Get Up, Get Out, and Get Active All July Long!
Charlotte County Community Services invites residents of all ages to join the nationwide celebration of Park and Recreation Month this July. This year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” highlights the essential work of park and recreation professionals who keep our outdoor spaces safe, vibrant, and welcoming. Throughout the month, Charlotte County will spotlight a different park or recreational activity each day through an engaging and family-friendly July Activity Calendar. From nature walks and fitness opportunities to family fun and arts programming, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. On Saturday, July 19, Charlotte County is offering free admission to the Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Pool. To explore the full calendar and plan your July adventures, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov/CommunityServices.
Gulf Coast Mineral Fossil and Gem Club Meeting
The Gulf Coast Mineral Fossil and Gem Club meets Monday, July 21, 6:30 to 7:30pm, at 780 Firenze Avenue East, Venice, for their monthly meeting. This organization’s goal is to promote, educate, and instruct in the many fields of earth sciences, fossil and mineral specimen collecting, and jewelry design. Everyone is welcome. To learn more, visit GulfCoastGeo.com.
Sarasota County Hosts Veteran Job Fair July 24
In honor of National Hire a Veteran Day, the Sarasota County Government will host a special Veteran-focused job fair on Thursday, July 24 from 10am to 3pm at the Sarasota County Administration Building, 1660 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota. The event begins with a Veteran-exclusive recruiting hour from 10 to 11am, followed by general admission from 11am to 3pm. Hiring managers from multiple departments and the Sarasota County Human Resources team will be available to speak with, screen, and interview qualified candidates for a range of public service positions. Veterans are encouraged to bring their resumes and be prepared for on-site interviews. To learn more, visit scgov.net/jobs.
Celebrate Christmas in July with Clyde and Niki Butcher
Celebrate Christmas in July with Clyde & Niki Butcher at the Venice Gallery & Studio, 237 Warfield Avenue, Venice, on Thursday, July 24, 4 to 7pm. Meet Clyde & Niki Butcher in person and enjoy exclusive summer specials on art and books. This event is free and open to the public. RSVP to be automatically entered into a raffle for a chance to win a prize. Must be present to win. At the Venice Gallery & Studio, you’ll see how Clyde and Niki bring their artistic vision to life, from capturing the landscape to printing and framing the final masterpiece. Visit ClydeButcher.com to RSVP.
Heels, Humor, and Heart: “Hunks in Heels” Lights Up Englewood for a Cause
Get ready for a night of high heels and high energy as local “Hunks” strut their stuff for a good cause! Spread Spencer’s Sparkle: Hunks in Heels returns Friday, July 26, 5:30 to 9pm, with a full evening of lip-sync battles, laughter, and unforgettable entertainment. Watch Englewood’s finest put their best foot forward, literally donning heels in a playful nod to empathy and community spirit. Held at the Englewood Elks Lodge, 401 N. Indiana Avenue, tickets start at $85 and include a silent auction, a dinner buffet and dessert bar. All the proceeds support Spread Spencer’s Sparkle scholarships and community outreach. For tickets and more information visit SpreadSpencersSparkle.com.
Estate-Planning Seminars
Christine Hause, Vice President and Senior Wealth Strategist, and Kerry Hunter, Wealth Strategist, have scheduled free estate-planning seminars during the month of July at Crews Bank & Trust locations. “Last Will and Testament, Durable Power of Attorney, and Health Care Directives” will be offered on Tuesday, July 29, 10 to 11:30am at the Englewood Chamber, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. “Wills vs. Trusts: Which Is Best for You?” is offered on Wednesday, July 30, 10 to 11:30am, at Englewood Chamber, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. “Top 10 Tips from a Trust Officer’s Perspective” is offered on Thursday, July 31, 10 to 11:30am at the Englewood Chamber, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. Registration is available at any Crews Bank & Trust office, online at crews.bank, or call Linda at 941•624•1943. All sessions are free. No registration required.
Quirky Mahjong!
Join Elsie Quirk Library, 100 West Dearborn Street, on Tuesday, July 29, 10:30am to 12:30pm, for a fun and social session of Quirky Mahjong!, the classic tile-based game of strategy and chance. This program is open to adults and seniors and welcomes all skill levels. Registration is required and limited to 16 players. One name per registration. Interested in helping teach new players? Contact Leah Holst at lholst@scgov.net. Register at scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110.
Summer Sizzler Sale
The Friends of the Englewood Charlotte Library are sponsoring a sale of 2024 to 2025 hardcover fiction books and bestselling authors for $3 each through July 31, in the bookstore at Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 N. Access Road. To learn more, call 941•681•3779.
Memory Café
Join a welcoming space for connection, conversation, and fun during Memory Café on Friday, August 1 from 10:30 to 11:30am at the Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 North Access Road. This program is designed for individuals experiencing early memory or cognitive changes and their caregivers, but all are welcome. Enjoy light activities, games, and meaningful conversation in a supportive environment. For more information, visit charlottecountyfl.gov/libraries or call 941•681•3736.
Dearborn Summer Market
Join local makers, artists, and vendors at the Dearborn Summer Art Market on Saturday, August 2 & Saturday, September 6, noon to 8pm, at Sea Star Cove, 353 W. Dearborn Street, for a day of creativity and community. Come with a friend, explore booths, and enjoy some coastal summer celebration. Come support local artists and enjoy some time under the sun!
Café Socrates
Engage in thoughtful conversation at Café Socrates on Saturday, August 2 from 2 to 3:30pm at Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 N. Access Road. Facilitated by Frank Vorlicek, this discussion group welcomes adults of all backgrounds to share philosophical perspectives shaped by lived experience. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 941•681•3736.
HCA Florida Englewood Hospital and HCA Florida Wellen Park Emergency are collecting school supplies through July 31 to help local students prepare for the upcoming school year. Community members are invited to donate new, traditional school supplies for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Collection stations are open from 7am to 6pm daily and are located at HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, 700 Medical Drive and at HCA Florida Wellen Park Emergency, 7070 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. Suggested donation items include backpacks, composition notebooks, crayons, markers, folders, binders, glue sticks, notebook paper, pens, pencils, rulers and scissors. Donated supplies will be distributed to students of healthcare workers in need as well as Kids Needs, a local nonprofit organization operated entirely by volunteers. For more information about HCA Florida Englewood Hospital and its community initiatives, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
Family and Friends CPR Program
The Punta Gorda Charlotte Library will host a Family and Friends CPR program taught by the Punta Gorda Fire Department on Tuesday, August 5, 5:30 to 7pm. This hands-on session is designed to build confidence in response to sudden cardiac arrest. While this free class does not provide certification, you’ll leave with a free informational booklet from Shorepoint Health and the knowledge to make a difference when seconds count. Registration is required. Visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov/libraries or call 941•833•5460.
Café Philo
Curious minds are invited to join Café Philo, a discussion group that explores life’s larger questions through open, thoughtful conversation, on Wednesday, August 6, 3 to 4:30pm, at Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 North Access Road. Meet fellow seekers in an informal setting where curiosity, reflection, and respectful dialogue are at the heart of every meeting. For more information, call 941•681•3736.
Read to a Therapy Dog
Looking for a pawsitive way to relax and enjoy a good book? Join the Suncoast Humane Society’s certified pet therapy dogs for a reading session at Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice, on Thursday, August 7 from 10:30am to noon. Designed especially for adults and seniors, this unique program offers a soothing and joyful environment where you can read aloud to gentle, furry friends. It’s a great way to de-stress, boost reading enjoyment, and share your love of books with a loyal listener. No registration required, just drop in! To learn more visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110.
Health in Motion
Take charge of your wellness at Elsie Quirk Library, 100 West Dearborn Street, on Tuesday, August 12 from noon to 4pm, with a visit from the Sarasota County Health in Motion Bus. Staff from the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County will be on-site in the library’s front lobby to provide no-cost health screenings and referrals. Nursing professionals will also assist uninsured individuals in connecting with long-term care through the Community Health Centers of Sarasota County. No appointments necessary. Open to teens, adults, seniors, and all ages interested in learning more about their general health and available community wellness resources. For more information, call 941•861•1110.
Free Writing Workshop for Adults
Calling all aspiring writers! Join multi-published children’s author and English teacher Cynthia Fabian for a free ‘Writing Workshop for Adults’ on Tuesday, August 12 from 5 to 7pm at Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Boulevard, North Port. Attendees can participate in person or virtually via Zoom, and the session will be recorded for those who can’t make it live. This workshop offers valuable insights into the writing process and a supportive space for adults to explore their voice and creativity. Register by calling 941•218•0289. For more information, visit CynthiaFabianBooks.com.
Life on the Edge
Discover the limits of life and the future of space exploration at “Life on the Edge,” a new interactive exhibition at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, from now through August 31. Visitors of all ages are invited to step into the shoes of planetary scientists to explore some of Earth’s most extreme habitats and uncover what they reveal about potential life beyond our world. Through hands-on displays, guests can code a rover, examine microbes under a video microscope, explore realistic hydrothermal vents, and simulate the detection of distant exoplanets. Produced by Sciencenter in partnership with NASA and SPIF, this imaginative and educational exhibit offers a glimpse into the hidden corners of Earth. The Bishop Museum is located at 201 10th Street West, Bradenton. For hours and admission, visit BishopScience.org or call 941•746•4131.
Laser Light Nights Return to The Bishop
Light Nights are lighting up the planetarium dome at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th Street West, Bradenton, this summer with mind-blowing visuals and pulse-pounding soundtracks! Experience the King of Pop, rock legends Queen and The Rolling Stones, and groove to Motown Medleys and the cosmic sounds of David Bowie. Shows are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7pm and 9pm through August 30. Tickets are $15. For a full lineup and tickets, visit BishopScience.org.
Resin Art Classes with Sheryl
Dive into the world of Resin Art with local artist Sheryl, at Sheryl’s Shell Shop, 1185 S. McCall Road, offering fun and inspiring classes for ages 5 and up! Classes are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 9am or 12:45pm based on availability. Classes are $45 and last about one hour. The registration fee includes a frame, all the sparkling “fillers” (to create ocean waves, beachscapes, and more), and free tiny local shells. Feel free to bring your own small shells in a sandwich-sized bag. Projects must cure overnight, so just pick up your wrapped artwork the next day, ready to take home. To register or learn more, call 941•830•0901.
Light Up Lemon Bay: Englewood’s 2025 Fourth of July festivities featured a spectacular fireworks display launched from Buchans Landing at the end of Dearborn Street. The event, organized by the Lemon Bay Sunrise Rotary Club, included a free community gathering at Pioneer Plaza with live music and food trucks, culminating in fireworks visible across Lemon Bay. Thanks to John Fredricks for this fantastic photo.
Cultural Crafts
Calling all quilters! Join fellow sewing enthusiasts for Cultural Crafts, a shared indoor quilting experience held on the first and third Thursday of each month from 9:30am to 12:30pm at Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center. Open to all backgrounds and skill levels, this welcoming group offers a chance to learn, connect, and stitch alongside others who share a passion for quilting and cultural creativity. To register, email Nathalie at ndsmith@scgov.net. For questions, call 941•861•PARK.
Crafty Ladies of GCUMC
The Crafty Ladies of Gulf Cove United Methodist Church are open to the public. Their hand-crafted items are available in Oaks Cove, the small building behind the church, from 10am to noon every Thursday (except holidays). Gulf Cove UMC is located at 1100 S. McCall Road in the Gulf Cove area of Port Charlotte. The church can be reached at 941•697•1747 or GulfCoveUMC@gmail.com.
Sunday Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty Sunday Breakfast open to the public every Sunday from 8:30 to 11am at the Fraternal Order of Eagles #3885, 250 Old Englewood Road. All are welcome! Breakfast is $12. For more information, call 941•474•9802.
Update on Pioneer Days
Organizing is underway for this year’s Pioneer Days on Labor Day Weekend, running Saturday, August 23 to Monday, September 1. This year’s theme is “Englewood’s History.” Registrations are now open to participate in the parade, pageants, cardboard boat races or take part in the festivities in Pioneer Plaza on September 1. To learn more or register for events, visit EnglewoodChamber.com/Pioneer.
Charlotte County Self-Service Sandbag Stations
As part of its ongoing hurricane preparedness efforts, Charlotte County Public Works is currently providing free sand and sandbags to residents. The self-service stations will be open daily from dawn to dusk, and residents are asked to bring their own shovels and be prepared to fill and transport up to 10 sandbags per household. Sandbag station location is 6874 San Casa Drive. Note: Sandbags are best suited for areas expecting less than 15 inches of flooding from rain or tides. They are not effective against storm surge or wave action from hurricanes. For more tips on hurricane preparation and flooding safety, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Sarasota County Self-Service Sandbag Stations
To help residents prepare for the 2025 hurricane season, Sarasota County is launching free, voluntary self-service sandbag stations on select dates this summer. These stations provide an opportunity for residents to protect their homes and property from potential storm impacts. Sand and empty bags will be available at South County Fleet, 4571 SR 776/Englewood Road, Venice, 9am to 5pm on July 19, and August 10. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these early opportunities, in addition to the county’s traditional storm-activated sandbag operations. Participants must fill and load their own sandbags and are advised to bring their own shovels and gloves. A limited number of shovels will be available on-site. Each vehicle will receive ten empty sandbags. For more information about Sarasota County’s hurricane preparedness programs, visit scgov.net.
Ivy’s On Dearborn to Close August 31
Ivy’s on Dearborn Women’s Boutique will be closing August 31. Their online store will remain open until all stock has been sold. Any outstanding gift cards can be used online and in store until closing. Sales will be happening throughout the months of July and August. For questions please email ivysondearborn@gmail.com or call 941•474•7435.
Buck Creek Bridge on C.R. 775 (Placida Road) Daily Lane Closure
The Buck Creek Bridge on County Road 775 (Placida Road) will have daily lane closures from 7am to 6pm, Monday, July 14, until Tuesday, September 2, for bridge rehabilitation work by Thomas Marine Construction. Travelers are directed to lane changes with signage and should allow extra time when planning to travel through this area. The Public Works Department reminds motorists to remain alert at all times and to exercise caution when traveling in the vicinity of construction zones.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Sea turtle nesting season runs from now through October 31 in Charlotte County. Each year, loggerhead, green, and a few Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles come to our beaches to lay their eggs. Stakes, flagging and signs marking the nest location can be seen up and down the shoreline. Charlotte County Parks and Natural Resources advises beach patrons to give the nests some space when setting up on the beach, fill in any holes and knock down sandcastles when you leave. If you’re on the beach at night, do not use flashlights or cell phone lights as they can deter nesting or confuse hatchlings returning to the water. For information, contact Alexandria Grant, Environmental Specialist at 941•613•3218 or Alexandria.Grant@charlottecountyfl.gov.
Sharing & Caring
Aura Boutique Collecting School Supplies
Aura Boutique, 1825 Englewood Road, will be collecting for the Kids Needs Wish List through Thursday, July 31. The wish list includes sneakers for boys and girls, boys’ and girls’ underwear, and either no-show, lowcut, or crew socks in black or white. Bring in any item from the wish list and enter to win an Aura boutique gift card at the end of the month drawing. To learn more, call 941•473•2555.
Help Build Homes with Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County has four homes currently under construction and two more breaking ground this summer and your help can make the difference. Whether you’re handy with tools or simply willing to lend a hand, volunteers of all skill levels are welcome. From plumbing and electrical work, to framing, windows, and general construction, there’s something for everyone. On-site training is provided. Volunteer opportunities include: plumbing, electrical, framing, windows, and general construction. Join a community of passionate volunteers, learn new skills, meet incredible people, and walk away knowing you made a real impact in helping a family move one step closer to home. To get involved or learn more, contact Engagement and Communications Director Abby at adrumgool@habitatsouthsarasota.org.
Closet of Hope Temporarily Closed
The Closet of Hope at Gulf Cove United Methodist Church will be undergoing repairs during the month of July, from the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. Free clothing will not be available during this time, nor will donations be accepted. The reopening of the Closet will be announced as soon as repairs are complete sometime in August. For additional information call 941•697•1747.
Englewood Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed
Would you like to give to your community in a meaningful way? Englewood Meals on Wheels needs help in the office. Daily managers are in the office from 10am to 1:30pm. They are looking for a substitute or fill-in on one day every other week. Daily managers are the voice of Englewood Meals on Wheels, they are the first contact a new client has, and they are the one who clients reach out to with questions. This position interacts with the kitchen crew, drivers and clients. It is a great way to make a difference in people’s lives. Please call 941•474•4445.
Volunteers Needed for All Faiths Food Bank
Volunteers urgently needed for All Faiths Food Bank outdoor grocery distributions in North Port, Englewood and Arcadia. Volunteers work three-hour shifts and water and tents for shade are provided. Sign up at AllFaithsFoodBank.org/volunteer or call 941•549•8156.
Sports
Celebrate National Pickleball Day at Tringali Park Recreation Center
Registration for the National Pickleball Day celebration at Tringali Park Recreation Center is open. The event will take place from 9am to 5pm, Friday, August 8, and will offer open play courts for all skill levels, prizes, giveaways and light refreshments. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, everyone is welcome. The cost is $5 per person. Registration is required. Sign up online at CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3742, or stop by the Tringali Park Recreation Center located at 2460 N. Access Road to register in person.
Evening Water Aerobics
Make a splash this summer with Evening Water Aerobics for adults, running Mondays, now through July 28 at Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Pool. This low-impact, full-body aqua fitness class offers a fun and refreshing way to wind down your day. Classes take place on Mondays from 6 to 7pm and are open to adults 18 and up. Drop-in fee is just $3 or save with a punch pass: 10 for $27 or 20 for $54. Please note this program is not included with general facility memberships. For details, contact the pool at 941•681•3743.
Aqua Zumba
Shake up your workout routine with Aqua Zumba, every Sunday from now through August 27 from 10:30 to 11:30am at the Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Pool, 6961 San Casa Drive. Designed for adults 18 and older, this Latin-inspired dance workout takes place in the shallow end, offering a high-energy, low-impact fitness party perfect for all levels. Get your heart pumping with music, movement, and water resistance that’s as fun as it is effective. For more info, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3742.
Family Lap Swim
Make fitness a family affair with Lap Swim at the Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Pool, 6961 San Casa Drive. Swimmers of all ages can build endurance, practice strokes, or simply enjoy some quality pool time together all year round. Available weekdays from 6:30am to 7:30pm, Saturdays from 7:30am to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 7pm. Fees are $3 per adult, $2 per child (under 17), and free for kids under 2. Entry is also included with pool membership ($60 for 6 months or $100 per year, before tax), which covers both lap and recreational swim. For more details, call 941•681•3742 or visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Morning Water Aerobics
Make a splash in your fitness routine with Morning Water Aerobics at Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Pool, 6961 San Casa Drive. Designed for adults, this low-impact, high-energy workout is easy on the joints while boosting heart health and muscle tone. Classes run Monday through Saturday from 9 to 10am year-round. Drop-in fee is $3 or save with punch passes (10 classes for $27 or 20 for $54). Please note: this class is not included in the general facility membership. For more information, call 941•681•3742 or visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
The items appearing in this column are as accurate as possible. Please call the listed numbers for confirmation and further information. If you have an upcoming event you would like to have considered for “Around the Town” please send info and/or photo to The Englewood REVIEW, 370 W Dearborn St, Suite B, Englewood, FL 34223, or email: info@englewoodreview.com.
