Ballyhoo
It’s starting to get a little spooky!
They’re back!
Season is officially here! A few more Boca Grande restaurants have reopened this week ...
•Miller’s Dockside at the Boca Grande Marina. Hours are Wednesday though Sunday from
11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. upstairs, Eagle Grille is available for private functions.
• Sisters Restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• The Temptation is open Monday through Saturday, the bar (food is served there all day)
is open 10 a.m. to midnight, lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., dinner from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Comedy for a Cause ...
The Charlotte Players is moving the ninth annual
Comedy For A Cause (CFAC) fundraiser is tonight, Friday, Oct. 15.
The event is at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda,
where the cast of community and business leaders will present improvisational
skits in the manner of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” while competing for various
awards and raising money for Charlotte Players programs.
VIP tickets for dinner and the show are $85; show only tickets are $30.
Tickets are available online at charlotteplayers.org or by calling the office at (941) 255-1022.
The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center is at 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda.
30th Annual Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival ...
An annual tradition, Hunsader Farms has been hosting pumpkin festival for three decades now.
There is a festival every weekend in October leading up to Halloween.
Festival hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the weekends.
Everyday of the festival consists of: Craft show, live music, live shows, pumpkins,
kid’s pumpkin games, pioneer trades village, hayrides, pony rides, corn maze ($2),
scarecrow displays, homemade ice cream, farm roasted sweet corn, food galore,
pumpkin pie, rock climbing wall, power jump, petting zoo, barnyard playground,
arm painting, children’s train ride ($2), big train ride ($3), juggler, fresh produce and a butterfly experience.
For information, visit hunsaderfarms.com. The farm is located at 5500 County Road 675 E. in Bradenton.
Craving some jerk chicken?
Just follow your nose to the park next to Hudson’s Grocery in downtown
Boca Grande on Saturday, Oct. 16, starting at 10:30 a.m.
Jerk chicken ($15) and grouper tacos ($15) will be on the menu.
Sides include Jamaican rice & peas, mac & cheese and mama’s finishing sauce.
The team will be there until the food runs out. Cash only, please.
Available for catering (941) 999-7447.
Haunted Halloween Festival ...
Calling all ghosts and ghouls! Cedar Point Environmental Park is having its
Haunted Halloween Festival at Cedar Point Park this
Saturday, Oct. 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Cedar Point Environmental Park.
The weekly Saturday events will also be held on Saturday, Oct. 23 and
Saturday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be live animals, a haunted hike,
a pumpkin patch, food trucks and more. But we need your help to make this the best event possible!
The Cedar Point Environmental Park team will need help with everything from taking
tickets and selling pumpkins to running craft tables and monitoring numbers inside the building.
But the biggest thing we need help with is more volunteers willing to be scarers for our haunted hike!
If you would like to channel into your inner spooky self or know any neighbors, friends, kids, etc.
that would be willing to help out with the hike or any other aspect of this event, please let us know as soon as possible!
Calling Cedar Point at (941) 475-0769 or emailing gerald@checflorida.org to volunteer or for more information.
Vegetable garden hunt ...
Boca Grande’s Johann Fust Community Library is hosting an in-person event,
all daythrough Saturday, Oct. 16.
Infants and preschoolers are encouraged to find all the vegetables in the JFCL garden
and win a prize while building vocabulary and print awareness along the way.
The Johann Fust Community Library is located at 1040 West 10th Street in Boca Grande.
For more information call (941) 964-2488.
Trick or Trot 5K Trail Run ...
Zoomers Southwest Florida Running & Triathlon Club presents their
annual scholarship fundraising race in Saturday, Oct. 16.
Join fellow ghouls and goblins in this Halloween-themed (costumes encouraged!)
5k trail run through Ann Dever Park in Englewood. Awards for Overall, Youth,
Masters, Grand and Senior Masters, Veteran Masters and top three Male/Female in each age group.
Award for best costume.
Race starts at 8 a.m.
Finisher’s medals for all runners and a really cool tech shirt.
Registration for adults is $40.
Kids one to 14 are $23.
Zoomers Club Membership discounts $5 off for both adults & kids till registration closes!
Online registration is closed.
Ann Dever Park is located at 6961 San Casa Drive in Englewood.
For more information see runsignup.com/Race/FL/Englewood/TrickorTrot5KTrailRun.
Falling for Vintage ...
Inspired by the love of vintage and handmade, American Vintage Markets is
pleased to bring together a wide array of carefully curated vendors who will
showcase their best re-cycled, re-purposed, and re-imagined treasures to
the Sarasota County Fairground & Robarts Arena on
Saturday, Oct. 16(10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday, Oct. 17 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
At this festive market, you’ll be sure to find unique, vintage-inspired home
decor, up-cycled goods, collectibles, industrial salvage, jewelry, clothing,
furniture plus a whole lot more!
The Sarasota County Fairground & Robarts Arena are located at 3000 Ringling Blvd.
in Sarasota. Admission is $8, and tickets are good for both days.
13 FALLEN SOLDIERS poker run benefit ...
Join the team of Lighthouse Grill at Stump Pass as they play co-host with
Bert’s Black Widow Harley Davidson, to raise funds for the families of the “13 FALLEN SOLDIERS”.
The poker run event registration takes place on Saturday, Oct. 16 in person at
Bert’s in Port Charlotte, with a cash only registration of
$25 per rider, $10 per passenger and a $10 fee for an additional Poker Hand.
Kickstands up at 11 a.m., where you will visit three other stops before the
run ends up at The Lighthouse Grill. Those other stops are: Chubbyz, Dean’s and Banditos.
Live music by Smudge Kitten, Carnival of Soul and Tropical Avenue!
There will be a 50/50 drawing every hour at The Lighthouse Grill, along with
a silent auction, with many prizes, including a chance to grab a 1998 Harley Davidson bike.
The Lighthouse Grill has prepared a special $13 food menu, with your favorite drinks available all day long!
The mother of Sgt. Ryan Knauss, one of the 13 FALLEN, will be in attendance. wAt 8 p.m.,
there will be a lantern launch in honor of each one of the fallen soldiers! Make plans to
attend and support these families!
Florida International Air Show
The 2021 Florida International Air Show features the F-16 Viper Demo Team, Patty Wagstaff,
the United States Special Operations Command Parachute Team “SOCOM Para-Commandos,”
Chef Pitts, Jim Peitz, and Air Show Announcer Matt Jolley.
Don’t miss this amazing family-friendly event on Saturday, Oct. 16 and Sunday, Oct. 17.
Exact performance schedules are not announced as times are subject to change.
Factors include weather, aircraft concern and other circumstances beyond the control of the Florida International Airshow.
The airshow will take place at the Punta Gorda Airport, 28000 Airport Road in Punta Gorda.
For details, sponsorship information and to purchase tickets see floridaairshow.com or call (833) 743-3427.
A Night Of Swing!
Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce has united Valerie’s House and
Kingdom Life – Center of H.O.P.E. for a gala fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 16 at the
Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum, 900 W Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda.
Attendees will be entertained by the Suncoast Swing Band, accompanied by
PG Chamber’s own Zarita Mattox, with music from the 40s onwards.
Following intermission Punta Gorda’s Calendar Girls will welcome us back with a
short exhibition dance, before Suncoast Swing Band and Zarita return to raise the roof to the finale.
Beer, wine, soda and water will be available for donation.
A 50/50 and a raffle for a selection of incredible gift baskets will be held. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Tickets are $45 and can be purchased by going to gulftheater.org or by calling (941) 205-8545.
Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute
Sun Events presents: Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute performing all of the classic hits,
plus some treasures from the brilliant extended catalog on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Charlotte Harbor Events Center.
Sail On plays the music of The Beach Boys. Performing all of the classic hits, plus some treasures
from the brilliant extended catalog, Sail On faithfully recreates the soundtrack to an Endless Summer, live and in rich detail.
The Charlotte Harbor Events Center is located at 75 Taylor St. in Punta Gorda. Tickets start at $41.
For tickets and more information see tickets.sunevents.com/e/beach-boys-pg/cityspark or call (863) 494-9362.
It’s time to get back into your healthy routine ...
Boca Grande’s Banyan Tree Pilates and Yoga hasclasses starting next week on Monday, Oct 18.
Check website for the complete schedule at banyantreepilatesandyoga.com.
Let’s Talk About Florida ...
The Boca Grande Historical Society’s book discussion of Florida by Lauren Groff will take place on
Monday, Oct. 18 at 4 p.m. You can participate live in the Boca Grande Community Center’s Woman’s
Club Room or via Zoom. Register at the Society website bocagrandehistoricalsociety.com or
call the History Center at (941) 964-1600. The event is free. Whitney Ransome and Pat Agles will moderate the discussion.
There will be three additional book discussions this season –
• Tuesday, Nov. 16 - Oranges by John McPhee
• Tuesday, Jan. 18 - Henry Bradley Plant, Gilded Age Dreams for Florida and the South by Canter Brown Jr.
• Tuesday, April 5 - Devil in the Grove by Gilbert King.
The Historical Society is grateful for the generous support provided by the Fergeson Skipper law firm of Sarasota for the Let’s Talk About Florida discussion series.
What comes out at night?
Come explore the park’s nocturnal side on Monday, Oct. 18 from 6 to 8:30 pm.
This trip will meet behind the Cedar Point Environmental Park Visitor’s Center at 6 p.m. and
take a short guided hike through the park down to the vibrant waters of Lemon Bay.
There, participants will have the chance to wade into the water right at sunset with nets and
buckets to see what creatures can be observed living in the seagrass flats.
The group will also get to be in the water as day turns to night and see what sort of nocturnal animals are able to found.
All animals will be released at the end of the program.
Cedar Point Environmental Park is located at 2300 Placida Rd. in Englewood.
The events is free to attend but do require registration.
For more information, please visit the calendar at checflorida.org, and call (941) 475-0769.
EAOS Orchid Meeting ...
The Englewood Area Orchid Society, which is open to the public,
will have its next meeting on Monday, Oct. 18 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at St. Davids Episcopal Church, 401 S. Broadway in Englewood.
Speaker Roy Krueger, will be discussing “Growing Bi-foliate Cattleyas.” For more information see EAOS.org.
Family Storytime ...
Boca Grande’s Johann Fust Community Library is hosting an in person event on
Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.
This fun and engaging storytime promotes and reinforces early
literacy skills and language development through stories, music, movement and activities.
Parents and caregivers participate with their children while learning
helpful early literacy strategies and tips to continue at home.
Future Family Storytime days are scheduled weekly on Wednesdays, through Wednesday, Dec. 1.
The Johann Fust Community Library is located at 1040 West
10th Street in Boca Grande. For more information call (941) 964-2488.
Living the Florida lifestyle fashion show ...
Brought to you this year through the combined efforts of the
Women’s Council of Realtors Englewood & Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, North Port Networks,
and supporting the Homeless Coalition of Charlotte County!
The 2021 Fashion Show on Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 5 to 8 p.m. at
Port Charlotte’s Twisted Fork will feature auctions of some great baskets,
designer handbags & sunglasses, wine & dine combinations and much more!
Dinner tickets, $60 per person, includes dinner and two drink tickets that are
good toward domestic beer, house wine & well cocktails.
Cash bar available for premium beer, wine and cocktails.
Table options available. For tickets, go to conta.cc/3yAamLA.
The Twisted Fork is located at 2208 El Jobean Rd., in Port Charlotte.
Day of Caring ...
The United Way Day of Caring is Thursday, Oct. 21.
There two great ways to get involved locally ...
Suncoast Humane Society is having a “A PAWsitive Adventure.” Volunteers will
come to Suncoast Humane Society and take a dog out on a day adventure.
Volunteers are responsible for documenting this experience by taking a lot of photos.
Some adventures could include walking, car rides, ice cream dates and more.
If you’d like to participate email foster@humane.org.
The second option is to beautify the Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic
in Port Charlotte. Help volunteers to beautify the entrance to the building by pressure washing
the sidewalk, sprucing up existing plants, trimming, weeding and planting drought resistant plants around bench.
The clinic is located at 21297 Olean #B Port Charlotte. Volunteers should bring: shovel, plant shears and gloves.
Let United Way help you plan your own Day of Caring, whether you are business, group from the community or individual.
If interested, you can call (941) 627-3539
Haunting on the Harbor ...
The 12th annual Haunting on the Harbor Halloween Festival & Haunted House
returns to downtown Punta Gorda for six frightful nights, Friday, Oct. 22 through Sunday,
Oct. 24 and Friday, Oct. 29 through Sunday, Oct.31.
There’s a bonus Haunted House Student night on Thursday, Oct. 28.
The Haunting on the Harbor features a 6,000 square foot haunted house,
costume contests, kids Fun Zone, hypnotist show, live music every night and great food and beverages.
Located at City Marketplace, 115 Tamiami Tr. in Punta Gorda.
Punta Gorda Downtown Bash
The Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce presents the Downtown Bash on
Saturday, Oct. 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. in front of the Charlotte County Courthouse, 226 Taylor Street in Punta Gorda.
Free admission. Dance in the streets with The Tin Can Tourist Band.
Bring a chair. Beer, wine, water, sodas and food for sale.
No coolers please.
The 11th Annual Tour de North Port ...
“It’s the Green Pumpkin!” Sponsored by People for Trees, Inc. is on Sunday, Oct. 24.
Registration is open for this fun, organized, on-road scenic bicycle ride with
routes of 15, 35 or 65 miles that travel through some of North Port’s most beautiful,
natural settings. The ride features the Florida pine flatwoods and the parks that border
the Myakkahatchee Creek with each route having its own color-coded road markings.
The Tour de North Port is not a race. Breakfast will be donated by FirstWatch, a catered
lunch will be provided, delicious desserts including homemade pies, fully-stocked rest
stops with homemade snacks, full mobile Support And Gear (SAG) provided by Louie’s Bicycle and Real Bikes Venice.
Pre-registration online by Friday, Oct. 22 is $50, day-of, $55. Groups of six or more, $45.
The first 400 to register will receive a free ride t-shirt and goodie bag. Doors open at 7 a.m.
for check-in and breakfast, with group starts beginning at 8 a.m. from Imagine School, 2757 Sycamore St. in North Port.
Early pickup for registration packet/t-shirt and check-in available on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
during the “North Port Food and Fest” at the City Center Green (4970 City Center Blvd.)
In-person registrations will also be accepted during this time, for $50. Register on-line/more information at peoplefortrees.com.
Contact Alice White (941) 468-2486 or email treelady12001@yahoo.com
Boca Barre and Buns ...
Using weights, resistance bands and barre technique, the Boca Barre and Buns
(BBB) class, led by Samantha Stone, will help you regain strength, stamina, flexibility and balance.
This one-hour class is great for beginners and seasoned fitness enthusiasts alike.
Boca Barre and Buns helps to restore alignment and body strength using gentle, yet highly
effective, ballet movements. You will increase your metabolism and find renewed energy.
Some mats will be provided or you may bring your own.
Class starts again on Thursday, Oct. 28. Classes are weekly on Tuesday and
Thursday, from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room at the Boca Grande Community Center.
Each class is $10. Call (941) 964-0827 for more information.
Bolshoi Ballet: Coppelia
The Friends of the Boca Grande Community Center are looking forward to another season
of beautiful ballet performances shown in the Boca Grande Community Center’s auditorium.
The next performance will be of Copella on Thursday, Oct. 28 starting at 5 p.m.
General admission tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling (941) 964-0827.
The synopsis of the performance is as follows:
Swanhilda notices her fiancee Franz is infatuated with the beautiful Coppelia who sits reading on her balcony each day.
Nearly breaking up the two sweethearts, Coppelia is not what she seems and Swanhilda decides to teach Franz a lesson …
The Bolshoi’s unique version of Coppelia exhibits a fascinating reconstruction of the original 19th century choreography
of this ebullient comedy involving a feisty heroine, a boyish fiancee with a wandering eye, and an old doll maker.
The company’s stunning corps de ballet shines in the divertissements and famous ‘dance of the hours,’ and its
principals abound in youthful energy and irresistible humor in this effervescent production.
Cauldrons, Candy, Costumes, Carnival and Trunk-Or-Treat!
After enjoying the Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce’s Halloween Walk,
Friday, Oct. 29, through downtown, make your way to the Boca Grande
Community Center for the Cauldrons, Candy, Costumes, Carnival, and Trunk-Or-Treat!
The Friends of Boca Grande Boca Grande Community Center, Boca Grande Woman’s Club
and Lee County Parks and Recreation sponsor this event.
Costume contest starts promptly at 5:30 p.m.
Dress in your best, creative, scary and original costumes to compete and win!
Decorate your personal or business golf cart and hand out candy to the
little ghouls and goblins as they cart-or treat. Prizes will be awarded to the best-decorated golf carts.
Following the costume contest, take part in cart-or-treating, carnival games,
blow-up slides, games, snacks and the annual cakewalk!
After all the ghoulish events, grab a spot with your cart, chairs and or blanket
and settle in for Goosebumps, the movie on the green starting at 7:30 p.m.
For more information call (941) 964-0827.
*The Friends and Lee County Parks & Rec. are looking for businesses and residents to
volunteer and participate in the cart-or-treat portion of this Halloween event.
They are also seeking volunteers for the carnival games and concessions.
Please drop off individually wrapped candy by Wednesday
Oct. 27 and cakes for the cake walk by 1 p.m., Oct. 29.
To volunteer or donate, contact Khoreen at Kvetter@leegov.com or (239) 470-2712.
Farm & Agriculture Super Expo ...
Get ready for a three day show full of Big Boy Toyz starting Friday, Oct. 29
and running through Sunday, Oct. 31 at the Mosaic Arena in Arcadia.
Everything farm & agriculture, and so much more! Admission is $5, and
kids under 10 yrs old are always free!
The expo will feature tractors, trucks, heavy equipment, lawn equipment, ATVs,
trailers, boats,UTVs, well systems, landscaping equipment and so much more.
There will be food vendors on hand. Parking for this event will be on the Turner
Center property. The mosaic Area is located at 2450 NE Roan Street in Arcadia.
What even is this? Discovering Surrealist Fiction
In his New York Times bestselling novel Friday Black, Hermitage Fellow Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah
creates a series of short stories that simultaneously feel like a dystopian future and a
case study of our present moment.
This surreal quality leaps off the page from start to finish as the stories swerve between
both startlingly familiar and shockingly strange landscapes. Hear from the author about
the importance of “beginnings” and how this has shaped his work on Friday, Oct. 29 at 5:30 p.m.
Registration required at HermitageArtistRetreat.org.
The Hermitage is located at 6660 Manasota Key Road in Englewood.
Boca Grande Halloween Festival ...
Kids, after you participate in the Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce
Annual Downtown Halloween Walk between 4 and 5:15 p.m. on, Friday, Oct. 29,
bring your parents to the Boca Grande Community Center Halloween Festival.
A costume contest will kick off the festivities at 5:30 p.m. sharp, followed by a trunk or treat,
carnival games, cakewalk and much more. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be available.
*One bag of individually wrapped soft candy (not hard candy) per child is appreciated
(please drop off candy no later than Wednesday, Oct. 27).
Cakes are also needed for the cakewalk (please drop off cakes on
Friday, Oct. 29, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the community center).
Sponsored by the Friends of Boca Grande Community Center, Lee County Parks & Recreation,
and the Boca Grande Woman’s Club.
For more information, contact the Friends office at (941) 964-0827.
Chalk Festival ....
The Chalk Festival is back with ‘SPIRIT’ED’ festivities Friday, Oct. 29, 30, 31
with a final viewing day Monday, Nov. 1 appropriate for the trick-or-treat weekend
at the Venice Airport Festival Grounds located at 610 Airport Avenue East in Venice.
Artists, volunteers and spectators are encouraged to dress up to help set the weekends playful goblin mood.
Artists will use chalk as their medium to create oversized masterpieces as spectators are invited to watch.
A new layout will provide lounge settings, beverages and plenty to eat!
No longer will one have to stroll the entire area without rest!
A curated festival with select artists bringing you the best the art form has to offer.
A separate area for children of all ages will afford all the opportunity
to give chalk art a try, both on the ground and on chalk walls.
Live music, vendors, fun and spirits.
Tickets for the event are $25. See Facebook for ticket information.
Appalachian Road Show Performing at Edison and Ford Winter Estates ...
On Friday, Oct. 29, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host the acoustic ensemble,
Appalachian Road Show, for the first Rhythm on the River performance of the season.
The group performs bluegrass and folk music, as well as original songs.
The event will take place on the Ford lawn, along the Caloosahatchee River.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the concert starts at 6 p.m.
Band members include Grammy-nominated banjoist Barry Abernathy,
Grammy-winning fiddler Jim VanCleve, vocalist and mandolinist Darrell Webb,
Grammy-winning bassist Todd Phillips, and guitarist Zeb Snyder. Abernathy,
VanCleve, and Webb were each born and raised in Appalachia. Abernathy
sang in his church as a young boy, VanCleve has played the fiddle since he
was six years old, and Webb grew up with the influence of bluegrass music from his father.
The group’s music tells stories from the mountains and valleys of North Carolina and Virginia
and the coal mines of West Virginia and Kentucky.
The performance is more than just a concert and includes telling the stories behind the songs.
Food and beverage vendors will have refreshments available for purchase.
No coolers permitted. Free parking is available in the main Edison Ford parking lot at 2350 McGregor Boulevard.
Tickets may be purchased online at EdisonFord.org or at the ticket counter.
Individual tickets purchased in advance are $30 for Edison Ford members
or $35 for non-members; tickets at the door will be $40. Individual ticket holders should bring a lawn chair.
A new VIP seating area will be open and may be reserved by the table for $225.
Each table holds up to 5 people; table ticket price includes the use of a table and chairs.
For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit EdisonFord.org.
Trunk-or-Treat Family Style
Join us for two hours of fun on Saturday, Oct. 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Gulf Cove United Methodist Church.
We’ll have free food, take-home crafts, and lots of candy!
Gulf Cove UMC is located at 1100 South McCall Road in Port Charlotte, just ¾ mile south of the
Myakka River on State Road 776 in the Gulf Cove area. The church can be reached at 941.697.1747 or
GulfCoveUMC@gmail.com. Its website is https://GulfCoveChurch.com.
Hatha Yoga for Relaxation & Flexibility ...
Yoga classes will be held every Monday in the Houghton Room beginning on Monday, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m.
in the Houghton Room of the Boca Grande Community Center.
This class is suitable for all levels of ability, and beginners are always welcome! Please bring your own mats.
Classes are $15 each, collected weekly and paid to the instructor.
For more information contact instructor Dennis Domres at (941) 830-1313.
Much Ado About Nothing, an Asolo Rep, FSU/Asolo Conservatory BardWired production ...
Enjoy Shakespeare against the backdrop of the setting sun at Hermitage Beach on Monday, Nov. 1 at 5:30 p.m.
In this 45-minute innovative adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy, experience the
Bard like never before … as part of a neighborhood block party!
While their soldiers have been away at war, the community of Messina has
learned to lean on each other for support. The intrepid (and self-appointed)
Neighborhood Watch are young scouts, led by troupe leader Dogberry - and scout surveillance is at high alert.
As the neighborhood’s war heroes Benedick, Claudio, and Don Pedro return home,
they have to renegotiate their place on the block. While young Hero and Claudio immediately fall in love,
quick-witted Benedick and Beatrice need a matchmaker’s push, but their love and re-integration
into Messina are jeopardized by dastardly Don John’s villainous machinations.
Registration is required. $5 per person. Register at HermitageArtistRetreat.org.
Hermitage Artist Retreat Beach is located at 6660 Manasota Key Road in Englewood.
The Next Horizon: The Latest with Playwright Bess Wohl
Hermitage Fellow and playwright Bess Wohl will speak about her work and creative
process on Thursday, November 4, 5:30 p.m., Hermitage Artist Retreat Beach, 6660 Manasota Key Road in Englewood.
Following its Broadway run, Wohl’s comedy Grand Horizons received a 2020 Tony Award nomination for Best Play.
The story takes an intimate look at the unpredictable and enduring nature of love after 50 years of marriage.
In addition to Grand Horizons, Hermitage Fellow Bess Wohl’s plays include Small Mouth Sounds
(New York Times, “Best of 2016”), Make Believe (New York Times, “Best of 2019”), Continuity, American Hero,
Barcelona, Touched, In, Cats Talk Back, and Pretty Filthy.
She is an associate artist with The Civilians, an alumna of Ars Nova’s Play Group, and the recipient
of new play commissions from Manhattan Theatre Club, Hartford Stage, and Lincoln Center.
Wohl is also the recipient of the 2015 Sam Norkin Special Drama Desk Award and the John Gassner Outer Critics Circle Award.
Registration is required. $5 per person. Also available via live-stream. Register at HermitageArtistRetreat.org.
Harvest for the Harbor ...
All are invited to attend the 6th Annual Harvest for the Harbor dinner befitting the
Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center on Friday, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Lasihley Park Pavilions in Punta Gorda.
This outdoor farm-to-table sunset dinner celebrates Charlotte Harbor’s harvest from its local farms and fisheries,
transformed into delectable culinary creations by Keith Meyer of F.M. Don’s.
There will be hors d’oeuvres, various libations, a cash bar, and entertainment.
Come mingle, dine, and dance beneath the stars on beautiful Charlotte Harbor for a good cause!
Cost is $100 per person.
To reserve you ticket, call (941) 575-5435 or email chec@checflorida.org.
See checflorida.org for details.
Literature Forum: Circe
This highly anticipated follow-up to Miller’s best-selling first novel,
“The Song of Achilles,” is told from the perspective of Circe, the sorceress nymph whose
brief appearance in Homer’s “Odyssey” becomes the story of a longer and more
complex life; her lonely childhood among the gods, her first encounter with mortals,
the awakening of her powers, and finally the men who wash up on her shores.
This bold and subversive retelling of the goddess’s myth is both epic and intimate in its scope,
recasting the most infamous female figure from the Odyssey as a hero in her own right.
Presented by Ellie Crawford on Thursday, Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. in the Houghton Room of the
Boca Grande Community Center. There is no charge to attend this event.
For more information call the Friends office at (941) 964-0827.
Holiday Bizarre ...
The Rotonda Elkettes are hosting a free holiday bizarre on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 9 to 2 p.m.
Items will be displayed both inside and outside.
There will be lunch available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a burger/cheeseburger, chips and soda for $6.
The bizarre will feature crochet items, jewelry, crafts, holiday items, yard sale items and so much more!
Vendor tables available for $25 per table.
For more information and to become a vendor, call Nancy at (941) 457-7106.
The location of the Holiday Bizarre is at the Rotonda Elks Club, 301 Rotonda Blvd. East.
Cruisin on Dearborn ...
Every month on the first Saturday, Saturday, Nov. 6, Dearborn Street in historic downtown
Englewood turns into a great car show. Cruisin’ on Dearborn from 2 to 8 p.m.
The car show is open to all street rods, classics, antiques, muscle cars, even a dragster or two.
No trophies, awards, or registration fees. DJ, door prizes and raffle.
Shops and restaurants are open for your convenience.
Celebrate Cayo Costa!
Enjoy a fun day on the island discovering Cayo Costa State Park on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
There will be guided shelling and nature walks, ranger talks under the tiki,
shell crafts, palm art and basket weaving, a BBQ lunch, sea turtle and shorebird nesting information and door prizes.
Cost is $50 for adults and $40 for Friends of Cayo Costa and kids.
Reservations required and include a round -trio boat cruise, all activities and the BBQ lunch.
Reservation begin on Wednesday, Sept. 15. For Captiva island departure call (239) 472-4300.
For a Pine Island departure call (239) 283-0015. For a Punta Gorda departure call ( 239) 639-0969.
Event information can be seen at friendsofcayocosta.com
The Friends of Cayo Costa is a division of Barrier Islands Park Society (BIPS), a 501c3 organization
which is the official Citizens Support Organization for Cayo Costa, Gasparilla, Stump Pass,
Don Pedro State Parks, Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum, Gasparilla Island Lighthouse and
Amory Memorial Chapel. All funds raised by FoCC will be used exclusively for Cayo Costa State Park.
Inherit The Wind ...
Witness one of the great courtroom dramas of the 20th century in this Royal Palm Players
staged reading of the timeless classic, Inherit the Wind.
A fictional account of the 1925 “Scopes Monkey Trial,” Inherit the Wind surreptitiously
prosecuted the threat to intellectual freedom brought on by the anti-communist hysteria of the McCarthy era.
It’s a roller coaster ride of rhetoric as Royal Palm Players’ Jim Grant and Hal McCombs lock horns in the leading roles.
Boots Tolsdorf is a testament to snark as the witty and erudite E.K. Hornbeck.
Directed by Meryl Schaffer, this performance features a spectacular cast of Boca favorites,
including an ensemble of “townspeople” bringing the local color. Inherit the
Wind also introduces newcomers Jerry Edgerton and Kathy James to the RPP stage.
Performances will be held at the Boca Grande Community Center’s Pavilion -
sunshade on Thursday, Nov. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 14.
For tickets call the Royal Palm Players office at (941) 964-2610 or got to royalpalmplayers.com/tickets/
Save the date - Bluegrass Sunday ...
Get ready for some “toe-tappin” gospel bluegrass music and mouth watering barbecue on Sunday, Nov. 14.
Boca Grande’s Lighthouse united Methodist Church welcomes back local bluegrass
music great Swinging Bridge and Blacken Blues Barbecue caterers for our annual “Welcome Back Bluegrass Sunday.”
Congregants will want to sign up on Sunday in Fellowship Hall following the service.
A suggested donation of $25 per person will help cover the cost of the band and the barbecue.
This has been a very popular service and dinner. You are welcome to bring your friends and neighbors to this very special Sunday.
Sign ups are required for the barbecue dinner.
Fashion Show for Literacy Center for Dyslexia of Englewood ...
Help support the Literacy Center for Dyslexia of Englewood by attending a Fashion on Saturday, Nov. 13 from 5 to 9 p.m.
The show will be put on by Off the Wave, Palm Studio and Funky Thrifty. There will be dinner, music and a silent auction.
Pre-purchase your tickets for $35 at any one of the locations noted above.
The fashion show will be at the Englewood Elks Lodge located at 401 N Indiana Avenue in Englewood.
16th Annual Wine & Jazz Festival Week ...
The 2021 Wine & Jazz Festival starts Wednesday, Nov 17 with Mindi in the Gardens,
and continues through Saturday, Nov 20, with performances by Eric Darius and Selina Albrigh at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center.
The schedule is as follows:
• Wednesday, Nov 17 – Mindi in the Gardens, part of the 3rd Annual Mindi Abair Wine + Music Festival.
Mindi Abair trio will perform in an open air environment. Gate opens at 5 p.m. Show starts at 5:30 p.m.
Cash bar available for beer, wine and soda. Tickets: $80.
(Thursday, Nov. 18’s event is sold out.)
• Friday, Nov 19 – Mindi Abair and full band to perform at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center,
Punta Gorda, with opening act Shawn Brown. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 6:30 p.m.
Cash bar and concessions. Tickets $75 + admin fee. VIP $100 + admin fee.
VIP includes front seats and Meet’n’Greet with artist prior to show (between acts).
• Saturday, Nov 20 – Eric Darius and Selina Albright and their full bands to perform at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, Punta Gorda.
Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 6:30 p.m. Cash bar and concessions. Tickets $75 + admin fee.
VIP $100 + admin fee. VIP includes front seats and Meet’n’Greet with artist prior to show (between acts).
All tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Call (941) 639-3720 during office hours with questions.
Anyone who has already purchased tickets will automatically be rolled over to the
new dates and be given first opportunity to select the event components they want.
Englewood Beach Waterfest ...
Waterfest returns to Englewood, Florida! There’s something for everyone at this amazing 3-day happening.
Kick the festivities off with food, fun, and music at the PowerUp Pre-Race Party at The Lighthouse Grill,
Thursday, Nov. 18, from 5 to 10 p.m. Call the restaurant at (941) 828-1368 or
visit TheLighthouseGrill.net for more information.
Next up is the Dearborn Street Block Party featuring the racing boats on parade,
and more food, drinks, and live music, Friday, Nov. 19, from 5 to 9 p.m.
VIP Tickets for the Dearborn Street Block Party will be available soon; updates will be posted to the
Waterfest Facebook page: facebook.com/englewoodbeachwaterfest.
The main event is the World Championships for OPA Racing (Offshore Powerboat Association)
with expected attendance of over 50 boats running at speeds up to and over 150 miles per hour,
racing takes place Saturday, Nov. 20 and Sunday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (gates open at 9 am).
The Family Conservation Center and the Beach Oasis Cantina & Food Court are open concurrently,
Saturday and Sunday from 10 a m. to 4 p.m. The Family Conservation
Center consists of six exhibits from Mote Marine Laboratory on everything from sea turtles to sharks and more.
The Cantina & Food Court are featuring a special “Race Day Cocktail” (Nov. 20 and 21).
Keep an eye on the Waterfest website and Facebook page for updates.
Events take place on Englewood Beach, 2100 N. Beach Rd. in Englewood.
Punta Gorda Thanksgiving Weekend Sullivan Street Craft Festival ...
The Punta Gorda Craft Festival continues to grow and highlight the talents of many unique crafters,
providing the area with one of its most enjoyable winter traditions on Saturday, Nov. 27 and Sunday, Nov. 28.
Come meet and visit with some of the nation’s best crafters while enjoying the charming streets of Punta Gorda.
Located on Punta Gorda’s Sullivan Street, 331 Sullivan Street.
Admission is free. Hours are from 10 to 5 p.m. For more information call (941) 639-3720.
Mullet Fest 2021 ...
Don’t miss the 2nd Annual Mullet Fest, featuring a mullet smoke-off competition,
mullet haircut competition, cast net throwing competition, lots of live music,
local arts and crafts vendors, and much more!
Refreshments include craft beer from Big Top Brewing Company.
The Fest takes place Charlotte County Fairgrounds, 2333 El Jobean Rd. in Port Charlotte.
Hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4. More details coming soon.
Toys for Tots Tailgate ...
Join members of the Englewood Chamber of Commerce as they grill and chill to support our
local Toys for Tots on Saturday, Dec. 4 form 11 a.m. to 1 pm. at the
Englewood Chamber Parking lot located at 601 S. Indiana Avenue in Englewood.
Drop off new, unwrapped toys and grab a hot dog as volunteers tailgate for Toys for Tots.
The goal is to fill the truck bed in 2 hours …this is our 3rd annual tailgate event.
Your support is appreciated! Event supported by Tailored Inspections.
Peace River National Art Festival ...
The Peace River National Art Festival (PRNAF) is the premiere outdoor juried fine arts show of
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach and will take place on Saturday, Dec. 4 and Sunday, Dec. 5.
Nearly 100 nationally recognized juried artists represent various mediums, including art glass,
fiber arts, jewelry, leather goods, metalwork, oil paintings, photography, pottery, stone sculptures and watercolor.
Live music, art demonstrations, and an array of food and beverages complement the art for an immersive cultural experience.
Admissions is $5 per person.
For more information call (941) 639-8810.
Evening of Hope benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Englewood ...
The 1st Annual “Evening of Hope” benefiting the Boys & Girls
club of Englewood is coming to Manasota Key!
Saturday, Dec. 11 from 5 to 10 p.m. is sure to be an inspiring event of
local support like only Englewood can dish out! Hosted by
Farlow’s On The Water and Lock ‘N Key Restaurant.
The event will act as a steppingstone for the money raising undertaking of helping our
local Boys & Girls club chapter obtain their own facility! So come eat, drink,
dance and celebrate this amazing organization all while helping to make their dreams come true!
Tickets for this in-person event are available for purchase online through the event’s Facebook.
For all details see https://one.bidpal.net/eveningofhope2021/welcome
Tickets are $150 per person and all proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Englewood.
Questions? Email dignamashley@gmail.com
Kaleidoscope of the arts fundraiser ...
All are invited to an intoxicating evening of performing artists representing North Port and the surrounding area.
Music, singing, silent, gift basket and live auctions presented by the North Port Art Guild,
Saturday, Jan. 15 from 4:30 to 9:30pm. Plantation Golf and Country Club, Venice.
Tickets are $85 per person, dinner and entertainment. Dress as your favorite character or yourself.
Visit the website at northportartcenter.org or call (941) 423-6460 for information or to purchase tickets.
A fun evening for all!
Cruisin’ on Dearborn ...
July’s Cruisin on Dearborn will take place on Saturday, July 3, from2 to 6 p.m.
Hundreds of cars and thousands of car lovers converge on Old Englewood’s Dearborn Street for this car show.
Music to cruise by sponsored by Olde Englewood Village Association.
Free Admission! This event takes place every 1st Saturday of the month unless replaced by a street-closing event.
REMINDER: Preschool needs donations
In the interest of the health and safety of the Boca Grande community, the Boca Grande Preschool
canceled its spring fundraiser, the 2nd Annual Beach Ball at the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club. In the absence
of the Beach Ball, the BGP Board of Directors is working harder than ever to fulfill the critical financial needs.
With a mission of providing early education for Island kids, BGP is open five days a week, all year long for children
of families who live or work in Boca Grande. Providing tender care and foundational learning for children from
12 months through pre-kindergarten makes BGP an essential service, especially for those who work at island
businesses. In addition to ex- panding BGP’s programs, community contributions underwrite the true cost of
tuition and keep BGP affordable for families.
Donations may be made by checks payable to Boca Grande Preschool and mailed to: Boca Grande
Pre- school, PO Box 1386, Boca Grande, FL 33921.
Closet of Hope at Gulf Cove UMC ...
The Closet of Hope at Gulf Cove United Methodist Church offers free clothing for children and adults of all ages.
The Closet is open every Saturday (except holidays) from 9:30 a.m. until noon. Individuals must present a photo
ID at the door which reflects their residence in Charlotte County or in Englewood, North Port, or Venice in Sarasota County.
Please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Clothing donations are accepted when the Closet is open.
Gulf Cove UMC (phone 941-697-1747) is located at 1100 S. McCall Road in Port Charlotte, just ¾ mile south
of the Myakka River on Route 776. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing; other CDC guidelines followed.
Each person is asked to limit their shopping time to 20 minutes or less. Families will be allowed one bag of clothing per month.
Walking tour of the Punta Gorda murals ...
All are welcome to take a walking tour of Punta Gorda stopping at its historic murals along the way.
Learn about the local history captured in each of the 12 murals participants visit, as well as a few historical
sites and buildings along the way. See if you can find the objects hidden in some of them. You’ll also get an
overview of the Mural Society and its creation process, hear about upcoming projects, and see our newest mural.
Professional audio touring equipment is used allowing for a better listening experience and sharing of information while walking.
Tour size is limited to only 12 to allow for social distancing and a more personal tour.
Tours are offered every Tuesday through March 30 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Check-in 9:20 a.m.)
Each tour begins & ends at the Punta Gorda Chamber (252 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda).
To register call the Punta Gorda Chamber at (941) 639-3720.
Crafty Ladies of GCUMC ...
The Crafty Ladies of Gulf Cove United Methodist Church would like everyone to know
that their hand-crafted items are available every Thursday morning (except holidays) from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Oak’s Cove,
the small building behind the church.
You can also call MaryEllen at (941) 697-6384 to make an appointment for another day.
Please note that masks and social distancing are mandatory.
Gulf Cove UMC is located at 1100 S. McCall Road in Port Charlotte, just ¾ mile south
of the Myakka River on Route 776. For more information email GulfCoveUMC@gmail.com;
so see the website GulfCoveChurch.com.
Manta Market fine arts, crafts, artisanal foods & more!
The next Manta Market is on Saturday, Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come hungry! The market will feature Shay’s Legendary BBQ and more! Each Market
is a little different, you will see your favorite vendors and always some new ones to check out!
The Markets have it all from watercolors, acrylic paintings, prints, photography, pottery,
jewelry, fused glass, stained glass, mixed media art, customizable gifts, wearable art,
home decor, gifts for your pets, beauty and health goods, custom wood turned art,
woodwork and carvings, garden sculpture, handmade furniture and more!!! Support
our local and friendly artists!
Convenient parking and restrooms!
For more information see m.facebook.com/LBHSMantaMarket/.
Third Friday Drive-In ...
The Third Friday Drive-In features a family friendly movie monthly.
The next drive-in move will be on Friday, Jan. 15.
There will be concessions on-site, attendees are welcome to bring their own food.
The movie sound can be heard on car radios on 95.5 FM, as well as on the lawn
if you are seated in chairs in front of the 40’ screen and listen through our speaker system.
This is a free event in downtown Punta Gorda, right across from River City Grill (121 Marion Avenue).
3rd Street Bistro & Bar open nightly ...
Looking forward to some delicious dinner this evening? Good news, 3rd Street Bistro &
Bar is now open every evening for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. Call (941) 964-0155 to make your dinner reservation.