expanse of water in their own backyard. Downtown Wellen, currently under construction, features an 80-acre lake for kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing, and an on-site outfitter. The lake provides a perfect backdrop from restaurant patios, sidewalks and a 2.8-mile biking, jogging and walking trail around it.

Learn more about a life that channels the waterside vibe by visiting the Wellen Park Welcome Center, open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m.-5 p.m. at 12275 Mercado Drive, Venice, Fla. You can also call 941-271-0116 or visit wellenpark.com

VISIT OUR WELCOME CENTER 12275 Mercado Drive, Venice, FL 34293 | (941) 271-0116

IT ’S NEVER TOO L AT E TO H AVE A

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Home Issue

March 2022 PUBLISHER

Charmaine Tincher charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

We have a great issue put together for you based on the theme of ‘Home.’

It’s no secret we’ve grown to learn just how important it is to live in a home that makes you comfortable, where you can express yourself in your furnishings and artwork, and where you are more than happy to spend a lot of time. Our features this month offer many ways for you to improve upon your wonderful homes and make them even better!

Our cover feature is Daphne Oz, an influencer, New York Times best-selling author, and Emmy Award-winning TV personality. We are so fortunate to have Daphne in our issue, sharing tips and tricks for hosting amazing at-home get togethers, as well as tidbits from her incredible life.

Are you looking to make a splash with a gorgeous piece of artwork?

Then head to Boulevard Fine Art South. Our feature on the gallery and its owner, David Manola, explains all the fabulous refurbishing he did to the old Nokomis Post Office—his gallery’s new home. In our Local Experiences section, we share our favorite stores for browsing home décor and furniture including Venice Lighting & Fan Design Showroom, Pelicans and Flamingos, Rugs As Art, Island Life Hammock Co., and Habitat’s ReStore.

Exciting things are afoot at what is becoming home now for so many of us—Wellen Park. Our feature on Downtown Wellen highlights restaurants that will soon be serving us great food and drinks: Mirabella’s Italian Coastal Cuisine, Oak & Stone for pub food and beer, Villani & Co. for great steaks and seafood, and Bright Ice for premium ice cream.

Are you looking for a new home? Our feature on Coldwell Banker’s Sally Abdella lets you know why she is the perfect Realtor for you, including a touching story about how she went the extra mile for a client. Lastly, for how blessed we are here in Venice, need abounds in our world. We’re pleased to highlight Agape Flights, a nonprofit that flies necessary supplies from the Venice Airport to missionaries in the Caribbean. We admire how much good they do, especially during times of disaster. Don’t miss their open house ‘Pie In The Sky’ event at the airport. Details for this, as well as what’s going on at the Symphony, Epiphany School, and much more, is listed in our Events section.

Happy reading, Venice!

CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER @VENICELIFEST YLEMAGAZINE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ VENICE |

Tony D'Souza | tony.dsouza@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Tony D'Souza CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Stephanie Snow Photography, Kensey Taylor, Sarah Noel, Agape Flights, Wellen Park

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Venice City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Venice area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Venice City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Do you have jewelry you don’t wear?

Broken necklaces,

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VENICE AREA GARDEN CLUB

Local Wellen Park Resident.

I Live, Work & Play Here!

33rd Annual Garden Tour & Plant Sale Friday & Saturday, March 11 & 12 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Now is the time to

SELL YOUR HOME!

PLANT SALE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AT

The Market is

1225 E. Gate Dr., Venice

HOT WITH BUYERS!

DONATION: 941.218.9362 $25 Cashdarlene.gulfshoresrealty@gmail.com or Check, No Credit Cards Open Air Event 981 Ridgewood Ave. Venice, FL 34285 Masks Appreciated - Social Distancing

For Ticket & Event Info Visit:

www.venicegardenclub.com

Garden Tour proceeds benefit the beautification of the Venice Area, Scholarships for the High School & Elementary School Programs plus many more community activities.

Darlene Curiazza Realtor®

941.218.9362 MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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MARCH 2022

inside the issue The Home Issue

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28

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14

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Calling All Foodies!

8

Lifestyle Letter

Specialty Culinary Experiences Raise The Flavor Factor

12

Local Experiences

For Wellen Park; First Round Of Downtown Wellen Park

14

Hot Spot

Restaurants Offer A Taste Of What’s To Come

18

Artist’s Palette

22

Giving Back

28

Local’s Choice

32

Party Planning

38

Events

18 Boulevard Comes To Nokomis Artist David Manola Has Opened Boulevard Fine Arts South In Nokomis's Old Post Office Building

22 Agape Flights Delivers Love And Hope

FO O D + B EV ER AGE A RTS + C U LT U R E

LI FE + C U LT U R E R EA L ESTAT E ENT ERTA I NM E N T

Founded in 1980, The Christian Organization Serves Missionaries In The Caribbean, Delivers Disaster Relief, And Shares Jesus's Unconditional Love

28 Going The Extra Mile

When It Comes To Service, Coldwell Banker's Sally Abdella's Dedication To Her Clients Always Puts Quality First

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O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Kensey Taylor Daphne Oz is an Emmy Award-winning television host, New York Times-bestselling author, chef, and entrepreneur focused on innovation in food and beverage, beauty, wellness, fashion and media.

IMAGINE MORE WITH MATTAMY AT WELLEN PARK Two great communities, one incredible location Visit our communities and experience the lifestyle that awaits you with Mattamy Homes at Wellen Park.

Both of our communities offer prime locations, with fun-filled private amenities. From the resort-style pools and pickleball courts to the close proximity to the new Marketplace shopping center and future Downtown Wellen, you have everything you could want and need at your fingertips.

To learn more or schedule your private tour, please call 941-269-3918 or visit mattamyhomes.com/sarasota

Visit MattamyHomes.com or see a Mattamy New Home Counselor for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Prices, specifications, terms, conditions, offers, homesite and availability are subject to change or revocation without prior notice or obligation. Photographs and videos are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. Mattamy Homes reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice. Mattamy Homes makes no representation or guarantee that the community or any amenities will be constructed as currently planned. Images are for illustrative purposes only and should never be relied upon. Models/lifestyle photos do not reflect racial or ethnic preference. Features, amenities, floorplans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Copyright © 2022 Mattamy Homes. E. & O.E. Builder’s #CGC1524054, CBC1261948, CGC1513363 MATTPA467

Renaissance at Wellen Park Gated, single-family and paired villas 4 decorated models open daily 11720 Renaissance Blvd., Venice, FL 34293

Sunstone at Wellen Park Gated, single-family and attached villas Now selling from Renaissance Models open early Spring

MARCH 2022

local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.

Think outside the box for some FUN, local, and unique experiences related to home decor & design! Here, Venice City Lifestyle’s staff offer you five of their favorite local shopping experiences, the perfect destinations to find beautiful furniture, unique area rugs, hammocks, gently used items, and brand new eclectic home decor. Whatever you are looking for, we have you covered with these excellent local businesses. Happy shopping, Venice!

Home Decor & Design VENICE LIGHTING & FAN DESIGN SHOWR OOM: Browse through the sprawl-

Venice Lighting & Fan Design Showroom Stephanie Snow Photography

ing Venice Lighting & Fan Design Showroom, a two-story, 9000 sq. ft. space full of higher-end home decor and furnishings in Nokomis. 909 S. Tamiami Trail Nokomis, FL PELICANS AND FLAMINGOS: Wide selection of new and used furniture in a huge warehouse decorated in pelican and flamingo themes. Colorful artwork and coastal designs where shopping is an experience! 758 S Tamiami Trail, Osprey, Florida 34229 R UGS AS AR T, INC. : From classic Persian carpets, to contemporary rug designs, Rugs As Art offers an astounding variety of quality rugs and excellent customer service in its beautiful showroom. 6650 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL HABITAT FOR HUMANITY R ESTOR E: Habitat For Humanity's ReStore is an important part of the nonprofit’s fundraising mission. A secondhand store stocked by donations--quality furniture, clothing, tools, appliances and more. 1400 Ogden Road, Venice, Florida 34285 ISLAND LIFE HAMMOCK CO. : Featuring hand-crafted hammocks from solid oak with eco-friendly sealant and cotton-poly blend rope for durability and comfort, this local small business also offers furnishings and local art. 329 W Venice Ave Venice, FL

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

When it comes to real estate agents...

Who You Choose Matters Responsive | Attentive | Honest The qualities of a true Midwesterner.

Now a local resident of Wellen Park, I specialize in areas from Sarasota to Punta Gorda

SALLY ABDELLA Realtor®RSPS SRES

Coldwell Banker Realty - #1 Venice #1 Florida

(941) 587-0407 sally.abdella@cbrealty.com Sallyabdella.cbintouch.com | 331 W. Venice Ave, Venice |

Let’s talk about what

I can do for you!

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Villani & Co. Steak Seafood Raw Bar

SPECIALTY CULINARY EXPERIENCES RAISE THE FLAVOR FACTOR FOR WELLEN PARK; FIRST ROUND OF DOWNTOWN WELLEN PARK RESTAURANTS OFFER A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME

A rendering of Downtown Wellen.

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H OT SP OT | FOOD + BEV E RAGE

CALLING ALL FOODIES! Restaurants specializing in rustic Italian cuisine, tavern fare, steaks and super premium ice cream are coming to Downtown Wellen, the central hub and gathering place for Wellen Park, the master-planned community. The four locally owned establishments – Mirabella’s Italian Coastal Cuisine, Oak & Stone, Villani & Co. and Bright Ice – will add to Downtown Wellen’s eclectic flavor and social nature with indoor and alfresco dining, barrooms and even a beer wall destined to become popular hangouts.

“These thoughtfully designed restaurants complement the vision, energy and excitement of Downtown Wellen,” says Rick Severance, President of Wellen Park.

“They have the same creative spirit as Wellen Park and are dedicated to establishing a true sense of community and togetherness.”

Currently under construction, the food and beverage establishments will open with the first phase of Downtown Wellen, anticipated for the fourth quarter of 2022. Additional restaurants are also being finalized and are expected to be announced soon, including the premier lakefront restaurant. Designed as the vibrant gathering place for both the community and larger region, Downtown features the 80-acre Grand Lake, retail shops, waterfront dining, pedestrian-friendly streets and public community spaces.

Downtown Wellen will also have a permanent food truck park, event lawn and Town Hall for concerts, events and other community gatherings. Natureinspired features like a children’s playground blending into its surroundings and a hammock grove with a lounge area under a nearly 100-year-old heritage oak tree connect visitors with the outdoors and provide spots for rest and relaxation.

MIRABELLA’S ITALIAN COASTAL CUISINE This is the newest venture for Wellen Park residents Jeffrey and Kathleen Ziccardi who are also the proprietors of the popular Ristorante San Marco in downtown Venice. Their latest endeavor offers 166 indoor and outdoor seats and a large bar and features nearly century-old Sicilian recipes found in a journal written by Kathleen’s grandmother, Mirabella.

“We will offer a culinary journey through Italy focusing on the freshest foods and wines only we can source,” says Jeffrey Ziccardi. “Mirabella’s will feature coastal

Italian dishes, pasta and seafood, fresh organic vegetables and lighter, healthier recipes that fit with Wellen Park’s healthful lifestyle.”

OAK & STONE Sarasota-based Oak & Stone’s Downtown Wellen restaurant is its first two-story venue and will capitalize on views of the 80-acre Grand Lake with a 1,000-square-foot rooftop patio and expansive indoor and outdoor seating for 185 guests. Oak & Stone is known for its tavern food, 50-tap beer wall and lively social atmosphere. Menu items include wings slow roasted in a stone oven, artisan pizzas, burgers and healthier choices like quinoa and veggie bowls.

“We’re incredibly excited about this opportunity,” says cofounder Brett Decklever. “Oak & Stone complements Wellen Park well.”

VILLANI & CO. Villani & Co., one of several Wellen Park restaurants created by Venice-based OTW Restaurant Group, specializes in steaks and seafood and offers a raw bar, an extensive menu of small plates, sharable cheese and charcuterie boards, and a large selection of bourbon, whiskey and scotch.

“Villani & Co. is an incredible culinary mix and dining concept,” says Tommy Villani, managing partner of OTW. “It has an amazing raw bar and a contemporary American vibe.”

OTW also operates Irma’s Tacos in Wellen Park’s Marketplace and Barrel & Bean in the Wellen Park Welcome Center.

BRIGHT ICE Founded in St. Pete two years ago, Bright Ice specializes in small-batch, super-premium ice creams that are made in house and offer playful twists to classic flavors. Selections include deepest darkest chocolate secret, chocolate cookie cake and cream, lemon with crystallized ginger and roasted strawberries with brown sugar and balsamic.

“Wellen Park feels very symbiotic for us – it’s bright, modern, all natural and focused on people feeling good. It has the same energy as our brand. Wellen Park is the perfect fit. It’s everything we want to be.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WELLEN PARK MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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David Manola, owner of Boulevard Fine Art South in Nokomis.

Boulevard Comes To Nokomis David Manola Has Opened Boulevard Fine Art South In Nokomis's Old Post Office Building ARTICLE BY TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY For David Manola, owner of the recently opened Boulevard Fine Art South in Nokomis, buying and selling world-class fine art has been his life’s passion. Originally from Oak Park, Illinois, David spent his childhood summers in Venice, where his grandmother owned and conserved a large tract of land. A graduate of the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago, David cut his teeth working in fine art galleries in the city, then became an art buyer for Marshall Field’s. His reputation for style and taste, as well as his gregarious nature, helped him build a loyal client list. His gallery in the Hinsdale area of Illinois, has been in business for nearly 30 years.

Here in Nokomis, he has painstakingly refurbished the old Post Office building into a gorgeous gallery and custom framing studio filled with original artwork by local artists and artists from around the world. His attention to detail shows in both the gallery build-out, and the artwork on display.

“When people come in,” David explains, “they’re amazed at the quality and caliber of the artwork. I wish I had a dollar for every time someone says, ‘Oh my god, I can’t believe we have this in Nokomis!’”

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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE

David works with leading agents to secure exclusive rights to investment-grade fine art as well as new emerging art. Many of his Chicago clients have homes in Venice and Sarasota, and their patronage and desire for the artwork he carries is part of the reason why he chose to expand his business south. He decided to locate his new gallery in the old Post Office in part because of the space it offers—David hopes to host community and art-related events.

“The most important thing I tell clients about choosing artwork is they should simply buy art they love,” David says. “I always want my clients to live with the art for 24 to 48 hours before they buy it. We also have a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is unusual. If they like something in our collection, we bring it to their home and hang it for them.”

David is a fantastic storyteller, deeply knowledgeable about his stable of artists and art world trends, and very welcoming of new clients.

“Come into the gallery,” David says. “We are always excited to build new relationships around this great art.”

110 Colonia Lane East, Nokomis. 941.220.1227 Boulevardfineart.com.

Boulevard Fine Art features established and emerging artists, both local and from around the world.

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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H O P E & L O V E D E L I V E R I N G

AG A PE F L I G H T S D E L I V E R S L OV E A N D H O PE 22

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

FOUNDED IN 1980, THE CHRISTIAN ORGANIZATION SERVES MISSIONARIES IN THE CARIBBEAN, DELIVERS DISASTER RELIEF, AND SHARES JESUS'S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AGAPE FLIGHTS

In a hangar at the Venice airport, miracles are happening every day. After all, that hangar and its two airplanes make up one of our region’s most unique nonprofit organizations—Agape Flights. Every week, loaded with vitally necessary supplies, the aircraft of Agape Flights depart Venice, rise up through the clouds like angels, and soon arrive in the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti, where they are welcomed by missionary families.

Agape Flights brings missionaries essential supplies they cannot acquire in those impoverished countries, allowing them to do their work of spreading God’s love and hope throughout the Caribbean.

It all began in 1980 after Ohio farmers Keith and Clara Starkey returned from a Haiti mission trip and had a vision for the future. As Clara famously said, “God laid it on our hearts to buy an aircraft to fly supplies into Haiti.” Living in Bradenton at that time, the Starkeys mortgaged their home, incorporated Agape Flights as a nonprofit, bought a small Cessna 411, and found a volunteer pilot to fly it. Three weeks later, Agape Flights’ very first flight took off from the Bradenton-Sarasota airport to supply missionary families in Haiti.

“For the past 41 years, God has brought together the people, the pilots, the provisions, everything needed to make the ministry what it is,” says Agape Flights Communications Manager Abby Duncan. “What started with one flight to Haiti quickly grew into serving different locations throughout Haiti. Then, at missionaries’ request, we started going into the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas. There was so much need and the ministry has continued to grow and grow.”

Agape Flights has also flown supplies in times of crisis, such as after 2010’s Haiti earthquake, 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, 2019’s Hurricane Dorian, and the most recent 2021 Haiti Earthquake. Working with the missionary network on the ground, the disaster supplies delivered

CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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100 Airport Ave. E., Venice.

941.488.0990. Agapeflights.com

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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

M I S S I O N

by Agape Flights are quickly distributed to the affected populations who need them.

On Saturday, March 5th from 11:30 A.M. to 2 P.M., Agape Flights opens its hangar to the general public for its annual ‘Pie in the Sky’ awareness event. Agape Flight’s CEO Allen Speer and the rest of the staff and volunteers will be on hand to explain the organization’s work and mission, display their aircraft—currently an Embraer 110 ‘Bandit’ capable of carrying 3000 pounds of supplies, and a Piper PA 31- 350 ‘Chieftain’ capable of carrying 1750 pounds of supplies and passengers—and share God’s love over BrewZaBagels’ pizza and Yoder’s dessert pies. The event will have a superhero theme and is fun for the whole family.

Agape Flights is supported by many partners, but always welcomes financial contributions to maintain and broaden its Christian mission.

Flights depart weekly throughout the year. During times of disaster relief, flights may depart every day.

Fuel is one of the organization’s main expenses, along with aircraft maintenance, and everyday operational costs. The mission is not without serious risks; Haiti in particular continues to suffer from political unrest, violence, and disaster-related challenges.

“The missionaries we serve are so grateful for Agape, they tell us that they could not do what they do without Agape’s service,” Abby says. Agape Flights is blessed to serve affiliated missionaries who share the love of Christ through agriculture, athletics, clean water and community resources, education, micro-enterprise opportunities, medical and dental care, vocational training, home and church construction, and more.

Agape is a word to describe God’s unconditional love. Agape Flights literally means ‘God’s love flights.’ Offer your support to Agape Flights and its mission through the contact info listed below!

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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going the extra mile WHEN IT COMES TO SERVICE, COLDWELL BANKER'S SALLY ABDELLA'S DEDICATION TO HER CLIENTS ALWAYS PUTS QUALITY FIRST

Realtor Sally Abdella

ARTICLE BY TONY D'SOUZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | R EAL E STATE

Sally's dress is a Gretchen Scott design from Downtown Venice's Twist Boutique.

Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Sally Abdella moved to Islandwalk in the West Villages of the new Wellen Park development three years ago with her husband, Joe. A Realtor with Coldwell Banker, Sally is the mother of twin 21-year-old sons, and has 30 years of experience in luxury sales.

“My motivation since moving to Florida has been, ‘What can I do to make myself feel like I am making a difference in people’s lives?’” Sally says. “If I can get someone into their perfect home, that’s my goal. The experiences I have had in this business are nothing short of amazing.”

Friendly, knowledgeable, loyal and committed, Sally always goes the extra mile, using the many resources at her disposal through Coldwell Banker.

“So many people talk about how they love to learn about other people,” Sally explains. “But I really and truly do. I am super dedicated to my clients’ best interests. My work is about quality service, not the quantity of sales.”

Last year, Sally worked with an older couple looking to downsize from their waterfront home. The wife had serious health issues, and her devoted husband wouldn’t consider any arrangement that would not keep her with him. Sally promised him that he

would always be able to trust and depend on her, that she would help him through every step of the sale and moving process.

A buyer was secured quickly. Sally helped the couple pack, clean, and donate unneeded items to local nonprofits. In the midst of that transition, the wife passed away. Sally accompanied her now widowed client to the funeral home to make arrangements. He was so moved by Sally’s dedication, he asked her to deliver his wife’s eulogy.

It’s that depth of personal connection that guides her professionally.

Sally urges buyers and sellers to understand their need for high quality representation like hers. “Buyers and sellers need a great Realtor because of the competitiveness of this market,” she explains. “I have strong relationships with agents representing sellers and can give my buyers that necessary edge. In this market of multiple offers on almost every listing, that really helps my buyers come out on top. It’s very important if you plan to sell that you also have one person dedicated to marketing your property to get the maximum exposure and the most equity in your pocket.”

941.587.0407. 331 W Venice Ave, Venice. Sallyabdella.cbintouch.com.

Instagram.com/sallysellsneartheseashore/.

Facebook.com/sallysellsneartheseashore/.

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954-612-1754 karlablakemedicarespecialist.com MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / V E N I C E

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Daphne Oz: Beautiful Evenings at Home Emmy-winning TV Host & NY Times Bestselling Author Shares her Dinner Hosting Favorites

Drawing on her Italian and Turkish heritage, this adventurous foodie loves to travel in her kitchen with bold, simple recipes that are equal parts nourishing and celebratory.

A New York Times bestselling author of several books, including “The Happy Cook, Relish” and “The Dorm Room Diet,” her newest book, “Eat Your Heart Out: All-Fun, No-Fuss Food to Celebrate Eating Clean,” launches in April. In addition to “The Good Dish,” which launched January 2022 nationwide, she is thrilled to be the newest judge to join the cast of FOX’s “MasterChef Junior.”

She is an Emmy Award-winning TV host, natural foods chef, wife and mama of four. A graduate of Princeton University, The Institute for Integrative Nutrition and the Natural Gourmet Institute, she is focused on innovation in food and beverage, beauty, wellness, fashion and media.

We sat down with Daphne Oz to learn more about her journey to home entertainment.

CONTINUED >

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Photography Kensey Taylor

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Photography Kensey Taylor

Photography Sarah Noel

Photography Kensey Taylor

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CITY LIFESTYLE: SHARE WITH US YOUR BACKGROUND AND THE INFLUENCE IT HAD ON YOUR JOURNEY TO WHERE YOU ARE TODAY. DAPHNE OZ : I was born in Philly, raised in

New Jersey, and now my husband and our four kids and I live in Florida. I spend a few days each week working in NYC taping our new syndicated talk show, The Good Dish, covering everything delicious in daytime which is a dream job for an eater by nature, by calling and by choice—like I am.

My mother’s family is part Italian and my father’s family is Turkish, and these two incredible food cultures inform so much of how I grew up eating and how I love to cook now. The vibrance of flavors, passion for gathering family and friends to the table, and effortless ways in which simple meals become beautiful memories are just some of the ways I try to infuse all my cooking with the joy of this heritage.

I’ve been to culinary school, but every bite I take continues my education, and the foundation of my love of cooking started at my mother’s and grandmother’s elbows, watching and then helping them whip up these delicious, nourishing meals for their big families. A perfect example of the kind of epically memorable, wonderfully simple recipes I grew up on is my Grandmother’s Eggless Caesar Salad. It’s bright with lemon and garlic, one or two secret ingredients, plenty of pecorino and parmesan cheese, and ultra-creamy despite no raw eggs! It’s one of my absolute favorite salads, so I made it into an IGTV recipe video about a year ago that has been viewed nearly 7.5 million times online. I get giddy every time someone shares a photo or video of them making it at home.

CL: WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR HOSTING A MEMORABLE DINNER PARTY AT HOME? DO: When I entertain, my general approach

is: Abundant Simplicity. Appetizers are generous piles of a few different things – olives, hunks of parmesan, spiced nuts, torn bread with herby oil to dunk in, sliced Persian cucumbers with a pool of labne or Greek yogurt, olive oil, and flaky salt for

dipping. I look for recipes that are simple or that I’ve made 100 times before that are always crowd pleasers and leave me plenty of time to enjoy my company. The whole point of a beautiful evening together is to make sure you, the host, are relaxed and comfortable, because your guests will take their cue from you. I always set a drink out that guests can help themselves to when they arrive, which frees my hands up to continue any final preparations and has the added benefit of helping them get comfortable and feel right at home..

I like to think my decorating melds are simple, elegant and polished with very plush, soft, round edges, and I love anything that feels handmade with a story to tell. I love making edible centerpieces and will put tons of bowls and platters out in the center of the table spilling over with fresh produce or herbs in terracotta planters that guests can help themselves to. I enjoy colorful glasses, tons of gold candlesticks, and then handmade ceramic plates and pretty, linen napkins to keep it textural.

If you’re looking for a yummy signature cocktail, I’ve fallen in love with the Plume & Petal range of mid-proof premium infused vodkas (and am thrilled to be their newest brand ambassador!). Each of their lemon, peach and cucumber flavors is naturally infused and layered with essences like white tea and elderflower and just a hint of honey for sweetness, so the taste is sophisticated and bespoke.

CL: WHAT INSPIRED YOUR NEWEST COOKBOOK AND WHAT CAN WE GET EXCITED ABOUT? DO: In “Eat Your Heart Out: All-Fun, No-Fuss

Food To Celebrate Eating Clean” I share the techniques I’ve used to get my mind, energy and body back on track after each pregnancy or anytime I’ve needed to reboot good habits—without ever losing the joy of cooking, the fun of mealtime and the stress-free pleasure of doing it intuitively.

“Eat Your Heart Out” is a collection of 150 recipes free from gluten and refined sugar that have consistently helped me lose weight without ever disappointing my demanding tastebuds—or making healthy eating feel like a job I don’t need or want.

CONTINUED >

“The vibrance of flavors, passion for gathering family and friends to the table, and effortless ways in which simple meals become beautiful memories are just some of the ways I try to infuse all my cooking with the joy of this heritage.”

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CL: IN ADDITION TO YOUR COOKBOOK, WHAT ARE SOME HOUSE-WARMING OR DINNER HOST GIFT SUGGESTIONS? DO: I find a little gift basket of some of my favorite sea-

soning essentials goes a long way and feels personal and unique. I’ll add things like a favorite herbal tea like the Plain- Rooibos Passionfruit, some delicious Kosterina or Fancy Peasant olive oil, Westbourne Togarashi Crunch (such as an incredible salty-crispy pairing with buttery togarashi spiced chex cereal, toasty nuts, and a little bit of sweet to balance the spice! It’s the perfect bar snack FYI), Daphnis & Chloe herbs and spices (love their quality and pretty glass jars!), Gjelina Honey Trio, Maldon Flaky Smoked Sea Salt, Primo Botanica Tree Hugger Chaga Chocolate, Olive & Linen Turkish Hand Towels…the list goes on and on!

It’s so much fun to discover amazing small brands and share these yummy finds with friends. When it comes to housewarming, helping to outfit the bar is a safe bet. I love the swanky, retro feel of these Fizz Glasses. A gorgeous wood cutting board that is simple enough to go with any decor and as lovely to display as it is to use.

With more than 670k Instagram followers, Daphne Oz is an Emmy Award-winning television host, New York Times-bestselling author, chef, and entrepreneur focused on innovation in food and beverage, beauty, wellness, fashion and media. You can find and watch Daphne prepare her recipes on Instagram at @daphneoz and www.daphneoz.com.

For foolproof recipes and entertaining tips for your next dinner party, scan the QR code below.

Photography Kensey Taylor

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MARCH 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.

M A RC H 5T H

Agape Flights' Pie In The Sky Open House

100 AIRPORT AVE, VEN ICE | 11 :30 A M Agape Flights was founded by Keith and Clara Starkey on October 24, 1980. In the words of Clara Starkey, “God laid it on our hearts to buy an aircraft to fly supplies into Haiti.” Pie in the Sky is Agape’s annual open house at its hangar at the Venice Airport. Enjoy pizza, dessert, and learn how & why Agape flies. Agapeflights.com

M A RC H 1 1 T H

Jumping Under The Stars Is Back!

FOX LEA FAR M | 5:00 PM Join Fox Lea Farm for up-close Grand Prix Show Jumping. Gates open 5:00 PM. The first horse will be on course at 7:00 PM. Show Jumping is an Olympic Sport requiring extraordinary athleticism from both horse and rider, with jumps approaching 5' in height and 6' in width. Live music, food, beverages. $10, free parking. VIP tables available, to reserve visit: bit.ly/3l1SW6E

M A RC H 11TH-12TH

VAGC 33rd Annual Garden Tour And Plant Sale

M A RC H 1 8T H- 1 9 T H

The Venice Symphony: Game Of Romes

M A RC H 1 9 T H

1225 E. GATE DR., VEN ICE | 10 :0 0 A M Join the Venice Area Garden Club for its 33rd Annual Garden Tour and Plant Sale! This open-air event runs from 10 AM – 4 PM both days. Donation is $25 cash or check, no credit cards. Garden Tour proceeds benefit the beautification of the Venice area, scholarships for the high school and elementary school programs, plus many more community activities. Venicegardenclub.com

VEN ICE PERFORMIN G ARTS CE NT E R | 7 :30 P M Join the Venice Symphony on an intoxicating voyage to Rome, the 'Eternal City'. The rousing score of BenHur opens the program, followed by gorgeous intermezzos from Mascagni and Puccini, the theme from HBO’s Game of Thrones and Rossini’s masterpiece, the Overture from William Tell. Finally, you will see Italy through the eyes of Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4. For tickets visit Thevenicesymphony.org .

The 2022 Venice Symphony Ball: A Roman Holiday

PLAN TATION G OLF & COUN TRY C LUB | 6 :30 P M The Symphony Ball: A Roman Holiday is the Symphony's premiere event of the season and includes dinner, open bar, live auction, valet parking, and dancing to the music of members of The Venice Symphony orchestra. With your support, The Venice Symphony will continue its legacy of world-class symphonic music and music education programs. Call Holly Anderson at 941.207.8822. Email Handerson@thevenicesymphonyorg.

A P RIL 8T H

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School Gala 2022: Tropical Oasis

PLAN TATION G OLF & COUN TRY C LUB | 6 :0 0 P M Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School invites supporters to its Gala 2022: Tropical Oasis. This year's Gala honors Lisa and John Giglio, 2022's Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients. A silent auction will be followed by dinner and a live auction. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available. Lisa and John will be featured in next month's issue of Venice City Lifestyle. Ecstigers.com

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