All American Memorial Day Deck Party and Canned Food Drive May 31
The 11th Annual Pine Island All American Memorial Day Deck Party and Canned Food Drive, featuring Yard Dog Charlie from 2-5 p.m., will be held Monday, May 31 at Bert’s Bar. & Grill in Matlacha
For 10 years from 2002-2012, Charlie Kuchler was a founding member of the legendary Yard Dogs and helped develop what is now known as Florida Swamp Music. Bert’s Bar is well known across Southwest Florida as a live music venue and is the musical home of The Yard Dogs and Yard Dog Charlie.
Yard Dog Charlie will play outside on the deck overlooking what locals call “The Million Dollar View” of Matlacha Pass.
During the event, organizers will also be collecting canned foods, toothpaste, soap, etc., to be donated to the Pine Island Food Pantry. There will be raffles and a 50/50 drawing all to benefit the pantry.
And there’s always the chance of some surprise special guests.
Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed annually in the United States on the last Monday of May. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the fallen Union soldiers of the Civil War. By the 20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars.
Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. As a marker it typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.
Bert’s Bar is at 4271 Pine Island Road in Matlacha. For additional information about the Memorial Day celebration, call 239-282-3232, or visit www.bertsbar.com or www.yarddogcharlie.com.