Bay Biz - Spring 2024

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In the brief period since stepping into the role of President/CEO of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, one thing has become abundantly clear: this organization is a true leader among leaders.

Not only is the Chamber supporting our businesses, but it is also taking proactive steps to address crucial community issues integral to the overall well-being of Bay County.

In my career, I worked at the Disney Company and led two successful Chambers of Commerce. I can confidently say the Bay County Chamber stands shoulder-toshoulder with the very best. The dedication, passion, and genuine desire to uplift our community that permeates through the board of directors, members, and staff is truly inspiring.

This culture of excellence is not accidental; it is the culmination of years of visionary leadership. Carol Roberts, who recently retired after a 46-year tenure with the Chamber, including 22 years as President/CEO, epitomizes this leadership. Under her guidance, the Bay County Chamber has been recognized as Chamber of the Year by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals every year it has been eligible to apply. This is a testament to the Chamber's unwavering commitment to Bay County, the caliber of leadership, an enthusiastic team, and the cohesive efforts of everyone involved. I look forward to continuing and contributing to the important work and responsibility of the Chamber.

As I embark on this journey, I am lifted by the incredible support I have received, which fills me with confidence and optimism about our collective future. My immediate priority is to listen and learn—to understand the unique needs, challenges, and aspirations faced by Bay County's businesses, residents, and visitors. I believe the success of both myself and the Chamber will require immersing myself in the realities of our community and creating opportunities for open dialogue and meaningful engagement.

I am particularly pleased about the clear direction outlined in our 2024 Business Plan, a collaborative effort reflecting the input of our board, stakeholders, and the broader community. This strategic roadmap will guide our focus on critical priorities, ensuring we remain responsive to the evolving needs of the essential work that lies before us. Specifically, four of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s areas of focus this year will be:

Affordable Access to Childcare

Florida is experiencing a childcare crisis, and Bay County families struggle to access affordable, high-quality care for their children. Insufficient childcare options are driving parents out of the workforce, resulting in reduced tax revenue for the state and increased strain on Florida families and businesses. The Chamber will be committed to advocating for increasing the income cap to grant more accessibility and affordability for families.

Infrastructure Surtax Renewal

The half-cent infrastructure surtax will be placed on the 2024 general election ballot for renewal. This surtax has played a pivotal role in transforming our local infrastructure. Not only does the surtax fund essential projects, but it also allows local authorities to leverage those funds to secure state and grant funding to increase the number of projects completed. The Bay County Chamber was instrumental in getting the surtax passed in 2016. In partnership with Bay County Government officials and other strategic partners, the Chamber will coordinate an educational campaign on the benefits of renewal of the surtax.

Workforce Development

The ongoing workforce shortage is a pressing concern impacting all sectors of our economy. The first two years of postsecondary education indicate where a person will spend their career. The Chamber must continue its promotion of local postsecondary institutions to meet the workforce needs in Bay County.

Panama City Event Center Redevelopment

As community leaders, citizens, and investors work to revitalize downtown Panama City, the arts, cultural, and entertainment hub must remain a draw to the downtown district. With the opening of Hotel Indigo downtown, city leadership must take action to bring back a large-scale events venue. The combination of a hotel and performing arts/events center would be a substantial economic boost for downtown and Bay County.

In closing, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. With a steadfast commitment to our mission and an unwavering dedication to our community, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce will continue to thrive and lead with purpose in the years ahead. Thank you for entrusting me with this privilege to serve, and I look forward to the journey ahead.

Patrick Chapin President/CEO

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Bay County Chamber Task Force Addresses Childcare Crisis in Bay County

by: Aimee Bright, Vice President of Governmental/Military Affairs, Bay County Chamber of Commerce

In recent years, the childcare landscape in Bay County, Florida, has faced unprecedented challenges, leaving families struggling to find affordable and quality care for their children. It is an issue the Bay County Chamber has been monitoring through member surveys and its Governmental Affairs Committee, but the issue became front and center when Captain David Back, Commanding Officer of Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC), shared the news during the Chamber’s July Board of Directors meeting of a local childcare facility closing and the impact it would have on NSWC employees. Captain Back’s news spurred an important conversation with the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Immediately following that discussion, the Chamber moved from monitoring the issue to advocating for a comprehensive solution.

The childcare crisis in Bay County is multifaceted, like in many parts of the country. It encompasses issues such as accessibility, affordability, and the overall quality of childcare services. High demand, a shortage of qualified caregivers, and limited resources have created a perfect storm, leaving many families with few options.

Bay County’s crisis began following Hurricane Michael. Many local childcare and early learning centers were damaged or destroyed. Those facilities also experienced a substantial loss of personnel in the aftermath of the storm, reducing their workforce and the number of children they could serve. This double blow significantly compounded the challenges faced by the local childcare system.

The shortages exacerbated by Hurricane Michael became even more evident with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Certain childcare facilities temporarily closed to mitigate the spread of the disease. Meanwhile, those who remained open were required to alter their teacher-to-child ratios, limiting their capacity to admit more children.

Recognizing the profound challenges brought about by the dual impact of Hurricane Michael and the COVID-19 pandemic on the local childcare industry, the Chamber has taken a proactive stance to address the pressing issues by creating a dedicated task force. This task force is a collaborative effort to identify and implement sustainable solutions that can mitigate the adverse effects on the community's childcare infrastructure.

One key element of the Bay County Chamber's approach is forging strategic partnerships with local businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. By collaborating with stakeholders from various sectors, the Chamber aims to create a support network that can pool resources and expertise. This collaborative effort amplifies the impact of individual initiatives and fosters a sense of community responsibility toward resolving the childcare crisis.

Due to the extensive and varied nature of childcare challenges, the Chamber's task force initiated the process by engaging with stakeholders. This strategic approach ensured everyone involved could establish a shared understanding and foundation for addressing the diverse issues within the childcare sector. Once that foundation was established, the group transitioned into a brainstorming phase, exploring both short- and long-term goals and examining each stakeholder's strengths to determine available resources.

These discussions revealed Goodwill Big Bend operates a very successful preschool, The Learning Pavilion in Tallahassee, and was ready to expand in Bay County. However, a suitable facility for rent was a crucial requirement for this expansion. The task force engaged in discussions with various entities, including churches and other organizations, to explore potential partnerships and address this need. A suitable property has yet to be found, but ongoing efforts continue in the search for a viable solution.

The task force frequently discusses the imperative need to increase the number of childcare facilities, recognizing it as a pivotal aspect in overcoming the existing challenges. Task force members are actively involved in various initiatives and projects currently in progress. Both military installations are working to increase capacity for active-duty and civilian workforces. The Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida (ELCNWFL) has had grants and other financial resources available to new and expanding childcare centers. The Chamber has leveraged its partnership with NextSite,

a commercial development advisory firm, to explore the possibility of establishing quality childcare franchises in Bay County. Launching new childcare facilities is challenging, and the task force remains committed to laying the groundwork to address this complex process.

The workforce shortage in childcare centers has also emerged as a critical challenge, prompting the task force to investigate an exploration of available programs and resources within the community. One such program is the Early Childhood Education Career Pathway at Arnold High School. While additional educational opportunities are available in Bay County, the imperative to establish a sustainable and skilled workforce in the childcare sector persists, amplified by the challenging aspect compensation in this field is not commensurate with the demand. In light of this, the task force remains dedicated to exploring solutions to bridge the gaps in the childcare workforce landscape.

Another topic the task force has discussed is how childcare costs can often pose a financial burden on families, making assistance programs crucial for ensuring access to quality care. In 2022, Child Care Aware found average annual infant or toddler childcare costs in the state exceeded the average yearly cost of college tuition. In a single-parent family, this could mean up to 35% of the parent’s income is used for childcare. Recognizing the pressing need for childcare assistance in the face of rising costs, the task force has been actively engaged in advocacy efforts at the state level. The Chamber and other stakeholders are encouraging policymakers to prioritize childcare assistance programs. These are a crucial investment in the future of Florida. They can positively impact early learning outcomes, workforce productivity, and economic growth.

While progress is underway, the childcare crisis in Bay County remains complex and requires ongoing efforts. The aftermath of Hurricane Michael and the persistent challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions. The next steps involve expanding the task force to include more stakeholders and conducting a strategic planning session to refine collective goals. The Chamber remains dedicated to improving the childcare crisis in Bay County, and looks forward to sharing future successes with the community.

Childcare for Military Families

by: Mallory Gross, Tyndall School Liaison and Erin Pickard, Navy School Liaison

The Department of Defense recognizes access to affordable, quality child care is critical to caring for service members and families. Whether it's childcare, school-age care, or after-school activities, military families are directly impacted by the resources the local and base communities can or cannot provide.

Although Hurricane Michael was five years ago, the impact still lingers. When Hurricane Michael hit in October 2018, an estimated 25% of childcare infrastructure across the county was destroyed. Tyndall Air Force Base and Naval Support Activity Panama City faced multiple challenges to rebuild and provide service members the family support they continuously needed so they could focus on the mission.

The average cost of child care in Florida varies depending on the type of care and location. According to the Economic Policy Institute, the average annual cost of full-time child care for an infant in Florida is $9,238. For a four-yearold, the yearly average cost is $7,287. These costs can add stress to military families moving into the Bay County area. Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood is a DoD and U.S. Coast Guard fee-assistance program for eligible families who cannot access military-operated child care due to distance or waitlists. With fee assistance, a portion of child care costs is paid to offset the costs of communitybased care, making it more affordable. Another resource offered is the Family Child Care (FCC) program. The FCC

program provides qualified childcare professionals as a quality alternative to center-based care. These providers are licensed and monitored regularly in their homes to ensure quality standards. Each provider determines what care they offer, which may include full-day, part-day, school year, summer camp, 24/7, and extended care. Some FCC providers provide flexible operating hours, and can adjust their hours to accommodate requests from parents. Information about installation resources for families and providers can be found at www.militaryonesource.mil or www.militarychildcare.com. Childcare providers interested in becoming FCC-certified providers can contact the Tyndall FCC office at (850) 2832218 for information.

Additionally, Child Development Centers are critical to bases and their families. Tyndall’s new Child Development Center is expected to open this spring, and will include 22 classrooms with the ability to support over 250 children. NSA Panama City is also working to expand opportunities and is currently waiting for approval.

The DoD is committed to meeting the growing and diverse childcare needs of the military families and takes pride in providing quality services on and off installations worldwide.

Celebrate Tourism with the Bay County Chamber!

What is TAM?

Held in May, the purpose of Tourism Appreciation Month is to celebrate Bay County’s number one industry: Tourism. Because of Bay County’s assets for tourist and the economic impact tourism plays on the local economy, the Bay County Chamber partners with local businesses to celebrate the industry. It is our hope visitors and residents both take pride in tourism’s value to the area.

Celebrate with the Bay County Chamber of Commerce at this month’s celebration events. Visit PanamaCity.org/TAM to learn more and register for these events:

First Friday

Spring Classic Golf Tournament

Great Golf Ball Drop

Cornhole Tournament

Tourism After Hours

Tourism Appreciation Day

Playful Minds: ELCNWF’s Journey to Ensure Early Childhood Mental Wellness

by: Suzan Gage, Executive Director, Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida

Given the importance of the first five years of life, providing young children with a nurturing and supportive environment is essential. The Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida (ELCNWF) is at the forefront of this endeavor, helping ensure all Bay County families can access high-quality early learning educational experiences and child care that meet their children’s unique and individual needs. But what happens when, in the wake of natural disasters, economic downturns, a worldwide pandemic, and the myriad stressors of modern life, the mental health and well-being of young children are at risk? If you happen to be the ELCNWF, you team up with local mental health providers, early childhood educators, and non-profit organizations to mobilize resources and leverage collective expertise to achieve a common goal: ensuring young children in Bay and surrounding counties have access to the mental health services they need to thrive. For the last four years, the ELCNWF, focusing on mental health for young children, has rallied support and forged partnerships to advance its purpose of helping grow healthy children, parents, and the relationship between them.

Understanding the Need

“When we started this journey, I had no idea what we would find,” said Suzan Gage, Executive Director of the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida. “We had parents and childcare teachers reaching out to us, sharing stories about children with big, explosive behaviors. Nothing they tried was working. They needed help.”

Understanding traditional therapeutic approaches used with adults and teens for mental health care were not appropriate for young children, the ELCNWF forged a pivotal partnership with Denise Folsom, the founder of The Legacy House, a local, private counseling center providing play therapy and individual counseling for children, teens, and adults in Bay and Jackson counties. Using her experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, as well as her many years working in early childhood education, Denise identified three areas on which to focus: (1) early childhood mental health consultation services within childcare settings, (2) offering training and professional development in child-

centered therapeutic modalities for local mental health professionals, and (3) empowering parents to support their child’s emotional well-being which strengthens their parent-child bond. Denise describes this as the best approach when working with young children. “We are supporting the adults who surround the children: their parents, teachers, and community helpers. It’s a win-win for all involved, most importantly the children.”

Special Projects Director Chelsea Ranew reflected how “working with community partners like The Legacy House and other outside agencies, the Coalition has been able to provide access to and offer mental health therapy services, professional development training, and care coordination services to encourage the emotional and social well-being of children, families, and early education teachers in Bay County and our surrounding service area.”

Creating Innovative Solutions

In this research-supported approach, trained mental health consultants work directly with childcare teachers to support young children’s social-emotional development, guide teachers on handling challenging behaviors, and offer strategies for creating nurturing, supportive environments. By embedding mental health support within the early childhood program, the ELCNWF reaches children where they spend much of their day, ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.

Supporting Mental Health Professionals

In brainstorming groups, the ELCNWF learned many counselors, therapists, and social workers would work with younger children and their families if they better understood how to support their unique developmental needs. By offering child-centered and play-based training and professional development opportunities, the ELCNWF

helped to build the capacity of local mental health professionals to support families with young children. Research has shown when counselors and therapists have the knowledge and skills to address early childhood mental health issues, they can collaborate effectively with parents, educators, pediatricians, and other professionals involved in the child’s care. This approach ensures a holistic and coordinated response to the child’s needs, maximizing the impact of interventions and support services within the community.

The ELCNWF arranged local training and professional development opportunities for mental health professionals, including internationally known play therapists and authors Janet A. Courtney, Ph.D., LCSW, RPT-S, Dr. Athena A. Drewes, PsyD, and RPT-S have trained over 100 local social workers, counselors, and mental health specialists from Bay and surrounding counties in a variety of Play Therapy techniques to encourage more conscious and connected relationships between parents, caregivers, and young children.

In the early spring of 2023, the ELCNWF sponsored the University of North Texas Center for Play Therapy’s Dr. Leslie Jones. Dr. Jones led the week-long certification training at the Northwest Florida Health Network Panama City Service location. Attendees who completed coursework and passed an exam could obtain Child-Parent Relationship Therapist credentials.

With the increase in the diagnoses of Autism locally and nationally, the ELCNWF saw a need for training on how to support young neurodivergent children and so arranged for AutPlay Therapy Training at the Florida State UniversityPanama City (FSU-PC) Campus in November 2023. AutPlay Therapy is a neurodiversity-affirming framework for

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implementing play therapy to address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children and their families. Over 60 people attended the two-day training.

Empowering Parents

Blair Bell, a Family Success Coach and Mental Health Specialist with the Early Childhood Care Coordination (EC3) program at the ELCNWF, explains using evidence-based CPRT strategies, both in the home(s) and in the childcare classroom setting for children under five years old, really helps the children who show challenging behaviors or mental wellness concerns. “The EC3 program is family-centered, and aims to assist families with education, information, handson learning, parenting skills, and resources, as well as bridge the gap between home and child care to promote consistency within the child’s environments.” The EC3 program is uniquely designed for the working family. It offers flexible hours, weekly home visits, and ongoing support through its care coordinator. This, paired with the child care classroom support and technical assistance provided to the child care teacher, has led to lower suspension rates for the child, which lessens the time that parents must miss work.

Expanding Awareness

Central to the ELCNWF’s purpose is the belief that access to mental health services should be equitable and inclusive. To this end, the coalition launched a multifaceted outreach campaign to raise awareness and reduce barriers to access for Bay County families with young children.

Through community workshops, Parent Cafés, and outreach events held within the county, the ELCNWF sought to destigmatize early childhood mental health and wellness discussions and empower families to seek support when needed. Additionally, the ELCNWF worked closely with Northwest Florida Help Me Grow to ensure that screening and referral processes were available, making it easier for families to access mental health services. “We know early intervention and targeted at-home activities can change their long-term outcomes for young children, including their potential for earned income as adults,” shared Alyssa Gray, Program Manager for Northwest Florida Help Grow. “With Help Me Grow screenings, checking in on your child’s physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development is free, fast (it takes around 15 minutes), and can make

all the difference for their future success.” Gray says she often reminds parents who complete the screenings that every child’s development will look different and routine developmental and social-emotional monitoring removes the guessing game by showing caregivers what areas their child excels in and identifying areas where further evaluation may be necessary.

Economic Implications

Beyond the intrinsic value of fostering healthy development in our children, there are tangible economic benefits from investing in early childhood mental health programs. Studies consistently demonstrate the substantial return on investment yielded by such initiatives, with every dollar spent yielding significant long-term savings.

Consider this: children who receive early intervention and support for mental health challenges are more likely to do better academically, graduate from high school, and secure gainful employment in the future. Conversely, untreated mental health issues in early childhood can manifest in myriad ways, including academic struggles, behavioral issues, and even involvement in the criminal justice system—all of which take a considerable toll on society’s economic resources.

When we invest in the mental health of our youngest residents, we sow the seeds of compassion, empathy, and resilience essential for fostering a sense of belonging and interconnectedness within our communities. By providing children with a supportive environment to flourish, we cultivate a future generation of engaged citizens who are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the fabric of society.

If you have concerns about your young child’s behaviors or mental well-being, contact the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida at 850-7475400 or HMG@elcnwf.org for a free screening and connections to services.

Bay County High School Addresses Nationwide Need for Childcare

by: Sharon Michalik, Director of Communications, Bay District Schools

In Bay County, J.R. Arnold High School is at the forefront of addressing the nationwide need for quality childcare.

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program situated within the school’s premises not only imparts essential skills for the childcare industry, but also provides students with the opportunity to earn the very important Early Childhood Professional Certificate (ECPC) needed to work in this field.

This program is not merely a response to a local need; it is a proactive measure to assist with the broader nationwide challenge of ensuring excellence in early childhood education. “This is something really unique within the Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways we currently offer in that students have a daily opportunity to put into practice what they are learning while providing valuable services to our community simultaneously,” explained Jonathan Moore, the BDS Supervisor of CTE. Students in the program progress through four years of coursework to earn the occupational completion points (OCPs) needed for certification and successfully navigate required exams. In doing so, they acquire the mandated 40-hour Introductory Child Care Training, DCF-approved literacy training, CPR/ First Aid training, and 480 hours of direct early childhood contact time in the classroom. Graduates who meet all

requirements leave high school with their Early Childhood Professional Certificates and the minimum credentials needed for employment as Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten teachers.

But they also leave with life skills, according to longtime program instructor Rena Hazlett. “They are learning about CPR and first aid and sudden infant death syndrome and fetal alcohol syndrome,” she said. “They are learning about how to recognize and report child abuse and about what milestones are developmentally appropriate for each age. They are learning skills that will help them as adults and as parents, and that’s important,” Hazlett explained.

While it’s not unique to offer students hands-on experiences as they work towards CTE industry certifications, the Arnold program is unique because those opportunities are co- located on the same campus. With a fully-functioning Head Start program on site, Moore said, students can easily transition in and out of the early childhood components.

“The CTE students can literally walk down the hall during third period and they are in the classroom, serving the needs of the Head Start children and learning on the job,” Moore

explained. “Because of the proximity, we’re able to send them into the program when they are needed and when they can maximize their own learning experiences. It really is a beautiful thing,” he added.

First-year ECE students William Morales and Maya Duffy said being a part of the childcare program is one of the bright spots of their days at school. “You really get a chance to know the kids and develop relationships,” Morales explained. As one of the few boys enrolled in the early education program, Morales said it’s very special to watch the kids’ faces light up when it’s his time in their classroom. Hazlett, who has run this program since 2017, agreed with Morales wholeheartedly.

“I wish even more boys would come into the program,” she said. “The little kids absolutely light up when they are around the boys who are their teachers, and I think it’s so important for younger students to see boys in teaching roles.”

Duffy, who comes from a family with many younger children, said being a part of the program “makes me happy.” With a toddler on one hip and another at her feet asking to be picked up, Duffy seems to be a natural with the younger children. “That’s what it’s all about,” she said, “I would just tell other students to do what makes them happy.”

While this program seems ripe for expansion, given the need for quality childcare locally and across the nation, Moore said it’s not as simple as opening another CTE pathway at a different high school campus.

“The campus of J.R. Arnold High School is the only campus with this program. We would love to expand the program to another location, but the logistics of that expansion would be very challenging,” he said, noting the district’s overall lack of space as the first Hurdle.

But Moore explained that the biggest issue is everything else a program like this needs. “All of a sudden, you have to renovate bathrooms for little people. They need playgrounds. They need secure entry and access for parents/guardians that’s separate from the school. There are all sorts of logistical challenges,” he said.

That’s not to say, however, that BDS isn’t in discussions with the Bay County Chamber about ways to maximize this pathway. “There’s no doubt the Chamber is looking at this problem and trying very hard to solve it,” Moore said. “They can build the buildings to expand the childcare network, but the issue then becomes, who is going to be available to staff them?” Expanding this CTE pathway to other schools would present the district with obstacles to overcome in terms of physical space but also in terms of giving students the valuable hands-on learning opportunities they need on a daily basis. “We could set up an offsite location, and we’ve talked about that,” Moore said. “But the question then becomes how can we transport the students to and from the childcare center during the school day effectively and costefficiently, and how do we minimize learning time lost for them from other important classes?”

In the meantime, while community leaders work to resolve these concerns, Moore said the Arnold program allows students to leverage their educational foundation for diverse pursuits. Some graduates, he said, further their education in childcare centers, while others venture into entrepreneurial pathways. “We’ve had graduates go on to college and work at childcare centers out of town while attending college,” Moore explained. “And we have had some pursue more of a business pathway so that they can combine the skills they learn from the CTE certification with the knowledge they need to open a childcare business of their own.”

And that pathway is exactly what Morales, at the tender age of 15, is considering. “When I found out that I could get into this program and get fully certified by the time I graduate, I was very interested,” he said. “I think it’s great that I will have everything I need to maybe open my own daycare

business one day and it’s good to know I have that as an option.” Opening a daycare in the future is also an option for Duffy, who, at 14 years old, is already considering that as a career path after she studies business.

The enrollment trends in Arnold’s program affirm the need and interest in this as a career field. With more than 150 students currently enrolled in the four-year pathway to certification, the school reports a consistent increase in enrollment since 2017. The ECPC success rates exemplify the program’s efficacy. Since Hazlett began teaching these courses in 2017, the program has steadily graduated a number of fully certified early childhood educators.

› 2017-18: 8 students

› 2018-19: 9 students

› 2019-20: 13 students

› 2020-21: 17 students

› 2021-22: 16 students

› 2022-23: 12 students

› 2023-24: Testing is anticipated in April/May, with an expected 20 students earning certification.

Those students begin giving back to the childcare community almost immediately”, Hazlett said. “A lot of my graduates go on to work for Bay District Schools and other early childhood centers,” she said. “By the time they are seniors, most students here already have part-time jobs in the childcare field. Some of them work at daycares and some at churches, but they don’t have any trouble finding a job in the field.”

And that’s music to the ears of BDS Superintendent Mark McQueen, who wants to ensure all BDS CTE pathways lead to employment and expanded opportunities for students.

“Our Team of Teams is committed to ensuring our students have access to a plethora of hands-on experiences, valuable industry certifications, and opportunities to apply those skills and experiences in the workplace,” he said.

The Arnold program, according to McQueen, is a textbook example of the responsiveness of BDS programs to the needs of our community. “We work closely with both Chambers and a wide array of business leaders to ensure our CTE

programs are preparing our students to be the trained and highly-skilled workforce our community needs and depends upon,” McQueen said. “Our CTE programs are guided by the needs of our community and the labor market in general, but they are also individualized to ensure those college-bound students receive valuable instruction that translates into enhanced opportunities on the collegiate level.” The CTE programs, he said, work equally well for the graduates who intend to go to college right after graduation and for those who plan to enter the workforce immediately. “It’s truly a fantastic partnership,” he said.

J.R. Arnold High School’s Early Childhood Education Program transcends being a local initiative; it serves as a beacon of hope addressing the critical need for quality childcare in Bay County. By “growing our own” highly-skilled childcare teachers and maybe even future daycare owners, Bay District Schools is shaping the local workforce and making a positive impact on the availability of quality early childhood education. The success of this program stands as a testament to the dedication of educators, the visionary approach of the district, and the collaborative spirit of the Bay County community.

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According to Untapped Potential in FL, a recent report by the Florida Chamber Foundation and the National Chamber Foundation, nearly $5.4 billion in economic & fiscal value is lost annually in Florida due to working parents having to be away from their jobs to care for children under the age of six. The report found the lack of access to childcare was the leading reason parents with young children left their jobs in the 12 months before the Florida Chamber’s research.

The report revealed Florida is missing out on $911 million annually in tax revenue due to childcare challenges with affordability and accessibility. Childcare-related employee turnover and absenteeism costs Florida job creators $4.47 billion annually, and 64 percent of parents with young children missed work or school at least once in the past three months for childcare-related reasons. Access to childcare impacts more than just our current workforce.

Investing in our early learners also supports the Florida Chamber’s Florida 2030 Blueprint goals of ensuring 100 percent of our children are entering kindergarten prepared, 100 percent are reading at grade level by third grade, and are equipped to pursue academic success. Demonstrating there is an urgent need for early learning support, www.TheFloridaScorecard.org reports less than half of students entering kindergarten in Florida are ready. In Bay County, just 45 percent of kindergartners are entering prepared, which is below the statewide average of 49%.

State and federal childcare programs exist to alleviate some of the burden created by childcare issues. Still, many families are ineligible for these programs due to their income coming in just above the eligibility thresholds. Marginal changes in income can result in a loss of thousands, even tens of thousands of dollars

in benefits. Even those who qualify need help finding available providers due to burdensome regulations unrelated to quality, safety and inadequate reimbursement rates.

Florida’s School Readiness Program offers financial assistance for early learning opportunities to working parents or parents pursuing an education who are earning at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty line. The School Readiness Program aims to prepare young children to start kindergarten ready to learn, help families afford high-quality early learning opportunities, and keep parents in the workforce and/or participating in educational or training opportunities. The current School Readiness eligibility threshold means a single-parent household that earns $31,000 a year with one child would make too much to qualify for the program.

Senator Alexis Calatayud and Representative Dana Trabulsy have introduced legislation to assist Florida’s working parents with their struggles to afford and find available childcare and redesign the School Readiness Program to support Florida’s families on a path to upward mobility. SB 916 and HB 929 raise the eligibility threshold of Florida’s childcare program to 55 percent of the State Median Income, a change that will add over 10,000 students to the program’s eligibility.

Additionally, SB 916/HB 929 incentivizes childcare providers to increase the availability of childcare to serve children and families by increasing provider reimbursement rates. The current provider reimbursement rate structure under the School Readiness Program disincentives providers to accept a child under the School Readiness program, especially in low-income areas where the program is most used. This is because a provider

may not be reimbursed at an amount greater than the provider’s private pay rate. In low-income neighborhoods, private-pay prices are constrained by the going market rate local families can afford to pay and do not necessarily reflect the true cost of care. Because childcare providers’ price for services reflects what parents enrolling in their programs can afford and not necessarily the (higher) cost of providing services, the price is artificially constrained by affordability. SB 916/HB 929 ensures eligible providers are reimbursed at a rate that considers the actual cost of providing childcare.

While this legislation is an investment, it is essential to supporting today's workforce and vital to developing our workforce of tomorrow. A lack of affordable, quality childcare makes it difficult for parents trying to enter, re-enter, or stay in the workforce. There are working parents who struggle to balance home, childcare, and work; children who miss valuable educational opportunities; childcare providers who are fighting to stay open to serve their communities; and employers wondering how to attract employees with children to work.

SB 7052 and HB 1267 by Senator Ileana Garcia and Representative Adam Anderson further address the fiscal cliff for childcare many families face by establishing a sliding fee scale for parent copayments. This means as a family’s income exceeds the eligibility threshold, they will begin to pay an amount based on a percentage of their income into the system. The sliding fee scale established in SB 7052/HB 1267 creates incentives for economic upward mobility rather than the current immediate loss of benefits as income increases. This monumental change would immediately make Florida a national leader in the early childhood education space.

Senator Erin Grall and Representative Fiona McFarland have also introduced measures to improve access to childcare. SB 820 and HB 635 offer incentives for employers to assist in the childcare issues their employees struggle with through targeted tax credits, both for establishing a childcare facility for the children of employees or helping with the cost of childcare. The bills address burdensome regulations that drive up the cost of care by modifying requirements related to the licensing of childcare facilities by the Department of Children and Families, including limitations on violations, implementation of abbreviated inspections, background screening, and personnel training. Childcare is increasingly a business issue that can be improved by uniting Florida’s business leaders.

High-quality early childhood programs have a high return on investment. These programs promote healthy childhood development and thus reduce interventions that may be needed later in life. Access and availability of quality early learning opportunities for Florida families are essential to Florida’s competitiveness. We must work on long-term solutions to improve this crisis. Florida’s global competitiveness depends on a unified education system that prepares our children from cradle to career. This commitment must start early. By preparing our youngest learners today, we can establish a foundation for academic and workforce success, which is essential to securing Florida’s future.

Technology Enhancing the Childcare Experience

by: Tami Valdez, Communications and Development Director, Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida

In 2024, the childcare and early learning industry is modernizing in three primary ways – using Child Care Management Systems (CCMS), installing safety-enhancing technology into early learning programs, and leveraging digital curriculum to help streamline learning. These technologies provide a safe environment for the community’s youngest learners, peace of mind for parents who spend their days at work while their most precious asset is in the care of early learning professionals, and the assurance early educators from every generation can easily access content to help them enhance the child learning experience.

CCMS companies, like ProCare Solutions, have been around for about 30 years and offer services like attendance management, automated billing, real-time data reporting, and parent engagement. Today’s top CCMS is still ProCare Solutions, which boasts the #1 spot in CCMS, with 37,000+ childcare businesses consistently using their platform. However, competitors like Brightwheel, Lillio (formerly HiMama), and LifeCubby have

emerged, ready to take their piece of the CCMS market. Each company brings a competitive edge to integrating technology into child care with features like client lead management, photo sharing, employee management, finance management, and more. Following the COVID-19 global pandemic, more private childcare businesses have begun to adopt various CCMS applications that offer many customizable business management options, including no-contact sign-in, health check-ins, and robust communication tools for enhanced health and safety of children and staff.

According to an October 2020 FAQ published by Child Care Aware of America, despite a program’s ability to manage its business efficiently for many years without technology, data, reports, and other information is more accessible, and revenue is greater when childcare programs harness the power of integrating technology into their business practices. Programs can significantly improve their cash flow and revenue by integrating these CCMS applications into their business

practices as they can better manage the “Iron Triangle of ECE Finance” – Full enrollment, complete fee collection, and accurate pricing. As a bonus, CCMS applications help improve family communications by making updates about their child available throughout the day and eliminating the guesswork of billing and payments.

In Florida, childcare programs must have written procedures for emergencies, including a lost or missing child and the presence of a threatening individual who attempts or succeeds in gaining entrance into the facility. These emergency procedures must be posted and readily available in case one of the incidents occurs. As a measure of added security, many programs choose to have keyless entry or buzzer systems installed on their primary entryway doors. While some local programs have not yet adopted this technology, many have chosen to, especially after an incident occurs, such as a strange individual walking into the building. Some companies, like Procare Solutions, have partnered with security companies to integrate a keyless entry system into their platform package. In contrast, other companies, like Brightwheel, have shared their security recommendations on their website or don’t offer these solutions at all.

A relatively new technological advancement for child care and early learning has been occurring alongside the advancements in CCMS and security. Newer companies like Learning Beyond Paper have debuted digital-first early learning curricula, while existing partners in early learning like Funshine Express and the Teaching Strategies/ the Creative Curriculum have integrated additional digital lessons and educator professional development into their products and programs to accompany their previously designed curriculum materials. While these tools are not child-facing, having easy-to-access digital materials, lesson plans, and content available to teachers helps to ensure in-class learning is done with the most up-to-date information.

Understanding this emerging use of technology both in the classroom and in the childcare and early learning industry means industry professionals must also understand the nuances between the multiple generations that teach, parent, and attend their programs. The average early learning educator is in their early to mid-forties, while the average parent of a

child under five is thirty. This means most adults influencing children are of the millennial generation – people who existed both with and without easy access to information and the internet. Millennials generally demand the immediacy of information and access to online billing statements, activities, and responses to their burning questions. So, it is no wonder that even early learning is shifting to meet the demands of communities of parents and educators that require unfettered access to information and resources.

Stacey’s Fun in the Sun 3 Preschool has decided to leverage technology in all three ways by using Brightwheel as their preferred CCMS, integrating a keyless entry and buzzer system, and using online curriculum support. Leadership at the center says, “We chose to use a pin pad for staff and the doorbells for parents because it is the best way to ensure our students are safe… Brightwheel lets us keep all parents up-to-date with their child’s daily activities.” Another child care program, Hawk’s Nest Learning Tree, uses Brightwheel and understands technology's impact on the business. Owner d Young shares, “When our processes and communications are streamlined, parents have more confidence in everything else we do in service to their children.”

The Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida (ELCNWF) has been committed to supporting local childcare programs interested in upgrading, fully implementing, or launching new technology in their businesses. Starting in March of 2024, ELCNWF opened technology grant applications whereby programs across Bay County and the rest of the Northwest Florida service area can apply for funds to help them do this. Unfortunately, those funds will sunset in June, and in the absence of any future forecasted funding, this may be the last time this type of monetary support is available to these vital small business owners. If you are interested in partnering with a local childcare program to help them bring in new technology or expand their existing technology implementation, you can contact tami.valdez@elcnwf.org.

THEIR FUTURE CAN BEYour Legacy

The 1967 Society is a new, exclusive community of recurring donors whose generous commitment anchors the Gulf Coast State College Foundation Campaigns, currently – the Gulf Coast Guarantee , and charts the course for today’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders.

Since its inception in 1967, the Gulf Coast State College Foundation has been dedicated to our mission to create a scholarship program providing educational opportunities to deserving students.

In honor of our founding year, we are asking our donors to consider a monthly gift of $19.67. No matter how big or how small, every gift makes a difference. Society Members are also given the option to set their preferred gift amount. Gifts will be automatically made on your behalf until you choose to unsubscribe by contacting the Foundation.

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Over 500 Engineered Plans to choose from or Create-Your-Own with our Live Design Option

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With transparent client communication, passion for our communities, first-class inspectors, Designers and Engineers, our Collaborative LIVE Design Process coupled with our Advocacy Approach to Project and Construction Management is the infrastructure to our one-stop shop design-to-build process

Let`s See Who We Are? Our Services

Our Founding Partners are Forgotten Coast locals that have a heart for the area, its community, and future. They also all have roughly 20 years in their prospective fields ranging from engineering, design, county permit officials, construction and project management, and inspection services. They only work with the best of the best builders and have an in-road or referral program in place for EVERY possible need that an out-of-town, busy client will need from concept through completion of a design-build project.

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As experts in Inspection and Permitting, our President, Lee Collinsworth, has the knowledge and experience to assist you every step of the way.

current labor statistics for bay county

Bay County Demographic Snapshot Bay County Population: 182,599

Median Age: 41.8

Labor Force: 96,341

$35,155

October - December 2023

how bay county compares nationally...

Children are the Future of a Brighter Bay County

by: Kim Bodine, Executive Director, CareerSource Gulf Coast

On any given day at the CareerSource Gulf Coast Job Center in Bay County, our staff meets with clients with significant issues that make employment and career development difficult or impossible. Common issues include lack of transportation, lack of training or work experience, disability, inadequate housing, or a justice-involved background. Many of these barriers can be overcome with the assistance of our staff and partners through funding for training, job search assistance, supportive services, referrals to public assistance programs, and community and faith-based organizations. One barrier, however, stands out as significant and can be insurmountable to overcome for families and community organizations; it even has a generational impact. It is the lack of affordable, accessible, high-quality childcare.

The childcare industry is in crisis. This isn’t a new problem, and it is, without a doubt, a national one. It is an issue that keeps many people out of the workforce altogether and affects hundreds of working families in Bay County alone daily. Sadly, it also affects the well-being of children and families, the strength of the economy, and the quality of our future workforce.

A report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation in partnership with the Florida Chamber Foundation, entitled “Untapped Potential in FL,” found that childcare issues result in a $5.38 billion loss for Florida’s economy annually. This loss includes $911 million annually in missed tax revenue due to the crisis and an estimated $4.47 billion loss to employers due to employee turnover and absenteeism caused by childcare issues.

Lack of childcare disrupts businesses with an already reduced talent pool and strains businesses struggling to fill open positions. Lack of childcare can affect employee retention, as parents may leave jobs voluntarily or involuntarily. Disruptions in childcare increase employee absenteeism and reduced productivity.

A large part of the childcare issue is the availability of childcare workers as childcare establishments, like other industries, struggle to hire and retain quality workers. The childcare industry has low wages and high turnover and has also been slower than most to recover from the effects of the pandemic. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released troubling data: The childcare industry currently has less employment than before the pandemic, and it is recovering at a slower pace than other industries also greatly affected by the pandemic, including retail trade and leisure and hospitality.

In a tight labor market, competition for workers has fueled strong wage growth. However, the childcare sector has not shared in wage growth to the same extent as other industries and has become less competitive than other lower-paying occupations, according to Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics from the BLS.

Despite a rising median hourly wage in Bay County, the number of childcare worker jobs in 2023 was 477, down approximately 6% from 510 in 2019, the year before the pandemic. Employment in this sector has not recovered to levels prepandemic. The median hourly wage for childcare workers in Bay County in 2023 was $12.73 per hour, lower than the U.S. median hourly wage of $13.06 and lower than the Florida median hourly wage of $13.08.

Wages for childcare workers are less competitive than those for other low-paying occupations. For example, the median hourly earnings for Waiters and Waitresses are $13.15 per hour, and the median hourly earnings for Retail Salespersons are $13.79 per hour. The lack of competitive wages, among other labor force factors, makes it difficult to retain childcare workers who may leave for higher salaries. The need for staff centers with skilled childcare workers limits the number of children that can be served. Increasing wages to retain childcare workers results in higher costs passed on to parents, making childcare unaffordable for many families, even with recent wage growth. It’s a catch-22 that is difficult to untangle.

We know the economic and social benefits of investing in childcare are profound. Worker productivity can boost the economy. Increased workforce participation can increase tax revenue. Families will have greater economic security. Access to high-quality care can prepare children to succeed in school, be ready for the workforce, and be productive citizens.

The solution to the childcare crisis will require a multi-faceted approach with collaboration among families, businesses, policymakers, and community organizations. We applaud the efforts of Bay District School Superintendent, Mark McQueen and the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, who are bringing community partners together to find solutions to help our community provide the quality care needed for our most vulnerable and valuable asset—our children. This kind of work will lead to the best solutions for our community. Stay tuned.

Shane Williams

Commercial Lines Insurance Agent Daffin Insurance Services

Shane Williams is a Panama City transplant who moved here with his military family in 2010. He graduated from Truman State University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in justice systems and a minor in sociology. While studying at Truman State, Shane was also on the Varsity swim team. Before becoming an insurance agent, Shane worked at Island Time Sailing as a deckhand, where he did snorkel excursions and sunset tours. Using the people skills he had developed on the job, Williams decided to try his hand at Insurance and sales while working for Daffin Insurance Services. He is currently in his second year as a commercial lines insurance agent, and has also taken on the 2024 Bay County Chamber Ambassador Chairman role.

Shane tries his best to unplug and spend as much time in nature as possible in his free time. He enjoys hiking, fishing, camping, grilling, and lifting. Shane also takes a great interest in paleontology, biology, and other studies of the natural world.

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce held its 111th Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on January 19th at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort. Bay County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Carol Roberts said, “This event is one of the most important events of the year for the Chamber.”

The event began with a social and silent auction benefiting Junior Leadership Bay (JLB), a Bay County Chamber Foundation program. JLB prepares Bay County’s youth and future business leaders to meet our area's challenges through hands-on activities and exciting discussions involving community leaders and motivational Speakers.

During the main event, community leaders and numerous elected officials gathered to celebrate the Chamber’s successes of 2023, and to honor the outgoing Chair of the Board, Kyle Shoots, System Service and Engineering. Will Cramer, Bill Cramer Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and GMC served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

The evening started with honoring the outgoing Military Affairs Committee (MAC) Chair, Garrett Anderson. Anderson was the 2022 Chair of the Board of Directors before becoming the 2023 MAC Chair. At the event, Anderson spoke on the growth and generosity of the MAC and exciting events throughout the year.

“The MAC had an incredible year. We welcomed the Chief of Staff of the Air Force to Bay County, hailed and farewelled our local installation commands, and celebrated Bay County’s designation as the 31st Official Coast Guard Community. MAC members were also incredibly generous, supporting the Sims Veterans Nursing Home residents at Christmas this year.”

Each year, the Chamber recognizes an outstanding member with its Member of the Year award. Mike Smith was announced as the 2024 recipient. Kyle Shoots, 2023 Chair of the Bay County Chamber Board of Directors, introduced Smith as the recipient, stating he was top of mind from the beginning.

“From our first conversation, Smith really stood out,” said Shoots. “He has served the Chamber in many different capacities, but most recently, he served as our Governmental Affairs Committee Chair. He helped spearhead the Chamber’s outreach to show appreciation to local lifeguards during an incredibly challenging summer season.”

The night's final award was the Lauren Merriam Memorial Award, the Chamber’s highest honor. Bill Cramer (the 2003 recipient of the award) presented the 2024 award to Will Cramer, who was chosen for his devotion to the betterment of his community. His leadership spans roles as the Bay County Chamber Chair, EDA Chair, a vital member of the Bay Defense Alliance, United Way Chair, Holy Nativity Board Chair, Military Affairs Committee Chair, and Tyndall AFB Community Partnership Chair, just to name a few.

Shoots passed the gavel to 2024 Chair Joe Holt, Trustmark Bank. In his closing remarks, Shoots stated his time serving on the Chamber Board of Directors has been the experience of a lifetime.

“Thank you for allowing me to serve,” said Shoots. “I’ve been fortunate to build relationships with all of you, our members. To say I’ve made lots of memories this year is an understatement. It’s been an amazing roller coaster ride.” Shoots then went on to commend the board of directors, investors, and the many others who have continued to support the organization. “I’ve been fortunate to

contribute to the remarkable legacy that Carol Roberts is leaving upon her retirement. During her leadership, the Chamber achieved various milestones, including the approval of the Infrastructure Surtax, the establishment of the Panama City Bed Tax, and the successful attraction of businesses such as Oceaneering, Berg Pipe, The Natural Light and Trane Technologies. Her impact on the progression of projects in Bay County is extensive.”

2024 Chairman Joe Holt then took the podium, laying out his vision for the organization, which includes aggressive priorities and key objectives for the year: affordable access to childcare, the infrastructure surtax renewal, workforce development, and support of the Panama City events center redevelopment.

The evening ended with unexpected entertainment as Holt wrapped up the program. Aerial dance artists and stilt walkers graced the stage, delivering a spectacle of Big Fun under the Big Top for the audience to enjoy!

Presenting: Trustmark

Beverage: Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC

Entertainment: System Service and Engineering

Parking: Tipton, Marler, Garner, & Chastain

Platinum: RC Weddings & Events, CBC

Gold: Florida Power and Light, Cadence Bank, Gulf Coast State College, Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, Gulf Coast State College Foundation, The St. Joe Company, Capital City Bank Group, Trane Technologies, Hiller Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical, NAI TALCOR, and Ascension Sacred Heart Bay

Photo Booth: Coca-Cola

Construction

Member of the Year, Mike Smith

Passing of the Gavel to 2024 Chair Joe Holt

Lauren Merriam Memorial Award Winner, Will Cramer

Gulf Coast State College

Gulf Coast State College is honored to announce its recognition as the first Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus.

This distinguished designation, established by the Florida legislature in 2023, highlights the College's commitment to supporting military students and families as they transition to the college environment.

The Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus Program recognizes colleges that strongly support military families, in line with Florida Statutes. Gulf Coast State College met all the listed criteria in the statute, including military liaison, military webpage, student-led transition program, professional development for staff on issues relating to military students, and priority registration for military students and families.

City of Panama City

The City Commission for the City of Panama City is pleased to appoint Jonathan Hayes to serve the Panama City community as its new City Manager. Following an extensive search, the City Commission selected Hayes in December 2023, and approved his

employment contract during the regular City Commission meeting on January 9, 2024.

Hayes initially came to the City of Panama City as Director of Logistics, a position responsible for managing the divisions of Purchasing, Facilities Maintenance, Information Technology, and Risk Management. In April of 2022, Hayes transitioned to the position of Director of Public Works. In this role, his responsibilities expanded to lead a team of over 200 personnel. He oversaw the public service functions related to Engineering, Utilities, Streets and Drainage, Solid Waste, Equipment Maintenance, and Environmental Compliance. Additionally, as the Director of Public Works, Hayes was responsible for overseeing the implementation of State Revolving Fund loan and grant-funded infrastructure improvement projects.

Before his service in Panama City, Hayes served as Acting Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor for the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response, the Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement through the

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Chief of Staff for two Members of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Highland Group

The Highland Group, a leading general contractor and real estate development firm serving the Southeastern United States since 2005, has announced the appointment of Craig Blackburn as Vice President of Operations.

This new position will oversee the operations of all three regional offices – the corporate headquarters on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the Northwest Florida office, and the North Alabama office in the Tennessee Valley. The position will also serve on the company’s Senior Leadership Team, which establishes and executes the company's overall strategy, collectively guiding it toward long-term success.

In his new role as Vice President of Operations, Blackburn will oversee and optimize the company’s operational activities, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, quality, and safety.

Blackburn joined The Highland Group as a Senior Project Manager for the Alabama Gulf Coast Region in April 2023. While in that role, Blackburn was instrumental in directing construction operations throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast Region. With over 27 years of experience in the commercial construction industry, Blackburn has held roles of executive oversight and has a proven track record of success, having held roles of executive oversight in various market sectors, bringing a wealth of experience to this key leadership position.

Destination Panama City

Meet Aubrey Haskell, Sports & Special Events Liaison at Destination Panama City. New to her role but not to the area,

Aubrey is excited to utilize her knowledge of Panama City to help propel its growth. Though she has experience in various fields, she has found her passion in public relations, business development, marketing, and sales.

Aubrey Haskell

Aubrey has over eight years of first-hand experience in these fields, and uses her expertise to help local businesses thrive. She is highly involved in the community, serving in leadership positions on various chamber committees. In 2023, Aubrey was awarded Young Professional of the Year for the PCB Chamber in recognition of her service to the business community.

The opportunity to create a positive impact in Panama City, an area in which she has lived most of her life, is one she has always strived for. Aubrey is excited to use her new role at Destination Panama City to play her part in sharing a little #FunkSaltSoul with the rest of the world.

Jessica Bright joins the team at Destination Panama City as the new Lead Destination Ambassador. Having recently relocated to the area herself, she is excited to help visitors and residents discover, or rediscover, the diverse attractions and distinctive events that led her to choose the Bay County community as a unique and desirable place to live, work, and play.

An early love of theatre led her to pursue an education in the technical and

management aspects of the performing arts. Those skills later translated into a talent for planning and executing signature and original events for organizations like the Arizona Opera and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Those positions also allowed her to partner with and learn the value of an effective destination management organization.

Most recently, as the Operations Manager for a high-volume dive operation in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Jessica enjoyed meeting and serving visitors from all over the world and looks forward to bringing her trademark hospitality to the Destination Panama City Visitor Center.

The Central Panhandle Association of Realtors (CPAR)

The Central Panhandle Association of Realtors (CPAR) proudly welcomes Kaydee Albritton as its new Chief Executive Officer. With seven years of dedicated service at CPAR and a background in business and hospitality, Kaydee Albritton is poised to lead the association to new heights.

Having been trained under the tutelage of her predecessor, Debbie Ashbrook, Kaydee Albritton has demonstrated a deep understanding of CPAR's mission and values. Her background includes

leadership roles in the business and hospitality sectors, contributing to her well-rounded expertise.

A distinguished professional, Kaydee Albritton has earned the prestigious Realtor Association Certified Executive (RCE) designation, an exclusive credential designed specifically for Association Executives, with only 500 designees nationwide. Additionally, she holds the Certified Professional Standards Administrator certification, highlighting her expertise in handling Realtor Ethics processes.

In her new role, Kaydee Albritton will play a pivotal role in fostering communication between the board of directors and CPAR members, ensuring excellent performance and continued growth for CPAR. Her responsibilities include managing the organization's operations, staying abreast of industry changes, and cultivating professional relationships with industry executives and community stakeholders.

Latitude Margaritaville

Minto Communities USA announced Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, near Panama City Beach, has been named among the top 50 masterplanned communities in the U.S. for 2023. The Top 50 rankings were released by two prestigious firms, John Burns Real Estate

Consulting, and RCLCO

Real Estate Consulting, that publish annual lists of the Top 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S.

Master developer Minto Communities and the global lifestyle brand Margaritaville are developing Latitude Margaritaville communities. Inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter, and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, the Latitude Margaritaville lifestyle is built on the four pillars of fun, food, music, and escapism. This dynamic, all-new approach to active adult living has captured the imagination of today’s vibrant and active 55-andbetter home buyers who are growing older, but not up. Plans for additional Latitude Margaritaville communities are underway, including a westward expansion into Texas.

Latitude Margaritaville communities offer Conch Cottages, villas, singlefamily homes, and worldclass resort-style amenities.

Latitude Margaritaville Town Centers include a Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant, Paradise Pool with beach-like gradual entry, Changes in Attitude poolside bar, Fins Up! Fitness Center, Latitude Town Square with a bandshell, Barkaritaville Dog Park, Last Mango Theatre, Workin’ N’ Playin’ Center, Coconut Telegraph Business Center, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball courts, and walking trails.

Jessica Bright

NEW MEMBERS from Dec. 1, 2023 to Feb. 29, 2024

A Seaside Haven & Wellness Center 2605 Thomas Dr., Ste. 245 Panama City Beach, FL 32408 850-276-0070

A Taste of Chicago 1201 Beck Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-704-4188

Alan D. Holt, Landscape Architect 421 Jenks Ave. #2549 Panama City, FL 32401 850-914-9006

Anytime Fitness 850-628-8853

Bay County Veterans Council 850-265-1270

Capt’s Table Fish House 1110 Beck Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-919-9933

Cardinal Financial 3208 W. 23 rd St. Ste. 2 Panama City, FL 32405 850-919-2118

Chi Chi Couture Salon, LLC 1014 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 850-890-8210

Coastal Care EMS 619 MLK Jr. Blvd. Panama City, FL 32401 866-244-2760

ECS Florida, LLC 2334 Capital Circle NE Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-713-3200

Emerald Coast Drone Pros 8546 Lost Shaker Way Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-737-3009

Emerald Park Apartments 8604 Whelch Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 850-249-9944

The Fadden-McKelvie Group 2303 W. 19 th St. Panama City, FL 32405 321-890-5364

Fendley Glass LLC 850-326-8496

First International Title 651 Grand Panama Blvd., Ste. 104 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-249-4522

Forgotten Coast Brewing Co. 4101 US-98 Mexico Beach, FL 32456

Gladiator Promotions 5420 Hickory St. Panama City, FL 32404 850-691-9650

Glam + Glo 3001 W. 10 th St. Unit 101A 6-7 Panama City, FL 32401 850-640-9927

Herbal Wellness LLC 325 W. 6 th St. Panama City, FL 32401 850-814-3313

Jamie Shepard LLC 850-774-8946

JD MacLang Boutique PCB 12101 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32407 919-802-8218

LAT30° Strategic Partners 303-815-6161

Late Bloomer Flower Shoppe 556 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-215-4192

The Mane Social Beauty Bar 811 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-387-3857

Maranta Copy Co. 850-832-8297

More Cabinets and Floors LLC 3201 Minnesota Ave. #10 Panama City, FL 32405 850-943-5063

Panama City Beach KOA 9010 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-890-7799

Panama City Comedy 850-972-9295

Pirates Voyage & Dinner Show 16061 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 865-774-8139

Prime Aesthetics and Wellness 2211 Hwy 77 N, Ste. 101 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 850-248-0370

Scentsy 318-518-7744

Shore House Furniture 14301 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-236-0200

Sperry Construction 4495 Capital Circle NW Tallahassee, FL 32303 850-562-1101

Trimera LLC 4343 Shallowford Rd., Ste. 170 Marietta, GA 30062 850-819-6344

Wenrick Insurance Agency 850-541-8633

Window World of PC 2820 E. Hwy 390 Panama City, FL 32405 850-807-7919

5 years

Certified Roofing Solutions LLC

P&P Heating & Cooling

Shuckums Oyster Pub

University Academy

10 years

Accurate Control Equipment, Inc.

Avicenna Free Clinic

Bluewater Development Group

The Morris Law Firm

PCB Entertainment

Roberts & Roberts, Inc.

Senator Jay Trumbull

Superior Residences

15 years

Bay County Clerk of Court

Covenant Christian School

Davis Oil Company

Eastern Shipbuilding Group

Hancock Whitney

Kenny Strange Electric & Service Co.

Ladybug Embroidery Designs & Gifts

Prine Orthodontics

20 years

Habitat for Humanity Bay County MidSouth Bank

NAI TALCOR

Northstar Church Servpro of Bay County

25 years

Brain & Spine Center, P.A. Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC

Dewberry

30 years

Better Business Bureau of NW Fla Publix Super Markets, Inc. #481

35 years

Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Bauman Chiropractic Clinic

Bay County Farm Bureau

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bay County Port Panama City, USA

40 years

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort

45 years

Digestive Diseases Center

50 years

Tyndall Federal Credit Union

55 years

Hy's Toggery, Inc.

65 years

Captain Anderson's Restaurant

70 years

Tipton, Marler, Gamer & Chastain