Happy Thanksgiving from our chamber family to yours

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, we wish each and every one of you a very Happy Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a unique holiday not focused on presents but to enjoy spending time with family and friends. It is an opportunity to reflect on what we are thankful for and to celebrate the good things in life. In that spirit, the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is very thankful for our active and thriving members. It is because of our membership and their dedication to our community, we are able to provide ongoing opportunities to network, gain exposure and leverage increased marketing and educational initiatives.

Rarely, if at all, I express my personal thoughts in this format, but I will make an exception. I have lived in Charlotte County for almost 10 years. I am extremely thankful to be living here and being an active part of our community. I am very thankful to be in a position to collaborate with our Board of Directors to lead this organization into the future. I am thankful for my wonderful staff and team of volunteers who collectively strive to make the Charlotte County Chamber the premier chamber in the region. I am thankful for the many wonderful friends and acquaintances I have made, many enjoying time at each other’s home. I am thankful for my amazing three sons and six grandchildren (seven in April). Last by certainly not least, I am so thankful for my beautiful wife Lori, where the sun doesn’t rise or set without her being by my side.

Again, we wish you a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving Day weekend; full of family, friends, fun and love.

Charlotte County Chamber Activities

Toys for Tots: Our Chamber office located at 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte is a drop-off collection site for new unwrapped toys for the youth in our community who are in need. Please feel free to swing by to drop off the toys. Toys will be collected up to Thursday, Dec. 9. There is no better way to put a smile on a child’s face during Christmas time than receiving a brand new toy.

Blood Drive, Tuesday, Nov. 23 at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce located at 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte – Sun Coast Blood Center will be on site from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Networking at Noon: Wednesday, Dec. 8, hosted by Harbor Social located at 212 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda –11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. – Reservations are required. To register and make your lunch selection, go to charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office 941-627-2222.

Holiday Business Card Exchange: Thursday, Dec. 9, hosted by Chapman Insurance Group located at 2455 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte – 5 p.m.–7 p.m. Dress in your favorite festive attire. You just never know who you will bump into. We are encouraging each member to bring a gift to promote your business. Don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards.

Third Wednesday Coffee: Wednesday, Dec. 15 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center located at 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda – 8 a.m.–9 a.m. — Our Coffee Sponsor is The Daily Sun. The program will be awarding the winners from our 43rd Annual Christmas Parade.

Other special events

43rd Annual Charlotte County Christmas Parade (Toys, Trains & Candy Canes). On Saturday, Dec. 11, thousands of residents and visitors will line the streets with excitement to see all the floats, trucks, cars, fire trucks, marching bands and of course, Santa himself. If you would like the opportunity to promote and market your business in a holiday and fun way, visit our website at charlottecountychamber.org to complete your entry form or call the chamber office with any question at 941-627-2222.

At the parade Judges Station area in front of Centennial Bank, we will have a collection site for the Ironman Alex Toy Drive. All new unwrapped toys donated will be given the Golisano Children’s Hospital and All Children’s Hospital

11th Annual “Hottest Business Day in Paradise” Business Expo: Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. The Expo is from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and is free and open to the public. There will be over 100 local businesses showcasing and marketing their products and services. Traditionally, there will be between 1,000-1,200 attendees whose attention you will capture. To be in front of that many people in just a matter five hours, would be an excellent opportunity for lead generation, sales or making those great business-to-business connections. If you are a chamber member and would like to participate as an exhibitor and/or expo sponsor, visit our website at charlottecountychamber.org or feel free contact our chamber office for all the details.

 

Bob White is executive director of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce.