Friday Facts for October 4, 2019

New Members

Mission Statement

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

Charlotte Preparatory School
Nicole Maugeri
365 Orlando Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33954
941-764-7673
nmaugeri@charlotteprepfl.com
www.charlotteprepfl.com
Private School
Sponsored by Suzanne Morris

USA Dance Inc. Chapter 6126
Laura Sevenich Sobotka
Punta Gorda, FL
330-501-2366
usadance6126@gmail.com
Ballroom Dance Classes
Sponsored by Stephanie Stewart

Gregory Group Insurance
Jessica Crouse
20020 Veterans Blvd. #11
Port Charlotte, FL 33954
941-525-4132
jcrouse@jgregorygrp.com
www.jgregorygrp.com
Insurance Agency
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 October 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.

Fall Wine Dinner on October 8th. Click Here for info

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. 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 & Tax Co. (Bronze)
Closing your business??? What you need to know
There are typical actions that are taken when closing a business. You must file an annual return for the year you go out of business. If you have employees, you must file the final employment tax returns, in addition to making final federal tax deposits of these taxes. Also attach a statement to your return showing the name of the person keeping the payroll records and the address where those records will be kept. The annual tax return for a partnership, corporation, S corporation, limited liability company or trust includes check boxes near the top front page just below the entity information. For the tax year in which your business ceases to exist, check the box that indicates this tax return is a final return. If there are Schedule K-1s, repeat the same procedure on the Schedule K-1. You will also need to file returns to report disposing of business property, reporting the exchange of like-kind property, and/or changing the form of your business. 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.,#224,Punta Gorda,
masimone@1sourceaccounting.com/www.1sourceaccountingfl.com 

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

Charlotte Players (Support)
Join Charlotte Players for the second play of the 2019-2020 season. Mama Won’t Fly will be at the Langdon Playhouse October 11-20^th with evening performances at 7:30pm and Sunday Matinees at 2pm. An outrageously hilarious race against the clock begins when Savannah Sprunt Fairchild Honeycuttt agrees to get her feisty mother all the way from Alabama to California in time for her brother’s wedding. Savannah’s problem ” Mama won’t fly. Tickets are $22 and can be purchased online at www.charlotteplayers.org or by calling (941) 255-1022.

2019 Comedy for a Cause
The seventh annual Comedy for a Cause, Charlotte Players’ premier fundraiser, took place at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center on Sept. 13. The eight-member cast of local business and community leaders, under the direction of Dr. Chris Constance, delivered some huge laughs.
Photographer Steve Lineberry, in his first year as chair of the event, did a yeoman’s job putting together the cast and providing a fun evening for all. The event benefits the Charlotte Players many programs, including the Charlotte County Dolly Parton Imagination Library and Kids OnStage. Amanda Stahl-Stacy won the Judges’ Choice Award. Kelly Rittenhouse-Pomerville won two awards that night: People’s Choice Award and Best Overall all Fundraiser Award. Jessica Cantwell won the Sponsors’ Award.

Marco Office Supply (Support)
How would you like to save money and give back to your chamber at the same time. Purchasing from Marco Office Supply (chamber member) instead of a big box store or Amazon will take care of both needs. We are a locally owned independent company serving Collier, Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota County. Keeping it local is keeping dollars in your community and putting 3.8 % back into the chamber’s pocket to assist with funding chamber offerings. Our services include basic supplies, cartridges (name brand and generic), furniture for office, schools, hotels, restaurants and recreational facilities, school and craft supplies, janitorial, break room, first aide, storage, printing, promotional and website design.  Interested, contact either Gina (gina@marcoofficesupply.com) or Gaytha (info@marcoofficesupply.com) at 239-775-7513 for price quotes or appointments.

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 23: United Way’s 53rd Annual Campaign Kickoff & Rally at Charlotte Sports Park.  8 am

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

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 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

Fact of the Day

The First Porsche

June 08, 1948, 70 years ago today, the first Porsche vehicle was completed in Germany. The company had built other types of vehicles but this prototype (labeled ‘No. 1’) was the first to bear the “Porsche” name.

Question of the Week

Is it true that the Harborwalk was built for the 1984 Olympics?

Events for Week of October 4 – October 16th

Remember to click this link to see events for these dates that are in flyer format.  

UPCOMING MEMBER EVENTS
Click this link for Events coming 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 4:  7pm -10 pm
Spend Friday night right listening to the one and only Orange House Band! This group fills the room, so call to reserve your spot today!
Sat. October 5:  7pm- 10 pm  

The Yoga Sanctuary
112 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda FL 33950
Yoga for Healthy Aging
Thursdays, October 3– 24 4 – 5:30pm $80
The Bhagavad Gita defines yoga as “equanimity” and tells us that equanimity allows us to face difficulty with a “steady and quiet” mind. ~ Baxter Bell, MD & Nina Zolotow, authors and creators of Yoga for Healthy Aging
Yoga for Healthy Aging is an accessible approach to yoga, which offers tools in order to increase health span, maintain independence and cultivate equanimity. In this 4-week series led by YFHA instructor Margit Bannon, you will go beyond the physical skills required, and tap into equanimity itself, considered the most important pillar of YFHA. Each week, students will have the opportunity to explore within the YFHA “toolbox” by using asanas, pranayama, meditation and philosophy of yoga, as a strategy for handling the difficulties of life. Open to all level. CEUs available for Yoga Alliance registered teachers. For more information, call 941-505-YOGA (9642), email info@theyogasanctuary.biz, visit our website www.theyogasanctuary.biz or see our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/yogasanctuary/

BURNT STORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 5^TH ANNUAL BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
On Saturday, October 5^th Burnt Store Presbyterian Church at 10 am will have their 5^th annual blessing of the animals. We had a great turnout last year and Pastor Tim blessed 39 dogs, 6 cats, 2 birds and one very cuddle and fury rabbit, (no snakes came). All animals are welcome, we request that they be in cages or on leashes. For more information contact the church office at 639-0001 during normal business hours, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 9a.m. to Noon, on Friday or by e-mail to office@bspconline.org. Burnt Store Presbyterian Church is a congregation committed to reaching up, making disciples, changing lives. The church is located at 11330 Burnt Store Road, Punta Gorda, just two miles south of the US 41/Burnt Store Road intersection.

The Society of St. Vincent De Paul, Sacred Heart Conference, 25200 Airport Rd., Punta Gorda
OCTOBER ST. VINCENT RUMMAGE SALE
St. Vincent de Paul, Sacred Heart Conference, in Punta Gorda will hold a rummage sale Saturday, October 5th, from 9 a.m. to noon at its distribution center at 25200 Airport Road, on the northeast corner of Taylor and Airport Roads. PLEASE, NO PETS. A variety of items including household goods, furniture, clothing, jewelry, linens, shoes, purses, toys and books will be available. No merchandise may be inspected nor sold before 9 a.m. Proceeds will help the organization provide much-needed assistance to deserving families and individuals throughout Charlotte County. Rain date October 12.

Fred Lang Foundation Front Nine to be Held October 5
The Fred Lang Foundation is proud to announce the date for their immensely popular fall event, the Fred Lang Front Nine. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 5, 2019! The cost is $100 per foursome or $25 per individual player. All participants are encouraged to dress to the “Be a Hero for Mental Health” theme. Participants are also asked to bring their own putter and golf ball. This year’s event begins with a shotgun start at 10:30 a.m. Players will play a hole of putt-putt golf at nine different restaurants around Punta Gorda. The locations are: Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, Burg’r Bar, Celtic Ray Public House, Deans South of the Border, Downtown Gatorz Bar & Grill, Hurricane Charley’s, Ice House, Orange House Wine Bar, and TT’s Tiki Bar. “We expect to have around 100 teams, all dressed to the hero theme,’” said Jill Ferguson, event co-chair. “Participants always have a great time handing out with friends and participating in friendly competition – all while raising money for an important community cause.”  Although many players walk from location to location, free shuttle service is provided. A closing party will be held at 6 p.m. at Hurricane Charley’s. There, raffle prizes are given out, and grand prizes are awarded for Lowest Team Score, Highest Team Score, Lowest Individual Score and Highest Individual Score. There will also be a prize for Most Outstanding Team Costume. Event presented by the Fred Lang Foundation, Buffalo Graffix, and Peace River Distributing. The grand prize sponsor is Edgewater Events, LLC. Proceeds benefit Charlotte Behavioral Health Care through the Fred Lang Foundation. Players may register online at www.CBHCfl.org/events/. For more information, contact Ferguson at 412-973-0429 or Liz Green at 407-927-3882 or e-mail BSOforFun@yahoo.com.

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: October 9, 2019 and 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, Opening Reception is 10/11 @5pm, all are invited. Wine & Painting socials Wednesday nights @6pm, “Let’s Gets Splashed” spooky cat canvas painting event is 10/30 @6pm! Tickets visualartcenter.org. Support the FUN Arts Festival “Battle of the Brushes” 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.

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. Click Here for Flyer

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.

Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
Synchronizing the Symphony in Your Brain
How neurofeedback can help ‘tune’ your brain. ATTEND THE LECTURE Click Here for all the information

Edison and Ford Winter Estates To Host Orchid Symposium
On October 12 and 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with the Southwest Florida Orchid Society for the inaugural Orchid Sale and Symposium. Experts will give free seminars on growing and caring for orchids and several orchid vendors from around the state will have exotic and Florida native orchids for sale.

Free Seminar Schedule:
Saturday, October 12
10 a.m. – Orchid Basics (John Hampton)
11 a.m. – Which orchids should I grow in Florida (John Hampton)
1 p.m. – Orchid Mounting Demonstration (Gary Murza)
2 p.m. – Orchid Pests Overview (Gary Murza)

Sunday, October 13
11 a.m. – Basics of Repotting (John Hampton)
1 p.m. – Orchids in the Landscape at Edison Ford (Debbie Hughes)
2 p.m. – Which Orchids should I grow in Florida (John Hampton)
3 p.m. – Air Plant Artistry (Betty Ann Prevatt)

Parking and admission to the event is free (tours of the homes, museum and lab are not included). Food vendors will also be on site. For more information, call 239-334-7419 or visit www.edisonford.org

Rendezvous Dance Party USA Dance #6126
Date: October 13, Sunday, 2019
Time:
2-5 pm-2:45 Ballroom Lesson
2:45-4:00 General Dancing
4:00-4:15 Madison Time Line Dance
4:15-5:00 General Dancing
Location: Punta Gorda Women’s Club, 118 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda, FL
Fees: $12 USA Dance Members  $15 Non-members
Includes refreshments & snacks
Contact: 614-439-8545(Robin)
Email: usadance6126@gmail.com
Facebook: USA Dance Chapter #6126 Charlotte Harbor, FL
Instructors & DJ’s: Nathalie & Franck Lemoine,  Board Members USA Dance #6126 Professional dance instructors from Paris, France. They have lived and taught in SWFL since 2018.

The Yoga Sanctuary
112 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda 33950
Introduction to Yoga Series
Mondays, October 14th – November 18th 5:45 – 7pm $108
No flexibility required; all ages and body types welcome! This six-week series, limited to eight students, will walk you through the basics of yoga. Learn pose anatomy and alignment, ways to personalize the practice for specific issues or injuries, and the foundations of yoga philosophy. Each student will receive a copy of Yoga Fan: Practice Guide for Everyday as well as guidance and support in how to continue one’s practice after the completion of the series. Due to the small class size, which allows for individualized attention, pre-registration is required. For more information, call 941-505-YOGA (9642), email info@theyogasanctuary.biz, visit our website www.theyogasanctuary.biz or see our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/yogasanctuary/

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. ww.pedalpuntagorda.com Booking questions: 941-777-0715

Acid Reflux / GERD Lunch and Learn with General & Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Matthew Tufts is presenting a very informative seminar to help improve your health. Hernias can sometimes play a role in the development of acid reflux and chronic reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There are a variety of treatments for both; most can be managed medically, but some do require surgery. Learn about the signs, symptoms and non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Free Event and Free Lunch Provided October 15th, 2019 11:30am – 1:00pm. Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association. Register for this event 941-637-1655 For an appointment with Dr. Matthew Tufts or Dr. John Guarino call 941-391-5102

Wednesday Oct 16^th at 5:00 pm
General & Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Matthew Tufts from the practice of John Guarino MD PA, is offering a FREE weight loss seminar as an opportunity to talk to a medical expert. Throughout the seminar, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, and in most cases, to receive immediate feedback. You are invited to bring a family member, friend, or other support person with you. Bayfront Health Port Charlotte, 2500 Harbor Blvd, Port Charlotte. Call for more information or to RSVP 941-391-5102

Member Information

Click Here for General Info Flyers

A Message from the City of Punta Gorda

Voter Registration
 In accordance with Florida Statute 97.055, the last date to register to vote for the NOVEMBER 5, 2019 CITY OF PUNTA GORDA GENERAL ELECTION is Monday, October 7, 2019. To register in person, contact the Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections, 226 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda, Florida, call (941) 833-5400, or register online at https://registertovoteflorida.gov/en/Registration/Index.
For further information regarding the November 5, 2019 City Election, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 575-3369 or visit us at www.cityofpuntagordafl.com.
Press Release – Close of Registration

1 % Sales Tax Committtee Request for Proposals
Effective October 2, 2019, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies are invited to submit proposals for funding of City infrastructure capital projects with a life expectancy of five years or greater. Projects may include new construction as well as renovations/additions and must be completed between 2021 and 2027. There is neither a minimum nor a maximum funding amount for each project.  The City of Punta Gorda has used the 1% local option sales tax since 1994 to fund a variety of infrastructure projects that enhance our quality of life. The current local option tax was extended for six years in November 2014 and is set to expire in December 2020. In November 2020, Charlotte County and the City of Punta Gorda will ask the voters to extend the local option sales tax. The City anticipates the tax will generate a total fund of 2.45 million per year over the span of six years. The projects selected for inclusion in the 1% local option sales tax are submitted to the City Council and vetted through a citizen focus group. To access the RFP Documents click the following link RFP Documents for 1% Sales Tax Projects.
To access a Sample Completed Proposal click the following link Sample Submission. Please contact Melissa Reichert, Communications Manager at (941) 575-3394 or via email at mreichert@cityofpuntagordafl.com with any questions.
Proposals are due Nov. 30, 2019.

The United Way of Charlotte County announces its 2020-2021 grant cycle for United Way, Board of County Commissioners and the City of Punta Gorda funding. Agencies must be a local non-profit tax-exempt corporation, providing health and human services.  Other requirements are outlined in the Program Grant Guidelines and Application package at unitedwayccfl.org, beginning Monday, October 14. All applicants are required to attend the Mandatory All Agency Grant Workshop on Tuesday, October 29, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Publix Training Room, 180501 Murdock Circle, (SunTrust building, Suite 403). Contact Jen Coalwell 941-627-3539 with questions.

New Ground Transportation at PGD
Gulf Coast Car Service Announced as Preferred Partner
The Charlotte County Airport Authority is pleased to announce Gulf Coast Car Service as the preferred provider of ground transportation at Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) beginning today. Gulf Coast Car Service (Gulf Coast) has a fleet of late-model minivans stationed at PGD that are available by reservation and for walk-up customers. Customers in need of an ADA lift-equipped vehicle may make an advanced reservation, but it is not required. Gulf Coast can also accommodate large group reservations with vans and buses. Gulf Coast is a division of SWFL Transportation, the area’s top transportation provider with a fleet of 130 vehicles devoted to excellent customer service, professionalism and affordable rates. “Gulf Coast Car Service prides itself on its competitive pricing and providing an unparalleled transportation experience,” said SWFL Transportation’s General Manager Michael Griffin.
PGD passengers can call 941-391-8800 to make a reservation or can simply look for a Gulf Coast representative in baggage claim for on-demand service. All Gulf Coast’s drivers will be wearing uniforms with white collared shirts and black ties, and will greet passengers with a complimentary bottled water. “We are excited to welcome Gulf Coast Car Service as our preferred transportation service here at PGD,” said Punta Gorda Airport’s CEO James W. Parish. “Our management is impressed by the company’s strong experience and high expectations of professionalism, background checks and safety standards that it holds its drivers to.” For more information about Gulf Coast Car Service and estimated pricing, visit www.FlyPGD.com and click on “PARKING & TRANSPORTATION.” Passengers at PGD can still utilize other approved transportation options as well, including Uber and Lyft, and other pre-arranged taxi services that have received a permit from the Charlotte County Airport Authority.

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

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.

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!

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  floridaoutlook.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 Click Here to find out what you need to know before you go to the Air Show.

Point to Ponder

One Choice

Thought for the Week

All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make, the better.

Member Newsletters

Click Name of Business for their latest news

Charlotte Arts & Humanities

Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center

Charlotte Symphony

Chelsea Place

Senior Care Conference

Copperfish Books

FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda

Florida International Air Show

Gulfshore Opera

Key West Express

Military Heritage Museum

Port Charlotte Score Lunch & Learn Workshops

Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society

Right at Home

United Way

Visual Arts Center

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.

LaQuinta Inn & Suites, Click Here for Offer

Joke of the Week

I’ll Miss My Train

A mother-in-law visits her son-in-law before leaving for a trip. They are sipping coffee and chatting. Suddenly, the mother-in-law looks at the clock and jumps off her chair exclaiming, “It’s already 3 pm! I’m about to miss my train!”

She begins to put her coat on in a hurry. At this moment the son-in-law’s six-year-old daughter runs up to her and before her dad can do anything, she says, “Don’t hurry Granny, Daddy set the clock two hours ahead.”

Member Info Continued

Ghost Stories of Punta Gorda

Newly published book of stories set in Punta Gorda Ghost Stories of Punta Gorda is an anthology of twenty spooky short stories involving real people, true events and actual locations of Charlotte Harbor. These entertaining tales are a fusion of history, folklore, personal experiences and imagination. The stories were collected by Eve Sylvie Alexander, also known as Tour Guide Evie of SW Florida Walking Tours. She and a crew of close friends used creativity and invention to re-interpret well-known stories from Punta Gorda’s history. Some stories are based on the personal recollections of Punta Gorda residents, and others are historical fiction drawn from characters and events of the past. The book is abundantly illustrated with dramatic scenes by artist Simona Molino. An online reviewer wrote, “I really enjoyed the combination of historical facts and local lore woven into each tale. I can’t wait for my next trip to Punta Gorda.” Ghost Stories of Punta Gorda is available at Amazon in print and Kindle format https://www.amazon.com/dp/1076625045). Tour guests can add a book order when purchasing tickets (online at https://swfloridawalkingtours.com/ or by phone at 941-276-6384). Beginning on Sunday, September 29,2019, Ms. Alexander will be at the Punta Gorda History Park Farmer’s Market where books will be on sale in person. Book signing appearances currently are being scheduled.

Sea Grape Gallery’s Artists of Month for October 2019

From October 3 to November 7, 2019 Sea Grape Gallery will be featuring two of their artists, Keith Johnson, watercolor artist, and Renee Farr, glass artist.  Keith Johnson had a successful photography business in Minnesota for many years before moving to Florida where he decided to shift his artistic abilities from photography to watercolor painting. His paintings are representative but impressionistic. Recently Keith does many of his paintings plein air which he truly enjoys doing in the morning hours. As Keith explains, “I paint watercolors because I like the way water and paint blend to depict images on paper whether it is a spot of light on a building or a fusion of color in a shadow or a brushstroke of wet into wet color”. Keith’s paintings are in collections throughout the country.  Renee Farr grew up in Illinois and lived in Germany for several years before settling in Florida. Always having had an obsession with glass, she enjoyed designing jewelry. At one point, she decided to add actual glass components to her jewelry. She is a member of several local non-profit groups that help promote the arts through scholarships, workshops and events. Many of Keith’s wonderful watercolor paintings and Renee’s beautiful glass pieces are prominently on display at the Sea Grape Gallery. In addition, more of their art and the artworks of all Sea Grape artists can be viewed at www.seagrapegallery.com.

Come visit the Gallery and its many talented award-winning artists who are on hand to welcome and assist visitors.

Sea Grape Gallery is located at 113 W. Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda and can be reached at 941-575-1718. In addition to their regular hours, the Gallery is always open until 8 p.m. during downtown Punta Gorda’s “Third Thursday Wine Walk”.

Sea Grape Gallery Announces Guest Artist for October 2019 Sea Grape Gallery is proud to announce that during the month of October they will be showcasing the artwork of Laura Pommier, oil painter. Several of her artworks includes figures and settings from Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, Florida where elements of family inform the contemplative nature of her still life paintings. Laura will be available at the Gallery during October’s “Wine Walk” to describe her art and the creative processes she uses to produce her wonderful works of art. Laura’s art can also be viewed on Sea Grape’s website at www.seagrapegallery.com.

SW Florida Walking Tours
(941) 276-6384
swfloridawalkingtours.com
FALL 2019-SPRING 2020 WALKING TOURS

Three Restaurant Tours every week from October 1, 2019-April 30, 2020!
This season brings new restaurant tours to Punta Gorda, offering more choices to please every taste.
Spend two to three hours exploring historic downtown Punta Gorda, sampling local specialties, and learning more about this charming vacation destination.

Our three culinary tour options are:

1. The Afternoon Appetizers Tour is an evening walking tour through downtown Punta Gorda. Over the course of two hours you’ll taste pub fare at three local night spots and experience our renowned Punta Gorda hospitality while learning more about this historic town. Tickets are $39 and must be purchased in advance. This tour is offered every Tuesday from 4-6 PM.
2. The Long Lunch Tour is a three-hour mid-day walking tour through Punta Gorda’s historic downtown district to five food stops. Try local specialties, meet friendly restaurateurs, and hear some of the history of the area while exploring the downtown from one end to the other. Tickets are $59 and must be purchased in advance. This tour is offered every Wednesday from 11 AM-2 PM.
3. The Big Breakfast Tour is a two-hour walking tour through downtown Punta Gorda during the quiet morning hours. Sample three distinctive breakfast meals, meet our friendly restaurateurs and learn more about this charming vacation town. Tickets are $39 and must be purchased in advance. This tour is offered every Thursday from 9-11 AM.

All food tastings and water are included in the ticket price, and you may buy your preferred alcoholic beverages (optional).

Book now at https://swfloridawalkingtours.com/restaurant-tours/ or by phone at (941) 276-6384

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

Charlotte Local Education Foundation

• The Golden Apple Teacher and Support Employee of the Year Gala will be heldat 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