Chamber Blog

There are moments in the life of an organization when you stop, look back at how far you have traveled, celebrate those who helped you get there, and then turn your attention toward the opportunities waiting on the road ahead. For the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, our 101st Annual Awards “Open Road” Gala is one of those moments. This is more than an annual event. It is more than dinner, awards, music, and celebration. It was an evening that represents 101 years of leadership, vision, relationships, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to our business community. Think about that for a moment; 101 years. For more than a century, business and community leaders have believed in the importance of having a strong Chamber of Commerce serving Charlotte County. Generations of leaders have given their time, shared their vision, made difficult decisions, and laid the foundation that allows us to be the organization we are today. As CEO, I believe it is important that we never forget those who came before us. Our past leadership created the legacy we have inherited. Our current leadership carries the responsibility of strengthening that legacy. And our future leadership will determine just how far we can go. That is what makes this celebration so meaningful. During our 101st Annual Awards Gala, we recognized our outstanding 2026 Businesses of the Year in the Large, Medium, Small, and Nonprofit categories, along with our Ambassador of the Year, and our prestigious Pacesetter Award recipient. These award winners represent the very best of our business community. They create jobs, invest in people, support local organizations, take risks, overcome challenges, and help make Charlotte County stronger every single day. Please help congratulate all of our 2026 award winners: Nonprofit Business of the Year, Military Heritage Museum Small Business of the Year, Elite Hurricane Protection Medium Business of the Year, Buffalo Graffix Large Business of the Year, Fishermen’s Village Ambassador of the Year, Jenny Underhill, Funky Palm Productions and our prestigious Pacesetter Award recipient, TJ Thornberry, Thornberry Custom Builders. We also celebrated our Chamber leadership and welcomed our 2026-2027 Board of Directors that will help guide us into another year of opportunity and progress. On a personal note, I would like to convey my utmost respect, appreciation, and gratitude to our outgoing Board President, James Coalwell, for your leadership, guidance, support and most importantly, your friendship. But while we proudly celebrate our accomplishments, we are not an organization that is satisfied looking in the rearview mirror. Our theme, “Open Road Gala Riding into the Next Century,” says everything about where we are headed. The road ahead requires us to be bold. It requires us to remain relevant, innovative, collaborative, and willing to evolve. It means strengthening our advocacy, developing tomorrow’s leaders, creating meaningful connections, supporting businesses of every size, and continuing to demonstrate the value of belonging to something larger than ourselves. I am looking forward to collaborating with our incoming Board President, Peri Bluemer, with her extensive leadership, strategic vision, and her relatable approach. Our Mission says it simply and powerfully: We empower businesses to thrive! And that is exactly what we intend to continue doing. I could not be prouder to serve as CEO of this organization, but even more importantly, I am proud of the people who make up our Chamber family. Our members, Sustaining Partners, volunteers, Board members, Ambassadors, staff, and community partners are the heartbeat of everything we accomplish. One hundred and one years did not happen by accident. It happened because people believed, people served, people led, and people cared enough to leave this organization stronger than they found it. We honor the road behind us. We celebrate where we are today. And together, with purpose, courage, and tremendous excitement, we are ready to take the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce boldly down the open road and into its next century. The best chapters of our story are still ahead. Bob White is chief executive officer of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.

What makes Charlotte County strong? It’s our people. It’s our partnerships. It’s our willingness to work together. And at the heart of it all is an incredible business community that believes in Charlotte County and invests in its future every single day. Behind every storefront, office, restaurant, construction company, professional service, manufacturer, healthcare provider, and entrepreneur is a story. A story of someone willing to take a chance, create jobs, pursue a dream, and make an investment in our community. But the impact of our businesses reaches far beyond the workplace. Our businesses support our schools, nonprofits, veterans, first responders, youth programs, and community organizations. They sponsor events, volunteer countless hours, serve on boards, mentor future leaders, and are often among the first to step forward when our community needs help. As CEO of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, I have the privilege of witnessing that commitment every day; and I could not be prouder of what I see. I see businesses supporting businesses. I see competitors becoming collaborators. I see established companies helping emerging entrepreneurs. Most importantly, I see people who genuinely care about the future of Charlotte County. That is our competitive advantage. A strong business community creates more than jobs and economic opportunity. It creates confidence. It creates momentum. It creates possibilities. Our future will not simply happen; we will build it together. So, shop local, hire local, refer local, and Invest local. And take pride in the businesses that invest right back into our community. Because when Charlotte County businesses thrive, Charlotte County thrives. And with the strength, determination, and spirit of this business community, I believe our greatest chapters are still ahead of us. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. ■ Leveraging Your Chamber Membership, 2:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 at our Charlotte County Chamber Office, 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. This will be a hands-on workshop and discover how to unlock the full potential of the Chamber’s online member portal. Get personalized guidance as we walk through the tools and resources available to help promote your business, expand your network, and increase your visibility in the community. Bring your laptop and have your login information ready so you can follow along and make updates to your profile in real time. ■ Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at The Salty Tarpon, 408 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda (upstairs in The Snug). There will be appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy (adult beverages for purchase). Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business. No better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. 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. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Please take the time to show your support and attend our ribbon cuttings. Register at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-6272222. ■ Charlotte Harbor Gastroenterology grand opening, 5:30-7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2400 Harbor Blvd, Suite 9, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:45 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. ■ Cathy’s Place, 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 29, 18305 Wintergarden Ave., Port Charlotte (Wintergarden Presbyterian Church). Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. ■ Pecoraro’s Italian Kitchen grand opening, 5-6 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 30, 520 King St., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided.  Bob White is chief executive officer of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-6272222.

Leadership Charlotte Class of 2027

Celebrating the people who make our community strong

September is shaping up to be an exciting and action-packed month for the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. With no shortage of opportunities to connect, celebrate, and support one another, I encourage our chamber family to get involved and take advantage of everything our chamber has to offer. Throughout the month, members will have numerous opportunities to build relationships through our Networking at Noon, Third Wednesday Coffee, Business Card Exchange, Social Club Cornhole Tournament, and ribbon-cuttings. These events are more than dates on a calendar; they are opportunities to meet fellow members, strengthen professional relationships, and create connections that can lead to new business and lasting friendships. We will cap off the month with our 101st annual Awards “Open Road” Gala — Riding into the Next Century on Sep. 26. This signature celebration will honor outstanding businesses, leaders, and partners while celebrating where we’ve been and, more importantly, where we’re headed. Your chamber membership is only as powerful as the connections and opportunities you embrace. Show up. Get involved. Make connections. Support one another. September is our month to do it together as a Chamber family! MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Networking at Noon Lunch , 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9 at Hampton Inn & Suites North Port, 5664 Tuscola Blvd, North Port. You will be treated to a delicious lunch buffet. Plus, you will network with the best. RSVP’s must be made by Sept. 4. Third Wednesday Coffee , 8 to 9 a.m Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee sponsor is the GFWC Punta Gorda Women’s Club. Guest speaker and program by Vince Parrotta, vice president and managing director of Sunseeker Resort, Florida Gulf Coast, Curio by Hilton. Vince will present an informative and engaging update on the resort from the transition to the amazing future plans for the resort. Immediately following our program, we’ll conduct a ribbon-cutting for Sunshine Senior Services. Leveraging Your Chamber Membership , 2:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 at our Charlotte County Chamber Office , 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte.Ready to get more from your Chamber membership? Join us for an exclusive, members-only orientation designed to help you make the most of your chamber membership. Whether you are a new member or an established member, this is a great opportunity to ensure a return on your investment. You will receive personalized guidance as we walk through the tools and resources available to help promote your business, expand your network, and increase your visibility in the community. Bring your laptop and have your login information ready so you can follow along and make updates to your profile in real time. Register to secure your spot. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at The Salty Tarpon , 408 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda (upstairs in The Snug). There will be appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy (adult beverages for purchase). Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business. No better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. SOCIAL CLUB EVENT POSTPONED -Social Club Cornhole Tournament, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 atTwisted Fork, 2208 El Jobean Blvd., Port Charlotte. $15 per person includes pizza and soft drinks (adult beverages available for purchase). Our Social Club events are open to the public (18 years and older). Trophies and bragging rights for first- and second-place winners. 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. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Please take the time to show your support and attend our ribbon cuttings. Register at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222. Rise Dispensary grand opening, 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3 , 1931 Tamiami Trail, Unit 8, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. Charlotte Harbor Gastroenterology grand opening, 5:30-7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2400 Harbor Blvd, Suite 9, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:45 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. Cathy’s Place , 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 29, 18305 Wintergarden Ave., Port Charlotte (Wintergarden Presbyterian Church). Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. Pecoraro’s Italian Kitchen grand opening, 5-6 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 30, 520 King St., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Appetizers, and refreshments will be provided. SPECIAL EVENT We are thrilled to announce our 101st Annual Awards “Open Road” Gala . Riding into the Next Century, will take place from 6 to10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. Join us as we celebrate an exciting milestone and welcome our Incoming board president Peri Bluemer of Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson. This promises to be an unforgettable evening as we come together to celebrate and embrace the future as a united Chamber family. As we ride into our next century, we remain committed to our mission of delivering exceptional value to our members through strategic leadership, intentional execution, and meaningful connections that strengthen our business community. The evening will feature the presentation of our most prestigious awards, including:  Businesses of the Year (Large, Medium, Small, and Nonprofit) Ambassador of the Year Sustaining Partners The prestigious Pacesetter Award Together, we’ll honor the leaders who have shaped our past, celebrate those leading us today, and look ahead to an exciting future as the Charlotte County Chamber continues to drive success for our local business community. To purchase your tickets or tables, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. This is a member event. Bob White is chief executive officer of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.

There are many ways to measure the strength of a community. We can count new businesses, new homes and new opportunities. We can look at economic growth and all the things being built around us. But perhaps the best measure of a community is much simpler: How well do we take care of one another? Here in Charlotte County, we see the answer every day. We see it in the small business owner who sponsors a youth team, even when nobody will ever know the difference it makes to the family whose child gets to play. We see it in teachers who stay late, first responders who answer the call, volunteers who give up their Saturdays and neighbors who notice when someone needs a helping hand. We see it when a family walks into a locally owned restaurant and is greeted by name. When a business owner quietly contributes to a fundraiser. When someone new to Charlotte County is welcomed not simply as another resident, but as a neighbor. Those moments rarely make headlines. Yet, together, they tell the story of who we are. At the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, we have the privilege of working with businesses and organizations throughout our community. We naturally talk about jobs, growth and economic opportunities. Those things matter tremendously. But behind every business are people. There is a family depending on that paycheck, a young person getting a first job and discovering what he or she is capable of, an entrepreneur taking a chance on a dream, or a longtime employee proudly serving the same customers year after year. That is why supporting our local community means more than simply doing business locally. It means believing in one another. Charlotte County has experienced changes, challenges and difficult days. Through it all, one thing remains remarkably constant: people show up for each other. So perhaps our challenge is simply to keep doing that. Introduce yourself to the new neighbor, thank the person behind the counter, support a local business when you can, volunteer, mentor a young person, or check on someone who lives alone. Small acts have a way of becoming something much bigger. Businesses help build an economy and people build a community. And when we take care of one another, we make Charlotte County more than a place to live. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27 at Achieva Credit Union, 1850 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Enjoy appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy. Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business. There’s no better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. 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. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Please take the time to show your support and attend our ribbon cuttings. Register at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222. Rossini by Chef Rocco grand opening, 5-6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17 at 1441 Tamiami Trail, Unit 995, Port Charlotte (formerly Ruby Tuesday’s at the mall). Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. There will be meatballs, antipasto, appetizers, wine tasting and live music. Aira Fitness , 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 24420 Sandhill Blvd., Units 101/102. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. SPECIAL EVENT We are thrilled to announce our 101st Annual Awards “Open Road” Gala, Riding into the Next Century, will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. Join us as we celebrate an exciting milestone and welcome our Incoming Board President, Peri Bluemer of Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson. This promises to be an unforgettable evening as we come together to celebrate and embrace the future as a united Chamber family. As we ride into our next century, we remain committed to our mission of delivering exceptional value to our members through strategic leadership, intentional execution, and meaningful connections that strengthen our business community. The evening, for chamber members, will feature the presentation of our most prestigious awards, including: Businesses of the Year (Large, Medium, Small, and Nonprofit) Ambassador of the Year Sustaining Partners The prestigious Pacesetter Award Together, we’ll honor the leaders who have shaped our past, celebrate those leading us today, and look ahead to an exciting future as the Charlotte County Chamber continues to drive success for our local business community. Chamber members may purchase tickets or tables at charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Bob White is chief executive officer of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.

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Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce Annual New Teacher Breakfast