Friday Facts for July 30, 2021

Friday Facts!

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ hover_enabled=”0″ da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” sticky_enabled=”0″ da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.10″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.10″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends, Here are your Friday Facts.

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 July 27.


For Our Members Only

PG Chamber radio show: Exclusively for PG Chamber members: NOW BOOKING FOR SEPTEMBER 2021.

We are very pleased to announce that our monthly radio show on Seaview 104.9FM has returned 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 programming 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 Roger D. Eaton, Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Controller, Charlotte County: Here at the Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller, we’re ready to connect and share exciting news with you! That’s exactly why you’ll find us on your favorite social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s South District: The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s South District Office invites you to join us for a discussion on estuaries and watersheds of Southwest Florida on Wednesday, August 4th at 1:30pm. Click here for more details.

Want to cheer on our fellow Americans at the Olympic Games? Click here to see the Summer Olympics schedule.


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.


JOB FAIR: Looking for Qualified Employees?

The Chamber, in partnership with CareerSource Southwest Florida, will be hosting a job fair at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center on Tuesday, August 31st from 3-7pm. It’s just $50 for chamber members and $100 for non-members to participate. Please contact Tara at 941-639-3720 or tzajas@puntagorda-chamber.com for more details or to register. Space is limited so please don’t delay!

Also, don’t forget to send Tara your weekly job listings to be included in our Tuesday employment email. Open positions are being filled! If you’re looking for a job, the listings can also be found on the Chamber website HERE.


A Night Of Swing! Make A Difference…While Having Fun!

Suncoast Swing Band with Zarita Mattox – MUSIC TO RAISE THE ROOF! Benefitting Valerie’s House & Dream Chasers and Dream Makers Girls Mentoring Program
Saturday, October 16th at Gulf Theater at The Military Heritage Museum, Doors open at 6pm – Music at 7pm, Intermission by Punta Gorda’s own Calendar Girls. Tickets and more details can be found HERE!


Chamber Calendar of Events – Members ONLY

Networking Events for August 2021

August 11: Business Over Breakfast 7:15 am – 8:30 am
Wake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home, hosted by Gator Wilderness Camp School for Business over Breakfast! Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home is located at 9400 Indian Springs Cemetery, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.

August 17: Business After Hours 5:30 pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Helgemo Team at Compass. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business! Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.

August 25: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon – 1:30 pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Laishley Crab House located 150 Laishley Ct.. Reservations Required. Guest Speaker: Dave Gammon, Charlotte County Economic Development Director. 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.

ONLINE RESERVATIONS FOR CHAMBER LUNCHEONS ARE ONCE AGAIN AVAILABLE BY CLICKING HERE


All the Following Information is for Our Community. Please Support Our Local Businesses

Partners in Action News

Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum) – Lobster Pots are back! Please join us on Fridays at the Dockside Grill located inside the Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside. We will offer the full lobster with all the trimmings for only $21.95. Come back on Saturday for our Prime Rib special that you won’t want to miss! After dinner, head on down to dance the night away with one of our great bands. This Friday, we have Twinkle taking the stage at 7 pm. On Saturday, we have Strait Jacket Smile from 7-11 pm. The Tiki Bar…..The Place To Be!

TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – Let’s talk about 2021 Q2 statistics! Charlotte county saw 2347 residential sales up 73%. *Cash sales were 50%(1173), *1422(61%) were under contract in 0-10 days on the market. The median price is $281K up 22%. How can I be of assistance to you? Put my 23 years of local experience to work – Let’s Sell Something Della Booth, 239-699-4493 TIME Realty Services

Downtown Farmers Market (Gold) – The Saturday Punta Gorda Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8am to Noon. Latest Newsletter.

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

Charlotte Players (Bronze) – Charlotte Players are back with a full season for 2021-2022!

Military Heritage Museum (Bronze In Kind) – September 30th: 2021 Distinguished Civilian Award Dinner Featuring Flavors of Punta Gorda

November 13th: Salute to Veterans Golf Scramble at St. Andrew’s South Golf Club

Frank Desguin Family (Support) – Copy of Frank’s Column in the newspaper. Did you know that in only about a fifty-year period, beginning in the late 1870’s, over twenty post offices were established within today’s Charlotte County?


Member Information

Valerie’s House – Valerie’s House has two amazing fundraising events coming up. A Night of Swing!! Suncoast Swing Band with Zarita Mattox benefitting Valerie’s House & Dream Chasers and Dream Makers Girls Mentoring Program. This event will be October 16th at 6pm. Purchase tickets at www.militaryheritagemuseum.org
We also have a Bingo Fundraising event benefitting Valerie’s House on September 25th 6-9pm at the Charlotte Memorial Reception Center. Purchase tickets at https://valerieshouseswfl.networkforgood.com/events/32740-bingo-for-valerie-s-house

Divine Global Recovery – Divine Global Recovery and Neice Restoration now have a weekly radio show called “Come Together” hosted by Pete and Shannon O’Shea and it airs on WKDW 97.5 FM on Sundays at 7 PM and Tuesdays at 7:30 PM. Listen live as well at www.kdwradio.com. We bring business leaders and non profit leaders “together” to discuss why they love what they do. We showcase community pride, unity and hopefulness. We find solutions and support each other. We come together. We are always looking for good guests for the show. We have already had Christine Carey of Valerie’s House, Della Booth, Jeff Frankhauser and Marie LaBrosse as very inspirational guests and upcoming exciting guests include The Loveland Center, Habitat for Humanity and the chamber’s own John Wright. We tape the show each week on Thursdays at noon at the WKDW studios at 12737 Tamiami Trail North Port. We can also do remotes for special events. For more information on being a guest or to donate your time, talent or treasure to help victims of natural disasters, please call (844) 99 – DIVINE.

Bayfront Health – Bayfront Health Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda is looking for volunteers that are compassionate and caring and are willing to commit 4 hours per week for at least a 6 month time period with a minimum of 60 hours.
Our volunteers graciously donate their time and energy assisting our patients and staff. Depending on your interests and the needs of the facility, you may volunteer in areas that provide you with patient interaction, like the emergency room and information desk, or in areas like the business office, human resources and the education department. You will have the opportunity to volunteer at any of our facilities: Bayfront Health Port Charlotte or Bayfront Health Punta Gorda. Prospective volunteers are interviewed for placement, attend an orientation session and receive required training.
Apply online at https://www.bayfrontcharlotte.com/volunteer-opportunities. For more information please email heather.rozelle@bayfronthealth.com.

Charlotte Harbor Dragons – Are you looking for a fun way to alleviate some of that stress? Well, I have just the thing for you. The Charlotte Harbor Dragons, a competitive dragon boat club is now accepting new members. It is a great way to clear your mind, have some fun and get some great exercise. We have paddlers from their 30’s to their 70’s, so all are welcome to try. If interested, please contact Eddie Amara at eamara1@comcast.net or 941-740-1286 for more information. You can also check us out at www.charlotteharbordragons.com.

Copperfish Books – Sea Turtles Everywhere! A talk, touch, and craft event for children! Monday, August 2nd 4-5 PM
Jason Vuic, In-person book talk Friday, August 6th.

Suncoast Humane Society – National Feed a Rescue Pet Week! Help feed their bellies.

Senior Friendship Centers – In the midst of the summer, heat and humidity have risen. You know what a blazing Florida summer feels like. But for seniors here in Southwest Florida it can be especially hard.

Charlotte County Homeless Coalition – Charlotte Idol is back! Auditions will be Friday, August 13th at 6:00 p.m. and will be streamed at www.facebook.com/CharlotteCountyHomelessCoalition  40 singers will compete to have a chance to win cash prizes. Give back by dining and watching auditions at Beef O’Brady’s located at 1105 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda that evening. Will you be the next Charlotte Idol? Register by emailing CharlotteIdolHC@gmail.com. Singers must be 16 years old and a $20 registration fee. Finals will be at Kingsgate on August 28th!  For sponsorships call Darcy Woods at (941) 627-4313, Ext. 134.

Charlotte County Historical Center Society – 20th Annual Authentic Live Maine Lobster Bake Saturday, September 25th. Details here!

Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – Teachers are BACK TO SCHOOL next week! This is going to be a great school year for all students and teachers. We would like to share that we give a 15 Percent Discount to ALL Teachers. Come in and get some coffee, tea, beans, panini’s, or even our Black Gold To Go Carafes. Bring your favorite co-workers some amazing bold coffee or tea to start their morning.

Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – August is filled with exciting updates and holidays including National White Wine Day, IPA Day, International Beer Day, Prosecco Day, and more! Follow us on Facebook at Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine to keep informed with all the exciting news and updates we will be introducing for this month.

Loveland Center – Loveland Center is proud to partner with Perfectly Polished Nails – during the month of August, for anyone who gets their nails painted Maroon, Perfectly Polished will donate $5 to Loveland. Perfectly Polished will also be collecting hurricane supplies to make emergency kits for Loveland Participants. Divine Global Recovery will be helping Loveland Participants to assemble the kits and learn how to use the items in an emergency.

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens – Are you looking for something besides screen time for your child to do? Come on out to Peace River Gardens! Thanks to a generous grant from the Punta Gorda Rotary Club, we have filled explorer backpacks with everything a child needs to enjoy a day of nature and art at The Gardens. They are perfect for ages 3-13. Check one out in the admissions booth and upon the return at checkout, your child will receive a gift to take home!

Calenda Real Estate Group – Waiting for the housing bubble to burst? You’ll be waiting for a while! Find out why in this latest market update video.

Punta Gorda Airport – Punta Gorda Airport is seeking proposals for a full-service public restaurant, bar and caterer at the Punta Gorda Airport General Aviation Center (GAC). It will be located in the area currently under development off Challenger Boulevard. This is an exciting opportunity for a restauranteur looking to build out 2,500 square feet and capitalize on amazing runway-front event space and private flight catering! Bids are due July 30. Request the RFP at www.flypgd.com/bids-proposals-qualifications/

New Bar Coming Soon, Destination Options & More!

Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Summer Savings! $10 or $20 off orders.

Fisherman’s Village – August calendar of events.

Punta Gorda Symphony – 21/22 Season! Save the dates. Punta Gorda Symphony returns to the stage at Florida SouthWestern State College Charlotte Campus this August with a set of new indoor chamber music concerts.

Gulfshore Opera – Season 8 Social Events! ** A Night in Italy on Tour March 31 – April 5, 2022

Covenant Business Planning & Solutions – Step 3 –Decrease Wealth Gap By: Jeffrey Frankhouser, CEPA, MRFC, CEP How much money would you need to live comfortably if you exited your business tomorrow? If you sold your business tomorrow, do you know how much money is it worth? The difference is called the Wealth Gap. Continue reading: https://covenant-business.com/steps-before-you…-your-business-3/  Our client objectives include: INCREASING YOUR INCOME, DECREASING YOUR TAXES, IMPROVING YOUR NET WORTH.  Remember, we help business owners sleep better at night! Next week: Step 4 – Research Exit Options

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – We’re looking for VOLUNTEERS for our construction sites and ReSale Stores. This is an amazing opportunity for you and your staff to get out into the community and give back and collaborate together with a team-building activity. See how more details HERE.

Drug Free Punta Gorda – Coalition Meeting August 17th 11:30am at Hurricane Charley’s. Join Us!

Englewood Beach Waterfest – Englewood Beach Waterfest is back, and this year’s event promises to be one for the record books! The Englewood Beach Waterfest (EBW) Board of Directors is excited to announce that North Myrtle Beach (NMB) RV Resort and Dry Dock Marina will be the 2021 Keystone Sponsor of the event scheduled for November 18-21, 2021 in Englewood, Florida.

Florida Skin Center – Florida Skin Center (FSC), skin care specialists that provide a full range of medical and cosmetic dermatological care, announced that it is now offering Coolsculpting. CoolSculpting is a Food and Drug Administration-cleared, non-invasive procedure that targets areas of fat, reducing them through advanced cooling technology.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates – National Honey Bee Day Celebration and Plant Sale at Edison and Ford Winter Estates on August 21st.

Florida International Air Show – The 2021 FIAS Performer Lineup is Finalized for October 16th and 17th!

Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic – TENNIS TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER – ‘Tis the Season Vivante Tennis Tournament – Benefiting Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic, will be held Friday to Sunday, November 19th- 21st, 2021, at the Vivante Tennis Center, Punta Gorda FL. The 3rd Annual Tournament will include 2 days of play for tennis player levels 6, 7, 8 & Open. The tournament kicks off on Friday night with a Sponsor/Player Party. SPONSORSHIPS with benefits now available at www.VivanteTennisTournament.com. Contact Barb Robinson, at 941-628-3664.

It’s a M*A*S*H Party & FUN*draiser!! – The Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic hosts its Annual Appeal Kick-off Party on Fri, OCT 8, 2021, 6-10 PM * Special Guest “Pvt. Igor Straminsky” (TV series Chef) Jeff Maxwell * Emcee: Stacey Deffenbaugh * MASH Costume Contest * Games * Food * Cash Bar * Holy Trinity Banquet Hall (Port Charlotte). $75 /pp. RSVP by Sept. 30, 2021. Get tickets online https://volunteercare.org/mash OR Call/Email Karen: 941-276-4075 – kamador@volunteercare.org

C.A.R.E. – C.A.R.E. Auxiliary presents Round II of their annual Dart Tournament on Sunday August 22nd at 4:00pm located at the Ice House Pub in Punta Gorda. Who will be crowned champion? Will it be you? Join us for your chance to win!

Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.


Community News

Ave Maria University Hosting Career Expo
Career Services at Ave Maria University is hosting a Business Career Expo on Tuesday, September 28 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Online registration takes place through Handshake. Please post the attached flyer on your member eblast.


Newsletters

ARCHway Institute – July Newsletter

Animal Welfare League – July Pawsitive News

Charlotte Community Foundation – The Connection

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter

Five Star Realty – July SandStar Insider

Loveland Center – Exciting Updates

The Yoga Sanctuary – July


Link To Us

We have had a lot of requests for a Facebook-sized link to our web page from member websites. Click Here to find the logo, and several other different-sized logos, so that you can link your website to ours.


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 tzajas@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Crop Image

New Executive Director Position

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