MAY 2011
VOL. XVIV NO. V
2011 DESTIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEADERSHIP
From the President’s Desk...
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 LES PORTERFIELD Vice Chairman/Community & Economic Development TEA, Inc. 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 SHAUN EUBANKS Community Bank, Destin 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. CHAIRMAN’S APPOINTEES JOHN COMER Southern Restaurant Group, LLC MATT LINDLEY Sandestin Golf And Beach Resort SPECIAL APPOINTEE 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 SANDI MCCLANAHAN Membership Consultant sandi@DestinChamber.com
850.837.6241 WWW.DESTINCHAMBER.COM PAGE 2
Shane A. Moody, CCE, IOM I recently had the privilege of going to Tallahassee with Destin Mayor Sam Seevers. She invited me to attend the League of Mayors’ “Mayors Mean Business” summit. Mayors from across the state of Florida were in attendance, and most of the attendees brought someone from their business community with them. I was honored and proud to have been chosen by Mayor Seevers to attend this meeting with her. The purpose of the summit was for mayors and business/community leaders to work the Capitol and lobby for
pro-business, pro-economic development issues. I was pleased to see such a strong group of leaders all on the same page for the betterment of the state. The message was clear that job creation should be a priority across Florida. The group was also in favor of easing the permitting process and making Florida a business-friendly state. While working in the Capitol with the mayor, we were able to meet with Senators Gaetz and Evers as well as Representative Coley. We stopped by to visit Representative Gaetz, but he was busy in committee meetings. I was pleased with the openness of our elected officials to meet with us, even though we did not have appointments. Senator Gaetz was even gracious enough to step out of a meeting to give us a few minutes. We heard Governor Scott speak at the end of the trip. His message is consistent – job creation and creating a state where it’s easy to do business. He has been consistent with this message since the
campaign. Here’s hoping he can see this through and ease the burdens on businesses, both those currently doing business in Florida and those who wish to come to our great state. All of the speakers we heard during lunch said the same thing – Florida is losing companies to neighboring states because it is easier to business there than it is here. If we can attack this problem from the highest level of government, we can change that perception. More on the local chamber front now, I hope you’ll plan to join us for our 3rd Annual Sunset on the Harbor sponsored by Whitney Bank. We’re attempting a new event tied to Sunset this year – our first corporate fishing tournament. We’ve reserved two party boats, the Destiny and Destin Princess, so we have 110 spots available. Put a two-man or four-man team in the tournament and go fishing for the afternoon. Boats will leave the docks at noon and return at 6. We’ll have prizes for men
Member Spotlight: Cox Pools, the leader in quality craftsmanship pool building, has operated in the Florida panhandle for over 50 years. Being family owned and operated, they pride themselves on the best product quality and customer service and
have been voted ‘Best of the Emerald Coast’ and ‘Best of the Bay’ each year. Their goal is to fulfill the dreams of families with a wholesome activity at home that everyone can enjoy while helping people add beauty and value to their
and women individuals, and we’ll have team prizes as well. The fish fry on the harbor will begin at 5:30. There will be an oyster shucking contest, great food and beverages, and fun for all. There will be dancing with a DJ. It’s Friday, May 13, so mark your calendar now for the fun. We hope to see you there! Feel free to call us at the chamber with any questions or to purchase your tickets in advance. As spring moves forward and summer approaches, the season looks more and more promising. Destin has held strong, as we usually do. Thank you to everyone who has worked with us and for us, and with and for our community. That’s one of the greatest things about this wonderful place we call home. And it’s why we can build this world-class community one business at a time! With wishes for continued success, and until next month,
Cox Pools
home. From patio pools to custom pool designs, Cox Pools creates a personalized swimming environment to compliment your life and enhance your lifestyle. As you plan for a new pool, renovations to an existing pool, outdoor enter-
tainment center, a new patio or deck, or new driveway, call the pool and concrete experts at Cox Pools. Cox Pools is located at 36074 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin. For more information, please call (850) 650-9138 or visit www.CoxPools.com.
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:
• Visitors to Welcome Center Lobby – 369 • Visitors’ Guide & Buyer’s Directories Mailed – 785 • Relocation Packages – 11
March 2011 • Phone Calls/E-mails – 1,211 • Incoming Mail – 184
The Chamber’s website recorded 46,251 unique visitors for March 2011 and 604,798 unique visitors for Apr. 1, 2010 – Mar. 31, 2011.
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 MAY 2011
A Message from the Chairman of the Board
Mike Freeman The future is so bright the Destin Harbor needs Costa Del Mar sunglasses. I had the fortune to attend the latest Harbor Committee meeting led by its Chairman, Mary Anne Windes with Real Estate Professionals of Destin. If you recall, one of the chambers objectives for 2011 was to become more engaged and
The Future is So Bright!
involved along the Destin harbor by re-energizing its Harbor Committee. Well, I am pleased to say, we are well on our way with that particular 2011 goal with Maryanne’s leadership. The Harbor Committee meeting began with a very impressive and encouraging update regarding the Destin Seafood Festival from Mike Eller with the Destin Charter Boat Association (DCBA). The DCBA and its Seafood Festival committee chaired by Mike Eller and co-chaired by Bruce Craul with Legendary are off to a great start. They have created the framework for a linear event along the harbor starting at Harborwalk and concluding at the Boat House. What is particularly impressive is the level of cooperation and camaraderie that has emerged along the festival route
with all the harbor stakeholders and owners. I am quite excited about this year’s Seafood Festival scheduled for three days (Sept 30Oct 2) and the positive changes underway with it. After hearing Eller’s update, it reaffirms our decision that giving it back to the DCBA appears to have been the right decision. If you want to be involved as a volunteer, vendor, or sponsor, please contact the DCBA. The City of Destin provided the next update specifically addressing the progress made with the much-anticipated Destin Harbor Boardwalk. It was clear to me that great effort was being expended by both the City of Destin and stakeholders along the harbor to ensure the reality of the boardwalk, which will only enhance and solidify the Destin
Harbor as a must see attraction. Please show your support by encouraging both our city officials and ownership along the harbor why the boardwalk is so important to our community. Finally, the meeting ended with a great update regarding the 3rd Annual Sunset on the Harbor scheduled for May 13th behind Fisherman’s Wharf sponsored by Whitney Bank. Shane Moody, President and CEO, of the Destin Chamber of Commerce gave the update which touched on all aspects of the event including its inaugural Corporate Fishing Challenge aboard the Destiny and the Destin Princess. The format will be similar to our annual chamber golf tournament with both individual and team awards. However, a huge difference will be the increased networking opportunities
with teams remaining together on the boats versus the golf tournament format in which teams separate once on the golf course. Later that afternoon, the fish fry will commence behind Fisherman’s Wharf with music and fun. Also, there will be a silent auction and an oyster shucking contest for everyone to enjoy. We still have opportunities available to sponsor the event. Please contact the Destin Chamber of Commerce for more information on this event. Now you can see why I am so excited about our bright future along the Destin Harbor in 2011!
Mike Freeman 2011 Chairman of the Board Whitney National Bank
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Visit www.FWBMC.com or call 850-864-0213 for more information. 2069502
NETWORK MAY 2011
www.DestinChamber.com
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THE CHAMBER MONTH AHEAD Join us for our Leaders In Business Lunch on Tuesday, May 10, at Embassy Suites Hotel Destin–Miramar Beach. Enjoy an Economic Outlook of our area from Rick Harper, Ph.D., Director of Haas Center for Business Research and Economic Development at University of West Florida. 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, May 6. Check-in begins at 11:15 a.m., and the lunch begins promptly at 11:30 a.m. MAY
Chairman’s Club Spotlight ResortQuest Northwest Florida
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Join us on Friday, May 13, for our 3rd Annual Sunset on the Harbor celebration, sponsored by Whitney National Bank. This year’s event kicks off with a Fishing for Business Corporate Fishing Challenge, where 4-person teams, 2person teams, and individuals will board party boats Destiny and the Destin Princess at noon and compete for the largest fish award. The boats will dock at the Destin Fishing Fleet Marina, behind Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant, at 6 p.m., where a full blown fish fry, music, and activities will be underway, and area restaurants will compete in an oyster shucking contest. This event is open to the public. Fish fry tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 12. For more information, call (850) 837-6241, and stop by the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce to pick up your fish fry tickets early. Tournament and fish fry sponsorships are available for area businesses. Restaurants wishing to compete in the oyster shucking contest or businesses wishing to sponsor should contact the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at (850) 837-6241. MAY
13
MAY
23
Chamber Board of Directors Meeting will be held in the Chamber conference room at 11:30 a.m.
North Light Yacht Club is hosting the Crestview Area, Destin Area, Greater Fort Walton Beach, and Niceville Valparaiso chambers of commerce for a May 26 Business After Hours! Join us for live entertainment and delicious food at this dockside venue. 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.
ResortQuest, is one of the nation’s leading vacation rental hospitality and resort real estate companies and a part of the Wyndham Vacation Rentals brand. ResortQuest Northwest Florida offers more than 3,000 vacation rentals and manages more than 31 homeowners associations in the Northwest Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast. The ResortQuest company is one of the leading independent vacation rental companies in the nation. Combined with its partners, ResortQuest is located in over 150 resort destinations from the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe, comprising of over 50,000 vacation rentals. As a vacation rental partner, ResortQuest attracts guests, services the guests, handles maintenance and housekeeping needs, and provides owners with their earned rental income. ResortQuest caters to owners of vacation properties with the challenges of absentee ownership in mind. ResortQuest Northwest Florida is proud to employee over 600 people year round at its Northwest Florida and Alabama locations and an additional 350 seasonal employees. ResortQuest Northwest Florida and Alabama not only manages owners’ va-
cation properties, but also handles thousands of property real estate transactions annually. Regionally, ResortQuest Real Estate has more than 20 sales offices from Gulf Shores to Destin, Walton County, and Panama City Beach. For 13 consecutive years, ResortQuest Real Estate has been ranked number one by the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors for all residential sales volume.* With more than 32 years of experience and more than 120 real estate professionals, ResortQuest Real Estate agents help people from all over find their dream home or vacation home. ResortQuest Northwest Florida’s location in Fort Walton Beach includes not only the home office and regional office, but also a large reservation center, which handles over 450,000 calls a year and a state-of-the-art laundry facility. The ResortQuest Laundry facility handles over 18,000 lbs of laundry a day. Each of the computerized machines in the ResortQuest laundry facility are programmed in tandem, as well as the staff, to ensure each item is washed, sterilized, dried, pressed, folded, and inspected. Besides the ResortQuest resort laundry, this facility does laundry service for other business from other property management companies to restaurants. As the United States, particularly Florida, becomes an increasingly popular destination for European travel-
ers, the future for Northwest Florida becomes brighter and brighter. The Northwest Florida Regional Airport is adding domestic services continuously and the Bay County International Airport is expected to increase international business in the Northwest Florida region. Celebrating 32 years, the success story for ResortQuest Northwest Florida began in 1977 when Steve and Bill Abbott started Abbott Realty Service, Inc., in Destin. Though many things have changed since 1977, ResortQuest believes in getting back to basics. Under the guidance and direction of Lino Maldonado, Vice President of ResortQuest, ResortQuest Northwest Florida and Alabama operates as a local company, with strong ties and support for the local communities’ residents and visitors in which it serves. *Based on information from the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors’ MLS Records for the period of 01/01 to 12/31 for the years of 1997-2009.
This article is part of our series profiling our Trustees and Chairman’s Club members. For more information on this series or about the Trustees and Chairman’s Club membership levels, please call (850) 837-6241.
MAY
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For information about all Chamber events, please visit the Events Calendar at www.DestinChamber.com. PAGE 4
Member Spotlight: “I love meeting and working with someone I do not know and becoming great friends after it is all done,” said Phil Jackson, Sales Associate with Coldwell Banker United, Realtors. As a Sales Associate, Jackson assists sellers and
buyers with their real estate transactions. “Not only do we help with real estate here, if you are relocating to another area we can assist you in finding a great realtor in the new location. The great people I work with will go out of their way to help
www.DestinChamber.com
Phil Jackson Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
anyone,” said Jackson. Jackson has been a general contractor for 15 years. He has owned and operated 70 rental units and his professional background also includes previously owning other businesses such as carwashes, laundry mats,
batting cages, farms, and a bowling center. Coldwell Banker United, Realtors is located at 4458 Legendary Dr., Ste. 100 in Destin. For more information, please call (850) 7970582 or email phil.jackson@ cbunited.com. NETWORK MAY 2011
Destin Business Forum In partnership with Cox Communications, the Chamber’s monthly TV program will host the following organizations beginning in May: BeachView Vacation Rentals 90 Trista Terrace Court Ste. A Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-2883 www.beachviewvacationrentals.com Category; Accommodations-Gulf Front Houses Chamber Rep: Allyson Dyas Best Western Ft. Walton Beachfront 380 Santa Rosa Blvd.8 Ft. Walton Beach,, FL 3254 (850) 243-9444 Category: Accommodations-Hotels Chamber Rep: Ellen Bragg Beverly Hills Day Spa 114 Palmetto Dr. #61 Destin, FL 3254 (850) 654-8544 www.beverlyhillsdayspa.com Category: Day Spas & Salons Chamber Rep: Krisy Whitely First Class Facility Management, LLC 281 Business Centre Dr. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 269-9823 www.firstclassfacilitymanagement.com Category: Resort Services Chamber Rep: Scott Littlefield Harbor Docks Restaurants 538 Harbor Blvd.1 Destin, FL 3254 (850) 837-2506 www.harbordocks.com Category: Restaurants - Steaks/ Seafood Chamber Rep: Jackie Tway
Hooters 15015 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 654-1007 www.hootersonline.net Category: Restaurants - American Chamber Rep: Stuart Houston
Cox Pools Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Inc. TermProvider
Lighthouse Restaurant 878 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 654-2828 www.destinlighthouserestaurant.com Category: Restaurants - Steaks/ Seafood Chamber Rep: Reuben Shackelford
Host Amy Perry Pleat & Perry, P.A. Destin Business Forum airs on Cox Channel 6. The schedule is available online underneath the Channel 6 heading: ww2.cox.com/myconnection/gulfcoast/watch.cox
The Love Shack 306 Bald Eagle Dr. Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 (850) 267-0399 www.theloveshackseafood.com Category: Restaurants - Seafood Chamber Rep: Michael Pierce Resorts Unlimited 4635 Gulfstarr Dr. Ste. 100 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-6838 www.accessresortsunlimited.com Category: Vacation Ownership Chamber Rep: Gail Barnes
If you are interested in membership in the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce, please contact Membership Consultant Sandi McClanahan at 850.837.2711 ext. 3 or sandi@DestinChamber.com.
The Vitamin Shoppe 34737 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 650-0393 www.vitaminshoppe.com Category: Retail Specialty Chamber Rep: John McGill
Congratulations to our top Ambassadors for March 2011:
Celebrating Ambassador Successes NETWORK MAY 2011
80 points – Richard Barrington, Holiday Isle Properties, Inc. 60 points – Ann Kief, BeachOasis.com & Qivana 60 points – Paul Woolman, Copy Systems Business Center, Inc.
Ann also welcomed a new member into the Chamber during the month of March: The Love Shack.
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Business Briefs Bit-Wizards Welcomed into Microsoft Virtual Technology Specialist Program Bit-Wizards (www.BitWizards.com), a leading provider of software solutions and consulting in the United States, and Microsoft Managed Gold Partner, announced today they have been selected for the Microsoft Virtual Technology Specialist Program (VTSP). Vince Mayfield, Kevin Grohoske, and Bryan Soltis were chosen by Microsoft because of their superior architectural, development, consulting, and customer interfacing skills. Microsoft utilizes these individuals in partnership with the Microsoft Southeast Regional Office, in pre-sales efforts to secure Microsoft solution opportunities.
Waste Management Sponsors Children in Crisis Golf Waste Management presented a check for $5,000 to Children in Crisis, Inc. as a major sponsor for the 5th Annual CIC Children’s Neighborhood Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament was established in 2007 to raise vital funds to help feed, clothe and care for the Kids of the Children’s Neighborhood. To learn more about CIC, visit www.childrenincrisisfl.org, or call 864-4242.
Pictured in photo left to right: Ken Hair, CIC President & CEO and Jean Ann Encardes, Waste Management Inc. of Florida.
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Community Bank, Destin Promotes Mitzi Searcy Fred Leopold, CEO of Community Bank, Destin is proud to announce the promotion of Mitzi Searcy to Assistant Vice President, Residential MortMitzi Searcy gage Lending. Searcy joined the company in September 2007 as a Residential Mortgage Lending Officer. She has over 10 years of mortgage banking experience and is a graduate of the University of Alabama.
Conerly, Bowman & Dykes, LLP Announces Opening & Launch of Attorney’s Title With over 50 years of real estate law and title insurance experience, Conerly, Bowman & Dykes, LLP is proud to announce the opening and launch of Attorneys’ Title. Attorneys’ Title works diligently to ensure your closing goes as smoothly as possible with the assistance of experienced real estate attorneys from the law firm of Conerly, Bowman & Dykes, LLP. This service is often offered at no additional cost and provides peace of mind to most that an attorney has reviewed all the important documents. Contact Attorneys’ Title at 837-5118 or visit www. cbdlawfirm.com.
Photo from left to right: Hayward Dykes, Lamar Conerly, Bruce Bowman & Levin Bracken
Hurlburt Field Red Horse Builds Court for Children in Crisis, Inc. Volunteers from the Hurlburt Field 823rd Red Horse Unit rolled up their sleeves to form and pour a concrete game court for the kids at the Children in Crisis, Inc. Children’s Neighborhood. TSgt Ayton Nieva coordinated the volunteer group that helped train airmen with new skills. The Children’s Neighborhood will include an emergency shelter, foster homes, a neighborhood center, a recreation center and a playground with a pavilion. For more information or to make a donation, call 864-4242 or visit www.childrenincrisisfl.org.
Hard Rock Café Supports Fisher House Trisha Chason of Hard Rock Café presented Fisher House board members, Kim Henderson and Joe Oder, with a check from the recent fundraiser, “Why My Military Spouse Rocks”, held at the Hard Rock Café in Destin Commons. The funds were raised from votes submitted for the nominees. The winners were Malen Wagner, Tommy Ferguson, and Judy Wiseman and they were treated to a Valentine’s dinner and received prize packages.
Hard Rock Announces Employees of the Month Photo left to right: Ken Hair, CIC President/CEO thanks TSgt Ayton Nieva and the Red Horse volunteers.
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Rehabilitation Achieves CARF Accreditation Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Acute Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation has been newly accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) as a Stroke Specialty Program. It is the only program with this accreditation in the area, and one of just 20 in Florida. The facility is also preparing for a move in June to the building that also houses the Destin Emergency Care Center. With the move will come a new name, The Rehabilitation Institute of Northwest Florida. For more information, visit www.fwbmc. com.
www.DestinChamber.com
Devon Losekamp
Cody McAlary
Hard Rock Café announced its January Employees of the Month. Front of the House Rocker is Devon Losekamp and Back of House Rocker is Cody McAlary!
The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa Welcomes New Sales Team Members The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is proud to add to its team of sales and event planning professionTerri Marsh als. Terri Marsh and Florencia Shiffer join as new
Regional Sales Managers, and Melissa Weeks joins as Executive Meetings Manager. Marsh joins with more than 24 years Florencia Shiffer in the industry, with a wide array of hospitality sales experience. Shiffer joins with a strong background in domestic and Melissa Weeks international hospitality management and sales. Weeks joins with a strong background in hospitality management, sales and catering.
Legendary Marine Launches New Service Division, Taps Two Top Experts Legendary Marine announces the launch of an all-new division, Legendary Performance, focused solely on high performance service and repair, plus has strategically tapped two experts and industry race veterans to lead the dealership’s new charge. Joining the Legendary Marine service team are Scott Childs and Jeff Hopper who collectively bring 55 years combined experience in high performance service and racing. Legendary Performance offers the full spectrum of high performance services. For more information, contact Trevor Hardy at thardy@legendarymarine.com or call 337-8310.
Kevin D. Bowyer Selected to Join Florida Chamber Foundation’s Six Pillars Caucus System The Florida Chamber Foundation announced that Kevin D. Bowyer, partner with O’Sullivan Creel, LLP, has been selected to serve on their Six Pillars Caucus System. See BRIEFS on page 7
NETWORK MAY 2011
Bowyer will join other leaders from across the state on the Innovation and Economic Development caucus to help craft the first-ever, Kevin Bowyer state-wide strategic plan. The Six Pillars Caucus System is a qualitative research program aimed to engage the best and brightest minds in the state to develop a plan for Florida’s future economy that includes high-wage jobs, global competitiveness and vibrant communities by the year 2030.
Silver Sands Recognizes April Employee of the Month Silver Sands Factory Stores Aprils Employee of the Month is Tibby
York-Longpre of Brooks Brothers Factory Store. York-Longpre has been employed at Brooks Brothers Factory Store since November 2009 and exudes dedication, passion, loyalty to the brand, and has proven to be an important asset to the Brooks Brothers Factory Store team. The Employee of the Month winners receive a $25 gift card to Silver Sands Factory Stores and a $25 gift certificate to Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
Silver Sands Factory Stores Spring Store Openings Silver Sands Factory Stores continues to deliver top designer names and amenities to its millions of shoppers who visit each year. Numerous nationally-recognized designers are making their regional debut at the Center to include Northwest Florida’s first DKNY Company Store, Esprit, Merrell, Bare Escentuals and Tumi. Other future additions to the Center’s already impressive list include LOFT Outlet, White House | Black Market and 32° A Yogurt Bar.
Chamber Hosts Annual Spring Golf Tournament On Monday, April 4, 2011, the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Spring Golf Tournament. On a beautiful sunny spring day, 88 golfers enjoyed the Kelly Plantation Golf Course. Special thanks go to ResortQuest for the Leaderboard sponsorship and vacation stays; to the Emerald Coast TDC and CVB for their sponsorship of the $200 debit cards; to McCaskill & Company jewelers, Quality Imports - Mercedes Benz BMW - Toyota – Mazda, and Sam Taylor Buick Cadillac for the hole-in-one sponsorships. Thank you to hole sponsors Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa & Walton County, Emerald Coast Chiropractic, Matthews Jones & Hawkins, LLP, and Pleat & Perry, P.A. Congratulations to this year’s winners: 1st Place, 50.7 net score – Dennis Gagnon, Sr., Brian Brennan, Dennis Gagnon, Jr., Clinton Durst 2nd Place, 52.8 net score – Patrick May, Mark Gustav, Brent Chandler, Tami Groth 3rd Place, 53 net score – Bobby Clark, Brian Smith, Brian Betts, Ryan McAlister Closest to the pin winner – Ken Belser Longest Drive #16 – Ryan McAllister Longest Drive #6 – Dennis Murray Straight Drive #11 – Jack Hyde
Thank you for the door prizes & golf bag contributions: Affinity K9, LLC Children’s Advocacy Center Emerald Coast Chiropractic Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill Good Time Tours Hooters Life’s A Beach Okaloosa Regional Home Health Services O’Sullivan Creel, LLP Pleat & Perry, P.A. White-Wilson Medical Center
For more tournament photos, visit us on Facebook and Flickr.
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NETWORK MAY 2011
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Leaders In Business Lunch We would like to thank GCS Building Solutions, Inc. for sponsoring our April 12 Leaders in Business Lunch held at Destin United Methodist Church & Destin Life Center. Locally owned and operated since 2001, GCS Building Solutions’ primary focus is to beautify and protect homes and businesses in Northwest Florida. GCS is the leading provider of windows & doors, shutters, garage doors, and hurricane protection products along the Gulf Coast. Formerly known as Gulf Coast Shutter, GCS has been recognized locally and nationally for its commitment to excellence with several distinguished awards including: The Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics, and INC. magazine’s coveted “INC. 500” award for fastest growing companies. Ed and Melinda Adams own and operate GCS. Together they bring over 40 years of sales, service and executive management expertise honed in positions with Fortune 100 firms. Each grew up in small towns, adopting the culture, morals and work ethic such towns often espouse. It is natural then, for backgrounds and professional business experience: “Small Town Values, World Class Service”.
GCS has a commitment to excellence that extends beyond their customers and employees. Along with the pride they take in beautifying and protecting the community, they are actively involved in helping it grow. Ed and Melinda participate in numerous committees as members of the Destin Area, Niceville-Valparaiso and Walton Chambers of Commerce. Additionally, they are members of the Building Industry Association, Better Business Bureau, and Rotary Club as well as numerous trade associations. Join us for the May 10 event, and enjoy an economic outlook of our area from Rick Harper, Ph.D., Director of Haas Center for Business Research and Economic Development at UWF. Registration is available at www. DestinChamber.com or by calling (850) 837-6241.
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • Party Boats: Destin Princess and Destiny • Eglin Federal Credit Union • Emerald Coast Chiropractic • GCS Building Solutions, Inc. • Gulf Power • Lenny’s Sub Shop • Little Nemo Kid Cruises • O’Sullivan Creel, LLP • White-Wilson Medical Center • Whitney National Bank
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Thank you to Ken Cromer, Senior Director of Disaster Services with the American Red Cross of Northwest Florida, who presented “Are You Ready for a Hurricane?”
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Business
After
Hours
Sponsored by: J. Miller Furniture Consign & Design
On Feb. 15, 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: Affinity K9, LLC; Air Force Enlisted Village; Bayview RV Campground; Belk; Destin Jewelers; Destin Orthopaedics, P.L.; Galati Yacht Sales; Mary Kay Independent Consultant Team Leader - Sheri McDonald; Masino Therapy Services; North Star Associates of the Emerald Coast, LLC; Save Our Cats & Kittens (SOCKS); and The Viking Store. Read further to learn more about some of the Chamber’s newest members: The nationwide pandemic of BedBugs is the war, and Affinity K9 is the weapon. Through scent detection utilizing canines and preventative maintenance schedules, Affinity K9 can provide our clients with the means to reduce remediation costs that are plaguing business owners around the globe. By utilizing the training and accuracy of our canines, along with the vast experience of our handlers, we can pinpoint possible problems before they become infestations. Let our canines proven instinct and loyalty take over, and in doing so, Affinity K9 will help you reduce the liability that may be imposed on you as an owner. For more information, call (850) 460-2679 or visit www.affinityk9.com. The Air Force Enlisted Village’s mission is quite simple: To Provide a Home. We provide a home for surviving spouses of our former Air Force heroes and to moms of current active duty airmen. Priority is given to widows in dire need. Our purpose is to give our Air Force family members a safe, secure home, treat them with the dignity and respect we reserve for our own moms, and care for them into their golden years. Our residents enjoy active, independent living at Bob Hope Village in Shalimar and Teresa Village in Fort Walton Beach. The Bob Hope Village campus is also home to the Hawthorn House, our assisted living community. For additional information, contact AFEV at afef@afev.us or (850) 651-9858 or visit us online at www.afev.us. Our video is also online and features our residents telling our story: http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=aIXiEtlDbQQ. Belk is part of the nation’s largest privately owned department store company with 300+ stores throughout the Southeast. In 1888, William Henry Belk opened the first store in Monroe, N.C. More than 123 years old, Belk recently rebranded, telling the story of who we are, where we’re headed, and what that means to our customers: Modern. Southern. Style. Belk at Destin Commons is committed to delivering modern fashion our customers desire as well as the value they deserve. We have prestigious cosmetic lines, like Bobbi Brown and MAC, as well as a great selection of merchandise for the entire family. Currently the company is managed by the third generation of the Belk family who believe the same core values. Visit the store in Destin Commons, online at www. belk.com, or call (850) 650-4091. Destin Jewelers invites you to visit and experience our friendly, NETWORK MAY 2011
first-class service in a whimsical, but elegant, jewelry store. We offer unique jewelry designers from all over the world, including Nanis, Tycoon, Pandora, and more. Enjoy our new boutique area with unique gift ideas, such as jewelry for the waist, one of a kind handbangs, scarves, and more. In addition, we have a talented in-house jeweler with more than 45 years of experience for your repair or custom work. We are located at the corner of Highway 98 and Holiday Road in Miramar Beach. We look forward to meeting you and adding you to our circle of friends. Call (850) 837-8822 for more information. With locations throughout the Gulf Coast, Galati Yacht Sales has been providing its customers with quality new, pre-owned, and brokerage vessels along with unsurpassed customer service for more than 40 years. Our commitment to “exceed the expectations of our customers” is the driving force behind our team. After two consecutive years of being ranked the No. 1 marine dealer in North America by Boating Industry magazine, Galati Yacht Sales has been inducted into the Top 100 Dealer Hall of Fame, one of the highest honors awarded in the industry today. We provide a full array of services, including domestic and international sales, service, finance, insurance, documentation, and extended warranty coverage. Galati Yacht Services is located at 126 Harbor Blvd., in Destin. For more information, call (850) 654-1575. Mary Kay Independent Consultant Team Leader Sheri McDonald said Mary Kay is a one of a kind business opportunity that changes women’s lives, not just with the products and the incredible business opportunity, but with charitable efforts that make a difference. The company helps provide hope for survivors of cancer and domestic violence. Mary Kay being a home based business has offered McDonald the ability to work her own schedule. “I love sharing our quality skin care at affordable prices and offering our customers personalized customized service. I began with Mary Kay in March 2010 and have already been recognized locally and nationally!” said McDonald. For more information, call her at (850) 240-1758 or visit http://www.marykay.com/smcdonald41236/default.aspx. At North Star Associates of the Emerald Coast, LLC, we bring together traditional organizational development methodologies with individual and team mentoring to create a powerful new management tool we call corporate mentoring. We adopted a holistic approach, which recognizes that people are more than their jobs, and that organizations are networked systems, not collections of disjointed functions. Finally, we made it our goal to help our clients acquire new attitudes and habits, so they will implement new knowledge and skills with courage, commitment, and enthusiasm. Corporate mentoring promotes significant, lasting change, because it transforms attitudes and habits, in addition to teaching new knowledge and skills. Call (850) 865-0617 or visit www.northstaroftheemeraldcoast.com for more information. NETWORK MAY 2011
Thank you to J. Miller’s Design & Consign for sponsoring our March Business After Hours. J Miller’s Design & Consign is your premier source for the finest new and consignment merchandise in Northwest Florida. They have been serving the public from Destin, Pensacola, and Gulf Breeze with the same owner, Justin Miller, for the past 18 years. For more information, call (850) 654-8009 or visit www.ConsignAnything.com. Their showroom is located at 9755 U.S. Hwy. 98 W., Miramar Beach.
Thank You for the Door Prizes!
Destin Land & Title
Congressman Southerland Visits Destin
Th D ti A b off C h t dC th l d on M h 22 ti with ith th The Destin Area Ch Chamber Commerce hosted Congressman St Steve S Southerland March 22. Aft After meeting the Chamber Board, the Congressman met with members of the EDC of Okaloosa County Board. Pictured with Congressman Southerland are EDC Chairman Dale E. Peterson, Dale E. Peterson Vacations, and Chamber President and CEO Shane Moody.
www.DestinChamber.com
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Whitney Bank Partners With Chamber For Sunset On The Harbor Keeping with its strong tradition of community support, Whitney Bank has partnered with the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce as the corporate sponsor of the Third Annual Sunset on the Harbor. The event will be Friday, May 13, at Destin Fishing Fleet Marina behind Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant. A new twist to this year’s activities will be a six-hour fishing tournament called “Fishing for Business”. Started in 1883, Whitney is a full service bank that offers commercial, retail, and international banking services plus, brokerage, investment, trust, and mortgage services throughout the gulf south region including the Emerald Coast. With assets of approximately $11.5 billion, Whitney has more than 150 locations and 200-plus ATM’s across a five state region, including Houston, southern Louisiana, coastal Mississippi, central and south Alabama, the Florida panhandle, and the metropolitan Tampa Bay area. In the Okaloosa and Walton County area, Whitney Bank has 6 convenient locations spanning from Fort Walton Beach to Seagrove Beach. For more information about Whitney, please visit their website at www.whitneybank.com. The fishing tournament, to take place aboard the Destiny and Princess party boats, is designed to put local business people and their clients and customers together to network while enjoying a fun day on the water. The goal of the four-man and two-man teams is obvious – catch the biggest fish. Mike Freeman, Emerald Coast City President of Whitney Bank and the chamber’s 2011 chairman of the board, feels this is the perfect opportunity for chamber members to take advantage of a new event. “I am really looking forward to the new networking fishing trip added to this year’s Sunset on the Harbor, it sounds like a lot of fun. I can’t think of a
better atmosphere in which to network with your fellow chamber members and the community at large,” he said. With a fish fry to follow the fishing tournament, the chamber hopes to create a full harbor experience. Freeman added, “I see the event as a great opportunity for the community to come together and experience all the harbor has to offer. Whitney Bank is very excited about sponsoring the 3rd Annual Sunset on the Harbor.” The fishing tournament will be during the afternoon of May 13. The boats will leave the docks at 12:00 noon and return at 6. Participants will be able to keep what they catch, and the fish will be cleaned upon return to the docks. The tournament is limited to the first 110 registrants. Multiple sponsorships are available, such as a boat sponsor or a fish fry sponsor. Registration for a four-man team is $390, a two-man team is $210, and an individual is $110. The registration includes a boxed lunch and all services while on board the boats. Each person is responsible for bringing their own beverages. Awards will be given in team, individual, male and female categories. The evening festivities will begin at 5:30 pm in the parking lot behind Fisherman’s Wharf. There will be a fish fry, an oyster shucking contest, and music and activities for the entire family. The fish fry is $15 for adults, $8 for kids under 12. The evening will conclude at 7:30. For more information about Sunset on the Harbor, call the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at 837-6241, or visit them online at www.destinchamber.com. Chamber Spotlight is a feature of the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce. Members of the Chamber interested in being featured in Chamber Spotlight may call (850) 837-6241.
Chamber Networking Trip Join the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce Oct. 10-14 on a ‘San Francisco Getaway,’ featuring Monterey and Sonoma Valley. Take a trip with area business leaders to build better working relationships! Trip highlights 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. For more information, please visit www.DestinChamber.com or contact Shane Moody at (850) 837-6241.
WHAT DO THE COMPANIES
of these three CEOs have in common?
Bill Wein, IMS ExpertServices; Holly Smith, H2Performance Consulting; Vincent Mayfield, Bit-Wizards Custom Software Solutions
They made the Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest Growing Companies and are Vistage Florida member companies
Learn what these CEOs have discovered by contacting local Vistage Chair, Kathy Anthony, at (850) 444-7265 or kanthony@osullivancreel.com Learn more at vistageflorida.com 2082502
PAGE 10
www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK MAY 2011
A 2 Z Specialty Advertising (850) 654-3080 Chamber Rep: Gabby Bruce A Condo by the Gulf (850) 502-0804 Chamber Rep: Becki Downs A.J.’s Seafood & Oyster Bar (850) 837-0404 Chamber Rep: Alan Laird Alexan Henderson Beach (850) 650-3676 Chamber Rep: Robert Maley Allied Waste / Republic Services (850) 433-7425 Chamber Rep: Tim Fulmer Barbara J. Mizell DMD, Inc. (850) 424-6996 Chamber Rep: Barbara Mizell Better Business Bureau (800) 729-9226 Chamber Rep: Pres. CEO Norman Wright Bonefish Grill Restaurant (850) 650-3161 Chamber Rep: Shawn M. Pollard
Clark Partington Hart Larry Bond & Stackhouse (850) 650-3304 Chamber Rep: Chris Hart Clements Antiques Of Florida (850) 837-1374 Chamber Rep: Debbie Krutz
Inlet Reef Club Condominium Assoc (850) 837-2303 Chamber Rep: Virginia Purser
Rum Runners (850) 351-1817 Chamber Rep: Dale Martin
Jester’s Mardi Gras Daiquiris and Pizza (850) 650-3615 Chamber Rep: Felix Paulino
Sacred Heart Hospital on the Emerald Coast (850) 278-3000 Chamber Rep: Sarah A. Bailey
Jim McDaniel, PA, Realtor (850) 685-2098 Chamber Rep: Jim McDaniel, ABR, GRI, RRS, RSPS, SFR, SRES
Coastal Publications (850) 376-4799 Chamber Rep: Debbie Fraser Community South Bank (850) 650-2330 Chamber Rep: Mike Pierson
Kincaid Coach Lines (850) 234-3459 Chamber Rep: Bob McNeal
Destin Floral Designs (850) 654-4646 Chamber Rep: Raphael Segno
LaFlorida Coastal Properties L.L.C. (850) 231-7896 Chamber Rep: Jeff Landreth
Destin History & Fishing Museum (850) 837-6611 Chamber Rep: Jean Melvin DIXIELECTRICAR OF DESTIN (850) 269-0011 Chamber Rep: Cindy Launch
Landrum Human Resources (850) 476-5100 Chamber Rep: Joni Humphreys Landry’s Seafood Restaurant (850) 650-1881 Chamber Rep: David M. Sackman
Emerald Coast Association Of Realtors (850) 243-6145 Chamber Rep: Barry Stafford
Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc., Dallas TX, Sondra Pace, Independent Beauty Consultant and Team Leader (850) 654-1353 Chamber Rep: Sondra Pace
Sam Taylor Buick Cadillac (850) 244-5165 Chamber Rep: Karen Taylor Hutson Sandestin Lions Club (850) 269-0196 Chamber Rep: James (Jim) T. Wood Jr. Sandollar Carpet Cleaning (850) 837-4372 Chamber Rep: Scott/Karen Harrison Seacove Condominium & Townhomes (850) 837-7810 Chamber Rep: Dwight Pierce Southern Business Interiors (850) 376-0040 Chamber Rep: Ed Marcell Taco Bell (850) 837-4422 Chamber Rep: Ashley Siner Taylor Haugen Foundation (850) 485-0658 Chamber Rep: Melissa Mowrey
Breakers East Condominium (850) 837-1010 Chamber Rep: Jon Hufstedler
Ft. Walton Beach High School (850) 833-3300 Chamber Rep: Charlene Couvillon
Bruster’s Ice Cream (850) 269-2920 Chamber Rep: Steve Brown
Geana’s Art Gallery (850) 650-0779 Chamber Rep: Geana Wilkerson
Cafe Thirty-A & Fishbone Room (850) 231-2166 Chamber Rep: Ms. Harriet Crommelin
Gilligan’s Restaurant & Water Sports (850) 650-4400 Chamber Rep: Mike Abadie
Candlewood Suites (850) 337-3770 Chamber Rep: Boyd Harrison
Hampton Inn On The Gulf (850) 301-0906 Chamber Rep: Jeniffer Ward
Private Gallery (850) 654-2752 Chamber Rep: Mary Morgan Parrish
Chef On The Go (850) 729-3377 Chamber Rep: Mary Churillo
Holiday Isle Properties, Inc. (850) 837-0010 Chamber Rep: Pat Denny
Publix Super Markets, Inc. (850) 837-9094 Chamber Rep: Dwaine Stevens
James (Jim) T. Wood Jr. (850) 502-9468 Chamber Rep: James (Jim) T. Wood Jr.
Children’s Advocacy Center (850) 833-9237 Chamber Rep: Julie Hurst
Howard Group (850) 837-1886 Chamber Rep: Myra Williams
Qantum Communications (850) 654-1000 Chamber Rep: Dave Stilli
WSRE (850) 484-1054 Chamber Rep: Mike Layton
NETWORK MAY 2011
McMahon Hadder Insurance, Inc. (850) 650-7404 Chamber Rep: Donnie McMahon Panama City Weddings (850) 248-2933 Chamber Rep: Susan Long
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Track Recreation Center (850) 654-4668 Chamber Rep: Annette Manuel Waste Management (850) 301-2816 Chamber Rep: Domenica Farmer Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC (850) 837-5366 Chamber Rep: Nick Barlotta Whitney National Bank (850) 269-3610 Chamber Rep: Mike Freeman
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SIMPLE SAVINGS TIP
MARCH May
“Next time you add or replace a flower or shrub, choose a low water use plant for year-round color and save up to 550 gallons each year.” 3019723
A message from:
The Destin Log
First Class Facility Management, LLC
35008 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 501 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 837-2828 www.TheDestinLog.com Category: Newspapers Chamber Rep: Billy Kirk
281 Business Centre Dr. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 269-9823 www.firstclassfacilitymanagement.com Category: Resort Services Chamber Rep: Scott Littlefield
John Medina DWU Board Member
The Viking Store 10859 Emerald Coast Pkwy. W. Ste. 203 Destin, FL 32550 (850) 650-9092 www.vikingcookingschool.com Category: Retail Specialty Chamber Rep: Shueh-Mei Pong PAGE 12
2069503
www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK MAY 2011
May Calendar of Events May 1 Jars of Clay with Matt Maher, Derek Webb & Audry Assad Location: Mattie Kelly Performing Arts Center Main Stage Time: 6 p.m. St. Peter’s Catholic Church presents “Jars of Clay” with Matt Maher and special guests Derek Webb & Audrey Assad. Tickets: $50 up close and personal; $25 orchestra level; $22.50 balcony; $30 at door. For tickets call 581-2556 or go to: www.jarsofclaymay1.com. May 1 – June 2 ADSO Southeast 19th Regional Juried Fine Arts Exhibition Location: Mattie Kelly Fine & Performing Arts Center Galleries ADSO Southeast 19th Regional Juried Fine Arts Exhibition and 2010 Best-in-Show-Winner, Greg Skaggs. Gallery Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays; and 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. prior to performances in the mainstage theater. Free and open to the public.
May 4, 11, & 18 Wednesday Night Concert Series Location: Village of Baytowne Wharf Time: 7 p.m. Enjoy the continuation of the Wednesday Night Concert Series through the month of May. We’ll be tantalizing your musical taste buds with an array of musicians to entertain all of our guests at the Village Events Plaza. May 5 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Concert in the Park Series Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village Time: 7 p.m. The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the musical group, Déjà vu, this Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. on their Village Green, 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin. Price is $5 per adult, children under 12 are free. Bring your lawn chair and picnic or purchase dinner onsite from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For a list of the weekly concerts, visit www. mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.
May 1 Cinco de Mayo Spring Fest Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 1 – 6 p.m. Come enjoy a day of traditional live Latin music, dancing, food, and more! Free facepainting and crafts for kids! The event is free and open to the public. Put a little Latin spice into your weekend!
May 6 Destin Cobia Tournament Awards Ceremony Location: HarryT’s Lighthouse at HarborWalk Village Time: 6 p.m. Come to HarryT’s Lighthouse and enjoy good food and great cocktails for the Destin Cobia Tournament Awards Ceremony.
May 3 Alligator Under My Bed Location: Mattie Kelly Arts Center Northwest Florida State College Time: 9:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Children’s show for school groups. $6 each Student/Chaperone. Limited seating for others may be available for $6 each, call Delores Merrill at 729-6065.
May 7 Kentucky Derby Festival Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 12 – 6 p.m. “And they’re off!” A Derby Festival on the Harbor, sporting live music, most creative derby hat contest and fashion show, race day games, and family fun. Come join in the games or watch the excitement
NETWORK MAY 2011
while enjoying a mint julep or your Kentucky beverage of choice. May 7 Twin Cities Hospital 19th annual Teddy Bear Clinic Location: Twin Cities Hospital Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. This annual children’s health fair provides a fun and educational way for kids 12 and under to familiarize themselves and become comfortable with Twin Cities Hospital and various local physicians. We invite the public to bring their children with their teddy bears or dolls to join us for teddy bear exams, screenings, fingerprinting, nutritional education, and games & prizes. Be sure to stick around for a special guest appearance by Nickelodeon’s Rugrats, Tommy and Angelica, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Also visiting the event is Bearamy from Build-A-Bear Workshop, Posse the Chihuahua, Nonie’s Ark, and the Army Ranger Camp Snake Team. May 7 Shelter House Women and Money Conference Location: Sandestin Golf & Beach Resorts – Camellia Room Time: 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Learn to shop like the Coupon Queen! Our keynote speaker, Susan Samtur, will teach you how to save 50% every time you shop! Tickets are $15 per person. This includes breakfast, lunch & money breakout sessions: Organizing Your Finances, Investing, Credit, Women & Cars and more! To register or for sponsorship opportunities call (850) 243-1201 or visit www.shelterhousenwfl.org. May 7 Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Grand Boulevard Location: Grand Boulevard
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Time: 6 – 10 p.m. Cantina Laredo Gourmet Mexican Food is extending its Cinco de Mayo festivities with a familyfriendly event at Grand Park in Grand Boulevard, adjacent to Cantina Laredo’s restaurant. Enjoy the music of Tropisound, a six-piece salsa band, playing live. This celebration of family and friends will kick off early with a special appearance by Dora the Explorer from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Grand Park, courtesy of Learning Express Toys. May 7 Courtyard Kickoff Party Location: Ruth’s Chris Steak House Time: 3 – 7 p.m. All you can eat crawfish boil for only $25 per person. Please enjoy happy hour priced beverages during this event. This date also coincides with the Kentucky Derby and we will air the 137th Run For The Roses for your viewing pleasure. May 8 Mother’s Day Brunch Location: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar Time: 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Treat Mom to brunch or dinner at Fleming’s and we’ll treat her to a $25 Dining Card!** All locations will open early from 11:30 am to 3 pm to welcome you, and our regular menu will also be available. Reserve your table now. Visit www. flemingssteakhouse.com/locations/fl/sandestin. May 12 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Outdoor Concert in the Park Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village Time: 7 p.m. The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the musical group, Something Fishy, this Thursday at 7 p.m. PAGE 13
May Calendar of Events Continued at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin, behind Grace Lutheran Church. Price is $5 per adult, children under 12 are free. Bring your lawn chair and picnic or purchase dinner onsite from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For a list of upcoming weekly concerts, visit www.mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.
Festival and Park are free and open to the public all day, with parking available in the Park. All proceeds benefit the Okaloosa Arts Alliance. For more information about the Fest, contact Amy Baty, Executive Director at abaty@okaloosaarts.org.
May 13 - 14 Relay for Life South Walton Location: Grand Boulevard The opening ceremonies begin at 6 p.m. on Friday and closing ceremonies are at 10 a.m. Saturday morning. An overnight event where communities gather to celebrate cancer survivors, remember those who have lost their battle and fight back by fundraising at the event to raise needed dollars. It is an 18 hour event that is made up of teams of 5-10 people per team. The cost is $100 per team. Visit www.relayforlife.org/southwaltonfl.
May 19 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Outdoor Concert in the Park Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village Time: 7 p.m. The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the musical group, Shawn Radar & The Redneck Riviera Boys, this Thursday, May 19, at 7 p.m. at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin, behind Grace Lutheran Church. Price is $5 per adult, children under 12 are free. Bring your lawn chair and picnic or purchase dinner onsite from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For a list of upcoming weekly concerts, visit www.mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.
May 14 4th Annual Family Fun Arts Fest Location: Henderson Beach State Park Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The 4th annual Family Fun Arts Fest will have performances by local artists, family fun activities, a silent auction, arts & crafts booths and food throughout the day. The
May 21 Sinfonia First “Bravo! Beat 5K” Run Location: The Village of Baytowne Wharf Time: 7:30 a.m. Lace up your shoes and run for the arts in Sinfonia Gulf Coast’s inaugural bravo! beat 5K run/walk. As our region’s only fully profes-
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May 28 Memorial Day Concert Celebration Location: HarborWalk Village Time: 6 – 9 p.m. Kick off the summer on the beautiful Destin Harbor! This free to the public event includes: Live music, fireworks, children’s activities,
May 28 – 30 Memorial Day Weekend Festivities Location: Village of Baytowne Wharf Come kick off your summer at this family fun-filled weekend. Live music begins on Saturday night with Coconut Radio taking the stage from 7 - 9 p.m. On Sunday, enjoy face painting and balloon art with amazing Zak in the Events Plaza from 6 – 9 p.m. Coconut Radio takes the stage again at 7 p.m. and our Memorial Day fireworks show will light up the sky over the lagoon at 9:15 p.m.! On Monday, the Village will host a Memorial Day program, presented by Sandestin veterans at 7 p.m. The Village of Baytowne Wharf has something for everyone this Memorial Day Weekend! May 29 Sinfonia Goes Pop Location: Alys Beach Amphitheatre Time: 7:30 p.m. Sinfonia Goes Pops at Alys Beach Amphitheatre. Program TBA.
Join your BBB as we recognize outstanding businesses, charities, individuals and students at the 6th annual Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics luncheon. 3019502
ROBERT E. MCGILL, III 36008 Emerald Coast Pkwy. • Suite C Destin, Florida 32541
May 26 Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Outdoor Concert in the Park Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village Time: 7 p.m. The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation presents the United States Air Force Jazz Band this Thursday, May 26, at 7 p.m. at the Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village, 4323 Commons Drive West in Destin, behind Grace Lutheran Church. Price is $5 per adult, children under 12 are free. Bring your lawn chair and picnic or purchase dinner onsite from Carrabba’s Italian Grill. For a list of upcoming weekly concerts, visit www.mattiekellyartsfoundation.org.
shopping and dining. Saturday: Live entertainment from 7-9 p.m. Sunday: Live entertainment from 6:30-8:30 p.m.. Fireworks display over the Destin Harbor at 8:30 p.m.. Free children’s activities from 6 - 8 p.m.
Celebrating ethics!
Law Offices ROBERT E. MCGILL, III, P.A.
ATTORNEY AT LAW
sional symphony orchestra, proceeds from the event will benefit Sinfonia’s Music Education Fund to continue live music and guest artists in the schools of Walton and Okaloosa Counties. Bring the whole family out for this fantastic community event. Visit www.sinfoniagulfcoast.org.
850-837-1386 Fax 850-837-1574
®
Tuesday, May 10, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. SunDestin, Destin, FL
RSVP: info@nwfl.bbb.org or 800.729.9226 3019417
Start With Trust® www.DestinChamber.com
NETWORK MAY 2011
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-
SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS The following workshops will be offered by the University of West Florida’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) during May 2011. For more information, please call the Fort Walton Beach SBDC at (850) 833-9400.
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 Elizabeth 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!
Starting a Business – 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 cash or check. To reserve your seat, please visit our website at www.sbdc.uwf.edu
Creative Capital for Small Business-Roundtable - Attendees will learn about new sources of funding and a creative approach to raising money for small business. We will discuss how technology is changing the way financing is done and how the internet brings new funding alternative to small business. The fee is $20. To reserve your seat, please visit our website at www.sbdc.uwf.edu.
May 5 • 1 – 4 p.m. 922 Mar Walt Dr., Ste. 203, Fort Walton Beach
May 6 • 1 – 4 p.m. 922 Mar Walt Dr., Ste. 203 , Fort Walton Beach
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NETWORK MAY 2011
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NETWORK MAY 2011