Since we last reported, we are delighted to let you know that we have been a part of some pretty fantastic events around our community! Most notably, we would like to congratulate our star sushi runner, Thang Nguyen, for his awesome participation in the area 1 games for Special Olympics. Thang placed second in the 800 meter and third in the 400 meter! He did an awesome job. Way to go, Thang!

Dozens of people who participated in two-person teams in the Elebash's Diamond Dash wait eagerly at The Fish House for the announcement that with 90 points, Frank and Stephanie White of Pensacola won the $10,000 Simon G Diamond Ring Saturday. Bruce Graner/bgraner@pnj.com

We also had a blast participating in the Elebash’s Diamond Dash and hosting the after-party on our Deck. The scavenger hunt drew hundreds of people who raced from one side of downtown to the other, hoping to win a stunning $10,000 diamond ring. A married couple claimed the grand prize. With 90 points, Frank and Stephanie White of Pensacola won the ring, which Frank presented to his wife on bended knee. The event was a lot of fun and raised $1,200.00 for Chain Reaction!

Children’s Home Society held “A Sunday of Soundside Splendor.” This event offered guests the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sights of the Sound on Portofino’s private outdoor balcony. Throughout the afternoon, guests filled their glasses with fine wines and sampled delectable dishes selected by our Chef Jim Shirley, who is also a board member of the society. All proceeds stay right in our community to benefit the vulnerable children served by Children’s Home Society of Florida.

Looking forward this month, we are honored to participate again in Taste of the South in our nation’s capital. Taste of the South is privileged to have an Honorary Congressional Host Committee consisting of members of Congress from 13 Southern states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. Each state sponsors a table featuring regional specialties. We represent Florida and are sending our world-famous Grits à Ya Ya! The event raised money for Children’s Safety Center (CSC), located in Springdale, Arkansas. Children’s Safety Center is a private, nonprofit organization that serves as an advocacy center for abused children in Northwest Arkansas. In a child-friendly, family-centered facility, the Children’s Safety Center offers a one-stop setting to coordinate the investigation, prosecution and treatment services for these alleged child victims of sexual and physical abuse.

Join us also on April 21st for Business After Hours on our Deck Bar. Held the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m., area businesses are able to showcase their establishments to the business community while guests make valuable contacts. Admission is free with one business card. Make this gathering a perfect time to build new business relationships and strengthen established ones. No reservations are required. Lots of great giveaways, including a sailing adventure for up to six people by our good friends at Condor Sailing Adventures!

Other events and charities we are proud to support this month: Chocolate Festival for Gulf Coast Kid’s House, Preemie Cup Regatta for Sacred Heart Hospital, Sertoma’s Hogfest, Pensacola Young Professionals, and many more.