Coastal Vision 3000, the private, non-profit regional membership organization for THE Beach, has hit a membership milestone celebrating its 100th member. The organization encompasses Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf and Franklin Counties and was established to create a consistent, branded identity for the region known as “THE Beach.”

Since its start in late 2007, Coastal Vision 3000 has grown from a group of regional visionaries to over 100 businesses, organizations and individuals representing over 150 companies, working together in a unified front to present THE Beach to new markets both nationally and internationally. The aim is to promote the work of local tourism and economic development professionals and to grow the market to its fullest potential.

“Membership in Coastal Vision 3000/THE Beach is open to all businesses and organizations in our seven-county region,” said Mel Ponder, executive director for Coastal Vision 3000. “Members benefit in many ways, not only for themselves, but for the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast region as a whole.”

Ponder said that marketing the entire region under one “halo” brand means businesses and organizations not only strengthen and enhance their own marketing efforts, but also help ensure long-term economic growth and create a tourist destination that is identifiable throughout the world.

Coastal Vision 3000 offers five Membership levels; Advocates $100, Champions $500, Stewards $2,500, Trustees $5,000, and Founders $15,000. Each level offers Members a variety of benefits, including a twice-monthly informational e-newsletter, a listing on THE Beach’s award winning website (www.thebeachfla.com), use of THE Beach’s standardized graphics and logos, membership meetings, and the opportunity to participate in THE Beach’s national and international marketing efforts.

For more information about membership in or goals and initiatives of Coastal Vision 3000 and THE Beach, visit http://www.thebeachfla.com or call Coastal Vision 3000 at 850-337-3469