Dear Chamber Member,
Here are your Friday Facts – Enjoy reading them and have a great Friday and an even better weekend. If you have anything that you would like to put into the Friday Facts please send it to hklossner@puntagorda-chamber.com by noon each Thursday.
We are in need of Golf Cart for use at the Wine & Jazz Festival. If you are able to provide one for us, it can be dropped off on Friday Feb 21 and collected on Saturday Feb 22 after the event ends (early evening). Your assistance in this matter will be gratefully received. Contact the office (941) 639 3710 or please email hklossner@puntagorda-chamber.com
PG Chamber radio show: Now Booking for April 2020
Every month, your Punta Gorda Chamber teams up with local iHeart Media DJ – Bob Alexander to focus on Chamber members and what they are up to. For only $105, you get to pre-record 2 x 2 ½ minute slots (which can be the same or different) which will be inserted into Bob’s show on the first Wednesday and Thursday of each month. This is one of the largest local radio audiences available to us. You don’t even have to go to the studio any more. Bob will call you to record your message(s)! If you are interested, please email jrwright@puntagorda-chamber.com to get you on your way. Ideal for business promotions, events or simply to get your name out on air.
Your Chamber Staff,
John, Pat, Carole, Hazel, Stephanie & Janet
Please remember to RSVP to: reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or 941-639-3720.
February 18: Business After Hours 5:30pm-7 pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Dr., Punta Gorda. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business! Please be sure to RSVP reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.
February 19: Breakfast with The Rays 8-9am
Support your local MLB team The Tampa Bay Rays as their invite you to a Multi-Chamber Breakfast at the Charlotte Sports Park (Stadium) home of The Rays Spring Training. 2300 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948.
February 20: Third Thursday Wine Walk 5-8 pm
In Downtown Punta Gorda. Art-Music-Live Demonstrations-Shopping & Food! What better way to spend an evening out with old friends while you take the time to make new ones. Wine Walk works by donating $10 at the PG Chamber (in advance or on the night) to get a wristband and passport that entitles you to a walking wine tasting – a map of all retail participants will accompany your wristband. Each location will have two different wine varietals to taste! Wristbands can also be purchased at Hipnotique on the day of the event. Not a wine drinker, you can still come and enjoy the atmosphere and shop, dine and stroll around.
February 26: Networking Luncheon – 12 Noon – 1:30 pm.
Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Charlotte High School, Punta Gorda, 1250 Cooper Street, Punta Gorda. Please park off of the bus loop which is on the right side of the school as you are facing the front and enter through B building into the multi-purpose room. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. Cost is $15.00 per person pre-paid or $20.00 at the door. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex..
Harbor Home Builders
Cindy Grover
411 Cross Street, Unit #111
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
941-629-8886
cindy@harborhomebuilders.com
www.harborhomebuilders.com
Custom Home Builder
Sponsored by Jacqueline Benjamin
Remember to utilize the certificates in the New Member packet. These are very valuable to your business.
Bayfront Health Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte (Platinum)
Click Here for February Events. Click Here to view Chest Pain Accreditation information.
Saturday Farmers’ Market (Gold) Click Here to see their February Newsletter
Charlotte State Bank & Trust (Silver) Free Estate, Investment Planning Seminars. Click Here.
Bank Supports Food for the Troops Drive. Receiving a care package can be a real morale booster for those serving in the military. Englewood Bank & Trust is once again serving as a collection point for the Rotary Club of Englewood’s Food for the Troops drive. For drop off places and list of needed items Click Here.
Paradise Golf (Silver) Click Here for details.
Charlotte Players (Bronze)
Auditions for for upcoming available roles in our next production entitled “Baggage” will be this Sunday, February 16th and the following Tuesday, February 18th at 7:00 p.m. Location for auditions will be at the Charlotte Players, 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte. If you have any questions please give the office a call at 941-255-1022. Click Here for more details.
Gator Wilderness Camp School (Support) Arcadia Banquet Feb 27, 2020. Click Here for details.
Profiles Nail Boutique (Support)
We are partnering with HipNotique in downtown Punta Gorda with a promotion for your feet…. Buy any pair of sandals ?? at HipNotique and bring the receipt to Profiles for 10% off your pedicure ?~ Or get a pedicure with Profiles and bring the receipt to HipNotique to get 10% off a pair of sandals like the cute reversible 2-in-1 Modzori.”
Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (Support)
String Fever Returns to Punta Gorda. The amazing musical group Sting Fever is coming to the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association for their third year. Looking for an amazing evening’s entertainment like you’ve never seen before? String Fever is a truly original show featuring five and six stringed electric violins, called violectras, a viola, and a cello.
The fantastic culmination of the show is the group’s signature finale, “The History of Music . . . in 5 minutes.” The unique instruments and charismatic personalities of the members of the group make String Fever a truly unique and unforgettable, not to miss, musical experience. Concert will be at PGICA 2001 Shreve Street. February 23, 7:00 pm. General public is welcome. $20. Tickets may be purchased at the PGICA office, online at www.PGICA.org or by calling 941-637-1655.
Visual Arts Center (Support)
WORKSHOPS Unless otherwise noted workshops are held at the Visual Arts Center Click Here to Register for all events. The Visual Arts Center is located @ 210 Maud St, across from Fishermen’s Village. Gallery & Gift Shop Hours: M-F, 9-4 & Sat, 10-2. Calendar of Events, Classes, Memberships and Call to Artists at visualartcenter.org or call 941.639.8810.
Pine Needle Baskets Workshop with Kathryn Erickson
3/28 from 10am-2pm Cost: $100 ($90 VAC members). If you can sew, you can learn how to form pine needles into a piece of art. Learn to coil pine needles and finish basket on your own. Nothing but patience is needed!
Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, Launchings, Ceremonies & Dedications. These are all 5:30 pm unless otherwise noted. Come out and welcome our newest members.
February 24, 2020: wellBeing Acupuncture, 1401 Tamiami Trail, Suite B, Punta Gorda
February 25, 2020: Illusions Salon & Spa, 115 Taylor St., Punta Gorda
February 27, 2020: The Treasure Chest. 1133 Bal Harbor Blvd., Suite 1149, Punta Gorda
March 2, 2020: Fresh Power Smoothies & Sandwiches, 205 Wood Street, Punta Gorda
March 5, 2020: Pedelec SQB, LLC, 1205 Elizabeth Street, Unit B, Punta Gorda
March 19, 2020: Dream Salon & Spa, 117 Herald Court, Unit 115, Punta Gorda
March 26, 2020: Society of St. Vincent de Paul, 25200 Airport Road, Punta Gorda.
April 3, 2020: Gator Mikes, 35 NE Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral 4 pm
Most Common Birthday
Everyone has a birthday, right? Well it appears that more people have a birthday on September 9. That is the most common birthday in the United States. Birth data also shows that September is the busiest month for babies being born.
Remember to click these links to see events that are coming up
Click This Link for Events Coming in February
Click this link for Future Events
The Orange House Wine Bar
320 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda 941-505-8233
We are now open for breakfast and lunch!
Tuesday-Saturday 8 am – 2 pm
Thurs. February 13: 7pm-10pm Start Valentine’s weekend out right with live music at the Orange House with Doug Cassens and Bill Fredricks.
Fri. Feburary 14: 7pm-10pm Spend this Valentine’s Day falling in love with the acoustic guitar by Jonny Puma!
Sat.February 15: 7pm-10pm Can’t make it on Friday?!? Don’t worry, Jonny Puma will be right back at it again on Saturday. And of course, for those of you who can’t get enough, twice is always nice!
Punta Gorda Diner – Grand Opening Specials thru Mar 8th with coupon (one per person) which are available at Chamber office. 3941 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 or (941) 205 8966.
Players Circle at the Theatre Shell Factory – Presents Laughter on the 23rd Floor, Feb 11-Mar8. Click Here for details.
St Vincent de Paul – Walk for the Poor
The four St Vincent de Paul conferences of the Charlotte county district are holding the 11th annual Walk for the Poor on February 15th at Laishley park. Registration begins at 8:00 am and the walk begins at 9:00 on a leisurely walk along the Trabue harbor walk. Funds raised help those struggling with financial, material and educational assistance. For more information call Maryanne at 941-268-9678 or visit:https://svdp-dov.org/Charlotte and click on Walk for the Poor.
The BEAN on 41 Coffee Shop – Join us Monday for a Free Concert celebrating President’s Day. Our weekend activity includes “Bean on the Run” coffee bar set-up all weekend long at the “Big Boyz Toy” Expo at the Events Center Friday-Sunday…Come by the big President’s Day rally & concert at The BEAN in Towles Plaza on Monday from 3-7p. Parking Lot opens at 3pm. Festivities on-going. Live Music begins 4 pm – Featured Headliner “Gimi Jimi” Jimi Hendrix Tribute Band comes on at 6:00. Local entertainers Tiki Tom & Friends begin at 4:30. Click here for complete details and to reserve a free ticket. BYOB, BYOC.
The Homeless Coalition – Tacos & Tours
Come join The Homeless Coalition for a Fiesta Fun evening and learn what’s new in 2020. We are hosting Tacos and Tours at The Coalition Café located at 1476 Kenesaw Street in Port Charlotte on Tuesday, February 18th from 6pm-7:30pm. For $10 you can enjoy a delicious Mexican feast from local area restaurants including Joseph’s Deli and many more. Come see how feed, shelter and create a successful plan to alleviate and prevent hunger and homelessness. Proceeds will fund the programs and services that assist residents in our community with a “hand up. Limited spots available, call Darcy Woods at (941) 627-4313, Ext. 134 or email Darcy.Woods@cchomelesscoalition.org.
SandStar Remodeling – All About Paint, February 18, 5-6pm. For more details Click Here.
The Punta Gorda Rotary Club Foundation is hosting a wine and cheese “Friendraiser”, from 6:30-8:30 PM, February 20th, for its Water4Life Mozambique international project at the Military Heritage Museum, 800 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. Rotarian Arnie Eastburn, who also heads the Water4Life nonprofit (https://water4lifemozambique.org/) will give a short presentation on the significance of bringing clean, safe water to remote villages in the Zambezia Province of Mozambique, Africa. Tickets are $25 and also include access to the museum’s displays, and they may be purchased at https://squareup.com/store/punta-gorda-rotary-club.
The Yoga Sanctuary
Introduction to Yoga Series, Mondays, February 10- March 16, 5.30-6.45pm, $108, 112 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda. No flexibility required; all ages and body types welcome! This six-week series, limited to eight students, will walk you through the basics of yoga. Each student will receive a copy of Yoga Fan: Practice Guide for Everyday as well as guidance and support in how to continue one’s practice after the completion of the series. Due to the small class size, which allows for individualized attention, pre-registration is required.
Partner Yoga, Saturday February 15,3–5pm,$75 A Couple
Partner Yoga will heighten your sense of curiosity and exploration. When practicing with another, you can explore poses in depth and support each other in discovering the dynamics of different poses. Partner yoga is a great way to practice surrender, empathy and balance. It’s also just a lot of fun – you’ll laugh as you strengthen and stretch the body! So this Valentine’s weekend, grab a partner and join us for the fun. There may even be a bit of chocolate to share with your partner at the end! No previous yoga experience necessary.
Community Acupuncture Clinic, Saturday February 22, 12 – 2pm, Sliding Scale $25 – $50.
We’re so glad to be welcoming back Rebecca Moore from Points for Health Community Acupuncture! Acupuncture is a form of medicine in which needles are inserted into the body at various locations to create a change. Community acupuncture is when acupuncture is performed in a group setting with a number of people in the same room, creating a sense of community as we gather, in a quiet space. For more information please visit www.theyogasanctuary.biz or call 941.505.YOGA (9642).
Soul Dance Temple
Qigong classes start this Monday, February 17 at 1 PM with Jim Wilson. Qigong Exercises are the foundational practices of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The purpose of these exercises is to maintain physical, spiritual and emotional health. Classes are $40 per month (4 classes) or $15 if dropping in.
Sunday, February 23 from 3 to 5 PM: ASTROLOGY 101 Workshop. Learn the truth about the astro logic, as taught by the ancients. Science is catching up what has been written. We are electromagnetic. Learn why, how, and how this knowledge can change your life. $45 per person.
Belly Dancing Classes are ongoing: Tuesdays and Thursdays 5 to 6 PM, and 7 to 8 PM. Also during the day on Thursdays at 11 AM.
Meditation and Rhythm YOGA classes are ongoing: Mondays and Wednesdays 6 to 7 PM. Connect to source, radiate peace and love to the world. Work on your soul, mind, and body.
Register online at www.souldancetemple.com, call 941-347-7280.
Click Here for General Info Flyers
FGCU – Celebrating Black History Month Click Here for all details.
The Charlotte County-Punta Gorda-Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will be holding a series of Community Outreach Workshop Events to solicit public opinion, ideas, and comments. Click Here for more details and event schedule.
WENG – We will be holding a “Listener & Advertiser Appreciation” event at the Military Heritage Museum on March 20th to celebrate our new 98.1 frequency.
Charlotte Technical College – Spring Job Fair on April 8 at 11am-2.30pm. Click Here for more details.
Are you looking for somewhere to volunteer? C.A.R.E. (The Center for Abuse and Rape Emergences) helps victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and violent crimes. We have outreach and awareness, answering the phones, hospital response team and two Re-Use stores. Looking for compassionate, listening and caring individuals. For more information, please contact Julie Dennis at 941-639-5499 or julie.dennis@carefl.org, or go to carefl.org/volunteer for more information.
Valerie’s House Launches Grief Support Program for Young Adults Program meets needs of growing number of grieving college-age and young adults
Valerie’s House, the first and only grief support program in Southwest Florida focused solely on helping children grieve, has launched a program to help young adults work through their grief following the death of parent, sibling or friend. The Young Adult Grief Support Group is geared toward 18 to 25-year-olds and will meet at Valerie’s House- Fort Myers, 1762 Fowler Street in Fort Myers from 6:00pm – 8:00pm on the 1st Monday of each month. Valerie’s House Program Coordinator Ally O’Brien, who has been working with Valerie’s House since she was an intern at Florida Gulf Coast University four years ago, will lead the group. To learn more about the program or sign up, visit www.valerieshouseswfl.org/young-adult-program.
Mark Martella, Esq. of Icard Merrill
We all recently experienced what happens when someone passes suddenly and unexpectedly. Each day is a gift, and we can never predict what the future holds. Have you taken the steps to protect you and your family if something unexpected happens to you or your spouse? To get answers to all your estate planning questions and learn how to protect your family, contact Mark Martella, Esq. of Icard Merrill at 941-206-3700 or mmartella@icardmerrill.com to schedule a complimentary one hour, no obligation consultation, and learn how to be prepared for the unexpected.
Copperfish Books Click Here for their best new books this month.
Sea Grape Artists Gallery is proud to announce that during the month of February they will be showcasing the artworks of both Joy Dibble, acrylic and watercolor artist, and Karen Cohen, enamel, beads and metal artist. Click here for all info. In addition they are featuring Beverly Yankwitt, mixed media artist, and Marlene Jones, horsehair pottery artist. Click here for all info.
FRANTZ Eye Care Botox special. Click here for all info.
Howard Spielman – Artist. As a result of a Charlotte Arts showcase my work is now displayed in the
lobby of the administration building in Port Charlotte for February. In conjunction with that display, I had a video interview with C.C. T.V. which was aired locally January 16. Click Here for the interview. I also belong to The COCO Art Gallery at Coconut Point. Spotlight Magazine saw my work at the gallery and interviewed me at my home studio with a featured article about me and my work including the cover of the magazine to be published in the next few weeks.
United Way of Charlotte County has done presentations to over 1500 people here in Charlotte County during the last few months. Won’t you help us make it to our 2000 person goal of sharing the good work being done? We are mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty through individuals sharing their time, talents & treasures and getting businesses engaged. Local lives are being transformed. Please call our office (941) 627-3539 to schedule a 5-25 minute presentation for your group or business.
“We’re glamming it up here at HipNotique!
Space is limited so make your appointment ASAP at www.originalfairyhair.com (HipNotique cannot take your reservation!) We will make every effort to accommodate walk-ins but we cannot guarantee if her schedule is booked with appointments! And as usual, we will be pouring wine, treats provided by Charlene Demetrops-(The Cocoa Exchange) and music to sing & dance with Karaoke Queen Jeannie Smyth~ so come join the party!” . Click Here to see the flyer.
We are partnering with Profiles Nail Boutique in downtown Punta Gorda with a promotion for your feet… Buy any pair of sandals ?? at HipNotique and bring the receipt to Profiles for 10″% off your pedicure ?~ Or get a pedicure with Profiles and bring the receipt to HipNotique to get 10% off a pair of sandals like the cute reversible 2-in-1 Modzori.”
Gator Mike’s
Gator Mike’s is sponsoring a Gator Fest 2020, on March 6th, Featuring the band Buckcherry. There are sponsorship opportunities available. Click Here to see all of the info. Click Here to see Latitude 78 flyer.
Senior Friendship Center
Many businesses in our community have been sponsors of Senior Friendship Centers’ birthday club. Thanks to these gracious sponsors, our birthday celebrations have truly been special events for our senior clients and have also provided them with valuable resources and information. Sponsorship of a monthly birthday celebration at our Harbour Heights location involves providing treats for approximately 20 guests and a 15 minute presentation of your business, services, or any topic of interest relevant to seniors age 60+.
If you would like to become a sponsor in 2020 or know of a business that might be interested, please contact Jeanne DeLauro at 941-255-0723 or email jdelauro@friendshipcenters.org. Many and heartfelt thanks!!
Do you exchange foreign currency at the Chamber?
Rosa Parks: Each person must live their life as a model for others.
When we moved cross-country, my wife and I decided to drive both of our cars. Nathan, our eight-year-old, worriedly asked, “How will we keep from getting separated?”
“We’ll drive slowly so that one car can follow the other,” I reassured him.
“Yeah, but what if we do get separated?” he persisted.
“Well, then I guess we’ll never see each other again,” I quipped.
“Okay,” he said. “I’m riding with mom.
As the economy here in Southwest Florida remains strong, more businesses every day are using radio to compete. As a result, we have a huge need for sales account executives at both WENG and WFLN. No radio experience needed, but sales experience preferred. High energy, good people and organization skills, a smile, plus a desire for success working in a fun environment are all that are necessary. You know our stations for their excellence in delivering the very best in community broadcasting. We bring you local information, national and local news, 24 hour weather, Tampa Bay Rays and Lightning and high school sports, as well as compelling national syndicated programming. Join our radio sales team now – Call Bill Fleming, Sales Manager at 941-474-3231 for details. WENG, WFLN and Fiorini Broadcasting are equal opportunity employers.
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.
