Bay County Chamber - January 2011 Bay Biz

POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE Meet the new leaders of 2011

EDUCATION

A.D. HARRIS - the new home for a Community Learning Village

ECONOMIC PROFILE The Data of 2010

JANUARY - MARCH, 2011

TAKING STEPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL 2011 VOL. 1/ISSUE 1 - $3.95

Contents

16

18

14 6

President’s Message

7

Bay Biz Founder, Frank J. Bacen, Jr., CCE

8

Political Perspective

10

New Members

11

Member Anniversaries

13

Trends: Anytime, Anywhere with Mobile Banking

14

Best Practices for Business: Marketing on the Move

16

Education: A.D. Harris Community Learning Village

17

Education: Improving Career Education for Our Future Workforce

18

Bay County Chamber Executive Committee - Taking Steps for a Successful 2011

22

Out N’ About

23

Defense Intel: Bay Defense Alliance

25

Bay Young Professionals to Know

27

Calendar

29

The Biz List

32

Economic Indicators

17 23

JANUARY 2011 JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

3

A special Thank You to the Bay County Chamber Public Relations Committee for your hard work in making the Bay Biz Magazine a reality!

PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Crystal Shuller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tanya Deal Pat Holley Jackie Acello Janice Lucas Chris Avondet Heather Kretzer Tom Neubauer DESIGN Creative Marketing Concepts COVER & INSIDE PHOTOGRAPHY Bay County Chamber Executive Committee Photo (Brian Baumgardner not pictured) Melody Barton www.MelodyBarton.com ADVERTISING Kevin Bell 1.800.264.4958 kevin@wellsprinting.com

Ron & Debra Perkins Owners, Pro Floors Plus

Bay Biz Magazine c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce 235 W. 5th St. P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, Florida 32402 Phone: 850.785.5206 Email: information@baychamberfl.com Online: www.panamacity.org Facebook: Bay County Chamber Twitter: @baychamberfl The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402. 850.785.5206 POSTMASTER send address changes to The 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 Organization receives one copy. To request a copy contact Crystal@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.

Matt & Mynta Harbison Owners, Los Antojitos Restaurant

Jason Steverson Owner, Steverson Air Conditioning

What Do We All Have in Common?

Bay County Chamber Members Can Join!

4

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

pefcu.org 850.769.3306 Member NCUA

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Happy New Year! It’s the time of year when we can start anew and turn the page to our future while sharing optimism for 2011. Last year was a tough and rocky road with the down economy and the Gulf Oil Spill. However we have many things to be proud of including the way our community organizations came together to support each other in these tough times and our beautiful and successful new airport.

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce is in the business of working for the betterment of its members, and will continue to make Bay County the best place to live, work and play! We are starting off by bringing you this wonderful renewed business resource magazine, The Bay Biz. The Bay Biz has been around since the early 80’s and has gone through many transitional formats in its long history. It was started as a Bay County Chamber newsletter in the form of a magazine by our past Executive Vice President, Frank Bacen. Frank, who dedicated many years to the Chamber, had the vision of giving the membership and community a way to be kept informed on Chamber/member news and activities.

With the hopes to grow our community and assist our membership, the Chamber and the Public Relations Committee, have taken that vision and expanded on it. Your Bay Biz will now be a quarterly magazine and “The Voice of Business from the Bay County Chamber of Commerce”. As a business resource magazine it will now offer you articles in relation to Political Perspective, Defense Intel, Business Trends, Education, Best Practices for Business from Chamber members, The Biz List, and Economic Profile (economic numbers such as unemployment, bed taxes, airport data, sales taxes, home sales and more). Our goal is that you will keep the Bay Biz throughout each quarter and refer back to it during your business needs. Keep in mind that we will continue our Bay County Chamber e-newsletter the first Tuesday of each month (prior to First Friday). With the e-newsletter you will still be kept current on Chamber/Member news and events.

Like all new years, 2011 will bring challenges; however, rest assured, your Chamber is here for you. With your membership, we offer great networking opportunities: First Friday, Business After Hours, educational seminars, committee service, Business Referral Groups, Leadership Bay and Bay Young Professionals, just to name a few. All of these create an excellent environment for creating new professional relationships. Your business can also market its goods and services through the Chamber by advertising in the Bay Biz, e-newsletter, Chamber website, Relocation Guide, First Friday, Business After

6

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Hours and other event sponsorships, Airport Business Center, Chamber lobby and many more.

If not already, I ask you to get involved in your Chamber’s activities this coming year. With your award winning “2010 Chamber of the Year”, you, your business, the community and the Chamber will all prosper because of your participation.

With the passing of the gavel from our wonderful 2010 Chairman of the Board - David Powell - to our new 2011 Chairman - Bo Rivard - our dedicated board, membership and staff this year is sure to be a successful one. Together, let’s embrace the challenges and successes of the New Year!

Sincerely,

Carol Roberts President/CEO Bay County Chamber of Commerce

Her first word.

Her first step.

Are you ready for her first emergency?

Introducing the area’s only Pediatric ER. It’s important to remember that children aren’t little adults, and that their bodies and injuries require specialized attention and care.

You’d do anything for your children.

So why not make the right choice in health care?

EMERGENCY PEDIATRICS AGES 0 UP TO 18

• Pediatric triage • Pediatric-friendly rooms • Pediatric-specific beds

The Area’s Shortest Average ER Wait Times

• Labor & Delivery • Area’s only Level 2 NICU • Area’s largest Pediatric Specialty Unit • Area’s only Pediatric ER

449 W. 23RD STREET PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA 32405 (850) 769-8341 • WWW.GCMC -PC.COM

316-043_GCMC_Peds_4.25x5.5_4c.indd 1

• More Pediatric specialists and subspecialists on staff than any other area hospital

11/30/10 12:02 PM

Bay Biz Founder, Frank J. Bacen, Jr., CCE Frank started at the Chamber in 1971 and retired in late 1996.

Majoring in Journalism, Frank had a passion for writing. Under his leadership, Bay Biz was born in the Spring of 1984.

Below is an excerpt from his last issue “Publishers Post Scrip”: Time does fly when you’re having fun. For the most part, fun is what I’ve had in more than 39 years of Chamber of Commerce work that began for me in Hollywood, Florida, on October 4, 1956 – eight days after discharge from the 1st Infantry Division and nine days before getting married.

Almost 15 years later, on July 15, 1971, I came to work here as executive vice president of the then Panama City Chamber Frank Bacen, 1970’s of Commerce. I had been selected by a search committee comprised of Deck Hull of Hull Oil Co., Bill Fields of Dad ‘N Lad, Frank Parker of Jinks Lumber Co., Charles Rosser of Bay Bank and Henry Vickery of the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. A few days later, I was speaker at the Chamber Annual Dinner in the Four Winds Restaurant, where I had the pleasure of being introduced by Lauren Merriam. Entertainment for the event consisted of several comedy skits written, produced and performed by Ray Holloway and Donnell Brookins.

It was all such a short time ago. Now, I suddenly feel like a deer caught in the headlights of my rapidly approaching March 31 retirement date. Where did all those years go?

When I started working here, the Chamber consisted of a First Friday Club, a Committee of 100, and an all-male Military Affairs Committee. Along the evolutionary pathway there have been countless rewarding experiences.

One was the especially challenging period when I wore two hats: Chamber EVP and EDC Director. SallieMae, Grolier Telemarketing, Saunders Engine Co., Easter Industries, Fiberoptic Engineering, Allied Signal, Wellstream, Cargill Steel and GE Distribution were among the firms landed then.

Another was bringing Bay Biz magazine into being in early 1984 and having it win several national awards during the succeeding years. If you have enjoyed receiving Bay Biz half as much as I’ve enjoyed bringing it to you, then we’ve both had a good time.

Over the years, I’ve had the great good fortune to work with a consistently high quality of volunteer leadership and an outstanding collection of talented staff members. Most important of all, I’ve had the love, support and understanding of my wonderful wife, Mariann. We contemplate no relocation after retirement. There is no place like Bay County and there are no people like Bay Countians. God bless you all. •

Various Bay Biz formats through the years.

Political Perspective: New Leaders of 2011

The 2010 election year is finally over and 2011 will see many new faces on the political front. With a new Governor, United States Senator, Congressman and several new local officials, this year may prove to be a positive year for the business community.

Rick Scott Governor Florida’s Governor-Elect, Rick Scott, is 59 years old, was born in Bloomington, Il, but grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. He and wife Ann, now living in Naples, are the parents of three children.

Governor-Elect Scott spent several years in the Navy, following high school, before entering the University of Missouri. While in college he ventured into the business world for the first time; buying and reviving two donut shops in Kansas City.

After acquiring his bachelor’s degree he attended Southern Methodist University, where he received his law degree. Subsequently he practiced law in Dallas, Texas. In 1987 he helped found Columbia Health Care and two years later merged it with Hospital Corporation of America.

Columbia/HCA became the largest private for-profit healthcare company in the United States. After

8

leaving the company, Mr. Scott became a venture capitalist, concentrating on mergers and acquisitions. In 2009 he founded a group known as Conservatives for Patients Rights in order to push for enactment of healthcare legislation that would be based on free-market principles.

“Let’s get to work,” has become a significant mantra for his administration. In his victory speech, GovernorElect Scott promises to look at everything the government does with a fresh eye and set goals with real numbers. Mr. Scott has become Florida’s 45th Governor.

Marco Rubio U.S. Senate Our newest Senator was born to Cuban immigrant parents in Miami in 1971.

Mr. Rubio and his wife Jeanette are the parents of four children. They currently live in the same working class neighborhood in West Miami where

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

his parents live.

He graduated from the University of Florida in 1993 and the University of Miami, cum laude, with his law degree in 1996. Mr. Rubio has a distinguished career in politics for someone not yet forty years old.

From 2000-2008, he served in the Florida House of Representatives.

During this eight year period, he served as Majority Whip, Majority Leader and finally as Speaker of the House.

He championed an agenda of lower taxes, better schools, leaner government and free market empowerment.

Since leaving the legislature, he has resumed his law practice, worked as an analyst for Univision and as Florida’s Chairman of GOPAC. He has remained active in his community and civic organizations.

He has had the support of the Republican Party, former Governor Jeb Bush, The Tea Party and the Latin community.

Now that Senator-elect Rubio was sworn in for the 112th Congress on January 3rd he is the youngest member of the United States Senate.

Steve Southerland U.S. Congressman Our newest congressman for the 2nd Congressional District, Steve Southerland is the first Republican elected to this seat in over 100 years and the first from Bay County. He prefers to be called Representative rather than Congressman, as he wants to reflect that he represents all the people in his district, the state and the country.

Mr. Southerland and his wife of 23 years are the parents of four daughters.

He was raised in Panama City and the fourth generation of his family to live in Bay County. He has a bachelors’ degree from Troy State University and an Associates degree from Jefferson State College in Mortuary Science. He is the co-owner and President of Southerland Family Funeral Homes, which was founded in 1955.

He has been active in the community for many years

before deciding that he should throw his hat into the ring to try to change the direction of our country. As a past chairman of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and a small businessman, he believes he understands the problems facing the business community. He has had the support of the Republican Party and the Tea Party. He was a founding member of Bay Patriots.

Mr. Southerland has as one of his top priorities, the shrinking of the federal government by cutting taxes and spending, as well as rolling back federal regulations. “Every dollar Congress has is a dollar that is taken away from the family budget and from small business,” says the newest Congressman.

He says that small businesses are battling senseless regulation, which he compares to the overpowering Kudzu vines.

Guy Tunnell Bay County Commissioner As the newest member of the Bay County Commission, Mr. Tunnell will represent the 4th District. He was born and raised in Bay County.

He and wife Patty are the parents of three sons and two grandchildren. He has a masters degree in Crimi-

nal Justice. He was the Bay County Sheriff from 1989 – 2003 and was appointed Director of FDLE in 2003, a job held for three years.

ground is going to be a real asset in working on the fiscal side of the district, particularly with the tough financial times we are experiencing.

Commissioner Tunnell takes over the seat of retiring Commissioner Jerry Girvin.

He was sworn into office on November 16th and expressed his desire to get to work for the people of Bay County. His initial agenda is to get to know the county departments and employees.

Mr. Moss is 35 years old, married to a district school teacher and the father of two children in Bay County public schools. He is looking forward to getting down to work for the students of Bay County.

He is a firm believer that the commission needs to be a force in creating jobs in our community. According to Commissioner Tunnell, “beyond the efficient management of your tax dollar, we as a Commission have an obligation to you to support new jobs and a better way of life for all. As your county government, we need to do more for new and existing industries.”

Steve Moss Bay District School Board District 5 Steve Moss is the new school board member from District 5, the seat previously held by Donna Allen. Mr. Moss is an alumnus of the University of Florida and has completed numerous post-graduate courses in finance. He believes his financial back-

“It was indeed time for a new generation of leaders to step up. I promise to do my part,” says Mr. Moss.

room. “Teachers should be empowered to teach and classroom disruption should be dealt with constructively,” says Mr. Walker.

Jimmy Patronis Re-elected to the Florida House of Representatives, District 6 Rep. Patronis, elected to the House in 2006, was subsequently reelected.

Joe Wayne Walker Bay District School Board District 1 A career educator, Mr. Walker was elected to the District 1 seat previously held by Pat Sabiston. He is a life-long resident of Bay County and has taught at Bay High School for 38 years, retiring in 2010. He holds a bachelors’ degree in Physical Education from the University of West Florida and a Master in Administration from Southeastern Louisiana University.

Marti Coley Re-elected to the Florida House of Representatives, District 7 Rep. Coley, elected to the House in 2005, was subsequently reelected.

He is a strong supporter for vocational education and believes that it is undervalued and too restrictive.

He believes that focusing on student discipline would help teachers have more time for instruction in the class-

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

9

New Members Allstate Harry Grizzle Agency 2104 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 832-8900

Bay Clinic of Chiropratic 2410 Lisenby Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 785-9372

Grace Community Publishing 2310 S. Hwy 77 Ste 110 #239 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 532-5644

Integration Innovation, Inc 2518 Hwy 77, Ste. A Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 832-6016

Mainstay Suites PCB 7909 PCB Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-7829

Pirates Island Adventure Golf 9518 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 235-1171

Purvis Systems Incorporated 5922 Magnolia Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 249-1655

Rayfield Distributors 8147 Heritage Woods Dr. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 832-5306 Shark’s Tooth Golf Club 2003 Wild Heron Way Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 249-3041 St. Dominic Catholic Church 3308 E. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 785-4574 10

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

for October, November and December 2010

Steve Wiggins 160 Rusty Gans Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 527-6005

Sophia’s Costumes 1107 Beck Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-1121

Adams Produce of Destin 239 Main St. #C Destin, FL 32541 (850) 469-1996

Sterling Resorts/ Laketown Wharf 12011 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 563-0463

Business Networking International 13800 PCB Pkwy., Ste 106 D Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 625-5333

Trigo San Francisco Style Deli 119 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 481-0132

Curry Print 2505 West 15th Street Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 747-9000

BASIC of NWFL, Inc. 432 Magnolia Ave. Panama City, FL 32402 (850) 785-1088

Siemens 447 Grace Avenue Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 914-9501

Bay County Awards & Engraving 304 W. 15th St. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 763-5208

Emerald Bay Surgical Associates 2195 Jenks Ave. Ste. C Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 522-5022 Layla’s Gelato 1131 Beck Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-1573 Shalimar Retreat & Conference Center 203 Shalimar Street Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 236-0197 Paychex cjhoff@paychex.com Panama City, FL (850) 449-9583

Plastic Surgery Institute & Spa & Coastal Urgent Care 1702 Hwy 77 Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 647-8825 The UPS Store #5856 13800 PCB Parkway Ste. 106D Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 236-8779 The UPS Store #6067 1016 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 249-2597 Welcome Home Vets, Inc. PO Box 9421 Panama City, FL 32417 (850) 763-3345

Member Anniversaries

for October, November and December 2010

Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals.

Onyx - 5 Years

Emerald - 20 Years

Anderson & Associates Construction, Inc. Courtyard By Marriott Gulf Coast Women’s Club Living Word Fellowship RBC Bank Simon Property Group

Arizona Chemical Bay County Association of REALTORS Grease Pro, Inc. Jack G. Williams Tyndall AFB Installation Tyndall AFB Public Affairs

Ruby - 10 Years Mr. Bob Watford Redco Recycling

Pearl - 30 Years

Silver - 25 Years Fairpoint Communications March of Dimes Smurfit-Stone Container Specialists of the South, Inc. Workforce Center

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

11

Consumers trust us

Let them know they can trust you

®

Your Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida received over inquiries from consumers last year.

300,000

Melody Barton

Life Style Studio

www.MelodyBarton.com 850.215.7673

7 in 10 consumers say they’d be more Contact BBB at 850.429.0002 or start with bbb.org to ask about BBB Accreditation

likely to buy from a company designated as a “BBB Accredited Business.”*

Do you make the cut? *Princeton Survey Research Associates 2007

BayBiz 7 in 10.indd 1

11/18/2010 4:41:26 PM

State Representative Jimmy Patronis would like to congratulate the Bay County Chamber of Commerce on the new Bay Biz Magazine!

12

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Engagement • Proposal • Wedding • Family • Baby Events • Scenic • Senior Class • Maternity • & more

TRENDS: Anytime, Anywhere with MOBILE BANKING

by Tanya Deal, Panhandle Educators FCU, PR Committee Contributing Writer While mobile banking has been around for a few years, the service has recently taken off in popularity (particularly with our texting generation). It’s no surprise as most of us are dependent on our mobile phones for so many aspects of our lives.

Mobile banking is a way for you to perform banking actions on your cell phone or other mobile device and allows you to access your financial accounts anytime, anywhere. Mobile banking fits in well with a busy, technologically oriented lifestyle. It is sometimes referred to as M-banking or SMS banking.

The type of banking you are able to do on your mobile device varies depending on your financial institution.

The most basic service allows you to receive text alerts but most services now allow you to view your accounts, conduct transactions, transfer funds, pay bills and more.

While you can access your online banking accounts through the internet with your mobile device, using a mobile banking service gives you screen optimization as the specific information or transaction you wish to see is available without all the additional information, banners and advertising. The optimized experience for the consumer comes through best in an application(app) that is downloaded to the user’s mobile phone. The app allows for the user to navigate the banking experience and efficiently interact with their accounts online.

Mobile banking is typically a free service provided by your credit union or bank, but every mobile carrier has a different rate plan for text messaging and data services access. You may be charged per use or charged a flat monthly rate so be sure to contact your mobile carrier to determine their charges before signing up.

A number of security features are built in such as a registration process which includes an activation code.

Check with your mobile carrier and financial institution for details on security provided. No mobile banking text message should ever return any personal identifiable information such as your full account number, PIN, email or address.

If you’re ready for anytime, anywhere banking, contact your financial institution to find out if this service is available for you. •

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

13

Best Practices for Business: Marketing on the Move Brought to you by members for members By: Jacquelyn Acello, Innovations FCU,

PR Committee Contributing Writer Are you starting a business, or already have an existing one? Marketing in any format will help the public and quality consumers to buy your products or services. There is not much point in starting a company, and then finding you have no customers. Your business will not survive without effective marketing in one form or another. Leading the public to your company will create a demand for your product or services. Creatively marketing your business is a key to standing out from your competitors.

Innovations Federal Credit Union has a unique approach to getting its name out into the community.

CEO David Southall and the marketing department have created new and innovative ways to advertise and to set them apart from their competitors while bringing the employees in on the fun.

In the past year, two out of the box promotional events were created. Last December the staff recorded a Christmas video starring the companies employees. Clad in winter/holiday attire they performed a Lip Dub to the holiday song “Jingle Bells” and had a great time doing it. The Christmas video was a creative way to draw current and potential consumers into the Innovations brand.

In May at the Grand Opening of the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport the staff and friends organized a “Flash Mob”, an impromptu public dance. Flash Mobs are becoming a popular way to create a viral marketing opportunity. T-Mobile was one of the first to successfully use a Flash Mob for marketing. Towards the end of a four minute dance routine was the BIG REVEAL. A layer of clothing was removed by all flash mobbers to reveal the bright yellow t-shirts which displayed the Innovations logo. A second Flash Mob was performed at Friday Fest Downtown in June.

14

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Both the Lip Dub and the Flash Mob can be seen on YouTube.

Flash Mob Video - http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zOkgebYqLuo Jingle Bells Lip Dub Video - http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=WIEEK4UYH30 Innovations received national exposure from Credit Union Trade Publications as well as Financial Guru, Suze Orman who took notice and gave a shout out on the Marketing efforts, and posted a link to the YouTube video on her website.

The steps taken with marketing on the move to be different and creative have proven they can bring attention to your organization and customers through your doors. Having fun with it can be just as effective. •

This “Best Practice” tip was submitted by Innovations Federal Credit Union. To submit a creative business tip from your company or industry to share with Bay County Chamber members please email it to Crystal@baychamberfl.com.

Save the Date

Bay County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony January 28th Edgewater Beach &Golf Resort The Annual Dinner is the Chamber’s largest networking and social event of the year. It is attended by Chamber members and includes community leaders from businesses small and large as well as elected officials. Sponsorships are available. Contact jill@baychamberfl.com for more information.

Sponsored by:

ARINC, Comcast, HealthSouth,

Harrison Rivard Chtd. Knology, Gulf Coast Community College, Attorneys at Law Gulf Coast Medical Center, The News Herald, Allstate-McKinney Insurance & Investments, OASEAS Resorts and Regions Bank

BEACH & GOLF RESORT

Did you know that one out of every two men and one out of every three women will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime?

Isn’t it good to know we’re HERE for you if you ever need us?

The Tommy Hamm Sr. Cancer Center in Panama City offers compassionate and innovative care in a state-of-the-art cancer care and chemotherapy facility.

Serving Northwest Florida and Beyond John Nanfro, M.D., F.A.C.P. Hassan Ebrahim, M.D. Craig Englund, M.D.

Phone (850) 914-0700 Fax (850) 914-0777 301 West 26th Street Lynn Haven, FL 32444 www.nwfho.com

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

15

EDUCATION: A.D. Harris Learning Village The Vision A learning village that fulfills a legacy, empowers our families, and revitalizes the community.

The Mission To provide a one-stop human services site for the delivery of community-based, culturally sensitive, multi-generational services to unite the community.

ever, its primary focus is on for-profit businesses. Thus, there is no competition for this business venture in Bay County.

A.D. Harris Jr. & Blondelle McGowan pose with a portrait of their father A.D. Harris Sr. in the Gulf Coast Workforce Board Computer Lab.

By: Janice Lucas, Founding Board Member When the last school bell rang in May 2009, many thought that the era of education on the A. D. Harris school site had ended. The Bay County School Board closed that campus among other facility changes in 2009. For more than 80 years, this property site had housed educational services to the surrounding community. Then in September 2010, the Bay County School Board approved a lease for the property.

“The community’s cry was for it to remain an educational center and for it to carry the name and legacy of A. D. Harris, Sr.”, explained Blondelle McGowan, president of the A. D. Harris Improvement Society, Inc., and daughter of the project’s name sake.

A group of volunteers came together last year for the specific purpose of developing and managing this project. The A. D. Harris Improvement Society was incorporated in December 2009 for the purpose of leasing the vacant school. The ADHIS board of directors each has a personal connection with the property and has committed to continuing its usage to meet the diverse community service needs: education,

16

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

business development, cultural and health. The founding board members are: Blondelle McGowan, President and daughter of A. D. Harris; Toni Shamplain, Vice President and CRA North Director; Janice Lucas, Secretary; Marian Hutcherson, Treasurer; Albert D. Harris, Jr., son of A. D. Harris, Director; Corine Harris, Director; Anita Dillard, Director and former A. D. Harris High principal; Victor Dillard, Director; and Rev. James Barker, Director.

Located in one of Bay County’s lowest socio-economic census tracts, the A. D. Harris Learning Village is an ideal place to locate a diversity of intergenerational services that will equip Bay Countians with skills for K-12 school, vocational jobs, and college courses. It will provide needed human services, such as health education, the arts and cultural activities.

The need for such a venture like a “one-stop” human services center is great, noted by a 2008 community needs assessment conducted by the United Way of Northwest Florida.

Gulf Coast Community College offers a Small Business Incubator; how-

In November 2010, the Learning Village welcomed its first tenants: Workforce Development and Early Education and Care. Today, the community’s educational and service needs are to prepare children and adults for the 21st Century job market. Toward that end, the Gulf Coast Workforce Board has leased space to provide computer skills.

“We’re offering free computer training for folks that need to get those technology skills,” said Maria Golden, Gulf Coast Workforce Board Communications Director.“This is a good location for our program because we really wanted to target the lowincome residents. We’re dealing with a lot of people looking for jobs. They need the computer skills whether they go into Information Technology or some other industry.”

Also housed at The Village is a Head Start program that provides daycare for three to five year olds. Other nonprofits have expressed an interest in moving their programs to the site, too. While there are multi-tenant nonprofit centers in urban and suburban areas throughout the United States and Canada, this is the first such venture in Bay County.

The A. D. Harris Learning Village is continuing to accept non-profit tenants.

If your company or organization is interested please contact Blondelle McGowan at 850.640.0211. •

EDUCATION: Improving Career Education for Our Future Workforce By: Tanya Deal, Panhandle Educators Federal Credit Union “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

While some adults may still be seeking the answer to this question, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Board wants to insure our Bay County students have the best opportunities to find this answer while preparing for life beyond high school. The CTE Board was created to bring local business, community and educational leaders together to look closely at how to better align career education and improve the overall effectiveness of workforce preparation in Bay County.

Last August, The CTE Board appointed Daina Weaver as the Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE). Weaver serves as the CTE liaison between Bay District Schools and post secondary educational institutions here in Bay County. She is an accomplished educator who began her 15-year career as a business technology teacher at Mosley High School and most recently held the position of CTE Coordinator in Orange County, FL. One of her first tasks has been to put together a strategic plan to implement necessary changes and benchmarks to measure successes and how well career preparation is meeting community needs.

“We need to change the perception of Career and Technical Education, the old Vocational Education. We are no longer the programs that are housed on the other end of the campus that no one goes to unless you are not going to college. Our programs

Pictured L to R: Dr. Jim Kerley, Kim Bodine, Daina Weaver, Supt. Bill Husfelt are high tech, high demand and high wage. From the high schools to Gulf Coast Community College and Haney Technical Center, our students are earning postsecondary credentials that are leading to employment and high wage jobs. The unfortunate thing about this is, not very people know this. We have a huge population we need to address.

Statistics show approximately 15% of all high school freshmen will graduate from a four year university. It’s not hard math, 85% of our students are doing WHAT? We need to focus on the needs of that population and we can do that through Career and Technical Education. Help me, look into the Career and Technical Education programs at your local high school, Haney Technical Center and Gulf Coast. You will be absolutely amazed. This is not only a Bay District School issue or a

Haney Technical Center issue, or a Gulf Coast issue. This is a regional issue that we must address.” Daina Weaver The CTE Board is funded and supported by Bay District Schools, Gulf Coast Community College and the Gulf Coast Workforce Board.

Daina Weaver is located at Gulf Coast Community College and may be contacted at dcooke-weaver@gulfcoast.edu or 850.769.1551 x2876. •

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

17

(Brian Baumgardner not pictured)

BAY COUNTY CHAMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE TAKING STEPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL 2011 18

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Visit our webiste at www. panamacity.org to see the full business plan including new details.

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce is in the business of working for the betterment of our members and the community. With the dynamic team that makes up the Executive Committee as well as our Board of Directors, 2011 will surely be a great year! Each officer on the Executive Committee is responsible for a department and staff person within the Chamber. Below are some features from our 2011 Business Plan that the Executive Committee and Chamber staff is working on to make Bay County a better place to LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY!

Mission: To create superior value for all Chamber members large and small; cultivate Al McCambry, economics and personal development; promote General Manager, and protect a competitive enterprise system of Knology business, be a community leader while em- Chairman-Elect – Governmental Affairs bracing Bay County’s opportunities and chal- Staff: Pat Holley/Carol Roberts lenges.

Governmental Affairs Committee Chair – Vision: To be the leading organization in successfully creating a world class business climate in Bay County.

Bo Rivard, Partner, Harrison Rivard Chtd.

Chairman of the Board Administration Staff: Carol Roberts, President/CEO • Planning for 100th Anniversary Celebration (2013) • Past Chair Council • Military Affairs, Governmental Affairs, community issues that arise • Represent organization on Bay County Economic Development Alliance.

• Board Member for the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals • Board Member of Small Business Incubator • Northwest Florida Chamber Coalition • Oversee Airport Business Center and all Chamber operations

Brian Baumgardner Mission: To monitor activities of the city, county, state, and federal governmental entities, create a working relationship between the Chamber and governmental leaders and survey membership for legislative agenda.

Brian Baumgardner, President/CEO, Gulf Coast Medical Center

Vice Chairman – Communications Staff: Crystal Shuller, Vice President of Communications Media • Maintain Chamber visibility as well as members and award winners through print, radio and TV coverage.

Bay Biz • Bay Biz Magazine (The Voice of Business from the Bay County Chamber of Commerce) - a business resource magazine produced and printed quarterly.

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

19

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

• E-Biz newsletter, monthly.

emailed

to

membership

Advertising/Communications • Develop marketing strategies including digital & print materials; maintain website and social media accounts.

• Produce all Chamber publications PR Committee – Chair - Heather Kretzer, WMBB News 13/ Co-Chair – Chris Avondet, Lamar Advertising Co. • Assists communications staff with Bay Biz production, Media Appreciation Luncheon and PR Seminar

Bill Fenimore, President, NAI Emerald Coast

Vice Chairman – Member Services – Events/Foundation Staff: Jill McKinzie, Vice President of Events & Elizabeth Smith, Vice President of Foundation

Events -

Larry Carroll, Owner/President, Coldwell Banker Carroll Realty Inc.

Treasurer – Membership Development Staff: Debi Burdeshaw, Vice President of Finance & Don

Pitts, Vice President of Membership Development • Hold Chamber 411 new member breakfast • Continue to help new members focus on their chamber activity • Recognize renewing members starting at each 5 -year interval & with member testimonials.

Ambassadors - Chairman – Patty Freund, WMBB Mission: To serve as the official diplomatic representatives of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce coordinating groundbreakings, grand openings and other interactions between the Chamber, its membership and the public.

First Friday (FF) Full membership morning meeting to provide networking opportunities, a program of interest, sponsorship opportunities, monthly award presentations for Small Business of the Quarter, Apple of Our Eye Award and introduction of new members.

Business After Hours (BAH) Full membership evening event to provide interaction among members and to spotlight sponsors products and services.

Networking in 90 Networking in 90 is a fast paced networking experience.

Members are grouped together and each given two minutes to promote their business and product; then they move and start again with a new group.

Industry Appreciation Celebration (IAC) Chairman - Randy Turpin, Adecco Support the State of Florida in recognizing the economic impact of existing industry with Industry After Hours, Golf Invitational, recognize Community Impact winner and showcase of Defense Contractors and Manufacturers at First Friday.

Business Referral NetworksGroup A Chairman- Kristi Kirkland, Custom Technical Services of NW FL; Group B Chairman- Kathie Riley, My Best Friend’s Kitchen; Group C Chairman- Dave Williams, Mid-South Lumber; Group D Chairman- Dennis Fetrow, ERA Neubauer Real Estate

Annual Dinner Recognizes accomplishments of previous year, formal passing of the gavel from outgoing to incoming Chairman of the Board, recognition of Military Affairs Chairman, Lauren Merriam Memorial Award, Member of the Year, Economic Development Alliance Chairman and Small Business of the Year along with a silent auction.

Mission: Business professionals coming together to network, share business leads and referrals with the intention of increasing business for group members.

Tourism Recognition Month Chairman - Tammala Spencer, TDC/CVB Work with TDC to recognize tourism in May as a vital part

20

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

of the Bay County economy with tourism related First Friday theme, Jungleball-Volleyball tournament/Business After Hours and Spring Classic Golf Tournament.

Seminars / Webinars Work with local businesses to research needed educational seminars/workshops

Member Services – Foundation Leadership Bay - Chairman (2010-11), John Ed McDanal, Gulf Power Company Leadership Bay - Chairman (2011-12), Angela Sexton, Florida State University Panama City Campus

Education Task Force – Lisa Barnes, Eastern Shipbuilding • Continue to work closely with GCCC, FSU-PC and Bay District Schools and host Career Connections event for high school Juniors.

Nonprofit Sustainability Summit • This event is targeted to new and veteran board members of non-profit organizations as well as agency professionals. The summit offers informative sessions that will provide valuable training and resource materials for sustainability.

2010/2011 Mission: To cultivate a broadened network of well informed leaders whose strengthened commitment to community involvement will affect positive change in Bay County.

Leadership Bay Alumni Association – Chairman (201011), Jeremy Bennett, Vision Bank Leadership Bay Alumni Association – Chairman (201112), John Ed McDanal, Gulf Power Company 2010/11 Mission: To promote on-going communications and fellowship among peers to graduates of Leadership Bay.

David Powell, City Market President, Junior Leadership Bay - Chairman (2010-11), Teresa King, Hancock Bank Gryphon Technologies Junior Leadership Bay - Chairman (2011-12), TBD

2010/2011 Mission: Junior Leadership Bay is a leadership development program for high school juniors. Through seminars, workshops and interaction with community leaders and decision-makers, the program is designed to prepare, enhance and motivate youth to become our leaders of the future.

Bay Young Professionals (BYP) - Chairman, Valerie Lovett, Bay County Board of Commissioners

Chairman – Military Affairs Committee Staff: Carol Roberts/Patty Busby, Executive Assistant Mission: To promote a cooperative working relationship and direct support to the military installations by the business community through newcomer orientations, recognizing visiting dignitaries, incoming and outgoing senior leadership at bases by hosting receptions, MAC Golf Tournament, quarterly meetings with Public Affairs Officers from each base, recognize Airman/Sailor of the Year, work with Bay Defense Alliance to secure military presence and assist with Gulf Coast Salute.

2011 Mission: To enrich our community by uniting and developing our young professionals through monthly luncheons with an educational program, quarterly networking opportunities, involvement with governmental affairs and tours of local businesses.

Small Business Institute – Chairman, Gary Anderson, Anderson Construction Mission - Sharing business experiences and resources to solve small business challenges, recognizing small business quarterly and educational seminars..

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

21

Out N’ About

Photos from various Bay County Chamber events

L to R: Nicole Carter, David Powell & Felicia Cook - November First Friday

Leadership Bay Class of 2010/11

Jim Hayden wins Regions Bicycle IAC Golf Invitational

L to R: Ambassadors: Pete Cleary, Patty Freund, Tricia Culpepper, Mary May - September BAH

L to R: Carol Roberts, Frank Ryll & David Powell - 2010 Chamber of the Year award

You Shouldn’t Have to Wait to Feel Better! emerald coast urgent care

Staffed by Emergency Room Trained Providers 4 Cuts 9

4 Ear Infections 9

4 Burns 9

4 Sprains/Strains/Fractures 9

4 Skin Infections 9

4 Sports and Work Injuries 9

4 Bladder Infections 9

4 Colds/Flu/Fever 9

Walk-In Care for Minor Illness And Injuries

4 Foreign Body Removal 9 4 Minor Pediatric Illness 9 4 Physicals for Work 9 and School

Extra Hours, Extraordinary Care No Appointment Necessary

4 On-Site Digital X-Ray 9 and Lab

Get Ready Now For Flu Season

LOCATED IN

Holiday Golf Club

d

Rd

oa

Rd

30

22

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

aC

nD

r

am

cks o

tB ea ch

rac

Fro n

Pa n

le St rip

98

Mi

30

Back Beach R

R. Ja

30A

98

ity B

each

Pkw

y

98

PANAMA CITY BEACH 11111 Panama City Beach Pkwy.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 850-236-8655

Hombre Golf Club

www.emeraldcoasturgentcare.com

Defense Intel: Bay Defense Alliance By: Tom Neubauer President, Bay Defense Alliance For almost two decades, a group of local volunteers operating as the Bay Defense Alliance has been working on behalf of Bay County military installations. BDA board members work to preserve and enhance the missions at Tyndall Air Force Base and the Naval Support Activity Panama City.

For the past two years, the Bay Defense Alliance has been particularly focused on two major initiatives. The Combat Air Force Restructure Plan resulted in a loss of 48 F-15s at Tyndall AFB, and efforts by special interests to promote drilling in the Gulf Range posed a threat to the future of military missions.

Members of the Bay Defense Alliance’s “Tyndall Team” worked closely with defense consultants and the Florida Congressional delegation, which ultimately resulted in an Air Force commitment to base an operational F-22 squadron at Tyndall. The Tyndall Team included Maj. Gen. Larry Arnold (USAF Ret), Lt. Gen. John Campbell (USAF Ret), Elizabeth Walters, Glen McDonald, Dr. Guy York (Col USAF Ret), Col. D.W. Smith (USAF Ret), and Jerry Smithwick. Elizabeth Walters and Glen McDonald also serve on the Air Education Training Command (AETC) Civic Leaders Group.

Bay Defense Alliance member Leon Walters led the initiative to brief state legislators on the potential negative impact that drilling in state waters would have on military missions and Northwest Florida installations.

He and other BDA members developed a detailed military range utilization brief which was well-received in several committee forums, including a presentation to the Florida Council on Military Base and Mission Support.

The most significant impact to our installations post-BRAC was the Air Force decision to retire 248 legacy fighter aircraft, including all 48 of Tyndall’s F-15’s. Receiving the Air Force commitment to replace the F-15 air superiority training mission with an operational F-22 squadron was the result of a remarkable team effort which included our entire community and Florida’s Congressional delegation aided by Military Base Protection Grant funding from the Florida Defense Alliance and the Bay County Commission.

The board is ever mindful that significant threats to our installations and their missions can come outside of a legislative process. With the continued support of our community and Congressional delegation, the future looks promising for both installations.

Tyndall Air Force Base and the Naval Support Activity Panama City contribute $2.5 billion* annually to our local economy. While this economic engine is vital to Bay County, it’s the servicemen and women, civilian defense professionals and contractors who make our community a unique and special place.

The Bay Defense Alliance works closely with key organizations who also serve on the BDA board. The Bay County Economic Development Alliance, the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and its Military Affairs

Subsequent to the DoD driven Base Realignment and Closure process in 1988, Congressional legislation scheduled rounds in 1991, 1993, 1995 and 2005. The BDA was formed in 1993 and Bay County military installations survived each subsequent round under the leadership of Larry Dantzler.

While Bay County installations were left intact, the group spent little time celebrating, aware that defense infrastructure downsizing would likely continue outside of the legislative process.

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

23

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Committee help ensure Bay County installations remain strong.

The BDA board is comprised of 32 remarkable volunteers who are truly dedicated to the support of our military. The board is comprised of a diverse group of members who give unselfishly of their time, working hard to ensure mission sustainment and growth at both TAFB and NSA PC. Thirteen of the board’s 32 members are former military or defense professionals and eleven are former chairs of the Bay County Chamber Military Affairs Committee. The active chairperson of the Military Affairs Committee also serves on the board, as did our Congressman-elect Steve Southerland, in 2008 following his leadership of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce.

Happiness

is simple.

Members of the BDA continue to log more than 1,600 volunteer hours per year working on military issues and promoting the valuable contributions of our bases to national defense. The group travels to Washington, D.C. throughout the year while communicating and building relationships with military and Congressional leadership and their professional staff. The group also participates in joint initiatives with members of the Northwest Florida Defense Coalition and the Florida Defense Alliance.

Thanks to Florida’s Defense Reinvestment and Defense Infrastructure Grant program, Bay County and its installations have benefitted from more than $4.8 million in grant funding. Local defense grants included funding for utilities projects, a Navy range control building, underwater acoustic tracking range, purchase of acreage for base expansion, sidewalk improvements and other worthy projects. A recent Defense Infrastructure Grant award in the amount of $250,000 will be used to evaluate opportunities to expand high bandwidth LambdaRail infrastructure to Tyndall and NSA PC. The men and women stationed at Tyndall AFB and Naval Support Activity Panama City accomplish amazing things and make significant contributions to our national defense. On behalf of the Bay Defense Alliance, special thanks to our Bay County citizens for the strong commitment and unwavering support for our military. Together we contribute to Florida’s reputation as the most defense-friendly state in the nation. • Learn more about the Bay Defense Alliance by visiting the BDA Web site at: www.baydefense.org. *UWF Haas Center’s Florida Defense Industry Economic Impact Analysis.

24

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Now offeriNg

express CateriNg! from the light and healthy to the sinful and heavenly, let our catering team plan the perfect meal for your next meeting or event. we offer all the convenience of our culinary and hospitality staff delivered to your home or office.

contact our

team today!

877.533.7596 edgewaterbeachresort.com/events/catering Scan QR-Code with your mobile for more information about our express catering.

A P RO P E RT Y O F

Bay Young Professionals To Know 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.

Valerie Lovett is the Public Information Officer for the Bay County Board of County Commissioners.

Born and raised in Chipley, Florida, Valerie graduated from Chipley High School in 1995. She attended the University of Florida, graduating in 2000 with a degree in English and minors in Linguistics and Women’s Studies. Following graduation, Valerie moved to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where she worked for three years as a newspaper reporter covering government and politics, education, crime and courts. In 2003, she moved to Pensacola, Florida, and worked for the Pensacola News Journal as a reporter, before moving home in 2004 where she worked as a government reporter for the Panama City News Herald.

In 2007, Valerie became the Public Information Officer for the Bay County Board of County Commissioners.

Her duties include working with print and television media, creating various publications and Web site updates, organizing and marketing events on behalf of the board, as well as lobbying both state and federal government officials on behalf of the Bay County Commission. Recently, Valerie also served as an integral part of communicating to the public about the efforts to protect Bay County shores and assist struggling businesses that the county and the Emergency Operations Center were making during the Gulf Oil Spill.

Along with her duties for the Bay County Board of Commissioners, Valerie will take the reins of the Chairman for Bay Young Professionals, a Bay County Chamber program, in January 2011. She says, “BYP is an awesome opportunity to meet new, focused, professional people for networking and idea sharing.

It’s a chance to foster professional and personal relationships with people you may not otherwise have reason to meet. I’d encourage anyone with an interest, particularly if you don’t know many people in town, to join the organization and see where it takes you.”

In addition to participating in Bay Young Professionals, Valerie is a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee and a member of the Bay Arts Alliance Board of Directors.

In her free time, Valerie enjoys saltwater and freshwater fishing and keeping abreast of politics and current events.

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

25

Florida. With GVA Advantis, Kevin focused on retail land sales, investment properties, commercial leasing, and investment and development analysis.

Kevin Wattenbarger, CCIM serves as an advisor for Sperry Van Ness: SouthLand Commercial.

Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, Kevin graduated from Bay High School in 2000. He then went on to serve as an infantryman in the United States Army and is a veteran of multiple combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While serving with the Army’s 3rd Infantry and 1st Armored Divisions, Wattenbarger was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge (CIB), Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM), and multiple awards for meritorious service to the country.

Kevin went on to earn Bachelors of Science degrees in Real Estate and Finance from The Florida State University. Wattenbarger holds the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation, earning him recognition as an expert in site selection, development, leasing, valuation, and investment analysis.

He currently serves as an advisor for Sperry Van Ness: SouthLand Commercial specializing in the sales and leasing of retail, office, industrial properties, and commercial land throughout northwest Florida. Kevin was a founding advisor for Sperry Van Ness’ Panama City office and has extensive knowledge and transactional experience in the regional market and a licensed Florida real estate broker.

Kevin is a member and/or serves in leadership positions with numerous government, industry, and non-profit boards. He is a member of the CCIM Institute and was a 2007 recipient of the CCIM Designation Scholarship; served as Co-Chair for the Florida CCIM Chapter, is a member of the National Association of Realtors, International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), and is a board member of Bay County’s Affordable Housing Advisory Committee.

Additionally, Kevin is an alumnus of Leadership Bay and was the 2010 Chairman of the BYP committee.

He says “I believe that BYP is an excellent platform to network and build professional relationships within our community.” He is also planning a wedding with his fiancé, Maggie Marler.

After graduating, he served as an associate for GVA Advantis in Tallahassee and Panama City Beach,

TermNet

Merchant Services, Inc TM

A Registered ISO/MSP of Synovus Bank, Columbus, GA

LINDA GUNN

BANKCARD CONSULTANT

508 AIRPORT ROAD Suite II - A PANAMA CITY, FL 32405

26

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

CELL TOLL FREE FAX EMAIL

(850) 527-5574 (800) 344-8472 Ext. 313 (850) 767-0420 lgunn@termnetinc.com

TermNet

att.com

it’s all about

connections.

At AT&T we know businesses are a lifeline for communities like Bay County. By partnering with local development groups and chambers of commerce, we keep those businesses connected. That’s just another part of our commitment to limitless possibilities.

Š 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved.

Calendar

For a detailed listing of Chamber & community events visit www.panamacity.org

Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events

FEBRUARY JANUARY

7

12 13 28

FIRST FRIDAY Sponsored by: AT&T 7:30 a.m. – Networking & Coffee 8:00 a.m. – Program FSU-PC Holley Center Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests SMALL BUSINESS INSTITUTE 8:30 a.m. – Program: Best Practices for Marketing Roundtable Bay County Chamber Boardroom RSVP: Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761 BYP (NO COST) Social 5:30 p.m.

The Shrimp Boat RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com

by January 12th ANNUAL DINNER & AWARDS CEREMONY MARDI GRAS STYLE! Sponsored by: Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort, Hancock Bank, Harrison Rivard Chtd., Panama City Toyota, ARINC, Allstate-McKinney Insurance and Investments, Comcast, Gulf Coast Community College, Gulf Coast Medical Center, HealthSouth, Knology, The News Herald, Regions Bank and OASEAS Resorts Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort Sponsorships available, contact Jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757

1

NEW MEMBER 411 BREAKFAST 8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Free for new Chamber members RSVP: Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753

4

FIRST FRIDAY Sponsored by: OASEAS Resorts 7:30 a.m. – Networking & Coffee 8:00 a.m. – Program FSU-PC Holley Center Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests

9

SMALL BUSINESS INSTITUTE 8:30 a.m. – Program: TBD Bay County Chamber Boardroom RSVP: Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

MARCH

4 9

FIRST FRIDAY Sponsored by: Gulf Coast Community College Foundation 7:30 a.m. – Networking & Coffee 8:00 a.m. – Program FSU-PC Holley Center Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests SMALL BUSINESS INSTITUTE 8:30 a.m. – Program: TBD Bay County Chamber Boardroom RSVP: Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761 For Business After Hours dates and places visit the Chamber website calendar at www.panamacity.org.

28

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

The

BIZ LIST

Chamber members share their businesses news in “The Biz List”.

If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news for publication, email a press release and photo or logo to crystal@baychamberfl.com.

Berg Europipe Holding Corp. is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Hans J. Sack to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Sack has extensive experience in the steel industry with a strong focus on high quality products serving mission-critical applications. Most recently Mr. Sack served as the Chief Executive Officer for Latrobe Specialty Steel Company.

Prior experience includes sixteen years at The Timken Company where he served in a number of progressively responsible roles culminating as President of the Specialty Steel and the Timken Latrobe Steel business. He also spent time at Mannesmann-Demag and Thyssen prior to joining The Timken Company.

In addition to his long and successful track record in senior management roles, he brings with him a commitment to quality and a long standing philosophy of continuous improvement.

Susan Story, who has served as Gulf Power President and CEO since 2003, has been named President and CEO of Southern Company Services in Atlanta. She will be succeeded by Mark A. Crosswhite who is currently Executive Vice President, External Affairs, for Southern Company’s Alabama Power subsidiary.

In her new role, Story will oversee numerous areas, including Human Resources, Information Technology, Procurement, Marketing Services and the company’s wireless subsidiary, and SouthernLINC. Crosswhite, who becomes Gulf Power’s 15th president, joined Southern Company in 2004 as Senior Vice President and General Counsel for the company’s Generation organization. He later was named senior vice president and general counsel for Alabama Power before moving into his current executive role in External Affairs.

Eye Center South is pleased to announce its newest addition; Dr. Richard W. Bryant, a Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Facial Cosmetic Orbital Reconstructive Surgeon. Dr. Bryant’s specialty includes plastic surgery procedures on the face and around the eyes such as browlifts, facelifts, necklifts, rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty (eyelid procedure). He also injects Botox, Juvederm and Restylane. He is a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons and member of a number of Professional Organizations including the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic Reconstructive Surgeons (ASOPRS), and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative (GCEC) is proud to share that The United States Air Force has signed an agreement with GCEC as part of the privatization process for Tyndall Air Force Base, located in Panama City, Fla. When a military base is privatized, a public utility takes over ownership and operation of the base’s electric, water, wastewater or natural gas systems for a specified length of time. GCEC was awarded a contract

to own and maintain the base’s electric and water distribution systems. The contract value is estimated to be $117.5 million and is a 50-year contract. The contract will assist in keeping the cooperative financially sound for many years to come. The cooperative will also open a district office on Highway 98. The Highway 98 office will be the third full-service center for all GCEC members.

Northstar Church is proud to share that it was recognized and listed as the 70th Fastest Growing Church in Outreach Magazine’s 2010 publication. This is quite an honor because approximately 8,000 churches were used in their study and there are estimated to be 322,000 Christian churches in the U.S.

Bay Medical has been recognized by National Research Corporation (NRC) as one of the nation’s top hospitals in the 2010/2011 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. Bay Medical was chosen as the image and quality leader by consumers in the Panama City – Lynn Haven, Florida CBSA for the past two years in a row.

The full results appeared in the October 18 issue of Modern Healthcare and

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

29

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29)

can be viewed on NRC’s website at: http://hcmg. nationalresearch.com.

Bookit.com is proud to announce that as of November 2010, it has officially reached 400 employees.

Bookit.com opened the doors to its brand new building in Panama City Beach in November of 2009. It continues to grow and offer many job opportunities for Bay County while providing users the most intuitive online booking experience.

Dean Eavey, Associate Professor of Business and Technology Division and Program Manager for Electronics Engineering Technology and Computer Integration Manufacturing at Gulf Coast Community College received the Manufacturing Post-Secondary Educator-of-the-Year Award at the 7th Annual Manufacturers Association of Florida Manufacturers Summit in Orlando, FL., held Nov. 2010. Eavey who has served in this capacity for the past ten years is part of a $500,000 grant from the Department of Labor geared to promote manufacturing training in Florida. His driving force lies in preparing students to enter the field of hightech manufacturing and

30

witness them succeed. This he says helps them pursue rewarding careers and helps the country remain globally competitive.

Florida State University Panama City honored three outstanding alumni as 2010 Noteable ‘Noles at its annual Alumni Homecoming Reception.

The Notable ‘Noles were: Steve Bornhoft, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Doral Bank Florida. He is a 2007 graduate with a Master’s Degree in Corporate and Public Communications; Gena Burgans, Director of K-12 and Adult Instructional Services for Bay District Schools and a 1994 graduate with a Master’s in Education Leadership and 2001 specialist degree in Library and Information Studies; and Philip “Griff” Griffits, Jr., owner of Sugar Sands Inn & Suites, LaQuinta Inn & Suites and Suite Hospitality and a 1993 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Social Science Interdisciplinary with emphasis in Political Science.

Life Management Center of Northwest Florida has been selected to participate in a research study known as the RAISE Early Treatment Program (ETP).

Life Management Center is one of 35 locations

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

across the United States that will be carrying out ETP, a study looking at the best ways to help people in the earliest stages of schizophrenia reduce their likelihood of experiencing long-term disability. The ETP study is part of the National Institute of Mental Health’s (NIMH) Recovery After an Initial Schizophrenia Episode (RAISE) Project.

ETP is one of two research teams that NIMH has funded under the RAISE Project, which aims to intervene at the earliest signs of schizophrenia. RAISE seeks to develop interventions that can be tested in real-world treatment settings and be quickly put into practice should they prove successful.

The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach announced last week the designation of Mike Stange as President of the organization. The Resort Collection is a property management company representing six beachfront resorts, one championship golf-course, a shopping center and real estate organization.

Prior to joining The Resort Collection in 2009, Stange represented Intrawest, a Vancouver-based resort management company, as Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s President and Chief Executive Officer, and was part of the Intrawest executive management team.

The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach announces the hiring of Tricia Culpepper as Groups Sales Manager. Culpepper will be responsible for coordination of groups and meetings and will oversee all aspects of association meetings and events.

Since 2003, Culpepper has held sales and marketing positions in Panama City Beach. Prior to joining The Resort Collection, she held the position of Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn and the Hampton Inn, where she was responsible for group booking revenue from all markets, catering and local accounts for the hotels. Culpepper also held marketing and public relations positions with St. Andrew Bay Center and Gulf World Marine Park.

The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach announced that Craig Hanlin has joined the company as General Manager of golf at Hombre Golf Club.

Hanlin’s primary responsibility will be to supervise staff and ensure all guests’ needs are met as well as planning and budgeting for all Club related events.

Prior to joining The Resort Collection, Hanlin held

multiple positions including Head Golf Professional at The Club at Osprey Cove in St. Mary’s, Georgia, and Director of Resort Golf and Head Golf Professional at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, Florida.

The Gulf Coast Workforce Board was one of only six organizations in the nation and the only workforce organization to receive a Microsoft Elevate America veterans’ initiative grant.

The $180,000 grant award will fund Mission: 21st Century (M:21c), a program designed to provide veterans with a comprehensive set of services over the next two years, including technology skills training, job placement, career counseling, and other support services such as childcare, transportation, and housing.

Children’s Home Society of Florida is proud to announce that local Dependency Case Manager Lisa Coleman received the Florida Coalition for Children’s Dependency Case Manager of the Year award, recognizing her “determination, special talents and patience needed daily to bring focus and the goal of permanency to each child served.”

critical role that outstanding caregivers play in the healing process and honors medical professionals, volunteers or community members.

Children’s Home Society of Florida is also proud to announce that Florida Coalition for Children also honored Children’s Home Society of Florida CEO David A. Bundy with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his “career filled with a lifetime of service and accomplishments that have made a difference in the lives of Florida’s neediest children and their families.”

Dr. John J. Nanfro, Medical Director of the Tommy Hamm Sr. Cancer Center in Lynn Haven was awarded the prestigious Lane Adams Quality of Life Award representing the Bay Area for 2009-2010 at the Annual Meeting of the local chapter of the American Cancer Society Meeting.

This was the first time the award was given here on a local basis. The American Cancer Society sponsors the Lane Adams Quality of Life Award which promotes improved quality of life for all persons with cancer and their families through public recognition of exemplary individuals who practice compassionate, skilled cancer care and who extend the ‘warm hand of service’.

This award highlights the

HSMAI will pay tribute to Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau during the annual HSMAI Adrian Awards Gala, on January 31, 2011, at the New York Marriott Marquis for public relations excellence in the 54th annual Adrian Awards Competition, the largest and most prestigious travel marketing competition globally.

Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau’s winning entries included: • GOLD – Launch Campaign for Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport • GOLD – “For the real South, you have to go North” feature story in the Miami Herald by Chelle Koster Walton • SILVER – Crisis Communications efforts during the Gulf Oil Crisis: Containing the Damage • SILVER – “Ready for Takeoff: Panama City Beach” feature story in Southern Living magazine by Les Thomas • BRONZE – Panama City Beach feature coverage on CNN’s “Building up America” segment

Gulf Marine, serving Panama City for its boating needs since 1999, is excited to announce that it will now be a full line Honda lawn and garden, and water pump dealer with sales, service and friendly advice.

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

31

ECONOMIC PROFILE Bay County Unemployment November

October

September

August

July

2010

11.6%

10.4%

10.5%

10%

9.6%

2009

10.5%

9.6%

9%

8.7%

8.6%

Source - Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation

Bay County Real Estate Sales Existing Single Family Homes Realtor Sales

November

October

3rd Quarter

September

August

July

2010

91

90

263

91

86

86

2009

101

123

354

116

118

120

% Change

-10%

-27%

-26%

-22%

-27%

-28%

Median Price

November

October

3rd Quarter

September

August

July

2010

$159,000

$154,500

$160,500

$163,800

$148,000

$176,700

2009

$173,600

$159,300

$176,500

$169,400

$188,000

$176,700

% Change

-8%

-3%

-9%

-3%

-21%

---

Existing Condo Sales Realtor Sales

November

October

3rd Quarter

September

August

July

2010

60

47

184

84

50

50

2009

51

60

183

57

56

70

% Change

18%

-22%

1%

47%

-11%

-29%

Median Price

November

October

3rd Quarter

September

August

July

2010

$152,500

$178,000

$166,700

$165,000

$165,000

$172,000

2009

$188,300

$205,000

$190,500

$187,500

$192,500

$190,00

% Change

-19%

-13%

-12%

-12%

-14%

-9%

Source - Florida Realtors

Bay County Building Permits November

Residential October

September

August

July

2010

4

9

15

5

12

2009

9

11

14

9

13

Commercial November

October

September

August

July

2010

2

3

2

11

5

2010

0

2

12

7

2

Source - Bay County Building Department

32

BAY BIZ | JAN-MAR 2011

Bay County Sales Tax Collections Gross Sales

October

September

August

July

2010

$439,787,329

$419,023,548

$536,811,012

$565,179,438

2009

$404,633,431

$429,185,670

$520,514,636

$530,555,744

Taxable Sales 2010

$221,120,170

$226,619,986

$305,636,011

$292,087,979

2009

$210,045,850

$237,124,009

$318,172,527

$299,885,181

2010

$13,873,304

$13,606,883

$18,230,531

$17,977,002

2009

$12,962,441

$14,374,901

$18,967,086

$18,499,376

Tax Collections

Source - Florida Department of Revenue

Bay County Bed Tax Collections Panama City Beach

Mexico Beach

September 2010

$795,301.87

September 2010

$20,447.70

September 2009

$795,698.44

September 2009

$20,708.68

% Change

-.05%

% Change

-1.26%

August 2010

$807,936.59

August 2010

$23,479.19

August 2009

$947,596.17

August 2009

$31,850.55

% Change

-14.74%

% Change

-26.28%

July 2010

$1,967,020.33

July 2010

$70,486.43

July 2009

$2,302,863.86

July 2009

$74,970.27

% Change

-14.58%

% Change

-5.98%

Source - Panama City Beach CVB

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Passenger Traffic Aircraft Operations: Commercial

October

September

August

July

2010

1,478

1,427

1,464

1,417

2009

920

867

898

957

% Change

60.65%

64.59%

63.03%

48.07%

Total Passengers

October

September

August

July

2010

74,372

67,962

72,567

83,168

2009

26,039

24,850

24,428

30,438

% Change

185.62%

173.49%

164.57%

173.24%

Source - Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport Authority

JAN-MAR 2011 | BAY BIZ

33

Accounting • Auditing • Payroll Tax Compliance • Business Advisors

(850) 763-9635 2589 JENKS AVENUE • PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA