January 2013 What’s Inside
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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE: Meet Your Re-Elected Government Officials
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ECONOMIC PROFILE: EDA Insights
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Celebrating 100 years: The First 25 Years of the Chamber
EDUCATION: FSU PC’s Early Childhood Autism Program: A Hidden Jewel in Bay County
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THE BIZ LIST
FEATURE:
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Workforce Connection
World’s First Jet Flight Powered By 100% JP8 Biofuel Produced by Local Firm
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NEW MEMBERS
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MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
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OUT & ABOUT
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CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR
Bay Young Professionals to Know TRENDS: Look Who Ruined Casual Friday
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brittany Cole CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carol Roberts Rich Musgrave Chelsea Hamati Alisa Kinsaul Dr. Amy Polick Jennifer Conoley Jody Walls Maria Goodwin DESIGN Bellhouse Publishing COVER World’s first jet flight powered by 100% JP8 biofuel produced by local firm CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Cole, Elizabeth Smith, Applied Research Associates, National Research Council Canada, Dr. Amy Polick
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
Bay Biz Magazine
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 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 or email Brittany@baychamberfl.com. The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to Brittany@baychamberfl.com. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. To request additional copies please Brittany@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.
President’s Message It’s time to celebrate the Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s 100th Anniversary. We are excited about a full year of events that will take us all down memory lane. We will roll out our plans for the year at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner scheduled for January 25th. If you haven’t responded, please plan to join us. I can’t help but to pause and thank each and every one of our members for allowing me to serve as your President. It has been an honor and a privilege to work for so many incredible people. Our Board of Directors and our Chair of the Board each year is what drives our organization to stay fresh. I have lots of wonderful memories, as this year I will celebrate 36 years with the Chamber. Every year is a learning experience and I learn from each Chairperson, board member and Chamber member that I work with. Some question, ‘how on earth a person can stay in a position for that many years and not become stale?’ I always respond that if a Chamber Exec gets in a rut, there is something bad wrong. In this job, every day is different and you never know what challenges and opportunities are going to come your way. Obviously I’ve grown up with the Chamber as I was 20 years old in 1977 when I walked through the doors for the first time. It’s played a huge role in my life. I’ve met and continue to meet so many wonderful people that are passionate about giving back to the community that provides an incredible life for us all. I can’t begin to touch on the number of dignitaries I’ve met from U.S. Presidents, top ranking military officials to movie stars. It’s been an incredible journey. This is beginning to sound like a farewell speech so I had better change directions, because I’m not quite ready to hang up my keys.
Of course I can’t begin to thank the many staff members over the years and our current staff for all they do to make Bay County a great place. Many have come and gone and still continue to communicate with us as the Chamber has had a tremendous influence on their lives. I would like to acknowledge my husband, Leo, daughter, Kelly, and my two granddaughters, Katelyn and Ashlyn, for being understanding and supportive of my career and the number of family events I have missed out on due to night time, out of town meetings and trips. Thank you all for supporting Grammy! You will notice a common theme with all of our publications this year with a poster of all of our past chairpersons. We wanted to honor them for giving of their time not only to the chamber but the community at large. Our relocation guide, membership plaque and Guide to Membership Opportunities will feature the same poster and new 100th Anniversary logo. A special thank you goes to Rodney Walker at Applied Research Associates (ARA) for giving of his time and talent to design the logo. Lastly, I would like to congratulate our 2013 Chairman of the Board, Bill Fenimore, as Al McCambry will pass the gavel to him at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner. Bill and our team have some wonderful plans in place to recognize our 100th. Please plan to join us throughout the year at our many festivities and let’s continue to make Bay County a great place to call home.
President and CEO
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
written by Chelsea Hamati
Political Profile: elections are over
meet your re-elected government officials November’s General Election did not only Re-Elect President Obama, but affirmed another term for many of our county’s incumbents. Here are some of the candidates in Florida and Bay County that won back their seats, and what they have pledged to do in office this term: United States Senate: Bill Nelson (Democrat) Senator Bill Nelson has represented Florida in the United States’ Congress since 1973 and has been a senator since 2000. Nelson ran on the platform of amending the Affordable Care Act, reducing the federal deficit by cutting federal spending and simplifying the tax code, and preserving Medicare and Social Security. In his time in office, he has represented Florida in preserving a robust space program, keeping oil drilling from the Gulf of Mexico, and bringing jobs to Florida through supporting large-scale projects such as 72 million invested in North Florida Beaches International Airport and a federal loan to Eastern Shipbuilding in Bay County. United States House of Representatives District 2: Steve Southerland (Republican) Since winning his first election in 2010, Representative Steve Southerland has been a primary sponsor of the Restore Act and has advocated for the empowerment of job creators and reduced government regulation to get Florida’s economy back on track. This last election, Southerland ran on the platform of lowering taxes, scaling back government spending and the size of government and replacing the Affordable Care Act with policies that expand coverage without significantly increasing taxes. He has pledged to preserve the Medicare and Social Security commitment to Florida’s seniors while making sure the program continues longterm. Florida Senate District 1: Don Gaetz (Republican) Don Gaetz has been a member of the Florida Senate since 2007 and has been elected President of the Senate. He has been a large proponent for job-creating projects and STEM education in Bay County and was involved in providing funds to the Science and Discovery Center of Northwest Florida and Gulf Coast State College. Gaetz is currently working on several pieces of legislation to reduce government agency regulation, consolidate administrative services, and increase transparency between elected officials and constituents. Florida House of Representatives District 5: Marti Coley (Republican) Representative Coley has represented her district since 2005. A former high school and college teacher, she is a major proponent of education and has served on the PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee, the Education Committee and the K-20 Competitiveness Subcommittee. Coley has pledged to make Florida affordable again through steady economic growth; she campaigned on providing economic incentives to bring in high-paying jobs, improving the school system and preserving the environment. 10
BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
County Commissioner District 1: Mike Nelson (Republican) Mike Nelson has served as County Commissioner between 1988 and 1992 and since 2004, bringing in over 20 years of local government experience to the position. Nelson ran unopposed in June and is concerned with re-examining the budget, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and encouraging the increase in property values. County Commissioner District 3: Bill Dozier (Republican) January 2013 will begin Bill Dozier’s 3rd term on the County Commission, where he has pledged to push for more job growth through free market policies. In addition, Dozier is a proponent of reopening the Old Pass and obtaining funding for county roadways. County Commission District 5: Mike Thomas (Republican) Mike Thomas has represented District 5 since 2005. His goals for this term include promoting job creation through working closely with the Economic Development Alliance of Bay County, securing Restore Act funds to be distributed to Bay County and finding an environmental solution to Bay County’s dying oyster beds. Superintendent: Bill Husfelt (Republican) Bill Husfelt ran for superintendent on a campaign focused around utilizing funding towards the classroom and students’ future. He is an advocate of fiscal responsibility and teacher assessment to bring up the quality of Bay County’s education system. Thank you to our elected officials for all the work they put in to helping Bay County!
Other Elected Officials for 2013 Peggy Brannon (Dem)…….Bay County Tax Collector Dan Sowell (Rep)……………Bay County Property Appraiser Jerry Register………………..Bay County School Board District 1 Ryan Neves……………………Bay County School Board District 4 Mark Andersen (Rep)………Bay County Supervisor of Elections Glenn Hess (Rep)……………..14th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Herman Laramore (Dem)…Bay County Public Defender
education:
FSU Early Childhood Autism Program: A Hidden Jewel in Bay County
written by Dr. Amy Polick, Program Director, FSU ECAP, Florida State University Panama City
When parents have concerns about their child’s development or their child receives a diagnosis of autism, they can easily feel scared, worried and confused about which step to take next. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are lifelong disorders that are more common today than in previous years. Recent estimates reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2012) suggest that one in every 88 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD, making this a very real issue that families may face. While these numbers appear alarming, there is hope for families in Bay County. It is now widely acknowledged that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the treatment of choice for children with ASD and residents of Bay County and surrounding areas can access these ABA services (which are difficult to find in other cities) through the FSU Early Childhood Autism Program (ECAP) housed at FSU Panama City. 12
BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
Established in 2001, ECAP is a non-profit (501(c)3), early intervention and community outreach program that provides individualized ABA therapy to children with developmental disabilities, including ASD, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and Intellectual Disabilities. The primary mission of ECAP is to provide effective ABA services to children in the local community. These services include several important treatment components that are individualized per child in order to produce the greatest learning, and they include personalized treatment goals, direct one-on-one teaching, functional analyses of problem behaviors and ongoing data collection to evaluate treatment effects. Overall, ECAP’s ABA services have helped hundreds of local children learn countless communicative, social, play, cognitive, academic and self-help skills over the past 11 years. Since its inception, ECAP has provided these services to children in their homes, which allows therapists to provide extra teaching
and learning opportunities to children outside of normal school hours, as well as directly train parents on their child’s treatment programs so they can also play an integral part in the therapeutic process. Recently, ECAP opened an autism clinic at the FSU Panama City campus to be able to provide further options for therapy, which now makes ECAP the only autism program in the Panhandle that provides in-home and in-clinic ABA services. The Camille Butchikas ECAP Clinic opened in August 2012 and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance therapy and provide a quiet, controlled environment for learning. The clinic was made possible by the generosity of the George A. Butchikas Autism Foundation, whose donations to ECAP over the past 11 years have totaled more than $330, 000. This funding has not only assisted ECAP in opening the on-campus autism clinic, but has also been used to provide annual scholarships to families in Bay County in need of financial assistance in paying for their child’s autism therapy. A secondary mission of ECAP is to provide excellent clinical training to graduate students enrolled in the ABA Master’s Degree Program at FSU who are studying to be effective behavior analysts. These students apply to the Master’s Program from all over the world and travel specifically to Panama City to gain this autism training, making FSU and Bay County a hub for education regarding treatment of ASD and for innovative autism research being conducted at ECAP. Additionally, ECAP provides supports for the local autism community via workshops, trainings and community fundraisers, one of which is an annual “Auction for Autism Awareness” each April (Autism Awareness Month). Not many people know that ECAP is here in Bay County. Even fewer know how hard the program’s directors and therapists work toward helping children overcome autism. Most importantly, these individuals do this all in an effort to really make a difference in the lives of children and families affected by autism…and when those differences are made, the pay offs are greater than explanation allows. That is why ECAP works so hard at what they do, and why this program is a hidden jewel in Bay County. For more information about ECAP contact the Clinical Director Rachel Wagner at 850.770.2272 or rwagner@pc.fsu.edu or Dr. Amy Polick, Program Director at 850.770.2252 or apolick@pc.fsu.edu. January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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®
Readjet Alternative Fuel Takes Flight
World’s first jet flight powered by 100% JP8 biofuel produced by local firm written by Alisa Kinsaul
October 29th, 2012 will go down in history as the first time a civilian jet was powered by 100% renewable biofuel, and a local science firm is one of the pioneers. Applied Research Associates (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 1,200 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. “Our passionate scientists have shown the world that their creativity and innovation will lead the way to cost competitive, 100% alternative fuels in the near future,” stated Chuck Red, ARA’s Alternative Fuels Program Lead. The Falcon 20 jet test flight has generated international media interest, from the Discovery Channel to major news outlets and Popular Science. When a reporter posed the question, “What has been the biggest challenge regarding your process?”; Red’s answer was thought provoking, “To overcome disbelief that a simple process can produce fuels that are indistinguishable from their petroleum counterparts.” ARA’s patented CH process, while ground breaking, simply uses high-temperature, high-pressure and water to accomplish the conversion reactions. As a matter of fact, the process converts any renewable oil/lipid feedstock to crude oil in as little as 30 seconds. 14
BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
ARA and CLG partnered with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and Agrisoma Biosciences, Inc. Green Aviation R&D Initiative and Air Transport Canada on the historic flight. The biofuel was produced by ARA, under contract to AFRL, from Agrisoma’s Resonance™ Carinata feedstock crop using CLG’s and ARA’s breakthrough process. Agrisoma’s Resonance™ crop is a member of the mustard family. Carinata holds a lot of promise because it is an industrial oil crop that cannot be used in food or food preparation. It can also grow on semi-arid cropland so that it does not compete with food crops. "Agrisoma is proud to be a part of this landmark work. To date, all powered flights have relied on fossil fuel. This flight changes everything – we have witnessed petroleum free aviation," said Steven Fabijanski, President and CEO of Agrisoma Biosciences, who was present on the tarmac during the flight. Agrisoma planted 6,800 acres of Carinata in 2012, which will yield almost 700,000 gallons of oil. They plan to scale up the production of Carinata to between 125,000 and 250,000 acres by next summer. The crop is also being field tested in winter trials in Florida and the southeastern United States. Prior to the test flight, NRC completed ground testing of the fuel with a GE 700 engine in a test cell, and performed a ground turn and taxi in the Falcon 20. During the flight, the Falcon 20 flew on ReadiJet® in both engines as it flew over the sky of Canada’s capital. A second aircraft, a T-33, tailed the Falcon in flight and collected valuable airborne emissions data. Several engineers were on board, monitoring the engines' performance, making a round trip
from Ottowa to Montreal and back in 90 minutes. Experts at NRC are analyzing this information to better understand the environmental benefits of 100% biofuel. Preliminary results showed reductions in black carbon, oxides of nitrogen and aerosol emissions with the ReadiJet® compared to a petroleum Jet-A. The data also showed that the ReadiJet generated greater thrust than the petroleum fuel, resulting in lower fuel consumption to maintain test parameters. Complete test results will be released in the next few weeks. This historic flight symbolizes a significant step not only for the aerospace industry, but also towards advancing sustainable sources of renewable energy. Why is this flight so significant? Until the October 29 flight, bio-fuel flights have been restricted to a 50-percent blend with petroleum to meet specifications. The enthusiasm on the tarmac during and after the flight was palatable. "Today, I flew the world's first 100 percent biofuel flight," said Tim Leslie, one of NRC's pilots. "We have been working hard with our partners for many months, and it is most rewarding to see it all come together." ARA’s alternative fuel effort began in 2006 in response to a U.S. military requirement. “The Department of Defense is the single largest buyer of jet fuel in the country, and has been directed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense to explore a wide range of energy alternatives and fuel efficiency efforts to reduce the military’s reliance on foreign oil to power its aircraft, ground vehicles and non-nuclear ships,” said Ed Coppola, senior
scientist. “We explored a way to convert renewable oils to jet biofuel and received a patent on the technology in 2010,” he said. ARA has one licensing agreement in place with Aemetis, an industrial biotechnology company, and is now negotiating with several other firms eager to license the ARA/CLG biofuel. ARA’s next major milestone is to construct a larger “demonstration” scale plant which will be used to produce additional fuel for large scale certification testing. One major advantage of the ARA/CLG process is that it requires only a small production footprint and can be built alongside existing petroleum refineries, which will provide a low cost capital investment for refiners. The fuels can be pumped into pipelines with petroleum fuels without contamination issues. “The integrated ARA/CLG process and Agrisoma’s feedstock provide a pathway for fulfilling the commercial and military markets’ requirements for alternative fuels at the same cost or lower than petroleum while spurring opportunities for farmers,” said Chuck Red, ARA North Florida Division Manager. “The current driving factors for both the Department of Defense and civilian markets are finding a solution that is environmentally superior to petroleum and also comparable to the cost of petroleum,” said Red. “Thanks to our engineers, scientists, and partners, we’ve found it.” For more information about ARA’s fuel initiative, visit: www.ara.com/fuels.
“To date, all powered flights have relied on fossil fuel. This flight changes everything – we have witnessed petroleum free aviation”
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.
Desirée Gardner is a partner at The
New Box Agency, a marketing and advertising firm she helped establish in July of 2012. Prior to the agency, Desirée worked at the News Herald for 3 years as their real estate specialist in the Advertising Department. She moved to Panama City in 2005 to attend Gulf Coast State College and work as a freelance photographer. Being able to work with multiple companies at the same time is part of what led her to her current work. Outside of work, she spends time volunteering and currently serves on the Humane Society of Bay County's Board of Directors as their Secretary. She has two rescue dogs of her own and especially likes going camping with them. Desirée really appreciates a sense of community and is glad that Panama City has such a strong one. Desirée grew up in Key Largo, Florida and went to boarding school in Washington, Connecticut.
Dan Hinz a financial advisor with Edward Jones,
moved to Bay County in May 2011. As a financial advisor, Dan helps clients make sense of investing and reach their financial goals. Those goals often include saving for retirement, living in retirement, saving money on taxes and saving for education. After graduating magna cum laude in electrical engineering, Dan also went on to earn his MBA with a focus on finance from Iowa State University. Edward Jones became a great opportunity that allowed Dan to move to Panama City Beach and be with Allison, his wife, in her dream job as a dolphin trainer at Gulf World Marine Park. Since moving to Bay County, Dan has become involved in the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, the Panama City Beach
Chamber of Commerce, and the Panama City Kiwanis Club. "Throughout high school and college, I have been heavily involved in groups, clubs, and committees that support the local community. I look forward to getting even more involved in the future, and I always strive for the highest in anything that I do." Dan has been an active member of Bay Young Professionals and enjoys getting to know other members. "It can be tough moving to a new area, starting a new job, and meeting new people--all at the same time. With Bay Young Professionals, I'm developing relationships with members that have common goals, and the various events have been introducing me more and more to the community."
written by Jody Walls
Trends:
Look Who Ruined Casual Friday Getting dressed for the office can mean many different things these days. Your goal to getting dressed for work is to project a professional, competent image, regardless of your employment level or career path. For Women Fashionista, Not Fashion Victim The styles, colors, lengths and fit of your fashion choices will speak volumes about your ability to do your job. If you are concerned about your career, you’ll be more concerned with looking professional than looking cute or trendy. In general, the more distracting a piece of clothing or jewelry is, the less appropriate it is for office wear. More guidelines to looking polished: Color plays a big part in professional image. Traditional career colors include red (aggressive), navy (trustworthy), gray (conservative) and black (chic). Most of these colors work well in suits, skirts and shoes and mix back with softer colors. Loud colors like hot pink and wild prints are much riskier in the office, but some creative types can still pull them off. They can also work if paired with a neutral top or bottom, depending on the piece. Jewelry that jangles (chandelier earrings, stacks of bangles) are distracting. Opt for stud earrings or single bracelets. Slouchy handbags look sloppy. Choose structured styles that project an organized image. Most of what constitutes a polished image is in the details: manicured nails, run-free hose or tights, scuff-free shoes, neat hair. Fit is everything when you are talking about tailored work clothes. Pants should be fitted, but free of visible panty lines. Skirts, especially straights styles like pencil skirts, should be loose enough to sit down comfortably. Jackets should be able to be buttoned. And blouses shouldn’t gap between buttonholes.
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For Men Wow. Guys really do have it easy. But fashion for men is more fun than the boring 1950’s suit. In general men should stick to a suit, tie and pressed shirt for formal business attire. We spoke with local businesses and 9 out of 10 had a business casual atmosphere at least once a week. Business casual would consist of pants and a collared shirt. A must for male office attire is cleaned, polished shoes. This goes hand-in-hand with the firm handshake. Ties should be conservative in nature and blend well with the shirt. Stay away
pictured: Lori Luppino, Casual friday... the right way
from printed (plaid) shirts with patterned ties. A good rule of thumb is one should be solid. Dress Like Your Boss Don’t know where to start working on your career image? You’re not alone because most companies don’t have specific guidelines about what to wear to work. One of the best clues to company dress codes is what your boss wears. Just think about the styles that the highest-level person in your organization wears and use them in your wardrobe. Does she wear mostly skirt suits? Or does she rely on pants and suit jackets? Does he always wear a suit? Are his ties conservative?
pictured: Kristie Mclane, Business attire... the right way
pictured: Justin Barnes, Mens casual attire... the right way
“Unlike a fashion faux pas, a career killer outfit can do your professional image permanent damage.” Some organizations encourage employees to dress as well, or better than their customers, especially for sales people and others that meet clients outside the office. For information technology professionals, this may mean corporate casual, for pharmaceutical sales it may mean a suit, for a lawyer it may mean a matched skirt or pantsuit. One way to always be prepared is to keep an extra “meet the client” outfit at the office for surprise meetings. Career Killers Unlike a fashion faux pas, a career killer outfit can do your professional image permanent damage.
Looks to Avoid in Workplace For Women: Too sexy: see-through lace, miniskirts, spaghetti straps, sheer sundresses, strappy stiletto sandals. Too casual: jeans, shorts, T-shirts, hats, flip-flops, sneakers. Tattoos should be covered. Too sloppy: wrinkled clothing, too many layers, baggy-fit clothing. Piercings other than your ears For Men: Too casual: jeans, shorts, t-shirts, hats, sneakers, sport or hunting type shoes. Piercings and un-groomed excessive facial hair. Tattoos should be covered. Too sloppy: wrinkled clothing, tie too loose, shirt not tucked in with a tie or jacket. Un-groomed hair. No socks. Too metro: excessive jewelry. Wedding band yes, right hand ring no. Unless you have a super bowl ring – save it for the weekend. The 80’s are over, no gold bracelets. Moderate fashionable male bracelets are acceptable (think Teno or leather). Huge gold fake Rolex – no. Classy Tag Hauer, leather bands, real Rolex watches – yes.
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Business Dress Codes Formal Business Attire – For women this constitutes business suits (a matched skirt and jacket) and, in most workplaces, suits (matched pants and blazer). Classy pumps (no sandals), blouses, hose and conservative hair, jewelry and makeup are expected. For men this constitutes business suits and a tie, and in most workplaces a sport coat and slacks. Polished shoes with socks. Well combed hair and groomed moderate facial hair. Corporate Casual Looks – Working women have interpreted this to mean everything from shorts to sundresses, but in its most literal sense it means “smart business.” Dressy pants and a blouse, sleek jersey knits and skirts and tops are all examples of corporate casual. No hosiery is acceptable for summer months. Appropriate hoisery for fall (tights). Denim, T-shirts and flip-flops are only acceptable in the most casual of work environments. Male professionals can interpret this to mean khakis’ and a collared shirt. No jacket is required for corporate casual, ties are typically optional. Many companies will allow a logo shirt with pants. Casual Friday – Depending on the business, this can mean anything from corporate casual instead of formal looks or “Wear your company logo polo and jeans.” If in doubt, ask a superior. Never assume anything. And remember it’s always better to be over dressed, than underdressed.
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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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
by: Jennifer Conoley
inside Bay County’s Economic Development Efforts
current labor statistics for bay county LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
Nov 12 Oct 12 Sep 12
88,309 90,439 81,505
81,061 83,383 84,220
7,248 7,056 7,285
8.2% 7.8% 8.0%
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
87,808 89,633 90,211
79,095 81,138 81,440
8,713 8,495 8,771
9.9% 9.5% 9.7%
real estate sales
One of the great motivational movies is “The Right Stuff” about the star-crossed flight of Apollo 13. “The Right Stuff” is one of those movies that leaves you hopeful
EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES BAY COUNTY REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
Nov 12 Oct 12 Sep 12 Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
85 105 134
$136,300 $150,000 $152,000
MEDIUM PRICE
17,072 17,779 15,643
$150,000 $145,000 $145,000
12,993 13,755 15,036
$130,100 $131,200 $133,900
teamwork necessary to accomplish almost impossible goals. My favorite line comes from Ed Harris when everyone around him is being
Condo – Townhome Sales Nov 12 Oct 12 Sep 12 Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
about the American spirit and the
FLORIDA REALTOR SALES
62 103 81
$196,000 $151,800 $174,000
8,079 8,252 7,329
$112,000 $107,000 $105,736
5,590 6,132 6,666
$86,700 $87,800 $87,200
negative about the possibilities of bringing the crippled spaceship home safely. After many efforts to find a solution, time is running out and col-
bay county building permits RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
Nov 12 Oct 12 Sep 12
46 31 28
1 0 2
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
16 14 17
2 5 4
leagues are beginning to give up, he says very confidently, “this can be our finest hour”.
bay county sales tax collections GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
Oct 12 Sep 12 Aug 12
$481,882,492 $495,190,592 $586,982,123
$236,739,504 $268,230,252 $356,219,290
$14,465,664 $16,080,516 $21,376,368
Oct 11 Sep 11 Aug 11
$526,464,867 $485,507,381 $657,276,357
$228,728,979 $255,591,456 $345,607,133
$13,984,737 $15,574,468 $20,867,120
2013 can be Bay County’s finest hour in terms of “coopetition”, job
January - march 2013
creation and sustaining the great economic base already in place. “Coopetition” comes from the automotive industry where two competing
auto
manufacturers
work
together on a project, i.e. a new engine design yet compete in the marketplace with different vehicles and the same engine. Our economic success in Bay County will greatly depend on how we cooperate across city lines for the betterment of the entire county.
bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH
MEXICO BEACH
October 12 October 11 % Change
$675,710.68 $588,482.07 14.82%
$20,639.05 $17,830.01 15.75%
September 12 September 11 % Change
$556,897.20 $477,181.12 17%
$27,034.89 $26,772.39 0.98%
August 12 August 11 % Change
$651,925.20 $484,761.95 34%
$44,914.43 $28,085.92 59.92%
northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Oct 12 Sep 12 Aug 12
75,065 72,659 82,033
1,151 1,085 1,363
Oct 11 Sep 11 Aug 11
77,389 73,470 78,235
1276 1208 1350
Ronald Reagan said “tear that wall down” – a very good piece of advice for us in Bay County. Because solv-
national, state & local unemployment rate - January 90 - May 2012
ing our most serious impediments to quality job creation will require all of us working together.
2013 is
going to be Bay County’s finest hour as we reach job creation goals that will impact all parts of Panama City, Lynn Haven, Panama City Beach, Callaway, Springfield, Parker and Mexico Beach. Let’s get started.
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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Bay County Chamber of Commerce
The First
25
years 1913 to 1938
written by: Rich Musgrave, Centennial Committee
The fairs and merchant guilds of medieval Europe are considered prototypes of the modern chambers of commerce. Following the fairs of the twelfth century, merchant guilds developed during feudal times and became the first private institutions formed to protect their members. With the disintegration of the guild system in the fifteenth century, chambers of commerce evolved from the first named Chamber, an association of merchants at Marseilles early in the fifteenth century, to official organizations in 1650. Of those chambers organized and conducted entirely independent of government affiliations, 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. By 1870 there were only 49 chambers of commerce in the United States, all located in major cities. Designed originally as trade bodies, they evolved to embrace in their programs activities designed 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. People began to move in and businesses appeared near the waterfront of the new town. 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.
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
West assembled eight men to promote Panama City. They first met at the Panama City Clubhouse, now the 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 it was located in Washington County so it was called the Panama City Chamber. The first officers elected were: R. L. McKenzie, President; C. M. Chandlee, Vice President; Frank Conrad, Treasurer; and W. F. Look, Secretary. The charter papers for the Panama City Chamber of Commerce were filed in Tallahassee and signed by Governor Park Trammel February 13, 1913, and recorded with the secretary of state, March 21, 1913, the official birth date for the new chamber. 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 new organization had as its initial project the creation of a new county from Washington and Calhoun which they would call Bay. Most of the residents in southern Washington County on St. Andrews Bay had grown tired of travelling the long, bumpy roads to Vernon to take care of county business. They successfully politicked for the creation of Bay County, primarily from the southern portion of Washington County with bits of Calhoun and Gulf counties thrown in. Legislation creating Bay County was passed and the new County came into existence on July 1, 1913. The first meeting of the Chamber was held in the clubhouse March 27, 1913. In 1926 they were given quarters upstairs in the new city hall on Fourth Street. In that same year, the Chamber employed its first executive director, Fred Phillips. 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. The local paper reported, “The offices have been redecorated by interior experts and represent a big improvement over the quarters formerly occupied on the second floor.” The Panama City Chamber of Commerce was a strong force in the community during the period of the Great Depression. The Chamber became a member of the Florida Chamber in 1926, the United States Chamber in June 1933 and joined with the Woman’s Club and Panama City Kiwanis Club in arranging financing to keep the schools operating full time during the 1930’s.
In 1936, Chamber members were asked to give reasons for membership. One response that is just as true today read, “I belong to the Chamber of Commerce because I realize that every man owes a debt to his community that cannot be paid in taxes – a debt of personal service.” Next issue: The second twenty-five years (1939 to 1963).
January - March 2013 | 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 Brittany@baychamberfl.com
Each year the Bay County Chamber of Commerce elects six new members and appoints three to its Board of Directors. We would like to introduce our newest members for 2013.
One Year Chair Appointments
Phillip Griffitts Jr. is a Bay County native who graduated from Florida State University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. Griffitts has served as a member on the Panama City Beach Civil Service, Chairman of the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce, member of the Bay Medical Foundation, Vice-Chair of the Bay County Planning Commission and member of Bay Medical-Sacred Heart Board of Trustees.
Jim Hayden moved to Panama City from Monterey, California in Aug 2002. The following year he opened The Bagel Maker Bakery. Hayden has served on
many boards including the Bay Arts Alliance, Panama City Pops, NW Philharmonic, Gayle and Brian Foundation, Downtown Improvement Board and the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. He has worked in many fields including auto mechanics, plumbing, sales and finance. Over the past 9 years, Hayden has continued to build his business and give back to the community that supports him. In his free time, he enjoys ballroom dancing, boating, shooting, and travel.
Carlton Ulmer was named President and Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Coast Medical Center in August 2012. Prior to moving to Bay County, he served as the Chief Operating Officer of Redmond Regional Medical Center in Rome, GA. He is an active Rotarian and has served on many agency boards in the communities in which he has resided. A graduate of Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama Ulmer earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise
Science and Health Promotion and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Troy State University in Atlanta, Georgia. Three Year Elected
Lennie Butler is the Market President for Cadence Bank in Panama City, and has worked in this location since 2005. Prior to his experience in Panama City, Butler served as the Regional Credit Officer for Superior Bank in Port St. Joe, FL from 2003-2005. He originally moved to Panama City to aid in the opening of SouthTrust Bank (now Wells Fargo) in 1990 and later served as the Senior VicePresident of this organization from 1990-1992. He was promoted to City President at SouthTrust in 1992 and remained there until 1997, when he transferred to Cary, NC to serve as City President for SouthTrust there . Butler holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida State University and is a veteran of the US Navy. He and his wife, Susan, reside in Lynn Haven.
Robert Carroll graduated from Florida State University majoring in civil engineering. Carroll is coowner of McNeil Carroll Engineering, Inc. with his partner Sean McNeil specializing in land development and permitting. He is the past chairman of the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce and former President of the FSU Panama City Development Board. He has been married to Sharon Carroll for the past 16 years and has two beautiful daughters, Mia and Gianna.
Pedro Fúster is a 35-year resident of Bay County and is currently the General Manager of RockTenn’s Panama City Paper Mill where he has worked since
coming to Bay County. Fúster serves as a board member for the United Way of Northwest Florida and holds a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Puerto Rico. He likes woodworking, and along with his wife, Karen, enjoys spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Frank Martin’s practice provides refined wealth management planning for a select group of business owners, professionals and successful families. In attaining his Certified Financial Planner™ designation, he provides client’s insightful and personalized financial guidance using cutting-edge investment strategies designed to protect and grow their wealth. Martin has been involved in a number of businesses, including oil and gas, tax and audit accounting, banking and medical service companies over the past 30 years. For the past 10 years Martin’s focus has been helping clients and businesses with their financial planning and employee retirement plan needs. Being active in the community is very important to him and he is a member and board member of the Panama City Rotary Club as well as the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, and serves as the treasurer of the Haney Education Foundation. Spending time with family and enjoying the many outside activities, such as sailing and golf, is why Martin lives in Panama City.
Officers: Chairman of the Board: Bill Fenimore Chairman Elect: Larry Carroll Vice-Chair: Raymond Powell is the President of the Southeast Region of Doral Bank. Prior to this position, Powell was with Peoples First Community Bank for 25 years serving as President and CEO for 19 years. He holds a current real estate sales license and has more than 30 years’ experience in real estate finance, development, and sales. Raymond’s wife, Teresa, is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker. They have two grown children, David and Teri, and two grandchildren, Lilly Kate and Anna Beth. They have lived in Panama City since 1984 and been active in many community and charitable organizations including Tourist Development Council, Convention and Visitors Bureau, Bay Medical Foundation, Florida Bankers Association, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, United Way, March of Dimes, Boys and Girls Club, Early Education and Care, and others. Raymond was the Chairman of the Bay County Chamber in 1998 and Military Affairs Committee in 1999.
Claire Sherman is a Vice President of Lamar Advertising and serves as the General Manager of the Lamar Advertising Panama City plant. Sherman has been with Lamar nearly 15 years in the capacity of Sales Associate, Sales Manager and now General Manager. A longtime resident of Bay County, she is a graduate of Gulf Coast Community College and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications/Public Relations from FSU-PC. Claire has been an active community leader for many years, and currently serves as the Chair of the Bay Chamber Centennial Committee, as well as a member of the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Downtown Rotary Club Board, and United Way of Northwest Florida Board. She has also served as both member and President of the Gulf Coast Media & Marketing Association (AAF) Board and the Junior League Board and has been a two-time Chairman of the Jr. Leadership Bay Steering Committee, Chairman of the Leadership Bay Steering Committee, Public Relations co-chair of the USS Momsen Commission Team, and co-chair of the 2010 American Cancer Society’s Cattle Barons Ball.
Michael Menk Treasurer: Andrew Levy Past Chairman/ Military Affairs Committee: Al McCambry At Large/ Communications: Claire Sherman
Board: Term Expires 2013: Ray Dubuque John Ed McDanal Valerie Mincey Alisa Kinsaul Jay Moody Mike McGuire
Term Expires 2014: Gary Anderson DeAnn Mullins Rich Musgrave John Wheat Mike Sears
continued on page 26 January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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continued Biz List from page 25 During the 45th Annual Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism, held September 5-7 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld, VISIT FLORIDA honored the Bay County Tourism Development Council (TDC) for creativity in public relations. Annually, leaders in Florida tourism are chosen by a selection committee for various prestigious honors and awards. This year, the Bay County TDC received a Bronze Flagler Award for its Spring 2011 public relations campaign centered on attracting visitors to the destination following the misperceptions surrounding the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. Campaign elements included social media events and promotional partnerships with key colleges and universities; an exclusive with the Wall Street Journal; New York media mission with national trade and consumer media utilizing Skype to showcase real-time pristine beaches; and national broadcast coverage on CBS News and the Travel Channel.
Franklin R. Harrison of Panama City, Florida, was elected Chair of the Board of Trustees of the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) at an August meeting of the Board held in Burlington, Vermont. NCBE develops the tests used as part of the bar examination in virtually every U.S. jurisdiction, including Florida. Harrison has served as the committee chair of the Multistate Bar Examination, the organization’s flagship test, 26
since 2008. He will continue in that role during the year that he chairs the National Conference Board of Trustees.
Pat Sabiston, owner of The Write Place, a marketing and PR Firm, worked in tandem with Gulf Coast State College to present “Ensuring Great Media Relations” to the Association of Florida Colleges Joint Spring Conference in Tallahassee, FL. During the summer, her company finalized the materials to support the Historic St. Andrews Walking Tour and Docent Manual. In September, she facilitated a panel discussion for Life Management Center of Northwest Florida during their third annual Suicide Prevention Conference. Sabiston also serves as Chair of The Panama City Lighthouse Board of Directors.
The Gulf County Tourist Development Council was awarded ‘The Henry’ for its Tourism EXPO Event in the category of Tourism Advocacy at the 2012 Flagler Awards held September 5-7, at SeaWorld during the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Additionally, Gulf County TDC received a Silver Flagler by Visit Florida for its Gulf County Discovery Guide.
BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
Jennifer Jenkins, Gulf County TDC Executive Director accepted the awards during the Conference along with Kerigan Marketing Associates, Inc., of Port St. Joe, who completed each of Gulf County TDC’s winning entries while serving as agency of record.
Cox Pools was awarded the Building Industry Association (BIA) of Okaloosa and Walton Counties’ coveted APEX Award for Achievement of Professional Excellence in the category of Outdoor Living & Landscaping on October 11, 2012.
Downtown Improvement Board/Main Street Pulls in State Awards. Panama City Main Street was recognized at the Secretary of State’s Florida Main Street Awards Dinner on Thursday, September 15th, at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida. In the annual competition of over 50 Main Street Programs, Panama City’s Main Street program took home ‘Merit Award’ honors in four categories.
Mrs. Betty Domangue, Honorary Member and Pianist for The Rotary Club of Panama City, aka Downtown Rotary, has announced her retirement. A retired teacher with the Bay County School System and a former Baldwin Piano and Organ dealer, Mrs. Domangue was invited to join the then predominantly male club 28 years ago by Dr. Earl Bailey, former professor at Gulf Coast Community College. Instruments available during her tenure as Rotary Pianist ranged from “rinky dink keyboard to a grand piano,” says Mrs. Domangue. Song leaders and song choices were varied as well. “The song leaders have ranged from young to 90 years old. Some wanted to sing religious, always my favorite because my parents were ministers, and I have always played piano at church.” Mrs. Domangue credits Rotary as having stood by her through good times and bad. She cherishes the friendships she has made within the Club. Her future plans include travel with her church and her family. She will remain an honorary member of The Rotary Club of Panama City.
Tracy Nye, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City (NSWC PCD) employee, was named a 2012 Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) engineer of the year. Nye, along with two other NAVSEA Warfare Center employees, Dr. Christine Michienzi of NSWC Indian Head and Shawn McDonald of NSWC Dahlgren, were named recipients of the NAVSEA 2012 Engineer, Scientists and Technical Authority of the Year for outstanding achievements in engineering, science and technical authority. They received their awards in December at the Washington Navy Yard
Innovations FCU’s President and CEO, David Southall, was invited to speak at the FEDEAC Annual Meeting to the members of the Costa Rican League of Credit Unions in October through a partnership developed by the League of South-
eastern Credit Unions and the World Council of Credit Unions. Southall discussed how Innovations utilizes technology to attract the youth market and grow the credit union. He also shared Innovations’ dialogue tower banking concept and clean branch design thus removing the barrier of the traditional teller line to create a comfortable, inviting atmosphere for members.
Advertising – Outdoor (“I Will” campaign billboards) ● Advertising – Print (“I Will” campaign print ads in local magazines) ●
Gulf Coast State College earned 13 Marketing Awards of Excellence at the fall Association of Florida Colleges convention, held recently in Palm Harbor, FL. Gulf Coast took home more awards than any of the other 27 Florida colleges. The Marketing & Communications team is Laura Green, Karon Phillips, Dan Tuma and Chris Thomes.
1st Place: Social Media (our current Facebook awareness campaign) Poster (Spring Arts Festival) ● Article in a College-Produced Publication (“Reflections: Music and Memories, Laughter and a Legacy” – Summer 2012 Clipper story about Norman Hair, former VPA Division Chair) ●
In November, Dana Brown, interactive marketing manager for the Bay County Tourist Development Council (TDC), received the Forty for the Future (Travel’s Leading Talent) award by the Southeast Tourism Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism throughout the region. The award was presented to Brown in Virginia Beach, Va., at the organization’s annual Fall Forum. Brown was selected for demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities and contributing to a significant future for the travel and tourism industry in the United States.
2nd Place: Article in a CollegeProduced Publication (“A Delicious Success Story” – Fall 2011 Clipper story about alumna Maria Baugh) ● Video/Electronic Promotion (“President’s Welcome” video) ● Brochure (ATC Presentation Folder) ● Display/Presentation Board (“I Will” display banners) ● Trendsetter (“I Will” digital/electronic view book) ● Magazine (The Clipper) ● Social Media (“4th of July” Facebook post) ● Single Sheet Flier (STEM Education Center) ●
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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Workforce Connection There has been an increase in job scams in Panama City and all around the state of Florida. Unfortunately, with the increase in unemployment, job seekers are letting their guards down more when they become excited about a job opportunity, causing them to be more apt to become part of a job scam. There was recently a job scam in the Employ Florida Marketplace where Kim Bodine, Executive Director an imposter posted a position, when – Gulf Coast Workforce Board jobseekers responded to the ad, they were asked to send money in advance for required training for the “job”. Even though the EFM website has scamming alert warnings on almost every page, job seekers can still fall victim to the scam. The Gulf Coast Workforce Board would like to remind everyone that scammers can be very good at what they do and any employer can go online and post a job opening in the Employ Florida Marketplace, as well as other job boards. In order to protect yourself, please keep these tips in mind: ● Research the company to ensure it is authentic ● Keep your email address private ● Be cautious of any employer offering employment without an interview
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Be cautious of any employer who charges a fee to either employ, find placement, or providing training prior to an official job offer Please investigate thoroughly any employer requesting you to transfer funds or to receive packages for reshipment, especially if they are located overseas Do not provide your social security number or any other sensitive information to an employer unless you are confident that the employer is legitimate Avoid vague offers as these are often scams Be wary of inflated claims of product effectiveness Be cautious of exaggerated claims of possible earnings or profits Beware when money is required up front for instructions or products Be leery when the job posting claims “no experience necessary” Be cautious when dealing with individuals outside of your own country Be wary when replying to unsolicited emails for work-at-home employment Contact the Better Business Bureau to determine the legitimacy of the company Be cautious of employers who conduct their interviews in a home setting or in motel rooms written by: Maria Goodwin
July - September 2012 | BAY BIZ
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{new Members. for January - March 2013 101st Air Operations Group (850) 283-5199 adria.zucarro@tyndall.af.mil 650 Florida Ave. Tyndall AFB, FL 32403
Chartwells School Dining Services (864) 253-9567 (864) 253-9574 eugenie.cariselli@compass-
Abundant Life Ministries (850) 785-7241 (850) 233-1815 mrhenkle@yahoo.com PO Box 16721 Panama City, FL 32406
USA.com 7092- B Howard St. Spartanburg, SC 29303 www.eatlearnlive.com
Allstate Harry Grizzle Agency (850) 769-7681 (888) 576-9322 hgrizzle@allstate.com 2104 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 www.allstate.com/hgrizzle Ayman T. Aboulela M.D. (850) 769-1566 (850) 769-1644 dr.aboulela@gmail.com 109 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 Bay Center Nursing & Rehab (850) 763-3911 (850) 763-0242 administrator@baycenterhealthandrehab 1336 St. Andrews Blvd. Panama City, FL 32405 baycenterhealthandrehab.com Bay Health Foundation (850) 747-6230 (850) 747-2421 respann@baymedical.org 528 N. MacArthur Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 Beach Tower Resort Motel (850) 235-0089 mcjag95@yahoo.com 12001 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 beachtowermotel.com 30
Childers Fine Jewelry (850) 215-9909 dptclk57@yahoo.com 2012 Lisenby Ave. Ste. C Panama City, FL 32405 Claussen Plumbing Inc. (850) 832-1384 claussenplumbinginc@yahoo.com 13809 Flamingo Ave. Fountain, FL 32438 claussenplumbing.com El Jalisco (850) 481-0909 (850) 640-1787 venebori45@gmail.com 766 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 Elliott Vocal Studios (850) 215-6050 pamela.elliott@att.net 2516 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 www.elliottvocalstudios.com ENSEC Pest Control (850) 236-9070 clint.abernathy@pest.com 8600 S. Burnt Mill Creek Rd. Panama City, FL 32409 www.pest.com Genghis Grill (850) 785-4444 genghiscole@gmail.com 741 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 www.genghisgrill.com
BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
Giambra Vending (850) 819-2011 giambravending@comcast.net 7250 S. Lake Joanna Dr. Panama CIty, FL 32404 www.giambravending.com
Meadows and Kelly P.A. (850) 215-2948 (850) 215-2963 meadowsandkelly@knology.net PO Box 669 Panama City, FL 32402 www.meadowsandkelley.com
Harley Davidson of Panama City Beach (813) 740-9898 mdudich@ferman.com 14700 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 www.pcbharley.com
Moulder Insurance Agency, Inc. (850) 785-0538 (850) 872-0378 jkoppel@geico.com 1314 N. Tyndall Pkwy. Panama City, FL 32404
Homeless and Hunger Coalition of NWFL (850) 481-5446 homeless.coalition.nwfl@gmail.com
PO Box 549 Panama City, FL 32402 www. homelesshungercoalitionnwfl.org
Honda of Bay County (850) 763-5495 (850) 769-2599 mboudreaux@group1auto.com 3601 E. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32404 www.hondaofpanamacity.com Hope Radiation Cancer Center (850) 481-1687 (850) 640-0761 drmurshed@hopercc.com 2900 Hwy 77 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 www.hoperadiationcancercenter.com Labor Finders (850) 913-9701 janice.tegl@laborfinders.com 1009 Magnolia Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 www.laborfinders.com League of Women Voters (850) 235-3781 gojanieshepard@gmail.com 3106 Preserve Rookery Blvd. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 Legal Shield/GoSmallBiz.com (850) 832-8922 (850) 872-2097 chrisobaugh@legalshield.com 4420 Collegiate Lane Panama City, FL 32405 legalshield.com/hub/chrisobaugh
Ms. Tammala Spencer (850) 527-9199 tamspencer@earthlink.net PO Box 126 Panama City, FL 32402 North Florida Coins and Collectibles (850) 215-8565 nfccshop@knology.net PO Box 418 Lynn Haven, FL 32444-0418 www.northfloridacoins.com Panama Vapor (850) 640-0602 panamavapor@gmail.com 2347 MLK Blvd. Panama City, FL 32405 www.panamavapor.com Panhandle Orthopaedics (850) 784-7724 (850) 784-4711 mgilmore@panhandleorhto.com 200 Doctors Dr. Panama City, FL 32405 www.panhandleortho.com Pat Green Heating & Cooling (850) 277-2777 (850) 277-2774 edtoll@comcast.net 209 Business Park Dr. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 www.patgreenair.com Pyne Law Group, P.A. (850) 215-9090 (850) 215-9045 2309 Frankford Ave., Ste A Panama City, FL 32405 www.pynelawgroup.com
RE/MAX Southern (850) 249-4004 brad@gosouthern.com 400 S. Hwy. 79 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 www.gosouthern.com
Tito's Downtown Cafe & Bakery (850) 215-5775 joan@titoscafe.com 448 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 www.titoscafe.com
Real Time LLC (850) 250-3210 julie@realtime-it.com 1330 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 www.realtime-it.com
Titus Commercial Laundry (888) 366-7065 (850) 835-1840 mreeves@coinlaundryequip.com 48 Commerce Dr., Ste. 1 Freeport, FL 32439
SeaMark Wealth Accommodation & Preservation (850) 814-9459 james@swap-financial.com 2629 W 23rd St., Ste. A Panama City, FL 32405
Treatment Center Of Panama City (850) 769-5695 (850) 769-5691 pcdirector@tcaclinics.com 2110 W. 23rd St., Ste. A Panama City, FL 32405 www.tcaclinics.com
Smugglers Sports Bar & Eatery (850) 215-7691 (850) 215-7692 smugglers-fl@live.com 532 Tyndall Parkway Panama City, FL 32404 smugglerssportsbar.com The Alarm People (850) 610-0794 thealarmpeople@gmail.com 19820 Walsh Rd. Fountain, FL 32438 www.thealarmpeople.info The Willis Conservatory of Classical Ballet (850) 236-1555 willisballet@yahoo.com 7702 McElvey Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 www.willisballet.com Tindell Marketing (850) 896-8253 mike@tindellmarketing.com 1426 Calvin Ave. Panama City, FL 32404 tindellmarketing.com
Trinity Air Services (850) 244-0747 (850) 863-8632 melissa@trinityair.com 679 Denton Blvd., Bldg 1 Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547 www.trinityair.com VBA Design, Inc. (850) 769-3357 (850) 763-0410 vwilliams@vbadesign.us 465 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 Verizon Wireless (850) 867-9633 (813) 290-6624 jerry.fox@verizonwireless.com 411 A E. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 www.verizonwireless.com
Memberanniversaries Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals for January - March 2013 Onyx - 5 Years Area Glass Chef Dee’s Catering Community Health Center of Bay County La Quinta Inn & Suites Sea Breeze Health Care Two Men & A Truck Ruby - 10 Years Citynet Community Health Task Force Lockheed Martin Aeronautics F-22 Opal - 15 Years Tillman Investments, LLC Emerald - 20 Years Rodney K. Wolfe Silver - 25 Years First Baptist Church
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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1500
Smart consumers come to BBB|Northwest Florida for help and information an average of over
1,500
times a day.
7 in 10 consumers say they’d be more likely to buy from a company designated as a “BBB Accredited Business.”*
Start With Trust® Start with bbb.org or call 800.729.9226 to see how you may receive more customer referrals
*Princeton Survey Research Associates 2007
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2013
out
&about & 2012
1.
out
2. 4.
1.
Annual Board Retreat at the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
2
New Member Breakfast in the Chamber boardroom
3
Business After Hours : Members of the News Herald and PanamaCity.com advertising team Janelle Rodabaugh, Digital Sales Manager A.J. Levato, Lindsay Law, and Sales Associate Rhonda Lairsey.
4:
Leadership Bay learn Skill Building techniques
5
First Responders Honored by Congressman Steve Southerland at the Second Annual First Responder’s Appreciation Luncheon
6
“Getting the Grant: From Research to Thank You” workshop held in the Chamber boardroom
7
Junior Leadership Bay students visit healthcare facilities in Bay County
3.
5.
6.
7.
about
January - March 2013 | BAY BIZ
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{calendar
For a detailed listing of chamber and community events visit
www.panamacity.org
Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events dates, times and locations subject to change.
January
11 First Friday with the Beach
FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Drive) Networking: 7:30 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by: The Bay County Public Libraries Foundation Inc., Gulf Coast Medical Center and Gulf Coast State College Continuing Education Program: TBD Free event to Bay County Chamber and Panama City Beach Chamber members and Chamber invited guests
25 annual dinner and awards ceremony
Edgewater Golf & Beach Resort (11212 Front Beach Road) Cocktails and Silent Auction: 6:00 p.m./ Program & Dinner: 6:45 p.m. Join the Bay County Chamber as we celebrate 99 years of business in Bay County and kick off our 100th Year celebration. Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com for more information
29 Business after Hours
Place: Spine Care Plus 5:30-7:00 p.m. Sponsored by: Spine Care Plus- 714 East 4th St. Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com for more information
31 Bay Young Professionals Social
Tito’s (448 Harrison Avenue) 5:30-7 p.m. Contact Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com for more information Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com for more info
February
1 First Friday
FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Drive) Networking: 7:30 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m. Free event to Bay County Chamber members and Chamber invited guests
5 new Member 411 Breakfast
Chamber Boardroom (235 W. 5th St.) 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Free for new members or those new to a members organization RSVP to Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753
March 1 First Friday
FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Drive) Networking: 7:30 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by: Gulf Coast State College Free event to Bay County Chamber members and Chamber invited guests
Bay county chamber of commerce 100th Birthday Block Party Business after Hours
21 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com for more information Events are for Bay County Chamber member and Chamber invited guests. Contact 785-5206 for information on events or membership.
For sponsorship and availability call
785-5206.