Friday Facts for April 9, 2021

Friday Facts!

Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends,

Here are your Friday Facts.

Community & Members

From John Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. Here is a copy of John’s Column printed in the newspaper on April 6.

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.

From the Office of Congressman Greg Steube. Update from Ranking Member Blaine Luetkemeyer: New COVID-19 Relief Resources for Small Business Constituents.

Community

THIS WEEKEND The Pirates are back! Pirates in Paradise Fun for all the Family on April 10 – 1pm to 6.30pm on the Great Lawn at Four Points by Sheraton. Tables FULL, but Rum Tasting Tickets $20 still available from Chamber Office, call (941) 639-3720.

From CCSO. In the past week we have had the following crimes reported: Ford F150 (spare key fob left inside along with victims tools) stolen from Englewood/ 776 area. A complete well system from home under construction – Area of Cochran Blvd & Veterans Blvd.

Well Equipment – Veterans Blvd & Torrington St. 20 interior doors taken from a home under construction – Westport community. 2 – Catalytic Converters removed off Ford F-350’s – Punta Gorda, Taylor Rd. Several power tools left at a home under remodel – Peachland/Veterans. Yamaha 150 4-stroke outboard motor (removed from a vessel at a storage facility) Washington Loop Rd PG. A dark green Aura BMX style bike left next to a bridge while the owner was fishing. Remember to ALWAYS secure / remove your valuables, never leave extra keys or key fobs in your vehicle & LOCK YOUR DOORS! If you see something suspicious, say something! Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency number is 941-639-0013. We offer no cost construction site no trespassing signs. Call the Crime Prevention office at 941-613-3227.

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 begins.

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.

For Our Members.

Restaurant owners need to act now! Google made an update and won’t show your restaurant in the local search results anymore if your rating is below four stars and if someone was searching for “best restaurant near me,” the search term “best” automatically selects all results with 4.0+ ratings. You can imagine a customer likely won’t select anything below. Maybe even go up to 4.5 in the now newly available filter.

Why am I telling you this? With our agency, we are helping our clients getting more five-star reviews for years with great success. If you are a restaurant owner and still haven’t decided yet, now it’s about time! Getting more 5 Star Reviews helps you bury those negative ones by simply outnumbering them and increasing your rating. Combined with our #SocialWifi solution, we make it easy for restaurant and bar businesses to capture guest information and automatically invite them to write a review for you. Learn more: https://reputation.smargasy.agency/ Btw: It applies to pretty much every business which relies on having an excellent online reputation.

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.

New Member or Need A Refresher Course? NEXT WEEK We’ve Got You Covered! Did you know that as a new member of the Chamber you have many perks at your fingertips? Let us help you navigate through some of the perks while you meet other new members at the same time! Sign up for one of our new member classes where we’ll walk you through things such as: Sharing information about your business and the services you provide on the chamber website. Posting business events. Posting hot deals. Looking for employees? Post opportunities! We’ll also share ways to market your business such as opportunities within the chamber walls, newsletters, and networking events. We’re offering two classes in April: Thursday, April 15 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm, or Wednesday, April 21 from 3:00 – 4:00 pm. Both will be held at The Punta Gorda Chamber office located at 252 W. Marion Ave. Reserve your seat by calling the office at 941-639-3720 Monday thru Friday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Seating is limited so we can adhere to COVID safety guidelines. Hope to see you soon!


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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 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 14: Business Over Breakfast 7:15 – 8:30 am. Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber Sponsored by ClenzOzone at Burg’r Bar, 317 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda.

April 20: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm. Come and join your Chamber for our Business after Hours hosted by Granny Nannies, 2616 Tamiami Trail, Unit 1, Port Charlotte, 33952. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business!

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.

We are in need of a host for the August Business Over Breakfast networking event. If you are able to do this please let us know as soon as possible (941) 639-3720 or reception@puntagorda-chamber.com


Ribbon Cutting in March

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.


All the Following Information is for Our Community.

Please Support Our Local Businesses!


Partners in Action News

Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum) –  Please join us T.T.’s Tiki Bar on Saturday, April 10th for the first annual Pirates in Paradise! The fun starts at 12:30 PM and the admission is free. If you choose to take part in the rum tasting, tickets are $20. Come dressed up and enjoy cocktails and music that will be live all day! Come back on Sunday for a live concert of the Symphony on the Harbor! There are three show times to choose from. Lastly, please click to see when all your favorite bands are playing. The Tiki Bar…the Place to Be!

Sun Newspapers (Platinum Media) – 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) – Heart Emergencies Require Timely Care.

TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – Whether buying a legacy family vacation home or pursuing a real estate investment, The Residences at Secret Bay is the ultimate offering for those seeking an astute Caribbean real estate opportunity in an up-and-coming destination. Featuring generous floor plans and expansive lot sizes, each villa is thoughtfully sited within its own secluded enclave. Intrinsic to the original vision for Secret Bay, The Residences at Secret Bay presents an unrivaled opportunity to make part of the acclaimed boutique hotel your permanent slice of paradise and obtain a 2nd citizenship in the Caribbean. https://bit.ly/3u8MfBu Contact TIME Realty Services 239-699-4493 and put our 23 years experience to work for you. We are your hometown Realtors!

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 ‘Hybrid’ Seminars/Webinars continue in April.

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

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Bronze) – We’re excited to announce registration for our Run for Consent 2021 virtual 5K event is now open!

Gulfshore Opera (Bronze) – Divas & Dinner at Carmelo’s on April 18, 2021.

Animal Welfare League (Support) – 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 coming up next month?

Gator Wilderness Camp School (Support) – Trail Run April 24, starting at 8am. 4th Annual 5K/10K/15K Trail Run. Sponsorship Available.

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

Valerie’s House – THIS SATURDAY Fort Myers will be having a Spring Open House on Saturday, April 10th (9am-1pm). We are located at 1762 Fowler Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901. Please contact Christine Carey (239-841-0382 or Christine@valerieshouse.org) if you are interested in attending.

Punta Gorda Symphony – THIS SUNDAY Harborside Brass Tickets Available. April 11. Behind the Notes!

Loveland Center – THIS SUNDAY Come run with us at the beautiful Florida Southwestern State College Charlotte Campus on April 11th, 2021. All proceeds will benefit Loveland Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, that provides support services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in Charlotte County. Loveland offers the opportunity for individuals with I/DD to be seen as equals in their community through the acquisition of independent life skills and visibility in their community. They deserve “Equality through Opportunity” to reach personal goals, just like you and me! Sign up by March 23rd, 2021 and receive a FREE race t-shirt! Space is limited, so sign up early and help support the children and adults we serve at Loveland Center Charlotte County!  https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/PuntaGorda/LovelandCenterIncAbility5KRunFamilyWalk Calling all volunteers! Loveland Center is looking for volunteers for our April 11th race! Volunteer shifts will be from 5:45 AM until 8:30 AM, 7:30AM until 10AM, and 9:30 AM until 11:30 AM. Please contact Becca at events@lovelandcenter.org if you are interested in volunteering! Volunteers get a FREE SHIRT.

Drug Free Punta Gorda – NEXT WEEK LIVE! Meeting, Tuesday April 13, 2021 – 11.30am – 1pm at Nino’s.

Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home & Cremation Services – NEXT WEEK Wine & cheese Reception for Art Exhibit, April 15, 5pm-7pm.

Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – It’s Lunch Time in Down Town Punta Gorda! Did you know that we have fresh pressed Panini’s? With a variety of combinations from Roasted Turkey and Brie, Prosciutto and Dorothea, Roasted Veggies, and more!

Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – Our Five-Year Anniversary Celebration was a great success, thank you to everyone who supported us and came out. With amazing music from Devin Starr paired with lovely boutique wines and international gourmet cheeses, it was a blast.

The Firm 360 Photography – The Firm 360° Photography asks: Have you ever driven past a business and wondered what it looks like inside? With a 3D Virtual Walking Tour it is now possible to see the “inside view” right from your phone or computer. We create this for your business and enhance your online Google listing as well. Why? Because the more exposure you have, the more clients you get. Contact us today for details at 941-347-8198 and visit our website for examples. www.thefirm360.com/portfolio

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Donate without Dollars!

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.

Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Enjoy 15% off

Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.

Sea Grape Gallery – Announces Three Guest Artists for April 2021.

Tender Touch Hair Removal – Electrolysis by Brenda Hughes. Offering permanent hair removal with incredible results. Safer, easier and more comfortable than ever before. The ideal alternative for both men and women. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, face/upper lip, bikini line, underarms and legs. Call Today for your FREE Consultation. (941) 916-5693.

Rossman Realty Property Management – manages annual, seasonal, and commercial accounts, we are looking to connect with Commercial Real Estate companies. We offer top dollar referrals to Real Estate agents for investor accounts. Commercial Investor accounts- Negotiable referral fees. Investor Accounts for Annual- $500. Investor Accounts for Seasonal- $200. Email Corey Meldahl @ corey@rossmanrealty.com or call 239-333-7357.

Covenant Business Planning & Solutions – Business Survival Guide. WHY ARE YOU IN BUSINESS? CHALLENGES: There Are Only Two Reasons Why You’re in Business For Yourself. The first is autonomy. Be you own boss, creating something, leave a legacy.

The second is building wealth. A retirement asset, pass it onto the family, give back to the community. SOLUTIONS: Check out our resources page at: www.Covenant-Business.com Remember, we help business owners sleep better at night!

Fishermen’s Village – April Events Calendar. Suncoast Living Expo on April 20. Hook Kids on Fishing, April 20.

TEAM Punta Gorda – Drive-Thru Food Drive for St. Vincent de Paul Pantry, Friday April 16.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Jeff Feldstein Performing April 16.

Vision Quest Business Builders – Want to know more about our upcoming Masterclass? It’s called Powerful, Proven Behaviors to Accelerate Business Success. It’s scheduled for April 21st at 3pm. And…it’s FREE, too!

Charlotte County Historical Center Society – The 16th Annual Hibiscus Festival April 30 – May 2.

Charlotte Behavioral Health Care – Upcoming Mental Health Walk on May 1, 2021. Bee Heard.

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.

Suncoast Humane Society – Virtual Walk May 22, Tails On Trails.

Punta Gorda Rotary Club – Healing Field of Honor, May 28-31. Click Here for Details. Flyer.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates – Summer Camp Scholarships.


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

Sandstar Remodeling – March Newsletter

The Yoga Sanctuary – What is your why?


Community News

Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership (CHNEP) 2021 Southwest Florida Climate Summit


Calling all SkyDivers

9/11 Memorial, Flyers in the Air.


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.

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New Executive Director Position

We are excited to announce our search for a new Executive Director of Punta Gorda Chamber!