Kids & Pets
HEALTH + WELLNESS
BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT!
SPORTS + RECREATION
YOUTH SPORTS & SELF-ESTEEM
ARTS + CULTURE
BEST KIDS’ BOOKS
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 Ride. Enjoy. Live life to its fullest. Repeat.
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Kids & Pets
Welcome to the August issue of Venice City Lifestyle, our annual Kids & Pets edition!
August is a month of transition, especially for our kids, as it signals the end of summer and the beginning of a new school year. Children shift from carefree summer days to the structured routines of school, embracing new schedules and the excitement of learning.
Is your family ready for the new school year? If not, don’t worry! You will be after reading and following some of the advice and tips in our “Back-to-School Prep Essentials” article. In other school news, read about Primrose School that's set to open in Wellen Park by 2025.
Back to school also means the start-up of school sports. In “The Life-Changing Magic of Little League Baseball,” Venice City Manager Edward F. Lavallee recalls his early team experience and shows how participating in youth sports helps build self-esteem.
Any month is a great time for reading books, so we asked Michael Rank and Aimee Odette, the owners of Venice’s The Island Bookshop, to recommend both locally-based and classic "Must Read" titles.
Change is also happening at First Baptist Church of Venice. In this issue, you can read about FBCV’s three-stage vision for its future and, in City Scene, view photos from its groundbreaking event for a new, multi-purpose Lakefront Church building.
One thing in August that hasn’t changed is the intensity of the summer sun. We all need to protect ourselves from the heat: this is especially true for our children and pets. In “Beat the Heat,” we offer tips on how to keep both kids and critters cool and safe. You can also learn about two local parks with fabulous water features in "Splash into Summer."
As we embrace the changes and excitement that August brings, let's cherish the special moments with our kids and pets. From back-to-school preparations to enjoying the last rays of summer sun, we hope this issue helps you make the most of this vibrant season.
In the photo (above) I’m with my grandson Jonathan. We’re enjoying our special time together at CoolToday Park’s Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill. Happy reading!
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Edward F. Lavallee, Michael Rank and Aimee Odette, Pastor Tom Hodge, Kimberly Blaker
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Stephanie Snow Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: First Baptist Church (FBC) Pastor Tom Hodge (C), Tassie Hodge (L) & Charmaine Tincher celebrate the Lakefront Church groundbreaking in June. 2: Allyson “Family Ministry Coordinator” for FBC celebrating the ground breaking with her daughter, Riley. 3: Denice & Nicky Shevy joined in the celebration. 4: See you on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. under the big tent. Bring a Lawn Chair! 5: Jeff & Jeanette Gates, owners of Beechwood Builders Inc.–the construction contractors for the new Lakefront Church. 6: Groundbreaking for FBC’s Lakefront Church (L-R) Lonnie Steffen, Tom Dixon, Michael Coe, Joyce Norton, Pastor Tom Hodge, and his wife Tassie. 7: Dory “center” member of FBC choir, singing & celebrating Lakefront Church’s Groundbreaking. Photography by VCL
business monthly
Venice Musician Wendy Kaneko Releases Poetry Book "I Will Still Choose Love"
Wendy Kaneko, a passionate singer/songwriter based in Venice, announced the release of her first book of poetry: "I Will Still Choose Love: Dusty Poems From the Attic." The collection features intimate, raw poems enhanced by Wendy's vivid imagery and emotive language. Illustrated with her whimsical drawings, the book reflects a life lived with an open heart. Find it on Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com . Learn more at wendykaneko.com.
Atlanta Braves Unveil "Diamond of the Sea" Sculpture at CoolToday Park
The Atlanta Braves proudly announced the installation of "Diamond of the Sea" at CoolToday Park. Crafted by acclaimed artist David K. Griffin, this stunning sculpture celebrates the harmony between art and sport. Known for his contributions to design and charity, Griffin's intricate work enhances the ballpark experience. The Braves' donation to the Venice Art Center brought this masterpiece to its new permanent home. cooltodaypark.com
Child Protection Center & Sarasota Chalk Festival Collaborate on Children's Mural Project
The Child Protection Center (CPC) has partnered with the International Sarasota Chalk Festival’s Avenue of Art to highlight the innocence of childhood in its permanent sidewalk mural installation. Stretching from Sarasota’s Mound St. to Burns Court, more than 300 sidewalk squares will be displayed this Fall. CPC's mission focuses on preventing, intervening, and treating child abuse, aiming for a community where children are safe and free to thrive. cpcsarasota.org
ARTICLE BY EDWARD F. LAVALLEE
The Life-Changing Magic of Little League Baseball
Our city shines with award-winning beaches, a charming downtown, rich culture, an inviting social climate, and top-notch public safety. Named as one the safest places to retire, Venice also boasts a silver-level bicycle-friendly designation and a tree-friendly award.
But that’s not all! With more than 40 diverse parks and sports facilities, there’s endless opportunity for enjoyment. These spaces host sports programs for all ages, largely run by dedicated volunteers, showcasing the city's engaged citizenry. Local sports teams have an impressive record, winning numerous state titles. Youth sports are vital, feeding into high school and secondary school athletics, enriching lives across all ages.
Little League baseball, a cornerstone of Venice's youth activities, has positively impacted countless young lives and the adults who support them for decades. Its success highlights the crucial role of youth sports in America. Here’s a story about the value of these programs.
As a youth growing up in Newport, RI, early signs of spring meant the arrival of baseball season. The first notice in the newspaper announcing dates for Little League tryouts generated excitement for boys hoping to make it; to be selected to be on a team; to get a uniform. For me, it signaled that it was time to find my baseball glove, hopefully with a ball in it so I could pound it into that well-formed pocket. I remember the feel and the smell of its well-oiled leather.
That memory is still with me today. I’m sharing this story because my experience, and also its message–of kindness and self-esteem building occurs over and over among youth sports programs in America.
It was a Saturday morning in March when 120 anxious youths showed up for the annual Little League baseball tryouts. Parents lined the field to watch their budding stars compete. Many of the parents would later volunteer to be coaches, field hands, umpires. Parental support is a cornerstone of success for this program.
After several days of drills and testing of basic baseball skills, these managers and coaches drafted their teams. This becomes a stressful time for parents, and especially for the young players who wonder, “will I make it; who will I play for; will my brother make it?”
After the teams are formed, but weeks before opening day ceremonies, teams hold practice sessions to evaluate the skills of each player and to mold the collective body into a coordinated unit. During those practice sessions, the coaches carefully assess the talents and abilities of each player and make mental predictions about the coming season.
Even in these early preparation days, experienced coaches readily identify the very skilled players who will lead the team. Then there are the marginal players who seem to struggle to make plays that skilled players perform so smoothly and effortlessly. Such was the composition of our team: some experienced confident team leaders and some less proficient neophytes.
One of the challenges facing managers and coaches is figuring out how to instill drive and initiative among players, while also maintaining order and discipline. During practice sessions, adult leaders try to raise the spirit level of players without creating chaos or disorder. Practice sessions are when coaches can get to know players better. They also provide opportunities for volunteer adults to fill a void; to offer personalized guidance and instruction that may help a player’s performance or, more importantly, offer some inspiration or key to growth that can be useful: on or off the baseball field.
Our team introduced an incentive program that was well received by the players. At the end of each practice session, one player was selected by the managers and coaches as having been the outstanding player for that day. In recognition of the player’s effort, the coaches presented that player with a game ball, signed and dated, symbolic of leadership and hustle.
VENICE CITY MANAGER EDWARD F. LAVALLEE.
The coaches agreed on a goal to ensure that, by the end of the season, every player on our team would have earned a game ball award and would be suitably recognized and cheered at the end of the practice session at which the ball was given. In this way, every player could be made to feel that he or she had contributed to the team’s efforts to improve its collective performance.
One day, the mother of one of the less proficient players–I’ll call him Joe–was leaning against the outfield fence during our pre-game warm-up session. I welcomed her to the practice, took the opportunity to speak with her and ask how the family was doing. She had several children, some of whom played Little League baseball. She told me this story.
She explained that Joe had received a game ball after a practice session. That ball, signed by the coaches and dated, was put in a place of honor on the mantle for the whole family to admire. Joe's mother revealed that Joe was adopted and had low self-esteem due to teasing at school. However, receiving the game ball changed Joe's life. He felt valuable and began to believe in his abilities. At school, he stood up for himself and gained respect. His grades improved.
Joe continued playing Little League baseball and was chosen early in the annual player draft in his final year. He became a reliable and productive player. While he may never play major league baseball, he will remember his Little League career as a happy time. The coaches consider this a success story not because of Joe's improved skills, but because they helped a young boy develop self-esteem and believe in himself.
There are many “Joes” out there, waiting for that chance to win a game ball–to have that day when they perform well enough to be recognized by their peers. Little League offers this opportunity to make significant contributions to the healthy development of our youth, our future leaders. I smile when I think about the game ball on Joe’s mantle.
To learn more about Venice Little League go to facebook.com/venicelittleleague
City Manager Edward F. Lavallee began his service to the City of Venice (venicegov.com) March 5, 2012. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Connecticut in Storrs, and master’s degree in public administration from the University of New Haven, Conn. Lavallee served as city manager of Newport, R.I. and police research and development administrator for the Newport Police Department.
• Chain soldered
• Clasps replaced
•
• Tight rings made loose
• Loose rings made tight
• Prongs replaced
• Tips rebuilt
• Heads replaced
• Shanks replaced
• Stones tightened
• Pearls re-strung
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL RANK AND AIMEE ODETTE
Must-Reads for Venice Kids
THE OWNERS OF THE ISLAND BOOKSHOP RECOMMEND
TIMELESS CLASSICS AND LOCAL GEMS
The Velveteen Rabbit
Beloved for more than 100 years, “The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams Bianco is a timeless tale of transformation and love. This edition features the original 1922 story and illustrations, captivating readers of any age with its enduring magic.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!
Written and illustrated by Mo Willems, this beloved classic features a persuasive pigeon trying to drive a bus, and is acclaimed for its humor, expressive illustrations, and interactive format. Find it, and all these books, at theislandbookshop.com.
Starfish Gazing
In “Starfish Gazing” by Patricia Gleichauf, young children learn about the extraordinary abilities of starfish and how to protect these threatened creatures. This educational journey fosters early environmental awareness, vital for preserving our oceans.
“Turtle Tales” by local author Kim Cool follows three loggerhead turtle hatchlings in Venice who face challenges as they travel to the Canary Islands and back. Verified for scientific accuracy, this fully illustrated, educational book is perfect for third to fifth graders.
Shark Tooth Capital: Finding Fossils in Venice
Young readers and parents will be captivated by “Shark Tooth Capital.” Discover how and where to find prehistoric shark teeth, learn about extinct sharks, and enjoy photos, illustrations, and a helpful glossary.
Turtle Tales
Back-to-School Prep Essentials
IS YOUR FAMILY READY FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR?
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER
Kids look forward to buying new school supplies!
Verizon’s Gizmo Watch 3 – Adventure is a smartwatch designed specifically for kids.
The start of a new school year with a new routine that takes over most of the kids' waking hours is a significant transition from the long lazy days of the summer. Whether your child is just beginning school for the first time or a seasoned student, a new grade level or school with new teachers, classes, and expectations requires an adjustment. Students and parents alike may feel a range of emotions as the back-to-school season quickly approaches. So, ease your family's anxieties by adequately preparing for and setting the tone for the new school year.
ESTABLISH RULES AND ROUTINES
A new school year means a fresh start and transition from your schedule over the break. Even from one school year to the next, it's smart to reevaluate school year routines and rules. Your kids are a year older and might be in new schools and have new teachers, different schedules, or be ready for new responsibilities. So, sit down as a family to discuss rules and expectations while also allowing your child some input. Setting clear expectations ahead of time can help things go more smoothly.
HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU'LL WANT TO DETERMINE:
• Each person’s responsibilities
• A daily schedule
• A family calendar for the year, months, and weeks.
• Different expectations between weekdays and weekends
• Screen time restrictions
• Rules around playdates or spending time with friends
• Homework routines and expectations
• When kids need to be awake, eating breakfast, and ready to walk out the door
• How kids will get to and from school and related expectations
TAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Your child's safety is a significant concern when heading back to school and away from your watchful eye. Travel safety between home and school, whether your kids walk, ride a bike, take the bus, or carpool with another student or family is especially important. So, create a safety plan for your kids before school resumes.
A reliable way to communicate with your child is essential to their safety. Phones are available that are appropriate for kids of all different ages. Just be aware of your school's policy regarding devices and make sure your child abides by the rules.
If you’re not ready to hand a smartphone to your child but would like a way to locate, or communicate with them try a kid-friendly smartwatch. Verizon's new, feature-rich Gizmo Watch 3 – Adventure, is an excellent choice. When paired with its companion app, GizmoHub, the Gizmo enhances safety and provides peace of mind for parents. It's applications include:
• Real-time location tracking: Allows parents to track their kid's real-time location, ensuring they know where their child is at all times.
• Boundary notifications: Parents can set safe zones and receive alerts when their child enters or leaves these predefined areas.
• Voice and text communication: Enables parents and children to call, leave voice messages, and text to each other, ensuring constant communication.
• SOS/Emergency Button: A dedicated button that children can press in case of an emergency to send an alert to their parents or guardians.
• Plus fitness and learning tools, and much more.
Additional choices for kids’ smartwatches include the Garmin vivofit jr. Series, Fitbit’s Ace Series, and Vtech’ Kidizoom Series.
Be sure to set expectations that your kids check in at certain times and before leaving or arriving at a new destination. Also, designate trusted emergency
“Traveling safety between home and school, whether your kids walk, ride a bike, take the bus, or carpool with another student or family is especially important.”
“Going back to school should be a time of celebration and new beginnings. So, treat it like a holiday and start a back-to-school family tradition!”
Back-to-School essentials and more!
Make sure your child is up to date on vaccinations required by his or her school.
contacts and plans for unexpected events and make sure your child knows who you've chosen.
SCHEDULE ROUTINE CHECK-UPS
Get your child up to date on health screenings, especially vision and hearing tests, before the school year starts. If your child has problems with hearing or vision, it can severely impact their education. Discovering and addressing any issues ahead of time will prevent unnecessary struggles and reduce or eliminate their need for support or accommodations. Young kids often don't realize they have a fixable problem or are unable to articulate their difficulties. So, seeing a doctor or professional for screenings is essential to getting young children off to a good start.
STAY UP TO DATE ON IMMUNIZATIONS
Part of setting up a successful school year is ensuring your child, and their classmates are protected from preventable diseases with immunizations. Schools are a hotbed for spreading germs and viruses because of the volume of students and lack of personal space and hygiene. Many schools also require certain immunizations. So you'll need to provide proof that your child is up to date unless you have a medical waiver.
PREPARE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS OR ACCOMMODATIONS
If your child has special needs related to school and learning, take that into consideration. Review any documented plans that are in place like a 504 or IEP. Teachers should have this information if it has already been created for your child. But it's a good idea to refresh yourself on your child's needs and established
supports so you can advocate on your child's behalf. Also, plan ahead for special accommodations to help your student at home, too. This may include hiring a tutor or setting a regular homework schedule.
GET SCHOOL SUPPLIES READY
Kids must have the supplies they need to support their learning. Find out what's on your child's supply list and see what you can provide your child or their class. Even if your child's school provides the supplies, it's good to have supplies at home for homework or projects. Ask your child's teacher what would be helpful to have at home. Basic supplies usually include at least a backpack, pens, pencils, paper, and a binder or folders.
If you don't have the financial means to cover your child's supplies, help may be available. Check with your child's school or the public library to see if they offer assistance or know of any programs that can help.
DON’T FORGET TO BUILD EXCITEMENT!
Even kids who are excited about getting back to school and seeing their classmates often feel some amount of trepidation about a new school year. Going back to school should be a time of celebration and new beginnings. So, treat it like a holiday and start a backto-school family tradition! Have your child choose a special outfit for the first day of school. Talk with your kids about what everyone is excited about and looking forward to in the new school year. Also, make school year resolutions and help your kids set realistic goals. Involve your kids in the process of preparing for the new school year, and find ways to make it fun, to ensure a smooth transition.
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ARTICLE BY PASTOR TOM HODGE
A VISION OF GROWTH & RENEWAL PROGRESSES AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF VENICE
Groundbreaking for FBC’s Lakefront Church (L-R) Lonnie Steffen, Tom Dixon, Michael Coe, Joyce Norton, Pastor Tom Hodge, and his wife Tassie Hodge.
LAKEFRONT CHURCH GROUNDBREAKING
In 2010, the members of First Baptist Church of Venice prayed for and then adopted a wonderful three-stage vision of its future.
“WHILE
campus, leaving no debt behind.
Stage 3: Fundraising for the Lakefront Church building ensued, and by April 2024, the congregation had once again
SEEMINGLY
IMPOSSIBLE,
GOD PROVIDED, AND CONGREGATION MEMBERS WERE GENEROUS.”
1. Purchase land located at 3100 Executive Drive in order to create a second campus
2. Renovate its existing Miami Avenue campus
3. Build a multi-purpose Lakefront Church building
Stage 1: First Baptist Church of Venice purchased the land. Here’s how: BB&T Bank owned the property and gave First Baptist one year to raise funds. While seemingly impossible, God provided, and congregation members were generous. By January 2012, FBC had successfully purchased the land, leaving no debt whatsoever.
Stage 2: Renovation of the Miami Avenue Campus began in August 2014 after the congregation had contributed nearly $1 million towards construction. Again, God provided, our members gave, and FBC successfully renovated a portion of its downtown
stepped up to the plate by giving $7.1 million of the $9.2 million needed to build the Lakefront Church building–achieving this goal debt-free is well on its way!
What’s more, in December 2023, a wonderful opportunity arose to purchase the frontage lot to maximize visibility for the new Lakefront Church building. A love donation was generously provided for the full purchase price. What a blessing!
In order to complete The Lakefront Church building entirely debt-free, First Baptist needs to raise another $2.1 million, still knowing that God will, once again, provide. It hopes to complete this work by December 2025.
Everyone is welcome to First Baptist Church on Venice Island and The Lakefront Church of Venice–where people can meet Jesus while engaging in a life-giving community. To learn more, go to fbcvenice.org.
Beat the Summer Heat
Staying Cool Tips for
Kids and Pets
ENCOURAGE YOURCHILDRENTO DRINK WATER FREQUENTLY DURINGTHEHOTDAYS OF SUMMER.
Summer brings long days filled with sunshine, outdoor activities, and family fun. However, the high temperatures can be challenging, especially for children and pets who live here in Florida. Keeping them cool and safe is essential to ensure everyone enjoys the season. Here are some practical tips to help your kids and pets beat the heat.
KEEPING KIDS COOL
• Stay Hydrated: Encourage your children to drink water frequently throughout the day. Water-rich fruits like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers can also help keep them hydrated.
• Dress Appropriately: Choose lightweight, loosefitting clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton. Light-colored clothes can help reflect the sun's rays, keeping your kids cooler.
• Be Careful with Outdoor Activities: Plan outdoor playtime for the early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are lower. During peak heat hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., opt for indoor activities.
• Get Wet: Besides our beaches and pools, our area offers splash pads and fountains where kids can enjoy fun water play. Learn more on page 36.
• Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your child's skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply every two hours or more often if they're swimming or sweating.
• Create Cool Spaces: Set up shaded areas in your yard with umbrellas, tents, or canopies. Indoors, use fans and air conditioning to maintain a comfortable environment. Cool baths or showers can also help lower body temperature.
KEEPING PETS COOL
• Provide Ample Water: Ensure your pets always have access to fresh, cool water. Consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and yard, and add ice cubes to keep the water cool longer.
• Avoid Hot Pavement: Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws. Walk them early in the morning or late in the evening when the ground is cooler. Test the pavement with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
• Create Shade: Ensure your pets have shaded areas to retreat to, whether it's under trees, a covered patio, or an indoor space. A cool, damp towel or a pet cooling mat can provide additional comfort.
• Cool Down with H2O: Set up a kiddie pool in your backyard or use a hose for refreshing water play on hot days.
Apply sunscreen at least every two hours.
• Keep Groomed: Regular grooming helps prevent overheating. For dogs with thick fur, consider a summer trim, but avoid shaving them completely as their coat protects them from the sun.
• Never Leave Your Pet in a Car: Even for a short period. Temperatures inside a car can rise quickly, leading to potentially fatal heatstroke.
• Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Be vigilant for symptoms of heatstroke in pets, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or collapse. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Summer should be a time of fun and relaxation, not worrying about the dangers of heat. By following these simple tips, you can keep your children and pets cool, safe, and happy throughout the hot months. Ensure they stay hydrated, avoid peak heat hours, and create cool, shaded environments for everyone to enjoy the season comfortably.
Keep pets cool in kiddie pool.
Splash into Summer
Discover two exciting water features in Sarasota and Venice that promise fun-filled escapes from the summer heat.
THE ALL-NEW BAYFRONT PARK PLAYGROUND AND SPLASH PAD
Ahoy to staying cool this summer at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park! The newly renovated shipwreck-themed playground and splash pad offer vibrant climbing structures, ample seating, and sprawling shade sails, making it the perfect spot for family fun. The splash pad, a highlight of the renovation, now lets young adventurers control
Cool Adventures Await at Sarasota and Venice ‘Splash’ Parks
Bayfront Park Playground and Splash Pad. (Photo by Jon Swift Inc.)
the water flow themselves, providing an interactive way to beat the heat. Additionally, the playground and splash pad areas are ADA-compatible, ensuring accessibility for all. Restored concrete animal sculptures from the original Steigerwaldt-Jockey Children’s Fountain add a nostalgic touch to the new landscaping. This exciting spot not only offers a refreshing break from the sun but also promotes imaginative play and exploration. So, head over to Bayfront Park for a cool and adventurous day out! Find out more at letsplaysarasota.com.
THE INTERGENERATIONAL FOUNTAIN AT CENTENNIAL PARK
Looking for a fun way to beat the heat? The Intergenerational Fountain at Centennial Park is a
big hit with kids of all ages. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., this free water attraction offers a refreshing escape and is maintained to swimming pool standards by the City of Venice Public Works Department. Built in 2006 as a Venice MainStreet project with support from the City of Venice, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and The Ehrhart Family Foundation, the fountain is located near the Gazebo in Centennial Park. Remember, children must be accompanied by an adult, and no pets are allowed. For more information, visit venicegov.com/ visiting/fountain.
Whether climbing aboard at Bayfront or splashing in Venice, these destinations guarantee a refreshing and enjoyable experience for all.
The Intergenerational Fountain at Centennial Park. (Photo provided by Venice MainStreet Inc.)
Discover The Overlook at Jacaranda Trace
Reserve Your Residence with Expansive Amenities and Gorgeous Views
Convivial Jacaranda Trace is excited to announce they have begun accepting pre-construction reservations for its new abode, The Overlook at Jacaranda Trace.
The Overlook will consist of 1- to 3-bedroom residences ranging from 1,218 to 2,244 square feet with open floor plans featuring gourmet-style kitchens, dining, and plenty of living area to enjoy and entertain guests.
Residences also include den and hobby rooms, a wet bar, extra storage, walk-in closets, and large 1 ½ to 2 ½ bathrooms. The Overlook will be constructed with eight residential floors over underbuilding parking on a 2.2-acre parcel of land. Each residence will have a private terrace with various views of Jacaranda Trace’s 33 acres and some coastal views on elevated floors.
This rendering shows a front view of The Overlook at Jacaranda Trace
“We are delighted to begin accepting reservations. We’ve begun meeting with our priority depositors, and they are pleased with the spacious, well-designed floor plans and our plans to expand healthcare on our campus,” said Kristen Myers, Vice President of Membership Sales.
In addition to 87 new residences, The Overlook’s expansion will provide new amenities at Jacaranda Trace, including indoor and outdoor restaurant dining, an expansive outdoor pool, cabanas, and other leisure activity spaces. Other plans include adding skilled nursing to Convivial’s existing home health, assisted living, and memory care services. Residents have priority access to healthcare services with substantial savings after becoming a member of the community.
“Our team has worked closely with an experienced senior living design team in planning this crowning addition to our 33-acre community”, said Joel Anderson, CEO of Convivial Jacaranda Trace. “We want to improve all the existing amenities and services at Jacaranda Trace so we can feel confident these investments exceed our current and future members’ preferences and interests.”
Upfront Fees for becoming a member and residing at The Overlook begin at $521,740, with several pre-construction incentives currently available. Upfront Fees provide a maintenance-free style of living so members do not have to worry about the upkeep costs of their home. Maintenance fees
will begin at $4,775, which includes a variety of services such as paid utilities, taxes, insurance, bi-weekly housekeeping, around-the-clock security, concierge services, dining allowance within the various dining venues, and more.
Pre-construction deposits are expected to be 100 percent sold out by the end of 2024, followed by construction in early-to-mid 2025, then opening for residency in 2027. To learn more contact Kristen Myers - VP, Membership Sales at 941.418.2040 KMyers@ConvivialLife.org. Or visit JacarandaTrace.org/Overlook.
In addition to 87 new residences, The Overlook’s expansion will provide new amenities at Jacaranda Trace, including indoor and outdoor restaurant dining, an expansive outdoor pool, cabanas, and other leisure activity spaces.
This rendering shows what the inside of the Oasis apartments will look like.
Artist’s rendering of the Vista floor plan’s interior.
New Primrose School to Open in Wellen Park
Offering Preschool, Extended Care, and Summer Programs by 2025
Parents in Wellen Park and nearby communities will soon have an additional childcare option for their preschool-aged children. Primrose Schools®, renowned for its early learning programs for infants through kindergarteners, is building its first school in the Venice area on Market Way in Downtown Wellen, close to the Wellen Park Welcome Center.
In addition to preschool services, the new school will offer before- and afterschool care and a full-day summer learning program for K-5 students. Construction is set to begin later this year, with the school expected to open in early 2025.
"We’re pleased to expand childcare and early education options for the growing number of parents with young children in Wellen Park and the greater community," said Rick Severance, president of Wellen Park. "Additionally, this new school will add more childcare and education job opportunities within our
area, increasing the local workforce and providing additional economic benefits."
The 13,500-square-foot Primrose School at Wellen Park will feature 12 classrooms and can accommodate up to 204 children. It will also include outdoor gardening and nature activities in the Primrose Patch garden. Katherine Cunningham, who brings 20 years of experience in early childcare, will oversee daily operations, staffing, and human resources.
"When you think of what makes a community thrive, it’s the complete experience–attractive housing options, stable job opportunities, exciting retailers and restaurants, as well as top-notch schools and childcare," said Nick Koros, chief development officer of Primrose Schools. "Wellen Park is a vibrant and growing master-planned community. Primrose School at Wellen Park serves as an anchor business and a critical on-site community resource to provide a vital need for local residents."
Primrose School is coming to Wellen Park.
Rick Severance is the president of Wellen Park.
Nick Koros is chief development officer of Primrose Schools.
Shop Local!
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