How to Survive the Economic Recession - Crisis Buster Seminar by Patrick Valtin
Written by The Editor|
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Are you having a tough time with this economy?Don’t miss these proven practical, easy-to-implement ideas and tips that will help you TRIUMPH through hard times. WHERE: PostcardMania 2145 Sunnydale Blvd., B Clearwater, FL 33765 WHEN: September 19-20, 2009 9:30am to 5:30pm CLICK HERE TO REGISTERor Call 877-831-2299 |
Clearwater Arts Foundation Forms Alliance with the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce
Written by CRCC
The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Clearwater Arts Foundation are developing a closer partnership, which they believe will enhance the community through the infusion of the arts and boardroom boundaries of the business community.
Abe's Mugs Grill & Bar Formerly Mugs N Jugs Gets New Name But Keeps Quality Food and Service
Written by Heidi Lux
On July 21st, Abe Moussa, the owner of the newly renamed Abe’s Mugs Grill & Bar (formerly Mugs and Jugs) cut the ribbon to honor the name change and celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Missouri Avenue restaurant.
Abe Moussa began his restaurant career as a dishwasher at Sweetwaters, where he worked his way up to manager. He had set a goal, however, to own his own business by the time he was 30. When he turned 29, he found “Mugs and Jugs.” Unable to pay for the place at first, Moussa worked for the owner for six months to make the down payment. Since he took over Mugs and Jugs in 1998, Moussa has managed to turn the hole-in-the-wall into a successful, respectable chain of sports bars.
Review of Divino Fine Italian in Clearwater - "It's Divine!"
Written by Renee Belfort
Downtown Clearwater’s recent expansion includes the addition of three fine dining restaurants – Divino Italian Restaurant for fine authentic Italian food, La Cachette for fine French dining and Casanova for gourmet Italian cuisine.
The first to open is Divino, a restaurant that combines both casual and fine dining. From the moment you walk into the restaurant, you are transported to a Piazza in Italy, surrounded by the balconies of fine dining restaurants above.
High-End Retail Shops Prepare for Grand Openings in Ovation, Downtown St. Petersburg
Written by
St. Petersburg, Fla. (August 10, 2009) – As Ovation, the area’s newest luxury waterfront community, nears building completion, two retailers—a fine jeweler and an art gallery—are among the first to open their own doors to the locals and visitors of downtown St. Petersburg.
Bernie’s & Son and Mindy Solomon Gallery will both be located in the street-level retail space of the upscale 27-story condominium building on prestigious Beach Drive and 2nd Avenue NE, overlooking downtown St. Petersburg’s waterfront.
Sandpearl Residences on Clearwater Beach Announces New Designs
Written by Steve McAuliffe
CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. (July 30, 2009) – JMC Communities, the St. Petersburg, Fla. based real estate development company, announced today that their award-winning Sandpearl Residences has just completed two newly designed models.
Jill Lifsey, owner of District Designs, Tampa’s first modern design center, created a fresh twist on coastal living in one of Sandpearl’s two-story City Homes. This model has views of both the Clearwater Harbor and the downtown area. Vibrant hues of green, turquoise and canary yellow combine with crisp lines and urban style to create a unique, stylish retreat in perfect harmony with its waterside location.
Divino Fine Italian Restaurant Opens in Clearwater
Written by Karla Jo Helms
Clearwater FL, July 28, 2009 - No matter the economy, two entrepreneurs aren’t letting that be an obstacle. 6 months and $500K later, Piero Caramella and Dmitry Lisovitsky, have announced that their fine Italian dining restaurant, Divino, is opening its doors – TODAY in the evening starting at 5pm – in downtown Clearwater, FL.
The “Women Mean Business” Expo will be held at the Conmy Center, 750 A San Salvador Dr. in Dunedin (at our Lady of Lourdes Church) on Tuesday, July 28th from 4pm – 8pm.
There will be over 115 exhibitors and vendors representing women owned, co-owned or managed businesses. There will be several 15 minute “Enlightenment Sessions” on a variety of interesting topics, lots of give-aways and door prizes including a cruise worth $500 and two tickets to Mamma Mia at Ruth Eckerd Hall, a silent auction and free samples of food, beer and wine.
Women's Expo from the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce August 5, 2009
Written byClearwater, FL, July 20, 2009 - The Clearwater Chamber of Commerce (CRCC) is continuing their mission of bringing the business community together, this time focusing on women. The CRCC is having their upcoming Women's Expo on August 5, 2009 from 9am-2pm to bring their women-owned businesses, as well as women professionals of the business community, the ability to connect to each other, a needed activity in today's business environment. The event will be hosted at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Clearwater Beach. Dr. Joedrecka Brown of Morton Plant Mease Primary Care is one of the guest speakers.
Ivanka Ska and House of Ska Brings Professional Modeling Workshops to Tampa Bay
Written by Heidi Lux
The House of Ska has been known as one of St. Petersburg’s most fabulous boutiques, offering fun, funky and flamboyant fashion by Polish designer Ivanka Ska. Now, Ivanka is announcing the grand opening of House of Ska, The Art and Modeling Studio. The studio is located at 433 Central Avenue, Suite #205 in St. Petersburg. The studio will offer four day and two day workshops where students will be able to learn all aspects of the fashion and modeling industries.
Alejandro "Alex" Sanchez's Economic Future Predictions is Hope for Improvement in Economy 2009
Written by Heidi Lux
On the 24th of June, the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce held an economic forecasting summit entitled “Banking on your Business,” featuring the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Bankers Association (FBA), Alejandro “Alex” Sanchez, who predicted an economic upturn in the near future. “Things are getting better,” he said repeatedly throughout his speech.
Postcard Mania Ribbon Cutting for New Building 2009 Featured
Written by Heidi Lux
On June 19th, seven employees of PostcardMania danced to “Let’s Get Postcarded in Here,” a take on the Black Eyed Peas’ hit song, entertaining the guests gathered in the green and purple offices of PostcardMania’s brand new building, just before Joy Gendusa, the tall and vivacious CEO and founder of PostcardMania announced, “I am the luckiest CEO on earth!”
Robert A. Freedman of Ruth Eckerd Hall Elected Chairman Elect of the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce
Written by Katie Pedretty
July 7, 2009, Clearwater, FL – Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob Clifford recently announced that Robert A. Freedman, President and CEO of Ruth Eckerd Hall, has been elected as the Chairman Elect of the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce by the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. “The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce is extremely excited to continue the long tradition of highly respected business community leaders with the appointment of Robert Freedman as Chair Elect. His support of the chamber over the past five years has provided great insight and direction,” said Clifford.
Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce Announces New President Bob Clifford 2009
Written by Kathleen Peters
CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce (CRCC) is proud to announce that Bob Clifford has taken the position of President/CEO. Clifford has provided service and leadership to the Clearwater business community for ten years through his work on the CRCC Board of Directors. He served six years on the Executive Committee and two years as Treasurer.
Clearwater Restaurant Divino Brings in Italian Chef June 24 2009
Written by Karla Jo Helms
Tampa Bay, June 24, 2009 -- Spaghetti, probably the first image that comes to your mind when you hear “Italian food.” For some, it may be the extent of their knowledge of cuisine from the Mediterranean nation. It’s easy to oversimplify traditional courses when you’re in the melting pot of the world. But what then is authentic Italian food? Piero Caramella, a veteran Italian restaurateur and his partner, Dmitry Lisovitsky, recently flew in an award-winning Italian chef from Italy to help create the hallmark of true authentic Italian cuisine for their new venture, Divino.
Restaurants in Downtown Clearwater Will Open in 2009
Written by Heidi Lux and Joshua T. Gillion
This summer and fall, downtown Clearwater's Cleveland Street District can expect three new mouthwatering reasons for citizens to come downtown.
Divino Fine Italian, an authentic Italian restaurant, will be the first to open at the end of June at 22 N. Ft. Harrison Avenue, in what was formerly the location of the Majestic Lounge. Divino will offer European cuisine and café-style dining around a fountain, part of a charming décor reminiscent of an outdoor piazza, with fine dining served on overlooking balconies, providing an elegant atmosphere and charming ambiance in addition to the fine food. For more information on Divino Fine Italian click here.
La Cachette will be moving from their current location on Indian Rocks Beach, where they have been for more than 11 years, and will be welcomed with open arms to the district. They will serve their classic French cuisine in their new location at 635 Cleveland Street, beginning in October. For more information on La Cachette, go to www.lacachetteflorida.com.
The third new addition to the Cleveland Street District will be a new restaurant from the owners of Bellini in downtown Dunedin. The restaurant, called Casanova, is also scheduled to be open in October. Casanova will delight their patrons with gourmet Italian food at 811 Cleveland Street, where Fiore’s Gourmet Deli used to be.
“We are happy to have many progressive entrepreneurs interested in doing business in Clearwater. Even though the economy is in recession, they recognize the opportunities that are here. I am confident that our residents and visitors will welcome and enjoy these upscale dining establishments,” Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard said.
These new additions to the Cleveland Street District are part of the new growth the area has been experiencing, and will no doubt draw even more people into the area. They will provide both locals and tourists alike with a fine dining experience, adding to the quality that Clearwater is coming to be known and appreciated for.
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Clearwater Downtown Partnership Momentum Awards Held at Ft. Harrison Hotel
Written by Brittany Perkins
(May 13, 2009) CLEARWATER, FL - To honor the dedicated efforts of local businesses and individuals, the Clearwater Downtown Partnership (CDP) held their aptly-named “Momentum Awards Ceremony” at the newly-renovated Ft. Harrison Hotel on Wednesday, May 13th. This is the second year for the Momentum Awards which encourage and acknowledge the positive efforts taken by Clearwater business owners and residents to build a healthy economic dynamic in the downtown area.
Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Hosts Annual Legislative Breakfast June 2009
Written by
June 5, 2009 CLEARWATER, FL – On June 5th, the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce was proud to host six of Pinellas County’s legislators at their annual legislative breakfast at the Clearwater Harborview Center. Issues surrounding transportation, education, growth management, tax burdens, gaming compact, and property insurance were just a few of the issues discussed. Ed Armstrong, moderator of the event posed frank and tough questions to each legislator and received very thoughtful and forthright responses. Legislators present included: Senator Mike Fasano, Senator Dennis Jones, Representative Ed Hooper, Representative Jim Frishe, Representative Janet Long, and Representative Bill Heller.
The legislators gave a great deal of history regarding decisions made over time that help explain many of the situations we are currently facing as a result of unintended consequences. Decisions such as Save our Homes and constitutional mandates have facilitated imbalances and significant funding challenges. They all expressed their concern for the ability of the state to have sustainability over the long term.
The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce applauds their leadership in making decisions that impacted the lives of every Floridian during these very difficult and unprecedented economic times. With our mission to enhance the business environment and promote economic health and growth in the Clearwater region, we encourage all of our lawmakers to step up and demonstrate real leadership in making this state a place where businesses can continue to grow and create jobs.
Again we congratulate our legislators on a successful session and thank them for their leadership. We encourage all of our members to work independently and in partnership with the Chamber to meet with our legislative delegation to discuss the future business needs for our county and state.
The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce is an independent, not-for-profit business organization dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the area, while protecting the unsurpassed quality of life that its residents enjoy. Established in 1922, the Clearwater Chamber is the leading advocate for business in the Tampa Bay area. Their professional staff provide businesses innovating opportunities to market their products and services to the public. The Chamber also represents the interests of businesses at all levels of government. For more information regarding the Clearwater Chamber please call 727-461-0011 or visit www.clearwaterflorida.org.
Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecasting Summit
Written by Catherine Germer
CLEARWATER BEACH, FL - The Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecasting Summit will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 8:00am - 10:00 am at The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites on Clearwater Beach.
The Guest Speaker will be Alejandro "Alex" M. Sanchez, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Florida Bankers Association.
Crisis Buster: THE ART OF "PULL SELLING" Part 2
Written by Patrick Valtin
Three Secrets That Can Help You Boost Your Income... With Your Customers’ Blessing!
In the second half of this in-depth article, Patrick Valtin presents vital principles of selling in over-competitive, saturated markets. Recognized as an international expert in sales strategies, Patrick has trained over 45,000 sales professionals and executives on the subject of salesmanship. Here, he presents what customers consider as most important in their relationship with you, the sales Pro, and how you can pull them into wanting your product…without pushing!
The Tampa IKEA grand opening was held at 9am on Wednesday, May 6th. This is the
third IKEA in Florida, joining locations in Orlando and Sunrise. Bay Area residents no
longer have to make the two and a half hour trek to get their Karlstad lounge chair.
Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Taps New VP of Business and Economic Development
Written by Ana Livingston
On March 3rd, 2009, Cathy Germer joined the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce
as the VP of Business Assistance & Economic Development.
In her role as Business Assistance, Cathy is part of the Business Assistance Partnership Program which consists of the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce, the City of Clearwater and Pinellas County Economic Development. Her focus is to assist businesses by providing counseling and resources on issues relating to start-up and growing a business including business and marketing plans, links to financing and business and education training to develop and enhance business owners’ skills.
Real Estate Reality - What is Chinese Drywall
Written by Pam Ryan Anderson
Ryan Realty, Clearwater, FL
This year will be my 20th anniversary selling real estate in the Greater Tampa Bay area, and just when I think I’ve heard it all, along comes Chinese Drywall!
Chinese Drywall is a Chinese product imported by the Lennar Corporation and has been found to contain high levels of sulfur. In many cases, the drywall emits fumes that destroy appliances, air conditioning systems, duct work, copper pipes, blackens jewelry and can even make people sick.
Brian Andrus owner of Stonebridge Real Estate receives Pinnacle Award March 24 2009
Written by Donna Andrus  |
| Tampa Bay Rays Senior Advisor Dick Crippen (left), Stonebridge Real Estate's Broker-Owner, Brian Andrus (center), and FGCAR President Scott Clendening (right). |
On March 24, 2009 the Florida Gulfcoast Commercial Association of Realtors (FGCAR) held a very successful event in Tampa which recognized the Top Producers and Deals of the Year for commercial real estate in six major categories: Industrial, Investment, Land, Office, Retail and General Brokerage. Realtors from the central western part of Florida had submitted their volume of production as well as evidence of their uniqueness of deals that exemplified hard work and dedication to client service. These were then judged by their peers.
THE ART OF “PULL SELLING”
Part 1 - Three Secrets that can Help You Boost Your Income... with your Customers‘ Blessing!
In a previous article, Patrick Valtin provided useful tips on how business owners should deal with the economic crisis. In this article he shares very powerful principles on successful salesmanship. What attitude is right, if you life depends on selling something? What selling skills are vital if you want to succeed in difficult times?
In the first part of this in-depth article, Patrick Valtin presents vital principles of selling in over-competitive, saturated markets. Recognized as an international expert in sales strategies, Patrick has trained over 45,000 sales professionals and executives on the subject of salesmanship. Here, he presents how you what customers consider as most important in their relationship with you, the sales Pro, and how you can pull them into wanting your product…without pushing!
Good News for Real Estate Sales in Clearwater FL
Written by Pam Ryan Anderson
Clearwater, FL ( April 1, 2009) - For the last few months, I’ve been experiencing quite a different real estate market than the prior 18 months. Buyers are back, and THAT makes all the difference in the world. In the last three months, I’ve got almost as many properties under contract already as I sold for the entire year in 2008!
This is the very best time to buy – prices are as low as they are probably going to go, and interest rates are also very low. The selection is amazing, and I really think this is an opportunity to jump on.