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In the comfortable, family- friendly living room overlooking the backyard patio, I notice that bookcases flanking the fireplace are filled with books on Venice and Italy, Venetian glass, and a masque from the annual Carnival of Venice. In the stairwell are photographs of St. Mark's Square taken by the family from the famous bell tower or campanile overlooking the piazza. I quickly realize those Venice vacations are the inspiration for this year's 80th Jewel Ball: "Festa di Venezia" on August 8 at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. "I wanted to do something romantic," Jenny says, adding, "I think Venice is the most romantic place in the world." She is also fascinated with its rich history which dates to the 5th century. Once ruled by wealthy merchant families fueling a golden age of art and architecture, she says that this "floating city" is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a favorite global tourist destination. Jenny and her committee, including Las Patronas President Colleen Lighter, have been working nonstop on the Jewel Ball, and the McGowan home has become "Venezia Central," a gathering place to plan and prepare for one of the oldest and most anticipated fundraisers in San Diego County. Since 1946, Las Patronas has granted more than $28 million to more than 1,000 nonprofits. LEFT The comfortable living room, designed in shades of blue, reflects the family's love of Venice through books, art, and Venetian glass BELOW A side patio, also used for entertaining, is surrounded by lush landscaping >> @ranchandcoast RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE AUGUST 2026 81