Category: Uncategorized

A seminar delves into the reasons behind trusts and their inherent value

Posted on by Joe Browne

Al Pandl visited the Venetian for the third year to educate residents about the importance of protecting their assets for their heirs as well as the processes involved. Pandl explained the terminology and potential predators who may attempt to exploit these assets.   The seminar sponsored by the Community Association took place on February 3, 2026

What is and how to avoid probate was a primary topic. The seminar covered various options, including power of attorney, living wills, and healthcare POAs. It also explained Florida-specific laws and the state tax structure. The goal was to provide residents with the knowledge and tools to protect their assets from potential threats.  

Upcoming Seminar Feb 10th

Posted on by Joe Browne

THE MANY ORIGINS OF SARASOTA, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10th, 5 PM

How old is Sarasota? That depends on what you’re asking. Sarasota is a city, a county, and a bay – each with its own origin story. Join Dr. Josh Goodman, manager of the Sarasota County History Center, for a closer look at the history of Sarasota in all its forms, a story that stretches back to the Spanish colonial era and ties in with some of the most exciting developments of Florida’s fascinating past. The program will feature maps, photographs, and archival records from the History Center’s collections. 

Dr. Josh Goodman is an excellent speaker who hosted a similar event last February titled “History of Venice” to a full house at the River Club. He has authored two books and a variety of articles on Florida history topics.

WANTED: A Volunteer “Web Wizard”

Posted on by Joe Browne

Do you have a knack for keeping things running smoothly online? The Community Association is looking for a tech-savvy neighbor to help us maintain and support our community website!


We aren’t looking for a full-time job commitment—just a little bit of your expertise to ensure our digital home stays updated, secure, and user-friendly for everyone in the neighborhood.

What We’re Looking For:

The Community Spirit: This is a volunteer position, perfect for someone who wants to give back and help keep our residents informed.

The Maintainer: Someone to help with regular updates, troubleshooting occasional “hiccups,” and ensuring our information stays current.

The WordPress Whiz (Optional but Awesome): We’d love someone with WordPress experience, but if you’re a general tech enthusiast who’s quick to learn, we still want to talk to you!

Why Help Out?

As we demonstrated in our recent Residents Orientation, our website is the “Wi-Fi” of our community spirit. By volunteering your skills, you’re helping us provide the news, seminars, and community information that make our paradise special.
Interested?

Interested? If you’re willing to lend a hand (and a few clicks), please reach out to us at vgrccaweb@gmail.com or come find us at the next Community Association meeting on February 16th at the River Club, 10 am.

Christmas Golf Cart Parade @ Venetian

Posted on by Joe Browne

Shout out to all the golf cart owners, cheerleaders, carolers & festive friends! You all brought such a bright light to the holiday season by participating!

See the Christmas Golf Cart Parade around the Venetian Golf and River Club HERE.

Photo of all 3 winners together 

3rd Place Cart Alene Iafelice – Stockings & Gift Décor theme (left)

1st Place Cart The Mangiaranos – Elves, Santa, Gifts & Tree theme (middle)

2nd Place Cart Ethel and Lucy – Light-Up Candles & Christmas Décor theme (right)

Costume winners
Alene Iafelice and
Sean Gerahty

Venetian Gets Sharp!

Posted on by Joe Browne

Eddie Swing sharpened our knives and other implements for us on November 22 in the golf course parking lot. His ‘dance card’ was full with all appointments taken as residents took advantage of his expertise. Eddie’s grandfather in North Carolina started the family tradition.

His customer, resident Jack Pritchard, bought knives made from Chinese artillery shells by a master craftsman in Taiwan. The original steel was a Chinese artillery shell shot from canon on the mainland. From a craftsman in the Republic of China to our local craftsman in Venice — Eddie Swing.