Around The Town

Memory Café
On Friday, October 4, 10:30 – 11:30am, Englewood Charlotte Public Library will hold Memory Café. This program is for people with new or developing memory or cognitive issues and their caregivers to share in conversation, activities, and games, but is open to anyone seeking to connect with others in a safe space. 3450 N Access Rd. For info call 941•681•3736.

Important Voting Info
The 2024 General Election is Tuesday, November 5th. Here’s what you need to know for Charlotte and Sarasota County voters. To register to vote, the registration deadline is Monday, October 7th. You can go directly to registertovoteflorida.gov for both Sarasota and Charlotte Counties or register through your county’s board of election website. For voters who wish to vote-by-mail, the ballot request must be made by Thursday, October 24 at 5pm. Ballots are non-forwardable, so your address must be on file where you will be to receive your ballot. Early in-person voting takes place Monday, October 21st through Sunday, November 3rd. Early in-person voting locations and hours can be found on your county board of election website. You can find links for voter registration, voter status, vote-by-mail requests, information update, early in-person voting locations and election day voting locations, and more on your county board of elections website. For Sarasota County residents, go to sarasotavotes.gov or call 941•861•8600. For Charlotte County residents, go to soecharlottecountyfl.gov or call 941•833•5400.

K9s for Warriors Benefit
Come out to support a great organization, K9s for Warriors, that has a high success rate of preventing Veteran suicides on Saturday, October 5 starting at 1pm at The Barn, 11832 Xavier Avenue, Port Charlotte. Enjoy finger-licking good barbecue with fixings. Listen to live music by local artists. There will also be raffles, 50/50 and an auction. Your hosts are Lee and Terry Hargis. Pairing up a service dog with a Veteran can help the Veteran regain their independence. Learn more about this organization at k9forwarriors.org.

Oktoberfest 2024
Oktoberfest comes to Pioneer Plaza on Saturday, October 5, 11:30am to 6:30pm. The Rotary Club of Englewood Sunset invites you to join them for some German-style fun. There will be craft beers, stein hoisting, live music and German food. Free admission. You can learn more on the club’s Facebook page. Pioneer Plaza is located at 325 W. Dearborn Street.

Englewood Beach Yoga Is Back
Englewood Beach Yoga by Loving Light Yoga will resume its 8:30am daily morning sessions when they are able. October’s Sunset Yoga with Crystal Bowls will be Thursday, October l7, 6:30 to 7:30am. Watch their facebook page for updates

Cruisin’ on Dearborn
“Cruisin on Dearborn”, a gathering of people and their classic cars, is still the place to be on the first Saturday of the month from noon to 6pm. Anyone with a classic car or a love of cars is invited to this free event. Saturday, October 5th is the next Cruise-In. Enjoy music to cruise by and music trivia sponsored by the Old Englewood Village Association. Don’t forget to visit the businesses that are open for your shopping pleasure and stop by the broadcast booth to get your raffle tickets for prizes.

Halloween Haunted Trails
The spooktacular Halloween Haunted Trails will be at Cedar Point Environmental Park on Saturday nights during October. This fundraiser event features spooky guided haunted trails, food trucks, keynote speakers, live animals, crafts, costume competition and more. The decorated haunted trails will be accessible to a younger crowd from 6 to 7pm, and then from 7 to 9pm, “scare-ers” will be hidden along the trail to make for a truly spooky event. Early bird admission fee will be $5 per person; and $8 per person at the door. Children under six are free. Tickets may be purchased at checflorida.org/halloween-at-cedar-point. For questions, call 941•475•0769. Nicole Williams is dressed as a monster as part of the scary fun at a previous year’s event.

Rummage Sale
St. Vincent DePaul will hold its monthly Rummage Sale on Saturday, October 5, 8 to 11am, at the corner of 25200 Airport Road & Taylor Road, Punta Gorda. Shop for household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys. No pets, please. Credit cards accepted. Rain date is Saturday, October 12th. For more information, call 941•575•0767.

Plant Sale & EdFest
The 18th annual UF/IFAS Master Gardener Volunteers of Sarasota County Plant Sale & EdFest will be Saturday, October 5, 8:30am to 3pm at the county extension office located in Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota. Hundreds of plants will be for sale. Take advantage of free gardening advice, and get a peek at all that Sarasota County Extension has to offer. Learn more at sarasota.ifas.ufl.edu/plantsale or call 941•861•5000.

Englewood Fire Dept. Open House
Join Englewood Fire Department for its annual Open House on Saturday, October 5, 10am to 1pm at the Englewood Fire Training Center, 13400 Haligan Way. Meet the firefighters, tour the fire engines, and learn about the equipment used to fight fires. Also offered will be ladder truck rides, a smoke room, fire hose spraying, hands-only CPR training, a bounce house, refreshments, and free helmet fitting & giveaways from Suncoast Safe Kids Coalition. Peace River K-9 Search & Rescue will be there with their animals. At 11am, watch how quickly a small fire can spread and the benefits of a home sprinkler system in the fire sprinkler burn trailer. At noon, learn how water works to coat surfaces during a fire attack. This year’s campaign, “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You”, will educate you about the importance of working smoke alarms. For questions, call 941•474•3311.

Venice Home Show
If home improvement is something on your mind, take time to visit the Venice Home Show on Saturday & Sunday, October 5 & 6 at the Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Avenue South, Venice. Browse wall-to-wall displays and exhibits of the latest trends in home improvement and speak with experts for advice. Show hours are Saturday, 10am to 5pm, and Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Free admission. For more information, visit venicehomeshow.com.

Clash of Steel
Attend a free program on historical European sword fighting on Saturday, October 5, 11am to noon at the North Port Library, 13800 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Learn about the history of sword fighting in the Renaissance period, see a demonstration of techniques taken from historical manuscripts and find out how this art has been revived into a martial sport. This program is presented by the Steel Ring Academy, a European Martial Arts school with a primary focus on German longsword fighting in the KDF tradition. Registration is required at scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com/event or call 941•861•1110.

Blessing of the Pets
Bring your furry, feathered or finned friends to the Blessing of the Pets on Sunday, October 6, 4pm, to Community Presbyterian Church, 405 S. McCall Road. There will also be a pet parade and photo opportunity. Water & treats will be available for people & their pets. Children without pets may bring a stuffed animal. Photos of deceased pets will be displayed. To RSVP with animal type & size, call 941•474•9579 or email [email protected]. Please make sure your pet is suitably caged or leashed.

Vegetable Growing Workshop
A backyard vegetable growing workshop will be held from 9:30am to noon on Tuesday, October 8 at Centennial Park, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte. This program is conducted by UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County and its Master Gardener volunteers. It will cover the basics of vegetable gardening and pests. The focus is on practical information that can be put to use immediately in the homeowner’s backyard. Cost is $6.24 to cover materials. To register, go to bvg108.eventbrite.com. For questions, call 941•764•4344. 

Demonstration Garden Tour
Charlotte County Master Gardener Volunteers will lead a demonstration garden tour on Tuesday, October 8, 9 to 10am at the demonstration garden located at 25550 Harbor View Road, Port Charlotte. You will see what plants are suited for this area and examples of butterfly gardens, raised bed vegetable gardening, grape vines, tropical fruit garden, as well as palms, native plants, ornamental trees and ground covers. Register at mgdemogarden.eventbrite.com.

Social Sewing
Come by Englewood Charlotte Public Library on Tuesday, October 8, from 1 – 3pm, and use their sewing machines and hang out with friendly folks. 3450 N Access Rd. For info call 941•681•3736.

Health in Motion Bus
The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County Health in Motion staff will be at Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, on Tuesday, October 8, noon to 4pm. You can receive no-cost health screenings and referrals for general health & wellness. Nursing staff will help find a medical home for those with no insurance. No appointments necessary. The bus will be in the parking lot. For more information, call 941•861•2873. 

Climate Vulnerability Assessment Meeting
Charlotte County invites the public to provide input into a forward-looking study effort identifying and defining potential climate vulnerabilities of county assets at 5pm, Tuesday, October 8 at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. The county is beginning work on a study to assess the risks and impacts to Charlotte County from existing and future climate conditions. This state-funded vulnerability assessment will use data to understand how changing environmental conditions could increase local flooding, especially from the impacts of stronger and more frequent extreme storms. The study is planned for completion in spring 2025, and community engagement and input is being actively sought. Come learn about this assessment process and bring your questions and insights. For more information, email Brandon at [email protected].

A Halloween Tradition
Selby Gardens’ annual Halloween show, “Lights at Spooky Point”, is set for Wednesday, October 9 through Thursday, October 31 at Historic Spanish Point, 401 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey. The campus is transformed into “Spooky Point” where you can follow an eerily lit path and encounter fantastic creations and “bootanically”-themed decorations along the way. This walk-through show is fun for all ages. There are two entry times nightly at 6:30pm and 7:45pm. Advance registration is encouraged to ensure entry availability at selby.ticketapp.org/portal/pages/events. Adult tickets are $34, child ages 5 to 17 $19, and child ages 4 & under free. For questions, call 941•366•5731.

HalloWeeding!
In Halloween-themed classes, get the skills you need to manage invasive plants in your landscape and cap it all with a creepy party on October 10, 18, and 24 from Noon to 1pm at Shamrock Park and Nature Center, Venice. Free. To register or for more information go to eventbrite.com/cc/3583029.

Wellen Park Night Market
Downtown Wellen Park Night Market is back with 50 independent artists, vendors and live music. The Night Market will operate on the second Thursday of each month from 6 to 9pm, set up along Wellen Park Blvd., Venice. The September market is on Thursday, October 10. Vendors will offer jewelry, boutique fashion, bottle art, wood designs, and other arts and crafts. Food items include rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare. Find additional information at wellenpark.com/events/night-market.

Explore Venice Island by Bike
Monthly bike rides are back! Join Venice City Bicycle Pedestrian Coordinator Darlene Culpepper at 10am on the second Thursday of the month at City Hall for a 6-mile bike ride around Venice Island. The next ride is Thursday, October 10. Bring your bicycle and a helmet, and meet in the west parking lot at City Hall, 401 W. Venice Avenue, Venice. RSVP by emailing Darlene at [email protected].

The Cultural Heritage Center of SW Florida & Fishermen’s Village present the sixth annual International Culture Fest on Saturday, October 12, noon to 6pm, at the Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Attendees are invited to wear traditional attire representing their cultural heritage and join the “Parade of Nations” at noon. Immerse yourself in the celebration of cultures from around the world. Artisan vendors will showcase handmade crafts, accessories, and educational displays from noon to 6pm. Feast on cuisine representing the rich flavors of Asia, South American and the Islands. Cultural dance performances and live music will be on stage from 1 to 6pm. Free admission & parking. Visit fishermensvillage.com to learn more. Pictured are costumed performers from a previous Culture Fest.

Community Day
Stop by Englewood Ford on Saturday, October 12, 9am to 2pm for Community Day. Take the wheel to test drive a vehicle and Englewood Ford will donate $20 to Lemon Bay High School football. Also at the event will be health screenings by Englewood Lions Club, blood drive with Suncoast Blood Center, adoption event by Suncoast Humane Society, visit with Englewood Fire Department, and food trucks will be on site. Don’t miss this free event at Englewood Ford, 1908 S. McCall Road. For questions, call 941•475•5444.

Fall Vendor & Craft Fair
Local Ladies Social Network will present a Fall Vendor & Craft Fair on Saturday, October 12, 10am to 3pm, at the Englewood Elks, 401 N. Indiana Avenue. The fair will feature art, crafts, artisans, local vendors, food trucks & more. There will also be a Pet Costume Contest with prizes for the top three at noon. Free admission & parking. For more information, visit llsnevents.com or email Christy at [email protected].

Hunsader Pumpkin Festival
The 33rd annual Pumpkin Festival at Hunsader Farms offers pumpkins, hayrides, scarecrow displays, live shows & music, craft show, Pioneer Trades Village, corn maze, petting zoo, train rides, face painting, and food galore. This year’s dates are Saturdays & Sundays, October 12 & 13, 19 & 20, and 26 & 27, 9am to 5pm. Admission is $15 and parking $5 (children ages 10 & under free). Cash only for admission/parking. Some activities and food purchases are an additional charge. Hunsader Farms is located at 5500 County Road 675 in Bradenton and can be reached at 941•322•2168.

Family Field Day
Charlotte County Community Services will host a REC2U Family Field Day at Harbour Heights Park on Saturday, October 12, 9am to noon. The event will feature traditional field games, including relay races, sack race, tug of war, a bounce house, face painting, a portable splash pad, crafts and more. Admission is free. Harbour Heights Park is located at 27420 Voyageur Drive, Punta Gorda. For questions, contact Marc Solomon at 941•764•4199.

Blessing of the Animals
Fandango Sanctuary is holding a Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, October 13, 1 to 3pm, at the Sanctuary located at 616 Pinto Trail (in Englewood Farm Acres off South River Road). Bring your well-behaved dog, cat or other animal family member for a blessing by Reverend Sarah. This event is free but donations for the Sanctuary are welcome. For more information, call 941•468•0334. Learn more about Fandango Sanctuary, a foster home for donkeys who need a new home as well as other farm animals, at fandangosanctuary.org.

CRA Advisory Board Meeting
The September meeting for the Sarasota County Englewood Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Advisory Board will be Monday, October 14 at 1pm, in the Lemon Bay Park meeting room, 570 Bay Park Blvd. The public is welcome to attend. For more information and agenda, visit scgov.net/government/planning-and-development or contact the Englewood CRA at 941•473•9795 or email [email protected].

Make Your Own Bonsai
Learn how to make a bonsai tree in a class on Monday, October 14, 1 to 2:30pm at the Dearborn Coffeehouse & Bakery, 450 W. Dearborn Street. Lou’s Bonsai will teach you the techniques & secrets behind creating your very own miniature masterpiece during this fun experience. You will take home the bonsai tree you create. Your $45 ticket includes a free beverage, tools & supplies to create your bonsai, gloves, pot, and one uncut bonsai plant. Registration opens Friday, September 20 at eventbrite.com/e/bonsai-lesson-at-the-dearborn-coffeehouse. Learn more about Lou’s Bonsai at lousbonsai.com.

Coffee & Conservation
SUP Englewood is proud to introduce a new monthly series, “Coffee & Conservation”, at the Englewood Chamber of Commerce, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. This series will bring together community members, eco-tour providers, and local business owners to learn about preserving these beloved coastal ecosystems. The first event in the series on Tuesday, October 15, 9 to 10:30am, will feature Dr. Beth Brady, a leader in manatee conservation and an expert on manatee vocalization. She will also explain how eco-tour providers and local businesses can get involved through programs like the Guardian Guide Program. A Q&A session will follow. Refreshments provided by The Dearborn Coffeehouse & Bakery (Joe Maxx). All are welcome. RSVP now at fareharbor.com/embeds/book.supenglewood. For more information visit supenglewood.com or call 941•265•9795.

Englewood CHAT Meeting
The next meeting of the Englewood CHAT team will be Tuesday, October 15, 10:30 to 11:30am, at the Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. The CHAT (Community Health Action Team) is an initiative by the Sarasota County Department of Health to identify and develop solutions to community health issues to improve the life quality of Englewood residents. The public is encouraged to attend and offer input. For meeting agenda and more information, contact Andre McClerklin at the Sarasota County Dept. of Health: 941•861•2974.

SWFL Honor Flight Wants Welcome Home Greeters
Community members are encouraged to come to the Punta Gorda Airport on Tuesday, October 15th when Southwest Florida Honor Flight returns home after taking its latest group of veterans on a day trip to Washington D.C. to visit “their” war memorials and other special places in the capital. So many of this country’s veterans did not receive a warm reception when they returned home after serving, and Honor Flight wants to give them the Welcome Home they never received. Expected arrival time at the Punta Gorda airport (28000 A-1 Airport Road, Punta Gorda) is approximately 8:50pm and everyone is welcome and encouraged to come a little early to greet the veterans when they land. Dress patriotically, wave Welcome Home signs & banners, and be prepared to applaud loudly for these heroes. For more information, visit swflhonorflight.org/flight. If you or a loved one is a veteran and would like to learn more about these flights which are at no cost to the veteran, you will find information on the website (preference is given to WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and terminally ill veterans from all wars). You can also call 563•723•1503 or email [email protected].

Chef Warren

 

Cooking Demonstration: Cooking For Two
Chef Warren Caterson is back with more cooking tips and ideas for great dishes on Wednesday, October 16, 2 to 3pm at Tringali Community Center, 3460 N. Access Road. His presentation topic is “Cooking for Two: Weeknights”. The program is free and seating is first come, first seated. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Englewood Charlotte Library. Learn more about Chef Warren at chefwarrencaterson.com.

Cooking Demonstration
On Wednesday, October 16, from 2 – 3pm, Chef Warren will present cooking tips and a demonstration on how to cook healthy and affordable meals for all tastes at the Tringali Community Center, 3460 N. Access Rd. For more info call 941•681•3736.

Haunted Tales of SW Florida
Join author Christopher Balazano as he presents haunted Southwest Florida folklore tales from Naples to Sarasota on Thursday, October 17, 6 to 7pm, at the Port Charlotte Library, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte. Registration is required at charlottecountyfl.libcal.com or call 941•764•5562.

Imagine a Day Without Water
Charlotte County joins elected officials, educators, community leaders and businesses across the country for the tenth annual Imagine a Day Without Water, a national day of action to raise awareness of the true value of water & the importance of investing in water infrastructure on Thursday, October 17th. The county will offer a tour of the Burnt Store Water Treatment & Reclamation Facility, 17430 Burnt Store Road in Punta Gorda from 10am to noon. This tour will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process of providing water and wastewater treatment to the community. You must reserve a spot on the tour by emailing [email protected] or call 941•764•4304.

Halloween Notte
Get ready for spine-chilling adventure on a haunted hayride, tour the haunted house and haunted toyland, play games, visit the pumpkin patch, ride a mechanical bull, and more when Halloween Notte returns to the Charlotte County Fairgrounds (2333 El Jobean Road, Pt. Charlotte) in October. The dates are Friday-Sunday, October 18-20; Fri-Sun, October 25-27; and Thursday, October 31. Hours are Friday & Saturday, 6 to 11pm, Sundays 6 to 10pm, and 6 to 10pm on Halloween. Admission only tickets are $5 and include free parking but do not include entry to the Haunted Toyland, Haunted Hayride or live entertainment shows. For other pricing and packages, go to halloweennotte.com.

LBWC Book Sale
The Lemon Bay Woman’s Club (LBWC) is holding a Book Sale on Saturday, October 19, 9am to 2pm, at the clubhouse located at 51 N. Maple Street. Book sale proceeds will be donated to Englewood Elementary School’s Reading Recovery Program. Local author Ray Hazel will be there with his new book, “Cocaine Cowboys”, and be available for book signings. Brad Ault is offering antique appraisals. Learn more about this club at lemonbaywomansclub.com or on Facebook.

Tringali Fall Festival
Artistic Endeavors Non-Profit Fall Festival will be at Tringali Recreation Center on Saturday, October 19, 11am to 3pm. All ages welcome – wear your costume or come as you are. Free admission. There will be games, prizes, hair tinsel, snacks and more. Funds raised will be used to support local youth in the arts. Learn more about the Artistic Endeavors Fall Festival at Tringali Facebook page. For questions, DM through Facebook.

K of C Pasta Night
Mark your calendars to enjoy a meal out on Saturday, October 19, 5 to 7pm, when the St. Raphael’s Church’s Knights of Columbus hold their first Pasta Night of the season at the church, 770 Kilbourne Avenue. Advance tickets may be purchased for $13 at the church office. $15 at the door. Take-out available. There will be a 50/50 raffle opportunity, too. For questions, call the church office at 941•474•9595.

San Pedro Octoberfest
San Pedro Catholic Church invites you to Octoberfest for live music, great food, fun and games for kids and for all the family on Friday, October 18, 5-9pm and Saturday, October 19, 11am-9pm. They will be hosting the area’s top talent – “The Boogiemen”, “Suncoast Swing Band”, “The Flashbacks”, and “American Made Band” to name a few. There will be Oktoberfest food favorites along with cornhole, trivia, Day-at-the-Races, kid’s games, rock climbing, raffles, giveaways, and so much more! Sponsorships are available. Proceeds will support the Reason for Our Hope Campaign. For more info, go to sanpedrocc.org or email events@sanpedrocc. San Pedro Catholic Church is located at 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port.

Sun Fiesta
The Women’s Sertoma Club of Venice presents the Sun Fiesta on Friday-Sunday, October 18-20 at Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Avenue, Venice. Events and activities include bed race, classic cars, crafts, live music, food and beer & wine tents. Free admission. Hours: Friday 5-9:30pm; Saturday 9am to 9pm; Sunday 10am to 5:30pm. For info go to visitvenicefl.org

Ready to Rock Out?
“Rockadelic” will perform at the North Port’s Concert in the Park on Friday, October 18, 6:30-8pm, at City Center Front Green, 4970 City Hall Blvd., North Port. “Rockadelic” is a high-energy, female-led classic rock band from Naples who cover iconic hits from artists such as Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Blondie, Duran Duran, the Beatles, Eagles, and more. Enjoy an evening of music and dancing at this free concert. Bring your own seating. Seating opens one hour before the concert. Food trucks on site. For more info, visit northportfl.gov/event.

Taste of North Port Festival
Local Ladies Social Network, Inc. presents the fourth annual Taste of North Port Food & Fall Festival on Saturday, October 19, 10am to 3pm, at City Hall Center Green, 4970 City Hall Blvd., North Port. This event will feature local vendors, crafts, artisans, food trucks, and more. A children’s costume parade and contest will be at 1pm. Free admission. For more information, visit llsnevents.com or email [email protected].

Fall Festival Carnival
Florida Penguin Production presents Sarasota’s Fall Festival & Carnival on Saturday & Sunday, October 19 & 20, 11am to 6pm, at the Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota. There will be a kids’ zone, costume contests, community performances, free giveaways, Trunk or Treat on Sunday, pet costume contest, food trucks, and carnival rides by Dreamland Amusements. Admission is free. Cost for carnival rides and food purchases. For questions, call 727•674•1464.

Arcadia Fall Rodeo
The 11th annual Arcadia Fall Rodeo will be Saturday & Sunday, October 19 & 20 at Mosaic Arena, 2450 NE Roan Street in Arcadia. The event promises two days of action-packed rodeo fun, including bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding and more, plus it’s family-friendly. Saturday event schedule: 3pm gates open. 5pm pre-show. 6pm rodeo action begins. Sunday event schedule: 11am gates open. 1pm pre-show. 2pm rodeo action begins. Tickets are $35 to $65 per day and may be purchased at arcadiarodeo.com. For questions, call 800•749•7653.

Legacy Lane History Series
Learn about this area’s history at a new series offered at the Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 N. Access Road. “Legacy Lane: A Neighborhood History Series” starts Monday, October 21, 11am to 1pm, and the first program will focus on Cape Haze, East Englewood and Rotonda. Expert local historian Dr. Jennifer Zoebelein will illuminate key events, landmarks, and stores that have shaped this area’s surroundings. The program is free and seating is first come, first seated. For questions, call 941•681•3736.

Legacy Lane:
A Neighborhood History Series at the Englewood Charlotte Public Library Monday, October 21, from11am – 1pm. Expert local historian, Dr. Jennifer Zoebelein, will illuminate key events, landmarks, and stories that have shaped our surroundings over the centuries. 3450 N. Access Rd. For info call 941•681•3736.

From Cuba to America
On Saturday, October 12 at 1pm, the Friends of the Englewood Charlotte Library will welcome author Mory Carballo in the meeting room within the library located at 3450 N. Access Road. Mory will be speaking about her book, “Born Again in America”, and will be available to sign copies. This is a memoir of her personal journey from Cuba to America in search of the American Dream. Registration is not necessary for this free presentation. For questions, call 941•681•3736.

Englewood – Explore, Experience, Enjoy
Celebrate the spooky season with histories and mysteries on Tuesday, October 22, 7-8pm at Historic Green Street Church, 510 S Indiana Ave., Englewood. Join us for an evening exploring the histories and mysteries of some of Florida’s oldest cemeteries. This event is in partnership with the Lemon Bay Historical Society. Refreshments provided. No reservations required. 

RWWC Blood Drive
The GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club will be sponsoring a OneBlood Drive to be held on Tuesday, October 22, 9am until 3pm. The OneBlood Bus will be at the marina parking lot across from the Rotonda Golf & Country Club-The Hills Course, 100 Rotonda Circle, Rotonda West. Please sign up to donate at OneBlood.org or you may contact Ellen at 917•579•7770. 

Holistic Healing Support
Are you dealing with cancer or other disease? Do you need encouragement and hope? If so, you will want to attend a free Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, October 22, noon to 1pm at EPIC Community Resource Center, 655 N. Indiana Avenue. Kathy Gilkey, a trained group leader for Healing Strong, will speak about the tools and knowledge needed to rebuild and restore your body. You can register at bit.ly/3SUSUhu. For questions, call 941•460•6022.

Halloween Party with Laurentz
You won’t want to miss the Spooktacular Halloween Party with DJ Laurentz Vogel on Wednesday, October 23, 12:30-3:30pm, at the Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 S. River Road. Come prepared to have a good time by participating in the costume contest, lots of dancing, door prizes, 50/50, and bring a dish to the potluck lunch. Tickets are $15 per person and $25 per couple. Tickets are on sale until Wednesday, October 16th and are non-refundable. You can pay through Venmo@Laurentz-Vogel or Zelle: Laurentz Vogel, 941•237•8983. You can also pay at one of Laurentz’s fitness classes. Website: eventswithlaurentz.com.

Domestic Violence Awareness Luncheon
Save the date for the Domestic Violence Awareness Month Luncheon with C.A.R.E. on Wednesday, October 23, noon at Isles Yacht Club, 1780 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. Tickets will be available at the door. $20 donation appreciated. To RSVP, call 941•639•5499 or email [email protected]. Learn more about C.A.R.E. (Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies) at carefl.org.

Wine Tasting Party
Magnolia’s on the Bay will host a Wine Tasting Party on Wednesday, October 23, 5 to 8:30pm. Your $100 ticket includes local vendors sampling out their wines, and handcrafted appetizers by the chefs at Magnolia’s. To register, go to eventbrite.com/e/wine-dine-at-magnolias. Magnolia’s on the Bay is located at 2395 N. Beach Road. For questions, call 941•460•8219.

Owls in October
Join Englewood Charlotte Public Library for a captivating afternoon of owl exploration and education with the chance to meet some owls! Saturday, October 26, from 11am – 12:30pm at the Englewood Charlotte Public Library. Registration required. 3450 N. Access Rd. For info call 941•681•3736.

Patty Wagstaff

 

Florida International Air Show
The countdown is on! Experience the thrill of aviation at the Florida International Air Show at the Punta Gorda airport on Saturday & Sunday, November 2 & 3. This is your chance to witness jaw-dropping performances, precision maneuvers, and non-stop excitement in the sky! Gates open at 9am and the show begins at noon both days. Featured headliner is the F-16 Viper Demo Team. Also scheduled: the legendary P-51 Mustang; the Chuters Jump Team; crowd favorite Patty Wagstaff, who is pictured above; Warbird Thunder; Franklins Flying Circus; and Randy W. Ball & the MIG F-17. New this year will be the Family Aviation Experience. General Admission tickets start at just $45 for adults and $15 for kids ages 2-12! Get your tickets at floridairshow.com. The Punta Gorda Airport is located at 28000 A-6 Airport Road in Punta Gorda.

Air Show
The countdown to the Florida International Air Show on Saturday & Sunday, November 2 & 3 at the Punta Gorda Airport has begun. This year’s performers include the F-16 Viper Demo Team; Patty Wagstaff Aerobatics; Randy Ball & the MIG 17F; The Chuters Skydiving Team; Warbird Thunder; Franklin Flying Circus; and the P-51 Mustang. On the ground will be aircraft displays and family activities. Gates open at 9am both days. A wide variety of ticket prices to meet your needs is available at floridaairshow.com. Air show volunteers are needed. Learn more at floridaairshow.volunteerlocal.com. 

Shred-it Event
All Veterans – All Families Cremations will be hosting a Shred-it event from 9am to 1pm on November 9 at 693 Old Englewood Rd. Suite B (next to LabCorp). Bring your sensitive documents and securely dispose of them. 

Pasta Bar for a Cure
The tenth annual Pasta Bar for a Cure of AT (Ataxia Telangiectasia) will be Saturday, November 9, 5 to 9pm, at 348 W. Dearborn Street. Enjoy a night under the stars at Wobbly Feet Foundation’s signature event. Enjoy an Italian feast at the Pasta Bar, savor the flavors of Tuscany from Rumours Wine Bar, and finish your meal with homemade limoncello. Tropical Ave Band will provide the music. Bid on exciting auction items and try your luck at the wine toss. Tickets are $125 with sponsorships available. Go to app.galabid.com/pb4at10 for ticket purchase. Learn more about the Wobbly Feet Foundation at wobblyfeetfoundation.com.

“Elevating Women’s Voices”
Women’s Resource Center (WRC) has launched a new series of videos starting with one that encourages more women to run for public office. The 35-minute segment includes interviews with female office holders State Representative Fiona McFarland and Bradenton City Council Representative Lisa Gonzalez Moore, as well as former Sarasota County School Board candidate Dawnyelle Singleton. These local leaders share their perspectives about why they chose to run for office, the obstacles and joys of their decision and their passion for encouraging more women to enter the political arena. They also explore how women typically work towards finding common ground and are natural consensus builders and, therefore, have innate skills for these important positions. Engaging women in the civic process is a key goal of WRC’s Elevating Women’s Voices initiative. The nonprofit aims to empower women to use their own voices: by voting, by increasing their civic engagement, and by taking on leaderships roles. To view the Women in Government video segment, go to: mywrc.org/womeninpolitics. To learn more about WRC’s Elevating Women’s Voices campaign, including resources on running for office, visit www.mywrc.org/empoweredadvocacy/ or call 941-256-9721.

Damage from Hurricane Debby and/or Helene?
FEMA is available to help those who survived damage from Hurricane Debby. Both Sarasota and Charlotte Counties have been declared eligible for assistance. To learn more about whether you qualify for a grant or other assistance, call FEMA Disaster Assistance at 800•621•3362 or visit disasterassistance.gov.

Celebrities & Heroes Softball Game
Get ready for a star-studded day of fun, softball and music. Tickets are now on sale for the Celebrities and Heroes Softball Game and Concert on Saturday, November 16th at CoolToday Park, 18800 S. West Villages Pkwy., Venice. Gates open at 2:30pm. The game starts at 4pm. The Atlanta Braves are teaming up with the United Way of South Sarasota County to benefit local heroes and their families. Each team will include local active-duty military personnel, veterans and first responders along with some celebrity players. Post-game will be a concert featuring country music sensation Joe Nichols and special guest Jackson Dean. General admission tickets are $55 and include parking, softball general admission seating and concert. VIP tickets are available for $180. Learn more and purchase tickets at celebritiesandheroes.com.

Seeking Book Donations
The Friends of the Englewood Charlotte Library are seeking donations of “gently used” fictional hardcover books to be sold in the bookstore within the library, 3450 N. Access Road. Monies generated from such sales support Friends’ scholarship fund awarding yearly $2,000 scholarships to two Lemon Bay High School graduates. Donations can be brought to the library bookstore Monday thru Friday, 10am to 4pm, and Saturdays, 10am to 1pm. 

Sharing & Caring

Operation Christmas Child
Pope Insurance is once again a local collection point for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child, a project that allows individuals to send a gift-filled shoebox for a deserving child overseas at Christmas, along with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. How can you participate? First, stop by Pope Insurance, 701 S. Indiana Avenue, during business hours (Monday-Friday, 9am to 5pm) and pick up an empty shoebox. Shop for boys or girls in one of three age ranges: two to four years old, five to nine, or ten to fourteen. Pack the shoebox full of fun toys, personal care items, school supplies, and one “wow” item. You can include a personal note or family photo. Donate $10 per shoebox to cover shipping costs online. Drop off the filled shoebox at Pope Insurance by Thursday, October 31st.Visit the samaritanspurse.org website for more information, suggestions, or to donate your $10. For questions, call 941•475•6766.

Community Blood Drives
The OneBlood “Big Red Bus” has the following blood drives in Englewood. Incentives are offered to donors: during October, donors will receive a $20 egift card (or Bealls gift card at Bealls blood drive events) and a Halloween T-shirt. Schedule your appointment at the OneBlood website, oneblood.org. Please note that blood drives are subject to change at any time. Saturday, October 5, 10am to 4pm: Walmart, 2931 S. McCall Road. Tuesday, October 8, 2 to 3:30pm: Bealls Home Centric, 1500 Placida Road. Wednesday, October 16, 10am to 4pm: Key Agency, 1201 S. McCall Road. Sunday, October 20, 10:30am to 4:30pm: Bealls Home Centric, 1500 Placida Road. Wednesday, October 23, 8am to 2:30pm: Rotary Club of Englewood, 2400 S. McCall Road. 

Grocery Benefit Tickets Available
Dollars For Mammograms is pleased to announce its 23rd Annual Grocery Benefit, sponsored by Key Agency Insurance and Just Counters & Other Stuff. Take a chance, support a great cause, and you may be a lucky winner of $350 worth of groceries. Three $350 grocery gift cards will be given away in a drawing on Monday, December 9th at Advocate Radiation Oncology. Tickets are seven for $10. Purchase your tickets now from one of the area businesses who are kindly acting as ticket outlets (list at dollarsformammograms.org) or contact Rita Bertler at [email protected], Gratia Schroeder at [email protected], or June Myers at [email protected]. Checks for tickets may be mailed to Dollars for Mammograms, Inc., PO Box 366, Englewood, FL 34295-0366. Winner need not be present to win.

Night of Empowerment
Tickets are now available for “A Night of Empowerment”, a benefit for St. David’s Jubilee Center, that will take place on Friday, November 8, 5 to 10pm at The Waverly Restaurant, 2095 N. Beach Road. Tickets are $100 and include a buffet dinner, live music by “Tropical Avenue”, and bourbon tasting. There will also be a cash bar, 50/50 and silent auction. Tickets may be purchased at The Waverly or the Jubilee Center, 401 S. Broadway. For questions, call 941•681•3550.

Sports

Sandbar Half Marathon & 5K
The Englewood YMCA will be hosting its annual Half Marathon & 5K on Saturday, October 12, starting at 7am on Manasota Key. Runners will enjoy a race route without many turns and with much of the course under tree canopy. The start & finish is in the south parking lot at Englewood Beach, 2100 N. Beach Road. Participants will receive Finisher medals, free draft beer, and free hot meal at the Sandbar Tiki & Grille, 1975 Beach Road. Enjoy live music while waiting for age group awards presentation. Please note that Half Marathon has a three-and one-half hour time limit which means you must run/walk an average pace of 16 minute/mile. Racers must pre-register; no race day registration. Half marathon cost is $70, 5K is $40 ($15 for ages 14 and under), handcycle & wheelchair division $35 and virtual option also available. Friends/family can join the post-race party for $20. To register, go to runsignup.com or call the YMCA at 941•475•1234.