Welcome Center has new souvenir item featuring pole designs
The Welcome Center continues to see many visitors coming through the doors seeking information on Pine Island businesses and attractions. “What is there to see and do on Pine Island?” is a frequently asked question and our ambassadors are well versed in providing answers to the questions. Where it’s a “gallery” day or someone looking for eco-tours, we are able to assist them with our members information and brochures. We have even had a tour bus from Iowa stop in prior to taking a driving tour of the island with a local guide on board.
Numbers are up in terms of requests for visitor and relocation packets that are mailed weekly.
E-mail bag
The following is an excerpt from an e-mail from visitors to Pine Island that we thought you would enjoy.
“My husband and I just returned from our third visit to Pine Island. Family was the reason for our first visit and Pine Island keeps us coming back. I love the island with its simplicity, creativeness and friendly people. Thanks to all who are so involved in keeping the island in its original way of life. I have many wonderful memories. We went to Daytona Beach and spent a week there. It cannot compare to our stay at Pine Island. Thank you.”
Souvenir items
We have a new souvenir item! The three winning designs from the pole painting contest are featured on our new “reusable” tote bags, with our “Florida’s Creative Coast” logo on the reverse. These bags are excellent, be it for groceries, household items, gifts, etc. Because they are reusable, you will not have to throw away all those plastic bags! They make wonderful Pine Island souvenirs as well. Be sure to stop in and pick up one of these wonderful tote bags.
Business showcase for chamber members
The chamber-sponsored “Business Showcase” for our members, at no cost, took place in February and again in March. The participating businesses were somewhat disappointed in the turn-out at the March venue, but all said they generated new customers/business referrals at each of the business showcases. It is hopeful that we will see stronger support of the business showcase when it is repeated in the fall. This is an excellent opportunity for all of our members to inform the public about their business. We will be putting out press releases and e-mails to inform the public when the next event is scheduled.
Welcome new members
We are pleased to list the following businesses that joined the chamber in February and March.
– Double Lucky Charters, Capt. Gary Simmons, 633-5578
– Island Visions, Steve and Lisa Timcak, owners, located in the Seaweed Gallery in Matlacha, 282-0452, island-visions.com
– Reid Hutchinson Construction, Reid Hutchinson, owner, general contractor, St. James City, 283-3344.
– St. James City Civic Association, Mary Ann Harms, president, saintjamescitycivicassoc.org
– Sebago Sailing, D/B/A. Maura Mulcahy, owner, Bokeelia, 647-4400, sailcharlotteharbor.com
– White House Plantation, Mike and Peaches Gerner, owners, Stringfellow Road, St. James City, 558-5042, feed store and nursery.