Dana Point Chamber of Commerce's Compass Newsletter
The Chamber Compass
Your bi-weekly guide to the news & happenings of Dana Point 
September 11, 2014
Mark Your Calendars: City Council Candidates Forum
Thursday, October 9th  7:00 - 9:00PM
Dana Point Community Center

The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the Dana Point Civic Association and the League of Women Voters of the Capistrano Bay Area invite you to attend a Candidates Forum for those seeking election to the Dana Point City Council. Attendees will have a chance to submit questions for the candidates and learn more about the candidate's vision for our great city.

Dana Point Civic Association Hosting South Coast Water District Candidate Forum Friday, September 19
The Dana Point Civic Association will host a candidates forum for the South Coast Water District on September 19th at Coffee Importers in the harbor from 8:30am until 9:30am. 

Free coffee will be served starting at 8:00am. All candidates will be on hand to mingle and answer questions.  If you would like to submit a question to be asked at the forum, please visit this link and submit. All questions for the candidates must be provided in advance and may be submitted anonymously, through September 14. 
New to Networking or Need a Refresher? 
Check out These Tips!

Networking is the art and science of building professional relationships, but few of us are naturals at it. There are many excellent reasons to network: to expand your client base, develop business partnerships, find a better job or find some better workers. The more people you meet, the larger your network and the greater the odds of finding the best customers, partners, employers or employees. 

For some of us, namely the many adults who identify themselves as introverts, networking events can feel like the first day of school all over again. If you're one of the many who dread the idea, try these tricks on for size.

  • Be the first to say hello! Extend a firm handshake.
  • Say the other person's name and remember it!  "Remember that a man's name is to him the sweetest and most important sound in any language." (How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie)
  • Bring a door prize to a Mixer!  Not only will your business be mentioned all night, but the winner is a possible business contact.
  • Redefine what it means to interact with "strangers."  During conversations, listen carefully to discover shared interests or goals.  (How to Work a Room by Susan RoAne)
  • Always have your business cards!
  • Listen for opportunities.  Pay attention to conversations for problems you can solve.  Follow up with the solution during business hours.  (9 Tips for Building Your Business at Networking Events by Cynthia D'Amour)
  • Do Your Homework!  Find out which organization is sponsoring the event.  Will there be speakers, presenters or any special guests in attendance?  Do a little research and be prepared.
  • Arrive with a goal in mind. Before the meeting, set a goal for yourself for that day, and then achieve it. Don't arrive at the meeting feeling lackadaisical or unfocused. Take some time for yourself to get yourself focused before the meeting. (Networking by SBA)
  • Develop relationships.  Don't just be a commercial for your business.  People tend to do business with people they have or can build a professional relationship with.
  • Follow up is important, too!  Contact the people you have had good interactions with during your meeting.  This will indicate you are interested in serious business.  (6 Tips for Successful Networking bymorebusiness.com)

With that, we hope to see you tonight at Independence Bank in San Juan Capistrano for our Quad Cities Mixer from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm!

Member Spotlight: Dana Point Historical Society
Dana Point may only be 25 years old, but it has plenty of history. Founded in 1987, the Dana Point Historical Society has been working diligently to archive and preserve key parts of our past. Read below to learn more about this wonderful group of volunteers who helps us celebrate our rich past through many diverse and exciting projects, educational programs and events.

Can you please tell us a brief history of your organization?
The Dana Point Historical Society was inspired by Doris Walker with the leadership of Barbara Brown and Sue Emery. After the Articles of Incorporation, the first major project was to maintain public access to the old Bluff Top Scenic Trail, also referred to as the Hide Trail, between Amber Lantern and Violet Lantern. Barbara Brown would soon move away, Elizabeth Bamattre became president and, together with Judy Henderson, led a group determined to retain the public access to the bluffs that had been partially closed off by safety fencing around the remnant foundations of Sidney H. Woodruff's hotel, disbanded not long after it was begun in 1930, due to the 1929 financial depression. In 1987, the historically significant site was being developed by the Sand 
Dollar Corporation for a new housing development built by the Pulte Home Corporation, now known as The Admiralty. Ultimately, through the efforts of the Historical Society, Pulte Home Corporation would restore the original1924 Scenic Trail, now the Bluff Top Trail Park and donate the funds for The Drogher Statue unveiled in 1990. The DPHS commissioned then local sculptor F. Benedict Coleman to create the statue of an 1830s sailor, tossing hides off the cliff as described by Richard Henry Dana, Jr. in his classic narrative, Two Years Before The Mast. The Historical Society has sixteen members on our Board of Directors.

Why did you join the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce? 
The Dana Point Historical Society joined the Chamber to communicate our mission to preserve the history of Dana Point for present and future generations to the movers and shakers of Dana Point. We also offer a lot of different volunteer opportunities for members of the Chamber to engage with the Historical Society  - we participate in events like the Festival of Whales, Toshiba Tall Ships Festival, our Annual October Home Tour and of course our walking tours of Dana Point.

In what areas of the Chamber are you involved? 
Members of the Historical Society attend the Chamber's Annual Dinner in January, the State of the City Luncheon and volunteer for activities such as The Turkey Trot.

Can you tell us a fun fact about your business that most people wouldn't know? 
We have our first limited edition Dana Point Holiday ornament coming out on Home Tour Sunday, October 5. The ornaments celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the City's incorporation and are limited to 300. 

The Bluff Top Park, between Amber Lantern and Violet Lantern was first built by the San Juan Point Corporation in 1924, thus celebrating its 90th birthday this year. The early stone walls can still be seen as you walk the trail for the best view in Dana Point. The Arches on the Bluff Top Trail are preserved as a remembrance of Sidney H. Woodruff who had great plans for Dana Point that were interrupted by the October 1929 financial collapse.

Additionally, the Historical Society has interesting speakers on local history, surfing and preservation topics at six monthly meetings during the year--with lively food and beverage receptions afterward. We interview founders and interesting citizens of Dana Point for Oral Histories to preserve the City of Dana Point. These Oral Histories are available in the DanaPoint Museum, Suite 104 of City Hall. The museum is open to the public on Tuesday, Thursday from 1 - 3 pm, Saturday from 11am - 3 pm and by appointment. We welcome business and organizations to meet at the museum by appointment for an overview of Dana Point History.


Do you have any piece of advice for new businesses owners? 
Ask how a business can build on the unique history of Dana Point, 1835 to the present. Possibly, think how their business might embrace the culture and history of Dana Point for the residents and visitors. We are thrilled that some hotels and restaurants have enlarged and framed historic photos of 1920s and 1930s Dana Point. Others, such as the StillWater Spirits and Sounds have preserved the 1920s vibe and incorporated unique Dana Point lore into their decor and the new "Waterman" restaurant title builds on our nautical and surfing history. The Historical Society is thrilled that the new owner of the historic Blue Lantern Gas Station & Fountain Lunch on the corner of Blue Lantern and PCH is restoring the exterior to re-purpose the building into a new and unique attraction In Dana Point.
Upcoming Chamber Events
Hosted by Independence Bank 
TONIGHT, September 11    5:30pm - 7:30pm
32291 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA
$15 Members     $25 Potential Members

Ribbon Cutting 2

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings

We're getting busy here at the Chamber and are going to be hosting LOTS of ribbon cuttings in the coming month! Help us welcome our new members to the neighborhood and to the Dana Point Chamber!  
   

Friday, September 12            4:00pm      What A Dish Cafe & Catering
24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive Suite B100, Dana Point

After many years at their current location, What a Dish will now be open for dinner Thursday - Sunda.! Come enjoy complimentary appetizers and 1/2 price drinks to help them celebrate!
 
Thursday, October 2              5:30pm      Evolve Personalized Fitness
24582 Del Prado Ave, Suites D, Dana Point


 Interested in hosting a ribbon cutting at your business?

Contact the Chamber office to schedule one!

Networking at Noon - Gemmell's Restaurant
Thursday, October 2nd   11:30am - 1:00pm
34471 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point
$20 Members     $25 Non-Members

Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and our Membership Committee invite you to join us for Networking at Noon at Gemmell's Restaurant on October 2nd. 

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

 

Every attendee gets 30 seconds to stand up and introduce themselves and their business - it's a great way to learn more about your fellow Chamber members and generate new business leads.


The cost to attend is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and includes lunch, beverage and gratuity. Please pre-register for the event as it helps us to give an accurate headcount to the kitchen. Space is limited so register now - and don't forget your business cards!


 
Welcome Our New Members!
Civic Members

Carol HoneywellSue Senescu
Evergreen Realty - Joanne Grisaffi

As your professional real estate advisor, Joanne Grisaffi focuses on client satisfaction. Her years in the business have provided her with the experience to assist you with nearly every real estate need. Whether it's finding you a home, finding the best loan, or helping you getting the most out of selling your home she is able to guide you. She will work with you to meet your goals and you will continually be in the loop during the entire process. She will provide you with powerful features such as the access to the MLS through MLS Wizard to help you narrow down the ideal home. Satisfied clients are the key to her success. Service makes all the difference and Joanne's is second to none and has earned her a valuable source of referrals.

Evergreen Realty - Mary Lou Lindsey

Mary Lou Lindsey will work hard to show you properties that meet your requirements. She personally previews homes to find features that do not appear on the Internet and has you visit those houses that are a good match. You can count on her for advice and support during the purchase process. She also provides full service when it is time to sell your home. She will estimate your home's market value by considering its unique features and by analyzing comparable sales. She uses the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) so that all brokers and agents can view details about your property. She will also use the Internet to advertise so that potential buyers from around the world can see that your house is for sale.

Law Offices of Don E. Somerville

Don E. Somerville has been practicing law in Orange County, Riverside County, San Diego County, and Los Angeles County for over 30 years and has successfully handled thousands of cases. The Law Offices of Don E. Somerville specializes in Bankruptcy, Personal Injury, Criminal, and Civil Litigation.

Thank You to Our Renewing Members
Member Since 2013
 
Member Since 1997
  
Member Since 2012
 
Member Since 2013
 
Member Since 1993

Member Since 1993
 
Gemmell's Restaurant
Member Since 2011
     
Member Since 1995
 
Member Since 2012
 
Member Since 2012
 
Vorteil Dermatology and Aesthetic Science
Member Since 2012
Community News & Events
Help Orange County Celebrate Its 125th Birthday This Saturday!
Saturday, September 13, 2014   ALL DAY
Town-wide celebration including a Scavenger Hunt, Wagon Rides, 1880's Reenactors, Second Saturday Art & Antique Fair, Melodrama Performances, Hands Around the Mission, Folklorico Dancers, Native American Exhibits, Historical Society, Concert in HTC Park, Friends of the Library Activities, Visiting Dignitaries, Mariachis, and Children's Activities and MUCH MORE! Click here for a schedule of events and more information.

Help the Mission San Juan Capistrano break a record of the largest human hug around the Mission! Become a part of history! We are hosting this event in honor of Orange County, California's 125th Birthday! We will begin forming the line around the Mission at 10 a.m. Hands will be joined at 10:45 a.m. All participants will receive an official certificate of participation. We need 1,000 participants to hold hands around the entire perimeter, almost 11 acres! To participate you will be instructed by Mission San Juan Capistrano staff to hold hands for approximately 10 minutes. More info.
Rally for Relay For Life
September 20 - 21, 2014    Lantern Bay Park



Relay For Life Dana Point
Saturday, September 20, 2014  
Lantern Bay Park

Fundraiser at Rita's Ice Dana Point

Click on the flier above and bring it in to Rita's Ice from now until September 20th and 20% of your purchase will be donated to Relay For Life Dana Point. Valid at the Dana Point Rita's Ice location.

Ladies: Develop Your Investment Savvy
Seminar hosted by Tammy McKennon, Edward Jones

Your future financial foundation may depend on what you know today. Join me for the seminar "Savvy women, smart investors take charge of their financial future." We will discuss balancing your goals with your current needs, along with education planning, retirement and care for aging parents. 

HOSTED BY: Tammy McKennon, Edward Jones 
WHEN: Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at 5:30 PM 
WHERE: Brio Tuscany Grill 24050 Camino Del Avion Dana Point, CA 92629 
RSVP: Tess Belanger at 949-487-0833 by September 16, 2014 
Pizza Buffet will be served.

Space is limited. Reserve your spot today! 
If you cannot attend this complimentary session, please call me
so we can schedule a convenient time to talk.

VFW Fallen Veterans Memorial Car Wash This Saturday
 
Dana Point Womens Club Presents Marketing Without Money For Artists on September 20th.

"Tom Patty's Marketing Without Money" for Artists Seminar 

Saturday, September 20, 2014 9am to 12 Noon 
Dana Point Women's Club Community House
 Learn how to market your art from the Masters of Marketing. Click here to RSVP
Ocean Institute Events in September

Teacher Days
September & October; 10am - 12pm

Educators are invited to visit Dana Point for an in-depth look at the Ocean Institute.  They will have the opportunity to meet members of our Education team, learn about our diverse educational experiences, and tour our facility including the new Maddie James Seaside Learning Center. 

 

Sat., Sept. 13:    Kindergarten - 3rd Grade Programs

Sat., Sept. 27:    4th - 5th Grade Programs

Sat., Oct. 11:       6th - 8th Grade Programs

Sat., Oct. 25:       High School - College Programs

 

To attend, please RSVP by calling Jonathan Witt at (949) 496-2274 x 330. 
Bring your family for free admission into the facility to enjoy fun, hands-on activities!

 

10th Annual Laguna Beach Million Dollar Home Raffle

Thursday, September 18  - Early Bird Deadline

Southern California's most successful Home Raffle is back!  Buy a ticket and secure your chance to win a beautiful Laguna Beach home or $1 million in cash.  Tickets are $150 each and a maximum of 21,000 tickets will be sold.   Visit Ocean-Institute.org or call (949) 542-3600 for complete information.

 

* Purchase one ticket by September 18th and qualify for over $84,000 in bonus prizes.
* Buy two tickets and qualify for $160,000 in bonus prizes! The sooner you get in, the more chances you have to win fabulous prizes including Lexus Hybrid leases, Dream Vacations, Shopping Sprees, & more.
* Buy a ticket and qualify for our Refer a Friend Drawing - Encourage a friend, business associate or family member to buy a ticket and mention your name when they buy. When they win, you win too! 1st prize for you and your friend is a Lexis IS 250 car lease or $7,000 each.

 

Coastal Cleanup Day

Saturday, September 20; 9am - 12pm

Participate in California's annual Coastal Cleanup Day at the Ocean Institute and receive free admission for the day.

 

Island FantaSea Luau presented by The Sand Dollar Guild

Sunday, September 28, 2014; 4pm - 8pm

Enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the Samueli Center at the Ocean Institute while enjoying....

  • Music of the Islands with a Steel Drum Band
  • Limbo, Dance Contests and Hula Hoops
  • Food from local restaurants featuring island favorites
  • Wine and Island Punch For All
  • Opportunity Drawings and Silent Auction

 

Proceeds benefit the Ocean Institute.  Cost is $65/person.  For more information or tickets call (949) 496-2274 ext 412.

Capo Beach Farmers Market
Every Wednesday   3:00 - 7:00pm 


A Night of Comedy to Benefit the
Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group

Dana Point Historical Society 2014 Home TourDPHS
Call For Sponsors & Tickets Now On Sale
Sunday, October 5, 2013 11am - 4pm

 


"...Coastal Living - Niguel Shores Style

Homes of all descriptions will be on display at the 2014 Home Tour in Niguel Shores, a gated community in the Monarch Beach area of Dana Point above Strands Beach. It was developed between 1970 and 1977 by AVCO Community Developers and consists of 960 homes of various architectural styles, sizes and siting. Many of the homes have been extensively remodeled and some have been completely rebuilt. You will see samples of each during the tour. There are custom homes, tract homes, enclosed garden homes and town homes. 

On this tour we will go through the gates and behind closed doors to see contemporary and traditional homes, lovely interiors, patios, pools, and gardens - a selection to give you a taste of coastal living in Niguel Shores.

Ticket information and details on sponsorship opportunities are available here.  Further details will be sent to ticket buyers.


Rainbow Sandals Battle of the Paddle
October 4th & 5th at Salt Creek Beach
Dana Point State BBQ Championships
October 4th, 2014
Sea Terrace Park 

Mathnasium Hosts 4th Annual Trimathlon
October 18th, 2014
22 Monarch Bay Plaza,  Dana Point, California 92629
Join us on October 18, 2014 for our 4th Annual TriMathlon! Test your math skills, receive awesome participant gifts, earn money for local schools, and be eligible to win additional prizes! 

This fun-filled event is open to kids in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. Similar to the way a triathlon tests an athlete's physical fitness through three athletic challenges, the TriMathlon tests a mathlete's mental fitness through three exciting math challenges: 
  • The Counting Game - Tests your ability to count from any number, to any number, by any number. 
  • Magic Squares Challenge - Develop your own math problems to receive points. 
  • Mental Math Workout - Tests your Number Sense through solving problems without pencil and paper. 
Each challenge is tailored by grade and progressively increases in difficulty. All participants receive fun goody bags, a certificate of participation, and earn money for local schools. The top three scorers in each grade level at each center will receive additional medals and prizes. 

For more information and to register, visit our website. Don't miss out!

Thank You to our Chairman Circle Supporters
SoCalEdison Logo 
 If you are a interested in becoming an Anchor Club Sponsor, contact [email protected]
Stay Connected
Like us on Facebook   Follow us on Twitter 

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

 
Visit Our Website