BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Florida Veterans for Common Sense - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Florida Veterans for Common Sense
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Florida Veterans for Common Sense
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20230101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260713T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260713T200000
DTSTAMP:20260704T161422Z
CREATED:20260628T184949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260704T161422Z
UID:10000060-1783969200-1783972800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS July Meeting
DESCRIPTION:U.S. Army Iraq veteran\, Brigadier General Leela Gray\, Ret.\, will be the featured speaker at the 2026 FLVCS July meeting. She is running for Florida Congressional District 13. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about her positions on \n\nTackling the cost of living crisis\nGrowing economic opportunities\nFighting for our most vulnerable\nProtecting our beaches\, land\, and coastal economy\nNational Security\nClimate Change\n\nThese are some of the most important issues facing Florida and our nation today. \nHow to attend\nPlease join us in-person at the Unity of Sarasota Church. \nUnity of Sarasota3023 Proctor Rd.Sarasota\, FL 34236Monday\, July 13\, 20267:00 PM – 8:00PM EDT \nInvite your friends and neighbors to the 2026 FLVCS July meeting. It is open to all. \nIf you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Meet. We are no longer using Zoom. No registration is necessary. Click on the button below to join the meeting. \n					\n									Join Meeting\n					 \nMeet BG Leela Gray\, Ret.\nA third-generation veteran\, attorney\, business leader\, and mother\, Brigadier General (Ret) Leela Gray has never backed down from a tough fight. Raised with humble beginnings\, Leela learned early on what it means to earn your way—working hard in middle and high school\, from babysitting and lifeguarding to fast food service and waiting tables. Her father opened a small auto shop\, and while her family relied on food stamps at times\, they never stopped working to make ends meet.  \nDriven by a call to serve\, Leela became an ROTC cadet and rose steadily through the ranks of  the U.S. Army\, working relentlessly to earn every opportunity and receiving recognition for her  grit\, determination\, and character. Leela served more than 30 years in uniform\, including two combat deployments and a peacekeeping mission. She represented the United States overseas and strengthened combat readiness for our forces in the Middle East. Leela was always focused on one mission: working for the men and women beside her and the American families counting on them back home. \nWhile serving in the Army Reserve\, Leela built a successful civilian career in technology and strategic communications\, growing businesses\, managing budgets\, and serving on advisory boards. After retiring from the military\, she earned her law degree\, helping veterans access healthcare and other critical benefits. Leela is running for Congress because she knows leadership is about solving problems\, protecting our freedoms\, and standing up for hardworking Americans\, not Washington elites. \nLeela and her husband\, Tony\, have lived in the Tampa Bay area for more than 20 years and are proud parents of their daughter\, Bailly.  \n\nThis meeting is free and open to the public. BG Gray’s presentation is part of Florida Veterans for Common Sense’s efforts to educate the public on candidates and issues for the 2026 elections. BG Gray’s expressed views are her own and do not imply FLVCS’s agreement. Her presentation does not constitute FLVCS’s endorsement of her candidacy.  \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-july-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Elections-Ahead-1200x628-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260608T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260608T200000
DTSTAMP:20260603T202606Z
CREATED:20260531T215844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T202606Z
UID:10000058-1780945200-1780948800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS June Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The 2026 FLVCS June meeting will feature a Candidate Forum for U.S. Congressional District FL-16.  Confirmed candidates are Mark Davis\, Jon Harris\, Kelly Kirschner\,  Jan Schneider\, and Eddie Spier.			 \nHow to attend\nPlease join us in-person at the Unity of Sarasota Church. \nUnity of Sarasota3023 Proctor Rd.Sarasota\, FL 342367:00 PM – 8:00PM EDT \nInvite your friends and neighbors to the 2026 FLVCS June meeting. It is open to all. \nIf you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Meet. We are no longer using Zoom. No registration is necessary. Click on the button below to join the meeting. \n					\n									Join Meeting\n					 \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-june-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/candidate-forum-1200-x-494-px.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260608T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260608T190000
DTSTAMP:20260603T203004Z
CREATED:20260601T182525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T203004Z
UID:10000059-1780941600-1780945200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS FL-16 Meet and Greet
DESCRIPTION:Come to the FLVCS FL-16 Candidate Meet and Greet in the Friendship Hall at Unity of Sarasota on Monday\, June 8\, 2026 from 6:00 PM EDT – 7:00 PM EDT. Candidates running for U.S\, Congressional District FL-16 will be attending. FL-16 covers parts of Manatee and Hillsborough Counties. \nThe FLVCS F-16 Meet & Greet is free and open to the public. Please bring your family and friends. Don’t miss this opportunity to interact on a 1-1 basis with the candidates. \nThere will be a  Candidate Forum in the church’s sanctuary following the Meet & Greet. \nWhere and When\nUnity of Sarasota Church3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231 \nMonday\, June 8\, 20266:00 PM EDT – 7:00 PM EDT \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-fl-16-meet-and-greet/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Elections-Ahead-FL-16-Meet-and-Greet.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260511T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260511T200000
DTSTAMP:20260428T212824Z
CREATED:20260425T205000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T212824Z
UID:10000056-1778526000-1778529600@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS May Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Don’t miss out on hearing David Jolly\, candidate for Florida Governor. He will be the featured speaker at the 2026 FLVCS May meeting. David is seeking the Democratic nomination for Governor in a crowded Primary field of candidates. \nPlease note\, Florida Primary Election Day is Tuesday\, August 18\, 2026. The Election Day also has voting for nonpartisan elections\, such as the Sarasota County School Board. All registered voters can vote. \nDavid’s Topic\nDavid will speak about his three core principles\, which are anchored in the belief\, that everyone should be treated with kindness\, dignity\, and respect and “…in a future where everyone has a fair shot to build their future in the great state of Florida.” In addition to his three core principles\, David’s message will cover how he intends to address Florida’s affordability crisis\, strengthen Florida’s economy\, restore services for our veterans\, and save our schools\, among other priorities. \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. Please invite your family and friends to the 2026 FLVCS May meeting. \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM EDT – 8:00 PM EDT \nIf you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Meet. We are no longer using Zoom. No registration is necessary. Click on the button below to join the meeting. \n					\n									Join Meeting\n					 \nBio for David Jolly\n																														 \nDavid grew up in Florida\, the son of a pastor. Today\, David and his wife Laura are raising their young family in Pinellas County where he served in Congress from 2014-2017. In Congress\, David focused on helping veterans and seniors\, supporting law enforcement\, protecting the environment\, and bringing resources back to Florida. David’s work to clean up government corruption was featured on 60 Minutes. Readmore about David. \nCandidate Meet & Greet\nThere will be a candidate Meet & Greet in the Friendship Hall at the church from 6:00 PM EDT – 7:00 PM EDT. Candidates from multiple races in the Sarasota area and across Florida have been invited. Don’t miss this opportunity to interact on a 1-1 basis with the candidates. \nImportant information for Florida Voters. \nFind out when\, where\, and how to register and to vote in the upcoming elections on August 18 and November 3. click on the button below. \n					\n									Voter Information\n					 \nReturn to FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-may-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Elections-Ahead-1200x628-1.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260511T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260511T190000
DTSTAMP:20260509T170535Z
CREATED:20260428T205416Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260509T170535Z
UID:10000057-1778522400-1778526000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS Candidate Meet and Greet
DESCRIPTION:Come to the FLVCS Candidate Meet and Greet in the Friendship Hall at Unity of Sarasota from 6:00 PM EDT – 7:00 PM EDT. Candidates from multiple races in the Sarasota area and across Florida will be participating. Don’t miss this opportunity to interact on a 1-1 basis with the candidates. \nWhere and When\nUnity of Sarasota Church \n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 342316:00 PM EDT – 7:00 PM EDT \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-candidate-meet-and-greet/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Elections-Ahead-Meet-and-Greet.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260413T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260413T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T212142Z
CREATED:20260403T212100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T212142Z
UID:10000048-1776106800-1776110400@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS April Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The 2026 FLVCS April meeting will feature a 2026 Candidate Forum for Sarasota County School Board Districts 1 and 5. Jimmy Glover is running for District 1 and Beth Mayberry is running for District 5. The other candidates are not able to attend. \nSarasota County School Board races are nonpartisan. All registered voters may vote for candidates in any District. \nHow to attend\nPlease join us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. \nUnity of Sarasota3023 Proctor Rd.Sarasota\, FL 342367:00 PM – 8:00PM EDT \nPlease invite your friends and neighbors to the 2026 FLVCS April meeting. It is open to all. \nThis meeting is in person only. It will not be streamed online. \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-april-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260309T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260310T000000
DTSTAMP:20260421T191047Z
CREATED:20260307T043402Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T191047Z
UID:10000045-1773097200-1773100800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS March Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The FLVCS March 2026 meeting will feature a 2026 Candidate Forum with Matthew Montavon and Allen Spence. Both are running for Florida Congressional District 17.  \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2026 FLVCS March meeting. \nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \nBio for Matthew Montavon\n \nMatthew spent two years in the Peace Corps supporting rural agricultural communities in Central America. Provided critical support to migrant farm workers through the Illinois Migrant Council. \nSix years working with regional planning councils in Martinsburg\, WV and Lynchburg\, VA\, as well as the National Association of Regional Councils and the Government Finance Officers Association Research Center. \n27 years with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization supporting programs and activities fighting hunger and improving food systems worldwide. \nAuthored multiple publications and studies for improving public policy and services \nExtensive experience navigating local\, state\, and \nfederal government interactions \nYears of urban and regional planning expertise working across West Virginia\, Virginia and Washington\, D.C. \nAuthored comprehensive fiscal studies and plans for community development\, block grant applications\, and business directories. \nLearn more about Matthew. \n  \nBio for Allen Spence\nFor over 20 years\, I’ve worked in broker-dealer operations\, most recently at multiple nationally recognized financial technology firms. I’ve overseen how trades are executed\, ensured regulatory compliance\, and fought for transparency in financial markets. \nUnlike our current Congressman\, who won’t even hold town halls to listen to his constituents\, I believe accountability starts with showing up and listening to the problems of the citizens of Southwest Florida. \nI’m a Scouting America leader\, a proud Floridian\, and a dad to an amazing teenage son. My wife and I built our life here in Southwest Florida\, and\, like many families\, we’re concerned about rising costs\, political dysfunction\, and leaders more focused on headlines than results. \nLearn more about Allen. \n  \n  \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-march-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260211T223000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260212T020000
DTSTAMP:20260306T160309Z
CREATED:20260112T122629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T160309Z
UID:10000041-1770849000-1770861600@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:Thomas Paine's 289th Birthday
DESCRIPTION:Join Florida Veterans for Common Sense and Florida Veterans for Common Sense Fund in celebrating Founding\nFather Thomas Paine’s 289th Birthday! The celebration will be on Wednesday\, February 11\, 2026 from\n5:30 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. at Casey Key Resorts – Mainland\, 1660 S. Tamiami Trail\, Osprey\, FL 34229. \nTickets are $75.00 per person which includes a buffet dinner. A cash bar will be available to attendees. Click on the button below to purchase tickets. Don’t delay. Limited seating.  \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://givebutter.com/TPP2026″ size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Buy Tickets Now[/button]\nFor Sponsorship Opportunities click on the button below. \n\n[button color=”blue” link=”https://givebutter.com/TPP2026-Sponsor” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Sponsorship Opportunities[/button] \n\nThomas Paine Award\nEach year at the Thomas Paine’s birthday party\, Florida Veterans for Common Sense presents the Thomas Paine Award to the individual who has made an outstanding effort to assist veterans\, defend democracy\, and advance the promise of America in the legacy of Thomas Paine. He is “The” founding father\, who with Common Sense turned the American rebellion into a revolution for independence\, donated his wealth to support the troops\, and advocated for a government that exists to make “we the people” happy and prosperous.  \nEvery winner of the Thomas Paine Award stands in Paine’s legacy\nThis year we will be honoring Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat as the 2026 Thomas Paine Award recipient.  She has written six books\, the most recent being Strongmen: From Mussolini to the Present and numerous journal articles warning against the dangers of authoritarianism. In addition\, she writes for CNN\, The Atlantic\, and The Huffington Post.  \nProfessor Ben-Ghiat recognizes that American freedoms are under attack by an administration seeking unchecked power. To stop this attack\, Professor Ben-Ghiat\, with grace and tenacity\, works to protect our liberties through education\, expert analysis\, and advisory work. Her knowledge of authoritarianism helps us identify and counter threats to our democracy. \n\n\n\nHISTORIAN\, EDUCATOR\, AND COMMENTATOR\n\n\nRuth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She writes about authoritarianism\, propaganda\, and democracy protection. She is the recipient  Deof Guggenheim and other fellowships and a media commentator. She publishes Lucid\, a Substack newsletter on threats to democracy in the U.S. and abroad. \n\n\nHer New York Times bestseller Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present\, examines how authoritarian leaders use corruption\, violence\, propaganda\, and machismo to stay in power\, and how resistance to them has unfolded over a century. She is a consultant for television and film productions\, including the Academy Award-winning 2022 movie Pinocchio (Guillermo del Toro\, 2022)\, and the Netflix docuseries Hitler and the Nazis: Evil on Trial (Joe Berlinguer\, 2024). She advises Protect Democracy and civil society organizations\, including churches and multinational corporations\, that face autocratic interferences in the US and around the world. \n\n\n\nReturn to FLVCS events calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/thomas-paines-289th-birthday/
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260210T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260210T010000
DTSTAMP:20260310T212109Z
CREATED:20260203T133246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T212109Z
UID:10000042-1770681600-1770685200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS February Meeting
DESCRIPTION:COL Dr. Darren McAuley has served his country wherever and whenever it needed him. Now he is running for Congress in Florida District 15. COL McAuley will be the featured speaker at the 2026 FLVCS February meeting. Find out what his legislative priorities are for Florida and our nation. His presentation is part of the FLVCS’s Meet the Candidates Series to educate our members and the public on candidates running for office in the November 2026 election. \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2026 FLVCS February meeting. \nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \n\nBio for Col Dr. Darren McAuley\nDarren joined the Air National Guard at age 24 as a third year medical student. \nHe has served six tours of duty\, including two in Iraq. He set up mobile hospitals during the pandemic and deployed to nursing homes where other medical staff refused to go. As Florida’s Air Surgeon\, he has helped to coordinate our state’s response when hurricanes and natural disasters strike. Wherever someone needs help — that’s where he goes. \nAs a Pain Management physician at the Veterans Administration he saw the damage caused to the organization by rampant cuts and decided that he could again serve his country by running for Florida’s 15th Congressional District in Tampa Bay along the I-4 corridor into Lakeland. He currently teaches medicine and lives with his wife Tammy and 3 children.  \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-february-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260113T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260113T010000
DTSTAMP:20260306T160656Z
CREATED:20260108T171659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T160656Z
UID:10000044-1768262400-1768266000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2026 FLVCS January Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Does the increased number of corporate takeovers and mergers in traditional media give you concerns about the state of independent in-depth reporting on local issues? Then come hear Emily Le Coz\, Executive Editor-in-Chief Suncoast Searchlight\, speak about how her nonprofit team is filling the news void at the 2026 FLVCS January meeting.\n\nEmily Le Coz is Suncoast Searchlight’s executive editor-in-chief and oversees the newsroom’s editorial strategy and day-to-day operations. Emily comes to Suncoast Searchlight from USA TODAY\, where she spent five years as an investigative reporter and editor\, producing and overseeing some of the news organization’s most ambitious work. Read more of Emily’s bio. \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2026 FLVCS January meeting. \n\n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\n  \nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2026-flvcs-january-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251209T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251209T010000
DTSTAMP:20260306T160804Z
CREATED:20251124T155618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T160804Z
UID:10000037-1765238400-1765242000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS December Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Photo of Sarasota Bay by Kasey Nasselrotte\, June 26\, 2016\nDr. Ryan Gandy\, the new Executive Director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program\, will be the featured speaker at the 2025 FLVCS December meeting. He will speak about the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and give an update on Sarasota Bay water quality. \nDr. Gandy’s Bio: \nDr. Gandy received his Ph.D. and Master of Science in Mariculture from Texas A&M University and his Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of Charleston. His fifteen years as a Research Scientist and Research Administrator with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) allowed him to be involved with the development and management of scientific programs focused on research\, monitoring\, stakeholder engagement\, citizen science\, providing fisheries management advice\, and restoration of shellfish resources across the state. A fifth-generation Floridian and 20-year resident of Sarasota County\, Dr. Gandy has witnessed the state’s environmental challenges and transformations firsthand. As Executive Director of SBEP\, he is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the natural resources of the Sarasota Bay estuary so that future generations can experience and connect with Florida’s landscape in meaningful and lasting ways. \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS December meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\n \n\nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-december-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251111T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251111T010000
DTSTAMP:20251030T105900Z
CREATED:20251030T105900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251030T105900Z
UID:10000036-1762819200-1762822800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS November Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Does the increased number of corporate takeovers and mergers in traditional media give you concerns about the state of independent in-depth reporting on local issues? Then come hear Emily Le Coz\, Executive Editor-in-Chief\, Suncoast Searchlight speak about how her nonprofit team is filling the void at the 2025 FLVCS November meeting. \n \nEmily Le Coz is Suncoast Searchlight’s executive editor-in-chief and oversees the newsroom’s editorial strategy and day-to-day operations. Emily comes to Suncoast Searchlight from USA TODAY\, where she spent five years as an investigative reporter and editor\, producing and overseeing some of the news organization’s most ambitious work. Read more of Emily’s bio. \n  \n  \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS November meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\n \n\nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-november-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251025T180000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251025T213000
DTSTAMP:20250719T162510Z
CREATED:20250719T162510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250719T162510Z
UID:10000028-1761415200-1761427800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:The Life of Thomas Paine
DESCRIPTION: Back by popular demand\nTo begin the world over again: The Life of Thomas Paine \nThe acclaimed actor\, Ian Ruskin\, portrays the Hero of the American Revolution and the unheralded Founding Father of the birth of America. Paine’s writings inspired the colonies to fight for independence. His fearless denunciation of rule by monarchy\, where the King can do no wrong is still relevant today. Thomas Paine was a true visionary. He was centuries before his time – advocating for the end of slavery\, social security\, and equal rights for women.  \n\nHelp keep the legacy of Thomas Paine alive. Don’t miss To begin the world over again: The Life of Thomas Paine – one performance only. \nAfter the play there will be a Q&A session with Ian Ruskin followed by a reception with light refreshments. \nTicket Information:  \n\n \n\n\nIan Ruskin Bio\n\nACTOR\, WRITER AND INDEPENDENT SCHOLAR\nI trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and worked for 15 years in repertory companies\, London’s West End\, television and film. I came to Los Angeles in 1985 and found myself with guest star roles in episodic television. This work did not in any way fulfill my dream to be involved in great works that could move audiences and shine a light on their shared humanity. This was not happening on the soundstage of “MacGyver.” \nThen I was cast to play a real-life character\, Harry Bridges\, in “Citizenship: The Harry Bridges Story\,” and my life changed. This was a man whose beliefs and values inspired me\, and when we performed for his union\, his story inspired them. I had found my way to shine a light again. Read more about Ian Ruskin. \nPreserving Our Democracy EXPO\nFrom 11:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. FLVCS will be hosting the Preserve Our Democracy EXPO tabling event prior to the play. We encourage you to attend the EXPO. This event will be a great opportunity to find out about organizations that work to preserve our democracy\, strengthen our community\, and fortify our environment. \n\nReturn to FLVCS Events
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/the-life-of-thomas-paine/
LOCATION:Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota\, 3975 Fruitville Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34232\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251025T150000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251025T173000
DTSTAMP:20251007T154916Z
CREATED:20251007T154916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T154916Z
UID:10000035-1761404400-1761413400@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:Preserving Democracy Expo
DESCRIPTION:From 11:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. Florida Veterans for Common Sense will be hosting the Preserving Democracy EXPO. The EXPO will be a great opportunity to find out about organizations that work to preserve our democracy\, strengthen our community\, and fortify our environment. Learn how you can get involved. The EXPO is free and open to the public. \nFollowing the EXPO\, the Ian Ruskin play\, To begin the world over again:The Life of Thomas Paine will be performed in the Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota sanctuary. To learn more and purchase tickets use the link\, Thomas Paine play info. \n\nReturn to FLVCS Events
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/preserving-democracy-expo/
LOCATION:Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota\, 3975 Fruitville Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34232\, United States
CATEGORIES:Assault on Our Democracy
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251013T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251014T000000
DTSTAMP:20250929T172807Z
CREATED:20250929T172807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T172807Z
UID:10000033-1760396400-1760400000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS October Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Navy veteran Curtis Calabrese\, candidate for Palm Beach County Commissioner\, is the featured speaker for the 2025 FLVCS October meeting. Curtis will speak about why he is running\, veterans issues in Florida\, and Florida’s environment and energy. \nHow to attend \nJoin us at the the Unity of Sarasota Church for this informative and fun meeting. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS October meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nCurtis Calabrese Bio:\nCurtis Calabrese\, PhD is a Navy combat veteran and public safety advocate who is ready to lead Palm Beach County into the future. Born and raised in Boca Raton\, Curtis earned a nomination to the U.S. Naval Academy from Congressman Ron Klein and graduated with a degree in Systems Engineering. From the moment he earned his wings\, Curtis embraced every challenge—from locating the wreckage of EgyptAir Flight 804 to hunting terrorists off the Horn of Africa. He later served as a Navy Legal Officer\, Department Head\, and Aerospace Engineer where he led multidisciplinary teams\, oversaw flight safety programs\, and advised senior leadership on ethics\, law\, and operational risk. \nAfter active duty\, Curtis joined the Federal Aviation Administration as an Aviation Safety Inspector\, where he investigated more than one hundred accident and incident investigations. When the 2019 government shutdown threatened the safety of the flying public\, Curtis stepped forward as a union spokesperson for the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists\, risking his own career to ensure that safety inspectors remained on the job. His courage and integrity under fire earned him respect throughout the aviation community and underscored his belief that leadership means standing up for what matters\, regardless of personal cost. Read more about Curtis. \n \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-october-meeting/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250908T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250909T000000
DTSTAMP:20250826T145808Z
CREATED:20250826T145808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T145808Z
UID:10000032-1757372400-1757376000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS September Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for the 2025 FLVCS meeting on Monday\, September 8th at 7:00 PM EDT.\n \nThomas Paine Award recipient\, Alexander Vindman\, is the featured speaker at the FLVCS September 2025 meeting. He will speak on the current situation in Ukraine and the state of our Democracy.\nAlexander Vindman Bio:\n\nAlexander Vindman is a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel\, national security expert\, and prominent whistleblower who played a key role in the first impeachment of President Donald Trump. Born in Kyiv\, Ukraine\, Vindman immigrated to the United States as a child and went on to serve over two decades in the military\, including a combat tour in Iraq where he earned a Purple Heart. As Director for European Affairs at the National Security Council\, he raised alarms about Trump’s 2019 phone call with Ukraine’s president\, ultimately testifying before Congress.  \nFollowing his military retirement in 2020\, Vindman became a vocal advocate for democratic norms and a critic of U.S. policy toward Russia. He is the author of “Here\, Right Matters: An American Story” and “The Folly of Realism\,” both of which were NY Times bestsellers. He currently holds fellowships at Harvard\, Johns Hopkins\, and other institutions\, continuing to shape debates on U.S. foreign policy and the defense of liberal democracy.\n \n\nThe 2025 FLVCS September meeting will be on Zoom only.\nTo attend the meeting on Monday\, September 8 at 7:00 PM\, you must register in advance. To register click on the button below. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nReturn to the FLVCS Events Calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-september-meeting/
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250811T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250812T000000
DTSTAMP:20250805T145100Z
CREATED:20250805T145100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250805T145100Z
UID:10000030-1754953200-1754956800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS August 2025 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Robin Peguero\, 2026 Candidate for Congressional District Florida 27\, will be the featured speaker at the FLVCS August 2025 meeting. Robin will be speaking on Defending Democracy. \nSynopsis of Defending Democracy: \nOne man ended the unblemished history of the peaceful transfer of power in this country. That man\, former president Donald J. Trump\, did more than just incite an armed crowd: “I don’t [fucking] care that they have weapons\,” he reportedly said\, “They’re not here to hurt me.” He did more than sic them on his own vice president\, Mike Pence\, and the hundreds of legislators staged like sitting ducks at the Capitol. Long before that day\, the former president had led\, coordinated\, and set into motion a seven-part plan to illegally stay in power and cut short American democracy as we know it. Those of us serving on the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol laid out that evidence over the course of eight blockbuster summer hearings and in our final report. That is our past. \nBut this is about our future. The extremist groups that stormed the Capitol are still with us\, turning from national to local politics. Regrouping\, recharging\, “stand[ing] back and stand[ing] by” should former president Trump reclaim the most powerful post in the world and call on them to finish what he started. That is why we must look back. The greatest polarization in the country today is not necessarily political but along the low-trust\, high-trust axis. Faith in our institutions is at an all-time low\, beaten down by a former president who tested the guardrails and sowed skepticism in America’s foundational principles. Our democracy held\, but just barely. The insurrection was quelled\, but the threat is ongoing. What we learn and what we next do about it is all that matters. \nThe FLVCS August 2025 meeting will be on Zoom only.\nTo attend the meeting on Monday\, August 11 at 7:00 PM\, you must register in advance. To register click on the button below. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nRobin Peguero Bio:\n\nRobin is the son of immigrants – a Dominican father and Ecuadorian mother who\, upon arriving\, enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve their newfound country. That’s where the two of them met\, fell in love\, and started a family. Robin was raised in Hialeah\, FL\, where he graduated as valedictorian of his high school class and went off to college at Harvard. He then worked in Congress as a press spokesman for Congressman Charlie Rangel and as speechwriter for Senator Amy Klobuchar. He then went to Harvard Law School\, where he was an editor on the Harvard Law Review. Upon graduating\, he returned home to become a homicide prosecutor in Miami and left after seven years to become investigative counsel on the Committee Investigating the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol. He served afterward as chief of staff to Congressman Glenn Ivey. He is a published author of two fiction novels\, an assistant law professor focusing on criminal law and procedure\, and a candidate for Congress from Florida’s 27th District. \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-august-2025-meeting/
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250717T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250717T140000
DTSTAMP:20250709T205245Z
CREATED:20250709T205245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T205245Z
UID:10000027-1752753600-1752760800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:John Lewis - Good Trouble Rally
DESCRIPTION:U.S. Rep. John Lewis Credit: Kayleigh Skinner\, Mississippi Today\nPlease join Florida Veterans for Common Sense as we participate in the John Lewis – Good Trouble Rally at the Sarasota Bayfront. The rally is in memory of Representative John Lewis whose death occurred on July 17\, 2020. \nWe will hold American flags from the Revolutionary War era to the present to stand up against the Trump administration’s ongoing attacks on veterans’ healthcare and benefits. We are standing up because we know the truth: in America\, the power lies with the people\, and we’re rising to prove it. \nDate: Thursday\, July 17 \nMeeting place: Muster at the far end of the Suncoast Blood Centers parking lot\, \n1760 Mound St \nSarasota\, FL 34236 \nGoogle Map directions\nMeeting Time: 7:30 AM \nSuggested Dress – Black FLVCS polo or black short-sleeve shirt and khaki pants/shorts. FLVCS cap if you have one \nWe will provide hand-held flags to carry for those that don’t have their own – no signs\, please. \nWe will walk to/from the rally at the Sarasota Bayfront. It’s a 20-minute walk. \nDonuts and bagels afterwards at Resilience Incubator Boardroom on the 2nd floor of the Blood Bank.  \nJohn Lewis – Good Trouble Rally Details:  GOOD TROUBLE LIVES ON RALLY \n  \nReturn to FLVCS calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/john-lewis-good-trouble-rally/
CATEGORIES:Assault on Our Democracy
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250714T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250715T000000
DTSTAMP:20250123T162659Z
CREATED:20250123T162659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T162659Z
UID:10000021-1752534000-1752537600@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS July Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Florida Veterans for Common Sense holds its monthly meeting on the second Monday of every month. The meetings are held at  \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET  \nPlease check back later for further details. \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-july-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250609T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250609T230000
DTSTAMP:20250123T162434Z
CREATED:20250123T162434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T162434Z
UID:10000020-1749510000-1749510000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS June Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Florida Veterans for Common Sense holds its monthly meeting on the second Monday of every month. The meetings are held at  \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET  \nPlease check back later for further details. \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-june-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250512T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250513T000000
DTSTAMP:20250123T162136Z
CREATED:20250123T162136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T162136Z
UID:10000019-1747090800-1747094400@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS May Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Are you hunched over you phone or computer all the time? Does your lower back hurt? Is your energy low? Then you need to attend the FLVCS 2025 May meeting to hear Florida Veterans for Common Sense’s very own Kenney DeCamp AKA Dr. Mime give a special presentation about Human Growth Education.  Kenney has taught Human Growth Education all over the world to children and adults alike. \nHow to attend \nJoin us at the the Unity of Sarasota Church for this informative and fun meeting. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS May meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\n\nKenney DeCamp\, P.A. Bio: \n\n \n Kenney is an army veteran one of the first 10 physicians assistants the army created in 1967 for the American war in Vietnam. \nAll 10 original PA’s practiced orthopedics surgery and later Kenney became the first PA to work in neurosurgery. That was in New York City during the 70s.\nMeeting Bruce Springsteen in 1968 in New Jersey working in an Army Hospital near Asbury Park\, Kenney began dance/acting out some of the ‘Boss’s songs which led him to become a mime dancer\, eventually even taking a workshop with Marcel Marcel. \nAnd then after that hospital work depressed him with the financial world of medicine\, he quit his neuro-surgical position with the New York Medical College\, Flower Fifth Avenue and Metropolitan Hospitals in New York City and went into show business. \nKenney became a body linguist/health coach and choreographer and known in New York City as deDisco Mime\, performing at the Limelight Disco\, Roseland Ballroom Copacabana\, and even Studio 54. He performed\, staged and worked with Bruce Springsteen\, Donna Summer\, Andy Warhol\, Gloria Gaynor\, Sister Sledge\, Phil Collins. Peter\, Paul and Mary\, The Trammps and many more over those 18 disco years. He then established a performing school for the Kids Dance Company and a production company producing live events\, KDC Happy Shows\, in the Chicagoland area and working with the City of Chicago Special Events Office. \nIn the late 1980’s Kenney was also traveling the world performing and teaching classes on body language\, health\, and nutrition. These have taken place in schools\, universities\, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs\, Business Conventions even on cruise ships. He taught these classes in 7 countries doing more than 140 presentations especially for elementary through high school students. These lectures are titled “Body Language The Art of Mime.” His adult lectures\, which are somewhat similar\, because he treats you older kids like you’re still younger than ever wanting to learn\, these are titled “The Head Has a Body”. \nHis full international program is known as: “Human Growth Education“. To teach and inspire awareness of our body control as we age. \n\n\nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-may-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250414T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250415T000000
DTSTAMP:20250123T161953Z
CREATED:20250123T161953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T161953Z
UID:10000018-1744671600-1744675200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS April Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Manatee County Commissioner George Kruse will be the featured speaker at the 2025 FLVCS April meeting. He will speak on development and the environment. \n About George Kruse:  Commissioner Kruse grew up in Sarasota and moved to Manatee County in 2008. George has made a lifelong career in commercial real estate finance and affordable housing. George is married to Jess\, an active community volunteer\, and they have two children: Alexander and Olivia\, who attend Parrish Community High School and Lakewood Ranch High School\, respectively\, and are both active in travel sports in the area. \nHow to attend \nJoin us at the the Unity of Sarasota Church for this important meeting. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS April meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-april-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250329T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250329T160000
DTSTAMP:20250318T220011Z
CREATED:20250318T220011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T220011Z
UID:10000022-1743253200-1743264000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:Jacaranda EcoPark Planting Day
DESCRIPTION:Come join us for the Jacaranda EcoPark Planting Day on Saturday\, March 29\, 2025 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. We will be planting The Jacaranda Living Wall and the Woodland River Forest. \nPlanting trees is the singularly most powerful way of intervening against increased flood risk\, urban heating\, and other ecological threats associated with climate change and over development. \n  \n \n  \nGet driving directions  \nReturn to the FLVCS calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/jacaranda-ecopark-planting-day-2/
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250310T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250311T000000
DTSTAMP:20250123T161638Z
CREATED:20250123T161638Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T161638Z
UID:10000017-1741647600-1741651200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS March Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Photo by Fred Hsu\nDr. David Tomasko\, Executive Director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program\, will be the featured speaker at the 2025 FLVCS March meeting. He will speak about the quality of bay waters\, red tide\, and how the DOGE cuts have affected the Estuary Program. \nDave Tomasko has more than 30 years of experience in water quality assessments and the development of science-based natural resource plans in the Gulf of Mexico and international locations. He holds a Ph.D. in biology from the University of South Florida\, a Master of Science in marine biology from the Florida Institute of Technology\, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Old Dominion University. Dr. Tomasko was also the first-ever SBEP Program Scientist. \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS March meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nThe meeting will be held at \nUnity of Sarasota Church\n3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL 34231\n7:00 PM ET – 8:00 PM ET \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-march-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250224T223000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250225T020000
DTSTAMP:20250120T170736Z
CREATED:20250120T170736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T170736Z
UID:10000015-1740436200-1740448800@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 Thomas Paine Party
DESCRIPTION:Join Florida Veterans for Common Sense (FLVCS) for the 2025 Thomas Paine Party. We will be celebrating the 288th Anniversary of the birth of founding patriot\, Thomas Paine. Each year\, FLVCS awards our annual Thomas Paine Award to a patriot who follows in the legacy of Thomas Paine to defend our democracy and advance the promise of America. \nThis year’s Thomas Paine Award winner is Tom Edwards. Tom stands as a voice of reason on the Sarasota County School Board. He is a moderate voice advocating for the freedom of teachers\, the rights of ALL students and parents\, and the preservation of public schools from the destructive\, political winds of privatization. \nAs a Sarasota County School Board member\, Tom has a proven track record of standing up for the democratic values this community cherishes and leading the district with integrity\, intelligence\, and innovation. \nFood and Drink: A Mexican Buffet is included in the ticket price. Sodas\, tea\, coffee\, beer and wine will be available for purchase. \nThe FLVCS party honors the legacy of Thomas Paine who is credited with turning the American rebellion into the American Revolution for Independence through his is best-selling political tract\, Common Sense. He was the first to use the term United States of America. He wrote The Crisis Papers at the behest of General George Washington. Paine’s call to action rallied the Continental Army troops to continue the fight after their retreat and defeat at New York. Contemporaries noted\, “Without the pen of Paine\, Washington would have wielded his sword in vain.” \nWe hope you can join us for the 2025 Thomas Paine Party.  \n2025 Thomas Paine Party details:\nFogartyville Community Media and Arts Center\n525 Kumquat Ct\, Sarasota 34236\nMonday\, February 24\, 2025\nStarting at 5:30 PM.\nTickets: $50.00/person\, general seating \nTo purchase tickets click on the button or use the QR code: \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://wslr.org/event/florida-veterans-for-common-sense-tom-paine-288th-birthday-party/” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Buy 2025 Thomas Paine Party Tickets[/button]
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-thomas-paine-party-2/
LOCATION:Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center\, 525 Kumquat Court\, Sarasota\, 34236\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250211T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250211T010000
DTSTAMP:20250123T161329Z
CREATED:20250123T161329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250123T161329Z
UID:10000016-1739232000-1739235600@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:2025 FLVCS February Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Did you ever wonder why hard it is so hard for to convey the facts about climate change to family\, friends\, and neighbors? Then come to the 2025 FLVCS February meeting to hear Micheal Barbour speak on Communicating our Science to Make Informed Decisions. \nSummary: Perhaps the biggest challenge of scientists and engineers\, no matter the discipline\, is to convey the facts and underpinnings of the relevant issue to those who ultimately make the decisions.  This is especially true as we consider over development and growth.  Using EPA’s Clean Water Act and my involvement in its enhancement\, I will address the basis of scientific communication to the lay person and decision-makers. \nHow to attend\nJoin us at the the Unity of Sarasota Church for this important meeting. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the 2025 FLVCS February meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nMichael Barbour Bio:\nDr. Michael T. Barbour is an Aquatic Ecologist. He was the 2014 recipient of the International Environmental Stewardship Award given by a scientific society represented by 62 countries. This award was given because of his efforts in assisting EPA in updating the Biological and Physical Integrity components of the U.S. Clean Water Act and participating with scientists from the European Union to develop their biological protocol of their Water Framework Directive. He has been a member of the Heritage Oaks Healthy Lakes Initiative since its inception 4 years ago and has consulted with other Associations and Sarasota County EPD. \nReturn to the FLVCS Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/2025-flvcs-february-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250114T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250114T010000
DTSTAMP:20250108T210849Z
CREATED:20250108T210849Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T210849Z
UID:10000014-1736812800-1736816400@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS January 2025 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Have questions about the 2024 Election? Come to the FLVCS January 2025 Meeting to hear retired Professor and former Florida State Representative\, Keith Fitzgerald’s analysis of the election.  \nHow to attend\nJoin us the the Unity of Sarasota Church for this important meeting. Meeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. Please invite your family and friends to the FLVCS January 2025 meeting. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_self” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nKeith Fitzpatrick Bio:\n \nKeith Fitzgerald is a former Democratic member of the Florida House of Representatives\, representing the 69th District for two terms from 2007 to 2010. He is also a political scientist specializing in American politics with a focus on institutions and public policy. Dr. Fitzgerald is the author of Face of the Nation: Immigration\, the State\, and the National Identity. He graduated from Trinity High School in Louisville\, Kentucky in 1974. Following a stint at Grinnell College\, Fitzgerald was a professor of political science at the New College of Florida from 1994-2022. He received his B.A. from the University of Louisville and his Ph.D. from Indiana University Bloomington in 1987. \nReturn to the FLVCS Events Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-january-2025-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241119T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241119T010000
DTSTAMP:20241109T142219Z
CREATED:20241109T142219Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241109T142219Z
UID:10000012-1731974400-1731978000@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS November 2024 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Please attend the FLVCS November 2024 Meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to hear Members and Supporters thoughts on initiatives for next year. All are welcome. \nMeeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nReturn to the FLVCS calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-november-2024-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241112T000000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241112T010000
DTSTAMP:20241109T143819Z
CREATED:20241109T143819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241109T143819Z
UID:10000013-1731369600-1731373200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:Monthly Meeting Rescheduled
DESCRIPTION:The FLVCS November 2024 monthly meeting has been rescheduled. It will now be on Monday\, November 18\, 2024 at 7:00 PM EST at the Unity of Sarasota Church.  See the calendar event on November 18th for more details.  \nReturn to the FLVCS calendar.
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/monthly-meeting-rescheduled-2/
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20241021T230000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20241022T000000
DTSTAMP:20241019T163814Z
CREATED:20241019T163814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241019T163814Z
UID:10000011-1729551600-1729555200@floridaveteransforcommonsense.org
SUMMARY:FLVCS October 2024 Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Come to the Florida Veterans for Common Sense Candidates Forum to learn about 2024 Election candidates\, Manny Lopez and Derek Reich. They are running for U.S. House Florida district 17 and Florida House district 73\, respectively. Their opponents\, Greg Steube and Fiona McFarland\, were also invited to the the FLVCS 2024 October meeting but have not responded.  \nMeeting details are below. If you can not attend in person\, then please join us on Zoom. You must register to attend the Zoom webinar. Click on the button below to register now. Don’t delay. \n[button color=”blue” link=”https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/zoom” size=”large” target=”_blank” block=”false”]Zoom Registration[/button]\nPlease invite your family and friends to the FLVCS 2024 October meeting. \nPostcarding starts at 6:00 PM: Come early to fill out postcards to encourage people to vote. \nReturn to the FLVCS Events Calendar
URL:https://floridaveteransforcommonsense.org/event/flvcs-october-2024-meeting-2/
LOCATION:Unity of Sarasota\, 3023 Proctor Rd\, Sarasota\, FL\, 34231
CATEGORIES:Monthly Meeting
ORGANIZER;CN="Florida Veterans for Common Sense%2C Inc.":MAILTO:contact@flvcs.us
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR