From John Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. Here is a copy of John’s Column printed in the newspaper on July 13 .
PG Chamber radio show:
Exclusively for PG Chamber members: NOW BOOKING FOR AUGUST 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.
The PG Beat is back!
If you are interested in having your flyer included in the August edition, please contact Janet asap at 941-639-3720 or via email at reception@puntagorda-chamber.com. All materials must by 8.5″ x 11″ and are due to the chamber office no later than July 23rd.
Interested in assisting in to stuffing the newsletter on July 30th at 9am? Please give us a call!!
Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office
Family emergency scams – “Don’t send them money!” June 17, 2021 by Lisa Lake Consumer Education Specialist, FTC
Instead of telling you a ghost story around a summer campfire, we have an all-too familiar tale to share: Myra’s grandson, Jon, is in Mexico for the summer. They video chat every week. One day, Myra gets a call from someone who says he’s Max, a friend of Jon’s: “He was arrested last night and needs $500 for bail.” Max says the police took Jon’s passport, so he’ll need another $700 to get it back. He says not to tell Jon’s parents or anyone else because Jon is embarrassed.
Myra is scared at first — but she’s heard a thing or two that makes her suspicious. So she thanks “Max” for his concern, hangs up, and calls Jon right away. Jon, it turns out, is on his way to class, not in jail. And “Max” is nothing but a scammer.
Family emergency scams like this try to scare people into sending money to help a loved one in trouble. The fraud can play out in many ways, but the hustle is the same: the caller lies, tries to scare you, and rushes you to pay so you don’t have time to think twice or check things out before you send money. And once you do that, you’ll never get it back.
To avoid family emergency scams:
- Resist the urge to act immediately— no matter how dramatic the story is.
- Call or message your loved onewho (supposedly) contacted you. Even though the caller says not to. But use a number you know is right, not one the caller gives you.
- Never send cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, ormoney transfers. Once the scammer gets the money, it’s gone!
If you spot this or any other scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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.
Starting Tuesday, we will be posting a Where’s John picture to our Facebook Page (Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce) at around 9am each day. By next Friday, you will have seen four photos of us, out and about in our community marked as competition pictures.
By doing a little research, just like a Treasure Hunt, add together the numeric portion of the street address of each location (no zip codes) where the photos were taken and by noon on Friday July 23rd, simply email the total of your addition to chamber@puntagorda-chamber.com to get a chance to win two VIP tickets for Eric Darius’ Wine & Jazz Festival show at the Event Center on November 20th.
It’s so simple yet FUN! The lucky winner will be announced in John’s column in the Daily Sun on Tuesday, July 27th.
How well do you think you know this community?! Best of luck!
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.
Looking for Qualified Employees?
The Chamber will be hosting a job fair at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center on Tuesday, August 31 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.
Networking Events for July/August 2021.
July 20: Business After Hours 5:30pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at Dream Salon & Spa. 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.
July 28: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm
Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Isles Yacht Club located at 1780 W. Marion Ave! Lunch choices are: Vegetarian lasagna with a small side salad or chicken Caesar salad. Rolls and cookies will also be served. Reservations Required.
Guest Speaker: Kevin Sibley, Special Agent in charge, US Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
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
August 11: Business Over Breakfast 7:15am-8:30am
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.
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. After dinner, head on down to dance the night away with one of our great bands. Please click to see June’s complete lineup. The Tiki Bar…..The Place To Be!!!
Sun Media Group (Platinum) – It’s time to CELEBRATE and share SUCCESSES of influential women in Charlotte County and we need your help! Tell us who you think should be named:
Here’s how it works:
Go to Yoursun.com/contests and to nominate woman in our county who are having a positive impact. The Daily SUN will select the top three in each category then an impartial committee of people in the community will choose this year’s winners, who will be announced on Sunday, August 29 in the leadHERship special section.
TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – June sales in Charlotte County ended at 751 residential properties, up 49% with a median price of $289k. 50% cash sales and 40% conventional mortgages. 64% of the sales accepted a contract in 0-10 days on market. The month ended with 519 properties on the market. Have questions about your property values? Call Della Booth, broker/principal 239-699-4493
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 tarpon were not considered “game fish” until 1885?
Valerie’s House – 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 volunteer, mentor, refer families, fundraising opportunities, and/or donate christine@valerieshouse.org or 239-841-0382. We can also schedule Valerie’s House Tours. Valerie’s House’s website: www.valerieshouse.org
Senior Friendship Centers – Friendship Challenge! Join us for a 24-hour giving event to support seniors in our community, and have your gift matched by our generous donors August 17-18.
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 in 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 held at Kingsgate on August 28th! For sponsorships call Darcy Woods at (941) 627-4313, Ext. 134.
Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – Next week we celebrate National Vanilla Ice Cream Day! Now we know what you are thinking, YES, we do have a Vanilla Ice Cream Coffee Drink! Our menu includes lots of refreshing cold beverages for this Florida Summer Heat but come down and try an Affogato today. This beverage includes scoops of delicious vanilla ice cream and a double shot of espresso on the side! You get to create your OWN coffee ice cream beverage!
Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – National Wine and Cheese Day is approaching us! Have you called and reserved your tasting for Sunday July 25th, 2021 yet? Our Cheesemonger’s and Sommelier’s are getting ready for this BIG EVENT. Paring some delicious cheeses with some international wines, what more could you ask for on this beautiful weekend. We only have a couple spots left so call and reserve your spot now before they are all gone.
Suncoast Humane Society – Urgently Needed: Large and Extra Large Dog Crates. Suncoast Humane Society is celebrating its 50th Anniversary with a new design of the 2022 Pet Calendar! We are now accepting ads for every calendar month. This is a great chance to support Suncoast Humane Society’s lifesaving work while advertising your company. Follow this link to secure your ad spot by July 31: www.petcalendar.givesmart.com. Your pets can also be a part of our special calendar! Submit their photo and vote at the same link above. Mama Daisy & Puppies Urgently Need Your Help!
Charlotte County Society for Human Resource Management – Join Charlotte County Society for Human Resource Management this Wednesday, July 21 at 11:30 am at 88 Keys Restaurant at the Wyvern Hotel in Punta Gorda. Special Guest Speaker Senator Ben Albritton will address the group and Karen Morinelli, Shareholder of Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. will provide an update on both state and federal legislation under the current administration and what employers need to watch out for in 2021 and beyond. Details & Registration at https://ccshrm.shrm.org/events/2021/07/july-21st-ccshrm-luncheon-meeting-employment-legislative.
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.
Florida Skin Center – Florida Skin Care Punta Gorda Expands Staff, Facility and Services. Shana Peterson, PA-C, has joined the practice and is now seeing guests. Peterson is a certified physician assistant specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology.
Paradise Golf Course – Week Long Celebration! Different savings every day next week.
Loveland Center – Join Loveland Center for our 3rd Annual Golf Tournament at Heron Creek Golf and Country Club on Friday, September 10th. Contact Becca at events@lovelandcenter.org for more information.
Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) – Busy students can now enroll in Fast Flex classes at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) this fall.
Fast Flex scheduling splits the semester into two mini terms, allowing students to take two classes during the mini A term and two classes during the mini B term.
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.
Sea Grape Artists Gallery – Sea Grape Gallery Artists of Month for July-August 2021.
During Sea Grape Gallery’s 33 years in Punta Gorda, the artist owners of the Gallery have continually supported charitable and non-profit organizations in the community. This year, beginning with the Gallery’s annual courtyard sale, the artists selected special original art pieces where 100% of the proceeds of each sale would be donated to Harry Chapin Food Bank. On June 11th the artists of Sea Grape were pleased to present a check for $1,000 to Harry Chapin Food Bank to help stock their much needed food shelves.
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/
Allegiant announces new nonstop service to two cities!
Burnt Store Presbyterian Church – Eirinn Abu Concert July 25th.
Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Seven safety tips to get your pet through the summer.
Fisherman’s Village – July 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!
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.
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.
Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic –
M*A*S*H Annual Appeal Kick-Off party. Friday, October 8th. More Info & Tickets Here: https://volunteercare.org/mash/
2021 3rd Annual ‘Tis the Season Tennis Tournament November 19-21
C.A.R.E. – C.A.R.E. Auxiliary presents our first annual Corn Hole Tournament on Saturday July 31st at Beef O’ Brady’s Punta Gorda, 1105 Taylor Rd. Cost is $20.00 per player. Enjoy fun with friends, good eats & drinks, and rock your inner Constar with C.A.R.E. Auxiliary. For more information visit www.carefl.org/events or call 941-639-5499 #SummerofFun2021
July 18-Pool Tournament Scotch Doubles 8 Ball
August 22 – Dart Tournament
Peace River Shopper – Latest Edition.
Forrest J. Bass Appointed Chair of the Wills, Trusts and Estates Board Certification Committee of the Florida Bar
Attorney Forrest J. Bass, director at the Farr Law Firm, has been named Chair of the Wills, Trusts & Estates Board Certification Committee, effective July 1, 2021.
Punta Gorda – July 13, 2021 – Forrest J. Bass, director at the Farr Law Firm, has been appointed Chair of the Florida Bar’s Wills, Trusts and Estates Board Certification Committee. The nine-member committee evaluates applicants for board certification and re-certification in the area of wills, trusts and estates and is responsible for preparing and grading the wills, trusts and estates examination that is administered to board certification applicants each year. Bass is Board Certified in Wills, Trusts and Estates which is The Florida Bar’s “Legal Expert” status. He holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation from Boston University School of Law, Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts from Flagler College. Bass is immediate past President of the Charlotte County Bar Association, Former Chair of the Florida Bar Grievance Committee “C” for the Twentieth Judicial Circuit, past President of the Charlotte Estate Planning Council, and General Counsel for the Punta Gorda Symphony.
Career banker Gina Letterio has joined the Trust and Investment Management division of Charlotte State Bank & Trust.
Previously a Personal Banker at the bank’s Murdock office, she is now a Personal Trust Operations Specialist charged with facilitating trust department operations and assisting clients with inquiries, requests, and support. A native New Yorker who moved to Florida in 1978 at the young age of seven, Gina began her banking career in 1991 and joined Charlotte State Bank & Trust almost eight years ago. She may be reached at 941-624-1946 or gletterio@csbtfl.com. Gina is a proud parent and rightly so. Her son Nicholas Asselin recently graduated with honors from Florida SouthWestern College, earning an associate degree, and plans to continue his education this fall at Florida Gulf Coast University, seeking a bachelor’s degree in sports journalism. In 2019, he received a Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship endowed by Charlotte State Bank & Trust.
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. Here is the flyer for more information.
ARCHway Institute – June Newsletter
Animal Welfare League – June Pawsitive News
C.A.R.E – June Newsletter
Charlotte Community Foundation – The Connection
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter
Copperfish Books – June Newsletter
Five Star Realty – June SandStar Insider
Loveland Center – Exciting Updates
Punta Gorda Mural Society – June Newsletter
The Yoga Sanctuary – July
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.
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.
