Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends,
Here are your Friday Facts.
For Our Members
PG Chamber radio show: Exclusively for PG Chamber members: NOW BOOKING FOR MAY 2021. We are very pleased to announce that our monthly radio show on Seaview 104.9FM will be returning to its usual monthly spot on the Bob Alexander Radio Show on the first Wednesday and Thursday of each month. The process is very simple – no need to visit the studio. Bob will call you, set up a recording time and it’ll be done over the phone and inserted directly into the progaming of this very popular show. You get the option to record two x 2.5 minute slots or else simply record one and have it aired twice during the show. Bob will be able to let you know exactly during which hour it will air. The cost is an incredible $110 (payable to the PG Chamber, not iHeart). To register for the show, simply email John Wright. The rest we’ll take care of for you. Only ten businesses per month, so don’t delay. Offering you a great way to promote your business, advertise an event or simply to show your community support.
For Our Community and All Our Members.
From John Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. Here is a copy of John’s Column printed in the newspaper on April 20.
From the Charlotte County Economic Development Office. In keeping with Enterprise Florida’s commitment to providing minority and small businesses with training, development and financing options, MaSBEC will launch EFI’s first ever MINORITY & SMALL BUSINESS BOOT CAMP on April 7th (to occur every other Wednesday through Aug 25th). This webinar series is designed to equip minority and small businesses with various tools needed for growth. Each hour-long session will provide small business owners, staff and team members with resources needed to create, maintain and grow a successful business. One time registration will allow attendees to participate in all 11 sessions. Boot Camp details.
For Our Community.
From PGPD and PGFD. TOMORROW Take Back Day on April 24, 2021.
From Punta Gorda City. The City of Punta Gorda is seeking resident and business owner comments regarding the FY 2022 City Budget. Feedback is being accepted via email at citymgr@cityofpuntagordafl.com or by calling (941) 575-3302 through the end of April.
From CCSO. The week of May 9-15 is officially “National Police Week”, which celebrates law enforcement officers across the country for the sacrifices they make and the risks they take to protect their communities. A non-profit group called the FBI Tampa Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) has decided to begin a “Paint the Town Blue” campaign to honor law enforcement everywhere. They are asking every community to participate in this endeavor however they see fit.
Your Priority Appointment for COVID Vaccine at Medicine Shoppe Punta Gorda. Medicine Shoppe Punta Gorda is offering you a priority appointment to get the two-shot Moderna Vaccine. Due to the recent joint FDA and CDC statement regarding a pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, we have opened up more vaccine availability for the Moderna appointments. If you would like to book your priority appointment for the Moderna vaccine, please email 1441@medicineshoppe.com or simply call 941-505-1095 to book an appointment.
COVID-19 Vaccine Availability in Charlotte County. Preregister for a vaccination appointment online at MyVaccine.FL.gov or call 866-200-9160 (or 833-990-3549 for TTY users). More vaccine availability information online: charlotte.floridahealth.gov/events/2021/01/CharlotteCOVID-19VaccineInfo.html and www.charlottecountyfl.gov/covid-19/vaccine-faq.stml
Charlotte County Centennial Year begin!
TODAY Centennial Gala, 6-11 p.m., April 23 at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center. This gala will include a cocktail hour, dinner, cash bar, dancing and live entertainment. Tickets are $65 per person and can be purchased at www.charlottecounty100.com/centennial-gala. The Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center is located at 75 Taylor St. in Punta Gorda. The Hibiscus Festival is set for April 30-May 2 at Gilchrist Park in Punta Gorda.
City Wide Garage Sale. LAST OF THE SEASON May 1, 2021, 8am to 12noon at 1133 Bal Harbor Blvd (Bal Harbor Plaza). Click here for application or call Chamber office (941 639-3720) to book a slot.
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Where’s John Now?
Take a Tour of a Local Business and Chamber Member with John. CLICK HERE to find out where he visited this week.
This video will be shared here in Friday Facts, on our Chamber website, and on our Chamber Social Media pages. If you would like to have a visit from John please contact Tara Zajas at tzajas@puntagorda-chamber.com or call the office (941) 639-3720 to schedule a date. [/box]
Chamber Calendar of Events Members ONLY
Networking Events for April and May 2021
RSVP’s are ESSENTIAL, as are cancellations. We are not able to take bookings through the website for these events at the moment, so please call (941) 639 3720 (during office hours 9am to 4pm) or email reception@puntagorda-chamber.com
NEXT WEEK April 28: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at First United Methodist Church (The Life Center), 507 W. Marion Ave, Punta Gorda. Menu (by Burg’r Bar) Hamburger; Chicken Sandwich; Caesar Salad. Reservations Required. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. NOTE: Cancellations not accepted after 3pm on Friday before event. Cost is $20.00 per person pre-paid. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex.
May 12: Business Over Breakfast 7:15 – 8:30 am Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at Four Points by Sheraton, in The Library, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda.
May 18: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business after Hours hosted by Dockside Grill (on the Patio) at Four Points by Sheraton, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business!
May 26: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Village Fish Market,1200 W. Retta Esplanade, #J36, Punta Gorda. Reservations Required. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. NOTE: Cancellations not accepted after 3pm on Friday before event. Cost is $20.00 per person pre-paid. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex.
Ribbon Cuttings in April and May
TODAY April 23: Ribbon Cutting at 10am. Celebrate the newest member Savannah Sheppard, Broker of Sellstate Vision Realty at 2705 Tamiami Trail, Unit 313, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. This is a joint ribbon cutting so PLEASE RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.
May 3: Ribbon Cutting for Take Me There Sailing at 5.30pm. Join us at Burnt Store Marina, slip I-5, for “Take me There Totally” cocktail and discount coupons for attendees. RSVP IS ESSENTIAL to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720, by Friday, April 30, due to limited space on the dock. Sign up early for this unique experience.
All the Following Information is for Our Community.
Please Support Our Local Businesses!
Partners in Action News
Welcome to our newest Partner in Action, Dream Salon & Spa (Silver)
Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum) – The Dockside Grill, located in the Four Points by Sheraton, is now taking reservations for our 3 course Mother’s Day feast. Please call 941-637-6770 for more details and to make a reservation at $29.95 per person. Don’t forget to take advantage of our AYCE Haddock Fish Fry on Fridays and our specialty Prime Rib on Saturday. After dinner, head on down to the tiki for drinks and listen to one of your favorite bands play the night away. The Tiki Bar….The Pace To Be!
Sun Newspapers (Platinum Media) – NEXT WEEK Sun Coast Media Group is holding a Virtual Career Fair on April 28th from noon – 4pm and April 29th from 9am – 1pm. In “normal” times, a career fair helps connect job seekers and gives you the opportunity to have initial conversations right on the spot. In today’s socially distant environment, face to face career events are not always advisable, or even possible. That’s why we’re offering a virtual fair that will publicize your open position, and bring job seekers to you, where you can review resumes and conduct interviews via live chat! To find out more or to register, please contact Lissa Craig Ford at lissa.craigford@yoursun.com or 941.205.6412.
Bayfront Health Port Charlotte & Punta Gorda (Gold) – Five Reasons To Make That Well Visit Appointment.
TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – Did you see the March residential numbers for Charlotte County? 881 sales, up 40%. Median price $260K up 16%. 47% cash purchases. .9/month inventory. 420 properties sold in 0-10 days. TIME Realty Services has SOLD all of their listings. Thinking of selling? buying? Put our 23 years of experience to work for you. Call Broker Della Booth, 239-699-4493. Our agents cover North Port to Naples.
Downtown Farmers Market (Gold) – The Saturday Punta Gorda Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm. Latest Newsletter.
Charlotte State Bank & Trust (Silver) – Free Englewood seminar this month.
Creative Window Treatments (Silver) – is your local Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer. We offer all types of custom window treatments for any business or commercial setting with 2 locations to serve you. Call for your FREE In-Home consultation! 941-637-0015 / 941-828-0000
PG Social House (Silver) – Join us with Peace River Harbor Heights Rotary Club for Bogies & Stogies Golf Tournament on May 22 at St Andrews South, Punta Gorda – Shotgun Start 8am
C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Bronze) – C.A.R.E. Auxiliary Society partners with the Yoga Sanctuary to present Yoga & Wine on May 1st, 2021 11:00AM at the beautiful History Park located near downtown. Keep calm and get your yoga & wine on with C.A.R.E. Auxiliary! If you can’t join us there, then come with us to Vasani on May 6 at 8pm.
Charlotte Players (Bronze) – The 9th Annual Comedy For A Cause, September 17, 2021 at The Charlotte Harbor Event And Conference Center. We want to enlist your help in finding the cast for this year’s event. Here is a great opportunity for someone to represent your company in a hilarious night of improv raising much needed funds for Charlotte Players programs. No experience, no problem! We all know business owners, staff, and business acquaintances that would be perfect! For more information call or email Steve Lineberry at 941-626-0551 or lineberry.stephen@gmail.com. Deadline May 14th.
Gulfshore Opera (Bronze) – Season 8 Announcement for GO.
Animal Welfare League (Support) – TOMORROW Join us for Saturday on the Lawn, April 24, 11am to 3pm. Pets of the Week. Contact us at 3519 Drance St, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. (941) 625-6720.
Fabulous Finds, Homeless Coalition (Support) – The 1st Annual “Hope for Homeless” Spring Golf Scramble event to benefit The Homeless Coalition will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at the Deep Creek Golf Club located at 1260 San Cristobal Avenue in Deep Creek. Check-in is at 7:30 am and shotgun is at 8:30am. The cost is $85 and includes: 25 chance auction tickets, 2 drink tickets, a continental breakfast, a delicious lunch and mulligans for your team. Please contact Darcy Woods at (941) 627-4313, Ext. 134 or email Darcy.Woods@cchomelesscoalition.org to reserve a spot.
Frank Desguin Family (Support) – Copy of Frank’s Column in the newspaper. Did you know the County’s Centennial is here?
Gator Wilderness Camp School (Support) – TOMORROW Trail Run April 24, starting at 8am. 4th Annual 5K/10K/15K Trail Run.
Military Heritage Museum (Support) – Battle of the BEST Golf Tournament at Paradise Golf on June 5. Registration 7.30am, Shotgun Start 8.30am. Application Form for teams and Hole Sponsors.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support) – Clips from the Garden.
Perfectly Polished Nail Boutique (Support) – April is Sexual Assault Awareness month. Show your support and during your appointment with us, choose teal as the color for your nails and we will donate $5 to C.A.R.E. (Center for Abuse and Rape Emergencies). Post your nails on Facebook or Instagram and you will automatically be entered in a drawing to win a $100 Visa Gift Card. Call 941-889-8388 to book your appointment.
Visual Arts Center (Support) – Now until 4/29 You Can Support the Visual Arts Center Without Spending a Cent! Text ‘VAC2021’ to 31996 to share a brand opinion via Express Feedback for Good™ and donate up to $2 to the VAC. More Info at https://bit.ly/EFG_VAC. View Exhibits ‘New Beginnings’ and ‘Underwater Fantasea’ on display thru 4/13. Located @ 210 Maud St, across from Fishermen’s Village. Gallery & Gift Store Hours: Mon & Fri: 10a-4p, Tue-Thu: 10a-7p, Sat: 10a-2p. Events, Classes, Memberships, Call to Artists at www.VisualArtCenter.org.
Member Information
Copperfish Books – TOMORROW Join us for Independent Bookstore Day Saturday, April 24. On May 12 an In-Person Book Signing by Mary Kay Andrews.
Drug Free Punta Gorda – TOMORROW In conjunction with PGPD and PGFD, DEA NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION TAKE BACK DAY – APRIL 24, 2021.
ARCHway Institute – SUNDAY Virtual Auction Opens on April 25 at 1pm EST. Keynote Speaker Announced for Virtual Gala & Auction on April 30 at 7.30pm EST.
Gregg’s Automotive – Mother’s Day Raffle. Click Here for details. Also, Brake for Kids – Thank you.
Sunny Days Ice Cream – Starting to plan a graduation? Why not have something different for your grad? Hire the Sunny Days Ice Cream Truck for a special treat! We are mobile and can come to you wherever you are holding your party, the beach, the park, a residence, an event center. We carry pre packaged novelty ice cream. Visit our website at http://www.sunnydaysicecream.com to learn more about us. Email us at info@sunnydaysicecream.com or call 941-255-1889 to book. Hurry dates fill fast!
Fishermen’s Village – April Events Calendar. May Events Calendar.
Florida Gulf Coast University – Start a Rewarding Career in the Medical Field!
Thryv – We are excited to host Connect for HVAC Contractors later this month. This is a virtual seminar designed exclusively for growing HVAC businesses. At Thryv Connect, you will hear from experts in the field and learn how to leverage the latest technology to grow your business, connect with clients, and increase cash flow. Click here for information. Here is a link to the registration site: https://thryv.biz/3dGLCso
Vision Quest Leadership – Would you like to play Biz Builder BINGO?
Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – This will put a spring in your step.
The Firm 360 Photography – Don’t forget The Firm 360 Photography when they’re gone. Who is “they” you might ask? Snowbirds! They are leaving soon. Remind them of what they have looked at with a Virtual Tour. They are great for real estate and businesses alike and they give people inside views right from their phones and laptops. We can do that for you. Call us today to arrange a Virtual Walking Tour for your business or homes for sale. 941-347-8198. www.thefirm360.com
SCORE – Attention Business Owners: Small Business assistance and advice is now available from SCORE on a drop-in basis. Stop by the North Port City Hall, room 350 on Friday May 7th from 9 to noon. Certified Mentors Nils Weibulll and Thom Malkus will be available for a casual chat about your business and the challenges you are facing. SCORE is powered by the SBA and offers confidential business mentoring at no cost. Visit portcharlotte.score.org for more information.
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Win $100 Gift Card!
Valerie’s House – is a nonprofit organization that helps grieving families who have lost a loved one in Charlotte, Sarasota, Lee, and Collier County. Contact Christine Carey to find out ways to volunteer, mentor, and donate (christine@valerieshouse.org or 239-841-0382). We can also schedule Valerie’s House Tours. Valerie’s House’s website: www.valerieshouse.org
Take Me There Sailing – is now based in Burnt Store Marina offering all- inclusive day sails or overnight charters on a 60-foot sailboat. Sail, kayak, snorkel, fish, lounge on deck, and sail under the stars. Licensed to provide food and alcohol, all meals and drinks are included. Charters are customized to exceed your expectations and create unforgettable memories. Book online or call to discuss your special event. https://takemetheresailing.com or 941-259-0977.
PattiVanTonder.com – We continue to have amazing results with our Collagen. We projected to sell 1 million bottles in 3 months and sold 1 million bottles in
72 HOURS!!! Launched in the US in mid January and to date sold over 6 million bottles. If you haven’t already, it’s time to get YOUR LITTLE BOTTLE OF AMAZING! www.pattivantonder.com 941-202-3127. Find us at the Farmer’s Market this Saturday 8am-1pm.
Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.
Sea Grape Gallery – Announces Three Guest Artists for April 2021.
Rossman Realty Property Management – manages over 1300 properties annual, seasonal, Vacation, and commercial accounts. We are offering top dollar to other property management companies wanting to sell their rental contracts in Southwest Florida. Email Corey Meldahl @ corey@rossmanrealty.com or call 239-333-7357.
Covenant Business Planning & Solutions – TACTICAL BUSINESS OPERATIONS SERIES by Jeffrey Frankhouser, CEPA, MRFC, CEP. In this 6-part series we will exam an overall business structure and its operations from a military perspective. Your business operation, in many ways is and should be viewed as a military operation, the same components exist in both arenas. To continue reading please click here: https://covenant-business.com/?p=2531&preview=true Covenant Business Planning & Solutions is here for you and your business. Remember, we help business owners sleep better at night!
Suncoast Humane Society – Adopt ‘Em All adoption event EXTENDED to April 30. Also April 30 we will be celebrating National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.
ARCHway Institute – Keynote Speaker Announced for Virtual Gala & Auction on April 30 at 7.30pm EST.
Charlotte County Historical Center Society – The 16th Annual Hibiscus Festival April 30 – May 2.
Punta Gorda Kiwanis – presents Whitney Grace performing a Broadway Review choreographed by Mark Santoro (owner of Port Charlotte Hot Yoga), on May 1 at 3pm at First Baptist of Punta Gorda, 459 Gill Street. They have generously donated their time and talent to benefit Kiwanis which supports kids of Charlotte County. Please donate generously for this Win Win endeavor.
St Vincent de Paul – WE ARE BACK! The first St Vincent de Paul rummage sale the pandemic is back. The people of Charlotte County have been very generous donating clothing, household items, tools, furniture, linens, toys, books and whatever else you can think of. 25200 Airport & Taylor Road, Saturday May 1st from 9:00 to 12:00. Rain date Saturday May 8. Please join Sacred Heart Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul in our continuing efforts to assist those in need. Masks are required for shoppers and all St Vincent helpers.
Twin Isles Country Club – Summer Promotions 2021 May 1 to September 30. Golf. Tennis.
Charlotte Behavioral Health Care – Upcoming Mental Health Walk on May 1, 2021. Bee Heard.
Divine Global Recovery – is having a “Mother Nature Art Contest” on Thursday May 6th from 5 – 7 PM at PG Social House – 124 Cross St. Punta Gorda. Submissions can be a photo, drawing or a painting and can be no larger than 11 1/2 by 17 and must be family friendly. Submissions must be turned into PG Social House no later than 5 PM on May 5th. Must be 12 and over to enter and must be present to win. For more info call 844 – 99 – DIVINE.
Animal Welfare League – Invites all animal lovers to attend its Mask-R-Aid event from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on May 6 at the Twisted Fork, 2208 El Jobean Road. Join us, along with our presenting sponsor, Gettel Automotive, for this outdoor casual fundraising event that will help support the life saving work of the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County. For more information, visit www.awlshelter.org or call 941-625-6720.
Loveland Center – fundraiser at Panera Bread Port Charlotte, May 14th from 4 to 8 PM. 20% of all sales that present a flyer will be donated to Loveland. Please see digital flyer on Loveland’s facebook page.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Fort Myers Film Festival on May 14 at 7.30pm.
Charlotte Community Foundation – Charlotte County Non-Profits Virtual Town Hall on May 18 at 4pm.
Suncoast Humane Society – Virtual Walk May 22, Tails On Trails.
Punta Gorda Rotary Club – Healing Field of Honor, May 28-31. Opening Ceremony May 28, 10am at Laishley Park. Click Here for Details. Flyer.
CDBIA – Join us at the Icehouse on July 10 for Darts! Team Registration Form.
Newsletters
ARCHway Institute – April Newsletter
Animal Welfare League – April Pawsitive News
C.A.R.E. – Newsletter
Charlotte Arts – Newsletter
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter
Copperfish Books – April Newsletter
Hope4Communities – Newsletter
Lennore Shubel, Realtor Coldwell Banker Sunstar – Newsletter
Loveland Center – Newsletter
Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society – April Newsletter
Punta Gorda Symphony – April Tempo
Sandstar Remodeling – March Newsletter
Senior Friendship Centers – Spring 2021
The Yoga Sanctuary – What is your why?
TIME Realty Services – March Newsletter
Community News
Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership (CHNEP) Invitation to attend the Climate Summit on May 6 at 9am 2021 Southwest Florida Climate Summit
Calling all SkyDivers 9/11 Memorial, Flyers in the Air.
Applause
Charlotte State Bank & Trust
Gregory S. Thomas, a Portfolio Manager in the Trust and Investment Management Services division of Charlotte State Bank & Trust, has been promoted to Vice President. An experienced investment administrator, Thomas joined the bank in 2017.
“Greg has been a strong and valuable member of our team,” said Executive Vice President Lory Weisensee, who manages Trust and Investment Management Services. “His knowledge, experience, and commitment has enabled him to help our clients save on fees, reduce market and bond risk, and improve portfolio performance to meet or beat the markets. He puts them on track to achieve their financial goals.”
Based at the bank’s Murdock office, 1100 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, Thomas manages the investment holdings for clients via their trust, IRA, or individually titled accounts. Starting at a firm in North Carolina, Thomas moved to Punta Gorda in 2010. He has held securities and insurance licenses and spent eight years as a financial manager before joining the bank. He can be reached at 941-624-1975 or via email at gthomas@csbtfl.com.
Sincerely,
John Wright, President
Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce
Every effort has been made to accommodate guests of all abilities. The Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce is not responsible for the presentation, format or accessibility of customer submitted documents, images and links. For assistance with this document, please email hklossner@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.