After serving in WWII, James "Jim" Leonard completed his bachelor degree at Murray State University then went on to earn his masters in music education at Louisiana State University.  In 1948 he accepted his first teaching position at Fort Walton School and in 1952 became the first band director at Choctawhatchee High School.  Jim completed 19 years of band directing with straight superiors at district and state festivals.  His efforts in music education led to the nationwide adoption of school music as an accredited field of study rather than an extra-curricular activity.  Jim Leonard remains an active member of Kiwanis International now serving for more than 60 years.  He previously served as president of the Kiwanis Club of Ft. Walton Beach and ultimately served as district governor.  In 1961, more as a matter of convenience, Jim and wife Maura opened a small music store providing students quick access to needed supplies that would ultimately provide continuity to his first love, band directing.  However, during that period the Cold War was raging and Northwest Florida was quickly growing due to its large military presence and consequently within just a few years Jim found himself at a crossroad requiring decision on whether to remain an educator or pursue life as a businessman.  With a wife and four children to provide for Jim put his faith in his entrepreneurship deciding to grow a music business.  His passion for music and music education contributed significantly and provided an opportunity to develop many healthy relationships with customers over the next 25 years.  Jim selected the name Playground Music Center in 61 because the chamber of commerce, marketing to tourist during that era, promoted our beautiful white sandy beaches as The Playground Area.  Today we live on what is known as The Emerald Coast,  however 50 years later we remain Playground Music Center, Inc.