Meet Iris and Henrietta from the Fandango Sanctuary. Iris didn’t plan on rescuing animals, she just couldn’t leave Novell the donkey behind. That was 33 years ago in Germany. She saw him out there alone in the snow, no food, no shelter, just shivering. So she brought him home. After moving to the U.S., Iris founded the Fandango Sanctuary, and it’s become home for over 100 animals. They’re safe and loved, with Iris at the center of it all. Check out the full story on page 20. It’s a story you won’t want to miss.
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The Barnyard, the Business, and the Best of Englewood: Meet the Animals and Teens Stealing the Summer Spotlight
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Submit information to info@englewoodreview or call 941-474-4351 anytime.
It may be the dog days of summer, but for Iris and Ernst Pisko at The Fandango Sanctuary, the crowd goes far beyond just dogs. Picture this: a patchwork family of donkeys, pigs bustling around, ducks waddling between the legs of turkeys and roosters, goats stealing the spotlight, and just about every barnyard animal you can imagine.
Have you ever walked into a place and felt something stir inside you? Fandango Sanctuary does exactly that. Tucked away in Englewood, this animal rescue farm isn’t just a place; it’s a heartbeat. There’s love stitched into every corner, mixed with the chaos of honking geese and
the antics of a donkey named “Noisy,” whose voice fits the bill. Here, nearly a hundred other animals find their stories woven together: tales of rescue, survival, and hope. Be sure to check out page 20 to read more about the heartfelt work the Fandango folks pour into their sanctuary.
Now, if the summer heat has you searching for inspiration, look no further than the teens in our town. Midsummer means plenty of local kids picking up jobs, but Aubrey Souza carved her own path. At just fifteen, she launched her own business, The Sorbet Society, while juggling high school at Lemon Bay. Her story of going from student to entrepreneur is on
page 8. It’s her determination that makes you sit up and pay attention.
And those aren’t even all the stories waiting for you in our July 17, 2026 edition of the Englewood REVIEW. We filled these pages with voices and events that capture what makes Englewood shine.
So grab a tall glass of iced tea, claim a shady spot, and let yourself enjoy all that summer in Englewood serves up, from the community, the kindness, to the unmistakable warmth. Wishing you all a memorable, sun-soaked summer.
Cover photo credit courtesy of Steven Cooper
Iris Pisko at The Fandango Sanctuary Courtesy The Fandango Sanctuary
Stress Less Summer Tour 2026
Charlotte County Parks & Recreation has launched the #StressLessCharlotte Summer Tour. To participate, visitors must take a photo or video at any Charlotte County park, post it to Facebook or Instagram, use the campaign hashtag, and tag Charlotte County Parks & Recreation on Facebook or @ charcoparks on Instagram. The department will randomly select two weekly winners throughout the summer season to receive prizes, including a limited-edition T-shirt and water bottle. For more details about county park sites or the summer campaign, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•625•7529
Open Mic Night
Culture Coffee, 405 W. Dearborn St., hosts a weekly open mic night every Friday, 5 to 9 p.m. at 405 West Dearborn Street. Hosted by Gary Louis, the event is open to all ages and abilities, including musicians, singers, poets, comedians, and dancers. A stage, microphone, and amplification are provided for performers. Attendees can purchase food, desserts, beer, wine, and specialty beverages. For more information, visit Culture Coffee or call 941•681•2442
Annual Book Sale
The Elsie Quirk Library will host its annual book sale through Saturday, September 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at the library bookstore, 100 W. Dearborn Street. Books and puzzles priced at $2 and up will be available at half price. For more information, call 941•861•1216
The Wildflowers Market Catch the extended outdoor summer market hosted by Wildflowers Boho Chic Boutique at 353 W Dearborn Street. Running every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through the end of July, this intimate gathering features a beautifully curated selection of local artisans, unique pottery, and bohemian trends alongside fresh farm produce before transitioning back to the larger October–May Englewood Farmers Market schedule.
Joyful Journeys
Senior Friendship Centers, in partnership with The Gussin Center for Creative Writing, will host a free 10-session creative writing workshop titled “Joyful Journeys: Turn Your Life and Memories into Stories” from Wednesday, August 19 through January 20. Led by educator and author Maria Schaedler-Luera, the classes will take place on alternating Wednesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Carter Library, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota. Designed for older adults, the program utilizes guided prompts, storytelling exercises and group discussions to help participants shape personal memories into written narratives. The workshop culminates in the publication of an anthology compiled by editor Jason Cannon, and participants will receive two complimentary copies at a celebratory launch event. Registration is required and space is limited. To register or obtain more information, call 941•556•3269, email lanast@ friendshipcenters.org or visit FriendshipCenters.org.
Beginner and Intermediate Mahjong
Learn to play or practice your skills during a casual adult Mahjong meet-up at the Tringali Park Recreation Center small multi-purpose room, 3460 N. Access Road. Sessions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The drop-in fee is $2 per session. Guidance is available for beginners to learn the rules, and intermediate players are welcome to practice and share their knowledge. No experience is required. For information, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3742
Homer: The Iliad & The Odyssey
Presenter Baila Miller will lead a lecture exploring the universal themes of Homeric epic poetry on Friday, July 17, 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice. The presentation examines the enduring impact of these 2,800-year-old works of Western literature, contrasting the impulsive actions of Achilles
with the reasoned choices of Odysseus to explore life’s central dilemmas. The event is open to young adults, adults and seniors. Registration is required and limited. Free and open to the public. To register, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1271
Food Sale at Holy Spirit Orthodox Church
Holy Spirit Orthodox Church will host its monthly community food sale on Friday, July 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the parish, 700 Shamrock Boulevard, Venice. Held on the third Friday of every month, the event features a selection of homemade ethnic specialties, including holupki (stuffed cabbage), Greek pies, fresh rolls and baked bread. Both cash and credit cards are accepted for purchases. Patrons can also place pre-orders online in advance. Free admission and open to the public. To secure preorders or for more details, visit hsoc-venice.com/shop/food-sale or call 941•497•7361
HCA Florida Healthcare Stroke Support Group
HCA Florida Englewood Hospital, 700 Medical Blvd., hosts a monthly support group to assist stroke survivors and their families in coping with the effects of a stroke. The next session is scheduled for Friday, July 17, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Cottage Conference Room. These monthly presentations cover various topics, including diet, medications, risk factors, and identifying signs and symptoms. The event is free to attend. Future sessions are also scheduled for and September 18. For more information or to register, call 833•808•3700
email VCC@scgov.net or call 941•861•5000
Limelight Market at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime
The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime will host its monthly “Limelight Market” pop-up event on Saturday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the artisan center, 821 Apricot Avenue, Sarasota. Usually held every third Saturday, this open-air courtyard extension expands the indoor market’s permanent collection of over 40 local creators by featuring an array of unique guest vendors showcasing items like handcrafted jewelry, pottery, local artwork, plants, and vintage collectibles. The family-friendly event features live musical performances at noon, food and beverages from the courtyard’s award-winning Hamlet’s Eatery food truck, and a pet adoption outreach station hosting local rescue dogs looking for permanent homes. Admission to the market is entirely free, and parking is complimentary. For more details on the week’s
featured vendors or live music lineup, email info@ BazaarOnApricotAndLime.com or call 941•445•1938
Author Event: Judith Pearson & Eliza Knight
The Island Bookshop will host an evening with authors Judith Pearson and Eliza Knight on Saturday, July 18, 6 to 8 p.m. at 206 Miami Avenue West, Venice. The event begins with a welcome reception at 6 p.m., followed by an author talk at 6:30 p.m featuring discussions from both writers about their work. Free and open to the public, with no registration required. For more information, email theveniceislandbookshop@ gmail.com, visit theislandbookshop.com or call 941•416•5511.
Free Monday at The Ringling
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, will host its community admission day on Monday, July 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This initiative
Christmas in July Arts and Crafts Show
The Venice Community Center will host an indoor shopping event on Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 326 South Nokomis Avenue, Venice. The show features a variety of local arts and crafts vendors offering unique handmade items, gifts, home decor and more. Guests can enjoy free entry, free parking and air conditioning while supporting local artists and small businesses. Registration is not required. For details,
provides free public access to the Museum of Art’s 21 galleries, the contemporary exhibitions in the Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion, and the 66-acre Bayfront Gardens. Free admission applies strictly to the art galleries, glass pavilion, and grounds; regular pricing remains in effect for the Circus Museum and the Ca’ d’Zan mansion. Visitors must check in at the Kotler-Coville Visitors Pavilion upon arrival to receive complimentary entry passes, though standard fullaccess tickets can be purchased online to bypass lines. For more information, visit ringling.org or call 941•359•5700
Florida Folk Music
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 West Dearborn Street, will host a musical performance by local musician James Hawkins on Monday, July 20, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Part of the America’s 250th Celebration and Music in the Libraries series, this program features folk songs and historical stories about the people and events that shaped Venice, Sarasota and the state of Florida. Open to young adults, adults and seniors. Registration is not required. Free and open to the public. For details, email visit
scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Coffee & Conservation: Coastal Bird Nesting SUP Englewood will host its next “Coffee & Conservation” educational presentation on Tuesday, July 21, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Community Room at the Englewood Chamber of Commerce, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. This month’s session features guest speaker Alexandria “Lexi” Grant, an Environmental Specialist with Charlotte County Natural Resources, who will lead an informative discussion on the nesting behaviors, habitat needs, and modern conservation challenges facing local shorebirds and seabirds, such as the Least Tern, Black Skimmer, and Snowy Plover. Attendees will gain valuable insight into how biologists monitor nesting data, how protected beach zones are established, and practical actions community members can take to help these vulnerable coastal species thrive. The program is free and open to the public, with complimentary coffee provided for attendees; for more details, visit supenglewood. com or call 941•265•2977
Quirky Readers
Adults and seniors are invited to join the library book club on Tuesday, July 21, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the meeting room at the Elsie Quirk Library, 100 West Dearborn Street. The group will discuss “A Burning” by Megha Majumdar, a 2020 contemporary literary thriller and work of political fiction. The novel explores ambition, identity and public perception through the story of a young Muslim woman accused of a terrorist attack after a social media post is misinterpreted. Registration is not required. Free and open to the public. For details, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Social Sewing
The Englewood Charlotte Public Library, 3450 N. Access Road, will host “Social Sewing” on Tuesdays, July 21 & 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. This recurring program provides an opportunity for adults to use the library’s sewing machines while socializing in a friendly environment. The series continues every Tuesday through September 15. For more information visit charlottecountyfl.libcal.com or call 941•613•3200.
looking to keep their minds sharp. Functioning like a fitness class for the brain, the session challenges participants with a variety of memory games, word puzzles, number exercises, and collaborative logic activities aimed at strengthening cognitive skills in a supportive, social atmosphere. The program is free to attend, but advanced online registration is required due to limited seating. For more details and to register visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1289
First Aid & CPR-AED Training
We are pleased to announce a financial assistance grant is now available to residents who live within our service area. The grant is in addition to our no-cost breast cancer detection tests.
Tuesday Fundraiser Bingo Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County will host a community bingo fundraiser on Tuesday, July 21 at 6:30 p.m. at 3 Bridges Brewing, 1765 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. The charity event features five rounds of fast-paced gameplay with five major prizes up for grabs. Proceeds from the evening will directly support the nonprofit’s mission to build and renovate affordable, safe housing for local families in need. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a table, purchase food and enjoy locally crafted brews before the first numbers are drawn. Admission is free to attend, and game cards will be available on-site. For more information, visit habitatsouthsarasota.org or call 941•493•6606
Brain Aerobics: Mind Movers
Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host a “Mind Movers” brain aerobics workshop on Wednesday, July 22, from 2 to 3 p.m. Presented by instructor Angela Campbell, this interactive healthy-living class is specifically designed for active older adults and seniors
The Englewood Florida Chamber of Commerce will host an essential safety certification workshop on Wednesday, July 22, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Chamber community room, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. This comprehensive, three-hour instructional course covers fundamental life-saving skills, including basic first aid administration, hands-only CPR and how to properly operate an automated external defibrillator (AED) during a sudden cardiac crisis. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an official American Safety and Health Institute two-year emergency care certification. Advanced registration is required to ensure instructional materials. Cost is $65. To reserve a seat, email training coordinator Sam Ionno at sionno@neo.rr.com or call 330•620•1077
Café Socrates
The Englewood Charlotte Public Library, 3450 N. Access Road, will host “Café Socrates” on Thursday, July 23 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. This recurring program invites adults from different backgrounds to gather in the library’s conference room to exchange philosophical perspectives based on their personal experiences. The session is led by presenter Frank Vorlicek. Future dates for this series include August 27 and September 24. For more information, the library can be reached at 941•613•3200 or by visiting charlottecountyfl.libcal. com.
Florida’s Freedom Tour
The Venice History Museum will host “Florida’s Freedom Tour” on Thursday, July 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. outside the museum grounds at 351 Nassau Street S., Venice. Traveling across the state to celebrate America’s
250th anniversary, this mobile initiative features two repurposed 18-wheelers transformed into interactive climate-controlled museums on wheels. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, rare documents, and exhibits curated by the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee. In coordination with the tour’s arrival, the indoor Venice History Museum will open for special matching hours on Thursday, July 23, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. allowing guests to view the newly extended centennial exhibit, Venice Turns 100!, which highlights the city’s local heritage and development. Admission to both the mobile tour and the permanent museum is free and open to the public. For more information regarding parking or event details, email City Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer at hklinkhamer@venicefl.gov or call 941•486•2490
Travelogues with Jane Mahler: Hawai’i
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will host an educational travel lecture on Thursday, July 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Jane Mahler will lead a visual exploration into the history, geography, and natural wonders of America’s 50th state. The presentation will focus on the unique characteristics of the Hawaiian archipelago—the most isolated island chain on Earth—with specific spotlights on the culture and landscapes of Oahu (“The Gathering Place”) and Maui (“The Valley Isle”). The event is free with seating available on a first-come, firstserved basis. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com or call 941•861•1110.
Quirky Knitters
The Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, invites enthusiasts of all skill levels to join the “Quirky Knitters” on Thursdays, July 23 & 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. This social club is open to tweens, teens, adults, and seniors who wish to work on knitting or crochet projects in a group setting. Participants are encouraged to bring their own projects, patterns, and questions. Registration is not required for this event. For more information call 941•861•1110 or visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com.
Englewood Community Health Action Team (CHAT) Outreach
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will host a
ENGLEWOOD EXAMINER
No Limits, Just Art: Erik Groff Makes Room for Everything (Even Your Biggest Ideas) at Englewood Center for the Arts
If you’ve ever walked into The Englewood Center for the Arts, you’ve definitely met Erik Groff. He’s the driving force behind the entire operation, and you can feel his energy as soon as you step inside.
After pouring himself into every inch of the renovation and opening, Erik has made it his mission to flood Englewood with art. His philosophy? Keep it simple: bring your creativity, leave your hesitation at the door. “We’re all about community here. If you can get your project through the door, I’ll find a way to say yes. No limits about size or what you want to do. Artists need space to breathe.”
Erik says he grew up bouncing between Philadelphia and Orlando. He’s been coming to Englewood for three decades, but settled here for good 15 years ago with his wife, where
they welcomed their daughter. They share the house with a dog and three cats, definitely a lively bunch.
Before this, Erik spent years working in galleries and museums in New York City and the Bay Area. He genuinely just loves making stuff: painting, writing, music, you name it. For Erik, running the gallery feels like another creative project, but say, “This one’s better because it’s not just for me. I get to support other artists, help them stretch their imaginations, and show off what they can do.
That’s what I want: to push local artists to aim higher and help their work get the spotlight it deserves.”
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I probably overuse the word ‘yes’ too much, as I like to try to keep things flowing and
progressing.
Which living person do you most admire?
I probably most admire Mark Grosenbacher, former principal at Englewood Elementary.
Which living person do you most despise?
I probably despise Elon Musk most, if I had to pick.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
The trait I most deplore in others is irreverence.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My idea of perfect happiness would be exemplified by the world just prior to the discovery of electricity.
Every edition, Englewood REVIEW spotlights someone who stands out in the community. We ask each person to tackle The Proust Questionnaire; a classic set of questions created by Marcel Proust, the French writer.
public wellness and safety outreach session on Friday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main lobby. Open to residents of all ages, this drop-in event allows community members to meet directly with representatives from the Community Health Action Team (CHAT). Health advocates will provide vital seasonal safety resources, educational materials, and practical tips aimed at protecting families during the peak summer months. Key presentation topics will include heatstroke awareness, the prevention of pediatric hot car deaths, water safety and drowning prevention, and other critical warm-weather health concerns. The outreach event is free to attend, and no advanced registration or appointments are necessary. For more details visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Movie Matinee: “You, Me & Tuscany”
Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host a Friday afternoon film screening of the romantic drama “You, Me & Tuscany” on Friday, July 24 from 1 to 3 p.m. Geared
toward adults and seniors, the movie follows the story of a woman who seeks refuge at an empty Italian estate, poses as the owner’s fiancée, and unexpectedly finds a life-altering romance. The film is rated PG13. The screening is free to attend, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis with no advanced registration required. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1271
Concert in the Park
Enjoy live music under the stars at the bimonthly Friday Night Concert Series featuring Ken Wanovich on Friday, July 24, 7 to 9 p.m., at Centennial Park, 200 West Venice Avenue, Venice. Hosted by Venice MainStreet and sponsored by Neal Communities, this free, family-friendly event takes place at the gazebo every second and fourth Friday of the month and is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets. Alcohol is not permitted in Centennial Park. For additional concerts and upcoming events, visit visitvenicefl.org.
Pineapple Fest
The Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens will host its “Pineapple Fest” celebration on Saturday, July 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the garden grounds, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda. This festival celebrates tropical culture and regional agriculture with live reggae and steel drum music from Roots Almighty, David Lapio, and Vere Hill, alongside local artisan vendors, specialty plant sales, and diverse food truck options. Guests can also participate in or spectate two community competitions: a culinary showdown for the “Best Baked Pineapple Recipe” and a gardening showcase for the “Biggest Homegrown Pineapple.” All festivities are included with standard garden general admission, ranging from $22.72 for adults, $19.62 for seniors, and $11.37 for students. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite pineapplethemed attire and bring lawn chairs or blankets due to limited venue seating. For more details or to secure tickets, call 941•621•8299 or visit peacerivergardens.org.
Heartland Bluegrass Show
The Heartland-Southwest Florida Bluegrass Association will host the Heartland Bluegrass Show on Saturday, July 25, 1 p.m. in the air-conditioned rec hall at Craig’s RV Resort, 7895 NE Cubitis Avenue, Arcadia. The concert features performances by Alby Lopez & Native Tradition, Fresh Cut Grass, and the Heartland Jam Band. Jamming sessions will occur all weekend, including a beginner-friendly jam on Saturday, July 25, at 10 a.m.. Seating is provided. Admission is free for association members, and a $10 donation is requested from non-members. Annual household memberships are available for $35, and discounted campsites are offered. For more information, visit heartlandbluegrass.org, email heartlandsouthwestbluegrass@ gmail.com, or call 941•219•2256
Quirky Mahjong
The Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will host “Quirky Mahjong” on Tuesday, July 28, from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Both experienced players and newcomers are welcome to join this session focused on the tile-based game of luck and strategy. Participants
are asked to bring their own National Mahjong League cards and American Mahjong tile sets if possible, though the library will provide cards for beginners to use. Registration is required and limited to 20 players. For more information or to register visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com or call 941•861•1110.
Drums of Unity
The Englewood Charlotte Public Library will host “Drums of Unity” on Tuesday, July 28, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Tringali Park Recreation Center, 3460 N. Access Road. Presented by Joe Licinski, this hands-on drum circle uses authentic African djembe drums to teach beats and rhythms through wordplay and simple phrases. The program is designed for all ages, including kids, families, teens, and adults, and no prior experience is necessary. Drums are provided for the session. Registration is required at charlottecountyfl. libcal.com.
TikiFest at Fishermen’s Village Fishermen’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, will host its annual “TikiFest” cultural celebration on Saturday, August 1 from noon to 6 p.m. This family-
July 17, 2026
friendly festival brings the spirit of the Pacific Islands directly to Charlotte County, featuring traditional Hawaiian dance performances, authentic Polynesian costuming, and the rhythmic sounds of live steel drum music. Visitors can stroll through the indoor promenade and outdoor dry beach area to browse unique artisan vendor booths, witness live islandthemed demonstrations, and enjoy tropical food and drink specials at the complex’s various restaurants. The event is free to attend, and parking is complimentary. For more details visit fishermansvillage.com.
Cultural Crafts
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources will host its “Cultural Crafts” textile studio on Thursday, August 6, 9 to 11 a.m. in the indoor community room at the Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Boulevard. Meeting on the first and third Thursdays of each month, this gathering explores the global heritage and history behind quilting, fabric arts, and traditional stitching methods. The program is open to crafters of all ages and skill levels, allowing participants to bring personal sewing projects, share patterns, and learn new techniques in a social environment. The workshop is free to attend. For more information email parksonline@ scgov.net or call 941•861•7275
Social Seniors
Connect with peers and enjoy community engagement during the Social Seniors gathering on Friday, August 7, 10:30 a.m. to noon, at the Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. Presented by Valerie Kandel, this monthly discussion and social group features rotating themes and interactive activities designed for adults and seniors. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. To learn more or register call 941•861•1110 or visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com.
Free Public Turtle Walks
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and the Longboat Key Turtle Watch will co-host educational beach excursions at 6:45 a.m. every Saturday in July. Participants will meet at the public beach access point at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, where on-site parking is available.
Led by Mote-trained volunteers participating in Mote’s Sea Turtle Patrol, these conservation walks involve scouting for fresh signs of sea turtle nesting, discussing turtle life history, and exploring local wildlife and natural coastal habitats. The walks can span up to a mile and a half in the sand and are open to nature enthusiasts of all ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult. The events take place rain or shine, but will be canceled in the event of a thunderstorm. No advanced registration or reservations are required to join. For weather updates and more information, check the Longboat Key Turtle Watch Facebook page.
Englewood Beach Waterfest 2026
The 12th annual Englewood Beach Waterfest will host the American Powerboat Association (APBA) Offshore World Championship from Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11, serving as the crowning final race of the threeevent series. Run entirely by more than 400 volunteers, the festival averages 32,000 visitors and was recently named the 2025–26 “Best Hosted Event of the Year for Small Market” by the Florida Sports Foundation. The multi-day event features rigorous marine safety protocols, a driver’s block party on historic Dearborn Street on October 9, and two days of high-stakes speedboat racing along the dynamic coastal waters of Englewood Beach.
Englewood East Park Closed for Renovations
Beginning the week of June 1, Englewood East Park will be closed to the public for the installation of the replacement playground, pavilions and restroom renovations. The park will remain closed through October 15.
Sharing & Caring
Speakeasy Soirée
Join the Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic for a 1920s-inspired evening on Thursday, July 30, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Deep Creek Elks Lodge No. 2763, 1133 Capricorn Boulevard, Punta Gorda. The event features live entertainment by Lady Z and the Suncoast Swing Band, a silent auction, a lottery tree, and a 50/50 drawing. Roaring Twenties attire is encouraged but not required. Admission is $45 per
The Englewood REVIEW
person, with proceeds directly supporting healthcare services for underserved individuals in Charlotte County and the surrounding area. For questions email ncopeland@volunteercare. org or call 941•368•8863
Hunks in Heels
Spread Spencer’s Sparkle presents its annual charity lipsync showdown, “Hunks in Heels: All Stars,” on Saturday, August 8, 5 p.m. at the Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Avenue South. Past champions will return to the stage to perform in high heels, bringing humor and heart to a community favorite event that symbolizes walking in someone else’s shoes. Admission includes an entertaining show, a silent auction, and a dinner catered by Made in Italy. All proceeds benefit Spread Spencer’s Sparkle to fund scholarships, support music and arts programs, and sponsor local Lemon Bay High School student attendance at Homecoming, Prom, and Grad Bash. Tickets are $85 and can be purchased online at SpreadSpencersSparkle.com. For more information, call 941•486•2711
Cooking with C.A.R.E. Fundraiser
The Center for Abuse and Rape Emergencies (C.A.R.E.) Auxiliary will host a culinary fundraiser on Sunday, August 9 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante, 321 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. This interactive event features an exclusive three-course meal prepared by Chef Carmelo, who will demonstrate the professional secrets behind each dish live for the audience as they dine. Standard individual tickets are available for $100. A premium VIP Package is also available for $350 per couple (limited to three pairs) and includes front-row priority seating, an opportunity to assist the chef on stage, and a special commemorative gift. All proceeds from the evening directly benefit the C.A.R.E. Center to support critical crisis services for survivors in Charlotte County. Advanced registration is required, as seating is limited. For tickets or more details, visit carefl.org or call Carmelo’s at 941•621•4091
Fundraising Banquet
Gator Wilderness Camp School invites the community to a fundraising banquet on Thursday, August 13, 6 p.m.
at Movement Church, 20444 Midway Boulevard, Port Charlotte. Gator Wilderness Camp is a year around camping program designed specifically to serve adolescent boys from the ages of 11-15 years old. This group of boys is significantly struggling to interpret a myriad of issues in their families, schools, and communities. The evening features dinner, singing by the campers, a 50/50 raffle, a silent auction with items made by the campers and bacon-ona-stick. Individual tickets cost $55, and table sponsorships for a group of eight are available for $400. For details or to purchase tickets, contact Melissa Bergey at mbergey@gatorcampschool.org, 941•639•7722 or 336•577•9039
Sports
Fit For Life Senior Games
Charlotte County Community Services will host its annual “Fit for Life” Senior Games from October 3 through November 1 at various local venues. Sanctioned by the Florida Sports Foundation as a state qualifier, the multi-sport festival is open to amateur athletes aged 50 and older, with competitions divided into five-year age brackets. Online registration is now open,
requiring a foundational general registration before adding individual events at $10 each, with multi-event tiers available for swimming and track. Deadlines close exactly two weeks prior to each event, and participants can learn more or register at charlottecountyfl.gov or by calling 941•743•1200.
Adult Basketball
Get active at the Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Recreation Center, 6961 San Casa Drive, with adult drop-in basketball.Sessions are held on Tuesdays, 5:30 to 7:45 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $2 per dropin session. For details, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3760
Beginner Pickleball Clinic
Learn the basics of pickleball at the Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Recreation Center, 6961 San Casa Drive. These weekly introductory sessions are held on Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The cost is $3 per session. For more details, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3760
on page 9)
Scooping Up Success: How One Teen Made Her Own Dream Job
At just 15, Aubrey Souza has already done something most teens only daydream about: she turned her passion into an actual business.
While many high school students spend the summer looking for jobs, Aubrey spent hers plotting out flavors and branding, determined to find her own path. Out of that determination grew The Sorbet Society, her handcrafted sorbet venture, which now adds a splash of color to Englewood’s community events.
Aubrey’s story doesn’t follow the well-worn path of teen employment. She walked into businesses, filled out applications, but something was missing. Faced with a choice: work somewhere she didn’t care about, or build something she believed in, she made her own job. And not just any job, but a business with its own unique flair. She didn’t just want a summer gig; she wanted to create something that was truly hers.
Building The Sorbet Society started with her love of cooking.
There’s something special about the way she talks about flavors: the curiosity, the endless ideas for fresh combinations. Her mother played a big role in shaping the look and feel of the business, lending advice and a creative spark.
Aubrey then did her homework, crafted her pitch, and approached Sarah and Kevin, the owners of Arctic Alligator. Instead of seeing a teenager looking for a handout, they recognized a thoughtful plan and actual drive. Together, they mapped out a partnership: Aubrey would use their licensed kitchen to make her sorbets, and in return, she’d get not only mentorship but a space to turn dreams into deliverables.
“This has been an incredible learning experience,” Aubrey says, and it’s easy to see why. She’s knee-deep in the details, learning not just about recipes but pricing, budgeting, and managing expenses. There’s the challenge of balancing sorbet bookings with homework and the growing pains of running a real business. But for every late night, there’s a reward, like meeting new customers, hearing their stories, and making her brand a part of the community’s celebrations.
Aubrey is already networking and connecting with the community. “I joined the Chamber, which I think is a big thing, and I also like connecting with the different schools in my area.”
The Sorbet Society isn’t just about selling frozen treats. It’s about experiences. Aubrey’s cart appears at weddings, corporate events, festivals, nonprofit fundraisers, and private parties around Southwest Florida. She doesn’t want to just serve sorbet; she wants to be part of the moments people remember.
Sarah and Kevin see their support for The Sorbet Society as an investment, not just in Aubrey, but in the future of a small, local business. By sharing their expertise and resources, they’re helping to spark ambition. It’s a legacy built on collaboration as much
as commerce.
Beyond sorbet, Aubrey dreams big. She’s already thinking about saving money for real estate, where she hopes to blend her entrepreneurial hustle with her passion for interior design. For her, the fun is in the transformation, seeing potential in something overlooked and bringing it to life. That perspective applies not only to old houses but to new opportunities.
Right now, she’s focused on growing The Sorbet Society, expanding from community festivals into weddings and
private events. Each event, each new connection, is one more step. She knows getting started is always the hardest part, but she’s proof that it only takes one bold move, a leap from idea to action, to set surprising things in motion.
With her first summer behind her and fresh plans ahead, Aubrey isn’t slowing down. The Sorbet Society started as a single pushcart on the streets of Englewood, but its story, and Aubrey’s, are just getting started. If the past few months are any sign, there’s a lot more to come.
The Sorbet Society
Aubrey is scooping up success with a smile, one sale at a time.
Join the Adventure: Show Us Your Englewood REVIEW
Traveling the World
Where in the world will you take the Englewood REVIEW next?
There’s something special about how the Englewood REVIEW gets around. It’s not just a local newspaper, it’s a well-traveled companion, following readers from sun-drenched St. Thomas all the way to the shadows of the ancient Coliseum.
Take Tom and Annemarie D’Abrosca, for example. On May 8, 2026, they set sail on a river cruise along the Danube, chasing adventure all the way to Romania. Out of everything they packed, they made sure to tuck the REVIEW safely into their bags. That says something, doesn’t it? Whether in a foreign city or drifting between European villages, that familiar newspaper brought a piece of home along for the ride. Now, we want to hear your story. Where do you bring the REVIEW? Maybe you’ve perched on a mountaintop, surrounded by clouds, REVIEW in hand. Or perhaps you’ve opened it up on a breezy beach, the pages fluttering as you soak in the sun. Even a quiet afternoon with coffee at your favorite café counts; it’s the spirit of adventure that matters.
Wherever you wander, take a photo with your REVIEW and send it in. Let’s see just
(Continued from page 7)
Steps and Sets
Participate in Steps and Sets, a self-led wellness program, held on Fridays, 9 to 10 a.m. at the Tringali Park Recreation Center gymnasium, 3460 N. Access Road. This self-paced exercise class guides participants through a walking route with fitness stations featuring exercises focused on movement, balance, and light strength. The program is designed for all ages. The cost is $2 per session. For information, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov or call 941•681•3742
Drop-in Volleyball
Join a drop-in volleyball program at the Centennial Park Recreation Center gymnasium, 1120 Centennial Boulevard, Port Charlotte. Lined for two courts, this self-led program
how far this newspaper, and its community, can go. Show us your slice of the world.
How to participate:
Grab your copy of the Englewood REVIEW.
Snap a photo of yourself with it in an exciting or unique location (a tropical beach, a mountain peak, or even your favorite cozy local café!).
Share your photo in the comments below or post it on your feed and tag us! Better yet, email it to michele@
provides casual play open to all skill levels. Sessions are held on Sundays, noon to 3:30 p.m. No coaching is provided. The cost is $2 per session at the door. For details, visit CharlotteCountyFL. gov or call 941•613•3230
Pilates in the Park
Enjoy a gentle, fun and energizing full-body workout at “Pilates in the Park”, held every Tuesday, 10:15 to 11 a.m., at Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd. This outdoor Pilates class invites participants to exercise while taking in the park’s natural beauty. Guests should bring a mat or beach towel and water. All experience levels are welcome. For more information, contact Sarasota County at 941•861•5000.
englewoodreview.com and we’ll feature you in an upcoming edition.
Happy Travels!
Stiver
President
Stiver Sales Manager
Southern Trailer 850 S. River Rd.
Southern Trailer & Supply, right here in Englewood, continues to be one of the largest volume trailer dealers in the country. Our “Price Match Guarantee” assures that you will get the best price.
Our customers frequently come from out-of-state to get a “Great Deal” on trailers and accessories.
We typically stock over 300 trailers in brands such as Load Trail, Aluma, Maxx D, Down 2 Earth, Covered Wagon, Alcom, Timpte and EBY.
On the premises is a full-service trailer repair, welding, and fabrication shop. As well as installing all types of hitches and truck accessories with brands such as BMW, Bulletproof, Curt, and Tekonsha.
Recently, we purchased the adjoining property and are looking forward to expanding and modernizing our facility.
Tom and Annemarie D’Abrosca with the Englewood REVIEW on a river cruise along the Danube.
Alec
Bill
Baila Miller Lecture Series
The Venice Art Center will host the Fall 2026 Baila Miller Lecture Series, “Art Movements: Beauty Through the Ages,” in the Pat Buster Gallery. The presentation schedule includes Tuesday, September 15, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday, September 29, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday, October 6, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday, October 20, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday, November 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday, November 17, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; and Tuesday, December 15, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sessions examine art history spanning ancient Greece and Rome, the Dark Ages, the Renaissance, the Baroque era, the Ballets Russes, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco. Sponsored by Barbara Freeman, admission is $13 for members and $15 for future members per lecture. Space is limited, and registration is required. To reserve a spot, visit VeniceArtCenter.com or call 941•485•7136
Waters of Charlotte County Calendar Contest
The Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners is accepting submissions from local photographers for its 2027 county calendar contest, themed “The Waters of Charlotte County.” Participants may submit photos online through Monday, August 31 that showcase the beauty of local waterways. All photos must be taken horizontally in Charlotte
County, measure 8.5 inches by 11 inches and exclude business identifiers such as logos or signage. A panel will select 14 winning photos to be featured in the calendar, and winners will be notified by phone or email. Calendars will be available to the public in late November at designated county facilities. Entrants grant a non-exclusive license to Charlotte County to display their work with name credit and must have permission from any recognizable individuals pictured. Entry is free. For complete rules and to upload submissions, visit CharlotteCountyFL.gov/contest or call 941•743•1000
Summer Circus Spectacular
The Circus Arts Conservatory and The Ringling are partnering to present the annual Summer Circus Spectacular through Saturday, August 8, at the Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. The family-friendly event features elite circus artists from around the globe in a highenergy showcase designed for audiences of all ages. Regular performances run Tuesdays through Fridays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Regular tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under. Show ticket holders can also purchase a same-day $5 bonus admission to the Circus Museum and the Tibbals Learning Center.
For tickets visit ringling.org or call 941•360•7399
Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay Art Classes
The Arts Alliance of Lemon Bay, 452 West Dearborn Street, offers a wide variety of art classes for all skill levels, including jewelry making, watercolor, gourd art, needle felting, glass fusing, paper collage and more. Classes are held throughout the year and are led by experienced local artists in a welcoming, creative environment. Prices usually range from $40 to $75, depending on material costs. To view current class offerings and schedules, visit artsallianceoflemonbay.com. For more information, call 941•475•7141
A Taste of Art
A Taste of Art brings together dining and live creativity at Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US-41 Bypass, Venice, every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evening, where local artists demonstrate their craft as guests enjoy dinner surrounded by a rotating gallery of artwork available for purchase. For more information about Creative Liberties, visit CreativeLiberties.net or call 941•799•6634.
Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, has announced its 42nd season, themed “Where Sound Becomes Story,” under the direction of Artistic Director Joseph Caulkins. The upcoming season features an array of collaborative performances running from October through May, including partnerships with The Sarasota Ballet’s Studio Company, The Circus Arts Conservatory, The Venice Symphony, and folk group The Lubben Brothers. Season subscriptions and single tickets for the concert lineup are on sale at keychorale.org. Pictured are the Lubben Brothers who will be performing on February 13.
Susan Beausang’s photograph “Whispers of Dawn” was awarded Best-in-Show in the “It’s A Wild Life” category for Big Waters Land Trust’s seventh annual Summer Photo Contest. Selected from more than 130 statewide entries by a blind panel of expert jurors, the winning images are currently on display in an online gallery at bigwaterslandtrust.org, with public “People’s Choice” voting open on Facebook through July 31. Photo courtesy of Big Waters Land Trust.
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota will present 24 concerts for its 31st season, which runs from October 11, 2026, through May 17, 2027. The schedule includes the Soirée series, Sunday Best, Top Shelf Tuesdays, Lunch and Listen, and Lighter Fare series, alongside three special events. The season opens with Trio Sinfonia performing on Sunday, October 11, 4 p.m. and Monday, October 12, 4 p.m. at the Fischer/Weisenborne residence. Additional performances will be held at regional locations, including First Presbyterian Church, First Congregational United Church of Christ, Sarasota Yacht Club, and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Discounted tickets are available through August 31. For the full schedule and ticket information, visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call 941•306•1202. Pictured is Biribá Union, who will kick off the “Lighter Fare” series on November 17 at Selby Gardens. Photo by Emily Walker Photography.
Acting Class: Scene Study & Monologues
Instructor Steve Black will lead a five-week acting session on Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from July 18 through August 15 at the Lemon Bay Playhouse, 96 W. Dearborn Street. The course focuses on physical exercises and script analysis to help actors of all levels interpret characters through scenes and monologues. Cost is $125. Participants will perform in a showcase at the end of August. For more information, visit lemonbayplayhouse.com or call 941•475•6756
Drop-in Improv for Adults with Daniel Dagesse
Adults of all skill levels are invited to build confidence, decrease anxiety and find community during a singlesession workshop on Saturday, July 18, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Raymond Center Classroom at Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Avenue West, Venice. Led by instructor Daniel Dagesse, the interactive class uses specially crafted games, warm-ups and exercises to introduce theatrical improvisation. Future drop-in sessions will also be offered on Monday, August 17 at Wellen Park and Saturday, August 22 at Venice Theatre. Tuition is $35 per session, and participants must register by noon two days prior
to class. For details or to sign up, email kellyduyn@venicetheatre. net or call 941•486•8679
Solitary Man – A Neil Diamond Tribute
The Sarasota Opera House will host a musical celebration on Saturday, July 25, at 7 p.m. at 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota. Titled “Solitary Man,” this tribute concert features veteran singer and actor David Jericko, who brings Neil Diamond’s iconic catalog to life by capturing the unique stylistic nuances, stage presence and vocal personality of the legendary songwriter. Audiences can look forward to live, nostalgic renditions of classic hits spanning Diamond’s multi-decade career. Tickets for the performance range from $30.90 to $72.10, and advanced seat selection is available online. For tickets, seating accommodations or more details, visit sarasotaopera.org or call the box office at 941•328•1300
Monday Night Jazz Cabaret: Scotty Wright Sings Gershwin
The Jazz Club of Sarasota will present vocalist Scotty Wright in concert on Monday, July 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the John C. Court Cabaret, 1265 1st Street, Sarasota. Part of the Monday Night Jazz Cabaret series, the performance, titled “By George, By Ira: Scotty Wright
Marvin: A Marvin Gaye Revue Experience the iconic music of Marvin Gaye at “Marvin: A Marvin Gaye Revue”, running through Friday, July 24, at The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Avenue, Sarasota. Created, adapted, and directed by Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs, this two-hour musical revue celebrates the legendary singer-songwriter who helped shape the Motown sound. The production features an ensemble cast performing timeless hits such as “How Sweet It Is,” “Can I Get a Witness,” and “Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on July 21–24, and for Saturday and Sunday sets at both 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on July 18–19. The show is recommended for audiences ages 6 and up. Tickets start at $20. For tickets or more details visit westcoastblacktheatre.org or call 941•366•1505
“Dog Mom”
Sings Gershwin”, will explore iconic selections from the Great American Songbook written by the legendary songwriting brothers. Wright will be accompanied by Judi Glover on piano, Joe Porter on bass, Pete Carney on saxophone and flute, and David Hardman on drums. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for dinner and drink service, which is not included in the ticket price. Tickets start at $46.01. For tickets or details, visit jazzclubsarasota.org or call 941•260•9951
Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey
Florida Studio Theatre presents “Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey” through Sunday, July 19, at the Goldstein Cabaret, 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. This intimate musical tribute celebrates the heart and harmony of the 1960s, featuring acoustic favorites from iconic artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Bob Dylan. The cabaret honors the folk movement that defined a generation with warm, authentic performances.Tickets are $40. For tickets and performance times, visit floridastudiotheatre. org or call the box office at 941•366•9000.
8 p.m. and select matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2 or 3 p.m. For specific date schedules, tickets, or more information, theatergoers can visit floridastudiotheatre.org, email info@floridastudiotheatre. org, or call the FST box office at 941•366•9000.
The Last Romance
Florida Studio Theatre will present the National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere of “Dog Mom” through Sunday, July 26, at the FST Keating Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Avenue, Sarasota. The play follows Liz, a tough-asnails New Yorker whose life is unraveling, as she reluctantly agrees to foster a scruffy stray dog that arrives on her stoop, setting off a heartwarming and hilarious journey of self-discovery and unlikely friendships. Performance times vary throughout the run, featuring evening shows at 7 or
Florida Studio Theatre will present the romantic comedy “The Last Romance” from Wednesday, July 22 through Sunday, August 16, at the Gompertz Theatre, 1265 First Street, Sarasota. Written by Joe DiPietro, the play follows Ralph, a widower who takes a different path on his daily walk and encounters Carol, an elegant woman who introduces an unexpected journey of second chances and senior-age romance. The production has a running time of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Tickets range from $25 to $46. For showtimes, reservations or ticketing information, visit floridastudiotheatre.org or call the box office at 941•366•9000 Head Over Heels
Venice Theatre will present the bold musical comedy “Head Over Heels” from Friday, July 24 through Saturday, August 8 in the Pinkerton Theatre, 140 Tampa Avenue West, Venice. Directed and choreographed by Brad Wages, the production features the music of the iconic 1980s all-female rock band The Go-Go’s. Based on Sir Philip Sidney’s “The Arcadia,” the hilarious and exuberant story
Emmy Award-winning dancer and choreographer Derek Hough will return to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, on Thursday, August 6, at 7 p.m. Following a string of previous sold-out tours, his brand-new production, “Symphony of Dance: Encore,” offers a high-energy fusion of live music and dynamic dance styles ranging from ballroom and tap to salsa and hip-hop. The fast-paced show is co-created and directed by twotime Emmy-winning creative duo NappyTabs, with theatrical production by Tony Award-nominated producer Greg Young. Special VIP packages, including exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with Hough, are available for purchase online. For ticket pricing, seat availability or to secure reservations, visit vanwezel.org or call the box office at 941•263•6799
follows the escapades of a royal family on an outrageous journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction. Showtimes are Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Seating is general admission. Tickets are $35 for adults and seniors, $26 for college students and educators, and $19 for youth through high school. To purchase
tickets or for more information, visit venicetheatre.org or call the box office at 941•488•1115
Songbirds of the Seventies
Florida Studio Theatre will present the musical revue “Songbirds of the Seventies” through Sunday, September 6, at the Court Cabaret, 1265
First Street, Sarasota. Created by Nancy Allen, this vibrant tribute
for Arts
announced
recipients
in its 16th year,
This
production shines a spotlight on the era-defining hits and enduring legacy of powerhouse female singer-songwriters who reshaped the musical landscape, including Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon, Stevie Nicks, and Linda Ronstadt. The show stars vocalists Victoria Boland, Samantha Duval, and Madalyn McHugh, and features a total running time of 90 minutes,
which includes a 15-minute intermission. Cabaret attendees are welcome to enjoy on-site table dining and drink service inside the theater beginning one hour prior to showtime without required reservations. Tickets start at $40. For the full performance schedule or to purchase tickets, visit floridastudiotheatre.org or call the box office at 941•366•9000
Featured Artist Exhibition: Nancy VanTassell
Sea Grape Gallery will showcase the intricate work of jewelry designer and featured artist Nancy VanTassell from through Friday, July 31, at 113 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. A native of Poughkeepsie, New York, VanTassell specializes in the age-old technique of wire weaving, intertwining various gauges of precious metals with faceted and semi-precious stones to create unique, wearable art pieces. Her hand-crafted jewelry designs will be prominently displayed alongside works by the gallery’s resident artists. The exhibition is free and open to the public during regular gallery hours. For more information, visit seagrapegallery.com or call 941•575•1718
Art Center Sarasota Exhibits Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, continues its Centennial Season with four new exhibitions on view through Friday, July 31. Featured shows include “Composed” by Anja Palombo, “Designing the Cultural Coast,” “Living by the Water” by Cat Tesla, and the juried exhibition
“Medium Mutiny.” The galleries are open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m Admission is free. For more information, visit artsarasota.org or call 941•365•2032
Artists in Residence at ARCOS Creative Liberties will showcase the work of artists-in-residence Alina Olofinsky and Leah Brown through Monday, August 31 at Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Avenue, Sarasota. An opening reception will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 5 to 7 p.m. Olofinsky, a graduate of the Pratt Institute, will present “Love Dream Inspire,” a collection of photography and acrylic mixed-media works rooted in imaginative visual storytelling. Brown, a multidisciplinary artist working in photography, watercolor and mixed media, will showcase pieces that explore emotion, wonder and human connection. The exhibition is free and open to the public. For more information, email info@ CreativeLiberties.net or call 941•799•6634
Venice Turns 100 Exhibit
The Venice Museum, 351 Nassau Street South, is celebrating the city’s centennial with a new seasonal exhibit, “Venice Turns 100! Celebrating the City on the Gulf’s Centennial”, now through August 26. The exhibit highlights Venice’s transformation from city planner John Nolen’s original vision to today’s thriving Gulf Coast community. Located inside the historic Triangle Inn, listed in both the Venice Register of Historical Resources and the
The Hermitage Artist Retreat, in partnership with the Florida Alliance
Education, has
the
of the 2026 State Teachers Artist Residency (STARs) program for public school arts teachers. Now
the program awards residencies to exceptional Florida educators to focus on their personal creative work.
year’s recipients are from left to right, author Clifford Parody of Polk County, poet Caridad Moro of Miami-Dade County, visual artist Génesis Allione of Palm Beach County, and visual artist William Talenti of Hillsborough County.
Broadway star Betsy Wolfe performs for guests beneath the outdoor tent during last year’s Hermitage Artful Lobster on Manasota Key. The Hermitage Artist Retreat has announced the dates for its upcoming 2026–2027 benefit events, with the 18th annual Artful Lobster scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026, followed by the 19th annual Hermitage Greenfield Prize Dinner on Sunday, April 18, 2027. Photo courtesy of the Hermitage Artist Retreat.
National Register of Historic Places, the museum is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the first and third Saturdays, through April, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For details, call 941•486•2487 or visit VeniceMuseum.org.
Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will host the indoor and outdoor summer exhibition, “Shared Light: Lynn Goldsmith,” through Sunday, September 13, at its Downtown Sarasota campus, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota. This unique showcase by the legendary American fine art and celebrity photographer features a striking combination of evocative floral imagery and intimate personal portraits of Selby Gardens’ Artist-inResidence, the iconic musician and poet Patti Smith. Over her distinguished 50-year career, Goldsmith’s work has graced the covers of Rolling Stone, Time, and Vanity Fair, and is permanently held in prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art. Admission to the exhibition is included with standard garden entry of $35. To learn more visit selby.org or call 941•366•5731.
Something Borrowed, Something New and Maria A. Guzmán Capron: Penumbra Sarasota Art Museum presents two new exhibitions exploring
contemporary art through Sunday, September 27, at 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum features a group show of rarely seen works from private collections by artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, and Yoko Ono. Simultaneously, a solo exhibition by Maria A. Guzmán Capron showcases layered figurative textiles reflecting on identity and memory. For more information, visit sarasotaartmuseum.org or call 941•309•4300.
Beautiful Ideas: The Prints of Sol LeWitt
The Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, presents “Beautiful Ideas: The Prints of Sol LeWitt” through Sunday, October 25. Organized by the New Britain Museum of American Art, this exhibition explores the minimalist and conceptual artist’s 40-year printmaking career through more than 100 prints, including lithographs, silkscreens, and etchings. The collection is organized into four thematic sections that highlight LeWitt’s evolution from precise geometric lines to complex, colorful abstractions. The museum is located on the Ringling College Museum Campus. To learn more visit sarasotaartmuseum.org or call 941•309•4300.
Feature Artist Program
Creative Liberties will highlight 13 Southwest Florida artists through its Feature Artist Program, running through October at its Limelight District studios, 927 Lime Avenue, Sarasota. Spanning a wide range of media, the program features distinct exhibitions, special events and community engagement opportunities designed to foster authentic connections between local artists and the public. The Limelight District studios are open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday through Wednesday by appointment. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information visit creativeliberties.net, email info@ CreativeLiberties.net or call 941•799•6634
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 “Arts & Entertainment,” 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.
The Jazz Club of Sarasota was recently recognized in DownBeat Magazine’s international 2026 Great Jazz Venues Guide, making it one of only three jazz presenters in Florida to earn a spot in the prestigious annual publication. Pictured is legendary trumpeter Arturo Sandoval performing at a Jazz Club of Sarasota event. Photo by Stephen Splane.
Nature Calls
More than 70 participants identified 439 unique species during the recent Team-Challenge BioBlitz at the Elling Eide Center’s
generated over 1,775 environmental observations to support ongoing conservation research and habitat management for
Smart Sprinklers: Tips, Troubleshooting and Free Evaluations (Webinar)
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host an educational water conservation webinar on Monday, July 20, noon to 1 p.m. Led by water resources program specialist Valeria Yon, this practical session teaches participants how to optimize home irrigation systems to maintain a healthy lawn while conserving water and reducing utility bills. The class features step-by-step guidance on conducting a basic DIY sprinkler system audit, common troubleshooting tips to fix hidden leaks and information on how Sarasota County residents can register for a free irrigation evaluation conducted by a certified technician. The webinar
is free and open to the public, but advanced online registration is required to receive the access link. For more information visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota, email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu or call 941•861•5000.
Lunch & Learn: Pollinator Gardening and Insect Conservation (Webinar)
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host an educational wildlife webinar on Wednesday, July 22, noon to 1 p.m. Led by the Southwest District UF/ IFAS Extension team, this virtual class teaches participants how to design a pollinator-friendly landscape, identify beneficial insects that naturally prey on garden pests, and support local butterfly populations. Attendees who complete the follow-up survey can also receive a free
pollinator sticker, a seed packet, and materials to participate in the upcoming Great Southeast Pollinator Census on August 21-22. The webinar is free and open to the public, but advanced online registration is required to receive the Zoom access link. For more information or to register visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ sarasota, email sarasota@ifas.ufl. edu or call 941•861•5000
Creating Tranquil Twilight
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host the webinar “Creating Tranquil Twilight: Designing Evening Gardens” on Wednesday, July 22, 6 to 7:30 p.m.. The online class explores how to design an evening oasis in Southwest Florida using nightblooming flowers and native plants that support nocturnal pollinators and fill the air with
72-acre coastal private research preserve in Sarasota. The one-day event
imperiled Florida ecosystems. Photo courtesy of the Elling Eide Center.
fragrance. The session offers practical insights for gardeners of all skill levels to create an outdoor space that provides respite from daytime heat. Registration is free and available at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For more information visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota,email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu or call 941•861•5000
Heat and Sun Safety for Outdoor Workers
THURSDAY
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host the training class “Heat and Sun Safety for Outdoor Workers” on Thursday, July 23, 3 to 5 p.m. at its facility, 6600 Clark Road, Sarasota. This session focuses on heat and sun safety practices for individuals who work outdoors, covering heat illness prevention, skin cancer self-exams, sun protection, hydration needs, and OSHA safety compliance. Participants will also build a customized safety kit using provided items. FNGLA certificate holders can earn two CEUs. The event is free, but registration is required exclusively at ufsarasotaext. eventbrite.com. For questions, email tcalla@scgov.net or call 941•861•9900
ex•plore: Nature at Night
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host the “Nature at Night” program on Friday, July 24, 8:15 to 10:15 p.m. at the Curry Creek Preserve East Entrance, 1500 Pinebrook Road, Venice. The event features educational information about nocturnal wildlife, insects, and dark sky preservation, followed by a nighttime trail walk on unpaved surfaces. Participants must be age 18 or older, wear closed-toed footwear, and are encouraged to carpool due to limited parking and bring red-light flashlights or headlamps. Admission is free, but advance registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com. For information regarding youth attendance or event details, contact Jackie Lebouitz at jlebouitz@ufl.edu. Pollinator Gardening and Insect Conservation
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host the webinar “Lunch-and-Learn: Pollinator Gardening and Insect Conservation” on Wednesday, July 29, noon to 1 p.m. This session covers strategies to conserve butterflies and beneficial insects that prey on garden
The Coastal Wildlife Educational Garden offers self-guided field trips for families, homeschool groups, and traveling education programs on Maple Street, located behind the Sip Sip Hooray Garden Cafe at 240 W. Dearborn Street. The interactive garden features multiple educational stations equipped with QR codes that detail local coastal wildlife histories. The exhibit features outdoor sculptures sponsored by local businesses and painted by area artists. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes to complete, and educational docents can be scheduled in advance to guide groups. For restaurant hours or location coordination, call 941•914•9178.
pests, alongside tips for creating a pollinator-friendly home landscape. Participants who complete the event survey and provide a mailing address will receive a pollinator sticker, a seed packet, and materials to participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census in August. The webinar is free, but registration is required at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite. com. For details email sarasota@ ifas.ufl.edu or call 941•861•5000
Demonstration Garden Tour: Shamrock Park
UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County will host a guided nature tour on Friday, August 9, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Shamrock Park and
Nature Center, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. Held on the first Friday of every month, the walk is led by Sarasota County Master Gardener Volunteers who will showcase the park’s demonstration garden. Participants will learn how the site integrates Florida-Friendly Landscaping techniques that can be adapted for home or business environments. The tour is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is requested to track attendance and provide scheduling updates. For more information or to reserve a spot visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ sarasota, email sarasota@ifas.ufl. edu or call 941•861•5000
Shamrock Park Nature Center Displays
The Shamrock Park & Nature Center will host a recurring, family-friendly drop-in program every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. Visitors of all ages are invited to browse an array of fossil, shell, animal and artifact displays detailing local natural history. The center also features a dedicated “kids corner” equipped with educational toys, books and a hands-on “touch table” for interactive learning. No prior registration or fee is required to attend. For more information, call the center at 941•861•5000.
Visit choose.freedomhealth.com/print or scan the QR code to find a time and location that works for you. Seats are limited, so reserve yours soon. Atención disponible en español. Join us for a complimentary dinner where you can learn about Medicare plan options that meet your real-life needs. There’s no pressure and no obligation to enroll. You’ll get answers to your questions about topics like these:
RSVP today
To find out more about Medicare Advantage enrollment eligibility, visit freedomhealth.com. Freedom HealthCare, Inc. is an HMO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Freedom HealthCare, Inc. depends on contract renewal. We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities. Hablamos español y podemos ayudarle a encontrar el plan ideal para usted. Llame al 855-953-6437 (TTY: 711). We speak Spanish and can help you find the ideal plan for you. Call 855-953-6437 (TTY: 711). If you speak a language other than English, translation and alternate format services are available to you on a standing basis, free of charge. Just call 855-953-6437 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. This plan has exclusions, limitations, and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For costs and complete details of coverage, please contact your agent or the health plan. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Benefits, premiums and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year.
Venice Audubon Society News
The Venice Area Audubon Society serves south Sarasota County and offers activities, educational programs, birding field trips and provides support for birds and wildlife with a pollinator garden and native plants at the Venice Area Audubon Rookery Park, located at 4002 S. Tamiami Trail via Annex Road, Venice. New members are welcome. Learn more at VeniceAudubon.org or email info@VeniceAudubon.org.
Book Club: The Feather Thief
The Venice Area Audubon Society will host its book club discussion of “The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century” by Kirk Wallace Johnson on Monday, August 10, 10 to 11 a.m. at the Venice Audubon Center, 4002 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice. Led by discussion leader Jean Pichler, the event explores the truecrime nonfiction work detailing a museum heist involving rare bird specimens. The program is open to the public and walk-ins are welcome, though registration is encouraged. For more information, email info@ veniceaudubon.org or call 941•496•8984.
Book Club Zoom Discussion: The Feather Thief
The Venice Area Audubon Society will host an online book club discussion of “The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century” by Kirk Wallace Johnson on Wednesday, August 12, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.. Led by discussion leader Jean Pichler, the session focuses on the truecrime nonfiction work detailing a museum heist involving rare bird specimens. The event is open to the public, and registration is required to receive the Zoom link. For more information, email
info@veniceaudubon.org or call 941•496•8984
Lemon Bay Conservancy News
The free guided nature walks and activities shown below are sponsored by Lemon Bay Conservancy and will be held at Lemon Creek Wildflower Preserve, 3120 Gasparilla Pines Blvd., Englewood. Please come prepared for a hike. The preserve can be “buggy” this time of year. Consider wearing long sleeves and long pants. Water, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and hiking shoes are recommended. Some people like to bring a walking pole. Binoculars are useful for observing more distant birds and other animals. Website: LemonBayConservancy.org.
Guided Nature Walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve The Lemon Bay Conservancy
and guide Dr. Bill Dunson will host a nature walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve/East on Sunday, July 26, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Participants will meet in the parking lot at 2695 Bridge Street to walk a 1.5-mile loop through mesic pine flatwoods and visit three wetlands. Discussions will focus on wetland types, plant classification, and ecosystem function, alongside identifying local animals and plants. The event is free, open to all, and does not require reservations, though participants must sign a waiver. Dogs, smoking, and vaping are prohibited on the flat sand and dirt trail. For more information, email wdunson@ comcast.net.
Peace River Audubon Society
The Peace River Audubon Society (PRAS) of Charlotte
County exists to foster an awareness of Florida birds and other wildlife through exploration and conservation. It was founded in 1977 by a group of Charlotte County citizens who wanted to form an Audubon chapter. There are monthly meetings, birding walks, educational programs and more. Visit PeaceRiverAudubonSociety. org to learn more. For questions, email praspresident@gmail.com
Audubon Walkabout Join naturalist Rob Mills for weekly Saturday walkabouts at 8:30 a.m. at Audubon Pennington Park, 153 Alton Road, Port Charlotte. This peaceful nine-acre preserve features three distinct ecosystems: pine flatwoods, an oak hammock and a cypress swamp. The main trail is about
three-quarters of a mile long with additional loops and side paths to explore. For more information, visit peaceriveraudubonsociety. org.
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 “Nature Calls,” 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 www.englewoodreview.com and check out our interactive calendar where you are invited to add your event.
Unwelcome Visitor: A 5-foot alligator rests near Oxford Drive earlier this month before being safely captured and relocated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Residents are reminded to maintain a safe distance and report nuisance alligators to wildlife officials. Photo courtesy of Denise Stevens.
One Fence Post at a Time
Programs & Events
Dog Tales
Wednesday, July 22, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Each child can read one-onone with their pet partner to build reading con dence and have fun while gaining literacy skills. Drop in and have some fun reading!
Englewood Charlotte Public Library
941.681.3736
Saturday, July 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Come celebrate your dino-ri c achievements now that you’ve completed the Summer Reading Program, Unearth a Story. Come party with us and enjoy a fun craft and a dino-mite lunch on us!
This party is invitation only--you’ll receive your ticket when you turn in your nal reading log!
Englewood Charlotte Public Library
941.681.3736
Social Sewing
Tuesday, July 28, 1 to 3 p.m.
“We’re not, after all, separate from the animal kingdom. We’re part of it.” Jane Goodall How one single mother built an animal sanctuary, and found hope, purpose, and love along the way.
The first thing you notice is the quiet.
Not silence, because there’s plenty of sound, but the kind of peace that only exists in places where animals feel safe.
A rooster crows somewhere beyond the fence. Goats chatter to one another from beneath a shade tree. Horses lift their heads as visitors approach, ears forward, curious rather than cautious. A young donkey ambles over, stretching her nose toward anyone willing to scratch behind her ears. Nearby, a pig ambles confidently into the middle of the gathering, convinced every new person has arrived specifically to see her.
It’s impossible to stand here without smiling as Henrietta, the donkey, nibbles at your rings.
This sanctuary wasn’t built by investors or backed by wealthy donors. It wasn’t the result of a master plan or a fundraising campaign.
It was built one fence post at a time.
call when children get sick. Someone always needs to be picked up. Someone always has an appointment. A single mother doesn’t have the luxury of pretending life happens on a schedule.
Real estate offered something different. She could work from home. She could take her children with her if she needed to. She could answer her phone between school pickups. Eventually she began specializing in farm properties.
Without realizing it, she had stepped into the role that would define the rest of her life.
Every time she sold a farm, she’d ask the same question.
“So, what happens to the animals?” Again and again, she heard the same heartbreaking answer. “We’ll probably have them put down.”
Iris never accepted that.
“Don’t,” she’d tell them. “I’ll take them.” One horse became several. A donkey joined the family. Then goats. Turkeys. Pigs. Ducks. Chickens. Animals that had nowhere else to go simply kept arriving.
Drums of Unity
Tuesday, July 28, 1 to 2 p.m.
Experience the joy of rhythm in this hands-on drum circle using authentic African djembe drums! Participants will learn fun beats and rhythms through wordplay and simple phrases that make drumming easy and accessible for all ages. Drums are provided!
Englewood Charlotte Public Library
941.681.3736
Use our sewing machines and hang out with friendly folks.
Englewood Charlotte Public Library
941.681.3736
Twenty-six years ago, Iris Pisko stood on a piece of raw Florida land that looked like little more than possibility. She had moved from Germany in 2000 with her husband, four children, two horses, an aging donkey, a dog, and a cat. In Germany, she had built a successful career as a banker, earning a comfortable living. But in Florida, banking offered neither the salary nor the flexibility she needed.
Then came divorce.
Her husband kept the house. She kept the land. To most people, it wasn’t much, but for Iris, it was the beginning of a dream she had carried since childhood.
“I always wanted to live on a farm,” she says. The challenge wasn’t finding the dream, it was figuring out how to survive long enough to reach it.
With four children to raise on her own, a traditional office job wasn’t practical. Schools
Her children quickly noticed the pattern. Whenever their mother announced she’d gotten a new farm listing, they’d grin. “What kind of animals are we getting this time?” The joke wasn’t really a joke. There usually were animals coming home.
Fandango Sanctuary Was Born
The sanctuary grew long before it had a name. People began hearing about the woman who never seemed to say no. Need a home for an elderly horse? Call Iris. A neglected donkey? Call Iris. Someone moving away? Someone overwhelmed? Someone ready to give up? Call Iris. Before she knew it, Iris was the official owner and founder of the Fandango Sanctuary. Every rescued life brought another feed bill.
Another veterinary bill. Another mouth to care for. Eventually real estate wasn’t enough. To keep feeding the growing family of animals, Iris took a second job working overnight shifts at an assisted living facility. Her days became almost impossible.
Iris and Henrietta at Fandango Sanctuary
With her plate full working her real estate job, animal care, parenting, night shifts, then doing it all over again the next day, became overwhelming.
“I realized I was going to burn out,” she says.
Friends encouraged her to become a nonprofit in 2019. It made sense on paper. People could donate and volunteers could help. The sanctuary could finally become sustainable.
Except there was one problem. Almost nobody knew it existed.
“I’ve never been very good at social media,” Iris laughs. The work continued anyway. Because by then she’d already survived something much harder.
Years earlier, not long after her divorce, Iris reached one of the darkest seasons of her life. She had recently survived a devastating rollover car accident after another driver struck her vehicle. Her children escaped serious injury, but Iris suffered lasting shoulder and neck injuries.
Her family remained in Germany, yet Iris desperately wanted to return home. Instead, the family court ordered her to stay. Without permission from her former husband, she couldn’t even move more than sixty miles away. She found herself raising four children alone in a country where she had almost no support system.
“I was really depressed,” she remembers.
One conversation changed everything.
between meetings, rescue stories, and shared values, something else happened.
“We realized we had a lot in common,” Ernst says. The relationship grew naturally. And last November they were married.
Their wedding reflected everything they loved most. Hay bales served as pews. The ceremony took place on the farm. The guests included family, friends, and of course, dozens of rescued animals.
became an all-day adventure, as the donkeys had spent years living almost untouched by people. They scattered across the property like wild deer. By evening they were finally loaded and headed toward safety.
Months later, Iris stepped outside one morning to discover a surprise. A tiny foal. The veterinarian delivered grim news that Henrietta probably wouldn’t survive. Her mother was severely underweight and the newborn was even weaker.
backpack. She has never met an object she didn’t think belonged in her mouth. “She’s basically a teenager,” Ernst jokes.
She has also become the face of the sanctuary. A black-andwhite portrait of Henrietta and Iris now capturing the hearts of everyone who sees it.
Then There’s Violet
A friend’s mother listened quietly before asking a simple question. “What’s your dream?”
Iris answered immediately. Ever since childhood, Iris had imagined living like Pippi Longstocking; surrounded by rescued animals, giving them a place where no one would ever hurt them again.
Then reality interrupted. “I have four kids,” she replied. “I make minimum wage. How?”
The older woman smiled. “If you have ten dollars left at the end of the month,” she said, “buy one fence post.”
The next month? Buy another.
The advice was profound. Don’t focus on the whole farm. Build the next piece. Keep the dream alive. That advice became the foundation for everything visitors see today. Every extra dollar bought another fence post. Another gate, then another section of fencing, leading to another improvement. Year after year. One fence post at a time. Iris built the sanctuary, and Ernst helped strengthen its future.
After years working overseas, Ernst Pisko found himself returning to the United States. Florida wasn’t part of the plan, but then he met Iris.
Having spent years involved in rescue work with horses and dogs, he immediately recognized both the need and the heart behind the sanctuary. He offered to help with business planning, legal paperwork, and organization. Somewhere
The most unforgettable moment wasn’t planned. The instant the pastor pronounced them husband and wife, the rooster crowed. The donkeys answered. The horses joined in. Goats added their voices. Turkeys erupted into what sounded remarkably like applause.
“The pastor asked how we orchestrated it,” Ernst laughs. “We told him we didn’t.”
Some celebrations, it seems, organize themselves.
Every Animal Has a Story Henrietta
Henrietta’s story nearly ended before it began.
Iris received a call about five neglected donkeys living on fifty acres where a failing well threatened to leave them without water. She couldn’t turn them away. Catching them
For days, Iris carefully tended both mother and baby in a quiet stall, limiting visitors and nursing them through the critical first week. Against the odds, Henrietta lived.
Today she’s impossible to ignore. She steals keys, chews shirt sleeves, investigates every
One midnight phone call changed her life. A domestic pig had fallen from a slaughter truck. Police had called rescue after rescue, veterinarians, animal organizations, anyone who might help. No one could. Iris answered.
When Violet arrived, she appeared almost lifeless, too injured to stand and covered in blood. For three days, Iris and a volunteer sat beside her, cleaning wounds, feeding her by syringe, and refusing to let hope disappear. “We promised her,” Iris says, “’If you make it, you’ll never suffer again.’”
Slowly, something changed. The spark emerged and life returned to her once-lifeless eyes.
Today Violet greets visitors with joyful curiosity and enough personality to fill the entire farm. She’s become one of its greatest ambassadors.
HONDA• YAMAHA • SUZUKI • MERCURY
Welcome to the farm!
Violet is healthy today, decked out in her tutu.
Not Every Rescue Story Has a Happy Beginning.
A mule rescued moments before being shipped to slaughter.
A goat recovering from horrific abuse.
Retired competition horses whose owners no longer wanted the responsibility of caring for them.
Ducks raised in cardboard boxes.
Animals discarded because they grew too large, became inconvenient, or simply stopped being cute.
Their stories are difficult to hear, and Iris and Ernst have seen it all. There are too many stories to share. Yet, their recoveries make them impossible to forget. If Iris and Ernst can make a difference in an animal’s life, they will do anything in their power to give these animals a happy ending.
Running a sanctuary, however, is far more than compassion. It’s math.
Thousands of dollars each month in feed, with constant veterinary care for aging and special-needs animals, emergency surgeries, medication, maintenance. It costs $5000 a month simply to feed the animals and that doesn’t begin to cover the medical expenses.
Then came Hurricane Ian. The storm devastated nearly everything. The animal shelters were destroyed and buildings damaged. Years of work disappeared almost overnight. Yet, Iris and Ernst took a deep breath and got to work.
Recovery continues today.
Which is why Iris and Ernst now share one ambitious goal: a hurricane-safe concrete barn.
The building would allow every animal to shelter safely during future storms while providing flexible spaces for horses, donkeys, pigs, goats, and other rescued residents. “It isn’t a luxury,” Ernst says. “It’s something we need.”
Visitors can help by touring the sanctuary, sponsoring an animal, donating toward the building project, or simply sharing the sanctuary’s story. Every contribution becomes another fence post. Another step. Another chance.
Late in the afternoon, Henrietta wanders over once more. She nibbles at a shirt sleeve before deciding someone’s keys look far more interesting. Laughter ripples across the yard.
Watching the little donkey play, it’s difficult to imagine that a veterinarian once believed she wouldn’t survive.
It’s equally difficult to imagine this entire sanctuary beginning with one exhausted single mother standing alone on an empty piece of land. But perhaps that’s the lesson. Dreams rarely arrive fully built. Sometimes they begin with ten extra dollars for one fence post. One rescued animal. One impossible decision to keep going. Twenty-six years later, the sanctuary stands as proof that extraordinary things are often built exactly that way. One fence post at a time.
For more information, go to fandangosanctuary.org
Ernst immediately recognized both the need and the heart behind the sanctuary.
Meet Fandango, the horse.
Youth Basketball
Join a casual, co-ed youth basketball program at the Tringali Park Recreation Center gymnasium, 3460 N. Access Road. Sessions are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, 3 to 5 p.m. The drop-in fee is $2 per session. The program is open to all skill levels under age 18. For information, visit charlottecountyfl.gov or call 941•681•3742
Junior Golf Clinic
Evie’s Family Golf Center hosts a free junior golf clinic on Saturdays from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at 4735 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. Taught by PGA professionals, the clinic covers golf swing fundamentals, including grip, stance, and posture, for children ages five to 15. All clubs and balls are provided for participants. The program starts promptly at 9 a.m., and registration is not required. For schedule confirmation, call 941•377•9300.
Thursday Night Magic: Library Edition
The Englewood Charlotte Public Library will host a casual “Magic: The Gathering” meetup every Thursday evening, from 5 to 7 p.m. The recurring program takes place at 3450 North Access Road, and is open to all ages and experience levels, from beginners to seasoned players. Library staff will be available to teach newcomers how to play. Participants can bring their own deck or borrow one provided by the library. No prior registration is required. For more information visit charlottecountyfl.libcal.com or contact event organizer Angie McReynolds at 941•613•3200.
Fun to Be Fit Kids
Children ages 5 and under and their caregivers are invited to the Elsie Quirk Library for a music and movement program on Friday, July 17, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. in the meeting room at 100 West Dearborn Street. The interactive class is designed for children and families to spend quality time together singing, dancing and exercising. Registration is not required. Free and open to the public. For details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com. or call 941•861•1208.
FAM (Family
Art Making) with The Ringling
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, will host its popular “FAM” (Family Art Making) workshop on Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This multi-generational studio program invites families to work together on creative art projects directly inspired by historical artifacts and masterpieces housed within the museum’s permanent collections. Upon checking in, all participants will receive a complimentary FAM wristband, which grants free admission to explore both the Museum of Art galleries and the Circus Museum for the remainder of the day so they can view the featured pieces in person. While the workshop and accompanying museum access are entirely free, advanced ticketing is mandatory to secure entry. Because studio space is limited, individual entry passes are released online approximately 14 days prior to the event date and tend to claim quickly. An upcoming program is offered on September 5. For more details on the day’s specific art project, or to reserve your family’s admission passes, visit ringling.org or contact the education department at 941•359•5700
Summer Movie Nights: Superman
CoolToday Park will host a family-friendly screening of “Superman” on Sunday, July 19 at 5 p.m. at the stadium, 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, Venice. Prior to or during the film, guests can enjoy food, drinks and year-round hospitality at the on-site Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill. Tickets are free for children ages 3 and under, $3 for ages 4 to 9, and $7 for ages 10 and older. Tickets can be purchased online in advance at cooltodaypark.com or directly at the stadium box office. For more information, call 941•413•5000
Forty Carrots: Partners in Play
Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in the drop-in free “Partners In Play” parenting education group. This fun and educational experience
is held on Monday, July 20 from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m., with a second session from noon to 1 p.m., at the Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. Meet the friendly parenting educators and discover how Forty Carrots can help you enhance your parenting skills even more with hands-on developmental age-appropriate activities, circle time fun, valuable parenting information and the opportunity to make new friends. The program is for babies to five years old. Class is limited to 12 families. Come to the youth services desk to sign up the day of the session. For questions, call 941•861•1225
Venice Kids’ Yoga
Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host an interactive youth wellness workshop on Tuesday, July 21, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Led by certified instructor Sarah of Venice Kids’ Yoga, this earlychildhood program welcomes toddlers and preschoolers ages 1 to 5 along with their parents or caregivers to learn and practice foundational yoga poses together. The introductory session incorporates playful movement, storytelling, and simple breathing exercises designed to improve balance, flexibility, and mindfulness in a fun, supportive setting. The class is entirely free to attend, and no prior yoga experience or advanced registration is required. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1276
Grow with the Arts
Tweens and teens ages 9 to 18 are invited to an afternoon of handson creativity and expression on Tuesday, July 21, 1 to 4 p.m. in the meeting room at the Elsie Quirk Library, 100 West Dearborn Street. Participants will design some cool accessories and colorful art with instructor Janessa Tamsett as part of the Color Your World Camp, provided in partnership with Englewood Creative Arts. Registration is required and limited to 20 participants, though attendance at all camp sessions is not required. Free and open to the public. To register visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110.
EQ Craft Crew: Happy Birthday America!
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will host a patriotic youth art workshop on Tuesday, July 21 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Geared toward children and tweens ages 5 to 12, this interactive installment of the monthly EQ Craft Crew series celebrates America’s heritage. Young
creators will rotate through hands-on art stations where they can assemble custom birthday hats, design festive cards, and engage in trivia activities that test their knowledge of the nation’s history. The program is free to attend, and all crafting materials are provided on-site. To learn more visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Let’s Pretend Day
Children ages 2 to 8 and their caregivers are invited to “Let’s Pretend Day” at Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. Drop in for free-play time with toys and props designed to spark young imaginations on Wednesdays, July 22 & 29 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Program Room. No registration needed. For more information, visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com or call 941•861•1200
Superstar Snakes
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, and a UF/IFAS Extension educator will co-host a family-friendly nature workshop on Wednesday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Geared toward children, tweens, and teens ages 5 to 18, this educational summer program explores Florida’s native serpent species. Through an interactive presentation, hands-on activities, and art projects, families will learn how to identify common local snakes by their colors and patterns, distinguish between venomous and non-venomous species, and discover the critical role these creatures play in maintaining a healthy, balanced ecosystem. The event is free to attend, but
advanced registration is highly encouraged to ensure enough craft supplies. To register visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Dog Tales
Children and families are invited to enjoy a fun and confidencebuilding reading experience at “Dog Tales” on Wednesday, July 22, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., at the Englewood Charlotte County Library, 3450 N. Access Road. Readers of all ages can drop in to read one-on-one with certified therapy dogs, helping to build literacy skills while enjoying a relaxed, encouraging environment. This free, recurring program is open to kids and families with no registration required. For more information, call 941•613•3200 or visit charlottecountyfl.libcal.com.
Summer Beach Runs
Sharky’s on the Pier and Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources will co-host a youth fitness and entertainment event on Wednesday, July 22, 5:30 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday, July 29, 5:30 to 8 p.m. on the beachfront at 1600 Harbor Drive South, Venice. The event offers beachside activities for families, beginning with
the Sarasota County Kids’ Summer Beach Runs on the shores of North Brohard Park. Registration opens at 5:30 p.m. next to the Venice Fishing Pier, followed by a one-mile race start at 6:30 p.m. Designed for participants up to age 18, this free, non-competitive run awards participation ribbons weekly. Children who complete four runs over the summer season earn an event t-shirt. Sharky’s on the Pier will simultaneously host Kids’ Night activities starting at 6:30 p.m., featuring face painting, crab-walk races, and a beach scavenger hunt. Both programs are free, and advanced online registration is not required. For weather updates, call 311, email office@sharkysonthepier.com, or call 941•488•1456
Playdate Harmonies
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will host a “Playdate Harmonies” music and movement workshop on Thursday, July 23, from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Led by Jill Brown, this interactive summer program is specifically designed for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers ages 1 to 5 along with their parents or caregivers. Participants will sing along to
familiar songs, explore basic instruments, and engage in a variety of play-based sensory activities that promote early childhood development and a lifelong love of music. The event is free to attend, and no advanced registration is required. For more details visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Family Story Time
On Thursday, July 23, 11 a.m., families with children ages 0 to 5 are invited to drop in to the Englewood Charlotte Library, 3450 North Access Road, for storytime. This weekly program incorporates musical play to encourage early learning and develop group participation skills. Little ones will explore stories, songs, and movement that support both gross and fine motor development, with plenty of clapping, stomping, and joyful wiggling! To learn more, call 941•681•3736 or visit charlottecountyfl.libcal.com.
Grow With the Arts: Drama! Elsie Quirk Library and Englewood Creative Arts will co-host a dynamic, hands-on theater and crafting workshop on Thursday, July 23, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Elsie Quirk
Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. This collaborative program is designed for tweens and teens ages 9 to 18. Participants will start the afternoon in the Creation Station, designing their own custom buttons and fabricating unique stage props, before joining drama instructor ‘Ce Shafler for an interactive session focused on honing fundamental acting and performance skills. The workshop is free to attend and all materials are provided, but advanced online registration is required and capped at 20 participants. For more details or to register visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Crafts by Nature: Nature Necklaces
The Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host a family-friendly crafting workshop on Friday, July 24, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This hands-on session invites ages 3-12, and their families to get creative with natural elements. During this workshop, participants will design and assemble their own custom nature necklaces using an assortment of organic materials
and jewelry supplies. The program is completely free to attend. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1276
Family Art Day
Creative Liberties invites families to gather for Family Art Day on Saturday, July 25, 9:30 a.m. to noon, at 927 Lime Avenue, Sarasota. Led this month by artist Traci Kegerreis, this free, hands-on program encourages intergenerational creativity with art projects designed for all ages and skill levels. The event is supported by the Johnson Singer Arts and Education Fund. Free and open to the public, with no registration required. For more information visit CreativeLiberties.net or call 941•799•6634
Back to School Bash at Fishermen’s Village Fishermen’s Village will host its annual “Back to School Bash” community festival on Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the waterfront complex, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. This family-friendly event is designed to help local students kick off the upcoming academic year fully prepared and equipped. Highlights of the bash include a free backpack giveaway for students, an interactive scavenger hunt that allows children to collect essential school supplies along the route, and a raffle drawing for a grand prize family four-pack of tickets to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. In addition to the youth activities, the festival serves as a resource fair featuring up to 40 regional businesses and organizations.
Representatives will be on-site to share information regarding after-school programs, youth sports leagues, tutoring resources, dance classes, and pediatric health services. While the entire event is free to attend, advanced online preregistration is required to secure a complimentary backpack. To register visit Eventbrite. com. To learn more visit floridapenguinproductions.com.
Grow With the Arts: Art!
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, and Englewood Creative Arts will co-host a creative studio art workshop on Tuesday, July 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. This hands-on program is designed for tweens and teens ages 9 to 18. Participants will utilize the library’s specialized Creation Station equipment to design and manufacture a custom drawstring backpack, followed by an interactive technique session led by local art instructor Janessa Tamsett to help young creators elevate their artistic skills. The workshop is free to attend and all crafting supplies are provided, but advanced online registration is required and limited to 20 students. For more details or to register visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1110
Drums of Unity
Charlotte County Libraries and History will host “Drums of Unity,” an interactive, handson drumming workshop, on Tuesday, July 28 from 1 to 2 p.m. inside the Tringali Community Center, 3460 N. Access Road. Presented by percussionist Joe Licinski this
Craft Club: Flower Zines
The Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host a creative publication workshop on Wednesday, July 29, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Geared toward tweens and teens ages 9 to 18, this session of Craft Club teaches participants how to fold and design their own self-published mini-books, or “zines.”
Attendees will focus on a nature theme, using provided crafting supplies to write, illustrate, and construct personalized flower and plant booklets. The program is free to attend, but advanced online registration is required due to limited workspace inside the studio. For more details or to register visit scgovlibrary. librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1273
Summer Reading Finale
multigenerational program introduces participants of all ages to the joy of rhythm using authentic African djembe drums. Attendees will learn foundational beats through easy wordplay and simple rhythmic phrases, making the session accessible to absolute beginners. All instruments are provided on-site, and no prior musical experience is required. While the family-friendly event is free to attend, advanced online registration is required due to limited space. For registration or to learn more visit charlottecountyfl.gov/libraries or call 941•613•3200
Baked into History: Stories Grown in Sarasota
Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will host an interactive culinary heritage workshop on Tuesday, July 28, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Geared toward children, tweens, and teens ages 5 to 18, this unique summer learning program explores how local agriculture, gardening, and culinary traditions shaped Sarasota’s development. After discovering the historical context of regional farming, participants will work together using basic mixing techniques and small countertop toaster ovens to bake a simple, historic cookie recipe. Due to the food-handling nature of this sensory-rich event, advanced online registration is required, and parents must complete allergy and food-safety paperwork prior to the class. For more details or to register visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•6891.
Summer Finale: End of Summer Bash!
Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street, will celebrate the conclusion of its seasonal reading programs with an “End of Summer Bash” on Thursday, July 30, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Open to community members of all ages, this festive family event features complimentary pizza, professional face painting, a hands-on ecology station, and an exciting touch-a-truck visit from a local fire engine. Registration is not required. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com or call 941•861•1110
Florida Blue Center Back to School: Mission Ready
The Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Library, 4143 Woodmere Park Boulevard, Venice, will celebrate the conclusion of its seasonal programs with a multi-activity Summer Reading Finale on Thursday, July 30, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open to families and community members of all ages, the celebration kicks off with professional face painting and custom balloon twisting presented by Childlike Productions. Following a short transition, the festivities continue from 2 to 3 p.m. with an interactive, collaborative community mural-making workshop. The entire afternoon event is free to attend, and no advanced registration is required. For more details visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com or call 941•861•1276
The Florida Blue Center, 285 North Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, will host a spacethemed community outreach event, “Back to School: Mission Ready,” on Saturday, August 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Designed to help families launch into a successful and prepared academic year, this cosmicthemed gathering features free school supply giveaways, including essential classroom items distributed to local students on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Alongside the supply distribution, the center will offer out-of-this-world kids’ activities and interactive games, as well as educational resources and wellness information to help students stay healthy and thrive throughout the upcoming school term. The entire familyfriendly event is free to attend, and no insurance membership or advanced registration is required. For more details call 941•308•2042
LEMON BAY
By Ray Hazel
Beating The Heat: Young entrepreneurs Austyn, Rhett, Blakely, and Beau Stiver team up to beat the summer heat by selling refreshing lemonade and M&M cookies on Monday, July 13. The neighborhood stand offered community members a cool treat during the warm afternoon. Photo courtesy of the Stiver family.
Back to School - Youth Activity Fair
Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources will host its annual “Back to School - Youth Activity Fair” on Saturday, August 1, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the main ballroom at the Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Avenue, Venice. This event serves as a one-stop destination for parents preparing for the upcoming academic term, featuring vendor booths that highlight after-school programs, youth sports leagues, tutoring networks, arts academies, and pediatric healthcare resources. The fair also provides free interactive games, educational demonstrations, family entertainment, food trucks, and giveaways. The event is free to attend, and registration is not required. To learn more email VCC@scgov.net or call 941•861•1380
The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition
Experience a family-friendly production of the classic musical as Asolo Repertory Theatre presents “The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition” at the Cook Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami
Trail, Sarasota. Directed and choreographed by Cat Brindisi with music direction by Carl Haan, the summer children’s musical runs through Sunday, August 2. The adaptation features music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. For tickets and a complete schedule of performance times, visit asolorep.org or call 941•351•8000
Ryan Forde of Englewood
Graduated from the University of Tampa
Ryan Forde, of Englewood, graduated from the University of Tampa. Forde received a Bachelor of Science in Finance BS.
Presley Engelauf Named to Spring 2026 Deans’ List
Presley Engelauf of Englewood, FL, has been named to the spring 2026 deans’ list at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Students receiving a 3.9 grade point average or higher are placed on the chancellor’s list, while those receiving a grade point average of between 3.5 and 3.89 are named to the deans’ list.
Back Pain That Steals More Than Just Comfort
For many people living with chronic lower back pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease, daily life becomes a negotiation with discomfort Bending to tie a shoe, lifting a grocery bag, or standing in line can trigger pain that radiates down the legs or locks the body in tension Sleep becomes disrupted, and mornings are often the hardest; waking with aching stiffness that makes even getting out of bed a struggle
Some experience a constant, dull ache; others describe sharp, shooting pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs In spinal stenosis, narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerves, often mimicking sciatica or neuropathy Over time, people stop doing the things they love; not by choice, but because of pain, fear of flare-ups, or loss of mobility While some are offered injections
University of Tampa Honors Dean’s List Students for the Spring 2026 Semester University of Tampa has honored students who were named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2026 semester. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher to be eligible for the dean’s list. The following local students were named to the dean’s list: Vionnet Lau of Englewood is a member of the Class of 2029 majoring in International Business and Entrepreneurship BS. Nathaniel Whitehead of Englewood is a member of the Class of 2027 majoring in Allied Health BS.
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 “Keeping Up with the Kids,” 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.
THE ENGLEWOOD ENIGMA
A cozy corner of crosswords, riddles, and brain-bending challenges for the cleverest readers.
The Daily Sudoku
A game of pure logic, with no math required!
• The Goal: Fill every 9 x 9 grid row, column, and 3 x 3 box with the numbers 1 to 9 without repeating.
• Pro-Tip: Scan the grid for numbers that appear frequently. Use the process of elimination to figure out exactly which squares are left open in a given box.
Ready to play? Grab a pencil, clear your mind, and let the games begin!
S t a r t L i v i n g Y o u r L i f e A g
or surgery, many are told to simply manage their symptoms with medication When discomfort starts to steal the moments that matter most, it’s time to consider a new approach
An Integrative Alternative
At Sage Point Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine in Venice, FL, founder Lauren Milligan and her team offer non-invasive, drug-free options for chronic back pain and spinal conditions
Every patient begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine whether they are a candidate for care This may include a physical exam and functional testing to evaluate nerve irritation, muscle tension, inflammation, and movement patterns
When appropriate, the clinic provides a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support healing using a blend of acupuncture and advanced integrative therapies “We focus on what’s driving the pain, not just where it hurts,” says Dr Milligan “And we tailor every care plan to the specific individual ”
Patient Case Study: Restoring Confidence
After Years of Pain
Carol, a 72-year-old Venice resident, came to the clinic after years of worsening lower back pain Her discomfort radiated down her legs and made it difficult to drive, walk, or perform daily tasks
a i n
Mornings were especially hard, she often woke feeling locked in her body
Her Neurologist had prescribed medication, but it offered little relief She had started to withdraw from family activities, including walking her grandchildren to school, and the annual family cruise A thorough initial assessment at Sage Point Acupuncture revealed inflammation, postural compensations, and signs of nerve compression
Based on her new patient consultation, Carol was found to be a good candidate for care A personalized treatment plan was created using acupuncture, integrative medicine treatment, and corrective movement guidance to reduce pain and restore function
Over the following weeks, Carol noticed improvements in flexibility, confidence, and pain reduction By the end of her treatment plan, she had resumed walking short distances and was picking up her grandkids from school and taking them to their activities again Routines that once felt out of reach
There’s
Still Time to Reclaim Your Life
Many patients at Sage Point Acupuncture experience improvements, even after years of symptoms, when the right support is in place If you’ve been sidelined by back pain or spinal issues, don’t wait Your next chapter doesn’t have to be written in pain Call today to set up a consultation at (941) 451 - 8154.
When pain disrupts even the simplest routines, the right treatment can change everything
Where Wildflowers Bloom: A Dearborn Street Market
Rooted in Community
On Thursday mornings in Englewood, something special is taking shape along Dearborn Street.
The scent of fresh flowers mingles with locally baked treats. Musicians fill the air with easygoing melodies while neighbors linger over conversations that often last longer than their shopping lists. Artisans proudly display handcrafted goods beside farmers who harvested their produce just miles away. It feels less like a marketplace and more like a gathering of old friends. That’s exactly what Angie Reznick hoped it would become.
Nestled at 353 W. Dearborn St., Wildflowers Boutique has quietly grown into the heart of the Wildflowers Thursday Farmers Market, a place where shopping is simply the beginning. For Reznick, the market represents something much deeper: a community that continues to bloom, one relationship at a time.
“I fell in love with the village,” she says. “Villages have a charm.”
That affection began long before Wildflowers opened its doors. After moving to Englewood, Reznick immersed herself in the community, getting to know neighboring shop owners, volunteering with local churches, and building friendships throughout Dearborn Street. She wasn’t simply opening a business; she was planting roots.
“If the good Lord gives me a location down here,” she says, “I want to be very interactive with the community and make a difference.”
Today, people can see that promise throughout every corner of Wildflowers.
The Thursday market has become a colorful celebration of local makers, growers, and artists, but Reznick believes its greatest purpose reaches beyond commerce. Behind the scenes, she’s already envisioning the next chapter, one built around service, collaboration, and creating opportunities for others.
Her property, she says, is available for whatever the community needs.
She hopes to host fundraisers for local causes, partner with nonprofits, and invite youth organizations to become part of the market’s story. During the summer months, student groups with fundraising projects are welcome to set up booths alongside established vendors, giving young entrepreneurs a chance to share their talents while supporting meaningful causes.
Recently, students from Lemon Bay High School did just that, raising money for their music department’s trip to a state competition. Reznick still smiles when she remembers them.
The students arrived with handmade crafts, flowers tucked into their hair, and a display inspired by the whimsical style of Wildflowers itself. “They were adorable,” she recalls. “I told them, ‘You come back every week.’” It’s those moments, she says, that remind her why the market matters. “These are our new generation, our new locals.”
Supporting local families has become part of Wildflower’s identity. Regular customers know they’re more than shoppers; they’re neighbors. Reznick makes a point of celebrating the people who call Englewood home, offering special touches that make locals feel appreciated.
“I definitely have a heart for the locals,” she says. “I want them to know they’re the most important.”
Even the market’s soundtrack reflects its ever-changing spirit. Local musicians rotate throughout the season, ensuring each Thursday brings its own personality and rhythm.
For Reznick, variety keeps the experience fresh. Every detail circles back to the name she chose years ago. Wildflowers isn’t simply the name of her boutique. It’s her philosophy.
“Each individual is a beautiful flower,” she says. “They’re all artists. They’re all organic, or their food is grown here. Each one represents a different kind of flower, but we’re all in that market together. When you look at it, it’s one big beautiful wildflower garden.”
It’s a fitting metaphor for a place where every vendor contributes something unique and every visitor becomes part of the landscape.
Like the wildflowers that bloom naturally across Florida’s coast, no two are exactly alike. Together, however, they create something unforgettable.
As Wildflowers continues to grow, Reznick isn’t focused on how big the market can become. She’s focused on how deeply it
can take root.
“I’m excited,” she says. “It’s exhausting—but it’s wonderfully exhausting.”
On Dearborn Street, where small-town charm still flourishes and neighbors greet one another by name, that kind of joyful work has a way of spreading, much like wildflowers themselves.
So, if you’ve been missing the old Englewood Farmers Market on Thursdays, here’s your fix: stop by the Wildflowers Boho Chic Boutique on Dearborn Street. You’ll find it
at 353 W Dearborn St, right in Englewood. This cozy market serves up farm-fresh produce, artsy goods from local makers, and live treats, all the things you loved, just on a smaller scale. They’re open every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Don’t let the summer heat keep you away. The market vibe is alive and well on Dearborn Street, in the heart of Englewood.
For more information, call Angie Reznick at 843-957-4093, email wildflowersbcb@hmail. com.
All the World’s a Stage: How One Teacher Brought Decades of LBHS Theatre Magic Back to Life
Gina Barber, who directs the theater program at Lemon Bay High School, just pulled off something pretty special. She finished a new wall in the performing arts center, a living timeline that showcases the entire history of LBHS Theatre. It stretches from the program’s earliest days all the way to now.
She’s hoping this wall does more than look good on social media. Gina wants alumni and longtime supporters to see where the program has been and to feel a bit of pride.
When Gina first started at Lemon Bay, her students stumbled upon a storage bin hidden in a closet. Inside, they found scrapbooks, show programs, and posters going back decades. The oldest treasure? A playbill from “Hello
www.scgovnet/englewoodcra
Dolly” in 1981, staged in the old gymnatorium. “It was like opening a time capsule,” she says.
Together, she and her students pieced together stories about past directors, traced the evolution of the shows, relived student day-to-day life, remembered theater trips to New York, and looked back on the start of the competition troupe #0257. They scanned everything, every program and news clipping they could find, and made digital archives for the website and Facebook.
Four years ago, the students pitched the idea of decorating
the Performing Arts Center walls with highlights from the program’s past, including posters, playbills, and news articles. At first, the timing wasn’t right. They were told to wait. Now, four years later, they’ve brought that dream to life.
It took four weeks to get everything up. As people came through for the Summer Stock shows, reactions said it all: surprise, nostalgia, and plenty of happy memories. The wall features articles, show programs, and posters from “Hello Dolly” in 1981 right up through the most recent “Shrek KIDS.” Yes, a few shows from
Gina Barber and the new wall of fame! Courtesy Lemon Bay High School
The new wall in the performing arts center. Courtesy Lemon Bay High School
Memories from shows gone by. Courtesy Lemon Bay High School the early years are missing. Gina hopes as word gets out, alumni with old programs tucked away at home will consider donating them to fill in the gaps.
Gina has a message for anyone who ever took part: stop by for any event at the performing arts center, especially a theater show, if you want to see it. If you want a peek during school hours or after, just check with the school or whoever’s directing now.
And there’s a special shout-out to Englewood Jewelers, who donated a director’s plaque for the 2022-2026 section (the years Gina’s been at Lemon Bay). They loved the project and wanted to add their own touch.
Gina hopes the finished wall sparks joy and floods everyone, alumni and newcomers alike, with memories from the past 45 years of Lemon Bay Theatre. She can’t wait to see what comes next.
Puzzles on page 26. No peeking at the answers.
Pets Page
Ask how you can foster in your home!
Bellamy, an energetic and affectionate 4-month-old male kitten, is ready to find his forever home. This playful young feline is available for adoption and would make a wonderful addition to any loving family.
500 N. Indiana Ave. • 681-3877 (FURR)
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 3pm
Animal Rescue’s Thrift
280 S McCall Road
Monday through Saturday, 10am to 3pm PH: 941-460-6757
Donations of clothes and housewares are needed to help the animals. EARS Animal Rescue’s Thrift Store is the shelter’s main source of income. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization, so any donation is tax deductible.
To see all EARS animals, visit us at 500 N. Indiana Ave. (SR776), or visit Petfinder. com, or EarsAnimalRescue.com.
Bellarose, a lively and affectionate 4-monthold kitten, is searching for her forever family. Full of youthful energy and playfulness, she is currently available for adoption and eager to find a loving home.
For information, call 941-681-3877. Adoptions events are at EARS Tuesday thru Saturday, 9:30a.m.-2:45p.m.
All of EARS pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped in your name.
Constance Strbich, DO, Board Certified Family Medicine
Diana Perrin, MSN, APRN, FNP-C Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Stacey J. Seitz, APRN, FNP-C Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Manoucheka “Mani” Cadet, APRN, FNP-C Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
PHOTOS BY BOBBI AUSTIN
Lemon Bay Conservancy Helps Gopher Tortoises Relocate Amid Construction
In Florida, gopher tortoises aren’t just another wild animal; people in our community care deeply about them, and the state protects them by law. These tortoises do more than dig holes. They create long burrows that offer shelter to many other wildlife, like the Eastern indigo snake and the Florida mouse, protecting them from Florida’s heat and wildfires.
Now, any time developers want to build on land where gopher tortoises live, special rules kick in. Trained, licensed agents
have to move the tortoises to approved wildlife refuge sites.
Here’s where waif gopher tortoises come in. If you dig into the dense Gopher Tortoise Permitting Guidelines, you’ll see in Appendix 14 that a “waif” has a unique status. Basically, a waif tortoise is one that someone picked up from the wild but that wasn’t part of an official relocation, so nobody knows exactly where it came from. For example, if someone scoops a tortoise off a busy road to save it, or brings an
timing is right.”
“If we receive that permit and can raise some funding to help with the temporary pen that needs to be in place to receive tortoises, then we would be open for placement. Also, this is not for those tortoises being displaced by development. It is for tortoises in which their home range is unknown and need a new location to take up residency. This is also NOT an opening for anyone to drop off unwanted tortoises. That is against the law and will not be tolerated.”
Bringing even one waif tortoise (maybe two) to Lemon Creek will take a special state permit. Only healthy tortoises that can survive on their own qualify. The Florida Wildlife Commission’s real aim is to get these rescued tortoises back into nature, and Lemon Creek’s natural environment makes it a strong option.
Please monitor the Lemon Bay Conservancy Wish List for more updates.
For more information about the Lemon Bay Conservancy go to lemonbayconservancy.org.
injured one to a vet, it becomes a waif. The state lets properties with at least five acres of good, connected gopher tortoise habitat serve as safe sites for these waifs, if they get official approval.
According to a statement from the Lemon Creek Wildflower Preserve, “Lemon Bay Conservancy (LBC) has not been approved as a waif site yet, but we are working with FWC to determine if they have the appropriate habitat and will apply for a permit when the
Gopher Tortoise Courtesy Lemon Bay Conservancy Photo Credit: Chad Lyman, Preserve Manager
The following events have been newly added to our website, www.englewoodreview.com, as of Friday, July 10. These listings cover happenings between July 17 through July 30
For the most up-to-date information and to read full event descriptions, please visit our online calendar.
TO SUBMIT AN EVENT: All listings in our Calendar At A Glance must be entered through our website. Simply click on “To Submit an Event” and fill out the required form.
SAT JULY 18
PLEASE NOTE: POSTED EVENTS MUST BE OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School Presents “On Stage 2026”: Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota. 6-8 p.m. The production serves as the culmination of the school’s five-week Summer Intensive program, featuring a showcase of classical and contemporary works performed by students from across the United States and abroad. Guest artists Ariel Martinez from the Washington
Ballet and Harold Mendez from the State Street Ballet will join the intensive dancers for the performance. Tickets range from $35 to $55 and can be purchased online at tickets.sarasotaopera. org or by calling the box office at 941-328-1300.
MON JULY 20-THURS
JULY 23
Boat America / Boating Skills and Seamanship Course: Via Zoom. 5:45-8 p.m. Offered by the Englewood Coast Guard Auxiliary, this online course qualifies for the U.S. Coast Guard and NASBLA certifications. Cost is $50. For more information or to register, visit coastguardenglewood.com or call 941-681-0312.
WED JULY 22
Public Hearing regarding the Don Pedro Knight Island Beach Renourishment Municipal Service Benefit Unit: Tringali Park, 3460 North Access Road. 5 p.m.The Charlotte County Commission has scheduled a public hearing for the Don Pedro Knight Island Beach Renourishment Municipal Service Benefit Unit at 5:01 p.m. in the Community Center, for the purpose of receiving comments on the proposed assessments. The meeting is open to the public and input is welcome.
THURS JULY 23-SUN AUG 2
Hadestown: Teen Edition: The Sarasota Players, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1130, Sarasota. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, this haunting musical reimagines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice alongside Hades and Persephone. The production features a New Orleans–inspired folk and jazz score set against a gritty, industrial, Depression-era aesthetic. Tickets available online at purchase.theplayers.org, via email at boxoffice@theplayers. org, or by calling 941-365-2494.
SUN JULY 26
MindTravel Silent Piano Concert: Nokomis Public Beach, 100 Casey Key Road, Nokomis. 6-8 p.m. Pianist and composer Murray Hidary will perform a fully improvised musical journey that is streamed directly into wireless headphones provided to attendees, combining a live concert with moving meditation as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. Participants should dress comfortably for the beach and bring their own beach chairs,
blankets, and water. Tickets are $58.89. For tickets and registration, visit mindtravel.com, or call 786-450-0715.
THURS JULY 30
2nd Sarasota Peace & Understanding Summit: Jack Geldbart Auditorium at Selby Public Library, 1331 1st Street, Sarasota. 5-7 p.m. The Sister Cities Association of Sarasota and the Social Justice Alliance of the Florida SunCoast are cosponsoring the “2nd Sarasota Peace & Understanding Summit”. Themed “Celebration of a Free & Fair Election,” this panel discussion features Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner, League of Women Voters Sarasota Co-President Vila Johnson, retired diplomat Miles Toder, and Conversations Across the Aisle Board Chair Bill Woodson. Moderated by Wendy Lerner, the speakers will discuss election transparency, field audience questions, and suggest methods to strengthen community civic dialogue. The event is free and open to the public, though seating is limited and attendees must be 18 or older. For more details, visit sarasotasistercities.org or call the library at 941-861-1110.
Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic Speakeasy Soiree: Deep Creek Elks, 1133 Capricorn Blvd., Punta Gorda. 6-9 p.m. Step back in time for a night of music, food, fun and philanthropy at the Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic Speakeasy Soiree. Guests will enjoy entertainment by Lady Z and the Suncoast Swing Band, good food, a silent auction and more, all while helping raise critical funds to support VBA’s mission of providing no-cost medical, pharmacy and wellness services to uninsured and underserved adults in Charlotte County who meet eligibility requirements. Tickets are $45 per person and guests are encouraged to dress in flapper flair or dapper Gatsby-style attire. Learn more or purchase tickets at volunteercare.org.
MONTHLY EVENTS
1ST MONDAY
All Faiths Food Bank: Englewood Elks, 401 N. Indiana Avenue. 10–11 a.m. Those in need of food can receive groceries & USDA products. For more information, call 941-379-6333.
1ST TUES
EPIC Ministry Bike Repair and Tune-up Clinic: EPIC Community Resource Center, 697 Old Englewood Road. 10 a.m.noon. Residents can have their bicycles repaired or tuned up for free by experienced volunteers on the first Tuesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon at EPIC, a member of Englewood CHAT.
1ST FRIDAY
Demonstration Garden Tour: Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice. 9–11 a.m. Master Gardeners lead a guided tour through the Florida-friendly demonstration garden at Shamrock Park. RSVP at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com.
1ST SATURDAY
Men’s Prayer Breakfast: Fellowship Church,140 Rotonda Blvd W. 8-9 a.m. All men are invited. 941-475-7447. Cruisin’ on Dearborn: W. Dearborn Street. 1 p.m.-6 p.m For classic car owners and non-owners. Free. Enjoy music & music trivia. Shops & eateries remain open.
1ST & 2ND THURS
HealingStrong Education and Support Group: EPIC Community Resource Center, 697 Old Englewood Road. 6-8 p.m. This group provides free information on natural, non-toxic strategies to heal from cancer or other diseases. Meetings are held on the first and second Thursdays of the month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at EPIC. To learn more call 941-460-6022.
1ST & 3RD TUES
Trail Life and American Heritage Girls: Kastner Hall, 405 S. McCall Road. 6:30-8 p.m. Families are invited to get involved with Troop FL-1655 on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. To learn more call Epic at 941-460-6022.
1ST & 3RD SATURDAY
Closet of Hope: Gulf Cove United Methodist Church, 1100 South McCall Rd, Port Charlotte. 9:30 a.m.-Noon. Free clothing for children and adults of all ages. GulfCoveChuch.com or 941- 6971747.
1ST & 3RD SUNDAY
FC BLAST Youth Group: For Grades 6-8, Fellowship Church, 140 Rotonda Blvd. W, 5-7 p.m. Fun, games, outings and Bible studies. Ken@fellowshipenglewood.com 941-475-7447
2ND MONDAY
Charlotte County Trump Club: Twisted Fork Restaurant, 2208 El Jobean Rd., Pt. Charlotte. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. RSVP two days in advance to cakeejo@yahoo. com. Facebook Charlotte County Trump Club.
Charlotte County Republican Club Monday Mixer: Beef o’ Brady’s, 1105 Taylor Road, Punta Gorda. 5 to 7 p.m. Doors open at 4:45 p.m., with food served at 5:15 p.m. The evening features a lineup of various speakers. Admission is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers, which covers dinner, lemonade, and iced tea. For more information about the Charlotte County Republican club, visit ccflrc.org.
2ND TUESDAY
Englewood Amateur Radio
Society: Englewood Chamber of Commerce, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. 7–8:30 p.m. Both ham operators & those who would like to learn more are welcome. earsradioclub.com.
2ND & 4TH TUESDAY
Englewood Lions Club: Lions Den, 4611 Placida Road. 6–8 p.m. Learn more at englewoodlions. org. For questions, call 941-6987508.
2ND WEDNESDAY
Social Security & Medicare:
Englewood Chamber of Commerce, 601 S. Indiana Avenue. 6-7 p.m. Free educational program on Social Security & Medicare 101 followed by Q & A. Presented by Pope Insurance. 941-475-6766.
2ND THURSDAY
Englewood Fishing Club:
Rotonda Community Center, 646 Rotonda Circle. 6:30 p.m. Join other fishing enthusiasts for program & social time. Englewoodfishingclub.net.
2ND SATURDAY
Dearborn Dilly Dally: Waterways, 501 W. Dearborn Street. 6–9 p.m. A meet-up group for those who love cars, trucks and motorcycles. Formerly Driving Dearborn. Facebook: Dearborn Dilly Dally.
3RD MONDAY
Orchid Society Meeting: St. David’s Episcopal Church, 401 S. Broadway. 6 p.m. Guest speaker or hand-on class, snacks, raffle, and show off your orchids. Guests are welcome. englewoodorchids.org
3RD TUESDAY
Quirky Readers Book Club: Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. 10:30–11:30 a.m. For book selection, stop by library or call 941-861-1225. Business & Professional Women of Englewood & Venice Dinner Meeting: 5:15 p.m. $31. Guests welcome. Register at bpwev.org 3 days prior.
3RD THURSDAY
Senior Fellowship: Fellowship Church, 140 Rotonda Blvd W. 11a.m.–12:30 p.m. Complimentary lunch, a time of fellowship and encouragement. Open to all seniors. RSVP at 941475-7447.
3RD SATURDAY
All Faiths Food Bank: Englewood Methodist Church, 700 E. Dearborn Street. 9–10 a.m. Those in need of food can receive a bag of groceries. For info call 941-379-6333.
4TH TUESDAY
Discover Dearborn: West Dearborn Street. 4–7 p.m. Enjoy shopping, live music, food, raffles & fun. Facebook: Discover Dearborn.
4TH WEDNESDAY
Charlotte County Republican Club Dinner Meeting: Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 4400 Lister St., Port Charlotte. 5 to 7:30 p.m. .Join the Charlotte County Republican Club for an evening of networking and discussion. Doors open at 4:45 p.m. for a social hour, followed by introductions and a buffet dinner at 6 p.m. The evening’s guest speaker will begin at approximately 6:40 p.m. Cost is $40. Reservations are strictly required by the Thursday prior to the Wednesday meeting. For more information and to register, visit ccflrc.org.
Englewood Democratic Club:
Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 S. River Rd. 5:30 p.m. Guest speaker, business meeting. Englewooddemclub.org.
4TH THURSDAY
Produce Food Distribution:
Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 S. River Road. 9–10 a.m. Fresh produce drive-thru for those in need by All Faiths Food Bank. 941-379-6333.
ONGOING
WEEKLY EVENTS
EVERY DAY
Guided Kayak Tours: Don Pedro Island State Park, 8450 Placida Road. 9:00–12:30 a.m. Guided dolphin & mangrove tours by FL Master Naturalist. $65pp. SUPenglewood.com or 941-265-2925.
MON-THURS
Health and Human Services Case Management: EPIC Community Resource Center, 697 Old Englewood Road. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. EPIC provides dedicated case management to help veterans, individuals, and families find resources to meet urgent needs while promoting mental well-being. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 941-460-6022 to schedule.
MON-FRI
Manasota Beach Yoga: 8570
Manasota Key Rd. 8:30-9:15 a.m. Yoga on Manasota Beach for all ages. Bring a blanket or towel, water, and sunscreen. The classes are supported by donations. Recommended $5 and up. 941313-0358 or katja@beachyogafl. com.
MON-SAT
Englewood Beach Yoga with Lata & Robert: Englewood Beach. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Bring a blanket/ sheet or a chair and enjoy a peaceful gentle yoga flow with the beauty of nature. We are a vendor at the beach and classes are supported by donations. Suggested $5 and up please. Join us for scheduled Sunset Yoga and Crystal Bowls too! LovingLightYoga.com or 941979-1917.
MON & THURS
Englewood Community Care Clinic: Mac Horton Annex, 6868 San Casa Dr., 5-8 p.m. 941-681-2081.
MON & WEDS
ZUMBA FITNESS with DENISE: Rotonda Elks, 303 Rotonda Blvd E, Rotonda West. 9:30 a.m.10:30 a.m. $7. Bring water, come with a smile and get ready to meet awesome new friends. (941) 268-8086.
MON, WED & FRI
St. Francis Food Pantry: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 5265 Placida Road, Grove City. For those in need, 9:15-11:30 a.m. 941-697-4899.
TUES, WED, THURS
SHiNE Dance Fitness: VFW Post 10178, 550 N McCall Road. 9-10 a.m. The most fun you will have while working out! UPLIFT-strength training (Tues) LIGHT Cardio Dance (Wed) and COMBO Class (Thurs). All set to Top 40 music that you will be singing along to. Bring water and get ready to meet some new welcoming and friendly faces! FB:Shine Dance Fitness and UPLIFT with Deanna.
Jesus Loves You Ministry Case Management: EPIC Community Resource Center, 697 Old Englewood Road. 12-3 p.m. Case management for individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness is available Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 3 p.m. by appointment at the EPIC offices. Services include basic needs assistance, documentation and ID support, and referral advocacy. To schedule, call 941-460-6022
TUES & THURS
Line Dancing with Eve, Beginners/Improvers Class: American Legion, 3436 Indiana Rd., Rotonda West, 9-30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m $5. For info: 941697-8733, email: moraghan@ comcast.net
WED & THURS
Englewood Helping Hand Food Pantry: Englewood Methodist Church, 700 E. Dearborn St. 8 a.m. -1 p.m. 941-474-5864. www.englewoodhelpinghand. org
WED & FRI
Line Dancing with Eve, Intermediate: American Legion, 3436 Indiana Road, Rotonda West. 9:30-11:30 a.m. $5. 941-697-8733 or moraghan@ comcast.net.
MONDAYS
Zumba Fitness with Laurentz: Tringali Community Center, 3460 N. Access Rd. 9 to 10 a.m. A total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy and a serious dose of awesome each time you leave class. Bring a towel for the sweat and a bottle
of water to keep hydrated. $10 per class upon arrival or Zelle under Laurentz Vogel at 941237-8983 before class. To learn more visit eventswithlaurentz. com and Fitness with Laurentz on Facebook.
Service Day for our Unsheltered Friends: EPIC Community Resource Center, 405 S. McCall Road. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Epic hosts a service day every Monday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in partnership with Jesus Loves You Ministry, Community Presbyterian Church, and On the Spot Aid. The event features a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m., with showers and case management beginning at 10 a.m. Haircuts are also available every third Monday
Kindness Closet: Trinity United Methodist Church, 4285 Wesley Lane, North Port. 9 a.m.-noon The closet offers nearly new and gently worn clothing for individuals and families facing financial challenges, life transitions, or simply needing a helping hand. There is no cost to receive clothing, and donations are appreciated but never expected. If you or someone you know could benefit, you are welcome here. 941-426-1734.
Forty Carrots: Partners in Play: Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. 10:15–11:15 a.m. Enjoy special uninterrupted play time
with your child in the free dropin Partners in Play parenting education groups. For babies to 5 years old. Sign in at children’s desk when you arrive. 941-8611110
Spaghetti Dinner: American Legion Post 113, 3436 Indiana Rd., Rotonda W. 5-7 p.m. 941-697-3616.
Music at Indian Mound Park: 210 Winson Avenue. 5–7 p.m. Outdoor music gathering with open mic with all musical genres. Bring chair. Free. For questions, call or text Ralph W. at 941-8898899.
Meditation Night: Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn Street. 6 p.m. Explore a variety of meditation practices. Love donation. 734464-6828.
Venetian Harmony Chorus: A women’s a cappella chorus meets weekly. Christ Lutheran Church, 701 N. Indiana Ave. 6:30 p.m. Visitors welcome. 941-5252376.
TUESDAYS
Community Bible Study: Florida Bible Church, 278 S. Mango St. 10 a.m. Bible study led by Pastor Ian. All are welcome. Contact 941-499-4459 for more information.
Women’s Bible Study: Rotonda West Community Church, 501 Rotonda Blvd. West, Rotonda West, invites women of all ages to a weekly Bible study held every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m.
to noon. These morning sessions offer an opportunity for fellowship and spiritual growth through biblically based studies. All are welcome to attend. For more information, visit rotondawestcommunitychurch. com or call 941-697-2100
Men’s Bible Study: Rotonda West Community Church, 501 Rotonda Blvd. West, Rotonda West, hosts a weekly Men’s Bible study every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The sessions are open to all men in the community looking for fellowship and scriptural discussion. For more information, visit rotondawestcommunitychurch. com or call 941-697-2100 to leave a message.
Game Day: Florida Bible Church, 278 S. Mango St. 1 p.m. Game Day at the church offers a fun and welcoming opportunity for community members of all ages to gather for fellowship, laughter, and friendly competition. To learn more call 941-499-4459.
Friend-to-Friend: Fellowship Church Worship Center, 140 Rotonda Blvd. W., 1-3 p.m. Use the rear entrance. 941-475-7447. The Open Studio Open Mic Garden Part: The Open Studio Garden, 830 Old Englewood Rd. 4-8 p.m. Coolers, chairs and pets are welcome. Musicians begin sign-up at 3:30 p.m. Food is available around $10/ plate. Aan outdoor party so dress accordingly. 941-473-8977.
Pondering Woman’s Evening Bible Study: Rotonda West Community Church, 501 Rotonda Blvd. West, Rotonda West, hosts the Pondering Woman’s Bible study every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This evening session is open to all women seeking fellowship and scriptural discussion. For more information, visit rotondawestcommunitychurch. com or call 941-697-2100.
WEDNESDAYS
Line Dancing with a Swagger with Laurentz (Move to the Beat of Life with Laurentz): Tringali Community Center, 3460 N Access Rd. 9 to 9:45 a.m. From May to September class is 45 minutes for only $5. This is a group fitness class that blends music, movement, and motivation into a fullbody workout experience. Designed for all fitness levels, the class is cardio dance, set to upbeat, feel-good music. Participants move through choreographed sequences and easy-to-follow combinations that emphasize coordination, endurance, balance, and selfexpression. Bring a towel for the sweat, a bottle of water to keep hydrated. Please give yourself about 10 minutes before class to sign in. To learn more visit eventswithlaurentz. com or Fitness with Laurentz on Facebook.
Caffeine & Gasoline: Ann & Chuck Dever Park, 6791 San Casa Dr.
7:30-9:30 a.m. Bring your classic, hot rod, or specialty car and join fellow enthusiasts for coffee & conversation.
TOPS Meeting: Englewood Methodist Church, 700 E. Dearborn St. 8-9:30 a.m 941662-8079.
Beginner Tai Chi Class: Venice Community Center, 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice. 10:30–11:30 a.m Must be able to stand unassisted. $10 per class. Call Nancy Dellamura at 941-4922167 or Susan Brown at 941-8282688 for questions.
Cowboy Chord Club: Veteran’s Park, 641 W Dearborn St. 10:30 a.m-Noon. All instruments and skill levels are welcome.
Toddler Time: Ann & Chuck Dever Regional Park Recreation Center, 6961 San Casa Dr. 10 a.m-12 p.m. Bring your toddlers to play, socialize, and learn! $2 fee per visit. Info at: CharlotteCountyFL. gov or call 941-681-3760.
Let’s Pretend Day: Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. 10:30–11:30 a.m Free play time with toys & props for kids ages 2–8 with their caregiver. 941-8611225.
Wednesdays@5: A weekly FREE CONCERT SERIES performed by an ever-changing line-up of the best musicians at the FAIR WEATHER venue at Old Florida Gallery Courtyard, 463 W. Dearborn Street. 5 p.m. 941460-1561
Grief Share Support Group: Fellowship Church Worship Center, 140 Rotonda Blvd. W. 4-6 p.m. 941-475-7447.
Celebrate Recovery : Fellowship Church of Englewood, 140 Rotonda Blvd. W. 5:45-8 p.m. 941-475-7447.
Wednesday Night Bible Study: Englewood Christian Church, 9600 Gulfstream Blvd. 6 p.m. 941-475-4973.
Wisdom Share: Spirit Speaks, 411 W. Dearborn Street. 6 p.m. Gathering of light-minded souls that meet to honor & support each other. Love donation. 734464-6826.
features a beautifully curated selection of local artisans, unique pottery, and bohemian trends alongside fresh farm produce before transitioning back to the larger October–May Englewood Farmers Market schedule.
FitFlexBalance by Laurentz: Tringali Center, 3460 N. Access Rd, 9–10 a.m Fun, feel-good fitness with light cardio, stretching, & balance. All ages/levels welcome. Bring water, towel & a smile! $10. No registration needed. 941-2378983, lalitenors410@gmail.com.
Zumba Toning with Denise: 303 Rotonda Blvd. E., 9:30-10:30 a.m $7 a class. Bring 2 light hand-weights and water. 941268-8086.
Line Dance Club: Christ Lutheran Church, 701 N. Indiana Avenue. 9:30–11:30 a.m Beginners 9:30 a.m; Improver/Intermediate 10:30 a.m For info, call Nancy 941-474-6027 or email linerscountry@gmail.com.
Little Adventures Story Time: Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn Street. 10:30–11:30 a.m Story time filled with early literacy activities that include music, stories, movement, and crafts for ages 2 to 5. For more info, call 941-861-1110.
The Robert Kinsley Band: Old Florida Gallery, 463 West Dearborn St. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. After the Farmer’s Markets stop by The Old Florida Gallery to relax and listen to The Robert Kinsley Band in the backyard. The Bird Bar will be open with cold beverages for all ages. Bring a chair, bring a friend and sing along. 941-460-1561.
Beginner Tai Chi Class: Christ Lutheran Church, 701 N. Indiana Avenue. 10–11 a.m Must be able to stand unassisted. $10 per class. Call Nancy at 941-492-2167 or Susan Brown at 941-828-2688 for questions.
Lemon Bay Woodcarvers: Community Presbyterian Church, 405 S. McCall Road. Noon–3 p.m. Share work and get advice. All skill levels welcome. For questions, email Bill at mazz102@ yahoo.com.
Open Mic Night: Culture Coffee, 405 W. Dearborn Street. 5–9 p.m. Open mic with music, dance, poetry, etc. 941-460-8542.
Friday Night Bingo: Englewood Elks, 401 N. Indiana Avenue. 5:30–9 p.m. Doors open at 4pm; games start 5:30PM. Open to public. 941-474-1404.
Englewood Elks, Ladies Night: 401 Indiana Ave. Fish Fry Dinner, $13.99, 5–7 p.m. Special 2-for-1 prices on house wines & well drinks for the ladies. BINGO, 5:30 p.m. in the big room, all are welcome! 941-474-1404.
Temple Shalom of Charlotte County: 23190 Utica Avenue, Port Charlotte. 7:30 p.m. Friday evening service. To learn more visit templeshalomfl.com or call 941-625-2116.
SATURDAYS
FC Divorce Care: Fellowship Church, 140 Rotonda Boulevard W., 6:15-8 p.m. Help through difficult times. 941-475-7447.
Community Bible Study: EPIC Community Resource Center, 697 Old Englewood Road. 6:30 p.m. A community Bible study is held every Wednesday in the EPIC meeting room. The evening begins with a pitch-in dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by the study at 7:15 p.m. To learn more call 941-460-6022.
THURSDAYS
The Wildflower Market: 353 W Dearborn St. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Catch the extended outdoor summer market hosted by Wildflowers Boho Chic Boutique at 353 W Dearborn Street every Thursday through the end of July, this intimate gathering
Ladies’ Bible Study: hosted at various locations. 1:30 p.m. Join the Ladies’ Bible Study group at Florida Bible Church. All are welcome. Contact 941-499-4459 for directions and information. SRQ Strong - Healing Support Group: Englewood Bible Church, 501 Yale Street. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Facilitated by Helen Neal, this free weekly pop-in group offers support for those suffering from traumatic experiences. Additionally, Neal is available at EPIC every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for support by appointment. To learn more call 941-460-6022.
All Faiths Food Bank: Englewood Bible Church, 701 Yale Street. 5–7 p.m. Those in need of food can receive a bag of groceries. 941379-6333.
FRIDAYS
Boogie Chair by Laurentz: Tringali Community Center 3460 N Access Rd. 9 –10 a.m
Good for cardio, building bone mass, upper body strength, core strength, flexibility, and easy on the joints. With or without weights. Amazing music and infectious vibes. Bring water, a towel, and a smile. $10. Info: 941-237-8983, lalitenors410@ gmail.com.
Wakesurf Sessions: offshore of Englewood Beach or near El Jobean Bridge, depending on weather and water conditions. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Whether it’s your first time on a board or you’re looking to take your riding to the next level, all skill levels are welcome. Professional instruction and equipment are provided. Cost is $150. Only 6 spots are available each week, so advance registration is needed. For reservations and details, visit Sarabocawave.co or call 941883-1360.
Men’s Breakfast: American Cafe & Grill, 60 S. Indiana Ave. 8 a.m. Florida Bible Church hosts a men’s breakfast weekly. All are welcome. To learn more call 941499-4459.
Shop Local North Port Market: North Port HS, 6400 W. Price Blvd, North Port. 8 a.mnoon. Fresh produce, breads, plants, & artisan-made goods. shoplocalnorthportmarket@ gmail.com.
SUNDAYS
Sunday Breakfast: Fraternal Order of the Eagles #3885, 250 Old Englewood Road. 8:30–11 a.m Enjoy breakfast with coffee and tea bar for only $12. Open to the public. 941-474-9802.
Fresh Harvest Farmers Market: Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice. 9 a.m–1 p.m. wellenpark.com.
South Gulf Cove Farmer’s Market: 14859 Ingraham Blvd, PC HOA Clubhouse, 9 a.m – 2 p.m. Fresh vegtables, breads, bagels, raw local honey, candy, tamales, bbq etc… Something new each
Historic Manasota Beach Club Rebuilds While Preserving Coastal Legacy
Visit This
Manasota Waterfront
Destination and Explore Nature
Quiet sunsets, uncrowded beaches, and a slower pace of life have drawn generations of families to Manasota Beach Club for over 65 years.
Today, the future of this historic gulf-to-bay property is being shaped by a renewed commitment to restoring and preserving its natural beauty and rich coastal environment.
Within the last few years, hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton caused significant damage to the property, but second-generation owner
weekend. Info: Cathy Bateman, 248-240-0012, cakeejo@yahoo. com
Englewood Methodist Church: 700 E. Dearborn St. 8 a.m, 9:30
Buffy Crampton has focused on restoring, rebuilding and preserving the beauty of this treasured resort.
Renewal
After Milton, Buffy stood on the property and quietly assessed the damage, with her grandfather in mind.
Buffy spent winters in Florida and summers on the coast of Rhode Island, helping her family survive the challenges of life along the water.
In 1938, her grandfather survived the devastating New England Hurricane of 1938 that destroyed the family’s small coastal resort. He later rebuilt the property, helping shape the family’s resilient approach to life along the coast.
“I couldn’t help but think of
a.m, 11 a.m Also available online at englewoodmethodist.com
Fellowship Church: Worship Center, 140 Rotonda Blvd. W. 8:30 a.m and 10:30 a.m Communion 1st Sunday each month. 941-475-7447. fellowshipenglewood.com
Fellowship Church YFF: A time for families with kids for fun, fellowship, and food. Not every Sunday, call for dates and locations. 941-475-7447.
Florida Bible Church: 278 S. Mango St. 10:30 a.m. Morning worship service. All are welcome.
cottages welcome guests back to the property.
Guests can once again search for shark teeth on the shoreline, snorkel over the near-shore reef, kayak through Lemon Bay and relax beneath the oak trees that overlook the water.
Weekly socials, environmental lectures, guided nature walks, and watercolor workshops encourage guests to slow down and appreciate the surrounding landscape.
In its 66th season, Manasota Beach Club offers memberships, events, an artist-in-residence series, and coastal getaway accommodations.
Conservation
him,” she said. “Now I know how he felt.”
Hurricane Milton destroyed two Manasota Beach Club cottages and extensively damaged the clubhouse after the storm surge swept over the dunes. Water filled the former Surf Room, overturning furniture and scattering decades-old fossil collections.
Despite the damage, the property’s historic character survived — several cottages dating back to the 1930s, 1940s, and 1970s remain standing. With its recent historic designation, restoration efforts can preserve the original look and feel that longtime guests remember.
Visitors Welcome
Today, the clubhouse restoration is still in progress, but renovated
Gulf Cove United Methodist Church: 1100 S. McCall Rd., PC Services 8 a.m, 9:30 a.m & 11 a.m Online: GulfCoveChurch. com 941-697-1747.
Living Hope Church: 881 South River Rd. 10 a.m 941- 460-8506, livinghope.life. New Vision Church: 6401 Sunnybrook Blvd. 10 a.m, 941-475-2906.
Redeemer Lutheran Church: 6970 Mineola Road. 9:15–10:15 a.m Be a part of our family in worship. 941-475-2410. redeemerfl.com.
Rotonda West Community Church: 501 Rotonda Blvd. West 10:30 a.m, Communion 3rd
Foundation and Pine Island Redfish to support ongoing coastal restoration efforts, including the planting of sea purslane and other native plants along the shoreline. These species play a vital role in stabilizing the coastline, improving water quality, and providing essential habitat for the fish, birds, and wildlife that call this stretch of the Gulf Coast home.
“Everything we are doing is exciting,” Buffy said. “There’s a lot of hope for the future.”
Arts + More
Growing up on both the New England and Florida coasts, Buffy felt inspired to pursue environmental science education.
Her work with the Lemon Bay Conservancy and advocacy for watershed protection on the Englewood Water District Board helps shape the educational programming at Manasota Beach Club.
Alongside volunteers and conservation groups, the club has planted sea oats, railroad vine, and other native vegetation to help stabilize dunes naturally and create habitat for wildlife.
Gopher tortoises roam the property, sea turtles nest along the beach, and migratory birds find refuge among the coastal vegetation. The club has also partnered with MANG
Sunday each month. Pot luck dessert and fellowship following service on the last Sunday of the month. 941-697-2100, rotondawestcommunitychurch. com.
St. David’s Episcopal Church: 401 S. Broadway, 9 a.m 941-4743140, stdavidsenglewood.org
Trinity United Methodist Church, North Port: 4285 Wesley Lane, North Port. 9-11:30 a.m. Sunday Worship at 9 a.m. Fellowship at
Blending creativity with nature, Manasota Beach Club offers art workshops that teach watercolor techniques paired with materials found along the shoreline, including shells, leaves, and other coastal treasures.
The goal of these workshops is for every participant to create lasting memories inspired by the coastline, Buffy said.
Local residents are invited to join the fun through beach membership and other community programs designed to reconnect people with this historic waterfront property.
“We want to preserve a place where families can make memories and learn why Florida’s fragile coastal ecosystem deserves protection,” Buffy said. “We want to keep that legacy going.”
To learn more about memberships, reserve a cottage, or explore upcoming programs, visit manasotabeachclub.com
10 a.m. in the Hall. Bible Study at 10:30 a.m. in Classroom 2. Visit trinitychurchnorthport.com or call 941-426-1734.
Bible Study: Florida Bible Church, 278 S. Mango St. 6 p.m. Bible study with Sam Evans. All are welcome. To learn more call 941499-4459.
Englewood Sunday Drum Circle: We’re back on the beach! Join us every Sunday evening, an hour before sunset, (weather permitting) at the north end of Englewood Beach (parking is now open!) Come to relax and enjoy the sounds and sights of the drums, the sunset, and our beautiful Englewood beach. All are welcome. 262-707-3513.
