PG Chamber Radio Show Exclusively
For PG Chamber Members:
BOOKING FOR JANUARY!
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 NOTE - WE WILL NOT HAVE FRIDAY FACTS ON DECEMBER 22 & 29!!
Meet our Punta Gorda Chamber Marketing & Recruitment Manager!
Members can send their Friday Facts to
vjohnson@puntagorda-chamber.com
Members-Only Networking Events
**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!
Four Points By Sheraton (Platinum)
The Tiki Bar is in full holiday mode! Come be festive and take advantage of several photo ops with our holiday décor including Santa! On Friday, we have Smudge Kitten playing at 7:00 pm. On Saturday, we have Almost There taking the stage at 7:00 PM. 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.
We are now taking reservations for New Year’s Eve. We have Majesty of Rock playing and are offering a complete dinner package. Please call the hotel at 941-637-6770 for more details.
The Harborside Garden, is now open for private events, including Christmas parties! 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.
Della Booth, TIME Realty Services, Inc. (Gold)
The November numbers are in: Charlotte County: 442 sales, $347K median price down 1%, 49% cash, 35% conventional, 28% in contract in 0-10 days,
6.5 months of inventory. Zipcode 33950: 45 sales, $$429K median price down 7%, 64% cash, 29% conventional, 40% under contract in 0-10 days 7.7 months of inventory. Zipcode 33983: 43 sales, $390K median price up 33%, 58% conventional, 26% cash, 26% in contract in 0-10 days, 5.8 months of inventory.
As you can see the inventory is building, and we are moving toward a buyer’s market. Have questions about the market?
Call/Text Della Booth
239-699-4493
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.
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.
Fishermen's Village (Silver)
Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine (Silver)
Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine will be OPEN Sunday December 24th, 2023 for your last-minute Holiday gifts. Our doors will OPEN at 10AM! We have a variety of Boutique Wines, International Gourmet Cheese’s, Charcuteries, Craft Beer, Handcrafted Chocolates, and MORE! We will be Closed on Christmas Day and will re-open Tuesday December 26th at 10AM.
Punta Gorda Coffee & Tea
– We will be Closed Christmas Day the 25th and will re-open Tuesday the 26th at 7AM. Best wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and New Year, and a sincere Thank You to our Loyal and Outstanding Customers.
Charlotte Players (Bronze)
www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.
Gulfshore Opera (Bronze)
C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Support)
You are cordially invited to the 2024 C.A.R.E. Ball! Join us on January 27th, 2024, for a night filled with fine dining, dancing, an open bar, gaming, silent auction and much more. Secure your seat to the most anticipated social event of the year 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 (thru April 18, 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. Gardens at a Glance
Experience the magic of the holiday season during the annual Gardens Aglow event, December 15th-23rd, from 6-9pm, where our enchanting holiday lights transform The Botanical Sanctuary into a dazzling spectacle of twinkling lights, creating a festive atmosphere that ignites the spirit of joy and wonder for visitors of all ages. Join us in celebrating the holidays amidst the radiant glow, Santa nightly, selfie stations, hot cocoa, smores and more! 5827 Riverside Dr. Punta Gorda, FL 33982 | 941.621.8299 | Gardens Aglow | Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (peacerivergardens.org)
Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic (Support)
Member Information
The Meridian at Punta Gorda Isles – The Meridian at Punta Gorda Isles is proud to support Toys for Tots Foundation this year. Drop off unwrapped toys for all ages Monday – Friday from 9am – 3pm until Dec. 15. We’re located inside the Bal Harbor Plaza.
Connect Print & Promotions, LLC – … it’s the most wonderful time of the year
to ensure your brand marketing shines through and to get ahead of your competitors for next year, Punta Gorda!
commercial printing 
logo/graphic design
next-level promotional swag
branded apparel
signs & graphics
888.978.3437 
www.Instagram.com/
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 – Visitors are invited to decorate Christmas cookies at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. This event provides families with a chance to decorate cookies and see the holiday lights all in one night. Cookie decorating class nights are December 21 and 22 and run from 6-8 p.m. each night.
The ticket cost includes a do-it-yourself cookie bundle kit with six unfrosted sugar cookies (three different holiday shapes), three types of icing, two types of sprinkles, and an instruction card. A hot cocoa bar and admission to Holiday Nights is included. The river pavilion will be festively decorated and holiday music will be played in the background.
Tickets must be purchased in advance, online at EdisonFord.org. Tickets for Edison Ford members are $40 per person, and $50 per person for non-members.
Gold Entertainment – Gold Entertainment is bringing entertaining National Acts to Punta Gorda!
LIVE at The Charlotte Performing Arts Center:
January 19: Remembering Red—A Tribute To Red Skelton
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
And Coming to Laishley Park:
February 17: Here Come the Mummies with Frank Bang, former Buddy Guy Guitarist
Show tickets make great gifts! Grab your stocking stuffers today at:
https://GoldEntertainment.US
Interested in sponsoring a show? Drop us a line: info@goldentertainment.
Charlotte Harbor Rotary Club – January 6 – The Goldtones are back and on January 27, American Made are making an appearance. Click here for all the details!
D.I.S.Tech Services Inc. – 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.
Peace River Wildlife Center – Peace River Wildlife Center’s Sunset Celebration. Friday, December 8, from 4-6pm. In memory of Dr. David Klein, former Capital Campaign Chairman. Join us at Peace River Wildlife Center for a relaxing evening while enjoying the sunset over Charlotte Harbor. Meet our resident wildlife while enjoying refreshments. Donations appreciated. Gift Shop will be open for holiday shopping. Sponsorships available. 3400 Ponce de Leon Pkwy, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. 941.637.3830. www.prwildlife.org
Port Charlotte Florists – The Holidays are right around the corner! Spread joy to others with a gorgeous red poinsettia plant, fresh Christmas centerpiece arrangement or silk Christmas Arrangement. Our Holiday silks are also 30% OFF right now! Visit our shop at 900 Tamiami trail in Port Charlotte, check out our website @ www.portcharlotteflorist.net/
Sea Grape Gallery – Happy Holidays!
Big Shot Marketing & Design – We are committed to providing tangible results for our clients. That means generating leads, increasing online purchases or reaching any digital marketing goal you’re looking to achieve. Your website should be making you money. It’s that simple. If your website isn’t generating leads or closing sales, then it’s time to rethink your digital marketing strategy. In order to have truly effective marketing strategies, you need to understand who your ideal client is, and how to reach them.
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.
Boys & Girls Club – Because you cared
Habitat For Humanity – Annual Build Campaign
TEAM Punta Gorda – Blood Drive
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau – Partner Update
Biz Kids – Biz Kids Market
Chabad of Charlotte County – (Port Charlotte, FL)—The broader community is once again invited to participate in the Chabad of Charlotte County’s annual Chanukah Festival at the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall on Tuesday, December 12th at 6:00 PM. The event has become a Southwest Florida tradition and is entirely free to the public. This Year we will once again feature “ The Fraylichk Klezmer band” a recent favorite, back by popular demand.
The event is open to the public free of charge and people of all ages are welcome.
WHO: Chabad of Charlotte County
WHAT: 19th Annual Chanukah Celebration
WHEN: Tuesday, Dec 12th at 6pm
WHERE: Inside the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall (Near Dillard’s)
CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY TO CELEBRATE
THE HOLIDAY OF CHANUKAH AT FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE
The public is cordially invited to join us for the holiday celebration of Chanukah at 6 pm
on Thursday, December 14, 2023 for the lighting of the Menorah in front of the main entrance to Fishermen’s Village. Each night an additional light is kindled until the Menorah is ablaze with eight beautiful lights in celebration of Chanukah. The message of the menorah is a universal one, expressing the importance of bringing light, warmth and holiness to the darkest places
Music, dreidels and chanuka treats willl be featured.
The Yoga Sanctuary – New Year’s Day: Starting in Sacred Silence: Monday, January 1st 10 – 11:30am $25
Embark on a transformative journey with The Yoga Sanctuary this New Year’s Day! From the moment our studio doors open, join us in honoring sacred silence. Our time together will include a gentle asana practice, paving the way for extended periods of seated meditation. Discover the rejuvenating power of shared stillness and set the tone for a year of self-discovery and serenity.
Create Your Life: Designing a Vision Board
Saturday, January 6th 12pm – 2:30 pm $50
In a creative and uplifting atmosphere, we’ll dive into the art of creating vision boards, transforming our intentions into a visual masterpiece. The workshop will include a brief exploration of the seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga, inspired by Deepak Chopra’s enlightening teachings. During our time together, we will pause and take a moment to regroup and connect over a cup of tea. You will then be led through a meditation to seal your intentions, and conclude with a relaxation session, bringing balance and harmony to your mind, body, and spirit.
Nino’s Bakery: Hooray, it’s Christmas Season!! YOU KNOW how much Nino’s loves to cook specialty, traditional cookies, breads and pastries! Available now or to order, Babka and Challah, along with cakes like Italian Rum Cake and Tiramisu cake. Call to order for immediate pick-up – or order online to pick-up on Dec 24th. Take-n-Heat Holiday Honey Ham Dinners also available. Reheat dinners in the oven or microwave for an EASY holiday meal. Got questions? Call 941-833-8912 www.NinosBakery.us
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
D.I.S. Tech Services Inc.
IT Support Technician (Part-time)
Hiring part-time I.T. Technician. If interested, contact Josh at 941.867.9772 or email jmontgomery@distechusa.com
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.
Punta Gorda Woman's Club Grant Mallory Smith in Concert!
Tuesday, December 19 7-9 PM
GRANT MALOY SMITH is a Billboard Top #10 charting
American Roots Singer/Songwriter. His songs tell heartfelt stories about real people, and are unfailingly optimistic and forward looking. His latest album “Dust Bowl” spent 17 weeks on Billboard’s Americana/Folk album sales chart, including 11 weeks in the top 10. Known for supporting women and our elders, Grant is also a huge advocate for our veterans. His song “Man Of Steel” is the official theme song of the National Veterans Foundation. Grant has played world class venues all around the world.
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)
Charlotte High School National Honors Society
Newsletters
Archway Institute – Newsletter
Boys and Girls Clubs of Charlotte County – Newsletter
C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County – November Newsletter
Charlotte Community Foundation – December Newsletter
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter
Copperfish Books – December Newsletter
Downtown Farmers Market – December Newsletter
Drug Free Charlotte County – News To Use Fall Edition
Edison and Ford Winter Estates – Gardening- January
Gulf Theater – Season 5 Newsletter
Loveland Center – Newsletter
Military Heritage Museum – November Military Heritage Museum Happenings & Highlights and Gulf Theater Holiday Shows
The Nix Team at Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty –November Newsletter
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – December Gardens at a Glance
Pomegranate & Fig – December Newsletter
Punta Gorda Historical Society – December Newsletter
Punta Gorda Rotary Club – December Newsletter
Sandstar Insider – December Newsletter
Sea Grape Gallery – December Newsletter
Suncoast Humane Society – What’s Happening
Team Punta Gorda – Team Builds!
Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic – Third Quarter Newsletter