SUMMER 2022 | VOL. 12 / ISSUE 3 PANAMACITY.ORG
A LOOK BACK AT PANAMA CITY'S PAPER MILL
T H E VO I C E O F B U S I N E S S F R O M T H E B AY C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
A LOOK INTO THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CBD
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summer 2022
departments 4
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE A Look Back at Panama City’s Paper Mill
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DEFENSE INTEL Tyndall Air Force Base Trailblazing Way to Installation of the Future
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HEALTH Health Benefits of CBD Cannot Be Ignored
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EDUCATION GCSC Health Sciences and Nursing Division Prepares Students for Real-Life Situations
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TECHNOLOGY BayROC Gives Law Enforcement New Approach to Fighting Crime
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ECONOMIC PROFILE
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WORKFORCE CONNECTION
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BAY YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MEMBER TO KNOW
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BIZ LIST
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NEW MEMBERS
37
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
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18 8
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features 18
COVER STORY
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TOURISM APPRECIATION MONTH
Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. POSTMASTER send address changes to: Bay County Chamber, PO Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email information@baychamberfl.com. The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. To have your story added, please email communications@baychamberfl.com. To request additional copies, call 850-785-5206.
PUBLISHER Carol Roberts
ART DIRECTION, LAYOUT, AND DESIGN
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Wes Johnson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Don Arias, Kim Bodine, Aimee Bright, Ruth Corley, Will Cramer, Tem Fontaine, Elizabeth Humphries, Wes Johnson, Sarah McNair, Ben Moorman, Elizabeth Smith CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Asymmetric Solutions, Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Gulf Coast State College, Wes Johnson, and Melissa Lupton
BAY BIZ MAGAZINE c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, FL 32402 850-785-5206 panamacity.org | information@baychamberfl.com
COVER American special operations forces participate in realistic scenario-based training events in Bay County.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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As business heats up, so does the weather. Life is good in Bay County and we have a lot to be thankful for.
day when I hear that 7 a.m. whistle, I think of him and the mem-
We’re positioned for another record-breaking tourism season and
ories that mill has given my family and me. Whew, okay, that just
our diversified economy continues to flourish with other new
made me emotional.
business and industry coming to Bay County. In the same vein of the need for employees, so is the need for a stronger education system. At the beginning of the year, the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee formed an Education Task Force to take a look at the issue as identified in our 2022 Business Plan. A mission statement was developed that outlines the concerns and opportunities of the issue- “Quality Education is important to the success of any community. Bay County business leaders must take the lead in supporting and holding our district leadership accountable to higher standards and demand excellence in our public-school system. A top-rated school district is vital in the recruitment of new workforce, ensuring the future of our military installations and for existing business to thrive.” Although there’s never a good time for bad news, as employers continue to look for new employees, the announcement of the closure of WestRock will assist other employers in need of workers in Bay County. In this issue of Bay Biz, you’ll find a story that is a tribute to the role “The Mill” has played in building a better Bay County. Your Chamber team jumped into action with the coordination of a virtual meeting among our area manufacturers and their HR departments just days after the announcement of the closure. WestRock HR was able to answer questions from the group as the affected employees are prime candidates for hundreds of open positions within those manufacturing plants.
With that, this summer the Bay County Chamber has moved forward with the roll-out of its plan to gain business leader involvement in mentoring, on the school board and at the superintendent level. It’s time for us to build an education system of the future. Our Military Affairs Committee (MAC) remains active. A reception was held to welcome the F35 Activation Team to Tyndall as the rebuild continues and preparations are being made for the arrival of the first F-35 aircraft in fall 2023. Speaking of Tyndall, MAC members were treated to a tour of the base where members could see first-hand the massive rebuild taking place. The MAC had the same opportunity at NSA PC, where members were brought up to speed on its role in the defense of our country and the research
That meeting included a briefing by CareerSource Executive Direc-
and development transpiring right here in Bay County.
tor Kim Bodine as to the benefits available not only to employees, but the potential employers, who could be eligible for training
As I said in the beginning, life is good in Bay County and we look
dollars and more. Becca Hardin, President of the Bay EDA was also
forward to working to build it even better. We thank all of our
in attendance and emphasized the opportunities.
investors in supporting the role of this great organization.
No matter what circle you’re in, there is usually at least one person touched by the impact of The Mill. I, for one, am a Paper Mill Baby. My father dedicated 43 years to that facility and is what my family was built on. Although I was very young in the beginning years of his tenure there, I do remember when he was on the graveyard shift when mama and I would ride out (it seemed like in the middle of the night) and take him dinner sitting in the parking lot. To this
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BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
Carol A. Roberts President/CEO
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political perspective A Look Back at Panama City’s Paper Mill by: Will Cramer and Tem Fontaine
A
fter operating for more than 90 years, Panama City’s paper mill has closed its doors for good. Though the announcement from WestRock caught most off-
guard, many in the community will always have fond and grateful memories of the opportunities the facility provided Bay County area workers.
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Andrews Company purchased the Moore Timber Company, whose Lackawanna property, according to the Panama City Pilot, “…gives Mr. Keith, who is vice president of the United Fruit Company, a splendid dock in deep water on East Bay where any of the Fruit Company’s vessels can land; and for his lumber company, about 35 miles of first class railroad, 82,000 acres of land, one of the best
In 1919, the mill, which had been valued at $3 million, was pur-
mills in this section, about three million feet of lumber, and the
chased for $1 million by the St. Andrews Bay Lumber Company,
hamlet of Bay Harbor, which is the best constructed mill town in
formed by Minor Keith and WC Sherman. Later that year, the St.
the South.”
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
When I finished my 42 years at the mill, my wife’s family had worked there for 90 years. Everything I have in life, including a wife, came from the mill. My story is not unlike many others in our community that had multiple generations at the mill.
- Tem Fontaine
Through the 1920s, after decades of timber harvesting with very
erboard to bleached pulp for printing and writing grades and fluff
little replanting, the supply of usable timber had dwindled and
pulp for disposable diapers and other absorbent paper products. In
most sawmills had closed, including those at the Lackawanna
the 1970s IP decided that a large-scale modernization of Panama
property. Fortunately, northern paper companies, who had been
City was not feasible and sold the mill to Southwest Forest Indus-
relying on an also-dwindling supply of Canadian spruce, had begun
tries in 1979.
to look to relocate to the South where slash pine was readily available and could be regrown in 15-20 years (as opposed to 70 years
Since the announcement from WestRock that the mill would close,
for Canadian spruce).
the Bay County community has done what it does best; support
So, Wilson, Sherman and city and business leaders like RL McKenzie, Frank Nelson, Sr., and the Panama City Chamber of Commerce (as it was called then) came up with a competitive proposal wherein the city would purchase the Lackawanna property and enter into a 50-year lease with Southern Kraft. The city built docks, Southern Kraft operated the facility and the two shared the revenue that would constitute the lease payment. On April 10, 1930, the city
one another. The Bay County Chamber helped facilitate meetings between the area’s top manufacturers. Alongside the Economic Development Alliance of Bay County, CareerSource Gulf Coast and others, Bay County leaders have worked tirelessly to find new employment for workers displaced by the closure. Services and programs were activated immediately to help facilitate and assist workers in job searches and training programs.
approved the agreement, and on February 21, 1931, the first ship-
From the tree farmers in surrounding counties to the Stevedores
ment of paper left Panama City on the Bay Line Railroad.
that loaded product on ships to foreign ports, the Panama City
The Panama City facility was the first plant to make linerboard commercially on a fourdrinier design machine. The mill experi-
mill served customers globally with a valued product that will be missed in the marketplace.
enced great success and International Paper (IP) embarked on land management to make trees a renewable resource. In 1964, a bleach plant was added to convert the No. 2 machine from lin-
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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defense intel Tyndall Air Force Base Trailblazing Way to Installation of the Future by: Don Arias and Sarah McNair, AFIMSC Public Affairs
T
he Digital Twin Hololab went live March 17 at Tyndall Air Force Base to showcase the base’s digital transformation as part of Installation of the Future efforts. These
cutting-edge planning concepts and innovative technologies will be integrated across the base and enable numerous capabilities for the warfighter at Tyndall and throughout the Air Force. “The Hololab is the primary interface with the Digital Twin of Tyndall Air Force Base,” said Lowell Usrey, an Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) Natural Disaster Recovery Division (NDR) branch chief. “The Digital Twin is a near life-like, virtual representation of the physical world. This is the place where Airmen can interact with the model using virtual reality goggles or just a good old-fashioned computer screen.” The Hololab demonstrates how these concepts and technologies have been incorporated to help create a more resilient, efficient and sustainable installation. The model itself is tied to the overall $4.9 billion rebuild schedule, enabling views of the installation at any given point in time.
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“We are making the Hololab accessible because we want to spread knowledge of how the Digital Twin will help us with our mission today, as well as spark conversations of how it can help us in the future,” said Col. Travis Leighton, NDR division chief. Visitors will be able to explore what it’s like to operate the systems that are built into the virtual replica of the installation. For example, facilities operators have the ability to view the real-time condition of assets as they explore the model. The Digital Twin is one of many new technologies being implemented to transform Tyndall into the Department of the Air Force’s Installation of the Future. Also of note is the Air Force Civil Engineer Center's NDR PMO collaboration with AFWERX, a technology directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), over the past two years to drive innovation and incorporate new technologies into the rebuild. The collaboration has resulted in the creation of a Flightline Operations Challenge in 2021. The 2021 challenge will help shape technologies that have
“It’s more than a display,” Usrey said. “It is an open canvas that
potential for incorporation into the Flightline of the Future. The
puts the virtual world into the hands of potential users to improve
NDR PMO team sought to engage individuals, startups, small
mission effectiveness and collect feedback to help improve the
businesses, large enterprises, academia and research labs to solve
system.”
problems.
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The Flightline Operations AFWERX challenge was the culmination
more proactive, document more effectively and drive efficiencies
of months of planning and a competitive evaluation with hun-
back into a maintainer’s day. The future is now and I’m excited to
dreds of participants. Solutions offered involved improvements to
be part of the journey."
airfield and aircraft maintenance operations including autonomous technology, enabling data-driven decision-making and integrating advanced (smart) airfield surfaces to strengthen the flightline and improve operations.
Flightline security was another focus of breakout sessions to identify areas for improvement. Security tactics, techniques and procedures that were developed in a time when advanced technology was not available were discussed. To counter 21st century
“Developing an automated process to collect airfield surface data
security concerns, modern solutions were shaped by the group.
and use artificial intelligence to identify surface anomalies and
Proposed solutions included using some of the same technologies
damage is revolutionary,” Lowell Usrey, NDR PMO Innovation
as airfield maintenance, like smart pavements, to help augment
Branch chief said. “It would allow airfield managers to persistently
security operations. Facial recognition, detectable flightline access
monitor and track flightline conditions and plan more efficiently.”
badges and other technologies could be incorporated into flightline features like pavements and lights to identify individuals on
“It was exciting to collaborate on ways to leverage technology for
the flightline.
our day-to-day work and overall mission on the airfield,” said Maj. Kayley Squire, Tyndall’s airfield operations flight commander. “The solutions that surfaced are remarkable -- and it was made even more rewarding by being able to show our Airmen that innovation and change is possible,” she said. The automated processes developed at the AFWERX Challenge
“Having civil engineers and airfield operations working together to tackle common issues we face on the airfield with new and innovative solutions was truly something special,” said Lt. Col. Robert Bouffard, a Pentagon executive officer from the Air Force. “They all had the common goal of increasing mission effectiveness.”
can also improve aircraft maintenance operations.
The Installation of the Future represents an evolution toward a
“The technology shown during the AFWERX Challenge will com-
throughout the Tyndall rebuild are blazing the trail for future
pletely transform aircraft maintenance operations,” said Lt. Col.
installations that will follow in their footsteps. These decisions are
Yogi Lebby, chief of the Air Force’s Advanced Concepts Office.
precedent-setting across the Armed Forces and solidify Tyndall’s
“These new modernizing solutions will allow maintainers to be
place in the annals of the Air Force.
more resilient, ready and lethal Air Force. The decisions made
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BETTER TOGETHER Tourism is a community effort. This Tourism Appreciation Month, we are grateful for our partners and loyal visitors who have contributed to the incredible momentum and growth of Panama City. The best is yet to come, with new attractions on the way and the return of old favorites in the works. Learn more about us at DestinationPanamaCity.com
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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health Health Benefits of CBD Cannot Be Ignored by: Staff Reports, Bay County Chamber of Commerce
W
ith the explosion of cannabidiol (CBD) products in the current marketplace, questions arise about CBD, how it affects/assists the human body and
flood of CBD prevents the pain and inflammation signals from attaching to them, allowing the rest of your body's systems to regulate and follow suit, enhancing homeostasis and well-being.
what to look for in high-quality products. Cannabis doctor Rachel Knox explains the system very well in her
CBD is a component of the cannabis Sativa plant. The cannabis
TedX Talk about the Human Endocannabinoid System. She says,
family includes both hemp and marijuana plants. Hemp is high in
"If you imagine your body is a college dorm and your neighbor is
CBD and low in THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, the component that
being loud, you just walk across the hallway and ask them to turn
gets you "buzzed”). Marijuana is high in THC but has little to no
it off."
CBD. In the late 1990s, Israeli doctors discovered the Human Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which produces enzymes that bind to
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There is a flood of products in the marketplace, so how can you find the "right" CBD?
the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your nerves. Those receptors carry
Local CBD producers Lauren and Napoleon (Nap) deCiutiis with
pain and inflammation signals across your nerves. The endocan-
Emerald Kush Farms have solved that problem. Lauren, a regis-
nabinoids your body produces block those pain and inflammation
tered nurse, Coast Guard veteran, and CEO of the company says,
signals. They also mirror the Phytocannabinoids (CBD) that both
"There are a lot of large companies that are focused on the money
the hemp and marijuana plants have. Ingesting CBD provides an
instead of doing the right thing for people. We focus on high-qual-
entourage effect and binds with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This
ity CBD at an affordable price. People need at least a 25-30mg
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
"We are quickly becoming Florida's number one choice for high-quality CBD, and our reviews are 100 percent positive,” Lauren said. “We have had an amazing show of support from our Bay County Family.” Another potential use for CBD is starting to gain attention. Recent studies have found that CBD could help reduce symptoms people experience as a result of opioid use disorder (OUD). Research shows anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, muscle spasms, nausea and vomiting, as well as blood pressure issues could possibly be reduced after implementing CBD. dose to feel the entourage effect. Other companies will test their CBD and water down their products. People then try them and feel nothing, so they abandon CBD. We want to ensure our Bay County community understands hemp-derived CBD's importance on our
2018 research shows that CBD effects, either as an alternative or add-on treatment, on pain and opioid withdrawal symptoms may be beneficial. According to research conducted by the Icahn School
well-being." Nap echoes her passion.
of Medicine at Mount Sinai, CBD “tended to reduce physiological
"We solved the problem of not knowing what is in the bottle by
tially be used as an opioid substitution therapy.
doing an extra-third party testing,” he said. “Once we produce our products, each line gets sent back for a second round of testing. When you scan the QR code on your item, you see the testing report and know exactly what you are putting in your body because we care." Their dedication to quality shows. Both Lauren and Nap are members of the Florida Hemp Advisory Board and lead the CBD
measures of stress reactivity…” suggesting that CBD could poten-
“To address the critical need for new treatment options for the millions of people and families who are being devastated by this epidemic, we initiated a study to assess the potential of a non-intoxicating cannabinoid on craving and anxiety in heroin-addicted individuals,” Yasmin Hurd, PhD, the Ward-Coleman Chair of Translational Neuroscience at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Director of the Addiction Institute at Mount Sinai and first
production industry in Bay County.
author of the study said in an article posted to Mount Sinai’s web-
"We are working to ensure quality CBD is at the forefront in Flori-
anxiety are particularly important in the development of addiction
da, to insist on third-party post-production testing and packaging
therapeutics because environmental cues are one of the strongest
is clear to the customer," Lauren said. "It’s deceiving, with 250-
triggers for relapse and continued drug use.”
500mg per bottle, one serving is not enough for your body. We sell 250mg bottles as pet oil." Our dogs and cats also have the same system as humans and rely
site. “The specific effects of CBD on cue-induced drug craving and
The article goes on to state that the study found that “CBD, in contrast to placebo, significantly reduced both the craving and anxiety induced by drug cues compared with neutral cues in the
on CBD to help with anxiety and separation issues.
acute term.”
"After Hurricane Michael, there are so many pets with PTSD/anxi-
So whether you suffer from pain and inflammation or something
ety issues," Lauren notes. "We saw the need to help our residents and their furry companions." A retired EOD Master Chief, Nap took over their family-run extraction business with Lauren after he left the Navy. As of print,
else, CBD might be an option for you to include in your regular supplement regimen. You should speak with your doctor before introducing a new supplement to your regimen.
12 pharmacies from Pensacola to Jacksonville carry Emerald Kush products and the company is quickly expanding across the Panhandle.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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education GCSC Health Sciences and Nursing Division Prepares Students for Real-Life Situations by: Elizabeth Humphries, Gulf Coast State College
G
ulf Coast State College (GCSC) offers 10 degree programs and four workforce certificate programs for individuals interested in Florida’s high-demand industry.
Health Sciences Building at GCSC. Graduates are well prepared as entry-level health care providers having trained on the most advanced equipment being used in medical and dental settings.
Many of GCSC’s health science programs lead to national certification, which ensures graduates’ ability to gain a great career after
Despite the complications and disruptions experienced during the
graduation.
COVID-19 pandemic, a silver lining emerged in the form of federal
State-of-the-Art Equipment
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funding. The CARES Act provided the financial means necessary to assist the College in overcoming the restrictions that complicated
To prepare for real-life scenarios within the healthcare workforce,
the disruption of usual instructional modes of delivery. Some of
GCSC remains cutting-edge with the newest technologies in the
the newest equipment gained and utilized in the health sciences
classroom. Technologically advanced and innovative learning
and nursing programs include virtual dissection tables, calibration
opportunities are evident in the state-of-the-art George G. Tapper
dental models, wearable devices to simulate tracheotomy care and
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
catheterization, video laryngoscope (Glide Scope), spirometers, a pulmonary function machine, a mechanical ventilator, an ultrasound station for carotid/peripheral vascular, abdominal, superficial structure, and pelvic ultrasound exams, as well as web cameras to allow video recordings of student simulation experiences. Simulation equipment has been an essential part of learning for Gulf Coast State College students. GCSC has been able to revolutionize the simulation experience in many programs with high fidelity simulation manikins this includes the respiratory care manikin that simulates patient care, allowing for comprehensive ventilator management, chest tube insertion, cricothyrotomy and needle decompression. The program also has a fetal ultrasound training phantom allowing students to assess fetal anatomy, size, placental localization and evaluation of amniotic fluid volume. A Virtual Reality Laparoscopic Training System is also now available for practice with surgical anatomy and instrumentation for our surgical services students.
receiving the highest quality instruction. The lack of access to the usual external rotation sites (hospitals, nursing home facilities, private medical offices, surgery centers, etc.) was significantly reduced following the destruction that Category 5 Hurricane Michael had on our community in 2018. The COVID-19 national emergency again greatly hampered student access to these sites impacting the ability to ensure critical hands-on practice students needed to master technical skills. While the use of simulations was quickly implemented, additional technology, software and programs were necessary to elevate and sustain these efforts in preparation for the continuing COVID-19 situation or similar interruptions. In addition to content delivery challenges, the shortage and increased expense of personal protective equipment (PPE) impacted the learning environment for all programs. In particular, the Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene programs operate a 20 chair on-campus Dental Clinic available to the community. Dental settings have unique characteristics that warrant specific infection control considerations during patient care; which includes the creation of aerosols that are a common occurrence for most dental procedures. N-95 respirator masks, special air filtration systems and pre-procedural rinses (molecular iodine) are newly implemented infection control measures taken in order to reduce the bacterial load during dental treatment. Such innovative solutions during the global pandemic have ex-
Coming soon, health sciences and nursing students will be able to experience clinical rotations on the GCSC mobile medical/dental bus with telehealth capability that will provide community screenings to the College’s service area.
panded remote learning opportunities to a greater extent than has traditionally been offered in health science programs and allowed GCSC to continue operations, serve the needs of the students, reduce disease transmission and implement safe and effective instructional delivery models. Safe in-person learning is essential
Reflection on COVID-19
to health science education. This was successfully supplemented
Degree and certificate programs in Health Sciences and Nursing had especially difficult challenges providing innovative instruction in safe environments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditionally, these programs had not had a significant online presence due to the nature of the specialized content relative to each medical/ dental program. Much of the instruction is laboratory and clinically based to support the theory gained in didactic courses. The move to distance learning for didactic content was an abrupt shift, but reduced the number of student contacts made on campus, thus reducing the risk of COVID-19 exposure. However, transitioning laboratory and clinic content delivery into a remote design was an even greater challenge. GCSC could not afford for students to be underprepared as the expectations demanded of them for licensure and entry into the healthcare field as a provider are immediate upon graduation. The faculty came up with solutions to keep student contact to a minimum and ensure they continued
ulation experiences, while maintaining the rigor and preparedness
by adopting and expanding remote learning opportunities and simexpected of entry level healthcare providers.
Job Outlook for Healthcare Industry According to information based on economic projections released in May 2021 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations and industries will have the highest growth between 2020 and 2030, employing more people than the government or business sectors. Healthcare and technical occupations will be the fastest growing job sectors in the coming decade, accounting for 2.6 million new jobs created by 2030.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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Maritime Special Wa r fa r e A n n e x Brings Unique Training tO BAY COUNTY Contributed by Asymmetric Solutions
A
t 2 a.m. on a moonless night, a three-hundred-foot container ship departed Panama City and ran at full speed through empty, choppy seas trying to make as good a time
as possible. The captain sat back with his paper; his crew settled in for what should be an unremarkable voyage. All were unaware of the small rigid boats rapidly closing distance on their vessel. The agile craft pulled alongside, plunging up and down in the big ships wake. One of the occupants quickly extended a pole with a narrow ladder of aluminum and cable and hooked it onto the rail of the lurching ship. The moment it connected, a dozen heavily armed men raced up the rungs and spilled onto the ship. They split into two groups, moving to the bridge and engine room with focused intent. The lead group burst onto the bridge with such ferocity the captain fell from his chair. A crewman reached for a pistol sitting under the chart table and was instantly shot dead. In the engine room, the second group had the remaining crew kneeling in a line, hands zip tied behind their backs. One of the assaulters took the wheel, throttled back, and turned the ship in an unscheduled direction.
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training. Navy SEALs, Marine MARSOC Raiders, Army Special Forces, and other specialized units from military installations all over the country travel to Panama City to participate in these highly realistic scenario-based training events developed and run by a defense industry contractor, Asymmetric Solutions. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Asymmetric Solutions recently added its Maritime Special Warfare Annex in Panama City Beach to work in conjunction with its 400-acre facility in Perry. The company’s staff is composed of highly decorated combat veterans from the specialized units it now privately serves: SEALs, Raiders, Green Berets, Delta Force, CIA Officers, and others. Using the experience of that staff and its own diminutive private navy, the Panama City Maritime Special Warfare Annex works to ready water bound warriors to get on and seize large and small ships from the open sea. “We use a crawl, walk, run methodology,” explained Birm, a former Force Reconnaissance Marine, MARSOC Raider, and the Director of Asymmetric Solutions’ Florida Operations. “We begin with a static
Since the fall of last year these attacks have been a regular
mockup on the ground in Perry, then move to the real ship sitting
occurrence off the coastline of Panama City Beach. No, there isn’t
still at port, then slow-moving assaults of the ship underway in the
a new wave of marauding pirates. It’s American Special Operations
daylight, and finally moving at full speed using NODs (night vision
Forces undergoing Vessel Board Search and Seizure (VBSS)
goggles).”
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
The assaults are launched both from Blackhawk Helicopters and
“Moreover, Panama City has a long history of military training and
12-meter highly powered rigid inflatable boats.
an evident sense of red, white, and blue support for the country
“We work to cover all scenarios and conditions,” said Steven, a former Navy SEAL, and ship takedown expert who participated in multiple seizures of commercial vessels attempting to run Naval
and military. We have been very welcomed here by the people and local businesses who seem to bend over backwards to assist us in our mission of getting the next generation of warfighters ready.”
blockades in the early days of the Iraq conflict. “Bad guy stuff still
And getting those warfighters ready has very real and very current
happens at night and in rough seas. American special operations
relevance. Vessel Boarding, while always a skill maintained by
forces will be ready for them.”
elements of special operations units, is now at the forefront of
Readiness is the key term for Asymmetric Solutions offerings. “There isn’t much that prepares you for crawling 20 feet up a
necessary skills as the Department of Defense moves its primary posture from counter terrorism to what is termed “Near Peer” conflict or potential engagement with belligerents who have far more developed nation sponsored military technology and capability. The recent conflict in Ukraine is an illustration of this and while U.S. Forces are not currently known to be directly involved, use of American Special Operations forces to seize commercial ships attempting to circumvent sanctions wouldn’t be out of the question.
flexible ladder on the side of a bouncing ship with 40 pounds of gear on your body,” Birm noted.
Waldrop, a former Force Reconnaissance Marine and MARSOC Raider with a top tier MBA to his name, seemed to suggest that
“The wind and the water of course doesn’t make it any easier.
future development of Asymmetric Solutions wasn’t done adding
The idea is learning and gaining a relative comfort level through
its footprint to the Panama City area.
constant immersion while making the variables as close to the actual event as possible. These aren’t events anyone wants to
“We have been really pleased with the environment and ease
enter with a lack of confidence or surety of their execution.”
of use but more than anything the backing of the people and
Asked why they picked Panama City as a location; the answer from
operations readiness needs is they are always changing. When
Asymmetric’s Chief Operating Officer Keith Waldrop was multi-
new requirements arise, we will quickly move to meet them and
faceted. “Panama City was ideal, a large international port and
that capability and infrastructure will land where we know we are
close proximity to our Perry facility,” Waldrop said.
welcome.”
local businesses. The only consistent thing about special
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
19
technology BayROC Gives Law Enforcement New Approach to Fighting Crime by: Ruth Corley, Bay County Sheriff’s Office
L
aw enforcement is optimizing crime-fighting capabilities in Bay County by using the latest technology and a new approach to addressing criminal activity. This new
Office, and is comprised of a supervisor, Inspector Jon Morris, and two full-time crime analysts. The goal of BayROC is to provide rele-
county-wide project is called the Bay Real Time Operation Center,
vant, real-time information directly to law enforcement in the field.
or BayROC.
In order to do this, BayROC uses an integrated system combining
BayROC went operational November 1, 2021, and is a collaborative effort by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the Panama City Police
20
The operation center is located within the Bay County Sheriff’s
school, traffic and business cameras and license plate readers to assist responding law enforcement and solve crimes.
Department, the Panama City Beach Police Department, the Lynn
A responding officer engaged in a high-risk call for service now
Haven Police Department, the Springfield Police Department, the
has the added resources in real-time to improve response and
Parker Police Department and Bay District Schools Police Depart-
situational awareness. This will give the officer enhanced decision
ment.
making in the field. The use of technological resources allows law
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
enforcement response to be more efficient and deliberate, with
Currently, local law enforcement is asking for any business or
improved operational intelligence. The emphasis is on officer,
homeowner with security video cameras to join the BayROC sys-
citizen and community safety.
tem. By signing up, homeowners agree to provide relevant video
From its first day of operation, BayROC has proven its value.
›
On Day 1, the team was able to coordinate with PCPD to close out a Silver Alert, locating the missing person within five minutes of the alert. The elderly gentleman was reunited with his family.
›
During the first month of operation, BayROC located numer-
to law enforcement if there has been a crime in the homeowner’s neighborhood. Law enforcement can NOT access the homeowner’s camera at any time, but simply knows there is one that may have captured images of a suspect, and the homeowner has agreed to provide the relevant video should they be asked. Sign your camera up by going to baycounty.fususregistry.com.
›
does not mean BayROC will have access to your security
ous wanted persons with outstanding warrants on charges
camera footage.
ranging from burglary, domestic violence and grand theft.
›
In December of 2021, a 911 call reported a burglary in prog-
›
will reach out and ask for relevant security camera footage.
identified the suspect vehicle and pushed out information to suspects detained.
›
Also in December of 2021, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office responded to a homicide. Once the suspect was identified, the BayROC team used technological resources and quickly
›
›
There is no additional cost associated with sharing your security camera footage.
Residents can also participate in a tip line if they see something criminal happening, Call (850) 919-8477.
learned the suspect had fled the state. Working with out of
BayROC is a true collaborative effort between our cities and coun-
state law enforcement, BayROC assisted in the coordination
ty. Each agency has integrated technology on their own that will
of the suspect’s capture in northern Alabama.
now be used by BayROC to give us a complete picture of crime in
In December of 2021, BayROC, working with the Tallahassee
Bay County.
Police Department, was able to establish a suspect wanted in
Most of the resources used to create BayROC have been fund-
eight liquor store robberies was traveling between Tallahas-
ed through grants and forfeiture funds. In the future, analysts
see and Panama City. The result of this coordinated effort was
employed by the various agencies will be housed in BayROC as the
the apprehension of this suspect in the parking lot of a liquor
goal is to expand capabilities soon.
store in Tallahassee.
›
If a crime happens in your neighborhood, and you have notified law enforcement you have a security camera, they
ress. Within one minute of the 911 call, BayROC personnel responding law enforcement. The vehicle was located, and
Once again, notifying BayROC you have security cameras
Another advance in technology used by the BCSO is the Forward
In January of 2022, BayROC was able to identify and locate
Looking Infrared (FLIR), a thermal imaging infrared camera system
numerous wanted persons and burglary suspects that were
set up on the BCSO Air Unit One. This system was invaluable in
arrested and taken into custody.
March of 2022 at locating nuisance house parties, directing law enforcement on the ground to the precise location of the residence
Perhaps one of the most well-publicized events to benefit from
and reporting to officers on the ground the location of anyone
BayROC coordination was the weekend of March 26 and 27 when
attempting to leave the premises.
161 individuals were booked into the Bay County Jail by law enforcement in response to “PCB Takeover” crowds. Using technolo-
The FLIR camera system is directly linked to the new real-time-
gy and intelligence to identify and target trouble spots and sponta-
crime center BayROC, allowing analysts to watch and respond in
neous crowds, BayROC was, as Sheriff Tommy Ford said, a “game
real time what the FLIR system is visualizing. Teams on the ground
changer” in how the weekend crowds were successfully handled.
then benefit from the speedy flow of information from analysts
For example, based on specific intelligence, law enforcement raided a house party with some of the main promoters in attendance. At this party, individuals with firearms were arrested and the attendees evicted by the homeowner. BayROC also communicated with law enforcement agencies in the hometowns of “PCB Takeover” attendees and were able to specifically target and disrupt activities. Local law enforcement must also remain sensitive to and respect-
with a birds-eye view of the incident as it happens. By using the FLIR system, the BCSO can locate missing persons, find suspects, find disturbed earth situations (shallow graves), assist firefighting efforts and any other situation where heat is involved. By utilizing the latest in technology and maintaining strong partnerships between agencies, Bay County law enforcement is better able to keep Bay County safe.
ful of the privacy of Bay County residents. Traffic cameras used by BayROC are currently available for viewing online by the public. The cameras have a short retention period that varies from system to system. The BayROC system has firm audit capabilities to ensure the system is operated within guidelines.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
21
22
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
23
economic profile current labor statistics for bay county LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
January 21'
88,471
83,625
4,846
5.5
February 21'
89,329
84,925
4,404
4.9
March 21'
90,476
86,479
3,997
4.4
January 22'
91,192
88,107
3,085
3.4
February 22'
91,139
88,505
2,634
2.9
March 22'
92,094
89,909
2,185
2.4
real estate sales
EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES PANAMA CITY MSA
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
January 21'
347
$259,000
21,587
$305,000
February 21'
358
$285,000
23,947
$314,900
March 21'
568
$278,950
32,819
$327,000
January 22'
378
$330,000
21,885
$375,000
February 22'
393
$330,000
23,661
$381,481
March 22'
550
$350,000
30,793
$396,558
CONDO-TOWNHOMES SALES PANAMA CITY MSA
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
January 21'
165
$287,000
9,608
$230,000
February 21'
180
$303,500
11,379
$233,240
March 21'
307
$292,500
16,518
$242,000
January 22'
176
$425,000
10,252
$285,000
February 22'
196
$399,000
10,975
$290,000
March 22'
258
$425,000
14,631
$308,000
bay county sales tax collections
24
Bay County Population: 172,228 Median Age: 41.1 Labor Force: 92,094 Average Wage: $45,946 Households: 69,389 Household Income: $59,296 Per Capita Income: $31,274
bay county building permits
GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
January 21'
$729.9M
$373.8M
$23.1M
February 21'
$565.8M
$327.7M
March 21'
$558.2M
$345.5M
January 22'
$852.1M
$443.7M
February 22'
$624.1M
March 22'
$681.1M
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
Bay County Demographic Snapshot
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
Jan-22
73
14
$20.3M
Feb-22
144
3
$20.7M
Mar-22
141
4
$27.7M
Jan-21
68
6
$369.4M
$23.2M
Feb-21
116
10
$414.1M
$26.3M
Mar-21
106
9
January - March 2022 how bay county compares nationally...
BAY COUNTY, FLORIDA
UNITED STATES
Population, Census, April 1, 2020
175,216
331,449,281
Population, Census, April 1, 2010
168,852
308,745,538
Persons under 18 years, percent
20.60%
22.30%
Persons 65 years and over, percent
18.60%
16.50%
Female persons, percent
50.40%
50.80%
White alone, percent
82.20%
76.30%
Black or African American alone, percent
11.30%
13.40%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone, percent
0.80%
1.30%
Asian alone, percent
2.30%
5.90%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, percent
0.20%
0.20%
Two or More Races, percent
3.20%
2.80%
POPULATION
POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS
Hispanic or Latino, percent
6.70%
18.50%
76.60%
60.10%
21,135
18,230,322
In civilian labor force, total, percent of population age 16 years+, 2015-2019
59.10%
63.00%
In civilian labor force, female, percent of population age 16 years+, 2015-2019
56.30%
58.30%
Total accommodation and food services sales, 2012 ($1,000)
565,165
708,138,598
Total health care and social assistance receipts/revenue, 2012 ($1,000)
1,034,384
2,040,441,203
Total manufacturers shipments, 2012 ($1,000)
1,473,839
5,696,729,632
Total retail sales, 2012 ($1,000)
2,728,227
4,219,821,871
$15,871
$13,443
White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, percent Veterans, 2015-2019 ECONOMY
Total retail sales per capita, 2012 BUSINESSES Total employer establishments, 2019
4,673
7,959,103
Total employment, 2019
59,187
132,989,428
2,440,506
7,428,553,593
-5.50%
1.60%
Total annual payroll, 2019 ($1,000) Total employment, percent change, 2018-2019 DATA VIA CENSUS.GOV
northwest florida beaches international
bay county bed tax collections
airport passenger traffic
PANAMA CITY
PANAMA CITY BEACH
January 22
$132,166
$868,650
$17,983
2021
17,249
January 21
$78,909
$682,320
$10,659
2022
17,661
% Change
67.49%
27.31%
68.71%
% Change
2.39%
MEXICO BEACH
AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS (YEAR-TO-DATE)
TOTAL PASSENGER ENPLANEMENTS (YTD)
February 22
$104,387
$1,133,868
$20,419
February 21
$87,288
$806,929
$14,239
2022
145,716
19.59%
40.52%
43.40%
% Change
26.60%
% Change
115,104
2021
TOTAL PASSENGER DEPLANEMENTS (YTD)
March 22
$182,794
$2,892,027
$40,646
March 21
$195,308
$2,501,784
-6.41%
15.60%
% Change
2021
122,952
$33,360
2022
147,340
21.84%
% Change
19.84%
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
25
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workforce connection Update from CareerSource Gulf Coast by: Kim Bodine, Executive Director, CareerSource Gulf Coast
M
any in our community and across the nation dealt with layoffs during the pandemic. Most in our community quickly returned to work and new opportu-
nities, bolstered by a strong Florida economy. We found that our region is not immune to further layoffs, even with companies that have deeply rooted ties to the Bay County area. Layoffs not only impact the employee, but also families, suppliers, non-profits, and those who serve the company and its employees. Those affected bear a heavy mental toll and feel vulnerable with concerns about finances, benefits, retirement, finding new employment, severance, health benefits and unemployment benefits. Mass layoffs and business closures may mandate notice through the U.S. Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. The Act offers protection to workers and communities by requiring employers to provide notice 60 days in advance of a layoff when it affects a large number of workers. In general, employers are covered by WARN if they have 100 or more employees, and layoffs involve 50 or more workers. There are some exceptions to
The Rapid Response team works with the affected workers onsite, at job centers, in mobile career centers or virtually to provide information and services that enhance re-employment opportunities. The process begins with a dislocated worker survey to help craft a plan that considers the unique needs of each individual. Services may include:
›
guidance
› › › › › › ›
ty’s Rapid Response Unit, which in turn, notifies the Local Workforce Development Board: CareerSource Gulf Coast. Each regional
Job search and placement assistance Resume assistance Interview coaching and mock interviews Assessments for career interests and skill level Labor market information Access to a resource room equipped with computers, inter-
›
Special access to hiring events, job fairs and other networking events
›
Full-funded training for career and industry certifications
workforce board also has a Rapid Response Team and those teams
that are in-demand in this region (includes tuition, books,
provide early intervention assistance to prevent potential layoffs
uniforms, travel allowance and other supportive services)
and provide immediate on-site services to assist workers facing job losses. Services are tailored to each company based on the needs of the affected employees. The overall goal of the Rapid Response Program is to prevent or minimize disruptions associated with job losses and to help workers quickly re-enter the workforce. The Rapid Response team meets with the company to discuss programs that may prevent layoffs. This includes:
›
Incumbent Worker Training to enhance their workers’ skills to help prevent layoffs
›
Customized Training to support training for new and existing employees that helps businesses stay productive and profitable, and help employees retain high-wage, high-skilled jobs
›
28
One-on-one career counseling
net, phones, copy machines, etc.
this Act. Employers notify the Florida Department of Economic Opportuni-
Reemployment Assistance (unemployment compensation)
› ›
Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training opportunities Access to the state’s largest jobs database and job-matching system
› › ›
Veteran services Connection to small business development resources Connection to social and community resources to include mental health and family counseling, financial counseling, housing assistance, childcare assistance, transportation assistance and more
CareerSource Gulf Coast assists job seekers every day. We help those laid off, those seeking a first time or new job, and those who are looking for a better job find their career path. The job market is rich with opportunities now and finding those opportunities
Short Time Compensation, available to employers who reduce
especially helps laid off workers move forward with a new path for
employee hours and wages as an alternative to layoffs
success.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
Chelsea Ray Captain Anderson's Marina Chelsea Ray was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. She attended the University of Cincinnati and went on to earn her degree in Marketing and Management from the Art Institute of Ohio-Cincinnati. After graduation in 2013, Chelsea moved to Panama City Beach to use her Marketing Degree in the world’s most beautiful place to live, work and play. Chelsea began working for Capt. Anderson’s Marina in 2018, as the director of Marketing. The Marina opened the door to many networking and community opportunities for Chelsea. In 2020 she was given the opportunity to manage Capt. Anderson’s Event Center, where she hosts many events, including weddings and reunions and many chamber and community events. Chelsea graduated from Leadership Bay in 2019 with the “Hurricane Michael” class. She is committed to her community and Chamber participating in BYP (Bay Young Professionals), HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Evolve), and GLC (Grand Lagoon Coalition). In her free time, she enjoys all things water including paddleboarding, fishing and hanging out with her puppy.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
29
Bay County’s estimated population of 185,000 people supported Tourism Appreciation Month presented by Destination Panama City and Visit Panama City Beach was a huge success. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce along with Bay County’s tourism agencies celebrated Bay County’s number one industry … tourism.
The month kicked off with First Friday, sponsored by SweetBay. Attendees were given an update on tourism and the importance of tourism in our community since Hurricane Michael and the Covid-19 pandemic from Dan Rowe, President/CEO of Visit Panama City Beach.
During the week of May 1-7, the state of Florida recognized the importance of tourism in the state. The Chamber took it a step further to recognize the number one industry in Bay County for the entire month.
The Annual Spring Classic Golf Tournament was held at the Bay Point Golf Resort where over 30 teams competed for the top spot. First place was taken by Centennial Bank; Kimley-Horn and Associates claimed second while third place went to Panhandle Engineering. The event was sponsored by Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, Trustmark Bank, WOW! Business, Beachy Beach Real Estate, Marine Max, WastePro, Peoples First Insurance and TECO. The month wrapped up with the Tourism After Hours celebration and Cornhole Tournament sponsored by Destination Panama City. Congratulations to our winners: Regions Bank (first), St. Andrews Insurance Agency (second) and Jimmy Johns (third).
Because of Bay County’s assets for tourism and the economic impact it plays on the local economy, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce partners with the business community to celebrate the industry through numerous events. It is the Chamber’s hope, visitors and residents alike learn more about the history of tourism in Bay County and take pride in its value to the area.
Thank you to all the participants and sponsors who helped us celebrate Bay’s number one industry! Destination Panama City, Visit Panama City Beach, Trustmark Bank, Bill Cramer Chevrolet Buick GMC WastePro, Lamar Advertising, Teco, MarineMax, Beach Beach Real Estate, WOW! Business, Peoples First Insurance
30
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
THE ANNUAL SPRING CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT
FIRST F R I D AY
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
31
Bay County Chamber of Commerce / 2021-2022 Leadership Bay Class
Sydonie Brown
Alicia Carothers
Jaime Dahlin
Logan Delie
Grey Dodge
Lauren Dodge
Tanita Ellis
Chad Evans
Kris Flippo
Rebecca Gestrich
Erica Harrison
Devin Hayes
Cari Henry
Brett Hitchcock
Ashley Ice
Lindsey Jones
Ryan Ledford
Katie May
Sarah Rackley
Melissa Redus
Catherine Richards
Chuck Sowers
Nate Taylor
Brandy Waldron
Shannon Williams
39th Class of Leadership Bay Graduates
affect positive change in Bay County.
Also thanks to the 2021-22 Steering
Leadership Bay was founded in 1983 and
Committee for all of their hard work and
is a community leadership development
dedication: Chairman Lauren Presser,
program of the Bay County Chamber
Holy Nativity Episcopal School; Jeremy
Foundation. Based on the premise that
Bennett, Smart Bank; Pamela Billing, RC
people are our most important resource,
Weddings & Events; Shelby Husbands,
a broadened network of well-informed
the purpose of the program is to offer
Port Panama City; Megan Ford, State
leaders whose strengthened commit-
potential leaders a curriculum in commu-
Attorney’s Office – 14th Circuit; Julie Mc-
ment to community involvement will
nity leadership training.
Connell, University of Florida/Bay County
The Bay County Chamber is pleased to announce the 39th graduating class of Leadership Bay. This group creates
32
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
IFAS Extension Office; Holly Pituch; Dr.
music, games/activities, giveaways and
Jeremy Pridgeon, First United Methodist
food. Gulf Coast’s celebration is free and
Church; Cory Procter, Trustmark Bank;
open to the community.
Dr. Suzanne Remedies, FSU Panama City; Mohit Samtani, Maharaja’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts; Craig Segrest, Emerald Coast Behavioral Hospital; Claire Sherman, Lamar Advertising and Cecily Smith, Ascension Sacred Heart Bay.
Palm Bay Education Group Announces Ron Danzey as Executive Director Palm Bay Education Group, Inc. was pleased to announce the appointment of Ron Danzey to Executive Director earlier this year.
of five separate categories compared to 800 other hotels, including being scored second for Overall Service. In recognition of the accomplishment, the local Hilton Garden Inn received a note from Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc. saying in part, “Your entire team is shining … giving that Brighthearted hospitality to guests and delivering the most reliable and friendly service. Achieving such high scores in key areas in SALT is a direct result of your teamwork, passion and commitment to delivering best-inclass service. We applaud your outstand-
There will also be a Guarantee FUND Run hosted by the Gulf Coast State College Foundation in support of the Gulf Coast Guarantee from 8-9 a.m. (check-in begins at 7 a.m.).
Mid-South Lumber Announces New Ownership Mid-South Lumber Co. of Northwest
ing efforts in continuing to focus on what
Florida Inc. was established in Panama
truly differentiates Hilton Garden Inn
City in 1981 as a small lumber yard and
from other brands.”
has often been regarded as the “go-to”
Gina Littleton Named United Way CEO
place for Bay and surrounding counties for builders, homeowners and anyone looking for a more personalized service.
United Way of Northwest Florida has named Gina Littleton its CEO. The announcement came at the Bay County Chamber of Commerce’s June First Friday event. Mr. Danzey is a Bay County native and business owner who has previously served on the Palm Bay Education Board as well as the Bay District School Board.
Mid-South is proud to announce a recent
Palm Bay Education Group, Inc. is a
change in ownership. CEO Ann Roney
tuition free public charter school located
(24 years) and President Dave Williams
in Panama City.
(13 years) have purchased the business that they have helped manage for
Hilton Garden Inn Panama City Airport Wins National Award
decades. Ann and Dave have built wonderful
The Hilton Garden Inn, which opened last
relationships with their customers over
July near the Northwest Florida Beaches
the year and are eager to welcome you
International Airport, has been recognized with a HGI Brand Award, “Brighter
to visit the new and improved Mid-South
Together – A Brighthearted Award,” for
Lumber.
scoring in the top 1 percent of regional hotels receiving the highest SALT (Service and Loyalty Tracking) scores for: Overall Service; Making Guests Feel Welcomed; Problem Resolution; and Cleanliness of Rooms.
Gina previously served as the Development Director at the United Way.
Gulf Coast Set to Celebrate 65th Anniversary Gulf Coast State College will hold a com-
Impressively, over the past six full
munity celebration in honor of its 65th
months the Hilton Garden Inn Panama
birthday on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 9
City Airport ranked in the top five in each
a.m. - 12 p.m. The event will include live
Have a submission for the Biz List? Please email contact your Ashlee newsDavis releases at 850-215-3755 to or via email ashlee@baychamberfl.com. communications@baychamberfl.com.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
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BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
Schedule today at our new diagnostic and imaging center for women
You can schedule important health screenings now — including mammograms — where it’s even more convenient for you. Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Women’s Diagnostic Center is close to home,
Appointments available now. To schedule, call 850-804-3900
with a care team that takes the time to listen and understand you. Choose imaging, testing and care that’s designed and personalized for women:
Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Women’s Diagnostic Center 801 E. 6th St., Suite 404 Panama City, FL 32401
• 3D mammograms and breast ultrasounds • Bone density testing • Pelvic floor rehabilitation • A nurse navigator who connects the dots for any additional care
A 3D mammogram may require an additional fee if your insurance carrier does not cover the full cost. Please check with your carrier to determine if you will be responsible for any of the costs.
© Ascension 2022. All rights reserved.
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
35
new members Air Methods 5500 S. Quebeck St., Ste. 300
Homewood Suites Panama City Beach 47 Chip Seal Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-343-4200
Southern Self Storage 4617 Hwy 389 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 850-347-8104
Hyatt Place PCB 15727 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-234-6100
Springhill Suites by Marriott 12513 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-230-6004
John Lee Mazda 2533 E. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32405 850-763-6575
Thomas Howell Ferguson PA CPA 1022 W. 23rd Street Suite 590 Panama City, FL 32405 850-668-8100
Balloon Art Events 30A 850-890-1990
Kirkland Insurance Agency 1604 W. HWY 390 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 850-784-7974
Tim Allen Photography 1118 Jenks Avenue Panama City, FL 32401 850-763-5795
Barineau Heating & Air Conditioning 4829 Corlett Street Tallahassee, FL 32303 850-580-4029
LifeNet Health 850-348-9024
US First Responders Association, Inc. 10605 S. Fork Loop Panama City, FL 32404 850-303-4392
Amazon Hub DP 175 Linda Avenue Hawthorne, NY 10532 914-564-5787 American Charlie Grill & Tavern 473 Richard Jackson Blvd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-238-8340 Arthur Cullen INDIVIDUAL
Best Western Plus 2338 Mercedes Avenue Panama City, FL 32405 850-215-8118 Brian Baumgardner INDIVIDUAL Buckets of Bubbles, LLC. 850-624-5262 Cramer Marine & Outdoor 2251 W. 23rd Street Panama City, FL 32405 850-785-5221 Davis Direct, Inc. 1241 Newell Parkway Montgomery, AL 36610 334-277-0878 Friends of the Governor Stone P.O. Box 15968 Panama City, FL 32405 850-541-8176 Functions MEP 765-633-3503 Gulf Jazz Society P.O. Box 1535 Panama City, FL 32402 850-784-2106 Harlow Care Solutions 433 Harrison Ave. Suite 50 Panama City, FL 32401 850-866-1553 Harris Doyle Homes 2009 Rushes Avenue Panama City, FL 32405 205-982-2896
36
from March 2022 - May 2022
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
Local Spin 6232 E. Hwy 98 Parker, FL 32404 850-740-3641 Lucke Consulting Technology Services 281-455-2323 Mr. Tem Fontaine INDIVIDUAL Parker Services 1600 Mill Street Tallahassee, FL 32310 850-222-7722 Pet Supplies Plus 664 W. 23rd Street Panama City, FL 32405 850-738-1199 Reusable Respirators 430 W. 5th Street Panama City, FL 32401 850-818-0400 Service Restoration Pros 1404 Lincoln Avenue Panama City, FL 32405 850-818-0085 Snelling Staffing 1420 Airport Road Panama City, FL 32405 850-769-1441 Southern Self Storage 1816 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 850-235-2533 Southern Self Storage 18436 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-588-2767
Xtreme Roofing & Construction 1104 Magnolia Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-517-0273
member anniversaries
from March 2022 - May 2022
25 years
10 years
5 years
Tom Gladstone Homes, LLC
ACE Home & Garden Center
Ace Hardware
20 years
Firefly
Alexander Air Conditioning, Inc.
Pirate Cruise
Beard Equipment Co.
Taco Bell 23rd St.
Cove Dental Care
Taco Bell Lynn Haven
Forest Park Dental
Verizon Wireless
Full Sail Realty
Mr. Leon Walters, Sr.
15 years Classic Carpets Plus Color Tile Coastal Metals
Gulf Coast Regional Medical Care PCB Gulf Coast Tree Specialists
Noles Scapes
Hampton Inn by Hilton
Panama City Boatmen Association
Los Antojitos
Roussos Air Conditioning
Portfolio Real Estate Management Seagrass Village Independent Living Senator George Gainer Southerland Event Center The Panhandle Group Willie Pollard Insurance Agency
Better Business Bureau® Serving Northwest Florida Building trust in every relationship to create a better marketplace
Apply for BBB Accreditation and show customers that your company operates honestly and with integrity. Funded by business people who champion their belief that ethics in business matters! info@nwfl.bbb.org/bbb.org
850.429.0002/800.729.9226
BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
37
CGC 1526169
Take Premium to the Highest Level.
2022 GMC YUKON DENALI XL
2251 West 23rd Street • Panama City, FL 850-250-5489 • BillCramerGM.com BAY BIZ / SUMMER 2022
39
PO BOX 1850 PANAMA CITY, FL 32402
