Charlotte County Chamber Of Commerce

Transcription

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An innovative alliance with
809 E. Marion Ave.
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
941-639-3131
2500 Harbor Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-766-4122
HeartStrokeERspecialists.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
9 Welcome to Charlotte County
11 The Communities
13 Annual Events
15 Places to Go
25 Community Services
26 Cultural Happenings
35 Medical Services
45 Retirement Facilities
47Education
55 Establishing Residency
58Transportation
58 Charlotte County Demographics
59 Business and Industry
60Parks
63Accommodations
64 Recreational Water Activities
65 Tennis Facilities
67Beaches
69 Golf Courses
71 Chamber Resources
73Map
75 Important Telephone Numbers
76 Index to Advertisers
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
Accredited, US Chamber of Commerce
For the photograph on the cover, our thanks goes to Dawn Marx as well as to John Green for
the photo above.
Visit the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce at 311 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda,
941-639-2222, at our Port Charlotte office, 2702 Tamiami Trail, 941-627-2222, or online at
www.charlottechamber.org.
The 2014 Visitor’s Guide is the official publication of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced without permission.The information
contained herein is believed reliable; however, the publisher assumes no liability for omissions,
changes or errors. Copyright, Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, 2014.
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EMERGENCY CARE EXCELLENCE
Last year we treated more than 39,562 area
residents in our ERs – consistently beating the
national ER Wait Time average!
Both hospitals are Joint Commission Top
Performers on Key Quality Measures, Accredited
Chest Pain Centers and Primary Stroke Centers.
Our ERs are staffed and equipped around
the clock to provide you the highest quality
emergency care when you need it.
View average ER wait times at
EnglewoodCommunityHospital.com
and FawcettHospital.com or text “ER” to 23000.
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DIRECT LINE: 941-628-1822
BERKSHIRE
HATHAWAY
HomeServices
Florida Realty
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1107 W. Marion Ave., Suite 112
Ph: 941-639-2600
Fax: 941-637-9852
m.woosley@att.net
www.mauriewoosleyhomes.com
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Welcome to Charlotte County
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find
Charlotte County continues to earn its
it here.
reputation for subtropical living and vacationing
Charlotte County is poised well for business at its finest. Come see for yourself!
and residential development. It has superior CLIMATE
schools with educational opportunities for all
At 5 feet to 25 feet above sea level, Charlotte
ages. With historical museums, art galleries, County enjoys a climate characterized as
local theatre groups and more, it’s a supportive sub-tropic, where extremes of temperature in
artistic community.
both summer and winter are checked by the
Our homes are settled on the
tempering influence of the Gulf
lovely Charlotte Harbor, the
of Mexico.
Peace and Myakka Rivers, and
Prevailing winds are an easterly
Its
greatest
miles and miles of canals.
average of 12-18 m.p.h. The annual
We enjoy warm temperatures
average temperature is 73.9°. The
assets are
year-round and, through
average of the low month, January,
most of the year, very little
is 63°; the average of the high
unparalleled
rain. While our population
month, August, is 82.8°. During
is growing, we still enjoy that
the summer the temperature is
quality of life
small-town atmosphere.
usually in the low 90s during the
Whether you want to visit or
day and in the low 70s during the
and unequaled
are about to relocate – whatever
night.
you’re looking for –you’ll find
business
Rainfall averages 52.55 inches
it here. A fisherman’s dream.
a year, with approximately twoA boater’s delight. Charlotte
opportunities.
thirds occurring during June
County is right for you.
through September. These rains
LIFESTYLES
The old Florida lifestyle of horse farms, cattle
ranches, farms and citrus groves remains in the
rural areas of Charlotte County, only minutes
from the heart of “civilization.” Acreage is
nestled around Shell Creek, Prairie Creek and,
of course, the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor.
Pleasant family communities and parks
are scattered throughout the county. With
excellent schools — more than seventy percent
of Charlotte County Public Schools received
an “A” grade from the Florida Department of
Education — the area takes pride in its youth
programs and educational system. Young
families are beginning to discover that this is
the place to live the ideal family life.
Many of the golfing communities, as well as
retirement communities, located in Charlotte
County are the envy of the state. Manicured
fairways and lawns blend with the natural
environment of subtropical Florida.
Waterfront homes are available for every
lifestyle, from family lakefront homes, homes
directly on the Peace River and Charlotte
Harbor, to your own private canal hideaway.
have a cooling effect on the hot
summer days.
POPULATION
The population of unincorporated Charlotte
County is 146,284 in addition to the City of
Punta Gorda with 16,697 residents. The total
population is 162,981 with the annual county
growth rate projected at 1.9%.
Seasonal population includes part-time
inhabitants who may live for several months
of the year in Charlotte County or the City of
Punta Gorda, but who have usual residences
elsewhere. Population increases by an estimated
30% from January through April.
LOCATION
Charlotte County is on the Gulf Coast of
southwest Florida, 50 miles south of Sarasota on
U.S. Highway 41 (the historic Tamiami Trail),
and 24 miles north of Ft. Myers.
Charlotte County is within easy access
of both Orlando (125 miles) and Miami
(162 miles). Interstate Highway I-75 has six
interchanges in Charlotte County, exits 179
to 158.
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Chamber Sustaining Partners
platinum
Atlas Insurance
Buffalo Graffix
Charlotte Sun/Sun Coast
Media Group
Edison State College
Charlotte Campus
Harbor Style Magazine
Monarch Printing & Design
The Mosaic Company
State Insurance Agency
Strang, Olsen & Lynch, CPAs, PA
Waste Management
of Charlotte County
diamond
Farr, Farr, Emerich
Hackett and Carr, PA
Integrity Employee
Leasing
Koch & Company, CPA, AP
Lexington Manor
Panther Hollow Dental Lodge
Port Charlotte Florist
Payroll “ A Name You Can Trust”
Workers Compensa�on Human Resources 3626 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlo�e, FL 33952
941‐625‐0623—Phone
941‐625‐0123—Fax
www.integrityel.com
emerald
Advanced Imaging of Port Charlotte
Charlotte Regional Medical Center
Dees & Dees, CPAs, PA
Fawcett Memorial Hospital
Friendly Floors
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Nolan Family Insurance
Palm Auto Mall
Premier Photographic Events, LLC
South Port Square
Suncoast Glass & Mirror, Inc.
The Wyvern Hotel
Benets The Communities
Situated on and around pristine Charlotte
An established, yet still growing area, Port
Harbor, Florida’s second-largest estuarine
Charlotte has the services and amenities
system, the communities of Charlotte County
necessary for the convenience and enjoyment
reflect the unique ambiance of the area. People
of its residents and visitors.
have discovered Charlotte County’s unspoiled
Schools in the immediate Port Charbeauty, making it a destination
lotte area include six elementary
of choice for leisurely, unconschools, two middle schools, a
gested and unhurried living.
high school and Technical Center,
People
Charlotte County is a delightful
in addition to several churchplace to live, work and vacation.
have discovered related schools. Two of the three
Residential areas of the
area hospitals are located in Port
county are primarily single- Charlotte County’s Charlotte.
family neighborhoods, uncomThe Murdock area of northern
plicated by high-density, high unspoiled beauty, Port Charlotte is a dynamic, growrise locales. These areas are
ing shopping-business center.
making it a
often surrounded by an easy
Shopping areas, office complexes,
maze of canals and estuaries,
financial institutions, theatres,
destination of
complete with hundreds of
restaurants and motels have been
species of marine life.
built in recent years. A regional
choice for leisurely, shopping mall anchors the area.
In recent years, low-rise condominiums, townhouses and
Recreational opportunities
uncongested and
villas have been tastefully inabound – golf courses, yacht clubs,
corporated into the community
unhurried living. tennis courts, parks, boating facilito provide a variety of attractive
ties, pool and beach swimming –
and carefree living situations.
and more. The unique Cultural
Historically, development followed the
Center of Charlotte County offers educational,
shoreline of Charlotte Harbor, Peace River,
recreational and cultural activities almost
Myakka River, Lemon Bay and the Gulf of
every day of the week, 52 weeks of the year.
Mexico. Later development occurred along
Port Charlotte has more than 165 miles
the major arterial highways, especially U.S. 41.
of man-made waterways, many with access
Moving south from the Sarasota County
to Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico.
line, one finds the communities of Murdock,
There are miles of natural shoreline bordering
Port Charlotte (the county’s most populous
Charlotte Harbor and the Peace and Myakka
geographic entity) and Charlotte Harbor,
Rivers.
which borders the north bank of the Peace
PUNTA GORDA
River and Charlotte Harbor. South of the
The city of Punta Gorda is a charming and
Peace River is the City of Punta Gorda, the only
historic waterfront town which traces its roots
incorporated municipality. Punta Gorda offers
to a landing at Live Oak Point on the Peace
old Florida small town charm within the same
River by Hernando DeSoto in 1539. The name
blocks as top tier accommodations and a new
itself means “Broad Point” in the language of
state-of-the-art convention center.
the Conquistadors, and a colorful festival each
PORT CHARLOTTE
Port Charlotte, named the 2009 #1 Best
Place to Retire by CNNMoney.com, was
created and developed in the late 1950s. The
population of the unincorporated area of
Charlotte County, including Port Charlotte,
is approximately 146,284 residents.
year celebrates Ponce de Leon’s Landing (1513)
on Pine Island in Charlotte Harbor. Now more
than 118 years old, Punta Gorda remains
Charlotte County’s only incorporated city.
Early Spanish attempts to colonize the outer
islands were stopped by Calusa Indian tribes,
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and the area was slowly settled as the English
migrated by Charlotte Harbor to the banks
of the Peace River. In 1885, Col. Isaac Trabue
from Kentucky bought the land from British
investors and founded the town of Trabue. The
name was never well accepted, however, and
reverted back to the Spanish version in 1887
upon incorporation.
This City of 16,697 is in the midst of major
community revitalization and beautification
efforts. With historic preservation as a priority,
Punta Gorda has secured State Historic District
status. The city Streetscape program is restoring
an old Florida atmosphere to central district
streets and has added brick lanes, street lamps,
benches, brick planters and flowers and shade
trees. The residential areas feature many brick
streets lined with huge old royal palms and
many old Florida-era tin-roofed homes with
wide verandas.
Unique shops and restaurants are being
added throughout town, expanding the fine
reputation of Punta Gorda’s charm. There are
three elementary schools, a middle school and
a high school. A hospital is also located in the
community.
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ENGLEWOOD
An unincorporated area straddling two
counties (Charlotte and Sarasota), Englewood
is literally surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico.
Miles of unspoiled beaches, world famous
fishing, shelling and boating are a few of
the amenities offered to the more than
50,000 year-round residents, approximately
two-thirds of whom live in Charlotte County.
The area was founded in 1884 by two
brothers who established vast lemon groves.
One-acre “city lots” were platted and recorded
to create a downtown section, which was
surrounded by ten-acre “grove lots” designed
to provide for future permanent residents. In
later years, a prosperous lumber industry also
flourished. The greatest attraction was, and still
is, its appeal as a growing residential area with
long stretches of white sand beaches.
The Cape Haze peninsula, located in west
Charlotte County, is home to approximately
13,000 residents. In addition to pristine golf
courses and miles of natural waterways, perfect
for kayaking and fishing, this community has
shopping, schools, churches and all the comforts
of home.
Annual Events
Each season in Charlotte County brings
activities of interest to all ages.
Below are examples of popular events
for residents and visitors. Please visit the
Community Calendar on our website, www.
charlottecountychamber.org, for exact dates
and many more activities.
January activities include an array of
concerts, expos, exhibits, and the first of two
Sullivan Street Craft Fairs. The International
Association for Disabled Sailing holds their
world championships here in January.
The Charlotte Harbor Regatta, held in
February, showcases the level and diversity
of sailing on Charlotte Harbor. The Charlotte
County Fair, featuring 4H exhibits, rides and
concessions, is held this month as is the Punta
Gorda Wine & Jazz Festival. February also
offers Florida Frontier Days, where skilled
crafters and performers provide hands-on
historic preservation activities. The Punta
Gorda Elk’s Americanism Parade, the Annual
Greek Festival, and the Punta Gorda Banjo
Bash are also held this month.
March events include the colorful
reenactment of Ponce de Leon’s landing with
his Conquistadors on the shores of Charlotte
Harbor and the annual Conquistador Cup
Regatta, the Placida Seafood Festival, the
Historic Home and Building Tour and the
Peace River National Arts Festival. The
Tampa Bay Rays Spring Training and the
annual Snowbird Baseball Classic are a hit
with baseball fans.
The two-day Florida International Air Show
is usually held in April, featuring the finest
in aerobatics and ground displays. The U.S.
Navy Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds
and Army Golden Knights are often Air Show
participants.
The Punta Gorda Block Party celebration is
held in April. Music, food, crafts and a variety
of events are available for residents and visitors
to enjoy. Charlotte Harbor is the host to the
Cardboard Boat Races, the Dragon Boat Races
and the Inaugural Charlotte Harbor Super
Boat Grand Prix this month. Baseball fans can
enjoy the Charlotte Stone Crabs whose minor
league season begins in April.
Summer activities include a festive, activitypacked Fourth of July celebration. The annual
Freedom Swim across Charlotte Harbor
kicks off the festivities. Food booths, and
entertainment during the evening lead up to
a fireworks display in the sky above Charlotte
Harbor when the sun goes down.
Pioneer Days in September celebrates the
founding of Englewood.
Music, food and crafts are plentiful in
October at the Sullivan Street Craft Fair II
held in Punta Gorda.
Wonderful music and people with picnic
baskets fill the campus of Edison College
during the October Edison Pops at Sunset
concert.
The Visual Arts Center sponsors an annual
Fine Arts Festival in the Fall. Each year’s theme
centers around a famous artist, including Van
Gogh, Dali and O’Keefe. Held in November,
it is one of the oldest annual art exhibits in
Charlotte County and is on display at the
Visual Arts Center.
Setting the stage for the Winter months
is the spectacular Christmas Parade which
officially heralds the holiday season in
Charlotte County. It is sponsored by the
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce.
Holly Days, an open house by Punta Gorda
merchants, the Peace River Lighted Boat
Parade, and the Kiwanis Christmas Card Lane
are also annual holiday events.
On the third Thursday of every month, the
merchants in Punta Gorda hold Gallery Walk
from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. With a new theme every
time, this event draws people from all over
southwest Florida.
Concerts, ballet, Broadway shows, dancing
and a variety of entertainment are available at
the Cultural Center of Charlotte County and
the Center for Performing Arts and Education.
Check the community calendar on our web
site at www.charlottecountychamber.org for
more information.
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86 Acres – 4 Lakes – 435 Homes
HEATED POOL – SHUFFLEBOARD – CLUBHOUSE – RV STORAGE
RESALES AVAILABLE
1000 Kings Highway
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www.PC-Village.com
Phone 625-4105
Places To Go
Whether you enjoy gliding down the Peace
River in a kayak, going one-on-one with a
100-pound Tarpon in the Gulf of Mexico,
or enjoying a romantic evening overlooking
Charlotte Harbor at Fishermen’s Village, we feel
certain a trip to Charlotte County will satisfy your
vacation itch.
Here’s just a sampling of what Charlotte County
has to offer:
DOWNTOWN PUNTA GORDA
Visit historic downtown Punta Gorda. Stroll
at your own pace or hop on a trolley and cruise
the city. Soak up atmosphere in charming cafes
and restaurants and explore art galleries and
unusual shops and boutiques. Browse beautifully
illustrated murals depicting the City’s history.
Streets lined with huge royal palms, bygone-era
tin-roofed homes with wide verandas, brick lanes,
and street lamps and resting benches create an
old-Florida atmosphere which preserve the City’s
past while showcasing state-of-the art modern
facilities. Walk the Harborwalk, Linear Park and
various trails which create a link throughout
the City for bicycle and pedestrian traffic. Visit
Laishley Park Municipal Marina with its 94 boat
slips and 42 moorings, public boat launch and a
boater’s dayroom. Skippers of yachts, fishing boats,
and kayaks will find a friendly welcome. For more
information, please visit www.ci.punta-gorda.fl.us.
CHARLOTTE SPORTS PARK
The Charlotte Sports Park is located at 2300 El
Jobean Road on State Road 776 in Port Charlotte.
The stadium is operated by the Charlotte County
Community Services Department. With 5,500
fixed seats, a 360-degree concourse and boardwalk,
luxury suites, practice fields, open space and a
kid’s playground, the Park is a perfect location for
concerts, festivals, shows and sporting events. The
stadium is the Spring Training home of the Tampa
Bay Rays. For their schedule, visit www.raysbaseball.
com. The minor league Charlotte Stone Crabs
also play at the stadium. For their schedule, please
visit www.stonecrabsbaseball.com. Throughout
each year, this facility hosts several annual events
along with numerous baseball camps, clinics, and
tournaments. Charlotte Sports Park connects with
Tippecanoe Environmental Park and provides
the entrance to trails and a boardwalk. This linear
park connection continues with the Charlotte
County Fairgrounds across 776 and encompasses
the North Charlotte Regional Park. For more
information about the Charlotte Sports Park please
call 941.235.5010.
For more information about Charlotte County
Community Services, the parks, the Blueway
Canoe & Kayak Trails, activities and facilities
please call 941.625.PLAY (7529) or visit www.
CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
HISTORICAL CENTER
The Charlotte County Historical is located
at 22959 Bayshore Road in Charlotte Harbor at
Bayshore Live Oak Park. Part of Community
Services in Charlotte County government, the
Historical Center offers exhibits and programs for
the enjoyment, protection and preservation of our
community’s rich historical resources. Explore local
and state history in both permanent and changing
exhibit galleries. Enjoy the Fourth Fridays speaker/
workshop series, children’s Camp Adventure
sessions in the summer, artisans and re-enactors
at Florida Frontier Days, special events, and more.
The Live Oak Emporium Shop stocks old-fashioned
toys, books and unique gifts. Exhibits open
Tuesday – Friday, 1:00-5:00 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00
a.m.-3:00 p.m. For more information call 941-629PAST(7278), www.charlottecountyfl.com/historical.
THE VISUAL ARTS CENTER
Since its enthusiastic beginning over fifty years
ago, the Visual Arts Center continues to bring
together people who love art. It is the best places to
create, learn, enjoy, and purchase fine arts and fine
crafts in Charlotte County.
The Charlotte County Art Guild (the nonprofit
organization that operates the VAC) has over
1,100 corporate, individual, student and family
members. Membership is not required, however, to
participate in any of the Center’s activities. With its
many professional and highly qualified instructors,
the Center promotes greater knowledge, skills
and appreciation of the visual arts all year long
through an annual Fine Arts Festival, the Peace
River National Art Festival, the Biennial National
Art Exhibition, classes, programs, workshops
and exhibits for adults, high school students and
children. The Center is open all year.
The building includes three galleries, a pottery
studio, jewelry/stained glass studio, classrooms,
gift shop, a state-of-the-art computer lab for digital
photography, desktop publishing and website
design and large art library. Abundant lighting,
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extended cathedral ceilings and over 318 running
feet of exhibition space make the Visual Arts
Center an ideal location for year-round exhibits and
community events.
The Visual Arts Center takes pleasure in inviting
the public to its home at 210 Maude Street, Punta
Gorda, across from Fishermen’s Village. Admission
is free. For more information, call 941-639-8810 or
visit their website, www.visualartcenter.org.
FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE
Fishermen’s Village- Waterfront Dining,
Shopping, Resort & Marina – Punta Gorda
- located on Charlotte Harbor, Fishermen’s
Village has become a quintessential stay and
play destination! With breathtaking views of
Charlotte Harbor, visitors can take advantage of
spacious, comfortable resort accommodations in
a vacation villa, featuring on site tennis courts,
pool, BBQ and shuffleboard court. Exploring the
Village, you’ll enjoy a plethora of boutique and
specialty shopping, mouthwatering, waterfront
dining establishments and an array of recreational
activities including Military Museum, boat
and kayak rentals, fishing charters, out island
adventures and nightly sunset cruises! The
Village is home to a full-service marina offering
permanent and transient dockage and award
winning customer service. Special events and live
entertainment year round. Open Daily.
1 800 639-0020 941 639-8721
www.fishville.com
BABCOCK WILDERNESS
ADVENTURES
Discover a place where the silence of the woods
is broken only by the haunting cry of a panther.
Experience the thrill of watching panther, Florida
cracker cattle, deer, turkey, alligators and more in
their natural habitat.
All of nature abounds and often approaches
within a few yards. Enjoy the fun and excitement
as you travel in a comfortable swamp buggy high
above the dark waters of the 8,000-acre Telegraph
Cypress Swamp. The 90,000-acre Crescent B
Ranch in eastern Charlotte County offers you
the chance to see the real Florida, unspoiled and
untouched. Highly skilled naturalists guide you
through the 90-minute eco-tour adventure as the
woods come to life before your eyes. Visit our
museum, exhibits, country store and seasonal
sandwich shop.
Make your next family adventure a Wilderness
Adventure. For those interested in conservation,
wildlife and agriculture, Babcock is a “must see.”
All tours require reservations. For information
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or reservations call 800-500-5583, or visit www.
babcockwilderness.com.
CHARLOTTE HARBOR
ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
The Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
(CHEC) is a nonprofit organization with corporate
sponsorship provided by Charlotte County, the
City of Punta Gorda, Charlotte County Public
Schools and Peace River Audubon Society.
Administrative offices are located at the Alligator
Creek Preserve, 10941 Burnt Store Road, Punta
Gorda. Office hours are 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.,
Monday through Friday.
Visitors to this free nature center, located on
public land, can hike up to four miles of pristine
trails, tour the Caniff Visitor Building and Animal
Clubhouse, picnic in the screen room or locate
water related information at the new Watershed
Resource Center.
CHEC also manages a Charlotte County Parks
& Recreation site, Cedar Point Environmental
Park, at 2300 Placida Road, Englewood (941475-0769).
Trails are open at both sites daily, from
dawn to dusk, with a walk-through gate. Contact
CHEC at 941-575-5435 or www.checflorida.org.
MUSCLE CAR CITY
Rick Treworgy’s Muscle Car City, located at
3811 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda (941-5755959), features nearly 200 automobiles of every
era dating back to the 1920’s. The museum also
includes a 50’s themed diner. Visit their website
at http://www.musclecarcity.net/.
OCTAGON WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Come visit one of Southwest Florida’s best kept
secrets, Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, a non-profit
organization, serving the community for 34 years.
Our mission is to provide a healthy recovery and
living environment for abandoned and abused
exotic wildlife. Bring your family, a camera, even a
picnic lunch and enjoy a safe, up-close experience
with the many different species such as bears,
tigers, even monkeys. Each animal has a story
to share. We’re open to the public Saturdays and
Sundays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. For directions and
admission fee, please visit our web site at www.
octagonwildlife.org or call (239)-543-1130.
PORT CHARLOTTE TOWN CENTER
Port Charlotte Town Center is the largest
enclosed mall in Charlotte County, featuring
Beall’s, Macy’s, Dillard’s, JC Penney and Sears,
along with over 100 specialty shops and eateries.
Port Charlotte Town Center is also home to
Hollister, Charlotte Russe and Regal Cinemas,
Alli-Gators Bar & Grill, Old Navy, FYE, DSW
Shoe Warehouse and Ruby Tuesday.
Simon American Express Giftcards are
available at Simon Guest Services located inside
the mall. Simon Giftcards are the perfect gift for
any occasion and are available in denominations
from $20 to $500.
The mall is located at US 41 and State Road
776. Shopping line is 941-624-4447, or go to www.
simon.com. Simon Malls -more choices.
PUNTA GORDA
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Working together to preserve the history of
Punta Gorda, a diverse group of local volunteers
have dedicated themselves to saving historic
buildings for more than a quarter century. Their
efforts include the preservation of the Punta
Gorda Railroad Depot, the only Atlantic Coast
Line depot of its style still remaining. This
structure, built in 1928, also houses a museum
and an antique mall. Listed on the national
Register of Historic Places, it’s located at 1009
Taylor Road in Punta Gorda. The Woman’s Club,
built in 1927, is also on the National Register of
Historic Places. This unique building is located
at 118 Sullivan Street in downtown Punta Gorda.
It is often used as a meeting place for local events.
Gardens and historical buildings meld at the
History Park, 501 Shreve Street. This setting,
provided by the City of Punta Gorda, affords
visitors an opportunity to ramble among historic
buildings housed in a garden setting. The most
recent addition, the Quednau/Hindman house,
is under renovation and will serve as a children’s
museum. Members of the Historical Society
also give tours at the lovely two-story Victorian
Freeman House, the home of the Chamber’s
Punta Gorda office, located downtown at US 41
S and W. Retta Esplanade. For more information,
call the Society at 941-639-1887 or visit www.
puntagordahistory.com.
PUNTA GORDA HISTORIC MURAL
SOCIETY
The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society,
formed in 1994, organizes and promotes the
painting of historic and educational murals
throughout the city of Punta Gorda, currently
numbering 25. Volunteers, artists and the City
Council work together to keep our communities’
history alive. For more information please visit
www.puntagordamurals.org or call 941-637-7830.
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Putting You First
Keeps RE/MAX HARBOR First.
When it comes to
Punta Gorda,
we are second to none.
Experience, knowledge
and professionalism
keep us at the top of
our profession and
will keep us at the top
of your list of Realtors.
Who REALLY sells
Punta Gorda?
Our ofﬁce sales soar
above the rest...
total sales volume
for Punta Gorda
$50M
(all areas south of the Harbor)
1/1/13 to 7/31/13
66.4
RE/MAX
Harbor
42.6
RE/MAX
Anchor MP
39.1
Five Star
Realty
18.8
KellerWilliams
15.8
RE/MAX
Anchor
Charlotte County sales ranked by total sales volume January 1 - July 31, 2013.
Source: MLXCHANGE
ealty
Harbor R vard
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1133 Bal Har da, FL 33950
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THE BLANCHARD HOUSE MUSEUM
The Blanchard House showcases the area’s
history and contributions African-Americans
made to help create the wonderful place
Charlotte County is today. The museum is
located at 406 Martin Luther King Blvd., Punta
Gorda, 941-575-7518.
MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Military Heritage Museum, located in
Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade,
Punta Gorda, is a nonprofit organization, created
by veterans and dedicated to educating the public
about our country’s rich military heritage. A
respect and understanding for the sacrifices made
by those who served their country, from the civil
war to the present, are supported by extensive
exhibits of military artifacts and memorabilia. The
Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday
through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Admission is free; the experience is priceless. For
more information, call 941-575-9002.
PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER
The Peace River Wildlife Center, a nonprofit
organization dedicated to the care, protection
and preservation of Charlotte County’s native
wildlife, is located in Ponce deLeon Park in
Punta Gorda.
Animals (mammals, birds and reptiles) that
have been orphaned, displaced or injured are
brought to the Center. Most of the “patients”
are rehabilitated and released back into the
natural habitat. For those whose injuries
prevent them from surviving on their own, the
Center becomes their permanent home. You’re
encouraged to visit the wildlife center, see the
animals and browse through the gift shop any
day, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours are given.
For more information call, 941-637-3830, www.
peaceriverwildlifecenter.com.
SUN FLEA MARKET &
KIDSTAR PARK
The Sun Flea Market is the largest indoor, air
conditioned market in the area, and offers over
60 vendors. Live entertainment, special events,
food court and line dancing and lessons. For
more information call: 941-255-3532.
Kidstar, inside, offers a 4-story playground
and arcade games for children and adults. Call:
941-255-1151.
Kidstar Amusement Park, outside, offers laser
tag, go karts, black light miniature golf, laser
light musical waltzing water show, food, games
and more. Call for days & hours of operation:
941-235-3131.
www.BuiltRightPoolHeaters.com
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REDNECK YACHT CLUB
Florida’s Largest Off Road Park, Swamp
Buggys, ATVs, Trucks and Jeeps, 4 wheeling.
with 800 acres, including 3 mud holes, mud track,
drive thru buggy/ATV wash, plenty of parking,
restrooms, camping areas (no pets allowed),
44570 Bermont Rd. (CR-74), Punta Gorda, 239209-3773, www.redneckyachtclubfl.com.
BABCOCK/WEBB WILDLIFE
MANAGEMENT AREA
Babcock-Webb is among the last undeveloped
expanses of wet pine flatwoods in Southwest
Florida. Within five miles of Punta Gorda,
hunting bobwhite quail, participating in bird
dog field trials, fishing for trophy size bluegill,
hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding
are just some of the activities available. From
I-75, exit 158 to Tucker Grade. Turn east on
Tucker Grade and travel approximately 0.2 mi.
to the management area. 863-648-3200.
THE CULTURAL CENTER
OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY
As Charlotte County was being built in the
1950s, a need for enrichment was seen in Port
Charlotte. People retired to this area, and were
bored. The Cultural Center started as Port
Charlotte University has and evolved right along
with the county in general, to a place with over
12,000 different happenings each year.
Originally our organization, a 501(c)3 nonprofit,
was designed to offer life enrichment classes, such
as learning German and bridge. Over 250 people
signed up for the first semester in 1961. Now
over 2,000 classes are offered each year, including
fitness, language and arts classes as well as an array
of computer classes from beginner to advanced.
Our 7,200 square foot conference center, and
meeting rooms are available at incredibly low
prices which enables many other nonprofits use
our facility for their events and meetings for parties
up to 500 people.
The theater holds over 200 events each year.
Some of the eclectic entertainers that have graced
the stage just this year alone include Elvis (young
and more mature), Jerry Jeff Walker, and Stephen
King. The theater is also used by companies such
as our very own community production company,
the nonprofit Charlotte Players.
The Cultural Center is open for you seven days
a week. Breakfast and lunch is available with some
made to order items such as omelets, salads and
sandwiches and everyday hot items.
Windmill Village
55+ RESIDENT-OWNED WATERFRONT COMMUNITY
with private marina providing
sailboat access to the Gulf
215 Rio Villa Drive
www.windmillvillage.org
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When you are looking for something fun to
do, we have something for you. Dances, classes,
theater, fitness and shopping and so much more is
available. Membership is not required to take part
in Cultural Center activities, but being a member
does help you save money!
The most important aspect of The Cultural
Center is our corps of volunteers. They are truly the
lifeblood of the organization. Over 600 volunteers
come to the Cultural Center each year to give back
and help make all these events take place. Next
time you are in the Cultural Center, please thank
a volunteer.
Shop our stores, eat the food, enjoy the
entertainment. There is always something fun for
you at the Cultural Center of Charlotte County!
And every time you join us for an event, you are
giving back to the community.
If you are young, or young at heart, and looking
for something fun to do, come to the Cultural
Center. Visit our website for more information
on what the Cultural Center has for you: www.
theculturalcenter.com.
Charlotte County’s Port Charlotte Library is
also located at the center and can be reached at
(941)764-5579.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
FAMILY YMCA
The Charlotte County Family YMCA is nonprofit community service organization that serves
all people in and around Charlotte County and
the City of North Port. The YMCA operates
4 membership branches, 5 child development
centers, 6 before and after school child care sites, a
function hall and an outdoor activity center . www.
charlottecountyymca.com.
The Franz Ross Park YMCA Branch located
at 19333 Quesada Avenue in Port Charlotte is a
24,221 square-foot facility that includes a complete
fitness center with strength development and
cardiovascular equipment, group exercise room,
an exercise studio with Pilates reformer equipment,
multipurpose room, indoor swimming pool,
locker/shower facilities, steam rooms, an outdoor
spa, child watch room and a child care center. Call
941-629-99622.
The Punta Gorda YMCA Branch located at
10169 Tamiami Trail in Punta Gorda features a
complete fitness center with strength development
and cardiovascular equipment, group exercise
room, and locker/shower facilities. In partnership
with Charlotte Regional Medical Center the YMCA
operates a child care center for infants through 5
year olds directly across from the hospital. Call
941-505-4000.
The Punta Gorda Club YMCA located at 2905
Tamiami Trail in Punta Gorda 941-505-0999, is a
17,000 square fitness facility that provides a wide
range of health and wellness programming, group
exercise classes, personal training, youth and adult
tennis programs, and massage therapy.
The BayFront Center YMCA in Punta Gorda
located at 750 Retta Esplanade on Charlotte
Harbor. This facility has group exercise classes
Monday – Friday except when school is out and
that is when we provide camp for school aged
children. Starting in May 2013 we will be offering
a youth sailing camp program. The BayFront
Center YMCA is available to rent for weddings,
parties, meetings and all types of gathering. Call
941-347-8855 for more information or check out
our website www.charlottecountyymca.com
The North Port Family YMCA Branch
located at 5946 Sam Shapos Way, North Port in
Dallas White Park features a 25 yard outdoor
pool, fitness center with strength development
and cardiovascular equipment, multipurpose
room used for group exercise classes and youth
programs, VPK Academy 4 year-old Program. The
North Port Child Development Center is located
a few blocks from the YMCA at 14601 Tamiami
Trail. Call 941-429-2269.
The Edgewater Child Development Center
located at 22416 Glass Lan ated at 22416 Glass
Lane, Port Charlotte, provides care for infants
through 5 year olds. There are also 6 school-age
before and after school sites in partnership with the
Charlotte County School Board that are located in
school facilities. Call 941-629-2220.
The Dotzler YMCA Outdoor Center, located
on 18 pristine acres on Charlotte Harbor located
at 22801 Bayshore Road, Port Charlotte offers a 50’
Alpine Climbing Tower and Team Development
Course, multipurpose sports pad that includes a
basketball court, 40’x60’ tent with picnic tables,
a dock in Charlotte Harbor along with kayaks
and nature trails. Group outings and rentals are
available. Call 941-629-9622.
The mission of the Charlotte County Family
YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice
through programs that build healthy spirit, mind,
and body for all. Visitors and guests are welcome.
Volunteers are encouraged to share their special
skills and talents. If interested in volunteering,
call 629-0909.
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It’s not just a country club,
It’s a lifestyle.
18 holes of championship golf (par 72)
Complete tennis complex
A well-appointed clubhouse
with an award-winning chef
A beautiful swimming pool with
terrace area in a fabulous tropical setting
Call Today for MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS
ARE WE RIGHT FOR YOU? ABSOLUTELY!!
Contact the Membership Office at 941-637-1232 Extension 2
E-mail: twinislescc@comcast.net
www.twinislescc.org
Located within Burnt Store Isles 301 Madrid Boulevard
Punta Gorda, Florida 33950
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Community Services
CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS
Charlotte County is the home to many
thriving cultural organizations. The Arts &
Humanities Council of Charlotte County Inc. is
the official local arts agency- a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
membership organization. This “Chamber
of the Arts” promotes and supports over 40
cultural organizations and hundreds of artists of
all disciplines. A high standard of cultural life
is advocated, supported and developed in our
community through arts advocacy, festivals, Arts
in Education advocacy, an Art in Public Places
program, a cultural calendar, workshops, and
cultural planning.
Charlotte County is home to all the arts
disciplines – music (jazz, symphonic, choral,
band), theater (drama, musicals, reviews,
children’s theater), visual arts (galleries,classes,
exhibits, workshops), dance, and humanities
(philosophy groups, writers, poets). Some of our
fine organizations include the Visual Arts Center,
the Charlotte Players, the Punta Gorda Historical
Society, the Charlotte Jazz Society, the Charlotte
Symphony, the Military Heritage Museum and
the Charlotte Chorale.
For infor mat ion on t hes e and more
organizations, stop by the Arts & Humanities
Gallery, located in the Chamber’s Port Charlotte
office at 2702 Tamiami Trail, or visit www.
charlottearts.org. You can also call 941-764-8100
for information.
Charlotte County has many opportunities for
fine musical performances: the Charlotte Chorale,
Charlotte Symphony,, the Jazz Society and the
Charlotte County Concert Band, presenting
everything from pops to classical and jazz, often
featuring international guest performers.
The Charlotte Performing Arts Center is a
state-of-the-art performing arts facility located
at 701 Carmalita Street in Punta Gorda. The
857-seat theater is part of Charlotte High School
and home to performances from the Charlotte
Symphony Orchestra, the Charlotte Chorale,
Charlotte High School Fine Arts, and Showbiz
Kids (Charlotte County Public Schools children’s
theater programs). For a schedule of events at
CPAC, either visit the website at www.thecpac.
net or call the box office at 941-505-5450. For
rental information, contact the business office at
941-637-0459. For information on Showbiz Kids,
contact Ellen Harvey at 941-255-0808.
Charlotte Players Community Theater is
celebrating their 53rd year of providing high
quality theatrical productions for the residents
and visitors of Southwest Florida. The nonprofit organization has produced over 250 stage
productions in Charlotte County. Their “Main
Stage” 2013-2014 season will be performed at
the Charlotte County Cultural Center Theater
and include: Hallelujah Girls, November 21-24,
2013, Sin, Sex & the CIA, January 24-Feb 1, 2014,
Hello Dolly, February 21-March 1, 2014 and Run
For Your Wife, March 27-30, 2014.
The Charlotte Players Langdon Playhouse
will be hosting a drama series again this season.
Starting in Oct/The Gin Game, Jan 2014/2 Across,
Feb/Same Time, Next Year, Apr/Drinking Habits
and a special production in March of Zero Hour,
an up close look at the life of Zero Mostel. The
Langdon Playhouse, located at 1182 Market
Circle, Port Charlotte, also provides a variety of
entertainment offerings.
Charlotte Players provide educational outreach
programs for students and pre-school children
that include; Kids OnStage, the Charlotte County
Imagination Library and their newly developed
TV & Film- on camera acting program. For
information regarding these programs, upcoming
productions, joining as a volunteer or member,
audition dates, season tickets, or to learn more
about the organization, please contact their
business office at (941) 255-1022, Monday-Friday,
10 AM to 3 PM or please visit our website at www.
charlotteplayers.org.
Since 1978, the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
has brought joy to people of all ages through the
magic of music, drawing musicians and audiences
from around the world to our concerts. Its existence
in a locale the size of Charlotte County is unusual
and is a tribute to the spirit of the community.
We make it a point to get to know our patrons
personally, and when you attend a concert, you will
find yourself greeted at the door by a staff member
or one of our volunteers from the Phantoms of the
Orchestra. And small groups of our musicians,
known as Musical Connections, visit local schools
to showcase instruments, and may also be hired to
perform at private parties and community events.
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Cultural Happenings
Exhibits
Gift Shop
Art Library
Workshops
Pottery Studio Fine Arts Classes
Art & Computer
Summer Art
Technology Lab Camps for Kids
FREE ADMISSION
www.VisualArtCenter.org
for schedule of exhibits, events and classes
Greater Flamingo by Marcus Thomas
210 Maud Street
941-639-8810
vac@daystar.net
The Charlotte Chorale
2013 - 14 Season Schedule
“A Christmas Odyssey”
Saturday, December 14, 2013 4:00 pm
Center for Performing Arts, Punta Gorda
“An Elixer of Love”
Saturday February 15, 2014 4:00 pm
1st United Methodist Church, Punta Gorda
“Music From the Stage”
Saturday, April 5, 2014, 4:00 pm
Pilgrim United Church of Christ, Port Charlotte
Special Benefit Concert
Fishermen’s Village
1200 West Retta Esplanade
941-575-9002
www.FreedomIsntFree.org
info@FreedomIsntFree.org
HOURS:
MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY,
10:00 A.M. TO 6:00 P.M.
SUNDAY, NOON TO 5:00 P.M.
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(Charlotte Chorale not performing)
The King’s Brass
Saturday, January 25, 2014 4:00pm
1st United Methodist Church, Punta Gorda
For More Information:
www.charlottechorale.net
To Order Tickets: 941/204-0033
Visa Discover MasterCard
in Charlotte County
Since 1978 the Charlotte Symphony
Orchestra has been enriching lives
through great orchestral music.
The 2013/2014 season promises to be
most exciting under the direction of
our new Maestro, Raffaele Ponti.
CONCERT DATES:
November 17, 2013....... “Spectacular”
December 8, 2013.............. “Glorious”
January 12, 2014..........“Exhilarating”
February 23, 2014...............“Brilliant”
March 23, 2014..............“Triumphant”
ALL CONCERTS ARE HELD AT
Charlotte Performing Arts Center
701 Carmalita Street
Punta Gorda, Florida
TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED ON LINE AT
www.charlottesymphony.com
OR BY CALLING 941-205-9743.
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The 2013/2014 season promises to be most
exciting under the direction of our new Maestro,
Raffaele Ponti. Concert dates are November 1,
entitled “Spectacular”; December 8, “Glorious”;
January 12, “Exhilarating”; February 23, “Brilliant”;
and March 23, “Triumphant”. All concerts are
held at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701
Carmelita Street, Punta Gorda. Tickets can be
purchased on line at www.charlottesymphony.com
or by calling 941-205-9743.
The Charlotte Chorale enters its 25th season
under new Artistic Director, William Dederer. The
Chorale’s 60+ well-trained voices provide quality
chorale music in three major concerts. The first
concert, “A Christmas Odyssey”, December 14, will
be held at the Center for Performing Arts, Punta
Gorda. The February 15 concert, “An Elixir of
Love”, will be held at 1st United Methodist Church
in Punta Gorda. The April 5 concert, “Music From
the Stage”, will be held at Pilgrim United Church
of Christ in Port Charlotte. The King’s Brass
will perform a benefit concert for the Chorale
on January 25 at 1st United Methodist Church
in Punta Gorda. The Chorale’s diverse repertoire
includes classic and symphonic choral works,
sacred and secular selections, and contemporary
music including favorites from Broadway musicals,
movies and spirituals. The Chorale also sponsors
annual music scholarships for graduating high
school students in Charlotte County. Modulation,
a small ensemble group, is available for special
events. For information call 941-204-0033 or visit
http://www.charlottechorale.net/.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY COMMUNITY
SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Charlotte County Community Services invites
you to “Get Up, Get Out, Get Active & Explore
the Excitement!” With 66 parks and recreation
facilities, four libraries and a Historical Center, there
is truly something for everyone. The Charlotte
County Community Services department is open
for business and offers activities and opportunities
to be happier, live longer and add more balance
to your life.
Four of Charlotte County’s environmental parks
comprise over 1000 acres of flatwoods, preserves,
salt marshes and mangrove swamps, and provide
an opportunity to observe bird life and enjoy
boardwalks, fishing and canoe/kayaking.
The department offers special events, dances,
concerts, skating, garage sales, tennis and fishing
tournaments and much more. Pick up event
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flyers at any of their facilities or visit www.
CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
Tringali Recreation Center is located at Tringali
Park in Englewood and offers many programs,
including Pickleball, Super Mini Sports, Parent
Tot, Friday Night Skate, Community Garage Sales,
Birthday Parties, Zumba, Ballet, Line Dance, Yoga
and more. It is home to a youth outdoor in-line
hockey league. They have a gymnasium, tennis/
Pickleball courts, basketball courts, playground
and covered picnic area. Tringali Park offers a 2,580
square foot Community Center with a stage and
a full kitchen. The Community Center is perfect
for wedding receptions, parties, dances, plays,
banquets and meetings. Call 941.681.3742.
Port Charlotte Beach Recreation Center, has
a multi-purpose room, deck and picnic pavilions
which are available for event rentals. The pool and
all park amenities including the picnic pavilions,
public beach, basketball court, tennis courts,
volleyball court, bocce court, horseshoe pits,
playground and boat ramp are also open. Parking
is $.75 cents per hour. Call 941.627.1628 or stop by.
Harold Avenue Recreation Center in Port
Charlotte is home to youth and adult basketball
leagues, Tae Kwon Do and trimnastics exercise
classes. Contact the Harold Avenue Recreation
Center for information regarding annual Senior
Games, adult flag football leagues and the Healthy
Kids Festival in October. This facility has a
gymnasium, outdoor tennis and basketball courts,
a playground with sheltered picnic tables, baseball
& softball fields and meeting rooms for rent. It is a
popular location for day camps. Call 941.627.1074.
South County Recreation Center in Punta
Gorda is a multi-purpose recreation center
featuring a gymnasium with six basketball goals
and a large meeting room. Outdoor amenities
include basketball courts, baseball, softball and
soccer fields, tennis courts, a community garden
and a 25-yard swimming pool with a diving well for
open and lap swim, swimming lessons and more.
Day camps during summer and school breaks are
also offered. Call 941.505.8686.
Ann Dever Memorial Regional Park has over
306 acres of land, 50 acres for active use, 120 acres
of environmental land and 136 acres north of
Oyster Creek. Park amenities include basketball
and tennis courts, cricket/multipurpose field, dog
park, football fields, nature trails, pavilion rentals,
restrooms, a skate park and swimming pool with
a diving well. Call 941.681.3742.
Charlotte County has two skate parks. J.M.
Berlin/Rotary Skate Park at Ann Dever Memorial
Regional Park is an 18,000 sq. ft. amenity
designed and built by Team Pain and features
china banks, concrete bowls, beginner, street and
transition elements. Call 941.681.3742. Captain
Don Cerbone Memorial Skate Park located at
Carmalita Park in Punta Gorda is a community
project made possible by the commitment of
private citizens, the generosity of the business
community and the support of local government.
Call 941.505.8686. Admission is free at both skate
parks to all patrons on a drop-in basis from dawn
to dusk daily, except for special events or activities.
All skaters must have a signed waiver on file with
Charlotte County which may be picked up at any
County Recreation Center or pool.
While walking through Bayshore Live Oak
Park, take time to read the historical nodes
mounted on kiosks that describe important periods
of the Charlotte Harbor area. Learn more about
these historical features by visiting the anchor of
the park, the Charlotte County Historical Center.
The park, situated along Charlotte Harbor, features
community open space, restroom facilities, piers,
canoe/kayak launch, boardwalks, a pavilion with
a community fireplace and beautiful sunsets.
Partnering with the Charlotte Harbor Community
Re-development agency, special events including
a wine and beer festival, community dog show
and Hands Across The Harbor are featured
each year. Please check the Annual Calendar for
details. Reserve space for your wedding, picnic,
recreational activities and other events that bring
friends, families and the community together by
calling 941.625.PLAY (7529).
The Library Division provides a variety of
services, programs and materials to meet the
recreation, information and education needs
of the public. In addition to books, the libraries
offer music CDs, movies, audiobooks, magazines,
newspapers and large print materials. Electronic
databases and access to patron accounts are
available to library card holders via the library’s
web site at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov. Other
services include reference assistance, public
internet access, interlibrary loan, computer
instruction and programs for all ages. The MidCounty Regional Library has a large collection of
materials, 70 public computers, a computer lab
for instruction, conference rooms for programs
and rentals, a genealogy collection, large teen and
children’s areas and an outdoor atrium. For more
information call the Library Administration office
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at 941.766.READ, Mid-County Regional Library at
941.613.3160, Englewood Library at 941.681.3736,
Port Charlotte Library at 941.764.5562 or the Punta
Gorda Library at 941.833.5460.
CHARLOTTE EXTENSION SERVICE
University of Florida IFAS Extension
Service serves local needs by providing researchbased, unbiased information concerning
agriculture, horticulture, Florida-Friendly
Landscaping, 4-H Youth Development and Sea
Grant programming. Specific programming
includes the Master Gardener Program, 4-H
clubs and non-traditional youth programs, the
Florida Master Naturalist Program, Marine and
Coastal Resource Conservation Management,
the Rain Barrell Program, Green Industries
Best Management Practices Training, Pesticide
Applicator Recertification and citrus, vegetable,
livestock and forage expertise. For more
information, call 941-764-4340.
HEALTH AND
HUMAN SERVICES
Charlotte 2-1-1 is an easy-to-dial number
that connects you to health and human services
information, as well as community and government
numbers and volunteer/donation opportunities.
Charlotte 2-1-1 is made possible by a partnership
with Charlotte County Public Safety and Human
Services Departments, the Center for Abuse &
Rape Emergencies and the United Way of Charlotte
County. When you have questions, call 2-1-1. Cell
phone and TTY users call 941-205-2161.
CHILD CARE RESOURCE
& REFERRAL
The Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s
Heartland can provide free, customized, computer
generated referrals to legally operating child care,
including family child care, centers, faith-based,
pre-K, Head Start and school-age programs. The
ELCFH can also provide families with vouchers
for the state funded Voluntary Pre-K program
and financial assistance for child care. The
ELCFH supports child care providers through
trainings and on-site technical assistance. For
more information call 941-255-1650 or visit the
office at 2886 Tamiami Trail, #1, in Port Charlotte
or www.elcfh.org.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
The following organizations are active
in Charlotte County and offer programs for youths:
•Charlotte County Historical Center
•Charlotte County Family YMCA
•Charlotte County Parks & Recreation
•Charlotte BMX
•Pop Warner Football
•Boys & Girls Club
•Girl Scouts & Boy Scouts
•New Operation Cooper Street
•4-H Club
•SkatePark
AIRLINES
ALLEGIANT AIR
www.allegiantair.com
•Reservations: 702-505-8888
•Baggage Service Office/
Lost & Found: 866-719-3910
•Destinations:
Allentown, PA; Asheville, NC;
Bangor, ME; Cedar Rapids, IA;
Des Moines, IA; Ft. Wayne, IN;
Greenville-Spartanburg, SC;
Knoxville, TN; Lexington, KY;
Moline, IL; Niagara Falls, NY;
Peoria, IL; Rockland/Chicago, IL;
South Bend, IN; Springfield, IL;
Springfield-Branson, MO;
Youngstown OH
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Medical Services
Medical care in Charlotte C ounty is
comprehensive and readily available, offering
treatment in virtually every medical specialty
and the latest technologies. More than 300
medical physicians and surgeons, osteopathic
physicians and chiropractic physicians operate
in the county.
In addition to the three hospitals located in
Charlotte County, there are also several multispecialty health clinics and walk-in clinics.
Counseling and rehabilitation centers offer
cardiac therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy
and treatment for substance abuse and stress.
FAWCETT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
For over 35 years Fawcett Memorial Hospital
has served the health care needs of the people
of Charlotte County and surrounding areas.
Fawcett is an acute healthcare hospital with 238
licensed beds and over 280 physicians on staff
who represent primary care and over 30 specialty
fields. Fawcett is one of the largest employers in
the area with over 750 employees.
Fawcett is committed to ser ving the
community and improving the quality of life
for all citizens in Charlotte County and the
surrounding areas. The hospital’s goal is to
provide excellent service to each and every
patient and visitor to the campus. One way
this is done is by recruiting and developing the
finest employees to be found in order to benefit
patients. Fawcett also provides state-of-the-art
technology, and continually seeks to provide the
most advanced care available.
Fawc e tt prov i d e s qu a l it y h e a lt h c are
throughout the continuum of healthcare
services. Fawcett has the first Joint Commission
accredited Primary Stroke Center in the
county and Charlotte County’s only accredited
Chest Pain Center with PCI. It is also home
to the only CARF accredited and licensed
inpatient rehabilitation program in the area. The
Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, 7
days a week and was the first in Charlotte County
to staff full-time physicians Board Certified in
WHEN YOU NEED A DOCTOR,
BE SURE TO ONLY USE
ONE OF THE SOCIETY’S
CREDENTIALED PHYSICIANS.
Call the Society at 941-625-6229
CCMSDOCTORS.COM
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Emergency Medicine 24 hours a day. Fawcett is
also home to a accredited Oncology program,
a Joint Commission certified Orthopedic &
Spine Unit, minimally invasive surgery, Wound
Management & Hyperbaric Medicine, Fawcett
Sports & Rehab, Company Care Occupational
Health and h2u/Senior Friends Center.
Fawcett Memorial Hospital is an integral part
of Charlotte County. Many of the staff members
dedicate their time to community service and
are active on the boards of many charitable
organizations, donating thousands of hours of
their time every year.
If you have any healthcare questions or
would like information about a local physician,
registered nurses are available 24 hours a day,
7 days a week by calling 1-877-4-HCA-DOCS
(1-877-442-2362). For more information about
Fawcett and the numerous community programs
we offer, visit FawcettHospital.com, become our
friend on Facebook, circle us on Google+, pin us
on Pinterest or follow us on Twitter @FMHnews.
BAYFRONT HEALTH
One of the fundamental values Charlotte
Regional and Peace River Regional Medical
Center share is their commitment to our
local community. Each facility maintains this
commitment both collectively as an organization
and individually in their personal contributions.
Charlotte and Peace River Regional Medical
Centers are extraordinarily proud to have
served our community since 1947 and 1962,
respectively. Their associates, physicians and
hospital volunteers continuously seek ways
to provide the highest quality care available
to their patients and to take important health
education and awareness information out into
our community.
On April 1, 2013, both facilities became part of
a regional network of seven hospitals stretching
150 miles along the I-75 corridor by joining
the Bayfront Health System. This new health
network was created to improve patient care by
providing a complete continuum of services for
Gulf Coast residents and visitors.
Bayfront Health Punta Gorda
(previously Charlotte Regional
Medical Center)
Bayfront Health Punta Gorda is a 208-bed
acute care hospital that brings quality health
care to this community with comprehensive
services and an experienced team of physicians
37
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Charlotte County Democratic Party
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38
and caregivers. Committed to meeting the everchanging needs of area physicians and patients,
they have invested $26.5 million for facility and
service improvements.
In addition to being named a Top Performer
in Key Quality Measures™ by The Joint
Commission in the areas of Heart Failure,
Heart Attack and Pneumonia in 2011, Bayfront
Health Punta Gorda has also been designated
as with The Joint Commission Primary Stroke
Center Gold Seal in 2010 & 2011. The hospital
is a Primary Stoke Care Center receiving the
American Heart Association’s prestigious Get
With Guidelines Silver Plus Recognition in
2011 and our respiratory services have earned
the Quality Respiratory Care Recognition from
the American Association of Respiratory Care
for the past three years in a row.
Bayfront Health Punta Gorda has an array of
specialty services including:
• Award-winning Stroke Care Services
• daVinci® Robotic Surgery system
• Joint and Spine Academies
• Riverside Behavioral Center
• Breast Health Center
• The Rehabilitation & Wellness Center
• Center for Wound Care & Hyperbaric
Medicine
• Clinical Decision Unit
• Same Day Surgery Center
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte
(previously Peace River Regional
Medical Center)
What began as a one-story 50-bed hospital
is now a multi-level 254-bed Joint Commission
Accredited full service hospital, the largest
in Charlotte County. In the last five years
alone, Bayfront Health Port Charlotte has
invested $30.5 million for facility and service
improvements, as well as built alliances with
Shands UF Health and All Children’s SpecialistsJohns Hopkins Medicine.
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte provides
quality health care to this community with
comprehensive services and an experienced
team of physicians and caregivers, specializing
in critical and emergent care, imaging
and radiology, laboratory and pathology,
rehabilitation, neurological and nerve care, and
the treatment of a wide range of disorders.
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte is the only
facility in Charlotte County that has a:
• Center for Balance Disorders to address the
Continued on Page42
39
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specific needs of patients who are suffering
with loss of balance and mobility.
• Women’s and Children’s unit that offers a full
spectrum of maternity care with a Level II
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit that is supported
by All Children’s Specialists-Johns Hopkins
Medicine and pediatric unit.
• Heart Institute that offers full ser vice
comprehensive care for heart disease including
emergency intervention, diagnosis, advanced
treatment, rehabilitation and preventive
education, and is backed by a partnership with
Tampa’s leading provider of cardiovascular
services, Florida Advanced Cardiothoracic
Surgery.
• Home for MAKOplasty® Surgery with the
RIO® Robotic Arm Interactive Orthopedic
System which allows patients with early to
mid-stage osteoarthritis of the knee, a less
invasive surgery and more rapid recovery than
total knee replacement.
• Free-standing ambulatory care center, North
Port HealthPark, which is staffed with
licensed, board-certified physicians and
technologists that provide the highest quality
of care to residents and visitors of south
Sarasota County. Onsite services include
imaging and radiology, laboratory, home
health, rehabilitation and specialty physicians.
To learn more about the services that both
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda
have to offer, visit: www.CharlotteRegional.com
or www.PeaceRiverRegional.com
Since first opening its doors in 1947, Charlotte
Regional Medical Center has been dedicated
to providing the highest level of patient care
possible.
Charlotte Regional Medical Center is
an award-winning facility, with our stroke
services, respiratory and orthopedics programs
earning nationwide distinction. It is the only
hospital in Charlotte County offering the da
Vinci Si Robotic Surgical System which is
currently being used for urologic, gynecologic,
and general surgery cases.
T h e h o s pit a l of fe r s s t at e - of - t h e - ar t
diagnostic testing, including stress testing,
electrocardiograms, cardiac ultrasound, and
cardiac catheterization. The hospital also
offers complete outpatient diagnostic services
including X-Ray, CT scanning, MRI, digital
imaging, a clinical laboratory, and same-day
surgery.
The Rehab and Wellness Center provides
comprehensive physical, occupational and
speech therapy. The Center for Wound Care and
42
Hyperbaric Medicine uses the latest techniques
and equipment, including hyperbaric oxygen
therapy, to heal patients’ wounds. The Center
for Joint Replacement involves patients in
each step of the joint replacement process and
is the only program of its kind in the county.
The Sleep Disorders Center provides diagnosis
and treatment of conditions such as insomnia,
snoring, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy.
Located on the campus of the hospital,
Riverside Behavioral Center is the county’s only
private psychiatric facility for the treatment of
depression, anxiety, and chemical dependency
disorders, especially among mature adults.
Charlotte Regional offers free physician
referral services and community education. To
find a physician or register for a seminar, please
call 941-637-2497.
The employees of our 208-b ed Joint
Commission Accredited full service hospital
are dedicated to abiding by our hospital’s mission
statement: Caring professionals dedicated to
serving our community. Charlotte Regional
Medical Center, adding life to your years. 809
E. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, Florida. www.
CharlotteRegional.com.
ENGLEWOOD COMMUNITY
HOSPITAL
Englewood Community Hospital opened
in 1985 and provides a full range of inpatient
and outpatients services, including 24 hour
emergency care, day surgery, diagnostics and
more. The facility has become nationally
recognized for quality care numerous times
in recent years.
The hospital is located at 700 Medical
Blvd., Englewood, 941-473-5035, www.
englewoodcommunityhospital.com.
CHARLOTTE BEHAVIORAL
HEALTH CARE, INC.
Charlotte Behavioral Health Care, Inc., (CBHC)
a private, non-profit behavioral health agency
has been providing services to Charlotte County
residents for 40 years. Our mission is to provide
high quality, compassionate, cost efficient health
care services to the families we serve.
More than 10,000 county residents utilize the
20+ services and programs on an annual basis. Of
that 10,000 residents served more than 3,000 are
children and adolescents. Individualized treatment
and counseling is provided by a professional staff of
psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed mental health
counselors, clinical social workers, specialized
addiction counselors and children’s therapists. Our
newest state-of-the-art facility, the Recovery Center
opened in 2008 for compassionate diagnosis and
treatment of substance abuse problems for adults
18 and older. CBHC is located on a 40 acre campus
in Punta Gorda.
CBHC’s newest office located at 1032 Tamiami
Trail Unit 1, Port Charlotte, FL 33953 is Northside
Psychiatric Services a division of Charlotte
Behavioral Health Care and continues to provide
Charlotte County and now Sarasota County
residents with programs and services in an array
of expert care.
Funding is provided by major contracts with
Florida Department of Children and Families,
Charlotte County, Department of Corrections,
Charlotte County School Board, grants and private
contributions. Private insurance, Value Options,
Medicaid and Medicare assignments are accepted,
when applicable. For more information call 941639-8300. In an emergency, call 911 and the Crisis
Stabilization Unit at 941-575-0222 – 24 hours/7
days. For the Recovery Center, call 24 hours/7days
at 941-347-6444.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
The Health Department provides free childhood
immunizations and provides clinic services based
on a sliding fee scale, according to income. Services
include family planning; adult immunizations;
tuberculosis and sexually transmitted disease
control; WIC (Women, Infants, and Children);
child and adult health; chronic disease services;
and health education, including tobacco cessation,
diabetes and epilepsy medication maintenance,
and HIV/AIDS prevention. Other services include
vital statistics and environmental health regulation
enforcement. Our locations are 1100 Loveland
Boulevard in Port Charlotte and 6868 San Casa in
Englewood. The Punta Gorda office is closed. For
more information about specific services available
at all county locations call 941-624-7200, 941-6391181, or visit www.CharlotteCHD.com.
FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS OF
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Family Health Centers of Southwest Florida,
Inc.’s medical offices accept assignments from
Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. FHC
provides assistance to its patients in determining
their eligibility to receive healthcare benefits under
Florida’s rapidly changing Medicaid system. FMC
works with those who are uninsured or who have
limited coverage. The Port Charlotte office is
located at 4300 Kings Hwy., Suite 500, toll free
866-355-2348, direct 239-344-2306 www.fhcswf.
org/fhcswf.htm.
43
Integrity Employee Leasing
Integrity Insurance Agency
Employee Leasing
Payroll, Workers Compensation, Human Resources, Benefits
www.integrityel.com
Insurance Agency
Full Service Insurance Agency
www.integrityriskmanagement.com
3626 Tamiami Trail • Port Charlotte, FL 33952 | P. O. Box 498454 • Port Charlotte, FL 33949
Phone: 941.625.0623 • Fax: 941.625-0123
44
Retirement Facilities
In recent years, Charlotte County has seen
a significant increase in the variety of facilities
available to retirees, whether they are seeking
independent living, in-home care, assisted
living or the full services of a nursing facility.
RETIREMENT & ASSISTED LIVING
FACILITIES
Exemplifying a new trend in retirement
living are assisted living facilities (ALFs) now
operating in Charlotte County.
These establishments welcome those who
wish to retain a residential lifestyle, but who
may need some degree of assistance with
normal personal tasks each day. Some also
offer apartment living, and most offer a wide
range of activities and services.
Chelsea Place Retirement, 315 Addison
Drive, Port Charlotte, a Key West inspired
beach cottage with an array of activities and
services 941-979-5179.
European Manor, a 8-bed facility, is located
at 21000 Midway Blvd., Port Charlotte, 941627-6381.
With 84 apartments with 10 floor plans,
Lexington Manor, LLC, is located at 20480
Veterans Blvd., Port Charlotte, 941-766-7991.
Presbyterian Homes/Villa/Charlotte
Towers, 2295 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte, 941629-6664, consists of apartment communities
for independent living, specifically designed
to meet the needs of seniors.
The Palms of Punta Gorda, with a 20-bed
ALF, also has a 36-bed Alzheimer’s Unit and
adult day care, 2295 Shreve Street, Punta
Gorda, 941-575-9390.
River Commons, 2305 Aaron Street, Port
Charlotte, 941-629-0043, has 84 independent
rental apartments.
Royal Palm Retirement Center offers three
life-styles: independent senior apartments,
full-service assisted living and personal care
accommodations, 2500 Aaron Street, Port
Charlotte, 941-627-6762.
South Port Square is a Life Care Retirement
Community complete with 486 independent
living and assisted living apartments, 23023
Westchester Boulevard, Port Charlotte, 941625-1100.
Sterling House, located at 250 Bal Harbor
Blvd., Punta Gorda, 941-575-9900, and at
18440 Cochran Blvd., Port Charlotte, 7439300. Sterling House has a choice of three
private apartment floor plans.
Vick Street Manor, 22332 Vick Street, Port
Charlotte, is licensed for 98 beds, 941-6275388. We love small pets.
Village Place, 18400 Cochran, Port
Charlotte, 941-766-8900, offers 110 private
suites with a “neighborhood” design concept,
short term respite care and Alzheimer’s suites.
NURSING HOMES
Charlotte County’s accredited nursing
homes are carefully supervised and inspected
regularly by the Florida Department of Health
and Rehabilitative Services and provide both
intermediate and skilled care. Along with
24-hour nursing care, these facilities offer
social services, a wide range of activities,
nutrition supervision and physical, speech and
occupational therapies.
Charlotte Harbor Health Care, 4000 Kings
Hwy., has 180 beds, 941-255-5855.
Consulate Health Care of Port Charlotte
is located at 18480 Cochran Blvd., Port
Charlotte, and has 120 beds, 941-743-4700.
Harbour Health Systems at South Port
Square, 23013 Westchester Blvd., Port
Charlotte, is just west of Kings Highway, a
5-star rated facility with 120 beds, 941-6251220.
Life Care Center of Punta Gorda, is located
near Punta Gorda Isles at 450 Shreve Street,
Punta Gorda, and has 180 beds, 941-639-8771.
Signature Healthcare of Port Charlotte,
LLC, 4033 Beaver Lane, Port Charlotte, is a
164-bed skilled nursing facility, 941-625-3200.
Village Place Health and Rehab Center,
2370 Harbor Blvd., Port Charlotte, has 104
beds, 941-624-5966.
45
46
Education
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The mission of the Charlotte County Public
Schools states “We will provide an innovative
educational environment that allows and inspires
success for everyone.” The school district has an
enrollment peaking at more than 16,309 students
in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade during
the 2012-13 school year.
Our vision is “Student Success.” School grades
reflect how well a school and its district are doing
academically. The grades are based largely on
student performance on the Florida Comprehensive
Assessment Test. Our school district was ranked
in the top ten in the state, based on FCAT scores
released by the Florida Department of Education.
Charlotte County Public Schools have achieved
the following milestones
---Graded as an “A” School District 8 consecutive
times by the Florida Department of Education..
---The Florida Legislature has designated
the Charlotte County Public School as a High
Performing District for 10 years in a row.
---Ranked # 4 for percentage of students passing
the Advanced Placement (AP) exams two years in
a row.
---Ranked #3 for having 87% of our schools
making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) under the
Federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).
---Increased our graduation rate from 68% to
85%.
---Port Charlotte High School Model UN Team
ranked # 4 in the nation.
---Headstart Program awarded “Program of
Excellence” one of 25 nationwide.
---56 Nationally Board Certified teachers are
on board.
----Partner with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical
University
---Won 8 LEEDS Awards (“Green Schools”)
---FOCUS, is a web-based tool for parents to
monitor their children’s progress.
---Received state and national recognition for our
Arts Programs, an essential part of our curriculum.
---CCPS received The Suny Award three
consecutive years in recognition of being one of the
most transparent government websites in the USA
by scoring in the top 100 among more than 6,000
state and local government websites analyzed by
Sunshine Reviews Transparency Checklist.
Pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students
attend one of ten elementary schools or the Baker
Center. Each facility contains textbooks, math
manipulatives, a fully-equipped media center,
micro-computers and additional supplementary
materials and equipment to ensure a well-balanced
learning environment and educational program.
Emphasis is placed on developing skills in all areas
of the county-wide curriculum, including the
required Sunshine State Standards and benchmarks
in language arts, mathematics, science, social
science, the arts, health/physical education and
foreign language.
The Exceptional Student Education Department
offers a Preschool Handicapped Program for
children three to five years old. Economically
disadvantaged four-year-old children may be
enrolled in the federally-funded Head Start Program
or the state funded pre-K Early Intervention
Programs which are available at eight of the ten
elementary schools and at the Baker Center. An Even
Start program for younger children is an additional
pre-K program also housed at the Baker Center.
Students from age three to twenty-one with
moderate to severe mental or physical handicaps
are served at Charlotte Harbor Center or at central
sites within the county in accordance with each
student’s needs.
Middle school students, grades 6-8, attend one
of four facilities in the county. Each of the middle
schools is organized into academic teams of two or
more core curriculum teachers who, with elective
teachers and support staff, share a common group
of students. The students are required to master
science, mathematics, language arts and social
sciences in each grade level, and are offered two
periods daily for exploratory courses.
Charlotte County’s three high schools offer
young adults the optimum environment in which
to expand their horizons in preparation for their
futures. The high school curriculum provides both
generalized and specialized educational experiences
and is, therefore, able to prepare students for
continued education or immediate entry into the
work force. Extensive course offerings, ranging from
basic to advanced levels, are available in language
arts, mathematics, social sciences and science. Art,
computer education, drama, foreign language,
humanities, music, Naval ROTC and vocational
education are only a few of the electives offered in
the curricular area.
Junior and senior students who are seeking
an associate degree may enroll in approved
college courses under the Charlotte County Dual
Enrollment Agreement. Credits obtained in this
manner are recognized by the high school, as well as
the post-secondary institution offering course work.
Athletic pursuits including wrestling, football,
basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, tennis,
soccer and swimming are part of the district’s
sports program. Student government, band, chorus,
47
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drama, service organizations and subject-related
organizations are fundamental to an ongoing and
active co-curricular program.
The Academy@Charlotte Tech serves as Charlotte
County’s alternative high school. Students enrolled
in The Academy have access to a wide variety
of educational programs. Smaller class sizes,
test-preparation skills, and a career-connected
curriculum are the focal points for Academy
students. All students in grades nine through
twelve who qualify for the at-risk program attend
classes on the Tech campus. Special emphasis is
made to retrieve students who have dropped out of
the system and facilitate their acquisition of a high
school diploma or a GED equivalency.
Charlotte Technical Center serves over 2,000 high
school and adult students annually. The Center is
fully accredited by the Council on Occupational
Education and is approved by the Veterans State
Approval Agency. Graduates of our new medical
facility on the Tech Center campus will help fill the
demand for medical personnel in our community.
With “Student Success” at the core of the Center’s
Mission Statement, the staff recognizes the varied
needs , abilities, and talents of each individual
while striving to meet the business, professional,
and industrial employment requirements of the
Charlotte County area.
For additional information, contact Charlotte
County Public Schools, 1441 Tamiami Tr.,
Port Charlotte, 33948, 941-255-7430, or www.
yourcharlotteschools.net.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
The private schools in Charlotte County
provide a wide variety of programs that excel in
academics and personal character development.
Both private and religiously-sponsored schools
are available, and each one seeks to make
its particular strength and individuality a
community asset for all.
Private schools are (phone numbers are all
941 area code): Charlotte Academy (PK-8), 7647673; Community Christian/First Baptist (PK12), 625-8977; Gator Wilderness Camp School
(639-7722); Genesis Christian/Nazarene (PK-8),
627-4849; Good Shepherd Day School (PK-8), 5752139; Laurel Oaks Academy (PK-8), 764-0456;
Port Charlotte Christian/Calvary Assembly of
God (PK-12), 625-4450; Port Charlotte Seventh
Day Adventist (PK-12), 625-5237; St. Charles
Borromeo/Catholic (PK-8), 625-5533; Southwest
Florida Bible Institute (625-3255).
CHARLOTTE TECHNICAL CENTER
Charlotte Technical Center is a high-tech
career training facility offering programs for
high school and adult students. Both day and
evening, full-and part-time programs are taught
49
Popa P
POOLS and Spas
“Proudly serving Charlotte, DeSoto,
Lee and Sarasota Counties”
Since 1975
FREE ESTIMATES
• New Construction
• Complete Renovations
• Paver Decking
• Saltwater Pools
• Pebble Tec Finishes
• Deck Resurfacing
• Pool Resurfacing
• Heat Pumps
• Solar Heating
• Screen Enclosures
• Pool Pumps
• Weekly Pool Service
• Commercial &
Residential
MEMBER OF
www.PopaPoolsandSpas.com
Licensed & Insured
941-629-1000
24100 Tiseo Blvd., Unit 6
License #CPC1458096
Family Owned & Operated by Philip Popa & Brandon Popa
Quality unparalleled, construction uncompromised,
your dream home, unforgettable…
State Certified Residential Contractor
Specializing in:
New Construction • Remodels • Additions
Serving Charlotte, DeSoto,
Lee & Sarasota Counties
for over 28 years!
(941) 625-9065
Philip G. Popa, President
50
Lic. # CRC058303
by licensed/degreed professionals. Students
may train in Business and Office Technology;
Health Sciences; Construction/Drafting;
Automotive Technology; Early Childhood
Education; Culinary Arts; Cosmetology;
and Computer Systems Technology. The
Center’s special features include: Culinary
Arts “Gourmet Every Day” lunches (Papa G’s
& Breaktime Café); Pumpkin Patch Pre-School
for 3-5 year old children; two resource centers,
a 600-seat auditorium; financial aid options
and job placement assistance.
For more information, please visit the Center
at 18150 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, 33948
(right across from the Town Center Mall),
www.charlottetechcenter.com or phone 941255-7500. Visitors are always welcome.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY PUBLIC
SCHOOLS ADULT PROGRAM
The Adult Learning Center of the Charlotte
County Public Schools has a number of
programs.
The Adult Literacy Program serves over 250
students a year. Working to eradicate illiteracy
the Learning Center combines small classes,
an open lab, and on-line instruction enabling
students to work at their own pace to improve
their skills. This program utilizes volunteers
who provide individualized instruction in
reading, writing and math, augmenting the
classroom experience. Volunteers are always
welcomed eagerly!
English for Speakers of Other Languages
(ESOL) serves over 150 students. These classes
provide adults the opportunity to learn how to
read, write and speak English. Classes are also
available to help prepare individuals to take
the U.S. Citizenship Examination successfully.
The Adult Transition Program serves 90
people and is available for adults who have
been diagnosed with mental, physical and/
or learning disabilities. The Adult program
also serves 85 adults at the Charlotte County
Jail. This program assists adults who are
incarcerated attain their GED.
Career Quest: Made possible through a
partnership with the Simon Youth Foundation,
Career Quest is a program that combines
f lexible schedules,internships, on-the-job
training and a computer-based curriculum
to facilitate students seeking a regular high
school diploma and a connection to career
competencies.
For more information on these and other
programs available, contact The Adu lt
Learning Center, Port Charlotte Town Mall,
1441 Tamiami Trail, Suite 365, Port Charlotte,
33948, or phone 941-255-7555.
EDISON STATE COLLEGE
There’s a hidden gem in Charlotte County,
and it’s the Punta Gorda campus of Edison State
College. The 204-acre campus, which first opened
its doors in 1997, serves over 2,000 students each
semester. The school offers Baccalaureate and
Associate’s Degrees, certificate and continuing
education courses. Adjacent to I-75, the campus
offers much more than just classes and a degree.
It’s a home away from home for you to explore
and enjoy.
The observatory on our campus is open one
night per month for the public to discover the
mysteries of the sky, all free of charge. This
was part of the gift agreement when James
and Barbara Moore made the gift to build the
observatory in 1989. Dave Hanson is the retired
astronomy professor who leads the monthly
viewings into worlds far beyond ours.
The library is open to the public, and so are
walking trails and the tennis courts. The campus
pond hosts a club of about 10 avid model boat
racers. Each week they come to the campus to
navigate the course of buoys in the pond. They
have been doing this for more years than anyone
can remember. Edison has even put cones in
the water for them to navigate. Once a week a
group of about 20 women gather in our cafeteria
to play bridge.
The campus is also home to Edison Collegiate
High School, the county’s only charter school. In
May 2013 ECHS celebrated its first graduating
class! The graduates are headed off to continue
their education at places like Emory, the
University of Florida and Utah, while some have
decided to continue to pursue their degrees right
here at Edison State. ECHS is ranked among the
best high schools in the state.
For more information please visit us at
Edison.edu/charlotte or call 941-637-5629. You
can also stay current on Edison events through
@EdisonState on Twitter or Facebook.com/
EdisonStateCharlotte.
FLORIDA GULF COAST
UNIVERSITY
Established to fill a regional need for higher
education opportunities, FGCU has flourished
since opening its first classrooms in 1997 and
now attracts students from all over the United
States and abroad to Fort Myers. The university
has achieved national prominence in academics,
51
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Residential and Commercial
Air Conditioning • Refrigeration • Heating
Service • Installation • Repair
(941) 764-6400
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52
Fax: 941-764-1328
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environmental sustainability and servicelearning as well as in athletics, where FGCU
earned the nickname “Dunk City” in its historic
run to the NCAA basketball tournament’s Sweet
Sixteen in 2013.
FGCU’s natural setting between the Florida
Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico creates a
living outdoor classroom and a lively campus
interwoven with native flora and fauna. It
also provides an engaging home to a diverse
and growing community of more than 13,000
undergraduate and graduate students who
advance their learning in state-of-the-art
classrooms and labs.
Emphasizing innovative teaching and
interdisciplinary learning, FGCU continues to
expand academic offerings, which now include
51 undergraduate, 28 master’s, one specialist and
two doctoral programs. With 1,100 faculty and
staff working in five colleges, the university is
committed to providing personalized attention
to students and serving as an economic engine
for the greater community.
FGCU serves Charlotte County’s higher
education and continuing education needs at
its satellite facility at the Herald Court Centre,
which opened in 2002 in downtown Punta
Gorda. In addition to providing degree-related
courses, the center reaches countless community
members with personal enrichment and lifelong
learning opportunities offered through FGCU’s
Renaissance Academy.
For more information on the center, call (941)
505-0130, or go to www.fgcu.edu/hcc.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
SARASOTA-MANATEE
Since the founding of the University of
South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM)
in 1975, the university has served the higher
educational needs of the local community by
continually producing well-educated, critical
thinking graduates who become leaders in our
community, nation and world.
USFSM successfully addresses the broad
spectrum of educational needs of individuals in
the region by providing Bachelor’s and Master’s
Degrees and Graduate Certificates not only at
traditional times at our two locations but also
online, making higher education accessible to
all. In the fall 2013, USFSM welcomes its first
freshman class with a new general education
curriculum and the debut of science labs at
Mote Marine.
USF Sarasota-Manatee’s main campus is
located on the border of Manatee and Sarasota
Counties, a 108,000 square-foot facility with
24 classrooms; a 190-seat lecture/exhibition
hall; seminar and video-conferencing rooms;
computer labs; and more. In August 2010,
USF Sarasota-Manatee expanded into its new
North Port Instructional Site located at 5920
Pan American Boulevard. USFSM at North
Port offers undergraduate course work in
psychology, criminology, interdisciplinary
social science, elementary education and a
certificate in leadership studies. This convenient
location allows students to pursue higher
educational opportunities in the community
where they live and work. Courses are provided
via traditional classroom, distance learning, and
video conference technologies.
Today, the university’s two locations serve
more than 4,700 students annually.
For more information call 941-426-7330 or
visit www.usfsm.edu.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE
Southwest Florida College is an accredited,
private, institution of higher learning centrally
located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and
includes the Institute of Interior Design located in
Bonita Springs. The College has been providing
post secondary education to Floridians since 1974
and offers diploma, associate’s and bachelor’s
degree programs in Allied Health, Business,
Design, Education, Information Technology,
Legal Studies, Accounting, and more. Its mission
is to provide educational opportunities for
individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that
will help prepare them for rewarding careers
in fields with high growth potential. For more
information, call toll free 877-820-7306 or visit
www.swfc.edu.
WEBSTER UNIVERSITY
Choosing Webster for your education is one of
the best choices you can make to advance personally
and professionally. As a student-centered, nonprofit
University, Webster puts the needs of students first.
Webster University is recognized as a leader in global
education for more than 30 years, and a pioneer in
adult and military education for the past 40 years –
all based around a historic university that has been
around since 1915. Webster can personalize your
education to meet your specific needs and schedule,
so that getting your degree while working full-time
or actively serving in the military is smooth, positive
experience that advances your career. Visit www.
webster.edu/Sarasota or call 941-358-3840.
53
54
Establishing Residency
The best legal way to establish residency in
Charlotte County is by filing a DECLARATION
OF DOMICILE at the Clerk of the Circuit
Court office, Charlotte County Justice Center
on Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda, or at the
County Administrative Complex in Murdock.
The filing fee is $17.00. This establishes Florida
as the primary state of residence. For information,
contact 941-637-2245.
New residents will also want to make
changes in:
DRIVER’S LICENSE
Within 30 days of taking up residency,
registering to vote, or placing a child in
school, a driver should apply for a Florida license
at the Division of Drivers License Office or at one
of your local Tax Collector Offices located at the
Administrative Center, 18500 Murdock Circle,
Port Charlotte, 941-743-1350; the South County
Annex, 410 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, 941-6372145; or the Englewood Annex, 6868 San Casa
Drive, Englewood, 941-474-7775. There are new
documents required to obtain a license, so visit
www.gathergoget.com.
VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Newcomers must register their vehicles in
Florida within 10 days of gaining employment
or enrolling their children in school. You
must provide your current driver’s license,
proof of Florida automobile insurance, prior
registration certificate and car title. Verification
and inspection of the vehicle I.D. number is
always required. The Tax Collector’s office will
perform the VIN verification. The estimated cost
to register and title a vehicle for the first time is
approximately $410.00.
All persons whose name will appear on the title
must apply in person at our office with a stateissued ID or call 637-2145 if he/she cannot appear.
This can be processed at any one of the three Tax
Collector locations: the Administrative Center,
18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, 941-7431350; the South County Annex, 410 Taylor Street,
Punta Gorda, 941-637-2145; or the Englewood
Annex, 6868 San Casa Drive, Englewood, 941474-7775, www.flhsmv.gov.
VESSEL REGISTRATION
The valid out-of-state registration of any vessel
is accepted for a period of 90 days, after which
it must be registered. Owners of a vessel should
contact the Tax Collector’s offices in Punta Gorda,
Murdock or Englewood to register, renew or
transfer ownership.
HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE
A separate license is required for hunting,
freshwater fishing and saltwater fishing.
Nonresidents and Florida residents between the
ages 16 to 65 are required to purchase a license
to hunt and fish. To qualify for a Florida-resident
license, the applicant must provide proof of
having resided in the county for six months.
Florida residents 65 years of age or older are
entitled to a free license. Other licenses and
stamps may also be required. Licenses are sold at
the County Tax Collector’s offices in Punta Gorda,
Englewood, Murdock and sub-offices throughout
the county. For more information, contact 941637-2145 or 941-637-2143, www.myfwc.com.
AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE
Florida law requires NO-FAULT insurance
for all motor vehicles of private passenger
types registered in Florida. This applies to
any automobile required to be registered
and licensed in Florida and to autos of
nonresidents which have been physically
in Florida for more than 90 days during
the preceding 365. Proof of insurance must
be presented.
BUSINESS TAX LICENSE
Business licenses must be obtained for most
businesses which operate in Charlotte County.
Businesses operating in the incorporated City of
Punta Gorda must have both a city license and a
county license. Fees vary according to the type
of business.
Businesses that are required to have a license
from the Florida Department of Professional
Regulation or a Health Certificate must present
copies of these documents before a business
license can be obtained.
For more information, contact the Tax
Collectors Office at 941-743-1350 or the City of
Punta Gorda at 941-575-3369.
VOTER REGISTRATION
To vote in an election, voter registration
must be made at least 29 days before election
day. Registration locations are: Charlotte
County Courthouse in Punta Gorda, County
55
A&H
GUNS
2301 Tamiami Trail
Phone:
941.889.7065
Fax: 941.889.7068
ahguns@comcast.net
www.aandhgunsofswfl.com
Providing you with over
70 years of weapons knowledge
Berntsson, Ittersagen, Gunderson,
& Wideikis, LLP
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
18401 MURDOCK CIRCLE, SUITE C
1861 PLACIDA ROAD, SUITE 204
PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA 33948
ENGLEWOOD, FLORIDA 34223
(941) 627-1000
(941) 474-7713
TELEFAX (941) 255-0684
TELEFAX (941) 474-8276
WEBSITE: bigwlaw.com
JIM NOLAN, JR.
President
nolan Family insurance
• Auto • Home
• Flood • Boat
Phone: 941-639-1122
Fax: 941-637-6712
email: nolanins@hotmail.com
www.nolanagency.com
301 W. marion ave., Punta Gorda, Fl 33950
www.accurategnp.com
LP#30768
CFC#1428101
56
Gas:
Plumbing:
Tankless Water Heaters Water Heaters
Stoves/Fryers
Faucets/Toilets
Fireplaces/Grills
Repipes
L.P., NATURAL GAS,
AND
PLUMBING REPAIR
& INSTALLATION
Commercial & Residential
Keith Remer
941-893-8423
Administrative Building in Murdock and
Englewood Courthouse Annex. For information,
contact 941-833-5400 or visit www.charlottevotes.
com.
GOVERNMENT
Charlotte C ounty is governed by a
f i v e - m e mb e r e l e c t e d B o a rd of C ou nt y
Commissioners, each commissioner representing
his or her own district, but elected at large.
Commissioners serve for four years. The
commission chairman is elected by the
commissioners from their body. Commissioners
are located in the Administrative Complex at
18500 Murdock Circle in Port Charlotte where
many other County offices are located. Other
elected officials are located in the Charlotte
County Justice Center on Marion Avenue in
downtown Punta Gorda and the South Annex,
410 Taylor Street in Punta Gorda.
The City of Punta Gorda is governed by a City
Council, with the mayor elected by the council
from within the council. The members of the
council are elected for a two-year term. Punta
Gorda City Hall is located at 326 West Marion
Avenue in Punta Gorda.
TAXES
There is no personal income tax in the state
of Florida. There is a corporate tax and a seven
percent sales tax on most products. Food and
medicine are among the items exempt from
sales tax.
In Charlotte County there is a five percent
tax on temporar y accommodations of all
accommodation rental periods of less than six
months.
The real estate tax is a combination of city,
county and school taxes, as well as the levies
MEMBER
American Institute
of Certified
Public Accountants
of several independent taxing authorities,
depending upon where your property is located.
It is based on 100 percent of the appraised value
of a property. A residential property, if it is the
primary residence of the property owner, may be
eligible for a Homestead, Widow’s or Disability
Exemption.
Exemption applications must be filed with
the Property Appraiser by March 1. To qualify,
an owner must have permanently resided on
the property on January 1 of the year for which
the application is made. Applications for the
Homestead Exemption may be pre-filed on or
after March 2 of the year preceding the year for
which you are applying.
There is also a tangible personal property tax
levied on furniture and equipment utilized in
businesses and rental properties. An exemption
of up to $25,000 is available for tangible personal
property. Annual returns must be filed with the
Property Appraiser’s Office by April 1, reporting
those items. For more information, contact the
Property Appraiser’s office at 941-743-1593 for
Tangible Personal Property, call 941-743-1476.
An intangible personal property tax is divided
into two classifications as follows:
(1) An annual tax of one-mill on just valuation
as of January 1 of all taxable intangible personal
property (for example, stocks, bonds, notes,
accounts receivable).
(2) Nonrecurring two-mill intangible tax
on the just valuation of notes, bonds and other
obligations to pay money which are secured by
a mortgage, deed of trust or other lien on real
property in Florida. For information, contact
the Department of Revenue in Tallahassee at
800-352-3671.
Jay Wunder
Certified Public Accountant
MEMBER
Florida Institute
of Certified
Public Accountants
Visit us on the web at www.jaywundercpa.com
or
Email me at jaywunder@jaywundercpa.com
Tel:
(941) 766-8686
17801 Murdock Circle, Suite C
Fax:
(941) 766-8778
57
Transportation
AIRPORTS
The Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) offers
commercial airline service and one of the finest
general aviation services in the state. Visit www.
flypgd.com for destinations and airline information.
The airport is owned and operated by the Charlotte
County Airport Authority. The airport facilities
include the Airline Terminal restaurant, pilots’
lounge, FedEx, Charlotte County Sheriff ’s Office
and a host of businesses in the Commerce Park.
The airport just completed the construction of a
state of the art air traffic control tower that can be
reached at 121.00. There are REILS, TVOR, PAPI
and Automated Surface Weather Observation
System (ASOS) for the pilot. The airport consists
of three runways, one 7,193’ (4/22), one 5,688’
(15/33) and 2,630 (9/27). Pilot control lighting is
available on runways 15/33 and 4/22. Jet A fuel and
100LL Avgas fuels are available. Major and minor
repair companies, avionics, flight schools, charter
service and an air ambulance are also located on the
airport. The Authority has large and small hangars
for lease equipped with electric doors. The Punta
Gorda Airport is easily accessible by I-75 exit 161
or Airport Road off US 41. For more information
call 941-639-4119. Allegiant Air (allegiantair.com)
serves the airport with a number of cities.
Southwest Florida International Airport is
located in Lee County, to the south, less than one
hour’s drive from Charlotte County. Major airlines
offer full service in and out of the airport. From
Charlotte County, the airport can be reached by
taking I-75 south to exit 132, or by taking U.S. 41
south through Ft. Myers, turning east on Daniels
Road.
Sarasota Airport offers major airline service, just
one hour’s drive to the north. The airport is located
between U.S. 41 and U.S. 301 in north Sarasota
County. It can be reached from I-75 by taking exit
213, University Parkway in Bradenton.
MAJOR ROADWAYS
The county is easily accessed by auto via U.S.
41, which traverses the county north and south;
by U.S. 17 which enters the county from the east;
and by Interstate 75, which has six interchanges in
Charlotte County.
Bus service is provided to Port Charlotte by
Greyhound, 941-627-5836.
Bus service to the Tampa AMTRAK station is
available from Port Charlotte. Call 1-800-USARAIL for details.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY TRANSIT
Dial-A-Ride and Sunshine Ride, 25490 Airport
Road, Punta Gorda, 33950, 575-4000.
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
DEMOGRAPHIC HIGHLIGHTS 2011
POPULATION
Unincorporated...............................146,284
City of Punta Gorda........................... 16,697
County Total....................................162,981
POPULATION TRENDS
2040 projected................................234,747
2030 projected...............................209,179
2020 projected...............................186,366
2010 census...................................159,978
2000 census...................................141,627
1990 census...................................110,975
HOUSING (2012)
Median Existing
Single Family Home Price..............$129,500
Avg. Existing Single Family Home:
Port Charlotte.............................$110,521
Punta Gorda..............................$213,847
Englewood.................................$182,073
Median Existing Condo Sales Price.$103,500
Avg. Apartment Rental Rate (2br/2ba).......$776
EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY
Retail Trade......................................... 9,100
Education & Health Services................ 9,100
Construction, Mining &
Natural Resources........................ 2,500
Public Administration........................... 6,000
Leisure & Hospitality........................... 6,400
Professional & Business Services.......... 3,600
Financial Activities............................... 1,500
Other Services..................................... 2,000
Manufacturing....................................... 600
Wholesale Trade..................................... 600
Information........................................... 400
Transportation/Warehousing/Utilities..... 500
LABOR FORCE STATISTICS (2012)
Labor Force....................................... 69,820
Employed.......................................... 64,266
Unemployed....................................... 5,554
Unemployment Rate.............................8.0%
REGIONAL COST OF LIVING
COMPARISON
Miami-Dade MSA................................ 108.0
Sarasota Bradenton MSA..................... 102.0
Orlando Kissimmee MSA....................... 96.0
Jacksonville MSA................................... 95.0
Tampa St. Petersburg MSA..................... 96.0
Punta Gorda MSA.................................. 99.0
Cape Coral/Ft. Myers MSA..................... 96.0
NUMBER OF SCHOOLS
High Schools
Public................................................. 4
Private................................................ 8
Middle Schools
Public................................................. 4
Private.............................................. 10
Elementary Schools
Public............................................... 10
Private.............................................. 12
Centers & Technical Schools........................ 6
SOURCE: CHARLOTTE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
58
Business & Industry
Charlotte County’s business climate is
is that those seniors have one of the longest
strong and vigorous, meeting the needs of
life expectancy in the United States!
one of the fastest growing
W h a t ’s t h e i r s e c r e t ?
areas in the country.
Recreation
in a pleasurable
It’s no secret that the Financial incentives, climate might be the reason;
county has the finest “quality
however in Southwest Florida
no personal
of life” as evidenced by the
there is a place called Charlotte
repeated recognition in
income tax,
County where, more than ever,
MONEY and other national
the senior population remain
strong
financial
magazines. The magnificent
active and are reinventing
location on Florida’s gulf
institutions,
themselves. They look to our
coast, superb recreation,
Gulf Coast community as a place
low crime rate, cultural/
labor force and
to launch their new or expanding
educational alternatives
and a pro-business outlook employee training business. A place where they can
have their “cake and eat it too”
continue to enhance the
facilities, as well as enjoying the many amenities of
county’s stature.
working and living in paradise.
Charlotte County offers
air, rail and
A place where the cost of doing
a productive work force,
business is less, the crime rate
business incentives, support
interstate
services, low labor costs,
is one of the lowest in the State,
right-to-work state and road transportation and the intellectual property and
proximity to markets.
available workforce is among the
capabilities
Financial incentives, no
highest in the Country.
personal income tax, strong
Instead of long commutes to
all complement
financial institutions,
costly business locations and
labor force and employee
the favorable
shoveling snow in your free
training facilities, as well as
time, imagine fulfilling your
business climate.
air, rail and interstate road
life long dreams by launching
transportation capabilities
your business in a progressive,
all compliment the favorable
pro-business
climate. And when you’re
business climate.
not
working
…
get the most out of life by
S ee w w w.CharlotteC ountyFL.com
watching
the
sunset
across the water from
for access to the permitting process for
your
home,
golfing
on
a top rated course
commercial construction and numerous
in
your
backyard,
or
fishing in places
permitting forms. The county’s geographic
where world class tournaments are held…
information system at www.ccgis.com
Welcome to Charlotte County Florida!
provides aerial photographs, location of
To learn more about expanding or
utility lines, easement and a myriad of
details on county property.
relocating a business in the area, contact
The county’s business and industry
the Economic Development Office (EDO),
potential is almost limitless – a unique
located at 18501 Murdock Circle, Suite
and promising opportunity for businesses
302, Port Charlotte, Florida 33948. Call
considering expanding or relocating.
the EDO at 941-764-4941. Or visit us at:
w w w. F l or i d a s In n ov at i on C o a s t . c om
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY
E-mail: FloridaEDO@charlottefl.com.
It’s no secret that Florida is well known for
attracting retirees. What isn’t well known
59
Parks
LEGEND - FACILITY AMENITIES
01..... BBQ Grills
02..... Baseball Fields
03..... Basketball Courts
04..... Bike Trails/BMX
05..... Birding
06..... Boat Ramp
07..... Bocci Courts
08..... Canoe/Kayak
09..... Concession Stand
10..... Disc Golf
11..... Environmental Center/Garden
12..... Fishing
13..... Fitness Trails
14..... Football Fields
15..... Gymnasium/Fitness Center
16..... Historic Features
17..... Horse Arena
18..... Horseshoes
19..... Horse Trails
20..... Inline Hockey Rink
21..... MultiPurpose/Open Space
22..... Nature Preserve
23..... Nature Trail/Walking Train
24..... Paw Park
25..... Picnic Shelters/Pavilion Rentals
26..... Picnicking/Picnic Tables
27..... Playgrounds
28..... Recreation Bilding
29..... Remote Control Features
30..... Restroom/Port-o-lets
31..... Room Rentals
32..... Running Track
33..... Shuffleboards
34..... Skate Park
35..... Soccer Fields
36..... Softball Fields
37..... Stadium
38..... Swimming Pool/Diving Well/Beach
39..... Tennis Courts
40..... Volleyball Courts
Bay Heights Park
1000 S McCall Rd
Englewood 34223
681.3742
Charlotte Sports Park
2300 El Jobean Rd
Port Charlotte 33948
235.501
Englewood East Park
11120 Sunnydale Ave
Englewood 34224
681.3742
Bayshore Live Oak Park
23157 Bayshore Rd
627.1628
Chester Roberts Park
5084 Melbourne St
627.1074
Franz Ross Park
19355 Quesada Blvd
627.1074
Clark Park
3100 Patio Ct
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
G. C. Herring Park
3406 Indiana Rd
Cape Haze 33947
681.3742
Coral Creek Fishing Pier
Placida Rd
Placida 33946
681.3742
Gulfstream Park
12873 Gulfstream Blvd
Englewood 34224
681.3742
Darst Park
537 Darst Ave
Punta Gorda 33982
505.8686
Harbour Heights Park
27420 Voyageur Dr
Punta Gorda 33983
627.1628
Ainger Creek Park
2011 Placida Rd
Englewood 34224
681.3742
04, 16, 23, 26, 30
06, 08, 12, 30
Allapatchee Shores Park
3100 Hickory Ct
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
08, 12, 26,
Amberjack
Environmental Park
6450 Gasparilla Pines Blvd
Rotonda 33947
625.7529
05, 22, 23
Anger Fishing Pier Park
1385 Beach Rd
Englewood 34224
681.3742
12, 30
Audubon-Pennington
Nature Park
1153 Alton Rd
625.7529
05, 22, 23
60
CHARLOTTE COUNTY PARKS, RECREATION
21, 26,
01, 05, 08, 12, 16, 21, 22, 23, 25,
26, 30, 31
Bissett Park
12455 Path Ave
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
01, 03, 18, 21, 25, 26, 27, 30, 33, 39
Boca Grande
Fishing Pier Park
5810 Gasparilla Rd
Gasparilla Island
681.3742
12, 30
Butterford Waterway
Park
13555 Marathon Blvd
627.1074
06, 12,
Cape Haze
Pioneer Trail Park
1688 Gasparilla Rd
Rotonda 33946
681.3742
Carmalita Park
6905 Florida St
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
04, 09, 14, 17, 26, 27, 30, 31, 34, 36
Cedar Point
Environmental Park
2300 Placida Rd
Englewood 34224
475.0769
05, 08, 11, 12, 22, 23, 26, 27, 30, 31
Charlotte Flatwoods
Environmental Park
15801 Tamiami Trail
Punta Gorda 33955
625.7529
05, 22, 23, 30
Charlotte Harbor Event
& Conference Center
75 Taylor St
Punta Gorda 33950
639.5833
28, 30, 31
02, 09, 12, 21, 29, 30, 31, 37
08, 16
12
12, 30
06, 08, 12, 36
Deep Creek Park
25555 Sandhill Blvd
Punta Gorda 33983
627.1074
03, 05, 26, 27, 30, 39
Edgewater Park
22410 Glass Lane
Charlotte Harbor 33980
627.1628
24, 26, 27, 30
El Jobean Boat Ramp
4224 El Jobean Rd
El Jobean 33953
625.7529
06, 08, 30
El Jobean Park
4333 Kerrigan Cir
El Jobean 33953
681.3742
01, 03, 21, 25, 26, 27, 30
El Jobean Pier
Gardner Rd at River Beach Dr
El Jobean 33953
625.7529
05, 12
Englewood Beach/
Chadwick Park
2100 North Beach Rd
Englewood 34223
681.3742
01, 03, 12, 1825, 25, 27, 30, 38, 40
01, 03, 18, 26, 27, 30, 33
01, 14, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 30, 39
03, 21, 26, 29, 30, 32
26
01, 03, 06, 08, 12, 18, 25, 26, 27,
30, 33, 39
Harold Ave Park
23400 Harold Ave
627.1074
01, 02, 03, 09, 16, 26, 27, 28, 30,
31, 36, 39
Hathaway Park
35461 Washington Loop Rd
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
05, 08, 19, 22, 23, 25, 26, 30
Helen Wrobble Park
Route 17 & Cleveland
Punta Gorda 33982
505.8686
21
Hickory Bluff Park
4399 Willow St
629.7278
16, 21
Higgs Park
21400 Higgs Dr
627.1074
03, 21, 25, 26, 27, 30, 33
Kiwanis Park
501 Donora St
627.1628
01, 05, 13, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 30
& CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPARMENT - (941) 743-2425
Lake Betty Park
2215 Conway Blvd
627.1074
Placida Park
6499 Gasparilla Rd
Placida 33946
681.3742
Lincoln Park
357 Spring Lake Blvd
625.7529
Placida Rotary
Centennial Park
SR 775/Placida Rd
Placida 33946
681.3742
01, 03, 21, 25, 26, 27, 30
21
Lister Park
4301 Lister St
627.1074
21
Maracaibo Park/
Kidspace
1505 Maracaibo St
627.1074
01, 02, 26, 27, 30
McGuire Park
21125 McGuire Ave
627.1074
01, 03, 12, 1821, 26, 27, 30, 39
Midway Park
23023 Midway Blvd
627.1074
21, 30, 39
Myakka Park
Gallagher Blvd & Spire St
625.7529
12, 21
North Charlotte
Regional Park
1185 O’Donnell Blvd
627.1074
02, 09, 10, 22, 23, 30, 35, 36
Ollie’s Pond Park
18235 Avon Ave
625.7529
05, 22, 23
Ott Cir Park
4320 Gardner
627.1074
21
Ann Dever Memorial
Regional Park
@ Oyster Creek
6791 San Casa Dr
Englewood 34224
681.3742
01, 03, 05, 08, 09, 12, 14, 21, 22, 23,
24, 25, 30, 34, 38, 39
06, 08, 30
12, 30
Port Charlotte
Beach Park
4500 Harbor Blvd
627.1628
01, 03, 06, 07, 08, 12, 18, 25, 26, 27,
28, 30, 31, 38, 39, 40
South County
Regional Park
670 Cooper St
Punta Gorda 33983
505.8686
Laishley Park
100 Nesbit St
South Gulf Cove Park
10150 Amicola St
Gulf Cove 33946
681.3742
Ponce de Leon Park
3400 Ponce De Leon Parkway
02, 03, 09, 12, 15, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29,
30, 30, 35, 36, 38, 39, 40
06, 25, 26, 27, 30
South Punta Gorda
Heights Park
11040 Pinetrail Rd
Punta Gorda 33955
505.8686
03, 26, 27, 30, 33, 39
Price Circle Park
1222 Price Cir
627.1074
Spring Lake Park
3520 Lakeview Blvd
627.1074
Riverside Park
8320 Riverside Dr
Punta Gorda 33590
505.8686
St. Paul Linear Park
9000 St. Paul Dr
681.3742
21
06, 08, 26
Rotonda Park
100 Rotonda Blvd East
Rotonda 33947
681.3742
01, 04, 05, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 30, 39
Salyers Park
1341 Veronica St
627.1074
21
06, 08, 12, 22, 23, 26, 30
Sunrise Park
20499 Edgewater Dr
627.1074
05, 08, 12, 22, 23, 25, 30, 39
The Learning Garden
13577 Blake Dr
628.1224
11, 26, 27
Scott Park
6430 Scott St
Punta Gorda 33950
505.8686
Tippecanoe
Environmental Park
2400 El Jobean Rd
625.7529
Severin Park
171 Severin Rd
627.1074
Tringali Park
3460 N Access Rd
Englewood 34224
681.3742
21, 27
26
Sharon Cir Park
431 Sharon Cir
627.1074
21
Shirley Park
18090 Regan Ave
627.1074
21
05, 08, 22, 23, 30
03, 15, 20, 27, 28, 30, 31, 39, 40
PUNTA GORDA PARKS
Gilchrist Park
400 W. Retta Esplanade
11 acres along Charlotte Harbor,
sidewalk for walking, jogging and
biking, basketball court, playground, 2
tennis courts, 1 fishing pier, gardens,
gazebo, restrooms, shelters, picnic
tables, small beach and 4 parking lots
Gazebo with pond and fountain,
Veterans garden, shelter with picnic
tables, restrooms, fishing pier, boat
ramp, sidewalk for walking, jogging
and biking, parking throughout park
10 acres on Charlotte Harbor at Ponce
de Leon Inlet, ¼ mile raised boardwalk
through wetland area, educational
signage, boat ramp, boat trailer
parking, two fishing piers, playground,
man-made beach, shelter, restrooms,
picnic tables, Peace River Wildlife
Center, parking and beautiful view
Nature Park
1623 Aqui Esta Dr
21 acre park situated in the center
of Punta Gorda Isles neighborhood.
The park includes palmetto forest
and salt/high marsh habitats which
include a multi-use recreational trail
and observation deck. The remainder
of the park is disturbed upland areas
which present opportunities for the
development of a variety of outdoor
recreational activities
Elizabeth Park
Park Beach Cir
0.8 acres along Charlotte Harbor at
Bass Inlet, small walking/jogging
trail, native plants, benches and
beautiful view
Wilson Park
Park Beach Cir
0.8 acres along Charlotte Harbor at
Bass Inlet, small walking/jogging
trail, native plants, benches and
beautiful view
Brown Park
Breakers Ct
1.5 acres on Charlotte Harbor at Bass
Inlet, benches and beautiful view
Alice Park
1.2 acres along Charlotte Harbor,
biking, native plants and benches
Pittman Park
Shreve Park
61
A True
Florida Treasure...
SUN
NEWSPAPERS
Charlotte • DeSoto • Englewood • North Port • Venice
The Sun delivers the latest community news,
advertising and special interest features directly
to your home or business every day.
Pick up a copy and find out why we’re
Call for delivery subscription today 941-206-1300
or log on to www.yoursun.com
62
Chamber Member
Accommodations/Resorts
(Unless otherwise listed, all phone numbers use 941 area code.)
Budget Inn
Palms & Pines
Charlotte Bay Resort & Club
Port Charlotte FL Homebuilders
1520 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda 33950
639-8000
www.budgetinnpuntagorda.com
23128 Bayshore Road, Port Charlotte 33980
627-2300
Charlotte Crossing Apartments
5400 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda 33982
639-5461
www.palmsandpinesinc.com
17896 Toledo Blade Blvd., Port Charlotte 33948
625-4884
www.portcharlotteflorida.com
520 Rio de Janeiro, Punta Gorda 33983
347-4040
www.pinnacleams.com/
charlottecrossing apartments
Punta Gorda Waterfront Hotel
Days Inn
Rotonda Lakes Apartments
Fishermen’s Village
Seven Palms Apartments
1941 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte 33948
627-8900
www.daysinn.com
1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda 33950
639-8721
www.fishville.com
See advertisement page 12
Four Points by Sheraton
Punta Gorda Harborside
33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda 33950
637-6770
www.fourpointspuntagorda.com
Hampton Inn
24480 Sandhill Blvd., Port Charlotte 33983
627-5600
www.portcharlotte.hamptoninn.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
24440 Sandhill Blvd., Port Charlotte 33983
764-0056
www.hisuitesportcharlotte.com
LaQuinta Inn & Suites
812 Kings Highway, Port Charltote 33980
979-4200
www.lq.com/portcharlotte
300 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda 33950
639-1165
www.pgwaterfront.com
100 Rotonda Lakes Circle, Rotonda West 33947
698-8800
www.rotondalakesapts.com
1200 Slash Pine Circle, Punta Gorda 33950
637-1932
www.7palmsapartments.com
Sleep Inn & Suites
806 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte 33952
613-6300
www.sleepinnportcharlotte.com
Star Hospitality Management
3160 Matecumbe Key Rd., Punta Gorda 33955
575-6764
www.starhospitalitymanagement.com
Tropical Bay Inn
22968 Bayshore Road, Port Charlotte 33980
625-3004
www.tropicalbayinnmotel.com
Wyvern Hotel
101 E. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda 33950
639-7700
www.thewyvernhotel.com
Nav-A-Gator Grille @DeSoto Marina
9700 SW Riverview Circle, Arcadia 34269
627-3474
www.nav-a-gator.com
63
Chamber Member
Recreational Water Activities
Alpha & Omega Charters
979-6517
Isles Yacht Club
639-7551
Capt. Jerry Gillespie Charters
639-0820
King Fisher Cruise Lines
639-0969
Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club
629-5131
Fishermen’s Village Yacht Basin
575-3000
Freedom Boat Club
716-1333
Gasparilla Marina & Waterside Grill
697-2280
Goodtimes Boat Rental
629-5600
64
Nav-a-Gator Grille at DeSoto Marina
627-3474
Obsession Sport Fishing Charters
(207) 841-1444
Peace River Boat Tours, LLC
627-3474
Smoke and Roses, LLC Florida Sailing Charters
(605) 366-7673
Tennis Facilities
Bissett Park
Public
12455 Path Avenue
Punta Gorda
505-8686
Deep Creek Park
Public
Sandhill Blvd.
Deep Creek
627-1074
Emerald Pointe
Racquet Club
Private
25188 Marion Avenue
Punta Gorda
639-1399
Englewood
Tennis Club
Private
2280 Englewood Road
Englewood
475-3386
Franz Ross Park
Public
19355 Quesada Boulevard
Port Charlotte
627-1074
Gilchrist Park
Public
Punta Gorda
First come… first served
Harbour Heights Park
Public
3350 San Marino Drive
Harbour Heights
627-1628
Harold Avenue Park
Public
23400 Harold Avenue
Port Charlotte
627-1074
Heron Creek
Tennis Center
Public
5301 Heron Creek Blvd.
North Port
423-6955
McGuire Park
Public
32236 McGuire Avenue
Port Charlotte
627-1074
Maple Leaf Golf
& Country Club
Private
2100 Kings Highway
Port Charlotte
629-1666
Midway Park
Public
23023 Midway Boulevard
Port Charlotte
627-1074
Ann Dever Memorial Park
@ Oyster Creek
6941 San Casa Dr.,
Englewood
681-3742
Port Charlotte Beach Park
Public
4500 Harbor Blvd.
Port Charlotte
627-1628
Punta Gorda Club
YMCA
Private
2905 Tamiami Trail
Punta Gorda
505-0999
Rio Paz Tennis Center
Private
2065 Duncan Road
Punta Gorda
637-4808
Rotonda Park and
Preserve
Public
100 Rotonda Boulevard
Rotonda West
681-3742
South County
Regional Park
Public
670 Cooper Street
Punta Gorda
505-8686
South Punta Gorda
Heights Park
Public
11040 Pinetrail Road
Punta Gorda
505-8686
Sunrise Park
Public
20499 Edgewater Drive
Port Charlotte
627-1074
Tringali Recreation Center
Public
3460 N. Access Road
Englewood
681-3742
Twin Isles Country Club
Private
301 Madrid Blvd.
Punta Gorda
637-1232
65
66
Beaches
PORT CHARLOTTE BEACH PARK
Port Charlotte Beach Park is a public
beach facility at the southeast end of Harbor
Boulevard in Port Charlotte. Available are a
boardwalk, boat ramp, sand volleyball courts,
horseshoe area, fishing pier, picnic shelters,
grills, swimming pool, bocce ball courts,
playground equipment and an outdoor
basketball court.
Parking is 75 cents per hour. An annual,
six or three month pass may be purchased
from any Charlotte County Recreation
Center or the Tax Collector’s office. No
lifeguards are on duty at the beach. The
heated pool is guarded. Call 941-629-0170
for pool information. The beach, park area
or covered shelters are available for rent. Call
941-627-1628 for details.
ENGLEWOOD BEACH
Englewood Beach at Chadwick Park is
located on Beach Road in Englewood. This
beach is picture perfect, offering light-colored
sand and tufts of sea oats growing along the
dune line and is a favorite spot to view the
sunset. This beautiful beach was redesigned
in 2002 and features a handicapped accessible
boardwalk with three covered overlooks, two
covered picnic shelters with an additional
large group pavilion on the peninsula, grills,
sand volleyball court, and a ship-shaped
playground.
Parking is 75 cents per hour, seven days
a week. Yearly, six or three month passes
are available for purchase at any Charlotte
County Recreation Center. No lifeguards
are on duty.
This beach is available for open-space
rental and is utilized by many community
groups and organizations for special events.
If you or your organization is interested in
using the beach, park area, peninsula or one
of the three covered picnic shelters, call 941681-3742 for rates and availability.
STUMP PASS BEACH STATE PARK
Stump Pass Beach is located at the south
end of Manasota Key, beginning where Gulf
Boulevard ends and stretching about two
miles. A new 40-space parking lot is open,
as is a building with rest rooms and a shelter.
Enjoy the great beach, shelling and fishing.
Call 964-0375.
DON PEDRO STATE PARK
Over the years, a string of islands, Palm
Island, Don Pedro and Little Gasparilla,
have merged into a single barrier island.
In the center is Don Pedro State Park, a
bridgeless island offering boat docks, picnic
tables, grills and rest rooms. The park
provides access to seven miles of continuous
beachfront, excellent shelling, swimming
and fishing. Don Pedro is a destination for
boaters looking to explore natural beach
front. 941-964-0375.
GASPARILLA ISLAND STATE PARK
Take the Boca Grande Causeway (off
State Road 771 in Charlotte County)
through the village of Boca Grande to
explore the four miles of beach front. There
is a $5.00 causeway toll for cars and a $3
charge for parking.
The public beach is noted for its lightgreen surf and white sand. There are two
lighthouses along the beach and large
shade trees near shore. The beach offers
full facilities, including freshwater showers,
picnic tables and grills. There are no
concessions available or lifeguards on duty.
The beach closes at dusk. The best fishing
and shelling is at the southeast public beach,
but there are no facilities available there.
941-964-0375.
CAYO COSTA STATE PARK
Cayo Costa State Park, located on a
barrier island west of Ft. Myers, provides
7.5 miles of gulf beaches and 5.5 miles
of hiking/biking trails. There are rustic
cabins and campsites that may be reserved
by calling 800-326-3521. The island is
accessible by private boat or ferry. There
are no concessions on the island; however,
ice and soft drinks are for sale at the ranger
station. For more information call 941964-0375.
67
68
Golf Courses
Blue Heron Pines
Golf Course
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 60
29200 S Jones Loop Road,
Punta Gorda - 637-6191
Bobcat Trail Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 71
1350 Bobcat Trail
North Port - 429-0500
Burnt Store Golf &
Activity Club
Semi-Private
27 Holes Pars 60 and 59
24315 Vincent Avenue
Deep Creek Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 70
1260 San Cristobal Avenue
Deep Creek - 625-6911
Duffy’s Golf Center, Inc.
Public
18 Holes Park 59
12455 S. Access Road
Englewood East, FL 33981 697-3900
Heron Creek Golf &
Country Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 72
5303 Heron Creek Blvd.
Kings Gate Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 60
24000 Rampart Blvd.
Port Charlotte - 625-0680
Kingsway Country Club
Lemon Bay Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 71
9600 Eagle Preserve Drive
Englewood - 697-3729
Live Oak Golf Course
Semi-Private
9 Holes Par 29
12865 SW Highway 17
Arcadia - 863-993-4014
Maple Leaf Country Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 62
2100 Kings Highway
Automated Tee Time System:
629-6800
Oyster Creek Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 holes Par 60
6651 Oriole Blvd.
Englewood - 475-0334
Rotonda Golf &
Country Club
Long Marsh - 20 White Marsh Rd.
27 Holes Par 72 - 698-0918
Pinemoor - 80 Clubhouse Rd.
18 Holes Par 70 - 697-9492
The Hills - 100 Rotonda Circle
18 Holes Par 72 - 697-2414
The Links - 4055 Cape Haze Dr.
18 Holes Par 72 - 697-8877
The Palms - 266 Rotonda Circle
18 Holes Par 72 - 697-8118
Rotonda - 697-2414
Semi-Private
Sable Trace Golf Course
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 72
5456 Greenwood Avenue
St. Andrews South
Golf Club
Private
18 Holes Par 71
1901 Deborah Drive
Pinemoor Golf Club West Seminole Lakes
Country Club
Public
18 Holes Par 65
80 Clubhouse Road
Rotonda West - 697-7006
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 62
26200 Stillwater Circle
Port Charlotte Golf Club
Sunnybreeze Golf Course
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 72
22400 Gleneagles Terrace
Riverwood Golf Club
Semi-Private
18 Holes Par 72
4100 Riverwood Drive
Semi-private
27 Holes Pars 70 and 71
8135 S.W. Sunnybreeze Road
Arcadia - 888-663-2420
Twin Isles Country Club
Private
18 Holes Par 72
301 Madrid Blvd.
Private
18 Holes Par 72
13625 SW Kingsway Circle
Lake Suzy - 625-8898
69
70
Chamber Resources
AREA MAP
BUSINESS START-UP GUIDE
The popular large (25.5” x 39.5”) fourcolored street map of Charlotte County,
including Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda and
surrounding areas, is available, featuring
several businesses on the reverse side of the
map. Cost is $2.00, plus tax, $5.00 by mail.
This publication is designed to guide
the prospective business owner through
the early stages of starting a business in
Charlotte County. Topics include taxes,
financing the business, records and accounting, selecting the legal structure,
insurance, business regulations, licenses
and permits, counseling and research assistance, marketing plan and the market.
The booklet is complimentary at Chamber
offices or $3.00 by mail. This helpful information is also available as a pdf file on the
web at charlottecountychamber.org.
DEMOGRAPHIC
PROFILE
This annually-produced publication
is an extensive compilation of statistics
regarding Charlotte County and its
population, tourism, agriculture, taxes,
communications, transportation,
economics, education, and industry/
empl oyment. Al so i ncl uded are
current statistics for area retail,
u t i l i t i e s , w e a t h e r, g o v e r n m e n t ,
religion, emergency services, health/
social services, licenses, recreation
and county/city profiles; See www.
floridasinnovationcoast.com
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
DIRECTORY
In this directory, more than 325 organizations and clubs are listed with addresses,
phone numbers and contact persons. The
directory is available for $5.00, $8.00 by
mail.
Send the order form below with your check to:
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Phone: 941/627-2222 Fax: 941/627-9730
askus@charlottecountychamber.org or on the web: charlottecountychamber.org
ORDER FORM
Name_____________________________________________________________________
Address___________________________________________________________________
City/State/Zip______________________________________________________________
Quantity
Item
Price
__________ Charlotte County Map
$ 2.00
____________
Total
__________
Business Start-up Guide
complimentary
____________
__________
Clubs & Organizations Book
$ 5.00
____________
Send order form and check to:
Subtotal
____________
Charlotte County
FL residents add7% sales tax
____________
Chamber of Commerce
$ 3.00
shipping/handling
____________
2702 Tamiami Trail
Port
Charlotte,
FL
33952
TOTAL ____________
OR Order online with credit card: charlottecountychamber.org
71
Fly NON-STOP
to 20 Cities
from the
Punta Gorda
Airport
• Hangars for Rent
• Business Park Sites
Available
• SkyView Café
Punta Gorda Airport
28000 Airport Road
www.flypgd.com
72
73
74
Telephone Numbers
CHARLOTTE COUNTY
Administrative Switchboard ..................... 743-1200
Animal Control.......................................... 833-5690
Building Construction Services.................. 743-1201
CenturyLink............................................... 629-9311
Charlotte Harbor Event & Conf. Ctr............ 833-5444
Charlotte Sports Park................................. 743-2425
Clerk of the Circuit Court........................... 637-2281
Commissioner’s Office............................... 743-1300
Growth Management:
Planning.................................................. 764-4903
Zoning..................................................... 743-1964
Code Compliance...................................... 743-1247
Driver’s License......................................... 743-1556
Economic Development............................ 764-4941
Elections Supervisor.................................. 833-5400
Emergency Calls........................................
911
Emergency Management.......................... 833-4000
Emergency Medical Services..................... 833-5600
Event & Conference Center....................... 833-5444
Fairgrounds................................................ 629-4252
Fire Department
Non-emergency business....................... 833-5600
Florida Power & Light................................ 639-1106
Homestead Exemption.............................. 743-1593
Hunting & Fishing Licenses........................ 743-1200
Land Development.................................... 743-1466
Marriage Licenses & Passports.................. 637-2240
Occupational Licenses............................... 743-1350
Parks & Recreation.................................... 625-7529
Property Appraiser.................................... 743-1593
Public Defender......................................... 637-2181
Records Center.......................................... 637-2131
Recycling.................................................... 764-4380
Public Works.............................................. 575-3600
School Board............................................. 255-0808
Sheriff........................................................ 639-2101
Switchboard for Charlotte County
Justice Center in Punta Gorda ................ 639-3111
Tags and Title............................................. 743-1558
Tax Collector.............................................. 743-1350
Transit (Dial-a-Ride & Sunshine Ride)........ 575-4000
Utilities (Water & Sewer)........................... 764-4300
Veterans Service Office.............................. 764-5579
Visitor’s Bureau......................................... 743-1900
Voter Registration...................................... 833-5400
Waste Management.................................. 629-1106
CITY OF PUNTA GORDA
Building Department................................. 575-3324
City Clerk’s Office....................................... 575-3369
City Manager’s Office................................ 575-3302
Code Compliance...................................... 575-3352
Fire Department
Florida Power & Light................................ 639-1106
License Tags & Title................................... 743-1350
Mayor’s/Council Office.............................. 575-3369
Police Department
Public Works Department......................... 575-5050
Sanitation.................................................. 575-5069
Urban Design............................................. 575-3372
Utilities...................................................... 575-3339
HUMAN SERVICES: DIAL 211
Allegiant Air........................................702-505-8888
American Red Cross................................... 629-4345
Big Brothers/Big Sisters - Ft. Myers............-488-4009
Center for Abuse &
Rape Emergencies .................................. 639-5499
Charlotte Stone Crabs................................ 206-4487
Children & Family Services........................ 613-2000
Department of Human Services................ 833-6500
Dial-a-Ride................................................. 575-4000
Emergency Management.......................... 833-4000
Emergency Medical Services..................... 833-5600
Hearing Impaired Persons......................... 743-8347
TDD ........................................................ 743-9286
Legal Aid Services...................................... 505-9007
Master Gardener....................................... 764-4340
Meals on Wheels....................................... 625-4343
Poison Control....................................800-222-1222
Social Security Admin.........................800-772-1213
Special Training and Rehabilitation........... 629-5655
Tampa Bay Rays............................... 888-326-7297
Visually Impaired Persons of Charlotte County....625-8501
Workforce & Employment ........................ 235-5900
THE MEDIA
TELEVISION STATIONS
SNN6-Six News.......................................... 361-4600
WBBH-20/Cable 2/NBC......................239-939-2020
WFTX-36/Cable 4/FOX .......................239-574-3636
WINK-11/Cable 5/CBS........................239-334-1111
WZVN-26/Cable 7/ABC.......................239-939-2020
2020WGCU-30/Cable 3/PBS...............239-590-2300
WWSB-40/Cable 7/ABC............................. 552-0777
NEWSPAPERS
Breeze Newspaper..............................239-574-1110
Charlotte Herald Tribune........................... 486-3035
Charlotte Sun ............................................ 206-1000
Charlotte Shopping Guide......................... 639-1136
Ft. Myers News Press.........................239-335-0200
Florida Weekly........................................... 621-3422
CABLE TELEVISION
Comcast Cablevision.................................. 625-6000
RADIO STATIONS
WBCG - 98.9.............................................. 206-1188
WCCF-AM 1580......................................... 206-1188
WCVU-FM 104.9........................................ 206-1188
WENG-AM 1530....................................... 474-3231
WGCU-FM 90.1...................................239-590-2300
WIKX-FM 92.9............................................ 206-1188
WINK-AM 1240...................................239-337-2346
WINK-FM 96.9....................................239-337-2346
WKII-AM 1070........................................... 206-1188
WVIJ-FM 91.7............................................ 624-5000
75
INDEX TO ADVERTISERS
A&H Guns of Southwest Florida, Inc.... 56 Happy Home Services, Inc.................... 38
A Clear Choice Realty........................... 39 Susan Hill, RE/MAX Harbor Realty........ 64
Accurate Gas & Plumbing..................... 56 Hometown Title.................................... 38
Amberg Insurance Center..................... 28 Integrity Employee Leasing/
Insurance Agency.............................. 44
Arthur Rutenberg Homes/Sandstar
Homes............................................... 37 Sharon Kerr, Coldwell Banker
Sunstar Realty................................... 52
Arts & Humanities Council................... 27
King Fisher Fleet................................... 17
Berntsson, Ittersagen, Gunderson &
Wideikis, LLP..................................... 56 Marianne Lily, RE/MAX Harbor Realty.. 48
Bicycle Center......................................... 4 Maple Leaf Golf & Country Club........... 79
Brigon Homes, LLC................................ 18 Masada Homes, Inc.............................. 50
Buffalo Graffix....................................... 40 Military Heritage Museum, Inc............. 26
Built Right Pool Heaters........................ 21 Mosaic ................................................ 68
Calusa National Bank............................ 33 Myakka River Motorcoach Resort........ 54
CeJay Associates, LLC............................ 49 Nautilus Pools, Inc................................ 48
Charlotte Chorale................................. 26 Nav-A-Gator Grille at DeSoto Marina..... 7
Charlotte County Airport Authority...... 72 Nolan Family Insurance........................ 56
Palm Auto Mall..................................... 54
Charlotte County Art Guild, Inc./
Visual Arts Center............................. 26 Panther Hollow Dental Lodge............... 36
Charlotte County Democratic Party...... 38 Peace River Regional Medical Center... 78
Charlotte County Family YMCA........... 47 Popa Pools and Spas............................. 50
Charlotte County Medical Society, Inc..35 Port Charlotte Town Center.................. 44
Charlotte County Republican Club........ 66 Port Charlotte Village........................... 14
Charlotte County Seawalls.................... 36 Premier Photographic Events, LLC........ 18
Charlotte County Visitor’s Bureau........ 66 RE/MAX Harbor Realty......................... 20
Charlotte Orthopaedic Clinic, PA.......... 34 St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School.. 80
Charlotte Players.................................. 27 Sandstar Homes/Arthur
Rutenberg Homes............................. 37
Charlotte Regional Medical Center......... 2
Sleep Inn & Suites................................. 52
Charlotte Stone Crabs........................... 74
Stan’s Septic Service............................. 70
Charlotte Sun/Sun Coast Media Group.62
State Insurance Agency.......................... 8
Charlotte Symphony............................. 27
Storage America................................... 39
Coldwell Banker
Sun Flea Market.................................... 14
Sunstar Morris Realty....................... 32
Tampa Bay Rays.................................... 74
Cruiser’s Travel LLC.............................. 35
Thornberry Custom Builders................ 29
Cultural Center of Charlotte County..... 14
Towles Corp. of S.W. Florida................. 44
Dolphin Cleaners.................................. 30
Twin Isles Country Club, Inc.................. 24
Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s
U-Knead-A Massage, Inc....................... 32
Heartland, Inc................................... 49
Vanity Dry Cleaners &
Edison State College,
Formal Wear, Inc............................... 16
Charlotte Campus............................. 46
Visual Arts Center................................. 26
EZE Air Solutions, LLC........................... 52
Waste Management............................. 18
Fawcett Memorial Hospital.................... 5
Windmill Village at Punta Gorda, Inc.... 22
Fero Construction................................. 30
Maurie Woosley, Berkshire Hathaway
Fishermen’s Village............................... 12
HomeServices, Florida Realty............. 6
Five Star Realty of Charlotte County..... 37 Wotitzky, Wotitzky, Ross & Tuttle, PA... 30
Granite Forever USA............................. 54 Jay Wunder, CPA................................... 57
76
ACCOMMODATIONS
Fishermen’s Village...................................12
Nav-a-Gator Grill at DeSoto Marina...........7
Sleep Inn & Suites.....................................52
AIRPORT
Charlotte County Airport Authority.....72
BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS
Calusa National Bank................................33
BUILDERS
Arthur Rutenberg Homes/
Sandstar Homes/Five Star Realty.........37
Brigon Homes...........................................18
Charlotte County Seawalls........................36
Masada Homes, Inc..................................50
Thornberry Custom Builders....................29
Towles Corp. of SW Florida.......................44
HEALTH CARE/MEDICAL SERVICES
Charlotte County Medical Society............35
Charlotte Orthopaedic Clinic....................34
Charlotte Regional Medical Center.............2
Fawcett Memorial Hospital........................5
Panther Hollow Dental Lodge...................36
Peace River Regional Medical Center.......78
MANUFACTURED
HOMES/RV PARKS
Maple Leaf Estates Homeowners Corp....79
Myakka River Motorcoach Resort............54
Port Charlotte Village...............................14
Windmill Village at Punta Gorda, Inc........22
MEDIA
Charlotte Sun/Sun Coast
Media Group........................................62
REAL ESTATE COMPANIES/
SERVICES
A Clear Choice Realty, LLC........................39
Coldwell Banker-Sunstar-Morris Realty....32
Five Star Realty.........................................37
Susan Hill, RE/MAX Harbor Realty...........64
Hometown Title........................................38
Sharon Kerr, Coldwell Banker
Sunstar Realty......................................52
Marianne Lily, RE/MAX Harbor Realty......48
RE/MAX Harbor Realty............................20
Maurice Woosley/Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices, Florida Realty................6
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS
Charlotte County Airport Authority.....72
RESTAURANTS
Nav-a-Gator Grill at DeSoto Marina...........7
RETAIL/SERVICES/OTHER
A&H Guns of Southwestt Florida, Inc.......56
Accurate Gas & Plumbing.........................56
Amberg Insurance................................... 28
Arts & Humanities Council ......................27
Berntsson, Ittersagen, Gunderson,
Waksler & Wideikis, LLP.......................56
Bicycle Center of PC....................................4
Buffalo Graffix...........................................40
Built Right Pool Heaters............................21
CeJay Associates.......................................49
Charlotte Chorale.....................................26
Charlotte County Democratic Party..........38
Charlotte County Family YMCA................47
Charlotte County Republican Club............66
Charlotte County Visitor’s Bureau............66
Charlotte Players......................................27
Charlotte Stone Crabs...............................74
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra................27
Cruiser’s Travel LLC...................................35
Cultural Center of Charlotte County.........14
Dolphin Cleaners......................................30
Early Learning Coalition
of Florida’s Heartland..........................49
Edison State College.................................46
EZE Air Solutions, LLC...............................52
Fishermen’s Village...................................12
Granite Forever USA.................................54
Happy Home Services...............................38
Integrity Employee Leasing......................44
Integrity Insurance Agency.......................44
King Fisher Fleet.......................................17
Military Heritage Museum.......................26
Mosaic .....................................................68
Nolan Family Insurance............................56
Palm Auto Mall.........................................54
Popa Pools & Spas....................................50
Port Charlotte Town Center..................... 44
Premier Photographic Events, LLC............18
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School......80
Stan’s Septic Service.................................70
State Insurance Agency..............................8
Storage America.......................................39
Sun Flea Market........................................14
Tampa Bay Rays........................................74
Twin Isles Country Club............................24
U-Knead-A-Massage.................................32
Vanity Dry Cleaners & Formal Wear, Inc... 16
Visual Arts Center.....................................26
Waste Management.................................18
Wotitzky, Wotitzky, Ross & Tuttle, PA.......30
Jay Wunder, CPA.......................................57
77
The heart Program of Charlotte County
Choose
Leaders
Pioneers
exPerTs
As the area’s leading cardiac program, Peace River Heart Institute offers comprehensive
care through Charlotte County’s only full-service cardiac center with facilities on both
sides of the river. Our experienced cardiologists and staff have introduced many heart
treatment breakthroughs and procedures including:
• The first local cardiac catheterization: 1986 • The first local atherectomy: 1991
• The first local open heart procedure: 1989 • The first local stent procedure: 1994
• The first local rotablator procedure: 1995
• First local angioplasty: 1990
The Peace River Heart Institute represents a $25 million investment in cardiac care for
Charlotte County. We are the area’s only program offering life-saving open heart surgery
and a 24/7 heart team. So when it comes to caring for your heart, choose The Heart
Program of Charlotte County.
Peace river regional Medical Center | 2500 harbor Boulevard, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Charlotte regional Medical Center | 809 east Marion avenue, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Peaceriverregional.com
78
79
St. Charles Borromeo
Catholic School
PreK through Grade 8
Est. 1960
Educating
Tomorrow’s
Leaders in
Faith, Academics
and Service
What you will find at
St. Charles Borromeo School…
Religious Values and Faith
Academic Excellence
Service to Community
Safe, Nurturing Environment
State-of-the-art Media Center,
Science Lab and Technology
Enrichment / Student Support
Services
Athletics, Foreign Language,
Drama, Band, Art, and Music
Fully Accredited
Financial Aid Available
Visit us at www.stcbs.org
21505 Augusta Avenue • Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Phone: 941-625-5533 • Fax: 941-625-7359

Charlotte County Chamber Of Commerce

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