SEPTEMBER 2011
VOL. XVIV NO. IX
2011 DESTIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP
What Does Leadership Mean to You?
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MIKE FREEMAN Chairman of the Board Whitney National Bank BILL LINDSLEY Chairman Elect Simple HR BRIAN HAUGEN Immediate Past Chair Emerald Coast Wealth Advisors of Raymond James & Associates AMY PERRY Treasurer Pleat & Perry, P.A. TIM EDWARDS Vice Chairman/Communications & Marketing Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill SHAUN EUBANKS Vice Chairman/Community & Economic Development Community Bank, Destin KATHY WHIDDEN Vice Chairman/Membership Development Emerald Coast Chiropractic MARY ANNE WINDES Vice Chairman/Harbor Association Real Estate Professionals of Destin, Inc. Destin Fishing Fleet Marina
DIRECTORS JIM BREITENFELD Breitenfeld Development Services, LLC STEVE JAY O’Sullivan Creel, LLP REBECCA JONES Fort Walton Beach Medical Center ANDI MAHONEY White-Wilson Medical Center KAREN MCCARTHY Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union CYNDY THOMAS ResortQuest Vacation Rentals CAREY TROTTER Trotter’s General Contractors, Inc. LES PORTERFIELD TEA, Inc. CHAIRMAN’S APPOINTEES JOHN COMER Southern Restaurant Group, LLC KEN WAMPLER Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Inc. SPECIAL APPOINTEE
Shane A. Moody, CCE, IOM As the year continues to steamroll ahead, leadership has been front and center of my mind lately. Maybe it’s because we’re kicking off our Destin Forward Class of 2012, where we work to develop our community’s future leaders. Maybe it’s because I’m beginning the “roll off ” as chairman of Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) at the conference we’re hosting here in Destin the first week of October. Or maybe it’s because we’ve begun the discussions about our board retreat and strategic planning session for our 2012 business year. Whatever it is, it’s put leadership front and center. I’m always excited to
begin our Destin Forward class. Whenever you have a group of professionals from the community interested in learning about the opportunities for change and advancement of the Destin area, it’s always positive. I look forward to working with the Destin Forward Advisory Committee and the class over the next nine months, as we discuss issues and solutions and work to improve the leadership skills of all involved. It’s been a great year as chairman of FACP, though the year started off with a major challenge of finding a new management organization for our association. It’s been a year of learning to navigate through major change with FACP. The more than 130 chambers who belong to our state association look to FACP to lead in professional development, guidance, coaching, and, well, just about anything else associated with working in the chamber profession. I’m very happy we’ve been able to move through the transition, find areas we can improve for our association,
and ensure the success of chambers across the state. To close out my chairmanship by hosting our annual conference in Destin is the perfect end to a great year. As always, a leadership change in the board will take place in January. It’s always this time of year when it hits me that it’s just around the corner. We are now in the process of planning our board and strategic planning retreat, nominating a slate of new board members, and grooming the Chair-Elect for the chairman’s seat. I fully expect that transition to be a smooth one. 2011 Chairman Mike Freeman has been a tremendous leader. He’s done a great job of keeping our chair-elect Bill Lindsley involved in all things chamber this past year. Mike’s willingness to share and discuss issues with Bill and the executive committee throughout the year will surely make for a successful passing of the gavel. Leadership is a key ingredient to any successful business, transition, or change. Strong lead-
ers understand the processes and systems. They understand their environment. They understand the people around them. But most importantly, they understand themselves, the way they react to all of the above, and their role in each situation. Can leadership be taught? Can leadership be learned? Or is leadership something that comes from within based on life experiences and the way you handle them? I’m not sure of the answers to those questions, but I do believe each individual would answer them differently. It’s how we manage those different answers when we work together to better our businesses, our communities, our families, our lives. After all, isn’t that how we will continue to build this world-class community one business at a time? With wishes for continued success, and until next month,
KIM WINTNER Alliance Association Management Co., Inc. MANAGEMENT TEAM SHANE MOODY, CCE, IOM President and CEO ceo@DestinChamber.com ELIZABETH SPIES Vice President of Communications espies@DestinChamber.com WENDY SCHAEFER Information Specialist mail@DestinChamber.com
850.837.6241 WWW.DESTINCHAMBER.COM PAGE 2
Chamber Statistics: Advertising our World-Class Community In our mission to support Destin as a world-class community, the Chamber’s Welcome Center recorded the following numbers: Our website at www.DestinChamber.com recorded 36,266 visits and 30,200 unique visitors for July 2011.
July 2011 Phone Calls/E-mails – 649 Incoming Mail – 201 Visitors to Welcome Center Lobby – 421 Visitors’ Guide & Buyer’s Directories Mailed – 670 Relocation Packages – 12
Network, a supplement to The Destin Log, is published and printed monthly for the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce. 4484 Legendary Drive, Suite A, Destin, FL 32541 (850) 837-6241 - www.DestinChamber.com www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
A Message from the Chairman of the Board
Mike Freeman Who would have ever thought being geeky could also equate to being beautiful? Well, our very own Destin and surrounding area has been recognized for both. It’s a tribute to Destin’s natural beauty and sophistication, which is an attractive combination for those living and visiting our area.
Geeky is Beautiful!
Recently, nationally syndicated morning show ABC’s Good Morning America named Destin among its 10 Most Beautiful Places in America. Did you see the impressive list of cities competing for the title? It included places like Aspen, Colo.; Ashville, N.C.; Lanikai Beach, Oahu, Hawaii; Jackson Hole, Wyo.; and Cape Cod, Mass.; to name a few. By the way, we have to thank Terri Rose of Niceville for nominating our ďŹ ne city for consideration as Most Beautiful. Destin was fortunate to have Food Network star and famous restaurateur Emeril Lagasse promoting it during one of the August GMA segments, delivering a tasty description of our area. At the same time, FORBES recognized and listed Destin and the surrounding area in its Top 20
Geekiest Cities. I have to admit, I didn’t see that one coming; however, when you step back and think about it, it makes perfect sense. The STEMs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are and have been critical to the Air Force missions occurring at both Eglin and Hurlburt. The intellectual capital in our area that supports the defense industry is both substantial and impressive. Again, did you see some of the other cities mentioned? They include Seattle, Wash.; Bethesda, Md.; Washington, D.C.; Durham, N.C.; and Huntsville, Ala.; to name a few. We are deďŹ nitely keeping some pretty good company. I see this recognition as a great compliment and opportunity to grow our small tech industry in hopes it will continue to ourish.
Recently, you may have read about the debate over Destin’s reputation as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village� and “The Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast.� The non-issue surfaced when it was acknowledged the City of Destin had pulled the Destin Area Chamber’s resolution from the City Council agenda. The resolution simply supported the Okaloosa County TDC-led Emerald Coast branding initiative. Trust me, there was never any issue or disagreement between the city and the chamber. Quite the opposite, Mayor Seevers met with Shane Moody and myself, and we quickly settled on the minor tweaks in a matter of minutes. The City of Destin and your Destin Area Chamber of Commerce completely agree that Destin is the
“World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, the Crown Jewel of the Emerald Coast.â€? Who can argue with that? Finally, I want to remind you of our 2nd annual PUTToberfest sponsored by Hard Rock CafĂŠ on Sept. 15. If you missed last year’s event, it was a lot of fun. Don’t worry, there are no expectations with your putting skills. Basically, it’s a great opportunity to network and enjoy a casual evening at the Golf Garden on Highway 98 with clients and friends. Please visit our website at www.destinchamber. com for more information on this event and others.
Mike Freeman 2011 Chairman of the Board Whitney National Bank
The Recognized Leader in Heart Attack Care. Jesse Aguilar Cardiac Cath Tech
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NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
www.DestinChamber.com
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THE CHAMBER MONTH AHEAD Join us for our Leaders In Business Lunch sponsored by Trustmark National Bank at The Palms of Destin Resort and Conference Center. Sen. Don Gaetz, Rep. Marti Coley, and Rep. Matt Gaetz will provide a legislative update. Our Leaders In Business Lunches incorporate networking and educational components to benefit all members. Everyone is encouraged to attend. The cost for the lunch is $15 for those members who pre-register, $20 for members at the door, and $30 for non-members. Please remember that reservations are required, and no shows will be billed. All registrations are due by Friday, Sept. 9, at noon. Check-in begins at 11:15 a.m., and the lunch begins promptly at 11:30 a.m. SEPTEMBER
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Last year’s most talked about event is back! Join us for the 2nd PUTToberfest. Thank you to title sponsor Hard Rock Café, food sponsor Yummy Jerky, beer table sponsor Destin Commons, and hole sponsors Buffalo Rock Company, Matthews Jones & Hawkins LLP, Pleat & Perry, P.A., and Publix Super Markets, Inc. Beginning at 5 p.m., players will enjoy a round of miniature golf at the Golf Garden with beer sampling stations set up all along the way. The event, presented by the Destin Area Sports Commission, also features a chipping contest, and prizes will be awarded. Entry for a single player is $25. SEPTEMBER
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The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to our August Business After Hours sponsored by Gulf South Private Bank, located at 4405 Commons Dr. E., Destin. Event hours are 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Please do not forget to bring your business card for networking and our door prize drawing. All businesses are invited to bring a door prize, which offers one more way for you to gain exposure. There is no fee for members to attend this event. The non-member fee is $20. Please visit the Events Calendar at www.DestinChamber.com to RSVP. SEPTEMBER
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SEPTEMBER
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Non-Profit Spotlight St. Andrews By The Sea Episcopal Church Condo cleaners, boat welders, construction laborers, restaurant wait staff, grocery store clerks, hotel housekeepers, fishing trip reservationists, fast food workers, charter boat mates, movie ticket sellers, retail clerks, automobile detailers, bait sellers, oyster shuckers, and the unemployed are all representative of the people who are served regularly through St. Andrew’s by the Sea Episcopal Church in Destin. People have been laid off even after many years of steady employment with the same employer. Equally draconian are the many stories of people being reduced from 40 hours a week to 8-10 hours per week. Many volunteer that they had never before had to ask for any assistance, some cry and many receive and give hugs. St. Andrew’s has six on-going programs for the homeless and those near homelessness: Bag lunches are provided every day of the week to anyone requesting one. From January through June this year, we have provided 836. Every Monday a hot lunch is served to whoever comes. To
Chamber Board of Directors Meeting will be held in the Chamber conference room at 11:30 a.m.
date this year, we have provided 713 hot lunches. Our food pantry also provided food to all who request assistance. So far this year, we have provided food to 649 families and individuals. We have an outdoor shower that is open 3 days a week. Through June, we have had 1,049 showers taken. We provide and repair bikes—for many it is the only form of transportation other than walking. Through June, we have given out 121 bikes. We provide $10 gas coupons for those in need to get to doctors’ appointments, work, or to court dates. This year, we have provided 146 vouchers. To support these ministries, St. Andrew’s has an annual gourmet luncheon, style show, and silent auction. This year, it will be held on Friday, Sept. 23. It is open to the public. The event will begin with a social hour and silent auction at 11 a.m., followed by a gourmet lunch and fashion show. Clothes are being
provided by Coldwater Creek and will be modeled by members and friends of the church, representing a variety of ages and sizes. Silent auction items include gift certificates from area restaurants, jewelry, gift baskets, massages, a week in a six-bedroom home in Costa Rica, manicures, original paintings, hand- made items, and many other great bargains. Tickets are available at the church office. The church is located at 307 Harbor Blvd. (Highway 98), in Destin, just east of the bridge to Fort Walton Beach. Parking is available in front of the church and off Mountain Drive behind the church. Tickets are $30. For more information, call the church office at 650-2737.
The above article is part of our series spotlighting our non-profit organizations. Their efforts strengthen the Destin community, and we are proud of their dedication and hard work. If you would like your non-profit organization spotlighted here, please contact Elizabeth Spies at (850) 837-6241 or espies@DestinChamber.com.
If you are interested in membership in the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact Membership Consultant or vist www.DestinChamber.com
Join the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce and Destin Fishing Rodeo from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., at A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, to celebrate the start of the Destin Fishing Rodeo!
For information about all Chamber events, please visit the Events Calendar at www.DestinChamber.com. PAGE 4
www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
Trustees Profile: Scott Mitchell Branch Manager of Trustmark National Bank Scott Mitchell began his banking career in 2006 with Compass Bank, now known as BBVA Compass, after receiving his Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University. After spending his first two years with the bank in Auburn, Ala., he then relocated to the Destin area in 2008, where he began working for GulfSouth Private Bank. In June 2010, Mitchell received an opportunity to join Trustmark National Bank. His combination of experience in both corporate and community banking helped shape his comprehensive knowledge of the financial services industry. Trustmark National Bank is headquartered in Jackson, Miss., and has been in continuous operation since 1889. Trustmark engages in community banking in its four-state market area, which includes Mississippi, Texas, the Emerald Coast of Florida, and Tennessee. Trustmark offers commercial, retail, and international banking services, as well as brokerage, investment, trust, insurance, and mortgage services throughout the four-state area. Mitchell currently serves as manager of the Miramar
Beach Branch. His responsibilities include managing personnel and ensuring the efficiency of daily operations of the full service branch, while developing and maintaining a quality business development program. Throughout Trustmark’s history, the bank has successfully worked to build long-term relationships with its customers. This is evidenced by the many third and fourth generation family-managed businesses who continue to bank with them. Through good times and bad, the bank provides the combination of personalized service and contemporary products important to meet customer needs. As the bank continues to grow, Mitchell will work diligently to incorporate Trustmark’s values and culture with contemporary thinking. By combining traditional strengths with new ideas, he will meet the challenges of a rapidly changing banking environment. In addition to his work responsibilities, Mitchell also serves his community in many ways. He participates in the United Way of Day of Caring, Habitat for Humanity, and many area chamber events. Mitchell has also applied and been selected for Leadership Walton, which is a program that strives to develop an individual’s leadership skills, while increasing value to his or her organization and strengthening the greater community.
SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS The following workshops will be offered by the University of West Florida’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) during September 2011. For more information, please call the Fort Walton Beach SBDC at (850) 8339400.
Puttoberfest sponsored by Hard Rock Café
Last Year’s Most Talked About Event is Back! Putt your way through 18 holes of mini-golf and a beer tasting during the 2nd PUTToberfest, sponsored by Hard Rock Café! Beginning at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 15, players will enjoy a round of miniature golf at the Golf Garden with beer sampling stations set up all along the way. The event, presented by the Destin Area Sports Commission, also features a chipping contest, and prizes will be awarded. Thank you to title sponsor Hard Rock Cafe, food sponsor Yummy Jerky, putting contest sponsor ResortQuest, beer table sponsor Destin Commons, and hole sponsor Buffalo Rock Company, Fisher House of the Emerald Coast Board Member John Bernhart, Matthews Jones & Hawkins LLP, Pleat & Perry, P.A., and Publix Super Markets, Inc. For more information or to reserve your playing spot or sponsorship, please call (850) 837-6241 or visit www.DestinChamber.com. Entry for a single player is $25.
– See how QuickBooks financial software helps you take control of your business finances. Find out which QuickBooks product is right for you before you buy. See an overview of how QuickBooks simplifies tasks, such as payroll, sales tax, job estimating, and job costing. The fee is $50. To reserve your seat, you may register and pay by credit card at www.sbdc.uwf.edu. QuickBooks Basics
Sept. 8 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 1120 Martin Luther King Blvd., Room 126, Fort Walton Beach
– This workshop will review business planning areas, such as financing, selecting a business legal structure, identifying your market, recordkeeping, and identifying risks that can challenge success. The fee is $35. To reserve your seat, please visit www. sbdc.uwf.edu.
– A good company budget equals success. Today most small business follows an earn-and-spend-as-you-go strategy. Most businesses do not keep their focus on accounting or profit or loss; they just run by the feeling either they are profiting or losing. A good budget covering most company activities can take your business in a new direction. To reserve your seat for this free event, you may register on line at www. sbdc.uwf.edu or call our office at (850) 833-9400. Space is limited.
Sept. 1 • 1 – 4 p.m. 922 Mar Walt Dr., Ste. 203, Fort Walton Beach
Sept. 15 • 12 – 1 p.m. 922 Mar Walt Dr., Ste. 203, Fort Walton Beach
Starting a Business
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
Brown Bag Luncheon: “How to Budget” by Carr Riggs & Ingram
www.DestinChamber.com
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Business Briefs O’Sullivan Creel Named to Top 100 Best Companies O’Sullivan Creel, LLP, has been named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For by Florida Trend magazine for the third consecutive year. O’Sullivan Creel is ranked #24 of the medium-sized companies in Florida, is the only accounting firm to receive this designation in the entire panhandle of Florida, and is one of only six companies to be recognized along the Emerald Coast.
Kelley Elected to ASWA Board Lori K. Kelley, CPA at O’Sullivan Creel, LLP, was elected to the American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA) board of directors, joining 16 other professionals. Kelley, a partner with O’Sullivan Creel, brings 19 years of experience in areas of income tax planning and preparation for businesses, individuals, and taxexempt organizations; retirement and estate planning; and small business accounting consulting.
Serenity by the sea Celebrates 10 Years Serenity by the sea, the awardwinning spa at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, will now offer its guests a new fitness experience, with the recent installation of brand-new Precor® equipment – just in time for its 10th anniversary. The Emerald Coast’s “Best Spa,” as voted on by readers of Emerald Coast Magazine since 2003, is now one of a select group of hotel fitness facilities worldwide to meet the standards of Hilton Fitness by Precor®. The fitness center update is a result of the $250,000 investment on the spa’s infrastructure, as part of the Hilton Sandestin Beach’s $6.5 million hotelwide renovation project, completed in March.
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Boating Magazine to Shoot 2012 Swimsuit Edition at HarborWalk Boating Magazine brought 12 models to shoot its annual swimsuit edition in the picturesque locations of the HarborWalk Marina along the Destin Harbor, the Emerald Grande, and HarborWalk Village. Models from all over the country competed to be in an on-line model search to be one of the selected 12 swimsuit models for Boating Magazine’s November/December 2012 swimsuit issue. A crew of 20 models, photographers, and editors will be staying at the Emerald Grande to accomplish the shoot.
Destin in Good Morning America ‘Most Beautiful Place in America’ ABC’s Good Morning America has visited various locations this summer to show viewers the cities in its Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities in America list. Recently, GMA visited HarborWalk Village in Destin to tape an Emeril Legasse cooking segment and show off the emerald green waters and white sand beaches of the beautiful Emerald Coast.
Serenity by the sea Welcomes Artist, Introduces New Line Serenity by the sea welcomes Cleo Spielberg, a world-renowned certified aesthetician and makeup artist, to its team of spa professionals. With more than 30 years of industry experience, Spielberg joins Serenity by the sea as its newest skincare specialist and makeup artist. Serenity by the sea also welcomes the jane iredale mineral makeup line, which Spielberg has exclusively used in her past makeup application experience, and was the first line of its kind to combine skincare ingredients into its formulations.
Legendary Marine Earns ‘Five Star’ Dealer Certification Legendary Marine recently received the prestigious Five Star Dealer Certification. This distinguished recognition is part of a major
national marine industry standards program developed in cooperation with boat manufacturers, dealers, and engine builders in an effort to deliver excellent boating experiences at the retail level.
Silver Sands Recognizes July Employee of the Month
Peterson (left) with Stride Rite store manager Rick Hartman
Silver Sands Factory Stores July Employee of the Month is Leslie Peterson of Stride Rite. Peterson, who has been employed at Stride Rite for the past nine months, is also the assistant manager and a full-time college student. With her outstanding customer service skills and strong work ethic, it is no wonder why she was chosen for the honor.
Hard Rock Café Honors Employees
Red Cross Announces New Board Members The American Red Cross of Northwest Florida welcomed four new members to its board of directors. New members include Matthew Durham, Regions, Morgan Keegan; Frank White, in-house counsel for Sandy Sanding; Tasha Wells, marketing coordinator for Studer Group; and Doug Woodward, attorney at Moore, Hill & Westmoreland, P.A. The new board president is Brett Floyd, owner of Liberty Tax, Inc., and returning board members are vice president John Hosman, treasurer Eleanor McGee, and Scott Teel.
Wal-Mart Grant Helps Feed Hungry Seniors Bridgeway Center, Inc., Bridges to Seniors has been awarded $3,537 through a Wal-Mart Foundation grant to the Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA). The money will provide Bridges to Seniors with much-needed assistance in enhancing service delivery, by purchasing computer equipment, in addition to coolers and thermal blankets, to preserve ideal temperatures for beverages and delivered meals.
Share the Shelter Music Festival Benefits Local Agencies
Jamie Jacobs
Sara Scruggs
More than $21,600 raised during the July 24 Share the Shelter Music Festival will benefit Shelter House, Inc., and Alaqua Animal Refuge.
300 Plus Attend Dedication of Boys & Girls Club to “Bear” Henley Chris Deviney
Jesse Vonderosten
Hard Rock Café celebrated its April and May Employees of the Month. April Back of House Rocker was Jamie Jacobs, and Front of House Rocker was Sara Scruggs. May Back of House Rocker was Chris Deviney, and Front of House Rocker was Jesse Vonderosten.
www.DestinChamber.com
With the promise to his Club’s kids that “Mr. Bear is still in the neighborhood,” Crawford W. “Bear” Henley formally signed off Friday as chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast at the dedication of the Fort Walton Beach Youth and Teen Center, 923 Denton Blvd., as the Crawford W. “Bear” Henley Boys & Girls Club.
Bit-Wizards Named Top 100 Best Companies to Work for Second Year Bit-Wizards (www.bitwizards. com), a leading provider of custom software solutions and website design in the Southeast, was named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For. The rankings — the second annual statewide Best Companies list — appear in the August issue Florida Trend and on FloridaTrend.com.
790 on the Gulf Celebrates Second Year On June 11, 2011, 790 on the Gulf celebrated its two year anniversary. 790 on the Gulf also just received its full liquor license. It now offers a full line of premium vodkas, gins, tequilas, bourbons, whiskeys, and blended and single malt scotches.
Sinfonia Receives Support from Target for 2011-2012 Season Sinfonia Gulf Coast announced its continued partnership with Target in recognition of the non-profit symphony orchestra’s mission of educating and inspiring the community with innovative and imaginative performances. Sinfonia just finished an incredible fifth anniversary with more than 58 events, including concerts, educational outreach, bravo! Events, and a 6-month exhibit of painted violins at Grand Boulevard Town Center.
Stewart Title Relocates Stewart Title Company announces the opening of its new Destin location in Regatta Commons. The new office will be managed by title industry veteran Jared Bradley and cater to the Okaloosa and Walton counties’ real estate markets. Karissa Ignasiak will serve as the business development officer for the new location. See BRIEFS on page 7
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
BRIEFS continued from page 6
Dunlap Named New Okaloosa County 911 Communications Division Chief Daniel Dunlap has been selected as the new 911 Communications Divisions Chief, upon Silvia Womack’s recent retirement. Dunlap has worked his way up through the 911 system since 2000, when he joined Okaloosa County staff. He was awarded the State EMS Dispatcher Award in 2005. Dunlap is a certified Emergency Number Professional, as well as a Florida licensed 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator.
Hard Rock Presents Check to American Red Cross Hard Rock Café’s presented $600 to the American Red Cross of Northwest Florida from money raised during its celebrity server week! Each day a celebrity server from the
business community donated time and tips towards assisting people that the American Red Cross helps during such trying times.
Crye-Leike Franchise Top Producers
June’s Hard Rockers
Ken Koger
George Younger
Wanda Duke
elected Fran Crumpton, Gulf Coast Trade Exchange, to serve as treasurer for its board of directors. Former treasurer, David DelGallo, Advanced Construction Services, was elected to the vice chair position. The BBB board of directors also welcomed two new board members: Carroll Scarborough, Pen Air Federal Credit Union, and Mindy Shirley, Gulf Power Company.
FWB High Cheerleaders Take Top Awards at UCA Cheer Camp
Janea Kraus
Hard Rock Café celebrated its June Employees of the month. Back of House Rocker was George Younger, and Front of House Rock was Janea Kraus.
John Paulsen
Shelter House Receives Grant From Allstate Foundation Shelter House, local domestic violence center, was awarded a grant from the Allstate Foundation that will allow Shelter House’s Economic Empowerment program, WAM! (Women and Money) to continue another year. The WAM! program, implemented two years ago, provides economic empowerment training to community members of Okaloosa and Walton counties and survivors of domestic violence and their children who utilize Shelter House services.
Collen Regan
Elliot Marcus, broker for CryeLeike Coastal Realty, announced the mid-year Top 25 Agents for the 23 Crye-Leike franchises include Ken Koger #2, Wanda Duke #10, John Paulsen #11, and Colleen Regan #18. These four excelled due to their outstanding commitment to their customers, to their professional interaction with the Realtors in our area, and to their in depth knowledge of the real estate market on the Emerald Coast.
The 2011-12 Fort Walton Beach High School (FWBHS) Cheerleaders attended the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA) Stunt and Performance Camp at the University of Central Florida in July, receiving several distinguished awards for stunt, cheer, dance, and spirit performances.
The squad, coached by Natalie Harris Schmidt, competed with an original home pom dance routine, where FWBHS cheerleaders received first place overall in the small coed division. The FWBHS squad also was granted the Gatorade Cooler Award, Leadership Award, and Spirit Stick, during competition against other regional squads during the week and in final evaluations. Several members of the FWBHS squad received individual awards: Lauren Hart, Giana Gallegos, Lindsay Trigg, and Riley Santos were this year’s All-Americans; Top Jumpers were Giana Gallegos and Ian Morris (Top Male Jumper); the Top Stunt Group included Lauren Hart, Lindsay Trigg, Jordyn Hoffmann, and Joanna Walls; and Lauren Hart, Giana Gallegos, Lindsay Trigg, and Ali Guillory received UCA staff bids.
BBB® Welcomes New Officers and Directors to Board Your Better Business Bureau Serving Northwest Florida recently
Buy Destin Program FREE for All Members By far and regardless of the season, the most popular question in the Destin Area Chamber’s Welcome Center is “do you have any coupons?” Our Buy Destin Program, created in 2009, was designed to answer this question, while providing new customers to Chamber member businesses. There is no cost for Chamber members to supply a coupon or discount offer. The Chamber will use these offers to create a Buy Destin booklet, avail-
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
www.DestinChamber.com
able in the Chamber lobby for $5. The booklet is for area visitors, businesses, and residents. For more information or to sign up, please visit www.buydestinfl.com or contact the Chamber’s Vice President of Communications Elizabaeth Spies at (850) 837-2711 x5 or espies@ DestinChamber.com. These booklets are printed in-house, so it is quick and easy to add or update your coupon!
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Business After Hours Sponsored by: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
We would like to thank the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort for sponsoring our July 28 Business After Hours at the Baytowne Marina. The event was held in conjunction with the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce. Pictured here is vice president of operations Steven Schaefer.
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • Big Kahuna’s • Brooks Brothers Country Club • Cantina Laredo • Caring Transitions
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www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
Leaders In Business Lunch
During D uriing th the eC Ch Chamber’s hamb ber’’s A Aug. ug 9 L Leaders eaders d iin nB Business usiiness L Lunch, unch h h held eld ld att D Destin esti tin U United nit ited dM Methodist eth thodi distt Church, Rep. Steve Southerland spoke about his experiences as a newcomer in DC politics, especially in the wake of the recent debt crisis discussions.
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • • • • • • • •
Coastal Accounting of NW Florida, PA Eglin Federal Credit Union Emerald Coast Chiropractic Emerald Coast Convention Center Catering Gold’s Gym Gulf Power Gulfarium Jim Liufau Ins. Agency, Inc., State Farm Ins.
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
• Lenny’s Sub Shop • Mary Kay Independent Consultant Team Leader Sheri McDonald • O’Sullivan Creel, LLP • Shalimar Pointe Country Club • Simple HR • The UPS Store/Miramar Beach
Members are encouraged to bring a door prize to any C Chamber event. This is just one more way to promote your company to all members.
www.DestinChamber.com
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654 Taxi, LLC 221 Main St. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 654-8294 Category: Taxi Services Chamber Rep: Haim David
DestinWebPages.com Destin, FL 32541 (260) 232-2435 www.destinwebpages.com Category: Search and Social Media Chamber Rep: Julio Fernandez
BeMyShopper, Inc. 3850 Indian Trail #108 Destin, FL 32541 (855) 746-7850 www.bemyshopper.com Category: Concierge Services Chamber Rep: Paul Schmidt
End Zone Apparel 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 106 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-3309 www.endzoneapparel.net Category: Retail Clothing Chamber Rep: Kristal Roberts
Caring Transitions 981 Hwy. 98 E. Ste. 3269 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 428-9826 www.caringtransitions.net/emeraldcoastfl Category: Transition Services Chamber Rep: Cindy Johnson
Fisherman’s Wharf 210-D Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 654-4766 www.fishermanswharfdestin.com Category: Restaurants - Seafood Chamber Rep: John Comer
Celebration Hall 61 Topsail Village Dr Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (850) 688-9914 www.thecelebrationhall.com Category: Convention & Meeting Services; Wedding Consultants; Wedding Suppliers and Services Chamber Rep: Alice Pauls
Hurlburt Field Force Support Marketing 145 Letourneau Ste. 123 Hurlburt Field, FL 32544 (850) 884-2189 Category: Non-Profits Chamber Rep: Tom Cason
Clever Ogre 526 W. Chase St. Pensacola, FL 32502 (850) 912-4203 www.cleverogre.com Category: Advertising Chamber Rep: Nora Jones
JPB Commercial Real Estate Advisors 10343 E. Hwy. 30A Ste. 105 Seacrest Beach, FL 32413 (850) 231-6694 www.jpbe.com Category: Real Estate Commercial Chamber Rep: Tom Watson
Celebrating Ambassador Successes
Live Oak Landing 229 Pitts Ave. Freeport, FL 32439 (877) 436-5063 www.liveoaklanding.rvcoutdoors.com Category: Campgrounds Chamber Rep: Neil Sorrell Pompano Joe’s 2237 Scenic Gulf Dr Destin, FL 32550 (850) 837-2224 www.pompano-joes.com Category: Restaurants - Carribbean Chamber Rep: John Comer Transfield Services 313 W. James Lee Blvd. Crestview, FL 32536 (850) 398-8568 www.transfieldservices.com/na Category: Transportation Infrastructure Chamber Rep: Jessica Campbell
Congratulations to our top Ambassadors for July 2011: 40 points – Richard Barrington, Holiday Isle Properties, Inc. 40 points – Ann Kief, BeachOasis.com and Qivana 40 points – Paul Woolman, Copy Systems Business Center, Inc.
Thank you to these Ambassadors for welcoming the following new businesses into the Chamber: Sherry Schneider, America’s Swimming Pool Co. New Members – 30-A Suites and Celebration Hall
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Ann Kief, BeachOasis.com and Qivana New Members - Bayview RV Campground, Live Oak Landing , The Love Shack, and The UPS Store/Miramar Beach www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
790 on the Gulf (850) 650-4853 Chamber Rep: Ed Ward
Destin Harvest (850) 650-8109 Chamber Rep: Chris Leavenworth
Larry W. Hines (850) 654-6078 Chamber Rep: Larry W. Hines
Realty House Commercial Properties, Inc. (850) 244-9117 Chamber Rep: Basil Bethea, Jr.
AAA Destin Charter Boat Service (850) 837-9401 Chamber Rep: Michael Eller
Destin Ice & Seafood (850) 837-8333 Chamber Rep: Jim Bass
Homes & Land Of The Emerald Coast (850) 650-1014 Chamber Rep: Joe Nacchia
Revive Media Services (850) 362-0001 Chamber Rep: Lynn Dominique
Advanced Fire Protection Services, Inc. (850) 244-2026 Chamber Rep: Paul Sherwood
Destin Luxury Rentals (850) 837-4191 Chamber Rep: Wanda Lavender Nutt
J. Miller’s Consign & Design (850) 654-8009 Chamber Rep: Justin Miller
Deborah Roberts (850) 243-8871 Chamber Rep: Deborah Roberts
Affordable Home Insurance, Inc. (850) 654-1567 Chamber Rep: Dennis Gagnon, Jr.
Destin Middle School (850) 833-7655 Chamber Rep: Dwana Neyendorf
Jenkins Transfer & Storage, Inc. (850) 243-6111 Chamber Rep: Bill Jenkins
Bernie Robin (850) 654-9305 Chamber Rep: Bernie Robin
America’s Swimming Pool Co. (850) 603-0879 Chamber Rep: Cortney Eiland
Destin West Resort Management (850) 243-3630 Chamber Rep: Courtney Weeks
Margaritaville (850) 235-7870 Chamber Rep: Mike Whitmer
Char Rohrer (850) 796-3325 Chamber Rep: Char Rohrer
Broad and Cassel (850) 269-0148 Chamber Rep: Ginger B. Boyd
Ecco Motors (850) 837-2600 Chamber Rep: Debbie Bodenstine
Burger King (Goldco, Inc.) (850) 837-5060 Chamber Rep: Bob Davis
Elite Physique Personal Training (850) 598-7263 Chamber Rep: Colleen Riddle
Chuck Lawson-Tropical Island Music (850) 496-7230 Chamber Rep: Chuck Lawson
Emerald Coast Funeral Home (850) 864-3361 Chamber Rep: Pamela Amos
Coastal Cooling & Heating, LLC (850) 424-6339 Chamber Rep: Bob Biel
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center (850) 862-1111 Chamber Rep: Vicki Story
Crab Trap Restaurant (850) 654-2722 Chamber Rep: Clint Rogers
Gulf World Marine Park (850) 234-5271 Chamber Rep: Pam George
Payroll Management Inc. dba PMI Employee Leasing (850) 243-5604 Chamber Rep: Dan Robertson
Twin Cities Hospital (850) 678-4131 Chamber Rep: Jenni Harrison
Destin Commons (850) 337-8700 Chamber Rep: Kristina Trujillo
Hampton Inn & Suites (850) 837-7889 Chamber Rep: Mary Garner
Jamison L. Plantz, DMD, PA (850) 837-6824 Chamber Rep: Marlene Burke
Yellow Book USA (850) 469-3100 Chamber Rep: Brenda Renkl
Destin Days, LLC (850) 650-0809 Chamber Rep: Donna Ryan
Harbor Cigars (850) 650-3111 Chamber Rep: Marvin Holthouser
Preston Hood Chevrolet, Inc. (850) 664-7000 Chamber Rep: Taylor Hood
Yummy Jerky (850) 376-9140 Chamber Rep: Aaron Weinstock
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
Money Tree ATM (850) 244-5543 Chamber Rep: Brad Fletcher Olive Garden (850) 650-2307 Chamber Rep: Paula Hogan O’Sullivan Creel, LLP (850) 837-0398 Chamber Rep: Kevin Bowyer Paradise Key at Kelly Plantation (850) 650-5005 Chamber Rep: Tina Roberson
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Sam’s Club (850) 862-5330 Chamber Rep: Kim Jarvis Santa Rosa Golf And Beach Club, Inc. (850) 267-1240 Chamber Rep: Nick Watson Silver King Charters (850) 837-2028 Chamber Rep: Mike & Marguerite Parker Simple HR (850) 650-9935 Chamber Rep: Bill Lindsley
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Chamber Welcomes New Members During Reception On Aug. 16, new members were introduced to the Chamber, its Board Members, and staff at a new member reception held in the Chamber conference room. We would like to thank all new members who attended, including the following: BLAB TV; BOTE; Brooks Brothers Country Club Store; Caring Transitions; Clever Ogre; Frost Images; GCS Building Solutions; Highlands & Islands Travel, LLC; Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach; Igloo Cryosauna, Inc.; Northwest Florida Primary Care; Plan B Adult Care Solutions, LLC; Russell Landscape Group, Inc.; TOPS Hamburgers; and White Sands Party Bus Read further to learn more about some of the Chamber’s newest members: BLAB TV is a long form TV Station, featuring local businesses and personalities. It offers 15-, 30-, and 60-minute shows, as well as :30- & :60- second ads to local businesses. BLAB TV is about telling your story and you being the expert in your industry. Historically, more than 75% of advertisers have been on more than five years. BLAB TV has been in Pensacola for 27 years and recently acquired a million watt signal. It airs in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Escambia counties, as well as Conecuh and Monroe counties in Alabama and soon in Bay and Baldwin counties. Call Peggy Brockman (850) 259-8356. Brooks Brothers Country Club is the first country club store in the nation and is open at Grand Boulevard in Sandestin. It is not strictly for golf or tennis. Our collection highlights the way Brooks Brothers designs casual wear and is reminiscent of the timeless American style for which Brooks Brothers is known. Every item in the Country Club Collection exhibits extremely high quality and attention to detail. The combination of luxurious fabrics, comfort, and performance assures a specifically-appropriate look, whether on the course or at the club. Visit the store in Grand Boulevard or call (850) 269-1255. “Maybe you’re ready to downsize and enjoy less maintenance in your life – or an event in your life necessitates a transition or move,” said Cindy and Victor JohnPAGE 12
son, co-owners of Caring Transitions in Destin, which serves the Emerald Coast and surrounding areas. “Our Caring Transitions team can provide a selection of services, such as move management, rightsizing, estate liquidations (partial and full), resettlement of family members in their new home, and other services that clients can select to meet their needs.” Caring Transitions is a total solutions company for individuals going through a transitioning process. Visit www.Caring Transitions.net/EmeraldCoastFL or call (850) 428-9826. Just opened in August, End Zone Apparel will be Destin’s premier location to purchase licensed sports apparel and accessories for your favorite teams. Carrying quality brands, such as Red Jacket, 47 Brand, and Reebok, it will offer the best selection of vintage inspired merchandise for men, women, and children sports fans in the area. End Zone Apparel is locally owned and operated and looks forward to contributing to the Destin community. It is located in the Paradise Isles Shopping Plaza across the highway from Destin Commons. Visit www.endzoneapparel.net or find it on Facebook. Call (850) 4243309 for details. “Photography is my passion,” said Frost Jones of Frost Images. Jones received her first camera at age 8 and has been recording the world on film ever since. Since 1999, she has photographed more than 1,000 families on Destin’s beautiful beaches. Children are her specialty. She also provides photography for beach weddings, special
events, real estate, websites, business publications, pets, and concerts. “I began shooting professionally in 1986 in Atlanta, and, with grace and gratitude, I will continue to view the world through a Nikkor lens,” said Jones. Visit www.frostimages.com to see her work and join her business Facebook page for daily postings. GCS Building Solutions is a premier provider of hurricane protection, windows, doors, shutters, retractable screens, and garage doors. GCS is a family of businesses to include Overhead Door of Northwest Florida and Gulf Coast Shutter and is an authorized distributor or dealer for Overhead Door, Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors, New Horizon Shutters, Alutech, Armor Screen, Wayne Dalton, Stormcatcher, and Phantom Screens. GCS has been in business since 2001, is a member of the International Hurricane Protection Association, and has a very professional and highly skilled staff. For more information on GCS Building Solutions, visit www.gcsbsi.com or contact GCS at (850) 269-1066. Highlands & Islands Travel, LLC, is a full service travel agency and e-commerce business that harnesses the power of and retail market shift to the internet. HIT has teamed with ytb Travel Network International to help you save and earn money on internet purchases. Our team is helping thousands to maximize the effectiveness of their current retail and travel budgets, whether it is for business travel, vacations, office, or home supplies, birthday or holiday presents, back
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to school shopping, or the next hi-tech phone, it pledges to provide a customized solution to your e-commerce experience. Visit www.HITadventures or call (850) 499-2979. The Holiday Inn Beachfront Resort is located on Okaloosa Island, offering 195 rooms including suites, penthouses, and honeymoon suite, ideal for the business or leisure traveler. Amenities include two pools, whirlpool, rock-slide, pool basketball, beach service, beach volleyball, poolside ping pong, bicycles, family/ kids’ activities, unlimited movies, and more. Stop by the Crab Island Café for a delicious entrée or cool off with a frozen beverage at the poolside Tiki Bar & Grill. Let us host your next banquet, reunion, beach wedding ceremony, reception, or corporate meeting in our 3,500-squarefoot conference center with onsite catering service. Call (850) 244-8686 or visit www.hifwb.com. The whole body cryotherapy used for Igloo Cryosauna, Inc., was developed in Japan in 1978. Cryosauna lowers exterior skin temperature for a period up to three minutes. The skin reacts to the cold and sends messages to the brain that acts as a stimulant to the regulatory functions of the body. It produces the scanning of areas that may not be working to their fullest potential. Therapy triggers the release of endorphins, which induce analgesia (immediate pain relief). It improves a variety of conditions, such as psychological stress, insomnia, rheumatism, muscle and joint pain, fibromyalgia, itching, and psoriasis. Call (850) 460-2899 or visit www.igloocryosauna.com. Plan B Adult Care Solutions, LLC, offers home health care, sitter services, and companion services. Plan B is not a franchise. We are locally owned and operated by Registered Nurses with more than 30 years of experience. Plan B is committed to the highest standards of integrity, values, quality, and reliability. Plan B is available to clients in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, retirement homes, and hospitals, as well as in the comfort of their own homes. When your Plan A for healthcare fails, let Plan B develop your solution. Visit www.planbadultcaresolutions.com or call (850) 650-9585. NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
Destin Business Forum In partnership with Cox Communications, the Chamber’s monthly TV program will host the following organizations beginning in August:
Howard Group Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Big Lots! #5169 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 140 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 650-0708 www.biglots.com Category: Retail Specialty Chamber Rep: Michael Kinkopf
Dynasty Chinese Cuisine 12889 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 102A Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 837-6675 Category: Restaurants - Asian Chamber Rep: Sergio Mora NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
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The County Line
Infrastructure
Submitted by Okaloosa County Commissioner James Campbell, District 5 lines are our road improvements. Due to using millings, or crushed asphalt, we have been able to improve some of our dirt roads efficiently and inexpensively, in the north part of the county. Another process we are using that is cost effective is the Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) process. We have recently completed Buck Ward Road in Baker and Fairchild Road in Crestview, while General Bond Boulevard in the south, is being completed now. These are highly traveled roads, and it is a phenomenal accomplishment. Thanks to Director John Hofstad and the employees of Public Works for making this happen! Other major traffic improvements include the 123 flyover on State Highway 85 (FDOT project), near the entrance of NWF Regional Airport and, coming soon, is an overpass at Duke and 85 that will eliminate the red light, keep traffic flowing on 85 and improve safety overall. Public Works Engineering Division has another plan for an overpass at the Hurlburt Field entrance at Cody Avenue and Highway 98, which will have the same impact; however, doesn’t have funding at this time, but hopefully will in the future. These are great accomplishments in a lean budget year and moving into another year where you, our citizens, are making cuts, and we are too. I can’t say enough about our employees and their professionalism throughout the past three years, who are doing more with less every day. Please know that your county is efficiently run, and I compliment County Administrator Jim Curry as well, for his wisdom, integrity and tenacity. We have our Budget Public Hearings in September and managed to get our meetings via live streaming video online for your convenience and are there for you to view anytime. The budget in its entirety is online as well. Join us in September: September 8, 6 p.m. at the Crestview Courthouse September 20, 6 p.m., Water and Sewer Building, 3rd Floor Conference room, Fort Walton Beach
For information on advertising in the 2012 Visitor’s Guide & Membership Directory, please contact or Rick Seevers at (850) 650-2780 or rseevers@labpllc.com. PAGE 14
Law Offices ROBERT E. MCGILL, III, P.A.
ROBERT E. MCGILL, III ATTORNEY AT LAW 36008 Emerald Coast Pkwy. • Suite C Destin, Florida 32541
3019502
Hello to our citizens of Okaloosa County, and I hope you are enjoying a wonderful summer. After last summer and the BP Oil Spill, we can certainly appreciate our weather and our beautiful area. We can also realize just how lucky we are compared to other areas of the country, which I feel have suffered from weather and the economy more than we have this year. Even more great news came from Destin, with its selection as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in America by Good Morning America— I think we all agree and hopefully everyone cast a vote for Destin. I am also excited about a possibility that we will get some much-needed assistance from BP for our stormwater, in order to protect our waterways for the future. This is long overdue and is happening through a Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) program launched in response to the oil spill. The NRDA criteria targets stormwater improvements for the eight counties of Northwest Florida: Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin, and Wakulla. Public Works Director John Hofstad has been working through this process with the other counties and municipalities within our county since March. Florida’s eight county area is expected to receive $100 million toward stormwater projects initially, with more funding to follow in the fall for impacted states. All of the projects are water quality initiatives that will replace aged stormwater pipes in much-needed areas of our county and retrofit existing piping with stormwater separators or the county’s 51 outfalls in Choctawhatchee Bay. What that means is that after a storm, sediments are collected through the separator units prior to the outfall into the bay! Water quality and protecting our waterways has been a concern of our citizens for a long time, and this will help tremendously. More on that as we move forward. The needs are great with so much aging infrastructure, and another positive impact we are making along these
850-837-1386 Fax 850-837-1574
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Let them know they can trust you Your Better Business Bureau Serving Northwest Florida had inquiries from over consumers last year.
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Call 800.729.9226 or start with bbb.org for more information
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in consumers say they’d be more likely to buy from a company designated as a “BBB Accredited Business.”*
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NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
September Calendar of Events September 1 Red, White, and Blue Celebration Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 6 – 9 p.m. A weekly honoring of a local hero, the celebrations highlight the efforts of people who go above and beyond to better their community. Enjoy live entertainment, free kid’s crafts and face painting, and a WWII replica flyover. The evening is topped off by a spectacular fireworks display over the Destin Harbor. September 2 – 4 Baytowne Art Walk Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf The Village of Baytowne Wharf welcomes the fresh fall season under the moonlight with a weekend good for the art and soul with world-class art and live music in the Village Events Plaza. September 3 - 4 Labor Day Weekend Celebration Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 2 – 9 p.m. Wind up the summer at this free festival, featuring family friendly fun and entertainment, live music, arts and crafts vendors, giveaways, boat rides, a car show, and more! Free kid’s crafts 3-6 p.m. each day. September 4 “The Return” Beatles Tribute Band Location: Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Village Green Time: 7 p.m. The captivating, fun, exciting
spirit that came to be known as “Beatlemania” is alive again in the Return -- the world’s most authentic and entertaining Beatles tribute band. $10 for adults and kids under 12 are free. September 4 Operation Inspiration Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 5 – 8 p.m. Operation Inspiration is a powerful and unique evening of live musical entertainment. Operation Inspiration events begin at 5 p.m. with a meet & greet with the performing artist. Concerts will begin at 6 p.m. Concerts are free and open to the public.
September 28 JobsPlus to Offer Job Seekers Resources and Career Opportunities Location: Silver Sands Factory Stores Time: 1 – 4 p.m. On the fourth Wednesday of every month except November, the JobsPlus 40-foot Mobile OneStop vehicle will offer access to job seekers hundreds of positions available at Silver Sands Factory Stores, as well as to the Employ Florida Marketplace database for additional employment opportunities throughout the state.
September 30- October 2 33rd Annual Destin Seafood Festival Location: Destin Harbor Set up along the length of Destin harbor from Harborwalk Village to the Boathouse Oyster Bar, including the Lucky Snapper Grill & Bar, Olin Marler Charter Boat Service, A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar, Galati Yacht Sales, Dewey Destin’s, the City of Destin Royal Melvin Heritage Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, and East Pass Marina, enjoy live music, delicious seafood, and more.
September 7, 14, 21, & 28 Wednesday Night Concert Series Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf Time: 6 – 8 p.m. Enjoy the continuation of the Wednesday Night Concert Series through the month of September. We’ll be tantalizing your musical taste buds with musicians to entertain all guests. September 17 ZumbaTHON Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 4 p.m. World Record Breaking ZUMBA celebration. Be a part of the largest ZUMBA class on the Destin Harbor. Everyone is invited to come out and learn and be a part of this attempt to break the Guinness Book World Record. This event will include live music and activities with a Latin theme.
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NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011
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PAGE 15
Chamber Networking Trip A San Fran Getaway You are invited on the Chamber’s Inaugural Networking Trip, a San Francisco Getaway, featuring Monterey and Sonoma Valley! Take this trip with area business leaders to build better working relationships. Highlights of the Oct. 10 - 14 trip include San Francisco, Pier 39, Sonoma Valley, Viansa Winery, Monterey, and 17 Mile. Cost includes airfare, accommodations at the Sheraton Fisherman’s Wharf, transportation, and five meals. Please call the Destin Area Chamber at (850) 837-6241 for more information or to reserve your space. 2042911
Westwood Retirement Resort: WHERE RESIDENTS ENJOY “EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES EVERY DAY ” SM
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`i«i `i ÌÊ Û }ÊUÊ,i >L Ì>Ì Ê> `Ê- i`Ê ÕÀÃ } Exceptional Experiences Every DaySM 1001 Mar Walt Drive, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (850) 863-5174ÊUÊÜÜÜ°LÀ `> i Û }°V
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Exceptional Experiences Every Day is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. 18090-TES03-0611-VH
NETWORK SEPTEMBER 2011