Venice East Community Update: Sign Restoration
As many of you know, our Venice East entrance sign was significantly damaged several months ago by a “distracted” driver who fled the scene. Thanks to a bit of investigation, help from social media, and a good amount of luck, we were able to identify the responsible individual. A timely reminder that in today’s world, cameras and eyes are everywhere.
While we all wish things could move more quickly, we’ve learned that these processes follow their own timeline. From the initial challenge of involving the sheriff’s department with little information, to providing strong, clear evidence and finally being taken seriously—it has been a journey. And that was just the beginning. Dealing with the insurance company meant starting from scratch with each new representative: submitting photos, recounting the story, waiting on adjusters and estimates, and making decisions about how we can better protect the area in the future. This wasn’t the first time something like this has happened, and with the growing number of distracted drivers, it may not be the last. But we’re doing our best to make sure it is.
We are incredibly grateful to the majority of the community—members and non-members alike—who stood by us, offering encouragement and financial support. Your kindness and generosity have meant a great deal. It’s so comforting to know when or if we had needed it we would have support! That is what community is about!
Some criticized the pace of the repairs. Please know that we moved as quickly as possible. Local businesses and sign companies have been overwhelmed, particularly after the severe 2024 hurricane season that damaged countless signs throughout the region. Getting quotes and scheduling replacements has been extremely challenging. Still, we never stopped pushing forward.
Now for the good news: After months of effort—including countless calls, photos, estimates, and coordination (largely handled by our president, Shanette)—we’re happy to report that we’ve finally received the insurance check and placed a down payment on our new sign as of early May 2025! Debris removal from the damaged sign may begin soon, and the new installation is expected to be roughly 6–8 weeks. We couldn’t be more excited!
We, the VECA board and directors, are deeply committed to this community. We volunteer our time to maintain what is arguably the only shared amenity in Venice East: our entrance sign and its landscaping. It serves as the neighborhood’s first impression, a point of pride, and a boost to property values—something that benefits every homeowner, present and future.
How can you help?
Believe in VECA. Get involved if you choose or just just support the cause with a yearly donation. We are a nonprofit organization powered entirely by volunteers and supported by donations. A contribution of just $35 per year helps keep our efforts going. VECA’s presence benefits the entire neighborhood—whether you donate or not—but without your support, we risk losing what we’ve all come to appreciate. VECA is about more than a sign; it’s about connection. Our meetings and annual holiday party bring together residents from different streets, backgrounds, and age groups—something increasingly rare in today’s digital world.
Let’s keep VECA a strong, small, but vital part of our Venice East community.
Thank you for your support.
And a very special thank you to Shanette, VECA president for all her efforts, it is so appreciated!
— The VECA Board of Directors