Talent Resources Cost Savings
POSITIONS FILLED We help Florida BUSINESSES find talent. If you’re like most businesses, you put your employees at the top of the priority list. You might offer the best product or service — or the best value — but without the right team, your business may never reach its full potential and achieve sustainable growth.
CONNECT CareerSource Gulf Coast 625 Highway 231
With the Employ Florida Marketplace, CareerSource Gulf Coast offers you the strength of statewide reach and the power of the largest employment database in Florida. The service comes at no charge – it’s just a matter of registering online at EmployFlorida.com
Panama City, FL 32405 P: 850.872.4340 F: 850.747.5696 www.careersourcegc.com
As an employer, the Employ Florida Marketplace offers a multitude of resources to help you find the perfect candidate, create job listings, review job market trends and more.
Employ Florida Marketplace CareerSource Gulf Coast is a service of Gulf Coast State College
gET STarTED TODay! CareerSource Gulf Coast is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this document may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711.
www.employflorida.com
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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE
Coley Reflects on Four Terms in the Florida House of Representatives
FEATURE
Crisis in the Panhandle: The issue of Red Snapper restrictions
TOURISM APPRECIATION MONTH A look back at all of our great Tourism Appreciation Month events
ECONOMIC PROFILE EDA Insights
20 EDUCATION Internship Programs in Bay County: Much
Needed Experience to Students and a Viable Workforce for Businesses
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WORKFORCE CONNECTION BIZ LIST BYP MEMBERS TO KNOW CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR NEW MEMBERS MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES OUT & ABOUT
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brittany Cole CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bob Zales Scarlett Phaneuf Heather Weekley Theresa Moran Elizabeth Smith Brittany Cole Nancy Schlagheck DESIGN Sean Brosnan (GORGEOUS - Strategic Branding & Design) COVER Red Snapper Courtesy of: David Rainer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David Rainer, Brittany Cole, Desiree Gardner Photography, CareerSource Gulf Coast, Office of Marti Coley 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, contact 850-785-5206.
DON ALD GI LES MAI, SRA Cert. Gen. RZ356
Commercial and Residential Property Valuations
122 E 4th St Panama City, Fl, 32401 Phone: 850-769-6593 Fax: 850-872-9160 gilesappraisal@knology.net
Company Name
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
Street Address Address 2 City, ST ZIP Code Phone: 555.555.0125
Empl
Position
#FlyECP to Nashville Panama City to Music City in less than two hours. | Daily nonstop flights.
Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation
Economical. Convenient. Painless.
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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We hope that everyone had a great 4th of July and enjoyed all of the Independence Day celebrations around our county.
of the committee chaired by Lee Ann Leonard of Boardwalk Beach Resort. Thank you to the many sponsors of the events. Hat’s off to Dan Rowe and his team at the Tourist Development Council for another great National Tourism Day picnic at the County Pier. In this picture it would appear that I was having much more fun than the rest of the crew.
As we celebrate our freedom, I must remind everyone that election time is just around the corner. Get out and vote people. It’s that time and you need to exercise your right. Your vote does count. If you’re not sure where to vote or not registered yet visit the Supervisor of Elections website at BayVotes.org.
This summer we have had some changes in leadership at OUR community college, Gulf Coast State College, as we bid farewell to Dr. Jim Kerley and welcome home one of our own (and I might say, a dear friend), Dr. John Holdnak. The selection committee certainly had their work cut out for them but they could not have found a person more passionate about GCSC nor Bay County. John, congratulations and welcome home!
You’ve probably noticed some staff changes at the Chamber this summer. We are excited for Don Pitts as he retired but certainly sad to lose him on staff. If you didn’t know, Don, he is the perfect “southern gentleman” and tolerated being the only male in a staff of ten women for many years. Don, we wish you and Linda the best and hope you put many miles on that new camper. And, by the way, ROLL TIDE!
And then…Dr. Ken Shaw at FSU, PC dropped the bomb that he was leaving us too! As Ken and his wife head to Texas, we do sincerely wish him the best. Ken has done some amazing things for our local campus and it certainly saddens me to lose another great leader in our community. I am absolutely ecstatic over the City of Panama City’s progress toward a tourist tax (bed tax). We’ve made great strides to date with several hurdles being overcome. Next, the issue will go to the voters within the city limits. Help us talk it up to your neighbors and encourage them to vote yes. We’ve seen the positive effects it has had on Panama City Beach and now its time to grow Panama City. Panama City residents do not pay this tax. Only individuals who rent hotel rooms or lodging for less than six months. Although we all hate taxes, this one will help breathe new life back in to our beautiful community.
We’ve had an incredible spring and summer. Our Tourism Appreciation Month activities in May were all successful but would not have been possible without the support
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
Kudos, to Barry Keel and his team at Bay Medical Center Sacred Heart for acquiring the needed partnerships to addressing our parking needs at the hospital. The four sto-
ry parking garage will accommodate 430 parking spaces plus two additional floors that will house medical offices to the hospital. The Panama City CRA is also to be commended for their participation in seeing this project become a reality. Construction is projected to begin later this year and be completed in 2016. I was also pleasantly surprised to hear that parking will be free to the public. Great job team! Our Military Affairs Committee participated in the Wounded Warriors event this spring by hosting a welcome table at the airport to greet the soldiers and their families. In addition, our friend Col. David Graff, Commander of TAFB retired and we wish him the best. The Chamber has a lot on the horizon for September and October. We’re bringing the Industry Appreciation Celebration back to acknowledge the impact of local industry on our economy. Our First Responders Appreciation luncheon will be held in October and Color Vibe will be coming back Nov 15th at the old airport. Watch for details on all of these important events. Thank you for being a part of our team to make Bay County a great place to call home!
Carol Roberts President/CEO
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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Representative Coley Reflects on Four Terms in Office by: Theresa Moran, Vice President of Governmental Affairs Bay County Chamber of Commerce Florida is one of 15 states that limit legislative terms for our State Representatives and Senators. Current law terms out Representatives at eight years (4 twoyear terms) and Senators at eight years (2 four-year terms). As the regular session of Florida Legislature ended on May 2, 2014, Representative Marti Coley’s last term in the Florida House of Representatives also ended. Representative Coley was elected to the Florida House of Representatives on June 14, 2005, and re-elected subsequently. She has served 9 years as the District 5 Representative, sponsored over 70 bills throughout her years as representative and was Speaker pro tempore from 2012-2014. This year, she was assigned to the Appropriations Committee, Education Committee, Higher Education & Workforce Subcommittee and the Rules & Calendar Committee. In previous years, she was also assigned to the Energy & Utilities Subcommittee, Government Operations Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee, Regulatory Affairs Committee and the State Affairs Committee. Representative Coley was also the Bay County Legislative Delegation Chair from 2006 to the present, Deputy Majority Whip, 2006 – 2008, K-12 Education Committee Vice Chair in 2007 and Postsecondary Education Committee Chair in 2007. (Representative Coley reflects on her last year in office)
As this is your last term in the Florida Legislature, what are your feelings on that? Terming out is bittersweet. I have truly enjoyed my time in the legislature. I started my tenure with one mission and that was to finish what my husband (Representative David Coley) had started, but was cut short by cancer. It was an honor to finish his term, but I am very honored that the voters gave me an opportunity to serve my own terms. Serving has been both challenging and rewarding, and I am so grateful that I have been a part of this process. My staff and I have worked hard to serve our constituents. I think we can leave office knowing that although we couldn’t make everyone happy all of the time, we certainly gave our all.
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment while in office? I am pleased to have been part of many educational issues, but I am most proud of my involvement with legislation that created multiple pathways to a standardized diploma. Providing opportunities for all students, regardless of their strengths or weaknesses, is what sets us apart from other nations and indeed even other states. I am also proud that I was instrumental in establishing a new awareness of the importance of cancer research and treatment in our state. The Bill Bankhead and David Coley Cancer Research Program is a peer-reviewed, competitive grant process that awards money to the best research available.
During your tenure, what was your biggest challenge? Sometimes making tough decisions was difficult because I want to fix everything for everyone, howev-
-er that isn’t possible. I am satisfied that the choices my colleagues and I made put Florida in a much better place than most states around the country. When we faced tough economic times, we made reductions when needed. I am very proud that this year we rolled back the license tag and fees that we increased several years ago. Being willing to undo or tweak a law is very important in making decisions for a state our size.
Since you took office, how has the position changed you? Would you do anything differently?
I like to think I am exactly the same person as I was then, but after 9 years that probably isn’t possible. I have learned so much and have grown as a woman and as a citizen. Being engaged in the process is so crucial for Floridians. I have 3 children that I am so proud of and, for their sakes, I know now sitting back and doing nothing is not an option. Everyone, elected or not, should be involved in our communities and our state.
What are your plans for the future?
I have no plans right now to run for any public office and look forward to continue working at Chipola College where I have worked since 1989.
C L A S S A O F F I C E S PA C E AVA I L A B L E B e ck r i ch B u s i n e s s P a r k
B e ck r i ch I & I I P a n a m a C i t y B e a ch , F l o r i d a S U I T E S AVA I L A B L E F R O M 1 , 0 0 0 R S F TO 1 2 , 0 0 0 R S F
Kevin Williams, CCIM Ke v i nw @ g r a h a m c o m p a ny. c o m 850.348.0808
Jason Carnes j a s o n c @ g r a h a m c o m p a ny. c o m 850.830.6593
w w w . g r a h a m c o m p a n y. c o m
850.563.1500
10 0 R i ch a r d J a ck s o n B l v d , S u i t e 11 5 P a n a m a C i t y B e a ch , F L 3 2 4 5 9
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by: Captain Bob Zales, II
Most everyone on the Gulf has heard of the Red Snap-
per restrictions and how it’s affecting our economy, but do you really understand it? Here is a ‘golf comparison’ to help explain how certain groups are trying to push the recreational anglers off the water. Let’s assume that golf could be regulated much like the sport of fishing. A newly formed Golf Conservation Institute (GCI) was created and released a report about the sport of golf. The report “Assessment of the Damage to the Environment by Golfers” provides an assessment that golfers are adversely affecting the environment by playing too much golf, resulting in the excessive use of chemicals, elements leaking into water sheds, carbon emissions fostering global warming and indirectly causing extreme weather to golfing communities. This report would then be used to set the standard for new regulations and create a new agency, National Terrestrial Golfing Service (NATGS) to take immediate measures to reduce the impacts of golfing. Environmental organizations such as Pew, Ocean Conservancy, Environmental Defense Fund, and others could provide funding to the new agency. (NOTE: These same organizations also work together to influence the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to heavily regulate recreational fishermen.)
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
A newly appointed administrator for NATGS, could then take immediate steps to stop the “overplaying” of golf, due to the report. “After reading and analyzing the report by GCI, I am convinced that there are too many golfers playing too much in this country. As the head of the newly created agency empowered to regulate this sport, I can tell you we are taking immediate steps to curtail this activity and hopefully we will be able to allow a limited number of golfing rounds without having to shut down golf period.” Imagine this newly appointed administrator would then restrict the number of golfing rounds allowed in the U.S. to 10,000 rounds. There would be no restrictions on golf courses in order for the 10,000 rounds to be played. Unfortunately, if there were any professional tournaments scheduled after the 10,000th round, those tournaments would have to be canceled. While these temporary measures were implemented the NTGS would be developing permanent measures to be implemented in 2015. These restrictions would not only affect golfers and the golf courses, but the equipment manufacturers, supporting businesses, and local golfing communities. The above story is fictitious, but imagine for a moment the story is real. Then visualize what the impact would
be to the national economy, the amount of lost jobs, impacts on the supporting businesses, the number of golf courses that would shutdown, the impact on broadcasts of tournaments, and the overall negative impacts such actions would cause. Enter the real world of recreational fishery management, where actions have and are taking place today. Environmental organizations have provided funding to their staffs to influence Congress to create overly restrictive laws. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) uses these laws to severely restrict recreational fisheries such as Red Snapper, Trigger Fish, Greater Amberjack, Gag and Red Grouper. Small family charter boat businesses, tackle shops, charter boat crew members, restaurants, and communities suffer serious negative social and economic impacts. In Bay County alone, there are over 75 charter boats, 7 headboats, a large number of guide boats, and countless private recreational anglers. Marinas, tackle shops, restaurants, condos, hotels, and tourism-based infrastructure are negatively affected by the current mismanagement of recreational fisheries by the NMFS. Until 1997, all recreational fisheries were open and available 365 days. In December 1997, recreational Red Snapper was closed due to a provision placed in the Magnuson-Stevens Act by environmental groups that mandated the fishery be closed when the quota was met. This began the current NMFS management fiasco where the season went from being open 365 days to the current 9 day season for 2014. Recreational fishing is responsible for enhancing tourism in Bay County, as people have been coming since before the 1950’s to fish. This activity has helped to foster the entire tourism base Bay County enjoys today. The NMFS management failure that has caused the consistent reduction of fishing days for Red Snapper has also led to shorter seasons for Red and Gag Grouper, Greater Amberjack, and Trigger Fish. These constant closures have caused some Bay County charter boat businesses to shut down. This has also caused fishermen to find other places to fish. Loss of jobs negatively affects families, which creates additional problems for the community. The constant confusion created by the NMFS as to when seasons begin and end has created
much confusion for families and fishermen trying to make plans to visit. Many have cancelled this year due to the short 9 day season. As some people know, the NMFS has taken drastic and harmful measures against recreational fishermen based on a lawsuit from an environmental group, Environmental Defense Fund, a few commercial fishermen, and a handful of dual-permitted charter boat owners. Envi-
ronmental groups continue to apply excessive pressure to the NMFS to shutdown recreational fishing while doing nothing to fix the broken management system of the NMFS. All of the losses described are real, even while the Red Snapper fishery is stronger and the stock biomass larger than ever recorded in history. With the improved state of the Red Snapper fishery today, why are fishermen facing a 9 day season? Governmental overly-restrictive regulations and too much influence over the governmental process from environmental groups are causing most of the problems and impacts. In addition to the harsh regulations placed on Red Snapper, the NMFS will be closing the recreational Red Grouper fishery in September, and has also closed the Trigger Fish fishery for 2014. The Trigger Fish season will be drastically reduced for 2015 because of the mismanagement of the 2013 data. Amberjack quota for 2014 could be closed early this fall and the Gag Grouper fishery will probably be closed before year end. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce caught up with a family at Captain Anderson’s Marina that traveled from Oklahoma to Bay County for a graduation celebration for their children. “Bay County is beautiful. If we couldn’t go Red Snapper fishing, we would look at visiting somewhere else. If we couldn’t have fished for Red Snapper, it would have ruined our whole trip. We planned to come to the area for that purpose,” said Stephen Akins from Poteau, Oklahoma. BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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There are several ways that you can help! Join the local Panhandle Chapter of the lobbying organization, Recreational Fishing Alliance, of which dues are used to lobby for the recreational anglers in Washington, D.C., for the Gulf Fishery. For more information, contact Pam Anderson at captanders@aol.com, or get the latest information at www.facebook. com/captandersonsmarina or call 1-800874-2415. If you have friends and family who live out of this area, ask them to contact their legislators to request support for the legislation proposed by Representative Steve Southerland and Representative Doc Hastings changing the harmful regulations that are devastating the recreational industry and preventing access to our abundant natural resources.
Below is contact information for our Representative and Senators: Rep. Steve Southerland, II
Attn: Melissa Thompson Deputy District Director - FL02 melissa.thompson@mail.house.gov 840 W. 11th St., Suite 2250 Panama City, FL 32401 850-785-0812 www.Southerland.House.Gov
Senator Marco Rubio 1 N. Palafox Street Suite 159 Pensacola, FL 32502 850-433-2603
Todd_Reid@rubio.senate.gov www.rubio.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/ contact
Senator Bill Nelson
Attn: Mary Louise Hester Regional Director/Assistant to the Chief Estimated Annual Pay for the of Staff 111 North Adams Street Local Community $36,530 Tallahassee, FL 32301 850-942-8415 Fax: 850-942-8450 Marylouise_hester@billnelson.senate.gov
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Madison W., Student Hospitality, Sport & Tourism Management
D I S COV E R
YOU R I N N E R WAR R I OR . Becoming a TROY Trojan is about more than identifying with a symbol or mascot. It’s about adopting a mental attitude that will lead you to success. We call it the “warrior spirit.” Everything about our public university embodies it, from the way our professors engage with their students to the intensity our athletes bring to the game. Do what you love, and be great at it. That’s the warrior spirit, and it’s alive and well at Troy University.
© 2014 Troy University
Feel it at troy.edu/spirit or call 1-800-586-9771.
Dear Business Owner, Last year, OVER 300 KIDS were removed from their homes in Bay County, due to neglect. Over 100 of them were relocated to homes out of Bay County. We need your help. Desperately. OUR PLEA TO YOU: THE SOLUTION IS APPARENT Let us talk to your employees about fostering. WON’T YOU HELP US FIND FOSTER PARENTS? Become a “Foster Friendly Workplace” by helping support and sponsor a foster family. It’s not what you do for a living, it’s what you do for a life. Please Call Kasey Killebrew at 850.522.4485 x8404 or email KKillebrew@lmccares.org | Visit us Online: TheSolutionIsAParent.com Sponsored by Life Management Center of Northwest Florida, Inc., Big Bend Community Based Care and the State of Florida, Department of Children and Families. We need your help too! Donate Your Time, Your Money, Your Influence
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7th Annual Jungleball Tournament
Peaden takes home the 1st place trophy for the Jungleball Volleyball Tournament. Barefoot Beach Club takes home 2nd place, and Royal American places 3rd.
18th Annual Spring Classic Golf Tournament
Spring Classic Winning Teams: (pictured left to right) 1st place: Si Clemo, Cody Shields, David Chapman and Matt Culpepper 2nd place: Wes Harper, Rick Imhoff , George Roberts, Herschel Neel 3rd place: Paul Dick, Keith Carroll, Larry Carroll, Brian Moore
The Great Golf Ball Drop 16
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
Tom Donohue wins $1,000 in the Great Golfball Drop.
Why the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Tourism Appreciation Month by: Elizabeth Smith The Bay County Chamber presents “Tourism Appreciation Month� each year during the month of May. The State of Florida recognizes a week in May for Tourism Appreciation to highlight the importance of tourism in the state, but the Bay County Chamber takes it a step further to recognize our number one industry. What does tourism mean to Bay County? According to the Panama City Beach Tourist Development Council, in 2013 visitors spent over 1.1 billion dollars in Bay County. That means those who came to our area are spending an average of over 3.1 million dollars a day in our restaurants, stores and local attractions. To celebrate the industry and those who work so hard to keep visitors happy while they stay here, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce hosts several events. The month kicks off with a tourism themed First Friday event, and continues with a Jungleball Volleyball Tournament and Spring Classic Golf Tournament.
Thank you to everyone who sponsored events for Tourism Appreciation Month: Royal American, Peaden, Panama City Beach Tourist Development Council SouthernCat Inc, Gulf World Marine Park, Garner IT, Finale Interactive, TECO, Mercedes Benz of Dothan, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, and Gulf Power Company. The Chamber would also like to thank the Tourism Appreciation Month Task Force Chairman Lee Ann Leonard, Royal American; Mary Gauden, Bay Point Wyndham Resorts; Pam George, Gulf World Marine Park; Stephanie Nagle, Gulf World Marine Park; Ed Phelan, Maritech Machine and Diana Tindle, Legacy By the Sea.
May First Friday
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INSIGHTS: Bay EDA Update by: Neal Wade, Executive Director current labor statistics for Bay County
LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
MAR 14
92,652
87,268
5,384
5.8%
FEB 14
89,757
84,023
5,734
6.4%
JAN 14
87,677
81,875
5,802
6.6%
MAR 13
88,484
82,635
5,849
6.6%
FEB 13
86,240
79,469
6,744
7.8%
JAN 13
85,894
78,315
7,579
8.8%
real estate sales EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
MAR 14
219
$149,000
20,081
$173,000
FEB 14
160
$163,500
15,826
$165,000
JAN 14
126
$169,000
15,000
$162,500
MAR 13
165
$178,376
19,525
$161,500
FEB 13
134
$163,000
15,591
$150,000
JAN 13
129
$153,450
13,616
$145,000
CONDO - TOWNHOME SALES MAR 14
131
$179,900
9,580
$140,000
FEB 14
116
$169,950
7,575
$132,500
JAN 14
115
$145,000
7,377
$131,000
MAR 13
125
$170,575
10,110
$120,000
FEB 13
129
$185,000
8,131
$115,000
JAN 13
88
$170,000
6,752
$112,000
Bay County building permits
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
MAR 14
38
3
FEB 14
18
1
JAN 14
19
0
MAR 13
28
2
FEB 13
22
2
JAN 13
26
2
Bay County sales tax collections
GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
MAR 14
$488,125,772
$234,621,542
$15,222,655
FEB 14
$402,869,701
$209,704,172
$13,207,409
JAN 14
$597,514,804
$250,674,235
$15,167,145
MAR 13
$423,503,806
$213,578,099
$13,488,490
FEB 13
$390,477,480
$198,512,490
$12,561,219
JAN 13
$546,577,716
$236,979,611
$14,165,612
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When Duke University hired Mike Krzyzewski in 1980, he lost big his first few years. He went 17-13, 10-17 and 11-17 in his first 3 years. In a Denny’s after a 108-66 loss to Virginia as the coaching staff licked its wounds, someone raised a glass. “Here’s to forgetting tonight,” he said. Coach K’s response isn’t totally printable, but in essence he said, “Here’s to NEVER forgetting tonight.” It would be 8 years before Duke lost to Virginia again. Nine years after that night at Denny’s, Coach won the first of his four national championships and Duke became synonymous with greatness. Often losing is part of the process of winning. The pathway to success isn’t often pretty or easy. Some great projects are coming through the EDA, and we are close to winning on several. When we win, we will see a dramatic change in our economic environment and attractiveness as an emerging economic powerhouse. The success at Duke and for Coach K didn’t just happen. It took a lot of hard work, support from the community and sometimes licking of wounds. So, here’s to never forgetting the “coachable moments” of our past and looking forward to the future of winning!
April - June 2014 Demographic Snapshot Bay County Population: 179,459 Median Age: 40 Labor Force: 90,424 Average Wage: $33,251
Households: 73,362 Household Income: $48,225 Per Capita Income: $24,859
Bay County bed tax collections
PANAMA CITY BEACH
MEXICO BEACH
MAR 14
-----------
-----------
MAR 13
$2,133,952.94
$39,974.50
% CHANGE
-----------
-----------
FEB 14
$580,224.94
$22,892.06
FEB 13
$522,026.22
$19,759.33
% CHANGE
11.15%
15.85%
JAN 14
$390,029.15
$10,132.38
JAN 13
$361,644.51
$16,153.37
% CHANGE
7.85%
-37.27%
Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport passenger traffic
TOTAL PASSENGERS
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
MAR 14
76,767
1,436
FEB 14
39,979
768
JAN 14
38,415
837
MAR 13
81,960
1,290
FEB 13
47,141
841
JAN 13
42,640
920
National, state & local unemployment rate (Jan 1990 to May 2013) 16.0
14.0
12.0
10.0
8.0
Florida US Bay County
6.0
4.0
2.0
May-13
Jan-12
Sep-12
May-11
Jan-10
Sep-10
May-09
Jan-08
Sep-08
May-07
Jan-06
Sep-06
May-05
Jan-04
Sep-04
May-03
Jan-02
Sep-02
May-01
Jan-00
Sep-00
May-99
Jan-98
Sep-98
May-97
Jan-96
Sep-96
May-95
Jan-94
Sep-94
May-93
Jan-92
Sep-92
May-91
Jan-90
Sep-90
0.0
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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Internship Programs in Bay County:
Much Needed Experience to Students and a Viable Workforce for Businesses by: Heather Weekley, Panama City News Herald Internships can be a vital program for both businesses and students. But where do you go to find internships when you do not live in that city? The Bay County Chamber of Commerce has instituted a new resource for not only interns, but businesses as well. It all started as an idea of the 2013-2014 Leadership Bay Class at the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. The participants have to create and execute a project each year that benefits the business community. The class thought of the new Internship Marketplace, where interns upload their resumes directly to the business opportunity of their choosing. If a business is interested in a certain applicant, they can contact the student directly. All of this is at no charge to the business if they are a Bay County Chamber of Commerce member. Along with the new Internship Marketplace, there is also Gulf Coast State College Cooperative Education. This educational program offers interns the opportunity to earn academic credit for work experience. Not only can the intern earn college credit, but they gain invaluable knowledge for future, professional positions. According to Kimberly Hoyt, Gulf Coast State College’s Cooperative Education and Student Assistants Coordinator, internships allow students to “check out a particular field before they invest a massive amount of time into that degree. Over 80 students a semester earn college credits through the Cooperative Education program.” Businesses benefit from offering an internship as much as college students do from accepting one. Internships offer likely employers the chance to
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
The Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s Internship Marketplace can be accessed by visiting www. panamacity.org and rolling over“Business Resources”.
pick from a highly competitive, driven and educated candidate pool. This grows the company’s network of potential hirees. The intern can learn the position and see if he or she is a right fit for the company/organization before the employer has to make the tough decision of proceeding with the hiring process, or moving forward to the next intern. Employers get to sort through the applicants to find who may best meet their needs as well as teaching valuable life and work lessons to the fortunate intern. “Employers see a value in a Gulf Coast student,” says Hoyt. Internships are important because they provide unique hands-on learning opportunities for students, allowing them to collaborate with colleagues and build constructive relationships, and provide multiple networking opportunities, inside and outside of the office, to improve public speaking and professional interaction skills. Internships allow businesses to put back into the work force well rounded, experienced and success driven individuals. “Interning for the Chamber allowed me to have hands on experience executing events, editing articles and public service announcements, and also editing photographs. It was really good practice for the future” says Jana Spooner, Bay County Chamber of Commerce intern. Internships provide experiences that better hone the knowledge learned within the classroom. According to Spooner, her internship allowed her the opportunity to gain experience while also having fun. She was also able to interact with local business owners and employees. This allowed her to let them know she is a recent graduate intern who will be seeking employment in the near future.
For more information on the Internship Marketplace, visit www.PanamaCity. org, or call the Bay County Chamber of Commerce at 850-785-5206.
This is your event, You have one chance to get iT right. Sonny’s in Bay County has been getting it right for over 25 years.
To order, In town call: 850-763-5114 or email bbqtown@yahoo.com Beach side call: 850-230-472 or email sonnyspcb@outlook.com
sonnysbbq.com
“This experience has been so beneficial career wise. Interacting in a business setting and meeting business owners gave me a feel for how to act and what to expect in my career field” says Spooner. BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
REALTORS® are Real People Familiar Faces in Familiar places. ...We do more than just sell houses.
Bay County REALTORS® sponsored a room at Bethel Village and spent a day cleaning, painting and decorating. Turning a once cold, drab room into a warm, comfortable place. Our BCAR REALTOR® family supports Bethel Village and their efforts to reduce the homeless population in our community.
www.PanamaCityREALTORS.com
Social Media: Facebook.com/BCAOR • Twitter.com/BCAOR • YouTube.com/BayCountyREALTORS 1123 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401 • PH (850) 763-8078 • FX (850) 769-5462
CareerSource Gulf Coast: Your Partner in Candidate Recruitment by: Kim Bodine, Executive Director CareerSource Gulf Coast Often it is the tool one chooses that makes or breaks the success of the task at hand. That’s why we encourage area employers to discover the power of the Employ Florida Marketplace (EFM) as they work to achieve their goals. This online resource is one of the primary ways CareerSource Gulf Coast is able to help your business save time and money. With the Employ Florida Marketplace, CareerSource Gulf Coast offers you the strength of statewide reach and the power of the largest employment database in Florida. The service comes at no charge – it’s just a matter of registering online at EmployFlorida.com While you may visit EmployForida.com as a guest, registering as an employer will give you access to a broader set of tools reserved especially for employers. For example, you can create and post job openings; view candidates resumes, skills sets and other information; store job searches and receive automatic notification of new candidate matches; and customize your home page. The system also gives employers access to information about education and training programs, as well as data about local occupations and industries. By posting your position online, you are immediately connected to a wealth of talent – and have the ability to screen that talent based on your needs. Furthermore, you can post a job opening with your business information “suppressed.” That means your business identity will remain anonymous to the public if you so choose. Employ-
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
ment professionals at CareerSource Gulf Coast will take on the task of screening all of those phone calls and emails that can inundate you in the candidate search process. If you haven’t tried this service, we encourage you to get started today. Here’s how: Once you have accessed the site, click on “register.” A wizard will guide you through the process step-by-step. If you need more help, you’ll find it in the “Assistance Center” online. Reference cards will help you quickly learn how to access the main features in this powerful system. Those who need more assistance, or who don’t have access to the internet are welcome to contact the CareerSource Gulf Coast job center by calling 850-8724340 or by visiting us at 625 Highway 231 in Panama City. Hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
CareerSource Gulf Coast is business driven and committed to serving the needs of you, our employers. Our offerings are broad, and services are always free of charge. To learn more, please visit careersourcegc.com or stop by today. We’ll be happy to give you a tour!
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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Homeowners, boat, PWC and flood coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. The GEICO Personal Umbrella Policy is provided by Government Employees Insurance Company and is available to qualified Government Employees Insurance Company and GEICO General Insurance Company policyholders and other eligible persons, except in MA. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2013. © 2013 GEICO.
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www.flatherapy.com (877) 2014 234-5351 BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 25
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, logo or photo to brittany@baychamberfl.com
Bay County Chamber of Commerce teerism, Communications/Media, Healthcare and Ecology.
Sheila Bradt
Elouise Bryant
Jeremy Hinton
Rebecca Kelly
Ann Leonard
Nycole McKissack
Kristopher Mclane
Cassidy Nelson
Dr. Andrew Norton
Isioma Isi Ogwude
Nick Pohl
Marilyn Rogers
Leadership Bay graduates 31st class
Jamie Shepard
Chris Thomas
Andy Weddle
James “JD” White
Suzanne Windham
Jennifer Wolgamott
On May 20th, a reception was held honoring the 31st Class of Leadership Bay at the Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort. The event was attended by the class participants, their employers and family members, the Leadership Bay Steering Committee and the Chamber Board of Directors. The group began their nine-month curriculum with a weekend retreat at Tyndall Air Force Base in October. Every other Wednesday the class explored the various segments of Bay County’s economy, i.e., Tourism, Industry, Military, Law Enforcement, Local and State Government, Community Volun-
Leadership Bay photos by Desiree Gardner Photography
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
Each class is responsible for developing a project of benefit to the Chamber and/or the community. This year’s project was the creation of the Internship Marketplace. This marketplace will provide on-line access to businesses and students alike, matching one to another, supporting quality opportunities for employers while attracting our most valuable resources to Bay County. Of course, we can’t have Leadership Bay without the support and hard work from the 20132014 Leadership Bay Steering Committee: Chairman Tammala Spencer; Petie Bailey, Gulf Power Company; Nick Beninate, Harrison Sale McCloy; Michael Calidonna, Edward Jones Investments; DeAnne Carlson, Summit Bank; Joe Chavarria; Tricia Petty, Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort; Irene Field, Girl Scout Council of FL Panhandle; Mario Gisbert, City of Panama City Beach; Jenny Howell, Naval Surface Warfare Center; Frances Martin, Gulf Coast Medical Center; Megan Meints, Booz Allen Hamilton Engineering; Samantha Miller, Trustmark Bank; Shannon Sheibe, Trustmark Bank; Trevor Walls, Gulf Coast State College; Kevin Wattenbarger, Sperry Van Ness/Southland Commercial Group. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Jackie Rinker with Clear Channel
Media + Entertainment will now serve on the Board of Directors for the Chamber. Rinker was promoted to Clear Channel Media + Entertainment Vice President and Market Manager in February of 2012. Since arriving, she has also served on the board of the Unit-
ed Way, as Co-Chair of the 2013 American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and now serving on their Volunteer Leadership Council, and on the 2-1-1 Advisory Committee. Rinker will fill the spot previously occupied by Pedro Fuster of RockTenn who has taken on new responsibilities at the mill.
Coldwell Banker Carrol Realty
Local real estate company Coldwell Banker Carroll Realty has been recognized as a Coldwell Banker Premier Office for the year-end 2013. The premier office designation is the highest honor given to Coldwell Banker offices nationwide. In conjunction with the award, company manager Larry Carroll also received Coldwell’s 2014 Office Manager’s Award for Excellence. He was one of only 226 Coldwell Banker managers in North America to qualify to receive the prestigious award. Gulf Coast State College
Nicte Creative Design Nicte Cuevas, owner of Nicte Creative Design, LLC, received the
2014 American Package Design Award from Graphic Design USA. The award celebrates well-designed graphics, and the power of design in advancing brand promise and forging an emotional connection with the buyer at the moment of truth. Out of 1,800 entries, the kiosk display graphics designed for Dignity Memorial/ Service Corporation International were selected.
The Gulf Coast State College District Board of Trustees met to discuss the final six presidential candidates. At the end of the discussion, they voted to make an offer to Dr. John R. Holdnak, the current Executive Vice Chancellor of the Florida College System. Holdnak worked for Gulf Coast State College from 1982 to 2008 in numerous positions, including Adjunct Professor, Coordinator of Campus Activities/ Student Activities Specialist, Director of Wellness and Athletics, Director of Human Resources/ Coordinator of Personnel and as the Vice President/Dean of Administrative Services. Holdnak earned a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with
an emphasis in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida, a Master of Science in Applied Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Leisure Services from Florida State University and an associate degree from Pensacola Junior College. Holdnak starts July 1st. Panhandle Orthopaedics Panhandle Orthopaedics is pleased to announce the addition of two Physician Assistants to their team.
Crystal Maslow, MMS, PA-C Crystal is a nationally Certified Physician Assistant with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, where she was a member of the Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Team, and holds a master’s degree from Arcadia University in Physician Assistant Studies, with specialized training in orthopaedics.
Gary Pérez, PA-C, MPAS Gary has been a physician assistant for over 24 years with extensive experience in General Orthopaedics, Orthopaedic Trauma, Orthopaedic Spine and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. He earned his B.S. in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Oklahoma while attending the U.S. Army PA Program. Gary is fellowship trained in Orthopaedics, and earned his Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska. BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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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
The time is right. Switch to Regions.
At Regions, you’ll find what you need to get where you want to go. Wouldn’t it be nice if you had a bank that gave you the tools to manage your money anytime, anywhere? Talk about financial freedom. Regions checking accounts make it possible with: • Regions Online Banking with Bill Pay • Mobile Banking with Regions Mobile Deposit1 • Regions Visa® CheckCard with Cashback Rewards2 • Regions Relationship Rewards®3 • My GreenInsights financial management tools So switch to Regions. You’ll find access to useful tools, practical advice and the award-winning personal service you expect. Please visit a Regions branch near you. Checking | Savings | Personal Lending | Advice and Guidance
Follow us for helpful tips and information.
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© 2014 Regions Bank. 1Mobile Deposit and Mobile Banking require enrollment in Regions Online Banking and are subject to terms, conditions and fees. Your mobile carrier’s data fee may apply. Cashback Rewards available through Online and Mobile Banking for qualifying purchases made with your CheckCard. See regions.com/cashback for details. 3Regions Relationship Rewards allow you to earn points (redeemable for merchandise, travel, gift cards, and more) for making qualifying purchases on a Regions Relationship Rewards credit card, for obtaining certain Regions products or using certain Regions services. Fees may apply. See regions.com/relationshiprewards for details. 2
Panama City Beach CVB
The Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau announces the hiring of J. Michael Brown as Vice President of Tourism Development. In this new role for the CVB, J. Michael will help pursue grants, sponsorships and other external funding to help the CVB create new tourism opportunities, and to sustain existing festivals and events sponsored or supported by the CVB. J. Michael grew up in Panama City before attending the University of Florida, where he earned a degree in Broadcasting. His career has included two stints as a television news anchor, producer and reporter, and also experience working as a senior marketing executive of a Fortune 500 financial services company.
Harrison Sale McCloy
Franklin R. Harrison, Founding Partner Harrison Sale McCloy Attorneys at Law, was presented with the C. Graham Carothers Award of Excellence by Jeff McInnis on behalf of the Florida School Board Attorney’s Association (FBSAA) at a recent Bay District School Board Meeting. The FBSAA presents the prestigious award annually to honor a Florida School Board Attorney who has demonstrated the highest standard in the profession. Harrison is the seventh recipient of the award, and the only recipient of the award in the Northwest Florida Region. Trustmark Trustmark’s Bay County President Jay Hindsman announces Clay Lewis will retire as Vice Chairman of the Trustmark Bay County Advisory Board after
more than 45 years in the banking industry. Throughout his career, Lewis held a variety of positions, beginning with Facility Branch Manager of Bay Bank & Trust Co. (Bay Bank) at Tyndall Air Force Base and culminating with the position of President and Chief Executive Officer, which he held until 2010, when he was appointed Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Have a submission for the Biz List? Please contact Brittany Cole at 850-215-3755.
The Region’s Only Open Heart Surgery Program
now with minimally invasive robotic surgery. Heart surgery at Bay Medical Sacred Heart no longer requires an 8-10 inch incision through the breastbone in select cases. Using the daVinci Surgical System, our experienced cardiothoracic surgeons can offer coronary revascularization, mitral valve repair, as well as pulmonary lobectomy to remove lung cancer through tiny incisions. The benefits of this technique include: f
A shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
f
Significantly less pain and scarring
f
Less blood loss and need for blood transfusions
f
Less risk of infection
f
A faster return to normal activities
Please visit www.baymedical.org for more information, video interviews with our surgeons and animations of how robotic procedures are performed.
Bay Medical Sacred Heart 615 N. Bonita Avenue, Panama City, FL 32401 850-769-1511 • baymedical.org
BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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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 age group 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 Kevin Kussro at 850-215-3757 or kevin@baychamberfl.com. Photos by: Desiree Gardner Photography
Tiffany Castricone Tiffany Castricone is the proud daughter of a United States Air Force Major. The northwest Florida coast has been home for over 10 years, even after her family transferred several times. Castricone earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Architecture from Tulane University, and currently holds a Florida Architect License. Castricone resided in the New Orleans area 2 years pre- and post-Katrina. Through that experience, she witnessed the differences in character the city exhibited, the effects of the hurricane on the city and the differences in the neighborhoods post catastrophe. All had a tremendous impact on her as she pursued a career in architecture. Castricone is a member of Bay Co. Chamber and Bay Young Professionals, NexTus Referral Group, Young Professionals at the Beach, PCB Chamber, and PCB Young Professionals. She is a Board of Director of the local Society of American Military Engineers and President-Elect for the local chapter of American Institute of Architects NWFL Chapter. Castricone is involved with K-12 students and enjoys engaging them in math, science, engineering, and architecture.
Tom Canada Tom Canada is the Heat Rate and Performance Engineer at Gulf Power’s Lansing Smith Generating Plant. He is responsible for ensuring Gulf Power continues to provide reliable and affordable energy, while minimizing any impact on the environment. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Canada graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University in 2009, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He spent a year in Nevada with Newmont Mining Co. before finding a career with Gulf Power in 2011. Canada’s community activities include involvement with Gulf Power Transformers, Covenant Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, Bay Young Professionals, and his favorite role in the community is as a Safety City Soldier. Canada can be found outdoors year round cycling, boating, hiking, enjoying the beach, and occasionally on-stage playing bass at Tootsie’s after tipping the band enough.
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Shop Panama City’s Exclusive GM Dealership 24/7 Chevrolet - Cadillac - Buick - GMC www.BillCramerGM.com
Substantial 2014 Model Discounts Now In Effect!
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5/3/13
The Emergency Room is no longer your only option. If you wish to escape the long waits and do not have a life threatening injury, consider visiting The Village Health Center.
Florida Department of Health in Bay County www.baycountyhealth.org
For a complete and up to date list of all Chamber activities, including committee meetings, visit our website at www.PanamaCity.org
July
August
September
11th
1st
5th
FSU Panama City Holley Academic Center (4750 Collegiate Drive)
FSU Panama City Holley Academic Center (4750 Collegiate Drive)
First Friday with the Beach*
FSU Panama City Holley Academic Center (4750 Collegiate Drive)
Networking: 7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by: Mr. Trash and People’s First Insurance
First Friday*
Networking: 7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m. Sponsorship Available. Contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761 for more information
First Friday*
Networking: 7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by: The Clemons Company
23rd
Leadership Bay Applications Due
Bay County Chamber of Commerce Office
Deadline: 4 p.m. Visit PanamaCity.org for an application, or contact Kevin Kussro at 850.215.3757
Industry Appreciation Breakfast FSU - Panama City
Time: 8:00 a.m. For more information, contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761
* = Free event to Bay County Chamber members and invited guests
Save The Date
NOTE: Dates, times and locations subject to change. For sponsorship information, please contact:
Color Vibe - November 15th
Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or call 850-215-3761
CALLAWAY FLORIDA
Come visit our Arts & Conference Center and Recreational Park! For more information, please call us at (850)871-6000. Visit us on the web at www.cityofcallaway.com. A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY.
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
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All Clear Hearing Centers 2949 Highway 77 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 248-0497 (850) 248-0496 (fax)
Keller Williams Success Realty 1514 Thurso Rd. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 814-2814 (866) 552-7501 (fax)
Art Construction of NW FL. LLC 11 W. 23rd St., Ste B4 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-3948 (850) 215-0750 (fax)
Lone Wolf Bail Bonds Inc 6733 E Hwy 22 Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 640-1657
Bluewater Development Group 430 W. 5th St., Ste 400 Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-5809 (850) 481-0436 (fax)
Mears Enterprises 850 Great Southwest Pkwy. Atlanta, GA 30336 (770) 381-8991 (770) 381-8322 (fax)
Bonefish Grill #7091 641 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 747-9331 (850) 747-9099 (fax)
Midway Medical Clinic II 201 Forest Park Circle Panama City, FL 32405 (724) 971-7051
The GEO Group, Inc. 621 NW 53rd St. Boca Raton, FL 33487 (850) 769-1455 (850) 769-1945 (fax)
Nicte Creative Design LLC 3451 B Andrews Loop Tyndall AFB, FL 32403 (832) 434-1270
Transworld Business Advisors 1441 Tate Lane Bonifay, FL 32425 (850) 208-3933
Out Of The Box Gifts & More 838 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 763-3232 (850) 763-3255 (fax)
Twelve Oaks Recovery Center 1441 Tate Lane Bonifay, FL 32425 (850) 208-3933
Chili’s Grill & Bar 845 E. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 769-3167 (850) 769-3168 (fax) Coastal Retirement Consultants PO Box 352 Port. St. Joe, FL 32457 (850) 387-1319 (850) 387-1320 (fax) Dave & Buster’s 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 890-6777 Edible Bay 714 Illinois Ave. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 303-9513 Finale Interactive 2202 Magnolia Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 258-5191 Friends of The Governor Stone PO Box 4716 Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32549 (850) 621-0011 Gulf Coast Holistic & Primary Care 756 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 640-1530 Humana, Inc. 12536 Perkins Rd. Southport, FL 32409 (850) 585-7834
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BAY BIZ | JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014
Pamela Elliott Talent Agency 2516 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-6050 Pop’s Dawgs 1109 W.15th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-0264 Roberts & Roberts Inc. 1741 N. Sherman Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-8001 (850) 215-1108 (fax) Sequence Fitness 200 Richard Jackson Blvd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 588-1145 SouthernCAT Inc. 1816 W. 27th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-2280 (850) 215-2284 (fax) Springleaf Financial Services 654 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 763-5341
Stem to Stern Sailing, LLC 111 W. Beach Dr. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 866-8724 Team Adaptive Mobility 1503 Foster Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 522-0059 (850) 522-0520 (fax) TEKsystems 4300 Legendary Drive, Suite 206 Destin, FL (850) 837-5884
US Health Advisors 108 Margaret Circle Lynn Haven, 32444 (850) 896-6612 Zachary Van Dyke, PA PO Box 2524 Panama City, FL 32402 (850) 215-6445 (850) 215-4567 (fax)
5 Years
Covenant Christian School L&R Tractor Inc. Newk’s Express Café Panama City Visitor’s Map The Boeing Company
10 Years
Bay County Sheriff’s Office G & W Inspections H&R Block Hiland Park Baptist Mercury Marine Northstar Church Paul Harris Insurance Agency
15 Years
Bay County Democratic Executive Committee Cahall’s Deli FL Dept. of Health in Bay County Gents, Inc. NHC Homecare Ponderosa Builders of North Florida, Inc. Preble - Rish, Inc. Trustmark Bank
20 Years
City of Lynn Haven Regions Bank
35 Years
The Columbia Group
40 Years
Don Hood Insurance
William Warneck, O.D. BOARD CERTIFIED OPTOMETRIST Inside Vision Works in the Panama City Mall 2146 Cove Boulevard • Panama City, Florida 32405 Phone: 850.785.4000 • Fax: 850.769.6425 www.williamwarneckoptmetrist.com
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New leaders in Bay County welcomed at the April CEO Reception held in the Bay County Chamber of Commerce boardroom. 2. Business Referral Network Groups meet for the yearly All Groups Luncheon at St. Andrew Bay Yacht Club. 3. Chamber staff celebrates Don Pitts as he retires after serving eight years at the Chamber. 4. 31st Class of Leadership Bay graduates. 5. Junior Leadership Bay graduate and 2013-2014 scholarship recipient McKenzie Cooper with Representative Steve Southerland. 6. Class of 2013-2014 Junior Leadership Bay graduates.
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New Name Same Faces Serving Northwest Florida for 39 years 850.215.8001
235 W. 5th Street Panama City, FL 32401