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, December 13, 2021 ~
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The Business Expo is 8 weeks away, have you signed up?
Thank you Expo Sponsors:
Platinum Title Sponsor - Chapman Insurance Group
Silver Associate Sponsor - Life Care Center of Punta Gorda
Silver Associate Sponsor - Michael Saunders and Company
Bronze Participating Sponsor - Dancing Moon Travel
Bronze Participating Sponsor - Painting with a Twist
Bronze Participating Sponsor - Sunshine Ace Hardware
Print Sponsor - Buffalo Graffix
Radio Sponsor - iHeart Media Group
Newspaper Sponsor - The Daily Sun
After Hours Party Sponsor - Elite Inspections and Pest Solutions
Kick-off Party Sponsor - Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center
Passport Sponsor - Elite Inspections and Pest Solutions
Lanyard Sponsor - Chapman Insurance Group
Goodie Bag Sponsor - WhitCo Insurance-Alexia Martin Agency
There are four sponsorship levels which include the exhibitor booth space(s), lots of promotional perks, print and digital advertising, party tickets, and more than ever before.
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2021-2022 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) |
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~ Chamber Events and Updates ~ |
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Third Wednesday Coffee and 1st Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest: Join the Charlotte County Chamber for our monthly morning coffee on Wednesday, December 15. Wear your best ugly sweater and join us as we celebrate the Christmas Parade Award Winners. Thanks to our Sponsor The Daily Sun for the coffee and breakfast goodies. Come at 7:45 a.m. to have a little time to have your coffee/goodie and do a little networking. The coffee begins at 8:00 a.m. Please RSVP for this event in the MIC. We encourage you to bring a new unwrapped toy which will be donated to the Ironman Alex toy drive.
Wed. Jan. 12, at 11:45 a.m., Networking @ Noon at Metro Diner at 11:45 a.m. Save the date, we will post the registration page as soon as we firm up the meal choices.
The next issue of the FIR$T THUR$DAY ADVERTI$ER will be sent out on January 6. (Digital flyers are due by January 4.) Members interested in taking advantage of this new digital monthly format will save the cost of printing a flier. Email your ad to advertiser@charlottecountychamber.org and include the web address we should link it to, or call us 941-627-2222 for more information.
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Charlotte Mercantile
1441 Tamiami Trail, Unit #933A
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Denise Kite, Eric Kite, Myaria Dickson
(941) 764-0176
https://www.charlottemercantile.com/
Essence Nails & Spa
19451 Cochran Blvd., Unit 400
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Andy Nguyen
(941) 764-8802
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Know of a business who would also benefit from being a Chamber member?
Businesses may join online now on our website or please recommend a business to
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~ Join us for a Ribbon Cutting ~ |
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Everyone is invited to attend our ribbon cutting events. Come out and support your fellow members.
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Dunkin's Diamonds
Ribbon Cutting, Mon., Dec. 13 at 3:00 p.m.
1441 Tamiami Trail Unit 575C, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
(Port Charlotte Town Center Mall)
Lime Tequila
Ribbon Cutting, Wed,, Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m.
1978 Kings Hwy. Port Charlotte, FL 33980
Celebrating their 1 year Anniversary.
Fabulous Finds Store with the Homeless Coalition.
Ribbon Cutting, Wed., Jan. 26th at 5:30 p.m.
1931 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte 33948 (their new location)
They will be serving snacks and beverages Including the Bubbly B wagon.
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~ Public Service Announcement ~
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Businesses within Charlotte County face the prospect of flooding because they are located in a community that has a history of flooding events, and they must determine how best to respond to this challenge. The financial impact of flooding to any business is compounded because any damage loss is likely to be accompanied by detrimental impacts to the operation of businesses.
In its efforts to address the flood hazard, Charlotte County has developed a “Program for Public Information” (PPI). The document specifies a number of target audiences which are considered to be most important for dissemination of information. One of the target audiences is the Charlotte County business community.
The attached flyer has been developed to cover the matters pertaining to the flood hazard which the County considers to be most important for you to know. Especially pertinent is the fact that everyone in Charlotte County should seriously consider having flood insurance, and that you should know your flood zone. Visit www.agis.charlottecountyfl.gov to find flood information for your location.
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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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#OurFutureisNow!
#OneCommunity
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SIP, STROLL and SAVOR as you admire the artwork of Becky VanPelt December 15th from 5pm-7pm at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes and Cremation Services 635 E Marion Ave Punta Gorda. We will be hosting a complimentary Wine and Cheese reception to showcase Becky. Her current work of art, as she calls it Abstract-ism. Then finishes the painting by applying paint, fluidly over the composition, while maintaining harmony. Tour Becky’s journey at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes and Cremation Services December 15th from 5pm-7pm 635 E Marion Ave Punta Gorda. AIPP Locations are sponsored by A/H Council and Coordinated By the Program Director.
Join us a t Fishermen's Village at 6:00 p.m. for our New Year's Eve celebration. Live music, good food, shopping family fun and midnight fireworks. Sponsored by Tow Boat U.S. Charlotte Harbor, Keesling Construction and Holidaze Boat Rental. Fishermen's Village is located at 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. See more events at www.fishermensvillage.com or call 941-639-8721 for information.
A Marine Communications Systems course is offered by the America’s Boating Club® Peace River Sail and Power Squadron staring on Tuesday, January 11th at 1PM to 3PM for 8 weeks in Bayfront Center, 750 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Systems available to the recreational boater. Definitions of radio circuits to choose best method. GMDSS, FCC Rules and Regs, radiotelephone operating and High Seas communication. Price is $55 for USPS members and $115 to public. To register or for more information: contact the Instructor Holles Dick at 717 552-3845 or h25188d@hotmail.com
Cutco is now at Miromar Outlets! Our limited-time Pop Up Shop is here! Give the gift they will use year after year. Check our full schedule at www.raygomes.com/events Find us near the Coach Store. See & feel Cutco products in person, request service, and more!
An introductory course in Florida Fishing is being offered at the PGI Civic Association on Shreve Street in Punta Gorda. Topics include fishing techniques, tackle selection, rigging, knot tying, lures, baits, cast nets, fish identification, tides, and fishing regulations for fishing in fresh/salt waters of Southwest Florida. Rods, reels, lures, nets and other fishing equipment demonstrations and handouts. The class is geared towards beginning anglers, but more experienced fishermen may pick up helpful tips as well. The instructor is long time local fishing guide Capt. Ralph Allen who might even reveal the locations of a few local hotspots! The course is open to the public and is held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for six weeks beginning on Wednesday January 12, 2022. The cost for the class is $50 and advance registration is recommended by calling 941-637-1655.
It’s time to celebrate our Teachers! The Charlotte Local Foundation, Inc. along with Suncoast Credit Union, our sponsors, school staff, and community leaders will present the Golden Apple Teacher and Support Employee of the Year Awards on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 5:00 pm. The event will be held at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda, FL. 33950 Virtual tickets are now on sale and sponsorships are needed. For more information please visit www.charlotteschoolfoundation.org or by calling 941-255-7500 ext. 1811 for more information.
Ladies and Gentlemen the greatest event of all time is set for Saturday January 29, 2022 |6:00pm. Come one, Come all to the 34th annual C.A.R.E. Ball located “Under the Big Top” at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in downtown Punta Gorda. This year’s we will feature a traditional three course sit down dinner, open bar, silent auction (fan favorite), and casino tables. We encourage guests to be creative with their formal wear. To purchase your tickets/ sponsorship opportunities visit www.care2022.givesmart.com. We’ll see you under the Big Top!
Looking for entertainment this coming Florida winter season? Look no further than the Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum! Every band is carefully booked...Each group is of the highest quality! You will surely want to come back for more! Click here for event and ticket information.
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FRESH CUT NC CHRISTMAS TREES FOR SALE!!! Are you feeling the Christmas Spirit but aren't feeling like getting out of the house? Greenscape Innovations can deliver Christmas to your door step, we have: ~Beautiful Fresh Magnolia Christmas wreaths and Garland ~Christmas Tree Bow toppers ~Poinsettias ~Firewood ~Soy Candles ~Christmas trees: 3’ $60, 4’-5’ $75, 5’-6’ $90, 6’-7’ $110, 7’-8’ $135, 8’-9’ $180. To find out more find us on Facebook, Instagram or www.greenscapeinnovations.com We are located: 4435 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte 941-628-0012 to place your order over the phone.
The Charlotte Community Foundation has opened their annual scholarship cycle early, on December 1, 2021. Our hope is that this will allow for students to apply during their winter break. In the 2021 cycle, CCF was able to award over $137,000 to 42 Charlotte County residents through the generosity of our donors. This year we will be awarding even more scholarships with new opportunities available. Through our new partnership with The Babcock Ranch Foundation we have added general study opportunities for 2 and 4 year degrees in addition to our multiple health professions and nursing scholarships. Please encourage students to apply on our website www.charlottecf.org/scholarships. Students will be able to research the available scholarships, review each different criteria, have access to the FAFSA applications and more. Follow us on social media as up to date information will be posted regularly.
Last minute Christmas Gifts! Murdock Stones Etc. just got in their annual Lawn Ornament (Statues) shipment...Statues include animals, religious, bird baths, patriotic, and military/service personnel among others. Check them out at: 7621 Sawyer Circle (off Gasparilla Rd. …look for the World’s Largest Mailbox), 590 Prineville St. in Port Charlotte (behind Murdock Wal-Mart). www.murdockstonesetc.com. 941-629-6651.
Remember, your car doesn’t have Christmas lights. If a dashboard warning light comes on, this is a cry for help from your car. At Complete Auto Repair we answer that distress call and save you the cost of more serious repairs. When your check engine light is flashing, that’s your car having a heart attack! Pull over ASAP or risk burning out your entire engine. Call Mary at 941-623-2926 and make an appointment as soon as you see a light.
Since 2012 our family has grown in so many ways. We have a larger crew, and instead of one truck, we have four trucks, a semi, and a trailer. We can be on the road and in town. We can complete multiple local moves on the same day or move an entire warehouse. Our growth has made our family and our company stronger by treating our customers like family. If you need a local or long-distance move, call Gardiner & Sons Moving & Storage, When Quality Counts, at 941-423-5311.
The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office has initiated the Take Me Home Program. This program helps those residents who have a tendency to wander. When given specific information, we then have the ability to identify registered missing people and return them home. Participants can be non-verbal or just easily confused, adults or children. It is free of charge to Charlotte County citizens. Participants can be registered by calling the Community Affairs Unit (941) 575-5345 or our CCSO App. Information will be stored in our computer system along with a current photo of the person.
There is no better time to buy a home. Toby Lynn helps get the right mortgage program for your sister, parents, or best buddy! Toby makes the process easy from Pre-Qualifying to Closing. Specializing in Happy, Smooth, and On-Time Closings! CALL TODAY! Toby Lynn, Branch Manager, The Mortgage Firm, 941-356-6579 – www.ThePerfectMortgageSolution.com
The Fair Credit Reporting Act sets time limits on what's reported in background screening and personal credit reports. Bankruptcies are reported for ten years, and tax liens, collection accounts, civil suits, and judgments are reported for seven years. The FCRA sets NO time limit on the reporting of criminal convictions, although twelve states (CA, CO, KS, MD, MA, MT, NV, NH, NM, NY, TX, WA) limit the reporting period to seven years. For the best FCRA-compliant employment and tenancy screening, contact Doris Hebert-Ferrigno at NRG Background Checks. 941-488-8500; 800-531-6522; nrginfo@atlantic.net
Do you want happier and healthier employees? Learn how Gulfcoast South AHEC can offer FREE tobacco cessation counseling and FREE Nicotine Replacement in the form of patches, gum and/or lozenges at no cost for qualifying participants. 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.
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Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.” - Madam C.J. Walker, first female self-made millionaire |
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We encourage members to shop with other members to keep our community and local economy strong. If you do business with one or more of our renewing members please congratulate them for their Chamber Anniversary. These are members who renewed between October 16, 2021 and November 15, 2021... Take a look! |
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Showcase your business through sponsorship! |
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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 Janet Caffee jcaffee@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 for details. Cost to sponsor is $300.
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LOCAL-
Please call 2-1-1 for any resource needs.
STATE AND FEDERAL-
Florida Chamber of Commerce- www.floridachamber.com/coronavirus
Small Business Administration- www.sba.gov/disaster
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association- https://frla.org/covid-19/
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While working at a pizza parlor, I observed a man ordering a small pizza to go. He appeared to be alone and the cook asked him if he would like it cut into 4 pieces or 6.
He thought about it for some time then said, "Just cut it into 4 pieces; I don't think I'm hungry enough to eat 6 pieces."
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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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Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
2702 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-627-2222
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