Official Website of the Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce

            GPICC President’s Letter

The holiday season has begun.  If you are looking for a holiday gift this year, great places to shop are the island’s local businesses.  Purchase a gift certificate or select from the many unique gifts, products and services available in Matlacha or Pine Island.  Our area has many restaurants, galleries, bait and tackles shops, fishing guides, seafood stores, personal care shops, kayak rentals, accommodations, and other businesses.  Their products and services make great gifts.  Support our island businesses.  Speaking of the holiday season, it’s that time of the year to renew your Greater Pine Island Chamber of Commerce membership; dues renewal notices will be mailed after the first of the year.  The Chamber has worked hard this past year to promote the area and bring new visitors to the island as well as supporting current members with issues such as government regulations and business to business networking, just to mention a few items. The following is a more detailed list of what the chamber provides to our members: 

 *Welcome Center-Manned by volunteers, your business has an opportunity to touch over 10,000 visitors a year. 

*Display Area-Display your business cards, brochures and other marketing information.

*Executive Director- oversees the chamber operation, represents the Chamber at important visitor and convention meetings and seminars.  We have added a part time assistant to the Director in 2011.

*Chamber Business Directory- on-line as well as printed directory.

*Internet Site and Tourist Link-Your business will be linked to the Chamber website.

*Business Inquiries- You could get new business from the 4000 or more inquires the Chamber receives about product and services.

 *Newsletter- Keeps you updated about new businesses or services and news that affect your business.

*Web Site Advertising- As part of your membership package you can market your business on the Chamber web site and for a nominal fee your banner ad will appear on the home page.

*Business Card Exchange- A great way to network and promote your business.

*Business Breakfast- The opportunity to hear informative speakers and keep informed on what is happening in the area.

*Sponsored Events- Mango Mania, Florida’s Creative Coast Weekends, and more.

Each year the Greater Pine Island Chamber solicits recommendations from the community for a person who has contributed their time and effort to help the people of Pine Island/Matlacha and to make our community a better place to live and enjoy life. The  Chamber presents this most deserving person with the Al Mills Award.  The award was named after a former president of the Chamber, Al Mills, and was created to honor an outstanding member of our community.  Please contact the Chamber at 283-0888 if you have a person you would like to nominate for the Al Mills Award. The award will be presented at the annual dinner, January 23, 2012.

Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous and Healthy New Year to All. 

Jay R. Johnson

President

God Bless out Troops!