Honoring our veterans this Veterans Day
November 11, 2024
As Veterans Day being today, let’s take a moment to honor and recognize the brave men and women who have served our country.
Their sacrifices and dedication have protected our freedoms and shaped our nation. We encourage our community to participate in local events and initiatives honoring our veterans.
Whether it’s attending a commemorative ceremony, volunteering with veteran organizations, or simply taking a moment to express gratitude, every act of appreciation counts.
Originally called Armistice Day, the date marks the end of World War I in 1918. It has since evolved to honor all veterans, reflecting the sacrifices made throughout various conflicts and peacetime.
Veterans Day is a time to recognize and thank all military veterans for their sacrifices and contributions to the nation, acknowledging the challenges they faced both during and after their service.
Veterans Day helps raise awareness about the issues veterans face, including mental health challenges, unemployment, and reintegration into civilian life.
Recognizing these challenges encourages public support and advocacy for veteran services.
Veterans Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support those who have served, fostering a sense of community and national pride.
It brings people together in remembrance and gratitude.
Many schools and organizations use Veterans Day as an opportunity to educate the public, especially younger generations, about the history of the military and the importance of honoring those who served. Events such as parades, memorial services, and moments of silence are held across the country, providing a platform for communities to come together and show their appreciation for veterans.
Veterans Day is a crucial observance that underscores the value of service, sacrifice, and the ongoing commitment to support veterans and their families.
Thank you for joining us in recognizing the courage and commitment of our veterans.
CHAMBER ACTIVITY
- Network at Noon Lunch (member event), 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 13 at F.M. Don’s, 201 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. Enjoy a delicious selection of lunch options. Registration and lunch selection is required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Third Wednesday Coffee (member event), 8-9 a.m. Nov. 20 at (location change) the Realtor Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. Coffee sponsor is Lake Michigan Credit Union. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet. Guest speaker is Patrick Fuller, Charlotte County Emergency Management Director. Patrick will provide an update of the hurricane recovery landscape and the progress that has been made. Registration is required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
RIBBON CUTTINGS Ribbon-cutting ceremonies are an effective way to meet the business owners and fellow chamber members in an informal atmosphere and develop great connections. All are invited. Registration is requested at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Smash It (grand opening), 5:30-6:30 p.m. Nov. 13, 3280 Tamiami Trail, Unit 23, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 6 p.m. Refreshments, food, tours.
- Bacon’s Furniture Galleries (grand reopening), 4-7 p.m. Nov. 14, 17701 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Wine and cheese event.
- David Sussman Photography, 5-7 p.m. Nov. 19, 5206 Blackjack Circle, Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Wine, cheese and crackers, fruit, and chocolate will be provided. There will be a 10% discount for any purchases during the event.
SPECIAL EVENTS 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.
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. Imagine marketing your business in an 8-by-10-foot booth (piped/draped) and having 1,000 plus visitors and residents see the products and services you provide. You will have the opportunity to see more folks in a matter of 5 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 you booth is Jan. 31. No late entries will be accepted. To reserve your booth, 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.