Happy Thanksgiving from the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
November 25, 2024
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it is a fitting time to reflect on the blessings and opportunities that surround us.
This season serves as a reminder of the importance of community, gratitude, and the collective efforts that drive our local economy.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce board of directors and staff would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for each of you. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to our organization and the broader community makes a significant impact. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and advanced a vibrant business environment that benefits us all.
This year, let us take a moment to acknowledge the strength of our network. Each business, large and small, contributes uniquely to the foundation of our community. Your hard work not only sustains your enterprises but also creates jobs, supports families, and enhances the quality of life for everyone in our local community of Charlotte County and beyond.
As we gather with family and friends to give thanks, let’s also remember the importance of supporting one another. Whether it’s shopping locally, sharing resources, or collaborating on projects, our actions can strengthen our community ties and foster a spirit of cooperation that extends beyond the holiday season.
Thanksgiving is also a time for giving back. We encourage you to consider how your business can contribute to local charities or initiatives that support those in need. Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact and inspire others to join in.
Thank you for being a vital part of our organization.
We are grateful for your support and community partnerships. May this Thanksgiving bring you joy, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose as we continue to work together for the prosperity of our community.
Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and warmth.
CHAMBER ACTIVITY
- Holiday Business Card Exchange (member event), 5-7 p.m. Dec. 5 at Four Points by Sheraton/TT’s Tiki Bar, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Let’s all come together in the holiday spirit and network with the best. You’ll enjoy delicious appetizers and beverages. Please bring a gift to promote your business and plenty of business cards to make productive connections. Registration is requested at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Holiday Networking at Noon Lunch (member event), 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 11 at Unwind Wine & Beer Bar, 320 Sullivan St., Punta Gorda. We’ll keep our tradition alive and have a fun and spirited gift exchange. We ask each attendee to bring a gift ($20 value/wrapped). Registration is requested at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- The 46th Annual Charlotte County Chamber Christmas Parade is set for noon to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 14 in Punta Gorda. The parade theme is “Characters of Christmas.” We welcome the entire community to come on out and bring the kids, grandkids, and the entire family to enjoy one of the best community events of the year! The parade kicks off at noon at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center and then goes south on Taylor Street to the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. We will have a special visitor all the way from the North Pole. Thousands of folks will line the route. Whether you are a member of our chamber or not, you are able to participate in our parade. Visit charlottecountychamber.org to complete a registration form. Entry fee is $50 for profit organizations, $35 for nonprofit.
- Third Wednesday Coffee (member event), 8-9 a.m. Dec. 18 at (location change) the Realtors Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Punta Gorda. Coffee sponsor is The Daily Sun. Program is the 46th Annual Christmas Parade Awards. All parade award winners will be announced to receive their coveted trophies. Registration is requested at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ribbon cuttings are an effective way to meet the business owners — and fellow chamber members — in an informal atmosphere and develop great connections. Registration is required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Christian Brothers Auto grand opening, 5-6 p.m. Dec. 4 at 24130 Beatrix Blvd., Port Charlotte — Refreshments will be provided. Raffle for three oil changes to those attending.
- Live Your Strength, 5-6:30 p.m. Dec. 17 at 22119 Elmira Blvd., Port Charlotte. Beer, wine, and snacks will be provided.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The 14th Annual Consumer Marketplace Expo, “The Hottest Business Day in Paradise,” is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 13, 2025 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. This is free and open to the public. Market your business in an 8-by-10-foot booth (piped/draped) with 1,000 plus visitors and residents seeing your products and services. You can see more folks in five hours than you may see in a month. This will be an excellent environment for maximum business exposure for sales, lead generation and develop great connections. Plus, there will be more than 100 other exhibitors for business-to-business to develop client/customer relationships. Deadline to reserve your booth is Jan. 31. No late entries will be accepted. To reserve, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222.
Bob White is executive director of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.