Last month my girls participated in their first community event. The Sun Fiesta! Mikayla walked with her Daisy troop in the parade that kicked off the festivities...
And Maddy danced on stage in a showcase for her dance studio!
Both girls we so excited to be a part of the Sun Fiesta. After the parade was over and Maddy was finished with her dance, we ate lunch, (I had a beer) we browsed at craft booths and enjoyed more entertainment on the main stage. We saw our local high school marching band and watched the Miss Hometown Venice pageant. A gal from Maddy's dance studio won 1st runner up! I absolutely LOVE our small town. We are so lucky to be a part of this community and these memorable events.
New to our town is a 911 Memorial at Patriot park. Many people don't realize Venice's connection to the events of September 11th, but for those of you who don't know. The hijackers took their flight training right here at our local airport. It was a heartbreaking day for all Americans and our community has never forgotten our part in the history of this tragedy.
On the 11th Anniversary of September 11th attacks our town unveiled this memorial. A piece of steel from the World Trade Center rescued from Ground Zero. I can't even articulate the mixed feelings that this memorial evokes. It's sleek and beautiful, yet haunting.
It warms my heart to know that I live in a patriotic community. Regardless of political opinions and parties we are all Americans.
