Ballyhoo... your local calendar of events

 Englewood Helping Hand ...

EHH is accepting nonperishable donations. Look for the Blue Barrels at: Crews Bank, Lighthouse United Methodist Church of Boca Grande entrance, and the office on 3rd Street and United States Post Office in Boca Grande. englewoodhelpinghand.org

 

Venice Theatre ...

Rediscover the joy of reading in “The Enchanted Bookshop” through Sunday, April 21. Pinkerton Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice. Tickets $19. VeniceTheatre.org

 

Trunk Show ...

Jack Tar Togs, the nautical women’s and children’s wear brand will hold a trunk sale through Saturday, April 13. The sale will be held in the Old Theater Building, 321 Park Ave., Boca Grande, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in conjunction with The Tide Books and Games. Info at (941) 914-5504 or JackTarTogs.com

 

Trunk Show ...

The Gasparilla Inn & Club is hosting Cmm Designs and Cj Laing for a trunk show on Friday, April 12 to Sunday, April 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 500 Palm Ave., Boca Grande.

 

Trunk Show ...

Smart Studio is hosting Beaded Jewelry by Gail Cleveland for a trunk show on Friday, April 12 from 5 to7 p.m. and Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 321 Park Ave., Boca Grande.

Royal Palm Players ...

A damficare evening filled with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and music from past RPP productions. Encore! Encore! will be held Friday, April 12 at 6 p.m. at the Boca Bay Pass Club Powerhouse, Boca Grande. Tickets $150 RoyalPalmPlayers.com/events/

 

Gulf Theater ...

Hometown Petty Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m. presented at the Gulf Theater, Military Heritage Museum, 900 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. Tickets $44

MilitaryHeritageMuseum.org

 

Paddler’s Safety Guide ...

What you need to know before you go out on a paddle craft including weather, life jackets, and other critical information. In person training at the South Gulf Cove HOA Building, 14859 Ingraham Blvd., Pt. Charlotte on Saturday, April 13. Registration at 8 a.m. or email LQuirk.uscgaux@gmail.com

 

Cars & Coffee ...

Boca Grande Cars & Coffee will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wheeler Road Park. Entry is free. Bring your vintage, antique or simply cool car.

 

Lemon Bay Training Demo ...

Join Sea Grant, Lemon Bay Conservancy and CHEC on Saturday, April 13 from 9 a.m. to noon for an in-water sea grass monitoring demonstration at Cedar Point Park, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte. ChecFlorida.org

 

Lemon Bay Playhouse ...

“April Fools Comedy Show,” an evening of laughter as Kathy McSteen and her Florida Comedy Network gang make April Fools of themselves in this adult clean comedy show. Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m. Lemon Bay Playhouse, 96 W. Dearborn St., Englewood. Tickets $25 LemonBayPlayhouse.com

 

Rhythm & Boots ...

The Henhouse Prowlers will perform on Monday, April 15 at 5 p.m. Held at the Friends Pavilion, Boca Grande Community Center, 131 First St. W., Boca Grande. Tickets $40. Call (941) 964-0827 or visit FriendsofBocaGrande.org.

 

Camera Club ...

The Boca Grande Camera Club will be meeting on Tuesday, April 16 at 10 a.m. in the Houghton Room at the Boca Grande Comm. Ctr., 131 1st St. W., Boca Grande. Visit Boca Grande Camera Club on Facebook or contact 33921cameraclub@gmail.com.

 

Southwest FL Honor Flight ...

The veterans are taking an honor flight to Washington, DC on Tuesday, April 16. Welcome the veterans home at the Punta Gorda Airport at 8:30 p.m. This will be a welcome home celebration they will never forget.

 

 

Town Hall ...

A Town Hall held Wednesday, April 17 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Boca Grande Community Center. It will be an opportunity to meet Charlotte County elected officials including Commission Chairman Bill Truex as well as representatives from Senator Rick Scott and Congressman Greg Steube’s district offices.   

Create & Sip Art Social ...

“Baubles and Bubbly” a Create & Sip jewelry making art social on Wednesday, April 17 at 6 p.m. at the Visual 

Arts Center, 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. New creative projects each month. Bubbly champagne and snacks are included. Tickets $45 VisualArtCenter.org

 

Charlotte Players ...

“Two on the Aisle, Three in a Van!” Wednesday, April 17 to Sunday, April 28 presented by the Charlotte Players at The Langdon Playhouse, 1182 Market Cir., Port Charlotte. Tickets $30. Charlotte-players.ticketleap.com

 

Nature Walk  ...

Led by Dave and Linda Manley of the Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society, the May Sunset Stroll has been forwarded to Wednesday, April 17, at 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Ann & Chuck Dever Park, 6791 San Casa Dr., Englewood. Easy walking, with periodic boardwalks. Use park entrance across from Charlotte County West County Annex building. Meet in the parking lot at the far side of the pond. Free event. Contact mangrovechapter@fnps.org.

Johann Fust Library ...

Join author and professor Aaron Hamburger on Thursday, April 18 at 4 p.m. in the loggia and courtyard of the library. This program is free but registration is required at (941) 964-0211.

 

Chamber Mixer ...

The April Chamber Mixer will be held on Thursday, April 18 from 5 to 7 p.m., at Grande Aire Services. Grande Aire will be using their Palm Ave. space to host this event. Please use the 341 Palm Ave. entrance. 

 

Nature Walk ...

Join the Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society and Dr. Bill Dunson for a guided nature walk at Myakka State Forest, Main Entrance, 2555 South River Rd., Englewood on Thursday, April 18 from 9 to 11 a.m.  Following the 1.5-mile Gordon Smith Trail, participants will observe spring flowers and discuss factors influencing the ecology of the sub-climax pine flatwoods. Depending on conditions, about 80 native plants may be seen on this trail. Meet in the parking lot about one mile east of River Rd. The State Forest has a $2 entry fee to be paid online. All are welcome. For additional information contact mangrovechapter@fnps.org.

 

Trunk Show ...

The Gasparilla Inn & Club is hosting Jennifer Tyler Cashmere for a trunk show on Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 500 Palm Ave., Boca Grande.

 

Paper Shred & Food Drive ...

Englewood Area Board of Realtors is hosting a post-tax-day drive-through Shred & Food Drive on Saturday, April 20 from 8 to 11 a.m. in the office parking lot at 3952 N. Access Rd., Englewood. Donations of non-perishable food items, baby supplies and cash are accepted.

 

Punta Gorda Earth Day ...

The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center will hold its Earth Day event on Saturday, April 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring a native plant and bake sale, educational exhibits as well as vertical oyster gardening. 10941 Burnt Store Rd., Punta Gorda. ChecFlorida.org

 

Lemon Bay Earth Day ...

Join CHEC for a free, fun, family-friendly Earth Day event on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cedar Point Envir. Park, 2300 Placida 

Rd., Englewood. Exhibits, crafts, games, animal encounters, bounce house, food, farmers market, a guided walk and speakers.ChecFlorida.org

 

Golf Outing ...

Escape to golfing paradise at Streamsong from Sunday, April 21 to Monday, April 22. Immerse yourself in luxury, challenge your skills and create memories that will last a lifetime. Call (941) 964-0827 or visit FriendsofBocaGrande.org to reserve your seat.

 

History & Heritage ...

David Michaelis, author and historian will be speaking on “Schulz & Peanuts: A Biography” on Wednesday, April 24 at 4:30 p.m. at the Boca Grande Community Ctr., 131 1st St. W., Boca Grande. Tickets start at $40 for this live stream and in-person lecture. Call (941) 964-0827 or visit FriendsofBocaGrande.org

 

Lemon Bay Playhouse ...

“Sicilians in the Basement,” a romantic comedy about a hapless couple who open a Swiss Restaurant in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Wednesday, April 24 to Sunday, May 12 Presented by the Lemon Bay Playhouse, 96 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood. Tickets $25 LemonBayPlayhouse.com

 

Ongoing Local Events

 FITNESS

Tai Chi

Join Francine from Banyan Tree Pilates & Yoga, 320 East Railroad Ave., Boca Grande for Tai Chi every Sunday at 9 a.m. These slow gentle movements and physical postures may be beneficial for improving balance. Call (941) 964-4404 for more information.

Boca Barre & Buns

Using weights, resistance bands and barre technique, the class helps you regain strength, stamina, flexibility and balance. Bring your own mat. Tuesday & Thursday, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the multi-purpose room of the Boca Grande Community Center. Cost is $10 per class.

Beach Yoga

Join Michelle Hubbs from Banyan Tree Pilates & Yoga for beach yoga every Saturday at 8 a.m. at the 7th Street Beach access. $30 per session. Registration is required at banyantreepilatesandyoga.com/class-schedule/

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

The Boca Grande Farmer’s Market at Wheeler Road is open on Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stop by and support local businesses.

The Venice Farmers Market is open in front of City Hall, 401 W. Venice Ave. Saturday hours will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For information, go to thevenicefarmersmarket.org.

The Punta Gorda Farmers Market is open. The market is located at the corner of Taylor and Olympia in downtown Punta Gorda. The market is every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. For more information visit puntagordachamber.com/punta-gorda-farmers-market/

Dearborn Street Market is now open Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 335 W. Dearborn St.

ENTERTAINMENT, EDUCATION,

& LESSONS

Movies

Enjoy free movies in the Boca Grande Community Center Auditorium on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 5 p.m. Film selections include a mix of classics and newer releases. During season, some showings may be canceled or moved to the Woman’s Club Room if there are conflicting programs. Movie schedules are released each month and posted outside of the Friends office. 

Library Tour

Docent-guided historical walking tour will be offered on Wednesday at 2 p.m. through April. In this free, 45 minute tour guests will learn about Boca Grande’s Johann Fust Community Library’s history, antiquities, architecture and statuary. To register visit JFLFBG.org or call (941) 964-0211.

Historical Tour

A guided historical walking tour of The Gasparilla Inn main building is offered twice weekly throughout the season on Tuesday and Thursday. The walking tour meets on The Front Porch of The Inn at 10:30 a.m. and will take approximately one hour.

Culinary Tour

A guided tour of The Gasparilla Inn’s Main Kitchen is offered each Thursday and Saturday throughout the season and will take approximately one-half hour. This walking tour meets at The Inn’s Concierge Desk at 2 p.m. This tour will take you through The Inn’s Dining Room as well as The Main Kitchen and its various departments.

Community Croquet

Started Nov 30 to April 25 every Thursday at 4 p.m. held at the Boca Grande Comm. Center. 

Cookie House

The historical Cookie House is open to the public on Friday, Jan. 19 through Friday, March 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cedar Point Environmental Park, 2300 Placida Rd., Englewood (941) 629-7278.

Horticulture Tour

A guided grounds and botanical walking tour of The Gasparilla Inn & Club property is offered each Friday throughout the season. This walking tour meets on The Front Porch of The Inn at 9 a.m. and will take approximately one-half hour.

Mom’s Group

MomCo, formerly MOPS, to offer local fellowship opportunities for moms at all stages. The group is free and open to all moms and mom-figures who would like to support and be supported by other moms. Every Wednesday from 5 to 6 p.m. held at the Lighthouse United Methodist Church, Boca Grande.  (941) 964-2479.

Duplicate Bridge Club

The Duplicate Bridge Club will offer sanctioned games Monday and Wednesday at 1 p.m. Games will be held in the Crowninshield House. There will also be a newcomer’s game for those players with 50 or less masterpoints. All players must register online bgdbc.org or call Kathleen at (352) 801-9523. The goal is to provide a supportive and friendly community.

Boca Grande History Center

The Boca Grande Historical Society & History Center is open to the public Monday  through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open on the first Saturday of the month during season from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free to all. For more information call (941) 964-1600.

 

Food donations needed

 Please continue to support The Englewood Helping Hand blue barrel campaign. This off island mission  supports and helps those in need right in our backyard!

There are blue barrel locations around Boca Grande in front of the Barnichol, at the registration building at the Boca Grande Club, at Parsley-Baldwin Real Estate, at Englewood Bank & Trust, at the Post Office and two more barrels at the Lighthouse United Methodist Church.

Here are some suggestions:

Tuna Fish, Spaghetti Sauce, Canned Meats, Ramen Noodles, Cereal/Pancake Mix, Canned Veggies, Rice/Snacks, Canned Fruit, Pasta/Mac & Cheese, Soups/Chili, Canned/Dried Beans, Evaporated Milk, Peanut  Butter/Jelly, Canned Sloppy Joe, Deodorant/Razors, Bar Soap, Feminine Products, Condiments, i.e., Ketchup, Mustard, etc.                          

Interested in volunteering, or have questions, call Jane at (941) 223-2367 for further information.

Boca Grande Church Service Schedule

Lighthouse United Methodist Church -  300 Gilchrist Ave. Worship begins at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays, bglighthouseumc.com.

 

First Baptist Church - 421 4th St. W. Worship will be held at 11 a.m. on Sundays in St. Andrews Episcopal Church. Pastor Beatty can be reached at (941) 276-1546.

 

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church - 240 Park Avenue. Saturday Vigil mass is at 5 p.m., Sunday masses at 9 & 10:30 a.m. Confessions: Saturdays 4:15 to 4:45 p.m. (941) 964-2254. 

 

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church - 390 Gilchrist Ave. Sunday worship will be in-person at 9:30 a.m. and online live-streamed on You