Looking for something to do? Community events, classes, shopping… we’ve rounded up a little bit of everything happening nearby. Take a scroll, there’s bound to be something fun with your name on it!
Fellowship Church, founded in 2002 and led by Pastor Garry Clark, will break ground on Sunday, August 10 after the 10:30am service, on a 10,000-square-foot Youth Wing at its Rotonda West campus. The new addition marks a major expansion for the church, which has served the Englewood community for over two decades. After initially holding services at Lemon Bay High School for 12 years, Fellowship Church moved into its permanent Worship Center in 2015. The facility was built debt-free on 15 acres and continues to be a hub for faith and community engagement. The upcoming Youth Wing will feature classrooms, nurseries, a multi-purpose event room for youth worship, and an outdoor prayer garden. The project, expected to take 12 to 18 months, will also be completed without incurring debt. Following the 10:30am service on groundbreaking day, the church will host a free celebration luncheon. The public is invited to attend and can reserve a spot by calling 941•475•7447. Fellowship Church is known for its dedication to youth, with many members working in local schools and through its annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza and Trunk or Treat. To learn more visit fellowshipenglewood.com. Pictured is an artist’s rendering of the prayer garden.
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.
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.
Boca Grande Parking Hearing August 5
If you love visiting Boca Grande’s beaches, paddling spots, or charming downtown, your voice is urgently needed at the Lee County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, August 5 at 9:30am at 2120 Main Street, Fort Myers. Arrive by 8am to get a seat and a speaking card. A proposed ordinance could severely limit public street parking across much of the island, impacting beach access, paddling drop-offs, and local businesses while increasing pressure on overcrowded state parks. Even if you choose not to speak, your presence will help show strong community opposition to the proposed ordinance. To learn more and view the ordinance breakdown, visit SUPEnglewood.com.
The House That Beer Built: A 3 Bridges Brewing Fundraiser
Raise a glass for a great cause on Tuesday, August 5, at 3 Bridges Brewing, 215 Nokomis Avenue S, Venice, for “The House That Beer Built”, a special fundraising event benefiting Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County. The evening kicks off with a relaxed island-inspired happy hour from 5:30 to 7pm, featuring two complimentary drinks and live music, followed by a four-course beer pairing dinner from 7 to 8:30pm. Guests will also enjoy a small auction, including an exclusive Brew Day experience for six, and a 50/50 raffle. Tropical casual attire is encouraged. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple and seating is limited. Come enjoy craft beer, delicious food, and support affordable housing. Visit HabitatSouthSarasota.org for ticket information.
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.
Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has announced the 2025 “Off the Page” literary celebration, set for November with a series of author events, writing workshops, and community gatherings. Internationally acclaimed author Amy Tan will headline the series, speaking about her new memoir, “The Backyard Bird Chronicles”, at 7pm on Friday, November 7, at Riverview High School Performing Arts Center. The celebration begins Saturday, November 1 with a writer’s conference at Selby Library featuring publishing professionals and faculty from Ringling College of Art and Design. Other highlights include Pulitzer Prize winner Jack E. Davis on Thursday, November 6, children’s author Ben Clanton on Saturday, November 8, and science writer Sam Kean on Monday, November 10. Additional appearances include Robert K. Wittman on November 12, Chris Bohjalian on November 15, Janet and Alex Evanovich on November 19, and Fiona Davis on November 20. Events are scheduled across Sarasota County’s libraries. “Off the Page” includes hands-on activities, book signings, and literary experiences for all ages. A full calendar of events is available at OffThePageFL.org. Pictured is author Amy Tan.
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.
Hurricane Preparedness Talk with Sarasota Emergency Management
Join E.J. Landrith, Operations Manager for the Sarasota County Emergency Management Division, on Thursday, August 7 from 10:30 to 11:30am at Elsie Quirk Library, 200 West Dearborn Street, for a conversation on how to get ready before disaster strikes. With hurricane season running from June 1 through November 30, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to stay safe. Seating is limited to fifty and registration is preferred. To learn more or register, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket or call 941•861•1110.
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. To learn more visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110.
File Management Basics Workshop at Elsie Quirk Library
Learn how to manage your digital files with confidence at the File Management Basics Workshop on Tuesday, August 12, 10:30am to noon, at Elsie Quirk Library, 200 West Dearborn Street. Designed for adults and seniors with some computer experience, this hands-on class covers flash drives, drives, and cloud-based storage using the Windows operating system. Registration is required and limited to 20 participants, with one name per registration. Sign up before registration closes at 10am the day of the event by visiting scgovlibrary.librarymarket or calling 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.
Cardmaking with Debbie Papp at Elsie Quirk Library
Discover your creative side with cardmaker Debbie Papp on Thursday, August 14 from 10:30am to noon at Elsie Quirk Library, 200 West Dearborn Street. This adult arts and crafts workshop will guide participants in designing summer-themed collages and using an embossing machine to add beautiful texture to handmade cards. Registration is required and limited to 12 participants; one name per registration. Doors close promptly at 10:30am and late arrivals may forfeit their spot. Sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library. To register, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket or call 941•861•1110.
Englewood Fishing Club Gathers for August Forum
The Englewood Fishing Club meets at 6:30pm on Thursday, August 14 at the Rotonda Community Center, 646 Rotonda Circle in Rotonda West. This month’s gathering features an open forum where members can swap stories, tips, and techniques for landing quality catches. Visitors are welcome to join in the discussion. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to local food pantries. For more information, visit EnglewoodFishingClub.net or check out the Englewood Fishing Club (EFC) Facebook Group.
Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, is hosting its annual Tiki Fest on Saturday, August 2 from noon to 6pm. This celebration of island culture features authentic music, dancing, and tropical fun throughout the day, with live performances across multiple village locations including Polynesian dances, steel drums by Dave Lapio, and beachy vocals from Sheldon Upchurch. Enjoy food, art, engaging activities, and a chance to join the dancing during audience participation segments. Admission and parking are free. To learn more call 941•621•6046 or visit FishermensVillage.com.
Gator Wilderness Camp School Hosts Annual Banquet Fundraiser
Join Gator Wilderness Camp School on Thursday, August 14, 6pm, for an evening of community and good food at their annual Banquet Fundraiser. Appetizers will be served from 6 to 6:30pm, followed by the banquet meal beginning at 6:30pm. Held at the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda, this special event raises vital support for the camp’s mission of mentoring boys through wilderness-based experiences. Guests will enjoy a full banquet meal, appetizers, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction featuring handcrafted items made by campers, and live performances by the boys themselves. A highlight of the evening? Bacon-on-a-stick, a Gator Camp favorite! Tickets must be purchased in advance: $55 per individual and $400 to sponsor a table of 8. This fundraiser provides an opportunity to directly support the transformative work being done with young men at Gator Camp, and to meet the people who bring the mission to life every day. Learn more at GatorWildernessCamp.com. For tickets or sponsorship, contact Melissa Bergey at 941•639•7722 or 336•577•9039 or MBergey@gatorcamp.org.
Quirky Readers Book Club at Elsie Quirk Library
Discover new reads and meet fellow book lovers at the Quirky Readers Book Club on Tuesday, August 19 from 10:30 to 11:30am at Elsie Quirk Library, 200 West Dearborn Street. This month’s selection is “Playground” by Richard Powers (2024), a compelling story about four intersecting lives on the island of Makatea in French Polynesia, where a vote on futuristic floating cities could reshape humanity’s future. Adults and seniors are welcome to join the discussion. For more information, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket or call 941•861•1110.
Third Wednesday Book Club at Englewood Charlotte Library
Join the Third Wednesday Book Club for an engaging discussion of “The Book Club Hotel” by Sarah Morgan on Wednesday, August 20 from 5 to 6pm at Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 North Access Road. This month’s featured novel explores the lives of four women whose unexpected connections at the charming Maple Sugar Inn spark transformation and new beginnings. Participants are encouraged to read the book in advance and come ready to discuss its themes of friendship, loss, and renewal. Attendees must secure their own copy of the book. For more information, call 941•681•3936.
Annual Book Sale at Elsie Quirk Library Bookstore
Start your Christmas shopping early at the Elsie Quirk Friends of the Library Bookstore, where the annual book sale runs from August 1 to September 6. All books priced at $2 and up will be half-price during this limited-time sale. The bookstore, located inside Elsie Quirk Library at 100 W. Dearborn Street is open daily from 11am to 2pm. Browse a wide selection and stock up on great reads while supporting your local library. For more information, call 941•861•1216.
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.
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.
Health in MotionBus Is ComingTo Town: 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.
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 30 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 Monday, September 1. To learn more or register for events, visit EnglewoodChamber.com/Pioneer.
New Online Tool Coming Soon to Help Residents Understand Flood Risk
The Charlotte County Community Development Department is preparing to launch a new online platform that will make floodplain information more accessible and easier to understand. Starting August 1, the public will be able to use Forerunner, a digital tool designed to help users better understand their flood risk, navigate compliance requirements, and make more informed decisions when it comes to flood preparedness. The platform will provide property-specific flood information, including FEMA flood zone designations, base flood elevations, and access to existing elevation certificates. Residents will also be able to submit digitally signed certificates and contact floodplain coordinators through the platform. Forerunner will go live on August 1 and will be available at CharlotteCountyFL.gov/flood. Video tutorials and additional resources will also be made available to help users navigate the system. The new platform is designed for a wide audience, including homeowners, business owners, insurance agents, and Realtors, and aims to make compliance and decision-making easier. Forerunner also supports ongoing efforts to improve Charlotte County’s Community Rating System score, which can help reduce flood insurance premiums for residents. For more information, contact Kellie Stewart at Kellie.Stewart@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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 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.
Exciting news for users of The Legacy Trail: On July 21, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) celebrated a major milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly completed bike and pedestrian bridges for The Legacy Trail. This achievement marks a significant step forward in improving safety and connectivity for our community. Thanks to this project, trail users now benefit from two newly constructed overpasses at Bee Ridge Road and Clark Road, which enhance access and ensure safer crossings along this vital recreational corridor. With more than 650,000 users annually, the trail continues to transform Sarasota County by providing scenic routes, recreational opportunities, and a healthier way of life.
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.
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
Blood Drive at Heritage Oaks of Englewood
Roll up your sleeve and help save lives at the upcoming blood drive on Friday, August 8 from 10am to 4pm at Heritage Oaks of Englewood, 7374 San Casa Drive. All donors will receive a $25 eGift Card, a Top Handle Drinkware, a free scoop of ice cream from Made in the Shade, a wellness checkup, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening. Appointments are encouraged. Visit oneblood.org/donate-now and use sponsor code 77123 to reserve your spot. Photo ID is required. For more information, visit oneblood.org.
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.
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.
Note: Event listings are published as accurately as possible. We recommend contacting the numbers provided to confirm details or request further information. To submit an event for consideration in “Around the Town,” please send details and/or a photo to The Englewood REVIEW, 370 W Dearborn St, Suite B, Englewood, FL 34223, or email us at info@englewoodreview.com. And visit our interactive calendar, where you are invited to add your event.
