And this time it's precious.

In its April 2001 edition, Florida Trend magazine has recognized the city as one of the state's "Small Town Gems." A total of eight places make up the list. The list has no numerical ranking.

Florida Trend's recognitions follow several other magazine lists where the Punta Gorda rated high for its quality of life. The city began getting such attention after Money magazine included the city in its 1995 list of "Best Places to Live in America."

Florida Trend compiled its list after looking at small towns and cities in the state that are "making conscious efforts to preserve, or to reinvigorate, the characteristics that give them charm and character." Other places that made the list of gems include Venice, Sebring and Marianna. Delray Beach, Mount Dora, Flagler Beach and Dunedin round out the list.

Florida Trend points out Punta Gorda is quaint.

"But a closer look reveals an active business community, a can-do attitude at City Hall and taxpayers willing to open their pocketbooks to support the city's rejuvenation," an article in the business magazine says.

The article goes on to indicate value of homes -- "modest homes start in the upper $100,000 to low $200,000s" -- and the fact the city is made up primarily of retirees.

"The end result: It's still a small town with lots of Old Florida charm, civic pride and forward momentum but with soaring property values," adds the article.

The article notes the expected completion of the performing arts center at Charlotte High School. Also highlighted is the fact the city has its first woman mayor and first African-American and Jewish council members.

Vice Mayor Larry Friedman, the city's Jewish councilmember, said Tuesday Florida Trend's recognition shows effort on the part of the city, businesses and citizens continues to pay off.

"Slowly but surely, its becoming widely known fact and reality," he said.

You can e-mail Richard Peacock at rpeacock@sun-herald.com

By RICHARD PEACOCK