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: Now Booking for February 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
Chamber Calendar of Events
Please remember to RSVP to:
reception@ puntagorda-chamber.com or 941-639-3720.
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.
Players Circle Theater
Carrie Cacioppo
16554 N. Cleveland Ave.
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
239-800-3273
info@playerscircle.org
www.playerscircle.org
Live Theatre
Sponsored by Doris Bella of
Media Promotions & Events
Marine Max Venice
Mark Schrader
1485 S. Tamiami Trail
Venice, FL 34285
305-395-8821
mark.schrader@marinemax.com
www.marinemax.com
Boat & Yacht Sales
Sponsored by Pat Oliva
wellBeing Acupuncture
Kathleen Koch
1401 Tamiami Trail, Suite B
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
941-979-2004
newbkkoch@comcast.net
Acupuncture/Health & Wellness
Sponsored by Koch & Company CPA P.A.
Remember to utilize the certificates in the New Member packet. These are very valuable to your business.
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 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)
Witness something WONDERFUL at the height of the giving season!!!
WHAT:
A single mom of a young boy, working for less than $20K per year, living in subsidized apartments, obtained a newer and safer car through her church to tote her young one around in. She feels blessed that her church (Deep Creek) helped her in this way. She wanted to keep the blessing going, so instead of selling her old car (+$2,500 value), she is donating it to a homeless veteran at Veterans Village (transitional housing) who currently rides his bike across the bridge to go to work. The event is expected to last less than a hour.
WHO:
Come join the Punta Gorda Chamber, City, Fire, Police, and citizens as we cheer on this blessing of the season!
Shhhhhh Various organizations are pooling together to give her a ‘blessings’ basket! If you want to join in, please contact C.J. info below. This will be a huge surprise for her!
WHERE:
Taylor Rd and Marion Ave. City Christmas Tree (City Market Place) in Punta Gorda
WHEN:
Wednesday, December 18th, 4 p.m.
For more information contact:
C.J. Metcalfe
Email: Veterancommittee@aol.com
Cell: 727-278-5818
SUBJECT: Donation request for our chamber member Sue Reeves for a new service dog to fill the void of Crystal Reeves’ unexpected passing.
Sue Reeves has been placed on the waiting list to receive another service dog, from New Horizons Service Dogs, Inc. located in Orange City, FL. Let’s help continue their mission of placing service dogs to those in need at no charge. NHSD has set up a fundraising/ donation program called MIGHTY CAUSE and we are asking for your donation help. New Horizons Service Dogs (NHSDI) was founded in 1995. A 501(c)(3), Federal ID 59-3334829, not for profit organization, New Horizons receives no government funding and is financed solely from fundraisers, donations and grants. The cost to train and place a service dog is approximately $25,000. NHSDI’s volunteer puppy raisers and trained staff breed, train and certify service dogs for disabled veterans, autistic children and qualifying persons with physical disabilities. The fully trained Service Dogs are given, at no charge, to deserving qualified recipients. New Horizons places approximately 42 dogs every year. You can donate by Clicking Here. Open the link. Click on DONATE. Indicate your donation amount. Check the ADD A DEDICATION box-select IN MEMORY OF and enter CRYSTAL REEVES. Thank you for selflessly continuing this very important effort by donating to NEW HORIZONS SERVICE DOGS and helping our member SUE REEVES.
Fact of the Day
Who Is Paul Winchell?
Winchell is known to most as the voice of Tigger from The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. While he made appearances in shows such as Perry Mason, McMillan & Wife, and The Beverly Hillbillies, he is more known in the industry for his voicing of Tigger. However, he also gets credit for something very significant. Winchell was an inventor who used his medical training to create the first artificial heart.
Question of the Week
Who do I call to get rid of iguanas here in Punta Gorda?
Events for Week of December 6 – December 15
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. December 6: 7pm -10 pm
Sat.December 7: 7pm- 10 pm
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 till December 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.
Artist Reception at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home
You can’t fight it any longer ! Christmas is almost here! Just give up and come have some fun. On Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5:00 PM, we are showing some fabulous works by Beverly Yankwitt, drinking egg nog (and maybe some wine), eating wonderful food and listening to Christmas tunes by Homegrown. It’s a can’t miss good time. Beverly’s abstract, non-objective art has won lots of awards and been accepted into many prestigious juried shows. Charlotte Memorial’s receptions are part of the “Art in Public Places” program and presented by Leigha Murray. Come join us at 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road in Punta Gorda. Call Rick Tuss at 941-639-1171 for information.
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.
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.
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
Holiday Market Extravaganza is Dec. 6-8: 60+ tables of art, gifts and goodies! Complimentary Holiday snacks/drinks Friday from 5-7pm. Off the Wall & 3D Member Show on display Dec 10-20. Then & Now Exhibit on display until Dec 22. Classes start week of Jan 13- Register at VisualArtCenter.org. Check out our Master Workshops, too! 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
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 12:00pmat 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
MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM HOSTS DECEMBER 7 PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE DAY EVENT
On December 7, The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda will host an event honoring the 2,403 citizens of the United States that lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941. To honor the day, this year the Military Heritage Museum and the U.S. Navy League Sun Coast Council are holding a special wreath laying ceremony in Charlotte Harbor. For the wreath, we will be using orchid leis honoring those who sacrificed their lives on that fateful day as well as the names of veterans from Punta Gorda and Charlotte County. The At-Sea Wreath Laying Ceremony begins at 11:30 a.m. with a buffet lunch at the Tiki Bar at the Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda, with guest speaker Rear Admiral Larry Chambers speaking on the significance of the Pearl Harbor event. Small boats can moor up to the pier at the Tiki Bar or the Laishley Marina visitor dock, and non-boaters can park at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel. At 1 p.m. we will form a line of small boats and sail past Fishermen’s Village on our way out to the ceremony site on the west side of buoy #2 to do the lei ceremony. Orchid leis can be purchased for $10 and will have the names of veterans from Punta Gorda and Charlotte County. Early registrants can add a name to a lei if they want to remember someone specifically. RADM Chambers will serve as the honorary commodore of the flotilla and will give the command over VHF to launch the leis. After the ceremony all boats to head home. If you don’t have a boat and want to join the event, we will have several pontoon boats that can take up to ten people each. Please register online at the museum website at www.militaryheritagemuseum.org/upcoming-events where you can register your boat for the ceremony, RSVP for the lunch, request special names for leis, get more details on the day’s event and also register for the evening concert at www.militaryheritagemuseum.org/gulf-theater-shows/.
Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Activities taking place at the Military Heritage Museum
– Special free exhibit in the museum atrium
– Rare newspaper predicting the attack on Hawaii dated November 30, 1941
– *Flight Simulator: Pearl Harbor Day legend – Curtiss P-40B Warhawk.
– *Google Expedition: U.S.S. Arizona Memorial (11 a.m., 2 p.m.)
– *Academy Library: Newspapers from December 1941 and books on Pearl Harbor
*Requires All Access Pass – $10 p/p; $8 for veterans, active duty, and youth ages 5-13. No fee for children under 5. Annual Members – $5
Museum parking is located under the three buildings located on the 900 W. Marion Ave. campus. Additional overflow parking is available (as well as access to the one of the buildings) behind the campus on W. Retta Esplanade along the park side of the street. Additional parking is also available in the nearby Fishermen’s Village parking lots. 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 ww.militaryheritagemuseum.org
or call 941-575-9002.
MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM HOSTS SUN COAST WIND ENSEMBLE CONCERT
The Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda will host a concert commemorating Punta Gorda Founders Week and National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on Saturday, December 7. The concert will take place in the Gulf Theater at 7 p.m. and the cost is $15. Music selections will include Hymn to the Fallen, Pearl Harbor, You’ll Never Walk Alone and a patriotic medley including the Stars and Stripes Forever march. Other music on the program will also bring back wonderful memories of this era and will surely bring a smile to your face. Tickets are available online or at the door. 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 www.militaryheritagemuseum.org or call 941-575-9002.
Green Hibiscus Christmas Light Tours
Click Here for all info.
Drug Free Punta Gorda
ALL Are Invited! Drug Free Punta Gorda Coalition
Christmas Breakfast
Tuesday Dec 10, 2019 8:30—10 a.m.
DFPG Office @ East Elementary School 27050 Fairway Dr, P.G. Bldg. 12, Room 104 (Behind the main school bldg.)
Come and Enjoy
* A Full Breakfast
* Tasty Beverages
* Festive Music
* Lots of Friends
* Encouragement for the New Year
R.S.V.P. Requested Call (941) 740-4358
Or email: Monica.babcock@yourcharlotteschools.net
United Way
It’s Pizza for a Cause! Dine Out and Do Good on Tuesday, December 10 at Bocca Lupo Coal Oven Pizza. On this day, a portion of all sales from both Bocca Lupo locations in Port Charlotte and North Port will be donated to United Way of Charlotte County. Your donation directly benefits Charlotte County children, families and seniors by improving opportunities for the education, financial stability, health and wellness of those we serve. For more information, call our office (941) 627-3539.
You can’t fight it any longer ! Christmas is almost here!
Just give up and come have some fun. On Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 5:00 PM, we are showing some fabulous works by Beverly Yankwitt, drinking egg nog (and maybe some wine), eating wonderful food and listening to Christmas tunes by Homegrown. It’s a can’t miss good time. Beverly’s abstract, non-objective art has won lots of awards and been accepted into many prestigious juried shows. Charlotte Memorial’s receptions are part of the “Art in Public Places” program and presented by Leigha Murray. Come join us at 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road in Punta Gorda. Call Rick Tuss at 941-639-1171 for information.
PhotoTalk with David Sussman December 12
Join David at 5:30pm at his new photography gallery for an informal, interactive discussion on photography. This event will cover all aspects of photography and is beneficial to all levels of photographers, from beginners to professionals, as well as those just interested in photography. David Sussman is an internationally awarded master photographer and a Charlotte Harbor local photographer. 5240 Duncan Road, Punta Gorda, FL. (941) 505-1624. RSVP recommended, this event is free.
Punta Gorda Symphony Behind the Notes
Friday, December 13 at 4:00pm – $20 per person
FSW Charlotte Campus, Building D Room 108, 26300 Airport Road, Punta Gorda On Friday, December 13 Maestro Raffaele Ponti and Guest Vocalist Jacob Waid will share their personal insights and experiences with the music as they go “behind the notes.” The audience will gain a fresh appreciation for the holiday tunes featured at the December 15 concert, what it’s like for conductor and artist to perform, and what to listen for in the concert. This lively and entertaining discussion is an opportunity for non-musicians to explore music in a format audiences can see nowhere else. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at lifelonglearning-charlotte.org or 941-637-3533
December 14th Breakfast with Santa at F.M. Don’s. Click Here for all the info.
Drug Free Punta Gorda
What are you doing Saturday December 14th?
DFPG will be selling hot dogs, soda and chips
donated and grilled courtesy of Centennial Bank staff,
Charlotte County Chamber Christmas Parade. Your help is needed! It’s so much fun, that you don’t want to miss out!
Call or email Chrissie to sign up, and get all the details:
chrissie.salazar@yourcharlotteschools.net or 941-979-7471
Join us for this year’s Mistletoe Ball on Saturday, December 14th in Winter Wonderland!
Take a champagne sip or bid on a worldly trip. Our amazing auction delights with famous memorabilia, experiences, and gifts. This is not your ordinary Gala, Interactive displays and an Ice Luge to whirl your night. Come in black tie or your cocktail best.
All net proceeds benefit The Homeless Coalition’s Mission to Alleviate and Prevent Hunger and Homelessness.
To secure your reservation, contact Devorah Kermisch at (941) 627- 4313 ext. 132 or email devorah.kermisch@cchomelesscoalition.org.
Punta Gorda Symphony December 15 Concert a Great Experience for the Whole Family
The Punta Gorda Symphony is thrilled once again to offer a festive Holiday Pops concert on Sunday, December 15, 2019 with a 2:00pm matinee and 7:30pm evening show at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center. There will be several opportunities to enrich the concert experience in the days leading up to the performance. “Everyone loves this season that focuses on friends and family,” say Executive Director Craig Badinger. “And Maestro Ponti has created a wonderful program that will please young and old, no matter what traditions they grew up with. This will be a treat for all types.” For our seasonal concert, Maestro Raffaele Ponti always brings the audience a delightful mixture of the familiar and something new. His selections will conjure up favorite memories from childhood. Maestro Ponti is delighted to feature New York-based vocalist Jacob Waid, who is known for his lead roles in Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and other prominent musicals and operas. Waid will sing a new composition with the PGSymphony, Jeff Tyzick’s The Twelve Gifts of Christmas, and Tyzik’s arrangement of Shubert’s Ave Maria. Waid will also narrate Another Night Before Christmas, composed by Philip Lane, based on the poem by poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy. The robust character of Jacob Waid’s voice will be a delightful addition to our celebrated orchestra. Pre-Performance Talks Sunday, December 15 at 1:00-1:30pm OR 6:30-7:00pm – FREE to concert ticket holders!
Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda. Concert ticket-holders can continue their music appreciation through this regularly scheduled pre-performance talk. Musical Conversations will include an interview with Guest Vocalist Jacob Waid designed to illuminate the music on the concert’s program. All concert ticket-holders are invited to join, one hour prior to showtime. All this activity culminates with the concerts beginning on December 15 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm. Concert tickets are still available at $55 for adults and $15 for students. For tickets or further information, please visit the website at PGSymphony.org or call 941-205-5996.
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
Bradley Teets Investment Services is participating in “Be a Santa to a Senior” program sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care and Graceworks Unlimited, Inc. Our Christmas tree will be decorated with gift request cards for residents of local senior care facilities. If you would like to participate, please call our office at 941-205-2000 to have a card(s) e-mailed to you or stop by at 150 W. McKenzie Street, Suite #116 in Punta Gorda to select a card(s). Return your card(s) and unwrapped gift(s) to our office by December 15th.
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!
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
Point to Ponder
10 Secrets Hidden in Famous Monuments
Thought for the Week
No matter what sort of adversity or challenge you might face, you can always believe that, with hope, it can be conquered and, in the end, you will be stronger for it.
Member Newsletters
Click Name of Business for their latest news
Archway Institute
Visani Event in January
Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court
Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center
Chelsea Place
Senior Care Conference
Drug Free Punta Gorda
Holiday Newsletter
FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda
Gulf Shore Opera
Great Stocking Stuffers
Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society
The Suncoast Country Opry Show
Special Offers for Chamber Members
Copperfish Books
Click Here for great gifts
Key West Express Sweetest Holiday Deal
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
Short Marriage
Two newlyweds quickly realized their marriage wasn’t working and filed for a divorce. The judge asked them what the problem was.
The husband replied, “In the five weeks that we’ve been together, we haven’t been able to agree on a single thing.”
The judge turned to the wife, “Have you anything to say?”
She answered, “It’s been six weeks, your honor.”
Member Info Continued
The Firm Advertising Agency announced this week its scope of expanded services in its newly formed subsidiary, The Firm 360° Photography. They will include Aerial, Drone, Still and 360° Virtual 3D Photography. They are excited to provide this added service to the community.
This comes from a partnership with longtime resident and photographer, Thom. Proffer, who has been appointed as Director of Photography at The Firm. Mr. Proffer, who was formerly with Photo Documentation Services, brings with him his expertise in shooting 3D Virtual Tours nationwide and in and around Southwest Florida. Ask The Firm how your business can have a much-needed presence on Google .
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: 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
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.
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.
Pets of the Week at the Suncoast Humane Society
My name is Rufus. I’m an 8 month old Terrier/Basset Hound mix male. Am I handsome or what? Well, I have a personality to go with it. I can’t wait to find a new home soon! I weigh 39 lbs. and I’m full grown. I am a typical terrier. If you are familiar with the breed you know what I mean. Click Here to see Rufus.
My name is Sugar. I’m a 5 year old Domestic Shorthair Mix female cat. I’m just sweet and wonderful. I like sitting on your lap and I will come to you when I’m feeling like I need some love. I have lived with dogs in the past but I have no experience with children. Click Here to see Sugar.
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.
Applause Section
HipNotique has Expanded into Downtown Fort Myers!
We are now also located inside The Franklin Shops on First Street! Here’s how it works…We are a “Pop-Up-Shop” aka “Shop-in-a-Shop”
For those of you not familiar with this concept, there are about 90 different businesses located inside one big building ~ from fashions, gift ware, gourmet treats, to artists, etc…so you can truly have a “One Stop Shopping” experience ~ Such a cool concept!
C.A.R.E
On Wednesday, January 22, 2020, C.A.R.E. will be hosting a free seminar covering the human trafficking crisis. Did you know the state of Florida ranks 3rd in the United States for reported cases of human trafficking and Charlotte County is located along one of the most common tracks traffickers utilize (Miami to Tampa). We are challenging our community to equip themselves to identify human trafficking and learn what to do if you suspect it is happening. This event will feature 4 expert speakers including a survivor, the Sexual Violence Unit Chief from the Office of the State Attorney, a representative from the FBI, and a representative from the Center for Progress and Excellence. This event is open to the public and we encourage everyone to attend.
Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2020
Time: 9am – 12:30 pm (Registration starts at 8:30) Following the presentation will be a chance to visit community agencies’ tables for more information!
Venue: Charlotte Technical College Auditorium – 18150 Murdock Cir, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Cost: FREE
Please email or call with any questions – admin@carefl.org or (941) 639-5499
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.
