Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends,
From John Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. Here is a copy of John’s Column printed in the newspaper on November 30, 2021.
PG Chamber radio show: Exclusively for PG Chamber members: NOW BOOKING FOR DECEMBER 2021. Our monthly radio show on Seaview 104.9FM during the Bob Alexander Radio Show is on the first Wednesday and Thursday of each month. The process is very simple – no need to visit the studio. Bob will call you, set up a recording time and it’ll be done over the phone and inserted directly into the programming of this very popular show. You get the option to record two x 2.5 minute slots or else simply record one and have it aired twice during the show. Bob will be able to let you know exactly during which hour it will air. The cost is an incredible $110 (payable to the PG Chamber, not iHeart). To register for the show, simply email John Wright. The rest we’ll take care of for you. Only ten businesses per month, so don’t delay. Offering you a great way to promote your business, advertise an event or simply to show your community support.
The holiday season has arrived, and shopping is in full swing! With holiday shopping comes opportunities for criminals.
Online shopping?
Charlotte County distributes a monthly report via email. The report contains information about ongoing facility projects, programs and services, construction industry activity, employee head counts and vacancies, economic development initiatives, professional development accomplishments, department awards, mosquito control efforts, tourism events and statistics and more. It can be delivered right into your email inbox at the end of the third week every month. All you need to do is sign up. Send an email requesting to be added to the distribution list to: PublicInformation@CharlotteCountyFL.gov
Roger Eaton: Are you or someone you know planning a wedding ceremony, or applying for a marriage license? If so, the Charlotte County Clerk’s office is here to help! Our hassle-free marriage services make it easy for you to say, “I do!”. Start by applying online for a marriage license or scheduling your marriage ceremony at the Justice Center in Punta Gorda.
The Budweiser Clydesdales are coming to town on December 16th!
Brought to you by Suncoast Beverage Sales and your Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce.
The team will arrive around 3pm where guests are invited to come down and meet the horses and their riders on City Market Place – the empty lot on the North Side of Marion Avenue by the downtown clock.
The hitch will depart at around 4pm for a short parade around downtown.
The tour will be ending on the Tiki lawn at Fourpoints by Sheraton for a final photo opportunity.
Their visit will be a majestic equestrian display of power to melt any heart!
We hope you’ll come on down and enjoy a very special Holiday gift to our City
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Take a Tour of a Local Business and Chamber Member with John. CLICK HERE to find out where he visited this week.
This video will be shared here in Friday Facts, on our Chamber website, and on our Chamber Social Media pages. If you would like to have a visit from John please contact Tara Zajas at tzajas@puntagorda-chamber.com or call the office (941) 639-3720 to schedule a date. [/box]
December 8: Business Over Breakfast 7:15am- 8:30am. Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association with breakfast provided by Gator Wilderness Camp School. PGICA is located at 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.
December 14: Business After Hours 5:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Friendly Floors located at 3785 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business! Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.
December 15: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm. Come and join your Chamber for our special Holiday Edition of our Networking Lunch at Four Points Sheraton (Tiki). Lunch will be a holiday buffet including all the sides like dressing, mashed potatoes and salad! Please bring a wrapped gift valued at $15-$20 as we play our usual Secret Santa gift exchange! Reservations Required. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. NOTE: Cancellations not accepted after 3pm on Friday before event. Cost is $20.00 per person pre-paid. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex
ONLINE RESERVATIONS FOR CHAMBER LUNCHEONS ARE ONCE AGAIN AVAILABLE BY CLICKING HERE
8am – 12 noon, $15.00 per entrant, Parking Lot at 1133 Bal Harbor, Punta Gorda FL
You get two parking spots – one for your vehicle (no commercial vehicles) and one for a table (you provide.) Setup 7am. Trailers require 2 spaces (4 parking spots) – $30
Dates:
December 11, 2021
January 8, 2022
February 12, 2022
March 12, 2022
April 9, 2022
May 14, 2022
Please contact the Punta Gorda Chamber at 941-639-3720 or email reception@puntagorda-chamber.com.
Please Support Our Local Businesses!
Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum) – It’s that time of year again! The Tiki Bar is kicking off the Christmas Season in style! On Friday night, we have Iconic taking the stage at 7 PM. Saturday is our annual Kixmiss party with Gas House Gorillas headlining the event. We will have Heros Unmasked dressed in their superhero costumes working the crowd. We ask that you bring one unwrapped toy that will be given to a sick child in the hospital that can’t be home for Christmas. It’s going to be a memorable night, so come out for great music and dancing and support a wonderful charity! The Tiki Bar….Always Sizzling!
TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – Hello December, one of my favorite months. It brings visits, hugs, parties, and most importantly family! The market slowed a bit over Thanksgiving, but you cannot tell this week: 109 new listings, 179 pending (new contracts), 151 closed. Thinking of selling after the new year? Let’s talk 239-699-4493
Downtown Farmers Market (Gold) – The Saturday Punta Gorda Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8am until 1pm. December Newsletter!
The Parrot Entertainment Magazine (Gold In Kind) – Latest issue.
Creative Window Treatments (Silver) – is your local Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer. We offer all types of custom window treatments for any business or commercial setting with 2 locations to serve you. Call for your FREE In-Home consultation! 941-637-0015 / 941-828-0000
PG Social House (Silver) – Mark your calendars! We will have our community tree lighting/ decorating this Saturday at 6:30PM! Bring an ornament from home, or bring one to decorate and fill in the trimmings on our tree. Our holiday menu will be in full effect, which means eggnog, hot cocoa, and all the glitter Prosecco bombs in-between!
Isles Yacht Club (Silver) – IYC Charity Cup Series! The Isles Yacht Club Series is a multi-faceted fundraising competition for the benefit of Valerie’s House and Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity. For more information or to see sponsorship opportunities, click here.
C.A.R.E. (Bronze) – Ladies and Gentlemen the greatest event of all time is FINALLY BACK! The 2022 C.A.R.E. Ball is officially scheduled for Saturday January 29, 2022 |6:00pm | located at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in downtown Punta Gorda. This year’s theme is “Under the Big Top” featuring a traditional three course sit down dinner, open bar, silent auction (fan favorite), and casino tables. We encourage guests to be creative with their formal wear. To purchase your tickets/ sponsorship opportunities visit www.care2022.givesmart.com Come one, come all to hottest event in town!
Gulfshore Opera (Bronze) – Join us for the holidays! Gulfshore Opera presents their Holiday Harmony Concert near you!
Military Heritage Museum – (Bronze in Kind) – December Happenings and Holiday/December Happenings at the Gulf Theater! Gift cards are now available at the Gulf Theater! Giving the gift of entertainment. laughter and joy is one that will leave a lasting memory in the hearts and minds of your family and friends. Click HERE to get your gift card!
Frank Desguin Family (Support) – Copy of Frank’s Column in the newspaper. Did you know a turkey, although common if you could get one, was not necessarily the centerpiece of early Thanksgiving celebrations in the area?
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support) – Peace River Gardens Annual Gardens Aglow tradition is back and better than ever! Join us for 10 nights in December as we light up the Gardens with thousands of lights, roast s’mores, sign carols, and even visit with Santa. This evening walking tour is fun for the whole family! Purchase your tickets now on Eventbrite. Come see the Gardens in a whole new light!
Punta Gorda Women’s Club – “Tis the SeaSun Lunch” Sunday, December 5th Noon – 3pm at Nino’s bakery and Restaurant. Donation $45 for tickets or information call 941-815-1901 or email dorothypolson1@gmail.com
Valerie’s House – Valerie’s House is a nonprofit organization that helps grieving families who have lost a loved one in Charlotte, Sarasota, Lee, and Collier County. Contact Christine Carey to volunteer, mentor, refer families, fundraising opportunities, and/or donate (christine@valerieshouse.org or 239-841-0382). We can also schedule Valerie’s House Tours. Valerie’s House’s website: www.valerieshouse.org
Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – Are you ready for our NEW Frappe of the Month?! Introducing our HHC Caramel Gingerbread Frappe!! This is the owners favorite Holiday Treat and she decided to make it into a blended Holiday Beverage. This Frappe is slightly sweet, with notes of gingerbread, paired perfectly with the bold hints of espresso, topped with house-made whipped cream and sprinkled with festive sparkles. Come down and try one today…you might even want to try it in a latte, cold brew, cappuccino, and more.
Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – WOW! Is it really December already? This month we have our NEW Christmas Seasonal Molded Chocolates, only available for this season. With a variety of Christmas themed boxes, bows, and baskets, let us create the perfect gift for anyone in the family this year…and it comes already wrapped. We are open Monday through Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturdays 9:30am to 4pm.
King Fisher Fleet – An introductory course in Florida Fishing is being offered at the PGI Civic Association on Shreve Street in Punta Gorda. Topics to be covered include fishing techniques, tackle selection, rigging, knot tying, lures, baits, cast nets, fish identification, tides, and fishing regulations for fishing in fresh and salt waters of Southwest Florida. Rods, reels, lures, nets and other fishing equipment will be demonstrated during the class and there will be a number of useful handouts issued to students. The class is geared towards beginning anglers, but more experienced fishermen may pick up helpful tips as well. The instructor is long time local fishing guide Capt. Ralph Allen who might even reveal the locations of a few local hotspots! The course is open to all members of the public and is held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for six weeks beginning on Wednesday January 12, 2022. The cost for the class is $50 and advance registration is recommended by calling 941-637-1655.
First United Methodist Church – The 1st United Methodist Church, will host a joyous, fun-filled Christmas Eve experience, designed especially for children and families on Christmas Eve day at Gilchrist Park (400 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda), from 10:00am to 12:00pm. There will be a petting zoo and arts and crafts activities for the children. There will also be a live Nativity scene and music. At 12:00pm there will be a service for children and families and at 3:00pm a contemporary service will be held. Traditional services at 6:00pm and 8:00pm will commence at the Life Center on the church’s campus (507 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda), with special Christmas music featuring harp, hand bells, choir and organ prelude that will begin 30 minutes before each service. For information visit www.whatis1st.com or call 941-639-3842.
Hampton Manor of Punta Gorda – Hampton Manor Premier Assisted Living and Memory Care of Punta Gorda offers support of activities of daily living while enabling our residents to remain as independent as possible. Our community should open their doors by the last part of this years quarter, however we are actively taking reservations to offer a locked in pre-opening rate for the first two years. Please contact Amie Conti, Community Development Manager at (941) 201-8053 or email amie@hamptonmanor.co. Visit our website at www.hamptonmanor.co to view our virtual tour of our Cape Coral community that is similar to Punta Gorda.
Punta Gorda Pub Crawl – THE 11th Annual PUNTA GORDA PUB CRAWL & FOOD DRIVE FOOD TO BENEFIT THE HARRY CHAPIN FOOD BANK. puntagordapubcrawl@gmail.com www.puntagordapubcrawl.com
The 11th Annual Pub Crawl and food drive in downtown Punta Gorda is looking to have hundreds of participants help by bringing canned goods to the event. Date: Feb. 26th 2022, Time: 10:30AM- 1PM Food drive & Pub Crawl Sign in on Virginia St. in front of The Ice House PubCrawl starts at 1:30 last hour 7:30- 8:30PM. Click here for more details!
Punta Gorda Symphony – Punta Gorda Symphony is resuming activities of two popular adult enrichment programs: the Composers Luncheons organized and run by its volunteer affiliate group Symphony Friends, and the Behind the Notes lecture series featuring Maestro Raffaele Livio Ponti and guest musicians. The 2021/2022 season awaits! Subscriptions and seating for single tickets are now available online.
Wreaths Across America – National Remembrance Wreath Laying, Saturday December 18th 10am at the Charlotte Memorial Cemetery.
The Grill at 1951 – Tis’ the Season! Book your holiday party, group meetings, luncheons or any special occasion at The Grill! Let us create the memories for you! Call for details and pricing. Click here to see events, menus and more!
Fisherman’s Village – December calendar of events.
The Charlotte County Concert Band – The Charlotte County Concert Band, under the artistic direction of Mr. Bob Miller, has prepared a wonderful holiday concert entitled “Happy Holidays” to put everyone in the mood for this holiday season. We hope that you will join the band for their holiday concert on Friday night, December 3, at 7:30 at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center at Charlotte High School, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda. Tickets are available online at www.charlottecountyconcertband.com or at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center the night of the concert.
Edison and Ford Winter Estates – School break and day camps at Edison and Ford Winter Estates offer a unique educational experience for children in grades 1-6. Campers get to invent, design, build, and learn in the same location where famous inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford invented some of the world’s best-known innovations. Support from private donors make it possible for the Estates to offer one scholarship for each camp. A committee will determine scholarship eligibility based on financial need so that underprivileged children can experience camp. The deadline to apply for a scholarship is two weeks before the desired camp. Parents or guardians can apply through the website at https://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org/education/camps/.
Copperfish Books – Each year, we invite you to help Deep Creek Elementary School children in need get new books for Christmas. New this year: we’re supporting ALL Charlotte County K-8th Grade schools! Deep Creek Elementary will coordinate the distribution of collected books. Every book you purchase from us for these kids will also earn another 5%, which we’ll turn into more books for the kids.
You can come select books that we have in stock, or select a gift amount below and we’ll choose for you (you can adjust the quantity of the gift when you check out).
Punta Gorda Airport – Arrive early! You’ll be thankful you did. Check out the latest happening at PGD.
Drug Free Punta Gorda – Coalition Meeting Tuesday December 14th 11:30am – 1:00pm with guest presenter Stephanie Kerns PNH, and Amanda Wood LSCW Charlotte Harbor Behavioral Health Care.
GMan Home Watch – HOLIDAY CLIENT APPRECIATION CONTEST – During this holiday season, GMan Home Watch would like to express our sincere thanks for all the wonderful blessings we have received over the years and for the many friends we have made along the way. To show our appreciation to our current Punta Gorda clients, our former Venice area clients as well as assist us in meeting new clients and friends, we are hosting a holiday contest offering gift certificates to AWESOME Punta Gorda restaurants.
There are three prizes to the respective winner in each category. To win one of these exciting prizes, enter by 12/17/2021 by completing all of the following actions: Click here to see how to play/enter!
Sea Grape Gallery – From December 2, 2021 to January 6, 2022, Sea Grape Gallery will be featuring two of their artists, Donna Pape, oil painter, and Renee Farr, glass artist. Many of Donna’s colorful oil paintings are of local tourist attractions that she hopes will bring back happy memories to those who have visited these locations. Donna recently donated her “Peace River Pelicans” painting to Beyond Ourselves’ silent auction that benefited the Peace River Wildlife Center. Prints of this painting are available at Sea Grape Gallery. Realizing that glass was truly her calling, Renee began exploring the many technical aspects of glass which led her away from jewelry and into the production of fused and stain glass artwork. When designing her art, Renee continually looks for new glass techniques. As Renee explains, “I love things ordered and symmetrical and strive for perfection in every piece I create, and each piece is unique and never recreated”. It is obvious when viewing Renee’s art, that she is inspired by life’s beauty and her love of color.
Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.
Light Up The Night: TONIGHT!
December 3rd – 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Downtown Punta Gorda – Corner of Marion Ave. & Taylor St.
Christmas Celebration & Tree Lighting
The Fresh Jersey Tomatoes: 6th ANNUAL TOY DRIVE
Benefitting children receiving services from Charlotte Behavioral Health Care
November 3rd – December 6th
Holly Days Garden Tour: December 3 and 4, 2021 10am – 5pm
Tour 6 decorated gardens in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte
Refreshments offered
Poinsettias and hand crafted items for sale
Tickets ($20) available from club members, by email at puntagordagardenclub@gmail.com, or at 6 gardens locations on the day of the tour
Further information: www.pggc.org, or the club’s Facebook page
Port Charlotte’s Rick Ilmberger Named FHBA 2021 Associate of the Year-
The Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) has named Rick Ilmberger of Suncoast Glass & Mirror as the recipient of the 2021 Associate of the Year Award; a recognition awarded by over 8,000 FHBA members across the state.
Selected by a council of industry leaders, this award encourages expertise in the industry and outstanding leadership qualities. This recognition was presented during the FHBA Fall Leadership Conference at The Westin Sarasota Hotel on October 29.
Ilmberger’s company, Suncoast Glass & Mirror, Inc., has been a part of the Southwest Florida community since 1997. Located in Port Charlotte, the company also serves surrounding communities including Punta Gorda, North Port and Englewood.
With more than a decade of membership in the FHBA through his membership at the Charlotte DeSoto Building Industry Association, Ilmberger has served the association on their Associate Trades Councils, Membership Committee, and the Board of Directors. A defender of workforce development, he is also giving of his time and talent to the Future Builders of America. “Rick is a leader in building the voice for the building industry and a huge advocate for subcontractors and associate members. We are so proud to see Rick received the well-deserved recognition for his dedication” stated Caryn Huff-Sufferling, CDBIA President
About two thirds of the membership of the building industry associations are associate members. Rick has been a leader in both his local builders association, CDBIA and FHBA. In 2014-2015 Rick was the 2nd Vice President for the CDBIA and 2nd Vice President of FHBA 2017-2018, which are the top positions locally and in our state for an associate member.
“The association is pleased to present this award to Rick as a token for his passion for membership, his continued investment in the next generation of the industry and his never-ending enthusiasm for the association,” said Rusty Payton, FHBA CEO.
ARCHway Institute – Newsletter
Animal Welfare League –Pawsitive News
C.A.R.E. – December Newsletter
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter
Cooperfish Books – December Newsletter
Loveland Center – Exciting Updates
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – Gardens at a Glance News
Punta Gorda Mural Society – November Newsletter
SandStar – Newsletter
The Yoga Sanctuary – November Newsletter
Sincerely,
John Wright, President
Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce
Every effort has been made to accommodate guests of all abilities. The Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce is not responsible for the presentation, format or accessibility of customer submitted documents, images and links. For assistance with this document, please email tzajas@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.
Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James
D&D Custom Cabinets
Frank Desguin Family
Kingdom Center for H.O.P.E
Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens
Punta Gorda Isles
Civic Association
Valerie’s House
252 W Marion Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 639-3720
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday: 9am to 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
© 2023, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.
