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Friday Facts for October 25, 2019

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.

The Downtown Merchants and the Punta Gorda Chamber will be hosting the Downtown Fall Bash on Saturday, November 2, 2019 from 4:00-9:00 p.m. on Taylor Street in front of the old Court House. The Chamber is looking for volunteers to pour beer. There will be two shifts – 4:00-6:30 p.m. and 6:30-9:00 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering, please email the Chamber at reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call the Chamber at 941-639-3720 with the time slot in which you would like to volunteer. As always, thank you for your support and assistance.

PG Chamber radio show: Now Booking for December

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 $95, 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.

PicklePlex is looking for volunteers to help with a major tournament on October 25-27.

Anyone able to offer time should contact Donna Sullivan at donnaosully@gmail.com

Your Chamber Staff,

John, Pat, Carole, Stephanie & Janet


Chamber Calendar of Events

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

November 13: Business Over Breakfast
7:15 am – 8:30 am Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at our breakfast at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home, 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road. Punta Gorda. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720

November 19: Business After Hours
5:30 pm – 7 pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Centennial Bank, 401 Taylor St., 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..

November 21: 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.

November 27: Networking Luncheon, 12 Noon – 1:30 pm
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 must now be pre-paid at time of reservation. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex

Downtown Bash Street Party
Saturday November 2nd 4 – 9 pm. Music 5pm. In front of the old courthouse on Taylor and Olympia Ave. Presented by the Downtown Merchants Association and the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce.
Drink, Dine Dance. Free admission, bring your own seat. Not coolers, no pets. Beer, Wind, Soda, Water & Food Vendors.

Heritage Landing Golf & Country Club Sneak Peak for Chamber members only
Nov 21, 8am. RSVP Teresa.m.brown@lennar.com or call 239-900-2262

City Wide Garage Sale 2019-2020 Schedule
8 am – 12 Noon, $15.00 per entrant
You get two parking spots – one for your vehicle (no commercial vehicles) and one for a table (you provide)
Set up 7: 15am
New Location: Comfort Storage Parking Lot, 3811 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda
Dates:

  • November 9. 2019
  • December 14, 2019
  • January 11, 2020
  • February 8, 2020
  • March 14, 2020
  • April 11, 2020
  • May 9, 2020

Please contact Punta Gorda Chamber at 941-639-3720 or reception@puntagorda-chamber.com. All Registrants need to be pre-registered with payment There will be no admittance the day of the event. Non-refundable, non-trasnferable sale held rain or shine… no rain dates.

Click Here for Major Chamber Events


Partners in Action News

Bayfront Health Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte (Platinum) Click Here for October Events
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte is Shining Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Offering Mammogram Screening Specials All Month Long
According to BreastCancer.org, one in eight women—roughly 12%—will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime, and this year alone, more than 268,000 women and 2,600 men are estimated to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the U.S. To raise awareness and encourage more individuals to take action for their breast health, Bayfront Health Port Charlotte is lighting their building and landscape pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month for the entire month of October. They are also offering a digital mammogram screening for only $75. And, the Bayfront Health Medical Group OB/GYN team: Jennifer D’Abarno, M.D., Stephanie Finley, D.O., Hernán Fuentes, M.D., Ruben Guzman, M.D., Renee Schroeder, APRN, Dana Patterson, APRN, and Kelly Weaver, APRN, want to all stress the importance of mammograms and early detection.
Early detection saves lives, offering a cure for breast cancer and less invasive surgical treatment options,” said Stephanie Finley, D.O., board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. “The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend women start mammogram screening at age 40 years, with annual screenings beginning at 45 years. Women with a family history of breast cancer may be at higher risk and may benefit from starting earlier. After age 75, women should discuss with their physician about decreasing or discontinuing mammogram screenings.”
Men—although rare—can also get breast cancer. Since men account for less than one percent of all breast cancer cases in the U.S., they are not routinely screened. However, men may be at higher risk due to a strong family history of breast cancer, in which screening may increase their chances for early detection. “If you have concerns about your risk of breast cancer, have symptoms or changes in your breasts, you should speak with your healthcare provider,” adds Hernán Fuentes, M.D., board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. “Together you can determine what screening schedule is right for you.” Bayfront Health Port Charlotte offers mammography screenings at their Outpatient Diagnostic Services Center, located on campus at 2500 Harbor Blvd. Mammography appointments are available Monday – Friday as early as 9:00 a.m. To learn more about Bayfront Health’s $75 screening special and to schedule your mammogram, call 941-766-4321 or visit http://bit.ly/12Minutes4MyHealth. If you need to find a healthcare provider, start by visiting www.BayfrontMedicalGroup.com.
For a list of risk factors and American Cancer Society recommendations, visit www.Cancer.org. Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. An order from a physician or qualified healthcare provider is required. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider, and the patient is responsible for follow-up. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for a screening mammogram. If you do not have insurance, options may be available to help with the cost. Visit MDsave.com, or call 941-766-4321. The price of $75 includes both the hospital and radiologist fees with MDsave voucher.

Captain’s Table (Gold)
Captain’s Table is now serving Brunch on Sunday from
10 AM – 2 PM. Please Come enjoy our Chef’s take on Brunch with delicious dishes while enjoying views of Charlotte Harbor. Lunch will also be available form 11 AM – 4 PM. For more information please call 941-637-1177.
October 22nd Gourmet Tapas & Wine. Click Here for info

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

Granny Nannies Home Care (Bronze)
Granny Nannies recently identified a member of our community who is struggling due to a recent diagnosis of ALS (Lou Gherig’s Disease). Her name is Cheryl and she is currently the primary caregiver for her 90 yr. old father (who is strong and doing great!). It is becoming increasingly more difficult for Cheryl to get any sleep at night as it is very painful for her to lay on a bed and very difficult for her to get in and out of a recliner chair. Cheryl is not a client of Granny Nannies but we were told about her situation by a Senior Organization. We would love to be able to gift Cheryl with a brand new “Lift Chair” that would make it much easier for her to sit/stand and, hopefully, begin getting some good sleep at night. Our goal is to raise $1250 for a Lift Chair. Any and All donations would be greatly appreciated.
We have spoken with Cheryl and she was amazed and blown away by the efforts of our community to help her and her father.

Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (Bronze)
Calendar of Events:
10 – 11 a.m., Thursdays, October 31- November 21 at PGI Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda: “You Are What You Eat”. Chef Nathan Buckley will present a four-class series. $12.00/class or $40.00 for the 4 sessions.
Session 1: October 3, 10-11 a.m. “Know your ingredients”. Learn about producers in your area, farmers’ markets, and the concepts of biodiversity and bioregionalism.
Session 2: November 7, “What happens in the pan?” Learn the techniques of sauteing, sweating, searing, and choosing the right cooking oil.
Session 3: November 14, “Improving your parties”. Learn how to hone your entertaining skills to improve your parties and get-togethers.
Session 4: November 21, “Tips to save you money”. Learn money-saving tips while increasing your food knowledge and improving your diet for life.
Open to the public. Registration required. Call PGICA at 941-637-1655.
10 to 11 a.m., November 1 at PGI Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda: “Estate Planning & Asset Management, Wills vs Trusts”. In this seminar presented by Christine A. Hause, Vice President, Charlotte State Bank & Trust, Trust and Investment Management Services, you will learn the pros and cons of each. Ms. Hause will discuss the details of each document and how they are implemented, administered, and settled. Learn what plans may be better for certain estate and family situations. Free of charge and open to the public. Light refreshments provided. Call PGICA at 941-637-1655 to register.
9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, November 2, Art & Craft Fair at PGI Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda. Some of the finest local artists and crafters will be showcasing their works, just in time for the holiday season. It promises to be a fun and memorable experience! Call PGICA 941-637-1655 for more information.

Port Charlotte Florist (Bronze in Kind) Click Here for info on their Wine & Design Workshop Series

Animal Welfare League (Support) Click here for info on their upcoming raffle

Charlotte Players (Support)
Thought Reader Bill Gladwell will be back at The Langdon Playhouse on October 26th at 7:30 pm. During his 90-minute performance, Bill Gladwell will seemingly pull thoughts directly from your mind, predict what you’ll say before it comes out of your mouth, and read you like an open book. Located at 1182 Market Circle in Port Charlotte. Tickets are $22 and can be purchased by calling our box office at 255-1022 or by going on our website at www.charlotteplayers.org

Profiles Boutique (Support)
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Collection for the benefits of the clients of C. A. R. E. or Charlotte County. C. A. R. E. is in need of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Receive a 10% discount on your services for your donation.


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.

October 29: Ribbon Cutting at Dr. John Guarino’s office, 4245 Kings Highway Unit A, Charlotte Harbor. Dr. John Guarino welcomes his new associate, Dr. Matthew Tufts. 5 pm

October 30: Meals on Wheels of Charlotte County 50th Anniversary Celebration, 3082 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte

November 4:  Ribbon Cutting at Visual Arts Center  Fun Arts Festival, 210 Maud Street, Punta Gorda  12 Noon

November 5: Ribbon Cutting for Pedal Punta Gorda, South Pavilion in Laishley Park, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda

November 6: Ribbon Cutting at Punta Gorda Coffee & Tea Inc. to celebrate their One Year Anniversary, 117 Herald Ct. Unit 118, Punta Gorda.

November 12: Ribbon Cutting at Burnt Store Title & Escrow 150 Laishley Ct., Suite 122, Punta Gorda

November 14: Yesterdays Collectables, Antiques and Vintage Clothing, 4301 Sibley Bay Street, Unit B, (Corner of Hwy 41 & Sibley Bay) Charlotte Harbor

November 18: Hammer and Stain Punta Gorda, 208 Tamiami Trail Ste 112, Punta Gorda

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.


Fact of the Day

So how much DNA does the human body contain? The human body contains 46 chromosomes which are made up of a double stranded helix. When the cell is not multiplying or replicating, it has 92 strands of DNA.


Question of the Week

Is the Downtown Bash the same as a block party?


Events for Week of October 25 – November 3

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. October 25:  7pm -10 pm
Sat. October 26: 7pm- 10 pm
October 25th TRUNK of TREATS 5-7 pm
Halloween Party Presented by Burnt Store Presbyterian Church. You are invited to bring your children or grandchildren to Burnt Store Presbyterian Church!!!!!
Free food, beverage, candy, music and fun.
Dress up to SPOOK the crowd.
To aid those in need please bring a non-perishable food item to share with the local food pantry.

Jaguar Concours d’Elegance (Car Show)
See the most beautiful car design in the world…“JAGUAR”
Jaguar Cars from the early 1950s to current models.
Saturday, October 26, 2019 at The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St. Punta Gorda, Florida 33950 from 9:30 am To 4:00 pm. Click Here for all of the info.

MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM HOSTS “STEM AT THE SPEED OF SOUND” WORKSHOP FOR STUDENTS
The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda will host STEM at the Speed of Sound, a STEM Workshop for students on Saturday, October 26. Eligible to participate are Charlotte County students in the 7th, 8th and 9th grade. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Workshops involve working with small groups of young students in a hands-on workshop, to help peak their enthusiasm and interest in the fields of STEM. The program will be an incredible STEM learning experience in the museum’s interactive activity areas, including:
* Geographic Information System (GIS) equation
* Flight Simulator: Hands-on experience flying
* Virtual Reality: Physics of Flight
This STEM Workshop will be held in conjunction with the Florida International Air Show and in association with the American Association of University Women. Each class is limited to 24 students and will last two and a half hours. Pre-registration is required. Morning class starts at 9 a.m. and afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Each student must be accompanied by an adult.* Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate and a free ticket to the Florida International Air Show. The Military Heritage Museum is located at 900 West Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda. For reservations or more information, go to the website at www.militaryheritagemuseum.org or call 941-575-9002. While there is no cost to participate in the workshop, we are limited to 48 total students (24 students per workshop).
* One adult may accompany up to 5 students and may include parents/guardians, grandparents or teachers.

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE TO HOST 3rd Annual “THROWBACK TO THE 50’S!” event Saturday, October 26, 2019! Fishermen’s Village will present the 3rd annual “Throwback to the 50’s” music centric event Saturday, October 26, 12 Noon-4 pm. This fun, interactive event promises to take you back to yesteryear through music and dancing and a little bit of comedy!
Live entertainment will be featured from 12 noon-4 pm throughout the Village including:

  • Boomers Band – first section near Good ‘Ole Days Coffee – golden oldies, rock ‘n roll, Motown, Blues and more!
  • Nick Dattilo and The Legends Band – Center Court – tribute to Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, Ritchie Valens, The Beach Boys!
  • CJ & Friends – third section of the Village – take a trip down memory lane with this dynamic twosome!
  • Appearance by “Elfig”, alias Bob “Fig” Newton – who knows, he might just belt out an Elvis tune or two with the bands!!! Come dressed in attire from the 50’s and 60’s and join the fun! Admission and parking are free. The public is cordially invited to attend. Located on Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, Fishermen’s Village features 30 shops/boutiques/galleries, waterfront dining, harbor and sunset cruises, fishing charters, boat rentals, special events and weekly live entertainment. Phone: 941 639-8721 Website: www.fishville.com

October 26 Get Michael to TokyoClick Here to see the flyer

Charlotte Symphony Orchestra John Williams & Friends October 27 — 2pm & 7:30pm
Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Make it a Halloween weekend to remember with your friends and the entire family! Come experience the music of your favorite Hollywood movies played live on October 27 as the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs the works of the biggest film score composers of our time including John Williams, Danny Elfman, Hans Zimmer, and others! Dress up in costume to show off your favorite characters from movies on the program, like Star Wars, Harry Potter, Spiderman, E.T., Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones, and more! Youth tickets are available for only $15. Groups of 8 or more receive 25% off with the special price code GROUP25. Tickets and information at charlottesymphony.com or call 941-205-5996. See you for all the fun at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center on October 27!

October 28th Spooktacular Family Event Click here for flyer

October 29th Chelsea Place Masquerade Trivia Night Click Here for flyer with full info

October 29th Charlotte Community Foundation Get Together Click Here for flyer and all the info

JOB FAIR – CHARLOTTE TECHNICAL COLLEGE , Wednesday, October 30, 2019  8:00-11:30
This free event will link employers from all industries with qualified adult students who are ready to go to work upon graduating. High school seniors who want to work while will also attend. Charlotte Technical College graduates achieve industry certification in over 20 disciplines, including A/C Refrigeration & Heating; Automotive; Business Management; Commercial Foods/Culinary Arts; Computer Systems & Information, Criminal Justice, Digital Design, Fire/EMT Healthcare and Cosmetology. Contact Claudette Baines: claudette.baines@yourcharlotteschools.net, phone 941-255-7500 ext. 280 or Maureen Watts, Assistant Director: Maureen.watts@yourcharlotteschools.net. Find out more about us at www.charlottetechcollege.net. We look forward to hosting you at our Fall, 2019 Job Fair!

Guardian ad Litem Foundation hosts ‘Fashion to a Tea’ on Oct. 30
Guardian ad Litem Foundation, 20th Judicial Circuit, will host an elegant high tea luncheon on Oct. 30 to raise money for programs assisting foster children in Charlotte County.
Fashion to a Tea features lunch, a silent auction, fun surprises and a spirited fashion show with models showcasing the chic, trendy styles available at HipNotique, an eclectric boutique in Punta Gorda. Guests are encouraged to wear hats to complement the high tea environment. NBC2 anchor Stacey Deffenbaugh will emcee the event.  Fashion to a Tea will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 4400 Lister St. in Port Charlotte. Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased online at VoicesForKids.org or by calling 941-613-3233. Sponsorship opportunities start at $500 and include event tickets, marketing and public recognition. Proceeds from the event will help Guardian ad Litem Foundation provide funds to recruit, train and support volunteer advocates who offer a voice on behalf of abused, neglected or abandoned children in the courts, schools and child welfare system. The Foundation also provides funds to purchase basic necessities, clothing, movie tickets and theme park tickets for children, as well as pay for tutoring and participation in youth sports and clubs.

SOLARIS “SPOOKTACULAR” TRUNK OR TREAT

  • INVITE FAMILY, FRIENDS, COWORKERS, ETC.
  • WEAR YOUR FAVORITE COSTUME
  • COLLECT YOUR TREATS
  • VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE DECORATED PUMPKIN, TRUNK AND COSTUME

OCTOBER 30, 5-7 PM, 4000 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte
Want to decorate or sponsor a trunk? We’d love to have you!
QUESTIONS? Contact C.Shelton@SolarisFoundation.org or
Cyndi Shelton 941-255-5855. A fun environment for the kids – and adults – to celebrate safely!

The Yoga Sanctuary, 112 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda 33950
Our Fall schedule is well under way at The Yoga Sanctuary. As we come to the beginning of the Holiday Season, we are delighted to introduce more events at workshops that hopefully your audience will find interesting.
Yogi Walkers: A 4-week Series
Fridays, November 1st – 22nd 7 – 8:30am $75
The path you walk today will determine where you are tomorrow. ~ Toni Sorenson Come walk the paths of Punta Gorda, and follow it up with a rejuvenating yoga practice! Experience the consistency of movement, along with yoga week to week, to jump start or supplement your fitness journey, with a little help from a built-in buddy system in this group environment. Walk at your own pace, get your steps in, and feel great the rest of the day at the start of your weekend! Each yoga class will be designed to complement and balance out the body after walking. No yoga experience is necessary—only comfortable sneakers, the willingness to move, and the openness to explore! For more information call 941-505-YOGA (9642), email info@theyogasanctuary.biz, visit www.theyogasanctuary.biz or see our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/yogasanctuary/

The Homeless Coalition, Riverwood “Driving Out Hunger” Golf Scramble
Join us on Saturday, November 2, 2019, for the 8th Annual “Driving Out Hunger” fall golf scramble. Held at the Riverwood Golf & Country Club, 4100 Riverwood Drive in Port Charlotte, this event is a four-person scramble with men’s, women’s, and mixed teams. There will be a delicious continental breakfast and southern-style barbeque lunch. The cost is $85 per person. Registration begins at 7:30 am on the day of the event, and shotgun is at 8:30 am.
The Homeless Coalition works toward driving out hunger in our community with our Hot Meals program and weekly Food Pantry, offering a variety of foods, including fresh fruit and vegetables. The Pantry distributed food to more than 4,600 people in the last year, of whom 25% were seniors. Our Hot Meals program is open 365 days per year and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to our Emergency Safe House Shelter residents, and dinner is open to the general public in our Coalition Café. All children residing at the Shelter also receive a healthy snack at the end of the day — the Shelter reserves twenty beds for Veterans who need a roof over their heads. Please contact Darcy Woods at 941-627-4313, Ext. 134 or email Darcy.Woods@cchomelesscoalition.org to reserve a spot. Your support assists the Homeless Coalition in continuing to provide programs and services to our community members in greatest need.


Member Information

Click Here for General Info Flyers

USA Dance Chapter Charlotte Harbor #6126 Ballroom Dance Lessons: Welcome All Levels of Dance
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 ones 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: Every Wednesday until further notice
Time: 6-7   Beginning American Rhumba(4 weeks)
Newcomers and beyond
7-8   Intermediate Rock & Swing(4weeks)
East Coast Swing, Jive, Lindy Hop, Rock 7 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
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
Instructors: Nathalie & Franck Lemoine, Board Members USA Dance #6126 Professional Dance Instructors from Paris, France. They have lived & taught in SWFL since 2018.

Visual Arts Center
Art exhibits “Harvest of Art” and “Three Art Guys” on display thru October. Wine & Painting socials are
Wednesday nights @ 6:00pm: “Etched Wine Glasses” on 10/23 and “Let’s Gets Splashed” spooky cat canvas painting on 10/30! Tickets $40 at visualartcenter.org. Support the FUN Arts Festival “Battle of the Brushes” – Donate at crowdrise.com/fun-arts-fest-2019. 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.

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.

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

Charlotte Local Education Foundation
The Golden Apple Teacher and Support Employee of the Year Gala will be held at Holy Trinity Event Center, Port Charlotte, on Saturday, January 11, 6:00 pm. Presented by CLEF and our generous Community Sponsors.
November 8, VIRTUAL tickets available online: www.charlotteschoolfoundation.org
VIRTUAL ticket cost:
Nominees plus one guest – no charge
Nominees’ friends/family – $30 each (limit six tickets)
CCPS employee – $30
General public – $50
Charlotte Local Education Foundation needs VOLUNTEERS light office duties/MENTORS for students. Background check required. Contact CLEF at 941-255-7500, ext. 294

The Charlotte Players is looking for individuals who are interested in working in the box office Monday through Saturday at the Langdon. We are also looking for individuals to run the box office for evening performances at Charlotte Performing Arts Center during the months of January through March for 7 shows.
Necessary skills:
Computer literate
Have communication skills
Able to donate 3 hours 1 or more days a week (mornings or afternoons)
Willing to go through a training period
No difficulties hearing on the phone
If you are interested please contact Steve Pignataro at 941-255-1022 or email steve.pignataro@charlotteplayers.org.

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
Harvest for the Harbor 2019 Click Here for all of the details

Sun Events is bringing some of your favorite bands and artists to the Cultural Center of Charlotte County!
Click Here for September & October Schedule

Senior Friendship Centers, Charlotte county, is holding its third annual “Healthy At Home” holiday donation initiative through November 28th. 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. 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. Our donation sites this year are: The Cultural Center in Port Charlotte (accepting donations through November 8 only), the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce, 252 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, Consulate Health Care at 18480 Cochran Boulevard, Port Charlotte, and four locations of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s office: in Punta Gorda at 7474 Utilities Road, in Englewood at 11051 Wilmington Boulevard, and in Port Charlotte at 992 Tamiami Trail and at the Promenades Mall. Click Here to see the flyer with all of the info. Click Here to see more info.


Point to Ponder

The Simple Truths of Appreciation


Thought for the Week

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”


Member Newsletters

Click Name of Business for their latest news

All American Pet Resorts Punta Gorda

Archway Institute

Charlotte Arts & Humanities

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

Charlotte Symphony

Chelsea Place  Senior Care Conference

Copperfish Books

Drug Free Charlotte County

FGCU Renaissance Academy Fort Myers

<atarget=”_blank” href=”http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Ap98P77nAD6NHIY6NbSHlEgcJfYINsQbzv9rd4hU1IgdxK-LOVAeDrecS12bo6-KCOTTIkjXy50nj2LubMbUiJA_rprzxzSO2vUSSRwaxHIbWBFDw3y4rISiZdJbXlzgQvCQyPVwZnoAdGVqWCXktF5JmUpJrGl-00i-HZX3wsz4bTrPt_MGBDjJo73aQE5rTatTZcJiU8kOOFSwNic_aueDX2aGOYkpzaUsJxfRPeQ=&c=dnf6tFjnhPSXnTY5t8sxZb0SZauYQx4HGLhfLVtnsthrBH-Er5trUA==&ch=jRSUjXWxsiecgxuCikX_FtLz-E3HtPKCOFiq21rVUDTlPKHxJu62Ag==”>FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda

Florida International Air Show

Gulfshore Opera

HipNotique

Key West Express

Military Heritage Museum

Premier Auction Group

Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society

Right at Home

Spa One

Suncoast Humane Society

The Yoga Sanctuary

United Way

Visual Arts Center


Joke of the Week

Bedtime

The tot had just been put to bed for the umpteenth time and his mother’s patience was wearing thin.

“I don’t want to hear you call ‘Mother’ one more time!” she warned him sternly.

After a few minutes of quiet, a small voice came from upstairs, “Mrs. Jones? Can I have a drink of water?”


Applause Section

Charlotte County’s Take Stock in Children Receives State Recognition Awards

Charlotte Local Education Foundation (CLEF) was recently recognized for outstanding performance at the annual Take Stock in Children (TSIC) College and Career Readiness Summit. Take Stock in Children is a statewide scholarship and mentoring program for at-risk, low-income students facilitated locally through Charlotte Local Education Foundation. For the third consecutive year CLEF has received the Gold Level Excellence Award, and for the first time CLEF has also been awarded The Luminary Award. “We’re delighted to receive this special recognition as it reflects our commitment to delivering the highest level of service to these deserving students.” stated Ms. Wierhake. “The Luminary Award is only awarded to programs exceeding Take Stock in Children’s rigorous standards and targeted goals across all areas involving mentoring, college success coach visits, and college readiness workshops. This is definitely the result of a coordinated team effort. Seeing first-hand the effectiveness of the program inspires us to work diligently every day to ensure we’re meeting the measures required by the State level TSIC and its funding partners.”

About Charlotte Local Education Foundation is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that has been Connecting Children, Classrooms, and Community, since 1989. CLEF works in partnership with the community and businesses to bring critical resources that are not funded by normal tax revenues to help students succeed in their academic and personal achievements. These needs are met through student scholarships, mentoring and dropout prevention strategies, school supplies for low-income students, teacher recognition programs, classroom grants, literacy strategies, technical/career education initiatives, and targeted support for low-performing students and schools.

About Take Stock in Children Take Stock in Children, a Florida 501(c) 3 non-profit organization has been providing volunteer mentors, scholarships and hope to more than 26,000 of Florida’s deserving at-risk, low-income students since 1995. Reporting an unparalleled 96% annual high school graduation rate and a 96% college enrollment rate, TSIC is Florida’s flagship and most successful mentoring and scholarship program. In every Florida county, TSIC scholars in middle and high school pledge to meet regularly with their mentor, maintain academic standards, and remain drug and crime-free on the way to achieving a high school diploma. The reward for fulfilling these commitments is a scholarship to a Florida state college, university or vocational school. To donate, volunteer, or learn more about Take Stock in Children, please call 888-322-4673 or visit www.takestockinchildren.org


Sincerely,

John Wright
President
Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce

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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