Porter Pelican, a new gift and lifestyle brand focused on positivity, will hold its official debut with a ribbon cutting and media launch event on April 30 at Lake Michigan Credit Union’s 4th Street location in St. Petersburg.
The event is organized in partnership with the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and aims to introduce Porter Pelican’s merchandise collection while fostering community engagement. The gathering will feature an official ribbon cutting, an outdoor setting highlighted by Sara Salem’s pelican mural, and opportunities for local businesses and residents to connect.
Founded by Beth MacChesney, Porter Pelican seeks to promote optimism through curated gifts and apparel, with part of its proceeds supporting the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores. “I’m proud to be a member of the St. Pete Chamber of Commerce and to collaborate with such a strong local business community in bringing Porter Pelican to life,” said MacChesney. “As a member of Lake Michigan Credit Union, I have been incredibly impressed by its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. This event is a meaningful reflection of that community-first mindset.”
Confirmed attendees include Chris Steinocher, CEO of the St. Pete Chamber of Commerce; Karen Koundourakis, Chief Retail Officer (Florida) for Lake Michigan Credit Union; Scott Callison, St. Pete Market Leader for Lake Michigan Credit Union; as well as representatives from local arts organizations such as Helen French from the St. Pete Arts Alliance and mural artist Sara Salem.
The event highlights ongoing efforts by the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce to foster business success through public service initiatives including hosting events and supporting projects that benefit area residents according to the official website. The chamber’s central goal is promoting economic growth and community vitality according to the official website, extending its support across the region for prosperity and well-being according to the official website. It also provides resources like membership benefits, leadership training, advocacy programs, events, and other initiatives designed for local enterprises according to the official website.
Serving as a primary organization for area businesses since it underwent a key name change in 1920 that enhanced its status according to the official website, the chamber continues leading efforts that drive economic development through programs aimed at business success according to the official website.
Looking ahead, organizers say they hope this debut will not only introduce Porter Pelican but also strengthen connections among entrepreneurs, artists, nonprofits like Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, financial institutions such as Lake Michigan Credit Union—and most importantly—the broader St. Petersburg community.
