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Friday Facts for June 4, 2021

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 June 1.

For Our Members Only

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

For Our Community and All Our Members

From The Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Punta Gorda mask ordinance has sunset. As a result, each business going forward will be individually in control of what stance they wish to take. At the PG Chamber, although we continue to encourage mask wearing for visitors, it will no longer be required. For our outdoor events, such as the Farmers’ Market, the Governor did extend the current protocols for a further 60 days beyond May 1st, so our vendors will continue with the social distancing of tents and the wearing of masks for those vending/serving until further notice is received. Masks wearing at the market is preferred.

TSA PreCheck

Mobile Enrollment Returns to PGD June 1-11.

From PGPD.

The thieves have found a way to exploit the vulnerabilities of your vehicle KEY FOB’s. If you have a Key FOB that allows you to leave it in your pocket/purse and push or touch the door handle to unlock your vehicle, and then push a button to start your vehicle. You need to be aware of how thieves are gaining access to your vehicle to commit theft from, and theft of your vehicle. How it works…Your Key FOB is constantly broadcasting a signal that your vehicle detects once close enough to the vehicle. The thieves use an amplifier that is capable of picking this signal up even if the keys are inside of your home. Usually within 30 feet or so of their detection device. A second person stands near the vehicle to receive the signal with a second detection device. The vehicle thinks that the Key FOB is near the vehicle and allows the doors to be opened and the vehicle to be started. Once the vehicle has been stolen a new key can be programmed to operate the vehicle. I have attached a video that explains the procedure. https://youtu.be/xk_fTTlGcMA

From CCSO.

May 24 – June 6, 2021
‘Click It or Ticket’ is a campaign that began in the early 1990s as a way to raise awareness and save lives. The campaign was designed to remind you that it is the law to wear your seat belt at all times when operating a motor vehicle. Wearing your seat belt in Florida became a primary offense with The Dori Slosberg and Katie Marchetti Safety Belt Law (effective June 30, 2009). The law requires that all drivers, all front seat passengers and all passengers under the age of 18 fasten their safety belts. (Section 316.614, Florida Statutes) But it’s about more than just you. It’s about your passengers as well. Child restraint violations (infant through 5 years old) carry a fine of $163 and 3 points on your license. Make sure you and your passengers are ALL buckled in, the right way. If you aren’t sure how to secure your child’s car seat, contact the Department of Health in Charlotte County for help. They provide free classes to teach you how to install the car seat, and for those who have a financial need, they may even provide the seat to you – free of charge. Safety is everyone’s responsibility, but as the driver of the vehicle, it’s up to you to make sure your passengers are secure. Don’t put it in Drive until you hear those clicks!

The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office encourages civilian participation in crime prevention activities through its Volunteer Services Unit. County residents volunteer in four areas: Citizens Observation Patrol, Marine Patrol, Parking Enforcement and Administration. Volunteer participation often has a direct impact on the effectiveness of deputies. Interested individuals willing to contribute a minimum of 16 hours per month should contact Sgt. Al Sacco (asacco@ccsofl.net) or download an application at CCSO.org and return it to any District Office.

Reminder, Charlotte County public schools are out for summer on June 4th. More kids will be out & about, biking, playing and enjoying our beautiful community!


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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]


American Dream TV Episode

Watch the Helgemo Team speak with Chamber President, John Wright. They discuss all things Punta Gorda and touch on a variety of topics that make this city so special!

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Interested In Earning Some Extra $$$?

The Chamber is looking for someone to deliver our Members and Visitor Guide to key locations throughout the market. This only involves the occasional trip to locations that are frequented by our residents and visitors. Want to know more? Give us a call at 941-639-3720


Chamber Calendar of Events Members ONLY

Networking Events for June 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! June 9: Business Over Breakfast 7:15am – 8:30amWake up and smell the coffee with your Chamber at Village Fish Market, hosted by Friendly Floors for Business over Breakfast! Guest Speaker: Pete O’Shea for Divine Global Recovery .Village Fish Market is located at 1200 W. Retta Esplanade Ste. J36 (Fisherman’s Village). Please be sure to RSVP to reception@puntagorda-chamber.com or call 941-639-3720.

June 15: Business After Hours 5:30pm Come and join your Chamber for our Business After Hours at the Visual Arts Center hosted by WhitCo Insurance. 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.

June 23: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm. Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Burg’r bar located at 317 Tamiami Trail! Lunch choices are: hamburger, veggie burger or chicken caesar salad. Reservations Required. Guest Speaker: Sean Doherty; Tourism Director for the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau

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


All the Following Information is for Our Community.

Please Support Our Local Businesses!


New Members

Mission Statement

To promote business in Punta Gorda and all our surroundings areas, for the benefit of our entire community.

Servpro of Punta Gorda

Kelly Meloy

(941) 575-5910

kelly@servpropuntagorda.com

Fire, Water, Mold Restoration

www.servpropuntagorda.com

Sponsored by: John Wright

 

Just Small Biz

Rachel Smith

(941) 564-9163

brad@justsmallbiz.com

Marketing Consulting

www.justsmallbiz.com

Sponsored by: Tara Zajas

 

Gulf Shore Sailing

Tom Cavanaugh

(941) 999-1102

info@learntosailswf.org

Sailing Lessons (501c3)

www.learntosailswf.org

Sponsored by: John Wright

 

Pay It Forward

Sherri Dennis

(941) 232-0715

info@payitforwardpetcrematory.com

Animal Crematory

www.payitforwardpetcrematory.com

Sponsored by: John Wright

Remember to utilize the certificates in the New Member packet. These are very valuable to your business.


Partners in Action News

Four Points by Sheraton (Platinum)Come on out to the Dockside Grill located in the Four Points by Sheraton every weekend for our AYCE Haddock Fish Fry on Fridays and our specialty Prime Rib on Saturday. Saturday night, we have the fan favorite Gas House Gorillas playing at the Tiki, so get here early for a great seat! Please see the attached with our June line up for bands and 4th of July! The Tiki Bar….The Place To Be!

TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) –  Hello June! Who can believe it’s June? Not me. The 7 days residential rolling stat for Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, and North Port shows 92 new listings, 220 closed sales, 220 new contracts. Today there are 389 single-family homes and 80 condo/townhomes/villas available in the MLS. If you are thinking of selling whether it’s land, homes, or commercial buildings I hope that you will think of TIME Realty Services and let their 23 years of local experience guide you in the market. 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

C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Bronze) – Cooking with C.A.R.E June 9th at F.M. Don’s!

Charlotte Players (Bronze) – Men Are Dogs by Joseph Simonelli, June 11-20. Final play of 20-21 season! As a therapist who runs a support group for single and divorced women, she must listen to a number of relationship problems from her unusual cadre of patients as well as dealing with the unsolicited advice of her live in mother on subjects ranging from dating to cooking recipes. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 941-255-1022.

Frank Desguin Family (Support)Copy of Frank’s Column in the newspaper. Did you know, although there are five sawfish species worldwide, only the smalltooth variety inhabits Florida’s waters?

Military Heritage Museum (Support) – The Gulf Theater at the Military Heritage Museum is excited to announce our 2021-2022 season! From a fantastic Elton John Tribute to an 18 piece jazz orchestra, a Tom Petty tribute band to a Blues Brothers Tribute with Tina Turner, Bob Hope Christmas Show with the Motown Girls to Emanne Beasha, and many, many more!

Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens (Support) – Summer operating hours will begin on June 1st at the Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens. Visitors will be able to enjoy the sculptures and plantings from 9 am to 2 pm. We continue to develop more display areas and have recently installed our newest sculpture, Laundry Daze, created and donated by seasonal resident, Paul Guilmette. For more Gardens information see our Facebook page or our website, www.peacerivergardens.org.


Member Information

HAPPENING NOW! SCORE – Attention Small Business Owners: Business assistance and advice is now available from SCORE on a drop-in basis. Stop by the North Port City Hall, Friday June 4th from 9 to noon. Certified Mentors Michael Hantman and Nils Weibulll will be available for a casual chat about your business and the challenges you are facing. SCORE is powered by the SBA and offers confidential business mentoring at no cost. Visit portcharlotte.score.org for more information.

Valerie’s House – If you are looking to volunteer for a great cause, Valerie’s House will be doing their next volunteer training June 26th and 27th. Valerie’s House in Charlotte County needs volunteers to help us run group nights. Your commitment is only two nights per month. We work with grieving children ranging from ages 4-19 and their adult caregiver in peer support groups. Click on the link below for more information: Volunteer — Valerie’s House (valerieshouse.org)

Divine Global Recovery Volunteering and Making a Difference! Students can get hours for their Bright Futures Scholarship applications. For more info, call (844) 99 – DIVINE. Check out their Free Storm Preparation Seminar on June 12th.

Illusions Salon & Spa – Open house 20th Anniversary Celebration! Wednesday, June 16th Noon-6pm. 20% off all products purchased that day! T-shirts celebrating our 20th year for $20, food/drinks from local restaurants and cake! Ribbon cutting a 5:30 pm.

Punta Gorda Short Film Festival – If you were not able to attend our RETRO DRIVE-IN SHOW, presented by the Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach VCB & Asbury Shorts/USA and hosted by the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce on March 2nd Or… if you did attend and would like to watch it from the comfort of your living room, we hope you will subscribe to the Special “Viral” Presentation of the 7th Annual Punta Gorda Short Film Thursday, July 1st. Purchase tickets here!

Paradise Golf Club – Announcing the 50th anniversary of Paradise Golf Club and new management and special rate through June 6th. Click here for details.

Animal Welfare LeaguePets of the Week

Sea Grape Gallery – Sea Grape is proud to announce the winner of the 2021 Art Scholarship.

Suncoast Humane Society – Can you be a hero? Foster Homes Needed!

Fisherman’s VillageJune calendar of events, Fourth of July Celebration

Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral and Cremation Services – You are invited to a complimentary Wine & Cheese reception on June 24th from 5 – 7 pm. Stop by and support our local arts and humanities and meet our local artist of the month.

Drug Free Punta Gorda Prevention Works Breakfast at Village Fish Market, Tuesday June 15, 7:30am

Cultural Center of Charlotte County – Golf Tournament Saturday, June 26th at Riverwood Golf Gulf to benefit the Cultural Center. Must register by June 24th.

The Dellutri Law Group – COVID-19 has served as a reminder that we never know what life may bring us and why we need to be prepared for when the unexpected happens. If you have been thinking about an estate plan and would like to sit down for a complimentary consultation, please contact Mark Martella, Esq. He will explain the BIG SIX documents everyone needs, five of which you may need to use while you are alive. Please call 941-206-3700 to schedule a confidential, complimentary consultation.

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.

Florida Skin Center – Florida Skin Center, skin care specialists that provide a full range of medical and cosmetic dermatological care, announced that it is now offering CO2 laser services.

ZenBusiness empowers new business owners by making it easier than ever to start, run and grow a successful business. Launch your business with our worry free services, world-class support and an all-inclusive platform delivering everything you need to be successful. Formation plans starting at $49.00. Click here to quickly and easily register your dream business.

The Sky Family YMCAThe Sky Family YMCA renames to YMCA of Southwest Florida.

Cooperfish BooksUpcoming books we know you’ll love!

ClenzOzoneSafe and cleaner spaces with nature’s powerful line of cleaners!

CareerSource Southwest FloridaAirplane Maintenance / Aviation Mechanic Program opportunity.

Chelsea PlaceSenior Care Conference June 12th.

The Captain’s Table – Summer Series Dinners! Taste of the Mediterranean Menu Tuesday, June 8th.

Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – Father’s Day is in about two weeks! We are here to craft you a gift basket full of coffee beans, grinders, tea steeper’s, loose leaf teas, and more. We even have some limited quantity Father’s day themed mugs this year. Give us a call at (941) 916-9095 and let us craft you the perfect gift for Dad this year. Don’t forget our NEW Frappe of the Month…Lemon Blueberry Frappe!

Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – World Chocolate Day is right around the corner! We handcrafted and hand-paint our very own Haley Handcrafted Chocolates. We have a variety of Barks, Brittles, Bars, Turtles, Molded-Chocolates, Hard Candy, and more all made from pure White, Rich, Dark, and Milk Chocolate. Come down and let us help you celebrate this delicious holiday. There is always something new to be found in the chocolate world, come down and try something new today!

Charlotte Technical College Medical Assisting Training Opportunities.

Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association – Invites you to BOOK YOUR SPECIAL EVENT HERE NOW! This wonderful, full-service venue nestled in Punta Gorda is often forgotten … meaning you could be in luck. Space includes a beautiful lobby, classy auditorium, and catering kitchen with everything needed. Auditorium style events seats 225; with tables and chair seats 160; with tables, chairs and dance floor seats 125. All audio/visual equipment, kitchen supplies, portable bar, tables, padded chairs and more are available on-site. Lovely outdoor settings available as well. teriashley@pgica.org – 941-637-1655.

Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Chow Time! Save up to 30%.

Wreaths Across AmericaNite “Under” the Museum

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.

Peace River Shopper Latest Edition.

Pinch A Penny$5 off Every $50 Spent Through June 6th.

Charlotte County Homeless Coalition – The Homeless Coalition has exciting news!! We have launched the 2021 Vision Club to pay off our mortgage and become debt-free once and for all! The Pat Moran Family Foundation will match every dollar donated up to $200,000. Your business’s involvement will make an impact in our community opening the door for the Homeless Coalition to provide more services through its programs. To join the 2021 Vision Club and to “match our vision to fund our mission”, visit www.cchomelesscoalition.org or contact Tina Figliuolo at tina.figliuolo@cchomelesscoalition.org.

Covenant Business Planning & Solutions PART SIX: Conclusion PROBLEM: For many small business owners, the ultimate challenge comes when it’s time to move on (retire) to other paths in life. What is your succession plan? How will a buyer pay you for your business? Is there a market for your business? Probably not. The solution, click here:https://covenant-business.com/conclusion/ Covenant Business Planning & Solutions is here for you and your business. Remember, we help business owners sleep better at night!

Charlotte County Meals on Wheels – Summer Solstice Soiree on June 21 at 5.30pm, Italia at River City. For tickets and all the details click here.

CDBIA – Join us at the Icehouse on July 10 for Darts! Team Registration Form.

Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society Current happenings and information!


Community News

Freedom Sings on July 4

Choral music returns to Presbyterian Church of Punta Gorda on July 4, 2021. The church is located at 25250 Taylor Road, Punta Gorda, near the intersection with Airport Road. Please join us for this wonderful musical celebration. For more information, call 941.626.1070 or come to the first rehearsal.


Newsletters

ARCHway Institute – May Newsletter

Animal Welfare League – June Pawsitive News

C.A.R.E. – May Newsletter

Charlotte Community Foundation – The Connection

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter

Copperfish Books – June Newsletter

Lennore Shubel, Realtor Coldwell Banker Sunstar – Why Aren’t You Living in Florida?

Loveland Center – Exciting Updates

Sandstar Remodeling –Newsletter

Senior Friendship Centers – Spring 2021

The Yoga Sanctuary – May….You be Happy, Healthy, and Peaceful


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.

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Animal Welfare League

Calenda Real Estate Group

Centennial Bank

Charlotte Community Foundation

Charlotte Players

Denise Henry –ReMax Anchor Realty

Farr, Farr, Emerich,Hackett, Carr, and Holmes Law Firm

HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital

Granny Nannies Home Care

Gulfshore Opera

Hoff’s Air Authority

Pickleplex of Punta Gorda

State Farm Agency -Mike Martin

Superior Carpet & Upholestry Cleaning

Wotitzky, Wotitzky, Ross, & Young, PA

Port Charlotte Florist (In Kind)

Support Partners