THE CIRCUIT TYNDALL BRINGS IN THE BIG DOGS
THE ST. JOE COMPANY A New Community in the Making
High-Tech Incubator Drives Entrepreneurial Success
the
New Career & Technical Education Courses in Bay District Schools
INDUSTRY ISSUE WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 1
Paradise has arrived ON THE EMERALD COAST
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Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BUREAU OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THE OFFERINGS. Latitude Margaritaville Kentucky Registration Number R-201. For NY Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, LMWS, LLC. FILE NO. CP20-0062. Pennsylvania Registration Number OL001182. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen, 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 and with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and has not been completed. The facilities and amenities described are proposed but not yet constructed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, specifications, prices and features depicted by artists renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. ©Minto Communities, LLC 2021. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored, or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Latitude Margaritaville and the Latitude Margaritaville logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. St. Joe and the St. Joe logo are trademarks of The St. Joe Company and are used under license. CGC 1519880/CGC 120919. 2021
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Homeowners, renters, and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2021. © GEICO
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
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The Circuit D E PA R T M E N T S & F E AT U R E S
14 A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
11 From Tiffiney Carter
A message from the President/CEO
12 From Kristopher McLane
Industry features
14 Military: News from Tyndall Air Force Base & Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division 20 Business & Technology: TechFarms – Driving Entrepreneurial Success 24 Education: CTE Program Expands within Bay District Schools 28 Real Estate: The St. Joe Company – Latest Developments
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
30
30 Construction: Philip Griffitts Sr. Parkway – An Update on Construction 36 Medical: Q + A with Doctor Finkelstein on Prostate Cancer
business spotlights
40 The Latest Updates from Businesses in Bay County 44 45 46 47
see & be seen
March 2021 Friday at the Beach March 2021 Business After Hours March 2021 IdeaCamp April 2021 Business After Hours
committees
24 around town
52 City of Panama City Beach, Mayor Mark Sheldon 52 FSU Panama City, Dr. Randy Hanna 53 Bay County Board of County Commissioners, Griff Griffitts 53 Gulf Coast State College, Glen McDonald 54 Bay District Schools, Bill Husfelt 55 Bay EDA, Becca Hardin 55 Visit Panama City Beach, Dan Rowe 56 CareerSource Gulf Coast, Kim Bodine
membership
58 Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings 61 Letter from Your Chamber Rep 62 New + Renewing Members
48 IdeaCamp 50 Ambassadors
44
20
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ON THE COVER An aerial shot of the progress on Philip Griffitts Sr. Parkway, this photo portrays the immense growth that Bay County is MEMBER FDIC
experiencing. This bypass will help keep traffic flowing during our
busiest spring and summer months. This past January, the Parkway was renamed in honor of the City’s longest-serving mayor, Philip
Griffitts Sr., who passed away in December 2020. Photo provided
Starter Home? Same Home? Dream Home? Your Loan.
by the City of Panama City Beach.
The Circuit EDITORIAL TEAM
Publisher
Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce
Executive Editors Creative/Design Production
Tiffiney Carter
Panaprint
Mortgage • Refinancing Construction Financing
Advertising Sales
Visit trustmark.com/mortgage to learn more.
Contributors
Distribution
Tiffiney Carter, Kristopher McLane
Shannon Richmond
Lewis Advertising
Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle, Susan H. Lawson, Garrett Wright, Sharon Michalik, Mike Kerrigan, City of Panama City Beach, Steven Finkelstein, M.D. The Circuit Magazine is designed and produced by the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. All information in this guide is believed to be correct at time of production; the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. All unsolicited manuscripts become the property of the publisher and will not be returned. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2021 The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce 309 Richard Jackson Boulevard, Suite 101, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Phone: (850) 235-1159 | Fax: (850) 235-2301 | www.PCBeach.org
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Executive Board Chairman | BancorpSouth
JEFF DIBENEDICTIS MATT GRIFFITTS CATHERINE COLLINS PAUL SCHREINER JOSEPH SORCI
Board
of
Past Chairman | Sugar Sands Insurance Incoming Chairwoman | Resort Collection Secretary | Texas Roadhouse Treasurer | Florida Architects
Directors BAYSOLUTIONS
SHAY CATRETT MARVIN COLLEY ALLEN COTTON TRAVIS CRISP LEE ANN LEONARD ROBYN EVANS BRAD GRIFFIN JEREMY HINTON SAKE IRFAN RYAN MULVEY JORDAN ROSENAU SKIP STOLTZ JIMY THORPE
Honorary
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Beach TV Beef 'O' Brady's Counts Oakes Resort Properties/LSI Pier Park/Simon Malls By the Sea Properties Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center Innovations FCU Gulf Power Bay Point Golf Club
The St. Joe Company Domino's A Superior Air Conditioning
Board
RAMON DUVALL DR. RANDY HANNA BECCA HARDIN DR. JOHN HOLDNAK PARKER MCCLELLAN DAN ROWE JOHN SKAGGS MARK SHELDON
Beachside Fellowship Florida State University Panama City Bay Economic Development Alliance Gulf Coast State College NWFL Beaches International Airport Visit Panama City Beach Naval Support Activity Panama City Mayor, City of Panama City Beach
CHAMBER STAFF KRISTOPHER MCLANE JENA LILES SHANNON RICHMOND LYNSIE SISK TIFFINEY CARTER MISSY HOLMES
President/CEO Chief Financial Officer Vice President, Director of Membership Director of Marketing & Events Director of Communications & Design Business Support Director
It's that time of the year again when the sun is shining and the beaches are calling your name. Everyone wants a little slice of this paradise that some of us are blessed enough to call home, and we welcome you to it! As COVID-19 vaccinations are being administered at an increasing level, we are seeing more and more people becoming comfortable with travel again. Just ask the officials at Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), who have deemed this past March as the third busiest month in the airport's history! I'd say that's kind of a big deal. Tourism is undoubtedly the top industry that drives our economy; however, in this Industry Issue of The Circuit, we focus more on the other big fish that help revitalize our community. We have exciting developments taking place right now and more plans on the horizon. In this issue, find out about The St. Joe Company's plans off of State Road 79 that includes a commercial town center by the new Latitude Margaritaville community that will be comprised of shops, restaurants, and more. Also, catch up on the latest on the 2.7-mile bypass from Nautilus to Florida State Road 79, which will allow motorists to bypass high-traffic areas around Pier Park. In this edition, you will learn how vital entrepreneurship growth and success are to our economy and how the Career Technology Education Program (which is slated to guide K-12 students toward a successful career path) within Bay District Schools is expanding. Our community is thriving and forever growing stronger, and no Category 5 hurricane or pandemic can take that away from us! Cheers to the better roads ahead!
Tiffiney Carter
Tiffiney Carter Director of Communications & Design Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 11
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO The month of May brings a focus on tourism appreciation as it’s widely known as National Travel and Tourism Week May 2 – May 8 this year. Bay County continues to diversify its economy with the hard work from the Bay EDA, County, Municipalities, and Panama City Beach Chamber, but tourism strongly remains the number one industry. According to Visit Panama City in 2019, every 91 visitors supports a full-time job in Bay County. Panama City Beach hosts over 4.5 million visitors annually, paving the way for more jobs as our visitor base continues to increase. With the current pandemic impacting most national and international destinations, Panama City Beach is fully open for business, thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis and local officials. This is crucial to the success of our business community as our County continues to move in a positive direction from COVID-19. The Panama City Beach Chamber continues to recognize the importance of tourism to our membership, and those requirements tie deeply into our Chamber by-laws that state our Board of Directors must have 51% or more hospitality-related seats represented. That’s why we continue to provide The Circuit’s annual visitor and relocation guide known as your Guide to Bay County, Florida—one
RECRUIT YOUR NEXT HIRE Connect with qualified candidates. Job postings Applicant screenings Skills assessments
careersourcegc.com
12
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
of the most engaged magazines at NW Florida Beaches International Airport. That’s why we will also continue to provide events such as the Panama City Beach Marathon, a Boston Marathon qualifying race with a half marathon and 5K, that brings in visitors from almost every state. We are also thrilled to be hosting the inaugural Jam on the Coast 5K in Partnership with Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam on June 5. More information at PCB5K.com. Your Beach Chamber is here to welcome our tourists and we are thankful for all the members in the tourism industry. While other editions of The Circuit focus on tourism, such as our Guide to Bay County, Florida, Dining & Entertaining, and the Summer Issue, this Industry Issue is here to shed light on other important areas of our economy. We highlight many members that continue to improve and create jobs not only in the tourism industry but military, medical, education, real estate, advanced manufacturing, and more. As proud supporters and members of the Bay EDA and the Panama City Beach Economic Development Advisory Committee, we are invested in growing and diversifying our economy for the future. I hope you enjoy this Industry Issue of The Circuit and learn more about some of our amazing members that make Bay County a perfect place to live, learn, work, and play.
Kristopher McLane, President/CEO Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce
Enjoy special discounts from 4-5:30 PM daily and live music on Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 7 PM!
11040 Hutchison Blvd., Panama City Beach, FL www.saltwatergrillpcb.com WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 13
TYNDALL BRINGS IN THE
BIG DOGS B Y A I R M A N 1 S T C L A S S A N A B E L D E L VA L L E 3 2 5 T H F I G H T E R W I N G P U B L I C A F FA I R S
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
M I L I T A R Y | tyndall air force base
T
he first official semi-autonomous robot dogs were
delivered to Tyndall on March 22 for integration into the 325th Security Forces Squadron.
The purpose of the Quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicles
(Q-UGVs) is to add an extra level of protection to the base. The robot dogs, designed by Ghost Robotics and Immersive Wisdom, are the
first of their kind to be integrated onto a military installation and one of many innovation-based initiatives to begin at Tyndall, coined the Installation of the Future.
“As a mobile sensor platform, the Q-UGVs will significantly increase
situational awareness for defenders,” said Mark Shackley, Tyndall
Program Management Office security forces program manager.
“They can patrol the remote areas of a base while defenders can continue to patrol and monitor other critical areas of an installation.” Features applied to the robot dogs allow for easy navigation on
difficult terrains. The robot dogs can operate in minus 40-degree to 131-degree conditions and have 14 sensors to create 360-degree
awareness. They are also equipped with a crouch mode that lowers their center-of-gravity and a high-step mode that alters leg mobility, among other features.
Tyndall’s Program Management Office, the 325th SFS, the 325th Civil
Engineer Squadron, Air Force Research Labs, communications and other organizations have been working since July 2020 to ensure
the Q-UGVs are assembled properly before reaching Tyndall. Tyndall
is considered an ideal base to host the new robot dogs with its ongoing rebuild.
“Tyndall is a perfect test base as it was deemed ‘The Installation of
the Future,’” said Master Sgt. Krystoffer Miller, 325th SFS operations
support superintendent. “Across the base, every squadron has been pushing the envelope of how we do things and expanding our optics of what is possible. One huge attraction piece of the robot dogs is that it’s highly mobile and with the amount of construction we will
face over the next few years it helps us maintain and increase our security posture.”
This new technology has the capability to revolutionize the way base
security operates. Tyndall is expected to set the benchmark for the rest of the Department of Defense when it comes to Q-UGV usage.
“I can say that there is definitely a lot of interest in the capabilities of the technology,” said Miller. “I’m hopeful that other units will see some of the successes at Tyndall and will continue to explore the use of non-conventional tactics.”
CAPTION: (Left) U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Krystoffer Miller, 325th Security Forces Squadron operations support superintendent, operates a Quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicle at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, March 24, 2021. The purpose of the Q-UGV is to add an extra level of protection to base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle)
CAPTION: (Above) Sunny, a 325th Security Forces Squadron military working dog, poses next to a Quad-legged Unmanned Ground Vehicle at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, March 24, 2021. While the Q-UGV is also known as a robot dog, the computerized canine is not meant to replace MWDs, but rather to add an extra layer of security to the installation’s force protection posture. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle) WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 15
NSWC PCD QUICKSTRIKE TEAM W I N S J O I N T C A PA B I L I T Y T EC H N O LO GY D E M O N S T R AT I O N AWA R D BY S U S A N H . L AW S O N The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division’s (NSWC
The Quickstrike mine system is a significant component within the
awarded the 2020 Joint Capability Technology Demonstration
flexibility but also reduces the risk to warfighters and aircraft who
PCD’s) Quickstrike Extended Range (QS-ER) team was recently (JCTD) of the Year by the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD).
The QS-ER team successfully demonstrated improved warfighting
capability throughout the development of a standoff, precision aerial mine system for aircraft deployment.
“We are honored to receive this OSD award, which recognizes the tremendous effort from our Navy, Air Force, and industry team,” said Scott Burleson, mine warfare technical program manager at NSWC PCD. “Their efforts have resulted in the development and demonstration of a much-needed fleet capability.”
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Navy’s maritime mining portfolio. It not only provides operational
deliver these weapons by extending the range that the weapons can
be launched. The award is considered a great honor and validates the importance of the team’s work and support for joint force warfighters.
“The technology developed with the Quickstrike team will keep our pilots and aircraft safer and help maintain maritime superiority in the littorals,” said Capt. David Back, NSWC PCD commanding officer.
The team met and exceeded JCTD objectives by demonstrating the precise placement of multiple mines over extended ranges and
M I L I T A R Y | naval surface warfare center panama city division
successfully demonstrating the entire kill chain of the QS-ER
from weapon buildup, load-out, delivery, and subsequent actuation upon detection of a nearby surface vessel.
“We are very proud of the NSWC PCD QS-ER team for their accomplishments and this award is a testament to the hard
work and dedication of the team,” said Dr. Peter Adair, technical director at NSWC PCD.
The purpose of the QS-ER JCTD was to design, build and
demonstrate standoff and precision placement of an aerial mine by leveraging existing Joint Direct Attack Munitions
and Tail Kits, Quickstrike mine components, and a newly
developed wing kit. Due to the success of the demonstration, the QS-ER JCTD Independent Assessment Team strongly
recommended the Department of Defense transition the
QS-ER into a Program of Record to deliver the joint forces a standoff, precision mining capability.
The QS-ER project is a collaboration among NSWC PCD, U.S.
Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Air Force Program Executive
Office (PEO) Weapons, and U.S. Navy PEO Unmanned and Small Combatants.
CAPTION: A Quickstrike Extended-Range sea mine hangs from a B-52 at Andersen AFB in Guam Source: US Air Force
CAPTION: (Left) - The Quickstrike 64 Team from Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) Quickstrike 64 Team members pose for a team photo. Pictured from left to right: John Sojdehei, Bill Vandiver, Jomo Martin, Tom Frederick, Tim Pham, and Ken Ford. Not pictured, but also included on the team, is Sascha Dastgerdi. U.S. Navy photo by Ronald Newsome
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
B U S I N E S S & T E C H N O L O G Y | techfarms
TECHFARMS DRIVING ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS BY GARRETT WRIGHT TAKE A TOUR WITH STEVE MILLAWAY THROUGH TECHFARMS AND YOU CAN EXPECT IT TO COME WITH A FEW INTERRUPTIONS. FROM GROWTH PROJECTS AT THE FACILITY, IMPROMPTU MEETINGS, AND VARIOUS COMPANY REPRESENTATIVES IN AND OUT OF THE FACILITY, THIS HIGH-TECH INCUBATOR IS BUZZING WITH ACTIVITY. BUDDING ENTREPRENEURS ARE REGULARLY SEEKING THE GUIDANCE OF STEVE MILLAWAY AND THE TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS HE HAS ASSEMBLED AT TECHFARMS.
T
WHILE A KEY FOCUS OF TECHFARMS IS THE CREATION AND MATRICULATION OF TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES OUT OF THE INCUBATOR, ANOTHER MAJOR DRIVER FOR THEIR PASSION IS THE CREATION OF JOBS, SPECIFICALLY TECH-RELATED JOBS IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA. THE OVERALL IMPROVEMENT AND GROWTH OF THE TECHNOLOGY WORKFORCE IN NORTHWEST FLORIDA IS ONE IN WHICH TECHFARMS IS HELPING TO NURTURE.
his collaborative environment is
Prior to founding TechFarms, Steve Millaway
While TechFarms is specifically tailored
TechFarms so primed for success.
Throughout his career, Steve developed a
principles of entrepreneurship growth and
what makes the businesses within
This successful ecosystem is prompting the
organization to expand after just six years since its inception. Steve Millaway is the CEO
and Founder of TechFarms and the Managing Director of TechFarms Capital.
TechFarms, which is a high-tech incubator, was established to support the growth of tech companies in Bay County and
throughout Northwest Florida. Its facility is
one in which tech entrepreneurs can bring an idea and mold it into reality.
was a successful tech entrepreneur himself. passion for building the tech ecosystem in
Northwest Florida and decided to establish TechFarms in Bay County in 2015. While a
key focus of TechFarms is the creation and matriculation
of
technology
companies
out of the incubator, another major driver for their passion is the creation of jobs,
specifically tech-related jobs in Northwest
Florida. The overall improvement and growth of the technology workforce in Northwest Florida is one in which TechFarms is helping to nurture.
to support tech-related companies, its
encouragement are what help drive our local economy. Our local economy was built
upon entrepreneurs who had a vision for the community.
Thousands of entrepreneurs
run successful small businesses across Bay
County every day. Frequently, these small businesses can turn into large businesses and
become major employers in the community.
Throughout Bay County, examples include Eastern
Shipbuilding,
Linea
Peninsular,
Merrick Industries, and countless others.
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 21
CREATING AND NURTURING AN ECOSYSTEM WHERE THESE ENTREPRENEURS CAN THRIVE IS VITALLY IMPORTANT TO ENSURING OUR COMMUNITIES HAVE A DIVERSE AND WELLBALANCED ECONOMY.
estimated that small businesses employ over
synonymous with small business, the impact
new job creation since 2000. While not all
space, access to equipment, and access to
is phenomenal. However, in their founding,
the impact from creating an ecosystem to
According to the Florida Chamber of
Commerce, two out of every three jobs in Florida are created by small businesses. Additionally,
about
90%
of
Florida's
manufacturers are small to medium-sized businesses. Behind most of these companies,
there was an entrepreneur who had a vision to develop a business to meet a need or to
improve a service provided. Entrepreneurship is the cornerstone of the United States and has led our country to be full of individuals who have built successful businesses of
all sizes. While entrepreneurship is not that small businesses have on our economy
most entrepreneurs do start as a small business.
According to the U.S. Small Business
support entrepreneurs and small business
creation is one that is vitally important to our economic base.
Administration (SBA), there are nearly 32
In Bay County, at nearly every turn, there
Small businesses also account for 47.1%
of these small businesses are operated
million small businesses in the United States.
of private-sector employees and 40.3% of
private-sector payroll. Additionally, small businesses have accounted for 65% of net 22
entrepreneurs operate small businesses,
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
is a small business operation.
Many
by entrepreneurs who ventured out on
their own and decided to start their own businesses. Specifically in Bay County, it is
30,000 employees. Creating and nurturing
an ecosystem where these entrepreneurs can thrive is vitally important to ensuring our communities have a diverse and wellbalanced economy. The needs of a small
business can vary; however, a few key needs include professional guidance, access to
space or a workshop, market information, and access to capital.
For the high-tech sector, TechFarms is helping meet these needs, not only in
industry experts but also in access to capital. TechFarms Capital, established by Steve
Millaway, was created to help meet one of the greatest needs of high-tech start-ups ― access to capital. TechFarms Capital is a
venture capital fund with the sole intent to invest in high-tech start-ups. For high-tech
start-ups, traditional sources of funding are commonly unavailable due to the many
unknown variables within the company;
however, that is where venture capital funds fill the gap for high-tech start-ups.
B U S I N E S S & T E C H N O L O G Y | techfarms
A recent company that TechFarms Capital
secured venture capital funding for their
story. Chaos Audio was founded by Gulf
supportive environment setting the company
invested in is a local Bay County success
Coast State College students who are
now engineering students at Florida State University – Panama City (FSU-PC). Chaos
Audio is helping change the music industry
business and has been emersed into a
Chaos Audio also recently won first place
environment created at TechFarms have
InNOLEvation Challenge" in March. Chaos
CEO of Chaos Audio, "The assets and
purchase a new pedal for each sound effect
University
2021
Audio was the only team from FSU-PC to
an entrepreneurial start-up coming out of
will allow musicians to download new sound
TechFarms. Throughout our community,
effects from the Apple or Google app stores
there are thousands of entrepreneurs who
to their cell phones or tablets, and then
work every day to grow their business and
install them on the Stratus using Bluetooth
who employ thousands in Bay County.
wireless technology. While attending Gulf
major accomplishments. The company has
State
Chaos Audio is just one success story of
they desired. Chaos's new pedal, the Stratus,
Since its founding, Chaos Audio has seen
"Florida
will move to a statewide competition.
single pedal. Previously, musicians had to
play different sound effects on his guitar.
the
win, Chaos Audio took home $10,000 and
of sound effects to be produced from a
number of foot pedals and cost required to
in
compete in the final competition. With this
effects pedal that allows literally hundreds
Chaos Audio with the idea of reducing the
companies like Chaos Audio."
up for success. According to Landon McCoy,
by creating an all-in-one electric guitar
Coast State College, Landon McCoy founded
resources to support innovative high-tech
Landon McCoy, CEO of Chaos Audio led us to prosper. I am 100% certain that
if it were not for the environment created by TechFarms and the educational assets
in the community, we would not be here
today. TechFarms has created a network of
We are proud to have these businesses help
drive
our
local
economy.
These
entrepreneurs have a positive impact on our local economy, as well as the direction of our community.
Photos provided by the Bay Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA)
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 23
E D U C A T I O N | cte courses in bay county
CAREER & TECH EDUCATION CTE COURSES ON THE RISE IN BAY COUNTY SCHOOLS By Sharon Michalik | Bay District Schools
A
s industries expand throughout our community, Bay District Schools is committed to ensuring our students have access to a robust array of Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. These courses prepare students for college or career readiness, with many of them providing industry certifications and opportunities for college credit in the future. Beginning in August, middle school students pursuing computer science pathways in CTE will be learning to program in Python (a universal programming language). This new curriculum will enable students to earn a highly-valued Python Certification and pursue additional studies in Applied Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Game and Simulation, and Web Design. 24
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Additionally, high school CTE pathways are being matched with corresponding Advanced Placement (AP) courses, so students who already know they are heading to college have a chance to earn college credit. J.R. Arnold High School and A. Crawford Mosley High School will both pilot the new Computer Science CTE Curriculum Framework, which includes the highlevel AP Computer Science Principles or Procedural Programming and AP Computer Science A or Object Oriented Programming Fundamentals. Adding new CTE pathways is a decision we make with industry leaders who help us identify weak spots in the workforce or high-paying job opportunities for students.
A great example of that can be found in the recent expansion of the Construction Academy at Arnold. Construction managers reported a dearth of candidates for heavy equipment operator jobs, so we added a new pathway to help. With an investment of approximately $129,943.00 in CARES ACT Infrastructure Grant funds, Arnold students can now hone their heavy equipment skills and earn useful certifications. This equipment will also be available after hours to provide training opportunities to adults already in the field. At Rutherford, we're just weeks away from the grand opening of a state-ofthe-art welding lab that will give students the chance to try welding as a career. With five fully-equipped welding booths, the new $66,000 building will give students a chance to learn to use a Power MIG welder and a TIG welder. An investment of more than $38,000 in equipment and safety gear ensures the lab will provide students
man-hours and scholarship funds. The new STEM Building at Bay High will be a perfect example of innovation powered by private industry. Thanks to a generous $309,000 grant from the St. Joe Company Foundation, Bay High students will have access to a $76,000 Anomatage 3D Dissection Table, which will enable them to complete simulated surgeries and dissections. The grant also purchased two Sim Man 3D Medical Mannequins to allow students to practice medical procedures on animated mannequins that breathe, blink and interact. Students at Deane Bozeman School continue to amaze us with their accomplishments in the school's Agriculture program. In addition to being state and national Future Farmers of America award winners, Bozeman students literally run a working farm at their school and have the immense responsibility associated with taking care of live animals every day of the week, including days that are not school days. These students, many of whom plan to pursue careers in veterinary medicine or general pre-med, take hands-on science to a new level with their environmental experiments and projects as well as their animal husbandry and agricultural achievements.
CAPTION (Above): Middle School students at Breakfast Point Academy participate in robot building and lego robots in Becky Kildow's CTE Class. with hands-on training and experiences to prepare them for employment immediately following graduation OR further study at our award-winning Haney Technical Center.
CTE education is not just for high school students, however. Our middle school CTE programs are IT-focused to prepare students for the many different options available in high schools. Students in these middle school programs regularly work with 3D printers, Vex Robotics and other robotic
kits and activities. They have become very adept at operating video equipment to record their studies. Students at Surfside Middle School, for example, are using their technology to go live during the morning announcements from various areas of their campus just as experienced television reporters do for the morning and evening news. While we've focused on the skills of our secondary CTE students, we can't leave out our youngest scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Our elementary-focused Woz Ed curriculum provides many students with access to advanced robotics, coding and programming, drone flying, and other hands-on STEM activities. We hope to continue expanding and refining our CTE options to keep pace with the needs of industry leaders in our community and high-paying job opportunities for our students. All of our secondary CTE programs welcome the support of private industry. So if you're interested in working with the next generation of "movers and shakers," we invite you to contact the high school nearest you to find out how you can get involved as a mentor, guest speaker, or program supporter.
CAPTION (Below): Andrew Shingler, Parris Jaeger, and Payton Gay of Deane Bozeman High School compete in the pig contest at the state fair.
Over at Mosley, budding entrepreneurs will soon be able to find other like-minded students in the new Entrepreneurship Program. This new program comes with a full classroom makerspace that includes 3D printers, prototype tools, makerspace construction areas, cricut systems, two sewing machines, iPads for app development, and miscellaneous equipment like grinders, dremel systems, and tool boxes to organize and store equipment. Student entrepreneurs will bring a product from an idea board to fruition and will then compete with classmates in a "Dolphin Tank" event much like the "Shark Tank" TV series. Staff and students from Florida State University's Jim Moran Entrepreneurship program are supporting this event with WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 25
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
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R E A L E S T A T E | The St. Joe Company
The St. Joe Company L ATE ST D E V E LO P M E NTS
W
BY M I K E K E R R I G A N , T H E ST . J O E C O M PA N Y
hat has been used primarily as a
Work on the Latitude Margaritaville Watersound community
by vacationers exiting I-10 or residents
at the future intersection of the realigned State Road 388
convenient route to get to the beach
of Vernon and Bonifay, is in the early stages of transforming
into a hub of year-round activity in Bay County. State Road 79, the mostly four-lane roadway that deposits southbound motorists into the center of Panama City Beach, will soon be home to residential communities, businesses, and service
providers. Evidence of this evolution is visible to those who have used the roadway over the past several months.
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
is nearly impossible to miss on the west side of the road
leading to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. A 10,000 square foot sales center and 13 model homes have
been available for tours to prospective buyers in this 55-andbetter, Jimmy Buffett-inspired residential community since
early April. The St. Joe Company, along with partner Minto Communities, are developing the community to include
an initial phase of approximately 3,500 island-inspired
residences with the possibility of future phases to follow. The
research and educational opportunities. The planned campus
the community later in 2021.
located within just minutes of the Latitude Margaritaville
companies anticipate that the first residents will move into
Fronting State Road 79, The St. Joe Company has plans for
will grow over time on the 87-acre parcel that is conveniently Watersound community and just a few miles from the beach.
a commercial town center just outside the main entrance to
The St. Joe Company has plans for more shopping and
shops, restaurants, and office space. Providing a great off-
shape over time as the local community grows and evolves.
the Latitude Margaritaville community that includes plans for the-beach shopping destination, the company anticipates
that the town center will attract shoppers from not only the Latitude Margaritaville Watersound community but also residents and visitors from all over Bay County.
South of the Intracoastal Waterway, at the southeast corner of State Road 79 and Phillip Griffitts Sr. Parkway, referred to by locals as "Back Back Beach Road," plans are taking shape
for a health care campus that includes plans for Panama City
residential projects along State Road 79 that are sure to take With landscaped medians and a paved bike path already
in place, this stretch of roadway that was often considered just a pass-through is positioned to become a bustling
destination for residents and visitors alike. The services that
are planned can enhance the quality of life for local residents, and the new residential projects can provide unique housing
opportunities for the growing number of people looking to call Northwest Florida home.
Beach’s first hospital. The proposed project was announced
Growth is evident throughout Panama City Beach and all of
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and the Florida State
Road 79 will see several new projects that will provide the
in early April by The St. Joe Company who is working with University College of Medicine. Together, these organizations
plan to develop a health care campus that would include an urgent care center, a 100-bed hospital as well as facilities for
Bay County. Over the next several years, both sides of State facilities and services that growth depends on. Photos provided by The St. Joe Company
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 29
C O N S T R U C T I O N | philip griffitts sr. parkway
The approximately 2.7-mile bypass will provide locals, commuters, and visitors easy access from Nautilus Street to State Road 79, bypassing all of the Pier Park areas where traffic tends to back up.
Aaron Hapner with Multivista 30 Photo THE by CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Philip Griffitts SR. Parkway TO
PROVIDE
RELIEF
BY THE CITY OF PANAMA CITY BEACH
or many years, a limited access east-west bypass
F
This bypass road remained little more than an idea until a local
accommodating a growing population and increasing
in the summer of 2015. The 47-page analysis made a strong case for
With heavy summer gridlock on Back Beach Road, aka Panama City
with “strong consideration… given to extending the proposed
road was envisioned by local officials as a means of
beach tourism.
Beach Parkway, and traffic on Front Beach Road that moves at the pace of a sea turtle, the idea of constructing a “Back” Back Beach
Road or Loop Road seemed a great idea. And while the second segment is now near completion, it has been a long time coming.
Discussions between the City, Bay County, the Bay County Chamber
of Commerce, the Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), the
engineering firm was asked to prepare a traffic operational analysis moving forward with Loop Road. Those recommendations placed
the road beginning at State Road 79 and ending at Pier Park Drive roadway east to Nautilus Street.”
What finally spurred action, Jackson recalls, was a philosophical shift
toward housing and development by the St. Joe Company, which
donated the land for the project and paid for the engineering of Phase I.
St. Joe Company, and the Florida Department of Transportation
Yet even when it came time to vote on constructing the 1.4-mile
after the towns of Panama City Beach, West Panama City Beach,
sitting council members voted no, with one saying no one would use
(FDOT) go back as far as the early 1980s. Almost immediately
Edgewater Beach Resort, and Long Beach Resort merged in 1970, the need was identified.
Phase 1 of Loop Road in early 2016 at the cost of $2.5 million, two the road and another saying he didn’t see the value of the road for beach residents.
But for many years, there was little movement. Former City Manager
On a 3-2 vote, the Council, under former Mayor Gayle Oberst,
way, and that the largest landowner, St. Joe, was heavily invested in
which was later named Gayle’s Trails.
Richard Jackson says there were three obstacles: funding, right of the timber industry and wanted to retain its land for that purpose.
approved the construction with the installation of a multi-use path
We are excited for this completion, as the City continues moving forward with long-range transportation improvements.
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 31
Phase 2 will be completed and open for traffic by late May or early June. The approximately 2.7-mile bypass will provide locals, commuters, and
In January, the PCB City Council voted to rename the Parkway in honor of Philip Griffitts Sr., the City’s longest-serving mayor who passed away in late 2020.
visitors easy access from Nautilus Street to State Road 79, bypassing
all of the Pier Park areas where traffic tends to back up. Phase 2 also includes a multi-use trail on the east side of Nautilus, which connects to Gayle’s Trails.
“The City’s greatest need is for an improved transportation system,”
said Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon. “We are excited for this completion, as the City continues moving forward with long-range
transportation improvements, both with the completion of the Parkway and the construction of the next three segments of the Front Beach Road Community Redevelopment Area (CRA).”
The Parkway is being constructed as part of a public-private partnership with Panama City Beach, Bay County, the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT), and the St. Joe Company. Bay County has committed $3.5 million to the approximately $16 million Phase 2. The
City has an agreement with the County and FDOT that secures $4 million
in grant funds from FDOT to go toward construction which began in
the spring of 2020. Another $921,855 was appropriated through Florida Highway Funding through FDOT.
The City of Panama City Beach will fund the remaining portion for
construction. The construction of Phase 2 is partially funded by the City’s half-cent sales tax proceeds – $4.8 million has been collected
through February 2021. These funds have been used for engineering and construction. The utility improvements are being paid out of the Panama City Beach Utility Department’s Budget.
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
C O N S T R U C T I O N | philip griffitts sr. parkway “Opening the Parkway is a critical need,” Sheldon said. “We know traffic is a major issue. We are listening to the residents and taking
action. Motorists using this road are vehicles that are being taken
off Panama City Beach Parkway. It keeps traffic moving during the heavily congested spring and summer months and in an area that
tends to back up. As traffic is relieved, we expect to lessen the frustrations of all those on the road.”
There will be no traffic signals or stop signs on Philip Griffitts Sr. Parkway.
The Parkway has been constructed to FDOT standards and is expected
to be transferred to the state this year. It has also been constructed to accommodate an additional two lanes of traffic each way.
Phase 1 was constructed by Marshall Brothers Inc., and the contractor for Phase 2 was C.W. Roberts Contracting.
“Look for this roadway to open in late May or early June,” said Assistant Public Works Director Kathy Younce. “We plan on having a
grand opening and hope to have the Griffith family here as the first people to use the Parkway.
In January, the PCB City Council voted to rename the Parkway in honor of Philip Griffitts Sr., the City’s longest-serving mayor who passed away in late 2020.
Photo by Debbie Ingram Ward
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 33
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
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M E D I C A L | q + a o n prostate cancer
Q+A WITH
DOCTOR FINKELSTEIN -
ON
-
I
joined the Emerald Coast Medical Association
Board of Directors in 2019 after joining Florida Cancer Affiliates. As many dedicated physicians
here locally chose to do, I stayed during and after Hurricane Michael to ensure our community had access to quality
health care. In my case, that care includes the dreaded diagnosis of cancer.
I wanted to make a difference in how cancer patients are cared for in the Panhandle of Florida. My goal in staying was
to bring new treatment options and updated equipment to an area that my family and I had just grown to love just
before it was devastated by Hurricane Michael. I’m happy I stayed, and I’m happy to be part of the ECMA to serve beside the highest quality physicians in North Florida.
Today our ability to care for you here in our hometown, with the same level of advanced treatment and high level
of technology you get from larger metropolitan areas, is a reality.
Please take time to visit your primary care physician and
make sure you follow through on all the recommended screenings.
This article will help you understand more about Prostate Cancer Screening and Treatments, but if you need me, I’m here to serve.
36
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
How common is prostate cancer? Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in American men. In the United States, about 1 in 9 men
will get diagnosed with prostate cancer. The good news is
prostate cancer is highly treatable, and there are several treatment options available based on the person’s age,
options, especially advanced radiation therapy ?
health, and personal preference. I’m excited to talk about
Treatment options for prostate cancer include active
magazine.
to see if symptoms change over time, surgery to remove the
When should men get screened for prostate cancer?
own risks and benefits. The most common complications
those treatment options with the readership of The Circuit
Deciding to get tested is a personal decision made after a
consultation with a doctor. Some critical factors to consider
are your age and family history. Detecting prostate cancer early gives you the best chance of living longer. In fact, more
than 99 percent of men survive prostate cancer when it is caught early.
In my personal experience, my father was diagnosed with
prostate cancer ten years ago and received radiation therapy, and happy to report he is doing very well.
What are the treatment options, and have there been any recent advances in treatment
surveillance. We monitor the cancer and do consistent testing
prostate, or radiation therapy to shrink it. And each has its following surgery are related to the urinary system, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction, while complications
following older radiation techniques had been attributed to rectal injury, namely bleeding and diarrhea.
Interestingly, the most common approach for older men is
radiation therapy. And many of my patients are often very concerned about the potential side effects of radiation therapy.
I tell my patients that in order to reduce the risk of potential rectal damage associated with radiation, physicians can use something called SpaceOAR™ Hydrogel that creates a
temporary space between the prostate and the rectum. The presence of this gel, which is inserted via a minimally invasive
procedure prior to radiation treatment, is designed to reduce radiation dose to the rectum. Clinical data demonstrated
the benefits of SpaceOAR Hydrogel, including a reduction of rectal injury resulting in maintained bowel function and a higher likelihood to maintain urinary and sexual function. 2,3
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 37
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
M E D I C A L | q + a o n prostate cancer
Is it safe for men to visit their doctor to discuss prostate cancer treatments right now?
ABOUT THE DOCTOR
Clearly, 2020/2021 are not the years many of us expected. Physicians’ offices and hospitals have begun taking extra precautions due to COVID-19, and many locations have
safely resumed elective procedures. Talk to your doctor
about the precautions they are taking onsite and together determine the best time for you to receive treatment.
My personal experience has been that patients have been
seeking and receiving care just fine with appropriate precautions. It’s important for patients to discuss the
benefits and risks of each treatment option with their doctor
Steven Finkelstein, M.D., DABR, FACRO Steven Eric Finkelstein received his M.D. from the
and select the most suitable option for the individual.
University of Michigan in 1997, graduating cum laude
References:
(NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a Clinical
eruditions causa. He joined the National Cancer Institute
Finkelstein SE, Salenius S, Mantz CA, et al. Combining
Associate in 1999 and completed both Surgical Oncology
Clin
in 2004. Following completion of an additional radiation
Cancer.
Fellowship as well as Clinical Immunotherapy Fellowship
10.1016/j.clgc.2014.09.001. Epub 2014 Sep 28. Review.
oncology residency, Dr. Finkelstein was selected as Chief
Immunotherapy
Genitourin
and
Radiation
Cancer.
2015
for
Prostate
Feb;13(1):1-9.
doi:
Hamstra DA, Mariados N, Sylvester J, et al. Sexual quality of life following prostate intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with a rectal/prostate spacer: Secondary analysis of a
phase 3 trial. Pract Radiat Oncol. 2018 Jan - Feb;8(1):e7-e15. Hamstra DA, Mariados N, Sylvester J, et al. Continued
benefit to rectal separation for prostate radiation therapy: Final results of a phase III trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2017 Apr 1;97(5):976-85
Resident in Radiation Oncology at Moffitt Cancer Center/ University of South Florida. In 2011, he was recruited to join the 21C Translational Research Consortium (TRC)
and was appointed its National Director. In 2014, he was
promoted to 21C Chief Science Officer. In 2017, he returned to Florida to serve as Cancer Director of Bay Regional Cancer Center at AUI. In 2019, with much excitement, Dr. Finkelstein joined the U.S. Oncology Network at Florida
Cancer Affiliates to continue advancing patient access
to novel, advanced cancer care. Dr. Finkelstein can be reached at Florida Cancer Affiliates, (850) 763-0036, 2100 State Avenue, Panama City, FL 32405.
Ask the Doctor is contributed by the physician members of the Emerald Coast Medical Association. Our mission is: "Empowering Physicians to Promote the Highest Quality Patient Care." If you are interested in learning more about their organization, please visit www.emeraldcoastmedicalassociation.com.
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 39
B U S I N E S S S P O T L I G H T S | featured chamber members
BAYSOLUTIONS BAYSOLUTIONS is pleased to announce the appointment of Shay Catrett as President of the company. Catrett has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and has worked with BAYSOLUTIONS for 17 years, serving as Vice President of the company since 2015. During her tenure at BAYSOLUTIONS, Shay has been heavily involved in the community and currently serves on the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Florida State University Development Board, Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Panama City Rotary Club Board of Directors, and the United Way of Northwest Florida Board of Directors. BAYSOLUTIONS is a full-service firm specializing in governmental relations, general business consulting, and professional development training. Our clients include Fortune 500 companies, small business entrepreneurs, not-for-profit organizations, and numerous governmental entities. For more information about our services and team, visit www.baysolutions.com.
THE HOUSE OF HENRY Located in the now booming and vibrant Downtown Panama City, The House of Henry has been a must-see stop for anyone coming to Harrison Avenue. Birthed in the summer of 2020, they have already established themselves as an authority on Irish Cuisine and premiere entertainment. Live music is promised every night, including Dueling Pianos on Wednesday nights from 8-11 pm. The House of Henry also offers daily food and drink specials which you can always find on their Facebook and Instagram pages, which are updated daily to keep you in the know. Owner Bobby Beard has always dreamed of opening up an Irish Pub, and when the opportunity came knocking, he answered the door. The name also holds meaning. "My great grandfather was named Henry Webb, so it's definitely an homage to him and his spirit." Beard's family is also a pioneering family of Bay County, so his roots run strong here. If you think it's all just hype, one look at the reviews will show you that The House of Henry is the real deal. BK Miller wrote: "For 3+ decades, I've traveled the US, Canada, and Internationally. For my meals, I dined at "local" Irish Pubs (if they existed). Based on "many samplings" (in my opinion), Boston, NYC, and surrounding areas have the TOP Irish Pubs in North America. That said, "an Irish Pot of Gold" exists in Panama City. In the form of an Authentic Irish Pub, named The House of Henry, it is on downtown Harrison Avenue. Goodbye, Boston. Goodbye, NYC."
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
SNELLING STAFFING SERVICES In 1989, Larry and Ruth Burton were both managers at Tommy Thomas Chevrolet in Panama City and started looking for a new career and challenge. They ended up buying half the Snelling Staffing franchise that was only placing people in permanent jobs with applicants paying the fee. This was a dying system, and the Burton's set to modernize and start doing temporary and temp-to-perm placements as well and take on the many competitors in town doing that. Now 31 years later, as sole owners, Larry and Ruth have seen all the competitors in business when they started gone while Snelling continues to grow and thrive. "We wanted a business of our own to be able to set our own lifestyle, to help others find the same success we were looking for, and to be able to spend more time being involved with our child," Larry tells us. "Our goal was to have a company that gave hope to any person or business looking for a better future, and we wanted to give back to the community and pay our 'civic rent'," Burton says. In these last 31 years, with thousands of people placed in great jobs along with local and national awards heaped upon them for their civic work and volunteerism, they continue to strive to be of help wherever they can. Proud to be the only locally owned, locally run full-service employment business in the area, the owners and staff here look forward to the future.
WOMEN'S COUNCIL OF REALTORS The Central Panhandle Women’s Council of REALTORS® is filled with professional men and women who are advancing the way in which we do business. We develop strong relationships with our community and Strategic Partners who help meet goals each year to strengthen business leadership and education. Top 5 Reasons to Join Women’s Council: 1. Top Referral Network • 54% of member's sent one or more referrals to another Women’s Council member 2. Business Leadership Training 3. Our Numbers Tell It All • Women’s Council members earn more $134,470 average / $87,690 median • Women’s Council members are sought after leaders: 65% hold leadership positions in community or business • Women’s Council members hold 20% of NAR Committee positions 4. Connections & Camaraderie • Local, state, & national networks are invaluable for your business and your growth 5. Member Benefits Program • Enjoy discounts on travel, entertainment in business: Rental cars & hotels, Shipping, Closing gifts, Tickets, Office supplies
Serving Bay County For Over 50 Years JOB S
We are a volunteer-driven organization that offers industry events, leadership development opportunities, and a true place where local business leaders are willing to share information and techniques and develop camaraderie. The network provides recognition, support, encouragement, and mentors that are needed to grow your business. Our local network experience is an amazing mix of professional relationships, dynamic friendships, deep-rooted strength, integrity, and caring. At the Central Panhandle Women’s Council of Realtors, #LeadersMadeHere! WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 41
Meet The SUV That’s In Touch With Everything.
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
90 Day Protection against COVID-19 Business & Residential
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See + Be Seen
F R I D AY AT T H E B E A C H Capt. Anderson's Event Center | March 12, 2021
For all event photos, visit our Facebook: 44
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Blue Swell Rentals & Real Estate | March 18, 2021
For all event photos, visit our Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 45
S E E & B E S E E N | continued
IDEACAMP Craft 850 | March 31, 2021
For all event photos, visit our Facebook: 46
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Angry Tuna Seafood Company | April 15, 2021
For all event photos, visit our Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 47
March 2021 IdeaCamp at Craft 850
IdeaCamp inspire • energize • ignite BY TIFFINEY CARTER
O
ur first quarter of IdeaCamps for 2021 came to a successful
Conditioning Company, Hare Taylor, Panama City Toyota, Mica
Retail Banking of First National Bank, was the guest speaker
Shield, and The Dream Team/Republic State Mortgage. We would
close. Lorenda Shiver Smith, Director of Marketing and
for our March IdeaCamp located at Craft 850. Lorenda spoke on how you can protect yourself from financial fraud as well as
how to balance professionalism with personality. We had a great
turnout, and everyone had a wonderful time laughing, learning, and networking with members and friends.
We kicked off our second quarter of IdeaCamp with guest speaker
Gary White, Executive Director of the John Maxwell Team, at Hampton Inn & Suites. Gary led this interactive speaking forum with the topic "Unlimited." If you skipped this one, you missed out on a fantastic time and a load of fun!
As always, we would like to thank our presenting sponsor, Southwest
Specialties, Team Gough Real Estate, Michael Covington with Legal also like to thank Craft 850 and Hampton Inn & Suites for welcoming us to host our forums and for providing us with an excellent venue.
We look forward to an exciting year for IdeaCamp and hope you can make it out to the next event. Come out and get energized, inspired, and ready to grow with us!
W H AT I S I D E A C A M P ?
IdeaCamp is a forum to inspire, energize, and ignite the community through sharing, connecting, and cultivating open-minded discussions supporting the free flow of ideas. IdeaCamp creates an experience to learn, engage, and expand your life and your business.
Airlines, and our additional supporting sponsors, A Superior Air
48
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
April 2021 IdeaCamp at Hampton Inn & Suites
April 2021 IdeaCamp at Hampton Inn & Suites
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 49
C O M M I T T E E U P D A T E S | ambassadors
Ambassadors Represent Your Chamber BY JAMES CLEMENS
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Ambassador Meeting at Angry Tuna Seafood Company
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce connects these together for tens of thousands of people each month. And if you believe in this mission, and want to support local businesses, consider becoming an Ambassador for the PCB Chamber. You’ll welcome new members and other fun things that help our local chamber serve and strengthen our business community. Our team of volunteers has celebrated dozens of amazingly-great milestones for area businesses in PCB, Lynn Haven, Panama City,
Callaway, and most all of Bay County, Florida. It’s already been a fabulous year, and we’re here to facilitate so much more in the months ahead. We all know what a precious resource we have here in NW Florida. And it’s not just the beauty of the nature around us; it’s the people and the love we have for one another. We are wellaccustomed to visitors, and this year we find ourselves even more of an oasis than usual. Let’s make an extra effort to support each other with patience as we work to care for these many visitors and deal with the traffic. Many businesses are working understaffed and the burden on employees is real. A word of encouragement can help someone get through their day. Spread kindness and patience to the employees you encounter. Be an Ambassador… be in the people business. Speaking of being in the people business, continue reading to meet two of our amazing Ambassadors. Each edition we will feature two, so please check back to discover two more people worth meeting!
R A C H E L D AV I S
JENNA HALL
Covenant Care, Regional Development Coordinator
Hallin' Hearts, Owner & Operator
We are thankful to have someone like Rachel Davis, representing
Jenna is one of those happy people in life you’re glad you met.
Covenant Care, here in our Ambassador group. A native of
She is highly engaged with the Panama City Beach Chamber
Panama City, Florida, she has devoted herself to our community
of Commerce and loves traveling the highways and roadways
both personally and professionally. How perfect is that?
of the Southeast United States with a bunch of people (hearts) cruzin’ along.
Rachel loves helping people and building relationships. She is especially focused on organizations whose values align with the
Naturally, her company is named Hallin’ Hearts! A private group
mission and vision of Covenant Care, creating opportunities
transportation and excursions company, Jenna and her family
that further cooperative ventures in the community.
provide planned ground travel and group ride experiences. Their services are great for family outings and company events
Rachel is making beautiful memories here in the Florida
alike.
Panhandle. She loves hiking, being out on the water, and listening to live music with her friends. This is home sweet
Jenna is super busy with professional and volunteer work in our
home!
community, but she leaves time to enjoy long days at the beach with food, family, friends, and a beautiful sunset!
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WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 51
A R O U N D T O W N | community updates CITY OF PANAMA CITY BEACH
MarK Sheldon
mayor Google “best places to visit in Florida” and a Top 20 list pops up from U.S. News & World Report. It should come as no surprise to any of us that Panama City Beach made this prestigious ranking and is continually ranked among the best beach vacation spots in the country. Let us give credit to our number one asset! We are blessed with amazing white sandy beaches, which bring national and international visitors to our City. While it is the beach that brings them here, they enjoy many of our amusements and attractions, state and local parks, special events, great accommodations, variety of food, shopping, and great Southern hospitality. Having a tourist-based economy means we lack some of the economic diversity of other areas, and our community is more susceptible to things like the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of natural disasters like hurricanes. But we have always managed to rebound, and data now shows being outdoors is one of the safest places to be when it comes to the coronavirus.
DR. RANDY HANNA
The tourism industry is stronger now than it has been in a long time in Panama City Beach due in part to the fact that we have continued to welcome visitors. Gov. Ron DeSantis kept our state open, and we are proud to have remained open. We are excited as we welcome visitors from all over the world to what we know are the world’s most beautiful beaches. Airport travel and flights into Panama City Beach are higher than they’ve been in a long time, with more direct flights into our destination providing greater convenience for travelers. People at home and around the country are anxious to travel. We offer a great respite for vacationers and our own local residents. There’s just nothing like a day at the beach! Panama City Beach’s tourism industry is only as good as it is because of the community we are. The residents, business community, and tourism industry all work together in unison to be sure we offer our visitors the very best experience. Our visitors share their experiences with others and they return for more good memories. This is how the love for Panama City Beach continues to grow. People want to come here to make memories. They walk on our trails, participate in ball tournaments, enjoy great cuisine, and at the end of the day, watch our beautiful sunsets on the world’s most beautiful beaches.
FSU PANAMA CITY
president It's an exciting time at Florida State University Panama City. With more people getting vaccinated every day around the country and right here in our own community, we are seeing the slow but steady shift back to normality and are looking forward to the bright future ahead. After delaying in-person graduation ceremonies due to the pandemic, we were proud to welcome the past two graduating classes and finally honor those who were unable to participate in an in-person commencement ceremony. The event, held at Tommy Oliver Stadium in April, celebrated the achievements of more than 660 students—including the current graduating class. Being able to honor these students in person means a great deal to them and us. As alumni, FSU PC will always be their home. That's the FSU PC promise. With the dedication of the Chapman Family Foundation Center for Academic Advising and Student Success, we were also able
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
to highlight another important promise in April. The promise to remove financial barriers from our students has been greatly supported by the Chapman Family Foundation's generous donation to the FSU PC Promise Scholarship. Support from the Chapman Family and other important partners make it possible for the FSU PC Promise Scholarship to provide free tuition and fees to students who are residents of NW Florida and whose combined family and student income is less than $50,000 or are Pell eligible. Community partnerships are so very important to the success of our mission, and I am thrilled with the recent announcement by St. Joe Company, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare, and the FSU College of Medicine regarding the Intent to develop FSUHealth, a new medical facility, which will be located in Panama City Beach. We have been working with these partners since the fall and are so proud that they have made this announcement. Thank you for your commitment to Florida State University Panama City.
Philip "griff" Griffitts
BAY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
district 5 Spring has sprung, and Bay County has a lot going on as the pandemic finally comes to an end. Here are a few important items: ٠ ReHouseBay continues to provide housing assistance, including roof replacement, for qualifying individuals. Also providing down payment, eviction and foreclosure assistance. Visit Rehousebay.org to learn more. ٠ Bay County is still offering free COVID-19 testing and will do so through at least the end of May at the Lynn Haven Recreation Complex. Visit bayhealthcovid19.com (or .org) to make an appointment or learn more. For pandemic updates and information about vaccination clinics, text “bayhealth” to 888-777. And if you’re already signed up and are tired of getting notifications, please respond “stop” to that thread. ٠ Bay County will hold a town hall meeting to discuss the reopening of East Pass and the status of the study to determine its feasibility from 4-6 p.m. May 20 in the Bay County Commission Chambers, located at 840 W. 11th St., Panama City. The public is invited to attend. The meeting will also stream live at baycountyfl.gov.
GLEN MCDONALD
٠ Bay County provides severe weather warnings via AlertBay, our emergency notification system. Sign up for AlertBay by visiting www.alertbay.org (or .com). You can choose where, when, and how you are alerted to an array of events, including severe weather, unexpected road closures, boil water notices, evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods, and much more. If you need assistance signing up or managing your AlertBay account, please call Emergency Management at (850) 248-6040. Also, Bay County’s Disaster Handbooks are available online and in hardcopy. Hurricane season starts May 15 this year — sign up for AlertBay and make sure you, your family, and your business have a plan should a disaster strike. ٠ Bay County’s 2020 Annual Report and 2021 Budget Summary are available online at baycountyfl.gov and hard copies are available at the Chambers of Commerce, public libraries, and at the Government Center. These documents outline accomplishments and efforts over 2020 as well as provide a summary of how the public’s tax dollars are budgeted for the current budget year. The 2021-26 strategic plan will be completed and posted within a couple of weeks. Visit baycountyfl.gov to learn more or call Valerie Sale at (850) 248-8170 for more information.
GULF COAST STATE COLLEGE
vice president of strategic initiatives & economic development Most may not realize, but the first place many industries interested in Bay County visit is Gulf Coast State College. The reason is not surprising. Availability of locally trained and experienced workforce is the most important variable for any industry or company. GCSC has over 130 degrees, transfer tracks, and certificates, and 95% of our graduates have either secured employment or continued their education one year after graduation. Our career track A.S. programs have local industry advisory boards to enable us to train the best available workforce, focusing on industry requirements. GCSC recently started a new program to help the industry hire new local manufacturing technicians. Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) is a nationally recognized Co-Op program that provides a pathway to earn an Associate’s Degree while gaining 1,800 hours of on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. Participants will attend GCSC two days per week and work three days per week. Local manufacturers will also participate in curriculum evaluation and changes.
Speaking of local industry, in 2020, we had 279 graduates in our Health Sciences programs, and 85% of these graduates are working in our local healthcare industries. Our students and faculty not only work in our local healthcare industry but also volunteer. Many of these students with current credentials helped Ascension Sacred Heart administer Covid-19 vaccines in February through March 2021. These students were great volunteers and allowed for maximum doses to be administered to the public. We are so proud of their accomplishments and support to our community. We were very excited to announce the new Gulf Coast Guarantee Program on April 7, 2021. All current year high school graduates from our service district will be guaranteed $700 per semester if they enroll in 12 credit hours or more per semester with no restrictions or applications required. This program was developed to help grow our local talent pool and provide all industries with qualified employees that already live, work, and play in Bay, Gulf, and Franklin counties. GCSC is committed to providing a qualified workforce for our industries. Come see us and let us develop a plan to help you!
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 53
A R O U N D T O W N | community updates
BILL HUSFELT
BAY DISTRICT SCHOOLS
superintendent I cannot think of a better example of a public-private partnership than our partnerships with industry leaders and our school-based Career and Technical Education programs. Working closely with those in the workforce enables us to identify both areas where the labor pool is shallow and areas of high-paying jobs that may be of interest to students in the near future. When we partner together to provide opportunities through expanded CTE programming and access to state-of-the-art equipment that is privately funded, our entire community wins by ensuring we have a local workforce that is trained and ready to meet the needs and that we’re graduating students who are both career and college-ready. In another article in this edition, you can read a more in-depth update about our programs, but I’d like to take a minute to just brag about a couple of these partnerships. First of all, there’s the heavy equipment simulator program at J.R. Arnold High School that is the direct result of these sorts of conversations. Construction leaders let us know they couldn’t find enough certified heavy equipment operators, and we were able to use CARES Act Infrastructure grant money to purchase
two simulators to help graduate students with useful industry certifications. Not only are we using those simulators during the school day for our students, but we’re making them available after hours to contractors who want to provide additional training to employees they already have. The simulators are truly state-of-the-art, and they even vibrate and rumble like real heavy equipment! Can you imagine being in high school and having the opportunity to actually operate a bulldozer, even in a simulation? Today’s high school classrooms differ greatly from those we sat in, and this is just one example of the difference technology can make. Another amazing example of this partnership can be found in the new St. Joe Community Foundation STEM Center at Bay High School. State funding for construction can only stretch for far, and we knew we wanted to add some real cutting-edge medical equipment to this building for our pre-med students. Thanks to a $309,000 grant from the St. Joe Community Foundation, we were able to do that. Students are going to be able to perform simulated medical procedures on interactive mannequins purchased with this grant, and they will also have access to a 3-D animated table that will allow them to mimic actual surgical procedures. Isn’t it cool to know that we’re going to graduate a generation of students who have had the opportunity to practice simulated medical procedures while still in high school? These are just two examples of the partnerships we’ve forged and the great benefits being garnered by our students. If you really want to see this concept in action, I invite you to take a tour of Haney Technical Center, where innovation happens daily and adult students of all ages are taking their next steps towards exciting, high-paying careers.
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Innovative learning is one of the aspects of BDS of which we are most proud, and many of those opportunities in the CTE arena have come about as a result of public and private partnerships. It’s a really great feeling to know that there are so many people in our community who care deeply about public education and about the opportunities afforded to our students, and we sincerely appreciate that commitment on the part of individuals, corporations, and our entire community. Our CTE pathways are only as strong as the partnership we have with industry, so I invite all business leaders to get as involved as time allows. We welcome guest speakers and mentors for our students, as well as the input, advice, and leadership of those who are actively involved in these industries. To find out how you can get involved, just reach out to the middle or high school closest to you. Our principals will welcome you! Stay safe, God Bless, and thank you!
BECCA HARDIN
BAY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE
president 2020 was a year full of firsts. By now, the world is growing accustomed to adapting to change. Here at the Bay Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA), we can attest to our newfound comfortability to change. While the world is rapidly changing around us, we have found change here within the Bay EDA team. In January 2021, Polly Jackson, our Director of Finance and Administration, retired after nine wonderful years with the Bay EDA. While we were sad to see her leave; however, we understand that change is inevitable. After an extensive search, we hired an employee that would absorb Polly’s role, as well as support the Bay EDA team in the economic development efforts. We welcomed our newest hire, Katie May, to the team, holding the role of Director of Economic Development. Katie comes to the Bay EDA with a very diverse skill set. Previous to her role at the Bay EDA, Katie held positions in HR, Operations, Projects, and Venture Capital. Katie worked in Human Resources, supporting a workforce of over 900 employees where she
DAN ROWE
pioneered a leadership training program that managed and prepared leaders in training, resulting in higher retention rate and quality improvements on four production lines. Immediately before her new role with the Bay EDA, Katie worked in Des Moines, Iowa for an Agricultural FinTech company where she held titles of Project Manager and Operations Manager. Additionally, Katie assisted in launching a lending company and leading a venture capital raise of $42M. In addition to her business background, Katie has ten years of leadership experience in international equestrian organizations along with her roles as President of Florida State University Communication Club. Katie received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Communication and Business Management from Florida State University along with a Master’s Degree in Corporate and Public Communication. During this time, Katie was chosen to represent the College of Applied Studies for the President’s Humanitarian of the Year Award. We are very excited to welcome Katie back to Bay County and to the Bay EDA team.
VISIT PANAMA CITY BEACH
president & ceo Panama City Beach has much to look forward to this summer, as we invite back millions of visitors and their families to our beautiful beaches. The destination is gearing up for an unforgettable season packed with fresh experiences along with a number of exciting offerings and new developments. As locals know, whether you are looking for new adventures on land or the water, Panama City Beach is the perfect destination to explore. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the Summer Concert Series every Tuesday night at Aaron Bessant Park or take a stroll through Pier Park for some amazing shopping and restaurants. For those who want to be in, on, or under the warm water, summer is the perfect season to experience the area’s amazing fishing, diving, and boating! Traditionally, May and June mark the beginning of the busiest season in Panama City Beach and the most important months for businesses that depend on the total economic impact of $3.08 billion in direct spending that visitors bring to the destination each year. As tourism numbers continue to rise and businesses continue to invest in the area, it’s no surprise that Panama City Beach is receiving national attention for being a premier year-round vacation destination. In just the last few months, Panama City Beach was named the “#2 Emerging Destination in the World” by TripAdvisor and the “#10 Trending US Travel Destinations for Summer 2021” by Travel Pulse.
In addition, UNwineD and Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam were listed as the top 10 Best Beach Festivals on Florida’s Gulf Coast by Southern Living. The destination’s premier two-day culinary festival, UNwineD, will return June 4-5. The annual event will feature craft beer, wine and spirits from around the world in addition to mouth-watering creations from some of the area’s leading chefs. The weekend’s festivities kick off on Friday at 6:00 p.m. with an elegant garden party presented by Southern Living. This exclusive VIP event includes delicious bites from Top Chef winner and “Gulf Southerner” Kelsey Barnard Clark. The Grand Afternoon Tasting takes place on Saturday from 1:00-4:30 p.m., offering guests the opportunity to savor craft beer, spirits, and wine along with food pairings from favorite local eateries. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs to set up in the park. This year’s entertainment will include country music singer Lindsey Ell performing Friday night, and taking the stage Saturday will be rock artist Ayron Jones. Bring your lawn chair and blankets! Whether you are interested in a taste of PCB, a sip of a fun cocktail, or ready to jam out with your closest friends, we can’t wait to host you this June! For more information about UNwineD, June 4th and 5th, please visit our website at www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/unwined. Tickets are on sale now!
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 55
A R O U N D T O W N | community updates
KIM BODINE
CAREERSOURCE GULF COAST
executive director I am excited to share that we decided to fully reopen our offices in April. Customers may now visit any of our
remind our community that we are a no-cost resource to both employers and job seekers.
locations without an appointment!
For employers, we can provide labor trend data and recruitment
traditionally required an appointment,
ideas and methods for recruitment and training opportunities.
There are still services that have
like meeting one-on-one with a career counselor, so those appointments will
services, post job orders, and work with you to develop new We know that recruiting can be difficult, and we want to help.
continue. We will still follow safety protocols, including mandatory
For jobseekers, the time is right to gain employment or make
mask while inside our offices for the time being. For anyone who
in many industries right now. We stand ready to connect you to
temperature checks and the requirement that customers wear a may be uncomfortable visiting us in person, we will offer our services virtually, both over the phone and through email.
Included in our plan to return to in-person processes, we will again be providing group employability workshops. These events
are free to attend, but individuals must be registered in advance
for planning purposes. These workshops are a great way to get hands-on help in obtaining great interviewing techniques and
creating a resume that aligns with your career goals and specific job opportunities.
Beginning with the first week of May, we will host regularly scheduled hiring events. Each week, we will host multiple
employers at our Job Center for jobseekers to meet with
them face-to-face and apply and interview for employment opportunities on the spot.
We appreciate the opportunity to focus on and celebrate industry in this issue of The Circuit. Bay County is home to many
vibrant industries that provide great jobs for our residents, many
of whom are recruiting workers right now. At CareerSource Gulf Coast, we support our local industries and the businesses they
represent. Great jobs drive prosperity in every community, and
as an organization, we understand that supporting job creation through talent development is one of the most important things we do.
Our Board of Directors, made up of business leaders and
education, economic development, and community and state
agency representatives, work together to determine the best ways to support existing businesses and attract new ones. We all
agree that having a community rich in skilled and hard-working talent is the best way to support our industries. Developing
strategies to grow and recruit talent is common and the most
important goal for all our partners because it is good for all of
us—the job creators, the workers, and the community as a whole. We are seeing a large number of job postings in almost every industry sector at this time, which means this is a good time to 56
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
that next career move! There is an abundance of opportunities those opportunities.
CareerSource Gulf Coast operates offices in Bay, Gulf, and
Franklin Counties. To learn more about our workshops, hiring events, or connect with the office nearest you, please visit
our website at careersourcegc.com. You may also reach us at customerservice@careersourcegc.com.
In compliance with the Steven’s Amendment, please go to careersourcegc.com for more information.
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Grand openings The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Ambassador Committee welcomes the newest members of the Beach Chamber. If you haven't scheduled your business' Grand Opening, Ribbon Cutting, or Ground Breaking, contact our Director of Membership, Shannon Richmond, at (850) 235-1159.
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Ribbon Cuttings 1. Slim Chickens – Lynn Haven | 2. NHC HomeCare | 3. Man in the Sea Museum 4. GENTS Barbering Lounge | 5. Cybersmetrics | 6. Buster's Boardwalk | 7. Royal Exteriors 8. Bay Credit Union – Main Office | 9. Bodywork at Zen | 10. Blue Swell Rentals & Real Estate 11. Blue Sky Express Car Wash | 12. SJ Cleaning & Organizing Services
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G R A N D O P E N I N G S & R I B B O N C U T T I N G S | continued
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20 13. Deezigns & Graphics | 14. Dat Cajun Place | 15. SMRT Florida 16. MidSouth Bank – PCB | 17. 360 Fuel Store – Panama City | 18. White Construction Company 19. Casanoah Design Group | 20. Kona Ice of Panama Paradise & South Walton County
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
A LETTER FROM YOUR CHAMBER REP Let’s get growing! Growing your business through the Chamber starts with the right connections, and I thought this would be a great topic since our membership has reached nearly 1,300 members. Networking is one of the biggest keys to growing your business. The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce works hard to create networking opportunities for professionals to network, learn about local businesses, exchange ideas, and build professional, long-lasting relationships. It is in your best interest to attend or have your staff attend as many networking opportunities as possible in order to get engaged with the local business community. Building relationships, whether personal or professional, is vital to growing your business. Did you know it takes approximately 7-9 touches for people to remember a new person or company and to create a foundation for a trusting relationship? Our Chamber events allow you the opportunity to build these relationships with fellow professionals, sharing who you are and what service or goods you provide.
Did you know, studies show that consumers typically link Chamber of Commerce membership with business trustworthiness? In fact, one study shows that consumers are 68 percent more likely to buy from a local business that is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. This is a huge benefit, especially for a new company that has not yet established its own credibility with the consumers. As most local businesses know, credibility is crucial when it comes to converting local consumers. Becoming a member of your Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce offers an excellent return on investment. Actually, some benefits, such as networking and instant credibility, just can’t be obtained at the level your business needs without becoming a member! If you have any questions about your membership or want to know more ways you can get involved, please let me know; I would love to help get you connected! Here’s to connecting the dots!
What is expected of me as a Chamber Member? As a Chamber Member, we have no expectations of you; this is your membership to use as you see fit. That said, you will only get out what you choose to put in. Members who are involved and build relationships and engage with clients see far more benefit and growth than those who decide not to be active. We provide several opportunities each month for our members to attend, and we hope you will choose to get engaged and join us! Your membership investment will translate into one of the most cost-effective marketing strategies to maximize the exposure of your business!
Shannon Richmond Shannon Richmond shannon@pcbeach.org (850) 890-8069
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N E W + R E N E W I N G M E M B E R S | February 16, 2021 - April 23, 2021
NEW MEMBERS 20/20 Mortgage A New Day, Community Transitional Resource Center
Forever Bella
AIRials & More, LLC
Friends of St. Andrews State Park
Alignment Bay County
GENTS Barbering Lounge
AXE 850
Guthrie's Fried Chicken – PCB Parkway location
BancorpSouth – Mia Pankey
Pet Care By Kim Pro Image Sports Ram Jack Realty Connect – Beth Fulton Salty Taps Event Trailer Sherri Campbell
H & R Block – On the Beach
Slim Chickens – Lynn Haven
HLIS
SMRT Florida
Hungry Howie's – East End location
Solar Dove
Hungy Howie's – West End location
Southern Shores of PCB
iBrow Experts
Special Olympics Florida
Burke Construction Group, Inc.
Jin Jin King
Sundew Solar, LLC
Certified Gearhead Motorsports
jIT Solutions
Sunset Airport Transportation
Choice Cleaning of PCB
Kenneth Frame
The Shack Pub & Grub
Chorus SmartSecure, LLC
LPGA Amateur Upper Coast Florida
The Shatter Shop Glass Art PCB
Club 360
Maddie's La Casita
The Spice and Tea Exchange
Coastal Heritage Real Estate
Mary Kay – Benicia Valentine
Vollara
Corcoran Reverie
McDonald's Restaurant Pier Park
Ebro Card Room
MK Weber Engineering, LLC
Vulcan Employment Law Group, LLC
Emerald Executive Helicopters
Moore & Moore Advertising
Every Child Home
Move It Storage
Watersound Closings & Escrow, LLC
Exotic Exposure Tanning
NSA Panama City Homes
White Construction Company
Fat and Weird Cookie
Outlaw Home Inspections
Florida Cancer Affiliates – State Avenue location
Panhandle Patio
World's Only Biker Comedy Hypnotist
Bay Building Industries Association Bay Credit Union – Main Office Blackbelt Aluminum & Screen Blissful Mortgage, LLC – Panama City Office
Florida Cancer Affiliates – Jenks Avenue location
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Food Truck Festivals of America, LLC
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Perry & Young
Watermark at Urban Blu
R E N E WA L S 1 Year Advantage Refrigeration & Air, Inc. Anchor Realty Florida – Tina Gates APEX Disaster Specialists Axe Throwing PCB Balconista Furniture Coastline Insulation, LLC Dementia Family Pathways Horsley Real Estate Group Mary Kay – Cheryl Fulcher Mayor Accounting & Consulting Services Rizzetta & Company Sea Tow, Panama City Southern Brass, LLC Synergi Partners Thompson Tractor Company
Royal Escape Rooms St. John Catholic Academy and Church Sunshine Capital Solutions Truland Homes
3 Years 104.3 ESPN Panama City & Hot 101.7 ABC Supply Co., Inc. Aim Higher Home Inspection Capital City Bank Emerald Coast Clean Werks, Inc. Endless Beach Rentals, LLC Island Time Sailing
Jackson County Tourist Development Council John Lee Nissan Law Office of Rebecca Southwell Daffin Nate's Sanitation Service, Inc. Outback Steakhouse P.S. Print Source Panama City Mazda Angry Tuna Seafood Company Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa SkyWheel Poole Engineering & Surveying, Inc. Soulistic Counseling Corner, LLC St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club
2 Years 360 Fuel Store Blissful Mortgage, LLC Bricks & Barley Pizza Certified Roofing Solutions, LLC Chairs 2 U Beach Chair Rentals Cole & Associates Marine Surveyors, Inc. Cornerstone Title Agency, Inc. Courtyard by Marriott Fitness 360 PCB High Definition Coaching Inside Out Property Improvement, LLC Intellichoice Builders, LLC JM Phelps Construction Keep PCB Beautiful Paradise Adventures Catamaran David Scott Fine Jewelry, Inc. Prine Orthodontics – Panama City WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 63
N E W + R E N E W I N G M E M B E R S | continued The Public Adjusters TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tradebank of Panama City
4 Years America's Swimming Pool Co. Anchorage Children's Home Beach Nails & Spa Beachy Beach Real Estate Caliber Home Loans Christo's Sports Bar & Grill DiBacco Importing & Distributing Edwards Fine Food & Wine George's at Alys Beach La Crema Tapas & Chocolate LaCo-Latin Coastal Kitchen Legendary Marine Paradise Properties Vacation Rentals & Sales Pregnancy Resource Center Saltwater Grill Seagrass Village of Panama City Beach That Cleaning Chick, LLC The Pour Coffee House Two Men And A Truck Young Living by Connie Prather
5 Years
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services D.R. Horton. Inc. Destination Panama City Lynchpin Tax Solutions, LLC Panama Business Machines Shuckums Oyster Pub & Grill WMBB TV Channel 13
6 Years Carpet Care Specialists Four Star Condo Services
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Gulf Coast Children's Advocacy Center Salty Goat Saloon SmartBank
7 Years 79 West Apartments Hall Insurance & Payroll Panhandle Paint & Decorating LLC Surfside McDonald's Restaurant
8 Years Domino's Pizza EPS Corp Florida Jeep Jam Homes Sweet Homes, Inc. Koehnemann Construction Nu Wave Medical Center Shepard Law Uncle Ernie's Bayfront Grill & Brew House
9 Years Buster's Boardwalk Emerald Coast Medical Association Panama City Beach Timeshare Rentals Shipwreck LTD & Shipwreck Shirts The Lewis Bear Company Wicked Wheel Bar & Grill
10 Years Florida Film Office, Inc. Man in the Sea Museum Dick's Last Resort Shane's Rib Shack
11 Years Bay Economic Development Alliance Bay Smile Docs Cosmetic, Family, & Implant Dentistry
Centennial Bank – Panama City Beach Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida, Inc. Mid-South Lumber Co. of NW FL, Inc. Port Panama City Prine Orthodontics – Panama City Beach
12 Years A & K Floors and More Factory Direct Furniture LLC Hampton Inn & Suites PCB – Pier Park Area Kent Forest Lawn Funeral Home Sunny Hills Golf Club Waste Pro Panama City
13 Years Larry Mason Panama City Resort & Club Pompano Joe's Seafood House The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House Reliable Copy Products
14 Years Anchor Management C.W. Roberts Contracting, Inc. Kaleidoscope Theatre Panera Bread
15 Years Dermatology Specialists of Florida Guadalajara Mexican Grill Tassels, Inc.
16 years Beach 95.1 Radio Seahaven Beach Resorts
17 Years Los Rancheros Mexican Restaurant
18 Years
Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC McNeil Carroll Engineering, Inc. Scott Ingraham Real Estate Group VBA Design, Inc.
19 Years BAYSOLUTIONS Brown Fire Protection Diver's Den Emerald Bay Panama City Beach Rentals Gulf Coast Panama Jack, Inc.
20 Years Acentria Insurance Beach Care Services, Inc. Boomer Aviation, Inc. Hank's Fine Furniture, Inc. Peaden Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing
21 Years Coral Reef Condominium FSBDC Hampton Inn by Hilton Panama City Beach Mr. Surf's Surf Shop
22 years
Hospitality Depot, Inc.
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24 Years
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Angelo's Steak Pit Innovations Federal Credit Union
25 Years Coastal Real Estate Group, Inc. Hutt Insurance Agency, Inc. Ms. Newby's Liquors Trustmark WestRock
27 Years Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel & Convention Center Gulf Coast State College
28 Years
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Coldwell Banker Carroll Realty, Inc. First National Bank Northwest Florida Half Hitch Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC Seltzer Management Group Tyndall Federal Credit Union
29 Years Century 21 Ryan Realty
30 Years Kilgore's Flooring & Ceramic Tile, Inc.
Gulf Beach Baptist Church
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 65
WE ARE NOW HIRING Residental & Commercial Technicians Customer Service Representatives and Sales Inspectors.
JOIN OUR TEAM
Year round, full time positions! Health, vision, and dental insurance; retirement plans and paid time off! Plus, a fun and friendly team enironment! Stop by one of our locations or visit our website at www.BrockPest.com
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THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021
Follow us @brockpest
THE SWEET LIFE WITHIN REACH. With every beach detail you love and homes starting at $330k, SweetBay delivers your dream life right to your door. Explore your next move today. PANAMA CITY | SWEETBAYFL.COM
WWW.PCBEACH.ORG 67
309 Richard Jackson Boulevard, Suite 101 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 235-1159 | PCBeach.org
68
THE CIRCUIT | May/June 2021