Gentlemen of Venice
FASCINATING PEOPLE. FASCINATING LIVES.
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.
Gentlemen of Venice!
Welcome to Venice City Lifestyle’s annual Gentlemen’s Issue, where we celebrate the men who help make our community vibrant, compassionate, and inspiring. As Father’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to spotlight a few of the exceptional gentlemen whose talents, dedication, and character enrich the fabric of Venice.
Our cover story, “A Life of Purpose,” introduces readers to our 2025 Remarkable Man of the Year: Allen Speer. As CEO of Agape Flights, a mentor to student-athletes at Venice High School, and more, Allen embodies service—locally and far beyond. Captured beautifully by photographer Brian Glantz of 1st Glantz Media, his story reminds us of the impact one life can have when led with purpose.
From the skies to the greens, we also bring you “A Life & Career in Golf,” a Q&A with Dylan Bartholomew, Head Golf Professional at Plantation Golf & Country Club. In it he tells us how his love of the game turned into a meaningful career, and how golf continues to give back to the community.
In “The Challenges of a Husband Caregiver,” elder law attorney Teresa K. Bowman shares a powerful story about one man’s emotional journey as his wife’s dementia progressed—and how legal guidance can offer both clarity and comfort.
If you're planning a Father’s Day meal or simply craving something special, don’t miss “Longet Returns with French Fusion.” This long hoped for reopening brings the beloved restaurant back to Venice with a fresh new space and globally inspired flavors, with more photos by Brian Glantz!
Then we turn to personal care with “Men’s Summer Skin & Beard Care,” featuring tips from Master Barber Dan Citta of The Parlor Barbershop. His no-fuss grooming advice is perfect for Father’s Day—and every day.
We hope you enjoy this issue and find inspiration in the stories of Venice’s gentlemen—men who lead with integrity, creativity, and heart.
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Charmaine Tincher | charmaine.tincher@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Emily Leinfuss | emily.leinfuss@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Leinfuss, Teresa K. Bowman, Emily Foster Interiors
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brian Glantz, 1st Glantz Media
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
inside the issue
VCL’s
Cessna F406.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: The Champs! Venice High’s Baseball Team, with Coaches Faulkner and Speer, celebrate their national title win in Cary, NC—great defense, clutch pitching, and Carter Cox’s game-winning hit sealed the 2025 NHSI Championship. Photography by Allen Speer
CASSATA LAKES
business monthly
ROUNDUP
Lindsey Watford Joins Sunshine State Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center
A highly experienced nurse practitioner, Lindsey Watford delivers exceptional care and personalized treatment plans for a wide range of dermatological conditions. She's also a skilled cosmetic injector and anti-aging laser specialist who's passionate about improving the health and appearance of her patients' skin. Schedule your new patient appointment today and experience the compassionate, expert care that Watford and the Sunshine State team are proud to provide. Call 941.282.3376 or visit sunshinestatederm.com to learn more.
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CPC Welcomes Police Chief Andrew Leisenring to Board of Directors
The Child Protection Center (CPC) proudly welcomes Venice Police Chief Andrew Leisenring to its Board of Directors. A law enforcement veteran and longtime advocate for child safety, Leisenring has worked closely with CPC throughout his career. “CPC empowers survivors to take back what offenders took from them,” he said. His deep commitment to CPC’s mission strengthens the organization’s efforts to prevent child abuse and support those affected by it. Learn more about the CPC at cpcsarasota.org.
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VNWC Donates $12,500 to Venice MainStreet Kids Programs
At a recent meeting of the Venice Nokomis Woman’s Club (VNWC), members were thrilled to present Kara Morgan, CEO of Venice MainStreet, with a check for $12,500 to support children’s programs at VMS. The funds were raised through VNWC’s 3rd annual Fashion Showcase. Founded in 1926, VNWC is one of Florida’s oldest nonprofit civic organizations and will celebrate its 100th Jubilee Anniversary on March 20, 2026. venice-nokomiswomansclub.org.
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A Life of
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
Venice City Lifestyle’s 2025 Remarkable Man of the Year & Agape Flight’s CEO Allen Speer lives a life of service to his family, community, and the world
Purpose!
Allen Speer might just be one of the most remarkable men you’ll ever meet—and that’s not just a figure of speech. He was recently named Venice City Lifestyle’s 2025 Remarkable Man of the Year, a well-earned honor for someone whose impact stretches from the heart of Venice to communities across the Caribbean and beyond.
Allen Speer is Agape Flight’s CEO and Venice City Lifestyle’s 2025 Remarkable Man!
(Photo by Brian Glantz, 1st Glantz Media).
Most in Venice know Speer as the CEO of Agape Flights, the local nonprofit Christian aviation ministry that delivers supplies, support, and spiritual encouragement to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and the Bahamas. But ask around, and you’ll hear other names, too. Coach Speer. Pastor Speer. Mentor. Friend.
A COACH, MENTOR, AND GUIDE—ON AND OFF THE FIELD
To the student-athletes at Venice High School, he’s Coach Speer, a “Character Coach” who teaches more than just sportsmanship. “I want these young men to be better citizens and better people,” he said. “We do community service projects together because it’s important to show them what it means to serve.”
Next month, more than 30 of those student-athletes will travel to the Dominican Republic with Venice High School’s Coach Falkner and Speer. In addition to playing in a baseball tournament, they’ll partner with
Score International Ministries, visiting orphanages and rural communities. “It’s about more than baseball. It’s about compassion and seeing how people live beyond your own experience.” Speer’s journey to this point started in Metropolis, Illinois—Superman’s actual hometown—where he grew up as the son of a local pastor (and occasional Superman impersonator, cape and all). “Metropolis was like Mayberry,” he says. “Small-town values, lots of church, and every sport imaginable.”
A LIFE MARKED BY FAITH, LOSS, AND RESILIENCE
Inspired by his father, Speer followed in his footsteps, earning a master’s degree in theology and serving churches throughout Illinois and Missouri. His life’s path has included moments of great joy and deep sorrow. In 2005, his wife passed away suddenly from a heart
Agape Flights CEO Allen Speer shares a quiet moment with a young child during a mission visit to Haiti.
As CEO, Speer is proud of the work Agape does–delivering lifesaving supplies to missionary partners throughout the Caribbean. (Photo by Brian Glantz, 1st Glantz Media).
“WE NEED MORE
AGAPE IN THIS WORLD,” SAID ALLEN SPEER, REFERRING TO GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.
“PEOPLE DON’T CARE HOW MUCH YOU KNOW UNTIL THEY KNOW HOW MUCH YOU LOVE THEM.”
attack, followed nine months later by the loss of his mother. He found himself a single father of three, navigating grief while trying to stay strong for his children.
Eventually, healing came in the form of a second chance at love. He met and married another pastor’s spouse who had lost her husband, and together they blended five children into one family. “It was hard. The first five years were the hardest of my life. But we did it—and now they’re just brothers and sisters.”
In 2010, Speer was approached by Agape Flights. “I wasn’t a pilot or a technician,” he says. “But the board told me, ‘We don’t need an aviator. We need a leader.’” After much prayer, he took the role—and hasn’t looked back.
FROM HAVANA TO VENICE, A MISSION OF LOVE TAKES FLIGHT
That decision brought him back to the Caribbean, a region that captured his heart as a child on his first mission trip to Jamaica with his father. His longest and most meaningful connection, however, has been with Cuba. Since 1992, Speer has worked with Cuban churches and pastors, built relationships, and even co-founded the National Evangelical Seminary in Havana.
He’s also had multiple meetings with Fidel Castro. “Our first meeting was supposed to be 15 minutes so I could give him a Bible and share the Gospel,” he recalls. “We talked for almost two hours—about the Yankees, about life, about God.” Over time, a surprising friendship formed. “I’d visit, and he’d invite me to his home. When he got sick, I was asked to pray with him.”
Even while battling his own health crisis—he was diagnosed in 2023 with liver cancer and placed on the transplant list—Speer has kept his focus outward. Then, suddenly, the tumors were gone. “The doctors
said they didn’t even leave a mark,” he said. “It was a miracle. And I believe it was the result of global prayer and God’s healing power.”
Speer and his wife fell in love with Venice when they moved here over a decade ago. Their youngest children graduated from Venice High, and their family quickly embraced the community. “This place is special. I tell people to put me on the poster for Venice. We love it here.”
Now a grandfather of six, Speer enjoys golfing a couple of times a week and taking his grandkids to Caspersen Beach to hunt for shark teeth. But his mission hasn’t changed.
“We need more AGAPE in this world,” he said, referring to God’s unconditional love. “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you love them. And love is shown more by action than words.”
In a world too often divided, Allen Speer reminds us—through every role he plays—what it means to lead with love.
Surrounded by smiles, Allen Speer visits with schoolchildren in Haiti, a reminder of the lives touched by Agape’s work.
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LONGET RETURNS WITH FRENCH FUSION
Venice welcomes back a beloved culinary gem with a new, modern inviting space and global flair
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GLANTZ, 1ST GLANTZ MEDIA
When Café Longet closed its doors in 2022, many Venice food lovers were heartbroken. Known for its artful French cuisine, charming atmosphere, and personal touches, the restaurant had built a loyal following, even being named one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America in 2021.
So when Chef Steve Longet, his wife Jessica, and their partners Kimon and Judy Dafoulas announced that the Longets had returned from France and that Longet was reopening on West Venice Avenue, the reaction was jubilant. “People here welcomed us back like family,” said Chef Steve.
The newly reimagined Longet, billed as offering “Fusion with a French Accent,” retains the soul of the original while expanding in style, scope, and flavor. Passion is evident in every detail—from the menu to the design to plans for future events.
New partners Kimon and Judy Dafoulas, longtime customers of the original Café Longet, are no strangers to the restaurant world. The couple owns eateries in Rhode Island and Connecticut and have called Venice home for two decades.
“We had talked about partnering before they moved back to France,” Judy explained. “But when Steve returned and said, ‘Are you still interested?’ we said 'yes' immediately. We trusted the quality of his food and his vision.” The four soon found a spot that
felt right in a former British pub on Venice Avenue. “We knew we wanted to be on the Avenue,” Judy said. “And we wanted to create something different.”
A FRESH LOOK, A FULL BAR, AND A NEW VIBE
To bring that vision to life, Judy enlisted Connecticut designer Kimberly Quigley. The goal? A clean, modern space that would stand out from Venice's more traditional styles. The result is a sleek, inviting setting that pairs beautifully with the elevated menu and full bar.
That bar—an upgrade from the original Café Longet—features specialty cocktails with both European and local flair including French Pearl, The Airmail, and the Venice Blush. There’s also a curated list of French and Greek wines and beers, with plans to introduce Greek dishes in the future.
Opposite Left Top: The partners of the new Longet (L-R): Kimon Dafoulas, Judy Dafoulas, Jessica Longet, and Chef Steve Longet.
Opposite Left Bottom: Chef Steve’s classic Scallops Risotto. Opposite RIght Bottom: Specialty cocktail French Pearl.
Above: Longet’s stylish new (full) bar blends contemporary design with inviting comfort, quickly becoming the go-to gathering spot.
DETAIL OF LONGET—FROM
“PASSION IS EVIDENT IN EVERY
THE MENU TO THE DESIGN TO PLANS FOR FUTURE EVENTS.”
Chef Steve still delights regulars with classics like Scallops Risotto, and his take on Beef Bourguignon using tender short ribs is magnifique. “At first, I didn’t want to do beef bourguignon,” he laughed. “But people love it so much. Using short ribs instead of traditional cuts makes it much more tender,” he said.
The start-up menu leaned on familiar favorites, both to please loyal guests and help the new kitchen team hit the ground running. “Now we’re slowly starting to add specials and evolve,” said Chef Steve. One of his current favorites? A Mediterranean salad with prosciutto, and stay tuned for a shrimp and feta appetizer inspired by Greek flavors.
Yes, the desserts are back too, including Steve’s handmade ice cream and sorbets. The vanilla, raspberry, and cocoa flavors come from a recipe he learned from an award-winning French ice cream maker.
DESIGNED FOR EVERYONE AT THE TABLE
Inclusivity was key. “You have to accommodate everyone,” Judy said. “Not every guest wants French fare, so we made sure to include vegan and gluten-free options.” Dishes like the Roasted Vegan Eggplant and Roasted Beet Salad ensure everyone feels at home—something that matters deeply to the team.
That welcome carries through to the experience. “In France, we say if a guest returns three times, they are a guest for life,” Chef Steve shared. “We want our guests to feel comfortable, enjoy good food, and come back again and again.”
The Longet's two daughters now attend Venice High, and the couple has embraced their life here. “We have friends in France, but we have more friends here now,” said Chef Steve.. “This is our family. This is our home.”
The proof is in the packed reservation book. “The entire month is already booked, and that’s a good sign. It shows us that people are happy we’re back,” he commented.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Plans include wine tastings this summer, pairing four-course dinners with French, Greek, and California wines. Outdoor seating is coming, and the menu will keep evolving.
But one thing won’t change: the warm, flavorful, and unforgettable experience that made Longet a favorite in the first place.
As Judy puts it: “The quality of Chef Steve’s food is just outstanding, like an explosion of flavors in your mouth. And the best part? People keep coming in just to say, 'thank you for coming back.'”
Left: Chef & co-owner of Longet, Steven Longet (with kitchen staff) is a true master of his craft.
Top: The Roasted Beet Salad is just one of the beloved vegan dishes at the restaurant.
Bottom: Chef Steve makes his own ice cream and sorbet!
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
A LIFE & CAREER in Golf
MEET DYLAN BARTHOLOMEW, HEAD GOLF PRO AT PLANTATION GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Venice City Lifestyle teed up a conversation with Dylan Bartholomew, Head Golf Professional at Plantation Golf & Country Club, to learn how he turned his passion into a career, and how Plantation supports its members and the community.
Q: Who or what first introduced you to the game?
A: My dad—and Tiger Woods. When I was old enough to understand what a phenomenon Tiger Woods was, my dad bought me a red Nike polo and black hat like Tiger’s, and we went to the range to hit balls. I was hooked.
Q: How did an injury lead to a career in golf?
A: I played baseball in high school until I tore my rotator cuff. I started playing golf during rehab and realized how much I enjoyed it. I was studying mechanical engineering in college, but spent summers working at my local club in Towanda, PA. When the head pro left, they asked me to take over for the summer—and I ended up staying for two years.
“What sets Plantation GCC apart is the staff. Hands down, we have some of the best people in the business.”
Dylan Bartholomew, Head Golf Professional at Plantation Golf & Country Club
Q: What sets Plantation GCC apart?
A: The staff—hands down. From top to bottom, inside and outside, we have some of the best people in the business. There’s also a great variety in programming. We have four active associations—from scratch players to high handicappers—and a mix of 18-hole and 9-hole leagues, including a couples twilight league. There’s something for everyone, and we make it fun.
Q: How do you adjust your teaching for kids versus adults?
A: For kids, I keep it fun and relaxed—maybe even throw in a water balloon break. It’s about developing motor skills and body awareness. With adults, I’ve learned not to overwhelm them. I focus on fundamentals—grip, posture, and video analysis—so they understand the “why” behind each movement. I send them home with simple drills to practice.
Q: What’s unique about the Bobcat and Panther courses?
A: On paper, Bobcat is longer and has a higher slope and rating. But Panther often plays tougher— it’s more cerebral. There are forced layups and tighter tee-shot windows. Both are scenic. Plantation is a sandhill crane habitat, and I’ve seen bobcats on the Panther course! Holes like 14 on both courses cut through woodlands, and you feel completely tucked away.
Q: Tell us about the charity events, like Tee It Up for the Troops.
A: That’s a nationwide event supporting veterans and their families. It’s one of those days where what we do truly matters. We also welcome local nonprofits to host charity scrambles. Golf’s a great way for people to have fun while giving back.
Q. What else should we know about you?
A: I am the person to contact if you or your child are interested in golf lessons or want to learn more about our programs. You can reach me here at Plantation Golf & Country Club through plantationgcc.com or call 941.497.1494.
Dylan Bartholomew takes a swing during The Concert Cup event.
THE CHALLENGES OF A HUSBAND CAREGIVER
ARTICLE BY TERESA K. BOWMAN
One of the difficulties of being an elder law attorney is seeing a husband or wife deal with the emotional and physical demands of caregiving for a spouse with dementia. The changes that happen are not changes they planned for, and the loss for what will never be is profound.
At first, it may be gentle reminders about simple tasks, like daily bathing, or they ask the same question repeatedly. But as their needs increase, caregiving becomes all-consuming. Life becomes an endless cycle of daily chores.
For the well spouse, isolation and loneliness can set in. Gone are the long conversations, the planning of vacations. Sometimes, they can’t even leave the house to shop or attend medical appointments. As the illness progresses, difficult behaviors, such as wandering, can emerge, adding more emotional burnout as the caregiver becomes a 24-hour safety net.
It’s important to ask for help before burnout sets in, but in my experience, male caregivers are less likely to ask—and more likely to burn out or become ill themselves. Many only find their way to my office when things become unbearable. While I can’t ease the pain of losing the person they love, I can help in other ways.
I want to share the story of Scott, a recent client facing caregiver stress and loneliness.
Scott’s beautiful wife of 37 years had been diagnosed with dementia, and he had become her full-time caregiver. He knew he needed help but didn’t know what that meant.
We explored care options and tackled the paperwork. “Love doesn’t end when memory fades,” he said. “But the paperwork sure gets a lot more complicated.”
“It’s not just her memory that’s disappearing,” he told me. “It’s our routines, our laughter, our shared language. I’m grieving losing the life we built together in slow motion.”
Dementia is often called “the long goodbye” because it can progress very slowly. As Scott put it, “No one prepares you for the moment your wife becomes a legal responsibility instead of a partner.”
This kind of isolation goes deeper than physical. “We used to make choices together,” he said. “Now I sign documents alone, always wondering if I’m doing the right thing.”
As we talked, I helped him make decisions that would keep both of them safe and cared for. “I was so focused on her that I stopped thinking about me,” he admitted—a common pattern among caregivers. Scott needed a path forward.
We explored care options and tackled the paperwork. “Love doesn’t end when memory fades,” he said. “But the paperwork sure gets a lot more complicated.”
One of the first things we did was establish legal power of attorney. “That one document changed everything,” Scott said. “It meant I could handle her care without jumping through hoops or fighting red tape.”
When I first met him, Scott described his life as drowning in the details: insurance, long-term care costs, legal terms he didn’t understand. He later told me I became the “life raft he didn’t know he needed.”
“It wasn’t just legal advice you gave,” he said. “It was emotional support. You understood what I was going through and reminded me: If I don’t stay emotionally and financially stable, I can’t take care of my wife.”
As an elder law attorney, I help husbands like Scott find solutions. “I thought hiring an elder law attorney was just about paperwork,” he said. “But what I really got was peace of mind— and someone in my corner when I felt completely alone.”
Scott’s wife is now in an excellent memory care facility. He visits her daily, sleeps better knowing she’s safe, and is finding his way forward as her husband, friend, and advocate. And that’s a role he’s now more prepared for—legally and emotionally.
Teresa Bowman Esq. is the founder of the estate planning and elder law firm of Teresa K Bowman P.A. serving clients across Manatee and Sarasota Counties. She is certified in Elder Law by the American Bar Assn.-approved National Elder Law Foundation (NELF). Reach her at tkbowmanpa.com
ARTICLE BY EMILY LEINFUSS
MEN’S SUMMER SKIN & Beard Care
Master Barber Dan Citta Shares Everyday Grooming Tips Perfect for Father’s Day
Licensed Master Barber Dan Citta, owner of The Parlor Barbershop on Miami Avenue in Venice, believes one of life’s basic principles, for grooming or otherwise, is simple: take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
The 20-year barbering veteran credits his philosophy on men’s grooming to his father. “My dad taught me the importance of being a presentable young man. That starts with basic hygiene—cleanliness, self-pride, and self-care,” said Citta.
His own skincare routine is low maintenance but high quality. At night, he uses Cetaphil Fragrance-Free Daily Facial Cleanser followed by a budget-friendly Vitamin E cream moisturizer. In the morning, he pairs the cleanser with Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion to protect his skin during the day.
When it comes to beard care, Citta doesn’t cut corners. The Parlor Barbershop uses premium oils and balms from Chattanooga Beard Company (chattanoogabeard.co—note the ".co" not ".com"). “After cleansing and grooming, applying beard oil or balm helps moisturize the skin underneath while conditioning the beard itself,” Citta explained.
Chattanooga Beard Co. recently released its popular oil and balm products in a new summer scent. Called Mirage, it contains notes of teakwood, lime, and coconut, and is sure to be a seasonal favorite.
In addition to Citta, The Parlor Barbershop is home to five highly skilled barbers known for their precision and attention to detail. Beyond haircuts, the shop offers beard trims, straight razor shaves, and a full range of services designed to elevate the grooming experience. Learn more at theparlorvenice.com.
Mirage Beard Oil and Beard Balm from Chattanooga Beard Company.
A close shave with 'the works' is available at The Parlor Barbershop in Venice.
GIVE YOUR MAN
A Look at The Man Cave
ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS
Ok ladies, for those of you that live with your man and are not too keen on his collection of deer heads or affinity for all things Chicago Blackhawks, then let me help you create his very own man cave, that you and he can be proud of.
CONTINUED >
HIS SPACE
With how a man cave is usually done in mind, there are plenty of ways to make this hideaway both agreeable and full of style. I always start with what is most important to your man and 9 out of 10 times it is comfortable seating. So, with that in mind, I start with smart seating. Do we need a sectional? Can we get away with a cool reclining chair? Do we need Barstools? Comfortable, durable, and stylish seating is my jumping-off point.
COMFORTABLE SEATING
THE RIGHT TELEVISION
Next, of course, there will need to be a TV for gaming and/or sports watching. Try and get him the size he wants, if it can work in space and not be too obnoxious (ladies, you’ll thank me later) because this is all men truly care about. He gets his big TV, then you have more of an opportunity to get what you want in the rest of the house. It’s a win-win.
EXPRESSIVE DECOR
Lastly, without getting too “theme-y,” I organize what he loves and treasures into a gallery wall. I recently did one wall of really cool wallpaper for a husband that was a huge Star Wars fan. It was a black and white Star Wars print that gave this aficionado a fun way to bring his subject matter and style together.
No matter who you are or what you like, I believe every person needs a space where he or she can relax, breathe and be joyful in. Man Caves are no exception.
JUNE 4TH-JULY 30TH
Kick Off: Kids Summer Beach Runs
North Brohard Park, Venice | 5:30 PM
This one-mile fun run is a great way for kids and their families to stay active together. Held Wednesdays 6/4-7/30. Registration is at 5:30 p.m. and runs start at 6:30 p.m. All kids receive a participation ribbon and those who complete four runs receive a free T-shirt, a kid’s meal coupon for Gecko’s and a kids New Balance shoes coupon. sarasotacountyparks.com.
JUNE 4TH
Business Connections: Grand Living at Wellen Park
Grand Living Wellen Park, 19985 Market Way, Venice | 4:30 PM
Come build up your network with like-minded business professionals at this Venice Area Chamber of Commerce event hosted by Grand Living at Wellen Park. Leverage the Chamber's network to build your business while enjoying some food and drinks! Pre-registration is mandatory, no walk-ins. Info and registration: business.venicechamber.com/events/details/business-connections-grandliving-at-wellen-park-june-4-2025-8839
JUNE 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, & 26TH
Master Gardeners' Clinic at
Jacaranda Library
Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library Conference Room | 1:30 PM
Get your plant and landscaping questions answered by Sarasota County Extension Services Master Gardeners on Thursday afternoons from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library. Whether you're curious about a mystery plant or need tips on garden care, these experts are here to help. Plus, explore additional resources online at edis.ifas.ufl.edu/.
JUNE 13TH
Friday Night Concert in The Park: Jonny Puma
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 27 concert features Jane Bond. visitvenicefl.org/venice-mainstreet-events
JUNE 14TH-15TH
32nd Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival
Miami Avenue, Downtown Venice | 10:00 AM
Some of the nation’s best crafters converge along Downtown Venice’s Miami Avenue from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for the 32nd Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival. Peruse artisan booths featuring stained glass, photography, personalized products for children and dogs, and more! Stroll the Green Market for plants, handmade soaps, tangy BBQ sauces, and live orchids. visitvenicefl. org/annual-community-events/
JUNE 27TH-JULY 17TH
Venice Art Center Exhibition: Point of View
The Venice Art Center | 9:00 AM
The Venice Art Center's “Point of View” exhibition in the Pat Buster Main Gallery showcases submitted pieces from members of the VAC, as well as non-members. Opening reception is June 27, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. 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
