Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends,
Here are your Friday Facts.
If you have anything that you would like to put into the Friday Facts please send it to hklossner@puntagorda-chamber.com by noon each Thursday.
Your Chamber Staff, John, Hazel, Janet and Stephanie
Chamber Members ONLY.
Do you want to be a Punta Gorda Chamber Partner for 2021?
Back in 2005, the Punta Gorda Chamber launched its highly-recognized Partners in Action program, which offer you, our members, a one-time deal to be recognized throughout the Chamber’s Program of Work for the entire calendar year. We are currently initiating our 2021 list, which will run from Jan 1st-Dec 31st 2021. Support for the PG Chamber’s program starts for as little as $500! Obviously, the greater the investment, the more benefits you will reap. Payment plans for Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze members can be arranged, upon request. Click Here to find the updated benefits of being a Chamber partner for the entire year. As we all know, 2020 has been a crazy and highly uncertain year for all of us, but so many of you have seen the benefit of Chamber support, especially during these difficult times. Our Program of Work has been hit with COVID-related cancellations, but we have strived to add additional value items to our marketing sheet, to, in turn, offer you even more promotional exposure. You can rest assured that IF and WHEN the opportunities arise, the events that we have become infamous for will return and, automatically, your status will enjoy the added bonus of participating in them. The cut-off date to be included in the 2021 plan is November 20th, to allow us to get all the marketing collateral materials ready for a January 1st 2021 launch. To become or renew your Partnership level, simply email jrwright@puntagorda-chamber.com highlighting the level you would like. If you have any questions about the program, simply call us on 941 639 3720 and we’d be happy to help you. Here’s to a very different and prosperous year in 2021! Below are those already signed up for 2021 – thank you.
For Our Businesses
CHARLOTTE CARES FOR BUSINESS RECOVERY GRANT PROGRAM – STAGE THREE IS NOW OPEN. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the Charlotte County business community to confront immense challenges. As a result, on July 14, 2020 the Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners approved the Recovery Grant Program to accelerate and assist the reopening efforts of businesses hardest hit by COVID-19. This year Charlotte County was assigned $32.9 million from the federal CARES Act approved by Congress. Twenty percent (20%) of those funds, $6,580,000, will be given to qualified Charlotte County businesses by electronic application through the Recovery Grant Program. For more information simply go to: www.Cleared4TakeOff.Com
National Safety Council. Safer – Safe Actions for Employee Returns.
For Our Businesses and Community
From PGPD. It’s that time of the year when we cordially invite local businesses and our community to support the Charlotte County Do the Right Thing Program. Please see attached for our sponsorship levels and if you need any further information contact Lieutenant Justin Davoult, Community Services, Punta Gorda Police Department. (941) 575-5525 jdavoult@pgorda.us.
For Our Community
From Roger D. Eaton, Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller for Charlotte County. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
From CCSO. The CCSO Senior Outreach Program is taking registrations! If you’re over 60, live alone, and don’t have someone to check in on you, your friends at CCSO will! Just sign up for the free program, and someone will call you once per week, Monday through Thursday, between 9-11am. Our goal is simple: to connect with seniors in the community and make sure they’re OK. Call our Community Affairs Unit today to learn more: 941-575-5345
From Brian Gleason, Communications Manager of Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners. For the past 26 years, the 1% percent local option sales tax has funded 117 projects that enhance our quality of life. The current local option sales tax expires this year, but on Nov. 3, voters will decide whether or not to extend it for six years to fund additional projects. To learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/2020salestax. To schedule an informative presentation for your group or organization, call Brian Gleason at 941-743-1462.
Career Source SWFL. Virtual Hiring Event Nov 10.
Save the Date!! The Laird’s Golf Tournament is back!! Join us at the Paradise Golf Course on January 29, 2021 – yes, you have plenty of time to practice and get ready for this awesome day! Click Here for details.
Chamber Calendar of Events Members ONLY
Networking Events for October and November
RSVP’s are very important, 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 10am to 2pm) or email reception@puntagorda-chamber.com
October 20: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business after Hours the Wyvern Hotel, 101 E. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business!
October 28: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at The Village Brewhouse, 1200 W. Retta Esplande, Punta Gorda. Reservations Required. Choices are Cheeseburger w/ Fries; Mahi Taco w/ Fries; Hawaiian Chicken w/ Broccoli; Apple Walnut salad – Vegan. Please be sure to RSVP with lunch choice to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. Cost is $20.00 per person pre-paid. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex.
November 11: Business Over Breakfast 7:15 am – 8:30 am Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at The Military Heritage Museum, 900 W. Marion Ave, Punta Gorda. Our guest speaker will be Christine Carey of Valerie’s House.
November 17: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business after Hours at Ann Street Storage, 209 E Ann Street, Punta Gorda. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business!
November 25: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at The Village Fish Market, 1200 W. Retta Esplande, Punta Gorda. Reservations Required. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720. Cost is $20.00 per person pre-paid. We take cash, check, Mastercard, Visa, Discover & Amex.
SPECIAL MEMBER NOTICE
Punta Gorda Chamber Member & Visitor’s Guide 2021
In conjunction with the SUN Newspapers we are planning to have the new Chamber Member & Visitor’s Guide ready for January 4, 2021 distribution. So, please, please review all your information on the Chamber website and make sure it is correct. Also, take a look at the attached flyer for Advertising Rates.
Any questions contact Hazel at hklossner@puntagorda-chamber.com
All the Following Information is for Our Community
Re-discover our wonderful city.
Please support Our Members – The Shops, Attractions, Restaurants and Non-Profits. These are the people who make this City and the Surrounding Area the vibrant, happy place we live in!
Shop and Play Local.
New Member
Mission Statement
To promote business in Punta Gorda and all our surroundings areas, for the benefit of our entire community.
Harbor Social LLC
Heather Paguette
212 W.Marion Ave
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 815-2693
Restaurant
Sponsored by John Wright
Jersey Mike’s Subs
Patti Roland
1001 S. Tamiami Trail
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 347 3699
Restaurant
Sponsored by Hazel Klossner
The Grill at 1951
Dawn Verdeschi/David Eger
1951 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
(941) 225-0994
Restaurant
Sponsored by Sue Randall
Partners in Action News
Bayfront Health (Platinum) – Helpline to Assist Medicare Beneficiaries.
Expedia Cruises (Platinum) – download your special gift voucher towards future travel here.
Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum)
Please click to see our October schedule of events. This weekend, we have fan favorite No Filter playing on Friday and the popular Gas House Gorillas will play on Saturday, the 17th. These are two can’t miss concerts! Please call the hotel at 941-637-6770 to get your VIP tickets for only $25. Please mark your calendars for our annual Halloween party on October 31st! There will be a $175 T.T.’s gift card and t-shirt given to the scariest, most original, and funniest costume. The Tiki Bar….the Place to Be!
Captain’s Table (Gold) – The Fall Wine Dinner is here!
TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – September brought record breaking real estate sales to Charlotte County, 649 residential sales up 40% over Sept 2019, $240,000 median sale price up 13%, 35% cash buyers, 49% conventional loans.
37% of the sales were under contract in 0-10 days
We have 2.5 months of inventory – 1322 active listings, 1053 properties in contract waiting to close. Want to know what your property could sell for? Call Della Booth, Broker TIME Realty Services. cell 239-699-4493. Your local Punta Gorda hometown Realtor for over 22 years.
Downtown Farmers Market (Gold) – The Saturday Punta Gorda farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 to 12.
Springhill Suites (Gold) – We are offering all 1st responders a discounted rate of $89 at the Springhill Suites Punta Gorda until 1/31/2021. We would be happy to help all first responders who may need a place to stay or are not comfortable going home at this time. If you would please make sure to pass this along to anyone who may need a clean and safe space to rest that would be wonderful. Book your corporate rate for First Responder Rate
iHeart Media (Gold in Kind) – Broadcasts Charlotte County High School Football. Under the circumstances the football stadiums can only accept 25% capacity for the games this year. As in past years iHeart Media will broadcast home games for both the Charlotte and Port Charlotte High Schools. These will be broadcast live on multiple stations this year, WKII 1070am, WCCF 1580am & FM 100.9 and on the iHeart Ap – with the ability to listen nationwide!. Call Teresa Desguin at 941-815-0324 or email teresadesguin@iheartmedia.com for more details on how your business can not only support our Local Teams, but be part of the most listened to local High School Football game broadcast!
Charlotte State Bank & Trust (Silver) – Vice President Christine Hause and Portfolio Manager Gregory Thomas are conducting a series of complimentary webinars from 10 to 11 a.m. starting Tuesday, Oct. 20, with “Avoiding Estate-Planning Mistakes, with Celebrity Examples,” followed by “Stocks, Bonds, and Exchange Traded Funds” on Wednesday and ”Family Administrating Your Estate Plan” on Thursday. For more information or to register for the webinar, visit www.charlottestatebank.com or contact Hause at 941-624-1917 or chause@csbtfl.com.
Creative Window Treatments (Silver) – Our shop is open to the public however masks are required in accordance with City of Punta Gorda Ordinance #1944-2020. Check out our current Hunter Douglas Promotion, Seasons of Style Savings Event that is going on now through December 7, 2020. Call us to learn more on how you can save on qualifying Hunter Douglas Products. We have 2 convenient locations to serve you. 941-637-0015 (Punta Gorda) /941-828-0000 (Englewood). http://www.mycreativewindow.com
Paradise Golf (Silver) – The new Paradise Golf Course 2021 Social Golf Membership.
The Purple House Salon by Shawn Gilstad (Silver) – Check out our newly updated website www.thepurplehousesalon.com. Shawn Gilstad, 941.830.4746 – Cell, 941.205.8603 – Salon
Charlotte Players (Bronze) – Tribute to Lynne Ziegler
Hessler Floor Covering (Support) – The Wonders of Waterproof Flooring
Illusions Salon & Spa (Support) – At Illusions salon & spa, wellness is infused with red-carpet style. From arrivals marked by a glass of champagne to spaces dedicated to your relaxation, we address your mind, body, and skin. We are now offering membership packages. The holidays are coming so treat yourself or someone special to a monthly spa package. (941) 505-5777 or www.illusionsofpg.com
Perfectly Polished Nail Boutique (Support) – We are supporting CARE for Domestic Violence Awareness month. Book by calling 941-889-8388 or online at PuntaGordaNails.com.
Visual Arts Center (Support) – Come and see “Falling for Art” on display until Nov 18 and “Portrait Studio” on display until Oct 29 – Exhibits are always free to view now open Tue-Thu until 7pm! Paint a Masterpiece LIVE on Zoom -Virtual Wine & Painting sessions begin Oct 14 with Marki Raposa. To sign up visit our website: www.VisualArtCenter.org. Located @ 210 Maud St, across from Fishermen’s Village. Gallery & Gift Store Hours: Mon & Fri: 9a-4p, Tue-Thu: 9a-7p, Sat: 10a-2p.
SPECIAL MEMBER’S ONLY PROMOTION
From our AAA Member. Punta Gorda Chamber Members please Click Here to get the flyer and information for a fundraising promotion through AAA. Any employee at the office can assist you (941) 627-1544, do not go online.
Member Information
Boys & Girls Clubs of Charlotte County – Day of Caring October 22, 2020
United Way of Charlotte County – Campaign Kickoff & Day of Caring October 22
Copperfish Books – Moving Sale Started. So much happening! We are open for safe shopping Mon – Sat 10 am – 4 pm. Face masks are required. You can also shop online at www.copperfishbooks.com . We offer contact-free pickup, free local delivery, and shipping services. (941) 205-2560. Celebrating Elena Ferrante – Tues Oct 20.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – Halloween is just around the corner! And so is our garden birthday! Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens are having a BOOO-day Party at the gardens! Oct 31, 2 pm- 6 pm. Come in costume and join the fun. Candy, games, scavenger hunts. Masks and social distancing required. Tickets: $8 for Non-members $6 for Garden Members, $5 for all children 2-12, FREE for infants under 2. Visit www.peacerivergardens.org for more information.
Jersey Mike’s Subs – known for its fresh sliced, grilled subs, is coming soon! The store is located at 1001 South Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda in the Cross Trails Plaza next to Starbucks. On November 11, Jersey Mike’s will hold a grand opening and free sub fundraiser supporting St Vincent de Paul. www.jerseymikes.com
Punta Gorda Chocolate & Wine – Every Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. We have an International Wine Tasting of Dry & Sweet Wines, Craft Beer, Meads, & Ciders. Cameo appearances of Fortified, Dessert, & Ice Wines. With your reservation, you will receive 20 minutes with Shop Owner Steph Herndon as your Tour Guide! Call 941-505-0479 or stop on Saturday to check availability. Cheers!
Don Gasgarth’s Charlotte County Ford – October Flyer
USA Dance #6126 – October Dances. Masks required.
Gulfshore Opera – GO Divas celebrating the art of singing.
Punta Gorda Symphony – Season Update – The Music Plays Outdoors!
Homeless Coalition – is proud to partner with Publix Super Market Charities to receive a grant of $20,000 to support our Hunger Prevention Program. Click Here for more information.
Rossini Trattoria Gastronomica – A New Season
Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Save up to $50
C.A.R.E. – Back by popular demand C.A.R.E Auxiliary presents the Wheelbarrow of Cheer. Tickets are $10.00 or 5 for $40.00. Available for purchase at
- Bank of OZK (three locations)
- Laishley Crab House
- Perfectly Polished Nail Boutique
Drawing November 20th. Follow us on social media! @carecharlottecounty for additional locations on tickets!
Fishermen’s Village – October Calendar. November Calendar. Festival of Lights.
Grand Ole Opry Punta Gorda – The Opry Resurgence!
Mark Martella, Esq. of Icard Merrill – Each day is a gift, and we can never predict what the future holds. Have you taken the steps to protect you and your family if something unexpected happens to you or your spouse? To get answers to all your estate planning questions and learn how to protect your family, contact Mark Martella, Esq. of Icard Merrill at 941-206-3700 or mmartella@icardmerrill.com to schedule a complimentary one hour, no obligation consultation, and learn how to be prepared for the unexpected.
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – is seeking great volunteers to help build homes and work in our ReSale Stores! Please call Jill at (941) 639-3162.
Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.
Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home and Cremation Services – Artist Gina Battle. Wine & Cheese Reception.
Team Punta Gorda – Drive-Thru Food Drive. TEAM Builds! We need help.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Almost Abba. Annual Fall Garden Festival.
Welcome Home Vietnam Vets 2020 – Schedule of Events Nov 16 to Nov 20, 2020. Celebration November 21, 2020.
Guardian ad Litem Foundation – Virtual Voices of Hope Gala
Mullet Fest – Our very own Eddie Amara (Creative Window Treatments) will be one of the judges at the Mullet Fest 2020.
Tidewell Foundation – Virtual Turkey Trot
Military Heritage Museum – 2020-21 season kick-off event, Car Show on Saturday October 31.
Homeless Coalition of Charlotte County – The 9th Annual “Driving Out Hunger” Fall Golf Scramble event will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at the Riverwood Golf Club located at 4100 Riverwood Drive in Port Charlotte. This event is a four-person mixed flight. There will be a continental breakfast and southern-style barbeque lunch. The cost is $95. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and shotgun is at 8:30 a.m. Please contact Darcy Woods at (941)627-4313, Ext. 134 or email Darcy.Woods@cchomelesscoalition.org to reserve a spot. Your support assists the Homeless Coalition in continuing to drive out hunger in our community.
Charlotte County Concert Band – is a wind ensemble, under the direction of Robert Miller, that presents a six-concert season each year at the Charlotte Performing Arts Center on Carmalita Street. The Concert Band also provides three scholarships to music students at all three Charlotte County high schools. Although this concert season is still uncertain, a small band will entertain holiday shoppers at the Punta Gorda Farmer’s Market on two Saturdays, December 5 and December 12 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Stop by and sing along.
Senior Friendship Centers – Yard Sale! | Sponsorship info | Cocktails for a Cause.
Military Heritage Museum – Gulf Theater is proud to present Emanne Beasha on December 12 at 7pm. For more information and to remind you of her outstanding talent and accomplishments click here. Tickets:https://ci.ovationtix.com/35397
Gulfshore Opera – Gala Announcement
Applause
Farr Law Firm
Dorothy L. Korszen, a director at Farr Law Firm, will serve as chair of the State College of Florida Foundation for the 2021 fiscal year. The State College of Florida Foundation connects donors’ passions and regional partners with State College of Florida’s outstanding students, faculty, programs and community.
Korszen has been with Farr Law Firm since 2003 and became a partner in 2007. She focuses her practice on Trusts and Estates, Business and Corporate and Real Estate in the Venice and Punta Gorda offices. Korszen has served on the SCF Foundation board since 2011 and says, “It is exciting how SCF and our Foundation are responding to the COVID-19 challenges. We will present our 2020 Scholarship Luncheon- virtually- On November 10th with a keynote speaker, Erin Gruwell, from California! I hope you can join us.”
Charlotte State Bank & Trust
Bryan Pennybacker, CPA, who has more than 40 years of experience in upper-level accounting and finance, is celebrating his 15th year working with financial institutions for the Crews Banking Corp. He is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Charlotte State Bank & Trust, Chief Financial Officer at Englewood Bank & Trust, and Director of Accounting at Crews Bank & Trust. Originally from West Virginia, Bryan started his career in 1980 after earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree at West Virginia University. He served in management positions for firms in West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky prior to joining Charlotte State Bank & Trust. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Global Management Accountant.
Newsletters
ARCHway Institute – Oct Virtual Education & Awareness
Charlotte Arts – Newsletter
Charlotte Community Foundation – End of Year Cheer
Drug Free Charlotte County – News to Know
FGCU – Continuing Education
FGCU Renaissance Academy Punta Gorda – Webinars, On Demand, and Face-to-Face!
FGCU Renaissance Academy Fort Myers – Something New for You!
Gregg’s Automotive – October 2020
Hope4Communities – Newsletter
Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society – Newsletter
StandStar Remodeling & Interior Design – Newsletter
TIME Realty Services Inc – Newsletter
United Way of Charlotte County – Newsletter, We’re Fine.
Valerie’s House – Sep/Oct Newsletter
Virginia B Andes Volunteer Community Clinic – Sep/Oct Newsletter
Yoga Sanctuary – October Newsletter
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.