The active, wellness-centered lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of in a community filled with fun and (you guessed it) fascinating people. Spacious residences and amenities that put the good life right at your fingertips. A hoppin’ social calendar that includes exercise classes, lifelong learning, celebrations and events including our wildly popular “VOTI Cabaret”. If you’re bored here, there’s a good chance you’ll be bored anywhere. Seriously.
Add guaranteed priority access to 5-star healthcare and you’ve got the perfect combination of independence and security you’ll only find at Venice’s only licensed Life Plan Community (also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC).
Limited apartments available— schedule your tour today by calling 941-275-6690 Ride. Enjoy. Live life to its fullest. Repeat.
Welcome to Venice City Lifestyle’s annual “Gentlemen’s Issue,” where we honor the remarkable men who enrich our community with care and dedication.
In this edition, we shine a spotlight on Rick Severance, President of Wellen Park, whose visionary leadership has shaped Wellen into the vibrant, community-driven haven it is today. His expertise as a master planner has been instrumental in fostering a multigenerational environment filled with joy and camaraderie.
We also commend the compassionate efforts of Venice Police Community Outreach Sergeant Sean Hammett. Through his unwavering kindness, Sgt. Hammett positively impacts the lives of diverse individuals, from young students to elderly residents and families in need, exemplifying what it means to go “Beyond the Badge.”
As Father’s Day approaches, we present a plethora of local ideas for meaningful gifts and adventurous experiences. Dive into our culinary section and prepare to be tantalized by yummy offerings in “Favorite Guy-Go-To Eateries.” These mouth-watering delights are sure to appeal to all palates.
For those seeking gifts for Dads with a touch of adventure, look no further than Cook’s Sportland, where a treasure trove of gear awaits anglers and archers alike. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
And what would a men’s issue be without a nod to the timeless sport of golf? Explore the latest in electric golf carts in “Revolutionizing Mobility” - featuring models available at Affordable Golf Cars of Venice, and refine your game (short or otherwise) with the expert tips in “Improving Your Golf Swing.”
We trust that you'll find inspiration and enjoyment within the pages of our June "Gentlemen’s Issue" as we celebrate the exceptional men of Venice who contribute daily to the vitality of our community.
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Jodi Rall | jodi.rall@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Jodi Rall, Daniel Schowengerdt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jodi Rall, Pat Jones
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
Custom model homes in Wellen Park capture the essence of Southwest Florida’s coveted outdoor lifestyle. In EVERLY, a picturesque neighborhood overlooking scenic wetlands, preserves and a 50-acre lake with painterly sunsets. Showcasing in-pool spas, sun shelves for in-pool sunning, fully equipped alfresco kitchens, and mixing fire and water for dramatic effect, expansive outdoor spaces express the best in resort-style living… right at home.
Set to a serene soundtrack of cascading water, these inviting outdoor oases cater to relaxation, good times and pool days with family and friends. Fully furnished model residences by EVERLY’s custom builders – John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Neal Signature Homes and Homes by WestBay – showcase the latest in alfresco living with spacious covered lanais offering inviting dining and sitting areas, plus open-air firepits and chaise lounges for enjoying the good life well past sundown.
Lee Wetherington’s models feature multiple covered spaces, each with a purpose, whether lounging on the Caravel’s stylish veranda or sipping a beverage at the Haven’s extended U-shaped bar. Under-roof spaces in the Caravel span a generous 765 square feet. Glass sliders open the three-bedroom model’s great room to a stylish veranda overlooking the pool and wetland preserve while the dining room and a bonus room feature zero-corner doors flowing to a wrap-around lanai with an outdoor lounge and dining destination for the ultimate interplay of inside and out.
Overlooking EVERLY’s central lake, the Haven’s meandering outdoor covered spaces encompass 842 square feet and include an alfresco kitchen with bar-style seating for four at the cantilevered countertop. The four-bedroom model features zero-corner doors in a bonus room and a pool with a sun shelf, a bubbler and a raised spa with a 360-degree spillover. There’s also a plant-laced living wall, a secluded firepit lounge area and a deck above the pool with two chaises under a market umbrella.
Sliding glass doors in the dining and great rooms of the Ravenna
open to a covered lanai with over 315 square feet. Built by Neal Signature Homes, the model overlooks a lake and features a watery soundtrack courtesy of two sheer descents emerging from a brick wall and the spa’s tiled spillover. White Adirondack chairs circle the firepit. The Palm Bay includes an outdoor living space, perfect for hosting outdoor parties or just a peaceful space to enjoy at your leisure. There is a grilling area and casita, as well.
Nestled along the 50-acre lake with prime views, John Cannon’s Warrina offers a collection of inspiring outdoor spaces. The three-bedroom home’s great room opens to a wrap-around covered lanai offering a conversation area, living and dining spaces and an alfresco kitchen. A wood-clad sun deck offers a built-in fire table and cantilevers over the large pool which has a shallow sun shelf, calm-invoking bubblers and a spa.
Outdoor areas in Homes by WestBay’s EVERLY models include covered lanais with kitchens, dining and living areas and open-air firepits. Wall-spanning glass sliders open the great room and kitchen of the twostory, four-bedroom Biscayne II to the outdoors. The pool has a sun shelf with a bubbler and steppingstones on each side of the raised spa. The two-story Gasparilla II, also with four bedrooms, features grassy areas and a restful coastal palette of blues and whites, echoed in furnishings and the mosaic tile of the raised spa and a trio of columns, each with bowls combining fire and sheer water descents.
EVERLY’s private lakefront amenities also enhance the outdoor lifestyle. Inspired by luxury resorts, the neighborhood will offer a large pool, beach area, putting green, firepit lounge, an event lawn, fishing platform and pickleball courts
For more information about living in EVERLY and Wellen Park, call 941-271-0116, visit wellenpark.com or stop by the Welcome Center at 12275 Mercado Dr. in Venice.
DO YOU NEED TO FEEL
SPA SERVICES PERFORMED BY LICENSED ESTHETICIAN THERESA FAVIA
Deluxe Custom Facials | Dermaplaning | Chemical Peels | Micro Needling Lash Lift & Tint | Eyebrow Luminant | Acne Treatments
CERTIFIED DMK PROVIDER
SERVICES PERFORMED BY DR. CHARLES DAVIS, DR. BRENT BEYER & DR. CASSANDRA BROWER BOTOX® | Juvederm ®
New Services
EXO|E MICRONEEDLING FACIALS
DE|RIVE HAIR REGENERATION
PRODUCT SHOWCASE LASH & BROW SERUM EXPIRES JUNE 30TH, 2024
1218 East Venice Avenue, Venice (941) 488-1075
Venicedentist.com
1-4: The TWIG luncheon and clothing drive, sponsored by the Venetian Golf and River Club, attracted 130 guests who brought bundles of new clothing items for children, and made monetary donations. 1: Volunteers sorting clothing donations: l-r- Marcie Carino, JoAnne Maus, Tish Washington, Debra Barton, and Pat Brockley. 2: l-r: Connie Humble, Guest Speaker Nicole Britton, Sue Phillips, Lynne Keller, Kathleen Pickering, Bettye Smith, and Pat Jones. 3: Volunteers doing check-in: l-r Darlene Schimberg, Maddie Soulia, and Cathy Cardona. 4: Guests: l-r Jean Koye, Sarah Epperson, Kim Davey, Susan Bookbinder, Marilyn Cashman, Sharon Kreighbaum. 5: Charmaine (l) has the sweetest neighbors, Jim & Sue, who treated her to a delicious dinner at L’Olive Restaurant. 6: Matty “Coffee Master” for several Starbucks in the area, always greets you with heartfelt enthusiasm! 7: Casey Riley, a walking billboard for the VAC Booth, supporting the Kimal Lumber Classic Car Show. We love your creativity!
Sarasota Memorial Hospital-Venice (SMHV) opened 68 new private rooms in its Northeast Tower, boosting inpatient capacity to 178. It plans 34 more suites this fall, for a capacity of 212. SMHV's expansion plans were fast-tracked to cover area needs after Shore Point Health Venice closed its 312-bed facility in September 2022. SMHV, at 2600 Laurel Road, just west of the Interstate 75 exit, has been operating at or near capacity since opening with 110 beds in November 2021.
Scan to read more
Jeff Jackson, President and CEO of PGT Innovations, Inc., a national brand and innovation leader headquartered in Nokomis, was recently appointed to the board of Astec Industries, a manufacturer of specialized equipment for asphalt road building, concrete production and more. “It is truly an honor to be elected to serve on the Astec Board,” said Jackson, who serves on the 11-member board as an independent director and member of the Compensation Committee.
Scan to read more
Downtown Wellen’s new series of free summertime speaker events at Solis Hall boasts experts from Sarasota County Connect Business Networking (SCCBN) for aspiring entrepreneurs and Science Talks with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. On June 13 SCCBN speaker Stephen Diasio covers “Problem Solving for Entrepreneurs.” Diasio is professor of entrepreneurship and innovation at the University of South Florida. SCCBN events run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and are free with advance registration required. Go to 26west.scf.edu/sarasotaconnect to register.
Scan to read more
us
Breakwater Home Fashions is a new, coastal-themed boutique in the heart of downtown Wellen Park. We carry a unique selection of furniture and décor curated exclusively for the distinctive Southwest Florida home. From credenzas and all kinds of tables to lighting, artwork, area rugs, giftware, accessories and more, we’re sure to have that perfect item you’ve been looking for. Ask about our in-home design services. Special ordering is available and we also offer a loyalty program to save on future purchases.
Rick Severance: master planner of joyful, community-focused spaces
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WELLEN PARK
In the realm of community development, Rick Severance is more than just a president; he's a visionary. With a wealth of experience spanning over six large-scale master plan communities across the United States and the Caribbean, Severance's journey to Wellen Park has been a testament to his ability to turn ideas into real and thriving communities.
CONTINUED >
Before taking the helm at Wellen Park about five years ago, Severance honed his expertise in crafting master communities that transcend mere residential spaces. "I'm well versed in the attributes that make a master plan successful," he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach encompassing commercial, entertainment, recreation, and educational elements.
"At Wellen Park, we're not just building a bedroom community; we're curating a multifaceted experience," Severance explained, highlighting the blend of education, wellness, healthcare, and civic amenities woven into the fabric of the master plan.
However, Severance is quick to share credit with his dedicated team, emphasizing their collective effort in bringing his visions to fruition. "None of us would be accomplished without the
Wellen Park has 21 miles of multimodal trails for pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, and more.
team that I have around me," he acknowledged, underscoring the collaborative spirit that drives progress at Wellen Park.
With 15 different builders contributing to the diverse tapestry of Wellen Park's neighborhoods, the community currently boasts approximately 9,500 residents, with ambitious projections set for the future. "At full buildout our community will have more than 50,000 residents and 22,500 homes over 11,000 acres," Severance revealed, hinting at the expansive growth envisioned for the coming decades.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Severance's personal life offers a glimpse into the values that fuel his success. As a devoted husband and father of three daughters, he emphasized the importance of showing up and being present for his family, regardless of their pursuits.
"I think my message is really not about (my daughters’) achievements; it's about showing up and being there," Severance reflected, underscoring the significance of parental support in nurturing his daughters' passions, which include world-class competitive ballroom dancing.
Reflecting on his journey into the real estate development realm, Severance traces his aspirations back to his formative years as a competitive athlete, as well as the influence of his early environment. “My parents had a circle of friends who were in the large format kind of resort management business. And so, that was my dream. I wanted to be a general manager of a big resort,” he recalled.
“Looking ahead, Severance envisions
Wellen Park as a model of mindful growth and diversification, guided by a deep commitment to listening to the needs and desires of its residents.”
At Wellen Park, Severance's leadership style is characterized by collaboration, energetic engagement, and a willingness to take calculated risks. "I wouldn't expect anything from anyone that I wouldn't do myself," he asserts, emphasizing the importance of leading by example and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
“I also think the key to good leadership is hiring people around you who are better than you. And I would tell you every one of my team members has a skill set that I don't possess,” he added. Another management attribute he’s learned from experience is that everything doesn’t have to be 100 percent perfect. “People can get mired down and stuck wanting perfection. It's what we call analysis paralysis. I love the mindset that if you feel really confident
about something to 80 percent or more, you need to go for it,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Severance envisions Wellen Park as a model of mindful growth and diversification, guided by a deep commitment to listening to the needs and desires of its residents. "Bricks and mortar don't make a community; the people do," he asserted, highlighting the pivotal role of community engagement in shaping the soul of Wellen Park. Amidst his professional responsibilities, Severance finds comfort in simple pleasures, such as sunrise runs around the lake and observing the community from the vantage point of Oak & Stone restaurant's rooftop. From there, “I can see everything we’ve designed in a bird’s eye view. I can look at how people are interacting with the space, and what we could do to make it better,” he said. Then he added, “I'm really proud of it.”
These moments of reflection serve as reminders of the collective effort and dedication that have transformed his vision into a thriving reality at Wellen Park.
As Wellen Park continues to evolve and expand, Severance remains steadfast in his commitment to creating spaces that inspire joy, foster community, and stand as testaments to the transformative power of visionary leadership. With each milestone achieved and each dream realized, Severance's legacy at Wellen Park continues to grow, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of community development for generations to come.
“Bricks and mortar don’t make a community; the people do.”Gone fishing...
We are Revolutionizing Pricing for CoolSculpting® Elite!
Sculpt to Complete Satisfaction without Counting Treatment Applicators
Introducing a new set-price structure that allows you to pay per-area and includes up to three fat-freezing sessions.
Pricing structure based on distinct body areas, offering a discount of 60% or more!
Each per-area treatment package includes up to three sessions, giving you ample time to transform your shape.
Receive a personalized treatment plan designed for your goals and tailored to your body!
Removes the cost barrier for those who have considered CoolSculpting® in the past but needed numerous applicators and multiple sessions to achieve desired results.
Schedule Your FREE CoolSculpting ® Elite Consultation Now Enjoy Treat-to-Complete Pricing!
We are proud to offer two of the most sought-after treatments to rejuvenate your skin: Morpheus8 and Lumecca by InMode.
Morpheus8 uses a combination of radiofrequency and microneedling to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and visibly tighten skin on the face and body. This fractional treatment stimulates collagen production, and by targeting the deeper layers of the skin, tissues are remodeled to reveal a more radiant, youthful appearance.
Lumecca is the most powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) to improve skin complexion and clarity. Lumecca is a superior solution to reduce age spots, vascular lesions, rosacea and sun damage on all areas of the body. Results can be seen in as little as one treatment and the skin continues to look younger and more brilliant over time. Multiple photofacial sessions will improve the final result.
Let us help you turn back the clock!
We offer SkinMedica® skincare, customized anti-aging facials and peels! Combining our revolutionary in-office treatments with regular facials, and using sciencebacked skincare at home, maximizes your results! Visit our website to view the menu of services.
Sergeant Hammett with Venice Police officers receive 130 new teddy bears donated by the Venice Lions Club. Officers give them to children in scary situations.
THE COMPASSIONATE WORLD OF VENICE POLICE COMMUNITY OUTREACH SERGEANT SEAN HAMMETT
and Detective Conner Jones.
At a “Bike Ride with the Mayor” event, L-R: Hammett, Mayor Nick Pachotta, Detective Korey
Suncoast Partnership’s Kasey Ledford, Hammett, and Hope, a homeless woman’s pup. Mom was placed in no-pet housing, but Suncoast Humane Society will provide free boarding until they can be reunited.
Shope,““I get rewards every day when I’m out there talking with people.”
Sergeant Sean Hammett lives by the motto "Work hard and be nice to people," not just as a quote above his desk but as a personal mission at the Venice Police Department. In his role as the community outreach officer, Hammett touches the lives of diverse citizens, from young students to elderly residents in assisted living facilities and families in need, with his dedicated kindness.
“I feel like I’m blessed in the opportunity (because) it’s everything I love to do,” said Hammett, who coordinates and assists with programs such as "Classroom and Cops," “Blue Santa,” "Homeless Outreach," “Shop with a Cop,” "Employee Wellness," and the “Venice Shark Tooth Fishing Tournament.” He also actively engages with the community by riding around the city on his bike, addressing calls for assistance, and encountering people in need on a daily basis.
His extensive network and commitment enable him to connect individuals with the necessary services, resources, and donations to improve their quality of life. For instance, Miss Moyer–an elderly woman who transitioned from the streets to an assisted living facility–recently had her walker stolen. Through his efforts, the local Goodwill and Salvation Army provided needed bedding and clothing, while HEARTIS of Venice donated another walker.
Despite the challenging situations he encounters, including homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health issues, Hammett remains unfazed. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and rapport with each client, recognizing that it takes time to overcome past experiences with law enforcement or case managers.
Addressing the housing shortage in Sarasota County poses a significant challenge, but Hammett, together with Suncoast Partnership Case Manager Kasey Ledford, persistently seeks innovative solutions, including reuniting individuals with their families and facilitating relocation to other states when necessary. Despite the few victories, Hammett finds fulfillment in the daily rewards of engaging with people and making a positive impact in their lives.
“The victories in these things may be few, but I get rewards every day when I’m out there, talking with people,” he said.
Hammett's career trajectory reflects a journey of growth and commitment to public service. Starting in law enforcement in Georgia, he progressed from working in a jail to patrolling the streets and eventually becoming a detective specializing in child crimes. “No one else really wanted to investigate those. But I felt you could really make a difference. You are typically making a situation better for the child by taking them out of what
with community members who pre-registered to receive free Thanksgiving turkeys from the Salvation
Officer Bill Long and “Ghostbusters” Stay Puft Man at Epiphany Cathedral School’s “Trunk or Treat” Halloween event.
I feel like I’m blessed in the opportunity (to help the Venice community). It’s everything I love to do. “ ”Hammett,
is usually a horrendous situation, and you’re putting those criminals away,” he explained.
His move to Southwest Florida allowed him to pursue his passion for community policing and ultimately led him to Venice, where he found fulfillment in serving a diverse community near the beach.
Hammett's personal experiences, including living in Europe during his early years, the early loss of his father to a car accident, and the tragic loss of his younger brother to a fentanyl overdose in 2020, have shaped his empathetic approach to his work. He understands firsthand the impact of substance abuse on families, driving his dedication to helping others navigate similar challenges.
As Hammett continues his role as a staff sergeant overseeing community outreach, his empathy and dedication remain unwavering, ensuring that he continues to make a positive difference in the lives of those he serves.
As someone who daily reaches out to the Venice community, Hammett also is hoping that the community help give back. To that end, he is very proud of a just-completed effort to simplify donations to the community outreach
programs he oversees. “To donate to our programs scan the QR code in the ad on page 29,” he explained. The web page venicegov.com/government/police/community-programs will appear, where donations are now accepted even by credit card. Hammett explained, “A lot of people don’t know about our programs and this platform provides the opportunity to become more informed and, if so inclined, to make a donation.”
A Look at Venice Police Department Community Outreach Programs
• Classroom and Cops: Empowering youth through 'ADVANCE' program, fostering resilience and positive choices
• Blue Santa: Spreading holiday cheer with toys and grocery support for local families.
• Shop with a Cop: Empowering youth with essential supplies and positive connections.
• Venice Shark Tooth Fishing Tournament: Uniting athletes with disabilities for camaraderie and adventure.
• Employee Wellness: Holistic wellness approach supports officers' mental, physical, and emotional health.
CONTINUED >
Hammett addresses Venice Elementary 5th graders as they graduate the Venice Police “ADVANCE” (Avoiding Drugs, Violence, and Negative Choices Early) program.
but is now staying in an assisted living facility.
brings her a donated walker to replace one that was stolen.
Please join us Sundays at 8:30AM for Casual Modern Worship at our Lakefront Location. There is Children’s Church available following the music portion of the worship service.
Irma’s Tacos Craft Beer & Tequila Bar
Irma’s offers a variety of street and ethnic tacos specially crafted by Chef Mike Leopold, along with craft beer and tequilas from around the world! 12221 Mercado Drive, Wellen Park | irmastacoswp.com
BrewBurger’s Back Porch ‘Widow Maker’
A half-pound burger topped with bacon, ham, pulled pork, chili, and American cheese. 545 S Tamiami Trail, Venice | Brewburgers.com
Eat & Drink at The British Open Pub
The BOP features 20 beers on draught and more than 330 whiskies to go with menu items that include Fish & Chips and Prime Rib. 367 Jacaranda Blvd., Venice | britishopenpub.com
O&S wings are slow roasted in the stone oven, then tossed with one of six signature sauces. Shown here: OG Buffalo Wings served with bleu cheese crumbles, green onions, and ginger honey mustard. 19795 Wellen Park Blvd., Suite C, Wellen Park | oakandstone.com/ location/venice-wellen-park
Oak & Stone Wings 3 Bridges Brewing
Enjoy a mouthwatering Bridge Burger (smashed) and tots. Pair it with a seasonal brew. 1765 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice facebook.com/3bridgesbrewing
Golf cars, once reserved for the manicured greens, have transcended that role, and nobody champions this evolution more than Affordable Golf Cars of Venice. This family-owned dealership has been serving Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte counties’ carting needs, with innovation and customer care since 2010.
Specializing in custom golf cars and street-legal low-speed vehicles, the dealership offers a diverse range of brands and customizations to suit every need. “Our mission is to make every customer feel welcome and comfortable, confident in operating and maintaining their cart, and informed about the brands we carry,” said the company’s co-owner and vice president Melanie Fitchett.
With dedication to sustainability, Affordable Golf Cars has been installing solar power in their vehicles for the past decade and has plans to eventually transition to all-solar-powered vehicles. This commitment
to environmental consciousness aligns with its efforts to provide the best experience for customers.
Among its impressive lineup, the ICON brand stands out as a perennial favorite. Offering factory-loaded features at a budget-friendly price, ICON carts are stocked for both recreational and street use, complete with amenities like backup cameras, alloy rims, and custom seats.
Affordable Golf Cars of Venice isn’t just selling vehicles; it is transforming the way we move, one golf car at a time.
Imagine yourself at the wheel of a brand new ICON from Affordable Golf Cars of Venice. The legendary lifted ICON EV i60L is sleek, sturdy and the most practical six-seater golf cart for commercial & residential use. The ICON i80 is the perfect golf cart to transport eight of your best friends, family, co-workers, or clients around town.
FATHERS’ DAY GEAR FOR ANGLERS AND ARCHERS FROM COOK’S SPORTLAND
Gear up for Father’s Day with help from the ultimate sportsman’s gift guide! From top-of-the-line fishing rods to precision archery equipment and essential accessories, find the perfect gifts for any outdoor-loving dad at Cooks Sportland.
“WITH
1/ Give the gift of precision and performance with Quantum fishing rods. Renowned for cutting-edge technology and superior engineering, these rods are crafted with the highest quality materials and are perfect for any angling enthusiast.
2 / Lew's Custom Reels offer advanced materials and innovative design, ensuring unmatched smoothness, durability, and casting control. Trusted by anglers worldwide, they're the perfect companion for memorable fishing adventures with dad.
3 / With UV protection, a wide brim and a moisture-wicking sweatband, the Archroma fishing hat is the ultimate outdoor companion. The Archroma combines functionality, style and safety–making it an unforgettable Father's Day gift. (Photo by Jodi Rall)
4 / Celebrate dad's love for the outdoors with Silver Stag hunting and fishing knives. Handcrafted in the Pacific Northwest by a skilled team, they blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Featuring handles made from elk or deer antlers/horns, this gift will be cherished for generations to come.
5 + 6/ With its own full-service indoor range, Cook’s Sportland is the go-to expert for all things archery. Explore its curated selection of high-quality bows, including the top sellers from Bear, White-Matthews, and Carbon-Tech. Also consider gifting dad with archery classes, available for all skill levels, for a unique and memorable experience. (Photos by Jodi Rall). cookssportlandinc.com.
4/ SILVER STAG MULTIPURPOSE KNIVES
5/ ARCHERY RANGE 6/ BEAR CUSTOM BOW
Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.
If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.
On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.
As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.
Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.
02.
We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.
Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.
03.
There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads: Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)
Practice your short game every day.
04.
You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.
Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.
Instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first.
JUNE 5TH-JULY 31ST
Kick Off: Kids Summer Beach Runs
North Brohard Park | 5:30 PM
This one-mile fun run for kids is a summer favorite and a great opportunity for families to exercise together and have fun at the beach! Weekly registration begins at 5:30 p.m. with runs starting at 6:30 p.m. Kids receive a participation ribbon at each run. Complete four runs and earn a free custom T-shirt. No run scheduled on July 3. sarasotacountyparks.com
JUNE 14TH
The Gazebo in Centennial Park | 7:00 PM
Join the fun in Historic Downtown Venice for the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series at the Gazebo in Centennial Park! Hosted by Venice MainStreet, concerts are held every second and fourth Friday of each month, and are free and open to the public. June 28 features Nick Fiasco. visitvenicefl.org/venice-mainstreet-events
JUNE 15TH-16TH
31st Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival
Miami Avenue in Downtown Venice | 10:00 AM
Some of the nation’s best crafters converge along Downtown Venice’s Miami Avenue, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, for the 31st Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival. Peruse booths filled with stained glass, photography, personalized products for children and dogs alike, and much more! Stroll the Green Market for plants, handmade soaps, tangy BBQ sauces, and live orchids. visit venicefl.org/annual-community-events/
JUNE 16TH
Father’s Day Shark Tooth Hunt
Venice Beach Service Club Park | 10:30 AM
Dive into adventure this Father’s Day with an exhilarating Shark Tooth Hunt scuba experience that goes from 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Not just a dive, it’s a treasure hunt followed by a savory cookout-style lunch to celebrate your discoveries. Grab a $50 ticket for dad and make a splash in memories that’ll last! Ticket Includes two air tanks with guided dives off Venice Beach. blackflagdivecenter.com
JUNE 21ST- JULY 18TH
Venice Art Center: "Seeing is Believing"
Venice Art Center
The Venice Art Center’s “Seeing is Believing” exhibition, in the the Pat Buster Main Gallery, showcases submitted pieces from members of the VAC, as well as non-members. Opening reception June 21, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Appetizers and drinks will be provided, and all are welcome! The VAC is open Mon.-Fri. from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. veniceartcenter.com
JUNE 22ND
The Brassroots Band
Venice Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Discover the electrifying world of the Brassroots Band, where each performance is a sensational journey through the heart and soul of funk and rhythm & blues. This extraordinary 12-piece horn-driven ensemble showcases an unparalleled musical prowess, boasting over 300 years of combined professional experience among its members. Tkts.: $24-$49. veniceperformingartscenter.com
36 New condominiums on the Island of Venice. 2 and 3 bedrooms with a 1-car detached garage and community heated swimming pool and cabana. Close to shopping, beaches, restaurants and Downtown Venice. 941.244.0982
COTTAGES OF VENICE
New 36 cottage homes located on East Venice Ave. 2 bedroom, 2 bath with 1 -car detached garage. Close to shopping, restaurants, beaches and Downtown Venice. 941.786.9403
MOVE IN READY HOMES!
Newly constructed custom model home on lake. 2,497 Living s.f. with 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, 2 car side entry garage with swimming pool, spa and large outdoor kitchen. Beautifully appointed cabinets, counter-tops and flooring.
Newly constructed custom ready home on standard home-site. 2,172 living s.f. with 3 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths and 2 car garage. Home-site has room for a pool to be added. Beautifully appointed cabinets, counter-tops and flooring. DON’T MISS OUT, CALL TODAY! 941.244.0982
14 cottage homes - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths with a 1-car garage. Located on Albee Farm Road close to beaches and shopping. FURNISHED MODEL NOW OPEN! 941.786.9403
CASSATA POINTE FROM $1,250,000
Single Family home-sites directly on Roberts Bay in Nokomis, FL. 941.244.0982 E