In This Issue - August 2018 Newsletter
A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT / CEO

A Note from the President/CEO

There is a fresh box of mangoes in the Chamber office, it seems the word is getting out about Grill Out Night and our Mango Madness Frenzy! There are plenty of people in Sebastian in August, and what better way to show some customer appreciation then to get the grill out and put the "open for business" sign out! Mangoes can be peeled, squeezed, smashed, pureed, steamed, grilled and carved, and our businesses will be up for the challenge! And one of our Chamber members, Kroegel Produce will be stocked up for this event! We hope you will come out on Grill Out Night and join in the fun!

Board elections are almost over, and we will be able to announce the new Chamber Board Members in the first week of August. If you haven't cast your ballot, we will be accepting them until August 1. We have an awesome group of Chamber members who are ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work, representing our business members and moving the Chamber forward. We appreciate everybody's willingness to contribute to the success of the business community in the Sebastian River Area.

History shows that the worst part of hurricane season is upon us, the last two weeks of August and the whole month of September are the most critical in terms of hurricane activity in our area. On the up side, the hurricane predictions were downgraded a bit, with the potential "El Nino" developing. NOAA website explains that if El Nino develops there are fewer hurricanes due to stronger vertical wind shear and trade winds and greater atmospheric stability. All good words. We are hopeful for a calm year.

We will have a very busy month of September, with our Awards and Installation Lunch, the Media Auction and the Opioid Summit, all scheduled that month. If you are interested in finding new ways to promote your business, and at a reduced price, then the Media Auction is an event you should plan on attending. This year we have chosen a new location which should peak your interest! We are happy to announce that this favorite Chamber event will be hosted at Pareidolia Brewing Company here in Sebastian. Sandpiper Pest Control has signed on as the drink sponsor. The venue is perfect for mingling, browsing and live auctioning! There are plenty of ways to participate and support the Chamber at the same time!

August brings a Chamber breakfast, here at the Visitor Center, hosted by Inside Track Almanac and our luncheon is at Marsh Landing Restaurant in Fellsmere. Our lunch sponsor is ORC Services, who specialize in water and mold damage restoration, perfect for hurricane restorations. And our lunch speaker is Fran Adams, former Superintendent of the Indian River Schools System. Fran will be speaking about the Moonshot Moment and how the program is helping our students become literate. And of course there's Grill Out Night!

Have a profitable month!
 
 


Beth Mitchell
President/CEO


AUGUST CALENDAR OF EVENTS



Chamber Breakfast


Chamber Luncheon

Date:  August 3, 2018
Time: 8:00 AM
Sponsor: Kim Piston - Inside Track Almanac
Location:  Chamber Office
700 Main Street
Sebastian, NJ  32958


Date:  August 14, 2018
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Sponsor: Orc Services, Inc. - Stephen Gould
Speaker: Fran Adams - Former Superintendent
IRC Schools, "Moonshot Moment"
Location: Marsh Landing Restaurant
44 N. Broadway Street
Fellsmere, FL  32948
 

   
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Thursday, August 9, 2018
8:00 AM
Sebastian Chamber
700 Main St., Sebastian
HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMMITTEE MEETING
Friday, August 17, 2018
9:00 AM
Sebastian Chamber
700 Main St., Sebastian
RIBBON CUTTINGS
 
 
 
 
BLUE EYED SALMON RUSTIC STYLE & CABINS AND REMINGTON REALTY
Date: Tuesday July 24, 2018
Time: 9:00 - 10:00 AM
1545 US Hwy 1
Sebastian, FL  32958

PAPA'S BBQ
Date: Wednesday August 8, 2018
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 PM
5675 Micco Rd., Suite 6
Micco, Florida  32976

                                        

Community Event Calendar


HURRICANE INFORMATION

Hurricane Season is here and as always we want to make sure that you have access to all of the information available to us.  Click here to be directed to our Hurricane Preparedness section of the website that will be continually updated as information for BEFORE, DURING 
and AFTER a storm becomes available. As always, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to call the Chamber offices at  
772-589-5969

AUGUST MEMBER SPOTLIGHT






DOWNTOWN CROSSING RESTAURANT
1103 US Hwy 1 Suite B
Village Square
Sebastian, FL  32958
772-696-6068

You don't have to be from the Boston area (although it helps) to enjoy the menu at Downtown Crossing of Sebastian.  Named after the popular shopping and eating destination of the same name in Boston, we are located at 1103 US Hwy 1 in the Village Shops (Village Square).  

The Lobster Roll is the signature item on the menu and is very popular with both the New Englander's and the Local's.  Other seafood options include Haddock, Cod,  homemade Clam  Chowder and we recently added Whole Belly Clams and Shrimp.  American classic choices such as  Burgers, Wings, Homemade Chicken Tenders, Mozzarella Sticks, Potato Skins and Macaroni & C heese Bites .  Our sandwiches include Steak & Cheese, Sausage, Pepper & Onion, Grilled Chicken, Tuna Melt and the Reuben.

There is definitley something for all taste buds, including a Kid's Menu that features a New England classic the "Fluffernutter".  Downtown Crossing offers Sam Adams products as well as the other mainstays such as Bud, Miller, Coors and Corona.  Lastly a wide variety of Ice Cream, Frappes and of course Boston Cream Pie for your deserts!

Downtown Crossing is a full-service Florida lottery retailer and hosts 2 Las Vegas style nights - Texas Hold-em poker on Tuesday's and Blackjack on Wednesdays.  They are fun filled nights with great prizes!!

Daily specials can be found on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/DowntownCrossingofSebastian/ and our menu is online at www.sebastianchamber.com (under the things to do tab.)

Stop in and enjoy some great food,   deserts and  FUN!




                                                                           



HEALTH AND WELLNESS SPOTLIGHT







                                                                                                         



Chamber Projects
                                                                                
                   
 
       SAVE THE DATE!
       Friday, August 10th, 2018
       5:30pm - 8:00pm
          (This event is rain or shine)
                                                                                                                                       

What is Grill Out Night?
Grill out night is an event designed to ignite your business activity during the off-season with the locals and visitors here during the summer.

How does your business benefit?
Exposure! Hundreds of people hit the streets for this awesome summertime event. Participating businesses will also be showcased on a map that will be printed in the Press Journal for all to see. Fliers and posters will be shared around town, too!  It's a HOT event that you won't want to miss!

 
Registration deadline is Friday, August 3rd to be included on the map!  
 
 


JULY NETWORKING EVENT PICTURES





Chamber Luncheon - July 9, 2018 @ Capt Hirams
Thank you to our Sponsor Alkesh Shastri, Sebastian Discount Pharmacy and our Guest Speaker
Susan Adams, Indian River County District 1 Commissioner








 

FREEDOM FESTIVAL  
JULY 4, 2018

So nice to see so many Chamber members - couldn't fit you all!  A great turn out and fun had by all!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!


Check out our Facebook Page to view all pictures from past networking events.
SAVE THE DATE

 

Check out all of the great summer camps and activities available in the Sebastian River Area. Whether your preference is outdoor adventures or indoor experiences, there's something for every young explorer.  Click here for a list of Summer Camps.
 
MEMBERSHIP MEMO BY VICKI WILD

 
The Sebastian Area Chamber of Commerce, would like to thank all of our wonderful members, volunteers, and a special thanks to our wonderful group of Ambassadors.
 
Our Ambassadors s erve as the "good will" liason of the Chamber for new members.  They assist new members at Chamber meetings, events and/or functions.  They introduce new members to each other and to existing members to help make them feel comfortable as a new member.
 
The Ambassadors contact new members each month, either by phone call, visit or letter.  They also invite new members to join them at a monthly event; breakfast, luncheon or business and pleasure.
 
Their committment to the Chamber requires a minimum combination of 10 Networking Breakfasts, Luncheons, Business and Pleasures or Special Events in a year. They represent the Chamber by attending ribbon cuttings and grand openings for Chamber members. They help to coordinate 50/50 and membership spotlight drawings at Chamber events. 
They serve as a hospitality specialist or greeter at Chamber functions.
 
The Ambassadors serve as a personal representative to maintain open communication between members, staff, and the Board of Directors listening and responding to improve our ability to fulfill the needs of the business community and help to identify any issues that may need to be addressed.
 
They are my right hand and my job would be exceedingly more difficult without them, so
 
Thank you Ambassadors!!
 
Sue Skirvin - Tupperware
Cynthia Williams - Primerica
Nancy Johnson - Plan B Laughing Lady
Anna Valencia Tillery - White Glove
Sandi Gehrke - TD Bank
Isabel Marron - Oculina Bank
Kristie Woodward - Oculina Bank
   
Brittany Beatty - VanDeVoorde Hall Law, PL
Cindi Green - FL Eye Institute
Mike Natale - MN Worldwide
Ophelia Angelone - Action Realty
Jackie Hart - Hart Escapes
Jason Snellenberger - Capt Hirams
 
 
 
      
 
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS FOR THE MONTH OF JULY
Signarama
Patti Jamar
476 - 21st Street
Vero Beach, FL  32960
772-562-0955
www.sartreasurecoast.com 
Papa's BBQ
Cassandra Berry
5675 Micco Rd., Suite 6
Micco, FL  32976
32-372-8890
www.papasbbqfl.com 
Erpenbeck Florida LLC
Life Insurance
Matt Erpenbeck
Treasure Coast
772-643-2434

MEMBER NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Tell us your good news and
we'll share it with the business community! 

Email your news to [email protected]

TOURISM TIDBITS BY NICOLE CAPP HOLBROOK
NEW Destination Videos  
 
Please keep SHARING with Friends & Family!! You can add them to your website, too! 
 
Sebastian River Area Destination Video:
 
1- Minute Glimpse into the Sebastian River Area:
 
Major League Fishing World Championship
There are a few more new episodes scheduled to air for the Major League Fishing World Championship series! Tune into CBS Saturday's at 2 p.m. over the next two weeks to catch them! In case you've missed any of the previous episodes, visit http://www.majorleaguefishing.com/episodelisting/watch-mlf/5718 for the TV Schedule and re-airing times!  
 
Mural Meeting
Our next mural meeting is Thursday, August 23rd at 10 a.m. at the Chamber. This is a sub-committee that we've recently created to help get a mural program started here in the Sebastian River Area. We are in the very early planning stages, please let us know if you'd like to join! 
  
July Tourism Committee Meeting
We had a great FAMILIARIZATION Tour on Tuesday, July 17th. This tour highlighted: US 1 South & A1A, & Beachside Vero- Whispering Palms, Pennwood Motor Lodge, ELC, Jungle Trail, Pelican Island, McLarty Treasure Museum, Sebastian Inlet, Disney's Vero Beach Resort, Holiday Inn Oceanside, SpringHill Suites, Riverside Theatre, Vero Beach Museum of Art, and Vero Beach Kamp. Thank you to all of our partners for the great tours and to everyone who participated!  
 
     
   
 
Upcoming Events 
  • Christmas in July- Saturday, July 21st from 10-2 p.m. at Riverview Park
  • 11th Annual Treasure Coast Waterway Clean-up- Saturday, July 28th from 8 am-12:30 p.m.
  • Grill Out Night- Friday, August 10th from 5:30-8 p.m. (Various businesses in Sebastian & Roseland)
  • Art & Mural Project Sub-Committee Meeting- Thursday, August 23rd at 10 a.m. at the Chamber
  • Media Auction- Friday, September 14th at 6 p.m. at Pareidolia Brewing Company
  • Next Tourism Committee Meeting- Tuesday, October 16th at 4 p.m. at the Chamber
  

AUGUST TOURISM SPOTLIGHT
Capt Hiram's Resort

 
Every entrepreneur starts with a dream.  We started with one heck of a view!



The evolution of Capt Hiram's as a waterfront resort and restaurant is a unique story. The property was purchased by Tom Collins in 1986, who partnered with Martin Carter and Jimmy Hoffman to open what was then known as Sebastian Inlet Marina. Since then it has grown from a small marina into the area's largest waterfront resort and restaurant. Capt Hiram's River Raw Bar opened in 1987 with just 28 seats and has expanded continuously over the years, now accommodating more than 500 guests.



In the mid 1990s, the Sandbar was added and that casual part of the operation has continuously expanded. As a resort with plenty of room for everyone to spread out, we are proud to host 100+ community events on the sands as well as our Tiffany Room. 

The marina has also evolved over the years, growing from a facility with 14 boat slips to today's full service marina, with 60 slips, our ship's store and transient facilities for our boating guests.



Hotel rooms were the next logical step, originating in 1994 with the construction of four Captain's Quarters rooms, located over the ship's store. The success of these rooms led to the development of the Riverfront Building, which opened in March of 2004. 

We have YOU to thank for our growing resort and look forward to giving back to our community whether hosting an event, seeing our locals, welcoming our visitors from out of town, or donating to local causes.

Come visit us and be ready to relax and take your time enjoy the views and take a cruise!

Be sure to meet our Capt Hirams Resort Community Ambassador, Jason Snellenberger who has enjoyed getting to know everyone in our amazing Sebastian River Area!

For more information about Capt Hiram's Resort and their upcoming events and specials, visit www.hirams.com 

Cheers!

Kimball Stadler
Director of Marketing
Capt Hirams Resort
1606 Indian River Drive
Sebastian, FL 32958
772-589-4345


Communication Corner by Britney Melchiori
 

No matter if the products or services you offer are a necessity, a luxury, or just a bit of whimsy, a strong commitment to advertising is an essential part of any business plan. And it doesn't have to break a bank! Take the opportunity to shop at this year's Media Auction for marketing packages at a reduced cost, increase your exposure in the marketplace, and save some "moolah" in the process!  

Join us on Friday, September 14th for our 25th Annual Lifestyle & Media Auction for some amazing deals on print and web advertising, promotional products, venues, and more. You'll also have the chance to meet with advertising and marketing professionals that will educate you on the different services available to you. 

Whether you're a non-profit, a mom & pop shop, a sole proprietor, or a large corporation, stretching your marketing dollars can make a big difference on your bottom line. Advertising is smart; saving money on adverting is smarter!

If your business offers media and you want to showcase your services and get face-to-face interaction with business decision-makers who are in the market to purchase advertising, consider donating to this unique event! Event Sponsorship opportunities are available, too! See below for details.

___________________________________________________

Cheers to Great Advertising!
Join us for the 25th Annual Lifestyle & Media Auction
Friday, September 14th, 2018  |   6:00 - 9:00 PM

Shop a Variety of Media & Purchase Advertising at a Reduced Cost
Increase Your Exposure in the Marketplace
Build Relationships with Marketing and Advertising Professionals
Get Great Deals on Adventure Packages, Hotel Stays, Dining and More!

$10 Chamber Members | $20 General Admission

This year's auction will be held at:

712 Cleveland Street, Sebastian, FL 32958
This year's event is sponsored by:




Become an Event Sponsor and reap the benefits!

Attendees will Enjoy a Free Beer  Compliments of our Beverage Sponsor


Become a Media Partner or Lifestyle Partner

By donating and exhibiting at the Auction, you will have the opportunity to:
  • Interact face-to-face with business decision makers;
  • Raise your profile in a competitive market;
  • Collect high quality leads and generate sales;
  • Launch new products or services direct to prospective purchasers and gain feedback from them;
  • Network with your customers and other exhibitors;
  • Have business information displayed in event program.

Business to Business Member Discounts
Shop Chamber Members First!

Be sure to take advantage of great savings and discounts from your fellow Chamber members. 
Here are this weeks highlighted discounts.

Downtown Crossing
10% off dine in or take out
1103 US Hwy 1 Suite B
Vero Beach, FL  32958
772-696-6068
Pelican Island Cottages
10% off lodging
11330 US Hwy 1
Sebastian, FL  32958
772-321-3202

Sheila Maxwell of Keller Williams Realty
Listing reduction by 1%
3775 20th St.
Vero Beach, FL  32960
772-708-2645
Mikamar Dog Training Center
10% off services
5765 Outback Ave
Palm Bay, FL  32909
321-727-2949

See all of our member discounts  here
Are you Hiring?
Whether your business is growing, hiring for season, or filling an empty position, we are here to help you get the word out. 
 
Submit your employment opportunity to us and we'll post it on our 
Have you worked with SCORE?
Wondering where to start when it comes to marketing your small business? We've brought together experts from the community to talk about the basics of small business marketing, and to share what's worked for them...and what can work for your business.



SCORE offers FREE confidential one-on-one business mentoring and advice for existing and start-up businesses.  

For over 50 years, SCORE has served as America's premier source of free business mentoring and education.

To make an appointment or sign-up for a workshop visit www.treasurecoast.score.org

Download Treasure Coast SCORE Client Engagement Results


BOARD OF DIRECTORS / STAFF / AMBASSADORS
Executive Team
Dawn Biehl, The Tiki Bar and Grill  -  Chair
Michelle Napier, Napier & Rollins - Vice Chair
Bob Morgan, Marine Bank and Trust  - Treasurer
Kim Ellis, Vintage to Vogue - Immediate Past Chair
 
Elected Directors
Capt. Christy Lenz, "Casual Cruisin"
Theresa Tolle, Bay Street Pharmacy
Sue Skirvin, Tupperware
Joel Stout, Sandpiper Pest Control
Anna V. Tillery, White Glove Moving & Storage
 
Appointed Directors
Nancy Flickinger, Florida Power & Light
Ben Maffett, Oculina Bank
Robin Raiff, Robin Raiff Real Estate Team
Dana Ryder, Pelican's Landing of Sebastian

Ex Officio
Susan Adams, Indian River County Commissioner
Linda Kinchen, Vice Mayor, City of Sebastian
Jason Nunemaker, City Manager, City of Fellsmere
 

Chamber Staff
Kimberlee Armstrong, Accounting
Nicole Capp Holbrook, Tourism Director
Beth L. Mitchell, President/CEO
Britney Melchiori, Marketing & Communications Dir
Vicki Wild, Membership Director
Patti Williams, Information Specialist
 
Chamber Ambassadors
Opey Angelone, Action Realty            772-633-8617
Nancy Johnson, Plan B Laughing       772-713-6030
Lady
Sandi Gehrke, TD Bank                      772-581-1490
Cindi Green, Florida Eye Institute       772-569-9500
Jackie Hart, Hart Escapes                   772-646-4828
Isabel Marron, Oculina Bank               772-571-1400
Michael Natale, MN Worldwide, Inc.    772-664-0525
Sue Skirvin, Tupperware                      772-913-2010
Cynthia Williams, Primerica                 772-713-1991
Kristie Woodward, Oculina Bank         772-581-3199
Brittany A. Beatty, VanDeVoorde          772-589-4353
          Hall Law, P.L. 
Anna Valencia Tillery, White Glove      772-232-7843
          Moving, Storage & Delivery
Jason Snellenberger, Captn Hirams     517-944-8152