VENICE INDIANS'
Kids & Pets
There is something special about an edition devoted to the young people and animals who bring so much energy, joy and purpose to our lives. Children challenge us to see the world through curious eyes, while pets remind us daily of loyalty, companionship and unconditional love. Together, they help create the moments that become our favorite memories.
This month, we celebrate the remarkable ways young people are growing, learning and making a difference throughout our community. In More Than Champions, we look back at an extraordinary season for the Venice Indians baseball team. While their record-setting success on the field earned plenty of attention, the deeper story is one of character, teamwork, leadership and lessons that will last long after the final inning.
The outdoors also takes center stage as Sarasota County Parks, Natural Areas, and Trails Manager Megan Eidel shares some of her favorite places for family adventures. From playgrounds and walking trails to wildlife encounters and dog-friendly destinations, Adventures at Kid- and Pet-Friendly Parks offers plenty of inspiration for making the most of our beautiful surroundings.
Families know that life is often funniest when things don't go according to plan, and comedians Trey and Katie Kennedy have built an audience by embracing exactly that. In Trey & Katie Kennedy, the couple shares candid thoughts on marriage, parenting and finding humor in everyday life.
Of course, our pets deserve a little attention, too. Know Your Pet, Choose Better Toys explores how understanding your companion's instincts, personality and play style can help you choose toys that keep them happy, engaged and safe.
This issue also highlights young people whose impact reaches far beyond their years. In A Scholarship Built on Vision , the Venice Institute for Performing Arts celebrates student apprentices, honors Bonnie Hartley and awards its first apprentice scholarships. Meanwhile, Four Girl Scouts, Four Lasting Legacies introduces four exceptional young women whose Gold Award projects are improving lives and strengthening communities through efforts focused on mental health, animal welfare, accessibility and environmental stewardship.
As you turn these pages, I hope you'll be reminded of the incredible potential that exists in every child, the comfort and companionship pets provide, and the many ways both enrich our lives.
Here's to summer's sweetness, and to those—both furry and small—who make life better every day.
CHARMAINE TINCHER, PUBLISHER
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher
charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
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Jessie Marie Glantz, Kali Kasprzyk, Emily Leinfuss
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Brian Glantz/1st Glantz Media, Janie Jones
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Village On The Isle Residents Raise Over $10,000 For Cancer
Residents of Village On The Isle in Venice raised more than $10,000 during their annual Relay for Life event benefiting the American Cancer Society. Over the past five years, the community has contributed more than $50,000 to the cause. Residents organized fundraising activities throughout the year, culminating in an on-campus Relay for Life walk held each spring. VillageOnTheIsle.com
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VIPA Names Jon DeVries Director of Development
The Venice Institute for the Performing Arts (VIPA) has appointed Jon DeVries as its new Director of Development. In this role he will lead fundraising, grant development, donor engagement, and partnerships designed to strengthen VIPA's impact in the community. A Venice native, DeVries brings more than 30 years of experience in media, philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership, including roles with The Venice Symphony, Senior Friendship Centers, and the Collins Center for Public Policy.
Golf Classic Raises $117,000 for VOTI Foundation
Village On The Isle (VOTI) raised $117,000 for the Village On The Isle Foundation during its 7th Annual Golf Classic, held at The Founders Club in Sarasota. Presenting sponsor Clancy & Theys contributed $25,000. Proceeds support resident programs, education, mission-focused care and the benevolence fund. “Our residents will never be asked to leave should they run out of funds at no fault of their own,” said VOTI CEO Doug Feller.
One Show. Three Decades. Endless Memories. Rock through the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with legendary hits like “Surfin’ USA,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” and “Johnny B. Goode.” Big songs, big sound, and nonstop fun!
Take a Far-Out Trip Back to the Swinging 60’s Experience the ultimate Monkees tribute featuring hits like “Last Train to Clarksville,” “Daydream Believer,” and “I’m a Believer,” plus audience fun, a groovy costume contest, and nonstop ’60s nostalgia!
ARTICLE BY JESSIE MARIE GLANTZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ/1ST GLANTZ MEDIA
The Venice Indians baseball team exits their 2026 season with budding talent, scholastic excellence, and lessons that will last a lifetime
More Than
Champions
The Venice Indians’ 2026 baseball season was unlike any other, both on and off the field. While the team secured a record 32 wins, outstanding player stats, and a shot at the State Championship title, they also built a fellowship founded on shared goals and a sense of responsibility toward one another and the Venice community. Although they didn’t take home the Championship trophy, each player received support, encouragement, and experiences that hold value beyond the scope of the game.
Macade Carey at bat at the State Championship.
Every season, Venice High School baseball coaches guide their team with a unique motivational expression. “Our motto is always not only for the baseball season, but it works throughout the year; whether it’s in the weightlifting program or in school or at home, we build on that motto,” said Venice Indians head coach of 27 years, Craig Faulkner. This year’s message was “Break the Barrier (BTB),” which urged players to seek solutions when faced with adversity. The team’s biggest barrier this season was progressing past regional finals—something it had not accomplished since 2019. “We’d gotten stuck at regional finals the last few years, even though we’ve had some pretty good teams,” said Faulkner. Still, the Venice Indians had a tough slate of games to contend with this season. “We try to find the most difficult schedule possible … you’re playing the top schools in the nation, so that’s always a challenge,” said Faulkner.
Despite the team’s rigorous schedule, its abundant talent broke barriers and records. In addition to the Venice Indians’ unprecedented 32-2 season finish, pitcher Carter Cox broke two 30-year-old records with 125 strike outs and 13 wins. Outfielder August Backman and shortstop Graham Houston also had outstanding performances. Backman had 44 runs scored, the highest number across Southwest Florida this season,
along with an impressive .485 batting average; and Houston racked up 46 hits and a .438 batting average, making him one of the top players in the class of 2027. The multitude of skilled athletes presented a hurdle for coaching staff, who had the difficult task of balancing playing time. “We had 10 or 12 pitchers that were really special, and that’s tough as the coach because you want everybody to play as much as they can,” said Faulkner, “but you also have to develop your top four or five guys … [there were] so many good pitchers we couldn’t play them all.”
After the team’s immense talent won out and the barrier was finally broken with a 4-0 win in
Jonathan Mauro defends the plate.
Carter Cox waits on deck.
game one and a 6-0 win in game two against Winter Haven in the Regional Finals, it became necessary to change the season’s motto. “As soon as we broke that barrier, our motto changed for the last two games to ‘Bring Trophy Back,’” in keeping with the original BTB acronym, explained Faulkner. “That was something we planned all year, so it was kind of fun to introduce that to the team,” he said. The importance of positive messaging and mentorship echoed throughout the season.
“I have a book that I’ve written of motivational pregame stories—different motivations for every game, every day,” explained Faulkner.
Coaching staff heavily invested in the personal growth of the team, seeking to instill a culture of self-discipline, accountability, and respect. “We spent a lot of time motivating our players with stories and with speakers and with character coaches,” Faulkner said. One such character coach was Allen Speer, CEO of Agape Flights—a charitable organization that transports vital resources and medical necessities to mission partners in the Caribbean. “I’m now the interim preaching paster at First Baptist Church right here in Venice, I’m the CEO of Agape Flights, which is a full-time job, and then I serve as a character coach for Venice High School baseball, and all of those things bring such great joy into my life,” said Speer in a May 2026 Instagram reel. Speer’s faith and humanitarianism closely align with the Venice Indians’ values, as the team regularly held independent Bible studies and went on a summer mission trip to the Dominican Republic to provide communities and orphanages with much needed supplies. “It was really a neat experience,” said Faulkner of the trip, “it kind of pulled this group together—so not only were they talented, but very humble and strong in their faith.”
The team also volunteered closer to home in Venice, bringing joy and hope to others. “This team was all in on everything,” said Faulkner of the group’s unwavering commitment to each other and their community. “We would go to nursing homes, and they would all get together and sing even though they weren’t very good singers,” Faulkner fondly remembered. “We did Challenger Baseball,” said Faulkner, “when you work with the special needs kids in a baseball program … we’ve done that for years … they’re just all in making a difference in those kids’ lives,” he said.
“Our coaching staff is really big into developing culture,” said Faulkner, “culture is developed by hard work, number one, so that you feel like you earned something.” The Venice Indians demonstrated an exceptionally strong work ethic this season, with an average GPA
“10 YEARS FROM NOW WHEN THESE GUYS ARE HUSBANDS, WHEN THEY HAVE CHILDREN OF THEIR OWN, WHEN THEY’RE IN THE BUSINESS WORLD, WE’RE REALLY GOING TO SEE VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS THAT WERE TAUGHT FROM THIS YEAR … TAKEN INTO THEIR LIVES”
of 3.5 and an academically successful roster. Faulkner said that every senior who wanted to play college baseball is set to do so; and one senior, who is attending the University of Florida in the fall, hopes to go to medical school and ultimately become a doctor. Outfielder August Backman and the team’s number one pitcher, Carter Cox, have also committed to the University of Florida, and the list of impressive college prospects goes on: Shortstop Graham Houston plans to attend Louisiana State University; top pitcher Kasen Poplin, Liberty University; hitter and pitcher RJ Shields, Mississippi State; and catcher Jonathan Mauro, Columbia University. “We had a very talented group of guys; self-made hard workers,” said Faulkner.
Although the team didn’t bring the trophy back, ultimately falling 2-1 to Stoneman Douglas at the State Championship, they took away special moments that will shape them for years to come. “We don’t have any regrets,” said Faulkner. “We wish we would have won the last game … but that’s not what’s most important … 10 years from now when these guys are husbands, when they have children of their own, when they’re in the business world, we’re really going to see valuable life lessons that were taught from this year … taken into their lives,” he said. He noted that the team regularly holds leadership groups before school in which players are taught how to be leaders not only on the baseball field, but within their families, communities, and future businesses. He emphasized that baseball itself teaches
important life lessons: how to deal with failure, manage success, and build character. “That’s a winner for us every year, whether we win a state championship or not,” said Faulkner, “we know when we leave here that we’ve done something valuable as coaches and hopefully made a difference in a lot of the players’ lives—and that’s what you can hang your hat on.”
The team visiting an orphanage on their summer 2025 mission trip to the Dominican Republic.
Coach Faulkner on a mission trip in the Dominican Republic.
Head Coach Craig Faulkner advises August Backman.
The team celebrates RJ Shields’ late-game home run.
Dr. Frank Lewicki
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From playgrounds to wilderness escapes, area parks offer plenty to discover
ADVENTURES AT LOCAL PARKS FOR KIDS & PETS
Looking for a place where kids can burn off energy, discover wildlife and maybe even spark a lifelong love of nature? Megan Eidel, Sarasota County’s Parks, Natural Areas, and Trails (PNT) Manager, and the PNT team shared their top recommendations for family-friendly outdoor adventures around Venice. Among Eidel’s personal favorites are North Jetty Park, Shamrock Park and Nature Center, and South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, each offering its own blend of scenery, wildlife and opportunities to explore.
WHAT ARE THE BEST PARKS FOR FAMILIES?
“There are so many,” Eidel said, but a few stand out. Shamrock Park and Nature Center combines a popular playground with paved and natural trails, a nature center and access to the Venetian Waterway Park trail system. It’s an easy choice for families looking to mix playtime with exploration.
For kids on wheels, Venetian Waterway Park and The Legacy Trail offer miles of paved pathways perfect for biking. Along the route, trailheads provide water, restrooms and convenient stops, including the Venice Train Depot, where children can enjoy a train-themed playground.
Senator Bob Johnson’s Landing offers scenic views of the Myakka River along with an accessible boardwalk and interpretive displays that introduce visitors to the area’s history and ecology.
Families seeking a true wilderness experience should head to Carlton Reserve. At more than 25,000 acres, Sarasota County’s largest natural area features trails for every skill level and the feeling of stepping far away from everyday life.
The good news? Eidel says Sarasota County’s parks really are for everyone. Whether families want a playground, an easy paved walk or a more immersive outdoor adventure, there’s an option for every age and ability.
WHERE CAN KIDS SEE WILDLIFE?
Shamrock Park and Nature Center is home to several protected species, while the Venice Area Audubon Rookery remains one of the county’s premier birdwatching destinations.
Throughout local parks and preserves, families may spot gopher tortoises, countless bird species, squirrels, alligators, snakes and an abundance of native plants. During summer, butterflies and wildflowers add even more color to the experience, and many parks include educational kiosks explaining the habitats and wildlife visitors are likely to encounter.
BEST TRAILS FOR BEGINNERS?
For families just getting started, Eidel recommends choosing shorter loops with amenities. Shamrock Park and Nature Center, Woodmere Park and Scherer Thaxton Preserve all offer manageable walks with nearby restrooms.
Before heading out, pack water, wear sunscreen and closed-toe shoes, and pay attention to the weather to stay safe and comfortable.
CONTINUED
A group of whitetail deer at Carlton Reserve.
HIDDEN GEMS WORTH DISCOVERING?
Scherer Thaxton Preserve often flies under the radar but packs plenty into one destination, including an easy loop trail, fishing pier, kayak launch, stocked pond and restrooms.
South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve rewards visitors with beautiful coastal scenery and peaceful trails, while Curry Creek Preserve offers ample parking, a kayak launch and a surprisingly tranquil natural escape tucked into the heart of Venice.
“CHILDREN HAVE TO EXPERIENCE NATURE BEFORE THEY CAN APPRECIATE IT, AND THOSE EARLY EXPERIENCES OFTEN INSPIRE A LIFELONG DESIRE TO VALUE AND PROTECT THE NATURAL WORLD.”
TURNING A WALK INTO A LEARNING EXPERIENCE?
The best family hikes aren’t measured in miles. Instead of focusing on distance, Eidel encourages parents to slow down, observe and listen. Reading interpretive signs, researching a park before visiting and asking children questions about what they see can transform a simple walk into an adventure.
Families can also use Sarasota County’s free Agents of Discovery app, which lets children complete interactive missions while learning about local parks and wildlife.
Above all, Eidel’s advice for raising nature lovers is refreshingly simple: just get outside. Children have to experience nature before they can appreciate it, and those early experiences often inspire a lifelong desire to value and protect the natural world.
The benefits extend far beyond individual families. Sarasota County’s parks and preserves provide environmental education, safeguard important habitats, improve quality of life and help ensure future generations understand the value of protecting the county’s natural resources.
Four-legged friends love romping at Woodmere Park.
PET-FRIENDLY PICKS
Exploring with a four-legged family member? Eidel recommends Woodmere Park and Brohard Dog Park for their designated off-leash areas where dogs can run and socialize safely.
Shamrock Park, Sleeping Turtles Preserve North and The Legacy Trail are also excellent choices, offering scenic walks and amenities such as dog waste stations and water bowls. The Legacy Trail’s connected network of trailheads makes it especially well suited for longer outings.
Just remember that dogs must remain on leashes no longer than six feet unless they are in a designated off-leash area. Cleaning up after pets and respecting wildlife and fellow visitors helps keep these beautiful spaces enjoyable for everyone.
NORTHEAST VENICE PARK
IS A BEAUTIFUL NEW 4.8-ACRE GREEN SPACE DESIGNED FOR RECREATION AND CONNECTION.
VENICE WELCOMES ITS NEWEST PARK
Looking for a new place to play, walk, exercise or spend time with the dog? The City of Venice recently celebrated the opening of Northeast Venice Park, the first new city park since 2017.
This 4.8-acre park offers something for all ages, including eight outdoor pickleball courts, a fitness trail, walking path, two shaded playgrounds, and separate areas for large and small dogs.
Young visitors can climb and explore alongside whimsical playground features named “Cordy” the Crane and “Myrtle” the Turtle.
Funded through Sarasota County impact fees, Northeast Venice Park is located at 3560 Laurel Road E. and is open daily from sunup to sundown.
Curry Creek Preserve is a wonderfully tranquil natural escape tucked into the heart of Venice.
There’s fun for all ages in the playgrounds at Northeast Venice Park. (Photo provided by KOMPAN Inc.)
“Cordy the Crane” is a highlight feature of Northeast Venice Park’s new playgrounds.
(Photo provided by KOMPAN Inc.)
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
SCHOLARSHIPS BUILT ON VISION
VIPA CELEBRATES STUDENT APPRENTICES, HONORS BONNIE HARTLEY AND AWARDS ITS FIRST APPRENTICE SCHOLARSHIP S
The Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA) recently recognized the achievements of its student apprentices while also honoring one of the people most responsible for the program’s success: Bonnie B. Hartley, Ph.D.
A VIPA founder and the driving force behind the Venice High School Apprenticeship Program, Hartley helped create an opportunity that teaches far more than what happens on stage. Under her vision, students gain hands-on experience while developing valuable skills in leadership, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and professionalism.
To recognize her lasting impact, VIPA announced the creation of the inaugural Bonnie B. Hartley, Ph.D. Apprentice Scholarship.
BonnieB.HartleyPh.D.
The new scholarship awarded three graduating seniors with $1,000 each to support their educational and career goals after high school.
The honor comes as the apprenticeship program continues to grow. What began with just nine students has expanded to 17 this season, with more than 40 students applying for the highly competitive program. Participants receive training in lighting, sound, stage production, marketing, photography, box office operations, and more, preparing them for success both in and beyond the performing arts.
Scholarship recipient Siena Pellicano was recognized for her dedication and enthusiasm throughout the program. She plans to attend the University of Montana.
Seger Zagst was honored for her growth as a leader and mentor. She plans to study Environmental Science and Sustainability at Ohio University and hopes to work for the U.S. National Park Service.
Ella Piotrowski earned a scholarship for her leadership, creativity, and connection to the VIPA community. She will pursue a BFA in Musical Theatre and hopes to one day perform on Broadway.
As VIPA celebrated this year’s graduates, the new scholarship served as a fitting tribute to Hartley’s legacy and her belief in empowering young people through education, opportunity, and the performing arts.
Sixteen of the 17 Venice High School apprentices who completed VIPA's 2026 Apprenticeship Program. (Photo by Joel Smith)
The inaugural Bonnie B. Hartley, Ph.D. Apprentice Scholarship recipients (L-R): Siena Pellicano, Seger Zagst, and Ella Piotrowski. (Photo by Joel Smith)
(Photo by MichaelHartley)
KNOW YOUR PET, Choose Better TOYS
The best playthings match your companion’s instincts, energy level and unique quirks
Walk into any pet store and you'll find shelves packed with squeaky toys, puzzle games, feather wands and chew bones. But the best toy isn't necessarily the newest or most expensive. Choosing wisely means considering your pet's size, personality, instincts and play style while making safety a priority.
The biggest secret? Know your own pet. Some dogs would happily chase a tennis ball until sunset, while others would rather curl up with a favorite chew toy. And don't be surprised if your cat is more fascinated by the empty box or the crinkly wrapping paper than the pricey gadget that came inside. The goal is to choose toys that stimulate both mind and body while satisfying their natural instincts.
For dogs, breed and play style often go hand in hand. Retrievers usually light up when it's time for fetch, while terriers love shaking and tugging toys that let them channel their inner hunter. Power chewers need sturdy rubber toys that can stand up to determined jaws, while puppies and senior dogs are often happier with softer materials that are gentler on developing or aging teeth. If your dog is the type who gets into everything, puzzle toys can keep that busy brain occupied and out of trouble.
Cats, meanwhile, never really lose their hunting instincts. Anything that flutters, skitters across the floor or disappears around a corner can become the most exciting thing in the house. A feather wand, bouncing ball or toy mouse may spark a full-on stalk-and-pounce session, followed by an afternoon nap as if nothing happened. Rotating toys every few days keeps them feeling new and helps prevent boredom.
BEST TOY CHOICES FOR DOGS
Keep the focus on toys that match your dog's habits and energy level:
• Durable rubber chew toys, including those that can be stuffed with treats
Plush toy soothes this Labrador puppy.
Cat choices for playtime can be surprising!
• Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing games that challenge problem-solving skills
• Fetch toys such as rubber balls, flying discs and rubber sticks
• Tug toys designed specifically for supervised interactive play
• Plush toys made for dogs, provided they are monitored for damage
• Edible chews that are easily digestible and appropriate for your dog's size The key is matching the toy to the individual dog. A tiny lap dog and a determined power chewer have very different ideas about fun.
CONTINUED >
Little longhaired dachshund loves big plush rabbit.
Beagle can run and chew at the same time.
Cute ginger kitty likes his sisal toy mouse.
FAVORITE TOYS FOR CATS
Cats enjoy variety, especially toys that tap into their hunting instincts:
• Catnip-filled mice, balls or plush toys
• Balls made for batting, chasing and pouncing, including lightweight or sponge varieties
• Plush prey toys shaped like birds, fish or mice
• Feather wands and teaser toys for interactive play with owners
• Motion-activated or battery-operated toys with safe, secure components
• Food-dispensing puzzles that reward curiosity and problem-solving
Don't be afraid to experiment. One cat may ignore catnip completely but spend hours chasing a bottle cap, while another proudly carries a plush mouse around the house like a prized catch.
KEEP PLAY SAFE
No matter what toy you choose, safety should always come first. A few simple precautions can prevent injuries and expensive veterinary emergencies:
• Select toys that fit your pet's size, breed, age and chewing strength
• Choose durable, non-toxic materials from reputable manufacturers
• Avoid toys with loose pieces, small parts or decorations that can be swallowed
• Make sure strings, feathers, bells and squeakers are securely attached
• Supervise pets with new toys and during vigorous play
• Inspect toys frequently for wear and replace damaged items immediately
• Wash toys regularly to reduce bacteria buildup Playtime does much more than burn energy. It provides exercise, relieves stress, stimulates the brain and strengthens the bond between pets and their owners. By choosing toys that fit your pet's personality and keeping safety in mind, every game of fetch, chase or pounce becomes an opportunity for healthier, happier living.
After all, the best toy isn't simply the one your pet plays with the most. It's the one that keeps them engaged, enriched and safe while bringing joy to both of you.
Sources: American Humane Society, ASPCA, Pet Health Insurance
New Tricks for Old Toys
Because we’re probably not buying our pets a new toy every day, try a few simple tricks to make old favorites feel new again.
• Rotate toys by putting some away for a week or two before bringing them back. Thanks to “out of sight, out of mind,” your pet may greet a forgotten toy with renewed excitement.
• For dogs, a fresh scent can work wonders. Roll a toy in the grass or let it pick up outdoor smells during a walk.
• For cats, stash a plush mouse in a bag of catnip for a couple of days before reintroducing it for a whole new round of fun.
Cheeky corgi ponders an intellectual toy.
Girl Scouts Gold Award recipients tackle mental health, animal welfare, accessibility, and environmental challenges
From helping vulnerable animals and supporting teen mental health to rebuilding therapeutic spaces and protecting local beaches, four members of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida (GSGF) are proving that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference.
MADDIE Canty:
Giving Kittens a Better Chance
At just 16 years old, Englewood resident Maddie Canty has already made a lifesaving impact on countless animals.
Her Gold Award project, A Hope for Kittens, focused on reducing kitten euthanasia and preventing unwanted litters throughout Sarasota County. Working with Englewood Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS), Maddie became certified in Trap-Neuter-Return, fostered abandoned kittens, coordinated volunteers, delivered educational presentations, and promoted responsible pet ownership.
Her efforts also helped secure a City of Venice proclamation recognizing February 2025 as Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, leading to a community partnership that provided free spay and neuter services for local pet owners.
GSGF, which serves girls throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties, recently recognized these four outstanding young women with its Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. Earned by fewer than 6% of Girl Scouts nationwide,
ALICE Barr:
Creating
a Sensory Space for Calm
For 17-year-old Alice Barr, helping others began with her own experiences managing anxiety, especially during tests and other high-pressure situations at school.
After recognizing that many students struggle with stress and anxiety, the Lakewood Ranch Preparatory Academy student set out to create a dedicated Sensory Room where students could regroup, decompress, and learn healthy coping strategies.
Alice researched mental health best practices, consulted counselors, surveyed students, and raised funds through cookie sales, community donations, and a part-time job. The resulting space includes calming music, comfortable seating, fidget tools, and stress-management resources.
Despite losing key supporters during the planning process and having to present her proposal to a new administration, Alice persevered. Today, the room helps students reset, refocus, and build healthy coping skills.
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
the Gold Award honors girls who identify a community need, develop a sustainable solution, and lead a project that creates lasting change.
Although their projects addressed very different challenges, all four Girl Scouts shared a common goal: making life better for others.
REESE Gurski: ZOE Lander:
Rebuilding a Trail of Hope
Protecting Beaches and Wildlife
After hurricane damage rendered a sensory obstacle trail unusable at Bradenton’s therapeutic riding center, S.M.A.R.T. with Heart, Reese Gurski stepped in to help.
The Braden River High School junior transformed an abandoned paddock into a sensory trail supporting individuals with physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. Through fundraising and hands-on leadership, she repaired damaged obstacles, added new therapeutic stations, and expanded the trail to 14 sensory experiences that now benefit children and adults facing a variety of challenges.
For Manatee County Girl Scout Zoe Lander, a day at the beach inspired a project with lasting environmental benefits.
After noticing how often plastic beach toys were abandoned in the sand, Zoe created a “Beach Toy Borrow Bin” at Holmes Beach’s 68th Street Beach Access. Working with the city, she researched locations, selected durable materials, and built the weather-resistant structure herself.
Families can now leave behind gently used toys or borrow them during their visit, reducing waste while helping protect local wildlife and coastal habitats.
Together, these four Gold Award recipients demonstrate the power of leadership, compassion, and determination. Through Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, they have created lasting legacies that will continue benefiting their communities for years to come.
events
AUGUST 1ST
Summer Kickoff - Back To School Youth Activity Fair
Venice Community Center | 10:30 AM
Families are invited to explore local youth programs and activities at this free back-to-school event. Meet community organizations, enjoy games, demonstrations, inflatables, music and food, and discover opportunities for sports, arts, education and recreation. No registration is required. A fun way to plan the school year's activities while connecting with local providers. ScGov.net
AUGUST 3RD - SEPTEMBER 14TH
Shared Light: Photographer Lynn Goldsmith
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens presents an exhibition featuring renowned photographer Lynn Goldsmith. The indoor and outdoor display pairs Goldsmith's striking floral photography with intimate portraits of artist-in-residence Patti Smith. Celebrating the connection between nature, music and visual art, the exhibition offers visitors a unique experience blending photography, gardens and creative expression. Selby.org
AUGUST 6TH
Venice Art Stroll
Historic Downtown Venice | 11:00 AM
Explore the Venice area’s vibrant arts scene at this free weekly event. Visitors can meet artists, view artwork, and enjoy live demonstrations and special offerings at participating galleries, shops, coffeehouses, and eateries. Discover the area’s thriving creative community while spending a leisurely afternoon downtown. Facebook.com/People/Venice-Art-Stroll/61550091550394/
AUGUST 14TH
Friday Night Concert: Courtney Amber
Susan and Bob Vedder Gazebo, Centennial Park | 7:00 PM
Enjoy an evening of free live music in historic downtown Venice as Courtney Amber performs in Venice MainStreet's popular Friday Night Concert Series. Bring a chair and relax under the stars. Sponsored by Neal Communities, the outdoor series is held twice monthly and continues August 28 with a performance by Junction 41. VisitVeniceFL.org
AUGUST 15TH
Sarasota Anime-Fest
Robarts Arena | 10:00 AM
Cosplay, manga, anime collectibles, artwork, video games, comics and specialty vendors take center stage at Sarasota Anime-Fest, which celebrates anime and pop culture in all its forms. Fans can browse a wide range of merchandise, meet anime industry professionals and fandom celebrities, and connect with fellow enthusiasts from across the region. SarasotaAnimeFest.com
AUGUST 30TH
Teen Improv Troupe 2026: The Teenyboppers
Venice Theatre – Raymond Center | 7:30 PM
Expect quick wit, audience-inspired comedy and plenty of surprises as Venice Theatre's Teen Improv Troupe takes the stage. Performing without scripts, these talented high school students create scenes on the spot using creativity, teamwork and fast thinking. The troupe has entertained local audiences since 2019 while helping young performers build confidence, communication and acting skills. VeniceTheatre.org
B ISOLA CASA CONDOMINIUM