April-June 2011 Bay Biz Magazine

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April 2011

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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE: Florida Chamber Days

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THE BIZ LIST

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DEFENSE INTEL: NSWC PCD Maintains Despite Budget Cuts

FEATURE: The Changing Face of Tourism

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ECONOMIC PROFILE: EDA Insights

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OUT & ABOUT

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EDUCATION:

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Take Stock in Children: Scholarships, Mentors & Hope FSU-PC: New College & Programs

Bay Young Professionals to Know

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BEST PRACTICES FOR BUSINESS:

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Keep Employees Engaged & Energized

TRENDS: iPads for Business

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NEW MEMBERS

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Small Business Development Center offers assistance for struggling businesses

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MEMBER ANNIVERSARRIES

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CALENDAR

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Small Business of the Quarter

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PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Crystal Shuller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michelle Lacewell Jacqui Barker Rich Musgrave Pam Cooley Carol Roberts Jennifer Conoley Dr. Ken Shaw Beth Deluzain Elizabeth Smith Pat Holley Heather Kretzer DESIGN Bellhouse Publishing COVER & INSIDE PHOTOGRAPHY Panama City Beach Sandbar Lana Williams www.lanawilliams.com ADVERTISING Kevin Bell 1.800.264.4958 - kevin@wellsprinting.com

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BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Bay Biz Magazine c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce 235 W. 5th Street - P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, Florida 32402 Phone: 850.785.5206 Email: information@baychamberfl.com Online: www.panamacity.org Facebook: Bay County Chamber Twitter: @baychamberfl The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402. 850.785.5206 POSTMASTER send address changes to The Bay County Chamber, P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email Crystal@baychamberfl.com.

The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to Crystal@baychamberfl.com. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. To request additional copies please contact Crystal@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.

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April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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President’s Message

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I would like to start off by saying “Thank You” to the advertisers who supported our first edition of the new Bay Biz format; because of you it was a great success!

We hope you find this edition just as informative and useful.

As you may know, here at the Chamber, during May, we celebrate Bay County’s #1 industry with “Tourism Appreciation Month”. With this in mind it was only fitting to recognize in this issue how this industry is changing and how our tourism-based members and the Tourist Development Council is working to market our community in new and innovative ways.

In this issue we are also including various resources for your business with information about the Small Business Development Center, what an iPad can do for your business and how motivating employees can bring your business success.

Be sure to check out our other staple sections: Defense Intel, Political Perspective, Education, Bay Young Professionals to Know, The Biz List, Out n’ About photos and Economic Intel.

In Chamber news, the first quarter has been a productive one. We celebrated the successes of 2010, including our FACP 2010 Chamber of the Year award, at our Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on January 28th. We awarded the Jerry Mills - Small Business of the Year, Member of the Year, the rare Chairman’s Award and the prestigious Lauren Merriam award. You can find out more about these awards and who the winners are in the “Biz List” section.

Kudos to the winners and to our sponsors for a successful event!

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BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

I would also like to recognize Doug Merkle who was recently approved to once again represent this organization on the Bay District School Citizens Oversight Committee. Doug has served as the Chamber’s representative for many years and we along with the administration at Bay District Schools appreciate his dedication.

I was fortunate to participate in the Florida Chamber Capitol Days along with many other Chambers and business leaders from throughout the state.

Congratulations to Allan Bense, Chairman of the Florida Chamber and former Speaker of the House, for such a successful event.

You can read more about it in this issue.

During the two days in Tallahassee a meeting of the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) Board of Directors, of which I serve on, was also held. For the first time ever in FACP history, its annual conference will take place in Northwest Florida. Congratulations to my friend Shane Moody, President of the Destin Chamber, for bringing the conference to our region.

David Powell, Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee (MAC) has been extremely busy with activities at Tyndall AFB and NSA. As the 2011 chair he has participated in orientations at both installations and attended numerous

retirement and change of command activities. The highlight of the first quarter was the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show at TAFB and the many MAC events surrounding the festivities.

We have some new events and programs planned for this year and one of them is a trip to Ireland. This exciting adventure is organized by Collette Travels and coordinated locally by our friends at Nervig Travel Service/American Express. It will take place in November. Find out more information inside this edition and keep an eye out in your inbox for more details to come!

Recently, Crystal Shuller our VP of Communications, attended the ADFED’s Annual Addy Awards. Bay Biz received a Silver Addy Award for its promotional campaign. Hat’s off to the Panama City Beach Chamber who also received a Gold and Silver Addy award.

Thank you for your continued support of the Bay Biz, the Chamber and its mission to make Bay County a better place, to live, work and play!

Carol Robert, President / CEO

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Political Perspective:

Florida Chamber Capitol Days

Professionals from throughout Florida meet in Senate Chambers

Written by: Carol Roberts

LtoR: Carol Roberts, Governor Rick Scott & Beth Oltman

The Bay County Chamber represented the needs of your business and our

and The Union Wake Up Call. And on Tuesday

community at Florida Chamber 2011 Capitol Days from February 7th – 9th. The

evening attendees were treated to a reception at

event was held at the Hotel Duval in Tallahassee with several hundred in

the Governor’s Mansion. Governor Scott once

attendance from Chamber Execs to CEOs from major corporations.

again joined the group and was available to

Bay County’s own Allan Bense is the 2011 Chairman of the Florida Chamber.

discuss issues of importance.

The former speaker of the Florida House kicked the event off with a multitude

The following day started with guest speaker

of movers and shakers. Governor Rick Scott highlighted his initiative to streamline

Attorney General Pam Bondi. She spoke of recent

and consolidate, shared his plan to review every contract over $1M and discussed

actions to remove bath salts from the shelves of

his initiatives to improve the State’s unacceptable 12% unemployment rate. When

retailers, the extent of its abuse and the harm it

asked what the business community could do to assist him, he responded “Be

is causing to so many. The pill mill initiative is also

active. Tell your legislators what you need.”

high on her priority list. She closed her comments

Governor Scott was followed by Dr. Carrie Blanchard, Director of Research and

with discussion of the oil spill. Bondi says she and

Public Policy for the Florida Chamber Foundation. Dr. Blanchard gave an update

her staff will hold Feinberg accountable and

on the Florida Scorecard (if you are not familiar with this program visit

insure that Florida will get its share of the $20B.

floridascorecard.com). Blanchard reported that one in five homes in Florida are in

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam spoke

foreclosure and that one in ten families are receiving assistance; Florida’s global

to the group and addressed energy and water

competitiveness ranks at 4th in exports, 9th in foreign direct investment and 10th

issues in Florida. Attendees then traveled to the

in imports; and Florida’s top three industry segments are professional/business,

Capitol and gathered in the Senate Chambers.

construction, education/health.

Chairman Bense was joined by Rep. Dean Cannon

In addition, CFO Jeff Atwater and Amy Baker from the Office of Economic and

and Sen. Mike Haridolopolos who addressed the

Demographic Research gave a briefing on Florida’s Financial State of the State.

legislative session forecast, 2011 Issues Briefing

Breakout sessions were also held on numerous topics including; Education &

and the 2011 Business Agenda.

Economic Development Reform, Regulatory Reform & Business Competitiveness

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Every successful business starts with a good foundation. In 2011, make the Oaseas Professional Center yours.

This 5-level premium location on Panama City Beach will serve as headquarters for Oaseas Resorts and the chosen site for Doral Bank’s beach branch. Flexible suite/office layouts and low introductory lease rates are just two of the many reasons your business should call this location “home”. Contact our Leasing Agents to reserve your private tour and bring your business to a whole new level today. Oaseas Professional Center is “Success on Every Level”.

Join Oaseas Resorts and Doral Bank on April 21st for Business After Hours.

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the

CHANGING

FACE of

Beach Concerts

TOURISM

Airport Travelers Eco-Tourism

I

Tourism is one of the largest economic drivers in Bay County and there’s room to grow.

t is the number one industry in the State of Florida with more than 80 million visitors each year, creating 22% of the state’s sales tax revenue. The potential is mounting for Panama City Beach to capture more of the state’s visitors to our beautiful blue green waters; however, the general idea of tourism is changing. With that in mind we decided to look at what a few chamber members feel are opportunities and challenges with the changing face of tourism for Panama City Beach.

New Faces from New Places The Tourist Development Council collects bed tax dollars from the resorts and hotels on the beach to fund, among other things, marketing of the destination. If you review the TDC’s 2011 Marketing Plan, you will find two focuses that reflect the potential for change in our tourism markets; one, develop opportunities to further penetrate core markets through varying marketing efforts; and second, leverage opportunities to open Panama City Beach to new markets.

Perspective: Dan Rowe, TDC “Over the past five years, the resort destination has experienced overwhelming growth in new development of lodging, restaurants and retail stores. On May 23, 2010 Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport opened bringing service from Southwest Airlines and expanded service by Delta Airlines. Our goal for this coming year is to push beyond the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and return to our marketing of 10

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Panama City Beach as the “World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.” The overall brand is REAL. FUN. BEACH. We will accomplish this through layered, integrated programs targeting different markets, demographics and media.”

REAL. FUN. BEACH.- Eco-Tourism Also encouraging a new vision of Panama City Beach is the imagery being used in marketing efforts by the TDC. The images are of families, couples, children playing on the beach, fishing or exploring nature. The 2010 Tripsmarter.com traveler survey found that eco-tourism activities such as water sports, hiking and biking ranked high when choosing a vacation destination. All of which are available to Panama City Beach visitors. Understanding the growing popularity in outdoor activities will support the TDC and independent resorts and hotels in marketing efforts to attract new visitors.

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Boomers by Bus Twenty years ago if you were over 60 years old and looking for a hot spot to hang out between November and March, Panama City Beach was the place to be. With the changes in the economy and an aging population those days are but a distant memory. A recent Visit Florida survey found that the Boomer generation is looking for opportunities to explore multiple destinations on one trip.

They are more adventurous and eager to see the world; less likely to set up a winter

see a large tour bus pull into the parking lot at a local shopping center or attraction, say “Thank You” for taking a chance on Panama City Beach!

Score with Sports Event Enthusiasts Sometimes over looked is the large number of sporting events that are held on Panama City Beach and the impact of those teams on an annual basis. When these teams come to town they bring with them parents and siblings who attempt to make the most of their trip to the beach.

Sports home. With the help of tour operators and organizations like the American Bus Association we can reach out to people eager to explore and offer our destination.

Perspective: Annie Holcombe, Oaseas Resorts: “The Motorcoach Market has long been a staple for big cities and large tourist attractions like Disney, New York City and Branson, MO. After attending the annual “ABA Marketplace” in January, I found that not only are there many companies interested in our beautiful beaches as one of their stops, but they have hundreds of people interested in Panama City Beach! A perfect fit and one that could spell relief for our tourism community that has suffered too many quiet winters. The buses come in for 3 days to 3 months and bring the friendliest people you could meet. So next time you

But what can be done to expand the scope of the sporting event opportunities on Panama City Beach?

Perspective: Steve Bailey, The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach “Annually, Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort is host to many sporting groups including cheerleading competitions, softball championships, golf tournaments, Ironman competition, football and soccer tournaments. To increase the amount of tournaments or events that Panama City Beach can accommodate, the destination needs more multi-use facilities. Those facilities would allow for an expanded sports base from our traditional baseball and softball markets. Adding additional sports segments would increase the influx of visitors during the shoulder seasons when sports are in full swing. There is

potential growth to our destination through the sports market but there is also the opportunity for job creation through the positions and staging for managing facilities and servicing the events. Focusing on this segment of Panama City Beach tourism could produce a huge return in the future.”

Spring Break Not Just for College Students Every March and early April there is an influx of college students scampering up and down the beach crowding Front

Winter Visitors beach road and sleeping eight to ten in one hotel room. Spring Break is a much needed shot in the arm to many businesses after the quiet winter season but there has been a long standing discussion on the impact of Spring Break to our reputation as a destination. One company who looks at Spring Break as a revenue generator is Spinnaker Beach Club, which has been an icon on Panama City Beach for decades.

Perspective: WB “Sparky” Sparkman III, Spinnaker Beach Club “Spring Break is viewed by many as a valuable piece of beach business and vital to their survival, particularly in recent years. It has transformed through the years, but much of the transformation has been in the form of perception. The college breakers have changed some, but they remain a savvy informed group in general, most of continued on page 12 April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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4th of July at Pier Park

Business Meetings continued from “Changing Face of Tourism” whom come to town to have a good time as they break from the rigors of becoming the future leaders of this country.

One fact about Spring Break that is widely misunderstood is the dramatic difference between college and high school (aka "family") Spring Break. About the only similarity between the two is they both occur in the spring! These two components produce very different results. Both provide opportunity for our destination and, certainly, both present challenges! The high school or family component occurs after the collegiate part and leaves, in my view, the most lasting impression for our community.

Spring Break consists of two distinct groups of visitors, both of which are currently vital to our tourist driven local economy “ Shoulder Season Event Goers In 2010, with the help of funds from BP, the TDC was able to dive into hosting events in the late summer and fall to create an impact on the shoulder season. With those events under our belt, planning for 2011 events will provide an opportunity to create interest in visiting Panama City Beach in the fall. But how do we move past these events filling up with locals and make a greater heads in beds impact?

Perspective: Tom Nocito, Southern Resorts “Having the ability to plan events with the funds from BP was a great opportunity in itself. To truly make events an impactful part of our tourism economy there would need to be plans in place to promote, manage and evaluate the events for their contribution.

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One option that can be considered in using these events to put heads in beds would be to offer free admission to guests who can show a valid confirmation from their accommodation provide. This would create the ability to track the impact of the event. If other locals and day visitors want to be part of the event, they could pay whatever the established cost for the event would be. I believe that offering a discounted or free admission to an event, and advertising the event in this way, could be a real incentive to a potential guest.

Scheduling the events around the fall breaks of school might also increase visitors in the fall.

Over all, events have great potential for improving the shoulder seasons, there just needs to be a plan of action for management and promotion of the events to create a greater heads in beds impact.”

Business Travelers Last but not least, the meetings market makes a substantial impact on tourism year round. It is mainly comprised of the following segments; corporate, military, associations, fraternal organizations, social meetings, and local catering events. Just a few years ago with the collapse of many large corporate organizations in the country, the meeting market took a hit when out-of-town conferences, meetings and events appeared to be an inappropriate use of company funds. Today, there is life in the meetings marketing again and there is hope that new companies will find Panama City Beach to be the perfect place to meet.

Perspective: Dawn Wolfe, Bay Point Marriott “The first half of 2010 was a little sluggish in terms of booking activity. However, with the opening of the new airport, lead volume increased dramatically. Meeting and Convention bookings that were secured the last half of 2010 put us right back on track for what we foresee as a very successful 2011. We’ve been able to attract and secure opportunities from new markets thanks to the improved air access. Clients in Houston, Nashville, and Baltimore appreciate the ability to hold their events, trainings, and meetings at a resort destination without having to compromise their bottom line.”

So what does all this mean? It means Panama City Beach is headed down a long path to growing our tourism through various markets that have not been tapped into previously. The work of our community leaders and the independent resorts, restaurants and attractions on Panama City Beach will continue to open up new markets and invite new visitors to our sandy white beaches. With any luck they will become repeat visitors and our greatest advocates for sharing their pictures and stories with family and friends.

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&about

out 1.

3.

5.

7.

2.

& 2011

4.

6.

8.

out

about

1.

Mel and Lee Ann Leonard, Dan Rowe, Annual Dinner

2.

Kal and Melody Squires, Annual Dinner

3.

Bay Young Professionals Tour, Port Panama City

4.

Marty McDaniel and Annie Holcombe, First Friday

5.

Petra and Gage Blevins, Annual Dinner

6.

David Powell, Navy Base Orientation

7.

Carol Roberts, Cong Southerland, Jill McKinzie Southerland Inauguration Trip

8.

Mark McKinney & Chuck Bond, Annual Dinner April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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Jenny Dula, BEF graduate

Sklar Paggert, student and Andrea Davis, mentor

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education: TAKING STOCK IN CHILDREN SCHOLARSHIPS, MENTORS AND HOPE

written by: Beth Deluzain, BEF Executive Director

The Bay Education Foundation is the local agency for the statewide Take Stock in Children program. Take Stock in Children is an award-winning program that offers scholarships and mentors to promising young people in need. In Bay County, 84 middle and high school students and 49 college students are Take Stock in Children scholars.

Students typically are selected in 6th grade and remain a part of the program until they complete their first post-secondary degree or certification. Take Stock in Children students and their parents enter into a contract with the Bay Education Foundation.

Students must strive for excellence in grades, attendance, and attitude. They are also required to volunteer in the community and to remain drug free and crime free. In return, the Bay Education Foundation provides each student with a scholarship, a community mentor, and a variety of support services to assist in the college preparation process.

“Our scholarship committee reviews applications very carefully,” says committee chairman Don O’Neal. “We estimate that we invest about $24,000 in every student, so we want to be sure that our investments pay off.”

While the large scholarship is the program feature that initially attracts most students; mentoring ultimately makes the most difference. Every Take Stock in Children scholar is assigned a mentor. Mentors are adult community members who agree to 14

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

visit students at school three times a month and help them stay focused on their responsibilities in the program. While mentors are asked to commit for a year at a time, many stay with their kids through middle and high school.

Each year, the Bay Education Foundation selects Mentors of the Year. Nominated by their students, this award is designed to showcase the importance of mentoring.

This year’s recipients are Andrea Davis and Doug Merkle, both mentor graduating seniors.

“If you want to see and feel the difference you are making in the world,” says Janet Kessler with BEF, “mentoring is the place for you. Nothing is more rewarding than helping kids achieve their goals.”

One success story is Jenny Dula, a first grade teacher at Cedar Grove Elementary School. With support from Take Stock in Children, Jenny completed her B.S. in elementary education and later earned a Master’s degree. Jenny and her husband have a duaghter, Charlotte and are expecting daughter Abigail this spring. They are active members of their church and community.

“This is exactly the story we imagine when we award a Take Stock Scholarship,” says Ronnie Adams, BEF President. “We want to help build many young families whose future is bright and whose potential contributions to our county and state are unlimited.”

There are 12 other people who have completed the program with majors in nursing, criminology, business and social work to name a few. Most of them live and work in Bay County and are good citizens who contribute to our community.

“The link between prosperity and education is indisputable,” says Adams. “We are investing in people and in our community when we provide an opportunity for those who want to succeed.”

Funding the Take Stock in Children program is a major focus of the Bay Education Foundation. A local donation of $7,500 earns a 100% match from the Florida Prepaid Foundation, which is enough to purchase one four-year scholarship. This year, the Bay Education Foundation launched a new fundraising event, Arts Alive, to supplement community donations. The event was held on April 1st.

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education: FSU-PC: New College and Programs CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAMPUS AND STUDENTS The Florida State University’s newest college is the College of Applied Studies.

As one of the 16 colleges and schools at FSU, the College of Applied Studies makes its home at the Panama City campus. Approved by the FSU Board of Trustees in June 2010, the new college makes it possible for FSU Panama City to develop and offer new degree and certificate programs that will have the greatest impact upon meeting workforce need.

In 2009, enrollment growth targets were established for FSU Panama City and initiatives began that would help grow enrollment to approximately 1,400 students by fall 2012. The new programs and opportunities offered by the College of Applied Studies will make a significant contribution to reaching those enrollment targets and position the campus for longterm growth. FSU Panama City’s Dean, Dr. Ken Shaw, will serve as Dean of the College of Applied Studies. Three programs have recently been approved: the Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Leisure Services Administration, the Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Security and the online Graduate Certificate in Event Management.

Leisure activities are an integral part of people’s lifestyles and billions of dollars are spent annually on recreation programs and facilities in public, private and nonprofit recreation agencies. The Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation and Leisure Services Administration fills a growing need for qualified professionals to manage recreation programs, lands and facilities in various community environments and agencies.

Potential employers in this field include public recreation and park agencies, nonprofit community and cultural organizations, commercial recreation businesses, armed forces recreation, resorts and hotels,

Written by: Dr. Ken Shaw, Dean, FSU Panama City

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FSU PANAMA CITY

Visit pc.fsu.edu for academic program, admission and registration information and requirements or contact the Office of Admissions and Records at 850-770-2160. sports management organizations and tourism agencies. The program will begin admitting students in August 2011.

The Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Security has been identified by faculty at FSU Panama City as a critically needed program within the state of Florida. The FSU Panama City Criminology and Criminal Justice faculty and Underwater Crime Scene Investigation team have been providing advanced training opportunities for public safety dive teams and law enforcement professionals for the past 8 years. In response to the continued need for advanced education and training for these professionals around the state, the Public Safety and Security program was approved by the FSU Board of Trustees at its January 2011 meeting. The degree consists of four major choices including Police Science (AS to BS), Law Enforcement Operations (AA to BS), Intelligence (AA to BS) and Crime Scene Investigation (AA to BS). The program will be offered in online and on-campus and will begin admitting students for fall semester 2011.

The online Graduate Certificate in Event Management provides advanced knowledge and practical experience in the planning, marketing and management of events.

The program consists of four courses including a practicum. It is available to degree-seeking graduate students or professionals and interested individuals who have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university enrolled as a non-degree seeking student. The course curriculum includes economic impact, marketing, sponsorship acquisition, ethics, risk management and safety. This program is essential for hospitality and resort management professionals, as well as event professionals in government, corporate, non-profit organizations, marketing and communications, and parks and recreation services. This certificate can serve as a professional complement to the degree in Recreation and Leisure Services Administration. Those interested may apply for admission now.

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Trends: iPad’s for Business Apple’s iPad has become a household name with consumers everywhere. The iPad made its debut in early 2010 as a thin and light designed full color tablet mostly known for its use with web, email, photos and video.

However, it’s recently become an impressive piece of technology for business users of every kind with a slogan: “A new way to work”. Here are examples of how local businesses are using it, which may generate some useful ideas for you.

Cebo Campbell, Cybersytes meets with web client Printer and paper not required

made the decision to soon start placing them in the hands of our

Local television station, News 13-WMBB, found the cutting edge

anchors and eventually the field reporters.”

technology could also cut costs. Heather Kretzer, News Director

Presentations on the go, wherever you go

with News 13-WMBB said, “With five sets of scripts for seven daily

The most common area iPad users are transforming the way work

shows at an average of 50 pages each, the costs of paper, ink and

is done is for making presentations. The iPad has a variety of case

printer maintenance was more than $10,000 annually.” News 13-

styles available that can also serve as a stand for better visibility

WMBB got the idea when general manager, Terry Cole, read about

and utility. Sales persons and others can scroll through slides to

another station using iPads in a trade journal. For News 13-WMBB

show a customer, demonstrate a website and even present video.

the change was simple and inexpensive. They

Local Bay County business owner, Todd Neves

bought seven of the tablets at $500 each,

of Neves Media, stated, “We use it to review

set-up a secured wireless network, created a

video, audio and print projects while away from

dedicated email address on the iPad and

the office and sync between Google docs and

installed a pdf writer on their computers and

customer sites when we are doing creative

a pdf viewer on the iPads. You’ll see News 13-

sessions so that the rest of the staff can

WMBB’s anchors using the iPads daily on the

immediately be updated on project statuses.”

news. Another local TV station News 7 –

The iPad includes support for a number of

WJHG, has not made the switch yet but Todd Neves, Neves Media previews different types of email accounts and calendars clients new commercial including Microsoft Exchange, Google, AOL, anticipate it in their near future. News Director, Mark Wildman says “As part of researching with other sister

mobileme and Yahoo. You can also use it to create, review and edit

market stations that have successfully made the conversion from

common office documents, presentations, complex spreadsheets

paper scripts to iPads, we have found every News Director say

and access important files on your corporate network.

they wish they had made the switch sooner. Therefore, we have 16

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

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Your Business: There’s an App for that The success in the iPad for business world stems from the many powerful third-party applications also known as “apps�; which are developed on a daily basis. Designers are using apps to create mock up sketches and renderings on the spot. Cebo Campbell with ‘CyberSytes’ says, “When in a room with a client, anyplace, we are able to show them their website development including how it functions rather than the back end with coding. We train our sales reps and developers to log right into the program and edit the sight via the iPad.

“We also use it to view and sign contracts right on the spot.�

Her first word.

Her first step.

Are you ready for her first emergency?

Introducing the area’s only Pediatric ER. It’s important to remember that children aren’t little adults, and that their bodies and injuries require specialized attention and care.

You’d do anything for your children.

So why not make the right choice in health care?

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April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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Valerie Simmons, SBDC Associate Director meets with a Small Business Owner

Small Business Development Center offers assistance for struggling businesses

M

any businesses in the Bay County area, as well as across the state of Florida, have suffered from the economic decline. Periods of financial crisis pose special challenges for many small and medium businesses.

These entities, once stable, profitable and competitive, are struggling to improve operational and financial performance.

Consider the impact for Florida alone, when small and medium businesses make up an overwhelming 91% of the employer firms and additionally contribute to more than one-third of all new jobs.

According to the Florida Small Business Development Center Network (FSBDCN) this means that approximately 91% of all businesses are struggling and possibly failing and as a consequence are creating less employment opportunities.

The FSBDCN has developed a targeted program to assist these existing businesses in need. This new program, called the Growth Acceleration Program (GAP), will help existing small to medium enterprises get back on their feet by providing the in-depth, highlevel technical assistance they need to succeed in the new economy. To implement this process, the FSBDCN will provide professional business turnaround and growth specialists across the state who have expertise and qualifications to assist and consult distressed but viable businesses in the areas of Strategic/Business Plan Services, Marketing, Financial and Capital Access, and Cash Flow Management. GAP services will be offered at no charge to eligible participants. Each participant will go through a four-stage process that includes: Pre-Assessment and

18

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Written by: Pam Cooley, SBDC

Orientation, Business â&#x20AC;&#x153;Health-Checkâ&#x20AC;? Assessment, Health Check Report and Presentation, and Follow on Consultation or Training.

If you are an existing, viable business interested in participating in this program, please review the criteria below prior to contacting your local Small Business Development Center.

Businesses must meet the following guidelines to participate in the Growth Acceleration Program: l

l

l

In-business for a minimum of three years Employ 5 or more full time employees Have $500,000 or more in gross annual sales

The FSBDCN believes that since these specific businesses are the greatest contributors to new job creation, the focused services available through hired professional consultants will meet the complex and diverse needs of the market and will result in the stimulation of the economy. The objective of this program is to support not just job creation and retention, but also the creation and retention of new wealth (i.e. sales revenue), better positioning to access new capital and repay existing debt obligations, and stabilize and save businesses.

For more information about the GAP program and how the Bay County area SBDC can help your business, please contact: The Small Business Development Center at 850.271.1108 or www.northfloridabiz.com

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 20

Small Business of the Quarter Mad Hatter Automotive Center Congratulations to Mad Hatter Automotive Center for being selected as the Small Business Institute’s Small Business of the Quarter.

Helping children and promoting education are close to Mad Hatter’s heart.

Mad Hatter Automotive Center has been in business in Bay County for over 30 years.

They strive to provide their customers with a relaxed and enjoyable experience when dealing with the repairs of their automobiles; to create

personal relationships through honesty and integrity and to maintain the highest degree of quality workmanship in completion of their work. Mad Hatter provides complete general automotive repair service for both domestic and foreign vehicles. Their motto is, “If It Can Be Done, We Can Do It.” Therefore, they work closely with Anchorage Children’s Home and the Boys and Girls Club of Bay County to help them in their automotive repair needs. They also provide free automotive advice to the public through various local publications. David Lovett, owner of Mad Hatter, also volunteers on the Bay County Value Adjustment Board and The Rotary Club of Panama City.

Does your business have fewer than 35 employees and are you a member of the Bay County Chamber? If so, your business may be eligible for Small Business of the Quarter. The SBI is currently accepting applications. Businesses that are selected receive publicity in the Bay Biz, recognition on the Chamber’s website, www.panamacity.org, recognition at First Friday and a sign for your business recognizing you as the Small Business of the Quarter.

For more information or an application, please contact: Elizabeth at 215-3761 or elizabeth@baychamberfl.com.

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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The

CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS IN

Biz lisT

“THE BIZ LIST”.

If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news for publication, e-mail a press release and photo to crystal@baychamberfl.com

The Bay County Chamber Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony was held on January 28th where the Chamber gave out the following awards:

Franklin Harrison of Harrison Sale was given the highest honor within the Chamber, The Lauren Merriam Memorial Award. Harrison was chosen for this award for his commitment to the community's well being, as exemplified by involvement in civic and charitable endeavors contributing to the betterment of Bay County and the benefit of its citizens.

HSG Accounting was se-

lected by the Chamber's Small Business Institute for the Jerry Mills Small Business of the Year award because the business demonstrated successful growth, stability and community involvement. The award is named after local businessman Jerry Mills. Mills was the first chairman of the Small Business Committee

20

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Victoria Williams, of the Associates Architects, LLC won the Member of the Year Award.

The Member of Year Award is presented annually to a Chamber member who has gone above and beyond just being a "member." Williams always goes above and beyond the call of duty. She has served as chairperson of the Chamber's Small Business Institute and the Ambassador Committee. Over the years Williams has also served on the Chamber Board of Directors, Local/State Government, Business Referral Network, Expo Committee and Industry Appreciation Task Force.

Karen Durden, wife of the late K. Earl Durden accepted the Chairman's Award on his behalf.

He is only the second recipient in the 98 year history of the Bay County Chamber, with it being presented once before to

Brother Si Mathison over 15 years ago. This gentleman was relatively a newcomer to our community when he moved to our community in 1988 from Dothan, Alabama. He founded a local community bank; served as Chairman of the Florida Transportation Commission for 8 eight years, was largely credited with securing the funding for the new Hathaway Bridge, four-laning of state highways 79 and 77, was a member of the Florida Base Relocation Appointment Committee, the Bay County Economic Development Alliance, chaired the K-12 grade sub committee of the FSU PC Presidential Blue Ribbon Committee, was on the board of the Florida Council of 100, a director of the James Madison Institute and director and past chairman of the Florida Justice Reform Institute. He was an active participant and proponent for his community and the state's of Florida, Alabama and Georgia. He was named by the Florida Trend Magazine as one of the 100 most influential persons in Florida. Mr. Durden passed away in April of last year.

The Better Business Bureau serving Northwest Florida welcomes Dr. Carol Law to its board of directors. Law is the president of Drug Free Workplaces, Inc., a BBB Accredited Business for nearly 15 years. She is a nationally certified substance abuse program administrator with over 30 years’ experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields.

Florida Therapy Services, Inc. Is proud to announce that we have moved our Corporate and Panama City Office to a new, larger location at 2711 W. 15th Street in the St. Andrews area. Located at the corner of Drake Avenue and 15th Street, our new facilities offer more accommodations and space for staff, clients, and partners. We

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 22

look forward to sharing with the community our many accomplishments and look forward to the year ahead of providing Bay County and our surrounding areas the best mental health services available. For more information, visit www.flatherapy.com

Cornerstone Marketing & Advertising – 8 Gold, 7 Silver

Cyber Sytes, Inc. – 2 Gold , 19 Silver Doral Bank – 3 Silver Gulf Coast Community College – 4 Silver Innovations Federal Credit Union – 2 Gold, 2 Silver

Kerigan Marketing Associates – 2 Gold,

21 Silver

Magic Broadcasting – 2 Gold,

fessional talent, superb initiative, and hands-on leadership skills guarantee outstanding results in all endeavors. Holly’s professionalism and can-do attitude set the standard for all to emulate and have contributed immensely to the increased productivity and contract procurement success enjoyed by ARINC CSE.

2 Silver

Neves Media – 3 Gold Panama City Beach Chamber – 1 Gold,

1 Silver American Advertising Federation-Panama City presented its 2011 ADDY Awards for advertising creative excellence Saturday, February 11th. This annual dinner and awards presentation was attended by over 100 individuals of the local advertising and media businesses.

Entries were judged based on originality and creative strategy.

Neves Media captured the Judge’s Choice in Broadcast for a 30-second television commercial for Envy Boutique. Cornerstone Marketing & Advertising garnered the Judge’s Choice in Logo Design for Southern Theaters, a Judge’s Choice Award in Publication and Design for it’s Pinup Girls Editorial Spread done for VIE Magazine and Best of Show for their website design for nancy Drew. The Judge’s Choice in Photography went to Jennifer Hendrix, a student at Gulf Coast Community College, for her photo entitled “Stairway to New Orleans”.

Please congratulate all the 2011 AAF-Panama City ADDY Awards winners:

Bay Bank & Trust Co. – 2 Silver Bay County Chamber of Commerce –

1 Silver

Color It You, LLC – 1 Silver

Panama City Radio Group – 1 Silver The Eye Center of North Florida – 1 Silver United Way of NWFL – 1 Silver WJHG – 1

Student ADDY Awards: James Montgomery – 1 Student Gold Jennifer Hendrix – 3 Student Gold

Kevin McKinzie was awarded the ARINC Advanced Concepts Engineering (ACE) Employee of the Year for 2010. Throughout the year, Kevin has provided superb leadership and support to ARINC and his customers. Kevin practiced the leadership philosophy of “Service Before Self”.

His positive attitude has been infectious throughout the entire ARINC Project Team and his value to the ARINC Team cannot be over stated. Kevin’s actions have reflected well on himself, on our customers, and on ARINC. Holly Gordon was selected as the ARINC Coastal Systems Engineering (CSE) Employee of the Year for 2010. Holly’s sustained stellar performance is underscored by pride, self-improvement, and accomplishments. A dynamic self starter whose pro-

The Honorable Bill Kinsaul, Bay County Clerk of the Circuit Court, recently completed his 240 hours of initial New Clerk training to earn his FACC Clerk Certification. Clerks are required to have 240 hours of training for the initial certification. After the initial certification, Clerks are required to attend 36 additional hours per year to maintain their certification.

“This training was an invaluable process in preparing me for the duties I perform each day as Clerk,” Kinsaul said of the training. “The Clerk has a variety of duties that encompass many unique challenges. I believe this training will serve me well in making the best decisions in serving the citizens of Bay County.”

Leonard will be responsible for the development of destination relationships and site content to support market development and growth.

“I’m extremely proud to represent one of my favorite markets and my hometown, Panama City Beach”. “It is part of the BookIt.com business model to have a passionate in-market manager for every market we serve,” said Bud Finlaw, CEO and President of BookIt.com. “Lee Ann’s passion for selling Panama City Beach is obvious from the moment you meet her, and we look forward to merging our passion for our hometown with hers.” Leonard offers 12 years of experience in the hospitality and broadcast industries and serves on the board for the Bay County Chamber of Commerce

Gulf Coast Medical Center Cancer Program Coordinator Charla Carter, CTR, is the recipient of an HCA North Florida Division Innovators Award. The award was given as a result of Carter’s work in developing a breast cancer education program for area Girl Scouts and their mothers. The program was recognized for its focused educational outreach to young women in the Bay County area. continued on page 22

BookIt.com announced earlier this year, Lee Ann Leonard to the position of Market Manager for Panama City Beach, headquarters to BookIt.com.

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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The

Biz lisT

continued from page 21

ing. Awards were won for the college magazine “The Clipper”, the “Student Success” outdoor ad campaign, and three Visual & Performing Arts posters (“Resurrecting Van Gogh”, “Ramona”, and “A Doll’s House”).

Hutt Insurance Agency, a third-generation, family-owned agency is celebrating 50 YEARS of service to the region providing insurance to businesses, families, and non-profit organizations. Since 1992, Trey Hutt has emulated the business practices of his father and grandfather, with the assistance of terrific employees, in carrying forward a legacy of integrity, service, and community involvement.

Congratulations to the cast, crew and production team of GCCC's November 2010 production of “A Doll’s House”. The production was adjudicated as part of the Florida Community College Activities Association Theatre Division and received the top ranking of “SUPERIOR”.

The following people were also individually recognized: Stage Management - Emily Hankins (current scholarship student) Acting - Leeah Taunton (current scholarship student) and Allen Walker (GCCC alumnus) Congratulations to the GCCC Marketing Office (Laura Green, Erin Ossewaarde and Chris Thomes) for their three statewide Association of Florida Colleges and four local ADDY wins for outstanding achievement in marketing and advertis22

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Girls Incorporated of Bay County is pleased to announce Tammy Dunaway has joined their team as the Executive Director. Tammy’s loyalty to our community began over thirty years ago when her parents transplanted her family into Bay County as Military retirees. Ms. Dunaway has served as a Student Advocate for Bay Education Foundation, Patient Advocate for Gulf Coast Medical Center. She will promote the organization and its need for active community support and participation. Ms. Dunaway brings with her an AA in Communications from Gulf Coast Community College, a BA in Social Sciences from Florida State University Panama City, and is currently completing her MS in Counseling and Psychology this fall at Troy University Panama City.

Southwest Airlines would like to announce KJ Rice as the Station Manager at the new

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. Rice brings with him to the new airport 25 years of technical operation management and airline industry. He provides leadership of local operation to assure high quality service and onetime performance to Southwest Airlines Customers. Rice is a 1981 Distinguished Graduate, US Army and brings with him a BA in Christian Education from The University of Ozark, and is a 2008 MIT Graduate.

Mentors of the Year, Doug Merkle and Andrea Davis, two community professionals. Both mentor student scholars in the Take Stock In Children scholarship program, which makes dreams of college a reality for students who show promise.

Mentoring is essential in offering motivation, support and role models." Read more about the program in this issue of the Bay Biz.

Oaseas Resorts is proud to announce it has relocated its corporate headquarters in Panama City Beach, Florida, to a newly-acquired building just over 43,000 square feet in size.

The headquarters is located at 415 Richard Jackson Boulevard, at the corner of Richard Jackson Blvd. and Hutchison Blvd., in the building that was formerly known as the Beach Financial Center (occupied by the former Peoples First Bank). Leasing opportunities within the building exist immediately at highly competitive rates. A Doral Bank branch is the first tenant of the lease space. Contact Karen Duggan for leasing information at 850-249-0276.

Veteran economic development executive Neal Wade joined The St. Joe Company in late 2010 as the company’s Senior Vice President of Economic Development. In his new role, he leads the team responsible for the development of VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre, the region’s largest commercial development located adjacent to the newlyopened Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Wade, who worked for St. Joe from 2000 to 2003, served for the past eight years as Director of the Alabama Development Office (ADO), the state’s lead economic development organization credited with creating 20,000 new jobs annually. During his tenure, the ADO was twice named the top state economic development agency in the United States.

Wade’s return to St. Joe evidences the company’s commitment to take an active role in economic development and job creation in Northwest Florida.

Bay Education Foundation would like to congratulate Its Take Stock In Children 2011

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 24

The

Biz lisT One of the top economic developers in the United States, Wade will lead a powerhouse team that also includes economic development veteran Kevin Johnson, who joined St. Joe in 2009 from The Research Triangle Park, and CB Richard Ellis, the largest commercial real estate brokerage firm in the world.

The Better Business Bureau Foundation Serving Northwest Florida welcomes Ronnie Gilmore as a new Foundation trustee. Gilmore is the owner of Gilmore Services, a business started by his father in 1955 and run by Gilmore since 1979.

Gilmore Services has been a BBB Accredited Business since 2001.

Lamar Advertising is proud to announce the promotion of Chris Avondet to Vice President / General Manager of the Erie, PA Lamar plant. Chris began his career with Lamar in Providence, RI in real estate development & leasing. After achieving success in that department, he moved into outside sales. In 2008 Chris was promoted and moved to Panama City and assumed the role of Sales Manager for the Lamar Panama City plant.

Oceaneering is proud to announce the expansion of the Oceaneering brand name from the former multiflex business unit to “Oceaneering Umbilical Solutions”. Over the past several years the entire company has transformed into a larger global organization. Within the Subsea Products division, Multiflex has invested significantly in its facilities, made improvements toward a best-in-class safety culture, and analyzed all phases of project management and overall engineering capabilities.

The name change reflects this growth and in our primary focus on providing creative solutions across the entire range of customer operations in subsea environments.

Grand Panama Beach Resort is excited to announce the launch of a newly branded website featuring consumer-friendly navigation, photos, and informative content to educate guests in their search of upscale accommodations on the Gulf of Mexico’s pristine beaches. In addition, an interactive Blog and Facebook social marketing platform is integrated to give guests a day-by-day glimpse into life at the beach. Designed by Cornerstone Marketing and Advertising, Inc.—The Idea Boutique®—located in Grayton Beach, Florida, the website includes an intricate network of links to area shopping, dining and recreational choices avail-

able to complete a grand vacation. To view the newly launched website, visit www.grandpanamabeachresort.com.

Second Chance of Northwest Florida, Inc. is happy to announce the appointment of Mr. Michael Brill as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Brill is a CPA with 22 years of accounting experience including 6 years as a Financial Controller in the technology industry and 16 years with Segers, Sowell, Stewart, Johnson, & Brill, P.A. His specialties include income tax preparation and planning, accounting, and small business consulting. Mr. Brill is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Florida Institute of Certified public Accountants. Mr. Brill is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University and has performed post graduate work at The Florida State University.

Manager. Ms. Ainslie joins the Bureau with a strong customer service background, including past tourism experience with the Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s Resort Council, and the Bay County Motel & Restaurant Association (which is now the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce). More recent experience includes working as Area Sales Manager at Dillard’s in Pier Park. She also worked with Southwest Airlines in Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina.

Summit Bank, N.A. is proud to announce the promotion of Terri Hester to Loan Compliance Officer. Terri is one of the original Summit Bank employees and has many other roles including Executive Assistant to the President and Chief Lending Officer, Secretary to the Board of Directors and Head of Loan Operations. Summit Bank, N.A. is headquartered in Panama City.

Barrie Ainslie recently joined the staff of the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau as Visitor Services April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

23

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 25

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11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 26

Defense Intel:

written by

Jacqui Barker NSWC PCD Public Affairs

NSWC PCD remains strong despite budget cuts

D

espite the national budget cuts, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) classifies current business operations as “healthy,” but subject to growing environmental factors.

A sign of the sustained operations at the largest command on the Bay County Navy base, resides in the organization’s workforce. Although the federal government froze salaries in late Fiscal Year 2010 (FY10), NSWC PCD hired 130 new employees; 77 were scientists or engineers, 33 percent were women and 18 percent were minority enhancing our workforce diversity. To date, NSWC PCD employs over 1,300 military and civilian personnel and contributes over $313 million to Bay County and approximately $495 million to the state of Florida “Over the past 32 months, we have hired approximately 425 employees resulting in a civilian workforce growth of East aerial view of the Navy Base approximately 225 while also replacing more than 200 employees who have retired or changed jobs,” said NSWC “Times are still good, but we live in PCD Technical Director Dr. Delbert “Ace” Summey, Senior a very complex and volatile national Executive Service (SES). and world environment which places NSWC PCD’s area of expertise for over 60 years resides new constraints and challenges on within mine countermeasures – in fact this Navy command achieving our strategic goals and is the birth place for airborne mine countermeasures. executing our mission,” Summey said.

Additional business areas include Naval Special Warfare, “A growing national deficit, described Diving and Life Support, and Amphibious and Expeditionary by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Maneuvers Warfare. as our biggest risk to national security, Over the years, the organization’s business base has almost certainly implies future grown to $589 million in FY10. “That’s 100 more work Department of Defense (DoD) budget years than in fiscal year 2009. A decade ago, we were a One of Naval Surface Warfare cuts.” $300 million activity. Today, we are almost a $600 million Center Panama City Division's core Those anticipated budget cuts a year activity,” Summey said. “Current, FY11 funding also business areas includes the could yield reductions in planned reflects a healthy outlook for Mine Warfare, Special production of SEAL Delivery future spending for the NSWC PCD Warfare, Diving and Life Support and Expeditionary Vehicles, or SDVs. U.S. Navy photo for the FY11 and budget planning year Maneuver Warfare.”

2012, however, NSWC PCD has taken Nationally, Summey cited the myriad of ways the Navy proactive business measures to prepare for the anticipated cuts. laboratory in Bay County directly supports U.S. service members “We are already pursuing initiatives to cut our overhead on the front lines around the world, to include work on the resources for FY12-FY16 thereyby ensuring we will operate more Navy’s new class of ships, the Littoral Combat Ship, or LCS. NSWC efficiently over the next six years,” Summey said. “Yet, even as the PCD also provided technical support onboard USS Bataan (LHA-5) nation’s leadership discusses hiring and salary freezes, our Warfare after the Haiti earthquake, provided upgrades to mine Center continues to be relevant to our nation’s defenses. While countermeasure ships in the Navy’s fleet, upgraded Landing Craft budgets may impact national security, we continue to produce Air Cushions ( LCACs) in the fleet, and locally delivered more than relevant, affordable defense systems for our nation’s services that 400 Mine Roller systems (300 produced locally). The Mine Roller continue to or will strengthen this nation’s security.” is used in Afghanistan for anti-improvised explosive device detection and neutralization."

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 27

{

demographics

ECONOMIC PROFILE Bay County Population: 168,852 Labor Force: 89,030 Households: 74,585 Per Capita Income: $29,357

Median Age: 40 Average Wage: $32,626 Household Income: $47,505

current labor statistics for bay county LABOR FORCE

EMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED RATE

Feb 11 Jan 11 Dec 10

89,030 88,608 89,391

79,041 77,663 78,826

9,989 10,945 10,565

11.2% 12.4% 11.8%

Feb 10 Jan 10 Dec 09

89,560 89,013 88,691

79,213 78,260 78,739

10,347 10,753 9,925

11.6% 12.1% 11.2%

real estate sales EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES BAY COUNTY MEDIAN PRICE

REALTOR SALES

MEDIUM PRICE

Feb 11 Jan 11 Dec 10

103 86 130

$157,700 $150,000 $138,900

13,701 12,151 15,550

$121,900 $122,200 $133,100

Feb 10 Jan 10 Dec 09

70 71 94

$142,900 $158,900 $165,700

11,890 10,465 14,923

$131,300 $130,900 $139,800

Feb 11 Jan 11 Dec 10

54 66 66

$175,000 $150,900 $175,000

6,984 6,681 6,673

$77,300 $79,400 $88,100

Feb 10 Jan 10 Dec 09

53 40 47

$183,300 $200,000 $177,500

5,085 4,631 5,955

$92,200 $97,300 $106,700

EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS

bay county building permits RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

8 10 9

2 3 5

Feb 10 Jan 10 Dec 09

20 3 14

3 2 10

bay county sales tax collections GROSS SALES

TAXABLE SALES

TAX COLLECTIONS

Jan 11 Dec 10 Nov 10

$505,216,099.00 $359,944,707.00 $404,279,870.27

$237,406,989.00 $193,900,172.00 $203,530,985.00

$13,723,581.00 $12,441,957/00 $10,309,313.11

Jan 10 Dec 09 Nov 09

$478,915,129.41 $365,516,236.00 $386,338,599.00

$210,216,229.53 $179,719,981.00 $196,030,539.00

$10,817,086.75 $11,356,670.00 $12,120,418.00

26

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Inside Bay County’s Economic Development Efforts The Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is pleased to be a part of the new Bay Biz, providing quarterly economic information that is pertinent to your business. The INSIGHTS article is designed to keep you well-informed of your local economic development office’s ongoing efforts to enhance the business climate and assist locating and expanding businesses.

FLORIDA

REALTOR SALES

Feb 11 Jan 11 Dec 10

InsIGHts

If you are a resident of the City of Lynn Haven, you will see an important economic development incentive on your April ballot. The item is a referendum to allow the Lynn Haven Commission to be authorized to grant property tax exemptions to new and expanding businesses to establish new jobs. At a time when we are all concerned about jobs and growing our local economy, it is important to support programs that make our area more competitive and spur new jobs.

Early voting is April 11-15, and Election Day is April 19. The EDA supports this initiative and encourages you to vote YES for the property tax exemption to create new jobs.

We are fortunate to have a legislative delegation that has been very active in helping our region recover from the effects of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Thanks to the efforts of Senator Gaetz, the Senate unanimously passed the Oil Spill Recovery Act, Senate Bill 248, which outlines programs to create

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 28

jobs and diversify our economy. Among other provisions, this bill offers targeted economic incentives for businesses that locate to the affected area from other states and spurs economic diversification through a $10 million appropriation. The bill also allocates three-fourths of any fines or settlements collected from BP to the seven counties of coastal Northwest Florida. A related bill, House Bill 1309, was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Coley, Rep. Patronis and three other Northwest Florida legislators. We applaud our elected officials’ vision for sustained growth and look forward to seeing this bill’s movement through the House of Representatives.

The EDA’s Annual Meeting and Reception held in February was a great success. Nearly 80 community leaders participated in the interactive session where the attendees were polled about their opinions on several important topics, including infrastructure and economic development incentives. We also welcomed four newcomers to the community with a New Leader Welcome Reception, which included Don Kirkman with Florida’s Great Northwest, KJ Rice with Southwest Airlines, Hans Sack with Berg Steel Pipe Corporation and Neal Wade with The St. Joe Company.

Mark Your Calendars The EDA’s Quarterly Meeting and Reception is scheduled for April 20th at 3:00 pm. This meeting will feature an economist reporting on the Bay County economy and updates on the first quarter EDA activities and our regional partner, Florida’s Great Northwest.

“At a time when we are all concerned about jobs and growing our local economy, it is important to support programs that make our area more competitive and spur new jobs.” bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH

MEXICO BEACH

Jan 11 Jan 10 % change

$306,667.93 $318,457.80 -3.70%

$10,895.56 $11,339.65 -3.92%

Dec 10 Dec 09 % change

$247,747.00 $227,630.37 8.84%

$9,079.10 $13,370.63 -32.10%

Nov 10 Nov 09 % change

$284,476.90 $283,593.62 0.31%

$11,790.08 $8,086.02 45.81%

Oct 10 Oct 09 % change

$521,278.79 $449,813.31 15.89%

$15,891.99 $17,644.74 -9.93%

northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS

COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

Jan 11 Dec 10 Nov 10

53,539 60,186 65,155

1,364 1,453 1,459

Jan 10 Dec 09 Nov 09

18,990 20,429 22,977

854 860 803

"Unemployment rate chart for January 2009 to february 2011" Unemployment Rate 14.0%

12.0%

10.0%

8.0% Bay County 6.0%

Florida

US

We also will host our Economic Development 101 Session on July 20th to provide an overview of the economic development process and available job creation incentive programs. If you wish to attend any of these events, contact our office for more details at 215.9965.

4.0%

2.0%

0.0%

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

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Bay Young Professionals Many young professionals are enthusiastic about area business and community opportunities and are ready to get involved as new leaders. Bay Young Professionals (BYP) was formed by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce to specifically address the needs of this target age group, 21-41, to enrich our community by uniting, developing and retaining our future leaders.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Bay Young Professionals (BYP) group, contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761 or Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com.

Jeremy Bennett was raised in Marianna, Florida but considers Panama City his home. Graduating from Marianna High School in 1995, Jeremy went on to Troy University to earn his bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Management. After graduation, Jeremy worked for the Bay County Property Appraiser and Giles Appraisal Group as a commercial appraiser.

In 2006 Jeremy joined the Vision Bank team as a credit analyst and review appraiser. He was then promoted to Vice President in Commercial Lending in 2009. In this capacity, Jeremy has assisted numerous individuals and businesses with their financing needs, such as the development and construction of residential subdivisions, office buildings, warehouses and restaurants. He also has experience working with clients on the application and funding of loans under the Small Business Administration 504 program. In addition to his duties at Vision Bank, Jeremy is a partner in Tranquil Development and Bennett- Fuller, real estate development companies.

Jeremy is very involved in the community, serving as an alumnus of Leadership Bay and past chairman of the Leadership Bay Steering Committee. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Anchorage Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homes, Bay Young Professionals, Bay Point West Board of Directors and the Bay County Small Business Incubator. In his free time, Jeremy enjoys fishing, golfing, diving and spending time with family and friends.

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Kelly Brannon was born in Missouri, but she has lived most of her life in Bay County, Florida. Following graduation from Bay High School in 1996, Kelly attended Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama where she received a Bachelors of Science in Accounting. She moved back to Panama City and graduated from Florida State University - Panama City campus where she received her Masters in Business Administration. Kelly is a Certified Public Accountant at Carr, Riggs, & Ingram, LLC. Kelly has been with CRI, the #4 accounting firm in the southeast, since 2000 and has recently been promoted to Manager with the firm. At CRI, Kelly specializes in tax preparation for businesses and individuals. She also has experience with the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fraud team by working on several forensic investigation engagements. An active member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, she is currently working to obtain her Certified Fraud Examinerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license.

Kelly is also a member of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA) as well as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).

Kelly gives back to her community through membership in Bay Young Professionals, she serves on the steering committee for Junior Leadership Bay, and is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Bay. Furthermore, Kelly volunteers with the Junior Service League of Panama City. Kelly is married to Josh Brannon, and they have two daughters, Kaly (4), and Emma (2). Kelly and her family are members of First United Methodist Church. Kelly enjoys sailing in her spare time; she and her family just returned from a week long sailing trip in the British Virgin Islands.

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Life Management staff activity committee tracking healthy living goals

written by Rich Musgrave, IIB Accredited Executive Associate

best prActIces for bUsIness two small words can go a long way

W

ith layoffs and budgets tightening we're all being asked to do more with less and employees are often seen disengaging. Your employees’ ideas and passion for their work can help your business grow and succeed. Consider taking these steps to thank your employees. It could improve your work environment and encourage employees to work with energy and enthusiasm. The results could be profitable, personally and financially.

Quick and easy ways to recognize employees and make them feel valued: SAY THANK YOU

Personally thank an employee for a job well-done. Specify what was good about it and why you appreciate it. Remember to celebrate effort as well as accomplishment, to give employees working on long-term goals a boost.

FREE TIME

• Let high-performing teams leave early to miss rush hour traffic.

• Give an afternoon off to employees who have exceeded expectations for a particular customer.

FREE FOOD

• Sponsor a free lunch or breakfast for hardworking teams.

• Subsidize the price of food in vending machines.

Covenant Hospice at their annual employee morale meeting.

30

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

An example of this motivation tool is used by The News Herald which has cookout days to raise morale and say thank you for employees’ hard work. They also offer popcorn in their lobby every Friday for employees and customers.

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SPECIAL EVENTS

Create an events committee to plan fun outings, such as trips to a sporting event, a picnic, or a holiday party. Many chamber members are already implementing this with great success.

The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach holds quarterly meetings that include a motivational movie day.

Clear Channel rewards sales teams who reach their goals with fun outings such as bowling.

Covenant Hospice holds their annual employee moral meeting at a local indoor inflatable obstacle course while learning team building skills.

Life Management Center has a “Staff Activity Committee” who plans the “LMC Fall Fling” for family’s and their employees as well as a “Wellness Committee” who run a program for employees who receive incentives for meeting certain healthy living goals. It serves two-fold by engaging and raising morale of employees while also keeping health insurance costs lower.

Saying thanks will help employees feel valued and enthusiastic about their jobs. Not only is this more fun, it’s good for business, improves retention, and reduces burn out.

From everyday collection to environmental protection, Think Green.

Think Waste Management.

WM Waste Management

Shay Harville o u t s i d e s a l e s r e p r e s e n tat i v e waste managementinc. of florida 6319 E. Highway 22 Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 874-1019 | (850) 874-8550 Fax (850) 258-8761 Cell sharvill@wm.com April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

31

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{new Members. f o r J a n u a r y , fe b r u a r y , M a r c h 2 0 1 1 12 Gage & the Deep Blues Band

587 Plantation Dr. Port St. Joe,FL 32456 (850) 596-5470

3D Payroll

1122 Florida Ave. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 215-3093

DHL Express #103

13350 International Pkwy Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 779-3432

Emerald Coast Florida PMI Chapter

PO Box 1265 Shalimar, FL 32579 (850) 319-5586

Almega Sports LLC

2497B Highway 77 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-5151

3513 Transmitter Rd. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 767-2600

Gulf Coast Chiropractic & Rehab

Coleman American Allied

PO Box 36 Panama City, FL 32402-0036 (850) 785-2070

Kerigan Marketing Associates, lnc.

260 Marina Dr. Port St. Joe, FL 32456 (850) 229-4562

Southern Earth Sciences, Inc.

1438 Balboa Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 769-4773

Stanley E. Peacock P.A. La Quinta Inn & Suites

514 Magnolia Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-2112

LJ Cooper Wealth Advisors

Star Service Inc.

17710 PCB Pkwy Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 249-1112 455 Harrison Ave. Suite C Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 784-1216

8317 Front Beach Rd., Ste 37B Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-1002

North Bay Haven Charter Academy

4663 Halls Mill Rd. Mobile, AL 36693 (800) 661-9050

Sugar Crave

556 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 640-0080

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

336 Hiland Dr. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 819-7027

Gulf Resources, LLC

O'Reilly Auto Parts

Veolia Environmental Services

340 Bunkers Cove Rd. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 872-0044

Hilltop Meat Company 27630 US Hwy 29 Andalusia, AL 36421 (334) 388-2353

Chili's Grill & Bar #1074

845 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 769-3167

15801 LC Hilton Jr. Dr., ste 100 Panama City, FL 32413 (850) 913-1899

1104 A Balboa Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 248-0205

Bay County Alzheimer’s Alliance

PO Box 16345 Panama City, FL 32406 (850) 769-3398

Schlotzsky's Deli

1008 Jenks Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 624-2973

Ayman T. Aboulela M.D. 304 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 769-1566

237 W. 15th St., Ste F Panama City. FL 32401 (850) 215-4840

Medical Clinic PCB

Graybar Electric

Ausgar Technologies

3111 Camino Del Rio N, Ste 925 San Diego, CA 92108 (619) 822-2968

Islamic Understanding Institute

Human Resource Management Association PO Box 1802 Panama City, FL 32402 (850) 596-7335

1602 Ohio Ave. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 271-3519

1441 US Hwy 231 Youngstown, FL 32466 (850) 541-6017

Panama City Pulmonary 2426 Jenks Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 763-9459

William B. Price, P.A.

1100 McKenzie Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-2195

Peters & Scoon

25 East 8th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 769-7825

Woman's Club of Panama City

350 N. Cove Blvd.

Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 785-7125

R&L Enterprises dba Papa Johns

11160 PCB Pkwy, Ste 406 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 235-6161

Consumers trust us Let them know they can trust you

®

Your Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida received over inquiries from consumers last year.

300,000

7 10

Contact BBB at 850.429.0002 or start with bbb.org to ask about BBB Accreditation

in consumers say they’d be more likely to buy from a company designated as a “BBB Accredited Business.”*

Do you make the cut? *Princeton Survey Research Associates 2007

32

BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 34

Anniversaries

Member

Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals ONYX - 5 YEARS

OPAL - 15 YEARS

Absolute Business Solutions David H. Melvin, Inc. Gulf Crest Condominiums Gulf Talent Services Linea Peninsular Ocean Towers Beach Club Oceaneering Multiflex Pitts Appraisal Technology Resource Realty Group

City of Mexico Beach First Communications McNeil Carroll Engineering, Inc. Northwest Florida Blood Services O'Neal Steel, Inc. Panama City Mall

EMERALD - 2O YEARS

American Cancer Society Buchanan & Harper, Inc. Haney Technical Center Panhandle Anesthesiologists, Inc. United Way of Northwest Florida

TOPAZ - 35 YEARS Mid-South Lumber Company The Storage Inn

SAPPHIRE - 45 YEARS Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC

AMIKids, PC Marine Institute Sam's Club

GOLD - 50 YEARS

SILVER - 25 YEARS

DIAMOND - 60 YEARS

RUBY - 10 YEARS Children's Home Society of Florida Douglas H. Merkle Gulf Coast Children's Advocacy Ctr. Hampton Inn-Panama City Beach James Auto Center, Inc Panama City Health Club & Spa Smitty's Barbecue & Salad Bar

PEARL - 30 YEARS

Cardiology Associates PA City of Callaway Creative Printing Dermatology Associates Harrison, Sale, McCloy, Duncan & Jackson Panhandle Educators Federal Credit Union Vittles Companies /PoFolks/Triple J/Loco's

Hutt Insurance Agency AT&T Boyd Brothers Brown & Brown Insurance Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi Cola Tarpon Dock Air Conditioning TECO Peoples Gas The News Herald

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ

33

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 35

for a detailed listing of chamber and community events visit

www.panamacity.org

April 1 5 13 21 26

May 6 11

{calendar

first friday 7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m.

FSU-PC Holley Center Sponsored by: Doctors Express Program: Meet the Candidates Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests

new Member 411 breakfast 8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Free for new Chamber members RSVP: Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753

small business Institute

8:30 a.m. – Program: TBD Bay County Chamber Boardroom RSVP: Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

business After Hours 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Sponsored & located at: OASEAS and Doral Bank 415 R. Jackson Boulevard contact: jill@baychamberfl.com

20

17 24

June 3

bay Young professionals social 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Sponsored & hosted by: St. Andrew Bay Yacht Club No cost, must rsvp to elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

first friday 7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m.

FSU-PC Holley Center Sponsored by: TBD Program: The Changing Face of Tourism Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests Wear your most creative tourist costume for prizes!

7

Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events spring classic Golf tournament

Sponsored by: TECO, HealthSouth and Neves Media Place: Bay Point’s Nicklaus Course Time: Lunch - 11:00a.m.

Shotgun start - noon Contact jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757 for more info.

leadership bay Graduation 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Location: Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort Leadership Bay & invited guest only

Jungleball Volleyball tournament / business After Hours 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Location: BookIt.com Beach at Pier Park Sponsored by: BookIt.com, Pier Park and Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors bureau Contact: jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757 for more info.

first friday 7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m. – Program FSU-PC Holley Center Sponsored by: TBD Program: Leadership Bay / Junior Leadership Bay Project Presentations Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests

new Member 411 breakfast 8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Free for new Chamber members RSVP: Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753

small business Institute

8:30 a.m. – Program: TBD Bay County Chamber Boardroom RSVP: Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

Dates, times and locations subject to change. check events calendar for updates at www.panamacity.org

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Accounting • Auditing • Payroll Tax Compliance • Business Advisors

(850) 763-9635 2589 JENKS AVENUE • PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA