Mission Statement:
The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is organized to advance the prosperity and general welfare of its business members and the community they serve.
~ 97th Year Serving Charlotte County ~

 Punta Gorda ~ Port Charlotte ~ Englewood ~ Charlotte Harbor ~ Murdock
2021-2022 Sustaining Partners
Sustaining Partner businesses provide additional financial support annually to the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce which, in turn, provides them with additional valuable membership benefits. These contributions to the chamber allow for the continued increase of promotion, advocacy, involvement, and leadership at the local, state and federal levels. This is done to always be proactive in support of our businesses and the community we serve.
Charter Sustaining Partner (no years missed)
~ Chamber Events and Updates ~
And remember, each time you attend a chamber event, your business card goes into the drawing for a $2,000 Key West Flight. The drawing to be held at the Annual Meeting on September 30, 2022! The more events you attend, the more chances to WIN...Just look for the big gold bingo drum and add your business card!
Business Card Exchange, Thurs., April 28 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Tiki Bar/Four Points by Sheraton, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Remember to bring your business cards, and if you like, a small gift to promote your business. Please RSVP in the MIC (Member Portal).

Sorry, this event is full - Lunch & Learn on April 26, 2022 "Plan to Win, Prepare to Win, Expect to Win" presented by Frank Menard, Coach, Speaker and Trainer at The Menard Team. The focus of this facilitation is to help business owners and entrepreneurs to: Identify their Priority, Identify the 20% Activities that will accomplish their 80% Results. The lunch is sponsored by The Menard Team and will be held at the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, 2702 Tamiami Trial, Port Charlotte 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Charlotte County Chamber Members and Guests 21 years & Older welcome! Join us as we celebrate the NEW Charlotte County Chamber Young Professionals' Kick Off Event  "Sunset De Mayo" on Friday, May 6th, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Perch 360 on top of the Wyvern. Mexican Appetizers included, live band and cash bar. Drawing with a business card for a lucky participant. There is no cost for this kick off event however registration is required. Please RSVP/Register in the MIC (Member Portal).

Join the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce for our monthly Networking at Noon Luncheon. The May 11th event is hosted by The Celtic Ray Public House, 145 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda. Members and their guests are welcome to attend. Cost is $15pp. Please limit your participation to no more than 2 persons per member and kindly make your food choice when you register. Register and pay in the MIC (Member Portal).

Join us on Wednesday, May 18 for the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce
Third Wednesday Coffee and New Member Showcase. Our Coffee Sponsor: Premier Nationwide Lending. Our Program will be an open meet and greet with new members who have joined our Chamber in the last quarter. They will have tables set up and attendees will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one to learn more about their businesses and services. Coffee and light breakfast items will be served. There is no cost, but please register in the MIC (Member Portal) so that we may plan accordingly.

The Charlotte County Public Schools are expecting about 150 New Teachers for the 2022-2023 school year. We are asking our Charlotte County Chamber members to Sponsor a New Teacher for Breakfast on Thursday, July 28, 2022. Your sponsorship of $45 covers the cost of breakfast for you and a teacher. We also invite all members who sponsor a teacher to bring us 150 items for Teacher Welcome Bags. Gifts for inclusion need to be delivered to the Chamber office at 2702 Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 15th. (Gifts/promo items only-NO Flyers please.)  Kindly register for this event in the MIC.

NEW --- the 2023 Community Guide and Business Directory will be out in October 2022. Your advertisement can be seen by thousands in both the printed and online guides. Members interested in advertising should return the advertising contract, Ad Copy and payment by August 12, 2022. Additionally, members interested in a premium position ad with guaranteed placement should attend/or have a representative attend the Premium Page drawing on Thursday, May 19th at the Chamber office (2702 Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte) at 4:30 p.m. For instance, if two members were interested in the Center Spread, we would draw a business card from the hat to determine who would receive it. The Community Guide is our showpiece for all things Charlotte County, distributed at the Punta Gorda Airport, Charlotte Harbor Event Center, County Libraries, Community Associations and to walk-ins, email and mail requests. AND on CharlotteCountyChamber.org with live links to your webpage. Please call 941-627-2222 with any questions.

The next issue of the FIR$T THUR$DAY ADVERTI$ER will be sent out on May 5. (Digital flyers are due by May 3.) Members interested in taking advantage of this new digital monthly format will save the cost of printing a flier. ($100 for-profit and $50 non-profit each issue). Email your ad to advertiser@charlottecountychamber.org and include the web address we should link it to, or call us 941-627-2222 for more information.

Business of the Year Nomination Form-2022 - Nomination forms are due back by August 22, 2022. You may nominate you own business, or nominate another business for this award. Print the form to see the criteria and answer five questions. We encourage you to blow your own horn and self-nominate.  The selection committee will be made up of past recipients, and the awards will be presented at the 97th Annual Meeting Luncheon on September 30, 2022.

Members, the Charlotte County Chamber Newsletter Business Perspective is going DIGITAL Quarterly beginning in 2022 and publishing January/April/July/October. Members who want to include a Digital page to ride with the newsletter should complete and return the agreement and provide their digital page by the 20th of the month before publication. *Cost $100 for-profit and $50 non-profit each issue *Sustaining Partners receive free digital flyers depending on their partnership level. Send your digital flyer to Newsletter@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 for information.

The Leadership Charlotte Class of 2022 is raising funds for Mental Health Matters with a "Glow Gala" scheduled for June 4th. Funds raised will benefit four nonprofits. The Guardian Ad Litem Foundation's Alternative Therapy program for children in foster care. Purchasing items for The Family Services Center of Charlotte County to create a sensory room for all 14 nonprofits at the center to use. Purchasing items for Charlotte Behavioral Health Care to create a sensory room in the crisis stabilization unit. and to Purchase items for the Animal Welfare League to enhance their real-life room project, allowing dogs a break from stressful kennel life and space for staff and volunteers to enjoy the mental health benefits that come with comforting the dogs. Additionally the class plans to make a donation to the Leadership Charlotte Endowment fund and Junior Leadership Charlotte. Email them at leadershipcharlotte22@gmail.com for more information. Print the Glow Gala Sponsorship Flyer.

The 12th Annual Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce Business Expo date is February 2, 2023! Remember to save the date and set aside a little of your marketing budget ($395 for a booth space) for the Hottest Business Day in Paradise, Expo2023!
Print Sponsor: Buffalo Graffix
Newspaper Sponsor: The Daily Sun
Bag Sponsor: WhitCo Insurance-Alexia Martin Agency
Refreshment Station Sponsor: The Purple House Salon
~ Welcome New Members ~
Michelle Freda - Modern Woodman of America
1777 Tamiami Trail, Suite 506
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Michelle Freda
(941) 258-6242

Eric Bretan For Airport Authority District 2
Call or Email for Information
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Eric Bretan
(941) 916-1199

Port Charlotte Chiropractic
795 Crestview Cir NW
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Dr. Felicia Danio
(941) 629-8444
http://www.chiropractorinportcharlotte.com

Norine Walker - Sellstate Vision Realty
2705 Tamiami Trail, Unit 313
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Norine Walker
(941) 875-5729
http://chasingsummerpuntagorda.com

Keller Williams Island Life Real Estate
206 Harbor Drive S.
Venice, FL 34285
Carolyn Hoffman
(941) 254-6467
https://www.kwislandliferealestate.com/

Creighton|Reyes Group - KW Island Life Real Estate
15341 Mille Fiore Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33953
Traci Creighton
(941) 451-9419
http://www.flabeachhomes.com
Know of a business who would also benefit from being a Chamber member?
Businesses may join online now on our website or please recommend a business to
Jami Joannes jjoannes@charlottecountychamber.org and she will follow up with them!
~ Join us for a Ribbon Cutting ~

Boys & Girls Clubs of Charlotte County - 25th Anniversary Ribbon Cutting
Tues., April 26, 2022 
At Family Services Center Building
21500 Gibralter Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
From 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Ribbon Cutting at 5:30 p.m.

Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s
New Location Ribbon Cutting, Tuesday, May 10th at 5:30pm
17831 Murdock Circle, Unit B, Port Charlotte FL 33948
There will be Snacks, refreshments and tours.

Howard’s Hershey’s Ice Cream
New Location Ribbon Cutting
1700 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte 33948 (in Murdock Plaza by Perkins)
on Thurs., May 12th at 5:30 p.m.
Offering Desserts & Refreshments and Tastings
of their 52 Hand Dipped Flavors of Ice Cream

Parkside Assisted Living & Memory Cottage
New Management Ribbon Cutting
Tues., May24th at 5:30 p.m.
2595 Harbor Blvd. Port Charlotte, FL 33952
Luau Themed - Entertainment by Tiki Tom
Appetizers, Beer, Wine & Water
Everyone is invited to attend Chamber ribbon cutting events. Come out and support your fellow members.

Send YOUR Member News/Events to BOL@charlottecountychamber.org and we'll share it each week. Email submissions of 90 words or fewer, in paragraph form, by noon on Friday for inclusion the following Monday. This is a free members-only benefit! (We do reserve the right to publish and edit any submissions.)

#OurFutureisNow! #OneCommunity
~ Member Events ~
From April 18th – May 8th, the Tidewell Foundation is having its second annual Shower Patients With Linens and Love Drive, with terrific support by our sponsor Dignity Memorial. Help us create a closet of donated linens available to Tidewell Hospice’s field teams for patients who need sheets and towels for in-home and assisted living facility hospice care. Donations needed include NEW XL twin bed linens and towel sets. Learn how to donate at TidewellFoundation-LinenDrive.org. or contact Nicole Taylor at (941) 416-5017.
 
Please help your Charlotte County Public Schools spread the word that Kindergarten registration begins this month. You may register online by following this link, Kindergarten Registration or you may visit your school April 19-25. By making certain that every student who is 5 on or before September 1st is registered, you help us to hire the appropriate number of Kindergarten teachers.  

Senior Health & Wellness Expo on Monday, April 25th/12 to 4 pm at Parkside Assisted Living & Memory Cottage, 2595 Harbor Blvd, Port Charlotte. Don’t miss local health & wellness providers offering complementary screenings and educational materials. The Big Red Bus will be onsite from 1 to 4 pm to donate blood. Seaview 104.9 will be broadcasting live from 12 to 2 pm. Uncle Frank’s Hot Dogs will be onsite serving up their delicious hot dogs and signature side dishes. Lots of great vendors-Free Giveaways and Raffles! 941-766-7444 ext 104.

The 2022 Giving Challenge will be happening from NOON to NOON on April 26-27. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference is participating in this 24 hour online giving event. Individual donations from $25 to $100 will be matched 100% by The Patterson Foundation. Our conference was one of the few agencies in Charlotte County to remain open helping those in need during the pandemic. Help Us Help Others. Go to www.givingchallenge.org and enter Society of St. Vincent de Paul Sacred Heart Conference in the Participating Organizations.  

GOING ON NOW! From Noon to Noon, Tues to Wed, please log in here to The Giving Challenge and donate to Charlotte Local Education Foundation. It’s the ONE DAY a year the Community Foundation of Sarasota County holds the event. AND The Patterson Foundation will match all donations to stretch your giving even further. Donate to us just ONCE. Amounts up to $100 will be matched. If your donation is over $100, they will increase it by $100. Thank you for supporting our students! 

Be The One! Support PicklePlex® of Punta Gorda in the 2022 Giving Challenge tomorrow from noon Tuesday, Apr. 26, to noon Wednesday, Apr. 27, at https://www.givingchallenge.org/organizations/pickleplex-of-punta-gorda-inc. Watch the PicklePlex story in a video on this link. Your donation will help bring more youth pickleball programs teaching the values learned through sports like respect, discipline, rules, and teamwork while learning the fastest growing multi-generational sport. Minimum donation of $25. All donations from $25 to $100 are matched by The Patterson Foundation, doubling your gift. The children of Charlotte County thank you!

Job Seekers wanted! Charlotte Technical College will host a Job Fair at the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall, 1441 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte FL, on Friday, April 29, from 11:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m.  The Charlotte Technical College Job Fair is delivered in partnership with Career Source of Southwest Florida and the Charlotte County Society for Human Resource Management. In addition, Suncoast Blood will have a mobile unit on site that day from 10:30-4 for those who wish to give blood.

Susan Craig a financial coach from Independent Financial Coaching will be presenting her "Financial Literacy Class" at the Port Charlotte and Englewood Libraries on April 29th as part of their “Family Financials Program". She will be sharing the basics of budgeting, savings, and retirement. This information is useful to people of any age group and individuals wanting to think strategically and simply about their money. The program is at Port Charlotte Library at 11 AM and the Englewood Library at 4 PM. Come join us for this Free Event.    https://www.yourifc.com/post/family-financials-program-presents-financial-literacy 

Drug Free Punta Gorda wants to remind you that Saturday, April 30, 2022 is National Rx Drug Take Back Day. Bring your unused or expired medications to the Punta Gorda Public Safety Complex 1410 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda between 10am and 2pm and they will see that the pills are disposed of properly so as not to be hazardous to people or animals. If you have questions contact them at 941-740-4358 or visit drugfreepg.com

Valerie’s House is participating in Remake Learning Days. We will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with crafts, food, and fun. This is a free event for the entire family on Thursday, May 5th (5-8pm) at the Family Services Center. Save the Date for our Celebrating Charlotte Fundraising Event! Join us on Saturday, July 30th (1-5pm) at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. All proceeds will be benefitting Valerie’s House-Charlotte County. Contact Christine Carey for vendor & sponsorship opportunities (239-841-0382 or christine@valerieshouse.org).
 
Want to remain in your home as you age? Senior Choice at Home now offers a plan that will help you achieve it. Dine & Discover our one-of-a-kind program on Friday, May 6 or Tuesday May 17 at 11am at Linkside Cafe at Burnt Store Marina Country Club, 24315 Vincent Ave., Punta Gorda. Seating is limited. RSVP to 239-362-9153 or SeniorChoiceatHome.com/events

Mother’s Day Special. We know every mom needs to be spoiled. So, let’s plan the perfect moment! 1 Pack ($33.21) includes: 1 Soy Candle, 1 Organic Soap, 1 Bath Bomb, 1 Natural Bath Sponge and 1 Silk Sponge. The 2 Pack ($56.80) includes: 2 Soy Candles, 2 Organic Soaps, 2 Bath Bombs, 1 Natural Bath Sponge, 1 Silk Sponge. Visit Two Angels Soaps Gallery and Gifts in The Sanctuary Plaza, 2686 Tamiami Trail, Unit 5A, Port Charlotte (941) 883-2861 www.twoangelssoapsgalleryandgifts.com Mother’s Day is May 8th.

Cancer treatment is a journey no one should make alone. Advocate Radiation Oncology care team guides patients every step of the way. This year, Popping the Cork on Cancer is raising money for Children’s Cancer Center. This benefit on May 12 from 6-8PM is organized by Ken Johnson and Carol King-Murphy, from Advocate Radiation Oncology, cancer survivors themselves, with the support of Noelle LaPonte and Lexington Manor. Please help us help them, they didn’t choose to have cancer, we can choose to be their Champions and provide our support for this worthwhile cause. For Tickets & Info call Ken 941-380-5650

The Punta Gorda Rotary 2nd Annual Healing Field of Honor is May 27-30, 2022 at Laishley park, 1200 Laishley Court, Punt Gorda. Open from 9am to 6pm each day Thousands of Flags will be on display over Memorial Weekend at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda. Honor your Hero-a Veteran Deceased of Living-Doctor-Nurse-First Responder-Family member-Friend. Become part of this event by either dedication of a flag or becoming a sponsor. For full information visit www.healingfield.org/event/puntagordafl22

Fishermen’s Village presents the 2nd annual “A Day of Celtic Music”, Saturday, May 14, 2022 12 noon-9 pm. Presented in partnership with the Cultural Heritage Center of Southwest Florida and the New World Celts (Sarasota Chapter), visitors to Fishermen’s Village will experience authentic Celtic musicians from all over the country, joining together to bring this fun, interactive event to fruition.  This year’s event has 6 performing groups and evening hours. Our headliner Seven Nations Band featuring Kirk McLeod, with three between 6-9 pm.  Admission and parking are free www.fishermensvillage.com

Caring for a loved one? Finally, take the "daycation" you both deserve! Enter to Win free care for an entire year right here at ActivAge at Chelsea Place Enjoy peace of mind while your loved one is having the time of their life! Our Daycation Giveaway is open now to May 31st, 2022. If you are caring for a loved one, don't miss this opportunity to win an entire year of care, FREE at our Port Charlotte location. Visit https://www.activagecare.com/free to enter! Winner will be chosen/announced in June 2022.

The Kiwanis Punta Gorda After Hours Foundation presents Merry Grinchmas in July a Reverse Raffle fundraiser to support free books for kids visiting Lizzy the Literacy Bus. Drawing will be Saturday, JULY 9, 2022 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds, 2333 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948. Top prize is $10,000! Tickets are a minimum donation of $100 each and include dinner for two and entertainment with the Boogiemen. Sponsorships contact Douglas Tucker at 941-875-4111. Need not be present to win, but must be reachable by phone at time of drawing at approximately 9:30 pm EST. Contact Marian Taylor 941-380-1087 Tickets at www.KiwanisPGAfterHours.com

Save the Date for our Celebrating Charlotte Fundraising Event! Join us on Saturday, July 30th (1-5pm) for bites, tastes, samples & shopping at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. All proceeds will be benefitting Valerie’s House-Charlotte County. Purchase $25 wristband tickets ($35 VIP) at: Events — Valerie's House (valerieshouse.org) Contact Christine Carey for Sponsorship Opportunities (239-841-0382 or christine@valerieshouse.org). 
~ Member News ~
Winnie is one of our favorite Village cats. She takes her twice daily insulin like a champ and never fails to eat her food! She is a quiet cat, content to hang around and take an occasional nap. https://awlshelter.org/adoptable-cats/#sl_embed&page=shelterluv_wrap_1641500497123%2Fembed%2Fanimal%2FAWLC-A-8440 I'm Dennis and I've never had it better since I came to the shelter! I'm a super friendly, medium sized guy! I like other dogs and I haven't been tested with cats. My nose even has a heart. Please call and set up a meet and greet with me.

Ron Morgan of Complete Auto Repair gave 3 easy maintenance steps to teens at the Library Class last week, and it’s good for drivers at any age.  1.  Read your driver’s manual, especially the maintenance tips.  2. Inspect your car frequently – fluids, wipers, tires, headlights.  3.  Keep up with routine maintenance.  These easy steps make your life as a vehicle owner easier.  If you have an organization who would like to host this class, call Ron Morgan at (941) 623 – 2926 to discuss. 
 
Gardiner & Sons Moving & Storage can build custom wooden crates for your most valuable and fragile items – antiques, artwork, TV’s, pool table slate or any treasure you feel needs the protection of a wooden crate.  At your destination, we will unpack the crates and remove them, or you can keep them for your next move. Years of experience make all the difference when making customized crates.  When quality counts, call Gardiner & Sons, at 941-423-5311.   

Background checking is not just for employees and tenants. Vendors, volunteers, contractors, sub-contractors, consultants, etc., and anybody a business or consumer wishes to do business with, are also appropriate candidates for background checks. Even temporary help hired through a third-party staffing provider or recruiter ... recognizing that no one will ever care as much as you do about bringing qualified and reliable people into your business, your organization, or your home.    For the best and most economical background screening ... contact Doris Hebert-Ferrigno at NRG Background Checks.   941-488-8500;  800-531-6522;   nrginfo@atlantic.net  

When choosing the perfect mortgage plan, prioritizing needs and wants can lead in different directions. With 30 years in the business, Toby Lynn is a pro at helping your family, co-workers, or best buddy see advantages and disadvantages in options available. Specializing in Happy, Smooth, and On-Time Closings! CALL TODAY! Toby Lynn, Branch Manager, The Mortgage Firm, 941-356-6579 – www.ThePerfectMortgageSolution.com

Spring into well-being by having happier and healthier employees! Gulfcoast South AHEC offers FREE tobacco cessation counseling and FREE Nicotine Replacement in the form of patches, gum and/or lozenges at no cost for qualifying participants. As part of Tobacco Free Florida’s in-person/virtual Group Quit sessions, we are here to help. Call 866-534-7909 or visit gsahec.org to register today.

Need something for your teen to do this summer? Or would you like to check sailing off your bucket list as an adult? Sign up for a sailing course ASA 101 Basic Keelboat. It is a 2-day course from 9:30-4 pm. SailTime is the largest network of American Sailing schools. SailTime Southwest Florida serves as a fun, social, less stressful approach to sailing and a great way to get any age involved in sailing. No one is too young or old. Sailing teaches responsibility, critical thinking, and self-confidence in a fun manner. Contact Kelly Edwards at (941) 210-0093.

Rooter service - Often tree root invasions blocking sewer or plumbing lines are the cause for your slow draining pipes. Liberty Drain Co provides 24/7 Rooter Service, give us a call today! (941) 740-7256 libertydrainco.com 

Help us in our mission to help victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other violent crimes in Charlotte County. If you are interested in donating your gently used items to C.A.R.E. please visit our Re-Use Store in Port Charlotte, 19765 Kenilworth Blvd. Our phone number is, (941) 624-3488. We are more than grateful to accept donations such as clothing, bedding, toys and appliances for our survivors. For additional information please visit our website, www.carefl.org or check us out on Facebook/Instagram @Carecharlottecounty. For additional inquiries please call (941) 639-5499.

Spring into well-being by having happier and healthier employees! Gulfcoast South AHEC offers FREE tobacco cessation counseling and FREE Nicotine Replacement in the form of patches, gum and/or lozenges at no cost for qualifying participants. As part of Tobacco Free Florida’s in-person/virtual Group Quit sessions, we are here to help. Call 866-534-7909 or visit gsahec.org to register today.
~ Tip of the Week ~
“Be so good they can’t ignore you” – Steve Martin
We encourage members to shop with other members to keep our community and local economy strong. If you do business with one or more of our renewing members please congratulate them for their Chamber Anniversary. These are members who renewed between March 16, 2022 and April 15, 2022... Take a look!
Job Seekers wanted! Charlotte Technical College will host a Job Fair at the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall, 1441 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte FL, on Friday, April 29, from 11:00 a.m.to 3:00 p.m.  The Charlotte Technical College Job Fair is delivered in partnership with Career Source of Southwest Florida and the Charlotte County Society for Human Resource Management. In addition, Suncoast Blood will have a mobile unit on site that day from 10:30-4 for those who wish to give blood.
Showcase your business through sponsorship!
Are you looking for an opportunity to showcase your business? A great opportunity would be sponsoring one of our Third Wednesday Coffees. Sponsors receive recognition in Business Online, on Facebook and in the Chamber calendar.  Sponsors may place marketing materials on the tables at the event and will have 4-5 minutes to introduce yourself/staff/business. Available slots are limited. Please contact Janet Caffee jcaffee@charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222 for details. Cost to sponsor is $300.
~ Resources ~
LOCAL-
Please call 2-1-1 for any resource needs.
Charlotte County Economic Development Office- www.cleared4takeoff.com
Community Organizations Active in a Disaster- https://coadfl.org/
Career Source of Southwest Florida online resources include available jobs- https://careersourcesouthwestflorida.com/immediate-southwest-florida-job-openings/
Charlotte County Department of Health- www.Charlotte.FloridaHealth.gov
City of Punta Gorda- http://www.ci.punta-gorda.fl.us/
Charlotte County Public Schools- https://www.yourcharlotteschools.net/

STATE AND FEDERAL-
Florida Chamber of Commerce- www.floridachamber.com/coronavirus
U.S. Department of Labor- https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic
Small Business Administration- www.sba.gov/disaster
Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association- https://frla.org/covid-19/
Florida Retail Federation- http://www.frf.org/index.php/news/covid-19
Visit Florida- www.visitflorida.org
Governor's Office- www.flgov.com
~ Just for Fun ~
Ann Landers challenged her readers to come up with the world's third-biggest lie -- right after "The check is in the mail" and "I'm from the government and I'm here to help you." Here is a sampling from the thousands she received:
- "It's a good thing you came in today. We only have two more in stock."
- "Five pounds is nothing on a person of your height."
- "You made it yourself? I never would have guessed."
- "You don't look a day over 40."
- "Dad, I need to move out of the dorm into an apartment of my own so I can have some peace and quiet when I study."
- "It's delicious, but I can't eat another bite."
- "The new ownership won't affect you. The company will remain the same."
- "The puppy won't be any trouble, Mom. I promise I'll take care of it myself."
- "Your hair looks just fine."
- "Put away the map. I know exactly how to get there."
- "You don't need it in writing. You have my personal guarantee." 
Send YOUR Member News/Events to BOL@charlottecountychamber.org and we'll share it each week. Email submissions of 90 words or fewer, in paragraph form, by noon on Friday for inclusion the following Monday. This is a free members-only benefit! (We do reserve the right to publish and edit any submissions.)
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
2702 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-627-2222
Bob White, Executive Director bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org
Jami Joannes, Dir. of Business Development jjoannes@charlottecountychamber.org
Ruth Uzonyi, Dir. of Finance ruzonyi@charlottecountychamber.org
Janet Caffee, Information & Customer Service jcaffee@charlottecountychamber.org
Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce charlottecountychamber.org