April 2013 What’s Inside
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32 10
45 32
Centennial Celebration Kicked Off at Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony
Bay County Chamber of Commerce History
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New Members
14
Bay County Also Celebrates Big Anniversary
35
Member Anniversaries
36
CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR
20
Chamber Accomplishments Over the Years
38
Workforce Connection
ECONOMIC PROFILE:
42
the sunshine state celebrates 500 years
45
Out & About
8
Military Affairs Committee: History Behind the Organization
10
22
The Past 100 Years:
EDA Insights
24
The Biz List
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Bay Biz Magazine
PUBLISHER Carol Roberts
c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce 235 W. 5th Street – P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, FL 32402 850.785.5206 information@baychamberfl.com Online: www.panamacity.org facebook.com/baychamberfl twitter.com/baychamberfl
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brittany Cole CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carol Roberts Bill Fenimore Richard Musgrave Brittany Cole Terri Pierce Pat Holley
Tricia Pearce Maria Goodwin Scarlett Phaneuf Neal Wade Chelsea Hamati
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 Bay County Chamber, P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402
DESIGN Bellhouse Publishing COVER First known photo of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce; Bay County Chamber Archives
The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. To request additional copies please or for more info, email Brittany@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Cole, Bay County Historical Society, Bay County Chamber Archives, Bay County Public Library, Florida Memory Project, Viva Florida 500, Tyndall Air Force Base, Naval Support Activity-Panama City
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER
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President’s Message
W
e officially kicked off our 100th year celebration at the Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on January 25th. Speaking to a packed house of over 500 attendees, Claire Sherman, Chair of the yearlong celebration, and Neves Media rocked the house with a video salute to all of our past chairmen of the board. In addition, we celebrated our actual birthday on March 21st with a block party in front of the Chamber office at 235 W. 5th Street between Oak and Mercer Avenues. Each decade of the Chamber’s history is being highlighted at the First Friday meeting throughout the year. The February event featured the years 1913 to 1923, presenting the program in an old time radio talk show format complete with a family sitting around in their living room listening to their Philco radio (not watching their flat screen TV). This issue of the Bay Biz is meant to be your commemorative issue to share with your children and grandchildren, so that one day, they will have a better understanding of our community and this organization’s roots. In it you will find the history of the Bay County Chamber, the Military Affairs Committee, Bay County and much more. Also inside, there is a centerfold of all those who have served in the Chair position on our board. Thank you to Rodney Walker with Applied Research Associates for creating this iconic piece. I think it’s important to highlight some of our successes, but remember we are not trying to take total credit. As in most cases, it is the efforts of many organizations, individuals and elected officials that make most of these projects happen: ●
●
●
6
Formation of the Bay County Small Business Incubator (now the Business Innovation Center at FSU- Panama City) Protection and support of our military bases, Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Activity Panama City Relocation of our airport in 2010, now the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
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● ● ● ● ● ●
The many Hathaway Bridge replacements and projects Four-laning of Back Beach Road Completion of Highway 231 four-laning to Dothan, Alabama Deer Point Dam Supported the bed tax on Panama City Beach Served as the economic development organization for the community and created thousands of jobs through the recruitment of business and industry (1953-2011) under various names i.e. Committee of 100, Economic Development Council and Economic Development Alliance
To date, twelve paid Executives have served the organization, incuding Bill Broome, Frank Bacen, Jim Cherry, and yours truly. Although the title has changed over the years for the paid executive who is responsible for the day-to-day operation, the most recent change happened in 2005 changing to President/CEO to better reflect corporate America. I could go on forever, but I will not steal the thunder of the other articles in this publication. We hope that you enjoy reminiscing over this issue as much as we have researching these stories.
Carol Roberts President / CEO
Message from the Chairman This year, we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. Throughout the year, we will celebrate our past successes as we chart the course for future growth for our Chamber, our community and our members. With a pro-business agenda, our focus is to protect the interest and enhance the membership for our members. Throughout the year, we work with the representatives of federal, state, and local governments, the Economic Development Alliance of Bay County and the officials at the military installations to make sure we are doing everything in our power to grow business, industry and jobs. We recognize that all of these entities are important to the economic wellbeing of Bay County, and we especially recognize the importance of our military partners and their families. Through our interactions with leaders of business, government and military, we look for new ideas for promoting and supporting our members. Advocating for our local businesses is a key component of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce.
We want you to keep informed. Visit our website and view our quarterly magazine, the Bay Biz, for the latest business developments and calendar of events. Special thanks to all of our members and committee members for being involved by sharing your time and talents. Membership involvement strengthens our ability to enhance and grow business in Bay County. If you aren’t a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, please consider joining. Let’s all work together to make our community a better place to live, work and play for now and future generations. Sincerely,
Bill Fenimore, Chairman of the Board Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Jim Cherry, 1950-2010
Congratulations! Bay County Chamber of Commerce Celebrating 100 Years Jim Cherry, CCE Bay County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO 1996-2002 April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
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Legend of the written by Carol Roberts Much of the information in this article is due to the work of Mr. Hank Basham, who served as Public Relations Chief at Tyndall Air Force Base from 1957-1983. In 1986, he published a book called “Legend of the MAC”, a 40 year (1946-1986) pictorial history of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee. The Chamber today maintains only two copies of the book that was published, but hundreds of Bay Countians and others worldwide have copies on their bookshelves. In the hectic post World War II years of 1945 and 1946 when it was uncertain if Tyndall Field would remain an active military base, or be closed, members of the then Panama City Chamber of Commerce realized the need of an all-out effort to work with the military if we were to have a permanent facility here. The Navy Base appeared to be more stable as announcements from the War Department had already stated it would become a permanent facility. It was the uncertainty about Tyndall that prompted the board of directors of the Panama City Chamber of Commerce to organize a committee to work with the military, both Tyndall and the Navy Base. On March 15, 1946 the Board of Directors voted in support of the creation of the Army Navy Committee what we all now know as the Military Affairs Committee (MAC). Cecil Kelley was President of the Chamber (during this time, the President position was what we now know as the Chairman of the Board volunteer position). The first MAC Chairman was Mr. J.C. Cogburn. The committee grew rapidly and additional responsibilities were given almost immediately. Just three months after the committee was formed, an indication of the importance of such a committee is reflected by this excerpt from the minutes of a special called meeting of the Chambers board of directors. “Panama City is most fortunate in being selected as the site of the Air Tactical School of the Army Air Forces. Its immediate, as well as long range efforts will be of untold economic as well as cultural
value. We must therefore recognize the vast responsibilities thrust on us as well as our good fortune. The first and foremost need is housing, also sewage system, recreational facilities, schools, transportation and hospitals . . . The necessary functions of our Army Navy Committee will be expanded to care for the many contingencies that will arise.” Little did we know what the long term effect of the military would have on our community of which now pumps more than $1.8 billion in to our local economy and a $58 billion impact in the State of Florida. Our two military bases have been threatened with closure or significant mission change by the federal government in the 40’s, 80’s and 90’s. The Chamber and its MAC played a vital role in showing a strong community based relationship, and it made the difference when decisions were made on which bases were to close. During the 1993 rounds of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC), the decision was made to give specific attention to the subject and create a separate non profit 501(c)6 organization in 1994 with specific emphasis on continuous monitoring of issues and opportunities surrounding our bases. The Bay Defense Alliance was formed in 1994 under the original leadership of Larry Dantzler as President, followed by Tom Neubauer who is still currently serving as President. The Chamber President, Chairman of the Board and MAC Chairman all serve on the BDA as partners, and the group works closely together toward the goal of keeping and growing our military presence in Bay County. The MAC is a membership supported effort whereby individuals agree to pay a pro rata share of events sponsored by the group. The original one time “activity fee” was $20 and has only increased one time and that was in 1983 to $50. To date there are 250 members of the organization. To participate in MAC, an individual must be a member of the Bay County Chamber. However, in 2009, the Board extended the invitation to join the MAC to all surrounding counties if the
Little did we know what the long term effect of the military would have on our community of which now pumps more than $ 1.8 billion in to our local economy and a $58 billion impact in the State of Florida annually.
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Although there are many memorable events and occasions here are a few that stand out.
Arrival of the F22 Tyndall AFB Gulf Coast Salute Air Show Navy Base Annual Pig Roast Commissioning of the USS Momsen Commissioning of the USS Mesa Verde individual was a member in good standing of their community chamber.It has become traditional for the Chamber’s Chairman of the Board as the last stop in their leadership with the chamber for them to serve as MAC Chairman. The MAC continues to host visiting military dignitaries, receptions honoring arriving and departing leadership at our military installations, civic leader trips, support for our troops and working with the Bay Defense Alliance.
Hundreds of civic leader trips worldwide to visit other military installations First female member of MAC Fran Exley (Fran’s Travel) was accepted in 1979 William Tell Air to Air Weapons Meet Annual Dove shoot at Tyndall AFB Annual MAC Golf Tournament
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Bay COunty ChaMBer OF COMMerCe:
The Past 100 Years: A Look Back at Chamber History
written by Rich Musgrave, Centennial Committee
Evolution of Chambers The name “Chamber of Commerce” was first applied to an association of French merchants at Marseilles early in the fifteenth century. One of the very oldest in the world and the oldest in America is the Chamber of Commerce of the State of New York, founded in 1768. Chambers evolved to promote the growth of the entire community in the following areas: commercial, industrial and civic – with emphasis gradually being placed upon the civic. Panama City Chamber Beginnings The Gulf Coast Development Company purchased land which they developed into Panama City in 1906. In late 1908, G. M. West, president of the company and its chief promoter and several others pushed for incorporation of Panama City, which finally occurred on February 23, 1909. West assembled eight men to promote Panama City. They first met at the Panama City Clubhouse, the old Elks Club, on February 8, 1913. They drew up the papers to organize a chamber of commerce. They could not call it Bay County Chamber because Bay County didn’t exist yet and was still located in Washington County, so the organization was called the Panama City Chamber. The charter papers for the Panama City Chamber of Commerce were filed in Tallahassee and signed by Governor Park Trammel on February 13, 1913. The papers were recorded with the Secretary of 10
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State on March 21, 1913, which became the official “birth date” for the new chamber. The first meeting of the Chamber was held in the clubhouse on March 27, 1913. The objectives of the Chamber listed in the original charter were to “preserve and strengthen the free enterprise system and to optimize the human and natural resources of the area”. The initial project of the organization was to create a new county from Washington and Calhoun counties. This new county would be named Bay County. Legislation creating Bay County was passed in April and the new County came into existence on July 1, 1913. In 1926, the Chamber was given quarters upstairs in the new city hall on Fourth Street. In that same year, the Chamber employed its first executive director, Fred Phillips. The Panama City Chamber became a member of the Florida Chamber in 1926 and with the United States Chamber in June 1933. On April 5, 1936, the Chamber’s new and larger quarters on the first floor, formerly those used by the Mayor and Police Department, were opened to the public. Area Medical Care Prior to World War II, the area saw changes in many other areas. Daniel M. Adams Jr., whose father had established the area’s first hospital in 1924, had given Panama City a poor bill of health. He
said “poor people lived in dumps and paper houses with dirt floors and no sanitation.” Adams and the Bay County Medical Association encouraged the formation of a county health department, which opened in 1939. Its first director noted that 80% of school children who needed health care couldn’t afford it. Infant mortality was 51.9 per 1,000 births. Efforts at local health care were boosted in 1944, when the Federal Works Projects Administration provided a $63,000 health center. Bay County’s third hospital opened in June 1949 as Memorial Hospital of Bay County and is currently known as Bay Medical Center/Sacred Heart. War and the Military The Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s second quarter century began with rumors of armed conflict in Europe. In 1939 we saw the start of what would become World War II. Although the United States tried to avoid being pulled into the conflict, Japan had other ideas. Even before the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Chamber worked actively to secure military installations in Bay County. In 1941 Chamber membership support was used to attract Tyndall Field, now known as Tyndall Air Force Base. This was followed by the Naval Coastal Systems Center and Wainwright Shipyard. World War II reached into Panama City’s classrooms with teachers helping to register teenagers for the draft, distributing
ration books and spearheading war bond, paper and scrap metal drives. Overcrowding and a teacher shortage plagued the county schools as the growth of Tyndall, the Wainwright Shipyard and the Naval Base promoted a population boom. School enrollment grew from the 1930 level of 2,547 to 6,637 in 1943, and jumped to 7,997 by 1945. Enrollment fell sharply to under 6,000 after the war, but war babies began attending school and the enrollment rose back to over 7.000. The Chamber has led, and continues to lead in garnering exceptional community support for all Bay County military installations. This support culminated with a concerted effort to promote relations between civilians and military personnel through the creation of the Army Navy Committee (now the Military Affairs Committee), formed in 1946. This committee has been singled out as the most successful of its type, and has been used by other chambers around the nation as a model for creating their own. Education in Bay County In 1957, Panama City students were given a chance for higher education when Gulf Coast Community College (GCCC) and Rosenwald Junior College were formed. GCCC classes began with 181 students in classrooms built at the old Wainwright Shipyard. Rosenwald served as the African American school at the time and occupied a small building on the campus of Rosenwald High continued on page 12
First known photo of Bay County Chamber of Commerce
Panama City Beach
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continued on from page 11 School. Gulf Coast moved to its current location in 1960. Rosenwald was later merged with GCCC in 1966. Gulf Coast Community College changed its name to Gulf Coast State College in 2011. From the early one-room schools until the 1960’s, Panama City schoolchildren were totally segregated. When the one-room schoolhouses were built, the terms were shorter than those of white schools, lasting only three months. Sometimes it took two or three terms for the African American schools to complete a grade. In 1964, a lawsuit changed the segregated structure and forced the school board into allowing black students to enroll in formerly all-white schools. Chamber Changes after the War A complete reorganization of the Chamber was carried out in 1947 with an assistant manager being hired to assume control of seven specific duties. These included public relations, civic improvements, retail merchant affairs, military affairs, agriculture, transportation and advertising. In the 1950’s, the Chamber offices 12
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were moved to a new building at Oak and Jenks Avenue, also occupied by the Public Library. A strong interest in the Chamber was the promotion of industry, and that is still a strong interest today. To further that goal, the Committee of 100 was created in 1953. This committee was instrumental in attracting businesses to the area. In the beginning, principal projects accomplished were: the building of the American Oil terminal at the end of East Avenue, and was slated to be a distribution center for asphalt brought in by ocean going tankers; led the move to reactivate the shirt factory in St. Andrews which had suspended operations; were projects dealing with the shipyard with the Cove Contractors coming in and also contracts for dismantling of several World War II ships. In 1957, we saw the creation of the First Friday Club, made possible through the efforts of President Tom Bingham. Lauren Merriam served as master of ceremonies until his death in 1975. In 1976, the Chamber presented the first Lauren Merriam award to Gerry Clemons. It has remained the most prestigious award the Chamber bestows on a member of the community.
In 1958, the Chamber relocated to its present offices on 5th Street. The Bay County Chamber created the Resort Council of 100 in 1978 for the promotion of tourism. A small building on the Gulf next to the County Pier and across the street from Miracle Strip Amusement Park, housed the Resort Council and the Motel and Restaurant Association. The Motel & Restaurant Association became the Hospitality Association and then ultimately the bed tax passed in 1982 creating the Tourist Development Council and the PC Beach Chamber was formed in 1987. In 1983, Leadership Bay was created. The program is also celebrating a milestone this year as it is now 30 years old. In 1989, we launched the new Chamber logo, “Share the Future” painted on the water tower as well as the inception of the first MAC golf tournament. In 1989, the Chamber welcomed Sallie Mae to the area. Although controversial at the time, in 1994, the Chamber supported locating the new Bay Correctional Facility in the Hwy. 231 Industrial Park. It proved to be a wise decision after 100 jobs were created. In 1993, was the formation of the Base Realignment And Closure (BRAC) committee to influence the potential impact on Tyndall AFB and the Naval Coastal Systems Station. In 1995, Jim Cherry was hired to replace retiring President Frank Bacen, the first Small Business Committee was created and Trane came to the area. The Chamber continues to evolve as conditions require. One example in 1995 was changing the titles of the key staff positions from Executive VP to Executive Director, and the head of the Chamber Board from President to Chairman. An invaluable resource to any current Board Chair was the creation of the Past Chairman’s Council in 1997. These past leaders provide counsel and experience to issues that may arise. In 1998, the Chamber launched its first website. It also acquired its first laptop and projector for PowerPoint presentations. The Chamber worked that year to help the school board pass the 1/2 cent sales tax.
As we entered a new century, and Y2K had little impact, the Chamber pursued its mission with the continued assistance of its membership. The Chamber was recognized in 2004 for all its efforts by being named the Florida Chamber of the Year for the first time ever and then again in 2010. As the Chamber begins its second century of service, each member can make a difference in our community, while contributing to Bay County being a great place to live, work and play.
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Bay County Also Celebrates a
Big Anniversary written by Terri Pierce
This year marks Bay County’s 100th birthday and we must not let this historic milestone pass without celebrating the Bay County of yesterday, today and tomorrow. The Bay County Centennial Committee, along with the help of volunteers, plans to spend 2013 honoring the rich history of this beautiful place we call home through various events and activities. An interesting and informative photo display in the rotunda of the Bay County Government Center at 840 W. 11th Street in Panama City will cover a different topic each month. Please stop by to look at these pictures and learn more about our history. The centennial Website, www.baycounty100.com, will contain moments in Bay County’s history, provide information about upcoming events and activities as they are scheduled and will also have a place to sign up to volunteer. Encompassing 758 square miles, Bay County is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Florida. St. Andrews Bay, comprised of 69,000 acres, is the largest body of water in any Northwest Florida county. Our 27 miles of sugar white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico bring 8 million visitors to our shores annually. With 270 square miles of water, Bay County’s pristine lakes, springs, streams and the magnificent bay provide excellent opportunities for all types of fishing, water sports and recreational activities. Located in the heart of Florida’s Great Northwest, Bay County was created after years of planning and efforts at local and state levels. A 1913 newspaper article from the “Panama City Pilot” states that the “Bay portion of Washington County, with its growing population, was not receiving any benefits from the money its citizens and businesses were pouring into the county coffers, and there was a strong push to separate from the northern part of the county”. Representatives from several towns on the bay met in Panama City on February 12, 1913 to choose a name
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for the proposed new county. They chose BAY thinking it would meet the approval of the majority of citizens and be representative of the territory it encompassed. On April 24, 1913, legislators created Bay County primarily from Washington County, along with small portions of Calhoun and Walton Counties. About two months later, on July 1st, the act went into effect and Bay County celebrated becoming Florida’s 49th county. At the time, the four main cities were Panama City, St. Andrews, Millville and Lynn Haven. On May 7, 1914 voters chose Panama City as the county seat in a bitterly contested election, and in 1926, St. Andrews and Millville were absorbed into Panama City. County government functioned in temporary offices throughout Panama City until plans were made for construction of a courthouse, and the cornerstone was laid in December 1914. In addition to court rooms and county offices, it also housed the county jail. The courthouse was the site of the landmark Gideon case, resulting in the 1963 U.S. Supreme Court decision in the Gideon vs. Wainwright case. Basically, this ruling helped establish the Public Defender system that still exists throughout the United States. Today, the Bay County courthouse is one of the few remaining original operational courthouses in Florida. With the arrival of the railroad and construction of streets, highways and bridges, Bay County became much more accessible and naturally, growth followed. Opened in May 2010, Bay County boasts the first international airport built in the United States in more than a decade. Our local highway network continues to improve, making us more connected than ever. U.S. Highways 98 and 231, State Roads 20, 22, 77 and 79, and U.S. Interstate 10 are
Old Hathaway Bridge
all easily accessible from any point in Bay County. Our port specializes in break bulk cargo and dry bulk products and has developed domestic and international trading partnerships. The Bay Line Railroad continues to play a vital role in our local economy by providing freight service to major industries and industrial parks in the area, as well as rail service interconnections in Dothan and Cottondale.
From saw mills, paper mills, shipbuilding and military bases to present day business, education, culture and tourism, Bay County has much to offer and will continue to grow and to prosper. There are many fascinating stories to be told about Bay County’s past, present and future and that is the goal of the Bay County Centennial Committee during this milestone year. Let there be no doubt, Bay County truly has a proud past and a bright future!
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Providing jobs and business in Bay County for over 82 years
www.rocktenn.com
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100th BIRTHDAY
{
block party
}
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Chamber Accomplishments and Events Over
the Past
100 Years
(Note: Reference to “Chamber President was then the top volunteer position) 1913 The Panama City Chamber of Commerce is founded. The Chamber assists in creating Bay County from areas of Washington and Calhoun Counties.
1979 Committee of 100 welcomes Berg Pipe, Parthenon Prints, and other major employers of Bay County. Changes name to Bay County Chamber.
1914 The Chamber along with Panama City Mayor J.H. Drummond supports the construction of the St. Andrews Bay Railroad Terminal.
1983 Delphi Study begins and Chamber takes a more active role in growth management and economic development. Leadership Bay is created.
1932 Chamber *President Jesse Cogburn pushes for the opening of the East Pass.
1986 Chamber *President-Elect Ted Haney secures the firm Laymon Gray to direct and write the Delphi report.
1939 Senator Claude Pepper and Congressman Bob Sikes work with Chamber *President Jesse Cogburn to secure the 25,517 acre peninsula for the location of a flexible gunnery school/Tyndall Field (Now known as Tyndall Air Force Base).
1987 Chamber creates steering committees to tackle Delphi results including Growth Planning, Education, and Transportation.
1946 Tyndall gunnery school almost closes and the Chamber creates a committee to keep the base open. It was first known as the “Army-Navy Committee” and would later be named the “Military Affairs Committee”. 1953 “Committee of 100”, the economic development arm of the Chamber, is founded and helps build the American Oil terminal at the end of East Avenue. The Committee of 100 would later be renamed Economic Development Council, then Bay County Chamber Economic Development Alliance.
1988 Florida Public Relations Association creates the “Share the Future” logo for the Chamber and the “Share the Future” campaign begins. The campaign would go on to help create hundreds of jobs and bring new industries to the area. The campaign raises over 1.28 million dollars for Bay County. 1989 First Military Affairs Golf Tournament is held. “Share the Future” logo is painted on the Bay County water tower. 1992 Chamber changes dues structure to a tiered system where dues are charged by company size versus individuals and flat rates. 1991 Chamber helps prevent Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process from closing the Navy Base.
1956 “First Friday” is created by Chamber *President Tom Bingham. Lauren Merriam serves as master of ceremonies until his death in 1975.
1994 BRAC Committee of the chamber is incorporated as a separate entity and receives a state grant. Leadership Bay Class forms an Alumni Association.
1975 Chamber becomes first Chamber in Northwest Florida accredited by the National Chamber
1995 Chamber and the Economic Development Council (EDC) and the City of Lynn Haven succeed in recruiting Trane to the area.
1976 The Chamber presents its first Lauren Merriam award to Gerry Clemons. It still remains as the most prestigious award the Chamber bestows upon members of the community
1997 MAC Russian Exchange Program is created. MAC member house Russian military officials in their homes for an evening.
1977 The Chamber’s Committee of 100 presents a layout for the new Airport Industrial Park (Hugh Nelson Park) to the Airport Authority. The Airport Authority adopts the plan. Current President / CEO, Carol Roberts, is hired at the Chamber as its receptionist. 1978 Chamber creates the Resort Council to better serve the tourism industry and related businesses in the area.
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1998 Chamber helps pass 1/2 cent sales tax for the Bay County School Board. Raises additional 9.4 million dollars each year. 1999 Merrick and Trane expand in the area. 2000 First Junior Leadership Bay Class is created as a Leadership Bay project. 2001 First Junior Leadership Bay class is formed. Leadership Bay raises money and erects 9/11 memorial at the Panama City Marina.
2002 Chamber supports construction of a new airport on St. Joe property. Carol Roberts is selected as Executive Director of the Chamber. 2004 Chamber receives Florida Association of Chamber Professionals “Chamber of the Year” award. 2005 Leadership Bay creates “Bay Young Professionals”, a program aimed at growing young leaders in Bay County. Title of “Executive Director” at the Chamber is changed to President/CEO. 2008 Outsstanding Community Award for our marketing brochure 2009 Carol Roberts is selected by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals as the “Chamber Professional of the Year”. Outstanding Community Award for Newsletter. 2010 Chamber receives Florida Association of Chamber Professionals as the “Chamber of the Year” award. 2011 Outstanding Community Award for marketing brochure 2012 Economic Development Alliance of Bay County is formed, creating a separate economic development organization. Leadership Bay raises money and erects Law Enforcement Memorial at the Bay County Government Complex on 11th Street. 2013 Chamber celebrates 100 years.
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{
demographics
economic profile Bay County Population: 168,852 Labor Force: 89,030 Households: 74,585 Per Capita Income: $29,357
InSIGhtS
Median Age: 40 Average Wage: $32,626 Household Income: $47,505
inside Bay County’s Economic Development Efforts
current labor statistics for bay county Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12 Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
87,591 90,019 89,062 89,610
80,172 81,752 80,074 80,490
7,419 8,267 8,988 9,120
8.5% 9.2% 10.1% 10.2%
real estate sales EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES BAY COUNTY
Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12 Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIUM PRICE
139 207 119 112 147
$145,000 $147,308 $125,000 $129,250 $131,150
13,679 18,031 14,270 12,044 15,576
$145,000 $154,000 $134,000 $129,000 $135,000
72 99 79 70 77
$173,200 $204,500 $160,000 $182,450 $200,000
6,670 8,470 7,848 6,539 7,801
$112,000 $117,500 $95,000 $95,000 $93,000
by Neal Wade Executive Director, Economic Development Alliance of Bay County 1913- It is hard to believe a century has passed. In 1913, the value of world trade reached $38 billion, stainless steel was invented, Henry Ford instituted the moving assembly line for the Model T and the 16th Amendment authorizing the national income tax was passed. And, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce was formed, providing an opportunity for area business and industry to work together for the betterment of the region.
EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS
Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12 Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
bay county building permits RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12
22 26 29
2 2 3
Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
15 21 17
5 2 4
bay county sales tax collections
bay county population - 100 years of growth YEAR
POPULATION
1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2012
NA NA 11,407 12,091 20686 42,689 67,131 75,283 97,740 126,994 148,217 168,852 171,291
bay county industry - now and then
GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12
$548,627,922 $398,686,035
$236,110,251 $202,579,145
$14,155,218 $12,563,491
Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
$399,418,978 $621,620,317 $373,769,027
$183,257,813 $231,105,605 $192,824,354
$11,672,724 $13,534,815 $12,280,122
1900S Fishing Forestry/Sawmill Paper mill Shipping/Logistics EARLY
NOW 2013 Tourism Military/Defense Health Care Manufacturing Technology Construction
So much has changed during those ensuing years to make this county one of America’s most promising locations to live, work and play. As a history major, I understand the value of history is to learn from both the successes and failures of the past. We certainly can’t project what Bay County will look like in another hundred years but we can certainly focus on what we want to happen over the next 5 to 10 years. As we celebrate the very strong and vibrant tourism economy and its impact throughout the region, history has taught us that a diverse economy is the best way to truly grow a wide range of quality jobs. This is the key to retaining our homegrown talent and providing the lifeblood for so many burgeoning technology, manufacturing, logistics, defense and aerospace companies. Through business partnerships with the Chamber and other like-minded organizations, Bay County is on the cusp of dramatic growth. What a wonderful way to begin the next one hundred years.
April - mAy 2013 bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH
MEXICO BEACH
Feb 13 Feb 12 % Change
$519,119.98
$19,351.98
Jan 13 Jan 12 % Change
$361,858.27 $368,845.24 -1.89%
$15,939.61 $15,319.50 4.05%
Dec 12 Dec 11 % Change
$351,254.45 $275,003.67 28%
$10,480.69 $10,381.90 .95%
northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Feb 13 Jan 13 Dec 12
42,640 49,622
920 871
Feb 12 Jan 12 Dec 11
55,732 49,909 59,912
1,105 1,170 1,148
2013 florida defense facts - military impact 2013 Economic Impact Employment Capital Investment Sales Activity Defense Spending 2011 Economic Impact Employment Capital Investment Sales Activity Defense Spending
BAY COUNTY
FLORIDA
$2.6 Billion 27,338 Jobs $215 Million $2.1 Billion $1.2 Billion
$73.4 Billion 758,112 Jobs $5.1 Billion $79.0 Billion $31.3 Billion
BAY COUNTY
FLORIDA
$1.8 Billion 22,493 Jobs $260.6 Million $1.6 Billion $1.1 Billion
$58.1 Billion 686,181 Jobs $6.7 Billion $63.8 Billion $30 Billion
national, state & local unemployment rate - January 1990 -January 2013
The CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS
Biz lisT Legendary Marine was awarded “Dealer of the Year” by Boating Industry Magazine as part of its annual “Top 100” awards program held in Orlando. The award is the most prestigious recognition in North America for marine retailers. It is presented annually to only one dealer at an exclusive gathering of the marine industry elite.
Conoley joins Gulf Power Company economic development team. Jennifer Conoley with the Economic Development Alliance of Bay County has taken a job with Gulf Power Company as an economic development representative for the Bay County region. In her new role she will work with local, regional and state economic development organizations to focus on recruiting new businesses to the region as well as help existing businesses be successful. Conoley serves as a board member with the Florida Public Relations Associ24
BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
ation of Northwest Florida and is involved in several other community organizations. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Communications with an emphasis in public relations from Florida State University.
Suite Hospitality recently announced Sam Haddad as General Manager of the Sleep Inn and Suites Panama City Beach. For nearly ten years, Haddad served as the Rooms Division Director for By the Sea Resorts; but most recently, he was the Front Office Manager of a full service 440 room Ramada hotel in the Orlando area. Haddad is a long time resident of Panama City. He holds B.A. degree in English Studies.
Popular Science Magazine recognizes Applied Research Associate’s October 29th ReadiJet 100% biofuels flight as one of 2012's 25 most important scientific events. The flight was the first time in history that a civilian jet was powered by
If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news to be published, email a press release and logo or photo to brittany@baychamberfl.com.
100% renewable biofuel. ARA, an engineering and science firm with offices in downtown Panama City, partnered with Chevron Lummus Global (CLG) last year on the Biofuels ISOCONVERSION process, a process that utilizes ARA’s and CLG’s combined technologies. ARA’s part of the process, Catalytic Hydrothermolysis, was invented by scientists in the ARA Panama City office. To produce the ReadiJet® fuel for the historic flight, ARA’s staff converted 1200 gallons of Carinata oil into crude oil utilizing their 125 gallon per day pilot system in downtown Panama City. The crude was subsequently hydrotreated and fractionated at Chevron’s Richmond, California refinery into the finished fuels.
Rep. Steve Southerland, II was elected by the members of the Republican Class of 2010 to serve as sophomore class representative to the House Republican leadership. Southerland will occupy an important seat at the leadership table, helping shape the party’s agenda and acting as a conduit between leadership and the historic sophomore class. Southerland is the first member of Congress elected to the newly-created sophomore class representative role.
Rep. Southerland was also appointed vice chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster. Southerland’s new role will enhance his leadership for Florida on Coast Guard, ports, and maritime issues in Congress.
Harrison Sale McCloy is proud to announce that Nicholas A. Beninate has been promoted to Partner in the Firm after practicing as an associate since 2006. Beninate’s experience in transportation and environmental matters, as well as creditor’s rights in bankruptcy are invaluable to the Firm and its clients. He currently devotes a significant portion of his practice to representing the Panama City-Bay County Airport and Industrial District and serves as general counsel for the Northwest Florida Transportation Corridor Authority.
Correction Corporation of America is celebrating 30 years of providing meaningful correctional services to government. Their anniversary theme is “Thankful at 30: Our People, Our Partnerships”, and they say it reflects the gratitude they feel towards their dedicated employees, their government and local community leaders.
The Rotary Club of Panama City, aka Downtown Rotary, awarded $7000 to ten community agencies Tuesday, January 29, at its weekly meeting held at St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club. Recipients included Junior Achievement; Tom P. Haney Education Foundation; Gulf Coast State College Foundation; Covenant Hospice; New Horizons Learning Center; Salvation Army Domestic Violence Shelter Program (Panama City); Girls Inc. of Bay County; Gulf Coast State College Department of Continuing Education; Bay Education Foundation; and the United Way of Northwest Florida.
Junior Achievement of Northwest Florida and its Board of Directors would like to thank Mr. Justin Hall for his many years of dedicated service as both a classroom volunteer and Board Member. Mr. Hall served as the President of the Board of Directors for one and a half terms and has been a member of the Board for four years.
Lifeguard Ambulance Service was recently accredited by Commission on Accreditation or Ambulance Services. Lifeguard says they are excited about what this means to the community and they say they are committed to partnering with other public safety agencies to further improve healthcare in Bay County.
Trane Celebrates 100 Years of Customer-Driven Innovation. Trane was founded as a family business in 1913 by James Trane and his son, Reuben. Milestone inventions included the convector radiator in 1925 and the pioneering Turbovac in 1939. Today, Trane has grown to become a global leader recognized worldwide as an innovator in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. Trane expanded operations to Bay County, Florida in 1996, employing approximately 100 associates under 100,000 square feet of roof. Today, the Lynn Haven facility is approximately 350,000 square feet under roof with 3 manufacturing lines and employs more than 600 dedicated and talented associates producing both residential and commercial heating and air conditioning units. While residing in Bay County, the Trane manufacturing facility has been owned by American Standard and was purchased by Ingersoll Rand in 2008. Trane is proud to be a Bay County Chamber member and an active business in the community.
Innovations Federal Credit Union has announced that President / CEO, David Southall, is an honorary member of the International Executive Volunteer Corps (IEVC) of the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU). The selection criterion for this distinction is to have demonstrated in the previous two years a commitment to furthering World Council’s efforts in international credit union development. These efforts include his invaluable expertise and volunteer work through the League of Southeastern Credit Union’s partnership with FEDEAC in Costa Rica, hosting numerous delegations from World Council and overseas in exchanges that have produced positive results on the visiting credit unions.
Dementia Care Specialists recognized Provision Living as the first care facility in Florida to achieve the status of Distinguished Provider- the highest credential in dementia care. A Distinguished Provider demonstrates commitment to highq u a l i ty , p er s o n - c e n tere d dementia care.
Dawn Fleming, Florida’s first National Marketing Director with Nerium International, is featured in the April 2013 issue of Success From Home magazine. Dawn recently attended a Nerium International Summit in Dallas, TX at which the 17 month old company released 2012 revenues, which exceeded $100 million in sales.
Summit Bank NA has named Clint Mizell Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager of its Panama City, Fl., operations. Mizell’s previous responsibilities with another regional banking institution focused on a philosophy of building beneficial relationships between business owner, experienced banker and a solid banking institution. April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
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AND
invite you to participate in the
2013 CAREER EXPO Thursday May 16, 9 am ± 1 pm, Panama City Mall
DĞĞƚ ǁŝƚŚ ũŽďƐĞĞŬĞƌƐ ǁŝƚŚ ŚŝŐŚ ůĞǀĞů ƐŬŝůůƐ ǁŚŽ ĂƌĞ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů ŽĐĐƵƉĂƟŽŶƐ ƉĂLJŝŶŐ Ăƚ ůĞĂƐƚ ΨϭϮ͘ϬϬ ƉĞƌ ŚŽƵƌ Žƌ ΨϮϱ͕ϬϬϬ ƉĞƌ LJĞĂƌ͘ ŽŽƚŚ ĨĞĞ ŝƐ ΨϱϬ͕ ĂŶĚ ŝŶĐůƵĚĞƐ Ă ƐŬŝƌƚĞĚ ƚĂďůĞ͕ ƚǁŽ ĐŚĂŝƌƐ͕ ŽŶĞ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂůůLJ ůĞƩĞƌĞĚ ƐŝŐŶ͕ ĂŶĚ ƌĞĨƌĞƐŚŵĞŶƚƐ͘ ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ^ƵĞ ^ĞŶŬůĞ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ tŽƌŬĨŽƌĐĞ ĞŶƚĞƌ Ăƚ ϴϱϬ-ϴϳϮ-ϰϯϰϬ Ğdžƚ͘ ϭϰϴ͕ ŶŽ ůĂƚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ Ɖƌŝů ϯϬ͕ ϮϬϭϯ ƚŽ ƌĞƐĞƌǀĞ LJŽƵƌ ƚŚ͘ Ŷ ĞƋƵĂů ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƚLJ ĞŵƉůŽLJĞƌͬƉƌŽŐƌĂŵ͘ ůů ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ĂƌĞ ĨƌĞĞ ŽĨ ĐŚĂƌŐĞ͘ ƵdžŝůŝĂƌLJ ŝĚƐ ĂŶĚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ĂƌĞ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ƵƉŽŶ ƌĞƋƵĞƐƚ ƚŽ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƐ ǁŝƚŚ ĚŝƐĂďŝůŝƟĞƐ͘ ddzͬdd ϭ-ϴϬϬ-ϵϱϱ-ϴϳϳϭ Žƌ &ůŽƌŝĚĂ ZĞůĂLJ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ϳϭϭ͘
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BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
27
list of
past chairmen
1913-1923: R.L. (Robert) McKenzie 1924: Colonel Henry Page (not pictured) 1925: W.C. Sherman 1926-1927: Sam Brown 1928-1929: W.F. Look 1930-1931: Will D. Muse 1932-1933: Jesse Cogburn 1934: J.R. Asbell 1935: A.R. Rogers 1936-1937: J.A. Smith 1938: B.S. Gordon (pictured earlier) 1939: S.A. (Sidney) Daffin, Jr. 1940: Braden Ball 1941: A.M. (Albert) Lewis, Sr. 1942: B.S. Gordon 1943: George Logue, Sr. 1944: M.G. “Bubber” Nelson (Marion) 1945: J.R. Asbell 1946: Cecil Kelley 1947: A.N. Smith 1948: Don Fay 1949: W.A. Guy 1950: W.C. Sherman (pictured earlier) 1951: Harvey Mathis, Sr. 1952: S.A. Daffin, Jr. (pictured earlier) 1953: Brown Howell 1954: John Christo, Jr. 1955: Isaac Byrd 1956: T.Y. “Tom” Bingham 1957: T.W. Smith, Sr. (T. Woody) 1958: John Henry Sherman, Sr. 1959: L.E. Merriam, Jr. (Lauren) 1960: Alton Boyd 1961: Rowe Sudduth 1962: L.D. Lewis, Sr. 1963: Dick Arnold 1964: Hugh Nelson 1965: Woodrow Wilson 1966: D.P. Clark 1967: H.M. (Mack) Lewis 1968: Jack Blackwell 1969: Frank M. Parker 1970: D.R. (Dee) Hinton, Jr. 1971-1972: Deck Hull 1973: Girard L. (Gerry) Clemons 1974: Johnny Patronis 1975: C.L. (Les) Jinks
30
BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
1976: Tommy Cooley “By being an active member of the Chamber of Commerce you get inside knowledge of the working of the county, all phases of government, development, education, military, etc. You have an opportunity to be involved in all phases of activities, doing your part as a ‘Good Chamber Member,’ your participation gives you the feeling of being responsible.” 1977: Rayford Lloyd 1978: Abbott Brown 1979: Fred Lindholm 1980: Donald Crisp 1981:Travis Crosby 1982: Gene Crist 1983: Larry Tyree 1984: Pedro Mandoki 1985: Gary Muller 1986: Scott Fischer 1987: Ted Haney 1988: Charles Jordan 1989-1990: John Robbins 1991: Jim McIntyre 1992: Robert “Bob” McSpadden 1993: Larry Dantzler 1994: Anne Hull Dick “The goals of our Chamber of Commerce in 1994 were not that much different than they will be in 2013: to help make Bay County a better place to live, work and play. Economic development was our “Priority One,” as we continued to recruit new industry to our area and to help existing businesses expand.” 1995: Vic Jones 1996: Jerry Smithwick 1997: Thomas Neubauer 1998: Raymond Powell 1999: Franklin Harrison 2000: Joe Tannehill, Sr. 2001: Hugh Roche “2001 was a wonderful year for me in many ways. I was honored to serve as Chairman of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and was rewarded with the opportunity to work with many dedicated Business, Military, and Government leaders to help build this wonderful area that we call our home. We had a great board of directors and committee chairmen that spent many volunteer hours working to build a better Panama City/Bay County.”
2002: Karen Hanes 2003: Joey Ginn 2004: Scott Clemons “After returning from law school in 1986, I attended my first First Friday and I have been hooked on the Bay County Chamber ever since. Through the years, my membership has given me a unique opportunity to work with Bay County’s best and brightest business leaders. From this, I have learned valuable lessons that have helped me succeed in business and have forged friendships that will last a lifetime. The Bay County Chamber constitutes the single greatest catalyst for positive change in our community.” 2005: Elizabeth Walters “Chamber involvement provided an understanding of our local businesses. Most importantly, the greatest reward of my Chamber experiences was and continues to be the professional relationships and personal friendships made. It has been important to me to have the opportunity to give to my community by being involved in the Chamber.” 2006: Glen McDonald “The most significant highlight was getting to work with a very intelligent, committed and hardworking executive team including Lisa Walters (MAC Chairperson and Immediate Past Chairperson) and Steve Southerland (our current Congressman). Their ideas and leadership taught me a great deal.” 2007: Steve Southerland 2008: Andy Phillips 2009: Sean McNeil 2010: David Powell “Through the Chamber, I’ve been able to learn a lot about Bay County through programs like Leadership Bay, and a lot about other parts of the country through civic leader tours with the Air Force and Navy….Overall, the Chamber has allowed me to have fun opportunities and meet a lot of people to do business with, but most importantly it has helped me make some great friends along the way.” 2011: Bo Rivard 2012: Al McCambry 2013: Bill Fenimore
DaVita Dialysis, enjoy a vacation here in Panama City. Our Dialysis Center can keep you locally OR on the beach. While here, the only worry you will have is how to spend your free time. Appointments available to meet your needs. Flexible Vistation Policy. Visit us at any one of our locations or at www.DaVita.com Panama City 615 Highway 231 763-1233 510 North McArthur Avenue 914-0824 Panama City Beach 16201 Panama City Beach Parkway 233-0837
April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
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ANNUAL DINNER AWARDS CEREMONY
&
written by Tricia Pearce
Celebrates the Past successes and Looks towards the Future Shining a spotlight on the past year’s accomplishments, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce celebrated its Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Friday, January 25, at the Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort. As is standard for the dinner, it was a time to celebrate the past year successes while welcoming those who are taking the torch of leadership into the upcoming year. However, this year was unique, because it began a yearlong celebration of the Chamber’s 100 year anniversary. During the decade that saw the Titanic sink, World War I fought, and Einstein’s Theory of Relativity presented, Bay County was formed and the Chamber was a major part of those beginning steps. The charter papers for the Chamber were officially filed on March 21, 1913. This year’s Annual Dinner took time to look at the Chamber’s first 100 years through a video highlighting key points in that history. As attendees arrived, they were surrounded with Tiffany blue and sparkling ‘diamonds’ draping each table and around the room. Of course, the 100 year anniversary could not be kicked off without first recognizing how the Chamber arrived at this milestone. Over the course of the evening, the many community leaders who have served as board chairs over that time were recognized 32
BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
Al McCambry and Bill Fenimore and the 2012 Chairman of the Board, Al McCambry, passed the gavel to our 2013 Chairman, Bill Fenimore, of NAI Halford. “I am looking forward to being the new Chairman and hope to uphold the standards that the previous Chairmen have set forth. The Chamber staff is to be commended for making this event such a huge success,” said Fenimore. Celebrating McCambry’s term as chairman we took a look back at the continued efforts to support our local military installations, advocate for the business community through our legislative agenda, partner with local community leaders for the betterment of the tourism and manufacturing industries and promote economic growth. “It has indeed been an honor serving as your Chairman for 2012. As we reflect on the past 100 years, let us remember both the successes and failures of the past that have led us to this point and place in time, and realize that those past experiences are what
Julian Bennett was awarded the Lauren Merriam Memorial Award have made this Chamber the great partner to Bay County that it is today.” said McCambry. Each year at the dinner, the Chamber recognizes some of those who have shown their dedication to making our community a better place. This year, the awards portion of the night began when McCambry recognized the Military Affairs Committee Chairman, David Powell, for two years of service to the Committee. Powell also took home the 2012 Member of the Year award for his outstanding service to the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and its members. “I have truly enjoyed being involved with the Chamber, and it’s an honor to be chosen as Member of the Year,” said Powell. This is Powell’s second time receiving this top honor for his dedication to the organization throughout the year and the award left him speechless, much to the amusement of the crowd. Everyone knew the last award of the night was going to be spe-
Member of the year David Powell
cial when they saw Gerry Clemons step up to the microphone. Clemons presented the Lauren Merriam Memorial Award to long time community supporter and old friend, Julian Bennett. The award is the Chamber’s highest honor and was presented to Bennett for his commitment to the community’s well-being, as exemplified by involvement in civic, charitable and other endeavors contributing to the betterment of Bay County and the benefit of its citizens. “The luck that brings me here is the great, great support of my family,” said Bennett. While not everyone who contributed to the Chamber over the past year could be recognized individually at the dinner, everyone in attendance left feeling that they had been a part of something very special and looking forward to the upcoming events celebrating our 100 year anniversary. The community is invited to join us as the organization takes a look back and celebrates its past. April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
33
{new Members. f o r n o v e m b e r - Fe b r u a r y 2 0 1 3 American Roofing Company (850) 873-6430 2011 Lisenby Ave Panama City,FL32405 Bacot Academy (850) 215-2614 cindybacot@hotmail.com 3704 W. 23rd St. Panama City,FL32405 Bay Clinic of Chiropratic (850) 785-9372 (850) 785-9322 drtsalamay@aol.com PO Box 15082 Panama City,FL32406 Blossoms (850) 638-7786 kirbyholtinc@yahoo.com 794 MainSt. Chipley,FL32428 Bond & Associates, Inc (850) 747-1187 (850) 872-1546 chuckbond@allstate.com 621 N Tyndall Pkwy, Ste. A Panama City,FL32404 Cartridge World (850) 257-5148 (850) 257-5485
Desiree' Gardner Photography (850) 524-0061 desiree@desireegardner.com 1904 Tyndall Dr. Panama City,FL32401 Dunkin Donuts (850) 271-0098 pcdd03@gmail.com 2230 S. Hwy 77 Lynn Haven,FL32444 First International Title (850) 249-4522 (850) 249-3532 cindy.schwartz@firstintitle.com 100 Richard Jackson Blvd., Ste Panama City Beach,FL32407 French & French (850) 271-3272 (850) 265-1255 information@frenchandfrench 105 Peachtree Dr. Lynn Haven,FL32444
Gravestone Cleaning Service (850) 722-0585 gravestoneclean@bellsouth.net 6014 Wedgewood Circle Youngstown,FL32466
Phoenix Performance Fitness (850) 481-0728 rfripp@phoenixpfc.com 1344 W. 15th St. Panama City,FL32401
Hertz Local Edition (850) 913-9112 (850) 913-9116 janthomas@hertz.com 2106 W. 15th St Panama City,FL32401
St. Andrew Bay Center (850) 265-2951 (850) 248-2952 chowell@standrewbaycenter. 1804 Carolina Ave. Lynn Haven,FL32444
Island Air Express (850) 814-6407 (850) 769-0772 iaellc@gmail.com 390 S. Tyndall Parkway #247 Panama City,FL32404
Steyr Motors (850) 784-7933 (850) 784-7932 office@steyr-motorsna.com 3014 Lisenby Ave. #12 Panama City,FL32405
Jay Granberg Media (850) 630-3993 jaygranbergmedia@gmail.com 4141 E. 15th St., Unit 518 Panama City,FL32404
Sunbelt Rentals Inc. (850) 872-9226 (850) 691-0709 1046 W. 23rd St. Panama City,FL32405
JRA Architects, Inc. (850) 236-9832 (850) 230-3584 jrapc@panama.gulf.net 2211 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach,FL32408
Ralph Stewart (850) 230-2573 ralphstewart44@msn.com 3714 Preserve Bay Blvd. Panama City Beach,FL32408
MDSI (850) 866-9918 jboatright@mdsiinc.com 1614 Molitor Ave. Panama City,FL32401
General Dynamics Information Technology (850) 235-2424 (850) 234-6056 Christopher.S.Moore@gdit.com 124 Gwyn Dr. Panama City Beach,FL324085827
Panama City Kiwanis Club (850) 319-8675 ahooks-baytowne@knology.net PO Box 796 Panama City,FL32402
Gentiva Home Health (850) 769-3398 (850) 913-9339 gwen.kady@gentiva.com 2931 N. Highway 77 Panama City,FL32405
Premium Outdoor Signs (850) 890-0989 (850) 784-1229 stephen@premiumoutdoorsig 3001 S. Hwy 77 Lynn Haven,FL32444
cw0876@cartridgeworldusa.com
622 W.23rd St. Panama City,FL32405 Complete Signs (334) 596-6485 aaron@completesigns.net PO Box 8861 Dothan,AL36304
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BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
Ronik Films and Media Group (561) 762-0510 info@ronikfilms.com 6725 De Len Dr. Panama City,FL32404 Wal-Mart #3075 (850) 691-0716 (850) 873-6959 tbcobb.so3075.us@walmart.com 513 W. 23rd St. Panama City,FL32405
Memberanniversaries
for November - February 2013
Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals 5 Years Alexan Laguna Beach Apartments Cathey Construction & Development Chautauqua Services Inc. Holiday Golf Club Raymond James Financial Red Roof Inn Summit Bank 10 Years Affordable Body Shop Publix Super Markets, Inc #823 The Bagel Maker 15 Years Adams Pharmacy Bays Medical Society Emerald Shores Health & Rehabilitation Florida Therapy Services Guettler & Guettler Inc.
25 Years Burger King Goldco Coldwell Banker Carroll Realty Inc. First National Bank Northwest FL. Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance Giles Appraisal Group Inc. Mayer Electric Red Lobster SSA Marine The Natural Light, Inc. 30 Years Coral- 35 Years Diver's Den 40 Years Cooley Management LLC 50 Years Shipwreck Island Waterpark
20 Years Advanced Eye Care of Bay County, P.A. Best Western Suites Cooper's Drugs, Inc. The Olive Garden
We are grateful to everyone who has been a member of the Chamber and has supported us in these last 100 years. A special thank you to all of the following businesses who have been with us for fifty or more years: Anderson Columbia Company, Inc. Joined: 8/1/1951 AT&T 11/1/1951 Barron & Redding, P.A. 6/1/1957 Boyd Brothers 11/1/1951 Brown & Brown Insurance 11/1/1951 Buffalo Rock Company/Pepsi Cola 8/1/1951 Capt. Anderson's Sightseeing 5/1/1963 Captain Anderson's Restaurant 6/1/1959
Culligan Water Services 8/1/1960 Engineering & Equipment 6/1/1957 GAC Contractors, Inc. 7/1/1959 Gulf Power Company 12/1/1951 H. G. Harders & Son, Inc. 9/1/1951 Hutt Insurance Agency 10/1/1961 Jim Clark Realty 3/10/1961 Panama City Florist & Gifts, Inc. 2/1/1963
Remsco, Inc. 2/1/1958 Shipwreck Island Waterpark 10/1/1963 SunTrust Bank 7/1/1951 Tarpon Dock Air Conditioning 8/1/1951 TECO Peoples Gas 7/1/1951 The News Herald 8/1/1951 Tipton, Marler, Garner & Chastain 6/1/1954 Van Horn Transfer & Storage 1/1/1951
April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
35
{Calendar
For a detailed listing of Chamber and community events visit
www.panamacity.org
april
23 Business after hours
Gulf Coast Dermatology (12905 Panama City Beach Parkway) 5:30-7 p.m. Sponsored by: Gulf Coast Dermatology Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com for more information
30
Bay young Professionals Social Shrimp Boat Restaurant 1201 Beck Avenue 5:30-7 p.m. Sponsored by: The Shrimp Boat Contact elizabeth@baychamberfl.com for more information.
May
7 First Friday
FSU Panama City Holley Academic Center (4750 Collegiate Drive) Networking: 7:15 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m. Free event to Bay County Chamber members and Chamber invited guests
18 Business after hours
Legendary Marine (3829 Thomas Drive) 5:30-7 p.m. Sponsored by: Legendary Marine
Events are for Bay County Chamber members and Chamber invited guests. Contact 785-5206 for information on events or membership.
Sponsored by: Simon Properties/Pier Park and BookIt.com
3 First Friday
FSU-Panama City Holley Academic Center (4750 Collegiate Drive) Networking: 7:15 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m. Program: Tourism Appreciation Free event to Bay County Chamber members and Chamber invited guests
17
36
annual Jungleball Volleyball tournament Bookit.com Beach at Pier Park to be held on May 9th. Contact jill@baychamberfl.com for more information.
17th annual Spring Classic Hombre Golf Course (120 Coyote Pass) Sponsored by: Teco Peoples Gas and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
Dates, times and locations subject to change.
June
Tourism Appreciation Month
9
Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events
Workforce Connection how technology and Social Media have Changed today’s Job S.e.a.r.C.h.
Since the advent of the Internet, what hasn’t changed? With mobile devices, access to the world’s information is instant and readily accessible. Technology certainly has touched every aspect of life, including the job search. Before the Internet, the daily Kim Bodine, Executive Director newspaper and job fairs were the – Gulf Coast Workforce Board main resources for finding a job. Now, there are virtually thousands of Web sites with a variety of resources to aid in the job S.E.A.R.C.H.:
(S)
Social Media sites, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, are helping applicants and employers network even before the interview. Job seekers can connect with recruiters, and even receive recommendations to add credibility. Employers do look at social media profiles, so it is good to maintain an updated and professional profile.
(e) Employ Florida Marketplace is the state’s most comprehensive
(www.employflorida.com). The Employ Florida Marketplace pulls listings from many other job posting sites, such as Monster.com and Careerbuilder.com, saving job seekers time and energy.
(a) Automatic Alerts can play a key role in landing a job.
It is a fact: being one of the first 6 to 10 qualifying applicants improves the chance at getting the job. Daily email alerts let job seekers know immediately when a matching job is posted, and they can be the first to apply.
(r) Research is much easier with so much information on the
Internet. Job seekers can gain knowledge on a particular company or industry trends in order to assist them in preparing for an interview.
(C)Change is inevitable. Today’s technology makes it easier for a
career change. Job seekers can explore new careers, match up personalities and interests with jobs, receive free online training, and research salaries to aid the negotiation.
(h)Human Resource professionals also have access to this same
technology, and it is good to know that applicants are being screened more diligently. While this does narrow down the applicant pool, being chosen for an interview now means the job seeker has made a significant step forward in the hiring process.
employment listing site for entry-level to executive positions
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the Sunshine State Celebrates
500 years
written by Brittany Cole
Five hundred years ago, a Spanish explorer with the name Juan Ponce de Leon staked his claim on a beautiful part of the world he liked to call La Florida. Today, we can thank Ponce de Leon for discovering what is known as the State of Florida. Since his discovery, our great state has grown immensely and now a statewide movement is celebrating the Sunshine State’s rich history. Viva Florida is an initiative rallied by Governor Rick Scott to promote the vast culture and opportunities the state has to offer. According to the movement, Viva Florida is an effort to make sure every county is offering activities to celebrate this momentous occasion. There is currently no designated public funding, however, many organizations and businesses are making sure to participate and to save taxpayers money while celebrating. Over 150 events will take place all across the state. Here are some interesting points provided by Viva Florida about the Sunshine State: ● On April 2, 1513, Juan Ponce de León landed on the east coast of Florida and became the first recorded European to set foot on 42
BAY BIZ | April - June 2013
the continental United States of America, predating European settlements in Jamestown, VA and Plymouth Rock, MA by 94 years and 107 years, respectively. Florida has the longest recorded history of any state in the nation. ● 2009 marked the 450 year anniversary of the first attempt at Spanish colonization of Florida in Pensacola. ● In 2012, the 450 year anniversary of the first French colony in the continental US in Jacksonville was recognized. ● Next year, 2014, will mark the 50 year anniversary of the passing of the Civil Rights Act. ● 2015 is the 450 year anniversary of the founding of St. Augustine as the nation’s oldest continually occupied European city. For more information on how you can get out and celebrate Florida’s 500, visit www.VivaFlorida.org .
After Hours Clinic Monday-Friday 4-9 pm
New name, same great services Florida Department of Health in Bay County www.baycountyhealth.org 597 West 11th Street 850.872.4455
No appointment necessary
&about
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about
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Gulf Coast Medical Center shows off their latest technology at January First Friday with the Beach.
2.
Raymond Powell, Anna Beth Powell and Victoria Williams helping showcase our 100th Anniversary at February’s First Friday.
3.
Junior Leadership Bay touring Naval Support Activity-Panama City.
4.
Amy Polick and Desiree Gardner at the Bay Young Professionals Tour at Gulf World Marine Park.
5.
Bay County Chamber & Panama City Beach Chamber participating in a joint tour of Tyndall Air Force Base.
6.
The Governmental Affairs Committee in Tallahassee delivering state leaders our 2013 Legislative Agenda. April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ
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Discover the
FSU that fits you at Florida State University Panama City
As a regional campus of a nationally recognized public university, FSU Panama City is committed to providing a quality, affordable education. With smaller class sizes, personalized academic programs and faculty committed to student success, FSU Panama City has the tools to meet your educational goals. Undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs are taught on campus or online. Dis Discover your future. Experience fit you! Experience the the FSU FSU that that fits fits you!
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Thanks to the leadership provided by the Chamber for the past 100 years, we’ll help garner even more success for our clients in the next century! We’re proud to be your IT partner!
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Committed C ommitted to to P Panama anama City. Cit Citty.
Committed C ommitted to to you. yo you. Congratulations Congratulations tto o BAY BAY Y BIZ BIZ m magazine agazine a and nd tthe he B Bay ay C County ounty C Chamber hamber o off C Commerce ommerce celebrate 1100 00 yyears ears o edicated sservice as as tthey hey celebrate off d dedicated er vice tto oo our ur ccommunity. ommunity. A Att H Hancock ancock e ttoo oo a re ccommitted ommitted tto ob uilding lasting Bank, Bank, w we are building lasting relationships relationships w with ith our our cu customers stomers n strong strong p ersonal sservice. er vice. TToday, oday, a ways, w eo ffer o ur customers customers based based o on personal ass al always, we offer our increased cconvenience, onvenience, a broad broad rrange ange o nancial sservices er vices a nd a ccommitment ommitment tto o increased off fi financial and the ccommunities ommunities w e ccall all h ome. For For m ore in formation, vvisit isit h ancockbank.com. the we home. more information, hancockbank.com.
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