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Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Inc Logo

Friday, June 23, 2023

Chamber President John Wright’s newspaper column from June 20th.

Your Chamber's Got Talent

August 17th, 7pm

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

Chamber Members: SHOW US YOUR UNIQUE TALENT!

Whitney Grace, last year’s winner, will open the show, but won’t be a contestant.

Join us for a fun evening of entertainment from 10 local acts sharing their talent with the community: singing, stand-up comedy, dancing, poetry reading, etc.

There is no charge to enter!

sponsored needed

We’re looking for 2 more sponsors at $300 each.

SIGN UP TODAY!

PG Chamber Radio Show Exclusively For PG Chamber Members:
BOOKING FOR July!

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 simple. Bob will call you, set up a recording time and it’ll be done over the phone and inserted into the programming of this popular show. You get the option to record two slots or record one to air twice during the show. Bob will let you know during which hour it will air. The cost is $110 (payable to the PG Chamber, not iHeart). To register for the show, email John Wright. Only 10 businesses per month. It’s a great way to promote your business, advertise an event, or show community support.

Members-Only Networking Events

Latest Past Events

Four Points By Sheraton (Platinum)

T.T.’s Tiki Bar is exactly what you need. Come and enjoy a great meal while having a drink in your hand and toes in the sand. We have two great bands this weekend! On Friday, we have Tropical Avenue starting at 6:00 pm. On Saturday, fan favorite 22N is back! Please get here early to get a seat, because they bring a big crowd. Please click here to see when all of your favorite bands are performing in June. The Tiki Bar is offering 6 summer lunch specials Monday through Friday for only $12.95. Enjoy them while they last! The Tiki Bar is planning their annual July 4 celebration! We will have a traditional BBQ buffet for only $19.95++. We will also feature live music all day and are hosting a cornhole tournament. Mark your calendars for this can’t miss event! The Harborside Garden, is now open for private events as well. We are currently booking weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, celebration of life, corporate events etc. It can hold up to 300 people for dinner and 500 for a reception style get together. Please call Kelly Williamson at 941-637-6770 for more information. The following are our specials:

  1. Join us for Happy Hour in the Dockside Grill from 4-7:00 pm every day of the week. We offer $3 draft beer, $4 house wine, and $5 premium cocktails
  2. Join us for Happy Hour at T.T.’s Tiki Bar from open to 6:00 pm Monday to Friday. We offer $4 drafts, $4 well cocktails, and $5 house wines. 
  3. The Dockside Grill serves Prime Rib every Saturday
  4. The Dockside Grill features a different nightly special.

Downtown Farmers Market (Gold)

Open 8 am to 1 pm Saturdays..

TIME Realty Services, Inc. (Gold)

I have several links for you this week to show you what I have available:

If you have any interest and want to know more, reach out to Della Booth, Broker cell 239-699-4493

The Wyvern (Gold)

The Wyvern (Gold) – Special room offer for teachers and staff in Charlotte, DeSoto, Sarasota, and Lee counties, $199. Based on Availability June 1-August 31 Blackout Date July 4 Valid School ID Required for Check In One Night Stay In A Standard King Room Sunset Champagne Toast for Two 10% off all Food & Beverage

Click here for a special Cinco de Mayo Special Rate! 941.639.7700 Ext 3, 101 East Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda

CAM Realty (Silver)

Virtual office available in Punta Gorda, $99/+tax per month. Provides your company with the image of an office without the cost of dedicated office space. Contact CAM Realty: 941.833.0083.

Coastal Expressions Wine Bar (Silver)

Located in the Isles at 1133 Bal Harbor Blvd. Suite #1135. We offer a fun experience including delicious food, wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, retail wine by the bottle or a unique boutique gift … plus family activities. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm. We serve breakfast flatbreads and mimosas, flatbread lunch specials with a complimentary glass of wine, beer or drink of your choice, a full dinner menu including dessert, our “anytime” date night dinner special for two with a bottle of red or white, our signature “Charcuterie Boards” and so more … Visit www.coastalexpressions.com to view menu and events calendar. Come check us out or call 941.214.8599.

Creative Window Treatments (Silver)

We are here for your window treatments needs. Area’s only Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer. Plantation shutters, blinds, shades, drapery and more. Call 941.637.0015.

Fishermen's Village (Silver)

Sunset Beach Club events.  Call for VENDORS!!! Display your products/services at Fishermen’s Village during one (or several!!) of our upcoming special events: Independence Day Celebration (July 4), TikiFest (August 5), Key Lime Fest (September 23). For information / registration form, contact:Kathy Burnam,kburnam@fishermensvillage.com

Fishermen’s Village announces our inaugural Blues Fest, Saturday, June 17, noon-10 pm at our scenic Dry Beach/Tiki Bar! Performances to be presented by the Joey Gilmore Band, Dottie Kelly Band and Rockin’ Jake! Enjoy a mini weekend getaway to enjoy Blues Fest by booking your stay at The Suites at Fishermen’s Village! Visit www.fishermensvillage.com for full details!

Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea (Silver)

Next week is the LAST week of June! Make sure to try our Limited June HHC Orange Creamsicle Frappe before it’s gone!  

Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine (Silver)

INTRODUCING our NEW HHC White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bark!!! This Bark tastes like a fresh strawberry cheesecake right out of the oven incorporated with our Handcrafted White Chocolate leaving your taste buds wanting more! These are a LIMITED item so make sure to pick one up before they are gone! 

CeJay Associates (Silver In Kind)

New service: Website Rescue. Did you lose your website? Has your website been hacked? When it comes to rescuing a website, time is important. Contact us to discover your recovery options. Learn more by calling 941.204.0007 or go to https://cejaywebsites.com/services/

Military Heritage Museum (Silver in Kind)

2023-2024 Gulf Theater Season 5!

Summer camps for 4th-8th graders begin June 26. Space is limited; registration is required. Click here for information.

Patriots Gala November 11 – Sponsorship Opportunities

Animal Welfare League(Bronze)

Saturday on the Lawn ( https://fb.me/e/4rqghPtATis this weekend and we’ve got a surprise for you!!! Not only will Gurmpy’s Hot Dogs be here, we have a HUGE adoption special too!!!

Our Adult & Senior Cats and Large Breed Dogs are just $25. As you may know the shelter is still over full. We’ve got over 170 Adult and Senior, Cats & Large Breed Dogs available for this offer. There is no appointment needed, but you can fill out the pre-adoption application by visiting AWLshelter.org/adopt (This price excludes all Puppies, Kittens, & small dogs)

HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital (Bronze

HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital has announced the opening of a second freestanding emergency room serving patients in Port Charlotte, North Port and surrounding communities. The new emergency center, HCA Florida Tamiami Trail Emergency, is located at 150 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33953. 

PicklePlex® of Punta Gorda (Bronze)

Reservations are necessary for Monday Night Guided Practice. Sign up by 9 am Mondays. The first 26 registered may attend. New players, please email gloria.reilly@pickleplex.org

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Support)

Charlotte County Foodies, it’s your night! C.A.R.E. Auxiliary presents their annual Cooking with C.A.R.E. event on June 21. Join Chef Keith Meyer at FM Don’s and watch as he prepares a delicious meal for all of our guests to enjoy. Contact C.A.R.E. office for details and ticket purchase. 941-639-5499.

Frank Desguin Family (Support)

Did you know the first “named” hurricane to strike this area was Donna? As stated in my previous column, the United States didn’t begin naming tropical storms and hurricanes, using only female names, until 1953.  

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support)

The exhibit “Caribbean Colors” is on display at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, Tuesday – Sunday through August 31, and features world renowned artist Leoma Lovegrove’s art amongst whimsical horticulture displays. 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda. www.peacerivergardens.org or call 941-621-8299 for more information. Come paint Leoma Lovegrove inspired artwork with Vino’s Picasso artists outside in the Gardens. Class is held outdoors near the gift shop. $69 for members, $89 for non-members. Beverages will be available for purchase. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/639422970317 for more information. 

Valerie's House - Charlotte County (Support)

SAVE THE DATE!! Valerie’s House will be participating in “Pizza for a Cause” Tuesday, July 11th (11am-10pm) at Bocca Lupo. Proceeds from all 3 locations will be going to Valerie’s House Charlotte County (dine-in or take-out). Locations: Port Charlotte: 1900 Tamiami Trail, 33948 North Port: 4301 Aidan Lane, 34297 West Villages (Venice): 12105 Mercado Drive, 34293) Valerie’s House is a nonprofit organization that helps children and families who have lost a loved one. To learn more about our program, please visit Valerie’s House (valerieshouse.org).

Virginia B Andes Volunteer Community Clinic (Support)

Save the date: Country for a Cause, Saturday, September 30, 6 pm Charlotte Harbor Event Center. Featuring the Boogie Men.

Visual Arts Center (Support)

The Visual Arts Center is announcing our “5×5 Mural Fundraiser” Call to Artists – Donate your talent to help the Visual Arts Center for our inaugural 5×5 Mural Fundraiser. We are inviting artists to participate by creating original works of art, in a variety of mediums on 5×5 canvases. Collected canvases will be hung together to create a beautiful mural during the months of September and October. A sneak peek exclusive pre-sale reception will be held in September. It will be on display from September 14 – November 7, 2023 and is a wonderful event to support the arts in our community! Call or stop in the Visual Arts Center for more information. 210 Maud St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (941) 639-8810  www.VisualArtCenter.org

Member Information

D.I.S.Tech Services Inc. – We manage IT systems for other companies. Whether you have 5 computers or 150, we have the tools and management skills to help your business succeed. Give us a call at 941-867-9772 or 217-492-8042 to see how we can help you.

Charlotte County Homeless Coalition – Thursday, July 20 6:00pm Dart Tournament at the Icehouse Pub. Induvial registration $25 or 4 player teams for $80. Sponsorships available. Click here for more information.

White Pine Services – Hate cleaning? We love it! Looking for a professional commercial cleaning company? Look no further. Clean Here for details.

Big Shot Marketing & Design – We are committed to providing tangible results for our clients. That means generating leads, increasing online purchases or reaching any digital marketing goal you’re looking to achieve. Your website should be making you money. It’s that simple. If your website isn’t generating leads or closing sales, then it’s time to rethink your digital marketing strategy. In order to have truly effective marketing strategies, you need to understand who your ideal client is, and how to reach them.

Martella Law Firm – It’s very easy to start a business by getting on Florida’s Sunbiz website and filling out a form. However, did you know that the form is only step one in a multi-step process necessary to protect your personal assets from business debts. If you have questions, give Mark Martella, Esq. of the Martella Law Firm PLLC a call at 941-867-6865 to schedule a complimentary, confidential, one hour consultation to discuss how to properly set up your business and protect your family’s assets. 

Nino’s Bakery & Cafe – PIZZA! PIZZA! PIZZA! Now for Lunch every day, Tues-Sun, at Nino’s Bakery & Café. 16” or 20” pies – or get only a slice, cut from a 20” pie, for only $5 (cheese) or $5.25 (pepperoni, veggie). Ready about 11 AM through 2:45 PM. Coffee, cappuccino (hot or iced), fresh iced tea, bottled sodas, beer, wine, cocktails. Call to order or stop in: 941-833-8912. 3078 Cooper St Ext, east of Tamiami Trail, in Punta Gorda. More info: ninosbakery.us

Peace River Wildlife Center – The Peace River Wildlife Center’s Engraved Brick Fundraiser to benefit their new education center has begun. Bricks are available in 4”x8” and 8”x8” sizes and with a variety of clip art options. You may also select a 4”x4” replica tile for your home or office. For more information, please call PRWC (941) 637-3830 or visit https://prwildlife.org/prwc-capital-campaign-fundraising/

Carmelo’s – Join us for Outdoor Dining in the Pavilion! 

Our Garden Dining area is closed for the summer, but you can still dine outdoors in our Pavilion. And if you join us on Fridays or Saturdays, you will have Live Music too! (live music is weather pending)

Punta Gorda Symphony – The Punta Gorda Symphony eagerly introduces our esteemed new Artistic/Music Director, Richard Stoelzel, and invites our patrons to discover his inspiring plans firsthand.

Punta Gorda Family Physical Therapy – We are now accepting Florida Blue Insurance. Medicare is coming very soon! Give us a call at 941.548.6131 or click here.

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau – the inaugural Gulf Coast Cornhole Classic June 22-24 at various location in Charlotte County. This three-day social festival and pro-invitational is built around the competitive game of cornhole and live music. Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach will be the host site for three years so our community can look forward to this event for years to come. Cornhole players of all ages and skill level are welcome to participate with a $20,000 guaranteed prize purse. Sign up to play at: https://americancornhole.ticketsauce.com/e/aco-gulf-coast-classic/tickets

Connect Print & Promotions, LLC – there is no such thing as Summertime marketing blues when you hashtag connect, Punta Gorda!

YOU are the brand | we are the STANDARD

commercial printing ✅

logo/graphic design ✅

next-level promotional swag ✅

branded apparel ✅

signs & graphics ✅

888.978.3437 📞

info@connectpromo.net 📧

www.connectpromo.net 🖥 

www.Facebook.com/connectpromo

www.Instagram.com/connectprintpromotions

… it’s ALWAYS about the 👊🏻 people! 

#connect 💚🖨💚 #fortheloveofprinting

Suncoast Humane Society – We are thrilled to announce our participation in the PetcoLove statewide adoption event coming to Florida June 23-25 with help from BobsFromSkechers.

 Animal shelters across Florida will be participating with a goal to find 5,000 dogs and cats new homes! Adoption fees are waived for this event. Follow MegaAdoptFlorida and visit MegaAdoptFlorida.com for more info. 

St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart – The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart is thrilled to announce that it has received a $50,000 grant, funded by the Charlotte Community Foundation (CCF) Hurricane Disaster Relief Fund. This generous grant will be used to support our neighbors in need who are struggling with past due rent or utility bills, or completing essential repairs to make their homes habitable and safe

Punta Gorda Elks – Sunday, July 9 7:00 pm, Straight from the Local Comedy Theatre. Comedian Mutzie! Under the Tent. VIP Tickets $30 Cash Bar, Food available for purchase. Click here for more details.

Punta Gorda Boat Club – Sunset Social. Do you have your own boat? Interested in swapping stories with other boaters? Want to learn more about boating in Charlotte Harbor? Well then, come join us for our Sunset Social which is held every fourth Friday from 5 to 7pm at our Clubhouse 802 W Retta Esplanade in Punta Gorda. We’ll be happy to tell you more about our Club as well. Bring an appetizer to share and the beverage of your choice. Call Jan at 941-743-2472 for more information, or check us out at puntagordaboatclub.com. Hope to see you there!

ERC Refund – I’m looking for a few people who can refer local businesses to me that qualify for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC Refund). I pay Referral Fees based upon the number of W-2 employees the business retained during the pandemic. Click here for more information.

Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home – Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home is now a certified Veterans Funeral Specialist (VFS) provider.

ARCHway Institute – Mark your calendars! ARCHway’s discovery dinner is October 20, 2023

Peace River Shopper Latest Edition.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Latest Past Events

Ribbon Cutting – The Refindery Market

The Refindery Market 117 Herald Ct Unit 1111, Punta Gorda

Let's help The Refindery Market celebrate their Anniversary with a ribbon cutting! They're located at 117 Herald Ct #1111 in Punta Gorda. We'll cut the ribbon at 5:30pm but stick […]

Free

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Parlade Schaefer Schortz CPAs

Tax Associate
Primary responsibility is preparing Income Tax Returns including forms 1040, 1065, 1120, 1120S, and 1041, along with some state returns. The person will review client accounting, make necessary adjustments and prepare financial statements. This position will also assist clients with IRS issues and write responses to the IRS. There will also be some payroll reporting, year-end reporting and administrative work as needed.
For more information, click here.

Florida Premier Contractors

 


Florida Premier Contractors is hiring. We are a commercial general contractor located in Punta Gorda, FL. We are hiring for the following positions: Assistant Superintendent, Project Superintendent, Project Assistant, Project Manager & estimator. Please send your resume to admin@fpcbuilds.com

Disaster Services Corporation

Disaster Case Manager

Reports to: Disaster Case Management Supervisor, Program Manager Status: Full-time Exempt Grant Funded Will work in the following counties: Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and Sarasota

BACKGROUND: Disaster Case Management is a time-limited process by which a skilled associate (Disaster Case Manager) partners with a disaster-affected individual or family (Survivor) in order to plan for and achieve realistic goals for recovery following a disaster. This comprehensive and holistic Disaster Case Management approach to recovery extends beyond providing relief, providing a service, or meeting urgent needs. ROLE OF THE CASE MANAGER:

The Disaster Case Manager serves as a primary point of contact, assisting the Survivor in coordinating necessary services and resources to address the Survivor’s complex disaster recovery needs in order to re-establish normalcy. The Disaster Case Manager relies on the Survivor to play an active or lead role in his or her own recovery. The Disaster Case Manager reports to a DCM Supervisor.  This position is full time with full benefit package.  

Please contact Joanna Pohopin at 239 908-7492, for more details. Apply at: Employment Opportunities | Disaster Services Corporation – Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA (svdpdisaster.org)

United Way of Charlotte County

Resource Development Director
We work with a great team, and serve an incredible community. All we need is someone to help us obtain the resources to continue making an impact! Click here for more information:
https://www.unitedwayccfl.org/…/now-hiring-resource

Coastal Expressions Wine Bar

Kitchen Help
Are you looking for a part-time position with a limited menu for easy prepping and execution? Flexible shifts? Excellent opportunity to learn culinary skills. Week days and/or evenings plus Saturdays. Occasional special events. 12-20 hours/week. $12/hour plus tips. Please send resume to loris@coastal-expressions.com or call 941.214.8599.

Community News

ATTENTION VOTERS!

Vote-by-mail ballot requests must be RENEWED after each General Election Cycle. To vote by Mail in 2023-2024, you must submit a new Vote by Mail Request.

Click here for more information.

32nd ANNUAL FREEDOM SWIM!

This year’s Freedom Swim will start at 2:30pm on Tuesday, July 2, 2023, Discussion with swimmers before the start with occur at 2:20pm. There will be no Troll Service. As always, this is intended to be a happening rather than a race. For the route and more information, click HERE.

THE BOO BALL FAMILY REUNION

October 21, 2023 – benefitting The Boys & Girls Club of Charlotte County & Crossroads Hope Academy.

Click HERE for more information.

Newsletters

Animal Welfare League – May Pawsitive Press

Archway Institute – Newsletter

Boys & Girls Club of Charlotte County – Newsletter

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County – Newsletter

Charlotte Community Foundation – June Newsletter

Charlotte County Habitat For HumanityMay/June Newsletter

Charlotte County Sherriff’s Office – June Crime Prevention Newsletter

Copperfish Books – May Newsletter

Downtown Farmers Market – June Newsletter

EnVision Quest – May Newsletter

Loveland Center – Summer is Here!

Military Heritage Museum – Gulf Theater June Newsletter

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – June Gardens at a Glance

Punta Gorda Mural SocietyMay Newsletter

SandStar Remodeling – Newsletter

Senior Friendship CentersNewsletter

Suncoast Humane Society – Humane Connection Newsletter

TIME Realty Services Inc. – Newsletter

Valerie’s HouseNewsletter

YMCA Of Southwest Florida – President’s Newsletter

The Yoga Sanctuary – June Newsletter

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Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Support Partners