Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Inc Logo

Friday, May 26th, 2023

Chamber President John Wright's newspaper column from April 25th

Downtown Bash

Saturday May, 27th 5-9pm

FREE Admission!

Live Music Featuring:
Tropical Avenue

Bring a chair, kick back, and relax! 
Beer, wine, water, soda, and food will be for sale.
No Coolers Please!

Historic Charlotte County Courthouse

See You There!

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The Laird's Golf Challenge

June 17th, 12pm to 3pm

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Laird's Golf Tournament

last day to sign up is june 8th!

Includes Golf, Lunch Buffet & Festivities
Cash Bar – Prizes Galore

topgolf fort myers

2021 Topgolf Blvd in Fort Myers

Charlotte County Arts Showcase

Thursday, June 22nd at 7pm

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An evening exploring the beauty and richness of the arts in Charlotte County. Enjoy an opportunity to see a potter’s wheel in action; young people singing and performing; a taste of opera and the glorious sound of an orchestra. An extraordinary occasion to see all of this in one evening.

Your Chamber's Got Talent

August 17th, 7pm

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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

Please Support Our Local Businesses!

Partners in Action News

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 The Fulcos starting at 7:00 pm. On Saturday, we have Twinkle kicking off the fun at 7:00 pm. Get here early for a good seat, because they pack the house. Please click here to see when all of your favorite bands are performing in May. 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..

The Nix Team, Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty (Gold)

Market update: Buyers are buying and sellers are selling in SWFL!

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)

May calendar of events; May 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 Chocolate and Wine (Silver)

Summer is approaching but that doesn’t stop us from drinking! Our Wine and Craft Beer Tastings are YEAR-ROUND every Saturday from 9:30 to 2:30! Call and make a reservation or walk in and join our list! 

Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea (Silver)

Next week starts our NEW Frappe of the Month! Back from popular demand we have our Summer Orange Creamsicle Frappe! Perfect for this summer heat! 

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)

Are you passionate about animals and looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in their lives? The Animal Welfare League (AWL) is seeking new volunteers to join our team and help us with our cat care program in local pet stores, dog walking, and morning cat care at the shelter.

Charlotte Players (Bronze)

Charlotte Players/Charlotte County Imagination Library are looking for 4 more cast members to be a part of our 11th Annual Comedy for A Cause Fundraiser on September 29th. Rehearsals begin the week after the 4th of July. The event is an entertaining night of dinner and Improv led by Dr. Chris Constance. Located at The Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center. For more information email Lori at lori.wagner@charlotteplayers.org or Chris at chris@charlottecountyimaginationlibrary.org.

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

Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James (Support)

Rick Fontana of Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James was named on the 2023 Forbes Top Wealth Advisor Best-in-State. 

2023 Forbes Top Wealth Advisors Best-In-State, developed by Shook Research, is based on the period from 6/30/2021 to 6/30/2022 and was released on 4/4/2023. 39,007 nominations were received and 7,321 advisors won. Neither Raymond James nor any of its advisors pay a fee in exchange for this award.

Please see https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-in-state-wealthadvisors/?sh=181ba856ab97 for more info.

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

C.A.R.E. would like to say thank you to all our community partners and our private donors. Your continued generosity allows us to provide much needed victim services for the survivors in our community. Every donation and partnership counts. https://carefl.org/giving/donate/ for help or more information call 941-639-5499.

Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary (Support)

Sign up now for the Golf Scramble on Saturday, June 24 at St Andrews South Golf Club. Golfers of all abilities welcome! Registration fee is $85 ($50 tax deductible) and includes golf, cart, continental breakfast, lunch and prizes. Sign up with a foursome, or we can pair you up. You can support your local non-profit (501c3) by golfing, sponsoring a hole or donating raffle and silent auction items. It would be much appreciated! Download the registration form at www.standrewssouth.com or call Sue at 941.639.5261 ext 3 for information

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support)

Tail Waggin’ Tuesdays: For each pet, there is a $5 admission fee that goes to AWL. Pay admission at ticket booth. For more information visit www.PeaceRiverGardens.org or call 941.621.8299.

Valerie's House - Charlotte County (Support)

Valerie’s House is a non-profit organization that helps grieving children and families who have lost a loved one go on to live fulfilling lives. Our vision is that no child grieves alone. If you would like a tour of Valerie’s House, please contact Christine Carey (christine@valerieshouse.org 239.841.0382).

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.

Member Information

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

 

Nino’s Bakery & Cafe – NEW for Breakfast at Nino’s Bakery & Cafe – try our Egg Bake! Similar to our quiche but without the crust – so it’s gluten free. Light, fluffy omelet in 3 flavors: Meat Lovers, Denver, and Spinach Tomato Feta Chive. Come enjoy a healthy breakfast to start your day. We’re open at 7, will serve you in 5-10 minutes to give you a great start to the day! See you soon. Eat inside or on the Patio – or Take Out. Located at 3078 Cooper St (Ext), Punta Gorda. 

 

New Life Church – Free Movie Night! “Jesus Revolution Tuesday, May 30 at 6:30pm New Life in Christ Church, Life Center 507 West Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda

All are invited! Concessions will be available by donation with all proceeds benefiting Crossroads Hope Academy

 

Punta Gorda Symphony – Memorial Day concert May 29 at the Gulf theater. Click here for details.

 

Burnt Store Presbyterian Church – On Sunday, May 28, 2023, please join us in a Service of Remembrance this Memorial Day Weekend. This Remembrance Service will be held from 9:45 am to 10:15 am, to honor all “Fallen Soldiers”. Memorial Day on the last Monday of May is an American Holiday observed to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Military. The red poppy officially became a national emblem of remembrance in 1920 and is worn to honor and memorialize “Fallen Soldiers.”  

 

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.

 

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

Aimee Blenker has joined our team!

 

Martella Law Firm – Did you know that the three MOST IMPORTANT Estate Planning documents you need to have while you are ALIVE are a Power of Attorney, Health Care Surrogate and Living Will?  To learn why and how they can protect you and your family when “life happens”, give Mark Martella, Esq. of the Martella Law Firm PLLC a call at 941-867-6865 (or e-mail him at mark@martellalaw.com) to schedule a complimentary, confidential, one hour consultation to discuss how these documents can save you and your family, time, money and headaches.

 

Connect Print & Promotions, LLC – May 🌸 this month brings you great marketing success, Punta Gorda – we have you covered! 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

 

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

 

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? Join us for our Sunset Social which is held every fourth Friday from 5-7 pm at our Clubhouse, 802 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 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!

 

Kelting Inspections – A proud partner of Hometown Heroes as we understand that we cannot thank our veterans enough for what they have done for our country. We offer discounts for veterans and active duty military! Call 941.655.8888 to schedule.

 

Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

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.

ShorePoint Health Port Charlotte

Admitting Clerk
Registers patients and processes related paperwork. Duties include interviewing patients, preparing standard registration forms and performing other admission or transfer related tasks. May be expected to perform clerical and secretarial work. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and 1-2 years of work experience in a related field. How to apply: https://www.careershealthcare.com/jobs/335082/admitting-clerk/

Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections

Front Desk Deputy Registrar
The applicant will need to be a team player with an emphasis in customer service. Click here for duties, responsibilities and compensation. Send resume to SOE@SOECharlotteCountyFL.gov

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

D.I.S. Tech Services Inc.

IT Support Technician (Part-time)
Employee goes to the Peace River Sculpture and Botanical Gardens for a few hours: Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 am to noon. Can be flexible. Starting at $15/hour. If interested, contact Joshua Montgomery at 217.492.8042 or email jmontgomery@distechusa.com

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.

Veterans Council Memorial Day Ceremony May 29

The Charlotte County Veterans Council has scheduled a Memorial Day ceremony at 10 a.m., Monday, May 29 at the Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda.

Steve Cornwell, chairman of the Charlotte County Commission’s Veterans Council will serve as master of ceremonies. A combined color guard of the Marine Corps League Detachment 756 and American Legion Post 110 will present the colors.


County Commission Veterans Council liaison Stephen R. Deutsch will present the commission’s Memorial Day proclamation. Amanda Mocanu, U.S. Air Force, Retired, will provide the invocation and American Legion Post 110 Commander Jay Hemingway, U.S. Army, Retired, will lead with the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem will be performed by Darren Taylor, U.S. Army, Retired, a wreath presentation by John Brunton, Military Order of the Purple Heart, U.S. Army, Retired, and Tom Delaney, U.S. Army, Retired.

The ceremony will feature a 21-gun salute by the Marine Corps League Detachment 756 Honor Guard, Taps will be played by Todd Helt, U.S. Army, the benediction will be delivered by Rev. Kevin Shaw, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired. Anthony Policelli, a retired law enforcement officer, will play the bagpipes to close the ceremony.

Newsletters

Animal Welfare League – May Pawsitive Press

Boys & Girls Club of Charlotte County – Newsletter

Charlotte Community Foundation – May Newsletter

Charlotte County Sherriff’s Office – May Crime Prevention Newsletter

Copperfish Books – May Newsletter

Downtown Farmers Market – May Newsletter

EnVision Quest – May Newsletter

Loveland Center – May Newsletter

Military Heritage Museum – Happenings & Highlights

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

Punta Gorda Mural SocietyMay Newsletter

Suncoast Humane Society – Humane Connection Newsletter

TIME Realty Services Inc. – Newsletter

The Yoga Sanctuary – May Newsletter

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