During Port Charlotte’s early land boom, General Development Corporation (GDC) became infamous for its over-the-top sales tactics. What was the company’s most outrageous marketing technique to lure buyers from out of state?

Port Charlotte Business Spotlight...a Hidden Gem!

ELEVATE.ORG was created by Roy and Jennifer Cecchetti with one simple goal: to make a real difference in the lives of individuals and families facing life-altering challenges. Their goal is to go beyond traditional charity—focusing on empowerment, education, and sustainable change

Realizing that it's not too early to get SPOOKY...or to make plans to enjoy Halloween while giving back to the Community & Plan a Head...err...ahead, Elevate has announced it's festive walk-through for Trick-or-Treat.

It's a Safe Zone along their BOOlevard, where kids can dress up, collect candy, and enjoy a night full of Halloween spirit. Want to host a table?

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The Cecchetti’s believe that true transformation happens when people are given the tools to heal and thrive on their own terms. ELEVATE was designed to provide not just support, but the resources and guidance necessary for long-term success.

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Boca Grande, celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled shoreline, is set for major changes as new parking rules are rolled out by Lee County.

On August 5, 2025, county commissioners unanimously approved a permit-based parking ordinance to help manage rising visitor numbers and safeguard the community’s character.

The system establishes separate permits for residents, hotel guests, business employees, and those visiting homes or providing services.

Violations could mean steep fines—up to $300 for parking infractions and $500 for blocking driveways.

The ordinance, spearheaded by Commissioner Kevin Ruane and supported by his Republican colleagues, has deepened community debate over balancing preservation with accessibility.

It might be telling that the ability to leave comments or reaching out to Commissioner Ruane via the "Contact Us" form on his website are currently disabled. Draw your own conclusions....lol

Ongoing updates will affect both residents and visitors moving forward.

It's sunset & sunrise season here in Port Charlotte. Lately, each sunset has been more beautiful than the one before. Check out this stunning & unretouched sunset photo. If you're missing these opportunities, get out there and check them out! 

This week's photo courtesy of Scott Nielson

Do you have a photo that captures the spirit and beauty of Port Charlotte and would like yours to be featured in an upcoming edition?

 Reach out!

Essentail Port Charlotte Phone Numbers & Links

• Emergency (Police, Fire, EMS): 911

• Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (Non-Emergency): (941) 639‑2101 — ccso.org

• Charlotte County Main Office: (941) 743‑1200 — charlottecountyfl.gov

• Charlotte County Utilities (24/7): (941) 764‑4300 or 800‑524‑3494 — charlottecountyfl.gov

• Utility Bill Pay by Phone: (941) 764‑4300 (opt. 1) or 1‑855‑289‑2866

• Charlotte County Sheriff’s District 3 – Port Charlotte: (941) 258‑3900 — ccso.org

• Charlotte County Jail: (941) 833‑6300 — ccso.org

• Charlotte County Clerk of Court: (941) 637‑2329 — charlotteclerk.com

• AdventHealth Port Charlotte: 2500 Harbor Blvd — AdventHealth

• Charlotte County Public Schools Administration: 1445 Education Way — School District

• Port Charlotte Public Library: (941) 764‑5562 — Library Info

• Mid‑County Regional Library: (941) 613‑3160 — Library Info

• Charlotte County Community Services: (941) 625‑7529 — Community Services

• FLHSMV Murdock Driver License Office: (941) 743‑1350 — flhsmv.gov

After servicing North Port's Air Conditioning units for nearly 26 years, Allen McNamara decided that bringing integrity and honesty to the profession would become his personal calling card, and thus established McCooling Air Conditioning

In his many years of servicing the local air conditioning market, Allen recognized that as much as he learned about WHAT to do to create a happy and affordable experience for the customer, he also learned WHAT NOT to do.  His website specifies and outlines his promise and his commitment to the customer:

• 1). We will never "upsell you" or push you towards a new AC System that you may not need.
• 2). We will never send a salesman or "professional estimator" to your home.
• 3). Only a qualified A/C technician will discuss your system's current status with you.
• 4). Our Technicians are never paid by commission.

A long time resident of North Port, Allen has been very active in the Bandits football program as a member of the Board.  He's also the Bandit's videographer and is a sponsors as well.  Many of you will recognize him for his contributions to our community, when he shows up at your door to provide the very best customer service for your A/C needs.  Married for 25 years to his wife, Amy, they have three boys and one girl, which keep them plenty active and grounded.  

Here comes the Florida AC Season, and here comes the answer that you'll be glad you made! 'Its' not Magic....It's McCooling"

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GDC ran “fly-and-buy” promotions—actually flying potential buyers into Port Charlotte on cheap or free trips, giving them tours of freshly bulldozed streets, and topping it off with steak dinners.