In 2014, a Venice event quietly set a Guinness World Record on the tarmac of the Venice Municipal Airport. What was the record—and which event pulled it off?

Venice has secured a $360,525 federal grant to restore local creek systems and improve stormwater quality, marking a vital move for neighborhood waterway and Gulf protection.

The targeted areas, including sections feeding into Curry Creek and Hatchett Creek, connect directly to Roberts Bay and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico.

Funding comes from a partnership between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supporting efforts like creek restoration, erosion control, and pollutant reduction in Venice’s stormwater management network.

City engineers plan to use vegetative buffers, sediment traps, and advanced stormwater filtration to cut nutrient runoff that contributes to algal blooms while also boosting local flood resilience by reinforcing key water channels.

This initiative, in collaboration with Sarasota County Environmental Services, is part of a broader plan to modernize Venice’s water infrastructure.

Beth has been named the lucky winner of the “Choose Your Vacation Getaway” contest, selecting Nashville, Tennessee as her dream city escape.

She’ll enjoy a 4-day, 3-night stay at a luxurious 3.5–5-star hotel of her choosing, thanks to Venice Matters—with no gimmicks or required presentations attached.

Beth has up to two years to redeem her prize, opening options for iconic events like the CMA Fest or a cozy holiday trip to explore Nashville’s legendary Broadway, live music, and Southern hospitality.

Her win highlights the array of perks awaiting Venice Matters subscribers, who can enter for not just getaway vacations, but also exclusive local adventures and gifts.

Want a shot at the next prize? Subscribe at Venice-Matters.com and your dream trip could be closer than you think.  All you need to do.....

Venice prepares to mark its 100th anniversary in 2026 with a vibrant season of celebration, honoring its coastal beauty, storied past, and close-knit community spirit.

This milestone kicks off an 18-month slate of festivities, stretching from late 2025 through mid-2027, filled with gatherings, arts, lectures, and contests.

The city’s first highlight arrives September 2, 2025, when the Venice Museum unveils a major exhibit, “Venice Turns 100!” showcasing rare photographs, maps, and oral histories tracing local evolution from humble beginnings to vibrant city.

Community excitement builds for the Centennial Parade on November 29, 2025, transforming the traditional Holiday Parade into a grand salute to Venice’s heritage and neighborhood stories.

Residents and visitors alike can anticipate joyful participation from schools, civic groups, and local businesses—making this centennial a landmark celebration for all who cherish Venice.

Photo of the Week

Rambling around Facebook, we found this "Special Moment" photo on someone's Facebook timeline, who said he it was taken at the Jettys by "someone else" unidentified.  It sure caught our eye, and hope it's catching yours too.  It's tough enough to photograph dolphins sailing, let alone a ray!

This week's photo courtesy of "We Don't Know"

Identify yourself, we'd love to credit you....

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!

Powell Davis Stadium buzzed with energy, but visiting IMG took early control.

After Venice’s opening drive ended with a blocked field goal, IMG’s sophomore quarterback Jayden Wade found Eric McFarland for a 15-yard touchdown, setting the tone with a 7–0 lead.

Venice’s defense kept hope alive, forcing key turnovers, yet IMG running back Tyson Park found the end zone before halftime.

The Ascenders led 13–0 at the break, thanks to another blocked kick by the Indians.

Momentum briefly shifted when Venice’s Micha Hayes intercepted a pass in the third quarter, but IMG capitalized on a missed opportunity.

McFarland added two more electric touchdowns, including a 44-yard and a 43-yard dash to the house, putting IMG up 27–0.

Venice rallied late with senior Darryon Jones leading the charge, but the comeback fell short as IMG secured a 27–14 win. 

While Venice is still perfect in conference play, the loss drops Venice....

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

The company was launched in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Ronnie and Tiffany Fernandez. During a trip to Charleston, they were inspired by the city’s walking tours and decided to bring a similar experience home to Venice. What began as weekend strolls through downtown quickly evolved into a full-time operation offering tours nearly every day of the week.

From the beginning, the Fernandezes built their business around sustainability. They use fully electric carts to reduce emissions and avoid single-use products wherever possible. Their commitment earned them recognition as a Sarasota County Green Business Partner, highlighting their dedication to environmentally responsible tourism. 

Venice Florida Tours does more than entertain — it helps preserve and share the city’s heritage. Their tours celebrate local architecture, culture, and community pride, while their commitment to sustainability sets an example for other small businesses. By showcasing the charm and depth of Venice’s history, they’ve become an essential part of the local experience for both newcomers and longtime residents alike.

With the cooler season arriving, what a great way to spend a day!  Learn more or book your next tour at VeniceFLTours.com.

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The Sarasota Chalk Festival (held in Venice in 2014) created the world’s largest anamorphic pavement art, measuring 22,747 square feet. Italian street artist Vera Bugatti (a participating artist) verified the finished size (22,747.6 sq ft) and the Guinness Record, (which was later surpassed by an event in China.)