Charlotte County is transforming its streets from last year's hurricane aftermath to a festive Halloween scene. Residents recall the challenging times following Hurricane Milton, but this year, they're celebrating with renewed vigor.
Jennifer Rhemann and Keith Johnson, longtime residents of Punta Gorda, shared their experience of recovery from hurricanes Helene and Milton.
"It took us six months to be able to get back into our house. We got flooded and took a long time to get it back in," Rhemann said.
Now, with their home 95% restored, the couple is enjoying the Halloween decorations in the Punta Gorda Historic District.
"It's so wonderful to have the neighborhood getting decorated again and getting ready for all of the kids and families who are going to be here soon," Johnson said. "This whole area of the downtown Punta Gorda is just packed on Halloween night, houses are decorated. They give out candy, get and they closed off the streets. So it's it's wonderful, yeah, and it's beautiful."
The couple is eager to see the Halloween costumes and trick-or-treaters this Friday.
The streets are now clear, and the neighborhood is ready to welcome families for a fun and safe Halloween.