Panama City Pops Lauches Centennial Celebration

The Marina Civic Center will be alive with the sounds of The Panama City POPS “Sentimental Journey,” the orchestra’s centennial celebration Saturday, January 10, 2009, at 7:30 pm.

The evening promises to be an exciting one. An officially sanctioned orchestra of the 2009 Panama City Centennial Celebration, The POPS will perform music from every decade of the last 100 years. “It will be a very recognizable and thoroughly enjoyable program,” stated Maestro Eddie Rackley. “The POPS will perform classical favorites by the likes of Strauss and Haydn, as well as sounds from the Big Band era, jazz and folk pieces, even Latin and rock.”

The highlight of the program will be the performance of two pieces specially commissioned for this event. American conductor, composer and pianist, Louis Stewart, has written “Music for Panama City,” a Copland-esque composition echoing the sounds of the dean of American composers. The second piece, “Emerald Jubilee” has been composed by Kevin Kaska, whose “Golden Falcon Prelude” was debuted in at The POPS opening concert in October.

Louis Stewart, 64, is a native of Aberdeen, WA. Currently an Associate Professor on the faculty of the Berklee College of Music, he is a graduate of the New England Conservatory in Boston and the Peabody Institute in Baltimore. Specializing in new music, he has conducted and played premieres in New York, Seattle, Boston and Baltimore, and has guest conducted in the United States and Southeast Asia.

From 1971 to 1977 Mr. Stewart was pianist and assistant conductor with the Martha Graham Dance Company where he was involved with several revivals, premieres and international tours. In 1976 he was invited to play a performance at the White House as part of a special ceremony honoring Martha Graham. He has also authored two film and several theatrical scores, and is a recording artist for Denouement Records.

Kaska, 36, is a native of Seattle, WA. While in high school he was the only protégé of Hollywood composer-arranger, Vic Schoen. He studied film composition at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. While in Boston he formed his own jazz orchestra playing the music of Stan Kenton.

Mr. Kaska’s orchestral compositions, arrangements and orchestrations have been played worldwide by orchestras including John Williams and Keith Lockhart the Boston POPS Orchestra, the Seattle Philharmonic, Orchestra X in Houston, Phoenix Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, St. Louis Symphony, the London Symphony Orchestra and Royal Scottish National Orchestra, as well as Maynard Ferguson and the Big Bop Nouveau Band and Skitch Henderson and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall.

“This concert will have something for everyone,” stated Rackley. “Aficionados and nescients alike will be delighted and dazzled by the evening’s program. It will be a wonderful tribute to Panama City.”

Individual tickets to the January 10 Centennial Celebration performance are $40 for adults,
$35 for over age 65 or active military, and $10 for ages under 12, and are on sale now at the Marina Civic Center, 850-763-4696 or www.marinaciviccenter.com.

For more information see www.panamacitypops.org or call (850) 785-POPS (7677).

Joey's Java Juice Closes Two of Three Locations

After being open just 4 months, Joey’s Java Juice on Harrison Avenue in downtown Panama City closed its doors Monday. Amid economic pressure and decreased consumer spending I guess the new location just couldn’t hang in there.

Joey’s Java Juice had been recently purchased from Joey Purvis by Bill and Cindy Holt. Shortly after their purchase, they moved quickly to open the new location in place of Harrison Avenue’s Strange Brew Coffee House.

Joey’s Harrison Avenue and Front Beach Road location are closed with the Back Beach Road location set to stay open.

“The other locations just weren’t making enough money,” said an employee of the Bach Beach Road shop, “we have a much larger menu at this location and see a lot more traffic because of the location.”

Having known Joey, I’m sad to see any of them close down, but I am glad that the one that stayed open is right down the street from me.

Valentines Specials on Panama City Beach

Couples Can Enjoy Intimate Escapes to the Shore with Special Romance Packages

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (Dec. 29, 2008) – Panama City Beach makes it easy to whisk away your loved one this Valentine’s Day with special savings on accommodations and a variety of romance packages.

Spend a romantic weekend on the award-winning beaches that have made this Northwest Florida destination famous. Valentine’s Day packages include everything needed for a perfect evening of romance, from champagne and keepsake glasses to flowers, chocolate-dipped strawberries and more.

Couples will find a variety of heartfelt and fun activities to enjoy. Visit ZooWorld to see celebrity power couple Tonda, the orangutan, and her feline friend, T.K. short for “Tonda’s Kitty.” Recently featured on Animal Planet as one of the world’s oddest animal couples, this devoted duo is sure to melt your heart. Adding to the fun, Panama City Beach’s annual Mardi-Gras Parade takes place, Feb. 14. Couples can celebrate the glamour and pageantry of this age-old tradition.

Panama City Beach doesn’t fall short when it comes to classic romance. With the destination’s 27 miles of silky, white-sand beaches lapping clear emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, couples will have no trouble finding secluded stretches for tranquil strolls and amazing sunsets. They also can spend their days at the spa, go kayaking, take nature hikes, enjoy sunset sails, and savor romantic dinners at a myriad of fine-dining venues.

From intimate beach cottages to luxurious high-rise condominiums, Panama City Beach offers a variety of accommodations with heartwarming deals like these below:

For Valentine’s Day, BY THE SEAS RESORTS introduces the Sea of Love package starting at $89 per couple per night. Package provides gulf-front accommodations, free continental breakfast and a beaded wire basket filled with a bottle of champagne, souvenir champagne flutes, long-stemmed seashell rose and ocean mist-scented sea salts for the bath. Guests can choose from posh penthouse or Jacuzzi suites.
- Located in the heart of Panama City Beach, BY THE SEA RESORTS offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms and one and two-bedroom suites with fully-equipped kitchens and private balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Amenities include heated gulf-front pools, free continental breakfasts, free airport shuttle service, game room and more. Call toll-free 888-627-0625 or visit http://www.bythesearesorts.com
Shores of Panama presents a Valentine’s Weekend Package at just $500 per couple. The package includes a two-night stay in a one-bedroom condo with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, couples Swedish massage at the property’s spa, $50 certificate for dinner at nearby Boatyard or Schooners restaurants, chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of sparkling wine. Unlimited access to the indoor pool, hot tub and fitness center is included. All applicable taxes are included in the package price. Couples can choose to upgrade to a Hot Stone Massage for just $25 per person. Valid Feb. 12 – 16.
- Accommodations range from studios to three-bedroom suites. The 23-story Shores of Panama boasts a spectacular grand lagoon pool surrounded by a 13,900 square-foot deck in addition to a heated indoor pool. Guests enjoy health club with fitness equipment, spa and sauna; high-speed Internet access; and more. For more information and reservations call 1-877-808-4323 or visit http://www.ShoresofPanamaCityBeach.com
The Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort gives couples the opportunity to get away on Valentine’s Days or any day during the month of February. Starting at just $129 per night this offer includes gulf-front accommodations, chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of champagne, late checkout and breakfast for two on property at The View Restaurant. Additional nightly rates start at $89. Valid Feb. 1 – 28, 2009. The hotel offers a Tropical Lagoon Pool with cascading waterfall and hot tub, new SunSet martini lounge, three restaurants and a fitness center. Call 1-800-633-0266 or visit http://www.hipcbeach.com for reservations and information.
La Quinta Inn & Suites presents a Sweetheart Deal at just $269 per couple. This offer includes extended king room for two nights, a dozen roses, bottle of wine or champagne, gourmet chocolate-dipped strawberries and complimentary movie. Taxes not included.
- The La Quinta Inn & Suites is located in the heart of Panama City Beach’s shopping, dining, and recreation scene. Enjoy modern amenities such as free WiFi, a free Bright Side BreakfastTM, fitness center and heated outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi. For more information, call 1-800-531-5900 or visit http://www.laquintapcb.com
The Driftwood Lodge and Osprey on the Gulf are offering a Romance Package that includes a three-night stay and special champagne package with champagne, complimentary champagne glasses and chocolates for $225.00 based on double occupancy. Taxes not included. Offer is valid throughout Feb. 2009. Reference code “HART” when booking.
- The Driftwood Lodge offers gulf-front accommodations, heated pool and sun deck, courtyard and picnic area. For more information call 1-800-442-6601 or visit http://www.driftwoodpcb.com.
- Osprey on the Gulf offers spacious units and suites, full kitchens and private balconies with Gulf views. Amenities include heated pool, sundeck, toddler playground and picnic area, as well as children’s activities, cookouts and sandcastle competitions. For more information, call 1-800-338-2659 or visit http://www.ospreyonthegulf.com
The Inn at St Thomas Square has special rates on accommodations for the Valentine’s Day Weekend starting at just $174 for two nights for an efficiency unit. Rates include all taxes and fees. Offer valid Feb. 13 and 14. Located along Grand Lagoon, The Inn at St. Thomas Square houses studio and efficiency rooms, as well as one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and washer/dryer. Visit http://www.basicmgt.com or call 800-874-8600 for reservations and information.
Top of The Gulf beckons with special rates on accommodations for the Valentine’s Day Weekend starting at just $159 for two nights for an efficiency unit. Rates include all taxes and fees. Offer valid Feb. 13 and 14. Guests enjoy easy beach access and central location with restaurants, entertainment, shopping and golf minutes away. Each condominium is a spacious, 440 square feet with fully equipped kitchen, dining area, bath and walk-in closet. Visit http://www.basicmgt.com or call 800-874-8600 for reservations and information.
Spend two nights at the Pinnacle Port, and receive a gift certificate for a romantic dinner for two. Valid for Valentine’s Weekend either Feb 13 – 15 or Feb. 14 – 16. Use code “VAL” when booking. The resort provides a secluded getaway with private beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Accommodations range from one-, two-, and three-bedroom town homes or mid-rise units. Call 1-800-874-8823 or visit http://www.pinnacleportrentals.com for more information and reservations.
For Valentine’s Day, Vacation Resorts International invites with 25 percent off the regular room rate at each of its Panama City Beach properties. Discounted rates start at $94 per night for a one-bedroom townhouse at the Landmark Holiday Beach Resort and $56 per night for an oceanfront efficiency at the Panama City Resort & Club. Minimum three-night stay required. Taxes not included. Offer valid Feb. 13 – 16.
- Centrally located to area attractions, Panama City Resort & Club offers quick beach access, outdoor pool and spa. The Landmark Holiday Beach Resort provides guests with gulf-front accommodations with full kitchens and washer/dryers. Facilities include indoor heated pool, sauna, tennis courts and more. Visit http://www.8664myvacation.com for more information.
Country Inn & Suites has a special Valentine’s Day rate of $69.99 per night for Jacuzzi Rooms and King Suites. The cozy, country-style property provides rooms with complimentary high-speed Internet access, 32-inch LCD TV, micro-fridge and more. Facilities include pool, fitness center, sauna and on-site laundry. There is also a Read it & Return® lending library. Call 850-249-4747 for more information.

Citizens Insurance Likely to Raise Rates

At the end of 2009, Citizens Property Insurance Corp., Florida’s largest home insurer, probably will be free to raise rates for the first time in three years.

On Tuesday, a state-appointed task force charged with returning Citizens to its original role as the state’s insurer of last resort agreed that any increase in Citizens’ rates should be capped at 10 percent a year for three years to ease the financial burden on policyholders.

It’s one of several recommendations the 11-member task force will submit to the Florida Legislature this month.

Citizens’ rates, which were frozen at 2006 levels, aren’t high enough to pay claims should a major hurricane strike the state, experts say. The rate freeze expires at the end of this year, and the state-run insurer said it plans to impose higher rates as soon as possible.

Read the rest of the article.

Director of Economic Development Alliance Resigns, Dr. Ed Wright Steps In

The Bay County Economic Development Alliance(EDA) has announced that Ted Clem, Executive Director of the EDA, has resigned after accepting a position as President/CEO of the Albany – Dougherty County Economic Development Commission in Albany, Georgia.

“I am very grateful to the EDA board and leadership for giving me the opportunity to serve them,” said Clem. “Together we have had a great deal of success and have watched Bay County transition from a seasonal economy to a year round economy. I love this community greatly, but I believe the time is right time to move on to new challenges and opportunities.”

Clem has served as Executive Director of the EDA since September, 1999, and was instrumental in helping recruit new companies to the area such as Sprint/Nextel and Oceaneering International.

In order to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership, Dr. Ed Wright, retired Dean of FSU-Panama City has agreed to serve as an interim director of the EDA and to lead the search for a new executive director. The EDA Board, investors, and volunteers have initiated a strategic planning process to determine future direction and priorities for the organization in these challenging economic times. Dr. Wright’s leadership through this process will be invaluable to the organization.

“We are appreciative of the job Ted has done for us over the years and will miss his leadership and expertise,” said Elizabeth Walters, chairman of the EDA. “These are challenging times in a difficult economy, but Bay County’s future is brighter than ever. Bay County is well poised to expand its place in the global economy. We are grateful that Dr. Wright has agreed to work with us in this transition period such that the work of the EDA proceeds without interruption. His past experience as a community leader in Bay County and his academic background in public administration and policy make him uniquely qualified for this task.”

Clem’s resignation will mean that his official tenure as executive director will end on January 5th, but will be available to assist Dr. Wright as needed until he assumes his new role in Albany in Mid-January.

Strategic Planning Session for new Panama City Beach web site

The Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Tourist Development Council has retained the services of Jennifer Barbee Inc. to build the new VisitPanamaCityBeach.com web site. Thursday, January 8th from 1 to 3 pm a public meeting will be held at the Bay Point Marriott with representatives from JB Inc. and YPartnership to solicit public input.

I’ve added this to the calendar in the sidebar.

You can be sure I’ll be there.

Huge Country Name Played at Tootsies in Pier Park

Singer/songwriter and Grammy nominee, Jamey Johnson played at Tootsies in Pier Park Friday night. “His guitarist called me at 4 pm and asked if they could play that night,” said Stephen Dibble, “they ended up staying and playing two sets, it was a great night.”

Tootsies Orchid Lounge originated in Nashville, TN and was made popular by their openly encouraging artists to just “stop by” and play a set. With roots that include country music legends such as Willie Nelson, Roger Miller, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings, today, it isn’t uncommon for big-name artists to drop in for a “hollar and a swallar.”

With the birth of Pier Park, Tootsies realized the perfect opportunity to expand into a growing area and be a part of a development unlike anything in Northwest Florida. Pier Park brings tremendous adventure to all those that are wanting to shop, eat, be entertained or take part in an awesome New Year’s Eve party.

The customary norm that has made Tootsies so famous in Nashville has rubbed off on our little location in Panama City Beach with the appearance of Jamey Johnson Friday night. I can’t say with confidence that he is the first big name that has dropped in, but I can say that he is a high profile and very talented artist.

Currently he is ranked in the top ten on Billboard.com for country songs and is expected to grow in popularity in the coming weeks. A few weeks back, he appeared on the David Letterman show and has made several “best” lists in 2008 including Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 08, AOL’s Best Album, New York Times Best Album list, DallasNews.com best CD and tons more.

Talking to Stephen, he said that the touring season starts in a couple months and we should expect more artists of this caliber this season. I’m currently working with Tootsies to keep all of you up to date as to what is happening there. If you haven’t been, you should check it out. I was there New Year’s shooting some footage (forthcoming) and it was so packed, we could hardly move.

Tough economic times, require new approaches to education

One has to wonder how public education in Florida will be transformed by decreasing enrollment and a shrinking state budget (Enrollment down 30,000 at Florida’s public schools). Some people are discussing doom and gloom scenarios while others argue the tough times will encourage us to find more efficient ways to educate our kids.

We probably can’t do much to change the economy, but we can work together to come up with innovative approaches to provide high quality education at a reasonable cost. Some of the latest approaches include on-line “virtual” schools, international models and back-to-basics options. In each model, the goal is to teach more job specific skills for less money.

In addition to changing the way we teach our children academic subjects, some experts suggest we should rethink how extra-curricular activities are organized and funded. In the January 4, 2009 News Herald article, What is in their wallets, Pat McCann talks about cuts to high school athletic programs. If we continue to run the programs with the same approach without large budgets, the quality will erode quickly. Some pundits suggest we can provide the same or more attractive options by allowing outside organizations to offer these services. In Europe, for example, professional sports organizations run youth teams. In the US, national and regional sports organizations could possibly fill this role.

The thought of different types of schools and extra curricular options is a bit unnerving. However, in the current economic environment, creativity and flexibility are important. If we want our kids to have the best options, we will all probably have to start thinking outside the box.

Jason = MIA

I promise that I’ve got some great stuff on the Pier Park Beach Ball Drop New Year’s Eve Party. I promise to get up a video ASAP. The event was unbelievable. There were thousands of people there.

The marketing team at Pier Park did an amazing job of putting together a great event, Dan Rowe and the CVB did an amazing job of getting the word out – we interviewed many that were from out of town. Margaritaville presented the whole event, and them along with the other sponsors, the whole thing was well supported and very well received.

Again, kudos to all those involved – it was a huge success.

With a new baby, the Christmas Holiday, the New Year’s holiday and now we’re moving to a larger house that better fits the needs of our growing family, I’ve been super tied up, but promise that things will get back to normal next week.

Happy new year everyone, and thanks for reading.

Technical difficulties with live broadcast

Well, if you were watching earlier then you know our broadcasts were riddled with little bugs.

Maybe we’ll get it next year.

We’ve been getting tons of video footage all evening and promise a great video documenting the whole evening.

I sincerely apologize to all those that were counting on this to stay connected with us. You, the readers, have made this site what it is and we very much appreciate the support.

Have a happy new year and by 2009 bring you much success and tons of fun.

Jason Koertge
850-319-1172
Sent via BlackBerry – I know, I sold my iPhone.