The Englewood Fire Department announced that Tower 75 is now operating as an Advanced Life Support (ALS) truck, joining four of the department’s six frontline fire apparatus with ALS certification. Staffed with firefighter/paramedics and equipped with advanced medications, cardiac monitoring systems, and life-saving tools, ALS units provide critical medical care on scene before patients reach the hospital. The upgrade enhances response times, improves patient outcomes, and reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to strengthening emergency medical services as the community grows. Pictured from left to right. Deputy Chief Karl Bennett, Firefighter/EMT Patrick Zadai, Lt. Adam Baer, Chief Kevin Easton, Firefighter/Paramedic Matthew Wickwire, Firefighter/Paramedic Spencer Heldenbrand and Deputy Chief Rob Blasetti.
Charlotte County has installed more than 12,900 reflective vinyl bands on stop signs across unincorporated areas to help residents quickly identify their hurricane evacuation zone and storm-surge risk. The 3-inch bands display both a letter and color that match the county’s five zones: A (red), B (orange), C (yellow), D (green), and E (purple). Residents are urged to know their zone, plan where they will go if an evacuation is ordered, and remember that all mobile, manufactured, and RV homes should evacuate before tropical-storm-force winds. Check your zone at CharlotteCountyFL.gov/KnowYourZone and prepare now, as local shelters may be limited during severe storms. For details, contact 941-833-5610 or [email protected].
Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus, 401 North Tamiami Trail, Osprey, transforms into “Spooky Point” Friday, October 3 through Saturday, November 1 with the return of the fourth-annual Halloween-themed walk-through light show. Between 6:30 and 8:45pm, guests will follow an eerily lit path filled with fantastic creations and “bootanically” themed decorations that are equal parts campy, creepy, and cute. The event is family-friendly, with food and beverages available for purchase, but guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Tickets cost $34 for adults and $19 for children. They are nontransferable and nonrefundable. Visit Selby.org for details or to purchase tickets.
Big Waters’ “Party in Paradise: Into the Night” returns on Saturday, November 8, transforming Bay Preserve headquarters into a glowing nocturnal oasis in celebration of land and water conservation. Guests will enjoy signature cocktails, culinary creations, live entertainment, a Midnight Bazaar Market, and dancing under the stars beginning at 6pm. Cocktail attire is requested. General admission includes open seating, while VIP tables with premium placement are available through sponsorships. Now in its second year, “Party in Paradise” continues the legacy of the Palm Ball gala, which raised more than $350,000 in its inaugural year to protect land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Individual tickets cost $325. For tickets, sponsorships, or more information, visit bigwaterslandtrust.org.
Pig Pickin’ Fundraiser at GCUMC
Cool Pickle in Paradise: 50’s Dance Party…