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Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Inc Logo

Friday February 16, 2024

Chamber President John Wright’s Newspaper Column From Feb. 13

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

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!

Members can send their Friday Facts to 

vjohnson@puntagorda-chamber.com

Member Networking Events

Ribbon Cuttings

DON'T MISS THE GERRO FASHION SHOW!

Sponsorships Available!

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!

Bid Opportunity – The City is accepting proposals from interested non-profit organizations to lease & manage the Cooper Street Recreation Center to provide a public purpose to the community – Site layoutNoticeLease

Partners in Action News

Four Points By Sheraton (Platinum)

The weather isn’t the only thing warming up over at The Tiki Bar! We have an all star can’t miss weekend planned at the Tiki Bar. On Friday, we have Maiden Cane followed by Pure Country on Saturday. VIP tickets are on sale now at ttspg.com. 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 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 February Line-up

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

The January numbers are in Charlotte County: 351 sales up 8%, median price $351K up 3%, 7.2 months of inventory, 59 median days on market, 49% cash sales. Zip 33950: 39 sales, up 18%, median price $340K down 32%, 9 months of inventory, 59 median days on market, 77% cash sales. Zip 33983: 21 sales down 36%, median price $352K down 12%, 6.8 months of inventory, 61 median days on market, 43% cash sales. Buyers, this is your market, take advantage, as it may not last long. If you would like to discuss your real estate goals, give me a call 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 an “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. Going the distance to make the 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 still being taken for our Chocolate Covered Strawberries and our 30 Piece Molded Heart Chocolate Box! Only a handful are left!  

Punta Gorda Coffee & Tea (Silver)

For our Loyal Members we are having a SALE on our 5 Ounce Bags of Grade-A Loose-Leaf Tea! 15 % OFF 3 or more 5 Ounce Bags!! This is ONLY available for a limited time and while supplies last. 

Connect Print & Promotions, LLC (Silver)

February is the time for Love 🏹 Networking, and our 7th Annual Business Over Breakfast (Valentine’s Day at the Tamiami Tavern) … our way of saying, THANK YOU, Punta Gorda!

commercial printing ✅ 

logo/graphic design ✅ 

next-level promotional swag ✅ 

branded apparel ✅ 

signs & graphics ✅ 

YOU are the brand | We are the STANDARD

HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital (Silver)

Charlotte Players (Bronze)

February Press Release

Calendar of Events

Charlotte Players- Calendar Girls Feb 8-25. When Annie’s husband John dies of leukemia, she and best friend Chris resolve to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room. They manage to persuade four fellow Women’s Institute members to pose nude with them for an “alternative” calendar. Edwards Twins are coming back to town on Feb 12h & 13th. Two brothers = 100 stars! Remember all the wonderful Variety shows of the 70’s & 80’s? Now is your chance to see those stars, live by Las Vegas’ number one impersonators. 75 Taylor St in Punta Gorda. For tickets and more information go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.

Gulfshore Opera (Bronze)

Calenda Real Estate Group (Bronze)

Wondering about new developments in Punta Gorda? Our Quarter 1 Newsletter examines the local real estate market, with an inside scoop on inventory levels and what new developments are coming to our area. Q1 Newsletter

PicklePlex of Punta Gorda (Bronze)

The upcoming PicklePlex Annual Challenge tournament invites local merchant businesses to get involved in the fastest growing sport around Punta Gorda on March 15 – 17. Become a Gold ($250) or Silver ($100) sponsor and receive a host of benefits as well as name recognition with players and attendees. Contact Scott.Garber@pickleplex.org.

ARCHway Institute (Support

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

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 Birthday Celebration

Gold Entertainment –

An evening of timeless music with arguably the most famous American Idol alums is coming to PUNTA GORDA! Join us for Ruben Studdard & Clay Aiken’s TWENTY TOUR. The American Idol sweethearts are bringing their biggest hits to the stage for TWO SHOWS on February 3rd at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center (2pm Matinee and 7pm).

 

And if partying in the park is more of your style, check out the just announced and on sale Downtown Hoedown with Little Texas and The Kentucky Headhunters. Start the weekend off right with a special Thursday night show, March 7th, at 6pm (early enough to get some sleep for work the next day), on the water at Laishley Park. VIP tables and sponsorships available as well as Reserved and General Admission tickets: PuntaGordaConcerts.com

 

Also coming to PUNTA GORDA:

LIVE at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center

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 , PuntaGordaConcerts.com 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

Need a star for your event? Gold Entertainment can secure the best act for you through our Talent Buying division: 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!

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 – 

Yoga at Downtown Kava: A Community Yoga Class

Saturday, January 27th 7:30am

1009 Taylor St, PG 33950

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!

Introduction to Yoga: A 6-Week Series

Thursdays: February 1 – March 7th 1 – 2:15pm $124

No flexibility required—all ages and body types welcome! This six-week series, limited to eight students only, will walk you through the basics of yoga. Learn pose anatomy and alignment, the foundations of yoga philosophy, as well as ways to personalize your yoga practice for specific issues or injuries.

Paddle in Paradise: A Yoga & Kayaking Eco-Adventure

Saturday, February 3rd 8am – 12pm $90

The Yoga Sanctuary invites you to a day of exploration, relaxation, and connection with nature. You will find yourself surrounded by native flowering plants while immersing yourself in the peaceful serenity of nature. After our kayaking adventure, you will be guided through a gentle yoga session amidst the natural beauty of our surroundings. Following this yoga session, we’ll gather for a delicious catered lunch by local Punta Gorda restaurant, Toula’s. 

Kayak gear provided; please bring a yoga mat, beach towel, water, and sunscreen. No previous kayak or yoga experience required. Space is limited, so enroll now to ensure your spot! We have a limited number of tandem kayaks. Please let us know if you would like to paddle in a boat with a friend!

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

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

Pedal & Play in Paradise

Port Charlotte Florist – Valentine Special

Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club – upcoming events

2024 Menu

Southwest Florida Honor Flights – meeting info & updates

Sea Grape – Press Release-Jim Beech Boulder-Brook

Press Release – Jan Pronko-Bikini-Bird

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

Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership

The Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership is hosting a free public event on February 28th & 29th from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., to share knowledge, showcase climate action, engage leadership across sectors, and mobilize collaboration throughout the Central & Southwest Florida region. The Summit will feature innovative thinkers exchanging dialogue and ideas on expanding capacity to respond to climate challenges and building increased community resiliency, as well as interactive question and answer sessions with audience members. This in-person event will have numerous networking opportunities to allow participants to build new connections and collaborations. Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) are available for Professional Engineers and Professional Geologists upon request. This event is free of charge; however, seating is limited, and advance registration is required. https://www.chnep.org/climate-summit

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

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

Newsletters

BIZ KIDZ – Newsletter

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 – February Newsletter

Joanne Cumiskey – January Newsletter

Loveland Center – Newsletter

Military Heritage Museum – 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 Mural Society – January Newsletter- Class

Punta Gorda Rotary Club – January Newsletter

Sandstar Insider – January Newsletter

Sea Grape Gallery – February Newsletter

Suncoast Humane Society – What’s Happening

Valerie’s House – Newsletter

Topgolf – January Newsletter

Time Realty – January Newsletter

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach CVB – January Newsletter

Platinum Sponsors

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Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

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