Published by the VGRCCA as a service to its members and residents of the Venetian Golf and River Club. RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD – ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS AT THE VENETIAN 1 | Page November 2015 • 5th Annual SWING FOR A CURE Scleroderma Golf Fundraiser The 5th Annual SWING FOR A CURE Scleroderma Golf Fundraiser is set for Monday, February 15, 2016 at the Venetian Golf & River Club. Thanks to the generosity of Venetian residents and those in neighboring communities, last year’s event raised $54,000, all earmarked for medical research and patient support. Registrations will be available at the Golf Club and via email distribution starting November 10th. Sign up fees remain the same as last year. New this year is a Circle of Friends for anyone in the community who cannot participate yet would like to make a donation. The golf event will be a scramble. There also will be a putting contest. So, pull together your foursomes (you can also sign up as a single, two-some or three-some and the Committee will be sure to complete your foursome). For more information, contact Cos Mallozzi, Event Chair at 486-1239 or via email at [email protected]. For information of scleroderma, log on to www.scleroderma.org.
Transcript
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October 2015 Published by the VGRCCA as a service to its members and residents of the
Venetian Golf and River Club.
•To our loyal readers When Parcels was first published in 2010, on occasion we struggled for subjects. In keeping with the growth of this area, Parcels has grown as well. In this edition we have over 15 articles. This has caused us to format Parcels to become even more reader friendly. As you read through this month’s Parcels, you will see various sections that contain similar kinds of articles. We will continue to make improvements in the future to ensure that Parcels is enjoyable to read.
We really enjoy hearing from our readers and your comments and feedback are greatly valued. What articles do you enjoy and what else do you want to see? To contact us, just click on “Reply” and write your comments. Welcome to another great season and thanks for reading Parcels From Paradise.
RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD – ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS AT THE VENETIAN •Candidate Forum Although it probably won’t be as exciting as the recent Presidential debates, one of the well-attended events is the annual VG&RC Candidate Forum, which will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 6 pm at the River Club. Featured will be the two candidates running for City Council, Emilio Carlesimo and Fred Fraize. You will also briefly hear from councilman-elect Rich Cautero who lives at the Venetian. As we have done in recent years, there will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. We have a sizeable number of Venetians who are eligible to vote and hope that the Candidate Forum will help all become better informed voters. The event should last about an hour. 1 | P a g e
October 2015 Published by the VGRCCA as a service to its members and residents of the
Venetian Golf and River Club.
•To our loyal readers When Parcels was first published in 2010, on occasion we struggled for subjects. In keeping with the growth of this area, Parcels has grown as well. In this edition we have over 15 articles. This has caused us to format Parcels to become even more reader friendly. As you read through this month’s Parcels, you will see various sections that contain similar kinds of articles. We will continue to make improvements in the future to ensure that Parcels is enjoyable to read.
We really enjoy hearing from our readers and your comments and feedback are greatly valued. What articles do you enjoy and what else do you want to see? To contact us, just click on “Reply” and write your comments. Welcome to another great season and thanks for reading Parcels From Paradise.
RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD – ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS AT THE VENETIAN •Candidate Forum Although it probably won’t be as exciting as the recent Presidential debates, one of the well-attended events is the annual VG&RC Candidate Forum, which will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 6 pm at the River Club. Featured will be the two candidates running for City Council, Emilio Carlesimo and Fred Fraize. You will also briefly hear from councilman-elect Rich Cautero who lives at the Venetian. As we have done in recent years, there will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. We have a sizeable number of Venetians who are eligible to vote and hope that the Candidate Forum will help all become better informed voters. The event should last about an hour.
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October 2015 Published by the VGRCCA as a service to its members and residents of the
Venetian Golf and River Club.
•To our loyal readers When Parcels was first published in 2010, on occasion we struggled for subjects. In keeping with the growth of this area, Parcels has grown as well. In this edition we have over 15 articles. This has caused us to format Parcels to become even more reader friendly. As you read through this month’s Parcels, you will see various sections that contain similar kinds of articles. We will continue to make improvements in the future to ensure that Parcels is enjoyable to read.
We really enjoy hearing from our readers and your comments and feedback are greatly valued. What articles do you enjoy and what else do you want to see? To contact us, just click on “Reply” and write your comments. Welcome to another great season and thanks for reading Parcels From Paradise.
RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD – ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS AT THE VENETIAN •Candidate Forum Although it probably won’t be as exciting as the recent Presidential debates, one of the well-attended events is the annual VG&RC Candidate Forum, which will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 6 pm at the River Club. Featured will be the two candidates running for City Council, Emilio Carlesimo and Fred Fraize. You will also briefly hear from councilman-elect Rich Cautero who lives at the Venetian. As we have done in recent years, there will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. We have a sizeable number of Venetians who are eligible to vote and hope that the Candidate Forum will help all become better informed voters. The event should last about an hour.
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October 2015 Published by the VGRCCA as a service to its members and residents of the
Venetian Golf and River Club.
•To our loyal readers When Parcels was first published in 2010, on occasion we struggled for subjects. In keeping with the growth of this area, Parcels has grown as well. In this edition we have over 15 articles. This has caused us to format Parcels to become even more reader friendly. As you read through this month’s Parcels, you will see various sections that contain similar kinds of articles. We will continue to make improvements in the future to ensure that Parcels is enjoyable to read.
We really enjoy hearing from our readers and your comments and feedback are greatly valued. What articles do you enjoy and what else do you want to see? To contact us, just click on “Reply” and write your comments. Welcome to another great season and thanks for reading Parcels From Paradise.
RIGHT IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD – ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS AT THE VENETIAN •Candidate Forum Although it probably won’t be as exciting as the recent Presidential debates, one of the well-attended events is the annual VG&RC Candidate Forum, which will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 6 pm at the River Club. Featured will be the two candidates running for City Council, Emilio Carlesimo and Fred Fraize. You will also briefly hear from councilman-elect Rich Cautero who lives at the Venetian. As we have done in recent years, there will be an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates. We have a sizeable number of Venetians who are eligible to vote and hope that the Candidate Forum will help all become better informed voters. The event should last about an hour.
November 2015
• 5th Annual SWING FOR A CURE Scleroderma Golf Fundraiser The 5th Annual SWING FOR A CURE Scleroderma Golf Fundraiser is set for Monday, February 15, 2016 at the Venetian Golf & River Club. Thanks to the generosity of Venetian residents and those in neighboring communities, last year’s event raised $54,000, all earmarked for medical research and patient support. Registrations will be available at the Golf Club and via email distribution starting November 10th. Sign up fees remain the same as last year. New this year is a Circle of Friends for anyone in the community who cannot participate yet would like to make a donation. The golf event will be a scramble. There also will be a putting contest. So, pull together your foursomes (you can also sign up as a single, two-some or three-some and the Committee will be sure to complete your foursome). For more information, contact Cos Mallozzi, Event Chair at 486-1239 or via email at [email protected]. For information of scleroderma, log on to www.scleroderma.org.
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•Honoring the VETS There are two major Veterans Day activities that honor those who are serving or who have served. The first is the placement of flags on the driveway, which occurs on Tuesday, November 10th starting at 9am. Volunteers are needed, so please come to the front gate and join us. This activity will take about 15 minutes. The other activity is the 1st annual Venetian Veterans Scrambling for Charity. This golf event is open to all resident and will be held on Thursday, November 5th. Proceeds benefit the Fisher House, a home away from home next door to the Tampa VA hospital for families of acutely hospitalized veterans. The event begins at 8:15 am, with golf and lunch as part of the festivities. The Golf Club pro shop has the details and sign up forms. It’s a great way to play the course and support a very worthwhile charity. •Training that will serve you well What do you do if a person goes into cardiac arrest? Do you know how much time experts say you have to keep the person brain alive? It’s anywhere from 4-6 minutes. That’s a very short time. Therefore, to better prepare all Venetians, your VGRC Community Association has reached out to the Venice Fire Department who will provide CPR training for residents. This training session will take place at the River Club on Monday, October 19th. You can choose a morning (9am – noon) or afternoon session (1-4 pm). The cost is $5.50 that goes to the American Heart Association for a certification card, which is good for two years. To register, please email [email protected] with your name(s), morning or afternoon session and phone number. This is on a first come, first served basis with 20 as the maximum number. If there is an overwhelming interest and the class is full, the VFD will provide another training session in the future. •Masked Men….and Women Time is ticking away to get your tickets for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Masquerade gala to be held on Saturday, November 7th. This year’s event is being held at the Golf Club which has secured a large tent to cover the open upper level for a fabulous evening of dinner and dancing. Plus you can take part in one of the best silent auctions around town. For more details, call Rosemary BeCraft at 513-315-1635 or Linda Cautero at 203-240-0715. If you can’t attend the Gala, you can be part of the Ladies Luncheon Mad Hatter High Tea on October 15th at the River Club with festivities beginning at 11:30am and a delicious luncheon at noon. Tickets for the luncheon are just $17 per person and benefit Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. And yes, there is a Best Hat Contest. The parade of beautiful women going into the River Club for this event will make the Oscars red carpet look elementary. •Great Response to Flu Shots None of the 80 plus residents cried or had to be held down when they received their flu shot at the River Club on September 21st. This event was arranged by VGRCCA and was so well-received that we will possibly consider a repeat visit by the pharmacists from Publix. •Brochure about Activities and Events You should receive in the mail soon a tri-fold brochure with all of the activities and events for 2015-2016 sponsored by the VGRC Community Association. We’ve planned some exciting seminars including “Police Use of Force, The Beat Goes On” and “The Weather with meteorologist Bob Harrigan”. The ever popular Bike-O-Rama III will be held in January. You’ll see two wonderful green thumb seminars that in the past have been very well attended. This brochure is being distributed early in the year to enable folks to mark their calendar for the season. Copies of the flyer are also available at the River Club and the Golf Club.
• CPR TrainingA salute to the Venice Fire Department for putting on three outstanding CPR classes at the River Club, sponsored by the VGRC Community Association. There were over 70 residents who took advantage of the training sessions. Participants were taught how to operate a Defibrillator, techniques of CPR for adults and children and what to do when someone is choking on a piece of food. The trainers were upbeat, knowledgeable and had great rapport with the audience.
• Blinding SunThere are streets such as Padova where the blinding morning sun makes it difficult to see when driving. Therefore, at risk are our favorite birds, the “I’ll walk where I want to walk,“ Sand Hill Cranes, along with those who bicycle and run. Please, drivers, be careful! To our runners, great job, but it would be safer on the sidewalk. We don’t want to ruin anyone’s sunny day.
• KayakingTwo residents have started a kayaking club at the Venetians. You don’t need a kayak because by signing up you will receive one along with the necessary paddles and life jacket. All are provided the day of the adventure. Each month there is a different 2-hour trip, with a small cost for each trip. About 20 residents can go on each trip. Their first trip is December 3, but appears to be sold out with a waiting list established. The next scheduled trip is January 7th. For information contact either Carol Fish at [email protected] at 603-915-3143 or Elaine Sinclair-Fowler at 802-318 -1976. Parcels applaud these two residents for starting this common interest activity. If you have organized a common interest activity that is non-profit and only for Venetian residents, contact [email protected] with information.
• A Worthy Project: Helping our Laurel Nokomis SchoolDid you know that attached to products you use every day such as General Mills cereals, Zip Lock, Scott Paper products, Betty Crocker, Progresso Soups, Kleenex, etc. there is a little dime sized coupon attached to the box or label that is worth a dime to our local Laurel Nokomis School? The Community Association will be putting a collection box at the River Club for you to drop off your coupons. Go on www.boxtops4education.com to check out the full list of products that count. Check your pantry before you throw out your Cheerios box and find those dimes. The school uses these to pay for field trips and other extras. Their goal is to raise $6,000, this year. Let’s support our school, just down the street. It won’t cost you a dime, but you can make a difference by watching for these box tops.
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
• Watch for It. The very successful First Watch restaurant is coming to Venice and will be located on Tamiami near the current Bonefish Grill. It has an excellent reputation for a hearty breakfast. The First Watch also serves lunch but is never open for dinner.
• The Classics The Venice Symphony opens its season on November 20 and 21 with violin virtuoso Tai Murray. The Venice Symphony performs at the Performing Arts Center at Venice High School on the island. Call 941-488-1010 for more information or go to www.thevenicesymphony.org.
• Orchidaceae Venice is proud to have its own Orchid Society (www.vaos.org) and invites those interested in orchidaceas, as they are formally called, to join the group. They meet at the Venice Community Center on the Island on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm. A Grower’s Clinic entitled, “Orchids Growing Made Easy” meets the second Thursday of each month at 7pm at the Community Center. The Orchid Society is an affiliate of the American Orchid Society. For more information, email, [email protected].
• What is WaWa? If you are from states such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Virginia you are probably familiar with WAWA. Actually, WAWA is a highly rated convenience store/gas station that is known for its coffee, lattes and made to order steak hoagies. They are now in the Florida market with their closet store being in Bradenton. Recently Parcels chased a rumor that WAWA was coming to Venice. According to a reliable WAWA source, the answer is yes, WAWA is coming to Venice. The location and its opening date were not disclosed. Parcels will keep our residents informed of any WaWa updates.
• Equinine Interest Prospect Riding Center, located in Myakka City, Florida - a short 45 minutes away, is looking for volunteers . The center provides equine therapeutic activities to participants of all ages with special needs. There are a variety of opportunities available Prospect Riding Center is one of the few places that let their volunteers ride. They use the phrase, “Therapeutic Recreational Equine Activities” to describe the overall purpose of this wonderful organization. Volunteer opportunities exist for such positions as Barn Staff, Horse Groomers, Horse Leaders and Events. You don’t have to have horse experience to come join the Riding Center. If you would like to Join the Team at Prospect Riding Center, please log on to www.ProspectRidingCenter.com and click on “contact”.
• A Fresh New Look. The ever popular Olpehlia’s Pasta House in the shopping center at Laurel and 41 is history. Taking this spot will be “ The Paradise Grill.” The new proprietor has plenty of restaurant experience owning Peaches, a breakfast/lunch eatery on Jacaranda. Currently, the old Olphehila is being gutted and will be taking on a new look. You will see a brighter, fresher inside, along with an outdoor Tiki Bar. The menu will feature a variety of entrees ranging from burgers to fresh fish and tacos. Paradise Grill is expected to open in December and will serve lunch and dinner, seven days a week. We’re sure that Venetians will find Paradise Grill another great place for food and conversation.
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
• Venice’s Comprehensive Plan The City of Venice is updating its Comprehensive Plan and part of the elaborate process is holding a number of meetings where public input is sought. The comprehensive (COMP) plan deals with our future years focusing on such issues such as land use, parks, traffic, housing and infrastructure. Although there are a series of meetings in December where you are welcome to attend, a specific neighborhood meeting has been set for Northeast Venice Neighborhood. It will be held on Monday, December 7th from 4-5:30 pm at the Elks Lodge, 1021 Discovery Way, which is easy to find once you turn right on Knight’s Trail. Other meetings are also being held in early December. There are other ways to get involve by going to the website, http://venicegov.com/Municipal_links/Plann_zoning/CompPlanUpdate.asp. The process of public input is well thought out and very thorough. More details including time and location of other meetings can be found at the link given above.
• Widening US 41 Bypass Work began on the widening of U.S. 41 Bypass on November 2nd. This is a two-year project. The phrase of the project extends from Bay Drive to just north of Gulf Coast Boulevard. There will be both day and night work. No detours are planned for this project but with construction you might add a few minutes to your travel.
• Lift Station: Update In the last edition of Parcels, it was mentioned that the VGRC Community Association addressed council recently about the aesthetics around the Lift Station on Laurel Rd. Our message has been heard and soon you will see a new “fence” surrounding that station.
• Election Puts New Face on City Council Results of the November 2 Venice City Council Elections showed Fred Fraizee defeating incumbent Emilio Carlesimo by a mere 58 votes in a very low turnout election. Only 24% of the 17,102 voters decided to participate in this election. According to the County Board of Election, the VGRC voting precinct supported Carlesimo. Shown below are both candidates at the Candidate Forum held at the River Club. Council elect Fraize is on the left.
• “As the Fire Department Turns” Yes, the consolidation possibility for our Venice Fire Department is better than a soap opera. In the first chapter we heard there might be consolidation with the Sarasota Fire Department, and then we read there would have to be a public vote in March to settle the issue. The latest chapter indicates there are some complications with the possible merger. Thus City Hall is saying that the fire consolidation issue will not be on the March ballot. Does that mean there will not be a consolidation? No, there could be a consolidation. On the other hand, it might be determined that the Venice Fire Department could remain as is. The soap opera is not over. Stay tuned……. it helps ratings.
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•Honore Avenue Extension Update If you’ve driven down Laurel Road, you’ve certainly noticed the progress that is being made for the Honore Avenue extension at Pinebrook Road. It may look like it’s ready to open but sorry, it’s not. The county website provides the latest update (September 2015) of this project, saying: “Construction continues throughout the project and is now 70 percent complete. Storm water work is nearing completion at the south end and sidewalk and multipath construction also continues. Signalization, road base, and the Fox Creek bridge construction are on-going. Intersection work at SR 681 continues. The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2016.” •Express Bus Service to SRQ Parcels noticed that there is no public transportation going east on Laurel Rd. As we all know, this area will be booming in the next few years. Therefore, Parcels reached out to Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) to inquire whether they had any plans for future routes on Laurel Rd. The timing of the call could not have been better. The SCAT representative indicated that beginning in November, there will be an express bus (Route 80) that will go from PGT/Technology Drive (north of the Knights Trail & Laurel Road intersection) to the Sarasota Airport, stopping at Doctor’s Hospital, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and Ringling Blvd. The fare is $2.50 each way. For more information, you can contact SCAT at 941-861-1234 or go to www.scgov.net/scat •More Rooms at the Inn It appears there soon will be construction beginning on a new 100 room Hilton Homes2 Suite hotel in Nokomis. The hotel will be built at the corner of Tamiami Trail and Albee Road West. For those who use landmarks to determine locations, this is in the area of Brandi’s Restaurant and Matthews Curie Ford. The hotel is scheduled to open up in December 2016. •Lift Station Appearance When driving down Laurel past the wall of the Toscana Isles development, you will note on the right what is called a lift station on a concrete slab. Lift stations are facilities designed to move wastewater from lower to higher elevation, particularly where the elevation of the source is not sufficient for gravity flow and/or when the use of gravity conveyance will result in excessive excavation depths and high sewer construction costs. Venice’s utilities department is looking at this station as well as the 86 others in the city, reviewing the aesthetics of each one. The VGRCCA is supporting this effort and made a presentation at the City Council meeting on September 22nd expressing the importance of improving the appearance of lift stations.
NEW FINDS •Triton Jewelry A new jewelry store is now located in the Publix Shopping Center at 41 bypass at Laurel Road. They do a wonderful job on repairs and can do most while you watch and wait. A diamond ring that needed six prongs repaired was only $40.00; a watch battery was only $5.00. The showroom is beautiful and the jewelers will custom design a piece of jewelry if you don’t find what you’re looking for. If you have jewelry for sale, they also buy quality gold and diamonds. It’s a good find close to the Venetian.
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•Honore Avenue Extension Update If you’ve driven down Laurel Road, you’ve certainly noticed the progress that is being made for the Honore Avenue extension at Pinebrook Road. It may look like it’s ready to open but sorry, it’s not. The county website provides the latest update (September 2015) of this project, saying: “Construction continues throughout the project and is now 70 percent complete. Storm water work is nearing completion at the south end and sidewalk and multipath construction also continues. Signalization, road base, and the Fox Creek bridge construction are on-going. Intersection work at SR 681 continues. The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2016.” •Express Bus Service to SRQ Parcels noticed that there is no public transportation going east on Laurel Rd. As we all know, this area will be booming in the next few years. Therefore, Parcels reached out to Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) to inquire whether they had any plans for future routes on Laurel Rd. The timing of the call could not have been better. The SCAT representative indicated that beginning in November, there will be an express bus (Route 80) that will go from PGT/Technology Drive (north of the Knights Trail & Laurel Road intersection) to the Sarasota Airport, stopping at Doctor’s Hospital, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and Ringling Blvd. The fare is $2.50 each way. For more information, you can contact SCAT at 941-861-1234 or go to www.scgov.net/scat •More Rooms at the Inn It appears there soon will be construction beginning on a new 100 room Hilton Homes2 Suite hotel in Nokomis. The hotel will be built at the corner of Tamiami Trail and Albee Road West. For those who use landmarks to determine locations, this is in the area of Brandi’s Restaurant and Matthews Curie Ford. The hotel is scheduled to open up in December 2016. •Lift Station Appearance When driving down Laurel past the wall of the Toscana Isles development, you will note on the right what is called a lift station on a concrete slab. Lift stations are facilities designed to move wastewater from lower to higher elevation, particularly where the elevation of the source is not sufficient for gravity flow and/or when the use of gravity conveyance will result in excessive excavation depths and high sewer construction costs. Venice’s utilities department is looking at this station as well as the 86 others in the city, reviewing the aesthetics of each one. The VGRCCA is supporting this effort and made a presentation at the City Council meeting on September 22nd expressing the importance of improving the appearance of lift stations.
NEW FINDS •Triton Jewelry A new jewelry store is now located in the Publix Shopping Center at 41 bypass at Laurel Road. They do a wonderful job on repairs and can do most while you watch and wait. A diamond ring that needed six prongs repaired was only $40.00; a watch battery was only $5.00. The showroom is beautiful and the jewelers will custom design a piece of jewelry if you don’t find what you’re looking for. If you have jewelry for sale, they also buy quality gold and diamonds. It’s a good find close to the Venetian.
• Bold Landscaping Project The Bold Landscaping Project, which the VGRC Community Association has been engaged with a project of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) aimed at beautifying its roads and highways. One of its projects is Exit 195, the Laurel Rd. Interchange. The FDOT is entering the design phase of this project and by May 2016, will have received bids for work on the interchange. Parcels will closely monitor the situation and provide updates.
• Sarasota Hospital to Build on Laurel Rd. According to media reports as well as a full page ad by the hospital, Sarasota Memorial Hospital is planning to build a new 200 build acute care hospital at the corner of Laurel and Pinebrook. They own the property and with the housing boom in northeast Venice coupled with Venice Regional Bayfront Hospital recent rejection to sell the hospital to Sarasota Memorial, the announcement to build a second Venice based hospital is not surprising. The hospital must go through a state process before final details emerge. Parcels will follow this process with updates in future editions.
• Chocaholics – Read at your own Risk If you are a chocoholic, we must warn you that this article may not be helpful for your addiction. Gabriella Chocolates and Confections is located on Technology Drive (second street to the left off of Knights Trail). You might have seen their small signs on Laurel advertising their location. A husband and wife team owns this wonderful place and make their product at that location. They have a small retail shop also at their production facility filled with everything a chocoholic would want. They also do a number of custom chocolate items, such as the Florida alligator that is shown below. The majority of their shop is devoted to making chocolates for their customers worldwide. With the upcoming holidays, this is a location that Venetian residents must surely visit.
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•An Addition to the Plaza Life got a little easier for Venetian residents with the opening of a new store in the Plaza Venezia. Located on the left side of Asaro’s Restaurant, you will find Qwik Pack and Ship. They offer a full complement of services besides just packing and shipping. Need copies made, notary service, postage stamps, business cards, eBay sales? Qwik Pack has them all. They use DHL, United State Postal Service and Fed Ex as their carriers for your shipping needs. Their phone number is 941-412-4862. Visit the store and meet owner Steve Csiszar, and tell him that you just live down the road at the VGRC. •Want to be a Master Gardener? If you have a passion for plants and want to become a Master Gardener, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is looking for volunteers to join its highly selective program. Local residents will be taught about gardening, landscaping and managing pests in ways that protect Florida’s natural resources. In their first year, trainees complete a multi-week, hands-on, university-level training program and 75 hours of volunteer service. Each following year, volunteers contribute 35 hours of volunteer service and complete 10 hours of continuing education to maintain their status as a Master Gardener. To learn more about the program, call 941-861-5000.
NOTES FROM THE VCDD The River Club is up and running under new management and did not miss a beat in the transition. Much of our IT, including telephones, Internet and Wi-Fi connections as well as data transmission and accounting systems, were previously part of the WCI network and had to be replaced. All are functionally operating but not necessarily at optimum level. Please bear with us as we “tweak” the systems over the next few weeks. Those of you who are here are no doubt happy to see the same faces behind the desks, at your fitness classes and the tennis facility as well as serving you in the lounge, the dining room and pool-side. For those of you who have not yet returned, we are pleased to let you know that, other than for a couple of exceptions, all the previous staff has continued on under the new management company.
NOTES FROM THE POA The POA’s transition committee will meet at 10am on Oct. 7th, and the key agenda topics are the 2016 budget, possible updating of the Master Declaration, and finalizing the revisions of the ACC standards and Venetian rules. The POA board meeting on Oct. 14th has been changed to a 9am start time. The same agenda topics plus others are planned for this meeting. All residents are welcome to attend these meetings at the River Club. At both of these meetings, Christine Klopotic will be introduced as our new property manager. Christine has been with Castle Management for the past year and she’ll be replacing Shelley DeJiacomo, who is moving to another Castle managed property later in October.
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•Honore Avenue Extension Update If you’ve driven down Laurel Road, you’ve certainly noticed the progress that is being made for the Honore Avenue extension at Pinebrook Road. It may look like it’s ready to open but sorry, it’s not. The county website provides the latest update (September 2015) of this project, saying: “Construction continues throughout the project and is now 70 percent complete. Storm water work is nearing completion at the south end and sidewalk and multipath construction also continues. Signalization, road base, and the Fox Creek bridge construction are on-going. Intersection work at SR 681 continues. The project is expected to be completed in Spring 2016.” •Express Bus Service to SRQ Parcels noticed that there is no public transportation going east on Laurel Rd. As we all know, this area will be booming in the next few years. Therefore, Parcels reached out to Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) to inquire whether they had any plans for future routes on Laurel Rd. The timing of the call could not have been better. The SCAT representative indicated that beginning in November, there will be an express bus (Route 80) that will go from PGT/Technology Drive (north of the Knights Trail & Laurel Road intersection) to the Sarasota Airport, stopping at Doctor’s Hospital, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and Ringling Blvd. The fare is $2.50 each way. For more information, you can contact SCAT at 941-861-1234 or go to www.scgov.net/scat •More Rooms at the Inn It appears there soon will be construction beginning on a new 100 room Hilton Homes2 Suite hotel in Nokomis. The hotel will be built at the corner of Tamiami Trail and Albee Road West. For those who use landmarks to determine locations, this is in the area of Brandi’s Restaurant and Matthews Curie Ford. The hotel is scheduled to open up in December 2016. •Lift Station Appearance When driving down Laurel past the wall of the Toscana Isles development, you will note on the right what is called a lift station on a concrete slab. Lift stations are facilities designed to move wastewater from lower to higher elevation, particularly where the elevation of the source is not sufficient for gravity flow and/or when the use of gravity conveyance will result in excessive excavation depths and high sewer construction costs. Venice’s utilities department is looking at this station as well as the 86 others in the city, reviewing the aesthetics of each one. The VGRCCA is supporting this effort and made a presentation at the City Council meeting on September 22nd expressing the importance of improving the appearance of lift stations.
NEW FINDS •Triton Jewelry A new jewelry store is now located in the Publix Shopping Center at 41 bypass at Laurel Road. They do a wonderful job on repairs and can do most while you watch and wait. A diamond ring that needed six prongs repaired was only $40.00; a watch battery was only $5.00. The showroom is beautiful and the jewelers will custom design a piece of jewelry if you don’t find what you’re looking for. If you have jewelry for sale, they also buy quality gold and diamonds. It’s a good find close to the Venetian.
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
The Venetian POA will hold a board meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12 at 10am at the River Club, and the agenda includes giving final approval to the 2016 budget, discussing election procedures for the annual meeting, and a review of the rules regarding yard ornaments.
On Monday, Nov. 16, there will be a forum for all candidates for the 2016 POA board, and this will begin at 6pm at the River Club. Homeowners are encouraged to attend to learn more about these candidates and hear their viewpoints on the operation of our new board.
On Tuesday, Dec. 8, the Venetian POA annual meeting will be held at Laurel-Nokomis School and begin at 5pm. Homeowners can vote for their choices for the POA board at this meeting, or they can file their ballots in advance with the property manager. All homeowners will be receiving a mailing in the next 10 days with an election ballot, candidate biographies, and a proxy form for this meeting.
• An Example of your VGRC Community Association Working for You. When you are returning to the Venetian coming down the Jacaranda Extension you face a stop sign. You look to your left and look to your right. But you might have noticed that when looking to your right, there is vegetation/shrubbery blocking your sight, resulting in having to pull out even more on Laurel to check to see there is no oncoming traffic. So what does this have to do with membership? Good question. Your VGRCCA also noticed this problem and has pushed the Neal Communities (Village of Milano), to remove the current vegetation that obstructs the view of traffic turning left on Laurel. The Neal Communities had agreed to clean up the southeast corner as part of an understanding they had with the city. Recently, the VGRC Community Association reminded the Neal Communities about the need to do something quickly with this intersection to prevent an accident at the corner. This is just one of many issues your Community Association takes care of. We pay attention to what is termed “outside the gates.” Our strength as an organization is in numbers…..number of members. Our membership drive for 2016 is off to a fast start. Thanks to all those who have already joined. If you are not a member yet, isn’t it time to join an organization that is keeping an eye on those important “outside the gate” issues and concerns? A membership form is attached with an extra incentive for those who join before the first of the year. You can also pay online via credit card at www.vgrcca.us. Let’s show that we care about our community by joining the Community Association.
• BREAKING NEWS…….BREAKING NEWS…….BREAKING NEWS !!!!!!!!! On Friday, November 6, the Neal Communities, cut down the vegetation/shrubbery that blocked the view at the Jacaranda Extension stop sign and replaced it with more appropriate landscape that is “view friendly.” They will also maintain the area. Thanks to the Neal Communities for addressing this problem in a timely manner.
NOTES FROM THE POA
MEMBERSHIP
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EXTRA HELPINGS •Community Association Membership Drive With the season fast approaching and I-75 traffic getting heavier with out of state license plate, we have been fortunate in seeing a significant increase in our membership every year. There is always confusion about the alphabet soup of organizations at the Venetian (VCDD, POA, and VGRCCA). Just for clarification, the VGRCCA is the group that:
Conducts an annual Town Hall meeting and Candidate Forum Assisted in applying $5.5 million in road impact fees to build the Jacaranda Blvd. extension Monitors industrial development as well as key city issues that impact the Venetian Participates in the “Adopt a Road” program, providing a volunteer clean-up crew of Venetian
residents for Laurel Rd. Holds Bike-O-Rama offering free bike maintenance for biking enthusiasts Writes and distributes the Parcels in Paradise newsletter as well as the Community Directory Places flags on the Venetian entryway to honor those who have served Lobbied for the paving of Laurel Road going east into the Myakka River Park Holds a number of learning seminars that tap into the resources of the Sarasota community
To those who have joined in the past, we say “THANK YOU.” To those who would like to join, please complete the membership form at the end of Parcels or go to www.vgrcca.us to pay your membership dues online. Your membership sends a message that you support the need for a strong community. •Gigantic Accomplishment In the last edition of Parcels, we talked about Golf Club Chef Tim’s “Trainwreck Challenge.” If you were able to finish his monster burger platter, you received a free meal and your guests received 25 percent off their meal. Picture this…. the burger consisted of 2 bacon grilled cheese sandwiches as the buns, 2 - 8oz burger patties with 4 slices of white American cheese, 2 over easy eggs, 4 oz. of lettuce, onion and tomato and 8 onion rings. Three brave souls entered the Challenge. One tapped out. Now for the winners. Parcels doesn’t normally mention winners and others, but in this case, an acknowledgement is due to anyone who eats such a monstrous burger. The two hamburger consumption winners were Fred Williamson and David Fischer. A final note. In checking with the Sarasota E.M.T.’s, there were no emergency runs made to their homes that evening nor is there any truth that the champs will enter the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest next July! CALENDAR continues on the next page
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LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS •Police Chief to Retire Venice Police Chief Tom McNulty has given notice that he plans to retire in December of this year. Chief McNulty has been a true friend of the Venetian. He has responded to all of our questions and concerns; he has established a Community Oriented Policing program that assigns a Venice officer (Michelle LaRock) to our community; he established a Citizens Police Academy resulting in two of our residents attending this training; he has spoken at our Town Hall meeting providing updates, honest answers and advice. He will truly be missed. We wish him well in his retirement and thank him for his great service to Venetian residents. •Changes in the Lineup With the news of Chief McNulty’s retirement, there is also news about other city officials who are parting ways. Fire Chief Tom Warmen has elected to resign. Pam Johnson, the city’s public information officer and Jeff Snyder, the Finance Director will also be departing. We wish all of them well and thank them for their service to our community. •Mote Marine Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is excited to share that the exhibit "Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas," originally scheduled to close on Sept. 27th, will become a permanent feature. This family-friendly, educational exhibit invites visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species, and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory. If you haven’t been to the Mote, it’s a very worthwhile experience. For details on the “Oh Baby” exhibit, go to www. mote.org/exhibits/details/oh-baby-life-cycles-of-the-seas •Fascinating New Ecotourism Program The NY Times in a recent Sunday travel section highlighted a unique travel experience right here in Sarasota. This is a non-profit organization that specializes in eco tours of the area’s most beautiful attractions. The first is a 4-day trip entitled “Inspired Sarasota Bay.” The cost of a 4 day tour ranges from $875 - $1,250, with commuter rates for some trips. Many of the trips involve kayaks, canoes or bikes, all supplied by the company. It’s different, unusual and educational. This is not your ordinary run of the mill - sit in a boat - and watch the scenery adventure. Check out their web site at www.ecko.tours You won’t be disappointed.
OUTSIDE THE GATES •Knights Trail extension With development expected to accelerate east of I-75, Sarasota County is revisiting a once controversial plan to extend Knights Trail Road north to Clark Road and create the southernmost section of a major new thoroughfare that would extend all the way to Manatee County. Transportation planners presented the County Commission with a proposal for the new route, and Commissioners voted to move the concept plan forward but asked for more information on potential impacts to environmental lands and existing county facilities. This project is on the radar for your Community Association and we will keep residents informed as necessary.
• Taking on a Cause: The Laurel Civic Association. All of us feel good when we hear about people who take on a cause. We have seen it first hand at the Venetian with those seeking a cure for Scleroderma or for those making us all aware of the great work of Big Brothers and Sisters. Parcels is sure there are hundreds of others in this community who volunteer their time, energy and skills for a particular cause. This leads to a phone call Parcels received recently from a resident. He mentioned that a few of his fellow Venetian residents had become involved in the Laurel Civic Association (http://www.laurelcivic.org/index.cfm) He invited Parcels to join him and other residents at the site of the Laurel Civic Association. Not knowing much about this organization, Parcels accepted the offer. Parcels learned first that the term “ Laurel Civic Association “ is somewhat misleading. Parcels discovered that it is much more than a civic association. Rather it is a vibrant and active community center on Collins Ave (off of Forest, which is left off of Laurel Rd.), less than five miles from our gates. Its founder, Director and truly an inspirational leader is Mrs. (Sandra) Terry, pictured above. Mrs. Terry, as she is referred to, grew up in the area and took on the cause of improving the quality of life for the residents in this part of town. Today, the Center, “The Sandra Sims Terry Community Center”, provides very engaging and well organized after school programs (homework help, computer assistance) along with adult programs throughout the day. They also feed their afterschool kids with those snacks and hot food that every youngster needs once school is dismissed. Once they have a bite, the kids scamper to a room filled with computers and a host of volunteers. This is not playtime. This is extra learning time and the youngsters receive a high dosage of instruction in math, reading and writing along with homework assistance. The Laurel Civic Association is non-profit and self-supporting. They receive no county funds and rely strictly on grants and donations. The Venetian residents who invited Parcels were also very proud of the very immaculate Center and everything they do for the community. The Association’s needs are like many organizations. They need volunteers. They also need volunteers with a background in marketing, accounting, grant writing and fundraising. If interested in volunteering or you just want a tour of the facility,
contact John Jefferson a retired naval officer now serving as the Community’s Program Director or Mrs. Terry herself at 941-483-3338. The Venetian residents who have taken on the Laurel Civic Association as their cause are in the process of organizing a fund raising boat ride in January. More details later. This was a great trip for Parcels, not only in seeing how the Terry Community Center is so valuable to residents of this area, but knowing that some of our Venetian residents have decided to take on this Center as their cause……… and their enthusiasm becomes contagious!
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Thank you for reading this month’s Parcels. If you have any comments, questions or want to suggest an article, click on “Reply” for this email and share your thoughts.
