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.
PG Chamber radio show: October is Full. Now taking for November
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@www.chamberstaging.com to get you on your way. Ideal for business promotions, events or simply to get your name out on air.
Non Profits at Wine Walk
Starting on October 17th , we are again inviting up to 12 non-profits to set up between Angela’s Cafe and Ace Hardware for Wine Walk. Non-profits MUST sign up prior to the event (if space is available). No-showing will result in their name being eliminated from all future dates. Cancellations can be taken up to noon on the day of the event. Please click here for application and guidelines.
On November 2nd, the Downtown Merchants and the PG Chamber will be hosting the Fall downtown Bash 4-9 pm on Taylor in front of the old Courthouse. Want to get your name out and be a sponsor?
$250.00- name on banner, 2 free “all you can drink” tickets/wristbands
$500 with name on banner and flyer plus stage recognition, 4 free “all you can drink” tickets/wristbands
For $1000 you get your full logo on all event publicity as well as everything at the $500 level, 6 free “all you can drink” tickets/wristbands
Email Jrwright@puntagorda-chamber.com for more info or to sign up.
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.
September 17: Business After Hours 5:30pm-7pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Profiles Boutique, 121 E. Marion Ave., #111, 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.
September 18: Harbor Advisors, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce and Port Charlotte SCORE present a workshop on Website Design and Maintenance. Your website serves as an online storefront for your business. Learn how to create a clean, professional looking site that encourages visitors to stay and see what your business has to offer. The workshop is presented by Candee Gulick of CeJay Associates, LLC. Once your site is complete it will need to be updated with new information and photos from time to time. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, September 18th from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM at the Charlotte Community Foundation, 227 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda. The workshop and lunch are available at no charge thanks to our sponsor Affordable Tax Service. You do not have to be a member of the chamber to attend. Seating is limited, you must pre-register for the workshop at portcharlotte.score.org. The next workshop “Building Your Brand” will be held on Wednesday, October 16th.
September 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.
September 25: Networking Luncheon-12 Noon – 1:30 pm.
Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at La Fiorentina, 10361 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or 941-639-3720. Cost is $15.00 per person pre-paid or $20.00 at the door. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex
Punta Gorda Chamber Annual Awards Banquet, September 21, 2019 at 6pm (opens in new tab)
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:
- October 12, 2019
- 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
New Members
Mission Statement
To promote business in Punta Gorda and all our surroundings areas, for the benefit of our entire community.
Thomas Anna Arnold
3649 Brooklyn Ave.
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-759-3672
arnoldanna158@gmail.com
Individual Member
Sponsored by Pat Oliva
Remember to utilize the certificates in the New Member packet. These are very valuable to your business.
Partners in Action News
Bayfront Health Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte (Platinum)
Click Here for September Events
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.
Wyvern Hotel (Gold)
Click Here for Info on the Kitt Moran Trio on Sept.14th
The Passing of the Brushes- a new exhibit At the Wyvern Hotel, Tuesday September 17th at 6pm
Charlotte State Bank & Trust (Silver) – Eric DeYoung Named Florida Realtors Instructor
Eric DeYoung, CCIM, vice president of commercial lending at Charlotte State Bank & Trust, has been accepted as a real estate instructor with the Florida Realtors. He will be teaching a course entitled “Fundamentals of Working with Residential Investors.” “The course is geared to residential Realtors, providing them with the tools they need to work with investors in residential real estate,” DeYoung explained. “Realtors will come away knowing who their target customers are, how to speak with them, and how to perform a basic income and expense calculation for a property.” DeYoung, who grew up in Charlotte County, graduated from Charlotte High School and the University of Florida, majoring in finance at college and graduating cum laude. He received his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Florida Gulf Coast University and graduated from the American Bankers Association Stonier Graduate School of Banking in Philadelphia. He was awarded the Certified Commercial Investment Member designation by the CCIM Institute in 2018. The CCIM title signifies expertise in the commercial real estate profession. DeYoung was approved as a Florida Realtors instructor by the organization’s Professional Development Committee. Florida Realtors is the largest trade association in the state with more than 187,000 members and the third-largest Realtor organization in the country. Through Florida Realtors, members receive business contacts, networking opportunities, educational offerings, research and legislative representation, programs and services. The association is headquartered in Orlando, and the legislative Office of Public Policy is located in Tallahassee. For more information, visit https://www.floridarealtors.org.
Florida Southwestern State College (Silver)
FSW Charlotte Campus Observatory Opens for 2019-2020
Viewing Season
The James & Barbara Moore Observatory at the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Charlotte Campus opens for the 2019-2020 viewing season on Friday, Sept. 27. Observation sessions are held on the first Friday of each month and begin 30-45 minutes after dark, outdoors and weather permitting. Sessions are free and open to the public. The FSW Charlotte Campus is located at 26300 Airport Road, Punta Gorda.
Schedule of Observatory Viewing Sessions 2019-2020:
Sept. 27, 2019
Oct. 25, 2019
Nov. 22, 2019
Dec. 27, 2019
Jan. 24, 2020
Feb. 28, 2020
March 27, 2020
April 24, 2020
May 22, 2020
Additional observation sessions may be scheduled or changed depending on celestial events.
For more information or for a full schedule of observatory events, call (941) 637-3518 or (941) 637-5652, or visit https://www.fsw.edu/charlotte/observatory.
Nov 28th Turkey Trot – early registration
One Source Accounting (Bronze)
Backup withholding rate change
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) reduced the backup withholding tax rate to 24 percent. When it applies, backup withholding requires a payer to withhold tax from payments not otherwise subject to withholding.
Payments subject to backup withholding include (but are not limited to):
• Interest payments;
• Dividends;
• Rents, profits or other income;
• Commissions, fees or other payments for work performed as an independent contractor;
• Payments by brokers and barter exchange transactions;
• Payment card and third-party network transactions; and
• Royalty payments.
We are a phone call away and would love to help you with your tax needs!!
OneSource Accounting & Tax Co
Mary Anne Simone 315 E. Olympia Ave., Ste 224,
Punta Gorda,
masimone@1sourceaccounting.com /
www.1sourceaccountingfl.com
Animal Welfare League (Support)
Click Here for their latest news.
Charlotte Players (Support)
Click Here for info on “Don’t Dress for Dinner”
Auditions for “Jack of Diamonds” will be held in the Charlotte Players Rehearsal Hall on Sunday, September 22nd and Monday, September 23rd at 7:00 PM Click Here for character descriptions
Comedy for A Cause
Join us for our 7th Annual Comedy For A Cause on September 13th. This year’s first four cast members are: Jessica Cantwell from Life Care Center, Kim Seals Parks from The Englewood Chamber, Mike Hearn from The Florida Weekly; and Amanda Stahl-Stacey from Trilogy Home Health. The second half of the group are: Kelly Rittenhouse-Pomerville from Charlotte Behavior Health Care, Chuck Matos from Bayfront Heath, Bill Gladwell, Entertainer; and finally Mike Moody from Sun Broadcasting, Inc. The event will be at The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center which is located at 75 Taylor Road in Punta Gorda. VIP tickets include dinner and are $85 with the entrance time of 6pm. Show only tickets are $30 with the entrance time of 7:15pm. For tickets call our box office at (941) 255-1022 or online at www.charlotteplayers.org.
Harmonic Image Video and Photography will be conducting an audition at Charlotte Players on Wednesday September 18, 2019 at 7 pm for a commercial to be shot on Friday October 18, 2019, (During the DAY) They are looking for one female actor, age 4-6 and one female actor, in her 60’s. no need to prepare a monologue in advance. If selected, each actor will be paid $250 by Harmonic Image. Auditions will be in the Charlotte Players rehearsal hall located at 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte, FL PLEASE call Charlotte Players at 941-255-1022 during business hours 10 am to 3 pm and register in advance.
Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (Support)
6:00 – 7:30 p.m., Tuesdays, September. 17, 24 at PGI Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda: “Finish Your Book” with James Abraham Writer, editor, literary critic, columnist and owner of Book-Broker Publishers in Punta Gorda, James Abraham presents a four-class writing series “Finish Your Book”. If you have begun the adventure of writing a book, or if this is something you have always wanted to do, this is an opportunity to explore some of the key elements of making your project successful.
$80 for the entire series. Call the PGICA office 941-637-1655 for more information and reservation.
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4 – 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays, through 24 at PGI Civic Association, 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda: “One Society: Race Relations in a Post-Racial Society” with James Abraham
9/10: Black Lives Matter: Just who are these people?
9/17: Interracial Dating: From the Bible to yesterday’s headlines, opinions on the subject run the gamut from hearty acceptance to violent proscription.
9/24: Multicultural Pluralism: Has a plurality of races and religions hindered or helped American progress?
Includes handouts and reading list.
$80 for the entire series. Call the PGICA office 941-637-1655 for more information and reservation.
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.
September 24: David Sussman Photography, 5240 Duncan Rd., Punta Gorda.
September 25: Ribbon Cutting of the New Orthopedic & Spine Unit at Fawcett Memorial Hospital. There will be Free valet parking at Main Entrance, volunteers will escort attendees to the second floor spine & orthopedic unit. Fawcett Memorial Hospital, 21298 Olean Blvd. Port Charlotte, September 25, 2019, 5 pm – 6:30 pm. Ribbon Cutting at 5:30 pm
October 1: King Fisher Fleet for their new boat “The Helen M”. Guests will be welcomed on board to tour the boat. The boat will not be leaving the dock.
October 3: Burnt Store Animal Hospital, 16500 Burnt Store Rd. Bldg B, In the Turtle Crossing Plaza, Punta Gorda
October 24: Ribbon Cutting at Nature Park, Corner of Bal Harbor & Aqui Esta, Punta Gorda. Goes from 4:30 to 6 pm. Ribbon Cutting will be at 5:30 pm.
November 4: Ribbon Cutting at Visual Arts Center Fun Arts Festival, 210 Maud Street, Punta Gorda 12 Noon
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
Fact of the Day
Asparagus Paper
Yes, it is true. You can make paper from asparagus. Asparagus fern can be stored and used to make paper. While it won’t feel and look like your regular day to day paper, it is sturdy and you can write on it.
Question of the Week
What day will the kids be trick or treating in downtown Punta Gorda?
Events for Week of September 13 – September 22
Remember to click this link to see events for these dates that are in flyer format.
Upcoming Member Events
The Orange House Wine Bar
320 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda 941-505-8233
We are now open for breakfast and lunch!
Tuesday-Saturday 8 am – 2 pm
Fri. September 13: 7pm -10 pm
Spend this Friday the 13th listening to the one and only Orange House Band! They’re so good it’s Scary! This group fills the room, so call to reserve
your spot today!
Sat. September 14: 7pm- 10 pm
We’re closed for the 22nd Annual Punta Gorda Sullivan
Street Craft Festival
Yoga Month Bingo Challenge
A Benefit for the Peace River Wildlife Center
September Through the 30th
September is National Yoga Month! During Yoga Month, designated by the Department of Health & Human Services, festivities occur across the country. Hundreds of studios, teachers, and students join in. Come celebrate with The Yoga Sanctuary and discover the transformational power of a consistent yoga practice. Participate in our month-long game of Yoga Month Bingo and see the difference yourself! In addition to feeling stronger, more relaxed, and less stressed, you will also be supporting the Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC). Our August 29th Community Class at PRWC kicks off the Bingo game, which culminates with a celebration for all participants and supporters on Wednesday, October 2nd. See you on the mat and in the world. 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/
Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi: The 18 Movements of Qigong
Tuesdays, September 10 – October 1 4 – 5pm $55
Qigong is the study of the energy that circulates within the human body and pervades the universe. Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi is a set of qigong exercises that is based on the philosophy of tai chi and incorporates some of the foundational movements from Yang Style Taichichuan. It places emphasis on synchronizing the 18 movements with proper breathing techniques. A gentle, beautiful, and flowing set of movements that is a joy to do, Qigong is deeply relaxing and is designed to improve the general health and well-being of those who practice. Benefits include improved circulation, digestion, and respiration (breathing!), and a reduction in mental stress and physical tension that is so often carried in the muscles of the body. A system that is easy to learn, you will leave with the understanding and ability to continue to practice on your own! This workshop series is suitable for people of all ages and levels of ability. Options to practice both standing and seated will be offered. 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/
Military Heritage Museum Hosts 9/11 Remembrance Tribute Concert
The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda will be host to a 9/11 Remembrance and Patriotic Tribute by the Sun Coast Wind Ensemble, in the Gulf Theater on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 7 p.m. The cost for admission will be $15 online or at the door. In remembrance of September 11, the wind ensemble will perform a selection of music to commemorate those souls who died on that day. Selections will include “Flight of Valor” which will salute the heroes of United Flight 93, and “For Our Heroes” which will honor our first responders. The wind ensemble will also perform a wonderful selection of patriotic pieces such as “God Bless America” and “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and many more selections. Sun Coast Wind Ensemble is comprised of 50 plus musicians from surrounding cities and counties. Musicians from Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, North Port, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, and Arcadia combine their talents to perform at various venues throughout the year. The concert wind ensemble has performed at Island Walk Community, Patriot’s Park in Venice, Venice Yacht Club, Suncoast MC Church and many other locations. The wind ensemble is directed by Ms. Lynn Cleary, who is entering her second year as the director of the group and brings with her many years of teaching experience in music. Ms. Cleary taught instrumental music at the secondary level as well as being a school administrator in Michigan before retiring to Florida. The Military Heritage Museum is located at 900 West Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda. For more information, please call 941-575-9002 or go to our website at www.freedomisntfree.org.
Chelsea Place Blood Drive
September 14th 10am – 1 pm
Click Here for all the info.
Fishermen’s Village is proud to once again host Nick’s Kids Show/Safety Day on Saturday, September 14, 12 noon-4 p.m. Interactive, fun shows, safety displays and information. Free admission/free parking. Visit www.fishville.com/events for full details.
Yoga 101: Getting from the Ground Up!
Saturday, September 14th 12 – 3pm $45
Are you not quite new to yoga, but hesitant to try classes that take you out of your comfort zone? Get on your feet in this workshop, designed to give you the confidence to practice yoga’s foundational standing postures. You will learn postures that build strength, flexibility, and balance at a pace that is comfortable and playful, set by your own intentions. After all, this is YOUR practice! By the end of the workshop you will have a good idea of what to expect in a TYS Level 1 Yoga class, advance your study of asana (plus a bit of yoga philosophy), and have the tools to attend Level 1 and other favorite classes. 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/
Quarters for a Cause will be hosting a Quarter Auction to benefit The Homeless Coalition on Tuesday, September 17th at 6:00P.M. at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center located at 75 Taylor Street in Punta Gorda. Come enjoy a fun night with friends and community leaders. Brings lots of enthusiasm, $3 for each Paddle rental, rolls of quarters for bidding and extra cash. There will be a cash bar and food available for purchase. For more information, contact Darcy Woods at (941) 627-4313, Ext.134 or email Darcy.Woods@cchomelesscoalition.org.
Harmonic Image Video and Photography will be conducting an audition at Charlotte Players on Wednesday September 18, 2019 at 7 pm for a commercial to be shot on Friday October 18, 2019, (During the DAY) They are looking for one female actor, age 4-6 and one female actor, in her 60’s. no need to prepare a monologue in advance. If selected, each actor will be paid $250 by Harmonic Image. Auditions will be in the Charlotte Players rehearsal hall located at 1182 Market Circle, Port Charlotte, FL PLEASE call Charlotte Players at 941-255-1022 during business hours 10 am to 3 pm and register in advance.
Elder Law Focus of Workshop
Seniors have many concerns, ranging from health and nutrition to mobility and transportation. In focusing on personal care, however, some seniors may let certain important legal and estate-planning issues slide.
That’s why Chelsea Place Senior Care asked Elder Law Attorney Mary A. Byrski to be the featured speaker this month at its “Elder Law & Estate Planning Workshop.” The event takes place on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Chelsea Place Senior Day Care and Activities Center, 3626 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte.
Byrski, a board-certified elder law attorney, has been handling the estate planning, probate and Medicaid benefit qualifying needs of clients in Charlotte County and Southwest Florida since 1999. Since founding Byrski Estate and Elder Law in 2000, she has cultivated a reputation for handling the elder law needs in the community with competence and compassion.
Her presentation at Chelsea Place, entitled “Getting Your Estate Documents in Order and Protecting Your Assets as You Age,” will include information on:
- Wills & Trusts
- Estate Planning
- Medicaid Benefits Planning
- Veteran Benefits Planning
- Trust Administration
- Probate
For information on Byrski, visit the Byrski Estate and Elder Law website at https://byrskilaw.com or call 941-833-9262.
“We’re honored to have a community leader and senior advocate such as Mary Byrski appearing at this workshop,” said Chelsea Place owner Kris Chana. “It’s designed for seniors and those caring for seniors, whether it’s a parent, spouse, relative, friend or neighbor.”
For more information or to RSVP, call Amie Conti at 941-787-0687. The workshop is free and open to the public.
Fat Point Brewing
Click Here for What’s Going On
Member Information
The Bean on 41 Coffee Shop
The perfect place for a business meeting or social chat is The Bean on 41 Coffee Shop in Towles Plaza. Locally roasted beans, triple filtered water, and a whole lot more than just coffee. Healthy smoothies, light bites, breakfast sandwiches and more. Stay tuned for our new revised menu launching October 1st. Meeting space available for rent. Having a special event? The Bean also caters coffee a delightful touch to your party or fund-raiser. www.thebeanon41.com 941.769.2398
Village Brewhouse
Hurricane Fund Raiser – $1 of all Hurricane Buckets sold before 9/22 will be donated to hurricane relief
Sunday NFL kick off specials – 75¢ cent wings, $2 kids meal, Bud Light girls will be here at 12:30. Bud Light 22 oz yard glass can be purchased filled for 3.50 and then bring the glass back for any Monday or Thursday NFL regular season game and refill it for only $2.50
$5 Bloody Mary’s and of course we also have all the games with the NFL package and more that 30 TVs
Vote for us in the Pizza king contest and receive $5 off any pizza
Homeless Students Gap Fund of Charlotte County
Mentoring Matters: Why Not You? Have you ever wanted to make a difference in someone’s life? Please click here for the info
The Charlotte Education Foundation is looking for volunteers for light duty office and mentors for students. A background check is required. Contact: Sara Wierhake at 941-255-7500, ext. 294 or email Sara.Wierhake@yourcharlotteschools.net.
Charlotte County Info
Show Us Your Charlotte is a call to submit your best photos of Charlotte County to the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau. Share your best images of the area—the beach, the harbor, an adventure–we want to see what you’ve got! Photos submitted by Sept. 27 will be considered for the 2020 Show Us Your Charlotte calendar. Submit your photos online: www.ShowUsYourCharlotte.com.
Gulfshore Opera
Season 6 Brings Exciting Changes and Audience Favorites
Click Here for all of the info.
Visual Arts Center
“Color” and “Black & White” on display until Oct. 3. Wine & Painting socials Wednesday nights @ 6pm begin with “Anything But Canvas Oct. 9. Color Theory WS w/ Mike Grecian Oct. 16 & 17 includes more than $50 in free samples! Support our FUN Arts Festival Celebrities at crowdrise.com/fun-arts-fest-2019 – Finale Event Nov 15, tickets at visualartcenter.org. 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.
Golfers Who C.A.R.E. Scramble- Saturday, October 12, 2019, St. Andrews South Golf Cub
Come support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Charlotte County during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, cart and green fees. $90/person – $360/Foursome Raffles, challenges with prizes, and more!
Email chris.hall@carefl.org or call 941-639-5499 for more information.
Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
Harvest for the Harbor 2019
Click Here for all of the details
National Library Card Sign-up Month
King Fisher Fleet, located at Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda, supports National Library Card Sign-Up Month by offering free Sunset Cruises to everyone who gets a new library card during the month of September. Interested library borrowers in Charlotte and Desoto Counties may sign up for a new library card at the front desk at any Charlotte or Desoto County library. When signing-up, borrowers will receive a voucher for a free Sunset Cruise which is valid for use during September or October. The Sunset Cruise is a 90 minute sightseeing cruise that allows passengers to enjoy a glorious Florida sunset over Charlotte Harbor while touring the residential waterfront. Advance reservations are recommended. For the current schedule, more information, and reservations, call 941-639-0969. King Fisher Fleet offers eight cruises including daylong cruises to the islands of Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, and Boca Grande, narrated tours of the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor, as well as sunset cruises and Christmas light canal cruises. King Fisher Fleet also offers charter fishing with some of the best fishing guides in southwest Florida, departing every day from Fishermen’s Village Marina. Gift certificates for cruises as well as for fishing charters are available at the King Fisher Fleet office.
Wheelbarrow of Cheer!
The C A R E. Auxiliary is selling raffle tickets for a wheelbarrow full of liquor! Tickets are $10 each or 5 for $40, and all proceeds benefit survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Charlotte County. The winner will be pulled on October 12 at the Golfers Who C.A.R.E. event. Winner is not required to attend. Call or email Chris to purchase your tickets! (941) 639-5499, chris.hall@carefl.org.
Pedal Punta Gorda
You don’t want to miss this! Our first Pedal & Paint tour around Punta Gorda is Harry Potter themed. Dress in your favorite Costume and choose your House. Are you Gryffindor or Slytherin? We will help you create a masterpiece to start off the Spooky Season. Tour is 3 hours long and only 15 spots available. 21+ unless you book the whole Tavern as a Private tour. Not a Potter fan? Check out the 27th tour. We will be doing field pumpkins on recycled pallet wood. Cost is $100.00 pp. Sunday October 13th, 2019 @ 1:00 P.M. Like us up on FB/IG: pedalpuntagorda or check our our website for upcoming events. pedalpuntagorda.com
Booking questions: 941-777-0715
Island Flavah News
It’s Michael White, and recently I competed in Las Vegas, NV at Karaoke World Championships in August against 109 other contestants from all across the country, representing their respective states. The grueling 3-day competition was tough, but….I won! This was a major win, as 9000 hopefuls had tried out, with 109 other hopefuls like myself battling it out in Las Vegas. The next step is the World Finals which are being held in Tokyo, Japan. KWC is paying for my flight and lodging, but I will need to provide my own food and transportation while I’m there. I’m looking to put on a fundraiser, where I’ll be performing Live at Downtown Gatorz, 502 King Street, Punta Gorda, Florida on October 26th, 2019 at 3pm-7pm. We’re looking for businesses to please donate anything they can: Gift Certificates, baskets to raffle, whatever. Would you please help me by donating anything to help us raise enough money? Our goal is 1300 before November 13th. Every little bit helps. We appreciate you and in return, we’d like to advertise your business or organization with your logo. Please email a copy of your logo to: mianji@gmail.com and we will add to all of our flyers and at the venue on the big screens as well. Thanks in advance for any help you can provide, and if you are even interested in sponsoring, we’d like to chat about that at your convenience, if you want.
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.
2019 Florida International Air Show
The 2019 Florida International Air Show has announced a “Military – Veteran Discount.” Active Military and Veterans will receive a $15 discount on the Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd, General Admission Tickets Only. General Admission Tickets for Active Military and Veterans will be $20.00 (plus fees) . Proper ID is required. The Active Military and Veterans Discount is not available online or in advance. This special ticket offer is only available at the Gate on November 2nd & November 3rd. Dana Carr, President of the 2019 Florida International Air Show stated “It was way to give back to our active military and veterans and thank them for their outstanding service.”
How kids can get free air show tickets
Students in kindergarten through fifth grade can earn free tickets to the Florida International Air Show held Nov. 1 through 3. All they have to do is read an aviation-related book and write three things they learned about aviation or liked about the book. There is a form parents must fill out and submit to the student’s teacher. The form must also include a short summary, with length determined by the teacher. The form can be found on http://www.FloridaAirShow.com Home school students also have the opportunity to earn their free ticket. Parents can email the form, which must be signed by the parent, to floridaairshow@outlook.com. Once the form is submitted, students will earn a free ticket and can choose what day they would like to attend the event. They must, however, be accompanied by adult who paid admission. Tickets will be distributed Oct. 28. This year’s air show is Nov. 1-3 at Punta Gorda Airport. For more information about the air show, visit FloridaAirShow.com
Sun Events is bringing some of your favorite bands and artists to the Cultural Center of Charlotte County!
Click Here for September & October Schedule
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, and several other different-sized logos, so that you can link your website to ours.
Point to Ponder
Did You Know These Hidden Facts: (Click Here to view the YouTube Video)
Thought for the Week
People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.
Member Newsletters
Click Name of Business for their latest news
Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
Chelsea Place – Senior Care Conference
Economic Development Partnership
FGCU Renaissance Academy Fort Myers
FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda
Port Charlotte Score Lunch & Learn Workshops
Job Opportunities
Hessler Floor Covering is seeking talented people to join our sales team in multiple locations-Punta Gorda, Fort Myers and Naples. We are experiencing continued sales growth in all locations with opportunities to increase sales even more with you! Hessler Floor Covering has been serving customers in all of South West Florida since 1951 and continues to be a 5 Star rated company by our customers. Together with our parent company, Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings, we have 4 retail locations. We offer: company provided health and basic life insurances; dental and vision are available.
401K plan after 1 year with the company.
Potential for the right candidate(s) to achieve $60,000/annually with unlimited earnings potential.
Previous sales experience with flooring and tile industry experience preferred, however, we will train the right candidate(s). Please email your most recent resume for consideration and start your new career with us today!
Attention Rich Lancette@ rlancette@hesslerfloors.com.
We are a drug free workplace! Backgound check and drug testing required.
Special Offers for Chamber Members
Air Trek Click Here for Special Key West Offer
Storm Smart Click Here for a special offer for Chamber Members.
Sleep Inn & Suites Click here for a special offer for Chamber Members.
Twin Isles Country Club Click Here for Offer, Click Here for Offer
LaQuinta Inn & Suites Click Here for Summer Special
Joke of the Week
Free Haircut
The morning of the big parade, a man and a little boy entered a barber shop together. “Give me the full treatment,” the man said. “I want to look good in the parade!”
After the man received a shave, manicure, and haircut, he placed the boy in the chair. “I’m going to buy a new tie to wear for the parade,” he said. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”
When the boy’s haircut was done and the man still hadn’t returned, the barber said, “It looks like your daddy forgot all about you.”
“That wasn’t my daddy,” said the boy. “He just walked up, took me by the hand and said, “Come on, son, we’re gonna get a free haircut!”
Applause Section
The Homeless Coalition
30 Years and Making Change
This year marks the 30th Anniversary of The Homeless Coalition. On August 6th they kicked off the momentous occasion with a community breakfast celebration that included Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte and Englewood Chambers, Community Officials and friends of the Coalition. Over time it has gone from serving Charlotte County to now serving Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Lee, and Sarasota Counties. Our Mission is to Prevent and Alleviate Homelessness and Hunger. To do this the Homeless Coalition strives to create and continue collaborative efforts to ensure that their clients are receiving the maximum care. Collaborations vary from a partnership with the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, the Animal Welfare League, Charlotte Behavioral Health Care, Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic and many more. Over 93% of school age children receive free or reduced lunch and 1 out of 3 children go to bed hungry in Charlotte and neighboring counties. At our Emergency Safe House Shelter we reserve 20 beds for homeless Veterans who have fought for our freedom. They receive case management with the goal to secure permanent housing. The Fresh Food pantry distributes over 300 boxes of food per month to prevent families becoming homeless, including 25% low income seniors. And lastly, our Bridges Out of Poverty program facilitates the educational components that helps to end the progression of generational poverty and provide the tools to change their life course.
The Homeless Coalition has numerous opportunities to volunteer or celebrate with them throughout the remainder of the year. For more information how to support The Homeless Coalition please visit their website cchomelesscoalition.org or contact Devorah Kermisch at (941) 627- 4313 Ext. 132 or devorah.kermisch@cchomelesscoalition.org.
Goldstein Street Brick Party
The City of Punta Gorda and our community partners are scheduled to hold the Historic Street Bricking on Goldstein St. between Marion and Olympia Avenues starting at 8 a.m., Saturday, September 14, 2019. Join us for a great time as city residents, friends and visitors join in laying paver bricks on Goldstein Street in Historic Punta Gorda. Over the years, folks from near and far have gathered to install these century old historic paver bricks in the streets of Punta Gorda. Help us continue this tradition. Come anytime between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
For public safety the street will remain closed in the Work Area. The street will be re-opened to the public immediately following completion. Travelers are requested to seek alternate routes while work is occurring, and workers are present in the right-of-way. The City of Punta Gorda appreciates your cooperation.
For additional information on this project, please contact Linda Sposito, Sr. Project Manager, City of Punta Gorda Public Works Department at (941) 575-5060 between the business hours of 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday.
A Message From ChamberMaster
Powerful Visibility on the Chamber Website!
People on our website have already made an important decision; they are looking for a business right here in our area.
Statistics indicate that people searching the internet are experienced, educated consumers who use the web to help make purchase decisions!
Are you reaching this targeted market?
Many members realize the benefit of their membership and the value of targeting the market already driven to the Chamber’s Online Business Directory. It is about utilizing the web and the Chamber name to promote your business. We have asked our Internet Marketing Consultant, Suzanne Johnson, to help you promote your business to these targeted, potential consumers using the Chamber’s website. Upgrade opportunities will be presented, including the ability to display your logo in our Online Business Directory, increase visibility to your own web link, and provide enhancements that give a professional first impression. How to gain additional, exclusive exposure to the Chamber website traffic is something that will also be discussed.
Stand Out from the Crowd!!
- Enhance your Listing
- Logo, Photos/Video, Priority Placement in the Online Business Directory, expanded Character Business Description, with an additional 200 Character Description right in the Search Results
- Be Highlighted in your Business Category
- Display a custom banner ad as one of our Limited Business Category Sponsors
- Select Premiere Visibility on High Traffic Pages
- Choose to become a Complete Website Sponsor – with free banner ad design and re-design
Your Free Listing on the Chamber’s Online Business Directory includes:
- Business description
- Hours of operation
- Driving directions
- Personalized keywords
- Free online job postings
- Free online promotions
- Ability to register for Events
- Update the Chamber’s database without having to call or email
The basic listings require your attention to update your business description, key word/search terms, hours of operation and driving directions to enhance your searchability.
Be watching your email for more details on how to schedule your one-on-one consultation or if you’d like to get on the list to be contacted first, you can email suzanne@chamberimc.com.
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.