From storm safety training and conservation lectures to book sales, bike rodeos, and Pioneer Days traditions, Charlotte and Sarasota counties are buzzing with events for all ages this August.
The Englewood Pioneer Days Celebration Is On!
Pioneer Days, Englewood’s annual Labor Day weekend tradition, returns this year with a full schedule of family activities, competitions, and a grand parade, from August 23 through September 1.
Join the excitement at the “Mayor for a Day” Second Debate on Tuesday, August 19 from 5 to 8pm at The Waverly Restaurant and Bar, 2095 N. Beach Road. The evening kicks off at 5pm with food and mingling, followed by the debate at 6pm, where candidates will share ideas and visions for the community. This Pioneer Days event features (L to R) Lucy White (Englewood YMCA), Darla Mapes (Englewood Alano Recovery), Ed Kinsey (Englewood VFW Post 10178), Addison Morey (Junior Leadership Englewood), Pet Samuels (Englewood Food Pantry) and Sonnie Hall (Englewood Area Cancer Foundation).
The celebration begins Saturday, Aug. 23, with the Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant from 9 a.m. to noon at Sky Academy, 871 S. River Road. Doors open and registration begins at 8 a.m. The pageant is open to boys and girls ages 0 to 12.
That same morning, at 10 a.m., the Cardboard Boat Giveaway will be held at The Sailing Center at Indian Mound Park, 210 Winson Ave. Participants can take home a cardboard boat to paint and decorate for the upcoming race. A $25 deposit is required and refunded on race day. The vessels are built by ‘famous’ Pioneer Days cardboard boat builders, Austin and his father, Bart Tracy of Tracy Lasbury Realty.
On Saturday, August 30, two of the festival’s most popular events take center stage. The Cardboard Boat Races launch at 10 a.m. from The Sailing Center at Indian Mound Park. The races will feature music, pirates, prizes, food, drinks and plenty of fun. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs. Overflow parking will be available at Orange Avenue and Green Street, about four blocks away. Later that day, the Miss Englewood Pageant runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at Lemon Bay High School, 2201 Placida Road, for girls ages 15 to 18.
Sunday, August 31, brings the Diaper Derby at 1 p.m. at the Lemon Bay Woman’s Club, 51 N. Maple St., where the youngest residents compete in a crawl to the finish line.
The weekend culminates on Labor Day, Monday, September 1, with the Pioneer Day Parade, starting at 9 a.m. and featuring an Englewood history theme. Staging will be at 240 S. Indiana Ave., and the route will run from Obee’s parking lot down W. Cowels Street, to McCall Road, along Dearborn Street, and end at Veterans Memorial Pavilion.
Following the parade, After-Parade Festivities will take place at Pioneer Park, 325 W. Dearborn St., from about 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The schedule includes parade award announcements at 10:20 a.m.; live music at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. by Dale Shumate; a pie eating contest at 11 a.m.; a watermelon eating contest at noon; and the Beard Contest at 12:30 p.m. Children’s games and activities will run throughout the morning in Pioneer Plaza.
Englewood Pioneer Days is organized with support from the Englewood Chamber of Commerce, Englewood Sailing Association, Lasbury Tracy Realty, St. David’s Jubilee Center, Lemon Bay Woman’s Club and many local businesses. Please visit EnglewoodChamber.com/Pioneer for registration forms and the most up-to-date information.
This year’s Pioneer Days Parade Grand Marshal: Nancy Wille!
Nancy Wille, a lifelong volunteer and historian, has been named Grand Marshal of the 2025 Pioneer Days Parade for her decades of service to Englewood. From leading local clubs to preserving the town’s history through documentary videos, her work has touched nearly every part of civic life. Wille’s contributions also include launching Englewood’s first Red Hat Society, sewing uniforms for Lemon Bay High’s band, and chronicling community landmarks like the Placida fisheries and Cedar Point. Look for her in the parade on Sunday, Sept. 1, at 9 a.m.
Hurricane Preparedness
Get ready before disaster strikes! Join Sarasota County Emergency Management for an informative hurricane preparedness session on Friday, August 15, from 2 to 3pm at the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice. With hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30, this program will help you prepare early and plan ahead, covering essential tips and resources to keep you and your family safe. Open to new adults, adults, and seniors. For details, contact Diana Mitrano at dmitrano@scgov.net or call 941•861•1289.
SKYWARN Storm Spotter Training
Learn how to identify and report severe weather during a free SKYWARN training hosted by Sarasota County Emergency Management and led by the National Weather Service on Saturday, August 16, from 10 to 11:30am at the Emergency Operations Center, 6050 Porter Way, Sarasota. Attend in person or virtually. The SKYWARN program trains volunteers to provide timely, accurate storm reports that help improve warnings for tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and flash floods. Following the training, Emergency Management staff will share a hurricane season update and preparedness tips, with in-person attendees invited to tour the Emergency Operations Center. Register at weather.gov/tbw/skywarn.
Join Vice President for Regional History, John McCarthy, for the final installment in a three-part summer series exploring Southwest Florida’s heritage through the lens of vintage recipes and culinary traditions. This illustrated virtual lecture, presented at noon on Wednesday, August 20, draws from historical cookbooks, family recipes, and local stories dating back more than a century. Discover how food has preserved and reflected the culture of old Florida in this fascinating midday journey through the past. Registration is required to receive the lecture link at Selby.org.
Bicycle Safety Day
Gear up for a family-friendly day of learning and fun at Bicycle Safety Day, hosted by the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library on Saturday, August 16, 10am to noon. Enjoy a hands-on obstacle course for kids, a safety and maintenance presentation by Florida Health, and free helmet fittings for all ages—plus free helmets for children while supplies last. This event promotes smart cycling habits and safe riding for the whole family. The library is located at 401 Shreve Street in Punta Gorda. Registration is required at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/libraries or by emailing Katelin Deushane at Katelin.Deushane@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Bag O’ Books Sale
The Friends of the Englewood Charlotte Library will be sponsoring a “Bag O’ Books Sale” from Monday, August 18 to Saturday, August 23, in the book store located within the library at 3450 N. Access Road. Hours of the sale will be from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday and 10am to 1pm on Saturday. A vast variety of books will be available, fiction, non-fiction, and best-selling authors, for those choosing to purchase and fill a bag for $5. The Friends are also conducting a “Summer Sizzler Sale” through the summer months, selling newer hardcover fiction books, 2024 to 2025 for $3 each.
Gulf Coast Mineral Fossil and Gem Club Meeting
The Gulf Coast Mineral Fossil and Gem Club meets Monday, August 18, 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.
Coffee & Conservation: Captains For Clean Water
SUP Englewood invites the public to its next Coffee & Conservation event, “Protecting Florida’s Waters: Why Clean Water Matters and How We Can All Make a Difference,” on Tuesday, August 19, 9 to 10:30am, at the Englewood Chamber of Commerce, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. Guest speaker Captain Chris Wittman, co-founder of Captains For Clean Water, will share insights on Florida’s ongoing water challenges, the critical need for Everglades restoration, and how grassroots advocacy can bring real change. A fourth-generation Floridian, Wittman is a renowned fishing and hunting guide, tournament angler, and TV host who bridges science, policy, and the outdoor community. Enjoy coffee and pastries from The Dearborn Coffeehouse & Bakery during this free talk (suggested donation $5–$10). RSVP at supenglewood.com/coffee-conservation. Learn more about Captains For Clean Water at captainsforcleanwater.org.
Get ready to set sail in style with the Cardboard Boat Giveaway on Saturday, August 23 at 10am at the Sailing Center at Indian Mound Park, 210 Winson Avenue. Built by renowned cardboard boat builders Bart and Austin Tracy of Tracy Lasbury Realty, these pre-made boats are free to take home, paint, and decorate—just pay a $25 deposit, refunded when you race on Saturday, August 30. Boats will be distributed via raffle during the event, giving participants a full week to customize before competing in the Cardboard Boat Races at 10am on Saturday, August 30 at Indian Mound Park. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a Pioneer Days tradition!
Optimizing Social Security Benefits & Taxes in Retirement
Take charge of your retirement income at a free educational seminar on Tuesday, August 19, from 10 to 11am at the Morgan Family Community Center, 6207 W. Price Boulevard, North Port. Hosted by Precise Financial Solutions, this informative session will cover strategies to maximize Social Security benefits and reduce tax burdens for a more secure future. Topics include IRA withdrawals and RMDs, Social Security and Medicare, investment income, tax planning tools, strategic income, and spousal benefits. Seating is limited—reserve your spot today at precisefsolutions.com/events. For more information, call 941•203•6538.
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.
Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair
Join CareerSource Southwest Florida and the Charlotte County Economic Development Office for the 2025 Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair on Wednesday, August 20, from 9am to 1pm at 3745 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Veterans and their families receive exclusive access during the first hour from 9 to 10am, with the general public welcome from 10am to 1pm. Attendees should bring copies of their resume, dress professionally, and come ready to meet veteran-friendly employers across various industries. Visit CareerSourceSouthwestFlorida.com to learn more.
Free Community Seminars
Licensed Medicare Agent Nicole Benner will host two free educational seminars at Brookdale Senior Living, 550 Rotonda Boulevard West in Rotonda West. On Wednesday, August 20, from 1:30 to 2:30 pm, learn how to recognize and avoid common scams at the Senior Scam Seminar. Then, return on Wednesday, September 24, 1:30 to 2:30pm, for Medicare 101, a helpful overview of Medicare basics, enrollment tips, and updates for 2026. Refreshments will be provided and all are welcome.
Learn lifesaving skills at a free hands-only CPR training session hosted by HCA Florida Tamiami Trail Emergency, HCA Florida Venice Doctors Emergency, and HCA Florida Wellen Park Emergency on Wednesday, August 27, from 10am to noon at Solis Hall in Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Boulevard, Venice. Led by specially trained emergency professionals, this program will teach participants the two simple steps of hands-only CPR, how to provide care until help arrives, and practical tips to act quickly during cardiac arrest. According to the American Heart Association, hands-only CPR can double or triple survival chances, with more than 350,000 lives saved each year by bystanders. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations are required by Friday, August 22, by calling 844•630•5295. Please note this is not a certified course and does not include infant or child CPR instruction.
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 20, 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.
Third Wednesday Book Club at Englewood Charlotte Library
Join the Third Wednesday Book Club for a 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.
Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant
The Little Miss/Mr. Englewood Pageant is back and ready to shine on Saturday, August 23, from 9am to noon at Englewood Methodist Church, 700 E. Dearborn Street. As part of Englewood Pioneer Days, this tradition highlights the charm and personality of our youngest community members. Contestants will be grouped by age: 0–12 months, 1–2 years, 3–4 years, 5–6 years, 7–9 years (girls), and 10–12 years (girls). A panel of judges will evaluate participants on poise and personality, awarding 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category, along with special certificates. Pageant times may vary by age group. Come celebrate Englewood’s history and youth at this community event!
Reading Buddies Luncheon to Honor Literacy Volunteers
Charlotte County Reads will host the Reading Buddies Luncheon on Monday, August 25 from 11:30am to 1pm at the Life Celebration Center of Punta Gorda, celebrating the volunteers who support early literacy through one-on-one reading mentorship. The event includes guest speakers, a Volunteer of the Year Award, and lunch. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at UnitedWayCCFL.org.
Venice Coin & Currency Club Meeting
Join fellow collectors and enthusiasts at the next Venice Coin & Currency Club meeting on Monday, August 25, 7 to 8pm, at the Venice Police Department, 1575 E. Venice Avenue, Venice. Doors open at 6:30pm for early arrivals. The club, which meets on the fourth Monday of each month, provides a friendly and informative environment for those interested in coins, currency, and numismatics. For more information, contact the club at PO Box 1083, Venice, FL 34284.
Women’s Equality Day Breakfast
Join the Women’s Resource Center on Tuesday, August 26 from 8:30 to 10am at 340 S. Tuttle Avenue in Sarasota for a free community breakfast and panel discussion in honor of Women’s Equality Day. Co-hosted by the Leagues of Women Voters of Sarasota and Manatee counties, this event will feature a moderated panel conversation tackling critical issues such as the gender wage gap, voter access, reproductive rights, childcare affordability, and women’s leadership. Panelists include representatives from the League of Women Voters, Neirda Thompson-Pemberton of FUNducation, and E. Scott Osborne, president of Through Women’s Eyes. The program will be recorded for broadcast by METV. Women’s Equality Day commemorates the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment and reminds us that the fight for equity continues, especially as the U.S. ranks 43rd globally in gender parity. Advance registration is required at mywrc.org/equalityday.
Lemon Bay Watershed Community Workshop
Join Sarasota County for the fourth community workshop on updating the Lemon Bay Watershed Management Plan on Tuesday, August 26, from 3 to 5pm. This virtual session will present and discuss potential project concepts—best management practices—to reduce flooding in the watershed, as well as identify water quality trends and hotspots. The updated plan will guide cost-effective improvements that protect neighborhoods and the environment. Open to the public via Zoom: Meeting ID: 889 2519 7941 | Passcode: 346226. To learn more visit scgov.net.
Parlez-vous Café at Moulin Blanc
Practice your French in a relaxed, friendly setting at “Parlez-vous Café”, taking place Thursday, August 28, 3 to 4:30pm, at Moulin Blanc Café, 593 U.S. 41 Bypass N, Bird Bay Drive W, Venice. This free gathering welcomes all levels of French speakers and all nationalities. Whether you’re fluent or just starting out, you’ll find conversation partners and helpful guidance from seasoned French speakers ready to answer questions and keep the discussion flowing. If you didn’t attend the meet-and-greet, please call 941•882•3198.
Comedian Sheena Reagan Live
Get ready to laugh out loud with Sheena Reagan, crowned Florida’s Funniest Female in 2018, as she brings her sharp wit and hilarious storytelling to Port Charlotte Library, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte, on Thursday, August 28 from 5 to 6:30pm. Sheena has opened for comedy heavyweights like Jon Lovitz, Bryan Callen, and Anthony Jeselnik, and now you can catch her live during this special 45-minute stand-up performance. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. To reserve your spot, visit charlottecountyfl.libcal.com or call 941•764•5562.
North Port Freedom Festival
The rescheduled City of North Port Freedom Festival is Saturday, August 30 at 6pm. The Freedom Festival is taking place at CoolToday Park, and features live music, food trucks, family activities, and, of course, fireworks lighting up the night sky. On the front Event Lawn of the stadium will be a Kids Fun Zone, which will feature free activities including bounce houses, lawn games, music, and more. Inside the stadium, a variety of vendors and community organizations stationed alongside the concourse will offer goods and informational booths. Live music will be performed throughout the night. Seating will be available both inside the stadium and outside on the Event Lawn. If watching the fireworks show from the Event Lawn, the public is welcome to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the show.
Ecological Intersections Lecture
Join Sarasota Sister Cities for the next Community Library Speaker Series featuring Armando Ubeda, Florida Sea Grant Agent and international conservationist, on Thursday, September 4 at 5pm at the J. Geldbart Auditorium in Selby Library, 1331 1st Street, Sarasota. Ubeda will present “Ecological Intersections: A Shared Natural History Between the Yucatán Peninsula and Florida”, an engaging look at the geological and ecological connections between the two regions, including Mérida, one of Sarasota’s sister cities. Learn about shared ecosystems, migrating species, and the importance of cross-border conservation. The event is free and open to the public. Stay after for a social Meet & Greet at LQ on Main, 1526 Main Street, beginning at 6:15pm. Learn more at SarasotaSisterCities.org.
Memory Café
Join a welcoming space for connection, conversation, and fun during Memory Café on Friday, September 5 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, September 6 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.
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.
EPIC Community Resource Center Grand Reopening
Join EPIC Community Resource Center as they celebrate a new chapter at their Grand Reopening on Wednesday, September 11 from 4:30 to 6:30pm at 697 Old Englewood Road, Englewood. Enjoy refreshments, door prizes, and community connection while learning more about what EPIC is doing to empower people in our community. This evening also includes a remembrance of 9/11 to honor those impacted by the events of September 11, 2001. Come and see what’s new at EPIC while reflecting on the importance of unity and service. To learn more visit EpicCommunityCenter.org.
Life on the Edge
Discover the limits of life and the future of space exploration at “Life on the Edge,” an 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.
Trivia Tuesdays
Trivia Tuesdays at Tringali Park kicks off September 2 and will be held every Tuesday from 10:30 to 11:30am at the Tringali Park Recreation Center, 3460 North Access Road. Test your knowledge with fun new themes each week, enjoy light snacks, and share plenty of laughs at this community event. No matter your trivia skill level, it’s a great way to connect with friends and neighbors while challenging your brain. For details, call 941•681•3742 or visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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.
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.
Paymentus In Person Support During August
The Charlotte County Utilities Department is extending in person support with Paymentus, its new billing system, throughout August, Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm, at the Charlotte Desoto Building Industry Association, 17984 Toledo Blade Blvd., Port Charlotte. These drop-in sessions assist customers in re-enrolling and navigating the system only. Bill payments are not accepted. Customers are encouraged to bring their banking information for account set-up. For information, contact Stu Gooden at Stuart.Gooden@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Disaster Recovery Projects Dashboard
Charlotte County has launched a new Disaster Recovery Projects Dashboard at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/disasterprojects, allowing residents to track more than 1,200 completed, ongoing, and planned recovery projects stemming from five named storms since 2022. The tool features an interactive map, searchable project list, funding details, descriptions of repairs, and the storm events that caused the damage, with total costs estimated to exceed $190 million. While awaiting FEMA funding for many efforts, the County Commission has authorized use of hurricane reserve funds to expedite key repairs, including the recently reopened Englewood Beach parking lot. Updated in real time, the dashboard offers residents an accessible way to follow progress on parks and amenities across the county.
New Online Tool for Flood Risk
The Charlotte County Community Development Department has launched a new online platform that will make floodplain information more accessible and easier to understand. “Forerunner” is 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 be available at CharlotteCountyFL.gov/flood. Video tutorials and additional resources will also be made available to help users navigate the system. 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.
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
OneBlood Big Red Bus Events
Support your community and save lives by donating blood at an upcoming OneBlood Big Red Bus event, where donors will receive a $20 eGift card (specific to each location) and a OneBlood top-handle drinkware item as a thank-you: Friday, August 15 at Xpertech Auto Repair, 101 N. McCall Road, from 10am to 1pm; Saturday, August 16 at Walmart, 2931 S. McCall Road, from 10am to 4pm; Sunday, August 24 at Bealls, 1500 Placida Road, from 10am to 4pm; Wednesday, August 27 at Bealls Home Centric, 1500 Placida Road, from 1pm to 4pm; and Thursday, August 28 at Publix – Merchants Crossing, 1500 Placida Road, from 11am to 5pm. For more information, visit oneblood.org.
Volunteers Wanted for Habitat Community Outreach Committee
Do you love connecting with people and supporting a meaningful cause? Habitat for Humanity is seeking enthusiastic, outgoing volunteers to serve as Community Outreach Committee members. As ambassadors for Habitat, volunteers will represent the organization at community events, support third-party fundraisers, and help grow connections with partners, supporters, and fellow volunteers. If you’re energized by community engagement and committed to Habitat’s mission, this is your chance to make a difference beyond the build site. Join us in spreading the message and mission of Habitat for Humanity!
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.
Sports
2025 “Fit for Life” Senior Games Registration Open
Registration for the 2025 Fit for Life Senior Games is open. Registration can be done online at CharlotteCountyFL.gov/recprograms, over the phone by calling any Charlotte County recreation center, or in person. Entry fees are $10 per event. Fit for Life events are as follows: Oct. 1 – Bag Toss, Oct. 4 – Swimming, Oct. 11 – Bowling, Oct. 12 – Bowling, Oct. 13 – Basketball, Oct. 15 – Table Tennis, Oct. 18 – Disc Golf, Oct. 21 – Golf, Oct. 23 – Archery, Oct. 25 -Pickleball, Oct. 26 – Pickleball, Oct. 28 – Tennis, Oct. 30 – Tennis, and Nov. 1 – Track & Field, Nov. 2 – RC Sailing. For more information contact Chad Campbell at 941•681•3755 or Chad.Campbell@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Stride & Stretch
Get moving and feel your best with the Stride & Stretch program at Tringali Park Recreation Center, 3460 North Access Road. Perfect for all fitness levels, especially beginners and active older adults, this energizing class combines walking and stretching for improved health and flexibility. Sessions are held Tuesdays and Fridays from 9am to 10am starting August 15, with a $3 drop-in fee. For more information, call 941•681•3742 or visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Recreation Swim
Make a splash with the whole family at Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park, 7001 San Casa Drive, now through December 31. Enjoy access to the splashpad, shallow play area, a 12.5-foot deep end, and a 3-meter diving board for just $3 per adult and $2 per child ages 2-17, with free admission for children under 2. Memberships are also available for $60 for six months or $100 for a year (before tax), which include entry to Family Lap Swim. This water-filled fun zone is open to all ages and focuses on recreation and play. Pool hours are 10am to 8pm daily. For more information, call 941•681•3743 or visit charlottecountyfl.gov.
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 website at englewoodreview.com to check out our interactive calendar where you are invited to add your event.
