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 March 30
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If you wish to attend any of these events next week, call us as soon as possible at (941) 639-3720 during normal hours Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Tickets are NOT available online. [/box]
April 6, 2021 4pm-7pm – Mindi’s husband Eric will kick off with a 150 capacity wine tasting at the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens (outside), located at 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda. This will be followed by an hour set including some of Mindi’s latest releases accompanied by Ron Reinhart on keyboards. You will be seated outdoors at a four top table, and will be able to enjoy a charcuterie plate as part of your ticket price. As the gardens are open till 3pm that day, we ask attendees to arrive not earlier than 3.45pm. Come dressed casually to enjoy at elegant early evening with Mindi and Eric (both). Tickets are $75 per person, which includes your wine tasting samples, charcuterie platter, water and the entertainment. Wine by the glass will be available after the tasting for donation (not Eric’s wines though!).
April 8, 2021 7pm – end. Dine at The Grill at 1951, 1951 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Three course dinner, including sodas, water and coffee will be $100 per person (cash bar for alcoholic drinks). Mindi and Ron will entertain you with music and stories about the making of her latest album. Eric will be on hand to splash wines and introduce you to their wine club. Food options will be offer at time of purchase. Capacity 100.
Hope to see you there!
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.
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!
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.
Closures of City Streets and Property.
Update from Ranking Member Blaine Luetkemeyer: New COVID-19 Relief Resources for Small Business Constituents.
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
NEXT WEEK The Centennial Student Art Contest awards ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 8, 2021 at the Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33953 (formerly O’Donnell Boulevard).
Admission is free. The public is invited to attend. For information, contact Brian Gleason at 941-661-6415 or Brian.Gleason@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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.
Prevent Vehicle Thefts and Burglaries – Many areas in Southwest Florida (including Punta Gorda) have seen an increase in vehicle burglaries and thefts from juvenile gangs out of the St. Petersburg/Bradenton area. These gangs come in small groups in the middle of the night searching for unlocked vehicle doors and vehicles with keys left inside. Recent investigations have shown that these gangs have been searching on their phones for “safest neighborhoods nearby” as these areas are most likely to have unlocked vehicles. While being one of the safest cities is a great thing, it attracts these types of property crimes. Please remember to remove valuables and lock your vehicle at night! Never leave your vehicle keys or key fobs inside the vehicle! Calls for Service Week Ending March 27 – for your information.
TOMORROW SATURDAY April 3, 2021, 8am to 12noon at 1133 Bal Harbor Blvd (Bal Harbor Plaza).
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.
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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]
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 soonest (941) 639-3720 or reception@puntagorda-chamber.com
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.
Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum) – The Dockside Grill at the Four Points by Sheraton is still taking reservations for Easter Sunday Dinner! Please call 941-637-6770 to make your reservation and please see the attached for all of the menu details! Also, please click to see when your favorite bands play at T.T.’s Tiki Bar throughout April! Meet me at T.T.’s!
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) – 1000th Robot-Guided Orthopedic Surgery Performed at Bayfront Health Port Charlotte.
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
Friendly Floors (Silver) – Friendly Floors Fundraiser Brings in Nearly $30,000 for the Fred Lang Foundation. A message from Charlotte Behavioral Health Care.
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!
Charlotte Players (Bronze) – Late Nite Catechism returns with Denise Fennell in Sister’s Easter Catechism. Celebrate the Easter season with Sister as she answers time-worn questions like “Why isn’t Easter the same day every year?” and “Will my bunny go to heaven?” One-Night-Only Show on March 26th at 7:30pm. Located at The Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center, 75 Taylor Street in Punta Gorda. Tickets are $37 and $42 and may ordered from the Box Office at 941-255-1022 or online at www.charlotteplayers.org.
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.
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.
1st United Methodist Church – THIS SUNDAY Hosts a Festive Easter Celebration, Sunday April 4, 2021. There will be a Sunrise Service at 6:30 am, 8:00 and 9:15am services at Gilchrist Park and a traditional service at 11:00 on the church campus. Following the family service at 9:15am (featuring a children’s moment to learn all about the resurrection eggs), from 10:00am to noon at Gilchrist Park, guests will be able to pose with the Easter bunny and a giant cross with lilies. In addition, there will be a free petting zoo, craft table and free DIY Easter egg hunt kits will be given to each family to take home. According to Pastor Loomis, “Anytime we can celebrate God’s victory over the grave, we are ready! We look forward to giving our community the opportunity to worship safely, as well as festively.”
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – THIS WEEKEND Open for Easter.
Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – NEXT WEEK Join us on April 5, 4-7pm as we celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary! Enjoy live music, great wine (of course!) and fabulous charcuteries. Social distancing will be practiced and masks will be required.
Copperfish Books – NEXT WEEK Virtual Event April 6 – A Talk About Florida & Southern History. Presents the April Indie List.
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
Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Celebrate spring, up to $20 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.
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!
Punta Gorda Symphony – Double Your Impact: New $10k Matching Gift
Fishermen’s Village – April Events Calendar. Suncoast Living Expo on April 20. Hook Kids on Fishing, April 20.
Friendship Centers – Will you become a GEM today?
Expedia Cruises Air, Land & Sea Vacations – Hosted Theme Cruises 70’s Soul Train Rock and Romance, County Music Stars and more.
PattiVanTonder.com – The Collagen Elixir.
Valerie’s House – 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 – Harborside Brass Tickets Available. April 11.
Loveland Center – 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 – LIVE! Meeting, Tuesday April 13, 2021 – 11.30am – 1pm at Nino’s.
Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home & Cremation Services – Wine & cheese Reception for Art Exhibit, April 15, 5pm-7pm.
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.
Charlotte County Historical Center Society – The 16th Annual Hibiscus Festival April 30 – May 2.
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.
From Kim Amontree, Charlotte County School Board.
I am sharing some good news from our school district. We are pleased to announce that we were named the District of the Year by Cambridge International. The Cambridge Assessment Program was formed by the University of Cambridge in 1858. Students who earn the Advanced International Certificate of Education from Cambridge and have 100 community service hours will automatically receive the Bright Futures Academic Scholars Award. The Academic Scholars Award grants 100% of tuition and fees at a Florida University to students.
Knowledge, understanding and higher order thinking skills
Cambridge programms combine an emphasis on mastering subjects in depth with the development skills for study and work in the future. We value deep subject knowledge as well as the conceptual understanding that helps students make links between different aspects of a subject. We also encourage students to develop higher order thinking skills – problem solving, critical thinking, independent research, collaboration and presenting arguments. These are transferable skills that will last a lifetime, preparing students for their future lives. They also make learning enjoyable and rewarding.
ARCHway Institute – Regional 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?
Autism Awareness THIS WEEKEND
Easter Egg Hunt on April 3 at Sandlot, Punta Gorda.
Calling all SkyDivers 9/11 Memorial, Flyers in the Air.
For employment news, openings and opportunities, check out our Employment Opportunities Bulletin
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.
Bristol Private Wealth Management of Raymond James
D&D Custom Cabinets
Frank Desguin Family
Kingdom Center for H.O.P.E
Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens
Punta Gorda Isles
Civic Association
Valerie’s House
252 W Marion Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 639-3720
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday: 9am to 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
© 2023, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.
