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#NP65

We are sharing 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024. Check back to this page to see the latest posts as they're added. Click the image to read the full description of the photo or graphic.

Interested in learning more about North Port’s history? Stop by the City’s Utilities Customer Service and Cashiering office on the first floor of City Hall, 4970 City Hall Blvd., to grab your copy of Marshall Grove's "Out of the Wilderness." We have a VERY limited supply, so grab yours while you can! When they're gone, they're gone.

The 255-page book is sold for just $15, and cash, credit card or check are accepted. The office is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The books cannot be purchased online.

Did you know North Port is celebrating its 65th year as a City in 2024? We have a long history, even though in City years, that puts us around middle school age. We have fun plans for celebrating this milestone, starting with this post. Leading up to our birthday on June 18, you will see weekly posts about the City’s past, present and future. 65 of them to be exact. North Port is growing up, and we’re looking forward to showing you what we’ve done and where we plan to go. Look out for the hashtag #NP65 to follow along and celebrate with us! #NP65

On June 16, 1959, 21 registered voters voted for “North Port Charlotte” to become the third city in Sarasota County. The 21 voters were all employees of General Development Corporation, one of the largest home builders at the time. At that point, our City was a mere 5.5 square miles. *The newspaper clipping is from the Tampa Bay Times in June 1959. The Civic Association of North Port published the map in the 1960s. #NP65

Did you know North Port has an entire state forest within City limits? Myakka State Forest includes 8,592 acres of marshland and flatwoods, providing many opportunities to see wildlife in the air, on the ground, or in the water. The forest provides varied opportunities for recreation, including hiking, horseback riding, camping and off-road bicycling. It’s managed by the Florida Forest Service, so check out their website to learn more about this expansive destination! #NP65

North Port was named “North Port Charlotte” until the 70s when the City polled residents for name ideas. Options included Caloosa Springs, Cocoplum and more. In 1974, voters ultimately voted 925-188 to drop the “Charlotte” and go with North Port. Sources include ‘Out of the Wilderness” by Marshall Grove and archival records from the Fort Myers News-Press. #NP65

Finally, the City is seeing real movement in bringing quality health care to our community. Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and HCA Florida Healthcare have announced three projects in North Port, bringing care closer to home. Not only will they bring care, but they'll also bring jobs. We're motivated to work with our healthcare partners to realize this long-awaited dream. #NP65

🌼 Did you know the City has an accessible park for all kids of all abilities? North Port Parks & Rec cut the ribbon on the Boundless Adventures Playground, 4299 Pan American Blvd., in 2018. Located within the Garden of the Five Senses, this park accommodates all kids of all abilities looking for a great place to play. From learning braille to park equipment that's easy to play on, we're proud to have this park in North Port. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/MyLocalParks. #NP65

🚗 A much-discussed topic for decades has been Price Boulevard, but do you know the origin of the street name? It was originally McCarthy Boulevard but was renamed to Price Boulevard in 1980. Edgar H. Price sponsored the legislation that enabled the incorporation of the City, so his name was memorialized on our main east-west corridor. The Price Boulevard Widening Project has officially kicked off, which will alleviate the heavy traffic issues we have today. Learn more about the project by visiting NorthPortFL.gov/Price. #NP65

🚒 Did you know North Port Fire Rescue wasn’t a paid department until 1984? A volunteer fire department was assembled in 1961, and as the City grew, the need for a paid fire department became apparent. It was voted into reality in 1984. NPFR is a young department continuing to expand with the City's rapid growth. NPFR continues to look to the future confidently as they maintain exceptional customer service for our residents. #NP65

In 1960, North Port became home to the American Police Museum Hall of Fame. It was founded to honor federal, state, county and local law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The museum was closed in 1990 and moved to a larger facility in Miami. #NP65

The City of North Port has a City Manager-Council style of government. According to surveys by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), this system is the most used style in government worldwide. In North Port, the City Manager is a Charter Officer, voted in by a City Commission consensus. The City Clerk and City Attorney are also Charter Officers. The City Manager runs the day-to-day administrative business, and the City Commission makes policy, sets the budget and more. The mayoral position in North Port is ceremonial, which means it doesn’t have any additional power compared to the other Commissioners. When seated as mayor, the member typically leads ribbon cuttings, represents the Commission at events and signs documents on their behalf. This position is voted internally by the Commission each year. To learn more about our City’s leadership, go here: https://www.northportfl.gov/City-Government/City-Leadership. #NP65

On this day of love, we’re recognizing one of the people who helped shape our City from the ground up. The North Port City Commission dubbed the late Gene Matthews “Mr. North Port” in 2008 and presented a Key to the City to him in 2023. He and his wife Lorraine have changed North Port for the better. We’re grateful for all he has done for our community. #NP65

Do you ever wonder what’s being built at a particular intersection? The City’s Planning Division and GIS team maintain a Current Development Map showing the projects and other relevant details. Check it out! https://www.northportfl.gov/Building-Planning/Projects/Current-Development-Map #NP65

Over the last several weeks, we've introduced you to each member of the new Natural Resources Division. We hope you'll take the time to come meet them in person at tomorrow's Coffee & Conservation listening tour at the Morgan Family Community Center (6207 W. Price Blvd.). Staff will have a presentation including goals, environmental challenges and opportunities, and a chance for resident feedback. After the presentation, residents will have a chance to engage in discussion with Natural Resources staff. With sessions available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., we hope you’ll be able to join us! #NP65

New to North Port? The City has created a one-stop shop to get set up in your new City. From Utilities to trash pick-up to getting engaged with the community, this webpage has it. Visit NorthPortFL.gov/Welcome to get started. Thank you for choosing North Port as your place to land. Welcome to the neighborhood! #NP65

Did you know the City's Social Services Division hosts a Community Clothing Closet within their office? The closet has infant and children-sized clothing in limited quantities, as well as diapers and other hygiene products. Of course, the items will vary based on donations received. To be able to shop in the Clothing Closet, clients must bring the last 30 days of income or the most recent government assistance award letter, birth certificates/guardianship paperwork for each child and a bill in the parent's name showing North Port residency. The closet always accepts very gently used or new items to donate. Please call to schedule a drop-off at 941-429-3700. What: Community Clothing Closet Where: 6919 Outreach Way, 2nd floor Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thursday evenings by appointment only. Please call the division to make an appointment at 941-429-3700. It must be at least 24 hours in advance.

Доброго ранку! Did you know North Port is home to nearly 6,000 people of Eastern European descent? Many traveled here to enjoy the benefits of Warm Mineral Springs Park, and have chosen to start families and plant roots in our City. Eastern Europe as a whole has made its mark in North Port, with restaurants, churches, gift shops and more gracing our City. Visit Sarasota created a webpage showing all the ways you can get involved and learn more about this rich ethnic culture. #NP65

Into kayaking or paddleboarding? North Port is surrounded by waters ideal for paddlers. With over 80 miles of freshwater canals and portions of the Myakkahatchee Creek, you’ll find the perfect water for any skill level. If that isn’t enough, our famously sublime weather means you can get out on the water almost daily. Visit NorthPortFL.gov/Blueways to find a handy map for where to launch and get your paddle on! Don’t know how to kayak? Check out North Port Parks & Rec’s Playbook to see when the next Learn to Yak course is – NorthPortFL.gov/Playbook. #NP65

Find yourself at the library! Did you know Sarasota County Government manages two here in North Port? The North Port Library was established in 1975 at a small one-story home at Biscayne Drive and Tamiami Trail. Purchased by the Friends of the North Port Area Library, the Sarasota County Commission approved funds to assist operations and add them to their library system. It’s since expanded to a larger building in the early 90s and continues to provide services. It's located at 13800 Tamiami Trail. The Shannon Staub Library opened in 2017, providing library services to the legacy North Port area. The library got its name from former Sarasota County Commissioner Shannon Staub, who advocated for libraries while in office and continued to support them after her term. It's located at 4675 Career Lane, attached to Suncoast Technical College off Toledo Blade Blvd. Whether you want to load up your Kindle or crack open a new book, our libraries are your resource! #NP65 For more information, visit SarasotaCountyLibraries.org. To catch up on other #NP65 moments, visit NorthPortFL.gov/NP65.

🥄 One of North Port’s longest-running clubs was the North Port Kitchen Band, featuring a group of folks that clanged and chimed at gigs throughout the area. They started in the 40s, predating North Port’s incorporation, continuing for over 70 years. As the name suggests, the band only used instruments made from objects normally found in a kitchen. Homemade kazoos, washboards and other makeshift instruments were often seen. They played gigs around the area and donated their earnings to those less fortunate. If you had the pleasure of hearing them play throughout the years, what was your favorite song? 🎶 #NP65

✏️Not only is North Port a great spot to live, work and play, but it’s also a fantastic place to learn. Suncoast Technical College's North Port campus opened in 2017 and has been bustling with activity. From Health & Public Services to Industrial Technologies or Culinary Arts, the campus helps guide students to enriching and fulfilling careers. Several of our very own North Port Fire Rescue personnel have attended and passed their Paramedic exam through the school. Some North Port Police Department officers have graduated via the Sarasota Criminal Justice Academy. We’re grateful to have this fine institution right here in North Port and we hope those who graduate will find a place to build a career in our community. #NP65 We've hit our 20th North Port moment! To catch up on others we've posted, visit NorthPortFL.gov/NP65.

Atwater Community Park is a 25-acre beauty featuring not only its well-known zero-entry splash pad, but also a playground, baseball fields, batting cages, pavilions and much more. North Port Parks & Rec has lots of places for you and your family to chill - check them out at NorthPortFL.gov/MyLocalParks! 🌳😍 #NP65 Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65 #NP65

A mainstay in North Port is the George Mullen Activity Center, 1602 Kramer Way, built in 1998 and the first piece to the City complex puzzle. It was named after, you guessed it, former Commissioner George D. Mullen, who served from 1993-2000. The facility offers a gymnasium, fitness center, meeting rooms and more. Residents can find a playground and the Larry Thoennissen Athletic Fields outside the building. Want to check it out? Head here for more! https://loom.ly/iWJ_M1s Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65 #NP65

It’s World Theatre Day! Did you know the City of North Port has a performing arts center (PAC)? Located at North Port High School, the North Port PAC hosts high school performances, North Port Symphony and Chorale shows and even some City events. We are grateful for their partnership and are proud to support the arts. Check out North Port High School’s performance of Freaky Friday, April 5-7. Learn more about the NPPAC schedule and buy tickets here: https://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/domain/1432 #WorldTheatreDay Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65. #NP65

in 1928, one of North Port's main thoroughfares was opened to the public. While there aren't as many Ford Model Ts on the road these days, Tamiami Trail/U.S. 41 remains a vital artery in our city. As you may have guessed, Tamiami Trail is a portmanteau of the phrase "Tampa to Miami." In North Port, this road is loaded with shopping and dining options and ripe with opportunity. What is your favorite business along Tamiami Trail? Shout it out in the comments! Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65.

Did you know? The City of North Port and North Port Art Center have a long-standing agreement to showcase art and photography in the City Hall building. They've recently added a new batch of artwork to enjoy dotted throughout the building. From oil to watercolor to photography, there's something for everyone to look at. Stop into City Hall, 4970 City Hall Blvd., for a gallery-like experience! For more information about the North Port Art Center, visit NorthportArtCenter.org.

☕ The City started its Coffee & Conversation series in October 2023, which is an opportunity for the public to come by and enjoy free refreshments while talking with City staff and dignitaries. Having events in different areas of the City helps ensure all can attend a session. They were previously held at K&K Bakery and Empire Bagel. Foxtail Coffee Co., 19795 Wellen Pk Blvd., is next on the list, with the gathering set for 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. on March 26. Learn more about how City services impact your life and share what matters most to you. We hope to see you there! Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65. #NP65

Have you visited the North Port Aquatic Center (NPAC) yet? While the park boasts amazing slides and fun for kids of all ages, there's so much more! From water aerobics classes to kayaking or swimming lessons, there's something for everyone to get involved in. The NPAC, managed by North Port Parks & Rec, also partners with North Port Fire Rescue for training opportunities and working with lifeguards. Spring operation hours are now in effect through May 24. Enjoy all the amenities on Sat. & Sun., from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Learn more about this fantastic spot here: NorthPortFL.gov/Pool.

City employees help to keep this community running, which is just one of the reasons We ♥️ North Port! We recently featured Planner/Scheduler Mario Venditti, who takes the time to meet new residents and teach them about solid waste services. Check out the video to learn more about him! https://loom.ly/GOY3lvA Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65. #NP65

It’s World Theatre Day! Did you know the City of North Port has a performing arts center (PAC)? Located at North Port High School, the North Port PAC hosts high school performances, North Port Symphony and Chorale shows and even some City events. We are grateful for their partnership and are proud to support the arts. Check out North Port High School’s performance of Freaky Friday, April 5-7. Learn more about the NPPAC schedule and buy tickets here: https://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/domain/1432 #WorldTheatreDay Explore more of our 65 moments from North Port's past, present and future as we lead up to the city's 65th birthday on June 18, 2024: NorthPortFL.gov/NP65. #NP65

#DidYouKnow the City facilitates various fitness classes for all experience levels? From Zumba to Line Dancing, there's something for everyone. Visit NorthPortFL.gov/Fitness to learn about all the classes and North Port Parks & Rec's Achieve Anything fitness membership! We've also created a YouTube playlist with introductions to class instructors. Check them out to find the right fit for you! https://loom.ly/rl3oO_Q

❓ How can we help you? Customer service isn't always about answering the phone or assisting from behind a desk. Serving our community means so much more. Whether it's training, teaching, repairing or giving back, City of North Port staff are always willing to help. Visit NorthPortFL.gov/BillOfRights to learn more about our values.

🚧 Meet the Menzi Muck! This versatile vehicle helps Public Works crews clear brush quickly while wading through muddy waters. The Menzi is out every day, maintaining swales and our infrastructure. It also helped tremendously after Hurricane Ian hit to clear debris and brush.

North Port Fire Rescue's partnership with Bayflite 2 is vital. Among their basic duties, they help train our crews on various procedures when they have extra time and join NPFR’s training exercises when they are pertinent. Their knowledge and expertise not only better NPFR crews but also keep our community safer. Thank you!

🌺 Happy Saturday! Looking for something to do? Check out the Garden of the Five Senses right here in North Port. The aptly-named park encompasses all five of your senses as you stroll through. From fruit trees, to fragrant flowers to gorgeous scenery and more, it's a great spot to stop. Additionally, the Boundless Adventures Playground is adjacent to the park, a great spot for kids of all abilities. Learn more about the park here! https://loom.ly/_m51miw

Did you know a time capsule is buried at North Port City Hall? On April 15, 2006 – exactly 18 years ago – it was placed in the ground, only to be opened on North Port’s 100th birthday. If you’re in town on June 18, 2059, stop by and see what was included! In the meantime, here are some facts from 2006: 🔭 Pluto lost its planet status 💿 Blu-ray discs were introduced 🎮 The Nintendo Wii debuted 🏈 The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl XL

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