Dana Point Chamber of Commerce's Compass Newsletter
The Chamber Compass
Your bi-weekly guide to the news & happenings of Dana Point 
February 26, 2015
Infographic: 2014 Dana Point Chamber Year in Review
2014 was an incredibly busy year for the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and we couldn't be prouder of all that we have accomplished! Thank you to each and every one of our members and our local City staff for all of your contributions in making 2014 one of the best years yet for this Chamber.

Click here to take a look at our 2014 Annual Performance Report (a larger version of the infographic on the right) and take a look at all of the ways the Dana Point Chamber is working for you.

We're always looking for ways to improve here at the Chamber - if you have any suggestions on programs you would be interested in hearing about, or if there is a specific issue that we may assist you with, please don't hesitate to reach out to us

Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Opens Nominations for 
Annual Beautification Awards

Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its annual Beautification Awards to be presented at the upcoming State of the City luncheon.

Nomination categories include:
  • New Construction with Landscaping
  • Exterior Reconstruction with Landscaping
  • Maintenance of Existing Facilities and/or Landscaping 
  • Historic/Cultural Preservation
Last year's winners (pictured above) include Jimmy's Famous American Tavern, Stillwater Spirits and Sounds and the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center.

Nominate a neighboring business...or even yourself. Nomination forms are available at the Chamber office or onlineThe deadline to submit nominations is April 24th. 

Download your Nomination Form now!
Chamber Members Dominate the Dana Point Times  
7th Annual Best of Dana Point Awards!
 
It's that time of year again - the Dana Point Times has announced this year's "Best of Dana Point" and it's no surprise that the list is FULL of Chamber members. Chamber members took home the coveted Golden Lantern award in nearly 80% of categories in over 40 classifications relating to eateries, shops, services and events. 
 
We want to say a very big THANK YOU to everyone that voted to for the Dana Point Turkey Trot in the Best Dana Point Event category. We are ridiculously overjoyed to take home the Golden Lantern Award this year for the Turkey Trot, and hope to keep this tradition alive and make the DPTT bigger and better every year. Also, a huge thank you to those of you that nominated your local Dana Point Chamber in the Best Customer Service category - we really appreciate the love!
 
For a list of all the winning businesses, click here

Congratulations to all of the winners - and remember to shop local, shop Dana Point!

#ShopDelPrado & Win!
Join the Residents of Dana Point & Support Del Prado Shopping
With the completion of roadway construction on Pacific Coast Highway, construction is now underway on Del Prado for the balance of the Lantern District public improvements and beautification, including two-way traffic. This significant Town Center improvement project is designed to provide a pedestrian-friendly downtown that is worthy of Dana Point residents and visitors. Lantern District improvements will greatly enhance the local shopping and dining experience. 

All you have to do is what you do best.... SHOP! For every $10 you spend at any participating business on Del Prado, you will be awarded the opportunity to win some really great prize packages. Dr. Marc Taub of Dana Point was the big winner in January! Dr. Taub and his wife Kara shopped at Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar and now they are the ecstatic winners of our inaugural #ShopDelPrado drawing.

This month's prize package includes a one-night stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel dinner for two at Luciana's Ristorante and two passes for a whale or marine mammal adventure cruise from Ocean Institute. Prizes change on a monthly basis so tune into DPLanternDistrict.com each month to see who won the month before and what great prizes you can win! 

You will receive one entry to the Contest per $10 spent at an eligible Del Prado business. Time is running out to submit your receipts for purchases made in February - make sure to submit your receipts!
  1. Send in a signed copy of your receipt (including your email address and phone number) to [email protected], or 
  2. Show your receipt at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce offices located at 24681 La Plaza, Suite 115 in Dana Point.
Members Only: Member Information Center & New Dana Point Chamber App for Your Phone!
Member Information Center

We at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce are always looking for ways to market your business and connect you with fellow business owners. A few weeks ago we rolled out our new "Member's Only" program through our Chamber website. This member's only section, known as the Member Information Center (MIC), of our website that allows you to: 
  • Communicate with and refer fellow members 
  • Edit and update your website listing 
  • View and register for events 
  • Post and use member to member discounts 
  • Create Hot Deals that are available to the general public 
  • Pay your membership online 
Your Chamber Membership - There's an App For That!

Our new MemberPlus app is now available in the Apple Store and Google Play for Android devices. Here you can access the Member Information Center on the go! Our App allows you to: 
  • Receive push notifications from the Chamber 
  • Access your Member Information Center (MIC) 
  • View member listings 
  • Update your profile 
  • Register, pay and check in for events 
  • Interact with other members 
  • Post & view hot deals and member-to-member specials
Download now for your iPhone or Android.

***If you haven't done so yet, be sure to create your login and password and begin using your fantastic new benefits. If you would like your login link to be resent to you, please email Natalia.
Upcoming Chamber Events
March Membership Orientation
Maximize Your Membership Investment 
Wednesday, March 4th   5:00 - 6:00pm
Brio Tuscany Grille    24050 Camino del Avion, Dana Point
  
Do you know the value of your Chamber Membership? 
Are you looking to get the most of out of your membership?
 
Come to our New Member Orientation! Join us on Wednesday, March 4th from 5:00-6:00pm at Brio Tuscany Grille
 
We encourage new members, new employees and current members looking for a "refresher" course to attend this event. Attendees will receive your New Member Packet and plaque, plus you'll get a detailed presentation of your Chamber member benefits. 

This orientation is your opportunity to meet Chamber staff, Board members, Chamber Ambassadors and fellow new members, while learning about all the exciting opportunities your Chamber membership offers you!  Click here to RSVP.
 

Networking at Noon - Jack's Restaurant
Thursday, March 5th  11:30am - 1:00pm
24462 Del Prado Dana Point, CA
$20 Members     $25 Non-Members
Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and our Membership Committee invite you to join us for Networking at Noon at Jack's Restaurant & Bar. Jack's is usually only open for dinner service, so this is a very special opportunity for our members to sample Jack's delicious food at the lunch hour!

This event is open to members and non-members to attend. Attendees will have the opportunity to network, discuss their business with others and generate new business leads - while supporting a great chamber member restaurant! 

The cost to attend is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and includes lunch, beverage, tax and gratuity. 

Space is limited so register now - and don't forget your business cards!

Welcome Our New Members!
Beachside Animal Hospital

Beachside Animal Hospital - Surgery and Emergency Center is committed to your Family Pet's health providing Excellence in Medicine and Compassionate Care at affordable prices. 

Dr. Grant DVM has been a Veterinarian for 19 years and has decades of animal care experience growing up in a family of Orange County Veterinarians since 1961. It's his love for animals that drives Dr. Grant's passion to help and heal our furry friends. With a special interest in surgery and emergency care; Beachside Animal Hospital is equipped to handle all your pet's healthcare needs. 

Because our pets are family, we strive to provide the very best for your pets and your family. Beachside is a proud supporter of our local shelters and rescue efforts. 

 Meet Dr. Grant

Capo Beach Watercraft Rentals

Located waterfront in Dana Point Harbor since 1985. We offer a variety of rentals including Jet Ski, Seadoo, Waverunner and kayaks.

*Impeccable service/ knowledgeable and experienced staff 

*Exceptional safety record
*All new immaculate SeaDoos, Jet Skiis, and Kayaks
*60 mph 1-3 passenger Jet Skis
*Single, Double and Triple Perception kayaks
*Open year round / 7 days a week
*Family owned and operated since 1985
*The original Jet Ski Rental in Dana Point Harbor
 

The District Salon

The District Salon, in the heart of the up & coming "Lantern District",  has a friendly family feel with a staff that keeps up with current trends and products. Formerly Azalea Salon & Boutique, we still have your favorite hairstylists, skin care specialists and friendly atmosphere with a new name.

The District Salon prides itself on being a place where clients can get answers to their hair and skin needs. We offer reasonable  prices with amazing results! Come by and check out our shop.

Hair Salon * Skin Care

Donut Star

Donut Star, recently open and located in the Monarch Bay Plaza offers fresh, quality donuts, croissants, and cronuts. 

When you step into our shop, you'll immediately be overtaken by the fragrant smells of our delicious menu items. Our butter croissants are generous in size and baked fresh daily. We feature a wonderful selection of traditional donuts as well as fun, colorful varieties to choose from. We even offer custom, special order donuts!

Catering is available - please keep us in mind for your next large event or meeting. 

Get in my Belly!

Kokomo's Pizza

Welcome to Kokomo's Pizza, join us for a slice of Heaven!

We use fresh dough, homemade sauce and freshest ingredients to make our delicious pizzas daily. Whether you're craving garlic knots, finger-licking chicken wings or a cheesy, delicious pizza, we have you covered! Choose from over 20 toppings!

For your convenience you can order over the phone at 949.488.0404 or order online:
        *Order on our website
        *Order through our Facebook
        *Order through our iPhone or Android app for your phone. 

Enjoy 10% off your first order online or through our mobile app

We're open every day except for Tuesdays - stop in to see us or give us a call and we'll deliver to you, where ever you are!

A Slice of Heaven

Lingerie Paradis, USA

Partners Beth Oas and Cheri Jimenez are thrilled to open Lingerie Paradis USA at the Monarch Beach Plaza in Dana Point. 

Lingerie Paradis will feature fine European lingerie and loungewear as well as some of the top domestic brands. They will offer personal bra fittings, larger cup sizes, shapewear, fashion lingerie, bridal lingerie and accessories, as well as stylish sleepwear and loungewear. 

Paradis will offer virtually every price point, from Hanky Panky to exquisite hand-embroidered Italian lace. 

Beth is a local girl from Southern Orange County with an extensive background in fashion, retail, wholesale and, for the last three years, as manager and buyer of a popular European lingerie shop in Carmel. Beth is returning home to partner with longtime friend Cheri, an avid fashionista with a background in finance and human resources. 

"Cheri and I are really excited to bring some of the top European brands of lingerie to the area," said Beth. "We can't wait until the shop opens so we can show off our amazing selections."  

Lingerie Paradis USA is now open! For your convenience, they also offer convenient gift cards and free gift wrapping.

Performance Production Services

Jonathan moved to San Clemente in 1962.  His family is part of Dana Point History. Mother sang at the original dedication on the Dana Point Harbor and he joined her, performing again, at the completion ceremony.

After producing his first student film a senior at SCHS, he earned two degrees in film production. He also has two degrees in music and was the founder and director of the Capistrano Chorale, based in Dana Point.

When Google purchased YouTube in late 2006, he realized the amazing potential of companies video marketing on the internet, branded his company Performance Production Services and built his online commercial portfolio.

At Cinematic Event Group, he produces Family Events, Non-Profit Documentaries and Business Events. He is also a prolific author and screenwriter.

Jonathan's Dana Point clients include Building Online, MBS Rotary, 5th Marine Support Group, DP Harbor and Greenfield Communications. Internationally, he is the senior videographer for BNI  (Business Network International) and the personal videographer of BNI Founder Dr. Ivan Misner.

Jonathan looks forward to serving the local community with his production expertise. 

SC Kona Ice

We are the Huffman Family and we own SC Kona Ice. Our territory includes; San Clemente, Dana Point, Capo Beach, San Juan Capistrano and Mission Viejo. We serve tropical shaved ice from the most unique entertainment vehicle you'll ever see! 

Our Kona Ice trucks are completely self-contained and can stay the entire length of any event serving more than 300 people per hour. We can pull in almost anywhere and don't require any electric or water hook-up. We can be out of there immediately after your event is over. Our truck is quiet... well, except for our signature tropical music that is sure to get your crowd into the spirit of the event. 

We at Kona Ice are dedicated to providing a unique experience, spreading fun, and creating smiles, while giving back to our local communities. All across the country, Kona Ice LOVES to give back to schools, sports teams and organizations. everybody loves to experience Kona Ice almost anytime, anywhere.

 The Shwack Beach Grill

Known for it's delicious burgers, The Shwack Beach Grill is a fast casual concept that features a menu of fresh, Cali inspired fare at an affordable price. 

Max Fisher (pictured left), a graduate of Dana Hills High School, is the owner of Shwack Beach Grill is and hopes to someday open more storefronts to spread the eatery's chill vibes, top-notch food and love of craft beers around. Fisher states that the heart and soul of Shwack comes from wanting to create a family-friendly, fun place to be. 

Shwack may be best known for its turf offering of burgers, but this beach grill fully embraces the surf too. Crowd favorites include fish tacos, a seared ahi-tuna salad and the Groundswell ahi-tuna burger served with wasabi mayo and Asian-inspired coleslaw. Shwack also serves a full breakfast menu complete with spuds, wraps, pancakes, parfaits and eggs any way a customer prefers. 

Make sure to stop by and check out their recently completed covered patio, featuring new floors, stereos and even outdoor heaters!

South Coast Christian Church

What is now South Coast Christian began in 1974 as a group of families meeting weekly for Bible studies at the Hilton Hotel in Laguna Hills.As the group began to grow, the location was changed throughout the years to meet the needs of the congregation. Whether the church made its home in a local high school building, the Elks Lodge, or a storefront converted facility, the vision remained the same, to be united as a community of believers, with the heart to learn from the word of God. In 1978 the church took on the name South Coast Christian Assembly, followed a decade later by the purchase of a 3.3 acre chicken farm in San Juan Capistrano which would in 1996 become the home of the church's first Sanctuary Building. 

Today, South Coast Christian continues to meet in this beautifully constructed building in San Juan Capistrano, pastored by Tom Westerfield, who joined the church September 2012. We are a church that believes God's love changes lives. Throughout our Sunday morning service you will experience genuine worship and a relevant message. South Coast Christian is a great place to build relationships, find needed encouragement and discover God's plan for your life. During the weekdays we offer a variety of GROUPS for all ages where you can continue to grow both spiritually and socially. We want to invite you to join us and experience all that is happening here at South Coast Christian.

We hope to see you soon!
South Coast Compounding Pharmacy

South Coast Compounding Pharmacy is full service retail pharmacy that specializes in prescription compounding. We are conveniently located next to Mission Hospital in Laguna Beach, CA. Under new ownership, our store hours are Monday through Friday 9AM to 5PM. Services we offer include prescription compounding for dermatologicals, pediatrics, pain preparations, hormone replacement and veterinary. We also offer immunizations, walker and crutches rental, as well as free delivery on transferred prescriptions and new patients. Prefer to pick up? With a wait time of 10 minutes or less, getting your prescription filled on the go is fast and painless. We accept most insurance plans and offer affordable cash prices to those without insurance coverage. 

As members of PCCA for over 14 years (professional compounding organization), our pharmacists create your medication with FDA approved chemicals using special equipment to ensure you are receiving the best treatment available. 

If you want more information about prescription compounds and how you can get your medication delivered to your doorstep for free, please email us. Or, to speak directly with a licensed certified compounding pharmacist, please click here or call us toll-free at 844-440-2525.

Woody Hut

Originally from Germany, I fell in love with the ocean the first time I saw it. Living the "Beach Lifestyle" always appealed to me. 25 years ago I came to California and never left. Being in retail all my live I full filled my dream of owning my own store with buying Woody Hut. My 15 year experience of managing Hallmark Stores prepared me well enough to try to venture out on my own. My goal is to provide my customers with a great shopping experience in a fun and casual environment we an ever expanding and changing inventory. 

We offer our customers a wide variety of Beach, Surf and Woody related merchandise. From " Surferbaby " to " Old Guys Rule ", we have every generation covered. You will find a great selection of Hawaiian Shirts sure to please every taste and budget. Beach apparel for men and women include sarongs, sundresses, sunglasses, hats...just to name a few. Our Sterling Silver Hawaiian Jewelry is popular with locals and visitors alike. A large selection of home d�cor, from wall art to picture frames, from tableware to kitchen accessories rounds up our inventory. We have a great assortement of shot glasses, keyrings, mugs, magnets...for our out of town visitors. We are constantly looking for unique products you will not find on main street. 

We offer all of this in a casual relaxed beach atmosphere. Stop in for a visit, We make sure you leave with a smile If you can't be in Hawaii, this is the next best place to be. 

Thank You to Our Renewing Members

Member Since 2009

Alice Anderson, Civic Member
Member Since 1992

Member Since 1986

Member Since 1989

Member Since 1997

Cox Communications
Member Since 2003

Member Since 2011



Dana Point Nursery
Member Since 1987

Member Since 2001
Member Since 2011

Member Since 1984

Member Since 2013

Joe Soto, Civic Member
Member Since 2011
 
Member Since 2010
 
Lantern Bay Realty - Tim Johnson
Member Since 1973
Member Since 2011

Member Since 1987
 
Member Since 2013
OCWIN
Member Since 2010

Member Since 2013

Member Since 2006

Member Since 2013

Member Since 1987


Member Since 2001

Member Since1986


Wendy Kramer, Civic Member
Member Since 2007

Member Since 2011
Community News & Events
Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Events
March 1stInside-Out: Art, Health & Beauty at White Lotus Day Spa
March 3rdCity Council Meeting
March 4thDPCC New Member Orientation
March 5thDPCC Networking at Noon - Jack's Restaurant

DPCC Government Affairs Committee Meeting
March 7th Festival of Whales     Parade     Street Fair     Shuttle Info     Movie in the Park

La Plaza Farmer's Market

Wyland Dolphin & Whale Adventures - Art Lessons in the Wild
March 8thFestival of Whales     Ocean Awareness Day     Whale of a BBQ    Shuttle Info  
                          Kid's Aventure Expo     Diamond Dig     VFW Pancake Breakfast
March 9thPlanning Commission Meeting
March 10thDPCC Ambassador Committee Meeting

DPCC Finance Committee Meeting
March 14thFestival of Whales     Whale of a Beach Clean-up      Shuttle Info 

La Plaza Farmer's Market

Whale Walk and Talk

Wyland Dolphin & Whale Adventures - Art Lessons in the Wild
March 15thFestival of Whales     Grunion Run     Whale of a Concert & BBQ     Shuttle Info 

"Two Years Before the Mast" Reading Marathon 
Dana Point Historical Society seeks readers for its Fifth Annual Public Reading in March
Celebrating Richard Henry Dana Jr.'s bicentennial year, the Dana Point Historical Society presents its fifth annual public reading of the complete text of Dana's Two Years Before the Mast. Participants read in succession for 8 to 10 minutes each. The event is free and open to the public. 

This year's reading will be at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point on Friday, March 27 from 1 to 4 pm, Saturday March 28 from 9 am to 6 pm, and Sunday March 29 from 9 am until the book is complete, around noon. 

Volunteer as a reader by e-mail or leave message at 949-899-0907; provide name, e-mail or phone number, and a preferred time.
Volunteers Needed: FOW Street Fair Kids' Carnival
The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers for the upcoming Festival of Whales Street Fare, to be held on Saturday, March 7th from 9am - 3pm. Volunteers will be provided with a volunteer shirt, a super fun day and limitless hugs and high-fives from Chamber staff. Any and all help would be much appreciated. Individuals interested can contact Chamber staff for further details.

Click here for more information about the Festival of Whales.

View the FOW Calendar of Events.
Thank You to our 2015 Chairman Circle Sponsors

 
If you are interested in supporting our business community, join the Dana Point Chairman's Circle! Please contact [email protected] for more information.
Stay Connected

24681 La Plaza Suite 115Dana PointCA.  
(949) 496-1555

 
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