September 2013
Chamber Reaffirms F-35 Support During its July meeting,
A letter declaring this
the Destin Area Chamber of
position was sent to the Eglin
Commerce Board of Directors
Air Force Base Public Affairs
reaffirmed its support of Eglin
Office.
Air Force Base and the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program.
Read the entire letter below.
DEO Discusses Local Economy, Education with Chamber Reps On Aug. 7, Chamber
Pictured are Jim Breitenfeld
leadership met with Rep. Matt
of Breitenfeld Development
Gaetz and representatives
Services; City of Destin
from Florida’s Department
Community Development
of Economic Opportunity
Director Ken Gallander; DEO
(DEO). The discussion included
Director of Legislative and
economic development and job
Cabinet Affairs Bill Wilson;
creation in Destin, Okaloosa
DEO Executive Director Jesse
County, and Northwest Florida;
Panuccio; Chamber Chairman
moving education toward STEM
Mary Anne Windes of Real
and the process to accomplish
Estate Professionals of Destin,
that; and building relationships
Inc.; Pancakery Destin Co-Owner
at the state level to position
Daryl Battaglia; Rep. Matt Gaetz;
Destin on the map for new
and Chamber President and
businesses.
CEO Shane Moody.
Check out page 8 for local business coupons! Find more information and register for upcoming events at www.DestinChamber.com.
Want to see your company highlighted here? Contact Suzy Nicholson Hunt at (850) 837-2711 x2 or suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com or Jen Skillman at (850) 837-2711 x3 or jskillman@DestinChamber.com.
On the Economic Development Front For several years, you’ve heard from me and some of our chairmen about the need to further the economic development relevancy of Destin to Okaloosa County and the Emerald Coast, and about the need to diversify Destin’s economic business base. So where do things stand on the economic development front? In late July, I had the opportunity to entertain the new executive director of the Economic Development Council of Okaloosa County, Nathan Sparks. He spent about five hours here with me and several others. We had a chance to sit down and chat with former Chairman Bill Lindsley, Marcia Hull of the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, and Ken Gallander of the City of Destin, as well as have a lunch discussion with Chairman Mary Anne Windes, Vice Chair of Community and Economic Development Karen McCarthy, and Mayor Sam Seevers. I drove Nathan through Destin, showing him what is good, what isn’t so good, and areas the Chamber views as areas of potential. It was a good day. I like the things that Nathan is saying. He understands the meaning of partnerships, working together, and the need for everyone to be on the same page. I’m also excited because, when I saw him again last week, he asked when we were getting together again. During the first full week of August, Chairman Windes, board member Jim Breitenfeld, and the city’s Ken Gallander had the opportunity to have breakfast with Rep. Matt Gaetz and Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jesse Panuccio and Director of Legislative and Cabinet Affairs Bill Wilson. The topic? Economic development, job creation, and education in Destin, Okaloosa County, and Northwest Florida. Director Panuccio was on a tour and visit to NW Florida and took the time to schedule a breakfast with us. His view from Tallahassee and the Capitol is that our region is primed for job growth, which means economic growth. It was a very positive conversation, and that’s a very positive sign. At the July Board meeting, the Chamber Board of Directors approved a letter of support to be sent to the Air Force supporting the F-35 Mission at Eglin Air Force Base. We want the Air Force to know we are in full support of Eglin being the training grounds for F-35 pilots. This has a tremendous impact on our local economy, an impact that’s positive and strong. This is the second time since 2009 we have sent written support for the F-35 mission to the Air Force. Finally, I’m happy to say that the 6 Pillar process in Okaloosa County seems to be moving forward. As of this writing at least four of the six caucuses have met multiple times as they continue to refine the strategic plan for Okaloosa County. Where do we go from here? Only the community can decide that, as it is their process. Here’s hoping the other chambers and the EDC continue to encourage and support participation. So, there’s a quick and not necessarily complete summation of a few of the economic development activities your Chamber is pushing and/or supporting. There is certainly more than this going on. We’ll continue to monitor and participate in activities that promote our area and encourage businesses that diversify our economy to come here. There are some positive signs we can make that happen. After all, that’s how we’ll continue to build this world-class community one business at a time. With wishes for continued success, and until next month,
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. Chairman’s Appointee Charles Morgan, Harbor Docks Restaurant Special Appointees Jim Breitenfeld, Breitenfeld Development Services, LLC Kim Wintner, Alliance Association Management Co. Inc. Management Team Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP, President and CEO
ceo@DestinChamber.com
Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP President and CEO
Advertising our World-Class Community In our mission to support Destin as a world-class community, our Welcome Center recorded the following numbers in July 2013: Phone Calls/Emails — 701 Incoming Mail — 189 Relocation Packages - 12 Lobby/Welcome Center Visitors — 245 Directories Mailed — 240
Elizabeth Spies, Vice President of Communications espies@DestinChamber.com
Suzy Nicholson Hunt, Events Coordinator suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com Jen Skillman, Membership Consultant jskillman@DestinChamber.com
Ashley Johnston, Information Specialist mail@DestinChamber.com
THE CHAMBER MONTH AHEAD SEPTEMBER Our Military Affairs Council (MAC) will meet in the Chamber’s conference room at noon. Keep up-to-date on happenings at local bases and enjoy hearing military members share their stories.
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SEPTEMBER Join us for our first BusinessPalooza! Leaders In Business Lunch & Mini-Business Expo at Destin United Methodist Church from 11 a.m. - 1 pm. All registrations are due by Friday, Sept. 6, at 3 p.m.
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SEPTEMBER The second Paddle at the Porch will take place in the beautiful emerald green waters behind The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House at 10 a.m. Find full details and registration information at PaddleAtThePorch.com.
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SEPTEMBER The Board of Directors Meeting will be held in the Chamber conference room at 11:30 a.m.
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SEPTEMBER Our Business After Hours sponsored by Miller’s Ale House of Destin will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Please do not forget to bring your business card for networking and our door prizes. No charge for members.
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Destin, Florida is Open for Business Last month, I wrote about how much additional business has come to town for 2013. By “business,” I was referring to the higher number of tourists who were in town. This month, let’s talk about how many additional “businesses” have come to town during 2013. As a member of the Chamber, you are entitled to a complimentary ribbon cutting courtesy of our wonderful Ambassadors. Our Ambassadors are a warm and gregarious group of valued volunteers who represent our area basically as a welcoming committee among other things. Our Chamber is performing approximately 2-3 ribbon cuttings per week. During the first week of August, we hit 100 new members - new businesses who have joined this year. Of course, not all of them seek a ribbon cutting, but they’re here, they chose Destin, they see value in the Chamber, and they see opportunities. I’d like to highlight two of the new business openings that I was honored to attend. The first was Chicken Salad Chick Destin. It is located in the City Market Shopping Center at 36150 Emerald Coast Parkway, Unit 111. Co-owners Mark Singletary, Lauryn Smith, and Cope Smith invited Shane, Mayor Sam Seevers, and I to be their very first guests. We met some very nice people, ate some wonderful chicken salad, and had a great time. It has 15 flavors of chicken salad. I tried four flavors; the first one was incredibly good, but then I thought each one after that was better than the one before...if that was even possible. I don’t know how perfect kept getting better, but it did. The store opening added 25 new jobs to the Destin market. I’m heading there tonight for dinner. Another very cool store is down in the Harbor district directly across from the new city parking lot at 230 Harbor Blvd. Don’t let the name fool you, Deep South Sno Treats is more than just snow cones. It has more than 80 flavors, and, at your request, you can have cheesecake in the middle, drizzled with sweetened condensed milk. Yes, please! At the ribbon cutting, I tried one of its signature flavors - the 850 - and it was soooo good. So, two days later, my whole office went back for takeout at lunchtime to try the pulled pork burritos with lettuce, tomato, and sour cream, plus we tried two additional snow cone flavors. So, as “business” picks up, “businesses” are opening up. Welcome to Destin, New Businesses - you make Paradise even better! At the Chamber, one of our top priorities that we are really taking to task this year is to assist in stimulating economic development with diverse businesses - those other than tourism. Don’t misunderstand, the Chamber supports tourism 100% and works hard to support our tourismbased members. However, after the BP oil spill in 2010, city and Chamber leaders realized that our dependency, mostly on tourism, is really like putting all of our eggs in one basket. We must have other revenue sources within our community to insure a strong, healthy, and year-round economy. Plus, we’re not working against our tourism members by bringing in additional competition - we’re trying to bring diversity and strength to our economic engine. Keeping with that mission, CEO Shane Moody and I met with Rep. Matt Gaetz and representatives from Florida’s Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), Director Bill Wilson and Executive Director Jesse Panuccio. They have more than 50 programs in their playbook geared towards economic development. As you know, Florida Governor Rick Scott is very pro-business and is competing heavily for businesses to come to Florida. They have promised us frequent updates and tips. P.S., they LOVED Destin and promised not only to return soon, but also to help us achieve our goals. Funny thing, our waitress requested a photo with The Pancakery co-owner Daryl Battaglia, so Rep. Gaetz and the two DEO gentlemen clad in ties and business suits invited Shane, economic development legend Jim Breitenfeld, City of Destin Community Development Director Ken Gallander, and I to join them in the photograph. In a crowded dining area with a lot of families gathered waiting for tables, the ordeal captured everyone’s attention. As we were walking out, a little boy excitedly ran up to Rep. Matt Gaetz and asked if he was famous. He was so humble when he demurred with a sweet smile to the little star struck lad, “Not really!” Made my day! Thank you for sharing your suggestions with me this year. Your friendship and support mean a great deal to me and are much appreciated.
For information about all Chamber Events, please visit the Events Calendar at DestinChamber.com or call (850) 837-6241!
Mary Anne Windes 2013 Destin Area Chamber Chairman Real Estate Professionals of Destin, Inc. Destin Fishing Fleet Marina
July Ribbon Cuttings
Design Avenue
The Mosquito Authority
Ashley Harkins 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Unit 114 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-5155 www.design-avenue.com Gift Shops; Interior Designers
Bradford Kindergan 3331 Bayou Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32503 (850) 533-0331 www.bugsbite.com Pest Control
O’Quigley’s Seafood Steamer Charlie Gleason 34940 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 101 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 837-1015 www.oquigleysseafoodsteamer.com Restaurants – American
2nd Paddle at the Porch Postponed from its original
Racers are invited to pick up
date of Aug. 17 due to a forecast
their race packets and enjoy
of heavy rain, the 2nd Paddle at
board demos on Saturday, Sept.
the Porch will take to the Gulf
14, from 4 - 7 p.m., at the Back
waters behind the Back Porch
Porch Seafood & Oyster House.
Seafood & Oyster House on Sunday, Sept. 15, beginning at 10 a.m. The event features one and three mile recreational races
Spectators are welcome, and volunteers are needed. If you would like to volunteer, please call the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce at (850) 837-6241.
and a six mile elite race, to be followed by awards, including $1,500 in cash prizes, food, and fun! All ages and skill levels are invited to participate. The overall winners of each of five elite races will receive $300. For the three and six mile
Thank you to race partners BOTE and The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House, in conjunction with 99 Rock (WKSM), The Beachcomber, www.DestinWebPages.com, and Gameday Sports Media & Marketing, and to purse
races, the cost is $60 before
sponsors Sterling Resorts and
Sept. 15, and $75 on race day.
Trustmark National Bank; gold
For the one mile race, new to
sponsor Destin Commons;
the event this year, the cost is
accommodations sponsors
$48 before Sept. 15, and $55 on
Destin Getaways Vacation
race day. Registration may be
Rentals, ResortQuest by
The Destin Center for Cosmetic
S.E.A. Chase Watersports, LLC;
completed on Active.com or by
Wyndham Vacation Rentals,
Dentistry and Robust Energy
awards sponsor Infinite Lasers
downloading a race brochure at
Southern Vacation Rentals, and
Drink; bronze sponsors Coastal
LLC; and beverage sponsor
www.PaddleAtThePorch.com.
Sterling Resorts; silver sponsors
Bank and Trust, D.I.T. S.U.P., and
Buffalo Rock.
September 2013 Network Newsletter
Page 3
Warren Averett Makes Top 100 Warren Averett, LLC, was named #27 in the large-sized companies category of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine.
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, donated $30,000 to Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation (DCWAF) to help 14 children’s charities in Northwest Florida.
Hilton Donates to Wounded Warriors
Okaloosa Granted NACO Award
Okaloosa County Emergency Medical Services Division of Public Safety and Fort Walton Beach Medical Center (FWBMC) partnered to develop an innovative system to transmit electrocardiograms immediately and directly to the Emergency Room, providing an early warning activation system to save patients under cardiac arrest – the STEMI Program. The name is derived from patients found to have an ST elevated myocardial infarction or STEMI. The National Association of Counties granted Okaloosa County with the 2013 Achievement Award in recognition of the program and “hard work yielding positive results for Okaloosa County,” as stated in the letter. Seen here are Kevin Burton, FWBMC EMS coordinator; Mitch Mongell, FWBMC CEO; Al Herndon, County EMS division chief; Jeff McInnis, FWBMC board chairman; and Dino Villani, County public safety director.
Wine Festival Raises $30,000 The South Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival, held at Page 4
funds raised at Hats for Hope, a luncheon and fashion show that featured the latest fashions from the Emerald Coast’s trendiest boutiques. Pictured are Maggi Grogan, DWC president; Michelle Sperzel, Shelter House executive director; and Denise Hatcher, DWC treasurer.
Jim ‘N Nick’s Promotes Kaufmann Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa donated $4,352 to local Emerald Coast Wounded Warriors, as a result from efforts to raise funds during the Big Dig world record attempt Independence Day weekend. Unfortunately, the Big Dig was canceled due to inclement weather, but the Hilton still matched all donations and profits from the Big Dig Daquiri and t-shirt sales. Pictured are Richard Ross, VP of marketing and sales; Gary Brielmayer, general manager; Rob Vickers, ECWW co-founder; Aaron Hale, ECWW member and warrior; Ken Gestring , ECWW co-founder; Mike Petrucci, ECWW board of directors; Megan Harrison, marketing manager; Jackson Cherry, director of operations.
Destin Woman’s Club Supports Domestic Violence Center
Destin Woman’s Club (DWC) presented a check for $12,000 to Shelter House, Inc. The donation came from
Jeff Kaufmann, assistant general manager for the last five years, has been promoted to the general manager position at Jim ‘N Nicks of Destin. Kaufmann has worked in the food and beverage industry for 14 years and has experience at multiple franchise restaurants throughout the local area, including Outback Steakhouse and Olive Garden.
Saczynski Wins MKAF Poster Contest The Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation (MKAF) announced Andy Saczynski is the winner of this year’s Festival of the Arts Poster Competition. Among the many creative entries, Saczynski’s design captured the judges’ attention with its vibrant colors, coastal theme, and creative design. The 2013 Festival of the Arts will be Oct. 26-27, at the enhanced Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village.
Armament Director Receives Second Star On Aug. 2, newly promoted Maj. Gen. Scott Jansson received
his new stars from his wife, Janine, and son, Andy, at his pin-on ceremony. Jansson, the Air Force Program Executive Officer for Weapons, Armament Directorate, pinned on the rank of major general in a ceremony, officiated by Lt. Gen. C.D. Moore II, commander, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.
ResortQuest Recognizes Tops in Sales ResortQuest Real Estate recognized top sales associates the Nathan Abbott Team for top closed listings and top closed sales for the month of June out of more than 100 ResortQuest Realtors.
History Comes to Life at Museum James E. Plew came to life in the Library Archives at the Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida during a Night at the Museum, held on July 20. Plew shared information about his upbringing and how he came to the area. Guests were able to view some of his original inventions, preserved in the Museum’s historic collection.
Rowland Publishing Earns State Awards Rowland Publishing, the publisher of Emerald Coast Magazine and other Northwest Florida publications, was with two prestigious Sunshine State first-place awards from the South Florida chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. 850 — The Business Magazine of www.DestinChamber.com
Northwest Florida won first place as the best trade/special interest publication in the statewide competition. Tallahassee Magazine won first place for the best single issue of a magazine.
RE/MAX Coastal Agents Recognized
RE/MAX Coastal Properties recognized Karen Martineau for achieving the June Top Sales Award with $2.3 million in sales. Chris Carter was recognized for achieving the June Top Listing Award with nearly $2 million in listing volume. Both Martineau and Carter are long-time top producers and members of the RE/MAX International 100% Club.
Covenant Hospice Selects Leader of the Year Covenant Hospice awarded the 2012 Leader of the Year to Deidra Faulkner RN, MSN, CHPN. Faulkner serves as clinical manager of the organization’s Okaloosa and Walton service area and has been with Covenant for nine years. She was recognized for her role in building and maintaining a cohesive team of more than 175 physicians, nurses, social workers, hospice aides, chaplains, and volunteers who provide compassionate service to patients and loved ones. September 2013 Network Newsletter
Blue Marlin Realty Hires Hayden Blue Marlin Realty Group announced the hire of Realtor Wendy Hayden, who previously worked in sales, property management, and leasing for 200 long-term rentals from Destin to Navarre. She moved to the area 2½ years ago from Atlanta, Ga., and was featured in The Destin Log, when she caught a 30-lb. redfish on Henderson Beach.
Landrum Announces New Manager Laura Kirby joined Landrum Human Resources as a business development manager for its Staffing Services Division. Kirby will engage with employers and business owners to promote the benefits of using Landrum Staffing Services for their hiring and recruitment needs. She will concentrate her sales initiatives in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Fortunato Earns SPHR Peggy Fortunato, director of administration and corporate human resources for Landrum Human Resources, earned certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). To become certified, an applicant must pass a comprehensive examination and demonstrate an extensive knowledge of the laws and
regulations governing HR. Fortunato guides and manages the human resources policies and programs for more than 145 internal Landrum employees across three states.
HarborWalk Village Presents Check HarborWalk Village presented a check for $235 to the Destin History and Fishing Museum. The donation came from the Harry T’s Hotdog Eating Contest, held over the July 4 weekend celebration.
EMS Chief Wins State Award
Okaloosa County Emergency Medical Services Chief Al Herndon received the prestigious Mark Fingeret Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Award for Administrative Leadership and Excellence in EMS. Awarded by the Florida Association of County EMS (FACEMS), this honor recognizes the nearly four decades of leadership and contributions Herndon has provided to pre-hospital care in Okaloosa County and throughout Florida. FACEMS board of directors and the Florida Bureau Chief of Emergency Medical Oversight presented the award on July 17, at the Caribe Royale in Orlando.
Landrum Acquires Staff Payroll H. Britt Landrum, Jr., president and CEO of Landrum Professional Employer Services, Inc., of Pensacola,
announced that the company has increased its size with the acquisition of Staff Payroll of Pensacola. Founded in 1988 by Joe and Irene Baldi, Staff Payroll served many small businesses in northwest Florida and south Alabama.
Shelter House Recognizes Volunteers Shelter House held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Party to thank members of the community who give so generously of their time and talents. Rather than recognizing an individual as Volunteer of the Year, this year’s award went to Hurlburt Airman’s Voice, an organization that provides airmen with opportunities and resources that exemplify the Air Force Core Values through community service, education, activities, and leadership. During the year, Airman’s Voice donated more than 1,000 canned foods, paper products, and diapers; performed general shelter maintenance; installed air conditioners; built a new playground; and worked at fundraising events.
Boeing Supports Children in Crisis
On July 13, more than 60 team members from the Boeing Company worked to help make the Children in Crisis Neighborhood a little nicer for the more than 100 kids that call it home. continued page 12 Page 5
The Football Tailgate Kickoff & Celebrity Board Waiter Lunch, held at Bonefish Grill on Aug. 17, was a success! Thank you to all those who sported their football gear and joined us. A special thank you to End Zone Apparel and Bonefish Grill for donating gift certificates to our most spirited individual, Jennifer Lovell of Coastal Bank and Trust, and our most spirited group, Emerald Coast Chiropractic!
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • Beach Community Bank • Beachy Beach Real Estate • Capt. Nemo Kid Cruises • Chartwell Hospitality • Cherie Anderson, Metlife • Design Avenue • Emerald Coast Chiropractic
• Monograms By Me And Mom, Inc. • Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, School Board, and Board of County Commissioners • Party Boats Destin Princess and Destiny • PML International – LegalShield
• Gulf Power
• ResortQuest by Wyndham Vacation Rentals
• Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida
• SimpleHR / SimpleHIRE
• Miller’s Ale House of Destin
• Southern Airways Express
Thank you to TerraMar Apartment Homes for hosting our July 25 Business After Hours! TerraMar Apartment Homes is located at 93 Dune Lakes Circle, in Santa Rosa Beach. Find out more about these new luxury apartment homes, offering 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom floorplans, as well as carriage homes, at (850) 622-9111 or www.terramarwest30a.com.
Thank You for the Door Prizes! • Merrill Lynch
May 2013 Network Newsletter
• TerraMar Apartment Homes
Page 7
Destin Bike Tours
Emerald Bay Golf Club
$10 off bike tour or paddle board lesson - Not valid with other promotions. - Expires 9/30/2013 127 Calhoun Ave., Destin (850) 499-6553 www.DestinBikeTours.com
Play 18 holes for $45 + tax. Includes green fee, range balls, and GPS. - Not for use between 9 - 11 a.m. - Not valid with other promotions. - Call (850) 837-5197 for tee times. - Expires 12/19/2013 4781 Clubhouse Dr., Destin www.EmeraldBayGolfClub.com
Geronimo’s Outpost
Sassy Lady Apparel
10% off purchase
20% off total purchase
- Not valid with other promotions. - Expires 9/30/2013 960 Hwy. 98 #102, Destin (850) 837-2031 www.GeronimosOutpost.com
- Regular priced merchandise only. - Not valid with other promotions. - Expires 9/30/2013 981 Hwy. 98 E. Ste. 5 (850) 837-1661
Destin Area Chamber of Commerce Receive a one month complimentary Lobby TV ad when purchasing a three month Network ad. - Expires 9/30/2013 4484 Legendary Dr. Ste. A, Destin (850) 837-6241 www.DestinChamber.com
Let us put your coupon into the hands of almost 6,000 locals and visitors. Call (850) 837-6241 for details.
Member Spotlight: Meloney Howell, SmartBank Meloney
Area Chamber, American Cancer Society,
Building a foundation with strong leadership
Howell works
Walton County Chamber, and United Way
and forward thinking has been integral to the
as a Lending
Foundation.
success of SmartBank.
Officer at SmartBank’s Destin office. She has worked in the financial industry for more than 17 years holding various roles. Most recently, Howell oversaw Loan Operations and Credit Administration for GulfSouth Private Bank. She enjoys watching her daughter play softball and coaching little league cheer. Her community involvement includes participating with the Destin Page 8
“SmartBank believes in meeting needs and
SmartBank is a full-service bank with
exceeding expectations,” said Howell. “It’s
assets over $475 million, as of June 30, 2013.
great to work with people who want to make
SmartBank currently has eight branches,
a difference. I love helping clients achieve
serving clients in Northwest Florida and East
their goals and am excited to be a part of
Tennessee.
such a dynamic lending team!” SmartBank’s vision is to build exceptional value for its brand, clients, communities, associates, and shareholders by delivering more than they think possible. SmartBank has proven to be successful at executing its plan to create a better bank by raising the bar in client service since opening in January 2007.
For more about SmartBank, please visit www.smartbank.net.
For the opportunity to see you and your company spotlighted here, please attend our Sept. 10 BusinessPalooza! - Leaders In Business Lunch & Mini-Business Expo. Register at www.DestinChamber.com. www.DestinChamber.com
SEPT
EMB
September 1 Student/Teacher Appreciation Month Location: Silver Sands Premium Outlets www.premiumoutlets.com
September 1 Mattie Kelly Autumn Concert Series – Lava Lamp 7 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village www.MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org
September 3 20/20 Vision: The Case for Equity – Seminar & Lunch 12 – 1 p.m. Location: Rutherfords 465 (850) 650-2616
September 4 Guitar Recital with Kevin Manderville 7:30 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Fine Arts Center at NWFSC www.mattiekellyartscenter.org
EVEN
September 11 Wealth & Wisdom Series: Social Security 8:30 a.m. Location: Vue on 30A (850) 650-0990
September 12 Mattie Kelly Autumn Concert Series – The Modern Eldorados 7 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village www.MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org
September 15 2nd Paddle at the Porch – The Destin SUP Cup
10 a.m. Location: The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House www.PaddleAtThePorch.com
September 9 NFSO Recital featuring Alon Goldstein
7 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village www.MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org
September 19 Mattie Kelly Autumn Concert Series – The Return
COSTA LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE SEPTEMBER SCHEDULE September 5 and 19 Supervision I 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
September 12 Time Management
September 20 Grammar for the Business Professional 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
September 20 Photoshop for the Web
September 13 Diversity in the Workplace: Concerns, Issues and Solutions
September 26 John Maxwell – Leadership Gold
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
September 19 and 20 Grant Writing 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
September 27 Employment Laws for Supervisors
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Call (850) 729-6880 or visit www.nwfsc.edu/LI for information.
August 2013 Network Newsletter
7 – 10 p.m. Location: Bud & Alley’s Restaurant www.CVHNKids.org
September 28 4th Annual Destin Beer Festival to Benefit Children in Crisis
2 – 5 p.m. Location: Chan’s Wine World in Paradise Key www.DestinBeerFestival.com
September 28 “An Austro Hungarian Journey” Concert 7:30 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Fine Arts Center at NWFSC www.mattiekellyartscenter.org
Would you like to see your organization’s event featured in the community calendar above? Log into the Members Only section of DestinChamber.com or email your event information to mail@DestinChamber.com. For your login information, please call (850) 837-6241. Please note that events must be submitted by the first of the month prior to the month in which your event takes place in order to meet our publication deadline.
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
September 26 Mattie Kelly Autumn Concert Series – Dread Clampitt
September 27 9th Annual Hurricane Party
September 16 – October 12 From the Vault: 50 Years of Collecting From OWJC to NWF State College
NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE
6 p.m. Location: Williams Backyard Boogie, Santa Rosa Beach (850) 278-3081
7 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village www.MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org
September 5 Mattie Kelly Autumn Concert Series – Fountain City Players
7:30 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Fine Arts Center at NWFSC www.mattiekellyartscenter.org
TS
September 20 Backyard Boogie
Location: Mattie Kelly Fine Arts Center at NWFSC www.mattiekellyartscenter.org
7 p.m. Location: Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village www.MattieKellyArtsFoundation.org
ER
UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER SEPTEMBER WORKSHOPS September 5 Starting a Business 1 – 4 p.m.
September 27 Brown Bag Lunch: Building Wealth in Your Business 2 12 – 1 p.m.
To register or for information, please contact UWF’s Small Business Development Center at www.sbdc.uwf.edu or (850) 833-9400. Page 9
Aesthetic Clinique
Designer Consigners
MC Photo
Affordable Home Insurance, Inc.
Destin Commons
Payroll Management Inc. dba PMI Employee Leasing
Apricot Lane Boutique
Destin Middle School
Steven Weiner, M.D. (850) 622-1214
Sharon Griffith (850) 654-7227
Dennis Gagnon, Jr. (850) 654-1567
Debra and Jerry Johnson (850) 424-3915
Dwana Neyendorf (850) 833-7655
Ava’s Attic Consignment Boutique Courtney Hood (850) 424-6767
Beacon Resort Management Charles Corsentino (850) 244-5200
Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park Greg Abel (850) 837-8319
Cricket Johnson (850) 337-8700
Emerald Coast Chiropractic Kathy Whidden (850) 654-1850
Emerald Coast Wine Cellars and Gift Baskets Melissa Webster (850) 837-9500
Ethan Allen of Destin Ryan Disher (850) 837-8000
Bonefish Grill Restaurant
Fantasea Scooter Rentals
Broad and Cassel
Firehouse Subs
Camp Gulf
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center
Phil Laruso (850) 650-3161
Ginger B. Boyd (850) 269-0148 Pat O’Neill (850) 837-6334
Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC Sonia Mitchell, CPA (850) 837-3141
Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance of NWFSC Julie Terrell (850) 267-1888
Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology David C. Adams MD (850) 654-3376
Community Bank Coast Megan Connor (850) 650-4231
Steve/Donna Fontana (850) 654-7772 Kenneth Stange (850) 424-7331
Vicki Story Tarro (850) 862-1111
Foundation Financial Services, Inc. Dianne Fields (850) 650-0304
Manuel Chavez (850) 231-6715
Dan Robertson (850) 243-5604
Jamison L. Plantz, DMD, PA Stephanie Rainer (850) 837-6824
Qivana
Ann and Duaine Kief (850) 622-2345
Bernie Robin (850) 654-9305
SimpleHIRE
Bill Lindsley (850) 714-8015
SimpleHR
Bill Lindsley (850) 650-9935
Sinfonia Gulf Coast Demetrius Fuller (850) 269-7229
SmartBank
Robin Keith (850) 269-0871
Tuscany Italian Bistro Michelle Hershkowitz (850) 650-2451
Twin Cities Hospital Jenni Brunson (850) 678-4131
Hurricane Lanes
Westwood Retirement Resort
Infinite Lasers LLC
Workforce Development Board
Dave Collins (850) 654-5251 Drew Cooper (850) 424-3759
Billie Chappell (850) 863-5174
Executive Director (850) 651-2315
Jenkins Transfer & Storage, Inc. Bill Jenkins (850) 243-6111
Celebrating Ambassador Successes Congratulations to top Ambassadors for July 2013! 60 points — Fred Fenn, St. Andrews by the Sea Episcopal Church 45 points — Bill Head 45 points — Linda Kuykendall, A 2 Z Specialty Advertising Page 10
Thank you to Fred Fenn for welcoming new member The Reach Institute of N.W. FL. and to Paul Woolman for welcoming Deep South Sno Treats.
www.DestinChamber.com
Bancorp South Insurance Services, Inc. Jason Martinez 13331 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 460-4425 bancorpsouthinsurance.com Insurance
Bright Energy 360
Mike Iovieno 35008 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 301 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 308-7990 www.brightenergy360.com Lighting & Supply
Deep South Sno Treats
MeDeux
Display Tracks LLC
N2Publishing
Lori Moore 230 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 466-8515 www.deepsouthsnotreats.com Ice Cream, Yogurt, Shaved Ice & Chocolate Tommy R. Williams 602 Harbor Blvd. #102 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 585-0574 www.displaytracks.com GPS Tracking
Dunkin Donuts
D. Mark Singletary 36150 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 111 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-2888 Restaurants - Deli & Catering
Gerrod Nicola 10859 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 201 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 424-7297 dunkingulfcoast.com Restaurants - Fast Food
D.I.T. S.U.P.
Get Fit Destin
Chicken Salad Chick Destin
Ashley Phillips 414 Harbor Blvd. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 685-1868 www.ditsup.com Water Sports
Amanda Thomas 1217 Airport Rd. Unit #418 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 424-6122 www.getfitdestin.com Weight Management
Wanda Bruner 805 Harbor Blvd. #33 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 460-2217 www.medeux.com Retail Specialty Hilary Butler 185 Baytree Dr. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (615) 476-2971 Publications
The Reach Institute of N.W. FL Ann Rector 4476 Legendary Dr. Destin, FL 32541 (850) 622-2273 www.thereachinstitute.com Massage Therapy
Sunny Destin Vacation Rentals Sunny Foy 4501 Sawgrass Way Destin, FL 32541 (850) 420-9901 www.sunnydestinvacationrentals.com Accommodations - Rentals
Want to join the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce? Contact Jen at (850) 837-2711 x3 or jskillman@DestinChamber.com.
Reserve Your Space in Destin’s Exclusive Vacation, Relocation, & Business Guide Whether your target market is local businesses and residents or visitors, the Chamber’s Destin Area Visitor’s Guide & Membership Directory is a great value for your advertising dollars. As the only advertising publication of the Destin Area Chamber, 17,000 copies are printed and distributed each year to members, visitors, and residents. It is your number 1 choice for business directory advertising. For details, call (850) 837-6241.
September 2013 Network Newsletter
Page 11
Member Spotlight: Jennifer Lovell, Coastal Bank and Trust Jennifer Lovell is Vice President and a
“I enjoy taking the extra step to add value
Business Banker II at Coastal Bank and
to my customer relationships,” said Lovell.
Trust, which is one of 29 locally branded
“Our company’s culture is based on a strong
bank divisions within the Synovus Financial
emphasis on valuing people, doing the right
Corporation. Synovus has 280 offices and
thing, and treating others with respect. That
more than 400 ATMs in Georgia, Alabama,
foundation and value system generates
South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida, and is
strength, stability, and enduring success for
approximately $27 billion in asset size.
our team members, customers, shareholders, and community.”
Over the years with Coastal Bank and Trust, Lovell’s role has grown from managing her
For more information, call (850) 650-5010
branch to her new role as Business Banker
or visit www.CoastalBankAndTrust.com.
II. She helps customers with small business
For the opportunity to see you and your
and commercial loans, whether the need
company spotlighted here, please attend
is a working line of credit or financing a commercial location. Lovell graduated from
2010 graduate of the Chamber’s Destin
Florida State University in 2000 and just
Forward program and on the Mattie Kelly
celebrated 10 years with the bank. She is a
Arts Foundation board of directors.
our Sept. 10 BusinessPalooza! - Leaders In Business Lunch & Mini-Business Expo. Register at www.DestinChamber.com.
Business Briefs (continued from page 5) “Our Family to Yours” Helps Children in Crisis
“Our Family to Yours” helped the kids living at the Children in Crisis neighborhood this week by donating cleaning supplies and paper products. Tina Roberson, property manager for Paradise Key Retail Stores of Destin, and good friend Liz Corriveau established the program to help CIC fill the need of items not often donated but critical to sustaining operations of CIC. Seen here are Roberson, assisted by Corriveau, presenting an SUV load of critical supplies to Ken Hair, CIC president and CEO.
Blue Marlin Realty Group Expands Blue Marlin Realty Group recently hired two new realtors Trish Sams and Erin Martin.
Page 12
Well-known local realtor, Trish Sams was born and raised in Columbia, S.C. Most recently, she worked at Dale E. Peterson Realty for six years and Keller Williams Emerald Coast Realty for one year. Martin, originally from Birmingham, Ala., graduated from The University of Alabama and has lived in the area for 11 years. She has worked in the real estate business for nine years. Her previous real estate work experience consists of working with Keller Williams and 100% Realty Inc.
United Way Helps With Back to School Needs The United Way of Okaloosa and Walton Counties helped the kids of Children in Crisis get ready to go back to school with its “Cram the Van” program. Thanks to the generous donations of school items from the community, all the kids at the Children’s Neighborhood received supplies to take them
through the new school year.
Business Briefs feature new hires, promotions, awards, and new products or services. To see your business accomplishments
highlighted here, please send your press releases to VP of Communications Elizabeth Spies at espies@DestinChamber.com. Deadline is the first of the month for the following month’s issue. www.DestinChamber.com
“Mini-Expo” Lunches September 10 BusinessPalooza! – A Mini-Business Expo November 12 Holiday Shop & Dine BusinessPalooza! is sold out. To participate in the Shop & Dine, contact Events Coordinator Suzy Nicholson Hunt at (850) 837-2711 x2 or suzyhunt@DestinChamber.com.
DESTIN BUSINESS FORUM In partnership with Cox Communications, the Chamber’s monthly TV program hosts the following in September 2013: - Cabana Café - Compass Solar Energy - Dr. Bawa & Associates 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 & Ritchie, P.A.
September 2013 Network Newsletter
Thank you to Cox Communications for its support of this program.
Page 13
Destin Area Chamber of Commerce 4484 Legendary Drive, Suite A Destin, FL 32541
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