JANUARY 2026
Photo by Cindy Desmond
VENICE CITY E-NEWS A DIGITAL PUBLICATION FOR RESIDENTS & VISITORS OF THE CITY ON THE GULF
City Council Members
Mayor Nick Pachota
Vice Mayor Jim Boldt
Rick Howard
Rachel Frank
Ron Smith
Kevin Engelke
Upcoming Council Meeting Dates:
Jan. 13 Feb. 10 Lloyd Weed
Contact all City Council members by emailing citycouncil@venicefl.gov. City Council meets begin at 9 a.m., in Council Chambers at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave, or watch online.
Police Department welcomes BRACE Navigators The Venice Police Department joined Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Centerstone, and regional partners on Dec. 2 to welcome the newest BRACE Navigators, part of a community-wide initiative designed to improve access to behavioral health support for individuals and families in crisis. The BRACE program, short for Behavioral Response and Community Engagement, places trained Navigators alongside the Venice Police Department Community Outreach Team, working with community organizations to help residents connect quickly with mental-health care, case management, housing resources, addiction treatment, and other essential services. By integrating Navigators into the response system, the partnership is aimed at reducing redundant emergency calls to law enforcement and improving long-term outcomes by connecting people with the right support at the right time. At the December reception, City and community leaders celebrated the inception of the program and its impact on public safety and community wellbeing. Navigators Ana Costa Morais and Matt Ramlakhan of Centerstone will be housed at the Police Department on East Venice Ave. “It’s inspiring to see our community partners come together to expand support for those most in need. Programs like BRACE strengthen the safety net for our residents, and the City of Venice is proud to stand alongside Centerstone and Gulf Coast Community Foundation in this work,” said Venice Mayor Nick Pachota.
Email Venice Public Information Officer Lorraine Anderson at landerson@venicefl.gov to subscribe
Charter Officers
THE LATEST Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring emphasized the value of the Navigators’ partnership with VPD’s Community Outreach Program.
City Manager James Clinch
City Clerk Kelly Michaels
“Our Community Outreach Program is a vital part of how we connect with residents and support those facing challenges,” Leisenring said. “Working in tandem with the Navigators will speed up access to services, broaden our capabilities, and allow our officers to focus on reaching new individuals and families. This partnership strengthens our ability to serve with compassion and effectiveness.” The Venice Police Department remains committed to proactive community engagement and supporting collaborative solutions that improve behavioral health access throughout the region.
City Attorney Kelly Fernandez
Public Safety Chiefs
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs access to resources, contact 211 for community resources, or 988 for suicide and crisis intervention. Learn more about the BRACE program here: https://www.gulfcoastcf.org/news/introducing-brace-new-community-widebehavioral-health-resource.
Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring
Venice Fire Chief Frank Giddens
Top: BRACE Navigators Ana and Matt stand with VPD Special Operations Sgt. Rodrigo Morales, Capt. Eric Hill, Community Outreach Case Manager Kasey Ledford and Outreach Officer Courtney Chaco after assisting a family this holiday season. Center: BRACE Navigator Matt performs a safety check on a new mobility device. VPD and partners recently donated the stair-climbing device to a local family. Left: BRACE Navigators Ana and Matt join VPD for the Blue Santa toy donation collections on Dec. 18 at City Hall.
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VENICE CITY E-NEWS
JANUARY 2026
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How to watch City Council and Advisory Board Metings Venice City Council meets at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave., at 9 a.m. generally on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Council meeting minutes and video recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date. Watch City Council meetings and recordings and view full meeting agendas and minutes online here.
Advisory Boards Citizen Advisory Board (CAB) Citizen Tax Oversight Committee Community Rating System (CRS) Committee Fire Pension Board of Trustees Historic and Architectural Preservation Board (HAPB) Planning Commission Police Pension Board of Trustees Venice Housing Authority
CITY COUNCIL Dec. 9 Council Meeting Recap The following actions were taken by Venice City Council at their Dec. 9 regular meeting (Council Member Rachel Frank was excused): Recognitions: Venice Fire Rescue Firefighter/Paramedic Bernardo Rivera and Firefighter/EMTs Danielle Van Deusen, Christian Stoddard, and Jacob O’Connell were sworn in by Deputy City Clerk Mercedes Barcia. Venice Fire Rescue Firefighter/Paramedic Juan Leyva was recognized for 5 years of service, and Building Inspector Michael Reeves was recognized for 10 years of service. Deputy Clerk Barcia was recognized for earning her Master Municipal Clerk designation.
Consent Agenda: All items under the Dec. 9 City Council Consent Agenda were approved by 6-0 vote Ordinances, First Reading: Council took action on the following ordinances Ord. No. 2025-37, Ord. No. 2025-38, and Ord. No. 202545, approved on first reading and scheduled for final reading Ord. No. 2025-39, approved on first reading with stipulation and scheduled for final reading Ord. No. 2025-46, denied Ordinances, Final Reading: Council took action on the following ordinances Ord. No. 2025-36, continued to Jan. 13 Ord. No. 2025-40, Ord. No. 2025-42, Ord. No. 2025-43, and Ord. No. 2025-44, approved and adopted
Other business and actions: Finance Director Linda Senne provided the September 2025 Year End Report City Council approved the 2026-2027 Federal Legislative Priorities Council agreed to participate in a joint meeting with Sarasota County, the Cities of North Port and Sarasota, Town of Longboat Key, and the Sarasota School Board at a future date Council directed staff to work with Sarasota County and community partners to develop a permitting solution to resolve recurring and potential future issues with yoga on Venice Beach Council directed the City Manager to evaluate the feasibility and costs of potentially reopening a portion of the Humphris Park parking lot at the South Jetty
Emergency Contacts Emergency: 911 Police non-emergency: 941-486-2444 City Hall: 941-486-2626 Code Enforcement: 941-882-7545 Water/sewer line break: 941-486-2770 Report illicit discharge: 941-882-7413 VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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Citywide Burn Ban remains in effect, dry conditions persist The citywide recreational burn ban issued on Oct. 11 by Venice Fire Rescue Chief Frank Giddens remains in place due to continued dry weather conditions that pose increased risk for potential wildfires. The citywide burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning that has not been specifically permitted by the Florida Forest Service burning such as bonfires, fire pits, cooking pits, campfires, and the burning of yard debris. Outdoor cooking fires in approved grills such as gas or charcoal BBQ grills are permitted; however, extreme caution is urged with these devices as well. Remember to not leave a grill unattended and make sure coals are completely cooled before disposing. The burn ban will automatically lift after the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) falls below 500 for seven consecutive days.
THE LATEST Nicholas Dumas named Venice Municipal Airport Director Following a nationwide search, Venice Municipal Airport Manager Nicholas “Nick” Dumas has been selected as the City’s new Airport Director. Prior to coming to the City of Venice, Dumas worked for the Department of Aviation for the City of Philadelphia, Pa., serving as an Airport Operations Duty Supervisor at Philadelphia International Airport for almost 13 years. Dumas joined the COV in June 2024 as Airport Manager, where he oversaw airport operations, maintenance, safety, security, and emergency management, while ensuring full compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and other federal, state, and local regulatory requirements. He has supervised and coordinated operations, maintenance, and administrative staff; established priorities; and ensured that day-to-day activities aligned with the airport’s long-term strategic objectives. Dumas has also been responsible for budget development and financial oversight, capital improvement planning, and supporting grant-funded projects. He replaces former Airport Director Mark Cervasio, who retired Dec. 1 after more than 9 years with the City. “Nick has been a pleasure to work with and has already made a positive impact on airport operations, safety, and facilities,” said City Manager James Clinch. “He brings significant aviation experience, a steady leadership style, and a collaborative approach that fits right into our organization and community. I am confident Nick will continue to strengthen the Venice Municipal Airport as an important community and economic resource by working closely with all stakeholders and meeting the challenges ahead.” After being in Venice for 2 years, Dumas said, “I have found the friendliness and get-it-done attitude of the residents and my coworkers refreshing; and the beauty, the history, and the cleanliness of the City and the downtown area to be amazing.” Nick and his wife Lela have two grown children and are awaiting a new Doberman pinscher puppy. Read more about Dumas’ position here. Below: Aerial image of Venice Airport by Don Hubbard, via drone
We ask all residents to stay vigilant during these dry conditions. Should a wildfire erupt, nearby residents are urged to follow directions from authorities. This may include evacuations of localized areas.
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THE LATEST Sip, sip, hooray! The Lord-Higel's Coffee House held a ribbon cutting on Dec. 10, in partnership with the City of Venice, Venice Heritage Inc., Venice Area Historical Society and DiPinto Construction.
Listen for free on Spotify Episode 9: IT Help Desk Technician Anthony Garofalo Episode 10: Records Clerk Tracey Smith
2026 City of Venice Annual Calendar - Special Centennial Edition Featuring vintage Venice photos from the Venice Museum & Archives, the 2026 calendar highlights City council meetings, special events, City contacts, and more. Calendars are available for FREE at City Hall, the Museum, and Venice Chamber while supplies last.
The Coffee House, located at 409 Granada Ave. behind City Hall and operated by Gary and Alyssa with Black Gold Coffee Roasters, is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. Come for the coffee and baked goods; stay for the relaxing porch views and historical exhibits! They explain the rich history of the home acquired by the City in 2005, who the Lord and Higel families were, and give a glimpse of life in the area at the turn of the century. An original desk, fireplace, and a pull-away section of the house's original wall are on display, along with Joseph Lord’s stationery, his law license and a collection of Sarasota Times columns George Higel wrote under the pen name Nemo. Higel family members attended the December ribboncutting, with remarks from Mayor Nick Pachota, City Manager James Clinch, Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer, contractor Robert DiPinto, Jean Trammell of Venice Heritage Inc., Frank Wright of the Venice Area Historical Society, and Black Gold's Gary Lauters II and Alyssa Williams. It took a “latte” love to bring this historic home back to life — and it’s officially open for sipping with its new adaptive reuse. See more photos from the ribboncutting ceremony here. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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‘Tis the season to be recycling Remember to recycle right this postholiday season: Recycle flattened/broken-down cardboard boxes Recycle clean wrapping and tissue paper Trash broken holiday lights/decor Trash bows, ribbons, and plastic wraps Trash glittery cards, bags and boxes belong in the trash Recycling dumpsters are available until Jan. 31 at additional locations for City residents to properly dispose of cardboard boxes and other paper items that build up during the holidays: Venice Fire Rescue Station 53, 5300 Laurel Road Solid Waste/Fleet Division offices, 221 S. Seaboard Ave. Wellfield Park, 1300 Ridgewood Ave. Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S. All cardboard boxes MUST be broken down and placed inside the dumpster.
THE LATEST Northeast Park update Progress on Northeast Park continues! Prefabricated permanent restrooms were delivered to the construction site and installed in late December. Located at 3560 Laurel Road E., Northeast Park is expected to open in spring 2026, pending weather or material delays. Park features: 4.8 acres 8 outdoor pickleball courts Fitness trail with equipment Walking path 5-to-12 -year-old playground 2-to-5-year-old playground Large and small dog park areas Shade structures Stormwater retention Restrooms Paved parking Project timeline: City Council approved purchasing land for Northeast Park in 2021 and approved the park plan in 2023. Ground was broken in April 2025, and it is expected to be completed this spring. Project cost: The anticipated cost for the park is $6.4 million, which includes design and construction. The project is funded through park impact fees. Did you know? In 2021, the City of Venice launched a public input survey to help identify the wants and needs for amenities at this future park site. Overwhelmingly, pickleball and walking trails were identified by residents and visitors. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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WARNING: Beware of fake emails! Staff has been made aware of an email scam impersonating the City of Venice. If you receive an unexpected message asking for personal information, payment or urgent action, please use caution. The City of Venice will NEVER ask you to "wire" funds to pay for services. Remember: All official City of Venice emails end with “venicefl.gov.” If it’s not from that address, it’s not us. Here are a few ways to spot scams: Check the sender address. If it doesn’t match our official email, it’s not legitimate.
THE LATEST Fire Station 52 progress Construction continues at the site of the new Fire Rescue Station 52 at 1545 E. Venice Ave., next to the Venice Police Department. This forward-looking facility will serve as the home for Fire Administration, Fire Operations, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Prevention, and support the City's Emergency Operations Center. Carefully designed to meet both present and future needs, Station 52 will feature five apparatus bays, administrative offices, living and sleeping quarters, a fitness area, kitchen, conference room, and vital support spaces (see rendering below right). Public parking and secure access for fire crews will ensure the station is ready to serve at a moment's notice. The current VFR Station 52 is located on N. Grove St. in a flood zone.
Look for spelling or grammar mistakes. Many scams contain unusual wording or errors.
With this project, the City affirms its commitment to public safety, emergency preparedness, and the brave professionals who protect our community every day.
Be cautious of urgent or threatening language. Scammers often pressure you to act quickly.
Project completion is anticipated for early 2027, pending weather delays.
Don’t click unexpected links or attachments, these can lead to malicious sites or install malware. Verify before responding. When in doubt, contact the City directly by calling the VPD non-emergency number at 941-486-2444.
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A MOMENT IN TIME... The history and significance of Morada del Sur By Rhonda Rogers, Administrative Coordinator, City Historical Resources Division
New year, new job, new you! Come work for the City of Venice, we're hiring for: Airport Operations & Maintenance Supervisor Facilities Maintenance Technician Firefighter/EMT (multiple openings) Firefighter/Paramedic (multiple openings) Police - sworn (FL LEO or out of state) Police - sponsorship (we'll put you through police academy) Solid Waste Supervisor (CDL required) Tree Crew Leader (CDL required) Utility Mechanic, or trainee Wastewater Field Operations Technician Wastewater Plant Operator A, B, C, or trainee Apply today at: governmentjobs.com/careers/venicegov
The City of Venice is part of the Florida Retirement System and offers on-the-job training for select positions, tuition reimbursement, opportunities for advancement, and robust medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
Venice’s historic cornerstone: Morada del Sur - One of the most historically significant homes in Venice is located at the southwest corner of West Venice Avenue and Park Boulevard South. Built in 1926-27, the estate known as Morada del Sur, meaning “dwelling of the south,” was once the residence of George T. Webb, who served as vice president of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE) and owned The Venice Company. Webb’s grand 5,658-square-foot Mediterranean Revival home, set on expansive grounds spanning numerous City lots, became a hallmark of architectural elegance in the area. Among its notable features is a porte cochere, a covered drive-through entrance designed to provide shelter for passengers as they entered or exited vehicles.
Morada del Sur, circa 1927.
The BLE’s ambitious expansion and aftermath - The BLE had ambitious plans to broaden its pension holdings by investing in Venice real estate and poured millions of dollars into developing the community. However, the Florida land bust eventually forced both Webb and the BLE to abandon the project and leave the town. Following their departure, Morada del Sur remained vacant for nearly two decades, during which time trespassers occupied the property and stripped it of anything that wasn’t nailed down. For a period, the once-grand home was even converted into apartments. The Lambert House era - In the late 1940s, the property became known as the Lambert House after James Lambert acquired the severely neglected estate. Lambert undertook a comprehensive restoration, returning the home to its former splendor and residing there until his death in 1990.
605 West Venice Avenue today.
New owner Dee Deaterly, a longtime admirer of the property, quickly set about expanding the estate and making further improvements.
Continued
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Know the Difference E-bikes vs. E-motorcycles E-bikes have pedals, stay under 750 watts, and do not exceed 28 mph. They can be ridden on roadways and sidewalks (where allowed) and must follow both vehicle and pedestrian laws.
E-motorcycles have no pedals, exceed 750 watts, must be registered, require a motorcycle endorsement and insurance, and cannot be ridden on sidewalks.
REMINDER: The speed limit on the Legacy Trail is 15 mph. Sarasota County prohibits the use of golf carts, motorized, gas-powered or other electrical vehicles on the trail. Learn more about safe trail use at scgov.net.
A MOMENT IN TIME... Morada del Sur continued A lasting landmark - Fortunately, Morada del Sur still stands today as a prime example; indeed, the cornerstone of Venice’s historically prominent properties. Did you know? - Morada del Sur has intriguing connections to both the world of pharmaceuticals and American celebrity culture. Listerine and the Lambert legacy - The Lambert family’s association with Listerine traces back to Joseph Lawrence, who invented an antiseptic. Sir Joseph Lister was the first to use this antiseptic in surgical procedures, leading to a dramatic reduction in post-surgical infections. Lawrence named his invention “Listerine” in honor of Lister. Jordan Lambert, the grandfather of James Lambert, founded the Lambert Pharmacal Company, which marketed Listerine. The product’s success soared when a family member devised a marketing strategy that positioned Listerine as the solution to halitosis (bad breath), portrayed as a pressing social problem. The company’s profits reached such heights that when James Lambert’s father married at age 18 in 1897, his monthly income was $2,000 — a considerable sum at the time — and he and his new wife enjoyed a six-month honeymoon in Europe. Census records indicate that many Lambert households employed servants, sometimes as many as seven, even among young newlywed couples. A celebrity connection - There is also a celebrity link to the estate. James Lambert’s cousin Rachel — known as Bunny — and her philanthropist husband Paul Mellon were friends of both the Kennedy and Reagan families. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy personally asked Bunny Mellon to redesign the White House Rose Garden, a request she fulfilled in 1962. Bunny Mellon and Jackie Kennedy shared a very close friendship for many years. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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John Kennedy Jr. in the White House Rose Garden, 1963. Photo courtesy of Cecil Stoughton
Listerine sold by the Lambert Pharmacal Company.
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AROUND TOWN WARNING: Staying warm On Dec. 12, the Venice Police Department received a generous donation of 60 LifeVac choking-rescue devices from The Cassata Foundation founder Rosario Cassata and Arthur Lih, inventor and CEO of LifeVac USA. LifeVac is a non-invasive choking-rescue device that uses suction to help clear an airway in emergencies. Each donated kit includes adult and pediatric masks in a compact, ready-to-use case. The donated devices were accepted by Capt. Eric Hill, Lt. Adam Daneman, Special Operations Lt. Mat Sauchinitz, and Special Operations Sgt. Rodrigo Morales. The devices will be placed in patrol vehicles once officers complete required training. Read more about the LifeVac donations here.
When temperatures cool, remember to give your space heaters room. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from all heating equipment to prevent fires and keep your home safe. Before going to bed or leaving the house, be sure to turn off and unplug all heaters.
The Venice Museum & Archives Holiday Open House was a dashing success on Dec. 13. Visitors were able to see the 1926 Old Betsy firetruck, received a special edition City calendar, enjoyed free admission to the museum to see the Centennial exhibit, and explored the beautiful holiday decorations at West Blalock Park!
Saturdays at City Hall Visit the Venice Florida Farmers Market every Saturday, year-round, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at City Hall. Enjoy local and organic fresh produce, baked goods, meats, microgreens, seafood, dairy, plants, herbs, honey, syrups, sauces, salsa, handmade soaps, prepared foods, and more!
The Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, Chapter 56, Ukrainian Christmas Festival was held on Dec. 6 at Centennial Park with Ukrainian choral and music performances, food, displays of traditional Ukrainian holiday customs including folk art and embroidery, ornaments, wood carvings, ceramics and pottery. See more photos here.
City Hall is located at 401 W. Venice Ave. Public parking is available along W. Venice Ave.; Harbor Dr.; Granada Ave.; Graser, Centennial and Hecksher parks; and the Venice Community Center. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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Florida-Friendly Winter Lawn Care Tips
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Watch the weather - Don’t fertilize before a rainstorm. Fertilizer washes off lawns and landscaping during heavy rains and ends up in stormwater drains. Remember, all drains lead to the Gulf. Grow slow - Fertilize with at least 50% slow release nitrogen to avoid nutrient waste. Phosphorus is not needed as local soil already contains it. Only fertilize when the lawn is actively growing. Keep water blue - Avoid runoff contamination by keeping fertilizers at least 10 feet away from potential runoff areas including ponds, ditches, lakes, rivers, bats, inlets, and the Gulf. Keep it on the lawn - When fertilizing your lawn, use a deflector shield or edge guard to prevent fertilizing unwanted areas such as sidewalk and curb gutters. Test your turf - Check for discolored circular patches before fertilizing. Fertilizer will not help your lawn if it has disease, pest invasion or pH imbalance. Testing kits are available at your local lawn care store.
ABOVE: At the Chabad of Venice & North Port annual Chanukah Festival on Dec. 21 in Centennial Park, Mayor Nick Pachota issued a proclamation and Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring had the honor of lighting the shamash, the center candle of the menorah that symbolizes service and humility. LEFT: City Holiday Card Contest winners from Venice Elementary with Art Teacher Heather Young and City Manager James Clinch Dec. 12. BELOW: Winning card artist Elena Hopper (middle) with runners-up Ana Stella Rodriguez Fernandez and Harper Shroyer.
Skip a week - During cooler months, your lawn doesn’t need water every week. Now is the best time to train your lawn to need less water. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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Free admission to the Venice Museum and Old Betsy Museum
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Did you know you can explore Venice history for FREE at the Venice Museum? Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, the museum features rotating seasonal exhibits, a glimpse into the life of Dr. Fred Albee, famed city planner John Nolen, the story of a Kentucky Military Institute cadet, and more. Be sure to stop by the gift shop, where you’ll find megalodon shark teeth, Centennial merchandise, postcards, books by local authors, and other unique finds for sale — you won’t leave empty-handed. On your way out, visit the Old Betsy Museum to see the City’s 1926 LaFrance fire engine on display.
Girl Scout Troop 154 Daisies and Brownies visited VPD for a recent tour. The girls were able to meet K-9 Palmer, explore the crime scene van, and meet some of our officers!
On Dec. 17, Venice Police, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, and regional marine partners hosted the Annual Marine Intelligence Luncheon to align on emerging trends, navigational challenges, and marine laws that help protect boaters throughout the region.
The Venice Museum, at 351 Nassau St. S., is also open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month, October through April. Can’t make it in person? Explore the museum’s online archives from your smartphone or computer, featuring historical photos and old newspapers.
Venice Fire Rescue held their 3rd Annual No Shave November event on Dec. 5 at BrewBurger's Back Porch to raise money for men’s health. In total, $1,934 was raised for the University of Florida Prostate Cancer Research Foundation, as firefighters are more than twice as likely to develop testicular and prostate cancer than the general public. Highest bidder for each firefighter got to pick their mustache/beard shave, styled by T.J. Fields, owner of 1775 Barbershop. With a high bid of $175, Lt. Derek Lowery (pictured in the far left photo above) was shaved down to a question mark! VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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5 Ways You Can Help Protect the Gulf
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Conserve water: By collecting rainwater from rooftops in mosquito-proof containers to later use on lawns/landscaping. Use native plants: Using Floridanative plants in your garden is a natural way to absorb rainwater while promoting a healthy ecosystem. Properly dispose of toxic chemicals - Dumping any harmful chemicals into stormwater ditches or streams is considered illicit discharge. This includes pet waste, vehicle washing soap, paint, oil, and other fluids that can devastate aquatic life. Dispose of chemicals and other hazardous materials at the Sarasota County Chemical Collection Center at 250 Jackson Rd. S. in Venice.
The annual Venice Christmas Boat Parade lit up the Intracoastal Waterway on Dec. 6 with more than 30 local boaters who donated their time, vessels and fuel for this community tradition. Congrats to Viewer’s Choice winner boat #5, San Souci, pictured at center. See more photos of the boat parade here.
Report illicit discharge: Illicit discharge violates Code Section 74-266. Report illicit discharge at 941-882-7413. Landscape responsibly: Transform yard waste into compost or mulch, cover dirt or mulch piles before rains to prevent wash away, and bag or bin grass clippings, leaves, and other yard debris to keep drainage ditches clear.
ABOVE: Bicyclists in the annual Glow Ride light up W. Venice Ave. on Dec. 13. Photo courtesy of T.J. Carney’s LEFT/ABOVE LEFT: The VPD Blue Santa program helps more than 100 local Venice families and nearly 400 children each year. Thank you to everyone who donated, and to the volunteers who make this program possible through their time and support! Thirteen locations Citywide hosted Blue Santa donation boxes through Dec. 17. Then the gifts were collected, sorted at the Venice Community Center, and prepared for family pickup. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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AROUND TOWN Volunteer Arboretum leader needed Would you like the opportunity to be a volunteer leader where you are helping the environment and the community? Are you a full-time resident with an interest in working with trees, plants and people? You would guide a small group of helper volunteers two mornings a week as you work to tend to the Monty Andrews Arboretum in West Blalock Park at 401 Pensacola Road, across from the Venice Museum. Do you have a basic knowledge or willingness to learn how to enhance an already beautiful arboretum right here in Venice? If these things inspire you, please contact Venice Area Beautification, Inc. Email admin@VABI.org or call 941-207-8224.
The Venice Fire Rescue Santa Firehouse Pancake Breakfast was held Dec. 13 at Station 51. Families enjoyed pancakes with sausage; gifts from Santa; visits with the Grinch, Elsa and Olaf; ornament decorating and more. Thank you to Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and everyone else who made this annual VFR holiday event such a success!
LEFT: The Venice Community Orchestra performed a selection of holiday favorites Dec. 20 in the gazebo at West Blalock Park.
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CENTENNIAL SPOTLIGHT
Together Through Time, Venice at 100 dinner Jan. 21, 2026 • Cocktail Hour begins at 5 PM, • Dinner begins at 6 PM, “Taste of the Times,” a curated dining experience inspired by the flavors of Venice’s history, • Hear from influential Venice leaders, • Dance the night away with live music from The Occasions
A once in a century event, the Together Through Time, Venice at 100 dinner invites you to dine with past City Mayors and Chamber Chairs, enjoy live music through the decades, bid on historic Venice images, take home exclusive Centennial memorabilia, share stories of past memories, and look forward to Venice's future! Hosted in partnership by the City of Venice and Venice Area Chamber of Commerce at the Venice Community Center.
Tickets are $100 per person and include event entry, dinner stations, dessert, entertainment, champagne toast, and more. Seats are limited,. Buy your ticket by scanning the QR code or visit: venicechamber.com
Get Involved Sign up to volunteer for City or community partner Centennial events, click here. Apply for a Centennial partnership to use the Centennial logo, request a new Centennial event on public property, install permanent art or features and more, click here. VENICE CITY E-NEWS
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Get Tickets Be a part of history and attend the Together Through Time, Venice at 100 dinner with past City Mayors and Chamber presidents on Jan. 21. Questions? Email Cara Coté: ccote@venicechamber.com Click here for tickets A P R I LPage 2 0 215 4
HOLIDAY PARADE WINNERS The winners of the 49th Annual City of Venice Holiday Parade, held on Nov. 29 and officially kicking off the City’s Centennial, appear below. With more than 3,350 participants and 100 units in the “All Aboard the Centennial”themed parade, judges with the Venice Area Toastmasters Club 5486 had their work cut out for them. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated and worked so hard to make it a magical evening! Missed the 2025 parade? You can watch the full broadcast here.
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Upcoming Events
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Jan. 16-18 Venice-Nokomis Rotary Fine Arts Festival, Airport Festival Grounds Jan. 21 City/Chamber Centennial Dinner-Together Through Time, Venice at 100, Venice Community Center Jan. 24-25 Venice MainStreet Downtown Art Festival, W. Venice Ave. Jan. 31 Respect 1st Responders Hero Dash 5K, Legacy Park Feb. 7 Airing of the Quilts, Maxine Barritt Park Feb. 19-22 Italian Feast & Carnival, Airport Festival Grounds Feb. 21 Florida Experience 1,000 Miglia Car Race, Centennial Park
Looking for more to do? Check online for more events and activities by our community partners: Bicycle around Venice island Visit the Museum & Archives Visit the Lord-Higel House Venice Area Beautification Inc. Venice Area Chamber of Commerce Venice Art Center Venice Community Center Venice Performing Arts Center Venice MainStreet Inc. Venice Symphony Venice Theatre Visit Sarasota County Sarasota County Government
Open Saturdays: Jan. 17, Feb. 7, Feb. 21
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Next bike ride is Thursday, Jan. 8!
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
Click here to register or sponsor a participant
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
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BULLETIN BOARD
To apply, visit https://www.sarasotacountyparks.com/i-wantto/support-parks/volunteer-opportunities
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