Group restarting St. James City Association
A group of business owners in Saint James City have banded together to attract more visitors. To achieve that goal, they have re-started the St. James City Business Association.
According to the group’s treasurer, Misti Papesh of York Road Marine, the group originally started in 2008, but didn’t continue.
“At that time, there were Art Nights in Matlacha, but nobody made it down to St. James City,” she said. “We want them to see what we have to offer.”
She cites waterfront dining and a lovely inn as two attractions. Even though her own business is in a somewhat different category, she still feels strongly that all businesses in St. James City will benefit from increased visitor traffic.
The association plans to hold monthly events in season similar to what is done in downtown Punta Gorda. Their first community event will be Rocktoberfest on Oct. 22 from noon until midnight. It will feature live music, a treasure hunt, vendors and a bounce house. They are also talking about a Poker Walk and a flea market since a previous one had proved successful.
“We businesses must stick together to bring people to St. James City,” said Petra Demko, owner of the Ragged Ass Saloon and the association’s publicity chair.
The group meets each Wednesday at Froggy’s, 3620 Stringfellow Road at 11 a.m.
Other members include Low Key Tiki, Waterfront Restaurant, Woody’s Waterside, Paisley Parrot, Pine Island Hardware, KOA, Two Fish Inn, York Road Marine, Bob & Annie’s Boatyard, Monroe Canal Marina, and Old Pine Island Marine & Tackle. Association President Jenny Kormos of Two Fish is actively seeking more members.
For more information, visit www.saintjamescity.org or call Demko at 282-1131.