September "State of the Isles" President's Letter

​Dear Neighbor:
 
It's early September and we are coming out of the “dog days” of summer but entering the biggest risk period for hurricanes.  We were extremely lucky with Dorian and we always hope to make it through the season without any major storms, but it is important that you are prepared, especially if you are new to the area   Be sure to follow the City of St. Petersburg storm alerts on the following sites to get the most up-to-date information for our area including evacuation notices:

• Website: http://www.stpete.org/news/alert_stpete.php
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StPeteFL/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/StPeteFL

 
On July 5, about 40 VI residents enjoyed “VI Night at the Trop.”  It was an exciting game that went into extra innings against the Yankees.  Everyone had a great time and received a free Rays hat!!!  Many thanks to Mark Brenman for coordinating this event.
 
Many residents have been asking members of the VI Board to facilitate more social events in Venetian Isles.  In line with those requests, we have the following scheduled:

• Oktoberfest – the “signature” social event for VI will be held October 19 on Kansas Ave., South.  Contact Julie Scanlon at jscanlon2048@gmail.com for details or to help with the event.
• Fishing Tournament – planning for the “first annual” is well underway and is scheduled for 6:00am – 2:00pm on October 19.  Awards will be presented during the Oktoberfest.  Committee members Alex Beacham, Scott Gault, Terry Hedden and Eric Johnson would appreciate your input and assistance.  Please email VIFishing@yahoo.com if you’d like to volunteer.

The General Meeting has been set for Thursday, October 17 at Lutheran Church of the Cross starting with a “social”  sponsored by North Star Realty at 6:30pm followed by the meeting at 7:00pm.
 
Finally, Don Herring, from the SPPD, notes the following:

• During the last week of August, there was an auto theft in Venetian Isles with no suspects.  The vehicle was recovered in the far North apartments with a key in the ignition.  There were also 2 vehicle burglaries to unlocked vehicles.  All 3 crimes occurred during the early morning hours on August 27th.  Suspects caught on video during one of the vehicle burglaries were a white and a black male juvenile approximately 15 years old.  Please remember to remove any valuables from your car, including the key and any fobs, and lock your car doors to prevent these types of crimes in VI.
• Patrolling officers have noted that number of garage doors remain open late in the evening/early in the morning.  Please remember to close and lock your garage doors, especially overnight.

Let’s all continue to make VI a safe and attractive neighborhood. 
 
I hope to see you “around the Isles!!”
 
Rich Scanlon
VIHA President
rscanlon@ourvi.org