One of the things that sets Jacaranda Trace apart from other retirement communities is its devotion residents as they experience different life changes. We know how important it is that they feel comfortable in sharing their experiences, asking questions and receiving helpful information. This month, the Parkinson’s Support Group welcomed Bill Wild, who has a background in physical education and exercise science. He has worked with patients who have experienced Cardio Pulmonary, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Parkinson’s, MS and Cancer, to name a few. Guest speakers like Bill help members of this support group stay informed and connected as they go through life’s journey affected by Parkinson’s.

The inspiring 2010 winner of the Tony Award for Best Play, Red is a compelling depiction of one of the 20th century’s most important and complex artists. Under the watchful gaze of his young assistant, the abstract expressionist Mark Rothko works feverishly to complete the largest commission in the history of modern art. Set amid the swiftly-changing cultural tide of the early 1960s, Red uses stunning visual drama to explore art, commerce, demons, ideas, and the nature of creativity as a whole.

The Venice Symphony provides cultural enrichment for South Sarasota County and enhances the area's cultural image for residents and visitors through performances of classical works and "pops" selections. It serves as a source of music appreciation education for the community and provides a stimulating musical experience for professional musicians, promising students, retirees with musical talents, and its audience. Below, conductor Maestro Bowermeister is pictured. This is his third year with VS. The Outdoor Concert this year was held at the lovely Maxine Barritt Park!

March is full of activities that will keep you fit, socializing, and stimulated! There is so much to do at Jacaranda Trace, you won't want to miss it! Click here to view the monthly calendar.

Venice Orchid Society brings some its most "Enchanting" blooms to the Venice Art Center. There will be hundreds for guests to choose from. They will also be able to ask questions concerning the care of the delicate orchids.

In 19^th century Eastern Europe, options for young women are few, and the study of Torah and Talmud are forbidden. Yentil’s only hope of pursuing her dreams is to disguise herself as a boy in order to learn. But when she falls in love, she must decide whether or not to reveal the truth. For everyone who has wanted to do something and was told they couldn’t, and for everyone who has loved the wrong person for the right reason, this beautifully written play with music resonates with pure magic.

The Venice Art Center Gallery Opening Reception was one of the most successful yet! Many artists had their work on display for our community and guests to enjoy with wine and light refreshments. The artists' work will be on display for the remainder of this quarter so individuals can view them and even purchase them for display in their own home.

It's time for movies and popcorn! All of our movies are selected by residents and shown on Thursday evenings and weekends. Films are shown in our very own Movie Room which allows residents the opportunity to fellowship with friends over classics from the silver screen. Movies are also available for checkout from our growing movie library.

June 2011 held an event like no other – A Feast for the Gods! Each quarter, Arts & Leisure, along with Dining Services, celebrates the residents of our fabulous community with a themed dinner party. The Feast for the Gods saw live entertainment during cocktail hour by a professional Dulcimar player, while dinner included the soothing background music of an incredible Harpist. 

Residents arrived donning togas, wreaths and other Greek inspired attire. They were served items from a Grecian-infused menu which included spanikopita and rack of lamb. Each table was adorned with mythological symbols and their importance, such as golden apples and lyres. Stepping into our Auditorium felt like arriving in ancient Greece, as it was decorated with aged statuary and vines throughout. This was truly an event to partake!