New Airport Aerial Pictures and Update

Contract 1: Heavy Civil and Airfield Lighting
Approximately 80% of the contract work is complete with only 55.8% of the contract time used.

Underground utilities are being installed in the General Aviation area.
Fine grading along the runway is continuing.
Seeding is ongoing in the North section of the site.
Installation of the centerline lighting cans is approximately 75% complete.

Approximately 115 pieces of heavy equipment are in operation at any one time with approximately 160 personnel on site for the heavy civil (contract 1) and utilities (contract 3) contracts.

Contract 2: Terminal Building, ATCT and Support Buildings
Approximately 18% of contract work is complete with 25% of contract time utilized.

Terminal:
All shoring has been removed from Area A.
Installation of re-steel on Level 2 of Area B is complete.
Beginning to prep the slab on grade between areas B and C.

Air Traffic Control Tower:
Pile cap complete using approximately 350 cubic yards of concrete.
Beginning to form up the 1st level.

Air Maintenance Facility:
Backfilling of maintenance pit is complete. Preparing for slab on grade.

Air Cargo Facility:
Installation of pre-engineered metal building is ongoing.

Public Safety Building:
Completed concrete pour of perimeter footings/elevator footing.

Rental Car Facility:
Completing installation of underground utilites.

The average manpower on site for Contract 2 per day is 105 people based on a five day work week. Manpower on Saturdays is approximately 31 people.

Contract 3: Utility Contract
Approximately 18% of contract work is complete with 15% of contract time utilized.

Main Access Road:
3W2” Power Distribution Duct Bank: 53% complete.
Street light duct work: 65% complete.

Joyner Road:
24” water main: 90% complete.

GA Access Road:
30” water main: 45% complete.

Lift Station:
30% complete.

CR-388 & Main Entrance:
8” Directional Drill is complete.

Source: newpcairport.com

New Group Calls Emergency Public Meeting to Discuss PCB Safety Issues

Families & Friends 4 A Safe Panama City Beach is organizing an emergency community meeting of concerned citizens, businesses, churches, civic organizations and others to discuss several topics. At the top of the agenda is the ongoing tragedies of College/Student Spring Break, the TDC and other issues effecting the image and safety of our community and visitors. Please Read the following letter from PCB resident and ministry leader Mark Canfora-one of the founders of this concerned citizens group:

This is a request for prayer and action. Children are being hurt severely and many have died.

We are announcing a community meeting (awaiting confirmation) at Arnold High School Monday- 03/30/09 at 7 p.m.in the Auditorium in Panama City Beach (which is less than two weeks before the 4/11/09 festival @ Pier Park Amphitheater)

We will gather to discuss the festival and the 20-year tragic history of PCB college/student spring break. We will come together as a community to say No More!

A group – Families & Friends 4 A Safe Panama City Beach – has been formed and we ask you to get involved, attend and share this message with friends and family if possible.

Please reach out to your sphere of influence and contacts and relay this message. As a community of believers, families and concerned citizens we are organizing an effort to stop this annual abuse and insanity as we gather in hope, unity, prayer and action to put an end to this horrible and tragic situation.

Over the past 20 years (Police/Hospital/Sheriff records – 9 years obtained – year 2000) there have been many tragedies in excess of 50 deaths (murders, pedestrian, drowning, falls, auto) thousands of rapes and sexual assaults and nearly 50,000 of police reported crimes/incidences.
Financially: millions of dollars in property damage, litter control, and police, EMS and fire costs.

This year in the first two weeks (4 weeks remaining) of spring break alone…there has been a shooting, a knifing, and an estimated 30 plus sexual assaults, rapes, etc. and countless other police actions and involvement.

My Pastor, Greg Aldridge/Cornerstone Family Fellowship/Panama City and his wife, found a girl one morning last week in the Baypoint residential area, stumbling along the road (in a date-rape drug and or alcohol induced daze). She was partially clothed with a blanket wrapped around her. She was dumped there after she was apparently sexually assaulted by one or many abusers.

Below Are Several of Many Thousand PCB Spring Break Tragedies

Police Officer Kight Murdered Easter Sunday 2005

2009 Several Drugged & Raped

2009 Student Shot

2008/2009…18 Yr. Old Raped/Thrown From Building/Man gets 30 Years

http://www.newsherald.com for other recent/current stories, accidents/deaths/injuries.

Please Attend the Public Meeting: Arnold High School March 30, 2009 7:00 p.m.

Also:
Please Join us at Pier Park Amphitheater for a free Celebration of Life & Family Festival
Saturday April 11, 2009 from 1-9 p.m. http://www.markcanforaministries.com/festival09/

Families & Friends 4 A Safe Panama City Beach
Mark Canfora Ministries
http://www.IveGotHope.com

Pier Park Events Schedule

Down and Dirty, no editorial here. I’m gonna get right to the point:

5K SPORTS CLINIC AT PIER PARK

MARCH 14, 21 and 28, 2009
APRIL 4 and 11, 2009

Runners welcome to train and learn with Freedom Sports

WHAT: For five Saturdays in March and April, runners are invited to Pier Park for the 5K Sports Clinic hosted by Freedom Sports.

COST: This event is free and open to the public

WHEN:
Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.
March 14, 21 and 28, 2009
April 4 and 11, 2009

WHERE:
Pier Park – Amphitheater
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

————————————

PIER PARK HOSTS SPRING BREAK FASHION SHOW

NOON on SATURDAY, MARCH 21, 2009

Shopping center showcases fashionable finds for all ages!

WHAT: Spring fashions are in bloom at Pier Park as it hosts the Spring Break Fashion Show on Saturday, March 21. Put on by Pier Park tenants, this colorful display of designs will feature looks for all ages and price points.

Participating retailers include Ava Blue Boutique, Bellies & Babies, Blender, Cache, Carters, Crocs, Déjà vu, Jake at the Beach, Peace Frogs, Ron Jons, Shimmering Seas, Southern Waters, Sunglass World, tatoe tots, Trans Fashions and Unique Boutique by Irene and Co. Hair and makeup provided by Solace Day Spa.

COST: This event is free and open to the public

WHEN: Saturday, March 21 at Noon

WHERE:
Pier Park – Promo Area
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

————————————

PIER PARK HOSTS COMMUNITY EVENTS OVER EASTER WEEKEND

Shopping center hosts Easter egg hunts and Easter concert

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2009

WHAT: Over the Easter weekend Pier Park invites Panama City Beach residents to enjoy several community events.

On Saturday, April 11 kids are invited to the Egg Hunts with the Easter Bunny, which will be held on the volleyball court grassy area at 3 p.m. There will be egg hunts for three different age groups: 2 – 3, 4 – 6 and 7 – 10 year olds.

Then families are invited to stick around for an Easter Concert by the Mark Canfora Band in the Amphitheater from 4 to 8 p.m. This event is free to the public and pets are welcome.

WHEN: Easter Egg Hunts with the Easter Bunny
Saturday, April 11 at 3 p.m.

Easter Concert: Saturday, April 11 from 4 to 8 p.m.

WHERE:
Pier Park
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

————————————

PIER PARK HOSTS COMMUNITY EVENTS OVER LAST WEEKEND IN APRIL

Shopping center hosts art show, green expo and reggae festival

THURSDAY, APRIL 23 to SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2009

WHAT: During the last weekend in April, Pier Park invites Panama City Beach residents to enjoy several community events.

The Spring Art Fling will celebrate creativity, featuring the works of various artists and art activities for kids Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26.

On Saturday, April 25, guest will enjoy eco-friendly fun presented by Reggae J’s Island Grill. There will be money-saving and earth-friendly ideas and products at the Go Green Expo, with recyclables arts and crafts for kids. Enjoy live entertainment, food and drink specials, hair wraps and more at the 2nd Annual Reggae Fest. Festivities will be held in the promo and green grass areas, as well as at Reggae J’s Island Grill.

WHEN: Spring Art Fling
Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Go Green Expo presented by Reggae J’s Island Grill
Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

2nd Annual Reggae Fest presented by Reggae J’s Island Grill
Saturday, April 25 starting at 11 a.m.

WHERE:
Pier Park
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

————————————

PIER PARK HOSTS THUNDER BEACH SPRING BIKE RALLY

Panama City residents invited to motorcycle show

THURSDAY, APRIL 30 to SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2009

WHAT: During the first weekend in May, those who feel the need for speed are invited to the Thunder Beach Spring Bike Rally.

From Thursday, April 30 to Sunday, May 3, motorcycle lovers can go ‘hog’ wild with a bike show and demonstrations by the Harley Davidson Drill Team.

WHEN: Thursday, April 30 to Sunday, May 3 during mall hours

WHERE:
Pier Park – Green grass area

600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

————————————

KIDS GET SOME TURTLE TIME AT PIER PARK

Turtle appreciation day teaches children about beloved local animal

11 A.M. to 2 P.M. on SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2009

WHAT: On Saturday, May 30, kids are invited to break out of their shells for a fun day of discovery at Turtle Time.

Pier Park welcomes children to come and see mock turtle nests and learn about these interesting creatures in the green grass area of the volleyball court.

WHEN: Saturday, May 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE:
Pier Park – Green grass area of the volleyball court
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

MORE INFO FOR ALL EVENTS:
(850) 236-9974

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-03-17

Don’t forget to go to pier park today for st patricks day. #
@BjComedy Was that you behind the Summit on stage today? the frozen butter was terrible. still gagging thinking about it. #
@Jon_Devore I was out there, but I left at 2:30 after no show. what time did you guys end up jumping? #
I give up on the redbull act. I’m going home. #
spinaker, but still no copter. – Photo: http://bkite.com/05xOn #
Spring break 2009 behind spinaker – Photo: http://bkite.com/05xMc #
I’m out behind spinaker, waiting for the redbull aerobatic helicopter to perform. #
What’s your favorite thing about Panama City Beach? #
@DustinBryson sweet! #
Arrrgh – Photo: http://bkite.com/05tP3 #
Plans changed. At red rose pizzeria. Best local italian in pcb – Photo: http://bkite.com/05tND #
I’m at Red Rose Gem – http://bkite.com/05tN7 #
@DustinBryson haha, that’s great. You got some sweet shots yourself. What lens you using for your wide shots? #
got a hot date with my wife on the Betsy Ann Riverboat tonight! They’re our newest sponsor! http://tinyurl.com/d35yo4 #
Carousel gooing in at pier park – Photo: http://bkite.com/05tgr #
@MikeMcDaniel someone elses who’s letting me borrow it. #
You’ve got to love old trucks that barely start and have tons of play in the steering wheel. Sure is great for moving stuff though #
@pcbeach Lil Wayne pix http://tinyurl.com/czlnv9 #
Trying to get a new twitter app running for facebook fan pages #
@PCBeach yea, was there. totally crazy. you can see preliminary pix at http://tinyurl.com/b5bzhk check pcbaily l8r for hirez in reply to PCBeach #
Dude, more traffic! I wanna go home! – Photo: http://bkite.com/05r7u #
@DustinBryson yep, but some promo guys got me on the roof. I got some pretty sweet shots. #
Alright. Enough craziness for one day. I gotta go home and get some work done. #
Apparently this is lil waynes bus, and apparently he’s one of the most popular performers in the country – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qZd #
Alright, made onto a roof. Where’s a telephoto lense when you need it! #
Mtv just kicked all the media out. Sup with that. #
Lil wayne is two hours late, must have gotten caught in traffic #
Crowds are getting ready for the famous people to come on stage – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qUF #
A little backstage goodness – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qQ7 #
Press box baby – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qPY #
People are parked on the side of the road all the way down to ripleys – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qKL #
Wow. I probably say this every year, but I don’t remember it being this conjested last year. #
Traffic on middlebeach road traveling towards the beach before walmart. – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qIv #
Heading to boardwalk to check out the RPS tourney #
As you can tell, I’m quite amazed at the fog and how it can be clear just a few blocks away – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qGJ #
Wow, just came out of the gym and the fog is completely gone! #
The fog has actually cleared a little from an hour ago when the visibility was maybe 150 feet. – Photo: http://bkite.com/05qcN #
The trash was disgusting, but I had actually expected worse. Not sure if that is good or bad. #
Trash trash every where. – Photo: http://bkite.com/05pck #
I just watched some guy smash a beer can on his head and throw it on the ground on thomas drive. #
I’m at Boardwalk Beach Resort – http://bkite.com/05pax #
@karensbeach just ran into two of the competitors for the RPS tourney in the airport! http://tinyurl.com/c5m5br #
The rock paper scissors champion is coming to Panama City Beach for a tournament tomorrow. yea, you heard me right. #
I’m at Regency Towers – http://bkite.com/05owr #
Looks like some clouds are rolling in – Photo: http://bkite.com/05owe #
Just heard that the “word on the street” was that all the hotels in pcb were full. Is this true? #
@SheenaBa who’s on fire?? The beach is super foggy in reply to SheenaBa #
Yes, that’s fog. You can barely make out the silhouette of the legacy hotel. – Photo: http://bkite.com/05mT9 #
Big time line at sharkys – Photo: http://bkite.com/05mPA #
We have no idea how cool the avp tournament is going to be on pnama city beach. The crowds will be bigger than expected. #
Avp press conference – Photo: http://bkite.com/05mM8 #
At avp press conference on top of seahaven – Photo: http://bkite.com/05mJG #
@DustinBryson If you are referring to the “new agency”. you guys should def put in an rfq when they are put out. in reply to DustinBryson #
They are reporting that jenn barbee will bring something that is fresh, hip and great. ‘Very fun stuff’. Refreshing. #
It has been recomended that a new agency be found at the end of the fiscal year. #
Tdc is very disappointed with agency, namely ypatnership. Buddy wilkes says the ‘wow’ is not in anything they are proposing #

St. Patrick's Day at Pier Park

pattys_day_2 Pier Park will be filled with Leprechaun spirit in celebration of St. Patricks Day. Every year various forms of liquid are dyed green, including water, soda, beer and even the Chicago River, yes, they dye the whole thing.

The history of St. Patricks day started in the 5th century when St. Patrick, a converted Christian traveled the island and converted the people of Ireland. One of many myths tell of him ridding the island of Ireland of all snakes, although, the History Channel says there were never snakes in Ireland. Many historians explain this as an analogy of converting all the pagans. The date is believed to have come from the day St. Patrick died, and the holiday is celebrated every year around the world, with many countries taking the day off work. Many in Ireland spend the morning in church and the afternoon celebrating.

Today, you’ll find green beer at Hofbrau Beer Garden and live entertainment at Tootsies Orchid Lounge and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. Hofbrau will have two for one drinks and Margaritaville will have food and drink specials all day long, serving the signature “Who’s to Blame” green margarita.

For more information, call Pier Park at 850 236 9974.

Spring Break Really Picks up This Week

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Yesterday, amid overcast skies, fog and overall crumby weather, spring breakers partied in droves on the beaches of Panama City Beach. Drinking from hollow, plastic baseball bats, followed by spinning around in a circle ten times with the butt of the bat against your head, facing down, then challenged with hitting the empty can the beer originally came from ensures quick vomiting on our beaches.

I don’t typcially work on Sunday’s, but yesterday I wanted to capture the stunt act of the Red Bull Aerobatics Helicopter. My labors were in vain as the performance was delayed and still hadn’t happened behind Spinaker’s when I finally gave up at 2:30 pm.

This week is the largest spring break week of the season with approximately 2.1 million kids out on spring break across the country. Compared to last week’s 1.8 million, this week is expected to pick up a little. I’ll be quite interested to talk to hotelliers, etc. at the end of the season to see how the occupancy numbers faired. I’m sure it will be similar to the Country Crock analagy I gave last year.

If the plugin still isn’t working, here is the link to the pix.

Below is a list of the colleges on spring break this week, again, courtesy of TripSmarter.com:

March 16-20, 2009 (Mon-Fri)
College / University	Enrollment
Adams State College	2,308
Auburn University	24,137
Austin College	1,291
Brevard Community College	14,616
Brock University	14,443
California College of the Arts	1,670
California State University, Chico	14,500
Canisius College	4,857
Carthage College	2,930
Central Missouri State University	10,711
Claremont Mckenna College	1,135
Clemson University	17,409
Cleveland State University	15,706
Colgate University	2,750
Colorado State University, Fort Collins	26,884
Columbia University	24,820
Concordia University, Austin	1,400
Concordia University, Wisconsin	5,600
Cornell University	19,800
Delta State University	4,392
Des Moines Area Community College	27,000
Drake University	5,221
Earlham College	1,194
Eastern Illinois University	11,651
Edgewood College	2,500
Fairleigh Dickinson University	8,000
Florida College	600
Florida International University	38,614
Fordham University	16,009
Fort Hays State University	8,500
George Washington University	24,531
Georgia Southern University	16,841
Georgia Tech	18,747
Grambling State University	4,999
Grinnell College	1,555
Harvey Mudd College	746
Humboldt State University	7,773
Indiana University, Purdue	29,854
Indiana University of Bloomington	38,990
Iowa State University	26,160
Jackson State University	8,351
Jacksonville State University	9,000
John Hopkins University	15,000
Kansas State University	23,332
Keene State College	6,400
Lafayette College	2,403
Lakeland College	3,999
Lipscomb University	2,744
Madison Area Technical School	20,461
Manhattan College	3,000
Meharry Medical College	723
Montana State University	12,250
Morgan State University	1,221
Mount Holyoke College	2,100
Naval Academy	4,400
New York University	40,870
Northwest College	1,800
Ocean County College	9,351
Pitzer College	950
Pomona College	1,548
Princeton University	6,898
Purdue University	39,228
Rider University	5,790
Rutgers University at New Jersey, Camden	51,480
Rutgers University at New Jersey, Newark	10,246
Rutgers University at New Jersey	34,392
Saint Clair College	6,500
Samford University	4,400
Santa Fe Community College	14,500
Savannah State University	3,169
Scripps College	899
South Dakota State University	10,566
Texas A&M, Corpus Christi	8,355
Texas A&M	46,540
Texas Tech University	28,260
Towson University	18,921
University of Alabama, Birmingham	16,246
University of Alabama, Huntsville	7,100
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa	25,580
University of Alaska Southeast	2,800
University of Arizona	36,805
University of Arkansas	18,647
University of Central Oklahoma	15,753
University of Denver	11,117
University of Hartford	6,225
University of Houston	35,344
University of Idaho	11,251
University of Iowa	30,409
University of Kansas	29,260
University of Kentucky	27,209
University of Lethbridge	8,001
University of Maryland	36,014
University of Maryland Eastern Shore	3,297
University of Massachusetts	60,000
University of Miami	15,449
University of Minnesota	50,402
University of Mississippi	17,323
University of Nebraska	22,973
University of New Hampshire	13,547
University of New Haven	4,480
University of New Mexico	24,092
University of North Florida	15,619
University of North Texas	34,268
University of Northern Colorado	12,981
University of Northern Iowa	14,207
University of Oklahoma	29,721
University of South Alabama	14,003
University of South Florida	34,036
University of Southern California	33,389
University of Southern Mississippi	16,050
University of Tennessee	26,400
University of Texas, Austin	49,696
University of Texas, Dallas	14,480
University of Texas, Pan American	17,048
University of Texas, San Antonio	28,534
University of Texas, Tyler	6,150
University of Tulsa	4,165
University of Utah	29,192
University of West Georgia	10,677
University of Wisconsin, La Crosse	10,052
University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee	28,356
University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh	12,409
University of Wisconsin, Parkside	4,999
University of Wisconsin, Platteville	6,431
University of Wisconsin, River Falls	5,950
University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point	8,552
University of Wisconsin, Stout	8,416
University of Wyoming	13,301
Utah Valley State College	23,750
Valdosta State University	11,280
Vanderbilt University	11,847
Virginia Commonwealth University	31,907
Washington State University	24,396
Western Illinois University	13,600
Wichita State University	14,298
Wilson College	868
TOTAL	2,130,258

Pier Park to Host 5k Sports Clinic on Saturdays

Well, I missed the gun this week, but fortunately for those of you that rely on me to keep you up to date, this particular event will run every Saturday for the next 4 weeks.

Pier Park is hosting a 5k sports clinic at the Aaron Bessant Park Ampitheater at 7:30 am. I guess you could still make it this morning if you wanted.

Details:

K SPORTS CLINIC AT PIER PARK
Runners welcome to train and learn with Freedom Sports

WHAT:
For five Saturdays in March and April, runners are invited to Pier Park for the 5K Sports Clinic hosted by Freedom Sports.

COST:
This event is free and open to the public

WHEN:
Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.
March 14, 21 and 28, 2009
April 4 and 11, 2009

WHERE:
Pier Park – Amphitheater
600 Pier Park Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32413

MORE INFO:
Felicia Cook, Director of Mall Marketing
(850) 236-9974 or simon.com

Autoweek brings New 2010 Mustang to Panama City Beach

Now, I’m not as much into the car scene as I was when I was younger, but I recognized it when I saw it. The new 2010 Mustang was spotted all over Panama City Beach yesterday, and I personally had a sighting on the main boardwalk area of Pier Park around 3 pm.

When I was younger, I could tell you the make and model of a car at night by seeing the headlights a couple hundred feet away, almost 100% of the time. I knew approximate year, make and model of almost any car, it was weird, kinda like an encyclopedia. In many cases I could tell you all about the car too. I always new the new cars coming out and I can attribute that knowledge to all of my dad’s old Autoweek magazines that held their permanent home on the mantle until they became a few weeks old.

I have since become somewhat disinterested in cars as my kids occupy all my free time, but I thought something was fishy when I saw a Mustang yesterday that I hadn’t seen before. Since Autoweek’s not been in my life, a few new models have snuck out on me over the years, but, this would have been pretty big. I didn’t think of it much more than that.

Fast forward to this morning, when I get a google alert that Autoweek is here in Panama City Beach driving the new Mustang, furthermore, the drivers had to stay in the Mariott because they were “too young” to stay in a beachfront condo, as they all required renters to be 25. So, what are a couple of pre-25 people doing driving a 2010 Mustang down to Panama City Beach? Writing about their experience of course!

AutoWeek spring break: The Mustang gets noticed in Panama City

Rock, Paper Scissors Tournament to Award $20k

That’s right, you read the title right. Not only in there going to be a Rock, Paper Scissors tournament tomorrow at the Boardwalk Beach Resort, but they are giving away $20,000 to the winner to put towards their college tuition. There’s even an official League, the USA Rock Paper Scissors (USARPS) League and a blog, that has been covering the action so far here in Panama City Beach.

Here is the press release I found online:

AMP Energy, in conjunction with USA Rock Paper Scissors (USARPS) League, announced today they are launching the first-ever USARPS College ChAMPionship. Following preliminary rounds at 20 campuses across the country and 12 qualifying Spring Break events, co-eds will be given the chance to compete for $20,000 to be used towards college tuition at championship matches during mtvU’s Spring Break in Panama City Beach, FL, March 8 through 21.

Rock Paper Scissors, the popular two-person hand game, is a common arbiter of disputes, similar to flipping a coin or drawing straws. In 2005, the USARPS League was formed by Commissioner Matti Leshem as the governing body of the sport in the U.S. The League brought rules and structure to Rock Paper Scissors matches and continues to celebrate a game that has been played for centuries by people around the world. With students at rival schools like Syracuse and Rutgers, Alabama and Tennessee, and UNC and Maryland all vying for the title, the competition is sure to be intense.

“Students have counted on AMP Energy to give them an extra kick to make it through final exams,” said Maurice Herrera, Marketing Director, AMP Energy. “Now, one skilled Rock Paper Scissors player can count on AMP Energy to actually help pick up the tab for those exams. We look forward to awarding one lucky student who leaves Spring Break with the grand prize of $20,000.”

Thousands of students across the nation are expected to turn out for the competition. Qualifying matches are currently underway, leading up to campus finals where students will compete to win a Spring Break trip to Panama City Beach, FL to represent their school at the 2009 USARPS College ChAMPionship. At stake will be bragging rights and a check toward tuition, not to mention the inaugural USARPS College ChAMPionship title which will be awarded on March 18 following the final round of competition.

“They may have used their heads to get into college,” said USARPS League Commissioner Matti Leshem. “But they’re going to use their fists to pay for it!”

“Now more than ever, college students need a break,” said Ross Martin, Head of Programming, mtvU. “This year, mtvU’s Spring Break ’09 returns to Panama City Beach with incredible musical performances, the first-ever USA Rock Paper Scissors College ChaAMPionship, and now, thanks to AMP Energy, a shot to earn cash toward college tuition.”

Breakers get Drunk, Trash Our Beaches

The Tourist Development Council was appalled Tuesday at their regularly scheduled board meeting by the pictures of trash all along our beaches taken a mere 24 hours before. Andy Phillips rode about a 5 mile stretch Sunday and Monday cataloging how the College Spring Break crowd values our beaches. I was appalled as well, but not surprised.

Same argument, different year. I hear you businesses that rely on these numbers, but I just can’t help but be disgusted at how they completely disregard our environment. What’s that you say? A few bad apples don’t ruin the whole bushell? Well, it’s more than just a few, and they may not ruin our beach, but it sure is nasty, nasty indeed.

The TDC members were disgusted too.

As Phillips flipped through the slideshow, you could hear audience members ghasp. Some of the pictures were simply unreal in the concentration of the trash. Our white sand was peppered with the likes of blue, white and red beer cans, boxes and bottles.

One TDC member, Mike Bennett said “trash is good, it means there are people on our beaches.” Good point, Mike, but trash on our beaches is never good. If there is this much out there, then someone isn’t doing their job.

Kirk Lancaster, from KeepTheBeachClean.com was in attendance with 10 college kids from Michigan who care enough about the environment to actually spend their spring break time on the beach handing out plastic bags and picking up after their drunken peers. Brianna Drake shared in the meeting that she had expected to clean up a mess, but didn’t expect it to be this bad. One of the other things she was surprised to find was a complete lack of any sort of “keep the beach clean” marketing campaign. She expressed that the absence of such marketing probably reinforces to the college kids that they can just drop their trash where they please and that it will be cleaned up for them to use the beach again the next day. This is the wrong message and we have to be proactive in informing that we expect nothing less of visitors to our beach to clean up after themselves and put trash in its place.

Of course, this is all fine and dandy, but if the cans are overflowing, where are they supposed to put their empty cans and boxes? The TDC moved to immediately place an additional 400 blue trash receptacles along the beach, almost doubling the number along our shores. This will help, but isn’t enough. Also discussed was creating “stations” at each beach access that had basic information on keeping the beach clean and a trash bag dispenser that would be replenished daily, or as needed. These would also be placed at resorts with the bags supplied for the resorts to replenish.

Brianna explained that many of the breakers her crew encountered were more than willing to take plastic bags and use them.

Discussed also was fining resorts and hotels if they didn’t keep their stretch of the beach clean. “The Hiltons do a great job of keeping their beach clean at the Holiday Inn,” said Phillips, “everyday by 6 pm, when all the spring breakers are gone, their beach is clean.” Most of the other “hot-spots” are still filthy. The Holiday Inn has their own crews out all day doing maintenance clean-ups and does a final sweep in the evening.

Yonnie Patronis said in every high traffic beach he has visited around the world, there has always been crews throughout the day cleaning up the beach. “This isn’t just something we can do once a week, or even once a day, we’ve got to have someone out there all the time.”

Whatever the solution is, we’ve got to pump some more money into this. This isn’t a year ’round problem, it is concentrated during the spring break period, the highest traffic period being only two weeks long.

The motion was made and approved to increase the funding to the beach maintenance program from $150k to $250k and use the increase to add the additional 400 barrels, draft a proposal for a keep the beach clean campaign, notify properties that they are launching a new initiative and need cooperation, and begin an awareness campaign on the beach.

In other news from the meeting, the TDC is quite unhappy with YPartnership and their seemingly inability to create a “wow” campaign. Two months ago, I attended a Marketing Committee meeting and it was as if the Agency showed up to guide us to create the ideas. I was astonished at how little they had brought to the table.