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THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Debby Carey, 630-995-0332, pgijoy@outlook.com

Tuesday, November 7, we will be holding our Annual Meeting. It is going to be preceded by a
dinner as a thank you to all our members for their support this year. I am always amazed at
the number of our members that help out in various capacities throughout the year. There are
many unsung volunteers. We could not be the successful organization we are if it weren’t for
the Club Officers that keep our various social clubs active and filled with fun loving members.
The desk volunteers, The Commentator stuffers, the Isles Gals and Guys Club, the
Neighborhood Marine Watch and the Board Members that have made up my team all are a
vital part of the Civic Association. The hours these individuals represent are staggering. We
appreciate all you do. Keep up the good work.

The PGICA Saturday Night Before Christmas Boat Parade planning is in full swing. For those
of you that are new to the area, this is a terrific way to get in the mood for the holiday. Lighted
Debby Carey boats parade through the rim canal. Be sure you attend the great class on how to decorate
and light up your boat. Then enter the parade. If you want to volunteer with our group
dedicated to lighting the rim canal for the parade, call the office and ask to be put on the Lamplighter’s list. You will be
contacted. We are only asking for a couple of hours of your time to string lights along the parade route. If you live along
the new route, we are asking you to decorate the back of your house if possible. If not, stringing lights along your
seawall is a big help. This year there are special considerations. We ask those of you that do not view the parade from
private homes to be especially cautious when viewing from an empty lot. Remember, the seawalls were compromised,
and you may need to stay further back. Obey the caution tape. We are working with the City to ensure that the parade is
safe and successful. Be sure to support the boaters that go all out decorating. Attend the parade!

The Parade sponsorship, the Every Member Events that take place all year long, the well-used loaner program and
Shop Punta Gorda are just some examples of the value you receive for your membership dues. Our class offerings are
expanding each month. You will notice that we are sending out more information from the city as they are increasingly
partnering with us to communicate with our members. This board has consistently looked for ways to make belonging to
the Association valuable to you. If you have other ideas, we would love to hear from you.

At the Annual Meeting we will be recognizing the Association’s Ultimate Volunteer. We will be
honoring Ray Rose by placing a plaque at the entrance to the east wing. It will be known as the Ray
Rose wing from now on. Anyone that knew Ray can understand that there really is no adequate
way to honor all his contributions. This is one of the ways we are going to recognize him.

As season starts up, we are doing our best to keep the facility available to our members. We hope
that you are utilizing the online calendar on our website, pgica.org, to track your month’s activities.
You can access it from your phone if you are on the go.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Debby

PGICA Board Members…

President Debby Carey Education Carol Duncan
President Elect Aaron Wagner Government Relations John Miller
President Past Bill Albers Member Activities Frank Easby-Smith
Treasurer Ron Olsen Health, Safety/Welfare Janet Lynn
Secretary Carol Geiger Membership Cindy Morrell
Center Administrator Randy Hall Marketing & Public Relations Barbe Koss
Planning/Development John Miller

PGICA Mission Statement
“To enhance the quality of life in Punta Gorda Isles as a vibrant and
unique waterfront community.”

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