Mission Statement:
The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is organized to advance the prosperity and general welfare of its business members and the community they serve.
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~ 97th Year Serving Charlotte County ~
Punta Gorda ~ Port Charlotte ~ Englewood ~ Charlotte Harbor ~ Murdock
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BUSINESS ONLINE
~ Monday, January 30, 2023 ~
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The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Activates Business Damage Assessment Survey to Evaluate Impact of Hurricane Ian on the State’s Businesses
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Ian. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Ian recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of affected businesses.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, DEO is committed to supporting preparation, response, and recovery efforts of Florida businesses, communities, and citizens impacted by Hurricane Ian. The business damage assessment survey assists DEO and its federal, state, and local partners in those efforts,” said DEO Secretary Dane Eagle. “I encourage businesses impacted by Hurricane Ian to complete the Business Damage Assessment Survey at FloridaDisaster.biz.”
On September 24, 2022, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 22-219 declaring a state of emergency in all 67 counties in the State of Florida. All affected businesses should complete the survey.
Results from the Business Damage Assessment Survey will be shared with various federal, state, and local agencies to implement appropriate relief. Businesses can complete the survey online or visit FloridaDisaster.biz and select “Hurricane Ian” from the dropdown menu. If you need additional assistance with your business, please call 850-815-4925 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or email ESF-18@em.myflorida.com.
Complete Business Damage Assessment
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In response to Hurricane Ian, the Charlotte Community Foundation activated the Charlotte County Disaster Relief Fund. The CCF Board of Directors pledge $500,000 in matching funds in an effort to provide financial assistance and resources to Charlotte County residents. Additionally, CCF activated the Charlotte County Non-Profit Disaster Relief Fund. This fund will be utilized to provide assistance to nonprofit organizations that incurred structural and/or infrastructural damage preventing them from operating. The William G. & Marie Selby Foundation has generously provided matching funds for Charlotte County. Visit, www.charlottecf.org. | United at Work was created following Hurricane Ian to help business owners ensure their employees were able to take care of hurricane-related needs so that they can show up each day focused and ready to work. The United at Work fund offers financial assistance for individuals who are employed by a business that is based in Charlotte County or has sites in Charlotte County. The fund has a dollar-for-dollar matching grant from the Elsa & Peter Soderberg Charitable Foundation that doubles all donations up to $500,000. With your help, we can establish a $1 million pool of resources for our community. GIVE HELP: If you want to contribute to this fund – click here for more information and to make your donation to United at Work. Your donation will be doubled by the Soderberg Foundation. GET HELP: If you are an employee of a Charlotte County business, – click here to complete a simple form, detailing the needs you have. Our team will help direct you to local resources and let you know what financial assistance you may qualify for. | |
~~ 2023 Community Guide Link ~~ | |
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2022-2023 Sustaining Partners
Sustaining Partner businesses provide additional financial support annually to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce which, in turn, provides them with additional valuable membership benefits. These contributions to the chamber allow for the continued increase of promotion, advocacy, involvement, and leadership at the local, state and federal levels. This is done to always be proactive in support of our businesses and the community we serve.
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Charter Sustaining Partner (no years missed) | |
And remember, each time you attend a chamber event, your business card goes into the drawing for a 5 night Bahama or Caribbean cruse for 2 on Carnival Cruise Lines sponsored by Pat Hand, Dancing Moon Travel. The more events you attend, the more chances to WIN...Just look for the big gold bingo drum and add your business card! Drawing will be at our 98th Annual Meeting 2023. |
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Members, sign up for Networking at Noon at Beef O'Brady's Deep Creek on February 8, 2023. Cost $20pp. Please only one or two persons per member as space for this event is limited. Food Choices will be available soon. Register in the Member Portal
Members join us at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center on February 15th for our Third Wednesday Coffee. Our Coffee Sponsor is iTrip Vacations Punta Gorda. Our Program/Guest Speaker: TBA For planning purposes, please register in the Member Portal.
The Business Card Exchange on Thursday, February 23rd, is sponsored by Armstrong Interiors at their office in Punta Gorda. The BCX will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Remember to bring your business cards, and if you like a small gift to promote your business. Please RSVP for this event so that we know how many members to plan for.
The Leadership Charlotte class of 2023, has kicked off their fundraising with a Booze Yeti. It is a Tundra 65 yeti filled with top shelf alcohol. The class is raising monies to give a helping hand to local charities that were damaged in Hurricane Ian. These nonprofits help our community exponentially. The tickets for a chance at winning the Booze Yeti is 1 for $20 or 6 for $100. Anyone 21 years or older can purchase these tickets from any Leadership Charlotte ’23 Classmate or at the Charlotte County Chamber office.
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~ Did you see these Chamber items too? ~ | |
Advertise in the Quarterly Newsletter Members, the Charlotte County Chamber Newsletter Business Perspective is a DIGITAL Quarterly publishing January/April/July/October. Members who want to include a Digital page to ride with the newsletter should complete and return the agreement and provide their digital page by the 20th of the month before publication. *Cost $100 for-profit and $50 non-profit each issue *Sustaining Partners receive free digital flyers depending on their partnership level. Send your digital flyer to Newsletter@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 for information, or click here to learn more. | | | |
Attend the 12th Annual Business Expo | |
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Put your out of office message on and plan to attend the 12th Annual Business Expo "The Hottest Business Day in Paradise," on Thursday, February 2nd from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Free and open to the public. Visit with over 90 local member businesses. There will be Banks, Realtors, Roofers, Builders, Window & Door, Health Care, Attorney, Public Adjuster, Pest Control, Home Inspection, Resort, Radio, Newspaper, CPA's, Travel Agency, Restaurants, Schools, Fitness, Laser Tag, Photography, Motorcycle, Retail, Insurance, local Non-Profits, Government agencies and much more, all in one place. Develop great connections with other businesses. Compare products and services. Check out your competition. Have lunch at the concession and enjoy the view of beautiful Charlotte Harbor. The first 500 visitors receive a goodie bag. Complete your event passport with signatures from 20 vendors and be part of the Grand Prize Drawing. Prizes valued at over $2,500!
Who wants to be at work, or mowing the lawn or in front of the TV when you can be at "The Hottest Business Day in Paradise!"
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Open to the Public
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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The Hottest Business Day in Paradise is 2 days away! What? You missed the deadline to sign up? Then make it a priority to attend, compare products and services, network with vendors, check out your competition, and check in with your business peers! | |
We want to thank our Expo2023 Sponsors: | |
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Print Sponsor: Buffalo Graffix
Newspaper Sponsor: The Daily Sun
Radio Sponsor: iHeart Media, Inc.
Platinum Title Sponsor: Chapman Insurance Group
Platinum Title Sponsor: Adjuster Groups LLC
Gold Presenting Sponsor: Quigley Eye Specialists
Gold Presenting Sponsor: Lockett-N-Homes Realty Co.
Silver Sponsor: Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery
Silver Sponsor: Southwest Florida Insurance Associates, Inc.
Silver Sponsor: Life Care Center of Punta Gorda
Silver Sponsor: BMR Company Roofing Services
Bronze Sponsor: Mosaic
Bronze Sponsor: Succentrix Business Advisors
Bronze Sponsor: ShorePoint Health Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda
Bronze Sponsor: J & J One Stop Gun Shop LLC
Bronze Sponsor: Reaper Rodent Removal
Bronze Sponsor: Tommy's Express Car Wash
Bronze Sponsor: Hodges University
After Hours Party Sponsor: Elite Inspections & Pest Solutions
Main Stage Sponsor: BMR Company Roofing Services
Bag Sponsor: WhitCo Insurance-Alexia Martin Agency
Refreshment Station Sponsor: The Purple House Salon by Shawn Gilstad
Kick off Party Sponsor: Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center
Lanyard Sponsor: Chapman Insurance Group
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The Mazo Group, Inc.
4055 Tamiami Trail, Suite 11
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Gleidis Mazo
(941) 763-0240
themazogroup@gmail.com
http://themazogroup.com
Jessica McKnight Photography
Please call or email for information
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Jessica McKnight
(727) 269-7740
jmcknightphotos@gmail.com
http://JessicaMcknight.com
Life Planning Law Firm, PA
14375 Tamiami Trail
North Port, FL 34287
Shannon Feinroth
(941) 914-6000
shannon@lifelawfirm.com
http://www.lifelawfirm.com
Fairway Independent Mortgage
2835 N Beach Road, Suite C
Englewood, FL 34223
Michele Baldwin
(612) 269-9728
michele.baldwin@fairwaymc.com
http://www.applywithmichele.com
YouFit Gyms
3280 Tamiami Trail, #33
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Dave Jean Pierre
(941) 623-9099
ptcharlotte@youfit.com
http://www.youfit.com
Essential Constructs
332 San Carlos Drive
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Robert Warholic
(607) 760-2350
rob@essentialconstructs.com
http://www.essentialconstructs.com
Bailey Hargrave - Automatic Data Processing
6710 Professional Pkwy.
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
Bailey Hargrave
(901) 488-7047
bailey.hargrave@adp.com
http://adp.com
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~ Join us for a Ribbon Cutting ~ | |
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GJC Window & Door Ribbon Cutting and Open House
Tuesday, January 31 at 5:30 p.m.
Event is from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
812 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte
Please Register for this event in the member portal.
Culver's Punta Gorda - Grand Opening New Location
Tuesday, February 7 at 9:00 a.m.
26440 Jones Loop Road, Punta Gorda
Please RSVP in the member portal.
Chris & Erica Rayborn, Realtors - Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty.
Ribbon Cutting, Wednesday, February 15 at 9:00 a.m. immediately following the
Third Wednesday Coffee at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center
Please RSVP in the member portal.
Burnt Store Title - Tri Chamber Ribbon Cutting
Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.
1133 Bal Harbor Blvd., Punta Gorda, FL
Cocktails & Appetizers 5-7PM
Please RSVP in the member portal.
More information on these as we get closer to the date:
March 3, 2023 - Robert L. Cochran CH82 Disabled American Vets
March 15, 2023 Total Gastroenterology/Dr. Bahram Ahmadi
May, 12 2023 - Granny Nannies Senior Home Health Agency
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Everyone is invited to attend Chamber ribbon cutting events. Come out and support your fellow members in a casual, fun, networking opportunity. | |
#MembershipAddsValue! #OneCommunity | |
Members Send YOUR Member News/Events to BOL@charlottecountychamber.org and we'll share it each week. Email submissions of 90 words or fewer, in paragraph form, by noon on Friday for inclusion the following Monday. This is a free members-only benefit! (We do reserve the right to publish and edit any submissions.) | |
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GFWC Port Charlotte Women's Club Rummage Sale dates: January 30th and 31st. Sale starts Monday on Monday 1/30 from 12noon to 4pm and Tuesday 1/31 from 9am to 1pm: Clothing and Jewelry. Proceeds benefit local charities and scholarships. Questions, call Judy Delaney 941-661-8485 or email pudydelaney@aol.com
Charlotte Players-January 30th, PETER FOGEL'S "TIL DEATH DO US PART . . . YOU FIRST!" Peter is the eternal bachelor and has major "commitment" issues as the love of his life has just broken up with him on Valentine's Day. Theater critics agree that this show is a hilarious cross between, "Men Are From, Mars / Women Are From, Venus" and "Defending the Caveman." Since 2013 Peter Fogel has been the National Touring "star" of the comedy hit. Located at The Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center in Punta Gorda. For more information and tickets go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.
Estate planning Basics Seminar. LMCU is partnering with Threlkkeld law to bring you information about estate planning. Light Appetizers, beer, wine, and soda will be provided on Thursday, February 9th at 530-630pm. Lake Michigan Credit Union Port Charlotte Branch 2120 Kings Hwy Port Charlotte, FL 33980. Seating is Limited . Please RSVP before Monday February 6th. Call 941-258-3055 or email Natalie.proctor@lmcu.org.
Charlotte Players- How The Other Half Loves, February 9-26. There are three couples in this play, the men all working for the same firm. One of the younger men is having an affair with the wife of the oldest, and when each returns home suspiciously late one night or early one morning they invent a story about having to spend some time smoothing domestic matters in the home of the third couple. Of course, the third couple have to show up to put the fat in the fire, but that complication only adds to the fun of this famous farce. Located at 1182 Market Circle in Port Charlotte. For tickets go to www.charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022.
On February 11, 2023 in anticipation of a spring full of kittens and expecting momma cats, we invite you to spend the day with us in celebration. There will be food, drinks, games, raffles and of course KITTENS! Visit our Kitten Shower page on our website or our Facebook Event page for more information. We also still have sponsorships available. Please contact Animal Welfare Leagues Marketing Manager @Elizabeth Marcino for more information.
The Charlotte County Tourist Development Council is accepting applications for the 2023 Event Development Program (EDP). The EDP provides reimbursable funding to assist in the development of new events, occurring in low or shoulder seasons which promote Charlotte County as a tourist destination. The application is available online here. Applicants should note, the program guidelines and application were recently revised.
Applications are due no later than February 22 by emailing Ms. Brynja Phipps at Brynja.Phipps@PureFlorida.com
On Saturday, February 25th, from 11:00 – 2:00, Complete Auto Repair will hold their 13th Customer Appreciation Party. This outside event is open to the public, and features music by the GMen Band, and “cruise in” by Tailgaters of Central Florida and the Peace River Car Club. Our popular raffles for adults and kids will continue this year!
Valerie’s House-Charlotte County is a nonprofit organization that helps grieving children and families who have lost a loved one to go on to live fulfilling lives. Our vision is that no child grieves alone. Would you like to be a Valerie’s House Volunteer Facilitator? Our next training will be in Port Charlotte on April 15th & April 16th. Please complete the volunteer application link to join us: Volunteer in SWFL — Valerie's House (valerieshouse.org). We will also be having our Charity Quarter Frenzy Fundraising Event on March 9th at 6pm at the 24TwentyOne Event Center. We hope to see you there.
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My name is Rob Warholic an owner with Essential Constructs. I am facilitating and administrating the use of cooperative purchasing networks (co-ops) with school districts, municipalities, governmental offices, housing authorities and any public or non-public agencies. This allows any public entity to utilize the coop’s without having to competitively bid and gives you the authority to select individual preferred local sub-contractors. I would like to have the opportunity to meet with you, zoom, phone or in person and provide information of the overall use of the co-ops C 607-760-2350 Rob@EssentialConstructs.com
Packing and unpacking take more time than moving. How easy would it be if you didn't have to pack everything and then unpack it? Call Kenny Gardiner of Gardiner & Sons Moving & Storage for service quotes on packing, unpacking, and temporary storage services at (941) 423-5311. Save yourself time and stress on both ends.
Our annual Customer Appreciation Party features the best vehicular eye candy around! Two car clubs participate and bring some amazing cars and trucks to show. Tailgaters of Central Florida and the Peace River Car Club, we can’t wait to see you again! Come on out to Complete Auto Repair, 20120 Veterans Blvd. from 11:00-2:00 on Saturday, February 25th for this free show.
Build a healthy team, one employee at a time. Gulfcoast South AHEC offers FREE tobacco cessation counseling and FREE Nicotine Replacement in the form of patches, gum and/or lozenges at no cost for qualifying participants. Let’s get back to happy and healthy together. As part of Tobacco Free Florida’s in-person/virtual Group Quit sessions, we are here to help. Call 866-534-7909 or visit gsahec.org to register today.
SWFL Honor Flight is happy to be part of the Charlotte County Chamber. Our next flight is May 2 from PGD. We need guardians to go on the trip and volunteers to help prepare for the day. We are currently fundraising with $10 raffle tickets for a summer trip to Ireland, and our next golf tournament is 5/27. We’d love to find corporate sponsors who want to support veterans. Contact us at www.swflhonorflight.org, www.Facebook.com/swflhonorflight, swflhonorflight@gmail.com , or DonnaPLee94@gmail.com.
Founded in 1985, the Charlotte-Desoto Building Industry Association (CDBIA) is a not-for-profit organization consisting of a group of individuals and firms who care about their community and who believe that home ownership should be within reach of every American. They believe in the free enterprise system. They believe that homes and all buildings in America should be well-designed, well-constructed and located in attractive communities where educational, recreational, religious and shopping facilities are available to all. The mission of the CDBIA is we are a professional organization of industry leaders who advocate, educate and support our members, customers and stakeholders while building in a great community.
Mentors become a much-needed source of motivation and accountability students might be lacking at home and help them reach what may seem to be a distant, unfamiliar goal in their family history — achieving a college education. CLEF mentors are paired with students, giving students someone to rely on who has the commitment to help them reach their full potential. Mentors make a positive impact on students’ lives, and ultimately upon our community as a whole. Contact Daniel Washington if interested. Charlotte Local Education Foundation Office: (941) 255-7500 Ext 1796
Murdock Stones Etc. wants to help you beat this crazy inflation! We offer special pricing if you shovel your own rock/sand/dirt/shell. We offer the prices on 5 gallon buckets and the old green or blue recycling bins. Check us out at: 590 Prineville St. in Port Charlotte (by the Sun Flea Market). .7621 Sawyer Circle (off Gasparilla Rd. …look for the World’s Largest Mailbox). www.murdockstonesetc.com. 941-629-6651
A New Year has started, and we are excited! 2023 and we signed up 4 new artists.
Valentine's Day is around the corner and what a better way to show your special someone a gift to remember. 15% off on Jewelry February 7th -14th. Visit Vernon and Rebecca at Two Angels Soaps, Gallery & Gifts at 2686 Tamiami Trail #5A, Port Charlotte, FL twoangelssgg@gmail.com (941)883-2861.
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Members may create Member-to-Member deals, Hot-Deals, post Jobs and News Releases using the MIC (Member Portal). There is no additional cost to do so! We recommend that you check these links each week to see what members are offering. | | |
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Local CPA office is looking for employees experienced in tax preparation, payroll preparation and accounting. Salary commensurate with experience, starting at $17 per hour. Mary G. Stewart, CPA - CALL: (941)258-3191 Mary@PtCharlotteCPA.com
United Way of Charlotte County is mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty. Our workplace is fast-paced, friendly, and adaptive. We are seeking a dynamic resource development professional to join our team who can lead our annual campaign efforts and events. The Resource Development Director will lead and oversee the planning, direction, and execution of all fundraising efforts and activities, and will serve as a public representative of the organization. It is a hands-on, in-the-community position. People with diverse backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to apply. Join us in giving everyone in our community the opportunity to live their best life. Please find at this link our official job posting for a Resource Development Director position
PART-TIME HELP NEEDED- Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association- EVENT TECHNICIAN- This is a physical role requiring very flexible scheduling including weekends and evenings, a strong work ethic, initiative, exceptional organization, good judgement, and outstanding customer service skills. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Event Technician is responsible for: setting up and preparing the auditorium and classrooms for daily activities; setting up and breaking down the auditorium and classrooms for large special events; and staffing special events. $15-$17 per hour. Send resume to teriashley@pgica.org for consideration.
FULL-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE- Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association- FACILITY and MAINTENANCE COORDINATOR- Physical role requiring very flexible scheduling, strong work ethic, initiative, good judgement, and outstanding customer service skills. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Facility and Maintenance Coordinator is responsible for: setting up auditorium and classrooms for daily activities; setting up and breaking down auditorium and classrooms for large special events; staffing special events; and maintaining the cleanliness, repair and safety of the facility, equipment, and grounds. $17-$19 per hour. Includes paid vacations and holidays. Send resume to teriashley@pgica.org.
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“Absorb what is useful, disregard that which is useless” – Bruce Lee | |
Showcase your business through sponsorship! | |
Are you looking for an opportunity to showcase your business? A great opportunity would be sponsoring one of our Third Wednesday Coffees. Sponsors receive recognition in Business Online, on Facebook and in the Chamber calendar. Sponsors may place marketing materials on the tables at the event and will have 4-5 minutes to introduce yourself/staff/business. Available slots are limited. Please contact Jami Joannes jjoannes@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 for details. Cost to sponsor is $300. | |
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After watching the movie Cinderella, five-year-old Sarah started using her pinwheel as a magic wand, pretending she was a fairy godmother. "Make three wishes," she told her mother, "and I'll grant them."
Her mom first asked for world peace. Sarah swung her wand and proclaimed the request fulfilled.
Next, her mother requested for a cure for all ill children. Again, with a sweep of the pinwheel, Sarah obliged.
The mother, with a glance down at her rather ample curves, made her third wish, "I wish to have a trim figure again."
The miniature fairy godmother started waving her wand madly. "I'll need more power for this one!" she exclaimed.
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Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
2702 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-627-2222
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