January 2012 Whats Inside
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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE: Fishing Regulations Can Be Devastating for All
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18
THE BIZ LIST
25
Workforce Connection
26
BEST PRACTICES FOR BUSINESS: Essential Media Relations Tips
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Bay Young Professionals to Know
30
NEW MEMBERS
31
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
32
Gulf Coast Medical Center Announces $29.5 Million Expansion Project
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CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR
DEFENSE INTEL: Tyndall Receives T-38 Talons
ECONOMIC PROFILE: EDA Insights
EDUCATION: Business & Industry to Lead Career Academy Model of High Schools
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22
TRENDS: Everyone wants a deal
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OUT & ABOUT
FEATURE: St. Joe: Helping Pave the Path for Job Growth with VentureCrossings
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January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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Bay Biz Magazine PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Crystal Shuller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kim Bodine Pat Holley Jennifer Conoly Michelle Lacewell Tanya Deal Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel Lori Elliott Crystal Shuller DESIGN Bellhouse Publishing COVER ITT Exelis Ground Breaking - VentureCrossing CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Cokeing, Maria Goodwin, Crystal Shuller, Jacqueline Ward
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce 235 W. 5th Street - P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, Florida 32402 850.785.5206 information@baychamberfl.com Online: www.panamacity.org facebook.com/baychamberfl twitter.com/bachamberfl The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402. 850.785.5206 POSTMASTER send address changes to Bay County Chamber, P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email Crystal@baychamberfl.com. The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to Crystal@baychamberfl.com. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. To request additional copies please contact Crystal@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.
President’s Message As we move into 2012 I am filled with anticipation of what a new year can bring and offer – new goals, new challenges, new successes and even a fresh start. We are ready to embrace whatever it may be while continuing to focus on the mission of helping your business succeed and stand on the forefront as your advocate for any issues that may affect businesses. For almost a century, with our 100 year anniversary taking place in 2013, the Chamber has been a cornerstone for commerce and the Bay County economy. From networking events and small business education and resources, the Chamber has been the organization local businesses have turned to – in good and in tough times. Those who have been involved know that the Chamber has value. Amazing value. Your membership not only entitles
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
you to a lengthy list of direct benefits for your business, it links you to the community and opens the door to new relationships. That’s really what the Chamber is about – building relationships. Active members get the most from their membership simply because involvement in our activities create and nurture relationships. If you haven’t been to a Chamber event or continuing education seminar, I encourage you to get involved and really take advantage of what your membership can do for you professionally and personally. If you’re a faithful networker looking for a deeper connection, join the ambassadors or a business referral group. Better yet, if you have the passion for politics, why not sign up for the Governmental Affairs Committee and make a difference in legislative issues that effect your business. We have some great new programs and events planned for this year. You can keep an eye on what we have going on by visiting
the Chamber’s re-designed website at www.panamacity.org or be sure to check your inbox for our “e-biz” newsletter that has been revamped and will be emailed to you bi-weekly now. I want to say thank you in advance to each person that is or will be involved with us in 2012. The strength of our organization is based on the strength of its members and their involvement. We have so much to be proud of as citizens of Bay County . Big businesses, small businesses, tourism, military and the education segments all work together through your Chamber to make Bay County stronger. We hope you enjoy the opportunities and changes that the staff and Board of Directors have put together for you. I look forward to seeing or working with each of you this year!
Carol Roberts, President/CEO
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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Political Profile: Fishing Regulations Can Be Devastating for All
Written by: Pat Holley, Governmental Affairs Bay County Chamber
Catch Shares, Sector Separation, National Ocean Policy, Magnuson Stephens……just to name some of the vitally important issues facing our fishing industry. If you think this is bad, try to figure out the alphabet soup of agencies and organizations involved in trying to address these issues. There is the NOAA, NMFS, NACO, RFA, CEQ, NOPC, EPA, SOFA, EDF, PEW, OC and this is just a few acronyms for the groups and agencies that the fishing industry must deal with on a regular basis. Issues, regulations, legislation, government agencies and professional organizations are all involved…some to save the fishing industry and some to add to the problems.
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
I
n an attempt to break down just a few of these policies,
In July of 2010, President Obama signed an Executive Order to
issues and proposals, let’s start with Catch Shares. Fishing
implement a new National Ocean Policy. The new regulatory
is a way of life for most of the communities along the Gulf
policy is far-reaching and includes marine special planning. This
Coast. Fishing, both recreational and commercial, contributes
NOP might well put large portions of our oceans off limits to
millions to our economy every year and supports thousands of
recreation fishing and could have effects even on our rivers, lakes
jobs in Bay County. Not only are recreational and commercial
watersheds and other tributaries that drain into the oceans.
fishermen impacted, fishing represents 15% of our tourism dollars.
Those opposing this NOP say that it will mandate ocean zoning
Think about boat builders, dry docks, marinas, repair shops, tackle
and involve up to twenty-seven federal agencies and cost the
shops, fuel and their supplies. So many are affected if the fishing
taxpayers an incredible amount. Many land-based industries are
is over regulated.
concerned that some decisions will affect inland waterways,
“Catch shares” is a general term used in fisheries management
squelching business. Many coalitions are forming to encourage a
strategies, which include individual fishing quotas that dictate a
Congressional oversight committee to look into the NOP
secure share of fish to individual fishermen, cooperatives or fishing
executive order.
communities. “Catch shares” are having negative impacts on our
The Recreational Fishing Alliance, along with most of the
local fisheries, and a new catch share program will most assuredly
professional fishing organizations are encouraging the House of
have a job-crushing impact on the entire fishing industry.
Representatives to join together to amend Reauthorization of the
One of the major concerns, as put forth in the Chamber’s
Magnuson Stevens Act of 2007. They propose a change in the
legislative agenda last year, is poor or non-existent data
arbitrary deadlines that are in the original legislation that would
collection. According to Pam Anderson of Captain Anderson’s
put a stop to over-fishing. They agree with the importance of
Marina and a devoted spokesperson for the industry, “We
stopping over-fishing and that we must keep our fisheries
desperately need the data collected to show what we in the
sustainable. But it appears that some fisheries have been depleted
industry are seeing. There is a request from the Gulf Council for
over the last 30 years. The fishing industry cannot fix this 30-
the scientists to take a look at the new data to determine the
year problem in 3 to 10 years. Magnuson needs to change to give
positive difference it would make on our annual catch limits.” The
the industry more time to correct the problems. Magnuson
science and data used to justify “catch shares” is being questioned
Stevens has given free rein to the NOAA to fund and implement
by most fishermen and many scientists.
most of the issues the fishing industry is concerned will negatively
Stepping up to the plate, Rep. Steve Southerland initiated a
impact their businesses.
bipartisan letter to the House of Representatives leadership that
Florida Senators Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio have been
would send a clear and concise message to Congress encouraging
proactive and supportive in helping encourage the various federal
them to limit these job-killing “catch share” programs. He was
and state legislatures to address this issue of accurate and timely
joined by 24 other legislators who have signed on to help stem
data collection. But sometimes government is slow, so it is
the funding for these programs along the Atlantic and Gulf
important for the fishing industry that everyone who enjoys
Coasts. The letter asks for better data collection and scientific
fishing and those that make a living from it get involved.
research from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
“Regulations are not new to the fishing industry. We truly
Agency). Stating the case for restricting the funding for these is
believe it is important to conserve our fisheries so they will be
only common sense, waiting till data collection and economic
healthy for future generations. Nobody ‘gets’ this more than
impact issues can be vetted. Rep. Southerland has publicly stated
those in the fishing industry,” says Anderson. “The fishermen,
that he is “committed to do all I can to empower our coastal
recreational and commercial, just want fair and equitable
fishing industries to grow despite these tough economic times.”
regulations.”
Captain Bob Zales, of Bay County and president of the NACO (National Association of Charterboat Operators) continues to express his and his organization’s appreciation for Southerland’s support for the fisherman of the Gulf Coast.
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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Pictured LtR: Chris Carlson-ITT, Rep. Jimmy Patronis, Gov. Rick Scott, Comm. George Gainer and Patrick Bienvenue – St. Joe Company.
St. Joe Helping Pave the Path for Job Growth with VentureCrossings With Governor Rick Scott visiting the site twice in less than a month, ITT Exelis moving in next year, a ready-to-lease commercial building planned and a strategic location next to the very successful new Northwest Florida Beaches International airport, The St. Joe Company’s VentureCrossings Enterprise Center is wellpositioned to capture the next deal. “We want to keep the momentum going,” says Park Brady, CEO for The St. Joe Company. “It was an honor to have Governor Rick Scott emphasize the economic opportunities for VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre and Bay County during the ITT Exelis groundbreaking ceremony.” St. Joe is working to make this just the first of many such celebrations, with plans for a second flex space building in anticipation of attracting future businesses. “We want site selectors around the country to know that VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre in Bay County is open for business,” continued Brady. Governor Rick Scott’s remarks at November’s groundbreaking reflect his commitment to job creation. "Florida's strong military and defense industry, along with the steps we are taking to make Florida the best place for businesses to grow and expand, will provide companies like St. Joe and ITT Exelis every opportunity to
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
succeed and prosper," said the Governor. "Today's celebration represents the economic benefits possible when the public and private sectors work cooperatively to implement a shared plan." Getting VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre open for business did require years of working together and consensus building, which included opening the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. Numerous entities such as the Bay County Board of Commissioners, Bay County Chamber of Commerce, the Bay County Economic Development Alliance and the Panama City Beach Chamber, continue to be vital to ensuring the county is attractive to future businesses. “Bringing job growth to North Florida is crucial to stabilizing our region,” says Marti Coley, State Representative District 7. “The ITT Exelis groundbreaking and the opening of St. Joe's Venture Crossings Enterprise Centre signal the beginning of the muchanticipated job creation surrounding the new airport. If we can continue to build on this success, it will open economic doors for our area.” VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre is the first project within the West Bay Sector Plan, which encompasses 75,000 acres and is currently the state of Florida’s largest master-planned development. Planning for the West Bay Sector Plan includes
office, industrial, manufacturing, hotel, retail and residential uses as well as community facilities and preservation and recreational areas. The area has been designed for long-term sustainability with about 39,000 acres being preserved as part of a far-reaching environmental conservation program. The conservation plan was developed and implemented with the support of many environmental groups. “Representing about 1,000 acres, VentureCrossings is just one piece of the bigger pie,” says Neal Wade, Executive Director, Bay County Economic Development Alliance. “If we can bring more businesses here, the ripple effect for additional jobs in numerous sectors of Bay County’s economy is substantial.” ITT Exelis Corporation announced in September that it would move its mine defense business to a new 105,000-square-foot facility in VentureCrossings, making it the first corporate tenant at St. Joe’s new industrial and commercial site. ITT Exelis anticipates moving into the new building in mid-2012, relocating employees from its current facility as well as adding new jobs. With several hundred aerospace and defense-related companies as well as seven military bases within 90 miles of West Bay, St. Joe is focused on attracting similar companies to VentureCrossings, providing an industry cluster and connectivity between prospective customers and suppliers.
about ITT EXELIS ITT’s new facility and location within VentureCrossings will allow the company to meet current and emerging requirements of its military, government and commercial customers. ITT Exelis will lease the facility, which will be occupied by both office and manufacturing operations. “With an unparalleled location adjacent to the new international airport, along with a growing industry network, we will have the flexibility to support our local, national and international
customers’
missions
and
objectives,” said Rich Sorelle, vice president of ITT’s integrated electronic warfare systems business. “This new facility consolidates three
Representative Jimmy Patronis speaks at Itt Ground Breaking.
locations into one and significantly improves our operation’s efficiency,” said Chris Carlson, Director of Business Development at Exelis Electronic Systems. ITT Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense and information solutions company with strong positions in enduring and emerging global markets. Exelis is a leader in networked communications, sensing and surveillance, electronic warfare, navigation, air traffic solutions and information systems with growing positions in cyber security, composite aerostructures, logistics and technical services. The company has a 50year legacy of innovation and technology
“VentureCrossings’ location offers a strategic and powerful position for companies to start, relocate, consolidate or grow a business,” says Wade. “Our location offers plenty of room to grow and ‘through the fence’ access to the new airport’s 10,000-foot runway.” VentureCrossings Enterprise Centre combined with the entitlements of the West Bay Sector Plan, convenient access to the interstate and a deep-water port, the region’s mild winters and beautiful beaches, as well as the strong leadership of the public sector and private industry all add up to tremendous economic opportunities for Bay County. “The future is bright if we continue to work together,” says Wade.
expertise,
partnering
with
customers
worldwide to deliver affordable, missioncritical products and services for managing global threats, conflicts and complexities. Headquartered in Bay County, the company employs about 20,000 people and generated 2010 revenue of nearly $6 billion.
Trends:
Everyone always wants a
deal
customers, whether it is through Groupon itself or a more local company. And of those who are not your customers, how do you plan to keep them coming back and buying your product at full price? Think of the loyal customers you have built. Are consumers who will only buy your product at a significant discount the ones who will become lifelong customers? Not that one or two days of increased sales is a bad thing, but assume those customers never come back again. How much will it cost you to give them a discount on your product? That being said, discounts are not all
With the mainstreaming of social media, companies like
bad. You just have to define your strategy. If you are a new
Groupon and Living Social have begun to emerge. They are growing
restaurant the exposure from the promotion is great, and the offer
their database of consumers and have made businesses both large
of a discount will allow new customers to sample all you have to
and small pay attention. You have likely heard stories of cupcake
offer. Think of using promotional discounts as a part of your overall
companies using Groupon and being overwhelmed with customers
marketing plan. Whether it is awareness based to launch a new
the day of the promotion or a friend who tries new restaurants
product or service, or discounts during the slow season. Promotions
all over town by following the deals on Living Social. But how does
like Groupon, Buy One Get One (BOGOs), and spend $25 get $50
the trend of group discount buying actually affect your business?
gift cards, can be great incentives for driving awareness, you just
Is it a viable form of marketing or is just a shot in the arm for a
have to be smart when deciding when to discount.
quick sale?
Another angle on the discount promotions is the lift you could
There are a few things you have to ask yourself when
see from the promotion. Meaning you offer 50% off on product
considering a group discount promotion. Starting with, how many
‘A’ to drive consumers to your website and suggest additional
of the individuals who will receive the promotion are already your
products for them to purchase alongside the promotional item.
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
This is how you think strategically about the discount programs.
said, “We have found our Deal of the Day site to be a great
Merchandise your website to appeal to additional needs of the
resource for local businesses to expose their products and services
consumer so they are not just purchasing
to new customers. And for our readers and subscribers, the deals
the item you are deeply discounting.
are a great way to try new things at a large discount.” Similar to
Also, instead of the larger
the News Herald’s Deal of the Day, WJHG Channel 7 offers “Daily
companies who are offering these
Deals”, WMBB Channel 13 will be offering “Groupigg” in the near
programs, think local. Many of the
future, Panama City Radio Group offers “Half Price Deals”, Magic
local media outlets who have built in
Broadcasting II offers “Real Deals” and Clear Channel Radio will
readers, listeners or viewers are
be re-launching their program that was started in 2005 with a
beginning to offer group discount
revised version in February of 2012.
opportunities to the businesses in Bay
Like anything in life you have to decide if it’s right for you and
County. The way these programs are
your business. When looking at group discount programs give
structured is that they offer small
serious thought to how the exposure and discount offer fit into
businesses the opportunity to trade the
your overall marketing strategy. How much will the discount cost
discounts for exposure and promotions
you in the end? How will you turn the discount hunters into loyal
which reach local consumers. The News
customers and how will you drive additional sales from the
Herald is just one of the many who have
promotion? These group discount opportunities are becoming
started offering these programs locally.
popular for a reason; just be sure to get the most of what you
Matt Holbrook, Interactive Sales Director
are giving away by building it into your strategic marketing plan.
Contact our team at 877.533.7596.
Scan QR-Code with your your mobile ffor or mor moree information infformation ormation about our express express catering.
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January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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Education: written by
Business & Industry to lead Career Academy Model of High Schools
Tanya Deal, Panhandle Educators Federal Credit Union and Bay Next Generation Learning Council Member
Picured: LtR Dr. Jeff Stevenson, Melissa Hagan, Daina Weaver, Kim Bodine, Marsan Carr, Bill Husfelt, Dr. Jim Kerley, Janet Watermeier and Gena Burgans during Grant Award Presentation�
{
Business and education leaders have been hard at work over
FACTE (Florida Association of Career and Technical Education).
the last couple of years developing a plan to build a business-led
Over the course of the past 10 months the grant has provided top
career academy system within Bay District Schools.
level consultants to work with business and industry leaders,
Last year, the Gulf Coast Workforce Board was awarded a Ford
economic development and chambers, as well as educators to
Next Generation Learning grant on behalf of the Career &
map out a top notch plan for developing and sustaining a career
Technical Education (CTE) Council (now called the Bay Next
academy network.
Generation Learning Council) which supported this planning
This five-year plan promotes building sustainable partnerships
process and the writing of a five-year master plan for the creation
between business, industry and education to ensure that the
of career themed learning communities, or career academies, in
career academy model thrives even as teachers and administrators
high schools. The grant was provided by Workforce Florida Inc. in
retire or change and workforce needs evolve. The master plan lays
conjunction with the Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies and
out action steps and measurable goals to increase the number of
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
career academies and measure their successes over the next
How will Business & Industry Lead?
five years. High schools looking to start up an academy must
While there are many established business and industry
formally submit an application for their prospective career
partnerships already in our school system, this master plan calls
which will then go through an approval process with the Bay
for business and industry to have a stronger voice through
District School Board and the newly named Bay Next
participation on the Bay Next Generation Learning Council or
Generation Learning Council.
Career academies will be
individual career academy advisory boards. As the career
structured around a particular business or industry addressing
academy system expands, more business, industry and civic
workforce needs and will assist students in gaining work ready
volunteers will be needed in many capacities.
skills such as team building, critical thinking, problem solving,
{
communications and general work ethic.
Ways You Can Be Involved: • Review curriculum in your area of expertise
The overall goal of the Ford Next Generation Learning initiative and the career academy model is to give high school students a more relevant and personalized education experience.
• Assist with marketing efforts • Judge or staff a district/region wide competition in your field • Provide teachers with summer internships • Provide job shadowing & student internships • Provide summer jobs • Assist career academy staff in writing grant proposals to raise funds • Share your knowledge in the classroom as a guest speaker • Provide equipment & materials for a career academy • Financially support programs or fund scholarships • Keep career academy teams informed about emerging trends in your field If you are already active with a local high school, inform the leadership team about ways you would like to become involved with any future career academy. If you would like information on how to be connected to a career academy, contact Daina
“For the last two years local business leaders have worked
Cooke Weaver, CTE Director: dcooke-weaver@gulfcoast.edu
with Gulf Coast Workforce Board, Gulf Coast State College, and Bay District Schools to guide us toward career strategies
The Bay NGL Council is co-chaired by Dr. Jim Kerley, Gulf
for our students and workforce. The time and efforts have
Coast State College, and Bill Husfelt, Bay District Schools and is
begun to pay-off as we begin to build the structure for our
funded through a partnership between their organizations and
collective future and career opportunities for all citizens in Bay
the Gulf Coast Workforce Board. For information on the Bay NGL
County,” said William Husfelt, Superintendent for Bay District
Council please contact Kim Bodine, Executive Director for the
Schools.
Gulf Coast Workforce Board at: kbodine@gcwb.org
Bay Young Professionals Many young professionals are enthusiastic about area business and community opportunities and are ready to get involved as new leaders. Bay Young Professionals (BYP) was formed by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce to specifically address the needs of this target age group, 21-41, to enrich our community by uniting, developing and retaining our future leaders. If you are interested in becoming part of the Bay Young Professionals (BYP) group, contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761 or Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com.
Blair Sale, a third-generation Panama City resident,
graduated from Rutherford High School in 1998 and attended Washington and Lee University in Lexington, VA, where he graduated in 2002 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration. Upon graduation, Blair worked in the Washington, D.C. area for two years with BoatUS as a marine insurance underwriter. He then returned to Panama City and spent five years in product and business development and marketing for Century Boat Company. In that role he successfully increased market share and brand awareness of the product line along the Gulf Coast. In January of 2011 Blair joined Landrum Professional Employer Services as a business development manager. As a full-service human resource management company, Landrum gives employers the ability to focus on growing their business while knowing their employment and human resources needs are protected. Landrum was the first Florida Professional Employer Organization (PEO) fully accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC), providing financial assurance for over $30 billion dollars in annual employee wages. As a member of Landrum’s business development team, Blair outlines for business owners the benefits of using Landrum as an expert partner in the areas of employee benefits acquisition and administration, human resource functions and compliance, risk management, workers compensation and payroll compliance. He is an active member of Bay Young Professionals and part of the 2011-2012 Leadership Bay class. Blair is an avid saltwater fisherman and hunter and enjoys cooking and competitive sailing. He and his fiancée Valerie Lovett are planning a May wedding.
Dr. Amy Polick
was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but has lived in the southeast for almost 15 years, with the majority of that time spent in Florida. Following high school, Amy attended the Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee where she received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2001. Upon graduation she worked in the Leon County School System providing behavior therapy to children diagnosed with emotional and behavior disorders (e.g., AD/HD, conduct disorder, etc.). A year later she expanded her clinical work to children with autism spectrum disorders in both school and home settings while completing her Master’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through a program housed at FSU Panama City that allows students to live at both FSU campuses (Tallahassee and Panama City). After completing her Master’s she moved to Auburn, Alabama. There she continued working in autism treatment and also taught college courses at Auburn University and LaGrange College, in LaGrange, GA, while she completed her Ph.D. in Psychology at Auburn University. Recently, Amy has enthusiastically moved back to Florida to teach in the same psychology Master’s program at FSU Panama City that she graduated from years ago. Since 2010 she has been a full-time faculty member in the Psychology Department at FSU Panama City and teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses that cover a variety of topics including Applied Behavior Analysis, the Psychology of Learning, and Child Psychology. Additionally, she is the Director of the FSU Early Childhood Autism Program (ECAP), which is a non-profit, early intervention and community outreach program based at FSU Panama City that provides home-based, individualized behavior therapy to children in Bay County who are diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities. Through this tremendous program, children are able to make great strides, both socially and academically. Amy also assists the ECAP program in providing support for the local autism community via workshops, trainings, and fundraisers. Amy is a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA®) and is extremely active in both professional and community outlets. At the state level, she is a member of the executive board for the Florida Association for Behavior Analysis, an organization that promotes the ethical, humane, and effective application of behavior therapy. Locally, she is active as the 2012 Chair of the Bay Young Professionals Steering Committee, the Junior Service League of Panama City, the Kiwanis Club of Panama City, and several university committees at FSU Panama City. In her free time she enjoys traveling, being outside in the Florida sun (at the beach or on the water), and spending time with friends and family. She also enjoys watching or attending sporting events to cheer on her favorite teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers, FSU Seminoles, and Auburn Tigers.
Two T-38 Talons that arrived in October 2011 to assist in Aerial Training – photo by Chris Cokeing
dEfEnsE intEl: Tyndall receives T-38 Talons written by
Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel, 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
“We take the precautions to make sure these aircraft meet the most excellence of standards.” Two T-38 Talons arrived from Holloman Air Force Base, New
“These aircraft are very cost effective, compared to other
Mexico at Tyndall Air Force Base (TAFB) on October 6, to begin
aircraft used for training, such as the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Falcon,”
their next chapter supporting aerial training for F-22 Raptor pilots.
said Lt. Col. Glen Richards, 325th Fighter Wing program integration
T-38s from around the globe go through Holloman AFB to be
officer. “We can get many good years out of these jets at the
refurbished prior to being distributed back into the operational
fraction of the cost before having to resort to a more expensive
field such as at TAFB. The T-38 Talon is a highly-marketable aircraft
alternative.”
due to its economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance and exceptional safety record. 18
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
Prior to the arrival of the T-38s at Tyndall, the F-22 pilots had been training in advanced simulators and against themselves acting
as an aggressor during training sorties. “Half of the F-22 pilots aren’t training to the standards that we would prefer for combat training since half are replicating enemy aircraft,” said Lt. Col. Ronald Miller, 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group command deputy. “The T-38s will provide higher standards of training for all of the F-22 pilots.” “Using the F-22 to replicate the bad guy isn’t the most efficient means of resources,” said Colonel Richards. “We would rather use F-22 flying hours to train students instead of play the role of bad guys.” “It is all about combat preparations,” added Colonel Miller. “We fight like we train. They are here to support our mission and able to do so while saving the tax payer dollars.” The T-38 has less complex, less tactical, oriented systems which have different missions and different requirements.
“Although these are older aircraft, they are structurally sound and maintained routinely,” said Colonel Richards. “Safety is paramount in the Air Force,” Colonel Miller added. “We take the precautions to make sure these aircraft meet the most excellence of standards.” M-1 contracting service will provide approximately 15 civilian contractors jobs to maintain these standards, as well as launch and receive the T-38s. These two aircraft are the first of 20 T-38s that Tyndall will receive over the course of the next two fiscal years. Tyndall AFB is one of the largest employers in Bay County and has a significant economic impact on the community. In the Fiscal Year 2010, Tyndall’s economic impact in the local area was over $653,000,000.
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
19
&about
out
1.
& 2011
out
2. 4.
1.
2011 Outgoing Board of Directors Recognition at December First Friday
2.
Congressman Southerland speaks to Chamber Board during the Annual Planning Session
3.
Heather Rich, Aaron Rich, Desiree Gardner & Sean Brosnan at December First Friday
4.
Junior Leadership Bay learns team building at the Tyndall Ropes Course
5.
2011-2012 Class of Leadership Bay was welcomed at First Friday
6.
Bay Young Professionals “Paint Your Art Out” at the Visual Arts Center
3.
5. 20
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
6.
about
Local Experts: Global Reach
Halford
Commercial Real Estate Services, Worldwide.
BILL FENIMORE Commercial Real Estate Sales and Services Brokerage Representation for Buyers and Sellers Property Management Comprehensive Market Research Experience in Multiple Industries
850.624.4475 Bfenimore@naihalford.com www.naihalford.com
BUILD ON THE POWER OF OUR NETWORK
er y
ng
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
21
The CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS
Biz liST
If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news to be published, email a press release and logo or photo to crystal@baychamberfl.com.
PLEASE WELCOME OUR NEWLY SELECTED AND OUR CURRENTLY SERVING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gary Anderson, Vice President Anderson Construction
DeAnn Mullins, BPharm, CPh, CPT, CDE – Mullins Pharmacy
Andrew Levy, Attorney Harrison Sale
John Wheat, Executive Director Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport
Dr. Hulon Crayton, Rheumatologist Arthritis & Infusion Center
Executive Committee Chairman of the Board – Al McCambry, Knology Chairman Elect – Bill Fenimore, NAI/Halford Vice-Chair – Larry Carroll, Coldwell Banker, Carroll Realty Treasurer – Brian Baumgardner, Gulf Coast Medical Center Past Chairman – Bo Rivard, Harrison, Rivard, Duncan & Buzzett EDA Chairman – Joey Ginn, Vision Bank At Large/Communications – Victoria Williams, The Associates Architects
Board of Directors (Ex-officio/Non-voting) Gen. John McMullen, 325th TAFB Liaison Lt. Gen Stanley Clarke, 1st AF TAFB Liaison Commander Anthony Anglin, NSA Liaison Capt. Scott Pratt, NSWC Liaison Dan Rowe, PCB Chamber Liaison Michael Menk, City President Tom Neubauer, BDA Liaison Regions Bank
Term Expires – 12/31/2013 Dan Rowe, Tourism Development Council Wayne Stubbs, Port Panama City George Roberts, C.W. Roberts Contracting Dr. Ken Shaw, Florida State University, Panama City Term Expires 12/31/13 Ray Dubuque, AT&T Philip Griffitts, Owner/Operator John Ed McDanal, Gulf Power Richard Musgrave, IIB Mike Sears, FVP Sugar Sands Inn & Suites and Valerie Mincey, B.A.S.I.C. Accredited Executive Associate Investments, Associate La Quinta Inn & Suites Preston Executive Partners Resident Director – Merrill Lynch Alisa Kinsaul, Applied Research Associates Jay Moody, Jinks & Moody, P.A. Michelle Lacewell, Resort Collection of PCB
tion Association for 10 years, serving as a board member since 2005. Lee is also a member of the Bay County and Panama City Beach chambers of commerce.
Paul Gryniewski joined the Oaseas Resorts Team as the Vice President of Operations and also the General Manager for the Shores of Panama Resort in 2011. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Gryniewski has more than 20 years of hotel management experience, including time spent as the Regional Director of operations for 10 limited service hotels; the General Manager and Vice President of Operations at Sands Resorts in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and time in several management positions for both JP Hotels and Hyatt Hotels. He is also a veteran of the United States Navy.
Ben Lee was recently selected to head Hancock Bank’s business, economic development and commercial banking growth initiatives as Commercial Market President for the Bay County region. Lee is former Executive Director of Florida’s Office of the State Attorney. He earned Bachelor of Science and M.B.A. degrees from Auburn University and has served on Auburn’s Ag’ alumni association board. He has been active in the Gulf Coast Charity Celebra-
Dutch Sanger, Executive Director of the Panama City Downtown Improvement Board was recently elected to serve on The Florida Festivals and Events Association (FFEA) Board of Directors. FFEA is the state’s primary professional not-for-profit association dedicated to supporting and promoting more than 750 festivals, events, and fairs in the state of Florida through education, networking, dissemination of information and the cultivation of high standards. For more information, visit www.ffea.com.
Dimitris Dimopoulos has recently joined Berg Europipe Holding Company, which specializes in the production of large diameter straight seam pipe, as the General Manager of Quality Systems and Supply Chain Management which will extend to both the Panama City and Mobile plants. Dimopoulos earned a Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens, was a Fulbright scholar at the University of Florida and previously with Corinth Pipeworks SA in Greece.
as the image and quality leader by consumers in the Panama City – Lynn Haven, Florida area for the past three years in a row.
Lori Carver was recently joined The Panama City News Herald Team as the Advertising Director. Carver, a graduate of Methodist College, with a BA degree in Political Science, hails from Fayetteville, North Carolina. Carver has over 25 years in advertising with an extensive background in the media and newspaper industry. Lori was most recently employed by the Charlotte Observer in North Carolina as the regional advertising manager and the advertising director for the Winston Salem Journal. Carver will oversee all aspects of advertising for The News Herald, The Star and Times publications in St. Joe and Apalachicola and the Chipley papers.
Bay Medical has been recognized by the National Research Corporation (NRC) as one of the nation’s top hospitals in the 2011/2012 Consumer Choice Awards. The award identifies hospitals which healthcare consumers have chosen as having the highest quality and image in over 300 markets throughout the U.S. Winners are determined by surveys in over 250,000 households in the U.S. 3200 hospitals named by consumers are analyzed and ranked. Bay Medical was chosen
Ink Trax, a successful t-shirt graphic design and printing business, recently purchased and began renovating the former home of Coca-Cola in downtown Panama City at 328 W. 5th St. It is being renovated for use by Ink Trax as well as receiving historical treatments that will restore the building appearance closer to it’s original look in the late 1930’s or early 40’s. The Panama City CRA will assist the renovation project with approx. $50,000 in grants from the newly adopted commercial assistance grants program. Ink trax hopes to be in place and fully operational by the February 2012.
HealthSouth Emerald Coast Rehabilitation Hospital, a 75-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital that offers comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services, received the Hospital of the Year Award during HealthSouth’s Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet held in Washington, D.C. HealthSouth Emerald Coast Rehabilitation Hospital is the only hospital among HealthSouth’s nationwide network of 97 hospitals to receive this award recognizing outstanding performance in development of clinical programs, quality of patient care services and overall operational excellence.
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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Gulf Coast State College is proud to announce that its Office of Marketing & Communications recently earned a total of 14 awards from the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC). The annual competition among Florida’s 28 colleges rewards excellence in marketing, public relations and advertising. The marketing office also won the top honor, the Exemplary Practice Award, for its work over the last year with the college’s name change and logo redesign. The Gulf Coast marketing team consists of Laura Green, Coordinator; Erin Ossewaarde, Assistant Coordinator; and Chris Thomes, Executive Director.
The State of Florida’s Guardian ad Litem Program recently announced two promotions from the 14th Judicial Circuit. June Lashbrook was promoted to Regional Director covering the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 14th Judicial Circuits. She is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in social work. Fred Hapner was named Circuit Director. He graduated
24
from Troy State University with a master degree in counseling/psychology. Both have been with the Guardian ad Litem Program 28 and 12 years, respectively.
The Eye Center of North Florida recently introduced the latest technological advancement in cataract surgery, the LenSx Custom Cataract System, a fully integrated femtosecond laser that allows bladeless cataract surgery. There are currently 25 LenSx Lasers in the world, with only a handful in the Nation. The Eye Center will have the first one in Florida and all southern states, with the exception of Charleston S.C. There have not been advancements in cataract surgery – the most performed surgery in the world- in over 20 years. Dr. Paul Garland and Dr. Bret Fisher will be the surgeons who will work with the new machine to perform custom laser cataract surgery.
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
between 1999 and 2009 and to both Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Sixteen Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) civilian employees were recently named as Secretary of Defense Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) medal recipients. The Secretary of Defense’s GWOT medal is presented to personnel to recognize their civilian contributions and accomplishments that are in direct support of members of the armed forces engaged in operations to combat terrorism. The 16 NSWC PCD GWOT award recipients earned their awards for providing direct Navy, Marine Corps and Army mine warfare, and expeditionary and amphibious warfare support
CPH Engineers, known as a leading multi-disciplinary consulting design firm, is proud to announce that October 2011 was their 5th anniversary in Bay County. CPH has a diversified staff and the firm has performed civil, planning, landscape architecture, architectural, and construction management services for clients throughout the United States and internationally. These projects have included retail, residential, office, infrastructure, and water/wastewater treatment systems.
Workforce Connection F
inding qualified workers is important to any business and in today’s economy organizations are increasingly looking for ways to save time and money. According to HR Management Report, the average cost per new hire is approximately $3,500 per employee. While hiring the right person can improve your bottom line, hiring the wrong employee is expensive, time consuming and can even have negative impacts on your company’s reputation, Kim Bodine, Executive Director – morale and productivity. Gulf Coast Workforce Board Locally, the Workforce Center has services available to assist businesses recruit and hire the right employee – all at no cost. Employers can use the Workforce Center to tap into local talent and access the largest pool of jobseekers in the area. In addition, the Workforce Center can greatly reduce the amount of
time and money involved in the hiring process by pre-screening applicants and referring only those that are qualified. The Center is equipped to assess large numbers of applicants and can even design a customized screening tool for your company. Assessments currently conducted at the Workforce Center include the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE), Prove It, and Ready to Work. Prove It assessments determine a person’s proficiency in computer, office and customer service skills and Ready to Work is a part of the nationally recognized ACT WorkKeys assessment system that measures and certifies skill levels in math, reading for information and locating information. The Workforce Center also offers prime office space for conducting meetings and interviewing job candidates as well as access to computer labs for training or assessments, fax machines, copy machines, phones, and video teleconferencing equipment. Additional resources and tools are available on hand to assist your human resources department including current labor market information, prevailing wage statistics, information on tax credits for hiring qualified workers, and much more. For more information on how to take advantage of the free services offered by the Workforce Center please contact (850) 872-4340 ext. 140 or visit www.workforcecenter.org
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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bEst PracticEs for businEss
essential media relations tips written by
Crystal Shuller, Vice President of Communications – Bay County Chamber
You must stop to think about what really is “newsworthy” to them. The story pitched should be something the reporter’s viewer, reader or listener would find either interesting or important. Start by identifying the right angle to approach the media with. A few common ideas include: ●
If it is a business startup – the company’s launch
●
The launch of a new product, program, offering or event
●
The release of a study the company is involved in
●
The release of an award or accreditation won
●
The company’s response to a current event
●
News of a partnership with a high profile company or organization for the betterment of the community
Once what qualifies as newsworthy is identified, begin developing the message by first understanding the complete details of what you are pitching. Take time to perfect your company’s message or purpose before sending out any pitches. Enabling someone to understand In an economy where one of the first things that is cut from a
your company in just one sentence can be very important. Be sure
budget is marketing funds, the importance of public relations can
to limit your industry jargon so that anyone can understand it with
be forgotten by many businesses. If done right public relations can
one read. After the company’s message is created stick to it with
help garner and develop a business with just the cost of time, and
anything you promote, unless you find ways to improve it.
creative thinking.
Besides a company message, you’ll need to tailor a message for
Leveraging relationships with local media is a very important
the news you are trying to get covered by figuring out a way to
component of the public relations concept for success. Good press
explain it in only a few sentences. Reporters get tons of leads every
can be one of the biggest drivers for a business looking to grow
day – it’s very likely that they will only read the first few sentences
their user base, clientele, customers or whichever target market is
of your release. Make sure your release is clear and concise and
trying to be reached.
don’t exaggerate the facts.
Before you begin to pitch your company, product or event, you must familiarize yourself with the media outlet and understand their coverage area and audience. Consider making a list of the top 5-10 in your area or industry that you’d like to build relationships with and then move forward, targeting those every time you have a story to convey. If one of the media outlets you target is specified to your industry be sure that your pitch offers uniqueness or added value beyond your existing competitors.
26
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
Here are a few key components it should include: ● Headline – Most exciting or newsworthy announcement in as few words as possible. ● Subhead – brief, one line summary to expand on headline. ● Lead paragraph: The key “take-away” of the store in one or two short sentences including who, what, where, when. ● Second paragraph – Expand on lead and provide back up information. ● Third paragraph – Quote to give a human voice to the release.
Remaining paragraphs: Anticipate questions and answer them. Back up your initial claim. ● Final paragraph – Brief summary of company or history. ● Contact information – Should place at top of release, include your cell phone number incase a reporter needs to reach you outside of normal business hours. ●
When pitching stories to media outlets, you should always determine the official way to send in the release. Email is often used today such as news@xyzmedia.com. Contrary to popular belief, news inboxes aren’t always bottomless pits. You can contact each of the media outlets you are interested in targeting to attain their specified way of receiving releases or you can contact the Bay County Chamber who can provide you with a media contact list. People including reporters don’t typically like being apart of blast emails. Take the time to customize an email to an individual reporter or small list that you really want to cover your story. They will most likely notice that you’ve taken the time to write a thoughtful email and be more likely to respond.
Something that is crucial when sending releases is TIMING. You want to give the reporter enough time to report, but you don’t want to send the idea too soon that the writer forgets about it before time to report it. Typically the preferred time is one to two weeks before the event or announcement. Following reporters on their social media accounts is a new way to build a relationship by interacting with them. This is a great way to find out when they are looking for article ideas or sources. It’s much easier to pitch to a reporter when you already know what he or she is writing. Following these guidelines for media relations is only a small part of what there is to know about public relations for businesses. There are many resources available on the web for public relations information such as blogs, videos, and more. However, you find your information and resources, it is critical to the success of your company to be promoting it whether it is through paid marketing campaigns, media relations or even networking at Chamber functions.
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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{
demographics
economic profile Bay County Population: 168,852 Labor Force: 89,030 Households: 74,585 Per Capita Income: $29,357
insiGHts
Median Age: 40 Average Wage: $32,626 Household Income: $47,505
inside Bay County’s Economic Development Efforts
current labor statistics for bay county
The EDA focuses not only on attracting
LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
87,808 89,633 90,211
79,095 81,138 81,440
8,713 8,495 8,771
9.9% 9.5% 9.7%
businesses in our target industry
Nov 10 Oct 10 Sep 10
88,608 89,391 90,185
77,663 78,826 79,684
10,945 10,565 10,501
12.4% 11.8% 11.7%
local companies with their expansion
sectors to Bay County, but also assists
needs. ITT Exelis, a local defense
real estate sales
contractor that develops and deploys
EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES BAY COUNTY
communications and electronic warfare
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIUM PRICE
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
85 105 134
$136,300 $150,000 $152,000
12,993 13,755 15,036
$130,100 $131,200 $133,900
Nov 10 Oct 10 Sep 10
91 90 91
$159,000 $154,500 $163,800
11,900 11,888 13,536
$132,700 $136,600 $133,400
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
62 103 81
$196,000 $151,800 $174,000
5,590 6,132 6,666
$86,700 $87,800 $87,200
Florida Beaches International Airport.
Nov 10 Oct 10 Sep 10
60 47 84
$152,500 $178,000 $165,000
5,411 5,147 5,675
$88,200 $82,400 $83,400
City, ITT will grow its operation by 30
for the mine defense industry, has begun construction on a 105,000 square foot building at The St. Joe Company’s VentureCrossing Enterprise Centre, adjacent to the Northwest
EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS
Currently located in downtown Panama
people, increasing the number of
bay county building permits
employees to 120, at an average annual
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
Nov 11 Oct 11 Sep 11
16 14 17
2 5 4
Nov 10 Oct 10 Sep 10
4 10 15
2 3 2
wage of $49,500, exceeding 150 percent of Bay County’s average annual wage. While this is the first commercial development to be built in the business park, St. Joe is also
bay county sales tax collections GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
Oct 11 Sep 11 Aug 11
$526,464,867 $485,507,381 $657,276,357
$228,728,979 $255,591,456 $345,591,456
$13,984,737 $15,574,468 $20,867,120
Oct 10 Sep 10 Aug 10
$440,822,013 $419,023,548 $536,811,012
$221,912,494 $226,619,986 $305,636,011
$13,876,717 $13,606,883 $18,230,531
28
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
constructing a 30,000 square foot flex warehouse building in VentureCrossings for manufacturing or light industrial use.
The EDA also recently announced its 2012
officers
as
well
as
the
January - march 2012
establishment of the EDA as a newly formed organization. The EDA’s new leadership is as follows: Chair – Joey Ginn, Vision Bank; Chair-Elect/ViceChair – Allan Bense, GAC Contractors; Secretary – John Ed McDanal, Gulf Power Company; Treasurer – John Juchniewicz, Carr, Riggs & Ingram; and Past Chair – Glen McDonald, Applied Research Associates. The EDA board of directors and Bay County Chamber board of directors approved a set of new bylaws forming the EDA as a separate organization. The bylaws include the formation of four investment categories and funding
bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH
MEXICO BEACH
Oct 11 Oct 10 % Change
$236,031.78 $209,865.69 12.47%
$6,926.70 $6,356.80 8.97%
Sep 11 Sep 10 % Change
$928,161.56 $795,301.87 16.71%
$25,571.18 $20,447.70 25.06%
Aug 11 Aug 10 % Change
$1,086,541.59 $807,936.59 34.48%
$26,814.34 $23,479.19 14.20%
northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Oct 11 Sep 11 Aug 11
77,389 73,470 78,235
1,276 1,208 1,350
Oct 10 Sep 10 Aug 10
74,372 67,967 72,567
1,476 1,427 1,464
levels and the establishment of a 16member executive committee.
national, state & local unemployment rate - January 1990 - november 2011 Most people will not notice a change in the way the EDA does business as the organization’s purpose and mission will remain unchanged. The new structure will allow the EDA to better serve the community and all of its investors.
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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{new Members. for october, november, december 2012
Gulf Coast Entertainment & Production 81 Cross Creek Rd. #21 Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (850) 217-4339 Holy Nativity Episcopal School 205 Hamilton Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 747-0060
siteLACE 17224 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 849-1019 Spikes Medical 3238 West Hwy 390 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 481-0846
KT Social Media Inc. PO Box 344 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 774-9312
Studio 424 Medical Spa & Body Massage 424 Harrison Ave Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 640-0397
ADT Fire & Security Serv., Inc. 751 Ashley Dr. Crestview, FL 32539 (850) 832-3959
Cellular Sales/ Verizon 2150 MLK Blvd. 2216-B Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 785-1400
Lifeguard Ambulance Service 4340 Avalon Blvd. Milton, FL 32583 (850) 983-3000
Super Cuts 2310 S. Hwy 77 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 277-0055
Alisa W. James P.A. 109 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-0095
Centennial Roofing 1601 Lisenby Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-7663
LockMasters USA 511 N. Bonita Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 914-2949
Tacky Jacks 3901 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 230-2347
Allstate Insurance - Baytown Agency 2209 W. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 249-4900
Club Energy 3203 East Hwy. 98 Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 763-1919
Managing Concepts, Inc. 2408 Lisenby Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 481-0640
The Grand Theatre 500 S. Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-4835
DR Horton 6451 Merritt Blvd., Ste. B Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 447-0329
Marine Max 3605 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 708-1317
Elaine Thomas, Home Stager 2412 St. Andrew Blvd., # 25 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 640-1644
Miller Marine Yacht Service 7141 Grassy Point Rd. Southport, FL 32409 (850) 265-6768
The Hormone & Wellness Center 2507 Harrison Ave., Unit. 201 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-4455
Emerald Coast Insurance 2003 North East Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-0700
Mr Surf's Surf Shop 7220 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 235-2702
Big Lots 535 West 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 358-7789
Emerald Coast Optometry Associates, PA 11570 PCB Parkway, Suite 100 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-4433
One Hot Cupcake 603 West 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 785-1555
Cabin Creek Food Services, Inc 5230 W. Hwy 98 Panama City, FL 32401 (407) 582-2560
Ferrucci Ristorante 301 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 913-9131
CACI 3007 S. Highway 77 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 481-2500
Florida Architects, Inc. 111 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 270-4995
Carpe Diem Community Solutions, Inc. 2709 Rutgers Dr. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-4651
Florida Chiropractic 6029 E. Hwy 98 Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 784-6075
Barbosa's Furniture 259 W. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-8702 Bay Blueprint, LLC 534 Mulberry Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-8260 Beach 95.1 3900 Marriott Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 235-2195
Cellular Sales/ Verizon 11560 PCB Parkway, Ste 100 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 233-2113 30
Frostee's Scents 6514 Omoko St. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 896-8299
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
Panama PC 215 Landings Dr. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 215-2667 Prosperity Bank 450 E. 23rd Street Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 914-0721 Ravalle Services, Inc. 317 West 17th St. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 338-6300 Siren Fitness 257-B West 15th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 814-1615
The Print Center 2415 N. Pace, Ste 3 Pensacola, FL 32505 (850) 435-9004 The UPS Store #3015 2310 S Hwy 77, Ste 110 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 265-3011 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans 336 Hiland Dr. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 819-7027 Unifirst Corporation 900 Cherry St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 769-5111 Wireless Zone 841 N. Tyndall Pkway. Callaway, FL 32404 (706) 315-9861
Memberanniversaries Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals for October, November, December 2011 ONYX - 5 YEARS Comfort Inn Premium Clean Care Sheltair SVS, Inc. Tarpon Dock Fish Market Tractor Equipment Co., Inc. Universal Engineering Sciences Valle Vistas
RUBY - 10 YEARS Disability Resource Center First Command Financial Planning Harrison Rivard Duncan Buzzett Hatch Mott Macdonald Life Management Center of NW FL Panama City Dental Center
OPAL - 15 YEARS Devcon Security Services Enterprise Rent A Car General Scientific Manufacturing Gregory P. Grantham, D.M.D.,P.A. Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative, Inc. Jinks & Moody, P.A. Nations Real Estate
EMERALD - 2O YEARS GCSC Small Business Development Center Panhandle Engineering, Inc.
SILVER - 25 YEARS Bay County Board of Commissioners P.C. Development Group Inc. St. Andrews Bay Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
31
Gulf coast Medical center announces $29.5 Million Expansion Project Gulf Coast Medical Center welcomes in the New Year with a 35th
●
Breast Center Accreditation
anniversary birthday party and groundbreaking ceremonies for a
●
Chest Pain Center Accreditation
$29.5 million expansion. The February event will be the first step
●
Peripheral Vascular Disease Accreditation
that will result in a more than 50,000 square foot, two-story,
●
Total Joint Accreditation
42-bed addition to the hospital. The expansion includes the area’s
●
Spine Surgery Accreditation
first Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, the area’s first Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and a new Intensive Care Unit.
By focusing on quality care, the hospital has earned the reputation as the area’s quality leader says Dr. Quang Tran, “Quality care is as important to physicians as it is to patients and their families. As a physician who’s been a part of Gulf Coast Medical Center for many years it’s encouraging to see the fruit of their efforts and to see how patients are benefiting.” Gulf Coast Medical Center was founded by 19 physicians and opened in 1977. It is a 176-bed acute care hospital. It is part of the Hospital Corporation of American (HCA) family of hospitals. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for February 2012. Opening is expected in the Fall of 2013.
GCMC exterior expansion rendering Gulf Coast Medical Center CEO Brian Baumgardner said, “Our expansion project is important in that it addresses the growing critical care needs of patients in our region – especially those of babies and children.” Dr. Rush Akin started his medical career in Panama City the same day Gulf Coast Medical Center opened nearly 35 years ago. Dr. Akin added, “This expansion is more than bricks and mortar. It’s an investment in the families of Bay and surrounding counties who depend on the hospital for high quality, compassionate care.” Former Board member Allan Bense said, “Based upon my more than 30 years experience with hospitals in our region, Gulf Coast Medical Center is the most technologically advanced hospital I've seen. From the technology their nurses have at the bedside to the technology their doctors have to care for their patients, they are the leaders." In the past 12 months Gulf Coast Medical Center has earned a number of accreditations and affiliations that are unique to local healthcare providers. They include: ●
Top-Performing Hospital recognition by the Joint Commission
●
Affiliation with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Cancer Care Network
32
BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
for a detailed listing of chamber and community events visit
www.panamacity.org
6 11 20 27
3
{calendar
January
7
new Member 411 breakfast
8
successful Public speaking seminar - session 1
first friday with the beach
FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by: Gulf Coast Medical Center & Peoples First Insurance Speaker: Neal Wade, EDA Executive Director Free event for Bay County Chamber and PCB Chamber invited guests and members
free business seminar
8:30 a.m. Chamber Boardroom Program: TBD RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761
bay Young Professionals “behind the scenes” tour 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. NWFL Beaches International Airport (6300 West Bay Pkwy) RSVP by January 18th to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761
15
annual dinner & awards ceremony 6:00 p.m. Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort Sponsored by: Premier Sponsor – Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort and Corporate Sponsors - Regions Bank, Gulf Coast State College & HealthSouth Emerald Coast Rehabilitation Hospital Sponsorships available, contact Jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757
2
february first friday
Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m. FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Sponsored by: Anchorage Children’s Home Program: TBD Free for Bay County Chamber invited guests & members
Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events
14
8:30 a.m. Chamber Boardroom Free for new members or those new to a members organization RSVP to Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753 Time: 8:00 a.m. – Noon Place: Chamber Boardroom (235 W. 5th St.) Presented by: the Bay County Chamber and Emerald Coast Dale Carnegie Training Cost: $50 members / $60 non-members (each session) – $10 discount for both sessions RSVP by February 3rd to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761
successful Public speaking seminar - session 2 Time: 8:00 a.m. – Noon Place: Chamber Boardroom (235 W. 5th St.) Presented by: the Bay County Chamber and Emerald Coast Dale Carnegie Training Cost: $50 members / $60 non-members (each session) – $10 discount for both sessions RSVP by February 3rd to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761
March first friday Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m. FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Program: TBD Free event for Bay County Chamber invited guests & members
Quarterly business seminar & breakfast Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m. Chamber Boardroom Program: TBD RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761
dates, times and locations subject to change. January - March 2012 | BAY BIZ
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BAY BIZ | January - March 2012
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