Dear Chamber Member and Chamber Friends,
From John Wright, President, Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce. Here is a copy of John’s Column printed in the newspaper on May 11.
PG Chamber radio show: Exclusively for PG Chamber members: NOW BOOKING FOR JUNE 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.
Updates on Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) & Additional COVID-19 Relief Resources (SVOG and RRF) from Ranking Member Luetkemeyer.
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.
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.
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.
Building material thefts are on the rise nationwide. Criminals are targeting all building materials and equipment. If possible, do not leave any unsecured items on jobsites. Please remember to always remove your valuables, key/key fob & weapons from your vehicle and LOCK YOUR DOORS!! If you see something suspicious, say something! Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency #941-639-0013. If you have any questions, please call our Crime Prevention Office at 941-613-3227.
Your Priority Appointment for COVID Vaccine at Medicine Shoppe Punta Gorda
Medicine Shoppe Punta Gorda is offering you a priority appointment to get the two-shot Moderna Vaccine. Due to the recent joint FDA and CDC statement regarding a pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, we have opened up more vaccine availability for the Moderna appointments. If you would like to book your priority appointment for the Moderna vaccine, please email 1441@medicineshoppe.com or simply call 941-505-1095 to book an appointment.
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
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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]
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 May 18: Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 7 pm. Come and join your Chamber for our Business after Hours hosted by Dockside Grill (on the Patio) at Four Points by Sheraton, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Don’t forget to bring a gift to promote and showcase your business!
May 26: Networking Luncheon 12 Noon-1:30pm. Come and join your Chamber for our Networking Lunch at Village Fish Market,1200 W. Retta Esplanade, #J36, Punta Gorda. Reservations Required.
Lunch Choices
Chicken Caesar Salad – bronzed chicken atop a bed of romaine lettuce tossed with house made Caesar dressing with shaved Parmesan and croutons. Can be served without chicken for a vegetarian option.
Shrimp Milano – linguine pasta in a mushroom, pepper, white wine and garlic sauce topped with broiled gulf shrimp, with garlic bread. Can be served without shrimp for a vegetarian option.
Fish and Chips – Atlantic cod lightly breaded and golden fried. Served with fries and edamame salad.
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.
To promote business in Punta Gorda and all our surroundings areas, for the benefit of our entire community.
Lesley Barton – Coldwell Banker
Sunstar Realty
(941) 404-5932
1200 W Retta Esplanade
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Sunshinedaysrealestate@gmail.com
Realtor
Sponsored by Tara Zajas
Dellutri Law Group, P.A.
Mark Martella
(941) 206-3700
18501 Murdock Circle Ste. #304
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
mmartella@dellutrilawgroup.com
Law Firm
Sponsored by John Wright
Truly Nolen
Cameron Petro
(941) 625-1535
770 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33953
Pest Control
Sponsored by Tara Zajas
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. After dinner, head on down to the tiki for drinks and listen to one of your favorite bands play the night away. The Tiki Bar….The Place To Be!
TIME Realty Services, Inc (Gold) – April was a fabulous month for our brokerage and we want to THANK YOU to our clients for your trust and faith in our Realtors. If you are searching for an honest, caring Realtor who will answer your questions and spend time listening to your needs to assist in finding the perfect property please contact us. We are also looking for new listings as we have SOLD everything! The 7-day rolling residential statistic for Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, & North Port: 119 New listings, 259 Sold (closed) listings, 247 Pending (new contracts). How can we help you? Call Broker Della Booth with all of your questions. 239-699-4493.
Downtown Farmers Market (Gold) – The Saturday Punta Gorda Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8am to 1pm. 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
PG Social House (Silver) – Join us with Peace River Harbor Heights Rotary Club for Bogies & Stogies Golf Tournament on May 22 at St Andrews South, Punta Gorda – Shotgun Start 8am
C.A.R.E. of Charlotte County (Bronze) – Looking to save money while giving back to the community? C.A.R.E. ReUse offers a wide variety of new/gently used items at a fraction of retail cost. All proceeds provide essentials to survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault in Charlotte County. Open at both locations (PC & Englewood) Tuesday –Saturday 9:00am-3:30pm.
Charlotte Players (Bronze) – You Should Be So Lucky by Charles Busch. May 14-23. A contemporary Cinderella story set in Greenwich Village, reminiscent of the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s. Located at 1182 Market Circle in Port Charlotte. For tickets call our Box Office at 941-255-1022 or online at www.charlotteplayers.org
Gulfshore Opera (Bronze) – GO is Ready for Summer! Announcing two summer camps and a workshop, for singers ranging from elementary school to professional artists.
Frank Desguin Family (Support) – Copy of Frank’s Column in the newspaper. Punta Gorda the City of Hibiscus.
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.
Loveland Center –TODAY May 14th from 4 to 8 PM. 20% of all sales that present a flyer will be donated to Loveland. Please see digital flyer on Loveland’s facebook page.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates – TODAY Fort Myers Film Festival on May 14 at 7.30pm and an antique Calliope arrives at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates.
Fishermen’s Village – May Events Calendar. Celtic Music Day Event on May 15.
1st United Methodist Church/Life Center – Former NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneers Randy Grimes is special Guest Speaker at Today Matter’s Mental Health Ministries on Saturday May 15 at 4pm.
Charlotte Community Foundation – Charlotte County Non-Profits Virtual Town Hall on May 18 at 4pm.
Animal Welfare League – Kitten Shower Saturday, May 15 11am – 3pm and Pets of the Week.
Promote Punta Gorda “Small Business Spotlight” – The City of Punta Gorda has launched a program entitled Promote Punta Gorda. This is a small business spotlight to focus on the businesses that are at the heart of Florida’s Harborside Hometown. Small business owners within the City limits of Punta Gorda are eligible to have their business featured on the City’s social media channels and in the Weekly Highlights Report. To sign up to be in the spotlight visit http://www.ci.punta-gorda.fl.us/i-want-to/promote-punta-gorda-business-spotlight or call (941) 575-3394 for more information.
SCORE – Marketing & Technology Live Stream Series
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.
Florida Skin Center – Conducts Clinical Research Study on Eczema Medication.
ClenzOzone – Safe and cleaner spaces with nature’s powerful line of cleaners!
CareerSource Southwest Florida – Airplane Maintenance / Aviation Mechanic Program opportunity.
Chelsea Place – Senior Care Conference
Punta Gorda Coffee and Tea – Introducing our NEW Handcrafted White Mocha Sauce! Our shop focuses on bold flavors, not processed and additive sugars. Haley Handcrafted Chocolates has crafted us another unique, smooth, chocolaty, and delicious sauce. Our white chocolate mocha sauce is crafted using pure white chocolate and a touch of love from our chocolatiers. What more could we ask for!
Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine – Hosting a Special Event, Birthday Party, Ceremony, or even just a Night Out on the Town? We have the perfect experience for everyone! We here at Punta Gorda Chocolate and Wine can host anything your heart desires. Sit down with our Sommelier to create your very own memorable event today, with a special 2 Hour On-Premises Special Event! Call now to reserve your event date and we will start breaking open those bottles of wine. Next Week we are also celebrating National Pinot Grigio Day! Reserve your spot now for all tastings throughout the entire month with exciting new Wines and Beers.
Sunny Days Ice Cream – Starting to plan a graduation? Why not have something different for your grad? Hire the Sunny Days Ice Cream Truck for a special treat! We are mobile and can come to you wherever you are holding your party, the beach, the park, a residence, an event center. We carry pre packaged novelty ice cream. Visit our website at http://www.sunnydaysicecream.com to learn more about us. Email us at info@sunnydaysicecream.com or call 941-255-1889 to book. Hurry dates fill fast!
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.
Vision Quest Leadership – Would you like to play Biz Builder BINGO?
Animal Medical Clinic of Punta Gorda – Save on flea & tick prevention
The Firm 360 Photography – Don’t forget The Firm 360 Photography when they’re gone. Who is “they” you might ask? Snowbirds! They are leaving soon. Remind them of what they have looked at with a Virtual Tour. They are great for real estate and businesses alike and they give people inside views right from their phones and laptops. We can do that for you. Call us today to arrange a Virtual Walking Tour for your business or homes for sale. 941-347-8198. www.thefirm360.com
Copperfish Books – Your Next Great Read.
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.
Rossman Realty Property Management – manages over 1300 properties annual, seasonal, Vacation, and commercial accounts. We are offering top dollar to other property management companies wanting to sell their rental contracts in Southwest Florida. Email Corey Meldahl @ corey@rossmanrealty.com or call 239-333-7357.
Senior Friendship Centers – Double your impact for seniors!
Covenant Business Planning & Solutions – PART THREE: Complex and Ever-Changing PROBLEM: Your business has become a complex and ever-changing operation. Your business started life as a great idea and now has morphed into something much different. How can you rein in this monster you’ve created? Continue to the solution, click here: https://covenant-business.com/?p=2540&preview=true Covenant Business Planning & Solutions is here for you and your business. Remember, we help business owners sleep better at night!
Sea Grape Gallery – Presents Artists of the Month for May-June 2021. They will be featuring two of their artists, Vicki Glynn, watercolorist, and Sam Harris, custom hand carved knife designer.
Pinch A Penny, Pool, Patio, Spa – We’re More Than a Pool Store!
Suncoast Humane Society – Virtual Walk May 22, Tails On Trails.
TEAM Punta Gorda – Volunteers needed for Pre-Event Set Up for 2021 Healing Field of Honor May 28-31.
Punta Gorda Rotary Club – Healing Field of Honor, May 28-31. Opening Ceremony May 28, 10am at Laishley Park. Click Here for Details. Flyer.
C.A.R.E – Cooking with C.A.R.E on June 9 at 6pm.
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.
Crossroads Hope Academy Achieves National Accreditation
Crossroads Hope Academy has achieved national accreditation through the New York-based Council on Accreditation (COA). Crossroads Hope Academy is a home and school for difficult-to-place teenage foster boys. It took Crossroads over a year and a half to achieve this accreditation. Organizations pursue accreditation to demonstrate the implementation of best practice standards in the field of human services. COA evaluated all aspects of Crossroad Hope Academy’s programs, services, management, and administration.
COA accreditation is an objective, independent, and reliable validation of an agency’s performance. The COA accreditation process involves a detailed review and analysis of an organization’s administration, management, and service delivery functions against international standards of best practice. The standards driving accreditation ensure that services are well-coordinated, culturally competent, evidence-based, outcomes-oriented, and provided by a skilled and supported workforce. COA accreditation demonstrates accountability in the management of resources, sets standardized best practice thresholds for service and administration, and increases organizational capacity and accountability by creating a framework for ongoing quality improvement.
To achieve COA accreditation, Crossroads Hope Academy first provided written evidence of compliance with the COA standards. Thereafter, a group of specially trained volunteer Peer Reviewers confirmed adherence to these standards during a series of on-site interviews with board members, staff, and clients.
Based on their findings, COA’s volunteer-based Accreditation Commission voted that Crossroads Hope Academy had successfully met the criteria for accreditation.
An endorsement of COA and the value of its accreditation process is reflected in it being named by the US State Department as the sole national independent accrediting body under the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption to accredit intercountry adoption service providers. In addition, COA is the only national accreditor designated by the U.S. Department of Defense to develop accreditation standards and processes for human service programs provided to military personnel and their families.
Founded in 1977, COA is an independent, not-for-profit accreditor of the full continuum of community-based behavioral health care and social service organizations in the United States and Canada. Over 2,000 organizations — voluntary, public, and proprietary; local and statewide; large and small — have either successfully achieved COA accreditation or are currently engaged in the process. Presently, COA has a total of 47 service standards that are applicable to over 125 different types of programs. To learn more about COA, please visit www.coanet.org.
Crossroads Hope Academy offers stability, education, and personal growth in a home-like setting to teen boys in the Florida foster system who have largely been given up on. To learn more about us, please visit www.crossroadspg.org.
‘Centennial Memories…This is OUR Charlotte!’ May 15th 11am – 3 pm, Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center
Charlotte County Community Services invites you to participate in “Centennial Memories … This is OUR Charlotte!,” This free program is a hometown gathering celebrating Charlotte County’s Centennial through reminiscing and sharing experiences, photos, artifacts, stories, and memorabilia. The event will feature exhibit booths, local musical, dance, and performers. “Centennial Memories … This is OUR Charlotte!,” will be held at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center located at 75 Taylor St. in Punta Gorda. For information, contact Tracy Herman at 941.613.3176 or Tracy.Herman@CharlotteCountyFL.gov or Marc Solomon at 941.627.1628 or Marc.Solomon@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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.
ARCHway Institute – May Newsletter
Animal Welfare League – April Pawsitive News
C.A.R.E. – May Newsletter
Charlotte Community Foundation – The Connection
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity – Newsletter
Copperfish Books – May Newsletter
Lennore Shubel, Realtor Coldwell Banker Sunstar – Why Aren’t You Living in Florida?
Loveland Center – Exciting Updates
Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society – April Newsletter
Punta Gorda Symphony – April Tempo
SandStar Remodeling – April Newsletter
SCORE – BizSuccess Tips May 2021
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.
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.
