From Kristopher McLane

2022 might be coming to a close, but that also means the holiday season is officially upon us and the Holiday Issue of The Circuit is out. A great feature in this year’s edition is the Shopping Guide full of Beach Chamber

members to support. Plus, Small Business Saturday is November 26 so use this guide to shop local.

The holiday season to me is about eating delicious food, spending time with family and giving back to make a difference. When I took over as President/CEO in 2016, one of my annual goals was to give back to our community. We have done that every year and this time was no different. In 2022, the Beach Chamber awarded a portion of our event proceeds to Man in the Sea Museum, Beach Care Services, FSU Panama City Foundation, Covenant Care, and Gulf Coast State College Foundation. We also held a school supply drive for The Boys and Girls Club, volunteered at Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, and our Annual Toy Drive supplies hundreds of toys for the Bay Co. Sheriff’s Office and Panama City Beach Police Department. Our members enjoy being part of an organization that gives back to their own community. This time last year I was writing about the amazing growth happening with the Beach Chamber hitting 1,350 members. I’m thrilled to report we hit another record in 2022 with over 1,450 members. As we continue to reach Bay County and beyond, I want to thank both our longstanding members and new members for your support. Your commitment allows our Chamber to fulfill our mission and help our community.

I want to thank my Chamber team—Jena Liles, Shannon Richmond, Missy Holmes, Tiffiney Castleberry, Carley Morgan, and Anna Cooper for all your hard work this year. I also want to thank my Board of Directors, led by Chairwoman Catherine Collins, for their leadership and support.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Let’s make 2023 even better!

Kristopher McLane, President/CEO Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce