This event isn’t just another party. The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce is throwing Derby After Dark for 200 lucky guests, honoring Cherie DeVaux, a Lemon Bay High School grad turned acclaimed Thoroughbred trainer. She’s put Englewood on the map, and the Chamber wants her to know the community stands behind her.

“Cherie is the definition of hometown excellence. She grew up right here, walked the halls of Lemon Bay High, and now she’s making waves in horse racing,” said Kim Parks, Membership Coordinator. “We’re excited to celebrate her achievements and to remind her just how much her hometown admires her.” 

The night promises more than a toast; it’s a full Derby-themed experience. Expect top-notch food from Smoke & Thyme and desserts courtesy of The Sorbet Society. Sportsman’s Pub supplies the drinks; Mark Knauf, CPA, leads a bourbon tasting. There’s live music from Crossfire Creek, “The Most Wanted Rock Country Band in the Land,” plus appearances from Passion Folkloria, a specialty cigar lounge by CigarsAccessories.Com, and a fun photo setup thanks to Englewood Lock & Key. Abel’s Marine is gifting every guest a custom whiskey glass with cutouts for your cigar, turning the keepsake into something you’ll actually want to take home. LECOM Englewood Family Practice steps in as Title Sponsor, further rooting the event in community support.

But Derby After Dark goes beyond glitter and bourbon. All proceeds support scholarships for Lemon Bay High School students and fund community events year-round: Pioneer Days, the Christmas tree lighting, the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, and more. Honoring Cherie isn’t just a celebration of her personal success; it’s a commitment to the next generation of Lemon Bay graduates, giving them opportunities to shine.

There are still tickets and sponsorships, but with only 200 seats, they won’t last long. Pull out those boots and hats, get ready to celebrate, and mark your spot at the races.

The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce doesn’t just host events; it drives the local economy, connects businesses, and takes pride in building a stronger, more vibrant Englewood. Through networking, advocacy, scholarships, and community programs, the Chamber works every day to make this town a great place to call home.

Click here for more information about this important event.

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From September 10 to 24, restaurants across the area are offering special fixed-price menus. It’s the perfect excuse to get out, try something new, and not worry about your wallet. Locals, visitors, foodies; everyone is welcome.

This year marks the 11th annual ‘Let’s Eat, Englewood,’ sponsored by the Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce. Lunch comes in at $22 for two courses, and dinner’s just $42 for a three-course feast. You’ll see everything from longtime favorites to bold new creations, all lined up for you to sample.

People look forward to this event every year, and there’s a good reason. During ‘Let’s Eat, Englewood,’ restaurants say their sales jump by 30%. It’s a win for the community and for every hungry customer.

Each restaurant crafts special menus for the week, presenting signature dishes at great prices. The whole idea is to give local spots a business boost during the slow season and shine a spotlight on Englewood as a true food destination.

There’s some friendly competition, too. Restaurants will face off for awards like “Most Creative,” “Tastiest Temptation,” and “People’s Choice,” all sponsored by FS Foodservice Solutions.

Even Englewood’s own Peter Jennings and Brian Faro are getting in on the fun. Brian Faro himself made a special guest appearance Thursday, September 10, 2026, at noon to debut the Brian Faro Burger at the Lock ‘N Key Restaurant. “Stop by to try one for yourself,” he says.

There are 30 participating restaurants listed on the website. Want to see what’s on the menu or more information? Click here to learn more.

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The ceremony took place at their site on August 26 and brought together a whole crowd of local leaders and community members. People from the Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce stopped by, and so did the L. Cobb Construction leadership. Even the bakery and coffeehouse down the street catered the event, adding to the lively atmosphere.

This was more than just a ribbon cutting. It was a chance for Crews Bank & Trust to showcase what the new branch will offer next fall. Upgrades included not only a refreshed physical space but also enhanced banking services and personalized customer experiences. The design features a welcoming lobby, modern offices, and safe deposit options, plus a dedicated teller line and drive-through to keep things moving smoothly.

Throughout the planning, Crews Bank & Trust clarified that it wants to be an active part of the Englewood community. They worked closely with local organizations and made sure the building reflected both their history and their commitment to the area’s future.

The ribbon cutting day ran seamlessly, from the first speech to the very last handshake. Now, with the new branch open and fully staffed, Crews Bank & Trust stands ready to serve Englewood, blending tradition with modern innovation in every customer interaction.

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Florida Chamber of Commerce 2025 President, Jessica Souza and 2026 President, Peter Jennings, had the honor of presenting the awards.

Congratulations to all these worthy recipients.

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