Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
(Est. 1925)
~ 95th Year of Serving All Charlotte County ~
Punta Gorda ~ Port Charlotte ~ Englewood ~ Charlotte Harbor ~ Murdock
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BUSINESS ONLINE
~~~ Monday, August 24, 2020 ~~~
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- Chamber Updates
- Sustaining Partners
- Chamber Member News
- Job Spot
- Resources
- Just For Fun
- Contact information
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Social Distancing and Safety Protocol Statement
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As we move toward the new chamber year please continue to thank our 2019-2020 Sustaining Partners-
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The new chamber year begins on October 1 and all members are invited to become a 2020-2021 Sustaining Partner. Support your chamber and enjoy the perks!
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Chamber Member News
BrightStar Care was awarded The Joint Commission's 2020 Enterprise Champion for Quality Award, celebrating the brand's commitment to achieving the highest of quality and safety in-home care. BrightStar Care is the only organization to achieve the title eight years in a row. Additionally, BrightStar Care is one of only two franchisors to receive this accolade since the award's inception in 2013. Read the article here. For any customers needing home care services like companion or personal care, or skilled nursing services, please call us at 941-412-4070 or go to https://www.brightstarcare.com/port-charlotte
Buffalo Graffix is here for all your printing and design! Need some signage or vehicle graphics? There is no better time than now…get 10% off any sign or vehicle graphics order from now until 9/10/2020. Contact us today at 941-625-2833 or info@buffalograffix.com to see what we can do for you!
Charlotte Players- “Comedy for a Cause” is looking for sponsors! The “Comedy for a Cause” All Stars will continue its fundraising tradition with the 8th Annual Comedy for a Cause Fundraiser on September 25th from the Langdon Playhouse, live via Livestream, on Facebook. Sponsorships start at $100.00 and offer a wide variety of opportunities to share your business with thousands of viewers. And there is more! CFAC will be hosting an online silent auction and needs silent auction items. For sponsorship and auction information: lori.wagner-ryan@charlotteplayers.org or call 941-255-1022 Deadline is September 21st.
Social-distancing concerns led Charlotte State Bank & Trust Vice President Christine Hause to conduct her annual trust and investment management seminars as webinars rather than in-person sessions as in the past. The next complimentary webinar, “Are You Prepared for Interest Rate or Market Fluctuations?” will be held on Friday, Aug. 28, from 10-11 a.m. Hause will be joined by Portfolio Manager Gregory Thomas to discuss how investments will react if interest rates drop or increase. To register for the webinar, visit www.charlottestatebank.com or contact Hause at 941-624-1917 or chause@csbtfl.com.
Our Coastal Expressions Boutique has several beautiful pieces of Coastal Art Décor that are made by hand out of American made aluminum and powder coated by a Florida artist from Fort Lauderdale. The artist has become ill which is precluding them from creating anymore of this amazing art. These items are on consignment to Coastal Expressions until Mid-September. This work is truly stunning. Only 1-2 pieces made of its kind. If you’re interested in seeing or purchasing to support the artist, please call for additional information and pricing. 941-214-8599
Complete Auto Repair is open for your vehicle repairs. Don't drive your car with its warning lights on! We are maintaining flexibility in our schedule to leave time for emergencies. It won't hurt your car to extend its oil change by a few weeks, but driving with an issue can result in costly repairs. If something is wrong with your vehicle, call Ron Morgan at 941-623-2926 and he will make sure you have a timely appointment.
Cooling Dynamics offers new monthly service! We’re proud to be one of the few HVAC companies now offering monthly service to visit and change your air filters for you. No more climbing ladders to change your filters and no more forgetting to do it. Instead of spending $15+ a month on air filters … we will change your filters and service your A/C for $29! Start breathing the difference with cleaner/safer air, saving on your electric bill and prolonging the life of your A/C system. Click here for more information or call 941-416-5541.
Curry Moving & Storage, Inc. remains open for business, but is closed to public access at this time. You may reach us by phone; 941-625-4191 or by email; currymoving@gmail.com. We have mini-warehouses for rent with the best price in town. In light of the challenge we are all facing, Curry Moving & Storage is taking several hygienic precautions to keep our customers and employees safe. We are currently offering all first responders one month free mini-warehouse space or lot space. Remember, He is the light in the darkness!
Dancing Moon Travel: Is a river cruise on your bucket list? AMA Waterways offers breathtaking itineraries; exquisite locally sourced wine & cuisine; elegantly appointed, intimate ships with maximized views; and gracious intuitive service -- along with aggressive protocols to ensure the safest possible cruise experience as the world re-opens. Join our Facebook Live at 1 pm Tuesday, August 18. https://tinyurl.com/y4so6f3w
Economic Development Office of Charlotte County- The Recovery Grant Program, now in Phase 2, has allocated $6,580,000 to help area businesses that haven’t received any other forms of COVID assistance. This program provides grant dollars, as opposed to a loan, to assist in business’s recovery efforts. The application form and details about the program are posted HERE.
It’s time for back-to-school eye exams at Eye Centers of Florida! For a limited time, students save on eyeglass lenses treated with an anti-reflective coating with purchase of frames. To learn more and to view all optical specials, visit https://www.ecof.com/resources/coupons/. Most insurance and vision plans accepted. Walk-ins and outside prescriptions welcome! Call 888.EYE.APPT (888-393-2778) for an appointment. For locations, visit https://www.ecof.com/locations/.
At Friendly Floors, we want you to love your floors for a long time. That’s why our team listens carefully to your needs, and recommends the best options. Call us to learn more about the new “Waterproof Hardwood” floor. Yes, there is such a thing as waterproof hardwood now, and waterproof laminate too. We’ve watched videos of tractors driving over metal hardware, and these floors are unharmed, so they should be strong enough for your family! Come see all our waterproof hardwood options at our showroom at 3785 Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte.
Most people know their move will include many days and weekends spent sourcing packing materials, and then packing their household. Just thinking about it can be exhausting! Did you know that Gardiner & Sons Moving & Storage will carefully pack and label your belongings? You gain precious time to attend to essential logistics to get your family settled into your new place. What would that be worth to you? It's so much more affordable than you think. Call Kenny at (941) 423 - 5311.
These days, it feels like we’re all unlucky. However, on 8/27, Patti Guerzo of Guerzo Business Consulting will show you how to change your mindset, and change your luck (and profits). SCORE is hosting Patti’s presentation, “Profitable Marketing in Uncertain Times with Limited Resources,” at the Englewood Chamber office. Socially-distanced attendance is limited to 20 attendees, so sign up now on the Englewood Chamber’s website. This class is free, and includes a free lunch.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gulfcoast South AHEC is now providing free Group Quit tobacco cessation programs virtually! Programs are led by Tobacco Cessation Specialists who are trained to provide evidence-based tobacco cessation education and resources. As part of Tobacco Free Florida, all Group Quit services, including nicotine replacement therapy, are FREE. Pre-registration is required. Call 866-534-7909 to register. You will be emailed a link to join by ZOOM conference via video or audio.
Do you have someone in your life that you WISH would get his/her financial act together? Maybe they ask you for money, or simply fail to progress on their own. We would love to talk to them! Independent Financial Coaching works remotely with clients to teach and coach so that people build a more productive relationship with money, with better habits. Sue Craig is your judgment-free coach. Call her at 941-916-5324.
Maaco, in Port Charlotte, is a full-service collision center and auto painting business. Our most economical complete paint job can cost as little as $499, excluding body work or any special preparation needed prior to paint. We offer free estimates and can perform repairs covered by any insurance company. The owners, Jim and Susan McCulla, will personally meet with you and prepare your estimate. We're located at 4356 Tamiami Trail and our phone number is 941-391-6196. Come on in for your "Maaco-over" and love the car you drive again.
Did you know that Murdock Stones Etc. sells a number of different rocks that can be used for rock painting? They range in price from 25 cents to 60 cents a pound...Check them out at: 590 Prineville St. in Port Charlotte (by the Sun Flea Market). 7621 Sawyer Circle (off Gasparilla Rd. …look for the World’s Largest Mailbox). www.murdockstonesetc.com. 941-629-6651
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) allows employers to lawfully administer Covid-19 tests to employees without violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Such testing is normally prohibited by the ADA, but because Covid-19 is a "direct threat", employers may test during the pandemic. Tests are available in the marketplace and the EEOC advises employers to be sure their tests are "accurate and reliable" in accordance with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. NRG Background Checks. Call: 941-488-8500; Toll-Free: 800-531-6522; Fax: 941-488-8505; Email: nrginfo@atlantic.net
Panther Hollow Dental Lodge is thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Neil Seaver to our practice! Dr. Seaver is originally from Akron, Ohio. He moved to Tampa after high school and studied Biomedical Science at the University of South Florida, continuing his doctoral studies at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. Dr. Seaver enjoys producing high quality dentistry. He takes advantage of updates in technology making dentistry more predictable as a practitioner and more comfortable and longer-lasting for patients. We look forward to introducing Dr. Seaver to our patients and community! www.pantherhollowdental.com
Pomegranate & Fig Gift Boutique is excited to announce its new location at 208 Tamiami Trail #111 in Downtown Punta Gorda. You will find a beautiful and fun assortment of gift items for everyone on your list! Featuring home decor, women's fashion, children's clothing and gifts. During this time curbside pickup is available as well as FREE delivery within Charlotte County, and gifts are always wrapped! For more information please contact us at 941-205-2333 or email us at pomegranateandfig@yahoo.com. Please visit us Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. We look forward to seeing you!
Premier Photographic Events, 2019-2020 Charlotte Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year, invites you to “Make a Great First Impression” with a professional business head shot. We have photographed dozens of business professionals in Charlotte County. Now Scheduling for August 25th 10am-12Noon. Your Hi-Res Business Head Shot, perfect for Websites, Print and Social Media, will include 3-4 poses on both an Executive Blue Background and selected background and includes basic retouching. Only $75.00. Schedule Your Appointment Today - Steve Lineberry, Photographer 941-626-0551 Learn More: Make a Great First Impression
The Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association’s monthly magazine, “The Communicator” reaches thousands of Punta Gorda Isles residents. “The Communicator” is an affordable way for chamber members to reach the PGICA residents who want to use your products and services. Ad rates start at $63.00 a month. (3 month minimum) Check out the latest “The Communicator” and you will see why it is the “go to resource” for thousands of PGICA members. To learn more: contact Steve Lineberry, 941-626-0551 or email stevelineberry.pgiadsales@gmail.com The Communicator
The Punta Gorda Rotary Club is meeting virtually at Noon on Thursdays during the pandemic. Rotary is a wonderful service organization that values "Service Above Self" in its ongoing efforts to serve our community and our world. We are people of action, and welcome anyone who would like to work as part of a group doing service. If you are interested in attending one of our virtual lunch meetings (and later, face-to-face lunches), please contact our President Darcy Hanley by calling or texting 303-927-9437 or writing darcyrhanely@gmail.com. Website: https://www.puntagordarotary.org. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puntagordarotary/.
Tammy Hayes, RE/MAX Palm Realty is conducting a Crayons for Kids fundraiser for Charlotte County and North Port kids. It runs from July 31 to August 31. Drop off new boxes of crayons at RE/MAX Palm Realty, 1808 Tamiami Trail D2, Port Charlotte, FL between 9 am to 5 pm, M-F. For more information call Tammy at 941-276-6185.
There is no better time to buy a home. Toby Lynn helps get the right mortgage program for your sister, parents, or best buddy! Toby makes the process easy from pre-qualifying to closing. Specializing in happy, smooth, and on-time closings! CALL TODAY! Toby Lynn, Branch Manager, The Mortgage Firm, 941-356-6579 – www.ThePerfectMortgageSolution.com
Dr. Neil B. Zusman would like to introduce Dr. Daniel Solano who will be joining Zusman Eye Care Center in August 2020! Dr. Solano is a South Florida native who received his Bachelor's degree in Biology and Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University. He completed his internship and Ophthalmology Residency at Doctors Hospital in Columbus Ohio. Dr. Solano has a special interest in minimally invasive cataract surgery, glaucoma and eyelid reconstruction. He is also fluent in Spanish. During his free time he enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and four children.
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Charlotte County Public Schools is currently hiring qualified applicants for various instructional and support positions. Review our open positions at https://charlotteschools.ted.peopleadmin.com/hire/index.aspx. High need positions are bus drivers, food service assistants, and substitute teachers. CCPS offers competitive wages and comprehensive health and retirement benefits. For our bus driver positions, we offer all of the necessary CDL training and wages start at $14.82/hour. Substitutes teachers start at $15/hour. Charlotte County Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer.
Home Health Aide - Home-care: Home Instead Senior Care is the premier home-care agency in SWFL. As a Home Health Aide, you will provide one-on-one care to our wonderful clients in their home. Interviewing daily – All shifts available (preference for overnight and weekend availability). Full medical benefits, direct primary care health plans, vision, dental, 401K, paid training. Starting at $11.00/ hr ($12 for licensed CNA). Call Regina at 941-621-2028 or text the word CARE to 239-596-2050 to apply!
Career Source of Southwest Florida online resources include available jobs
Your "Help Wanted" information could be here! Please submit 90 words or less to tashley@charlottecountychamber.org.
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Resources
LOCAL-
Please call 2-1-1 for any resource needs.
STATE AND FEDERAL-
Florida Chamber of Commerce- www.floridachamber.com/coronavirus
Small Business Administration- www.sba.gov/disaster
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association- https://frla.org/covid-19/
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Just for Fun
A woman was ready for the hurricane to threaten their home, but her husband was not.
When the wind reached a screaming pitch with trees snapping, the horizontal rain streaming, and roof tiles flying, her husband was rooted in his spot.
He stared and stared through the wind-resistant window. Immovable, with his nose pressed to the windowpane, the stark fear in his eyes will stay with her forever.
Fortunately, as the eye of the storm arrived and the winds temporarily lessened, she felt personally safe enough to open the door and let him in.
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Do you have news or information about YOUR business? Send it to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and we'll share it with the entire membership. Email your submission to Teri Ashley at tashley@charlottecountychamber.org. Please send 90 words or fewer, in paragraph form, by noon on Friday. Business Online is emailed weekly on Mondays, or Tuesday following a holiday. This is a free membership benefit! ( We do reserve the right to publish and edit any submissions.)
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Teri Ashley, Executive Director
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
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2702 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-627-2222
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Social Distancing and Health Safety Protocol Statement: The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce requests that you kindly not attend events with a fever, any COVID-19 Symptoms, if anyone in your household has shown symptoms of COVID-19, or if you are included in a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defined high-risk category for COVID-19. Additionally, while we know that most are accustomed to handshakes, fist-bumps, and hugs, we ask that you refrain during this time and follow all recommended health safety protocols. Social distancing is required by anyone attending chamber events and it is recommended that face masks be worn to lessen the possible transmission of COVID-19 to others. By attending Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce events, all attendees acknowledge and assume the risk that COVID-19 is contagious and exposure may occur.
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