Venice, FL April 2024

"My Mila" by Mary Moscatelli, CEO of Venice Art Center

FASCINATING PEOPLE. FASCINATING LIVES.

The active, wellness-centered lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of in a community filled with fun and (you guessed it) fascinating people. Spacious residences and amenities that put the good life right at your fingertips. A hoppin’ social calendar that includes exercise classes, lifelong learning, celebrations and events including our wildly popular “VOTI Cabaret”. If you’re bored here, there’s a good chance you’ll be bored anywhere. Seriously.

Add guaranteed priority access to 5-star healthcare and you’ve got the perfect combination of independence and security you’ll only find at Venice’s only licensed Life Plan Community (also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC).

Limited apartments available— schedule your tour today by calling 941-275-6690

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Dr. Frank Lewicki | Dr. Brent Beyer

Dr. Charles Davis | Dr. Cassandra Brower

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Venicedentist.com

Investing in Venice

I embarked on the journey of Venice City Lifestyle over five years ago, fueled by my passion for Venice and a deep-rooted desire to highlight the remarkable contributions made by its people every day. Since then, the magazine has steadfastly served as a devoted community advocate, celebrant and supporter.

As we delve into our April "Investing" issue, it seems fitting to shine the spotlight on the individuals and organizations who tirelessly devote their time, energy, and expertise to enriching our community.

One such individual is Michael Rank. Together with his wife Aimee Odette, the couple has realized their vision of enriching our cultural landscape by establishing The Island Bookshop and breathing new life into the longstanding Collectors Gallery & Framery. Their stories, featured in "Beyond the Page" and "Art Matters" respectively, epitomize the spirit of community investment.

Michael, who continues to teach Ph.D. classes on leading public discourse and communications for the greater good, generously shared his five-point strategy for prioritizing service to the community, applicable to both nonprofit and forprofit organizations.

In addition to an artful update about Aimee Odette and The Collector's Gallery & Framery, "Art Matters" offers an in-depth exploration of the Venice Art Center. Under the visionary leadership of Mary Moscatelli, this hub of creativity serves as a haven for community engagement and artistic expression.

Kate Hyland Mercer, of Ferris Wheel Finance, understands the challenges of assuming financial leadership during times of transition. Her article, "Essential Strategies for Navigating Sudden Financial Leadership of Your Family's Investments," provides heartfelt and expert guidance for navigating such situations.

For over 25 years, Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School’s Gala has consistently surpassed expectations. This year, as it bestows the Shining Star Lifetime Achievement Award upon Judy Collins, promises to be no exception.

In this issue, we also explore how Agape Flights leverages smart and secure technology to simplify charitable giving, alongside our regular features including "Events," "Business Monthly," and a glimpse into the vibrant "City Scene."

As spring unfolds, I extend warm wishes to each of you.

CHARMAINE TINCHER,

Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com

Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com

Jodi Rall | jodi.rall@citylifestyle.com

Emily Leinfuss, Kate Hyland Mercer

Stephanie

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Despite inclement weather and flooding, the Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation’s (VYCCF) 7th Annual Ride or Walk for a Better Community persevered as a fun, safe, and financially successful event. Approximately 75 resilient individuals participated, later joined by an additional 100 attendees for the post-ride breakfast and program. Altogether, the event raised $105,665.00, contributing to the overall 2024 giving budget of $150,000. These funds are designated to support numerous charities in the Venice City and South Sarasota County area, with four grants of $5,000 each, awarded at the event. Ride Chairs Dave Slaman & Steve Bieglecki (pictured above in blue tees) extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to all involved.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Wellen, Solis Hall is a one-of-a-kind rental event venue

Picture this: elegant lakefront weddings and catered receptions with magnificent sunsets … special events and anniversaries with loved ones ... community concerts and grand galas. The possibilities are endless at Solis Hall, the multifunctional event space in Downtown Wellen. Solis Hall offers the perfect venue to celebrate life’s milestone moments and private social occasions.

Scan

the QR code to learn more about Solis Hall.

Tucked along Downtown Wellen’s 80-acre Grand Lake, in between the picturesque Canopy Green and Great Lawn, Solis Hall provides an enchanting and romantic venue for couples to wed and families and groups to celebrate wedding anniversaries and engagements, birthdays, corporate retreats, concerts and a host of homegrown events. Even its name inspires vibrancy and happiness – solis is Latin for sun.

“Solis Hall is elegant yet comfortable – casual for a baby shower or gender reveal and elegant for black-tie events,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “With its lakefront location, Solis Hall features amazing sunset views. It’s absolutely stunning. There’s nothing like it in the region.”

The area’s premier wedding and party planners are taking notice of Solis Hall’s unique and idyllic setting, as are newly engaged couples, Wellen Park residents and those looking for the perfect setting for their special celebrations. Designed by Khoury Vogt Architects in the charming style reminiscent of New England town halls that marry building design with waterfront, Solis Hall’s 4,500 square feet features soaring 25-foot ceilings and expanses of windows and glass doors visually and physically connecting to the lake and more than 4,000 square feet of outdoor gathering areas, porches and patios along the water.

The venue’s wide pergola-accented patio doubles as a stage overlooking the emerald sweep of the Great Lawn, a grassy gathering spot for outdoor and community events, alfresco concerts and even exercise classes. The hall flows easily from indoor and outdoor areas, spilling into the neighboring Canopy Green, a beautiful lakefront destination with benches and seating under relocated oak trees. The green can be rented separately for intimate events or with the interior space.

Across the street, a future hotel with approximately 150 rooms will accommodate out-of-town guests attending events at Solis Hall.

The Banyan House, next door to Solis Hall and Downtown Wellen’s flagship restaurant and exclusive caterer, offers the convenience of on-site food and cocktail preparation and an extensive menu of elegant catering options for events of all sizes. Offering a large lakefront bar and outdoor patios, the restaurant can also be rented for private occasions.

Guests at Solis Hall will also enjoy a location in the heart of Downtown Wellen. Created as the region’s social gathering hub for dining, entertainment and shopping, the pedestrian-friendly downtown also features a nature-inspired play area, a lakefront promenade, a 2.8-mile hiking and biking trail around Grand Lake and a floating dock for launching paddleboards and kayaks.

Solis Hall is ADA-accessible, offers flexible floor plans and accommodates up to 130 people for a seated wedding. For event rental inquiries or more information about Solis Hall, email venuerentals@wellenpark.com or visit wellenpark.com/venues.

business monthly

Transform Your Outside Living Space with Suncoast Outdoor Services

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Village On The Isle Foundation’s 5th Annual VOTI Golf Classic is Monday April 24

It’s a win-win! Enjoy a truly memorable golfing experience at the exclusive, nationally recognized Founder’s Club, and know that your participation is helping to support Village on the Isle–Venice’s only Life Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community. The Village On The Isle Foundation provides financial support to Village On The Isle that extends ever-broader and more personalized residential, assisted living, memory care and health-related services. Learn more at rsvp.villageontheisle.com.

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New Esthetician at Davis and Beyer For Skin Care and Hair Follicle Stimulation

Davis and Beyer Dental Health Professionals is pleased to announce an addition to “our family”– Licensed Esthetician Theresa Favia. Theresa uses high-quality products and the latest techniques, including Deluxe Facials, Dermaplaning, Microneedling, HydraFacial® and De|Rive®—an exclusive hair follicle stimulation therapy, to provide treatments that are personalized for your skincare goals. Call 941.488.1075 to schedule an appointment at Davis and Beyer’s newly remodeled SPA today!  Learn more at venicedentist.com/facial-skin-spa.

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GULF SHORES REALTY CLINCHES BEST OF VENICE AWARD FOR 12TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Gulf Shores Realty proudly announces its 12th consecutive win of the Venice Gondolier’s Best of Venice award for Independent Brokerage. Under the leadership of Managing Broker Tracy Jones, the brokerage has maintained the exceptional standards set by its founder, Wayne Welsh.

Tracy Jones, who is dedicated to upholding the legacy, expresses gratitude for the continued recognition, stating, “This award reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence in real estate services.”

In a remarkable Best of Venice sweep, Gulf Shores Realty’s Lisa Povsic secured the title of Best Agent, showcasing her outstanding contributions to client satisfaction and industry expertise. Meanwhile, colleague Mary Charland was named the runner-up for Best Agent.

Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services, based in Tampa, FL, is the owner and sister brokerage of Gulf Shores Realty. Since their purchase in November 2021, Tomlin St Cyr has seamlessly incorporated the family-owned company’s culture into its

Venice offices. The brokerage remains on a trajectory of growth, exemplified by the imminent opening of a new office in North Port, FL.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence and bring our unparalleled service to North Port,” says Tracy Jones, emphasizing the brokerage’s commitment to serving diverse communities.

Gulf Shores Realty, a leading independent brokerage, has consistently set industry standards and maintained a stellar reputation in Venice, FL. With Tracy Jones at the helm, the brokerage continues to provide top-notch real estate services, earning accolades and fostering growth within the community.

Tracy Jones, Managing-Broker, REALTOR®

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Beyond the Page

Strategies for Building Community and Fostering Connection

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW

PHOTOGRAPHY

Michael Rank is the owner of Venice’s The Island Bookshop.

Five years ago, if you had asked Michael Rank if he envisioned himself as the owner of a bookstore in Venice Island's historic downtown district alongside his wife, Aimee Odette, he would have likely said 'no.'  However, that's precisely what occurred when they opened The Island Bookshop in 2021. What’s more, the couple purchased the nearby Collector’s Gallery & Framery (see story "Art Matters").

Rank, a Vietnam veteran who earned his Ph.D. in Social Work in 1995, already boasted a successful and diverse academic career. His doctoral research focused on the challenges faced by veterans and their families during

a time when it was common for individuals to endure multiple deployments without returning home.

At that time, there was a scarcity of research on military families. “I gained popularity and traveled extensively across the country discussing these issues,” he explained. This evolved into addressing communication challenges within families and broader societal communication.

Since 2017, Rank has been teaching classes on leading public discourse and communications in a doctoral program he helped establish at the University of Southern California. The program aims to

equip individuals with strategies to develop nonprofit or for-profit organizations that prioritize serving the greater good rather than solely focusing on profit.

This philosophy also guided Rank's business plan for The Island Bookshop. Integral to the success of the bookstore is its role within the Venice community, emphasizing the importance of community building for societal advancement. To this end, Rank outlined five strategies he teaches in his courses and applied to develop The Island Bookshop's business plan:

1. Develop a Vision for your business, focusing on both short-term and long-term goals. Use a logical model to outline program goals, outcomes, and steps. This blueprint, rooted in the theory of change, promotes clarity and growth.

Top: Classics, like Homer’s “The Odyssey” are featured at the store.

Middle Left: Find New York Times Bestsellers like “Barbara” at the Island Bookshop. Bottom: The Gallery part of the Island Bookshop offers many artful treasures.

FORGING CONNECTIONSISCRITICAL FOR BU

COMMUNITY AND ENHANCINGTHE GREATER

2. Engage with Stakeholders, including end users, to align offerings with their needs. Understand demographics and preferences to improve solution viability. Active involvement enhances community understanding and societal contributions.

3. Build a Comprehensive Business Plan reflecting your vision, outlining each development stage. Evaluate strategies considering resources, market dynamics, and risks. Establish a robust framework for sustainable success.

4. Direct Purposeful Marketing to expand reach and influence. Invest in tailored strategies that cultivate brand awareness and trust. Compelling storytelling and value-driven messaging increase visibility and

5. Cultivate Customer Service Excellence to nurture community relationships. Address needs promptly, value feedback, and emphasize

continuous improvement. This builds loyalty and ethical practices, benefiting society.

Forging connections is critical for building community and enhancing the greater good. Therefore, Rank is thrilled that The Island Bookshop/Collectors Gallery is sponsoring playwright Todd Wallinger’s “The Enchanted Bookshop” at Venice Theatre’s Pinkerton Theatre from April 5 to April 21, 2024. The show features characters from famous books, such as Robin Hood, Sherlock Holmes, Frankenstein and others, as they magically come alive to rescue a bookstore owner from a pair of bungling smugglers. Learn more at venicetheatre.org.

Another example of this is the partnership between The Island Bookshop and Bookshop.org–an international book website that competes with Amazon.com by connecting readers with independent booksellers worldwide for online sales. "They believe local bookstores are essential community hubs that foster culture, curiosity, and a love of reading," Rank noted.

Rank and Odette share this sentiment. When initially considering opening the business, they encountered skepticism. "People thought we were crazy. They'd say, 'Nobody reads books anymore.' But I had just read in the 'Harvard Business Review' that independent bookshops were thriving, partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic driving people back home, and to local purchasing," Rank reflected.

"As professors, we advocate literacy and endeavor to provide opportunities for people to discover literature," Rank emphasized. This commitment includes hosting author talks by New York Times bestselling authors, organizing book clubs, and offering various community engagement opportunities.

"We take pride in the fact that a teacher from Venice High School wrote a grant and compiled a book of her students' poems," Rank added.

As for book choices, The Island Bookshop offers a diverse selection to cater to everyone's preferences.

Collections are curated from a number of prominent book lists.

UILDING

GOOD.

This includes titles from the New York Times bestseller lists, recommendations from Oprah, Barack Obama, Reese Witherspoon, Goodreads.org, classics, and requests from locals. "When someone asks us to order a book, we always get an additional copy for the store," Rank concluded.

Kids' books and nook at The Island Bookshop.

TWO DYNAMIC WOMEN CHAMPION VENICE ART & ARTISTS: VAC’S CEO MARY MOSCATELLI & COLLECTORS GALLERY & FRAMERY’S AIMEE ODETTE

Art Matters!

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

VENICE ART CENTER: A HAVEN FOR COMMUNITY, CREATIVITY AND GROWTH

Much growth, and many changes have occurred during the 65+-year tenure of the Venice Art Center: but one thing remains steadfast. Its dedication to exhibiting art, supporting area artists, and enhancing our community’s overall creativity.

To that point, the organization has just refreshed its mission statement to “make it more current to what we are doing right now,” said CEO Mary Moscatelli. The new mission statement, to “provide cultural enrichment opportunities that inspire and engage our community to see, experience and create art,” more clearly expresses Venice Art Center’s (VAC) goal “of making art available to everybody, including all ages and all socio-economic backgrounds,” she said.

The VAC’s modifications are not just theoretical, Moscatelli added.

Over the 14 years that Moscatelli has led the Center, it’s grown from 26,000 visitors to nearly 50,000 per year. Classes jumped from 250 to 550, with significantly more programs for kids.  VAC even added a second portion to its building on Nokomis Ave. in Venice about five years ago to accommodate its growth and popularity.

"Sculpture in Clay" class at Venice Art Center

“Our classes are a highlight,” said Moscatelli. “We have more than 50 instructors, offering a variety of art instruction for adults, teens and kids, in any media you can think of. From painting to pottery, the new room is full, morning to evening,” she said. The Center also brings in internationally known artists for specialty workshops.

The Venice community rallies for the VAC’s exhibitions and events. It holds a variety of art shows yearround plus fundraisers to support the Center. That includes community-wide public art displays such as the just-ending FantaSea Venice, where local artists decorated 30 seahorses and 22 mermaids, which were then put on display throughout the area. They were auctioned off on April 1, 2023, with proceeds to benefit Venice Art Center programming.

VAC also provides a space for area organizations’ events, such as the Venice Symphony, Sarasota Film Festival, Our Mother’s House and more. “We are very ingrained in the community. We want to give back to them just as they support us,” explained Moscatelli.

To round out the fact that VAC is a happening campus, it also boasts an on-site café and a prominent gift shop offering ever changing, locally made art and crafts.

Experience a diverse array of artworks year-round at the Venice Art Center.

Mary Moscatelli is CEO of the Venice Art Center.

ARTIST’S PALETTE

For Aimee Odette, owning Collectors Gallery & Framery with her husband Michael Rank, is a joyful experience combining her love of art, creativity and Venice.

COLLECTORS GALLERY & FRAMERY'S JOURNEY OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND ARTISTIC EXPRESSION

When the owner of Collectors Gallery & Framery first approached Aimee Odette and Michael Rank about purchasing the 40-year-old business, the couple was momentarily hesitant. After all, they were still relatively new business owners, having launched the neighboring The Island Bookshop & Gallery in 2021. However, they quickly embraced the idea.

“Michael and I decided it was a very natural kind of expansion of our business repertoire,” said Odette. Plus, after sitting with the thought of not taking on the venture, the two realized they couldn’t resist the opportunity. It presented a kaleidoscope of possibilities, enabling them to further support the Venice community – a cause close to their hearts – by revitalizing a historic business and expanding their bookshop.

"Venice is a very creative and artsy town that loves its culture," remarked Odette. Acquiring the business in November 2022 was a natural fit, seamlessly extending their involvement in the arts. “After all, books are art, framing is an art, and we were already selling works of art in our bookshop,” she noted.

Over the past year, Odette and Rank spearheaded significant improvements in the business. That includes doubling the size of the fine art gallery and design studio for custom framing.

The Gallery boasts an impressive variety of artwork, chosen to appeal to a variety of artistic tastes. “We have traditional oil paintings depicting Florida scenery as well as abstract pieces. There’s also photography and vibrant mixed-media collage,” said Odette. While most of the artwork is original, there are some prints. Plus custom pottery, glasswork and woodwork are available from skilled local artisans.

The Framery division is equally robust, catering to a wide range of framing projects–from sentimental items such as tee shirts, medals, and certificates of accomplishment to fine art and photographs. “Custom framing is an investment, but also a beautiful art. To see the looks on peoples’ faces when their piece is finished, is priceless,” said Odette.

A social worker by education, Odette still serves as Assistant Professor of Teaching at the University of Southern California. Her expertise lies in analyzing systems, communities, and relationships, which she calls “a perfect fit” for her newer endeavors. “Our business would not be successful if we didn’t have the community behind us,” she said.

Eventually, Collectors Gallery & Framery will expand to offer artist talks, demos and maybe even small classes. “This business will continue to grow and evolve. It is a creative endeavor; you could say it is our art,” remarked Odette, highlighting her commitment to ongoing innovation and development. Learn more at facebook.com/ VeniceCollectorsGallery.

Collectors Gallery & Framery is a one-stop wonderland for a wide range of art, sculpture and crafts, plus quality framing services.

ARTIST’S PALETTE | ARTS + CULTURE

Smart Giving Helps Local Organization Fly High

SECURE TECHNOLOGY HELPS CHARITABLE GIVING TO AGAPE FLIGHTS TAKE FLIGHT

“Give from your wealth, not just your wallet.” That’s the advice of Tim Kenny, development director for Venice-based Agape Flights. Using two turboprop aircraft and volunteer pilots, the 43-year-old nonprofit provides weekly delivery of critical supplies to Caribbean-based missionaries. Agape receives 100 percent of its support from donations.

“Most of our lives, as generous people, we invest in the organizations we care about through donations from our income,” Kenny said. “We earn a certain amount of money–and we give some of that income to the causes and organizations that matter to us.”

But with inflation taking a bigger bite out of paychecks, charitable giving is taking a hit. The Institute Giving USA estimates Americans gave 1.7 percent of their income to charity in 2022, the lowest level since 1995.

NONPROFITS IN NEED OF SUPPORT

“Meanwhile, your favorite nonprofit is also dealing with inflation in just about every category,” Kenny said. The pattern is not sustainable, he added, especially for smaller organizations.

Agape Flights and many other nonprofits are increasing their focus on what they call “smart giving” by encouraging donors to give not just from monthly income, but from assets built over a lifetime. For some people, that might mean creating a will that includes their favorite nonprofit as a beneficiary. For others, it could mean directing an IRSrequired minimum IRA distribution to charity–an option

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AGAPE FLIGHTS

Agape Flights CEO Allen Speer, left, and Flight Operations Director Greg Haman, share plans for a new hangar with Joan Maxwell of Regulator Marine.

that can have significant tax advantages for some retirees.  Either way, the technology behind the process is intuitive and easy to use.

Kenny spent 13 years with a major international ministry organization, where attorneys and experts on staff help donors navigate these potentially complex giving channels. The smaller charities that comprise most U.S. nonprofits don’t have those resources, he said, and they’re looking for creative ways to facilitate smart giving.

CULTIVATING CREATIVE GIVING

That’s where FreeWill comes in. Agape Flights has partnered with the tech company to help donors create a legally-binding will online for free. The company also helps facilitate transactions like retirement account Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and stock gifts. Forbes.com explained, “FreeWill works a little like this: an individual signs up online, creates a will and arranges a donation (if desired), all within minutes from home… The cost of creating a will is absorbed by the charities partnered with the brand, who pay a set amount in turn for receiving funding through the tool.”

With a new hangar on the drawing board and the need for its services increasing, Agape Flights is counting on its online smart giving tools to help donors be creative in their generosity.

“God has always used His people to meet our needs,” Kenny said of the faithbased Agape Flights. “I think these tools will just be another way He helps make that happen.”

Agape Flights is focusing on “smart giving” by encouraging donors to give not just from monthly income, but from assets built over a lifetime.

Agape Flights volunteer Paul Feit, second from left, checks paperwork as missionary staff unload the organization’s Cessna F406 in Jeremie, Haiti.

Mastering a Family Transition

Essential Strategies for Navigating Sudden Financial Leadership of Your Family’s Investments

Suddenly finding yourself in charge of the family's financial accounts and decisions can be overwhelming. Whether due to unforeseen circumstances like a parent's incapacity or passing, or the dissolution of a marriage, taking on this responsibility can feel daunting. However, with a structured approach and support, you can navigate this challenge effectively.

Firstly, it's crucial to take a step back and slow down. Despite external pressures, rushing into major decisions isn't necessary. Allow yourself time to absorb the situation and gather essential information. Identify bills to be paid, locate account details, and gather relevant documents such as disability insurance records, 401K statements, and bank statements. By methodically collecting this information, you can proceed to the next step with greater clarity.

Secondly, obtain necessary legal documents such as death certificates or divorce decrees. These documents serve as proof of a change in circumstances and are a musthave for making alterations to accounts. Ensure you have both long and short forms of

death certificates and consider requesting digital copies for convenience. Waiting until you have these documents before initiating changes is prudent to avoid complications.

Thirdly, reach out to professionals who may have already been involved in managing your family's finances. This includes bankers, financial advisors, or other family members who may be able to provide valuable guidance and support. If, after a while, it’s clear they don’t possess helpful information, feel free to seek out professionals with whom you better relate.

Navigating such significant changes in financial responsibility can be daunting, but it's essential to remember that support is available. Ferris Wheel Finance specializes in assisting families during challenging times like these. If you require guidance or a second opinion on financial matters, don't hesitate to contact us at 941.483.3600. We're dedicated to simplifying the process for families and providing the assistance you need to navigate these stressful times confidently. (FerrisWheelFinance.com).

“Navigating significant changes in financial responsibility can be daunting.

Remember, support is available at Ferris Wheel Finance, Inc.”

A t S a r a s o t a P a i n t , o u r m i s s i o n i s t o d e l i v e r d e c o r a t i v e s o l u t i o n s w i t h q u a l i t y p r o d u c t s a n d s e r v i c e b e y o n d e x p e c t a t i o n . W e s t r i v e t o m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e f o r g o o d , a n d c o n s i s t e n t l y o f f e r a f i v e - s t a r e x p e r i e n c e t o e a c h a n d e v e r y o n e o f o u r c u s t o m e r s .

P a i n t p r o b l e m s o r q u e s t i o n s ? W e ’ v e g o t y o u c o v e r e d . O u r h i g h l y t r a i n e d a n d e x p e r i e n c e d s t a

ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SNOW PHOTOGRAPHY

JUDY COLLINS WILL BE HONORED FOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AT EPIPHANY CATHEDRAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL’S 2024 GALA

EPIPHANY’S “SHINING STAR”

Epiphany's 2024 "Shining Star" Judy Collins with three of her 20 grandchildren.

The thought of being recognized as the "Shining Star" of 2024 at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School's upcoming Gala, at Plantation Golf & Country

and ten of their twenty grandchildren graduate from Epiphany. At one point, seven grandchildren attended at the same time.

“EPIPHANY PROVIDED HER FAMILY WITH “A SPIRITUAL LIFE AND A GOOD SOLID EDUCATION GROUNDED IN THE CATHOLIC FAITH.”

Club on April 20, is humbling for Judy Collins. She isn't someone who seeks the limelight merely for living a good Catholic life or for being a devoted wife, mother of six, and grandmother of twenty.

However, that's one of the many reasons why she deserves the award, said Leah Mihm, Epiphany's Director of Development. "Judy Collins has been a parishioner at Epiphany for over 50 years. When she had children (and grandchildren) going through Epiphany, she was a room parent, lunch volunteer, and volunteered for many Home and School Association events," Mihm explained.

Collins, along with her late husband, Dr. Thomas E. Collins Sr., felt that a Catholic school education for their kids was of the utmost importance and that Epiphany provided her family with "a spiritual life and a good solid education grounded in the Catholic faith.” The couple saw their six children

"I have so many fond memories," said Collins, as she recalled hosting 'fun' days, where the teachers, the nuns, the kids… everyone would come to the house (and the pool)." Later, there were many 'Grandparents' Days' and helping out in other ways.  Collins further noted that the friends her children made at Epiphany, some of them lifelong, were of "like-mindedness," due to its Christian atmosphere.

Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School's enrollment period is open, and Leah Mihm invites parents to call and schedule a tour. The school offers a faith-based comprehensive curriculum that includes language arts, math, science, social studies, health, visual and fine arts, music appreciation and instrumental performance, foreign language (Spanish), technology and media, and physical education. Contact Admissions Director Andrea Mitchell at mitchell@ecstigers.com to learn more.

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 5TH - 21ST

The Enchanted Bookshop

Venice Theatre

The Enchanted Bookshop is a fanciful tale where characters from famous works of literature, like Robin Hood, Frankenstein and Heidi, magically come alive on stage to rescue a bookstore owner from a pair of bungling smugglers. Sponsored, in part, by Aimee Odette & Michael Rank of The Island Bookshop/Collectors Gallery & Framery. Tues.-Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $15 & $19. venicetheatre.org

APRIL 10TH, 11TH, 13TH & 14TH

VHS Presents: Seussical the Musical

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

A show for all ages, "Seussical” weaves together many of Dr. Seuss' most famous stories and characters, including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and Gertrude McFuzz. Presented by the VHS Drama Department. April 10, 11, & 13 at 7 p.m., April 14 at 2 p.m. $15 for adults + fees, $10 for students + fees. veniceperformingartscenter.com

APRIL 12TH

Venice MainStreet Friday Night Concert Series

Centennial Park Gazebo | 7:00 PM

Join the fun in historic downtown Venice for the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series at the gazebo in Centennial Park! This event, hosted by Venice MainStreet and sponsored by Neal Communities, is held every second and fourth Friday of each month from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Bring your own chairs or picnic blankets. visitvenicefl.org.

APRIL 13TH - 14TH

The Annual Venice Shark’s Tooth Festival

Centennial Park in Historic Downtown Venice

Come enjoy live music, food trucks, speakers, merchandise and fossil vendors, a kid's corner, and more at Venice Shark's Tooth Festival! Hosted by Venice MainStreet and sponsored by Tri County Air. Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m-5 p.m. Free! For more information visit venicesharkstoothfestival.com.

APRIL 20TH

35th Annual Earth Day Festival at Oscar Scherer

Oscar Scherer State Park | 10:00 AM

There'll be live music, guided hikes, tons of kids activities, yoga classes, fun environmental booths/exhibitors, and more at 2024's Earth Day event. The 'official' Earth Day, April 22, celebrates the birth of our modern environmental movement in 1970. The Festival is presented by the Friends of Oscar Scherer. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. friendsofoscarscherer.com/earth-day/

APRIL 26TH - 27TH

Venice Symphony Presents "The Crown Jewel Finale"

Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:30 PM

The Venice Symphony concludes its spectacular season with its biggest concert ever as the Key Chorale and acclaimed vocalists Deanna Breiwick and Dashon Burton join the orchestra. The program includes "The Crown", William Walton’s "Crown Imperial", and the choral masterwork "Dona Nobis Pacem." April 26 at 7:30 p.m. & April 27 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $38.-$70. thevenicesymphony.org

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Sea Scouts Ship 1777

Chartering Partner, Venice Yacht Club Advertisement

Sea Scouts is a unique program within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and is the second oldest program in the BSA family for over 100 years. Sea Scouts, like BSA, pursue challenging rank advancement, a love for high adventure and offers a viable career path to the marine and maritime industry or the military. Just as the name implies, the Sea Scout program focuses on boating. Ship 1777, same as a Troop for Boy Scouts, was chartered and incorporated in 2023 in Venice to be specifically focused on sailing. Merit badge challenges, nautical uniforms, marine customs and ceremonies encourage youth to be safe on the water and treasure our maritime heritage. Sea Scouts accepts youth that are 14 (13 if finished 8th grade) to 21.

Mission, Values, Purpose

Like traditional Scouts, the Sea Scout mission is to prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. While Sea Scouts focus on specialized information and skills, learning leadership skills, performing community service, and providing good social

experiences are also critical elements of the program. Sea Scouting is all of these things and more, but the primary purpose is “forming responsible and caring adults.” A Sea Scout Ship is structured so that the Scouts take on the various roles of officers. During quarterdeck meetings, ships officers work together to plan future events, review the Ship’s finances, and discuss advancements of their fellow scouts. During the weekly meetings, these officers conduct the program. As experience is gained, more opportunities arise to contribute to the leadership of the unit.

Ship 1777 - Sailing Vessel “Star Chaser”

Last December Ship 1777 had the good fortune of having a 1979 Lippincott 30 foot sailboat donated to them. This sailboat, and hopefully others in the future, will be the cornerstone for training the Sea Scouts. Seamanship, ships maintenance, safety at sea and navigation are just a few of skills Scouts will learn through this program. This vessel will be used for weekly training, participating in regattas hosted by other Seas Scout Ships and Summer sailing trips. Scouts will plan these events, participate

in fund raising activities and manage the trip. Acquiring funding is a continuous challenge to support overhead costs, insurance, boat maintenance and storage, and travel expenses. The Scouts work hard with fundraising but struggle to meet the required financial goals alone. We are a 501c3 non-profit charitable corporation and welcome grants and donations to support these efforts.

Aspiring and hard working Sea Scouts can apply and earn a two week cruise position on the The Barque Eagle. This is a 295 foot square rigger used to train U.S. Coast Guard Academy cadets and officer candidates for careers in the world’s most unique seagoing service. Those chosen to participate serve as regular crew members and are integrated into the underclass of cadets aboard ship.

Ship 1777 meets on Thursday evenings at the Venice Yacht Club. Any youth or adult leaders interested in joining us or learning more, email us at SSShip1777@gmail.com