The 1920s brought a real estate frenzy. Bertha Palmer sold 112 acres to Dr. Fred Albee, an orthopedic surgeon with big dreams for Venice. He wanted to build a medical center and turn the city into something special, so he brought in John Nolan to design it. Nolan went for a European- Mediterranean style that still gives Venice its charm.

But Dr. Albee didn’t hang on to his investment for long. He sold to the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE), which had big plans to develop the area, market the property, and build a city right on the Gulf of Mexico. Five-acre plots farther inland would serve for agriculture. In 1926, Dr. Nolen finished the city plan.
 
Everyone was chasing quick money back then, flipping land and hoping to cash in. It looked like a sure thing until 1928. Suddenly, the money dried up. The BLE packed up and left.
 
That’s when Venice turned into a ghost town. The population dropped to just 300 people, and this was a year before the Great Depression hit. Things looked grim.
 
Then, in 1932, the BLE leased out the San Marco Hotel and the Venice Hotel to the Kentucky Military Institute (KMI) for use as classrooms and dorms. The town welcomed the cadets with open arms; thousands showed up at the train station to greet them. The money the school brought in saved Venice, and overnight, the cadets doubled the town’s population.
 
KMI needed a place to escape the harsh Kentucky winters, so the deal worked out for everyone. For almost 40 years, cadets, teachers, and some parents would roll into town by train right after New Year’s and stay until Easter. But in 1971, with the Vietnam War stirring up controversy, the school closed for good.
 
Over the years, plenty of interesting folks have called Venice home. The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus even set up their winter headquarters here in 1960, putting on shows for 31 years.
 
These days, the circus, the railroads, and the military school are all gone. But Venice? It’s thriving, more beautiful than ever.
 
The old San Marco Hotel is now a retail building, and inside, you’ll find a display dedicated to the Kentucky Military Institute’s history.
 
And if you’re curious about famous KMI alumni, here’s a little trivia: Fred Willard of Modern Family fame once walked these streets, and so did Jim Backus, better known as Thurston Howell III from Gilligan’s Island. Not bad for a town that refused to disappear.

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“The Rainmaker” isn’t just about drought and desperate hope—it’s about Lizzie, an independent woman who’s searching for something more than what her small town expects from her. When Bill Starbuck, the mysterious rainmaker, rolls in, everything changes. Suddenly, it’s not just the weather that might turn around, but Lizzie’s whole life.

N. Richard Nash’s “The Rainmaker” first hit Broadway in 1954 and quickly became a crowd favorite, running for 125 performances. Over the years, people have fallen in love with its big-hearted story, so much so that it became a hit movie in 1956 starring Burt Lancaster and Katharine Hepburn, a TV movie in 1982, and even a Broadway musical called “110 in the Shade.” Revivals keep popping up, both here and around the world, and for good reason: this play is all about believing in miracles, holding on to hope, and letting love in, even when it seems impossible.

“The Rainmaker”
By N. Richard Nash

Jan 16 – Feb 8, 2026
Presented by Venice Theatre at the Raymond Center, Venice FL
Catch Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.

Tickets and info: venicetheatre.org
Prices: $15–$36
E-mail: BoxOffice@VeniceTheatre.net
Phone: 941.488.1115

Getting There
Raymond Center
140 Tampa Ave W.
Venice, FL 34285

The Raymond Center sits at the north end of the rear parking lot, just follow the signs. You’ll find parking both in front of the building and under the bridge.

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In response, Suncoast Humane Society is launching a two-day donation drive, followed by a two-day distribution event, to support families during this difficult time. CEO Maureen O’Nell emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Often, pets end up in shelters when families cannot afford their care. This is our way of trying to help people in their time of need, so they don’t have to make a heartbreaking decision.”

The donation drive will collect unopened pet food and cat litter to provide essential resources to those in need. Distribution days will offer these items at no cost to families affected by the shutdown, ensuring they can keep their loved ones—both human and animal—together during this trial.

Donation Drive: Monday, November 17th, and Tuesday, November 18th at both the Englewood Thrift Store, 1951 S McCall Road, and Venice Thrift Stores, 656 Tamiami Trail, Venice.

Distribution Days: Thursday, November 20th, and Friday, November 21st 10:00 am-2:00 pm at the Venice Thrift Store, 656 Tamiami Trail, Venice.

Together, we can create a stronger community where families and pets can remain united, regardless of the challenges they face. For more information about how you can help or participate, please contact Suncoast Humane Society at cvarcoe@humane.org.

The post Local Nonprofit Responds to Government Shutdown: Keeping Families Together appeared first on Englewood Review.

The award marks another successful season for the Englewood-based ensemble, which came within one caption rating of receiving straight superiors for the second consecutive year. Band members, staff, and supporters celebrated the recognition as a reflection of months of preparation, from summer band camp through the fall performance season.

Directors and boosters praised the students for their dedication, teamwork, and attention to musical and visual detail. “This season was all about growth and pride, and it showed,” a school representative said.

The Marching Mantas plan to continue building on their tradition of excellence in future performances and competitions.

The post Lemon Bay High Marching Mantas Earn Superior Rating at State Assessment appeared first on Englewood Review.

The free, family-friendly festival runs from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Visitors can enjoy German dancers, a live polka band, a stein-hoisting competition, and traditional Oktoberfest fare, including beer, bratwurst, and pretzels. Additional dining options from Downtown Wellen restaurants will also be available.

The day’s festivities begin with the ceremonial keg tapping, followed by polka dancers, then the stein-hoisting competition at 2:00 p.m., and concluding with a performance by the DeLeon Family Oktoberfest Band at 3:45 p.m.

“Oktoberfest celebrations are always energetic, entertaining, and engaging,” said Christine Masney, vice president of marketing for Wellen Park. “In a nutshell, they’re the essence of Wellen Park and our vibrant, fun-filled lifestyle”.

Gathering spots, such as the biergarten, offer some covered seating, although guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Parking is available along Sunglow Boulevard and Springtide Way. The event will proceed rain or shine, with provisions made for inclement weather.

The event transforms Downtown Wellen Park into a festive outdoor gathering space along the shores of Grand Lake. Guests can also take part in the Sip & Stroll program, which allows beverage purchases from participating restaurants and casual walking throughout the district.

Find out more at wellenpark.com/oktoberfest-2025

The post Wellen Park to Host Oktoberfest Celebration appeared first on Englewood Review.

Gulf Coast Foundation Releases Updated 2025 Water Quality Playbook
The Gulf Coast Community Foundation has released a refreshed version of its Water Quality Playbook, an evidence-based guide aimed at improving the health of regional waterways. The Playbook offers clear strategies to address nutrient pollution and restore water quality through public policy, education, and science. Elevated nutrient levels, seagrass loss, and climate impacts continue to challenge Sarasota County’s ecosystem health. The 2025 Playbook serves as a flexible, community-driven resource to guide action and sustain progress. For full details and access, visit waterqualityplaybook.org.

Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Program
Charlotte County Natural Resources is excited to announce the launch of the Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Program, a pilot program designed to honor the outstanding efforts of our coastal community in protecting nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings. Natural Resources staff have been working closely with beachfront condos, businesses, and residents to reduce lighting violations that can disorient sea turtles, helping ensure the highest number of hatchlings make it safely to the ocean. This year, one commercial property on Englewood Beach and one residential condo on Manasota Key that demonstrate compliance with sea turtle lighting requirements will be awarded a Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Certificate. These properties must be located within Charlotte County’s designated lighting zone and may be nominated based on inspections and compliance records. Award recipients will be announced in the fall and will be highlighted on Charlotte County’s official social media channels, recognizing their dedication to protecting our critical coastal habitat. Natural Resources hopes to expand the program to other barrier islands in the future. For information, contact Alexandria Grant at 941•613•3218 or email Alexandria.Grant@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.  

Master Gardener Volunteers Office Hours
Do you have gardening questions? Master Gardener volunteers have an office at Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte, where they help the public with their gardening problems. Volunteers are available to answer questions on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons from 1 to 4pm. The office is staffed with University of Florida, IFAS-trained Master Gardener volunteers. You can visit them in person, reach them by phone, or email. Call 941•764•4340 or email Master.Gardener@charlottecountyfl.gov. 

Sarasota County Extension Virtual Tour
Explore landscaping tips, solar options, and conservation practices anytime with the new virtual tour from UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. Featuring nineteen educational stops around the Extension complex, the self-guided tour allows visitors to scan QR codes at each station to access short, informative videos or explore from home using a locator map at tiny.cc/ufsaraext_virtualtourpage. Organized by themes such as Florida-Friendly Landscaping, gardening, sustainability, and water resources, the tour extends education beyond business hours and into the community. For more information, call 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Seagrass Adventure Wading Trips
Dive into discovery with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center’s immersive Seagrass Adventure Wading Trips, a hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and environmental awareness. After a brief indoor orientation at the Cedar Point Environmental Park Visitors Center, 2300 Placida Road, participants will walk a short half-mile trail to Lemon Bay. With dip nets in hand, teams of two will wade into the estuary to catch and observe aquatic life including seahorses, juvenile fish, and crabs. Buckets will be used to gently hold the creatures, which are brought ashore for identification and discussion. The activity typically takes place in ankle to hip-deep water, and participants should come prepared to get wet. This program offers a unique, educational outing for families, school groups, and community organizations looking to engage with the local environment. This program is available by reservation (submit forms and payment at least 10 days in advance) at ChecFlorida.org or call 941•475•0769.

Ecowalk at Curry Creek
Explore the natural beauty of Sarasota County on Friday, August 15 from 9:30 to 11am during Ecowalk: Unique Preserves at Curry Creek Preserve, 1500 Pinebrook Road, Venice. Led by a UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County educator, this guided walk invites participants to discover the diverse ecosystems and native wildlife that thrive in one of the county’s most environmentally sensitive areas. Learn what makes these preserved lands so vital, how water systems influence the environment, and the challenges of managing them for future generations. For more information, email mdimperio@ufl.edu or call 941•861•9900. Register at eventbrite.com/cc/236989.

Plant Clinic at Shamrock Park
Curious why your hibiscus is struggling or unsure what grows best in your Florida yard? Stop by the Plant Clinic at Shamrock Park Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, on Saturday, August 16 from 10am to noon for expert advice from UF/IFAS Master Naturalists. Whether you’re a new resident or seasoned gardener, volunteers will be on hand to answer your questions and offer helpful tips on plant care, Florida-friendly landscaping, and more. No registration needed. To learn more call 941•861•9807.

Solar Energy and Electric Vehicle Basics Webinar
Curious about residential solar or electric vehicles? Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County on Monday, August 18, from noon to 1pm for a free online webinar exploring the fundamentals of clean energy. Learn how solar power works, what site factors to consider, and what financial incentives might apply. The session will also introduce electric vehicle options, charging infrastructure in Sarasota County, and key benefits and buying tips. This informative webinar is ideal for anyone interested in sustainable energy solutions. Register exclusively at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information or accessibility accommodations, email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu or call 941•861•5000.

The Coastal Conservation Association and Florida’s Marine Resources
Learn about four decades of marine conservation at “40 Years of Conservation: The Coastal Conservation Association and Florida’s Marine Resources,” presented by Leiza Fitzgerald, Florida STAR Director for CCA, on Monday, August 18, from 2:00 to 3:30pm at the Osprey Library and History Center, 337 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey. Part of the Florida History Lecture Series “What a Catch!,” this program explores the history of CCA Florida’s advocacy, habitat restoration, and water quality efforts to protect and enhance marine resources. Registration is required by August 17 at 5pm. Visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com to register or call 941• 861•6090.

Guided Walk at Ann & Chuck Dever Park
Join CHEC on Wednesday, August 20, 8am, for a guided walk through the old-growth pine flatwoods and mangrove fringe of 137-acre Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park, 6791 San Casa Drive. On these casual walks with CHEC volunteers, you will search for and learn about plants, animals, fungi, and more that live in Charlotte County preserves. Prepare for each walk with plenty of water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and clothing that will protect you from insects and plants. Meet at the San Casa entrance. Advance registration is required. To learn more or register visit CHECflorida.org or call 941•475•0769.

Agents of Discovery: Mission
Embark on an exciting outdoor adventure with Field Agent Forest Parker during Agents of Discovery: Mission Shamrock Park and Nature Center, happening Wednesday, August 20  from 4 to 5:30pm at Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. Designed for kids ages 6 to 12 and their families, this interactive event combines technology and nature through the Agents of Discovery mobile app. Participants will help solve nature-based challenges and explore the park with smart devices in hand. Bring your phone or Wi-Fi-enabled tablet, or get help on-site downloading the free app. Don your best special agent disguise and prepare for fun with Sarasota County educators guiding the mission. Advance registration is required at bit.ly/SRQAgents. For questions, contact parksonline@scgov.net or call 941•861•7275. Can’t attend the live event? Starting August 18, you can complete the mission anytime with the app. Learn more at sarasotacountyparks.com/AOD.

Master Gardener Plant Clinic
Got questions about your garden? The Master Gardener Plant Clinic is here to help! Visit the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, on Thursdays, August 21 & 28 from 1:30 to 3:30pm in the Conference Room for expert guidance from Sarasota County Extension Services Master Gardeners. Whether you’re looking to identify plants, flowers, or pests, or need tips on landscaping and plant care, Master Gardeners are ready to assist with your green living goals. For more information call 941•861•1110.

The Great Southeast Pollinator Census
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County for The Great Southeast Pollinator Census on Friday, August 22 from 8:30 to 10am at Shamrock Park & Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. This citizen science initiative invites participants of all experience levels to learn about local pollinators, practice using iNaturalist, and collect data that supports regional conservation efforts. Following a brief educational session, attendees will count pollinators in 15-minute intervals in a thriving pollinator garden. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable outdoor gear as most of the event will take place outside. Help make a difference while gaining insight into the buzzing world of native insects and flowering plants. Registration is required and available only through ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu. Learn more at gsepc.org.

Composting Workshop
Discover the secrets of turning waste into rich, fertile soil at “Let’s Make Some Black Gold” on Friday, August 22 from 10:30am to noon at Shamrock Park and Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. Hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, this workshop explores regional composting efforts, waste reduction, and recycling strategies. Enjoy a blend of indoor instruction and outdoor, hands-on learning in the compost demonstration area, including live demonstrations of biogas and vermicomposting systems. Registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information, call 941•861•9900.

Pond Problems and Solutions Webinar
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County on Monday, August 25 from 11am to noon for a free online workshop addressing the challenges and benefits of community ponds. With over 6,000 ponds countywide, proper management is key to ensuring they remain assets rather than sources of complaints. Learn from water resources agent Michael D’Imperio about pond structure and function, common problems, and best practices to enhance your community’s landscape and ecology. This session is ideal for property managers, HOA members, and residents ages 12 and up. Register at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com to reserve your spot. For more information, call 941•861•9822 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Water Treatment Plant Tour
Discover where your water comes from on Tuesday, August 26, from 10am to noon, during a free guided tour of the T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Water Treatment Facility, 1255 North Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice. Hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County, this event begins with an informative presentation about local water sources, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the treatment plant. Whether you use well water, county water, or bottled water, you’ll gain insights into how Sarasota County ensures a clean, reliable water supply. Registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For details or accommodations, email mdimperio@ufl.edu or call 941•861•5000.

Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer Webinar
Do you enjoy growing plants, helping others, and giving back to your community? Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County for a free informational webinar on Wednesday, August 27, from 10 to 11am, and learn how to become a Master Gardener Volunteer. This online session introduces the training, outreach, and meaningful service opportunities available to volunteers who help residents address landscape and gardening challenges, maintain demonstration gardens, and support youth programs. Discover how you can become part of the Master Gardener Volunteer Class of 2026. Registration is required and available only at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information or special accommodations, contact 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Health Benefits of Nature Webinar
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County on Wednesday, August 27, from noon to 12:45pm for a free, research-based Lunch-and-Learn webinar exploring the powerful mental and physical health benefits that nature provides to children. Designed for adult participants, this session from the Ecology and Natural Resources team will highlight evidence-based ways to support youth wellness through time spent outdoors, with practical suggestions for how and where families can access nature locally. Registration is required and available only at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information or special accommodations, please call 941•861•9900 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Nature Knowledge: The Venice Urban Forest Journey
On Wednesday, August 27 at 12:30pm, discover how a former railroad corridor became a thriving reforested haven for local wildlife. Greg Vine, Chair of the Venice Urban Forest Committee of Venice Area Beautification, Inc., will share the inspiring story of the forest’s evolution, from concept to community-supported success. Part of the Nature Knowledge series sponsored by the Environmental Conservancy of North Port and Surrounding Areas, this talk takes place in the Juliano Room at North Port Library, 13800 Tamiami Trail. No registration required and all are welcome. For more information, email npconservancy@gmail.com.

Clothing Swap to Save the Drops!
Join UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County for a fun, sustainable fashion event on Friday, August 29 from 6 to 7pm at Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota. Bring clean, gently used clothing items to swap with others and help conserve water while refreshing your wardrobe. Learn how fast fashion affects our water resources—did you know it takes over 2,000 gallons of water to make a single pair of jeans? Enjoy sustainable fashion tips, connect with the community, and reduce textile waste—all while promoting a greener lifestyle. All ages are welcome. For questions or special accommodations, call 941•861•5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism Educational Webinars
The UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County Florida Sea Grant office is pleased to announce the continuation of the Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism Educational Webinar Series, which is scheduled from 7 to 8pm on the second of Wednesday of every month now through November. Designed for ecotourism professionals, enthusiasts, students, and anyone interested in responsible travel and conservation, these online sessions provide convenient access to expert knowledge on a range of relevant topics. This webinar series will feature experts presenting on diverse subjects. Topics will cover best practices, emerging issues, innovative approaches, and critical conservation efforts impacting Florida’s unique natural environments. The upcoming webinar is on Wednesday, September 10 at 7pm. Learn how the Florida Master Naturalist Program certification can elevate your business and deepen your connection to Florida’s diverse ecosystems. The Florida Master Naturalist Program provides science-based training that enhances the credibility of ecotour operators, attracts eco-conscious travelers, and supports sustainable tourism. Information on upcoming webinar topics, schedules, and registration can be found at FloridaSee.org/education.

Note: Event listings are published as accurately as possible. We recommend contacting the numbers provided to confirm details or request further information. To submit an event for consideration in “Nature Calls,” please send details and/or a photo to The Englewood REVIEW, 370 W Dearborn St, Suite B, Englewood, FL 34223, or email us at info@englewoodreview.com. And visit our website at www.englewoodreview.com and check out our interactive calendar, where you are invited to add your event.

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