September provides no shortage of opportunities for our chamber family

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

As CEO of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, one of the greatest privileges I have is meeting the incredible business owners who pour their hearts into making our community such a special place. Behind every storefront, restaurant, service company, nonprofit, and small business is a family taking a chance, working long hours, and investing in Charlotte County because they believe in this community. Each summer, we often hear the reminder to “shop local” as business naturally slows with the season. While that support is certainly appreciated, I’d like to encourage all of us to think even bigger. Shopping local shouldn’t be a seasonal campaign; it should be a year-round commitment. Every dollar spent at a local business helps strengthen the community we all call home. It supports local jobs, keeps dollars circulating in our economy, helps fund community improvements, and allows businesses to give back through sponsorships, charitable donations, and volunteerism.  Many of the events, youth programs, nonprofits, and community celebrations we enjoy are made possible because local businesses choose to invest right here in Charlotte County. As consumers, we have more influence than we sometimes realize. Every time we choose a local restaurant over a chain, purchase a gift from a neighborhood shop, or hire a local professional, we’re casting a vote for the kind of community we want to live in. Charlotte County is more than beautiful sunsets, scenic waterways, and sunshine. It’s the people. It’s the relationships. It’s the businesses that greet you by name, remember your family, and genuinely care about their customers. I encourage everyone to make shopping local part of your everyday routine; not just when business is slow, but throughout the entire year. Together, we can continue building a stronger economy, supporting local dreams, and preserving the unique character that makes Charlotte County such an extraordinary place to live, work, and do business. MEMBER EVENT Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. New Teachers’ Breakfast , 7:30-8:45 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This is a heart-warming opportunity for our members to sponsor a new teacher and have breakfast with them. Many new teachers are new to the area, and it’s a wonderful experience to hear their journey and then share all about the wonderful things Charlotte County has to offer. To sponsor a new teacher is $45 (which covers the breakfast to the new teacher and yourself). All sponsors have the opportunity to place marketing items in the goodie bag for each teacher (no flyers/paper). 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

As CEO of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, one of the greatest privileges I have is meeting the incredible business owners who pour their hearts into making our community such a special place. Behind every storefront, restaurant, service company, nonprofit, and small business is a family taking a chance, working long hours, and investing in Charlotte County because they believe in this community. Each summer, we often hear the reminder to “shop local” as business naturally slows with the season. While that support is certainly appreciated, I’d like to encourage all of us to think even bigger. Shopping local shouldn’t be a seasonal campaign; it should be a year-round commitment. Every dollar spent at a local business helps strengthen the community we all call home. It supports local jobs, keeps dollars circulating in our economy, helps fund community improvements, and allows businesses to give back through sponsorships, charitable donations, and volunteerism.  Many of the events, youth programs, nonprofits, and community celebrations we enjoy are made possible because local businesses choose to invest right here in Charlotte County. As consumers, we have more influence than we sometimes realize. Every time we choose a local restaurant over a chain, purchase a gift from a neighborhood shop, or hire a local professional, we’re casting a vote for the kind of community we want to live in. Charlotte County is more than beautiful sunsets, scenic waterways, and sunshine. It’s the people. It’s the relationships. It’s the businesses that greet you by name, remember your family, and genuinely care about their customers. I encourage everyone to make shopping local part of your everyday routine; not just when business is slow, but throughout the entire year. Together, we can continue building a stronger economy, supporting local dreams, and preserving the unique character that makes Charlotte County such an extraordinary place to live, work, and do business. MEMBER EVENT Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. New Teachers’ Breakfast , 7:30-8:45 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This is a heart-warming opportunity for our members to sponsor a new teacher and have breakfast with them. Many new teachers are new to the area, and it’s a wonderful experience to hear their journey and then share all about the wonderful things Charlotte County has to offer. To sponsor a new teacher is $45 (which covers the breakfast to the new teacher and yourself). All sponsors have the opportunity to place marketing items in the goodie bag for each teacher (no flyers/paper). 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.

Have you ever wondered what happens inside the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce on a typical day? The answer is simple; there really isn’t a “typical” day! While many people know us for ribbon cuttings, networking events, community events, and celebrations, that’s only part of the story. Behind the scenes, our team is hard at work connecting businesses, answering questions, advocating for our members, planning events, welcoming new businesses, and finding new ways to make Charlotte County an even better place to live, work, and do business. A day at our Chamber might begin by helping a new entrepreneur navigate the process of opening a business. A few minutes later, we may be introducing two members who discover they can work together. Throughout the day, we’re meeting with community leaders, promoting local businesses, planning educational programs, welcoming visitors, answering relocation inquiries, and helping residents find the products and services they need. One of the most rewarding parts of our work is watching relationships grow. Many of the introductions made through the Charlotte County Chamber become lasting business partnerships, lifelong friendships, and meaningful community collaborations. Those connections are what make our mission so rewarding. The Charlotte County Chamber is proud to serve as the front door to Charlotte County’s business community. We believe that when our businesses succeed, our entire community benefits. Strong businesses create jobs, support local charities, sponsor youth programs, and invest back into the place we all call home. So, the next time you see a Charlotte County Chamber event, a ribbon cutting, or one of our smiling ambassadors welcoming a new member, remember there’s an entire team working behind the scenes to help our community thrive. Every day brings a new opportunity to connect people, celebrate success, and make a positive impact.  That’s what your Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is all about, and it’s a privilege to serve our incredible community. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Leveraging Your Chamber Membership, 8:30-10 a.m. Monday, July 20 at the Charlotte County Chamber, 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. 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. With limited seating, you’ll 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. Be sure to bring your laptop and have your login information ready so you can follow along and make updates to your profile in real time. Learn how to maximize your member benefits, showcase your business, and connect with fellow members more effectively. Register today to secure your spot! Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 23 at California Closets, 512 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. There will be appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy — Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business — no better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. New Teachers’ Breakfast, 7:30-8:45 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This is a heart-warming opportunity for our members to sponsor a new teacher and have breakfast with them. Many new teachers are new to the area, and it’s a wonderful experience to hear their journey and then share all about the wonderful things Charlotte County has to offer. To sponsor a new teacher is $45 (which covers the breakfast to the new teacher and yourself). All sponsors have the opportunity to place marketing items in the goodie bag for each teacher (no flyers/paper). 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. Wild Orchid, 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 at 124 Cross St., Punta Gorda. There will be a wine tasting, light appetizers, and a raffle for a gift basket. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. 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 beautiful places to live, but Charlotte County is much more than a destination on a map; it is a community built on relationships, compassion, and a shared commitment to helping one another succeed. Every day, we see neighbors supporting one another, businesses investing in the community, volunteers giving their time, and organizations working together to make Charlotte County an even better place to call home. It is this spirit of collaboration that sets our community apart. From our vibrant waterfronts and thriving local businesses to our outstanding schools, nonprofits, first responders, and dedicated volunteers, Charlotte County is filled with people who genuinely care. Whether welcoming a new family, supporting a local fundraiser, mentoring a future leader, or simply greeting someone with a smile, these everyday acts of kindness create a strong sense of belonging. The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is proud to be part of this remarkable community. Our mission extends beyond supporting local businesses; we are committed to building connections, encouraging collaboration, and advocating for initiatives that strengthen the place we all call home. When our businesses thrive, our nonprofits flourish, and our residents stay engaged, our entire community benefits. Charlotte County’s greatest asset isn’t just it’s beautiful harbor, sunshine, or quality of life. It’s the people who choose to invest their time, talents, and hearts into making this community extraordinary. Together, we are building more than a strong local economy. We are creating lasting friendships, meaningful opportunities, and a legacy of community that will continue to inspire future generations. That is what makes Charlotte County more than a place. It is home. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, July 15 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee sponsor is Gulf View Medical Institute The program is our Quarterly New Member Showcase. There is no better opportunity to meet and greet our newest members, learn about their products and services, and make excellent new connections. Social Club Event , 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, July 16, Painting with a Twist, 18700 Veterans Blvd., Suite B, Port Charlotte. The public is welcome to attend, for guests 18 years and older. The cost is only $15. You’ll make a 16-by-20-inch creative painting. Appetizers, soft drinks, and water will be provided. Alcohol beverages available for purchase. Leveraging Your Chamber Membership , 8:30-10 a.m. Monday, July 20 at the Charlotte County Chamber, 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. 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. Bring your laptop and have your login information ready so you can follow along and make updates to your profile in real time. Register today to secure your spot. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 23 at California Closets, 512 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. There will be appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy — Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business — no better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. New Teachers’ Breakfast, 7:30-8:45 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This is a heart-warming opportunity for our members to sponsor a new teacher and have breakfast with them. Many new teachers are new to the area, and it’s a wonderful experience to hear their journey and then share all about the wonderful things Charlotte County has to offer. To sponsor a new teacher is $45 (which covers the breakfast to the new teacher and yourself). All sponsors have the opportunity to place marketing items in the goodie bag for each teacher (no flyers/paper). 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.  Hand & Stone Massage & Facial , 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14 at 615 Cross St., Unit 112, Punta Gorda. Snacks and mocktails provided. There will also be raffles for 1-hour free facial with basket and a 1-hour free massage with basket. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Wild Orchid , 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 at 124 Cross St., Punta Gorda. There will be a wine tasting, light appetizers, and a raffle for a gift basket. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. 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.

Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026 Graduates

The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a collection site for the Sunrise Kiwanis Shoes for Kids Project. The Shoes for Kids Project collects new athletic shoes for children in pre-K through high school in the Charlotte County Public School System. The need for the 2026-2027 school year is 4,000 new pair of athletic shoes. I ask for you to please consider bringing in a pair, two pair, or 10 pair. No donation is too small or two large. There is a tremendous need for our youth in our community. Many children wear shoes that are duct-taped, too large or too small. There is nothing like a child getting a new pair of shoes and seeing their face light up. Their confidence builds, feel more included, and yes, their grades improve as well. The donation window is now open, and runs through Friday, July 24. Our address is 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. When you come in, please make sure we meet and I can personally thank you for your generosity! See you soon! 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, July 8 at Dubz BBQ, 4391 Aidan Lane, North Port. You will be treated to a delicious selection of lunch options to choose from. Plus, you will network with the best. Third Wednesday Coffee , 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, July 15 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda. Coffee sponsor is Gulf View Medical Institute The program is our Quarterly New Member Showcase. There is no better opportunity to meet and greet our newest members, learn about their products and services, and make excellent new connections. Social Club Event , 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, July 16, Painting with a Twist, 18700 Veterans Blvd., Suite B, Port Charlotte. The public is welcome to attend, for guests 18 years and older. The cost is only $15. You’ll make a 16-by-20-inch creative painting. Appetizers, soft drinks, and water will be provided. Alcohol beverages available for purchase. Leveraging Your Chamber Membership , 8:30-10 a.m. Monday, July 20 at the Charlotte County Chamber, 2702 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. 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. Bring your laptop and have your login information ready so you can follow along and make updates to your profile in real time. Register today to secure your spot. Business Card Exchange , 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 23 at California Closets, 512 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. There will be appetizers, refreshments, and an ice breaker game for all to enjoy — Please be sure to bring a gift to promote your business — no better opportunity to make new connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. New Teachers’ Breakfast , 7:30-8:45 a.m. Thursday, July 30, Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This is a heart-warming opportunity for our members to sponsor a new teacher and have breakfast with them. Many new teachers are new to the area, and it’s a wonderful experience to hear their journey and then share all about the wonderful things Charlotte County has to offer. To sponsor a new teacher is $45 (which covers the breakfast to the new teacher and yourself). All sponsors have the opportunity to place marketing items in the goodie bag for each teacher (no flyers/paper). 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. SWFL Rotary , 5-6 p.m. Thursday, July 9 at Lakehouse Restaurant at Babcock Ranch, 42860 Crescent Loop, Punta Gorda. Appetizers, refreshments, music, and a gift card raffle will be provided. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. MOD Wash on Beatrix , 10-11 a.m. Friday, July 10 at 24080 Beatrix Blvd, Port Charlotte. Kona Ice Truck will be serving up there signature ice treats, and coffee and bagels will be provided. Ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. Hand & Stone Massage & Facial , 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14 at 615 Cross St., Unit 112, Punta Gorda. Snacks and mocktails provided. There will also be raffles for 1-hour free facial with basket and a 1-hour free massage with basket. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Wild Orchid , 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 at 124 Cross St., Punta Gorda. There will be a wine tasting, light appetizers, and a raffle for a gift basket. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. SPECIAL EVENT Fourth-Fest 2026 , 3-10 p.m. Saturday, July 4 at Laishley Park, 100 Nesbit St., Punta Gorda. Come on out and celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with a firework extravaganza! There will be a full line-up of live music, a kids area with water slides, and food trucks and refreshments. Come early and stay late for an amazing fireworks show. Sponsorships are still available — contact the chamber office. Fourth-Fest 2026 is 100% funded by sponsors and donations. 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 summer arrives in Southwest Florida, it also marks the beginning of hurricane season. Running from June 1 through Nov. 30, hurricane season is a reminder that preparation today can make a significant difference tomorrow. For Charlotte County residents and businesses alike, having a plan in place before a storm develops is one of the most important steps toward protecting people, property, and livelihoods. For residents, preparation begins with assembling an emergency supply kit that includes water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and pet supplies. Review your evacuation zone and know where you will go if an evacuation order is issued. Sign up for local emergency alerts and stay informed through trusted sources such as Charlotte County Emergency Management and the National Hurricane Center. Business owners should take proactive steps to ensure continuity during and after a storm. Review insurance policies to confirm adequate coverage, back up critical business data both onsite and in the cloud, and create a communication plan for employees, customers, and vendors. Designate responsibilities for storm preparation, including securing equipment, protecting inventory, and safeguarding important records. One of the most overlooked aspects of hurricane preparedness is planning for recovery. Businesses should identify key suppliers and alternative vendors in advance, while residents should document personal property with photos and videos to assist with potential insurance claims. Having these resources organized before a storm can significantly reduce stress during the recovery process. The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce encourages all businesses to review emergency plans annually and conduct preparedness discussions with employees before peak hurricane activity begins. A well-prepared workforce can help minimize disruptions and support a faster return to normal operations. Our community has demonstrated remarkable resilience through previous storms, and that resilience begins with preparation. By taking action now, residents can better protect their families, and businesses can strengthen their ability to serve customers and support employees when it matters most. This hurricane season don’t wait until a storm is approaching to get ready. Take the time today to review your plans, gather supplies, and stay informed. Together, we can help ensure that Charlotte County remains strong, prepared, and ready for whatever the season may bring. MEMBER EVENTS Registration is required for these events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222. Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, June 17 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gord. Coffee sponsor is Crews Bank & Trust. Guest speaker is Leah Valenti, Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections. Leah will present key information related to our upcoming election process, and ensure all are properly educated. Immediately following our program, there will be a ribbon-cutting for Melaleaca River Bend Steaks. Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Thursday, June 25 at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Homes & Cremation, 635 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. There will be food, 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. Marisol Apartments (new member), 5-6 p.m. Monday, June 29 at 1200 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte, inside the leasing office. The ribbon-cutting will be at 5:30 p.m. Light appetizers, refreshments, and a raffle for attendees for a Ninja Slushie Machine. 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.