Dana Point Chamber of Commerce's Compass Newsletter
The Chamber Compass
Your bi-weekly guide to the news & happenings of Dana Point 
May 7, 2014
Final Days to Purchase Tickets for the  
2014 State of South County
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
Friday, May 16th  11:30am - 1:00pm
$50 Member  |  $60 Prospective Member  |  $450 Table of 10

You are cordially invited to join the Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente and San Juan Chambers of Commerce at the 2014 State of South County, featuring an address from Supervisor Pat Bates. 
 
In addition to the update by Supervisor Bates, the event will feature speakers focused on the "Three Pillars of Quality of Life" - transportation, public safety and economic development.  The featured speakers will be: 
 
Lucy Dunn, President of the Orange County Business Council, Transportation  
Sandra Hutchens, Orange County Sheriff-Coroner, Public Safety  
Tod Burnett, President of Saddleback Community College, Economic Development 
 
Click here to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Click here to purchase tickets for you or a group.
 
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Thank You to Our Sponsors 
LagunaCliffs Logo  
 
Do You Know the Value of Your Chamber Membership?  Attend a New Member Orientation!
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 Tuesday, May 13th 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.
 

Promote Your Business by Helping our Local State Parks
Doheny Surf Fest Seeking Vendors
 
The Doheny Surf Festival  is a celebration of the Southern California surfing life style and is also a major fundraising event for Doheny State Beach. The two day event is an expanded version of the summer surf event that has been held for the last 5 years. It will include all things surf: exhibits, surf demonstrations, environmental education, surf star autograph signings, tandem & SUP exhibitions. A music line-up is also included and more than 15,000 attendees are expected. As a Chamber member, you are invited to be one of a select group of exclusive vendors at this landmark event. Your participation will help make this fundraising festival a huge success for our Parks.
 
The Doheny Surf Festival is looking for expo vendors, food vendors, awesome non-profits and event volunteers. Festival organizers are generously offering a discount to Dana Point Chamber members - they are extending their early bird deadline with the first tier price through May 31st ($250 for one day or $300 for both Saturday and Sunday). After May 31st, they ill offer a 10% discount on the booth fee. 
 
Visit the event website for more info.

Member Spotlight: IMAGES|Creative Solutions
IMAGES|Creative Solutions is a business that has served South Orange County since 1989 and specializes in a host of Graphic Design services and Digital Studio Photography. To celebrate their 25 years in business, we recently sat down with owner, Scott Seaver, to learn more about IMAGES.

Can you please tell us a brief history of your business?
I created IMAGES/Creative Solutions in February of 1989, a graphic design firm primarily specializing in design for Advertising and Marketing through print in magazines and catalogs, brochures, flyers, postcards, posters, and more, with a heavy emphasis in Logos and Branding. 

We are the designers of logos for the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce, the San Clemente City Clean Ocean Program, the Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights, Homefront America and literally hundreds of other companies over the years.

Why did you join the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce?
With a small company, I find that word of mouth and referrals from current clients is worth much more, providing face-to-face interaction where potential clients can ask questions and be assured that their requirements are being addressed. Networking opportunities like mixers and networking at noon events provide a perfect venue for meeting new people and talking to existing clients about upcoming projects.

  
In what areas of the Chamber are you involved?
I joined the Chamber in 1991, and have been a member for 23 years. I have had the privilege of serving on the Chamber's Board of Directors for 8 years, both chairing and serving on the Marketing Committee. I have found the experience to be quite fulfilling, and am sorry that my tenure on the board will be termed out next year.

Can you tell us a fun fact about your business that most people wouldn't know?
My philosophy is to advise a client twice how to do it right, and then give up and do it their way.

Do you have any piece of advice for new businesses owners?
No business book or business plan can predict the future or fully prepare you to become a success. There is no such thing as a perfect plan. Never jump right into a new business without any thought or planning, but don't spend months or years waiting to execute. You will become a well-rounded entrepreneur when tested under fire. The most important thing you can do is learn from your mistakes--and never make the same mistake twice.

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Correction: In the April 10th edition of our COMPASS we incorrectly stated that Vacation Concierge represents only long-term rentals. Vacation Concierge is a local concierge and hospitality management service company representing individually owned vacation and short term rentals. We apologize for our error.
Member Spotlight: 2013 Citizen of the Year
Gene Burrus 
Gene Burrus 2013 Dana Point Citizen of the Year
Gene Burrus had a broadcasting career that spanned more than five decades and included being known as "the voice of Armed Forces Radio" and serving as the public address announcer at the Tournament of Roses Parade in the 10 years leading up to his retirement. He started in radio in 1952 at station KRUX in Glendale, Ariz. In 1958, he moved to television there and then in 1964 returned to California where, after World War II he studied broadcasting at the Radio Engineering School in Burbank and worked at several stations in cities like Palm Springs, Los Angeles and Newport Beach until retiring in 1986. 

Upon retiring, he and his wife Gladys moved to Dana Point where he quickly became an integral part of the community by volunteering for many city programs and events. For his involvement in the local scene Gene Burrus, the voice behind Dana Point's youth baseball games, was named 2013 Dana Point Citizen of the Year by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Burrus, who has announced youth sports in Dana Point for decades, also voices the Dana Point Festival of Whales annual parade. 

Aside from his dedication to the community's youth, Burrus is also devoted to helping fellow seniors at the Dana Point Community Center. He can be found most days, helping pack meals, working the crowd and leading activities at the center. Many of you have met or seen Gene at our annual Thanksgiving Seniors Lunch. He was also Ambassador of the Year and officially named "the Voice of Dana Point" in 2006.

Gene recently visited the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary and provided more info about himself, his historical family and his love of Dana Point. Do yourself a favor and take some time to watch the above video. 
Upcoming Chamber Events
May Mixer - Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
Dana Point Harbor Cruise 
Thursday, May 15th   5:30 - 7:30PM
$12 Members     $20 Non-Members
34675 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629 

Please join us for our upcoming May Mixer, hosted by Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, located in the Dana Point Harbor on Thursday, May 15th from 5:30-7:30pm. 
 
Attendees are in for a special treat, as this mixer will be held on the Dana Pride and we will enjoy a leisurely cruise around the Harbor. Check-in will begin at 5:30 and all guests must arrive no later than 5:45pm. The boat will depart promptly at 6:00pm.
 
Attendees will have the opportunity to network, discuss their business with others and generate new business leads - while enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres and drinks from our generous host and listening to music by Mike O'Bryan
 
As noted above, this event will take place on a boat and the weather frequently changes, so please dress in layers. Parking is available in the Dana Point Harbor.
 
Help our Chamber grow stronger by bringing a friend - invite a local business owner or even a friend to attend the event! Use this coupon to invite one guest to join us free of charge (non-members only).
 
The cost to attend is $12 for members and $20 for non-members.
 

 
Guests should come prepared with the following: 
   * Wear non-slip shoes (athletic or tennis shoes) 
   * Dress in layers as it is usually 10 to 15 degrees cooler on the water 
   * Apply sun screen, wear a hat and sunglasses 
   * Bring a camera and/or binoculars 
Networking at Noon - Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar
Thursday, June 5th   11:30am - 1:00pm
$20 Members     $25 Non-Members

Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and our Membership Committee invite you to join us for Networking at Noon at Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar

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 and gratuity. 

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

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Welcome Our New Members!
Farmer's Insurance - Jon Liuzzi

As your personal agent, I believe in keeping you informed and aware of Farmers� insurance products. It is my mission to help you develop the right plans to meet your insurance needs. Through dedication, knowledge and a tireless work ethic, I will be the agent that my customers want to send their friends and families to. I will strive to protect my clients' assets.

Whether you're looking to insure a car or your home, have questions about setting up a life insurance policy or need information about business insurance, I can help you find the right coverage for you, your property and all of unique needs.

Motu Estate & Yacht Watch Services
 
Motu Estate & Yacht Watch Services provides home watch inspection services for absentee owners of coastal estates and yachts. The company also offers customized concierge services to help clients maximize enjoyment of their property and vessel when home. 

Founded by long-time south Orange County resident Michael Hogan, Motu's mission is to provide the very best home watch and yacht watch services for even the most discerning clients. Motu's watch inspections employ one of the most extensive checklists in the industry, covering numerous exterior and interior property and vessel attributes and systems. 

An absentee estate owner himself, Michael understands the emotional and practical concerns of allowing someone into your personal dwelling or aboard your vessel when you aren't present. Motu's "Promises" to its clients regarding trust, as well as information about its watch and concierge services can be found on our website.

Motu Estate & Yacht Watch Services is insured, bonded and accredited by the National Home Watch Association.
 
Utopia Entertainment 
 
In this world of countless entertainment options, there are so many things competing for the guest entertainment dollar that it is easy to get overwhelmed with how your attraction can set itself apart from the rest of the pack. 

We are problem solvers. When a client comes to us they typically have a challenge or objective but don't have the pathway to a goal or plan on how to see their dreams realized. We take great pride in getting to know our client's wants and desires and to really listen to what they envision for their project. We then set out to create a roadmap that clearly defines each step in the developmental process and make certain that they are engaged and most important, excited about the prospects. Drawing upon our cumulative 60 years of design, production and operational experience we create and deliver some of the most extraordinary experiences on the planet that operate smoothly and successfully and deliver proven results to our clients. If a perfect production sounds like a good idea to you, then please consider Utopia and just imagine the possibilities.

Utopia Entertainment produces events like Doheny Surf Festival, Laguna Beach Uncorked and the Balboa Park 2015 Centennial.
 
Thank You to Our Renewing Members
Member Since 2011
 
Bill Brough, Civic Member  
Member Since 2010
 
Member Since 2013
 
Member Since 1981
 
Member Since 1992
 
Member Since 1988
 
Member Since 1988
 
Member Since 2012
 
Member Since 2004
 
Member Since 1997

  

Member Since 2012
 
Member Since 2013
     
Member Since 2002
 
Member Since 2013
 
Member Since 1973
 
Member Since 2012
 
Member Since 2013
 
Member Since 2010
 
Member Since 1999
Community News & Events
Doheny Blues Festival Tickets on Sale Now! 
May 17 & 18 at Doheny State Beach
 
Show Your Mom Love at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Mother's Day Champagne Brunch Buffet
May 11, 2014 11:30AM - 2:30PM 

 Celebrate Mom this year, with LOVE. 
 
Enjoy an international cuisine at our ocean view, Vue Restaurant this Mother's Day. 
 
Indoor and outdoor seating available with live entertainment and a special rose for every mom.   

Click here to view the special Mother's Day menu.

*Adults: $99.00
*Children 6-12: $40.00

Save the Date: VFW Post 9934 Presents the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War
May 14-18 at Sea Terrace Park

VFW Post 9934 and the City of Dana Point are proud to sponsor a free community event for the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War, featuring the American Veterans Traveling Tribute Vietnam Memorial Wall with the Cost of Freedom Tribute. This event will take place May 14-18, 2014 at Sea Terrace Park. Please see our Event Details and our flyer for more information. 
 
Sponsorship opportunities are available to help offset the cost of bringing the Wall to Dana Point. Please consider making a donation and aligning your business with this special event.
Cox Celebrates Earth Day with Launch of Annual Cox Conserves Heroes Awards Program

Cox Communications, in partnership with The Trust for Public Land, is seeking nominations for environmental volunteers in Cox's service areas in Orange County and Palos Verdes. Nominations are being accepted at CoxConservesHeroes.com through 5 p.m. on May 21 for volunteers who are creating, preserving or enhancing outdoor spaces. 

Three finalists will compete through online voting to be named the Cox Conserves Heroes for Orange County/Palos Verdes. A total of $15,000 will be donated to environmental nonprofits on behalf of the winner and finalists. The winner will receive $10,000 to donate to his or her local environmental nonprofit of choice. The two additional finalists will receive $2,500 for their environmental nonprofit of choice.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley Presents 21st Annual Gala, "A Star Is Born" Gala

Dress in your glittering red-carpet best and get star-struck at "A Star Is Born", the new theme of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley's 21st Annual Fundraising Gala. Formerly called "The Beach Ball", the glamorous event on Friday, May 16 at 5:30 PM starts the ball rolling down the red carpet at the Ritz-Carlton, One Ritz-Carlton Drive, in Dana Point. Pose with real-life 2013 Youth of the Year reigning Super-Star Michelle Alexander in your very own photo opportunity and join us in honoring the Clubs' more than 2,500 "Shining Stars" in Old Hollywood splendor. Discover the joy of watching live, professional artist Tom Clark of Tom Clarke Studio create a work of art to be auctioned off that night. 
 
Drink in the panoramic ocean views on the Promenade Lawn during the hosted cocktail hour. A three course delectable gourmet dinner follows. Don't miss the live auction action and the irresistible silent auction items, hosted by Emcee and DJ - Al Nassar of Alvaron Entertainment, back by popular demand. Meet and hear Michelle Alexander, the Clubs' very own star, share her experiences as a Club member for 11 years. Thrill to the moves of the Clubs' all-star dance team, led by this year's Volunteer of the Year, Lexi Zentel. 
 
Purchase your Golden Tickets today at $325.00 per person. Or reserve a table of 10 for $3,250.00 For additional information or to purchase tickets, please contact Ron Sipiora, Director of Resource Development, at 949-240-7898, XT. * 13, or via email
 

Michael Kors Tuxedos Now Available at Friar Tux
Let Friar Tux Shop fit you for your next big event
Hatha Yoga at the Coastal Arcadian
with India-trained Instructor


Deborah Nadell-Leinenweber of Sacred Healing Yoga has lived and trained in Hatha Yoga, exclusively in Bangalore, India for the past five years. She is currently offering classes at The Coastal Arcadian. On Wednesdays, try out Levitation Lunchtime classes - 12:00 -12:45. Classic Indian Yoga focuses on breath (Pranayama) and meditation. Nourish your body, mind, and spirit in Wednesday's 45- minute class, suitable for all levels.

On Saturdays, Deborah offers a Release, Renew and Refresh class from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM to help you release the stress of your past week using Hatha and Pranayama Yoga, Foundational Asana (poses) and Meditation.

Introductory class, no charge.

The lovely gardens within the hidden compound grounds are a place to forget your worries and relax while surrounded by an air of quiet peace and natural serenity. Contact Deborah directly at 630-240-3163 or via email for more information, or if you are interested in attending.

Totally Rad 80s Casino Night at Bella Collina to
Benefit the San Clemente Aquatics Team


Celebrate 30 Years of Rita's Ice TODAY


Thank You to our Chairman Circle Supporters
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 If you are a interested in becoming an Anchor Club Sponsor, contact [email protected]
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24681 La Plaza Suite 115Dana PointCA.  
(949) 496-1555

 
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