
Friday October 18th, 2024
Friday Facts!
JUMP TO WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR!
Interim Executive Director, Val Edmunds column from October 15, 2024..
PG Chamber Radio Show Exclusively
For PG Chamber Members:
BOOKING FOR OCTOBER!
Our monthly radio show on Seaview 104.9FM during the Bob Alexander Radio Show is 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 to record two one-minute slots to air twice during the show that can be identical or different. 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 Val Johnson. Only 10 businesses per month. It’s a great way to promote your business, advertise an event or show community support
Submit Your Friday Facts!
Submissions must be sent by 4pm on Wednesdays
Partner In Action Friday Facts Submission
Regular Member Friday Facts Submission
Member Newsletter Upload
All Newsletter Submissions Can Now Be Submitted Via PDF or Web Link!
ChamberMaster Promo!
Be sure to complete your member listing on the Chamber website! Click here for more info.
A Message from COAD (Community Organization Active in Disaster)
We are reaching out to ask for your support in helping us respond swiftly and effectively through a donation to the COAD Hurricane Relief Fund. This fund will directly support disaster response efforts in our community, providing critical resources like food, shelter, and supplies to Charlotte County residents in need.
Your donation will help us:
- Distribute relief supplies to those who have lost homes and belongings
- Provide immediate alternative housing and care for displaced residents
- Mobilize recovery efforts to rebuild and restore our community in the wake of the storm
Every dollar counts. Whether it’s $25 to help with basic hygiene kits or $250 to provide meals and shelter, your contribution will make an immediate impact on individuals and families who are facing immense hardship.
Please consider donating today to help our neighbors recover and rebuild. Together, we can make sure that no one is left behind during this crisis.
To donate, simply visit www.coadfl.org/donate or contact us directly at 941-787-4070 if you’d like to learn more about other ways to get involved in our recovery efforts.
Thank you for your continued support and for standing with us during this critical time.
With gratitude,
The COAD Team
Member Networking Events
Ribbon Cuttings
Advertising Deadline for PG Beat is November 14th.
If you are a Punta Gorda Chamber member and would like to advertise in the PG Beat, please submit your ad using the link below. 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!
Partners in Action News
Gettel (Platinum)
Four Points By Sheraton (Platinum)
The Four Points by Sheraton and The Tiki Bar are still standing! The hotel suffered zero damage and reopened as soon as the power was restored two days later. The Tiki Bar wasn’t so lucky, BUT it already has come along way in such a short time. We will reopen in a couple of weeks bigger and better than ever!
D.I.S. Tech Services (Platinum in Kind)
We are a Managed Service Provider. What We Offer:
Endpoint Security and Management.
Email and Network Security
Office 365 Management
Disaster Recovery
Cloud and On-Site Management
24/7 Security Monitoring
We are offering a 15% discount for new businesses that sign-up with us for their first 2 months of service! Offer is valid until October 31st.
Della Booth, TIME Realty Services, Inc. (Gold)
I hope everyone is safe and with no damage. If I can offer any assistance please reach out. Check out these offerings. There are some great new construction deals, builders are offering great perks, reach out if you are interested.
2/2 den, villa, Punta Gorda, fully furnished, Restoration Hardware, GE Cafe appliances! https://bit.ly/
3/2 pool home on golf course, Punta Gorda, quick close, https://bit.ly/4drZymY
3/2 new construction, Babcock Ranch, ready now! https://bit.ly/3XcTOIK
5.80/ac commercial Punta Gorda, Let’s build something https://bit.ly/
.22/ac parcel downtown Punta Gorda, mixed-use corner https://bit.ly/3Xkt4pW
.36/ac parcel Taylor Rd mixed-use at busy intersection https://bit.ly/
Beach home in Yucatan Mexico, 30 min to Merida International airport https://bit.ly/3qLQ9Ef
I don’t work “9 to 5”, I work “Start to Finish”
Downtown Farmers Market (Gold)
Open 8 am to 1pm Saturdays.
Wyvern Hotel (Gold)
The Nix Team at Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty (Gold)
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.
Charlotte Community Foundation (Silver)
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)
Check out upcoming events @ Fishermen’s Village for November.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Silver)
Experience the Ultimate Woodworking Celebration at The Timber Jamboree!
Mark your calendars for an exciting day of craftsmanship and community at The Timber Jamboree, set to take place on October 26th, 2024, from 9 AM to 4 PM at 5827 Riverside Dr, Punta Gorda, FL 33982. This premier event promises a full day of hands-on demonstrations, thrilling chainsaw carving competitions, and lively entertainment for woodworkers and enthusiasts of all ages.
Punta Gorda Coffee & Tea (Silver)
Charlotte County Community Foundation
Connect Print & Promotions, LLC (Silver)
it’s that time again … the Holidays are just around the corner
we are excited to announce we have revamped & rebranded our Holiday Cards website — here is the new link:
our site contains an assortment of Holiday & year round greeting cards, plus office materials such as checks —
we would be happy to offer any assistance and answer any questions you have, just ask!
thank you for your continued support!
Instagram.com/
YOU are the brand | We are the STANDARD”
HCA Florida Fawcett (Silver)
HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital honors Frist Humanitarian Award Winner
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (September 12, 2024) — HCA Healthcare Fawcett Hospital announced the recipient of its annual Awards of Distinction, part of an HCA Healthcare legacy to recognize those who exemplify the values and commitment to the company’s mission, which is, “Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.” The 2024 Frist Humanitarian Award recipient was volunteer manager, Kelly Carr.
“Frist Humanitarian Award winners exemplify Excellence Always in their commitment to our purpose and our patients,” said Chief Executive Officer, Michael Ehrat. “We are honored to recognize Kelly and her dedication and commitment to our colleagues, volunteers, patients and community members.”
Named in honor of HCA Healthcare founder Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Sr., the Frist Humanitarian Award was started in 1971 to honor individuals for their humanitarian and volunteer efforts and is given to one colleague, one volunteer and one physician each year.
Kelly Carr, Frist Humanitarian Award Employee
“Kelly started her career with HCA Healthcare in 2011 and joined the Fawcett family in 2015,” stated Ehrat. “She has played a critical role in the management of our volunteer program and community center, formerly H2U. She continually goes above and beyond her role in ownership of many projects throughout the hospital over the years. Kelly is resilient, agile and exemplifies ‘all other duties as assigned’. Kelly became the signage, wayfinding, patient navigation extraordinaire. She leveraged her volunteers and their time to support many changing processes during a $80 Million Hurricane remediation (Fall 2022 – Spring 2023) and a $60 Million tower and main entrance expansion (Fall 2022 – Spring 2024). Her leadership and support after these events truly exemplified her dedication. Kelly has served in various capacities with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, Women’s United, Habitat for Humanity, United Way of Charlotte County, Junior Leadership Charlotte and Big Brothers Big Sisters Suncoast. Her time and dedication to these organizations often extends beyond her normal work hours and expectations. She is also very involved with her church in donating her time and efforts. Her passion and dedication to Charlotte County and the surrounding areas has made a lasting impact – ultimately resulting in a better place to live for our patients and colleagues.”
Photo: Michael Ehrat, chief executive officer, Kelly Carr, volunteer manager, Lisa Tzanakis, former chief operating officer
For more information on HCA Florida Tamiami Trail Emergency, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com or call 941-255-6601.
Charlotte Players (Bronze)
Join us for Beware the House on Haunted Hill playing at The Langdon Playhouse from Oct 10- Oct 27. Come to the party where an eccentric millionaire promises six guests a mysterious prize if they can survive the night at the only truly haunted house in the world. For tickets and more information go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.
Chapman Insurance (Bronze)
Gulfshore Opera (Bronze)
PicklePlex (Bronze)
Ambassador positions available. Want to work part-time? Want to get out from behind a desk and enjoy the outdoors? Like greeting people and providing excellence in customer service? Like using your computer skills? Like working in the fastest growing sports industry in America? Then an Ambassador position at PicklePlex® of Punta Gorda may be for you. Flexible hours — morning and evening shifts available. Positions starting at $13/hour. Opportunity for advancement. For more information, contact PicklePlex® Operations Manager Scott Garber at scott.garber@pickleplex.org.
Calenda Real Estate Group (Bronze)
Port Charlotte Florist (Bronze In Kind)
Port Charlotte florist is offering $10.00 off any fresh floral arrangement $69.95 and above. Simply use the code 2024Chamber and brighten up your special customer’s day or even yourself.
Order online or call us for this great offer
theportcharlotteflorist@
Come in or order online today
941.627.2236
C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Support)
Join us on November 4 for the Basket Luncheon at FM Don’s from 12 PM – 1 PM! Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win prize-filled baskets. Tickets are $30 per person, with lunch included. Call 941-639-5499 for reservations and support C.A.R.E. this holiday season!
https://carefl.org/
DIS Tech Services (Support)
We would like to welcome our 2 newest additions Kenedy (See Bio) and Taylor (See Bio) to our already spectacular team here at D.I.S. Tech Services inc. They are willing and ready to troubleshoot your system issues. As we continue to grow in Punta Gorda, we will always be dedicated to helping our clients So, thank all of you that support D.I.S. Tech Services inc., we could not do any of this without you.
We are offering a free consultation for us to come out and give you a security assessment of your current technology infrastructure. Even if you have a current IT support team, do not hesitate to give us a call. We can be reached at 941-867-9772 or on our website at distechusa.com.
Visual Arts Center (Support)
Punta Gorda History Center (Support)
Time to Cleanup from Hurricane Milton
Friday, October 18th, Noon
Saturday, October 26th, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Friday (10/18) A tree will be removed at noon. We need folks to drag brush to the street. Bring gloves and water.
Saturday (10/26) We will be doing a general clean-up. Bring small trowels, digging tools, etc. Weed Eaters would be very helpful. If anyone has a push mower please bring it. Don’t forget to bring gloves. Water and donuts will be provided.
Remember this garden belongs to all of us. If you can’t make either day you can still help. Stop by the garden anytime, give an hour of your time for cleanup. We will also need to water down each bed to dissolve the salt left by flooding.
ARCHway Institute (Support)
Frank Desguin Family (Support)
Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary (Support)
ANNOUNCING:
Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary’s Annual Golf Fundraiser! Play St Andrew’s private club for the animals. You don’t golf? You can still help by sponsoring a hole, breakfast, lunch or beverage cart…or raffle donation. It’s always a great day!!
Call 239-543-1130 or Sue at St Andrews. Sign up today!!!
MD Pressure Cleaning & Softwash (Support)
Valerie's House (Support)
Join Us for Valerie’s House Charlotte County’s Inaugural Sunset Soiree ~ Harbor Style!
Date: November 16, 6:00 PM
Location: 233 E McKenzie ST Punta Gorda
Get ready for an enchanting evening under the sunset to support grieving children and families in our community.
Honorary Chair: Punta Gorda Police Chief Pamela Smith
With her dedication and compassion, Chief Smith is the perfect ambassador for our cause.
Tickets: $100
Every ticket directly funds our grief support programs.
Sponsorships and underwriting opportunities available!
Contact Tara@ValeriesHouse.org for more information.
Enjoy live music, delectable cuisine, and heartwarming conversations.
Be a part of something special.
Together, we can provide hope and healing to those who need it most.
Link Your Website Here: https://valerieshouseswfl.
Virginia B Andes Community Clinic (Support)
Mark your calendars and come Party for a Purpose. VBA will host our signature fundraiser Country for a Cause, September 28, 6:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. at Sunseeker Resort, 5500 Sunseeker Way, Charlotte Harbor. Tickets are on sale now. Purchase individual tickets for $150, or our “Hit the Hay” package with an overnight stay in a King room at Sunseeker Resort, with overnight parking, resort fee, and all applicable taxes included. Details can be found on our website.
Contact Barbara Wastart at 941-368-8863 or bwastart@volunteercare.org for Sponsorship opportunities, or any questions. We would love to have you join us at this new and exciting location for a great cause.
http://www.volunteercare.org/
Contact Barbara Wastart at 941-368-8863 or bwastart@volunteercare.org for Sponsorship opportunities, or any questions. We would love to have you join us at this new and exciting location for a great cause.
Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James (Support)
Please contact us to learn more about our Enhanced Saving Program FDIC Insured to 50 Million dollars, competitive interest rate, and liquidity. Toll free number is 855-577-4395. https://
Quick Links

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.
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Supporting Members
Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James
Frank Desguin Family
Kingdom Center for H.O.P.E.
MD Pressure Cleaning and Softwash
Nutegra Mental Health & Nutrition Therapy
Member Information
Peace River Wildlife – Significant Improvements being made to new Peace River Wildlife Center buildings and animal habitats
Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA) -The popular community flea markets will begin October 12 and continue through March 8 at the nonprofit Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA), 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda.
Registration is open to all vendors, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and households for $35. Registrants will be assigned two parking spaces … one for a vehicle and one for sale items.
Participants must bring their own tables, chairs, tent, umbrella shade, and/or other needed supplies. A limited number of tables are available to borrow on a first come, first served basis.
These are nonrefundable rain or shine events scheduled for October 12, December 14, January 11, February 8, and March 8.
To register, visit PGICA.ORG or call 941-637-1655.
(The PGICA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit community organization. Your support is appreciated.)
Charlotte Behavior Health Care – CBHC Celebrates Chief Medical Officer’s Recognition as Medical Provider of the Year by the Florida Behavioral Health Association
Hampton Manor –
Punta Gorda Rotary Club – The Punta Gorda Rotary Club Foundation hosts a Healing Field of Honor, Nov 10-11! Picture 1,000 American flags flying in ceremonial formation. An individual or an organization sponsors each flag in this Veterans Day weekend display at Laishley Park. Flags honor a fallen hero, veteran, active-duty military member, first responder, doctor, nurse, teacher, or any other hero, creating an awe-inspiring panorama available for everyone to enjoy. You can honor your hero by purchasing and dedicating a flag (or more) or becoming a sponsor at https://www.healingfield.org/
https://www.puntagordarotary.
Doughbar Restaurant & Pizzeria –
Friendship United Methodist Church – Please join FRIENDSHIP UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 12275 PARAMOUNT DRIVE, PUNTA GORDA, for a PRE-HAPPY HALLOWEEN TRUNK OR TREAT on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM. CANDY will be plentiful, POPCORN and SMORES will be available, and HOT DOGS will be roasted over a FIRE PIT! There will also be a BLOCK PARTY BOUNCE HOUSE SLIDE COMBO, Halloween GAMES with prizes, a FIRE TRUCK to explore, and LIZZY THE LITERACY BUS will make an appearance. This event is FREE to EVERYONE, so come in or out of costume and join in the fun for ALL AGES! If you have any questions, please contact Kathy at kathy.schoolcraft@gmail.com/(
We’ll see you there!!!!
https://www.
The Yoga Sanctuary – Please check website
https://www.theyogasanctuary.
Meals on Wheels – Come and join us for BOOTS AND BOURBON AT Leroy’s downtown Punta Gorda. Tickets are $40 per person for food and fun. Cash bar. Lee and Jamie will have a buffet of their amazing food for us to enjoy. We will have a chance auction as well. We all need a good night out to destress and support Leroy’s and Meals on Wheels. Please call or text Debbie Amaral-Chow 941-457-1638 for tickets or if you would like to be a table sponsor for $100.
Gilstad Literacy Foundation -Gilstad Literacy Foundation is seeking a part-time Managing Director. Are you passionate about education and literacy? Looking to help young children be prepared to successfully start school?
Our ideal candidate would bring a background in education, child welfare, or office administration, as well as experience with fundraising, working in tandem with a board of directors, and a love of children and literacy in general.
The Gilstad Literacy Foundation (GLF), serves Charlotte County as the local affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program. As an affiliate, GLF is responsible for enrolling children ages birth to 5 and raising the funds to support the Charlotte County Imagination Library (CCIL) program and the Foundation. For more information contact chris@
https://www.
Animal Welfare League – Animal Welfare League is looking for sponsors for an upcoming fundraising event, Petoberfest, to be held on October 19 11am-6pm at Gilchrist Park in Punta Gorda. This is our main big fundraiser of the year. More info can be found on our website.
Friendship United Methodist Church– We are seeking crafters and vendors to participate in a Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair to be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Friendship United Methodist Church located at 12275 Paramount Dr., Punta Gorda, in the heart of Tropical Gulf Acres.
We currently have available 12×12 Outside Spaces ($35/ea) and a limited number of 8’ and 6’ Inside Tables ($35/ea and $25/ea respectively). Please note that tables are not available for outside spaces.
Outside the Lunchbox, a local family owned and operated food truck, will be on site to provide drinks and exceptional food choices!
Please contact pjsaved3@yahoo.com to obtain a Registration Form and Vendor Guidelines.
Thank you, and we look forward to your participation.
https:/
Copperfish Books – Coupon Extravaganza!
St Vincent de Paul – Kick off of $5M Affordable Housing Fundraiser
Lee Health – Golisano Children’s Hospital – Radithon Cares for Kids!
Vilis Ozols – Enhance your team’s performance with motivational speaker and leadership expert Vilis Ozols. Specializing in Customer Service, Time Management, and Team Building, Vilis delivers dynamic seminars that equip participants with practical strategies for professional success. An MBA graduate with extensive experience as an NCAA coach and professional athlete, Vilis uses real-world applications to foster leadership skills and improve organizational efficiency. Whether for staff training or leadership meetings, consider Vilis Ozols for your next session and watch your team’s productivity soar. Chamber members are encouraged to explore how Vilis can contribute to your organizational goals.
The Homeless Coalition –
Edison and Ford Winter Estates – Member Magazine
Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition..
Sea Grape Gallery – Press Release for Oct 2024
Business Cash Flow & Profits – Thee’s a tax incentive specific to your business. I’d like to provide you with a free feasibility report so you can see exactly what your company might qualify for. Contact us at 303.522.7839.
Pretty As A Pearl Boutique – Cute, comfy, affordable clothing & accessories for today’s woman. Sized small thru 2x.
Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club – 2024 Menu Now Open every Sunday for brunch! See Brunch Menu
Resurrection Pools – Call us today to get a free estimate! 941-623-8459 mention the summer10. 10 percent summer discount ! https://resurrectionpools.com/
Sea Grape – Art Scholarship Winners!
Martella Law Firm – Have you ever lived through the headaches and challenges of handling a probate for a deceased loved one? Would you like to make things easier for your family when you’re gone? If so, give Mark Martella, Esq., of the Martella Law Firm, PLLC a call at 941-867-6865 (or e-mail him at mark@martellalaw.com) to schedule a complimentary, confidential, one hour consultation to discuss how a Revocable Probate Avoidance Trust can save your family, time, money and headaches.https://www.
Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau – Pure Florida Insider
Peace River Wildlife – ROBIN JENKINS, DVM, PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER NAMED RECIPIANT OF THE 2024 ANNUAL HALL OF FAME AWARD FROM THE PUNTA GORDA/ENGLEWOOD BEACH VISITOR AND CONVENTION BUREAU
Hiram Grille @ 115 –
Join us for a fantastic Sunday Brunch from 7am-2pm every Sunday.
Also a big thank you to all of Punta Gorda/Charlotte county for helping us raise over $7000 for Sweets Diner Employees!
Burnt Store Animal Hospital – Provides Canine Physical Therapy. The conditions that we treat are:
Orthopedic- Amputations, Fractures and Knee injuries
Neurological- Spinal injuries, Stroke, and Traumatic Brain injuries
Obesity and Cardiopulmonary Disease
Arthritis, Muscle Weakness, and many more
We provide Therapeutic laser, Underwater treadmill, and Shockwave
Please reach out to Dr. Jeremy Johnson PT, DPT, CCRP at 239.315.0729
Precise Financial Solutions –
United Way of Charlotte County – Valued Leaders, Business Owners and Company Managers, United Way of Charlotte County invites you to the only event of its kind in Charlotte County! The 2nd Annual United at Work Summit is scheduled for Wednesday, October 30 from 8:30-3 30m at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. Together we can empower businesses and uplift employees. Enjoy a full day of interactive experiences including a special keynote speaker with a focus on workplace mental health. We are featuring panels, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. Register here to secure your spot and be part of the change! $50 includes food, all sessions and more.
https://www.unitedwayccfl.
City of Punta Gorda Police Dept – Do the Right Thing Awards
Charlotte Technical College – Students Shine at SkillsUSA State Conference, Gold medalists Set Sights on Nationals!
Chris Terp Music & Entertainment – Christine terp and her band The Gilded Lily are ready willing and available for all of your local functions, including non-profit fundraisers. All live music from a wide variety of decades to get your party pumped! Www.facebook.com/
Call Christine on 978-235-1653
Presstige Printing – Presstige Printing expands Political Mail Operation, hires Hudson as VP
Hemingway Lane Candles & Gifts – Did you know that Hemingway Lane Candles & Gifts offers candle-making workshops for groups of 10 or more at your location!? In these 1.5-2 hour workshops guests blend their own fragrances to create a one-of-a-kind, full size jar candle. Great activity for girl’s night in, customer appreciation, team building, etc. All supplies included, $30 pp.
https://www.hemingwaylane.com/
Live Your Strength – We are delighted to welcome you to our Women’s Support Group event, a gathering dedicated to fostering empowerment, connection, and growth among women. Whether you’re seeking support, looking to share your experiences, or eager to connect with like-minded individuals, this event is designed to be a safe and nurturing space for all.
: Every 3rd Saturday of the month at 2:00 PM
: 1322 N Main St, North Port, FL 34286
Register via this link on our website as limited spots are available.
https://mailchi.mp/
Make it a date with us!
We hope to see you there.
Florida Gulf Coast University – FGCU Grant Funded Programs
Supervisor of Elections – The General Election is November 5th. Check your registration at https://bit.ly/3uVSFKy.
Early Voting is from October 21st to November 3rd. Locations are listed online.
And, if you will be away or prefer to Vote-by-Mail, you must request your ballot by October 24th @ 5 PM.
Find more information on our website, https://bit.ly/CharlotteVotes, or call us at 941-833-5400, or email soe@soecharlottecountyfl.gov.
Punta Gorda/Englewood – Pure Insider
COMMUNITY NEWS
NEWS RELEASE
• Florida Commerce Emergency Bridge Loans: FL Commerce Bridge Loans www.floridacommerce.my.site.
Florida SBDC Emergency Bridge Loans: Hurricane Milton – Florida SBDC www.floridasbdc/milton/
• Business Damage Assessment Survey: Business Damage Assessments Survey. www.floridadisaster.biz/
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and support MySBA Loan Portal
• FEMA Assistance –Disaster Recovery – Disaster Assistance Assessment Survey
• Charlotte County Emergency Hurricane Relief Fund: Donate (coadfl.org) www.coadfl.org
Punta Gorda Elks Lodge- Veteran’s Day Parade entry form
Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections:
The General Election is November 5th. Check your registration at https://bit.ly/3uVSFKy.
Early Voting is from October 21st to November 3rd. Locations are listed online.
And, if you will be away or prefer to Vote-by-Mail, you must request your ballot by October 24th @ 5 PM.
Find more information on our website, https://bit.ly/CharlotteVotes, or call us at 941-833-5400, or email soe@soecharlottecountyfl.gov.
Be Voter Ready
Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch teams up with Peace River Wildlife Center
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Aug. 28, 2024) – UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant Charlotte County is seeking volunteers to participate in the Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch to collect information on mating horseshoe crabs in Charlotte Harbor. The information collected is used to inform population health assessments and movement models for the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Florida Horseshoe Crab Watch methods involve a beach survey, documenting tagged animals, and tagging and measuring new animals. Individuals or groups may sign up for any number of surveys that fit their schedule. New volunteers are asked to attend in-person training prior to their first survey. Online instructional videos are available to repeat volunteers or those who can’t attend training. Previously, surveys took place at Bayshore Live Oak Park but beginning Sept. 2024 surveys will commence at Ponce de Leon Park in Punta Gorda, made possible by the support of the Peace River Wildlife Center.
Register online at https://bit.ly/FHCW24.
City of Punta Gorda
The city has launched Text My Gov. It uses a mobile phone’s regular text messaging service to allow people to quickly find links, documents or text that answers their questions. To use the service simply text hi to (941) 347-0747. Report issues & find answers
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
CHARLOTTE COUNTY SHERIFF

Charlotte County Community Foundation
TEAM PUNTA GORDA-Volunteer Part-Time
TEAM Punta Gorda is looking for a volunteer part time bookkeeper. We use QuickBooks-pro for non-profits. Some of it can be done from home and some needs to be in our office.
Needed ½ day every 2 weeks, and one longer day every month for statement reconciliation. we have folks who will be subs for vacations & travel. Summer is very sleepy so the most volume is October through April. What we need is mainly someone to manage checks through our QuickBooks, recording deposits, and reconciling statements. Contact team@teampuntagorda.org
941-637-TEAM
Gilstad Literacy Foundation
Gilstad Literacy Foundation, Inc. needs some temporary help from someone who is skilled in using Mail Chimp for outreach from the Charlotte County Imagination Library program. Time frame/hours and compensation are negotiable. Please contact Chris Zimmer for more information. Chris@
Press Release – Rotarians donate to Charlotte County Imagination Library!
Charlotte County Computer Group - Needs Technical Volunteers
If you love technology, we need your help in any one of these
areas: teaching, presenting, troubleshooting, hardware, software and leadership of the organization.
CCCGC is a nonprofit with the mission to promote computer literacy. We are an all-volunteer run agency that refurbishes computers that are distributed to non-profits and to students and Veterans. Members can drop off their computers for repair and they can stop by our office if they have a computer challenge. Monthly, we provide computer classes and technical presentations.
Newsletters
BIZ KIDZ – Newsletter
Copperfish Books – Sept Newsletter
Edison and Ford Winter Estates – August Newsletter
Downtown Punta Gorda Farmer’s Market – Newsletter
Music Moves the Soul – November Newsletter
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens –Oct Newsletter
Punta Gorda Airport – PGD Buzz
Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society – August Newsletter
Punta Gorda Rotary Club – Fall Bulletin
Sandstar Insider – September Newsletter
Sea Grape Gallery – Sept Newsletter
Time Realty – August Newsletter
United Way – September Newsletter
Visual Arts Center – September Newsletter
Vision Quest Leadership LLC – Sept Newsletter
Virginia B Andes Community Clinic – 2nd Quarter Newsletter