Crestview FL Community Profile by Townsquare Publications, LLC

Table of Contents Welcome from the Chamber Crestview at a Glance Location & Transportation History Residential Living Business & Industry Department of Defense Community Growth Shopping & Dining Arts & Culture Recreation Education Government Healthcare Worship About the Chamber Index of Advertisers

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w w w . b a n k c c b . c o m CRESTVIEW LOCATION 1290 North Ferdon Blvd • Crestview, FL 32536 850-682-0484 • (Next to Crestview High School)

“One Call Solves It All!”

LOCATIONS ALSO IN ANDALUSIA & OPP

Spectrum Home Services of Northwest Florida Handyman, House Cleaning & Lawn Services Call 850.398.8909 • Email nwflorida@spectrumhomeservices.com Visit us online at www.spectrumnwflorida.com

Customer Service You Can Love Members of FDIC

Crestview Area Community Profile

This is a Village Profile® Publication created and produced for the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce 1447 Commerce Drive • Crestview, FL 32539 Phone: (850) 682-3212 • Fax: (850) 682-7413 Website: www.crestviewchamber.com Email: info@crestviewchamber.com

Copyright© 2012 VillageProfile.com, inc.® • 33 N. Geneva St., Elgin, IL 60120 800-600-0134 • www.villageprofile.com® Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The Chamber and VillageProfile.com® assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Chamber and VillageProfile.com® is prohibited. CEO/President Daniel M. Nugara • Executive Vice President Joseph C. Nugara, Sr. Director of Business Operations Michael D. Nugara • Vice President Gordy Swinehart Acquisition Manager David Harris • Project Coordinator Jodie Stackowiak Director of Production Joseph C. Nugara, Jr. • Production Manager Nick Olah Book Designer & Ad Coordinator Director Stefanie Mikutis Graphic Production Stacey R. Cordero • Ad Production Coordinator Star Jones Ad Design Manager Kerri Reaves This publication is produced on paper that contains recycled content and is printed with 100% green inks that do not contain solvents and are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC). Our printer, Sutherland Companies of Montezuma, IA has eliminated the use of film and film processing and utilizes aqueous plates, alcohol substitutes and waste recovery programs. Sutherland Companies also holds environmental permits issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and works with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) licensed handlers.

DAY’S TIRE & SERVICE CENTER, INC. Services:

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Crestview Area Community Profile

would like to take this opportunity to extend to you a very warm welcome to the City of Crestview and the surrounding area, and to tell you a little about our community.

Our community has enjoyed a constant steady growth for many years. This year is no different. In fact, there are several hundred new homes being built here and several new apartment complexes ready to welcome you. Also, with the military installations being so near, the sales of existing homes are steady. Amid this expansion, businesses are pouring into the area bringing new jobs, services, retails and markets. Even amongst all the growth, Crestview has been able to maintain its small-town charm. Many people describe our community as friendly, caring and safe. In fact, we are known to have one of the lowest crime rates in the state of Florida. Our school system resides in a county

Commitment •

that has been recognized as one of the best in the state for the past eight years. We have a sense of community, and we provide for our families, youth and elderly. For 56 years, thousands of businesses and community leaders, as members of the chamber, have given of themselves to make this community what it has become today: a beautiful, bustling place we call home. What a splendid gift they have given us! On behalf of all our Chamber members and the citizens of the Crestview area, I extend this gift to you! Welcome! Sincerely, Wayne Harris Executive Director

L o c a l D e c i s i o n s • Q u i c k R e s p o n s e T i m e • Tr a d i t i o n • V i s i o n

3 LocationsTo Serve You!

h h

www.fnbcrestview.com

Main Office 1301 Industrial Drive (850) 682-5111

irst National Bank of Crestview was founded back in 1956, over several cups of coffee, by a group of businessmen who knew exactly what they were doing. These founders gathered their savings and resources to create a bank of the people and for the people.

Today, we proudly state that we are the oldest locally owned independent financial institution in North Okaloosa County while still preserving our unique heritage, identity and culture. We still believe that our bank is a place for people to meet, chat and take care of their financial needs. And yes, still have a cup of coffee!

O Your Hometown Bank since 1956 5

Southside Office 2541 S. Hwy. 85 (850) 682-3111 Downtown Motor Bank 385 North Spring Street (850) 682-5112

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Crestview at a Glance

restview, Florida (located in North Okaloosa County), is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Florida. The Crestview area contains the towns of Baker, Laurel Hill, Holt, Milligan and Escambia Farms, to name a few. Our current city limits’ population is approximately 22,000 people, and our area population is estimated at 62,347. At the end of 2004 we were recognized by USA Today as one of the top 20 areas in the U.S. to have higherthan-average house appreciation rates. According to the Dallas Morning News, Crestview is one of the Top 100 places to relocate. These good reviews are awarded to us because our area has an affordable cost of living, good location, beautiful land and weather, diverse population and job availability. Crestview is located at the junctions of East and West Interstate 10 and Highway 90, and North and South Highway 85. Pensacola lies just 54 miles west off Interstate 10, and Tallahassee is about 144 miles east. The border of southern Alabama is approximately 15 miles due north, and the Gulf of Mexico is about 30 miles south of Crestview. As you read more about our little part of the world, you will begin to know why so many lucky people call this place home and why so many people want to. Crestview can be the perfect place for anyone. Large industries and corporations, small businesses, families, retirees and young people will find opportunity, tranquility, excitement and comfort here in Crestview, Florida. WELCOME!

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Crestview Area Community Profile

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Location & Transportation Transportation Federal Interstates: — I-10 Federal Highways: — U.S.-90, U.S.-98 State Highways: — Route 20, Route 85 Railroads: — CSX Deep Water Ports: — Port of Pensacola & Foreign Trade Zone, Port of Panama City & Foreign Trade Zone Nearest Airport with Scheduled Commercial Airline Service: Northwest Florida Regional Airport # Runways: — 2 Longest Paved Runway (ft.): — 12,010 General Aviation Airports: Crestview Bob Sikes Airport, Destin Airport Miles to Closest Port: — 44

Crestview Area Community Profile

Distances To: Tallahassee, FL New Orleans, LA Atlanta, GA Montgomery, AL

137 miles 215 miles 250 miles 111 miles

restview was built on the prosperity of its natural resources. Its easy accessibility allowed Crestview to continue to grow into a booming town of vast opportunity. The CSX, Inc. Railroad runs through Crestview, which brings business to the area. Parallel with this railroad, the Old Spanish Trail extends west from Jacksonville to El Paso, TX. This trail was one of the great truck lines of the country, and is rich in tradition and history of the Indian, French, Spanish and English settlers.

Crestview was officially incorporated in 1916. The name was chosen because of its location on the peak of a long woodland range between the Yellow and Shoal rivers, which flow almost parallel on the east and west side of the city. After the State Legislature formed Okaloosa County in 1915 from portions of the western Walton County and eastern Santa Rosa County, Crestview became the county seat in 1917 and remains so today.

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restview and its surrounding areas enjoy an abundance of beautiful land upon which to find or build your dream home. There are beautiful homes available for every budget in every stage of development through a myriad of realtors and contractors. A home can be found or built in just the area you are dreaming of—whether it be in a tight-knit community, out in the country, in an older, established neighborhood or on the waterfront of the numerous small lakes we have in our area. Currently, homes are being priced at approximately $100 per square foot—making the average three bedroom, one- and two-bath

home around $149,000. Still, living in Crestview and calling it home is affordable in comparison with the surrounding areas to our south. Our convenient location, peaceful and friendly community, and ease of living are priceless. So what makes a house a home and a city a hometown? Living in Crestview does. Crestview has a very low crime rate, and therefore it offers a sense of security other towns don’t have. Our residents care about one another and are ready to give a helping hand and a wave of hello to brighten your day. Most of Crestview’s citizens find a peace and comfort here unlike anywhere else they have lived. Crestview strives to be a “hometown” kind of place and succeeds at it every day!

DEMOGRAPHICS & INCOME (Zip Codes 32564, 32567, 32536, 32539, 32531)

POPULATION

$35,000 to $49,999 — 17.7%

2008 — 51,740

|$25,000 to $34,999 — 12.2%

2010 – 51,191

$15,000 to $24,999 — 12.3%

2015 Projected — 62,347 2008-2015 Annual Growth Rate — 2.39%

WEATHER

<$15,000 — 11.5% 2011 Estimated Average — Household Income $46,361

2011 POPULATION BY AGE

Annual Average Temperature — 70 degrees

Total — 51,740

Winter Average Temperature — 51 degrees

0-9 — 13.4%

Summer Average Temperature — 81 degrees

10-19 — 13.0% 20-34 — 20.1%

2011 HOUSEHOLDS BY INCOME

35-44 — 14.8%

Household income base — 18,915

45-64 — 26.4%

$150,000 or more — 2.8%

65-84 — 10.4%

$100,000 to $149,999 — 7.1%

85+ — 1.2 %

$75,000 to $99,999 — 13.0%

18+ — 76.2% Source: Florida Dept of Labor

$50,000 to $74,999 — 23.5%

Crestview Area Community Profile

Crestview’s Brand New Rental Community is

NOW LEASING!

• Large Open Floor Plans and 9’ Ceilings • Expansive Decks with Storage in All Units • On-Site Garages & Storage • Pool with Water Feature & Large Sundeck • Children’s Play Area, BBQ Grills & Fountain • Butterfly Garden, Nature & Pet Walk • Vehicle Care Station with Vacuum & Air • 24/7 Fitness Center • 25 MB Wi-Fi at Clubhouse, Pool & Fitness Center • An All Electric Community

850-862-4796 www.millshvac.com

Locally Owned and Operated

1000 Patriot Lane, Crestview, FL 32539 | (850) 398-8900 sales@pinnaclepointecrestview.com • www.pinnaclepointecrestview.com

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TOP PRIVATE SECTOR EMPLOYERS Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Business: Full-Service Hospital Number of Employees — 992 L-3/Crestview Aerospace Corporation Business: Aircraft Manufacturing, Modification Number of Employees — 973 Resort Quest Business: Real estate sales & property Number of Employees — 930 InDyne, Inc. Business: Range/Test Facilities; Security Number of Employees — 786 DRS Training & Control Systems Business: Defense electronics Number of Employees — 860 Jacobs TEAS: Engineering Services Number of Employees — 700

Okaloosa County

North Okaloosa Medical Center Business: Full-Service Hospital Number of Employees — 673

LABOR FORCE (2011) Labor Force — 97,558 Unemployment Rate — 7.1%

NEW Business: Extended warranty Number of Employees — 590

EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY Crestview-Ft. Walton Beach-Destin MSA— Florida (2011) Total Employment.................79,700 — 7,358,900 Mining, Logging & Construction ..........4,100 — 337,000 Manufacturing........................................3,600 — 310,000 Trade/Transportation/Utilities ...........14,700 — 1,526,900 Information ............................................1,300 — 130,500 Financial Activities.................................4,900 — 478,000 Professional & Business Services ......11,400 — 1,063,200 Education & Health Services ...............9,300— 1,126,400 Leisure & Hospitality...........................10,600 — 961,100 Other Services ........................................3,600 — 312,100 Government ......................................16,200 — 1,113,700

Tybrin Corporation Business: Engineering Analysis & Software Development Number of Employees — 584 Cox Communications Business: Communications Network Number of Employees — 575 BAE Systems Technical Services: Aerospace & defense contractor Number of Employees — 700

AVERAGE WAGE IN INDUSTRIES (2011) Lockheed Martin: Aerospace & defense contractor Number of Employees — 680

All Industries — $38,043 Construction & Real Estate — $37,460 Education & Health Services — $42,681 Finance & Insurance — $38,126 Public Administration — $53,331 Information — $38,792 Manufacturing — $50,960 Other Services — $28,891 Leisure & Hospitality — $23,545 Professional & Business Services — $60,569 Trade/Transportation/Utilities — $39,811

Crestview Area Community Profile

Boeing: Aerospace & defense contractor Number of Employees — 530

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INDUSTRIAL PARKS The Okaloosa County Industrial Park is a fullservice, 400-acre park with access to a category 2 ILS 8,500-foot runway. The area also hosts a 116acre industrial park situated on Interstate 10 in Holt and a 35-acre industrial park in Laurel Hill.

STATE & LOCAL TAXATION COUNTY Ad Valorem Millage Rates: Government — 3.2899 Special — 0.0450 Schools — 7.6390 Total — 10.9739

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STATE

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Corporate Income Tax — 5.5% Personal Income Tax — 0.0% Retail Sales Tax — 6.0% Intangible Tax (per $1,000) — 1-1.5%

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Crestview Area Community Profile

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Department of Defense

ur community and nation greatly benefit from our local military bases and auxiliary fields. Just south of Crestview, beginning at the Shoal River, lies Eglin Air Force Base. Eglin, the largest Air Force base in the world, covers three counties and over 724 square miles of land and 123,000 square miles into the Gulf of Mexico. More than 20,000 jobs and $1.4 billion are tied directly to activities at Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field and Duke Field. The total economic impact of Department of Defense (DOD) activity in Okaloosa County is over $7 billion— making it the largest employer since its inception in 1935, and making Okaloosa County the most Department of Defensedependent county in the state. Eglin also comprises laboratories, test sites and 10 auxiliary fields, including Duke and Hurlburt Fields. The Active Associate Unit is at Duke Field. The Air Force Reserve owns the aircraft and active duty provides aircrew and maintenance personnel to share the mission with reserve members. Duke Field is located just five miles south of Crestview and houses part of the 919th Special Operations Wing (SOW). The 919th SOW includes the 711th Special Operations Squadron (SOS), the 919th Maintenance Squadron (MXS), the 8th SOS, the 716th MXS and will soon be the home of the U.S. Army’s 7th Special Forces—along with

subordinate units of the 1st SOW of Hurlburt Field.

Southern Command's Regional Engagement strategy. These missions make Special Forces unique in the U.S. military because they are employed throughout the three stages of the operational continuum: peacetime, conflict and war.

The cantonment area at Eglin for the 7th SFG includes operations and maintenance facilities, housing, dining facilities and munitions storage and loading facilities. The area is located west of Duke Field on Highway 85. Accommodations for their training requirements include range space

On an everyday basis, soldiers of the U.S. Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) are deployed around the world, living up to their motto - De Oppresso Liber. "To Free the Oppressed."

and airspace and scheduling for associated training missions. The cantonment area includes facilities for three Special Forces battalions; a motorized Special Forces battalion, a group support battalion and the group headquarters. Approximately 5.1 million square feet of buildings and hard surfaces were completed in 2011. The 7th SFG, an operational unit of the U.S. Army Special Forces, was activated on May 20, 1960. Its purpose was to conduct unconventional operations and train allied armed forces in Central and South America. The 7th SFG today maintains a continuous presence throughout Central and South America, conducting Special operations missions in support of the U.S.

The Air Force Special Operations Command’s (AFSOC) largest unit, the 1st SOW, is a native of Hurlburt Field. AFSOC units are responsible for providing specialized airpower and also equips, trains, educates and deploys Air Force Special Operations forces around the world. Hurlburt Field is located southeast of Crestview near Mary Esther and Highway 98. Other units based at Hurlburt Field include the 720th Special tactics Group (STG), 505th Command and Control Wing and the 823rd Red Horse Squadron. Eglin Air Force Base also accommodates some associated organizations—such as the 6th Ranger Training Battalion, the 20th Space Control Squadron and the Explosive Ordinance Disposal of the Naval School. Yes, Eglin Air Force Base and its components are a very large part of our land, our community, our economy, our lives and our nation.

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restview is growing and thriving like never before! We are growing at a rate of approximately 2.39 percent per year. We are considered one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida, and we have been nationally recognized as a top 20 metropolitan area with the highest rates of house appreciation. Over 313 permits have been issued for new homes and more than 20 new businesses were building their stores in Crestview in 2011. Add to that all the new businesses moving into already-built facilities and one can see how quickly we are developing. With all this new development come job opportunities and more income spent locally. The Alabama border and south Covington County border are just north of Crestview. We are surrounded by small towns that count on Crestview for all their needs. Crestview alone has a population of more than 22,000 and another 62,347 residents in the immediate area. Including south Covington County in Alabama and DeFuniak Springs in north Walton County, businesses cater to a population of approximately 174,634!

Crestview Area Community Profile

Our economy is mostly driven by military, tourism, real estate and manufacturing. The growth management terms for the city and county have stated that there is so much development going on that it is hard to keep track of it all. Not only are new businesses coming in, native businesses are expanding. Some of these businesses are the county’s larger employers and include L-3 Crestview Aerospace (winner of the 2002 Governor’s Business Leadership Award for District 1), Aerospace Integrations Corporation (winner of the 2001 Governor’s Leadership Award for District 1), Bayou Mechanical, Lowe’s, Gulf Power (a Southern Company), Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO) (a TouchStone Energy Cooperative, Qwest Airparts and NEW Corporation), the first major corporation to take advantage of the area’s Enterprise Zone, and Segers Aero, just to name a few. Eglin Air Force Base, which is already Okaloosa’s largest employer, will also grow due to other base closings. Many of Crestview’s nationally franchised restaurants are in the top two percent of their chains.

Crestview and Okaloosa County have been nationally recognized as a “hot spot” for living and business development by the following:

Five-Star Quality of Life Quotient

High Technology Industry-Cybercity

Outstanding Community to Retire

No. 3 in Florida – 2007 American Electronics Association

Best Cities for Doing Business No. 13 Nationally – 2007 Inc. Magazine

Okaloosa County Schools No. 1 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 State of Florida

Fastest Growing Small Metro Top 10 – 2000 Taimerica Management Company

Least Stressed Labor Market Top 10 – 2001 The Wadley-Donovan Group

Small City Retirement Growth Top 10 – 2004 U.S. News & World Report

Top 15 – 2001 Expansion Management Magazine

Top 10 – 2000 The Searchers Data Research Co.

Blue Ribbon School District Top 10 – 2000, 2002 State of Florida

Best Beaches in the South & Top Family Destination Southern Living Magazine

Best Places to Live in America Top 10 – 1997, 2001 MONEY Magazine

Business Vitality No. 2 Nationally – 2007 The Wall Street Journal

Preferred Southern Site Top 25 – 2003 Southern Business & Development Source: EDC - September 2008

Best Small Places for Business and Careers Top 10 – 2002 The Forbes Magazine

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he diversity of Crestview and the surrounding areas can be sampled through its many shopping & dining outlets. National chain stores, antique markets and boutiques offer everyday necessities as well as on-of-a-kind bargains and treasures.

Dining will satisfy virtually every taste. Family-friendly service and meals can be found at any number of chain restaurants and diners, while a variety of elegant establishments serve cuisines from around the world. Coffee shops, bakeries and ice cream parlors can be found in the area as well.

Canopy Home Collection • Cell Phones Garden Center • L.e.i. Apparel • Op Apparel Grocery • Pharmacy • Photo Center 1-Hour Photo Center • Portrait Studio Subway® • Tire & Lube Open 24 hours

Store..........................(850) 682-8001 Photo Center...............(850) 682-2383 Pharmacy ...................(850) 682-9107 Wal-Mart Supercenter 3351 S. Ferdon Blvd. • Crestview, FL 32539

Crestview Area Community Profile

Holiday Inn Express and Suites 125 Cracker Barrel Road • Crestview, FL 32536

Just South of I-10 at Exit 56 850-398-8100 • crestviewhiex@yahoo.com www.hiexpress.com/crestviewfl This beautiful new hotel in Crestview offers luxury accommodations at an affordable price. Amenities Include: Indoor Pool and Spa • Free Hot Breakfast • Conference Room • Fitness Center

Baymont Inn and Suites 4040 South Ferdon Blvd. • Crestview, FL 32536

850-423-1200 www.baymontinns.com Amenities Include: Alarm Clock • Coffee Maker • Complimentary Continental Breakfast Complimentary Wireless High Speed Internet • Cribs Available - No Charge Elevators • Exercise Facility • Expanded Cable TV Featuring HBO And HBO2 Hairdryer • Iron/Ironing Board • Microwave • Outdoor Pool • Refrigerator

restview has been blessed with a diverse population and history that give way to an equally-varied culture. The area’s history dates back to before the colonization of the New World. Many local museums help to maintain and document the heritage of the area. Carver-Hill Museum works to preserve the African-American influence in the Crestview Area. Other museums include the Baker Block museum (located four miles west of Crestview in Baker, FL); the Heritage Museum in Valparaiso, FL; the Air Force Armament Museum on Highway 85; and the Indian Mound Museum in downtown Fort Walton Beach.

The Northwest Florida State College campus in Niceville houses an arts center. The center is 120,000 square feet and provides complexes that remain unrivaled in the entire region—catering to both students and the public. The facilities, at a cost of $20 million, feature a 1,650-seat theater that hosts an annual series of touring Broadway shows, the 195-seat Sprint Theatre (providing flexible space for smaller productions) and a 2,000-squarefoot dance studio. The fine arts complex includes an art wing, which houses the college’s multimillion-dollar, permanent collection, as well as hosts traveling exhibits. The music wing features rehearsal halls for the symphony orchestra, jazz band and symphonic band; a recording studio; a recital hall; music theory and composition room and choir rehearsal halls.

Crestview Area Community Profile

One contributing organization, the Old Spanish Trail Festival Society, works to maintain the Trail’s history while educating others on its rich heritage. The society hosts a festival each year and its park and pavilion are home to a variety of festivals, fairs and competitions, each of which attract thousands of people. Other area organizations dedicated to maintaining the area’s history, heritage and culture include: the Fort Walton Beach Art Museum Association, Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation, First Arts, the Arts and Design Society, Northwest Florida Ballet, Northwest Florida Symphony Chorus, Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, Emerald Coast Community Band, Emerald Coast Barbershop Chorus and many others.

CULTURAL EVENTS/FESTIVALS • Amphitheater • Mattie Kelly Arts Center of Northwest Florida State College • Arts & Crafts Festivals • Emerald Coast Science Center • School of Ballet • Seafood Festivals • World Cobia Fishing Tournament

OKALOOSA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (TDC) Emerald Coast Convention & Visitor Bureau, Inc. (CVB) The mission of the Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council is to market our area to potential visitors, specifically inviting families to the Emerald Coast. By putting “heads in beds,” tourism increases economic growth for Okaloosa County. Marketing the Emerald Coast as a tourist destination is funded entirely by Tourist Development Lodging Bed Tax. NO Ad Valorum taxes are used. Beach cleaning, the turtle program, beach lifeguards, beach access parks, welcome centers and operation of the Emerald Coast Convention Center are complimentary services to residents of Okaloosa County, completely paid for by visiting guests who stay in overnight lodging inside the current bed tax district – Fort Walton, Destin, Okaloosa Island, Mary Esther and Cinco Bayou. The Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council is a proud member and partner of the Crestview Chamber of Commerce. For more information about tourism and efforts, items and programs funded by the Tourist Development Lodging Bed Tax, visit EmeraldCoastFL.com or call (850) 651-7131.

Crestview Area Community Profile

isitors to the Crestview area have a wide variety of activities to choose from. Though outdoor adventures abound, there are also many local sites to see.

The area is surrounded by lakes and rivers, which offer boating, fishing, canoeing and camping. Located just northwest of Crestview is Blackwater River State Forest, the largest state forest in Florida. It is noted for its beautiful waterways and woodlands. Minutes to the south is the Emerald Coast of the Gulf of Mexico, with the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world. In Okaloosa County, there are 18 fullservice golf courses open year-round.

RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: • Beaches/Waterparks/Boardwalks • Camping • Canoeing/Kayaking/Rafting • Golf • Hunting & Fishing (private & charter) • Scuba Diving/Snorkeling • Shopping/Dining • Water Sports/Boating

HISTORICAL POINTS OF INTEREST • Air Force Armament Museum • Camp Walton School House • Carver-Hill Museum • Destin Fishing & History Museum • Heritage Museum of NW Florida • Indian Temple Mound Museum & Park

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS The Crestview Parks and Recreation Division offers a full range of sports activities for all ages. The city maintains seven parks featuring playing fields, picnic areas, playgrounds and open spaces for any activity you can imagine. Twin Hills Park boasts lakes for fishing, a full-feature gymnasium and a children’s park with water attributes. The Crestview Community Center is located near the public library. It is designed to hold over 1,000 people in small or very large meeting areas.

Dozens of social, civic and professional opportunities for personal and professional growth and networking, as well as civic involvement: • ABWA-Crestview's Working Women Express Network • Abilities Center of Northwest FL, Inc. • American Legion Post 75 • American Red Cross • AMVETS Post 35, Inc. • ASTD Emerald Coast Chapter • Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast

• Canine Companions For Independence • Crestview Area Women Networking for Success • Crestview Family YMCA • Crestview Kiwanis Club • Crestview Lions Club • Crestview Rotary Club • Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center • Exchange Club of Crestview • Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, Inc. • Friends of the Crestview Library • GFWC Woman’s Club of Crestview • Healthy Start Coalition of Okaloosa & Walton Counties • Hope House • Horizons of Okaloosa County, Inc. • JRL Conyers Lodge #364, Inc. • Knights of Columbus #7968 • Main Street Crestview Association • Networking & Referral Source • Northwest Florida Blood Services • Okaloosa Art Alliance • Okaloosa County Habitat for Humanity, Inc. • Okaloosa County Republican Party • Okaloosa Saves • Old Spanish Trail Shrine Club • Ronald McDonald House • Sharing and Caring • Shelter House, Inc. • United Way • VFW Post 5450

There are numerous athletic associations in the surrounding area offering activities. They include, but are not limited to, the Crestview Family YMCA, Crestview Area Youth Association, Crestview Little League and the Baker Area Youth Association. The Crestview Robert L.F. Sikes Public Library’s goal is to provide the best informational services in the area. The services include educational, business and leisure reading, as well as computer and Internet access. It is one of the six libraries in the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative. Patrons have the opportunity to utilize materials from all six libraries.

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or the last several years Okaloosa County Schools have been rated No. 1 in the state of Florida. Each school is committed to providing challenging, yet safe educational experiences to all students. Within our 42 public schools, students are given all the opportunities available to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for responsible citizenship, personal development and lifelong learning. For those looking for private schooling, there are plenty of choices. Crestview and the surrounding areas have independent charter schools and many denominational and non-denominational private schools. The CHOICE (Community High Institutes for Career Education) program allows students to study, earn industry certifications and college credit in the fields of construction, information and aerospace technologies. The awardwinning program gives all students the opportunities they need to enter the workforce at an above entry-level position. Northwest Florida State College has seven campuses spread throughout the counties. NWFSC is an accredited institution that

offers bachelor and associate degrees and occupational certifications in academic and technical disciplines. The University of West Florida is located in Pensacola and also shares a campus with NWFSC in Fort Walton Beach with centers on Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field. Troy University has a local campus located in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach also has centers at Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field and four of the area high schools.

CRESTVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY The 17,000-square-foot Crestview Robert L. F. Sikes Public Library opened at its current 1445 Commerce Drive location in June 2002 and is named for “Bob” Sikes, the U.S. First Congressional District Representative for 38 years from 1940 to 1979. Serving all of north Okaloosa County, the library is operated by the city of Crestview with funding provided by the city and the Okaloosa County Board of Commissioners. It is one of the six city libraries (Crestview, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Mary Esther, Niceville and Valparaiso) in the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative. A card issued at any OCPLC library is valid at all six member libraries. There is no charge for a library card to any Okaloosa County resident. Just bring in a picture ID, contact phone

Niceville High School Home of the Eagles

• A+ School Designation by Florida Department of Education • $8.9 Million in Scholarships Earned by the Class of 2011 • Leading-Edge Information Technology Institute • Advanced Studies Students Earn Up to 60 College Credits • Award-Winning Performing Arts Programs • Competitive Athletic Teams Recognized Statewide • Washington Post Ranks NHS as One of Top Schools in Nation 800 E. John Sims Parkway • Niceville, FL 32578 850-833-4114 • Marcus Chambers, Principal Visit our website at www.nicevillehighschool.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Crestview Area Community Profile

numbers and proof of current street address. See the library’s website at www.cityofcrestview.org/library.php for more information. The library’s 57,000 volumes include genre of interest to all ages, including DVD and CD collections. An Overdrive eBook collection is planned for 2012. The online card catalog (which includes the collections of all OCPLC member libraries) is searchable from the library’s website. Remote access to patron accounts and online renewal of material is available with library card barcode and PIN. Twenty-four public access computers are available for patron use. Free wireless Internet access is also available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. A password (which may be picked up at the circulation desk) is required. The library offers both on-going and special event programming including weekly children’s Lap Sit and Story Time. Our First Tuesday Lecture Series runs monthly at 10:30 a.m. and covers a broad range of topics. Brochures, flyers and bookmarks with upcoming program details are provided. See also the library’s website for upcoming events. For more information call the library at 682-4432.

ATTENTION DESIGNER! Please make sure there is a .25-inch margin on all sides of this ad where no text or logos are present!

SCHOOLS

POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION SERVING THE COUNTY

Okaloosa County School District...689-7100 Antioch Elementary School ..........683-7540 Bob Sikes Elementary School........689-7268 Northwood Elementary School.....689-7252 Riverside Elementary School ........689-7203 Walker Elementary School............689-7220 Davidson Middle School ...............683-7500 Shoal River Middle School............689-7229 Crestview Senior High School ......689-7177

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Troy University University of Arkansas University of West Florida UF – Research and Engineering Education Facility Northwest Florida State College

EDUCATION Public ..............Schools ........Teachers ..........Enrollments Elementary ......26.................838..................13,615 Secondary........16.................825..................16,640 Totals ...............42.................1,663...............30,256 Private Schools Available: Yes

Vocational/Technical Schools Bay Area Vocational Technology School Crestview Vocational Technology Center Okaloosa Applied Technology Center Other Schools NWFSC Charter High School CHOICE – Community High Institute of Career Education

Crestview High School 1250 North Ferdon Blvd. • Crestview, FL 32536

850-689-7177

Bob Jones, Principal • Dexter Day, Asst. Principal Rhonda Whetstone, Asst. Principal • Ella Shaw, Administrative Asst.

Best college and career prep opportunities in West Florida Crestview Area Community Profile

he Mayor serves a four-year term. Mayoral responsibilities include attendance at meetings, direction and supervision of the fire department and police department, and validation of public documents and ordinances. The Mayor also acts as the Chief Executive Officer of the city. The City Council is the lawmaking body of the city. The council is responsible for serving and advancing the general welfare, health, happiness and safety of our citizens through exercising its legislative authority. They are elected for four-year terms of office. The council determines the budget, policies, programs and plans for the future, plus considers major problems and issues which confront the city government. The council prepares and reviews bills, and those that are adopted become laws in the form of ordinances. Perhaps the most important task facing the City Council is guiding Crestviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future. The Comprehensive Plan addresses land use, public facilities, zoning and how

development and growth within the city shall occur. A public forum process is used extensively to allow Crestview citizens to have input into the governance process. Citizen committees perform a very important function in the operation of city government. Many items before the council are usually first reviewed by one or more committees. A report on the matter is then prepared by the administrative staff and sent to the council for action. The City Clerk is designated by the Charter and State of Florida as official records custodian of public documents and is responsible for enactment of laws and resolutions while coordinating and scheduling regular and special elections. The City Clerk is elected by all citizens to serve a four-year term of office. Attendance at the City Council meetings is mandated by the city charter. The Administrative Services Department is a multi-functional department. Divisions within the department consist of Planning and Zoning, Code Enforcement, Building Inspections, CRA/Main Street Program, Parks and Recreation, Animal Control and the Robert L.F. Sikes Public Library.

Duties within the department include coordinating the Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Regulations pursuant to the Florida Growth Management Act, processing requests for commercial projects and subdivisions, issuing development permits, coordinating building inspections, providing information pertaining to annexation, rezoning, and land use changes, and receipt and processing of complains relating to violations of the Crestview Code. The Public Services Department is a multi-functional department that provides supervision and operation of streets, roads, alleyways, easements maintenance, water, sewer, building/property maintenance and fleet operations. The department provides continuous operation of all water and sewer distribution systems and oversight of a 320acre solid waste treatment plant and irrigated spray field.

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES CITY OF CRESTVIEW

Building Inspections — (850) 689-1618/1619 Main Street Programming — (850) 689-3722 Code Enforcement — (850) 683-0896 Parks & Recreation — (850) 682-4715 Animal Control — (850) 682-2222 Robert L.F. Sikes Library — (850) 682-4432 Crestview Community Center — (850) 682-0647

City Hall — (850) 682-6131 Mayor’s Office — (850) 682-3812 City Council Office — (850) 683-0987

CITY CLERK OFFICE City Clerk — (850) 682-1560 Utility Services — (850) 682-6131 Occupational Licenses — (850) 682-1560 Accounting & Personnel — (850) 689-2014

PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT Administrative Office — (850) 682-6132

CRESTVIEW FIRE DEPARTMENT Administration — (850) 682-6121 Dispatch — 911 or (850) 682-3712

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT Planning & Zoning — (850) 689-1618/1619 Permitting — (850) 689-1618/1619

CRESTVIEW POLICE DEPARTMENT Administrative — (850) 682-3603 Dispatch — 911 or (850) 682-2055 Investigations — (850) 682-4157

OKALOOSA COUNTY Courthouse — (850) 689-5000 Sheriff — 911 or (850) 682-2788 Clerk of Court — (850) 689-5835 Planning/Zoning/Inspection — (850) 689-5080

STATE OF FLORIDA

198 N. Wilson Street Crestview, FL 32536

Florida Highway Patrol — (850) 689-7904 Okaloosa County Health Department — (850) 689-7855 Crestview Post Office — (850) 682-2634

850-683-0987

Visit us at www.cityofcrestview.org Crestview Area Community Profile

restview offers numerous facilities to cater to every medical need. Local facilities are equipped with leading technology and staffed with compassionate medical professionals.

North Okaloosa Medical Center North Okaloosa Medical Center is a progressive, acute-care hospital offering a full range of health services to Okaloosa County and surrounding areas. Their dedicated staff of experienced healthcare professionals takes pride in providing the advanced medical care you need, when you need it. With the help of more than 600 employees, 150 physicians on staff and over $12 million of recent capital improvements, North Okaloosa Medical Center will to continue to improve the well-being of our community by providing comprehensive, convenient care in a comfortable setting. In 2011, North Okaloosa Medical Center completed construction on a $22 million expansion project, expanding the flagship facility to a 150-bed hospital. The healthcare system also includes an Outpatient Care Center and an Ambulatory Surgery Center, as well as primary care clinics in Crestview, Baker and DeFuniak Springs. North Okaloosa Medical Center offers a wide variety of services, including: • 24-Hour Physician Staffed Emergency Department • Inpatient & Outpatient Surgical Services • Orthopaedic Services • Occupational & Physical Therapy Services • Cardiology/Cardiopulmonary Services • Inpatient & Outpatient Laboratory Services • Intensive Care Unit

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• Pediatric Unit • Women’s Services • Birthing Center • Gynecology • Gynecological Surgery • Digital Mammography • Breast MRI • Stereotactic Biopsy • Bone Density • Ultrasound • Diagnostic Imaging Services • Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology • Outpatient Imaging Services

Walton Beach Medical Center

• Nuclear Medicine • 16-Slice CT Scanner • PET/CT Scanner • MRI North Okaloosa Medical Center – Quality Care, Right Here. 151 E. Redstone Avenue Crestview, FL 32539 850-689-8100 www.northokaloosa.com

Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, with 257 licensed beds and a medical staff of over 200 physicians, representing more than 30 specialties, is the only full-service, acute-care hospital in our Tri-County area. The Heart Center at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center, with the area’s only comprehensive cardiovascular program, provides the latest and most advanced treatments in cardiac care, including: beating heart surgery, endoscopic vein

Crestview Urgent Care

Care at YOUR Convenience

Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm • Saturday 9am-3pm • Sunday Closed Premier medical care for urgent but not life-threatening injuries or illnesses. If you have a life-threatening condition, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 1502 S. Ferdon Boulevard • Crestview, FL 32536 • Located on S. Ferdon Blvd. and Duggan Road in Crestview Florida 850-398-8668 • 850-398-8678 • Fax 850-398-8679 • www.crestviewurgentcare.com Crestview Area Community Profile

Crestview Pharmacy Compounding to meet all your special needs Traditional retail pharmacy â&#x20AC;˘ Gift shop Specializing in hormone replacement therapy Personal service and a friendly staff Over 60 years combined experience Been in business 10 years M-F 8:30am-6pm Sat 9am-1pm 1116 N. Ferdon Blvd. â&#x20AC;˘ Crestview, FL 32536

850-683-1111

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harvesting and cardiac catheterization with coronary angioplasty and stenting. In March 2008, Fort Walton Beach Medical Center was awarded the Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. In achieving this designation, the Medical Center demonstrated that its stroke program follows national standards and guidelines that can significantly improve outcomes of stroke patients. The Cancer Care Center is the area’s only comprehensive cancer care program certified by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. The Cancer Care Center’s program offers the latest in technology and treatment options, as well as experienced oncology nurses, multidisciplinary support teams, education and resources for the cancer patient. The Center for New Life includes a 10bed, state-of-the-art Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for premature newborns and full-term newborns with special care needs. The newly-renovated center provides private postpartum suites where mothers and family members can now enjoy their newborns in a more private setting. Unit, a 13-bed Intensive Care Unit and a 33-private room Progressive Care Unit in addition to its Medical/Surgical Unit, Obstetrics/Women’s Services Unit, Pediatric Unit, Rehabilitation Unit and Psychiatric Unit. Family Dentistry Other services • United Concordia, Metlife and include a state-ofDelta Dental Premier Provider the-art outpatient • New Patients Welcome surgery center, the • Will File Most Insurances most advanced • We Support Our Local diagnostic Military and Their Families services, a 22-bed emergency room 838 Hwy 90 West • Crestview, FL (open 24 hours (850) 689-1858 • www.drbarnescrestview.com daily) and a seven-bed Express Fort Walton Beach Medical Center also offers a six-bed Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, a 10-bed Coronary Care

Dr. Terence Barnes

“We go the extra mile for your smile” Crestview Area Community Profile

Care for minor emergencies (open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily). Fort Walton Beach Medical Center also operates the Destin Emergency Care Center (850 837-9194) open 24/7 at 996 Airport Road in Destin. Fort Walton Beach Medical Center 850-862-1111 www.fwbmc.com From outstanding hospital facilities to well-equipped and professionally staffed clinics and physician practices, the Crestview community has your health covered!

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Worship

n Crestviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse society there is a great demand for varied spiritual enrichment and opportunities. This demand is abundantly met with over 60 worship centers located in and around Crestview. With each church comes a community that is caring and active in their faith, and ready to welcome members and visitors alike. All of the congregations are working with one another to ensure spiritual growth in Crestview. They share the responsibilities of caring for the physical, spiritual and mental health of the young and the elderly, the privileged and the needy, the healthy and the sick, and everyone in between. Crestview is so unlike any other community, and it possesses warmth (not just from the weather) that makes a person feel welcome and comfortable anywhere in Crestview.

Crestview Area Community Profile

About the Chamber

he Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization governed by an elected Board of Directors. The Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area of service includes the surrounding towns of Baker, Laurel Hill, Holt and Milligan.

members volunteer their time and talent to sit on committees, influence government, organize community events and oversee Chamber programs and services to identify future growth opportunities. For new or existing businesses the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce is a valuable and dependable resource for business referrals.

OUR VISION:

The Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce has been providing support to area businesses and the community since 1956, and the Chamber strives to continue to represent and help our local businesses grow. The Chamber serves to unite the various businesses in the Crestview area to reach a common goal, which is to improve the economic environment for its members and enhance the quality of life for the citizens of the Crestview area.

Our members are dedicated to making the Crestview area community a great place to live, work, and do business.

OUR MISSION: We are the premier business advocate in the Crestview area community, providing membership services and proactive leadership to promote responsible economic development, business success, and a high quality of life.

Today, the Chamber is over 600 members strong and offers numerous programs and services. Committed

Visit www.crestviewchamber.com

21st Century Oncology ..................................................................................................................... 31 Assist 2 Sell New Era Realty .................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Avcon, Inc......................................................................................................................................... 13 Dr. Terence Barnes............................................................................................................................ 32 Barnes Insurance & Financial Services ............................................................................................. 13 Brackney Funeral Service.................................................................................................................... 4 Casey Electric Inc................................................................................................................................ 6 CCB Community Bank......................................................................................................................... 2 City of Crestview, Florida .................................................................................................................. 28 Crestview High School...................................................................................................................... 26 Crestview Pharmacy ......................................................................................................................... 31 Crestview Urgent Care ...................................................................................................................... 30 CRI Carr Riggs & Ingram.................................................................................................................. 13 Day's Tire & Service Center, Inc.......................................................................................................... 4 Eglin Federal Credit Union................................................................................................................... 3 Extreme Cinemas.............................................................................................................................. 23 First National Bank.............................................................................................................................. 5 Fort Walton Beach Medical Center .................................................................................................... 33 Greenway Saves ................................................................................................................................. 7 Holiday Inn Express & Suites/Baymont Inn & Suites ........................................................................ 19 Johnny O'Quigley's Ale House ............................................................................................................ 1 Leavins Automotive .......................................................................................................................... 13 Legacy Insurance of Northwest Florida, LLC - Allen Bell Agency Inc. ................................................. 4 Makarios Communications ................................................................................................................. 6 Manual Therapy LLC......................................................................................................................... 33 Mills Heating & Air............................................................................................................................ 11 NEW.................................................................................................................................................... 7 Niceville High School ........................................................................................................................ 24 North Okaloosa Medical Center ........................................................................................... Back Cover Northwest Florida State College/Mattie Kelly Arts Center ................................................................. 25 Northwest Florida's Emerald Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau ................................................... 21 Pinnacle Pointe Rental Community................................................................................................... 11 Soundside Wellness Consultants...................................................................................................... 33 Spectrum Home Services of Northwest Florida .................................................................................. 2 Speedee Printing................................................................................................................................. 7 State Farm Insurance - Ann Teel Hatcher.................................................................. Inside Back Cover Total Business Solutions................................................................................................................... 14 Twin Cities Hospital............................................................................................................................33 VillageProfile.com, inc. .....................................................................................................................14 Walmart ............................................................................................................................................ 18

Crestview Area Community Profile

Good rates backed by good neighbor service – that’s State Farm Insurance. See Us: Ann Teel Hatcher, Representative Corner of Hwy 85 & 90 • 497 N Ferdon Blvd • Crestview, FL

850.682.7522

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® State Farm Insurance Companies Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois

http://www.statefarm.com/apps/agentLoc