Charlotte CCA chapter holds banquet
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
John Blane and Patty Allen (as in Mrs. Capt. Ralph Allen).
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
In the silent auction and raffle, it's not all fishing gear. The tables were loaded with art, household items, and even designer bags and jewelry.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Before dinner, everyone mingles in the silent auction and raffle area, perusing the huge variety of items available and enjoying each other's company (and the open bar).
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Charlotte Couny Comissioners Christopher Constance and Stephen R. Deutsch dropped in to show their support.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Capt. Robert Moore and Robin Leonard, feeling no pain.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Every year at the banquet, one lucky table gets upgraded to the Captain's Table, where they are served lobster and get lots of free goodies. Gulf Coast Roofing's table won this year.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Chapter president Dan Ferraris, John Flowers of J&C Drydock, and Bob Leonard. Dan and Bob reportedly account for a hefty percentage of John's business.
WaterLine photo by Josh Olive
Gary Ingman and Gary Mize of Ingman Marine, the sponsor of the banquet, enjoy a fried cheese appetizer.
The Charlotte County chapter of Coastal Conservation Association Florida held their annual banquet March 7 at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda. The turnout was a bit smaller this year. According to chapter president Dan Ferraris, about 30 fewer people showed up. One likely cause: The new Peace River CCA chapter based in Arcadia has probably siphoned off some of the local membership. Still, those who turned out seemed to be having a good time as they perused silent auctions and raffle items, and some of the live auction items became the subjects of heated bidding wars. The reduction in attendees translated to a smaller take for the fundraising effort. The initial estimate, according to Ferraris, is about a $25,000 net, down from about $30,000 in 2012. All the money raised goes to CCA Florida, a statewide, nonprofit marine organization working in an advocacy role to protect the state’s marine resources and interests of saltwater anglers. For more info about CCA, go to www.CCAFlorida.org.
