After nearly a year, the City’s Public Works Department reopened the South Jetty walkway to the public on July 31. The structure in Humphris Park sustained damage in Hurricane Idalia in August 2023, and was awaiting repairs by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and West Coast Inland Navigation District (WCIND) that got underway in mid-July. The Army Corps placed over 400 tons of granite rocks along both sides of the walkway, filling in voids and enhancing stability. The week of July 29, City Public Works crews resurfaced the walkway with more than 12 tons of asphalt, smoothing the surface for accessibility.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The jetty closed Aug. 2 due to Hurricane Debby and remains closed as of Aug. 5
Payroll Corner
Aug. 16 Pay Day
Premium OT Fire (Kelly cycle runs 8/2-8/28)
Accruals available for July
Aug. 30 Pay Day
Police Education Incentive
Fire Education Incentive
Dwayne Evans, Lou Casella, Andy Leisenring, James Clinch, Dan Tucci, Ricky Simpson, Tim George, Ashlee Castle, Brad Holahan and Mark Botelho remove barricades to the South Jetty on July 31, reopening the walkway to the public.
The Army Corps is working on the design of a much larger project to restore the South and North Jetty to their original design specifications. The schedule on this project is not yet determined, but will be an important project to ensure the South Jetty structure maintains its integrity in the future as we continue to experience larger and more intense storm events.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers placed granite rocks on the South Jetty walkway the week of July 22 to fill in voids and enhance stability following damage from Hurricane Idalia in August 2023 Above right, Lou Casella, Dwayne Evans and Ricky Simpson spread asphalt over the walkway July 29. At right, Brianne Lorenz and Dan Tucci check out progress on the walkway July 30.
VPD holds Shop with a Cop
It’s almost time to go back to class, and that means it’s time for Shop with a Cop! For more than 26 years, this annual event has connected Venice police officers, CROs and other staff and community members before the start of the new school year. On July 25, officers supported 18 students with school supplies, new clothes and shoes, gifts for parents and siblings, breakfast and pizza lunch at VPD, and ice cream downtown. What a day!
Along with Sgt. Sean Hammett, who heads up the event for VPD, and Patricia Simmons with The Salvation Army of Sarasota County, staff who participated were: Capt. Eric Hill, K9 Officer Erin Skaggs, Officers Bill Long, Josh Brooks, Brett Woodworth and Andrew Nelson, Detectives Dave Skinner and Sgt. Bill Kuchar, CROs David Lipker, Michael Halpin and Mike Slowik, Courtney Chaco, Kasey Ledford, Caroline Moriarty, Kelli Peyton, Cheryl Prevatte and Mary Wood. A big thank you to Venice Walmart, Big Mike’s Pizza, Venice Avenue
Creamery, Detwiler's Farm Market, and Venice FOP Lodge 57 for making this event possible. More photos, pages 4-5
Shop with a Cop continued
Anniversary Milestones
30 Years
Ron Peyton, Sept. 12 Utilities
5 Years
Derrick Jones, Aug. 26 Public Works/Solid Waste
Nicole Tremblay, Sept. 3 Planning & Zoning
THE LATEST
Shop with a Cop continued
Council Meeting Staff
Agenda Item Deadlines
Council date Aug. 27
DUE Aug. 9
Council date Sept. 10
DUE Aug. 23
Council date Sept. 24
DUE Sept. 6
Check out this article on youth sports and kids’ selfesteem by City Manager Ed Lavallee, pictured at right, that was recently published online in Venice City Lifestyle: The LifeChanging Magic of Little League Baseball.
VENICE CITY SCENE
PRESIDENTS PROGRAM AWARDS
Awards for City line employees for qualifying behavior going above and beyond normal expectations.
$100 Ben Franklin
Who: Dennis Rodriguez. Department: Utilities. Date: July 18. Reason: From a local deputy with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office: “I would like to bestow a compliment to Dennis Rodriguez. Specifically, I was tasked with securing a residence in the 900 block of E. Jacinto Ct. in Bay Indies manufactured home park in preparation for the execution of legal process. The resident is currently in custody and unable to address any issues at the property. During my exterior check I noticed a significant water leak at the rear of the property, observed Mr. Rodriguez in the area, flagged him down, and advised of the observed issue. Mr. Rodriguez sprang into action without any hesitation or question, and immediately began diagnosing the issue, ultimately leading to an entire crew coming out to remedy the larger underlying problem. This is important because had the problem gone unnoticed and/or without repair, it could have impacted the entire community, including the resident's home. Furthermore, it was refreshing to learn that Mr. Rodriguez is a 30-plus-year employee and is still taking care of business for the City of Venice and its residents with great dedication, professionalism, and service. He should be commended and serve as a great example for other employees.”
Who: Marion Vandermark. Department: Fire Rescue. Date: July 25. Reason: Marion has been working tirelessly on a project that will ultimately make Fire Rescue’s EMS tracking processes much more efficient.
$50 Ulysses Grant
Who: Michael Halpin. Department: Police. Date: July 16. Reason: Following the death of an elderly woman on May 10, the mobile home she was living in was deemed unsafe for living by the City’s Building Department. Mike and Kasey worked with the surviving boyfriend who lived at the residence to not only get entitled VA benefits and Social Security, but also a new home in the same development. The lengths that both went to accomplish this positive outcome is outside normal expectations and in specific regard to CRO Halpin, outside of normal procedure resulting in a successful aid to a citizen who had nowhere else to turn for assistance. (Note: Kasey is not a COV employee and will receive a Citizen Certificate of Appreciation.)
$20 Andrew Jackson
Who: Niki Guraly. Department: Fire Rescue (Awarded by the City Manager’s Office and Human Resources). Date: July 9. Reason: Niki did a wonderful job filling in at the City Hall Information Desk while Susan Bennett was out. As the front lines for the public, this post can be a challenging one, and Niki handled everything that came her way with courtesy, compassion and professionalism.
Firemedic Niki Guraly receives a $20 Presidents Program Award from HR Administrative Assistant Stephanie Fisher and PIO Lorraine Anderson
July 9 for her excellent work filling in at the City Hall Information Desk
MEET YOUR COWORKER
Kim Brown: Always experience
VPD Community Resource Officer Kim Brown spent 45 years in California working as a paramedic, sheriff’s deputy and phlebotomist before coming to the City.
Starting with the Police Department in January of this year, Kim’s day-to-day includes parking enforcement, patrolling beaches and parks, taking non-suspect contact calls, pulling signs in the right of way, notary duties, and scene security and traffic control if needed. City CROs work seven days a week now.
“A big part of the job is education,” she said. “Voluntary compliance is the main goal.”
“I like the variety,” she said of the job. “I try to walk the downtown area every day if possible. Yes I’m looking for parking violations, but it’s mostly for contact – talking to people about their life, asking them if they are local or visiting, making suggestions, giving directions.
What’s Kim’s strategy for dealing with mad people? “I was a deputy sheriff for 20-plus years,” she smiled. “They can yell, that’s all right. But if other things start to go down, it goes downhill from there. Most people just want to vent, so I let them.”
Kim, now 63, was born in England at what was then the South Ruislip Air Force Station. Her father Jesse was an American in the Air Force Airlift Command Band; her “mum” Maureen an Englishwoman who became a naturalized American.
“My dad was a professional musician. He spent 36 years in the military, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant. He was first a drill instructor, then moved to supply, then the military band. His main instruments were trumpet and saxophone; he also played standing string bass and some percussion, bongos and drums.
Above, CRO Brown outside the Venice Police Department in July Below, Kim’s parents, Maureen and Jesse, prepare to attend a military ball at Scott AFB in Illinois. Kim’s father was an American in the Air Force Airlift Command Band; her “mum” an Englishwoman who became a naturalized American
MEET YOUR COWORKER
Kim continued
“My mum worked in the BX (base exchange) in the men’s department, and my dad needed to get some more socks. He was looking around for them and then saw the clerk coming, which was my mum, and he just knew she was the one. He said he was standing in front of the table where the socks and underwear were displayed and he asked her where the socks were because he just wanted to talk to her. She said, “You’re standing in front of the table.’”
Kim came to the U.S. with her family in 1963 when she had just turned 3, residing at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. In 1973, when Kim was entering eighth grade, the family moved to Japan when her father was shipped overseas.
“I fell in love with Japanese culture and language,” she said. “The people are very in tune with nature and culture, very respectful and kind. I spoke Japanese fluently, but I was only there two years before we moved to then Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. I never could pick up the language there, which was frustrating.”
Kim says she’s both dyslexic and dysgraphic, sometimes writing backwords. “(Because of that) I was a horrible student and I hated school. Sometimes I could do it and other times what was on the page looked like German. I was bad at math until I discovered algebra, and that clicked – it made total sense. It got better in high school. I never let (those disorders) stop me from doing what I wanted to do. I was resolved to not use it as a crutch or excuse in life.
“In high school in the Philippines, I was in track and field, volleyball and field hockey so we traveled to other bases and countries to compete –Korea, Kadena AFB (in Okinawa), Andersen AFB (in Guam), Yokota AFB (in Japan). Then we came back to the U.S., landing in California. I graduated in 1979 from Moreno Valley High School, and then I stayed in California for 45 years.
“I enjoyed traveling, so moving around a lot didn’t faze me,” she said. “You learn to be a chameleon and adapt quickly. I got used to being
stared at because my parents are biracial. But I would get that in the states.”
“Travel opens your mind and shapes your personality. You are forced to deal with and learn from different cultures. I still love to travel when I get the opportunity because I want to learn.”
Above, Kim in her 20s as a paramedic with Goodhew Ambulance in Riverside, Calif. Below, Kim graduates from the police academy in Riverside in April 1987.
MEET YOUR COWORKER
Kim continued
Although Kim was in ROTC during high school, she decided to serve differently than enter the military.
“I was also in a program where I became a nurse’s aide in a hospital, a paid position. That was exciting. Like most kids I worked
in fast food, then retail for a year or two.” She was a big fan of a ‘70s TV series about first responders called “Emergency!” “Every time they had a call I was listening,” she said. “I thought, that’s what I want to do, be a paramedic.”
In her early 20s, Kim became an EMT, then a paramedic. “I loved it,” she said. “I’m a science geek, so I loved the fact that I could get on scene, use our equipment along with the diagnostic skills that we were taught and be able to quickly figure out what I had to do to help someone. It’s a great feeling – administering meds, watching people improve, just getting them to the hospital so they can get more advanced care.” Kim spent a decade in that field.
“I was on a medical call where a female transient had been robbed and assaulted. It was very traumatic for her,” Kim said. “It made me mad that someone attacked an older woman. It really resonated with me and bothered me. I was with a civilian company assigned to a fire station in Riverside, Calif., at the time. My captain looked at me and said, ‘The only way to change is to be somebody who makes those changes.’ So I decided to go into law enforcement.”
At 27, Kim was one of the older people in her academy. She became a sheriff’s deputy for Riverside, where she stayed for over 20 years.
“In law enforcement I did everything from patrol, bicycle and equestrian patrol, background investigation for recruitment, and aviation.
“In aviation, my role was tactical flight officer. We would fly over areas and observe. Riverside is the 4th largest county in California and we would go all the way to the Colorado River. Technically, I was the first female in that role for Riverside County. It was a great assignment. I would man the radio and the FLIR – Forward Looking Infrared – and did some navigation for the pilot. If there was a pursuit I’d be calling out the movements, the street turns, so I had to be very aware directionally. I just loved it.
Above, Kim (at left in photo) on mounted patrol for the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. At left, she was named a Deputy of the Year in 2001
MEET YOUR COWORKER
Kim continued
“I’m glad I made the change (to law enforcement),” she said. “You’re reminded all the time that people and kids are watching you, like when someone comes up to me and I don’t recognize them, they’re now married and they have their own kids. They’ll say, ‘Miss Brown? Deputy Brown? I just want to say hi, I met you when I was an Explorer Scout, I’m now in the military, I’m (in the Military Police) because of you.’ That’s happened – that’s really cool.”
After a reaggravating injury, Kim retired in 2009. “These processes take a while, so before I retired I was working at the station doing administrative duties, I was an Explorer adviser, and I did backgrounds for civilian patrol.” Then she decompressed from law enforcement for six months.
JUNE 2024
“I had a friend call me and say, ‘As a medic you were always good with needles. Have you ever thought about working in a lab?’ I figured, this is good, I can use my science, so I became a phlebotomist. My first job was with what would become Labcorp. I also did insurance exams for Quest.
“Then, another friend of mine who was a deputy, decided to change agencies and go to the Riverside City Police Department. He saw me at a fish fry fundraiser. He said, ‘Are you still doing the blood thing? My sister-in-law is looking for people to work Riverside – she has a mobile phlebotomy company.’ I said, ‘That sounds intriguing.’ Turns out I had met her before, when she was a Labcorp supervisor filling in. So I got hired at this company she was just starting. It was slow at first so I was still doing insurance exams. Then, it took off. Once she got Medicare, we started expanding. It was in four counties in California, then expanded into Arizona. They had a sales team that would go out and let doctors know and secure contracts for their patients.
“It was good for those who are housebound, and very convenient for patients. I also did concierge for patients, so I’ve drawn blood from movie stars and famous singers and rappers.” Kim had to sign nondisclosures, so she can’t say on the record who she worked on, but some of her clients are as famous as it gets. “You see them on screen one way and then when you see them in their home, where they are relaxed but guarded for a variety of reasons – it’s a real honor. I got to draw them, their kids, their wives.
“My day could start drawing my first patient at 4 a.m. because an actor has to be on set. People who are running huge companies, they don’t have time to make an appointment. It’s more convenient for me to pop in first thing in the morning or before lunch and draw them n their office. We had centrifuges in our vehicles, other equipment and dry ice, so we could process the blood, package it all up with orders from the doctors and drop it off at Labcorp or Quest as requested. We were full-service.”
Kim spent 2 years with Labcorp and Quest and was in mobile phlebotomy for over 13 years.
Above, Kim and her brother Charles and his daughters pose in front of a sheriff’s helicopter in Riverside In aviation, Kim’s role was a tactical flight officer, flying over areas and observing.
Kim, front row, third from left, served as a law enforcement instructor for the Inland Empire Explorer Academy in 1990.
MEET YOUR COWORKER
Kim
continued
“I enjoyed the patient care. When you do mobile, you have to get very skilled at patients who are difficult to draw. I went from area phlebotomist to area supervisor, then compliance officer; we also audited every employee. I killed 3 cars! The company did get very large – at one point we had almost 70 phlebotomists in two states.”
Kim got out of mobile phlebotomy as coronavirus was just starting in 2019.
“I applied to different hospitals and got hired at Corona Regional Medical Center in the COVID-19 unit, because a lot of phlebotomists didn’t want to do that. I worked fully suited up at one point.” Kim stayed there 3 years.
“I decided if I were to retire, I could live in California but it would be really tight financially. I had to make some decisions. So I said, let me see if we have any sister hospitals. I picked four states – Texas, Idaho, Tennessee and Florida. In Tennessee, I was interested in owning a tiny house when I retired, so I went to a plant where they are made. At the same time, the hospital there needed phlebotomists. I put in an application and got the job, but I couldn’t take it because they wanted me to start immediately and I couldn’t – I needed to train somebody in my position back in California.
“The two sister hospitals I came down to Florida last August to see were Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota and Venice. I had never been to this area before, just Orlando and Jacksonville. I toured both facilities, saw the labs and met the lab directors. Both facilities told me to put in for an intratransfer. I said, OK, now what do I do with the rest of the week? (After I did my Venice interview) I had lunch downtown and realized the beach is right there, so I spent the next few days on the beach. While I’m there, I said, if I’m going to move here, let me figure out where I’m going to live – let me look at the crime stats, check out the fire department. The very last agency I Googled was VPD. I read everything on their page, then I clicked on jobs, and the CRO position had posted two hours prior. I said nah, why would they hire me? I went back to my hotel room, had dinner, and afterwards it was just nagging me. So I spent several hours filling out the application. The next morning I packed up and I’m driving out of state back to California. I didn’t even get to Alabama when (VPD Business Manager) Rattana Wongsa had sent me an email saying we’ve selected you to go through the background check. I had 10 days to do it, which was good because I was on the road back.
“(Working for VPD) appealed to me more than working at one of the hospitals. A week later I had an interview over Zoom. I thought I was better suited to augment patrol because I do have a background in law enforcement. (CRO Supervisor) Jim Davis said, ‘You know you’ll also be doing code enforcement.’ It just happened so quickly. Two weeks later I got the job offer. It’s been great but there’s a lot to learn – I’m still learning code and Florida statute.”
Of her multiple careers, Kim says her motto has been “Don’t stop, always experience.”
Kim, who lives in North Port, also has a younger brother, Charles, who is in the aerospace field. He and his wife Stacy have two daughters. When she’s not working, Kim enjoys traveling and exploring other locales in Florida, finding new and exciting shopping, and checking out the beaches in the area. She enjoys outdoor activities like bicycling and speed walking, and has done half-marathons. She also makes jewelry and did some real estate investing in California, fixing and flipping houses until COVID hit.
“I love every aspect of this job,” Kim said of being a CRO. “Code enforcement is not just grass that’s too tall; it’s basically health and safety – abandoned homes, houses with frontage that’s about to fall. There are so many aspects.”
TAKE A BOW
The following kudos from citizens, partner organizations, Council Members and co-workers demonstrate the incredible dedication and pride with which you serve the City. Thank you for continuing to make Venice a premier location to live, work, retire, and vacation to.
Historical Resources
“Thank you so much for your research assistance on the Venice jetties,” Isabelle Flanagan emailed Jon Watson July 26. “I appreciate your quick response. You are an asset as both Curator and Collections Manager.”
Human Resources
“I wanted to thank you for the fantastic wellness screening event this morning. You always do such an incredible job organizing these events,” Executive Assistant Cordy Crane emailed Benefits Administrator Monika Laszkowski July 25. “I had a wonderful session with a staff member (I believe her name was Lori), who was exceptional. We discussed various topics, including nutrition, habit changes, and preparation for my upcoming hip replacement surgery. She listened attentively, provided excellent advice, and never made me feel rushed. Her support truly went above and beyond my expectations. Thank you for all that you do for our employees. Walking back to my office, I felt so grateful to be part of such an amazing work environment. Thanks again!”
Police
Chief Charlie Thorpe received a card July 10 from former Police Chief Tom Mattmuller’s daughter Lauren, now U.S. Air Force Capt. Lauren Mattmuller: “Thank you for allowing me to take my oath of office at the PD. Having my commissioning ceremony take place there meant so much to my family and you are the ultimate hosts! Aim high!” Chief Thorpe added: “Thank you to all who were able to attend the ceremony last week. It was a great thing to see, and it certainly was an honor to host such a special ceremony for the Mattmuller family.”
Sarasota resident Lori Turkovics emailed Community Resource Officer Kim Brown July 22: “I cannot thank you enough for your assistance on Friday as I was stranded across from the Venice Beach parking lot. Technology is great until it's not. I did run out of gas. Your care for me and wanting to make sure that I wouldn't be hit by another vehicle was so appreciated. Your waiting for my friends to arrive and shielding me from any possible mishap just confirmed my faith in our police force. I appreciate you and wish you the best moving forward.”
Public Works
IT Senior Newtork Engineer Steven Simpson emailed Electrical Maintenance Technician Tony Rosen July 26: “I wanted to say thanks for going above and beyond out in the rain and helping troubleshoot the police cameras. I appreciate you going the extra mile to help me getting this resolved.”
Solid Waste
“I just wanted to say thank you for a job well done,” resident Robbie Kirkland wrote via the City’s Facebook Messenger July 18. “Today was our bulk trash, recycling and yard waste pickup. All the trucks were so coordinated and all was picked up by 11:20 a.m. That’s great service!”
Continued on page 13
Congrats on your Promotion!
Seth Smith, promoted from Field Operations Technician I to Technical Support Specialist III in Utilities, effective July 15.
Kevin Barrett, promoted from Stormwater Crew Leader in Public Works to Stormwater Tech I in Engineering, effective July 22.
Steven Timmer, promoted from Heavy Equipment Operator to Stormwater Crew Leader in Public Works, effective July 22.
Carl Bukantas, promoted from Solid Waste Equipment Operator I to Solid Waste Equipment Operator II in Public Works/Solid Waste, effective Aug. 14.
TAKE A BOW
Utilities
Deputy Patrick Bassett with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office emailed Technical Unit Supervisor Damien Stillings July 18: “I would like to bestow a compliment to Technical Support Specialist Dennis Rodriguez. Specifically, I was tasked with securing a residence in the 900 block of E. Jacinto Ct. in Bay Indies manufactured home park in preparation for the execution of legal process. The resident is currently in custody and unable to address any issues at the property. During my exterior check I noticed a significant water leak at the rear of the property, observed Mr. Rodriguez in the area, flagged him down, and advised of the observed issue. Mr. Rodriguez sprang into action without any hesitation or question and immediately began diagnosing the issue, ultimately leading to an entire crew coming out to remedy the larger underlying problem. This is important because had the problem gone unnoticed and/or without repair, it could have impacted the entire community, including the resident's home. Furthermore, it was refreshing to learn that Mr. Rodriguez is a 30-plusyear employee and is still taking care of business for the City of Venice and its residents with great dedication, professionalism, and service. He should be commended and serve as a great example for other employees.”
VPD Capt. Andy Leisenring recently attended the Senior Management Institute for Police, training that provides senior police executives with the latest management concepts and practices used in business and government.
The intensive three-week course is an initiative of the Police Executive Research Forum. It equips police leaders to effectively move their organizations forward. It also aims to strengthen and deepen leadership at law enforcement agencies around the country
Participants engaged in discussions of the most challenging issues facing law enforcement executives today. The program featured faculty from top universities, successful law enforcement chief executives, and subject matter experts from the private sector.
Congratulations, Captain!
UPDATES & ACTIONS
Venice Police conducts Operation Dry Water
July 4-6, Venice Police Department, along with Sarasota Sheriff’s Office, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), U S Coast Guard, Sarasota Police Department and other neighboring law enforcement partners conducted Operation Dry Water to encourage safe and sober boating
3
Boating Under the Influence (BUI) arrests made
Vessels contacted
Boaters contacted
Boating Safety Warnings issued 4
Boating Citations issued
In the evening of July 4, the Venice Police Marine Unit, with assistance from Sea Tow Venice, responded to a boat crash where the male operator had been under the influence of alcohol. The operator hit another vessel before crashing into a private dock, launching the boat and operator over the seawall into a back yard of a property on Laguna Drive. The operator was hospitalized with injuries and the crash is being investigated by FWC. Charges are pending.
Remember, it is illegal and dangerous to operate a boat under the influence.
VENICE CITY SCENE
UPDATES & ACTIONS
July 9 City Council Meeting Recap
Venice City Council took the following actions at their regular July 9 meeting:
Approved on Consent Agenda:
City Clerk: Set the Dates for the Public Hearings on Millage and Budget for 5:01 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10 and Sept. 24, 2024, and Set the Preliminary Operating Millage Rate at 3.9041 Mills and the Debt Service Millage Rate at 0.3632 Mills for Fiscal Year Ending 2025.
Airport: Request to Apply and Receive Federal Grant Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) for the Construction of the Airport Administration/ Terminal Building in the Amount of $950,000.
Lease Agreement Between the City of Venice and Blue Skies Unlimited, LLC for the Construction of an Aircraft Hangar.
Approved 6-1 (Council Member Farrell dissenting): Authorize the Mayor to Execute the City of Venice Consent for Use of Impact Fees for Laurel Road Widening Project.
Approved 7-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2024-13 of the City of Venice, Providing for Placement of the Structure Known as the Municipal Mobile Home Park Clubhouse Located at 780 Firenze Ave. E. on the Local Register of Historical Resources Pursuant to Chapter 87, Historic and Architectural Preservation, Section 7.7, Local Register and Landmarks, of the City of Venice Code of Ordinances; Providing for Conflicts; and Providing for Severability.
Watch the complete July 9 Council meeting here Venice City Council meets in chambers at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave., at 9 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month Council meeting minutes and audio and video recordings are typically available within 48 hours of each meeting date. City Council is currently on break through August, resuming Aug. 27, 2024.
10-Year Service Award
Christina Rimes, CRS Coordinator in Engineering, receives her 10-year service award and pin during the July 9 City Council meeting from City Manager Ed Lavallee and Mayor Nick Pachota, as City Engineer Kathleen Weeden looks on. In October 2020, the City Engineer recruited Christina to be the Community Rating System Coordinator. This new position required her to learn the extensive CRS and floodplain management programs Christina achieved the status of Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) on Aug. 19, 2022. Becoming a CFM requires passing a comprehensive exam on floodrelated information, all of which was brand new to Christina when she accepted the position She has achieved 100% approval the past two years during the state Elevation Certificate audit. She has successfully improved the flood prevention outreach program and brochures to be more effective and is a vital part of the City's annual Hurricane Expo, spending hours looking up residents’ flood zones during the event Christina serves on the Local Mitigation Strategy Committee, Myakka River Council, Unified Program for Public Information and CRS Floodplain Management Plan Committees. She learned the GIS (Geographic Information System) Program and works with other GIS team members to improve floodplain mapping and graphical selection for elevation certificates Congrats on 10 years with the City Christina!
UPDATES & ACTIONS
July 9 Council Meeting Recap continued
Approved 7-0 on Final Reading: Ordinance 2024-14 Amending City of Venice Ordinance No. 2023-34, as Previously Amended, Which Adopted the Official Budget of the City of Venice for the Fiscal Year Beginning Oct. 1, 2023 and Ending Sept. 30, 2024; by Increasing the Total Revenue by $1,600,000 and Total Expenditures by $1,600,000.
Approved 7-0 on First Reading: Ordinance 2024-17 Amending City of Venice Ordinance No. 2023-34, as Previously Amended, Which Adopted the Official Budget of the City of Venice for the Fiscal Year Beginning Oct. 1, 2023 and Ending Sept. 30, 2024; by Increasing the Total Revenue by $778,083 and Total Expenditures by $778,083.
In Other Action, Council Voted To: Direct staff to work with special counsel to refine the PUD Amendment document presented July 9 with Council feedback and return with a more complete document.
Accept the Citizen Advisory Board's recommendation and approve placement of a circus mural on a City wall located at 780 S. Tamiami Trail.
Accept the Citizen Advisory Board's recommendation and approve placement of a Girl with Butterflies Statue and other interpretive elements in Centennial Park.
Maintain the standard that the Mayor reserve the privilege to maintain the Mayor's Pillar of the Community Award.
2023 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report available
Drinking water quality is essential to our beautiful community and the region. The City’s Utilities Department is committed to meeting state and federal water quality standards
Utilities Director Javier Vargas is pleased to report that the 2023 Water Quality Report highlights the performance of the City’s drinking water systems and the work of our water professionals in delivering some of the nation’s best drinking water. Read the report here.
“Together, we remain committed to protecting public health and maintaining open communication with the public about our drinking water,” Vargas said
The City’s drinking water source is from wells which draw from the intermediate aquifer This brackish water is pumped to the treatment plant where it is treated using the reverse-osmosis process The water is then run through the aeration process to remove hydrogen sulfide. Chlorine is added as a disinfectant. This process is continuously monitored and adjusted as needed by plant operators who are certified by the State of Florida The final product is delivered to the residents, businesses, and visitors located within the City of Venice
Continued on page 21
UTILITIES UPDATE: Water Treatment Plant Supply Well
Work scheduled for August 2024: Onsite:
Install 12-inch raw water main and fiber-optic conduit from the wellhead to the Pinebrook Road right-of-way. Install 16-inch raw water main and fiber-optic conduit along the west side of Pinebrook Road, from Kilpatrick Road north to the well site. Restoration of roadway pavement, curb and gutter, sidewalk, sod, and all other restoration applicable to the project work areas.
During the work, the west (southbound) lane of Pinebrook Road and the adjacent sidewalk will be closed between Kilpatrick Road and Healthcare Way (Sarasota Memorial Hospital).
Heavy equipment will be near and in the road right-ofway. Please drive slowly, use caution, and watch out for workers. Motorists are to follow posted traffic signs.
Project background: The City currently operates 14 wells that supply raw water to the Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant (WTP). Use of the wells are rotated about every week and about half the wells are in service at any given time depending on the water demands Over time, wells must be taken off-line for extensive rehabilitation to recover the original production capacity The City’s permit to withdraw water from the aquifer includes the addition of one well. This project also includes 12- and 16-inch raw water transmission mains and a generator. Construction of the new well affords greater reliability and operational flexibility in meeting the future water demands of the City.
Funding: A substantial portion of this project is funded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program.
For more information, visit venicegov.com/government/utilities/projects
AlanBullock
HumanResourcesDirector
abullock@venicefl.gov
941-882-7377
As you may know, I like to ask all new employees about their claims to fame, just for fun and to get to know them a little on a personal basis. Mine is that I have met Margaret Thatcher, the first female UK Prime Minister.
Their responses provide a fascinating insight into their lives and I am constantly amazed at the diverse range of people and accompanying stories.
Recent answers have included Gypsy Rose Blanchard, the Dalai Lama, Robin Williams, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, George W. Bush, Barrack Obama, Tony Robbins, Tim Allen, Mike Tyson, Adam Sandler, Billy Joel, B.B. King, Danny Glover, Danny DeVito, Don Johnson, the members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brian Johnson of AC/DC, and Will Smith. Looking forward to many more!
HR Director Alan Bullock spends a day each month in the field with a COV employee, as time allows.
“On July 31 I had the pleasure of spending some time out in the field with Karl ‘Jake’ Brandenburg at Venice Municipal Airport,” Alan said. “I think a lot of times people, including fellow employees, don't fully realize what exactly is entailed in running any particular operation we have here at the City. Exemplary of this notion is Jake, who has served as an Airport Maintenance Technician for almost two years.
“I think most people understand that an airport runway should have functional lights surrounding it. However, what I came to learn from Jake is that the lighting system employed is nothing like the one in your home or garden. As you can see from the below photos, there is an entire building in the middle of the airport that I bet most people haven’t noticed, which houses the necessary electronic equipment to simply supply power to the lights. In so doing, it steps the voltage up to a terrifying 9,000. Needless to say, handling this kind of potential energy requires a great deal of precaution and I was most reassured to see that Jake is particularly fastidious in this regard.
“Not only did he execute the required protocols admirably, but he also was able to explain to me in layman's terms why this type of electric supply is necessary and how it happens, and also give me a good understanding of the difference between DC and AC electrical currents along with a list of their respective pros and cons. He really is quite an expert in the field. Couple that with his pleasant and easygoing personality and it was a most enjoyable and interesting day indeed. Thank you to all those at the airport for your hospitality!”
City Hall Selfie Day is Aug. 15
The 9th annual City Hall Selfie Day 2024 is Thursday, Aug 15! ALL departments – not those just at City Hall – are encouraged to participate, as well as Council members and charter officers. This is an opportunity to get creative and show municipal workers having fun on the job – which we so obviously do! Props and out-of-the box ideas are highly encouraged. They can be group shots or individual photos
All COV selfies MUST be taken on Aug. 15 ONLY, and emailed to PIO Lorraine Anderson at landerson@venicefl.gov before 5 p.m. If it is easier to text, please send them to 941-223-2015. IDs would be great, and if workers are in the field and it’s not immediately obvious what they are doing, a sentence or two of explanation would be helpful If you need a selfie stick or tripod for photos, please see Lorraine or Special Events Coordinator Brianne Lorenz in the Assistant City Manager’s Office.
Additionally, for any staff who want to be in it, we will be meeting in front of City Hall (W. Venice Ave. entrance) at 9:30 a.m. that Thursday for a group selfie, taken via drone by Don Hubbard in IT. Bring your cellphone for a prop. Please notate this group photo on your calendars
By hashtagging the selfies on social media, we enter a contest with Engaging Local Government Leaders, a professional association for people who work in and with local government. Winners receive recognition on multiple social media platforms and websites. Some specific selfie categories this year include: People’s Choice Award, Best Community Engagement, Most Creative, Best Photography, Funniest, and Most Selfies Taken by One Person. Get more info by visiting elgl.org/cityhallselfie/. The photos below are just a few from last year’s City Hall Selfie Day here at the COV.
Looking forward to seeing your creative efforts – thank you in advance!
City of Venice Centennial Logo Contest
Contest opened: July 15, 2024
Contest closes: 5 p m , Sept 2, 2024
Submit: Email entries to centennial@venicefl.gov
Criteria: See the design brief at venicegov.com
Calling all creatives! The City of Venice has launched a Centennial Logo Contest to commemorate and celebrate Venice’s upcoming 100-year anniversary, which officially kicks off in November 2025 and runs for 18 months.
The Centennial logo will be featured throughout the numerous Centennial events, at City facilities and on all City-sponsored printed and digital promotional and marketing materials. The City will also allow community partners to use and display the logo as approved through the City’s partnership guidelines.
“One of our most important goals for the upcoming Centennial is to actively involve the Venice community in the process,” said Assistant City Manager James Clinch “This logo contest will be a fun opportunity for citizens to participate directly by submitting their original logo designs and by providing valuable input for the selection of the Venice Centennial logo ”
Submitted logo designs that meet the criteria as outlined in the design brief attached will be put up for public vote in late September, with final adoption by City Council.
City employees interested in entering the contest are encouraged to submit logo designs by 5 p.m. Sept. 2 to centennial@venicefl.gov.
Read the full design brief here
WHAT ARE YOU UP TO?
Planning and Zoning held a three-day Seaboard Master Plan Design Charrette for the public July 31-Aug. 2 that was well-attended by business owners and community members. The City is in the process, with consultant assistance, of developing a master plan for Seaboard that will be the blueprint for the area’s transition into a mixed-use neighborhood The charrette was an opportunity for the public to join with planning professionals and brainstorm, sketch ideas, and collaborate regarding the specific project area Pictured at the charrette with P&Z Director Roger Clark, far left, are, at far right (back row), Utilities Director Javier Vargas, and Brittany Smith, Nicole Tremblay, Rebecca Paul, Ilona Krigsman and Kelsey Shope with Planning.
Deputy City Clerks Toni Cone and Mercedes Barcia held their annual Records Information Meeting in Council Chambers July 24 for staff in all departments. The session covered topics including records retention, disposition reporting, public records requests, exemptions, digitizing records, and viewing records in Laserfiche
WHAT
At left, Assistant City Manager James Clinch, wife Casey and kids Cora, Eli and Lilly took a road trip to New York City, pictured, and Washington, D.C., in late July. At right, summer intern Destiny Salomon was feted with a certificate, cake and challenge coin on July 26 after completing 85 hours with the City Clerk’s Office and other City departments Pictured with Destiny are Cheryl Prevatte, Mary Wood, Tawnie Murdock, Alan Bullock, Amanda Hawkins-Brown, VPD Capt Eric Hill, City Clerk Kelly Michaels, Ed Lavallee, Tracey Smith, Cordy Crane, Mayor Nick Pachota, Mercedes Barcia and Toni Cone.
Staff enjoy Ice Cream Friday at City Hall July 26, scooped up by City Manager Ed Lavallee and Executive Assistant Cordy Crane.
Audrey Symowicz, Administrative Coordinator in Building, participated in the Ironman 70.3 Oregon in mid-July The race in Salem, Ore., included a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bicycle ride and 13.1mile run Way to go Audrey!
WHAT ARE YOU UP TO?
At left, Utilities Director Javier Vargas supports Chris Sharek and Travis Flowers of Jacobs Engineering with their presentation on the City of Venice Infrastructure Report Card for water and sewer facilities July 12 during the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Florida Section Annual Conference in Bonita Springs At right, Planning Coordinator
Rebecca Paul donates blood for the first time during the July 10 City Hall drive
Special Events Coordinator and “Crusher of Dreams” Brianne Lorenz celebrates her July 5 birthday with unicorn cupcakes.
Customer Service Manager Carolyn Hart, City Engineer Kathleen Weeden, Finance Director Linda Senne and PIO Lorraine Anderson join former Venice City Clerk Lori Stelzer for lunch July 26 at Darrell’s
Immunization Trivia
1. True or False: The first vaccine developed was against smallpox.
2. Which of the following diseases are preventable through immunization?
A. Measles
B. Common cold
C. Broken bones
D. Food poisoning
3. Which vaccine is recommended for the prevention of cervical cancer?
A. MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
B. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
C. DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
D. Hepatitis B
4. True or False: The yearly flu vaccine is recommended only for people 50 and older.
5. How often is the tetanus vaccine typically recommended for adults?
A. Every year
B. Every 5 years
C. Every 10 years
D. Every 20 years
WORKING ON WELLNESS
August is Immunization Awareness Month
Anxiety about vaccinations is common for people of all ages. You can do simple things to make yourself (or the person you are with) feel better about the vaccination process so you can continue to be protected from the serious diseases that vaccinations fight against.
Before the visit
Preregister for your visit, if possible, to reduce your wait time. Know what to expect. When setting up the visit, ask if vaccinations are expected. Consider a numbing medicine that you can put on the skin to help with injection pain.
Consider asking the clinic or pharmacist how to do this before you arrive, and using one you can get without a prescription.
During the visit
Ask questions about the vaccination process so you feel prepared. Tell the person vaccinating you if you are anxious and what helps you feel calmer. Relax. Try taking a few, slow deep breaths before, during and after the vaccination. Distract. Consider using an app or game on your mobile device or simply talking about something.
After the visit
Experts do not recommend pain medicines (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) before vaccination because they might lower the body’s response to vaccines. You may use these medicines to help with pain or fever that develops after vaccination, if needed.
Click HERE for a Child & Adolescent Vaccine Assessment Tool
Click HERE for a Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool
5 Tips for Getting Back into a Routine
As summer comes to an end, many of us need to think about getting ourselves and our families back on track with daily and weekly routines. Some tips:
Schedule your time. Take time each evening (or on a weekly basis on Sunday) to review what needs to be accomplished each day or week. Write down a timeblocked schedule for things that need to be accomplished, including appointments, meetings, events, tasks, etc.
Be realistic. Your routine does not need to be perfect. Try your best to set realistic time blocks for your tasks. Remember to include buffer time for commutes, friendly conversations and the inevitable “life” moments that will come up.
Make sure your routine is made for YOU. What works for one person or family does not necessarily work for another. Consider the specific needs of those involved in your daily and weekly routines and be flexible to make it work for all involved. Be sure to schedule in enjoyable tasks and moments. If a routine is going to last long term, it has to work for you first.
Take your time. It is OK if you do not pick up an old routine from where you left off. You may need some readjusting, and it will most likely take time to figure out your personal and family’s specific needs. The first couple of days or weeks may be challenging, but steady consistency is key for getting back on track.
Be kind to yourself. Think about the outcomes these routines will help you achieve to keep you motivated to stay on track. Whether it is better sleep, better health, better organization or smoother days in your household, imagine yourself benefitting from the routines you are working to implement now.
WORKING ON WELLNESS
Personalized Recommendations for Screening Tests & Vaccines
Click here
Meditation
Mark your calendar and join us at noon every 2nd Wednesday of the month for a 30-minute meditation with virtual instructor Soozie Kinstler.
Aug. 14 - Japa Meditation for Spacious Abundance
Sept. 11 - Japa Meditation for Vitality and Power
Stretch of the Month:
Doorway Shoulder Stretch
Stand in a doorway, placing one forearm against the doorframe with your elbow at or slightly higher than shoulder height.
Relax both shoulders as you lean forward, allowing your chest and shoulder muscles to stretch. To deepen the stretch, you can turn your body slightly away from your stretched arm.
Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat on the opposite side.
WORKING ON WELLNESS
Register here for Florida Blue’s wellness education live webinars.
1p.m.,Tuesday,Aug.13
FightingInflammation
Join us to learn more about the role of inflammation in the body – what triggers it, how it helps you heal, and when too much inflammation damages your health. We will review the causes of inflammation and discuss lifestyle choices such as an anti-inflammatory diet and exercise – the best defense against chronic inflammation. You’ll leave with some delicious recipes to help you stay healthy.
1p.m.,Wednesday,Aug.14
SportsNutrition
In this month's Ask the Dietitian live webinar, Lauren Dimitrov, a registered dietitian nutritionist with Florida Blue, will discuss sports nutrition, including proper foods (protein, carbohydrates, fat), hydration needs, and meal timing considerations to support athletic performance. Lauren will also answer your questions during live Q&A.
Noon,Wednesday,Aug.21
HealthasYouAge
A doctor will cover everything you need to know about staying healthy as you age and will also answer questions. Topics will include: the importance of preventive screenings and vaccines, how exercise and nutrition can keep you feeling your best, and managing your stress levels.
Listen to past webinar recordings here.
WORKING ON WELLNESS
Recipe of the Month: Tomato salad with lemon-basil vinaigrette
Recipe Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1&1/4 cup
Total Calories: 90
Total Fat: 6g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Sodium: 213mg
Sugar: 4g
Ingredients:
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
3 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground pepper
4 large, firm, multicolor heirloom tomatoes
2 medium English cucumbers
2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Preparations:
Slice heirloom tomatoes and thinly slice English cucumbers.
Arrange tomatoes and cucumbers in a serving dish as desired.
Whisk basil, lemon juice, oil, mustard, salt and pepper in a large bowl.
Drizzle dressing over tomatoes and cucumbers, sprinkle with feta and top with basil leaves, if desired.
WORKING ON WELLNESS
Florida Blue Health Screenings
The City and Florida Blue presented two free health screenings for City employees last month; the first on July 18 in the VPD Community Room and the second on July 25 in Community Hall at City Hall Participants received $50 for completion of the biometrics plus entry into the participation prize drawings, giveaways including a tote bag and insulated tumbler, and an opportunity to lower disease risk factors and address chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes; and $20 for completion of an online health assessment (for Florida Blue members). See page 29 for drawing winners!
Drawing contest winners
Early bird drawing
$50 Amazon gift card - Kyle Hartley
$50 Amazon gift card - Joelle Gurk
$50 Amazon gift card - Troy Deines
Participation prize drawing
Mini projector - Mel Mosser
Ray-Ban certificate - Rob Pratt
Ninja blender - Eric Tanner
Massage gun - Alyssa Armstrong
$50 Amazon gift card - David Guilmette
$50 Publix gift card - Kelly Michaels
Handheld blender - Travis Hout
Cervical pillow - James Browning
Water flosser - Kathleen Weeden
$40 Amazon gift card - Susan Bennett
Wrist blood pressure monitor - Monica Thompson
Grill tools set - Jeanne Davis
YETI tumbler - Kim Brown
Pickleball set - Matt Tomer
Fitness tracker - Jeff Sweater
Grill brush and scraper - Ashley Griffin
Mini first-aid kit - Christina Rimes
Guess the # of Cheerios in the jar: 682
$25 Publix gift card - Kelli Peyton (683)
WORKING ON WELLNESS
Health Screening Drawing
The drawing for health screening prizes was held Aug. 1 in the Fire Station 1 Community Room, headed up by Monika Laszkowski and James Clinch. Healthy snacks were offered, and two individuals – Kelly Michaels and Kathleen Weeden – won twice! See full list of winners at left
$25 Public gift card - Kathleen Weeden (673)
Guess the June health insurance
claims invoice amount: $460,492.52
Winning guess $450,000 (3-way tie)
$25 Amazon gift card - Marion
Vandermark
$25 direct deposit - Kelly Michaels
$25 direct deposit - Darren Addy
Kelly Treat
Administrative Coordinator
Utilities
Broccoli Casserole
“This is something my mother started making years ago and it is now a staple every Thanksgiving and Christmas with my family,” says Kelly. “It is so easy to make, and you can have fun changing up the recipe to turn it into a casserole. You can make it Keto friendly or low fat depending on the soup and cheese you use. I made it for our holiday luncheon here at Utilities and it was a hit.”
Instructions
Ingredients
For 1 batch (makes 2 quarts)
2 frozen bags of broccoli florets or 2 boxes of chopped broccoli
2 cans of cream of mushroom soup
6 slices of American or Velveeta cheese
Breadcrumbs (optional)
For 2 batches, double the ingredients and mix in a 13x9-inch baking dish.
Another option is to add grilled chicken and rice
1. Heat each bag or box of broccoli in the microwave for 3 minutes.
2. If using florets, remove from bags and cut into small pieces.
3. Add broccoli to a 2-quart baking dish.
4. Add both cans of cream of mushroom soup.
5. Cut up cheese slices and add to baking dish (I cut into fours).
6. Stir completely.
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes (desired) or microwave for 15 minutes.
8. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
Have a recipe you’d like to share in the newsletter? Email it, along with a brief description of why it’s a family favorite and a photo of the dish if possible, to landerson@venicefl.gov. Make sure to double-check your ingredient list, cook time, and oven temperature.
City’s fireworks show a booming success
The annual July 4 fireworks show lit up the sky on Independence Day The nearly 25-minute show was sponsored in part by Visit Sarasota County.
Venice Police, top left: Korey Shope, Sam Montes, Kade Reyher, Ryan Keogh, Andrew Nelson, Sean Hammett, Issac Murray, Fred Theisen, Ben Nelson, Josh Rowell, Rachel Richardson, Louis White, Rhett Dinka, Rob Goodson. Top middle: VPD Marine Unit Top right: VPD Sgt Sean Hammett.
Venice Fire Rescue, center left: Marty Dietz, Phil Castellano, Ruth Ann Unruh, Corey Storch, Chris Ripo. Center right: VFR Marine Unit
Bottom left: Fireworks are shot off from the Humphris Park/South Jetty parking lot. Bottom center: Pyrotecnico technicians prepare to launch Bottom right: Aerial of Snake Island and the Jetties July 4 by Venice Aerial Photography.
It's a dirty job ... and we're sure glad we have our City pros on hand to do it! Brian Bettenhausen, Danny Self and Wayne Ball with Utilities remove and replace a pump at Lift Station 5 near Higel Marine Park July 22.
At left, GIS Administrator Don Hubbard in IT pilots a drone over the South Jetty walkway July 30 to capture photos and video of the structure At right, Deputy City Clerk Toni Cone headed up a recent City Hall collection of items for the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Thanks to all who donated!
Chris Somers and Lad Trcak with Public Works make decorative street lighting repairs and replacements around the downtown area July 16.
On July 23, a citizen reported an obstructed stop sign at Apalachicola Rd. and Park Blvd. N. through the City's SeeClickFix issue management system. VPD Community Resource Officer Willie Acosta arrived to investigate the complaint and found a stop sign obstructed by vegetation, not able to be seen by drivers. An emergency request was made through Public Works. The dangerous situation was corrected, and the sign was moved over to its proper location.
Josh King with Public Works performs landscaping maintenance outside City Hall on July 17.
AROUND TOWN
Special Events Coordinator
Brianne Lorenz and Assistant Fire Chief Kyle Hartley organized a Photowalk at Station 1 July 31 for professional and amateur photographers in the area, allowing them to take pictures of Fire assets, equipment, staff and K-9 Misty. VFR staff who were on hand for the event included Marty Dietz, Alex Peterson, Chris LaLanne, Hunter Thomas, Daniel Kimberlin, Brian Collins, Matthew Carlson and William Clarke
For those with school-age kids, PIO Lorraine Anderson will be accepting Back to School photos the week of Aug. 12 for the employee newsletter
Please include your child’s first name and the grade they are entering, and your name/dept. If you are in the photo with your child, even better! You can email them to landerson@venicefl.gov; if it’s easier to text the pictures, please send them to 941-223-2015.
