Manatees Get a New Home While Bells Ring in Venice

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton now welcomes two young manatees, Sorbet and Juneau, who have moved from a hospital in Tampa to begin the next stage of their care. These gentle giants were rescued last winter and still need help learning to survive on their own. Because they are too young, the museum’s team keeps them in a special habitat while they grow stronger. Once doctors say the animals are healthy, most adult manatees return to the wild. The orphan calves, however, stay longer in a secondary care program until they can stand on their own. Visitors to the museum can watch Sorbet and Juneau swim in a new setting. Displays near the habitat explain each animal’s story, how they are being treated, and what must happen before they leave the facility. The museum’s animal care director says freeing up hospital space is another benefit of moving the two manatees. The team is excited to see their personalities shine as they get ready for release back into nature. In Venice, a different kind of bell will soon be heard. On May 16 at two in the afternoon, a ceremony will bless new church bells made of bronze. The four bells were crafted in Italy by the Marinelli family, a bell‑making line that has existed for 27 generations. They will hang in a new tower at Epiphany Cathedral, which is being rebuilt this summer. The bells are named after the Wise Men: Melchior, Gaspar, Balthazar, and a bell called The Star of Bethlehem.The bishop says the bells will bring people together for prayer and celebration, marking a historic moment for the whole diocese. Families can choose to have their names added to the bells, and more information is available online. In education news, a new principal has been named for Venice Middle School. Charles Elsey, who once helped run Booker Middle School and worked as a behavior specialist, will lead the school. He holds degrees in education, instructional technology, and educational leadership from institutions in Akron and Florida. Elsey says he wants to improve learning for every student, teacher, and staff member at the school. His goal is to create a great place for teaching and learning. Sarasota Military Academy’s drill team made history by qualifying for a national championship. Only eight Florida schools were chosen from more than 30 states to compete in Daytona Beach. The academy’s Color Guard finished seventh, the Armed Platoon ranked twentieth, and the Dual Exhibition team was twenty‑third. Drill instructor Kenneth Lee praised the team’s first‑time performance and said it will help them grow further. The team’s success shows the strength of their training program. Camp Gan Israel returns to Bradenton for a week of fun and learning. Hosted by Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, the camp starts June 1 and ends June 19. It offers activities that build friendship, confidence, and enjoyment for young campers.