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Friday Facts for November 22, 2019

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  poliva@puntagorda-chamber.com  by noon each Thursday.

Due to the Thanksgiving Holiday next week there will be no Friday Facts. We will resume on December 6th.

PG Chamber radio show: Now Booking for January 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.

Adam is pleased to announce he has been persuaded to be the official entry for the Punta Gorda Chamber for the Animal Welfare League’s Best in Show fundraiser. To vote for him ( as often as you like) please visit www.gogophotocontest.com/bestinshow He came from AWL and has no dreams of ever going back, but wants to help get all the rest of his pals adopted!

Your Chamber Staff,
John, Pat, Carole, Stephanie & Janet


Special Announcement

This missed the Friday Facts publication today, but a) has a deadline, before the release of the next edition and b) is a program that the PG Chamber has long benefited from and therefore valued as very important information for our members.

Destination magazine is a visitor favorite to our office. Covering the whole of Southwest Florida, this magazine has supported Punta Gorda for many years with editorial that I can vouched has brought many, many visitors to our city. Along with Destination Magazine, it is my mission to make sure we are well-represented in this very affordable marketing tool. It’s only $280 and there is space for five advertisements – particularly of interest to attractions, restaurants, destinations, realtors – anyone looking to bring visitors to their business. I hope you’ll find the time to review the offer below and get in touch with David at your earliest convenience.

John


UNIQUE CO-OP ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY
REACH OUT TO THE 5 MILLION+ VISITORS MARKET*

Launched in 2004, DESTINATION Magazine is Southwest Florida’s #1 guide for visitors, and has been welcoming guests in over 12,500 hotel rooms across Collier, Lee & Charlotte counties for over 15 years.

Published every three months, 81% of the magazine’s 20,000+ quarterly circulation is placed in-room at over 100 hotels & resorts in the tri-county market, and is also distributed at concierge desks in many other fine hotels as well as at major visitor centers, including the Punta Gorda Chamber and Sanibel-Captiva Chamber.
Note that distribution is verified with a recipient signed affidavit every issue.

Reach out to this important visitor market efficiently & inexpensively:

  • PUNTA GORDA & ENGLEWOOD BEACH SPECIAL SECTION
  • 1/6-Page Spotlight Listing with Photo/Logo + 150 Words
  • ONLY $280.00 per Issue for All 4 Issues in 2020
  • Commencing with the Winter Jan-Feb-Mar Issue

This co-op advertising opportunity is limited!
Deadline for space is next Wednesday Nov 27th so hurry & act now!
Contact David Atkinson at 239.595.0489 or by email at David@MyDestinationFlorida.com

You can view the current Fall/2019 issue online at MyDestinationFlorida.com

*Annual Average Visitor Counts
Lee County: 3.1 Million (Source: The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel VCB)
Collier County: 1.8 Million (Source: Naples-Marco Island-Everglades CVB)
Charlotte County: 425,000 (Source: Charlotte County Tourism VCB)
Total Southwest Florida Market: 5.4 MILLION


Chamber Calendar of Events

Please remember to RSVP to:
reception@ puntagorda-chamber.com or
941-639-3720.

November 27: Networking Luncheon 12pm-1:30pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Laishley Crab House, 150 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda.  Please be sure to RSVP to 941-639-3720 or reception@puntagorda-chamber.com  Cost is $15.00 per person. Lunch will be a buffet. Rice and and beans Chicken stir fry, Shrimp stir fry, Vegetable stir fry Salad (ranch and italian) and Rolls. Lunch must now be pre-paid at time of reservation. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex

December 11: Business Over Breakfast 7:15 am-8:30 am
Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at our breakfast at the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720

December 17: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Hessler Floor Covering, 261 W. Marion Ave., 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.

December 18: Special Christmas Luncheon – 12 Noon – 2 pm.  Seating is limited. Be sure to sign up early.
Join us for a Special Holiday Luncheon at the Four Points by Sheraton, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Please bring a wrapped gift to share ($15 Value) to participate in a special Chinese Gift Exchange. Please do not put any tags on the gifts. Only those bringing gifts will participate. Be sure to call and make your reservation and pay for your lunch early. Please RSVP to 941-639-3720 or email reception@puntagorda-chamber.com  Cost is $15.00 per person. Lunch must now be pre-paid at time of reservation.  We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex

December 19: 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.


Click Here for Major Chamber Events


New Members

Mission Statement
To promote business in Punta Gorda and all our surroundings areas, for the benefit of our entire community.

The Suncoast Country Opry Show, LLC
Johnny Lee Howard
Englewood, FL 34224
941-315-1374
johnnylee@sccopry.com
www.sccopry.com
Performing Arts & Entertainment
Sponsored by John Wright

Keller Williams Peace River Partner Michelle B. Tomao
1675 West Marion Ave.
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
941-413-0770
michelletomao@kw.com
www.coastaltownliving.com
Real Estate
Sponsored by Pat Oliva

The Purple House Salon by Shawn Gilstad
Shawn Gilstad
312 Sullivan Street
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
941-830-4746
hairstylistshawn@gmail.com
Salon
Sponsored by Della Booth of Time Realty Services, Inc.

Remember to utilize the certificates in the New Member packet. These are very valuable to your business.


Here is our final list of Partners in Action for 2020

Partners in Action News

Bayfront Health Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte (Platinum)
Bayfront Baby Place Expands Educational Offerings for New Moms and Families Beginning this month, Bayfront Health Port Charlotte has added two new classes to the lineup of courses already offered monthly to prepare mothers and families before and after the birth of a child. New classes include infant massage and a sibling’s course. “Having a baby is one of the most exciting and rewarding times in a woman’s life,” said Ami Tucker, Director of Women and Newborn Services at Bayfront Health Port Charlotte. “There is a lot involved to prepare for this big day so we try to provide moms and families with the resources and tools they need to be successful.” In addition to infant CPR, tours, childbirth education, baby care and safety, and a breastfeeding support group that is offered monthly, now families will also have the opportunity to participate in: Infant Massage: In this free class, attendees will learn massage techniques to help soothe and relax infants while promoting bonding time. Sibling Class: This free class is geared to prepare big brother(s) and sister(s) for the arrival of a new family member. To learn more about these and all of the free support services and educational offerings Bayfront provides for growing families, visit www.BayfrontBabies.com

Olsen, Lynch & Wright CPA’s (Platinum)
Olsen, Lynch & Wright, CPAs P.A. is looking for a full-time accountant to join their Firm. The successful candidate will have experience with financial statement preparation, sales tax filings, payroll and payroll tax filings, Quickbooks and QuickBooks online a must. The Firm offers health insurance, retirement plan and paid time off. Please forward your resume and cover letter to cpa@olw-cpas.com.

Farmer’s Market (Gold)
Click Here to see the Farmer’s Market News

Tampa Bay Rays (Gold)
Fellow Punta Gorda Chamber Members,
How about your hometown Rays! Last year was one of our best seasons yet. We finished with our second-best record ever (96-48) and were one win away from the American League Championship Series! Have you seen the Rays 2020 Spring Training Schedule? Check out the following website for more information on schedules and tickets: https://www.mlb.com/rays/spring-training
Interested in advertising with the Rays or becoming a Rays Business Partner? Please contact:
Mark Houston
Manager, Spring Training
E: mhouston@raysbaseball.com
P: 727-825-3256
Tom Colvell
Intern, Business Operations
E: tcolvell@raysbaseball.com
P: 941-235-5064

Wyvern Hotel (Gold)
On New Years Eve the Wyvern Hotel will be hosting a private dinner and a show at 88Keys Florida. Kitt Moran will be playing two shows, seating will be at 6:00pm for the first show and 8:30pm for the second. Tickets are $125.00/per person with tax and gratuity. Tickets include; a gourmet dinner buffet, access to the dessert bar, and a champagne toast. There are only 50 seats available per show. Tickets are available for purchase at https://www.thewyvernhotel.com/ . Please call 941.639.7700 for more information or email to salesandcatering@edgewatergrpllc.com

Florida Southwestern State College (Silver)
Nov 28th Turkey Trot – early registration

CeJay Associates, LLC (Silver in Kind)
CeJay Associates, LLC website spotlight is: www.boatwatch.org – a worldwide organization owned/operated by local boat cruisers, Eddie & Glenn Tuttle. Boat Watch takes it to the next level with a state-of-the-art website to track overdue and missing boats by allowing online reporting and working with other agencies, Coast Guards and the public. CeJay Associates creates mobile friendly, WordPress websites that are easy to update. We also offer help with Social Media & digital marketing. Contact CeJay Associates at 941-204-0007. www.CeJayAssoc.com * Design@CeJay.com

Farr Law Firm (Bronze)
Farr Law Firm is proud to announce that attorney Will W. Sunter received the AV Preeminent® rating by Martindale-Hubbell®.
Attorney Will W. Sunter was recently honored to receive the AV Preeminent® designation by Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™. AV Preeminent® is a significant rating accomplishment and a testament to the fact that a lawyer’s peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence. Sunter received both his Juris Doctor and M.B.A. from Stetson University. He also received his Bachelor of Arts from University of Florida. Sunter focuses his practice on litigation with an emphasis on civil, real property and probate matters as well as guardianship. He counsels clients through all the phases of conflict resolution, beginning with pre-litigation and continuing into filing, discovery, trial, and appeal, if necessary. Sunter has experience in all forms of alternative dispute resolution including arbitration and mediation.

Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (Bronze)
We’re back! Last year, PGICA, 2001 Shreve St., Punta Gorda, launched its first full season of live entertainment, and this year promises to be even more exciting and diverse. First up: as part of our Local Showcase Series on November 30 will be a fun murder mystery theatrical performance, The Red Feather Investment Club, presented by the Charlotte Players, followed on December 7 by the ever-popular Goldtones making their first appearance on our stage with their special brand of DooWop. Both these events will be cabaret style and the audience are invited to bring their own food and beverages. A New Year’s celebration on January 3 brings the second in our Local Showcase, the extraordinary vocal group Bion Cantorum, presenting a concert program of classical and popular music, directed by the amazing Roy Engler with John Renfroe at the piano. Another trip down memory lane with American Pie’s “Juke Box Time Machine” concert on January 18 promises to be as fun as their Woodstock Anniversary party was last season. February 7 brings a cabaret with the Russian Duo, the critically acclaimed piano and balalaika duo that has charmed audiences throughout the U.S. On February 23, a return concert performance of the incredible StringFever: “A little bit Classical, a little bit Rock and Roll, humorous and a whole lot entertaining”. Cahal Dunne and Choir Play join us for their entertaining annual concert on March 8, an early St. Patrick’s Day salute with the lilt of Irish laughter! Our season comes to a close with two cabarets: on March 20, the final show in the Local Showcase, the talented Peace River Trio, whose familiar folk and popular songs always get an audience to sing along and a back-by-popular demand performance by William Florian, the legendary minstrel, this year highlighting the music of Neil Diamond on April 5. Tickets may be purchased at the PGICA office, online at www.PGICA.org or by calling 941-637-1655. Tickets for the season Local Showcase performances are $15; all others are $20. All events are open to the general public. Season C&C packages are available to PGICA members.

Charlotte Players (Support)
Click Here for the Charlotte Players Happening


Small Business Saturday November 30, 2019

Sea Grape Gallery will be having a special Holiday Market under the tent in their courtyard

Sunny Days Ice Cream will be at the Harbor Corvettes Car Show in Punta Gorda on November 30th. For customers that use their American Express card, with a purchase of $8.00 or more, we will give them a free bag of gourmet fudge!


Ribbon Cuttings

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, Launchings, Ceremonies & Dedications. These are all 5:30 pm unless otherwise noted. Come out and welcome our newest members.

December 5: Ribbon Cutting for MonarchDirect
It will be a big party with Punta Gorda Chamber, Charlotte County Chamber, Englewood Chamber, Venice Chamber and North Port Chamber. The ribbon cutting will be done at the Port Charlotte office, 1264 Market Circle, Suite 6, Port Charlotte. Gathering starts at 4:30 pm and the ribbon cutting will be at 5:30 pm.

December 12: Chelsea Place HomeCare, 126 East Olympia Ave., Suite 301, Punta Gorda.

December 13: Heritage Lakes Golf Ribbon Cutting, 8:30 am, 14701 Heritage Landing Blvd., Punta Gorda

January 30, 2020: Soul Dance Temple, 2705 Tamiami Trail, Suite 314, Punta Gorda (In Towles Plaza)


Fact of the Day

A Thanksgiving Song
Jingle Bells is one the better known and more popular Christmas songs. The song was written in 1857 by James Lord Pierpont. Did you know that it was NOT intended to be a Christmas song? When written, Jingle Bells was meant to be a song for the Thanksgiving holiday.


Question of the Week

I’m trying to reach the Social Security Office and they don’t answer. Can you tell me if they are there?


Events for Week of November 22 – December 6

Remember to click these links to see events that are coming up
Click This Link for Upcoming Events
Click this link for Events coming up in 2020

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
Fri. November 22: 7pm -10 pm
Sat.November 23: 7pm- 10 pm

2019 Parade of Homes™- Homes for the Holidays at Babcock Ranch begins Friday, Nov. 22
Join us as we celebrate the inaugural 2019 Parade of Homes™ – Homes for the Holidays at Babcock Ranch. The Parade of Homes will be held from Friday, November 22 through Sunday, December 8. View the nation’s most innovative new homes as we showcase twelve spectacular model homes and sales centers. During this unique event, the area’s top builders are rolling out holiday décor and welcoming all to this festive and FREE experience. Presented by the Charlotte-DeSoto Building Industry and Babcock Ranch, the Parade of Homes features new homes ranging from the low $300,000s to more than $700,000 open daily Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to -5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., rain or shine! Plus, admission is FREE!
A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Babcock Ranch and our Platinum Sponsors Divco Custom Homes and Florida Lifestyle Homes and Gold Sponsor, Meritage Homes. Homebuyers can explore several floor plans to view the most creative designs and latest building techniques that incorporate Smart Home technology and energy efficiency. In addition, all featured builders are experienced, ethical professional of the building industry.  The official 2019 Parade of Homes™ Homes for the Holidays at Babcock Ranch Model Home Tour booklet will be available on Friday, November 22 at the Babcock Ranch Discovery Center inside Woodlea Hall at 42850 Crescent Loop. While here, enter to win great prizes at all of the stops on the Parade of Homes route! Please visit www.BabcockRanchParadeofHomes.com for more information.

Gator Wilderness Camp School Turkey in the Hole
November 23rd. Click Here for all of the info. This is an amazing event,

MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM HOSTS SERVICE ACADEMY INFORMATION DAY
The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda will host representatives from all five of the U.S. Military service academies for a Service Academy Information Day, on Saturday, November 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you are considering joining the military, please stop by to meet with admissions representatives from the United States Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Air Force Academy, United States Naval Academy, United States Coast Guard Academy and United States Merchant Marine Academy, to find out about admissions requirements and information about curriculum, as well as what student life is like. This event is open to all high school students who are interested in learning more about or who are planning to apply to one of our nations’ service academies. Parents and educators are also welcome to attend. You may RSVP for this event by calling the museum or going online to sign up. The Military Heritage Museum is located at 900 West Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda. For more information or reservations, please go to the website and sign up at by calling 941-575-9002 or www.militaryheritagemuseum.org

Edison and Ford Winter Estates to Host Annual Fall Garden Festival On November 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and November 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual fall Garden Festival. More than 40 garden vendors from around the state of Florida will have tropical and native plants and trees for sale. Sponsored by Best Value and Humana, the festival will also feature food trucks and live music.  “If you’re looking for a really unique plant that you don’t already have, this is the place to find it,” said Debbie Hughes, Horticulture Director with Edison and Ford Winter Estates. “Vendors and staff will be available to answer questions and help visitors find plants for their gardens.” Vendors will have many types of plants and trees, including palms, fruit trees, bromeliads, hibiscus, butterfly plants, African violets, orchids, air plants, herbs, succulents, cacti and many hard-to-find species. Vendors will also offer garden supplies, such as mulch and special fertilizers. The Edison Garden Shoppe will be open and have unusual tropical and Florida native plants that thrive in Southwest Florida. Ceramic flower pots, vegetable and flower seeds, garden art, and gardening gift items will also be available for purchase. A limited number of carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants. A designated plant holding tent and loading spot will be offered for anyone needing assistance. Parking and admission to the festival is free (tours of the homes, museum and lab are not included). For more information, call 239-334-7419 or visit www.edisonford.org

Dancing on the Water USA Dance #6126
Date: Monday, November 25, Time: 6:00-8:00PM
Location: Fisherman’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL, Contact Fisherman’s Village: 941-639-8721
Fees: Free Admission. Social Dancing Music.
Contact: 330-501-2366(Laura) Email: usadance6126@gmail.com(Laura)
Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #6126 Charlotte Harbor, FL
Meetup: Charlotte Harbor Ballroom Dance Meetup USA Dance DJs: Nathalie & Franck Lemoine. This is a beautiful location to enjoy an evening of dancing. See you there.

King Fisher Fleet
King Fisher Fleet, headquartered at Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda, is now accepting reservations for Christmas Light Canal Cruises. These popular, family-oriented cruises tour residential canals to view Christmas lights, displays, and decorations on homes, boats, seawalls and docks. Boat rides through the Punta Gorda canals during evenings in December to enjoy this unique display of community Christmas spirit has been a Punta Gorda Christmas tradition for nearly 40 years! Christmas Light Canal Cruises run every evening from December 1st to December 31st. There are three departures each night: 6:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. and each cruise lasts one hour. Adult tickets cost $20+tax, tickets for children age 3-11 cost $10+tax, and tickets for anyone under 3 years old are free. Group pricing of $18+tax is available for groups of 25 or more adults. These very popular cruises sell out quickly so reservations are a MUST! For those seeking a more intimate Christmas experience, private boat Christmas Light Canal Cruises are available aboard our 35’ Cabin Cruiser, which accommodates up to 6 passengers. The cost for these private cruises is $175+tax. For reservations or more information on Christmas Light Canal Cruises, call (941) 639-0969, or visit https://kingfisherfleet.com/christmas-light-canal-cruise/.

Visual Arts Center
Punta Gorda: Then and Now On Display Dec. 2 – 20
“Punta Gorda: Then and Now” is presented by the Visual Arts Center and the Punta Gorda History Center. This exhibit features historic photographs of Punta Gorda’s early days, alongside new photographs of the same scenes. The contrast in images of our City from then to now is truly something to behold! Visit the Visual Arts Center during Founder’s Day Week, and until December 20 to view “Punta Gorda: Then and Now”, on display in Rebecca Hall. Exhibits are always free to view Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Tuesday, December 3rd is #GivingTuesday for 2019 celebrating and inspiring acts of kindness in our communities by coming together while doing good for others. On #GivingTuesday WKDW 97.5 FM, and kdwradio.com will be live from 10 AM until 9 PM interviewing nonprofit organizations from throughout the area. For more information visit facebook.com/GivingTuesdaySWFL/ or kdwradio.com/giving-Tuesday-2019.

The Punta Gorda Symphony Friends (formerly the Charlotte Symphony Phantoms), is holding its second monthly “Composers Luncheon” of this concert season on Thursday, December 5, 2019 from 11:30 am until 1:00 pm. The luncheon will be held at the Punta Gorda Woman’s Club, 118 Sullivan Street, and is open to the public. Guests are welcome. The program will be an Annual Holiday Sing-Along. Bells will be provided, so come to “jingle,” with lunch and holiday music to follow. The luncheon menu will be an antipasto salad, garlic bread and cookies for dessert. The cost is $15.00, which includes a complimentary glass of wine. The “Composers Luncheons” have been popular and fun events, so mark your calendar and pre-register by calling the PGSymphony Office at 941-205-5996 by noon on Tuesday, December 3rd.

The Charlotte County Concert Band presents…. Holiday Splendor
The Charlotte County Concert Band, under the artistic direction of Mr. Bob Miller, has prepared a spectacular holiday concert to put everyone in the mood for this holiday season. The concert, entitled “Holiday Splendor” is full of your favorite sounds of traditional carols — sometimes with a bit of a twist. The concert will be on Friday night, December 6, at 7:30 at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda. Tickets are available on-line at www.charlottecountyconcertband.com or at the door the night of the concert.

PUNTA GORDA GARDEN CLUB’S HOLLY DAYS HOME TOUR 2019 The Punta Gorda Garden Club announces its 26th annual Holly Days Home Tour on December 6 and 7 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Punta Gorda Historic District as part of Founders Day Week. Inspired by the theme, “Coastal Christmas,” teams of club members will decorate four homes and the First United Methodist Church. These talented designers will use an abundance of fresh and dried plant materials to create a unique, festive welcome to the holiday season. Guests may also visit the poinsettia market and craft sale and enjoy light refreshments at the First United Methodist Church, 507 W. Marion Ave, Punta Gorda. Tickets are $15 from club members or at the offices of the Charlotte County and Punta Gorda Chambers of Commerce and also at the Visual Arts Center. On tour days tickets will be sold at the church and at each of the homes. Proceeds will fund the Club’s scholarship program and community projects.
Event Details: PG Garden Club 2019 Holly Days Home Tour, “Coastal Christmas” December 6 & 7 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Four homes and one church in the PG Historic District lushly decorated with flowers and greens $15 donation
Poinsettia market, craft sale and light refreshments at First United Methodist Church

Visual Arts Center
210 Maud Street, Punta Gorda
Cost: free

Holiday Market  December 6-8
For more info visit visualartcenter.org or call 941.639.8810
Visit the Visual Arts Center’s Annual Market for handmade Holiday decor and gifts December 6, 2019 – December 8, 2019. For three days, the VAC will transform into a large Holiday Market! Find handmade holiday decor, art, jewelry, greeting cards and more. Free admission. Complimentary Holiday Beverages & Snacks Friday from 5-7pm. Friday, December 6: Noon – 7pm. Saturday & Sunday, December 7, 10am – 4pm.

St. Vincent dePaul
It’s that time again! The St. Vincent dePaul Rummage Sale will be held Saturday December 7th from 9:00 am to 12:00pm at 25200 Airport Road and Taylor Road. RAIN DATE: Saturday December 14th. There will be household items, furniture, linens, clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, books and toys. Please join our Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul in our continuing efforts to raise money to assist those in need in our community. SVdP Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 9:00am to 12:00
Telephone: Office (941-575-0767 Furniture: (941) 575-8544
Address: 25200 Airport Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33950


Member Information

Click Here for General Info Flyers


Chelsea Place Senior Care is hosting a C.A.R.E Holiday Donation Box (Center for Abuse and Rape Emergencies)
Items Needed:
shampoo & conditioner
razors & shaving cream
deodorant & body wash
yoga pants/leggings & flip flops (s,m,l,xl)
women’s pajamas ,slippers (s,m,l,xl)
Donation Box locations:
Chelsea Place Senior Daytime Care & Activity Center
3626 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte

Chelsea Place Homecare
126 East Olympia Ave, ste.301, Punta Gorda

Chelsea Place Assisted Living
315 Addison Dr., Port Charlotte

Any questions please call Amie Conti (941)787-0687

Looking for Part Time Work?
Kingsway Country Club is looking for workers. Please click here for all of the info.

Chelsea Place
Ultimate Care Givers Gift Card. Click Here for all info.
You can help make this holiday season special for older adults in Charlotte County. Senior Friendship Centers, Charlotte County, third annual “Healthy At Home” holiday initiative, donations being accepted now. Every year during the holiday season, Senior Friendship Centers strives to provide gifts to those who visit our Friendship Cafés or receive our Home-Delivered Meals. Our clients rely on Senior Friendship Centers for daily hot meals as well as invaluable social activities. Did you know? Research shows that loneliness and social isolation have the same risk for heart disease as smoking and increases the likelihood of mortality by 26 percent. Many of our clients have little or no nearby family support and the holidays are anything but joyful. Our “Healthy At Home” initiative provides a little holiday cheer as well as much needed gifts, which also may be the only gift they receive at the holidays. Please consider providing some extra cheer by donating a practical, thoughtful item that will be gifted to our clients whose needs are year ‘round. Suggested donations include: laundry detergent pods, fabric softener sheets, dish detergent, Handi-wipes, anti-bacterial cleaning wipes, incontinence pads, personal care wipes, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, tissues, tea and instant coffee, dog and cat food, art supplies, puzzle books. Donations can be dropped off at our participating partners:

  • Charlotte County Sheriff’s offices in Englewood (11051 Willmington Boulevard), Port Charlotte (992 Tamiami Trail Suite A and Promenades Mall, 3280 Tamiami Trail), and Punta Gorda (7474 Utilities Road)
  • Consulate Health Care, 18480 Cochran Boulevard, Port Charlotte
  • Senior Friendship Centers, Friendship Café, 27420 Voyageur Drive, Harbour Heights, Punta Gorda

We are also accepting gift card and cash donations by mail or at our Harbour Heights location: 27420 Voyageur Drive, Punta Gorda, FL 33983. We would be very happy to take you on a tour of our facility! For hours and directions, please call 941-255-0723. Thank you for your support. You really are making a difference and helping us fulfill our mission in Charlotte County of promoting health, dignity and quality of life throughout the journey of aging. If you have any questions regarding Healthy At Home, please contact: Jeanne DeLauro at 941-255-0723 or jdelauro@friendshipcenters.org. Thank you for your generosity and support of older adults in our community!

New Art Classes Offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates Click Here for all the info.

USA Dance Chapter Charlotte Harbor #6126 Ballroom Dance Lessons
Welcome All Levels of Dance-Open to the Public
Due to your past support, we discovered there was a need for our own USA Dance Chapter. We are no longer a part of #6049. We are a new chapter #6126. We can’t wait to see the friends we know, and the friends we will meet. “Physical exercise can reduce the signs of aging in the brain, and dancing has the most profound effect.” (Frontiers in Human Neuroscience). This is a recent study.
Date: November 6, 2019 and every Wednesday until further notice. THERE WILL BE NO LESSONS ON NOVEMBER 27. ENJOY YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. SAFE TRAVELS.
Time: 6-7  Beginning East Coast Swing( 3 weeks)
7-8  Intermediate Rock & Swing: East Coast Swing, Lindy, Jive, Rock & Roll
8-9   Intermediate/Advanced Ballroom Dance Team
Learn show dances, exciting ballroom and Latin techniques
Location: Punta Gorda Women’s Club, 118 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda, FL Fees: $10 USA Dance Members  $12 Non-members Contact: 614-439-8545(Robin)
Email: usadance6126@gmail.com(Laura)
Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #6126 Charlotte Harbor, FL
Meetup: Charlotte Harbor Ballroom Dance Meetup USA Dance Instructors: Nathalie & Franck Lemoine
Professional Dance Instructors from Paris, France
They have lived and taught in SWFL since 2018
Additional Information: Historic Building, Wooden Floors

Fishermen’s Village Festival of Lights on display now through December 31st! Over one million lights and Holiday themed decorations inside and outside the Village make for a memorable shopping/dining experience! Live entertainment of various genres daily. Free parking/free admission.  Full details at www.fishville.com/calendar


Quick Links

Punta Gorda Chamber
Guardians & Supporters of the Punta Gorda Chamber
Membership Directory
Calendar & Events
Online Payment Center
Hot Deals
Job Postings


Link To Us

We have had a lot of requests for a Facebook-sized link to our web page from member websites. Click Here to find the logo below, and several other different-sized logos, so that you can link your website to ours.


Job Offers

Olsen, Lynch & Wright, CPAs P.A. is looking for a full-time accountant to join their Firm. The successful candidate will have experience with financial statement preparation, sales tax filings, payroll and payroll tax filings, Quickbooks and QuickBooks online a must. The Firm offers health insurance, retirement plan and paid time off. Please forward your resume and cover letter to cpa@olw-cpas.com.


Point to Ponder

Secrets Disney Won’t Tell You


Thought for the Week

Once we discover how to appreciate the timeless values in our daily experiences, we can enjoy the best things in life.


Member Newsletters

Click Name of Business for their latest news

Charlotte Arts & Humanities

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

Charlotte Players Happenings

Charlotte Stone Crabs
Crab Chronicle

Chelsea Place
Senior Care Conference

Citizen’s Climate Lobby

Copperfish Books

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda

FGCU Renaissance
Academy Fort Myers

FGCU Fort Myers
Fiduciary Management Certificate Program

Gulf Shore Opera

HipNotique

Key West Express

Military Heritage Museum

Premier Auction Group

Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society

Right at Home

Suncoast Humane Society

The Yoga Sanctuary


Special Offers for Chamber Members

Copperfish Books
Click Here for great gifts

Key West Express Holiday Sale
Click Here for Offer

LaQuinta Inn & Suites
Click Here for Offer

Sleep Inn & Suites
Click here for a special offer for Chamber Members.


Joke of the Week

Guess Who’s On the Radio?
Because our new refrigerator was taller than our old one, I told my wife I’d have to cut away part of an overhanging cabinet to make it fit.
Not wanting to mess it up, I called a local radio home-fix-it program for advice. I was in the middle of getting the instructions when my wife burst into the room.
“You won’t believe this,” she said, “but there’s a guy on the radio with the same problem!”


Member Info Continued

Sign up to Take Your Marketing Dollars Further
The Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) markets our beautiful destination to visitors from around the world. The VCB’s strategic marketing plan positions the area as a leading vacation destination in Florida through a variety of different advertisements, such as print, video, social media, and digital. The new and improved co-op program offered by the VCB gives your business the opportunity to be a part of these national, strategically-placed advertisements, reaching millions of potential visitors, for a price you can afford. Don’t miss your chance to put your business in front of more potential visitors than ever before, and make the most of your marketing budget.
Co-Op Opportunities are First Come, First Serve.
SIGN UP TODAY

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens
Visitors will embrace the beauty of the outdoors while enjoying the Garden’s sculptures and lights and creating a cherished holiday memory with family and friends by attending the 1st. annual Gardens Aglow. Attractions and festivities include a stroll around the North Gardens full of thousands of lights and music and featuring photos with Santa on select evenings, S’mores roasting over the fire pit (for a small fee), and storytime for children during select times. The Garden Gift Shop will be open each evening with a wonderful holiday selection. (Expected attendance between 1000 – 3000) Click Here for Sponsorship Opportunities
Event Dates: December 6-8, 13-15, 20-23 6 PM – 9 Pm each evening (last admission at 8:30) Tickets: $8 Member, $10 non-members, $5 Youth~ ages 5-18, 4 & under free! Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, Inc. is happy to present the following opportunities for sponsorship of what is sure to become a premier event in the community.

Girls on the Run 5k
We are looking for volunteers to help 150 girls cross the finish line.  If you are able to give us a few hours on Saturday, December 7 at Laishley Park to cheer our girls on, we would be very appreciative! Please click below and find the area that suits you best. From the bottom of my heart ❤ the girls and I thank you. Girls on the Run 5k Volunteer Sign Up

Aura Salon on 115 Taylor St., Punta Gorda ( formerly Spa One Day Spa & Salon) is now hiring experienced Hair Stylists for booth rentals : exceptional opening deals now available. Aura Salon is now open featuring Hardy Whidden, Rick Bissonette and Tabitha Chen as Experienced Stylists , open Monday through Saturday Call 941-505-6111 or 239-300-3190. Aura Salon is not in anyway connected to Spa One as the former owner closed that business.

Message In A Bottle Weddings And Vows
Tell Her That You Love Her All Over Again… Renew Your Wedding Vows At Message In A Bottle Weddings And Vows, In The Secret Wedding Chapel, In Port Charlotte, Florida, And Receive A $30 Gift Certificate For Dinner (Just The Two Of You!) At Las Margaritas De Camila Mexican Restaurant! Call 941-623-5467 for more info.

The BEAN on 41 Coffee Shop
is now serving cold-brew Nitro ! – Stop by and enjoy a free slice of sweet potato pie with any specialty coffee or tea now through November 15th. Just mention your chamber membership for a free taste of Sweet Shari’s pie! Tuesday nights are open bible group at 6pm with music, prayer and bible discussion with Moni and friends. We are looking forward this season and attracting our folks to the “green” BEAN. Our water is triple filtered. Our beans are locally roasted for freshness.  www.thebeanon41.com. Need a coffee cater? 239.314.6808 direct line.


Applause Section

PGD Wins Statewide Recognition for Marketing
The Charlotte County Airport Authority is proud to announce statewide recognition for Punta Gorda Airport’s public relations and marketing efforts in collaboration with its agency partner, Gravina, Smith, Matte & Arnold Marketing and Public Relations (GSMA).
Tuesday night, during the 19th Annual Flagler Awards at the Florida Tourism Forum, Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) won a Bronze Award for Creativity in Public Relations for its Destination Spotlights campaign. PGD serves as a vital tourism channel for Southwest Florida residents to use and enjoy for convenient, low-cost, nonstop transportation to 45+ destinations throughout the U.S. Each Destination Spotlight offers an insider’s look at things to do, see and experience at that destination, all available through a convenient, low-cost, nonstop Allegiant flight out of PGD. Through social media and website posts to share the Destination Spotlights, the campaign successfully improved PGD brand awareness, expanded its online audience and increased traffic to the PGD BUZZ blog. GSMA’s Associate Partner Jennifer Hamilton worked closely with PGD on creating a campaign that would brand the airport and integrate with its larger marketing strategy. “A crucial part of our efforts was creating and sharing original content that would be informative and useful for Southwest Florida residents,” said Hamilton. “In turn, this reinforced the airport’s presence within the region as a low-cost gateway to destinations all around the country.” “As part of this campaign effort, we also strived to cultivate strong relationships with other destination marketing groups, with the ultimate goal of promoting tourism for Florida and travel between airports,” said PGD’s Marketing & Communications Manager Kaley Miller. For examples of Destination Spotlights, visit www.FlyPGD.com and click on the BUZZ icon, or visit PGD’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. As Allegiant adds new flights and nonstop destinations, GSMA and PGD will continue working with partner airports and tourism partners to grow the successful campaign. 


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 websites.

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Animal Welfare League

Calenda Real Estate Group

Centennial Bank

Charlotte Community Foundation

Charlotte Players

Denise Henry –ReMax Anchor Realty

Farr, Farr, Emerich,Hackett, Carr, and Holmes Law Firm

HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital

Granny Nannies Home Care

Gulfshore Opera

Hoff’s Air Authority

Pickleplex of Punta Gorda

State Farm Agency -Mike Martin

Superior Carpet & Upholestry Cleaning

Wotitzky, Wotitzky, Ross, & Young, PA

Port Charlotte Florist (In Kind)

Support Partners