Chamber Blog

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February is shaping up to be a month of momentum at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, with a strong focus on programs, partnerships, and progress that support our local business community. Our February programs continue to deliver significant opportunities for connection and professional growth. From networking events that spark new relationships to educational courses designed to help businesses navigate current challenges and opportunities. The Charlotte County Chamber remains committed to providing resources that add real value to your membership. Partnerships also remain at the heart of our mission. This month, we are strengthening collaborations with local organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders to amplify our collective impact. Progress is evident in the engagement and enthusiasm of our members. As we move forward, our organization is focused on listening, adapting, and delivering initiatives that reflect the evolving needs of Charlotte County businesses. Your participation, feedback, and involvement continue to drive our success. Thank you for being an active part of the Chamber. We look forward to building on this momentum and achieving even more together in the months ahead. 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 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11 at Beef O’Brady’s, 1105 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. You’ll be treated to a delicious selection of lunch options. Come network with the best. Valentine’s Day will in the air! Stages of Success Workshop , 8:30-10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, 3320 Loveland Blvd, Port Charlotte Breakfast included. Derlune Saintvil will present LinkedIn for Business Growth-Upgrade your LinkedIn profile so it represents your business well, learn what to post to build credibility and stay visible, and connect with th right people to expand your opportunities. Third Wednesday Coffee , 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18 at the Realtor Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. Coffee Sponsor is GFWC Port Charlotte Women’s Club. Our program is United Way of Charlotte County, presented by Angie Matthiessen, CEO, speaking about the meaningful, collaborative, and life-changing impact through the various programs the United Way of Charlotte County provides. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to see the incredible local effect and how you can get involved and be a part of the process. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26 ta Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson — 2224 El Jobean Blvd, Port Charlotte. Team Scavenger Hunt game with prizes; goodie bags for all attendees, and appetizers, beer, wine, soda, and water will be provided. Sounds like a fun party! Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business — no better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere…and maybe buy a new Harley! Stages of Success Workshop , 8:30-10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 3320 Loveland Blvd, Port Charlotte. Breakfast included. Topic: Google and Your Business. Understand how to fully optimize your Google Business Profile, learn how Google search and keywords affect your visibility, discover simple steps that help more customers find you online. Facilitator: Joshua Boughton. 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. Walt’s Garage grand opening, 5-6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2 at 208 E. Ann St., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food and refreshments will be available. Babe’s Plumbing , 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 4585 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food, refreshments, raffles, and goodie bags will be provided. AIS Tax & Financial-AllPhase Insurance services, 4:30-6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, 2541 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Catered food, beer, wine, and soda will be provided. Gift basket will be raffled off after the ribbon cutting. SushiOo grand opening, 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, 14415 Tamiami Trail, North Port. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food and refreshments will be provided. Beach Bums , 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, 150 Laishley Court, Suite 112, Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:15 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided. Chances to win Beach Bum gift baskets and Beach Bums merchandise for everyone attends. Visual Arts Center ‘s 15th Biennial National Art Exhibition, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 13, 210 Maud St., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 12:15 p.m. Miami Cuban Vibez Food Truck will be on site for purchase. Light Refreshments will be provided. El Guero Tacos grand opening 5-6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, 221 Wood St., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food and refreshments will be provided. SPECIAL EVENT Our 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. It is free and open to the public. This event is sold-out! Make sure to put this on your calendar and come and see 100-plus amazing businesses and organizations. The first 500 attendees receive a complimentary goodie bag. Each attendee will be able complete their passport and be eligible to win for the grand prize drawing. 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. 

The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and strengthen the businesses that make our community thrive. Whether you run a small family-owned business, a growing service company, a nonprofit, or a major employer, the Charlotte County Chamber helps create the conditions for success; through networking, advocacy, promotion, and leadership. At our core, the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is a hub for relationships and opportunities. By bringing business owners and community leaders together, we create meaningful connections that lead to referrals, partnerships, and new customers. Monthly networking events, lunches, ribbon cuttings, stages of success workshops, annual events, and community and social gatherings provide a place for our members to meet face-toface, share ideas, and build trust. In a time when so much business happens digitally, the value of strong local connections has never been greater. Our organization also plays an important role in promoting local businesses. We highlight member companies through marketing opportunities, social media, directories, and community campaigns that encourage people to shop local and support local. When businesses are visible and supported, the entire area benefits; Jobs stay here, services expand, and families have more choices right in their own neighborhood. Another major piece of the Chamber’s strategic work is advocacy. The Charlotte County Chamber serves as a voice for the business community by staying informed on issues that impact local employers. Everything from workforce challenges to infrastructure needs and business- friendly policies. We work with local and regional partners to ensure Charlotte County remains a place where businesses can grow and where future investment is welcomed. Just as importantly, the Charlotte County Chamber helps businesses develop and adapt. Through workshops, educational resources, and connections to expert partners, we help members stay informed on important topics like hiring, marketing, technology, and changing regulations. In today’s fast-moving economy, access to information and support can make the difference between surviving and thriving. So why does the Charlotte County Chamber matter? Because strong businesses create a strong community. When companies succeed, they hire more people, invest more locally, and support the schools, nonprofits, and events that make Charlotte County a great place to live, work, and play.  Our organization is here to make sure our business community is not only heard, but empowered; and to ensure that growth benefits everyone. 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 . ■ Ciela’s Boutique, 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 314 Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda. (Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.) Catered appetizers, mimosa bar, refreshments, discounts, and raffles will be available. SPECIAL EVENT Our 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. It is free and open to the public. This event is sold-out! Make sure to put this on your calendar and come and see 100-plus amazing businesses and organizations. The first 500 attendees receive a complimentary goodie bag. Each attendee will be able complete their passport and be eligible to win for the grand prize drawing. 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 .

Charlotte County is growing, developing, and full of opportunity and the businesses that thrive are the ones that stay connected. Right now, there’s no better time to join the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and become part of a network that actively supports, promotes, and strengthens our local business community. Today’s business climate is more competitive than ever. Visibility matters. Relationships matter. Having a trusted advocate in your corner matters. The Charlotte County Chamber serves as a powerful connector, bringing together business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders who are invested in each other’s success. Membership opens the door to meaningful networking opportunities, strategic partnerships, and referrals that simply don’t happen in isolation. Beyond connections, the organization provides resources designed to help businesses grow smarter and stronger. From educational programs, marketing exposure, and community events, members gain tools that help them adapt, innovate, and stay ahead of change. Whether you’re a startup looking for guidance or an established company seeking greater reach, the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce meets you where you are. Now is also a pivotal moment for Charlotte County itself. Economic development, workforce growth, and community initiatives are shaping our future. As a Chamber member, you have a seat at the table. It’s not just about joining an organization; it’s about helping shape the direction of our region. Perhaps most importantly, being a part of our dynamic membership family signals credibility and commitment. It tells customers, partners, and employees that you believe in this community and are invested in its success. If you want to grow your business, expand your influence, and be part of something bigger than yourself, now is the time. Join the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and grow with the community that grows with you. MEMBER EVENTS  Registration is required for these members-only events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21 at (location change) Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee Sponsor: Girls on the Run of Southwest Florida. Program: Quarterly New Member Showcase. This is an optimal opportunity for our members to meet our new members with an informal meet and greet; in addition to getting familiar with their products and services. Come on out and show your support to your fellow chamber family! New member introductions. Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22 at Elevate Pride,164 Eric St., Port Charlotte. Lite bites, refreshments, and icebreaker game for everyone to enjoy will be provided. Bring a gift to promote your business. 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. Ciela’s Boutique, 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 314 Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda. (Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.) Catered appetizers, mimosa bar, refreshment, discounts, and raffles will be available. SPECIAL EVENT Our 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. It is free and open to the public. Imagine marketing your business in an 8-by-10-foot booth that is piped and 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 five hours than you may see in a month. This will be an excellent opportunity to maximum business exposure for sales, lead generation and develop great connections. Plus, there will be over 100 other exhibitors for business-to-business to develop client/customer relationships. Deadline to reserve you booth is Friday, Jan. 23. There will be no late entries accepted. To reserve your booth, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 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.

Get ready for a fun, fast-paced day celebrating what make our community so awesome. The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to present its 15th Annual Community & Business Expo on Feb. 19 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. It’s set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please make sure you save the date on your calendar! This annual community event is free and open to the public. The first 500 attendees will get a goodie bag, as there will be plenty of treasures to pick up.  You will be able to meet and greet over 100 local businesses and see all the amazing products and services you may need. Many exhibitors will have their own drawings and contests for wonderful prizes. You will also have the opportunity to complete your passport to be qualified to enter into a drawing for all attendees to win spectacular prizes. This will be well worth your time to come to this event and have a very enjoyable time. This special local event brings our community together with local businesses, nonprofits, and civic leaders that makes Charlotte County thrive. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors and come ready to explore, connect, and support our local business community. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours, discover new favorites, and show some love to businesses that keep our community strong. I look forward to seeing you there and having the opportunity to meet each and every one of you. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these members-only events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Network at Noon Lunch , 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 4400 Lister St., Port Charlotte. You’ll be treated to a delicious choice of lunch options and network with the best. Stages of Success Workshop (Class 1), 8:30-10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16 at Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, 18500 Veterans Blvd., Port Charlotte. Topic: Facebook and Instagram for Small Businesses. Learn effective ways to: know exactly what to post to get more engagement and reach, learn how to use stories and reels in a simple, stress-free way, and leave with a realistic content plan you can stick every week. This five-class series is $100 and includes breakfast. Third Wednesday Coffee , 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21 at (location change) Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee Sponsor: Girls on the Run of Southwest Florida. Program: Quarterly New Member Showcase. This is an optimal opportunity for our members to meet our new members with an informal meet and greet; in addition to getting familiar with their products and services. Come on out and show your support to your fellow chamber family! New member introductions. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22 at Elevate Pride,164 Eric St., Port Charlotte. Lite bites, refreshments, and icebreaker game for everyone to enjoy will be provided. Bring a gift to promote your business. 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. Bruno’s Appliance Repair, 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 2811 Tamiami Trail, Suite S, Port Charlotte. (Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.). Food from Chick-fil-A, refreshments, and raffles will be provided. Burg’r Bar, new ownership, 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 317 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. (Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.) Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Ciela’s Boutique, 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 314 Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda. (Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.) Catered appetizers, mimosa bar, refreshment, discounts, and raffles will be available. SPECIAL EVENT Our 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. It is free and open to the public. Imagine marketing your business in an 8-by-10-foot booth that is piped and 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 five hours than you may see in a month. This will be an excellent opportunity to maximum business exposure for sales, lead generation and develop great connections. Plus, there will be over 100 other exhibitors for business-to-business to develop client/customer relationships. Deadline to reserve you booth is Friday, Jan. 23. There will be no late entries accepted. To reserve your booth, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 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.

As we step into a brand-new year, all of us at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce want to wish you and your team a very happy and prosperous New Year. A new year brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and the chance to build on the momentum we’ve created together as a business community. Our organization exists for one reason: to support, connect, and advocate for our members. Whether you’re a long-established business or a new entrepreneur just finding your footing, you are an essential part of what makes our local economy strong. Your ideas, your involvement, and your willingness to engage are what transform a group of businesses into a thriving, collaborative network. In the year ahead, we encourage you to get involved and stay engaged. Attend our networking events, participate in committees, take advantage of our professional development opportunities, and share your voice. The more you engage, the more value you’ll find, and the more impact we can create together. Some of the strongest partnerships and best ideas begin with a simple conversation at one of our Chamber events. We are excited about what lies ahead: new programs, significant connections, and continued advocacy on behalf of our business community. Together, we can champion growth, innovation, and a positive business environment for everyone. Thank you for your continued membership, support, and commitment to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to working alongside you in the coming year. Here’s to a successful, prosperous, and connected New Year for us all . MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these members-only events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Network at Noon Lunch , 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14 at Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 4400 Lister St., Port Charlotte. You’ll be treated to a delicious choice of lunch options and network with the best. Stages of Success Workshop (Class 1), 8:30-10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16 at Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty, 18500 Veterans Blvd., Port Charlotte. Topic: Facebook and Instagram for Small Businesses. Learn effective ways to: Know exactly what to post to get more engagement and reach, and learn how to use stories and reels in a simple, stress-free way, and leave with a realistic content plan you can stick every week. This five-class series is $100 and includes breakfast. Third Wednesday Coffee , 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. (Note the location change.) Coffee Sponsor is Girls on the Run of Southwest Florida. The program is our quarterly new member showcase. This is an optimal opportunity for our members to meet our new members with an informal meet-and-greet, in addition to getting familiar with their products and services. Come on out and show your support to your fellow chamber family. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22 at Elevate Pride, 164 Eric St., Port Charlotte. Lite bites, refreshments, and icebreaker game are planned. Bring a gift to promote your business. 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. The Back Nine grand opening, 5-6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 5 at 1700 Tamiami Trail, Unit B1, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy food, beverages, and use of the golf simulators. Loveland Center garden party, 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 4075 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Light food, refreshments, and raffle for attendees will be provided. Bruno’s Appliance Repair , 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 2811 Tamiami Trail, Suite S, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food from Chick-fil-A, refreshments, and raffles will be provided. Burg’r Bar new ownership celebration, 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 317 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Ciela’s Boutique , 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29 at 314 Tamiami Trail, Suite 111, Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Catered appetizers, mimosa bar, refreshment, discounts, and raffles will be available. SPECIAL EVENTS The 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19, 2026 at 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 and 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 opportunity to 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. 6. There will be no late entries accepted. To reserve your booth, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 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.

As the holiday season surrounds us with lights, musicand traditions, it also offers a meaningful opportunity to rest and reflect on the year behind us and the promise of the year ahead. On behalf of our board of directors and staff of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, we want to extend our warmest wishes to you, your families, and your teams for a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season. This time of year, reminds us of what truly matters; family, friendship, generosity, and community. It is also a time to recognize the resilience, dedication, and spirit that define our local business community. Throughout the past year, our chamber members have continued to show remarkable strength, innovation, and compassion. Whether adapting to challenges, supporting one another, or giving back to our community, you have demonstrated what it means to do business with purpose. The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce exists because of you. Your commitment to collaboration, growth, and community pride is what makes Charlotte County such a special place to live, work, play, and do business. We are proud to stand alongside entrepreneurs, employers, and leaders who believe that a strong local economy is built on relationships, trust, and shared values. As we celebrate the holidays, I encourage you to take time to reflect, and reconnect with loved ones. Celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small, and look forward with optimism.  The new year brings fresh opportunities, and our organization remains committed to supporting your success through advocacy, networking, education, and community engagement. During this season of giving, may your days be filled with appreciation, your hearts with joy, and your homes with peace. Thank you for your continued membership, your involvement, and your belief in the power of community. From all of us at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season! We look forward to serving you in the year ahead and continuing to grow stronger — together SPECIAL EVENTS The 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19, 2026 at 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 and 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 opportunity to 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. 6. There will be no late entries accepted. To reserve your booth, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 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.

As the year winds down and our days fill with twinkle lights, festive playlists, and that one coworker who insists on bringing peppermint-flavored everything, we’re reminded once again why the holiday season is such a magical time here in Charlotte County. It’s the season when our community shines brightest, sometimes literally! Thanks to the dazzling displays around town and when our local businesses step fully into the spirit of giving, connecting, and celebrating. From Punta Gorda to Englewood and every stop in between, the holiday hustle is alive and well. Shops are buzzing with customers searching for that perfect gift, restaurants are serving up warm seasonal favorites, and our local event calendar is so full it probably needs its own stocking. Whether you’re attending a tree-lighting, visiting a holiday market, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll along the harbor, there’s no shortage of opportunities to soak in the season. Of course, no holiday message would be complete without acknowledging the unsung heroes of this time of year: the business owners, employees, volunteers, and community partners who keep everything running smoothly. This season is also a perfect reminder of what makes the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce so special. We’re not just a network; we’re a community of people and businesses who genuinely care about one another’s success. Every ribbon-cutting, every referral, every networking event, and every laugh shared at our chamber strengthens the vital business landscape we’ve built together. So, as we wrap up the year (with better technique than we wrap our presents, hopefully), let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come and get excited about what’s ahead. May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, prosperity, and maybe even a few days when your inbox stays pleasantly quiet. Here’s to a bright and bustling season and an even brighter new year for Charlotte County’s incredible business community. Happy Holidays from your chamber family! MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these members-only events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 . ■ Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee sponsor is The Daily Sun. The program is the 47th Annual Christmas Parade Awards. All parade award winners will be announced to receive their coveted trophies — Grand Marshal Trophy, Presidents Trophy, and first, second and third Place for Best Decorated Float, Best Car/Truck & Best Performing Unit. 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 . ■ PicklePlex of Punta Gorda (new shade structures), 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 16, 26300 Airport Rd., Punta Gorda. Ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m. Light refreshments will be served during the ceremony. ■ Love Your SELFie Studio, 5-6 p.m., Dec. 16 at 2826 Tamiami Trail, Unit 1, Port Charlotte . Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food and refreshments will be provided. SPECIAL EVENTS ■ The 15th Annual Community & Business Expo is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19, 2026 at 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-10foot booth (piped and 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 opportunity to 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. 6. There will be no late entries accepted. To reserve your booth, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office at 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 .