What was the name of the Flight School that operated out of the Venice Airport, and who actually trained 2 of the 9/11 pilots.

Venice, Florida was one of the first master-planned cities in the state, designed in 1926 by renowned urban planner John Nolen. His vision included grand boulevards, green spaces, a civic center, and walkable neighborhoods—all carefully laid out before construction even began. Though some plans were interrupted by the Great Depression, much of his layout still shapes Venice today, making it a rare example of early 20th-century city planning that still thrives.

Venice Olive Oil Company

Venice Olive Oil Company turns a simple trip downtown into a global tasting tour. Step inside their Island‑of‑Venice shop and you’ll find more than 75 varieties of Ultra Premium extra‑virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars on tap, ready for free pours and pairing tips from the knowledgeable team.

Why it stands out

• Fresh‑first philosophy: Every oil is lab‑tested, harvest‑dated, and rotated for peak flavor—far beyond typical grocery‑store standards.

• Flavor education: The store hosts regular tasting classes and cooking demos, so you can learn which oils elevate everything from grilled seafood to gelato.
  

• Gift‑worthy goodies: Pick up sampler flights, Italian dipping sets, or locally curated gift baskets perfect for food‑loving friends.

Visit them

🏠 Address: 101 W Venice Ave #5, Venice, FL 34285
📞 Phone: (941) 483‑4200
🕙 Hours: Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

 

Next time you’re strolling along West Venice Avenue, pop in for a “sip & swirl” flight—you’ll leave with fresh culinary inspiration and maybe a bottle (or three) for tonight’s dinner.

Back to Venice again....temporarily!

A Bayflite medical helicopter has been temporarily relocated back to Venice Municipal Airport while the fire station in North Port is being rebuilt. Operated by Air Methods, the EC-135 helicopter will serve Venice and nearby areas during this interim period, allowing crews to respond more quickly to emergencies here in Venice.

Local officials say that this temporary basing helps close the gap in response coverage that might otherwise occur during the station’s reconstruction. Residents may have already spotted the white and green helicopter at the airport, a visible reminder that even in periods of construction, efforts are underway to maintain essential service.

Once the new fire station in North Port is complete, the aircraft and its crew are expected to return, but for now having Bayflite stationed in Venice helps ensure critical care continues to reach those who need it most without delay.

Another special moment captured.....Sunset at the South Jetty.

This week's photo courtesy of Alicia Ganno Wolf

Do you have a photo that captures the spirit and beauty of Venice and would like to see yours featured in an upcoming edition?

 Reach out!

City Government & Utilities

• City Hall – Main | 941-486-2626 | Maps
• City Clerk – Kelly Michaels | Email | Maps
• Deputy City Clerk – Mercedes Barcia | Email | Maps
• City Council | Email | Maps
• Utilities Department | 941-480-3333 | Maps
• Public Works | 941-486-2422 | Maps
• Venice Municipal Airport (VNC) | 941-486-2711 | Maps
• Building Department | 941-882-7385 | Maps
• Venice Police Department | 941-486-2444 | Maps
• Venice Fire Department | 941-480-3030 | Maps

Libraries

• William H. Jervey Jr. Venice Library | 941-861-1110 | Maps
• Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library | 941-861-1110 | Maps
• SCF Venice Campus Library | 941-408-1435 | Maps

Schools

• Venice Elementary School | 941-486-2111 | Maps
• Garden Elementary School | 941-486-2110 | Maps
• Venice Middle School | 941-486-2100 | Maps
• Venice High School | 941-488-6726 | Maps
• SCF Collegiate School – Venice | 941-408-1430 | Maps

Hospitals

• Sarasota Memorial Hospital – Venice | 941-261-9000 | Maps

Animal & Wildlife Services

• Sarasota County Animal Services | 941-861-9500 | Maps
• Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida | 941-484-9657 | Maps

Senior Services

• Senior Friendship Centers – Venice | 941-584-0075 | Maps
• Aging & Disability Resource Center | 866-413-5337 | Maps
• Meals on Wheels – South Sarasota County | 941-488-1889 | Maps

Local Transportation

• Breeze Transit (SCAT) | 941-861-1234 | Maps

• Other

• Venice Train Depot | 941-861-5000 | Maps

Pick Your Paradise-Contest Reminder

You can "Go where you wanna go" - Click HERE

(Can't you just hear the Mamas & Papas?)

Venice fans erupted at Powell Davis Stadium as the Indians handed Port Charlotte its first loss, clinching a dramatic 29–22 victory in a thrilling South Suncoast showdown.

Darryon Jones dazzled in his home debut, throwing for 154 yards and connecting with Tyree Mannings on a jaw-dropping 92-yard touchdown.

Jones also showcased toughness with a rushing score, energizing the crowd and his teammates.

The game’s turning point came late in the fourth quarter when Venice’s resurgent defense delivered a heroic goal-line stand at their own 1-yard line, shutting down the Pirates after a dangerous fumble recovery.

Now 2–1 on the season, Venice football has...

Located just a short punted-football distance from the Venice line on 41, Briandi’s Restaurant is a family-owned Italian eatery that treats guests like family, offering hearty portions, timeless recipes, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Briandi’s may be small, but the flavors are big — expect homemade sauces, generous portions, warm service, and a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like Sunday dinner with family. Whether you're craving lasagna, eggplant parmigiana, or a hearty slice of pizza, this is a go-to for traditional Italian food in our area.

One of the longest running family owned restaurants in the region,it was established in 1989.  Check out their menu for authentic pasta dishes, brick-oven pizzas, seafood specialties, and classic Italian comfort favorites.You won't be disappointed.

Address: 202 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 34275
Phone: 941-488-9511

Hours: Monday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

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Huffman Aviation, located at Venice Municipal Airport, was indeed one of the flight schools attended by several of the 9/11 hijackers in the early 2000s. Specifically, Mohamed Atta and Marwan al-Shehhi, two of the lead hijackers, trained there in 2000–2001.