First Freedom Classic Tournament Honors Armed Forces with Golf, Awards Ceremony, Entertainment

Sterling Companies Challenge Other Courses Across U.S. to Host Similar Annual Event on Day After Pre

. October 14, 2008

DESTIN, FL, March 9, 2006. The Sterling Companies, Northwest Florida's largest privately-held development, sales and resort management firm, hosted the first Freedom Classic Golf Tournament to honor U.S. Armed Forces on Feb. 21 at Kelly Plantation in Destin, Fla.

The tournament, which was held in memory of Col. W.W. Hurt, was played by 120 members of the armed forces and Coast Guard, and was sponsored and hosted by The Sterling Companies to show continued support for active duty and retired U.S. troops.

Among those in attendance were Destin Mayor Craig Barker and Walton County Commissioner Elaine Tucker, as well as Col. Ed Keith, 96th Air Base Wing Commander, who thanked The Sterling Companies for hosting the event by presenting Sterling Chairman Buddy Runnels and Vice Chairman John McNeil with a case containing a flag that flew over Iraq and a coin reflecting all branches of the service.

While dining on a luncheon of classic American hamburgers and hot dogs, several recent recipients of Bronze and Silver Stars were recognized, and dignitaries and sponsors in attendance were welcomed. Also, David Seering, a local celebrity pianist, received a standing ovation after playing each branch's military song.

"The Sterling Companies' first annual Freedom Classic was a pleasant success," said Runnels. "The troops seemed to enjoy the opportunity to be treated to a relaxing day, and were visibly touched by our show of appreciation. We're looking forward to making the Freedom Classic an annual event held the day after Presidents' Day, and to hosting a similar tournament at Bay Point for the ladies and gentlemen stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base. We also have begun working to inspire and help implement similar events at golf courses located near military bases across the U.S."

Local companies and individuals donating materials for the event include Earl Durden, Coastal Community Bank & Insurance, and Gary Roberts from Vanguard Bank.

ABOUT THE STERLING COMPANIES:

The Sterling Companies, consisting of Sterling Development, Sterling Realty and Sterling Resorts, is Northwest Florida's only fully-integrated, full-service resort development, sales and management firm.

From resort development and real estate sales to vacation home rental and homeowner association management, The Sterling Companies provides a full range of services for luxury resorts, condominiums and vacation homes located throughout Northwest Florida.

Headquartered in Destin, Fla., The Sterling Companies employ more than 400 people and is projecting combined 2006 annual revenues in excess of $600 million. For more information, visit www.TheSterlingCo.com.

For more information, contact:

Carla Parks at (407) 261-5716 or [email protected]

FREEDOM CLASSIC - CONTEST WINNERS

CTP (1 & 2 Tees)