As we celebrate America'\;s 250th Birthday this year\, you are cordially invited to join us as our \;Civics\, Conversation &\; Coffee Series \;continues for an insightful hour of civic awareness and engagement in a non-partisan setting. \;This venue has its origins in our country&rsquo\;s founding\, as colonists and early Americans met in a friendly environment\, such as a tavern or village green\, to discuss important issues of their day.

Our \;Civics\, Conversation &\; Coffee Series \;is all of that &ndash\; and more. \; Like our forefathers\, we provide a forum that brings neighbors together for civic awareness and engagement\, except that we will be substituting a cup of coffee for a tankard of ale. \;

To keep the atmosphere casual\, relaxed and engaging\, coffee will be available when doors open\, but you are welcome to bring your own favorite cup of coffee\, tea or beverage to enjoy during the session. \;

\nOur speakers will share their expertise about important issues and what they mean for our community. Topics may include talks on local government\, legislative updates\, public policy\, U.S. History and other interesting subjects that matter to you. \; Presentations will be followed with a Q &\; A session where you will have the opportunity to have interactive discussions with our guest speakers and each other. \; There will be a Meet &\; Greet after the event where you will have the opportunity for some one-on-one conversation with our guests.
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\nThis is a great opportunity to get informed on the issues shaping our world today while connecting with others over a morning brew.
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\nThis Month'\;s Guest Speaker:
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\nVanessa Oliver\, \;State Representative - District 76
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\nThis Month'\;s Topics:
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\n- Celebrating Constitution Week: The Three Miracles of the U.S. Constitution
\n- Update on the 2026 Florida Legislative Session and how it impacts us - Vanessa Oliver.
\n- 25th Anniversary of the 9-11 Attacks on America: \; A Memorial Video "\;Let Us Never Forget"\;
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\nAbout Our Speaker: \; \;Vanessa Oliver is our State Representative from District 76\, which incorporates all of Punta Gorda. \; She was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2024 after being elected in 2020 as a Commissioner from our district to the Charlotte County Airport Authority where she served as Vice-Chair.
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\nVanessa graduated \;from the College of William &\; Mary in 2002 with a BA in Economics and a Government Minor\, and the University of Florida Levin College of Law\, JD in 2006. \; \;
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\nShe is a member of the Charlotte County Bar Association\, is 2016 graduate of Leadership Charlotte\, past-Chair of the Charlotte Harbor Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Committee\, past-secretary of the Economic Development Partnership\, and a former Board Member for Habitat for Humanity.
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This event is open to the public \;and there is no fee to attend\, \;but we do \;encourage you to register in advance as space is limited. \; \;Attendees are welcome to BYOB and snacks. \; \;Bring a friend or neighbor and show them what a great civic organization our Civic Association is. \; To reserve your spot\, go to pgica.org. \; Select CALENDAR/SPECIAL EVENTS and select this event on Sept 11. \; Once there\, you can fill out your registration information.
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\nDoors open at 11:30 am for check-in. \; We look forward to seeing you there with a coffee in hand!
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\nAlso\, check out our PGICA60 video as we celebrate 60 years of service to the residents of our community.