March 2013
Chamber Awards Outstanding Members and Installs 2013 Board Capt. Kelly Windes, Sunrise Charters and Destin Fishing Fleet Marina, Inc. “This year’s winner is no stranger to any of us,” explained Lindsley, as he presented the award. “His name is intertwined into the history of our great community, and
Chairman’s Award for Volunteer Service Winner Kathy Whidden, Emerald Coast Chiropractic
he has played a vital role in the success of the Destin Harbor and fishing industry. The Ann Gibson Community Service Award was given to Kim Wintner, Alliance Association Management Co., Inc., for On the evening of Friday, Jan. 18, almost 200 members of the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce gathered at the Emerald Coast Convention Center to celebrate 2012 successes and install the 2013 Officers and Board of Directors. During the banquet, the Chamber’s most prestigious annual awards were presented by 2012 Chamber Chairman Bill Lindsley, SimpleHR, to outstanding members of our Chamber and our community. The James D. Neilson, Sr., Chairman’s Award for Volunteer Service
his tireless service to the community. He chairs or sits on 10 different boards of directors, and his service work has had a tangible and long-term effect on the community. The winner of the Paul Woolman Ambassador of the Year Award was Jennifer Barrett of Acentria, Inc., for her large role in the Chamber’s annual Member Appreciation Day, as well as assisting with events and ribbon cuttings throughout the year.
was given to Kathy Whidden of Emerald Coast Chiropractic, for unselfishly giving
Mary Anne Windes (seen top left), Real
of her time and talents to assist in all
Estate Professionals of Destin, Inc. Other
aspects of Chamber events.
members of the new 2013 Executive
business, and the community, the Business Person of the Year Award was given to
Ann Gibson Community Service Award Kim Wintner, Alliance Association Management Co., Inc.
After presenting the awards, Lindsley passed the gavel to 2013 Chairman
Due to his service to the Chamber, his
Busines Person of the Year Capt. Kelly Windes, Destin Fishing Fleet Marina, Inc.
Committee include Chairman Elect Amy Perry, Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A.; continued page 8
Paul Woolman Ambassador of the Year Award Jennifer Barrett, Acentria, Inc.
Find more information and register for upcoming events at www.DestinChamber.com!
6th Multi-Chamber Business Expo & Taste of Okaloosa County The Biggest Marketing and Networking Opportunity Around!
Tuesday, March 5 4 - 7 p.m. Emerald Coast Convention Center Free and open to the public! Thank you to our sponsors! Apparel Expressions Cumulus Broadcasting Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Gulf Coast Dermatology ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals
SimpleHR The Spine Institute on the Emerald Coast Twin Cities Hospital Waste Management
Advertising our World-Class Community In our mission to support Destin as a world-class community, our Welcome Center recorded the following numbers in January 2013: Phone Calls/Emails — 874 Incoming Mail — 244 Relocation Packages - 12 Lobby/Welcome Center Visitors — 628 Directories Mailed — 577
Economic Development and Economic Diversity a MUST You heard throughout 2012 about the economic development hopes of the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce. You heard it from your 2012 Chairman Bill Lindsley, and you heard it from me. You heard and read it from Kevin Bowyer of Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel, who is chairing the Six Pillars for Okaloosa County effort. In fact, economic development and economic diversification is a must, if Destin is to sustain its viability as a world-class place to live, work, and play. Your Chamber has been vocalizing this message. 2013 Chairman Mary Anne Windes sees herself as a problem solver. She sees this as an opportunity to enhance our quality of life and quality of place – to solve a problem, if you will. She wants us to be more active in the political process. And trust me, it will take that drive and will to achieve this. It still puzzles me when I hear the questions about why this is important or the grief this Chamber has received for wanting to immerse itself in this process. It puzzles me that some in our local government still think that the Chamber is not an economic development organization. If we aren’t that, then what are we? It’s also puzzling as to why some would find it wrong that a chamber wants to work to improve its community. Why shouldn’t we? Economic and community development is precisely why chambers of commerce exist. It’s the basis for the creation of the first chambers of commerce hundreds of years ago. To think and to say that the chamber is not an organization created for this purpose, or doesn’t exist for this purpose, is a huge misunderstanding of what a chamber is or does. So, where do we go from here, and how do we do it? By the time you read this, several things should be underway. First, you should have received from me a letter asking you to contribute to our economic development fund. With the letter was an invoice for $100. This is a contribution to what the Chamber Board has deemed our “seed money” for economic development. We want to position this community as the world-class location for business relocation. We need resources to do that. We want you to contribute and be a part. And if you want to contribute more than $100, please do so. If you’d like for me to visit with you, call me. I’ll come right over, and we’ll talk. We want to do this, and we want you to want it too. Second, our economic and community development committee should be full steam ahead. They’ll continue to analyze the wants and needs of the Destin community. We want to provide input to the city of Destin on target industries, incentives, and community improvements. We want to work to make Destin a target for new business.
4484 Legendary Drive, Suite A Destin, FL 32541 (850) 837-6241 • (850) 654-5612 fax www.DestinChamber.com mail@DestinChamber.com Building a World-Class Community One Business at a Time
Executive Committee Mary Anne Windes, Chairman of the Board Real Estate Professionals of Destin, Inc. Destin Fishing Fleet Marina
Amy Perry, Chair-Elect
Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A.
Bill Lindsley, Immediate Past Chairman
SimpleHR
Shaun Eubanks, Treasurer Julie Cotton, Vice Chairman/
Communications & Marketing Northwest Florida State College
Karen McCarthy, Vice Chairman/
Community & Economic Development Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union
Ken Wampler, Vice Chairman/Membership Development Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Inc. Jami Jones, Vice Chairman/Harbor Association Destin Charter Service
Mike Freeman, Most Immediate Past Chairman/Ex-officio Acentria, Inc.
Directors Hayward Dykes, Conerly, Bowman & Dykes, LLP Steve Jay, Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel Rebecca Jones, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Andi Mahoney, White-Wilson Medical Center Pam Martin, Gulf Power Dave Morrow, Allstate Insurance - Ryland/Morrow Agency Jonathan Ochs, Trustmark National Bank Cyndy Thomas, ResortQuest By Wyndham Vacation Rentals Carey Trotter, Trotter’s General Contractors, Inc.
Finally, the Six Pillars for Okaloosa County should be moving forward. The Okaloosa EDC is hosting a breakfast the end of February. We’ll use this – along with the Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, and Niceville Valparaiso Chambers and the EDC – to kick-start the process to create the first-ever multi-organizational county-wide strategic plan. The four major business organizations in Okaloosa County support this. We’re moving it forward. How powerful is that?
Chairman’s Appointee
New initiatives, such as this, always receive negativity. When you branch out into something new, someone will always question it. Chambers of commerce have been pursuing new actions for years and years. Chambers of commerce have dealt with negativity for years and years, and they pushed forward despite the criticism. And chambers of commerce are still around, while many of the naysayers are not. Chambers must be doing something right. Join us in this journey and let’s make Destin the best place to work, live, and play – and to relocate a business. That’s how we’ll continue to build this world-class community one business at a time.
Kim Wintner, Alliance Association Management Co. Inc.
With wishes for continued success, and until next month,
Charles Morgan, Harbor Docks Restaurant Special Appointees Jim Breitenfeld, Breitenfeld Development Services, LLC Management Team Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP, President and CEO ceo@DestinChamber.com
Elizabeth Spies, Vice President of Communications espies@DestinChamber.com
Suzy Nicholson Hunt, Events Coordinator suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com
Jen Skillman, Membership Consultant jskillman@DestinChamber.com
Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP President and CEO
Ashley Johnston, Information Specialist mail@DestinChamber.com
THE CHAMBER MONTH AHEAD Multi-Chamber Business Expo & Taste of Okaloosa County, in conjunction with the Greater Fort Walton Beach and Niceville Valparaiso Chambers of Commerce, will be held from 4 - 7 p.m., at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. Do not miss the area’s biggest networking and marketing opportunity! MARCH
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Join us for our Leaders In Business Lunch at the Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center from 11:30 a.m. - 1 pm. All registrations are due by Friday, March 8, at 3 p.m. MARCH
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MARCH
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The Board of Directors Meeting will be held in the Chamber conference room at 11:30 a.m.
The Chamber’s Social MARCH Media Group offers members a forum to discuss social media tools and strategies, learn about new applications, and connect with likeminded Chamber members. Join us from 12 - 1 p.m., in the Chamber’s conference room.
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Our Business After Hours sponsored by Apex Broadcasting will be held at HarborWalk Village. 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. There is no charge for members to attend this event. The non-member fee is $20. MARCH
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For information about all Chamber Events, please visit the Events Calendar at DestinChamber.com or call (850) 837-6241!
Why Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce? Advertising reminds me of a love-hate rollercoaster. I love advertising...I hate advertising...I love advertising...up and down we go! It’s a necessary part of business whether it’s free word of mouth or the terribly expensive use of elaborate plans. One of the nice things about belonging to a chamber is that there are multiple opportunities to advertise at a nominal cost to a key demographic of locals - you know, the ones who keep you going all year round - and to those who are planning to visit or are already here. Membership in a chamber of commerce sends a strong message of values to other idealminded business people. People want to do business with people who they perceive as like-minded For example, political people prefer to do business with someone with their same party affiliation, congregation members often like to do business with people from their church, and sports teams are also a great source of business. It’s comforting to place our business in the hands of people who are similar to us. Belonging to a chamber gives you the opportunity to advertise to locals and tourists who share your same values. It’s a very simple way to have something in common without the cumbersome worry of offending someone who is not a member of your same political party or does not share your religious beliefs; and, let’s face it, it’s a heck of a lot easier than walking around in a cast for two weeks because, at your age, should you really still be playing sports? Some of us should definitely not be! So, let’s talk about some of the opportunities to advertise at the Chamber where you can connect with people who want to do business with you. An oldie, but recently upgraded opportunity, is this monthly Network Newsletter. We have just recently started mailing the publication to every member, PLUS it’s in The Destin Log each month. I recommend including a photo with your ad because it draws attention. We also offer opportunities to sponsor events, some monthly and others are yearly. Event sponsorship/advertising reaches both local and visitors, depending on the event. For example, the Bayou, Bay, & Back 5K Run/Walk, 10K & Half Marathon that we host every January brings in people from all over the nation, plus a few international runners, as well. Another great way to reach both locals and those about to visit Destin is on our website and/or in the Chamber Guidebook, both of which are seen by a vast audience, who are researching the Destin area. Our newest advertising opportunity is on a big screen in the Chamber office. It’s inexpensive and very eye-catching. One person per week gets top billing in the weekly emails for only $100. We have free opportunities, as well. Did you know that Chamber members can place their brochures in the Chamber lobby for free? They even keep extras to stock it for you and call you when you run low. It’s a perk of membership. You can also be on our television show, the Destin Business Forum with Amy Perry. It’s a 9-minute segment that airs on Channel 6 for one month, but you can use it again on YouTube. The best way to figure it all out is to let one of the Chamber specialists help you. That’s what they do. Call (850) 837-2711 x2 for Suzy Nicholson Hunt. The Destin Area Chamber of Commerce is here to help you not only succeed, but to flourish. Let us know what else you need, and we’ll do our best to make it happen.
Mary Anne Windes 2013 Destin Area Chamber Chairman Real Estate Professionals of Destin, Inc. Destin Fishing Fleet Marina
January Ribbon Cuttings
Divorce Docs
Olive Oil Balsamic Tastings, LLC
Shrimp Basket Destin, Inc.
The Spine Institute on the Emerald Coast
Angela Angelovic 495 Grand Blvd. Ste. 206 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 502-3627 www.divorcedocs.net Legal Services
Jennifer Dukes 711 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (251) 967-8639 www.shrimpbasket.com Restaurants – Seafood
Gina Seton 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy. #187 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-2210 www.oliveoilexcellence.com Retail Specialty
Celebrating Ambassador Successes Congratulations to our top Ambassadors for January 2013! 115 points — Paul Woolman, Copy Systems Business Center, Inc. 70 points — Richard Barrington, Holiday Isle Properties, Inc. 70 points — Kent Chamberlain, The Logo Place March 2013 Network Newsletter
Lori Poelstra 155 Crystal Beach Dr. #200 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-2350 Physicians
Thank you to Ambassador Paul Woolman for welcoming new member Simply Charming Photos. Page 3
Mobile Directory to Distribute Targeted Offers DestinWebPages.com announced the creation of local mobile directory www.Dest.in to deliver target offers to smartphone owners and improve search ranking of Emerald Coast websites. The service is free to Chamber members who add their information via www.Dest.in/register. Company data will be verified and shared with Google for the creation of “Google Places” pages, where each business will be able to upload photos and videos under their optimized listing.
College of Law (1983). Following a career as an attorney in Florida, Klostermeyer spent 22 years in higher education before recently returning to Destin, where he concentrates his practice areas in community association law, municipal law, civil law, and juvenile law. Paralegal Theresa Stucki has been named to the Shelter House, Inc., Board of Directors for 2013-14. Shelter House, Inc., is a not-for-profit organization serving the survivors of domestic violence and their children throughout Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Local Jeweler donates to Children in Crisis
Firm Name Change, New Associate, and Board Appointment Pleat & Perry, P.A., announced that it has changed its name to Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A. The firm’s name change recognizes the many years of hard work, community service, and leadership of partner William J. “West” Ritchie, who has been a partner since January 2005. The firm also welcomed Robert R. “Bob” Klostermeyer to its Destin office. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Klostermeyer received his academic degrees from the University of Florida College of Business Administration (1980) and the University of Florida Page 4
Reeds Jewelers presented a cash donation of $760 to Children in Crisis, Inc., (CIC) during the Navarre Annual Awards and Installation Banquet on Jan. 5. The proceeds were from the ticket sales of the “Bubbles & Bling” drawing. Seen here (left to right) are CIC president and CEO Ken Hair; winner of the Bubbles & Bling drawing Robin Edwards, Keller Williams Realty; Reeds Jewelers general manager Tim Williams; and past chair of the Navarre Chamber of Commerce John Hays.
recognized a major naming endowment in memory of the late Janet Nadel Morell of Niceville. The Activities Center is the final phase of a $25.5 million construction and major renovation project that also included construction of a threestory Student Services Center, completed in early 2012. The Morell Endowment names the large community conference room in the college’s Costa Leadership Institute and will provide funds for equipment, instruction, and program needs.
Sacred Heart Hospital Celebrates a Decade
On Jan. 28, Okaloosa County Commissioner Kelly Windes swore in chair Shirley Pigott, vice chair Valerie McLaughlin, secretary Mary Blackwell, and treasurer Amy McBride, as the 2013 Officers of the Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women (OCCSW).
This year, Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast marks its 10th anniversary of caring for residents and visitors to the Emerald Coast. Since opening its doors to patient care on Jan. 27, 2003, Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast has doubled its emergency department’s capacity; added comprehensive women’s services; expanded cardiac services; and opened a new cancer center twice the size of its previous office.
Just For Grins Mobile Dental Clinic Helps Kids
Hotel Equities Names Loera Revenue Manager
New Officers of Commission on Status of Women Sworn In
The Children’s Volunteer Health Network’s Just for Grins Mobile Dental Clinic recently left Mossy Head Elementary School in DeFuniak Springs, having helped 79 first through third graders. It performed 555 total procedures, sealed 156 teeth, and treated 151 decayed teeth.
Tee Off for Toys Gives to Children in Crisis
NWFSC Opens Activities Center & Recognizes Endowment Northwest Florida State College held a Grand Opening on Jan. 16, for the college’s new Activities Center and also
of Children in Crisis, Inc., (CIC) by having a Christmas/New Years Tee Off for Toys. The kids received gift cards and toys donated by golfers. Seen here (left to right) are Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort PGA director of Golf Rick Hileman; Raven Golf Course director of golf Andy Lombardi; and CIC president and CEO Ken Hair.
Atlanta-based Hotel Equities recently promoted Mike Loera to revenue manager for the firm’s growing portfolio of hotels. He previously served as the director of sales for the Hampton Inn & Suites Navarre, managed by Hotel Equities, for more than two years. With more than 13 years in the hospitality industry, Loera joined Hotel Equities in 2010 after working as the assistant general manager at the Hampton Inn in Destin.
Relay For Life Ranked #1 in Nation The Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort helped the kids
Last spring, volunteers and staff from the Emerald Coast Unit of the American Cancer Society www.DestinChamber.com
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(ACS) in Northwest Florida held four Relay For Life events in Okaloosa County raising an astounding $524,560. This earned them the noteworthy title of becoming the #1 per capita for Relay For Life in the nation for funds raised.
Foundation Installs Board The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) installed its 2013 Executive Committee and Board of Directors at the Jan. 23 board meeting. Serving on the 2013 Executive Committee are chair Glenn Cooper, vice chair Beverly Wilson, treasurer Alan Wood, secretary Allison Tringas, education Matthew Dahlman, membership Eric Navarre, and special events Janna Morrison. Newly elected directors are Jackie Ely of J. Ely Business Services, Patrick May of Coastal Business Products, Dr. Alexis Tibbetts of Walton County School District, and Kathy Whidden of Emerald Coast Chiropractic.
Also, outgoing chairman David Rauch presented board member Jennifer Lovell (pictured above) of Coastal Bank and Trust with the Chairman’s Sterling Award for her commitment, spirit, and vision to the foundation. Also pictured are her husband and son, David and Dylan, and Marcia Hull, MKAF executive director. The Foundation also recognized Tracy Wood of Century21, Wilson Minger Agency, with the Volunteer of March 2013 Network Newsletter
the Year award, and Matthew Dahlman, Wells Fargo Advisors, with the Emerging Leader award.
Jordan Receives New Designation C. Douglas Jordan, broker associate of JPB Commercial Real Estate Advisors received the prestigious Certified Business Intermediary (CBI®) designation during the IBBA Conference for Professional Development Conference in Las Vegas. Jordan was awarded the CBI designation after demonstrating a superior knowledge about the functions and applications of business broker services, documenting practical experience, participating in a rigorous curriculum of Association courses, attending an IBBA Conference for Professional Development, passing a comprehensive examination, and practicing IBBA ‘s Code of Ethics.
Jim ‘N Nick’s Named to 50 Breakout Brands Restaurant trade publication Nation’s Restaurant News named Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q one of the industry’s “Breakout Brands” of the year. “The NRN 50” list highlights the most exciting emerging restaurant concepts that are making their marks through innovation experiences and cutting-edge cuisine.
Blue Marlin Realty Group Adds Team Member Blue Marlin Realty Group welcomed Roger Conner as its newest realtor. Born in Jacksonville, Conner moved to the Emerald Coast area as a young child. Graduating from Freeport High School in 1997, Conner joined
the United States Navy in 1999 as an avionics technician, where he earned the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his efforts in Operation Enduring Freedom. After his service, Conner became involved in the real estate industry in 2001.
Thomas University School of Law in Miami.
Sam’s Club Sponsors 7th CIC Charity Golf Classic
Gulf Power Foundation Helps Children in Crisis
The Gulf Power Foundation presented Children in Crisis, Inc., (CIC) with a grant of $2,000 to help provide educational programs and support to the at-risk children living at the CIC Children’s Neighborhood. This is the second grant awarded to CIC by the Gulf Power Foundation. Seen here (left to right) are CIC president and CEO Ken Hair and Ron Grissom, representing the Gulf Power Foundation.
Albarello Joins Conerly, Bowman & Dykes Conerly, Bowman & Dykes, LLP, announced the appointment of Monica M. Albarello, Esq., to the team as an associate, where she will practice personal injury, complex civil and business litigation, torts, real estate litigation, and municipal law. A graduate of Florida International University with a Bachelor’s of Art in English Literature, Albarello went on to earn her Juris Doctor in 2011 from St.
The 7th Annual Children In Crisis, Inc., (CIC) Children’s Neighborhood Charity Golf Classic will be held on Friday, March 1, at the Fort Walton Beach Golf Club Pines course. Seen here, CIC president and CEO Ken Hair receives a check from Sam’s Club general manager Olen Holston and Sam’s Club employees. Sam’s Club is the official tournament sponsor.
Gulf Coast Electric Earns 2012 Angie’s List Award
With more than three decades of providing electrical service to the surrounding communities, Gulf Coast Electric earned the service industry coveted 2012 Angie’s List Super Service Award for the second year in a row. This honor is awarded annually to approximately 5 percent of all the companies rated on Angie’s List.
FWBHS Cheerleaders Receive Awards During the FHSAA Competitive Cheerleading competition, held in Kissimmee, Fla., during January, the Fort Walton Beach High School cheerleaders scored in the top continued page 12 Page 5
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a t is U b Thank you to Feb. 12 Leaders In Business Lunch sponsor and Chamber Trustee member Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, which is a 257-bed hospital located in Fort Walton Beach. With a medical staff of more than 200 physicians, it is the only acute care hospital in the Tri-County area that offers open heart surgery, an Advanced Primary Stroke Center accredited by the Joint Commission, Accredited Chest Pain Center, and a Cancer Care Center that is affiliated with UAB and accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. Fort Walton Beach Medical Center also has a psychiatric treatment center and advanced care for critically ill patients, including cardiovascular and neonatal intensive care units, and emergency services, including a main ER, Pediatric ER, and Express Care. It operates the Destin Emergency Care Center and the Rehabilitation Institute of Northwest Florida, which are located on Airport Road in Destin. For details, call (850) 862-1111 or visit www.FWBMC.com.
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • Children In Crisis, Inc.
• Girl Scouts of the Panhandle
• Coastal Reflections
• Gulf Power
• Eglin Federal Credit Union
• Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
• Emerald Coast Chiropractic • Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. • The Emerald Coast Health Institute
• Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A. • PML International LegalShield • Revive Media Services
• ERA American Realty Of Northwest Florida, Inc.
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407 Racers Participated in Destin’s Third Bayou, Bay & Back Destin’s third Bayou, Bay & Back 5K Run/
For a complete list of winners, visit the
sponsors 105.5 the Wolf, 99Rock, Buffalo Rock
Walk, 10K & Half Marathon sponsored by
Chamber’s website and see more photos on the
Pepsi, Carter & Company CPA, LLC, City of Destin,
Shoreline Church was marked by sunny skies and
Chamber’s Facebook page:
Coast 93.3, Ecco Motors, Fudpucker’s Beachside
unseasonably warm temperatures
www.facebook.com/destinchamber.
Bar & Grill, NewsTalk 1260, and Z96; bronze
More than 400 racers, from 20 different states
Thank you to all event sponsors, including
and Canada, turned out for the Jan. 26 event. Of
title sponsor Shoreline Church; accommodations
those, 131 competed in the half marathon, which
sponsor ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation
is now in its second year and newly certified by
Rentals; gold sponsors Emerald Coast Convention
USA Track & Field. A portion of event proceeds
& Visitors Bureau, Inc., Emerald Coast Chiropractic,
benefited the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance.
Miller’s Ale House, and Whataburger; silver
March 2013 Network Newsletter
sponsors Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology, and Eglin Federal Credit Union; and food sponsors The Donut Hole, Lenny’s Sub Shop #9, Merlins Pizza, and Publix Super Markets, Inc. Next year’s race date is Jan. 25, 2014.
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Member Spotlight Skinny’s Nutrition Destin, LLC
% – Body Age – Metabolism, etc. This wellness profile and body analysis will include a FREE smoothie and energy tea and a nutrition plan to reach your goals.
Skinny’s Nutrition Destin wants to thank the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce and the community for the warm welcome they have given us – as one of the newest businesses in Destin, Florida. Our Chamber ribbon cutting and grand opening could not have gone better. A special thanks to the Destin Area Chamber Ambassadors, Destin Mayor “Sam” Seevers, and our wonderful friends. We do ask for your help! As a new business in Destin, it is important that the community learns that there is a nutrition club in Destin offering healthy alternatives to traditional fast food establishments. Each of our delicious smoothies is a full breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack loaded with high-quality nutrition. They have less than 250 calories and contain more than 24 grams of protein. You would have to eat an incredible amount of food to get the nutritional value of one of our smoothies. So come in for a fast, inexpensive, and nutritious breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack.
Skinny’s is the first nutrition club in Destin focused on offering highly nutritious food choices, along with free wellness profile and body analysis; FREE fit camps / fun workouts for all ages; recurring “Weight Loss Challenges” where – the biggest loser wins; body transformation - 6 to 12 week challenges; VIP nights; free training to be a wellness coach; wellness newsletters; and much more. Rather than expanding on each of our club activities, let us focus on one, the free wellness evaluation with body analysis. Each client will learn the following about his or her body: Weight – Body Fat % - Visceral Fat % - Muscle
Anything you can do to tell people about us and the activities we offer would be most appreciated by Skinny’s Nutrition Destin. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to get the word out about Skinny’s. So come in, check us out, and then help us spread the word. We truly believe at Skinny’s that we will make a positive impact on the Destin Community by offering “Nutrition for a Better Life” and activities that will improve the health of the community. Why not start your Saturday morning by joining us on the Gulf of Mexico from 9 to 10 a.m. for a highly productive and inspiring “Fit Camp Workout.” Visit www.facebook.com/ Skinnysdestin for updates on activities and schedules. Contact Skinny’s at (850) 650-5522. Skinny’s is located between Winn Dixie and the UPS Store in Destin, just east of Target.
Attend our March 12 Lunch for your chance to win the Member Spotlight!
Annual Banquet (continued from cover) Immediate Past Chair Bill Lindsley,
Walton Beach Medical Center; Andi
SimpleHR; Treasurer Shaun Eubanks;
Mahoney, White-Wilson Medical
Vice Chairman/Communications &
Center; Pam Martin, Gulf Power;
Marketing Julie Cotton, Northwest
Dave Morrow, Allstate Insurance –
Florida State College; Vice
Ryland/Morrow Agency; Jonathan
Chairman/Community & Economic
Ochs, Trustmark National Bank;
Development Karen McCarthy,
Cyndy Thomas, ResortQuest by
Army Aviation Center Federal Credit
Wyndham Vacation Rentals; Carey
Union; Vice Chairman/Membership
Trotter, Trotter’s General Contractors,
Development Ken Wampler,
Inc.; Chairman’s Appointee Charles
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties,
Morgan, Harbor Docks Restaurant;
Inc.; and Vice Chairman/Harbor
Special Appointee Jim Breitenfeld,
Association Jami Jones, Destin
Breitenfeld Development Services,
Charter Service.
LLC; and Special Appointee Kim
Other members of the 2013 Board of Directors include Hayward Dykes, Conerly, Bowman & Dykes,
Wintner, Alliance Association Management Co., Inc. Outgoing Board members
LLP; Steve Jay, Warren Averett
Mike Freeman, Acentria, Inc., and
O’Sullivan Creel; Rebecca Jones, Fort
Kathy Whidden, Emerald Coast
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Chiropractic, received recognition
Show Choir entertained the crowd
plaques for their years of service.
with a medley of Broadway-inspired
Tim Edwards, Fudpucker’s Beachside
songs.
Bar & Grill, also an outgoing Board member, was not present. After the awards were presented and the gavel passed, the Northwest Florida State College Soundsations
To see photos from the event, please visit www.DestinChamber. com or ‘like’ us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/destinchamber. www.DestinChamber.com
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March 2 Hands-On History Saturdays Location: Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. www.heritage-museum.org
March 3 Bobby Bowden to Speak
Location: First Baptist Church of Destin 9 a.m. www.firstbaptistdestin.com
March 5 Chair Caning Workshop Location: Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. www.heritage-museum.org
March 9 - 10 30A Wine Festival Benefiting Children’s Volunteer Health Network Location: Alys Beach www.30awinefestival.com
March 9 Annual Memorial Parrot Head Chili Cook-off Location: Fudpucker’s on the Island 4 – 8 p.m. www.ecparrotheads.org
March 12 Chair Caning Workshop Location: Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. www.heritage-museum.org
March 16 Destin Woman’s Club Fashion Show Hats for Hope Location: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort 11 a.m. www. destinwomansclub.org
March 16 13th Annual Run with the Dogs 5K Run/Walk Location: Morgan Sports Center 9 a.m. www.cityofdestin.com
March 16 Emerald Coast Cattle Barons’ Ball
Location: Linkside Conference Center inside the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort 6 p.m. http://www.facebook.com/ EmeraldCoastCattleBaronsBall
March 17 5th Annual Irish Street Fest and Grogg March Location: HarborWalk Village 12 p.m. www.harborwalkdestin.com
March 18 - 22 SpringWILD Children’s Spring Break Camp
Location: HarborWalk Village 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.harborwalkdestin.com
March 19 Chair Caning Workshop Location: Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. www.heritage-museum.org
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March 20 Career & Job Fair
Location: Northwest Florida State College / UWF Fort Walton Campus 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. www.nwfsc.edu
March 22 - 23 Purses with a Purpose – Benefit for Shelter House
Location: Silver Sands Premium Outlets www.shelterhousenwfl.org
March 23 Bond & Beyond: Celebrating 50 Years of 007
Location: Emerald Coast Convention Center 7:30 p.m. www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org
March 25 - 29 SpringWILD Children’s Spring Break Camp
Location: HarborWalk Village 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.harborwalkdestin.com To submit your events, please log into the Members Only section of our website at www.DestinChamber.com or email your event information to mail@DestinChamber. com. For your login information, please call (850) 837-6241. To ensure your event is included, please submit it by the first of the month prior to the month when the event will be held. In 2013, the Chamber’s Annual Networking Golf Tournament, now known as the Golf & Dine, returns to the spring and to Destin’s original course, Indian Bayou. In conjunction with this event, the Chamber will also hold a $100K Shoot Out for Education to benefit Destin Elementary and Middle Schools. Qualifying dates and times will be announced soon. We are currently seeking sponsors and restaurants to participate. For details, contact Events Coordinator Suzy Nicholson Hunt at (850) 837-2711 x2 or email suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com.
March 2013 Network Newsletter
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A 2 Z Specialty Advertising Gabby Bruce (850) 654-3080
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Vincent Fritz (850) 650-4900
BancorpSouth Bank Ron Moliterno (850) 269-4300
Belk
Brandy Barrett (850) 650-4091
Ben Hall Turf and Irrigation Ben Hall (850) 585-9430
BRW Builders of Destin, Inc. Karen Rose-Hefner (850) 837-4413
Bryan Pest Control, Inc. Darryl Warren (850) 862-3955
Bubba Gump Shrimp Company Terry Mauer (850) 650-1881
Buffalo Rock Company, Inc. Tim Shuman (850) 471-4147
Build-A-Bear Workshop Oliver Berman (850) 654-6001
Copy Systems Business Center, Inc. Paul Woolman (850) 650-0886
Copy Systems Business Center, Inc.-SRB Russ Tommey (850) 267-4552
Cox Communications, Inc. David Deliman (850) 857-4573
CYber SYtes, Inc. Darnell Jelks (850) 233-5514
Destin Collision, Inc. Steve VanAtta (850) 654-5827
Destin Rotary Club Bob McGill (850) 687-0701
Emerald Coast Wealth Advisors of Raymond James Brian Haugen (850) 650-0990
Five Star Beach Properties Josh McLean (850) 424-5286
Homes & Land Of The Emerald Coast
Massage Envy Spa Destin Rosemary Martinek 850) 650-8500
Merrill Lynch Cory Fosdyck (850) 269-7000
Mid-Bay Bridge Authority Jim Vest (850) 897-1428
Mitchell’s Fish Market Frank Hess (850) 650-2484
Okaloosa County School District Mary Beth Jackson (850) 833-3110
Red Brick Pizza Jim Sickler (850) 424-5990
Sea Oats Motel & Management Co. Dieter Blasbichler (850) 837-6655
Select Physical Therapy Michelle Bryan, PT (850) 837-3349
Shoreline Church Kim Peters (850) 650-8658
Sporty Lady of Destin
Joe Nacchia (850) 650-1014
Mary Beth Gunnerson (850) 837-6763
Howard Group
The Cone Company
Myra Williams (850) 837-1886
Sonny Cone (850) 424-3015
Landrum Human Resources
Trustmark National Bank
Joni Humphreys (850) 244-0026
John Sumrall (850) 337-9100
LoBoy - Magna Manufacturing, Inc.
University of West Florida Emerald Coast
T. Lawrence (850) 243-1112
Susan Shaw (850) 863-6565
Lowes #3166
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Claude Perry
Greg Gilmore (850) 269-7040
Joey McKinstry (850) 650-0341
WJHG NBC 7 Panama City
Copy Products Co.
Mary Kay Independent Consultant Team Leader Sheri McDonald
Charter Boat Sure Lure Pamella Dana (850) 376-8399
Chateau La Mer II Owners Assoc. Bruce Gibson (850) 837-3622
Chef On The Go Mary Churillo (850) 729-3377
Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc. Office Manager (850) 622-3200 (850) 837-6376 Kevin Cagle (850) 243-2679
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Sheri McDonald (850) 240-1758
Curt Molander (850) 234-7777
www.DestinChamber.com
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Callie & Co., Inc.
Mr Kleen LLC
Callie Barker 882 Harbor Blvd. Ste. 101 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 269-0663 www.callieandco.com Landscape Architects
Simply Charming Photos
Chipper K. Follis Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-5957 www.mrkleenfl.com Carpet Cleaning Services
CGS Weddings and Events
Carolina Smith 711 Putter Dr. Niceville, FL 32578 (850) 686-8606 www.cgsweddingsandevents.com Event Planners
The Emerald Coast Health Institute Sue McKnight 4566 Hwy. 20 E. Ste. 105 Niceville, FL 32578 (850) 279-6949 www.theemeraldcoasthealthinstitute.com Healthcare Facilities
PML International – LegalShield Linda Kedy 778 Scenic Gulf Dr. A312 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (770) 318-1282 www.lindakedy.com Legal Services
Charm Hess 3634 Goldsby’s Way Destin, FL 32541 (850) 368-5801 www.simplycharmingphotos.com Photographers
D. Mark Singletary (504) 442-1172 Individual Member
The Wedding Shop, Destin Florida
Shrimp Basket Destin, Inc. Jennifer Dukes 711 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (251) 967-8639 www.shrimpbasket.com Restaurants – Seafood
Carolina Smith 711 Putter Dr. Niceville, FL 32578 (850) 686-8606 www.destinflwedding.com Wedding Suppliers & Services
Want to join the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce? Please contact Jen Skillman, Membership Consultant, at (850) 837-2711 x3 or jskillman@DestinChamber.com.
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER MARCH WORKSHOPS March 7 Starting a Business 1 – 4 p.m.
March 8 Creative Capital for Small Business 1 – 3:30 p.m.
To register or for information, please contact UWF’s Small Business Development Center at (850) 833-9400 or www.sbdc.uwf.edu.
March 2013 Network Newsletter
NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE COSTA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE MARCH SCHEDULE
March 7 Performance Appraisals 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
March 8 Empowering Employees for Peak Performance 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
March 14 De-Coding Motivational DNA
March 15 Creating a Website: How to Design and Develop your Company Website 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
March 21 John Maxwell Leadership Training – Learning to Become a Person of Influence 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
For details and registration, please contact the Costa Leadership Institute at (850) 729-6880 or visit www.nwfsc.edu/LI.
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Business Briefs (continued from page 5) three teams and advanced to the final round of competition, where they placed second. The group also recently received the title of 2013 High School Grand Champions, when they competed in the Cheersport Grand Championship in Biloxi, Miss.
as an assistant state attorney, assistant public defender, and military judge advocate.
ERA American Realty Awards Agents
Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A., Welcome Attorney Pleat, Perry & Ritchie, P.A., announced attorney Robert G. Collins has joined the firm’s Navarre office. Born in Hubbard, Ohio, Collins entered active military service in 1982 and served with various units to include the 82nd Airborne Division and 7th Special Forces Group. He earned his undergraduate degree from Western Kentucky University and his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. His 15 years of legal experience includes work
Micha Knowles
Needa Brannon
ERA American Realty of Northwest Florida, Inc., agents Micha Knowles and Venita “Needa” Brannon earned the distinguished award and have made the ERA American Realty Leadership Circle for high sales performance in 2012. This award is presented among American Realty’s six offices and nearly 100 agents.
Townsend Elected President of Association Kathy Townsend, paralegal with Keefe, Anchors & Gordon, P.A., has been elected president
of the North Gulf Coast Chapter of Community Associations Institute (“NGCC-CAI”), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering competent and successful condominium and homeowner associations, cooperatives, and timeshares. Townsend is an alumnus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham receiving a BA in Political Science, and graduating Magna Cum Laude, Phi Kappa Phi, and Pi Sigma Alpha.
Gulf World Marine Park Presents Checks
On Feb. 7, Gulf World Marine Park announced two check presentations, totaling more than $3K. Girls Inc received $1,600 and the Panama City Beach Women’s Civic Club received $1,700. Money was raised during two special
events at the park, including the Christmas Magic Show and Family and Friends charity weekend.
Sinise Visits Air Force Widows
Actor Gary Sinise visited Air Force widows at the Air Force Enlisted Village in Shalimar. He stopped by its Hawthorn House for a visit and posed for photos. Seen here (front row, left to right) are Sinise, Waneta Metivier, and (back row) Hawthorn House receptionist Faye Coronado.
Please send your news releases to Elizabeth Spies at espies@ DestinChamber.com to see your company highlights featured here.
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DESTIN BUSINESS FORUM In partnership with Cox Communications, the Chamber’s monthly TV program will host the following organizations in March 2013: - Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida - The Logo Place - Think Loves to Print
Command Chief Master Sergeant of 24th Special Operations Wing Briefs MAC CMSGT Bruce W. Dixon, with the brand new 24th Special Operations Wing, addressed Military Affairs Council (MAC) members during the Feb. 6 meeting. The 24th Special Operations Wing, located at Hurlburt Field, has the distinction of being the most decorated unit in the U.S. Air Force right now. CMSGT Dixon spoke about the unit’s role within the Air Force, provided personal stories of some of its heroes, and discussed how its members interact within the local communities. Our Military Affairs Council meets the first Wednesday of every month, from 12 - 1 p.m., in the Chamber’s conference room. For details on future MAC meetings and to learn how to become a part of MAC, please call the Chamber at (850) 837-6241.
March 2013 Network Newsletter
Weekly Schedule on Cox Channel 6 is as follows: - Sundays, at 8:30 p.m. - Mondays, at 7:30 p.m. - Wednesdays, at 9:30 a.m. - Thursdays, at 7:30 p.m. Shows are also available on Cox InDemand and the Chamber’s YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/destinchamber! Contact Suzy Nicholson Hunt at (850) 837-2711 x2 or suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com to have your business featured here. This is a free benefit of Chamber membership!
Host Amy Perry Pleat & Perry, P.A.
Thank you to Cox Communications for its support of this program.
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Destin Area Chamber of Commerce 4484 Legendary Drive, Suite A Destin, FL 32541
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID DESTIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Destin Forward Explores City’s Resources During its Feb. 14 class, Destin Forward’s Class of 2013 spent the day inside the City Council Chambers at the City Hall Annex building, listening to representatives from the city explaining the resources they offer to Destin residents. The class also heard from and asked questions of the city’s elected officials, including Mayor Sam Seevers, Councilor Jim Bagby, Councilor Jim Foreman, Councilor Cyron Marler, Councilor Sandy Trammell, and Councilor Jim Wood. In March, the class will take a field trip to Tallahassee to meet with our local legislators and see the Legislature in action. The Destin Forward program uses a hands-on approach to its in-depth study of the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village. Applications for the Class of 2014 will be available in May.