Friday Facts!

Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Inc Logo

Friday January 19, 2024

Chamber President John Wright’s Newspaper Column From Jan. 16

PG Chamber Radio Show Exclusively For PG Chamber Members:
BOOKING FOR FEBRUARY!

Our monthly radio show on Seaview 104.9FM during the Bob Alexander
Radio Show is on the first Wednesday and Thursday of each month. The process is simple. Bob will call you, set up a recording time and it’ll be done over the phone and inserted into the programming of this popular show. You get the option to record two slots or record one to air twice during the show. Bob will let you know during which hour it will air. The cost is $110 (payable to the PG Chamber, not iHeart). To register for the show, email John Wright. Only 10 businesses per month. It’s a great way to promote your business, advertise an event, or show community support.

**Please remember to RSVP directly to events by emailing reception@puntagorda-chamber.com, by calling us at 941-639-3720 or by paying for lunch online. We LOVE to see you but we appreciate knowing you’re coming to provide our host with an accurate count to better accommodate us. Thank you for your assistance!

Member Networking Events

Ribbon Cuttings

DON'T MISS THE GERRO FASHION SHOW!

CHAMBER MEMBER REMINDER!

The PG Beat is now digital! We shall be providing the PG Beat E-Newsletter monthly. Instead of just going out to members, any community members who requested to receive our correspondence will now also receive this. If you are a Punta Gorda Chamber member and would like to advertise in the PG Beat, please submit your ad by February 5th. The PG Beat will go out the third week of every month. Please click below to submit your PDF (8.5 x 11- no more than 250mb)! Excellent way of reaching 14,000+ to promote your business, promotions and/or events!

 

BONUS: Any Platinum or Gold Partners in Action member will receive Four Free ad spaces in the PG Beat for the year! You have received a Coupon Code to enter in the PG Beat via email! 

Clerk Update - New Requirements for Recording Property Deeds go into effect Jan 1, 2024

Charlotte County Sheriff's CCSO Star News

Sheriff’s Office – Press Release

Charlotte County Facilities Construction & Maintenance

Charlotte County Facilities Construction & Maintenance is conducting a feasibility study for accessibility to/from the bridgeless barrier islands (Palm Island, Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro Island, Knight Island/Thornton Key). This study seeks community input on the need for additional modes of access between the islands and mainland. A Public Drop-In Input Event will be held Jan. 11 at the Mac V. Horton West County Annex, 6868 San Casa Drive, Englewood. Stop by anytime between 11:30 -1:30 to provide input and ask questions or provide input online: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ISLANDS (closes Jan. 26).

Partners in Action News

Four Points By Sheraton (Platinum)

Even though it’s been on the chilly side lately, The Tiki Bar has you covered. We have brand new heaters throughout the entire space. So come on out to listen to great music, while having dinner and a cocktail. On Friday night, we have The Kollections playing at 7:00 PM. On Saturday, we are heating things up with Almost There. We will round out the weekend with Karibean Groove on Sunday.  Please click here to see when all of your favorite bands will play this month. The Tiki Bar is featuring different specials every week, so make sure to take advantage of our chef’s creativity. They also have Happy Hour daily Monday- Friday from open until 6:00 PM. We offer $3 draft beers, $4 house well cocktails, and $5 house wines. Don’t forget the hotel parking lot has 3 electric car charging stations for your convenience. Stop by and enjoy a drink and great views while your car is charging. Lastly, visit our Dockside Grill inside the hotel. We offer Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. We also have an AYCE Fish Fry on Friday nights and Prime Rib Saturdays. 

The Harborside Garden is now open for private events. We are also booking weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, celebration of life, corporate events etc. It can hold up to 300 people for dinner and 500 for a reception style get together. Please call Kelly Williamson at 941-637-6770 for more information. Music Calendar

Della Booth, TIME Realty Services, Inc. (Gold)

Happy Friday to you The December 2023 numbers are in. 

Charlotte County 432 sales, median price $347K, 40 median days 

on the market, 6.4 months of inventory. 45% cash sales. 

Zip 33950 60 sales, $400K median price, 29 median days on the market, 

7.8 months of inventory, 65% cash sales. 

Zip 33983 30 sales, $360K median price, 44 median days on the market, 

5.8 months of inventory, 44 median days on the market, 50% cash sales. 

Yes, the market is changing, but you can rely on me and TIME Realty Services, we are here for you

Downtown Farmers Market (Gold)

Open 8 am to 1 pm Saturdays..

Lori Ann Mertens - Keller Williams Peace River Partners (Gold)

Are you in need of a Complimentary Market Analysis for your home value in this crazy market? Or if you just need one for insurance.

We are considered to be in a “equal market” not a Buyers or Sellers market.

Our team is ready on your timeline when you want to BUY, SELL or INVEST in South West Florida.

Serving South West Florida since 2002.

Lori Ann Mertens, Realtor

United Home Group

Keller Williams Peace River Partners

Each Office Is Individual Owned and Operated

941-457-7072 call or text is best

Serving South West Florida since 2002. Going the Distance to make a Difference. 

Big Shot Marketing & Design (Gold in Kind)

Learn more about Digital Marketing with techniques you can use TODAY! Click here to get the FREE Digital Marketing Blueprint!

We’re committed to growing businesses in the Punta Gorda area by using cutting edge Website Design, Google Marketing, and engaging Social Media Campaigns. Are you ready to grow your business? Reach out to use here.

CAM Realty (Silver)

Virtual office available in Punta Gorda, $99/+tax per month. Provides your company the image of an office without the cost of dedicated office space. Contact CAM Realty: 941.833.0083.

Creative Window Treatments (Silver)

We are here for your window treatments needs. Area’s only Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer. Plantation shutters, blinds, shades, drapery and more. Call 941.637.0015

Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine (Silver)

Pre-Orders are already being taken for all our Valentines Day Specials! Give us a call to order your HHC Chocolate Covered Strawberries, 30 Piece Valentines Day Hearts, Valentines Day Solid Chocolate Pops, and more!!! Don’t forget, we can make it easy and create you a handcrafted basket with all your Valentines Day gifts all in one and ready for gifting.

Punta Gorda Coffee & Tea (Silver)

Our Patti’s Peppermint Frappe is almost gone! Stop in today to enjoy this delicious, blended frappe before it’s gone for the season! 

Animal Welfare League (Bronze)

Charlotte Players (Bronze)

Charlotte Players-Rumors. Join us for the first play of 2024 running January 12-28. The Deputy Mayor of New York has just shot himself at a large townhouse. Though only a flesh wound, four couples are about to experience a severe attack of Farce. Gathering for their tenth wedding anniversary, the host lies bleeding in the other room, and his wife is nowhere in sight. As the confusions and miscommunications mount, the evening spins off into classic farcical hilarity. For tickets go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.

Rumors Press Release

Charlotte Players- Tribute to Steve and Eydie on January 23rd. Direct from Boston…Valerie & Jim will bring back the wonderful musical memories of Steve and Eydie. The Grammy and Emmy-winning artist’s careers spanned over five decades and are remembered for such hits as: We Got Us, I’ve Got to Be Me, This Could Be the Start of Something Big, Too Close for Comfort, and Blame it on the Bossa Nova. For tickets or more information go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.

Gulfshore Opera (Bronze)

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Support)

Join us for the spectacular 2024 C.A.R.E. Ball on January 27th! An enchanting evening awaits, filled with elegance and purpose. Your presence is requested, and with fewer than 60 tickets left, secure your spot for a night of celebration. Reserve your place at this year’s most eagerly awaited social gathering here!

Frank Desquin Family (Support)

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support)

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens presents Glass in The Gardens exhibit – Curating a kaleidoscope of color throughout The Gardens with handblown glass creations (November 18th, 2023- April 18th, 2024). Immersing visitors in the international art of Duncan McClellan, Marlene Rose, Susan Gotts, Catherine Woods, and Sabra Richards fused with local creations by Janie Duke and Kathy Fitzgerald. 5827 Riverside Dr. Punta Gorda, FL 33982 | 941.621.8299 | PEACERIVERGARDENS.ORG 

Car & Art Show has been postponed until Feb 18.

DIS Tech Services (Support)

We manage IT systems for other companies. Whether you have 5 computers or 150, we have the tools and management skills to help your business succeed. Give us a call at 941-867-9772 or 217-492-8042 to see how we can help you.

Member Information

Connect Print & Promotions, LLC – …January 🗓️ is the time for new beginnings, resolutions and your print marketing refresh … we have you covered Punta Gorda!

commercial printing ✅ 

logo/graphic design ✅ 

next-level promotional swag ✅ 

branded apparel ✅ 

signs & graphics ✅ 

YOU are the brand | We are the STANDARD”

888.978.3437 📞

info@connectpromo.net 📧

www.connectpromo.net 🖥 

www.Facebook.com/connectpromo

www.Instagram.com/connectprintpromotions

Gianna’s Salon & Spa – At Gianna’s Salon & Spa taking care of your feet is a priority for us. According to leading Podiatrists there are several health issues with feet which regular pedicures may help with avoiding. Fungal infection, for instance, can cause your toenails to become discolored or even fall off. Ingrown toenails can lead to bacterial infection or painful open

lesions. Athlete’s foot can lead to itching, blisters, and pain. Please consider scheduling a pedicure appointment with us to care for your feet. Our professional, talented staff look forward to working with you in keeping your feet healthy and looking their best. We also offer a deluxe pedicure. We are located at 4300 Kings Highway, Suite 204, Port Charlotte, Florida within the School House Plaza. (Telephone 941-624-6575) You can also visit us on Facebook at Gianna’s Salon & Spa.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates – Member Magazine

Annual Antique Ford Car Show

Gold Entertainment – TONIGHT at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center (701 Carmalita Street, Punta Gorda)

“Remembering Red: A Tribute To Red Skelton” 

Brian Hoffman, the only Red Skelton tribute artist authorized by the Skelton estate, is bringing his award-winning nostalgic trip down memory lane to Punta Gorda. This is a MUST-SEE for anyone who enjoys family friendly comedy!

 

Also coming to PUNTA GORDA:

LIVE at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center

February 2: Latin King of Comedy Paul Rodriguez

February 3: Ruben Studdard & Clay Aiken, The Twenty Tour

February 14th: Til Death Do Us Part…You First! A special Valentine’s Comedy Show

 

LIVE Laishley Park:

February 17: Here Come the Mummies with Frank Bang, former Buddy Guy Guitarist

 

INFO & Tickets for all shows: https://GoldEntertainment.US or by phone 800-514-3849

Have a group or live in an active community? Inquire about community and large group discounts today at: info@goldentertainment.us

Charlotte Harbor Rotary Club – The Goldtones are back on January 27, American Made are making an appearance. Click here for all the details!

Sea Grape Gallery – January 2024

Charlotte County Technical College – Charlotte Technical College is excited to introduce its brand-new Electricity Evening Program designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of electrical construction. With the registration deadline fast approaching on December 15th, 2023, and classes commencing on January 8, 2024, this program is an excellent opportunity for those seeking employment or advanced training in various electrical

construction industries. For more information, click here.

Punta Gorda Boat Club – FREE Boating in Charlotte Harbor Seminars Monthly December 2023 through February 2024. 

The Punta Gorda Boat Club has developed a four-hour seminar designed to educate local boaters on a host of issues regarding our beautiful waters. If you are new to Charlotte County or just want a little more info on how to safely navigate your boat within our waters, this seminar is for you. If you plan to use your boat to navigate the Peach River, Myakka River, Charlotte Harbor, Gasparilla Sound, Lemon Bay, Matlacha Pass or Pine Island Sound, this seminar will interest you as well. Click HERE for more information.

Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.

Habitat For Humanity – Annual Build Campaign

The Yoga Sanctuary – 

The Art of Teaching: Hone Your Sequence 

Saturday, January 20th  11:30am – 5:30pm, Cost is $165

Join us for a transformative day of exploration into the art of teaching yoga with creativity, mindfulness, and fulfillment. This day-long intensive, presented as part of The Yoga Sanctuary’s Mentoring Program, is designed to equip both seasoned instructors and aspiring teachers with foundational and practical skills essential for fostering a rewarding yoga experience for both teacher and student. Led by senior yoga teacher, Jennifer French, with over 17 years of teaching experience, you will be guided through hands-on activities and receive personalized feedback to help you grow as a teacher.

This workshop is part of The Yoga Sanctuary’s Mentorship Program and taken on its own, is eligible for Continuing Education hours with the Yoga Alliance.

Yoga at Downtown Kava: A Community Yoga Class

Saturday, January 27th 7:30am

Donations to benefit Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies (C.A.R.E)

Rise and Shine with The Yoga Sanctuary and Downtown Kava!

Join us for a rejuvenating Sunrise Yoga Class on the DTK Porch. Immerse yourself in a tranquil morning filled with movement, mindful breathing, and introspection. This event is open to participants of all levels, from beginners to seasoned yogis. All donations from this event will directly benefit the Center for Abuse & Rape Emergencies (C.A.R.E), supporting their crucial efforts in aiding those in need. Limited mats will be available, please bring your own if possible.

Yoga 101: From the Ground Up

Sunday, January 28th  1 – 4pm, $55

No flexibility required; all ages and body types welcome! Get on your feet in this 3-hour 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 Studio 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.

Charlotte-Desoto Building Industry Association – Slate of Officers

Pretty As A Pearl Boutique – Cute, comfy, affordable clothing & accessories for today’s woman. Sized small thru 2x. Located at 308 Sullivan St, Punta Gorda.

United Way – Free Tax Preparation Assistance!

C.H.E.C. – Butterfly Sanctuary Grand Opening

Charlotte Players – January Press Release

Loveland Center – Winter Dance

TEAM Punta Gorda – TEAM Annual Community Meeting

Meals on Wheels – Mardi Gras on Marion

Punta Gorda Airport – TSA PreCheck Mobile Enrollment Returns

Comfort Keepers – Senior Prom

TEAM Punta Gorda – Water Quality Meeting

Port Charlotte Florist – Valentine Special

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, Inc.

Facility and Maintenance Coordinator – Full-Time

  This is a critical position requiring extreme scheduling flexibility, organization, a very positive attitude, good judgement, and outstanding customer service skills. The Facility and Maintenance Coordinator is responsible for: preparing the auditorium and classrooms for daily activities (set-up and break-down); staffing special events; monitoring the cleanliness, repair and safety of the facility, equipment and grounds; and performing minor facility repairs. Reliable transportation is required. The Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

   Weekdays- $17 per hour; Weekends and Holidays- $19 per hour. Paid vacation.

   Please send inquiries and resumes to Teri Ashley at teriashley@pgica.org for review.

Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, Inc.

Administrative Assistant – Part-Time

This position requires scheduling flexibility, organization, a very positive attitude, good judgement, outstanding customer service and communication skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Graphic design and QuickBooks skills are also beneficial.

   Administrative assistants help handle the daily activities, financial transactions, and administrative operations of the private 501(c)3 nonprofit Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association. The PGICA is a fun, fast-paced environment and this is a high-profile role.

   Weekdays- $16 per hour; Weekends and Holidays- $17 per hour.

  Please send inquiries and resumes to Teri Ashley at teriashley@pgica.org for review. 

COMMUNITY NEWS

ATTENTION CHARLOTTE COUNTY RESIDENTS!

The next election up will be the Presidential Preference Primary (PPP), set for March 19, 2024.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

The last date to register to vote for the PPP is 29 days prior and is set for February 20, 2024.

PPP early voting will take place March 4-17, 2024.

If you wish to Vote-By-Mail (VBM) for the PPP and you have not yet renewed your VBM ballot choice,

you have until 12 DAYS before the election. March 7th at 5 PM is the deadline!

If you have any questions about the election or the 2024 Presidential elections,

feel free to contact our office. You can call 941-833-5400 or email us at soe@soecharlottecountyfl.gov.

Please note our office will be closed 11/22-11/24 in observance of Thanksgiving.  

Gerro! Gala Fashion Show

Benefiting C.A.R.E.

Saturday, February 17

Punta Gorda Women’s Club

6:30 Social Hour – Wine & Food

7:30 Fashion Show

VIP Tickets $75 (Swag Gift Bag)

Tickets Available at Punta Gorda Chamber Office

Charlotte High School National Honors Society

In Loving Memory of our good friend Julie Mitchem – Julie was our receptionist for several years and was a true Chamber asset RIP Julie

Newsletters

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County – January Newsletter

Charlotte Players – January Newsletter

Copperfish Books – January Newsletter

Edison and Ford Winter Estates – January Magazine

Gulf Theater – Season 5 Newsletter

Gulfland Real Estate – January Newsletter

Gulfshore Opera – January Newsletter

Joanne Cumiskey – January Newsletter

Loveland Center – Newsletter

Military Heritage Museum – Museum Happenings & Highlights January Newsletter

The Nix Team at Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty –January Newsletter

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – January Newsletter

Punta Gorda Historical Society – January Newsletter

Punta Gorda Rotary Club – January Newsletter

Sandstar Insider – January Newsletter

Sea Grape Gallery – January Newsletter

Suncoast Humane Society – What’s Happening

Valerie’s House – Newsletter

Topgolf – January Newsletter

Tyme Realty – January Newsletter

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach CVB – January Newsletter

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New Executive Director Position

We are excited to announce our search for a new Executive Director of Punta Gorda Chamber!