A Message from the President

March 2020

It’s been a while since I’ve spoken to you from the position of President of Venice Area Historical Society.  For many new members who may not know me, I hope to make your acquaintance soon.  For some of the old-time members, yes, I’m back.  This will be my third time around in the space of the last ten years.  To quote an old song title, “Everything Old Is New Again.”  In the past I’ve been introduced as the “recycled President,” and I consider it an honor to be asked to serve one more time.

It is with regret that my first announcement as your new President is that all activities of the Society have been cancelled for the rest of the season.  This includes the annual luncheon meeting, our lecture series, board meetings, some committee meetings, and all activity at the Depot.  These decisions were not made lightly, but your Board felt it was best for the protection of all. 

When the dust settles from the pandemic, we will begin to pick up the pieces of our lives and continue our work again within the Society. The Society has grown in stature from the early days when perhaps 30 folks gathered together for a little talk about some aspect of the history of Venice.  Now with a membership of over 200, a sophisticated lecture series, an active scholarship program, a Depot Campus staffed by members for free tours, and many other activities, VAHS can proudly take its place in a leadership role in Sarasota County.

There are two projects that I would like to see accomplished during the next year.  One is to make a fantastic showing in the online 2020 Giving Challenge.  This event occurs every other year and can be the source of additional funding for the Society.  More information can be found in the Development article below.  Remember to save the date: April 28 -29.

The second big event to happen this coming year will be the placement of the Circus Car on the Depot Campus.  With the hard work of many volunteers, financial contributions from many donors, and the interest of hundreds of community members, we hope to see a dream of many years realized.

Our organization can survive only with the continued support of its members and volunteers.  My hope is that we continue to grow in number, enthusiasm, and love of history.  As always, my message remains the same, “Come, celebrate history with us!”

Sue Chapman, President  

president@veniceareahistoricalsociety.org