October-December 2015 Bay Biz

BAY BIZ | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2015 3

14

10

8

Departments8 POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE Triumph Gulf Coast Aims to Bring New Industry to the Area

16 EDUCATION FSU Panama City Welcomes First Female Dean

18 ECONOMIC PROFILE

20 DEFENSE INTEL NSWC Panama City Celebrates 70 Years in the Community

24 WORKFORCE CONNECTION

26 BIZ LIST

30 BYP MEMBERS TO KNOW

34 CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR

36 NEW MEMBERS

37 MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

38 OUT & ABOUT

Features10 COVER STORY Gulf World Marine Institute: A Hidden Gem

14 INDUSTRY APPRECIATION CELEBRATION AWARD WINNERS

20

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

BUSINESS TRIP

TRAVIS ALLEN

PANAMA CITY

TAMPA

3.15.2016

B 12

BAY TO BAY IN A DAY

Global access with daily flights on Delta, Southwest, United and Silver

IFlyBeaches.com

WITH NONSTOP SERVICE TO:

ATLANTA | BALTIMOREDALLAS | HOUSTONNASHVILLE | ORLANDOST. LOUIS | TAMPA

and connections to the rest of the world.

If you live, work or attend school in the greater Bay, Holmes, Washington or Jackson County area, YOU can join us!

769-3306 • PEFCU.orgMemberNCUA

New branch opening this fall at 4295 Highway 231

commuter service that’s “right on”

rideOn is funded by the Florida Department of Transportation and managed by the West Florida Regional Planning Council.

• free carpool and vanpool ridematching service •

• vanpool formation assistance •

• emergency ride home for qualified commuters •

• employer transportation planning assistance •

1-800-342-5557 or visit us at www.wfrpc.org.

PUBLISHERCarol Roberts

EXECUTIVE EDITORBrittany Cole

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSCarol RobertsBrittany Cole

Sam TunoStephanie NagleBrandi DeRuiterElizabeth Smith

Kim BodineEd Stewart (SES)

LAYOUT & DESIGNSean Brosnan

GORGEOUS - strategic branding + designgetgorgeo.us | 850-888-8GRG

COVERGulf World Marine Institute and Florida Fish and Wildlife

Conservation Commission help rescue a stranded dolphin.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSDesiree Gardner Photography, Brittany Cole, CREO (Center for Re-search and Economic Opportunity), Spinnaker Beach Club, Tyndall

Air Force Base, FSU Panama City, Gulf World Marine Institute.

BAY BIZ MAGAZINEc/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce

235 W. 5th StreetPanama City, FL 32401

[email protected]

Online: www.panamacity.orgfacebook.com/baychamberfl

twitter.com/baychamberfl

The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamberof Commerce, 235 W. 5th Street,

Panama City, FL 32401 | 850.785.5206

POSTMASTER send address changes to: Bay County Chamber, 235 W. 5th Street, Panama City, FL 32401 or

email [email protected].

The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from itsreaders. Email to [email protected]. Torequest additional copies, contact 850-785-5206.


TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

BUSINESS TRIP

TRAVIS ALLEN

PANAMA CITY

TAMPA

3.15.2016

B 12

BAY TO BAY IN A DAY

Global access with daily flights on Delta, Southwest, United and Silver

IFlyBeaches.com

WITH NONSTOP SERVICE TO:

ATLANTA | BALTIMOREDALLAS | HOUSTONNASHVILLE | ORLANDOST. LOUIS | TAMPA

and connections to the rest of the world.

6 BAY BIZ | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2015

We have to pause from time to time and realize that we do truly live in paradise. I had the chance earlier this summer to go to the beach with my best friend, Paula Cox. We went for a long walk from the Legacy to the Russell-Fields Pier, walking by thousands of visitors. I looked at her and said, “you know, we really don’t ap-preciate that we live in paradise…look at all of these people spending thousands of dollars to come and visit the place we get to call home, every day.” From the Gulf of Mexico to Econfina, I enjoyed our county from one end to the other this summer.

As we talk about the many visitors that come, I would like to encourage property owners, whether it’s vacant land or an ac-tive business, to take pride in our community and their visual image. Step outside, walk around your building and take a look at what your customers and our visitors see. Is it simple fixes, i.e. mowing the grass, pressure washing the building or paint-ing? Are we using a store front for storage that could be put somewhere else? Is our business sign in disrepair/letters falling off? We have code enforcement laws in place to prevent such, but I would encourage owners to keep their property up and keep government out. The visitor that passes by your business or vacant land may be a potential customer or a new industry looking to move to our area and create jobs for Bay County cit-izens. Each and every one of us is responsible for economic de-velopment, and this is a small way we can all do our part.

We are starting the 2016 transition with the election of six new board members to our team and preparing for our annual plan-ning session with the Board of Directors to develop our 2016 Business Plan. With the unexpected departure of our Chairman of the Board, Andrew Levy (who has moved to Chicago), Mike

Sears (Merrill Lynch), has really stepped up to the plate to fill the void for the balance of the year. In the meantime, we are preparing Robert Carroll (McNeil Carroll Engineering) to take the reins come January 1st.

On July 16th, I had the pleasure of attending an event where Governor Rick Scott did a ceremonial signing of HB 225, the “All-American Flag Act,” requiring all United States and state flags purchased by the State of Florida to be made entirely from domestically grown materials beginning on January 1, 2016. The ceremony was held at the National Guard Armory.

It makes me smile every month when I see the City of Panama City bed tax revenue pouring in. I made mention of those dol-lars at our board meeting last month, and reminded those in attendance without hesitancy that it was the efforts of this orga-nization, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, that made this opportunity a reality. We had the vision, saw the opportunity, engaged the City Commission and many other organizations and individuals and we made it happen. These funds can now be used to brand and market Panama City. Make us proud CDC!

It isn’t too often that I get to help a local business celebrate its 50th anniversary, let alone celebrate being a member of this or-ganization for 50 years too, but I did this summer. I was so hon-ored to speak and reminisce with the Cramer family at their cel-ebration for Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC. I hold fond memories of Tommy Thomas, and seeing his family carry on his legacy of being iconic corporate citizens in our communi-ty is certainly gratifying.

In this issue, be sure to check out our cover story on the Gulf World Marine Institute, Triumph Gulf Coast, and the many oth-er topics that will keep you up to date on the latest happenings in Bay County.

Carol RobertsPresident/CEO



by: Brandi DeRuiter, VP of Governmental Affairs

T he Panhandle can expect to see $1.5 billion directed to-wards drawing new industry to the Gulf Coast with the sole purpose of creating new jobs, thanks to Triumph

Gulf Coast. The organization was created as a non-profit within the Department of Economic Opportunity, and will operate in compliance with Chapter 617 to receive, hold, invest and admin-ister the Recovery Fund. The five-member board of directors is appointed from the private sector by the Senate President, the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, and each of the trustees of the State Board of Administration.

According to Florida Legislature, “Triumph Gulf Coast Inc. shall be governed by a five-person Board of Directors to each serve 4 years, except with initial appointments by the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House to serve 2 years to achieve staggered terms. Initial 2-year term officials may be reappointed for an additional term of 4 years.” The initial Board of Directors selected to serve are Chairman Allan Bense from Panama City, Stan Connally of Gulf Breeze, and Destin residents Bob Bonezzi, Pam Dana, and Stephen Riggs.

Triumph Gulf Coast Chairman, Allan Bense, says “If we pro-mote it right, site selectors (for high paying employers) will put us on their agenda. Once a company knows we have money and can move quickly, they will come here.”

While we don’t know exactly how much money is coming to Bay County, it is clear that the purpose of the funding is to at-tract and work with incoming employers who will bring new industry and employ residents. “This is all about jobs generated and to stimulate future economy,” commented Bense.

The Attorney General’s Office filed a lawsuit against BP and Halliburton in April 2013 to recover damages for the State of Florida’s economic losses due to the oil spill. Florida Attorney General, Pam Bondi, announced on July 2, 2015 that this law-suit was effectively settled at $2 billion, with 75% or $1.5 billion, to go directly to the eight-disproportionately affected counties spanning the Emerald Coast from Escambia to Wakulla County. “Triumph was established as a corporation so as not to be sub-ject to political pressure. We’re all business people on board; our

Triumph Gulf Coast Aims to Bring New Industry to the Area

job is to create jobs, to spend the money wisely,” noted Bense. “I’ve chosen to serve on this board because it’s a lot of money, and it needs to have good representation.”

Facilitated by the University of West Florida staff, Triumph Gulf Coast held its first meeting in Sandestin in August 2015. This five-member corporation will make decisions on how $1.5 bil-lion concentrated to the eight disproportionately-affected coun-

ties should be spent. These funds are designated for economic recovery and diversification, essentially to deepen and broaden economic opportunities in Northwest Florida. These economic damage funds are to be utilized as a living endowment and ad-ministered over a 30-year period. “These funds are not geared to individuals; we’re looking to get a corporation that spawns development of other companies.” Bense added.

The State should receive the first check for $400 million in early 2016. $300 million will then be appropriated to Triumph, which expects to become officially constituted around April 2016. Un-til then, the board will meet every 4-6 weeks to lay the ground-work to provide for a solid foundation. After the initial $300 million disbursement, Triumph will receive $100 million per year beginning in 2019 and continuing for 12 years, to be used to bring high-paying jobs to the eight-disproportionately affect-ed counties.

Bense believed this to be “a great opportunity from a generational standpoint to span generations,” and added they must be “thought-ful, deliberate, and careful at how they spend this money.”

There will be accountability standards and performance provisions in place by asking two major questions.

1. If we do this, how many jobs will it generate?2. Will it stimulate future economy?

Projects will require matching funds, and funds will not all be awarded in one year. They must be spread out. TDC’s, EDA’s, and counties can also submit proposals; Bottom line, every proj-ect has to be accountable for how many jobs it creates.

Florida Legislature contains provisions to hire or contract four staff necessary to implement this act, “The Corporation is re-quired to retain an independent certified public accountant to inspect the records, an independent financial advisor to assist in the strategic plan, an economic advisor who will assist in the award process, including development and priorities, allocation decisions, and a legal advisor with expertise in not-for-profit in-vesting and contracting who is a member of the Florida Bar.”

Communities are encouraged to get involved to help bring eco-nomic wealth to our region.

REJUVENATE your Body

As one of Florida’s most premier health and fitness facilities, we offer everything you need to strengthen, rejuvenate and pamper yourself; including a 24 hour fitness center for women and men along with an exclusive women’s only fitness area. At Panama City Health Club, we offer the latest state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength training equipment, innovative group fitness classes, personal training, comfortable and relaxing steam room and sauna, child care and a nutrition bar. Here, you’ll find that fitness never felt so good.

PAMPER your Soul

914-BFIT(2348) e PanamaCityHealthClub.com e see us on



Gulf World Marine Park (GWMP) has been a sta-ple family destination in Panama City Beach, Florida since it was established in 1969. From the beginning, the owners and staff of Gulf

World have been dedicated to providing exceptional care to the animals that call it home. Over the years, millions of visitors have been able to witness this first hand, as they enjoy walking the Gulf World grounds that have expanded and continue to do so. Gulf World’s first prior-ity has always been, and will continue to be, the animals.

What makes Gulf World exceptionally remarkable is the care the staff provides to animals that are in need of re-habilitation along the Panhandle of Florida. Gulf World has responded to strandings since the 1980’s, but nev-er had a separate entity for this until 2012. Gulf World Marine Institute, a 501c3 non-profit (GWMI), was estab-lished to fill this void. Gulf World Marine Park became the largest contributor to the institute. All history, data and records were transferred, and the expertise was car-ried on by staff members that have been working with this ongoing rehabilitation effort. The staff members include: Ron Hardy, GWMI Board President, with over 25 years of working with strandings and participating in stranding workshops; Secret Holmes-Douglas, GWMI Director, with over 20 years of stranding experience and Zoological Director of Gulf World Marine Park; Dr. Lyd-ia Staggs, resident veterinarian for Gulf World Marine Park and Gulf World Marine Institute; also world re-nowned marine mammal veterinarian for stranded ma-rine mammals is Dr. Forrest Townsend, who is also on the GWMI Board of Directors. There are many individ-ual staff members and volunteers working with GWMI that bring years of stranding experience with them. The amount of expertise amongst its board of directors and staff is enormous.

Gulf World is considered one of the leading rehabilita-tion facilities in the Southeast Marine Mammal Strand-ing Network and the Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network. Cetaceans (dolphins and whales) and sea tur-tles periodically strand themselves along our coasts. Marine animals strand for various reasons including in-juries from marine debris, sickness or even loud acous-tics in our oceans. The GWMI team is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to these troubled animals. The goal for each live stranding is to rehabilitate these species with hopes to release them back into the Gulf of Mexico. The decision to release the individual sea turtle, dolphin or whale is determined by the National Marine Fisheries Service or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conserva-tion Commission. When an animal is determined to be non-releasable, an accredited marine facility, sometimes Gulf World Marine Park, is selected as its home.

The majority of GWMI’s patients are sea turtles. In fact, Gulf World has rehabilitated thousands of these species over the past several decades. While sea turtles strand year round, a large portion of these numbers came from events such as cold stunning and oceanic disasters. A cold stunning event occurs when frigid temperatures shock the turtle’s system, which can lead to secondary illness like pneumonia, which can be fatal to the turtle. Since sea turtles are cold blooded animals, they cannot regulate their body temperature like mammals. Once found in this state, these cold stunned sea turtles are transported to Gulf World Marine Institute for rehabil-itation, which includes gradually warming their body temperature or treating secondary illnesses. The severi-ty of our winter determines the amount of sea turtles we receive for rehabilitation. Gulf World received 1,801 cold stunned turtles in the winter of 2010. Several months af-ter the cold stunned event in 2010, Gulf World received

another 148 sea turtles to be treated for oil contamination from the Deep Water Horizon oil spill. Gulf World became the only primary intake facility in Florida for the Deep Wa-ter Horizon oil spill incident.

Front runners of GMWIDr. Staggs is a well-respected veterinarian who received her degree from Auburn University College of Medicine, and has been working as Veterinarian for Gulf World since 2006. Dr. Staggs’ counterpart is Secret Holmes-Douglas, Direc-tor of the Institute. Together, they plan out the day-to-day functions of rehabilitation and work as a unit when any an-imal comes into GWMI. Secret and Dr. Staggs both enjoy being able to give animals a second chance they wouldn’t normally have. The use of both traditional and non-tradi-tional medical practices are performed by the staff. Unique treatments are used to heal the animals, including the use of beeswax or honey to heal a sea turtle’s injured flipper caused by monofilament injuries. GWMI works with oth-er organizations such as Gulf Coast Regional Medical Cen-ter when a sea turtle is in need of an MRI or CT scan. The Cutting Edge MLS Laser – (class 4 therapy laser) is used on animals in rehabilitation daily. It promotes healing by in-creasing the blood flow to the area and increasing lymphatic drainage, which in turn promotes healing and decreases in-flammation.

GWMI also has a few key volunteers who are there to help in any way possible. Lynda Yates became involved in 2010 because of cold stunned turtles. “I said to Secret many times, if you ever need anything over at Gulf World please call me.” She helped by making floating turtle containers because it was necessary to keep the turtles separated. She continued to be trained in various husbandry tasks with sea turtles and dolphins. Betsy and Roger Straley came on board at the same time after spending seven years prior working with St. Andrews Sea Turtle Watch. Betsy is a sucker for ani-mals. “If I fostered children I couldn’t release them to a new family, so helping heal and release animals fills that void.” She also added the love and passion she has for the animals she helps care for. Our most recent volunteer, Beckie John-son, just assisted the Institute with a sea turtle release, and it was her first time releasing these endangered species. She states, “I have to say that volunteering with GWMI is an opportunity that I absolutely love! Getting to participate in the healing process of all these beautiful animals is a huge blessing! It never gets old!” Volunteers work with GWMI from stranding calls all the way to a final release. “To be able to help stranded animals through rehabilitation is very satisfying” says Yates.

Education: Gulf World Marine Institute is dedicated to sharing import-ant information with the public on matters that affect dol-phins and sea turtles, whether it be through a public ser-

vice announcement, news story or a social media post. Dr. Staggs believes that “being involved with GWMI gives me a fantastic platform to be able to share important information with locals and tourists that come to our area.” With the help of local support from both visitors, locals, and the me-dia, GWMI has had a wonderful following and outpouring of support from the community. It is our goal to continue sharing as much information as possible about these matters with the public.

How Can You Help:• If you see a stranded or deceased dolphin or sea tur-tle, please immediately report to Florida Fish and Wild-life Commission: 1-888-404-3922 and/or call 24 hour Gulf World Hotline: 850-258-6968• Donate: Gulf World Marine Institute asks that you donate if possible; every little bit counts. Every dime that is donat-ed to the institute goes directly back to the animals through rehabilitation and research to help improve the quality of life for these animals.• Share: Gulf World Marine Institute information with friends and family. Share our PSA and other educational Facebook posts on your social media channels • Attend Turtle Releases – these are always posted to our Facebook page.• Leave the beaches and waters clean and safe

Planning for the future:Gulf World Marine Institute is working on raising funds for a state of the art facility that will help us move to the next phase with rehabilitation, research, and education/commu-nity outreach. Our goal is to have an institution the public can visit at no charge, while providing education about ma-rine animal stranding efforts, and show how people can get involved to conserve these species. Also, with a new facility, we hope to expand the number of volunteers we can accept by developing a formalized volunteer program.

We are excited for what the future holds for Gulf World Ma-rine Institute! Please stay tuned for what’s yet to come!


The Bay County Chamber hosted their annual Industry Appreciation Celebration during the month of September shining a spotlight on companies that help diversify Bay County’s economy, as well as acknowledging existing businesses in apprecia-tion for their involvement in the community and their contributions to economic development. During the month long celebration, an awards breakfast was held on September 24th at FSU Panama City, where the Chamber recognized four local indus-tries for Business Expansion, Innovation, Newcomer and Entrepreneurship. Please help us congratulate all of our award winners.

Innovation AwardEdge AerodynamixEdge Aerodynamix has developed a patented Conformal Vortex Generator (CVG) that reduces drag on aircraft wings. The drag reduction translates directly into significant fuel and emission savings. The Edge CVG offers a significant environ-mental and economic advantage to our airline customers. The fuel savings to a larger airline carrier alone could exceed $2M per day and eliminate hundreds of thousands of pounds of hydrocarbon emissions.

Business Expansion AwardMaritech MachineWith the growth of Port Panama City USA and other key, local manufacturing industries, it was necessary for Maritech Ma-chine to expand their business to a 12,000 square foot facility, effectively doubling the size to increase the supply of “mission critical” components for the undersea oil and gas industry, marine industries, military bases and various local and regional manufacturing facilities. The expansion allowed for additional employees to be hired, as well as the purchase of additional machining equipment and specialized material handling/prepa-ration equipment, along with expanded storage of job critical materials. Our award winner manufactures components using multiple grades of steel, bronze, aluminum, titanium, as well as industrial grade plastics and other exotic materials.

sponsored by


Thank you to those who have sponsoredthe various events for our Industry

Appreciation Celebration:

Gulf PowerTrustmark Bank

Berg PipePort Panama City

Gulf Coast State CollegeSpinnaker

The News HeraldFlorida Architects

Friends of Neal Dunn

Entrepreneurship AwardJellyfish HealthJellyfish Health was launched to resolve wait times in the healthcare industry. Serial entrepreneurs, Dave Dyell and Patrick Leonpacher, recognized the frustration all patients felt when waiting for their doctor. Bringing transparency of wait times improves patient satisfaction, and helps clinics remain competitive in the changing healthcare environment. As a new business, Jellyfish Health’s biggest hurdle for the growing company was to get the brand and solutions in front of their target market. As such, they invested in marketing and sales to ensure their name is in the front of the buy-ers and decision makers. Jellyfish Health uses a subscription based sales model that grows with our clients as they grow. Ultimately, Jellyfish Health aims to see recurring revenues in excess of $20M within 5 years.

Newcomer Award Roberts and Roberts, Inc.Opening in 2014 with only 41 employees, Roberts and Roberts has now grown to 124 full-time employees. This heavy highway construction business focuses on new road/highway construction and resurfacing for the Florida Department of Transportation. The company has recent-ly purchased the building that was originally leased for the start-up, purchased trucks, heavy equipment, tools, and more with a total in-vestment of $10M. The owner, George Roberts, moved to Bay County in 2002 as he saw opportunities not only for his family, but a great place to do business. The potential of the community and its business friendly environment played a major role in the decision. With the purchase of the new facility, an expansion is currently underway that will double the size of the office space to include nine new offices, while also expanding the shop space. The expansion will include the hiring of 25 additional employees. Roberts and Roberts headquarters is located in Bay County with offices in Tallahassee and Hosford.

The Bay County Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Gulf Coast State College for designing and printing the awards for our IAC Awards Breakfast. It took over nine hours to design the awards, and twelve hours each to print them on the college’s 3D printer.


A Florida State alumna has come home, making history as the first female Dean of FSU Panama City. Carol Edwards, who taught at FSU Panama City while earn-

ing her Ph.D. in the early ’90s, began serving as Dean of FSU Panama City and Florida State’s College of Applied Studies on Aug. 10. She had served as Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and Professor of Art Education at Texas Tech University since 2007. “I have an alumna’s love for FSU, but equally important, I have a passion and commitment to provid-ing quality educational experiences for students,” said Edwards, who earned a Doctorate in Art Education from Florida State’s Tallahassee campus in 1992. “I look forward to building commu-nity relationships, securing resources to support the work of the faculty, and using my administrative experiences and skills to further the educational mission of this campus.”

“Dr. Edwards arrived on our campus as a Seminole,” said Dr. Steve Leach, who served as Interim Dean of FSU Panama City from July 2014 to August 2015. “She has jumped in with both feet, and is ready to do great things.” In her new role, Edwards said she hopes to showcase the vitality and possibilities for the

Panama City campus. “There is so much potential that exists on this campus,” she said. “I see that as a first task: working with the community so people understand what a jewel this place is.”Edwards said she hopes to continue the campus’ forward momentum as plans for dorms are developed to draw more freshmen, sophomores and out-of-area students. “A residence hall is absolutely going to be a game-changer,” she said. “I think we are going to play that to our greatest strength.”

As FSU Panama City continues its initiative to grow its under-classmen population, Edwards said her focus will be on reten-tion and enhancing the student experience past the freshman year. She said she sees the FSU Panama City community as a family learning from each other’s different backgrounds, expe-riences and skills. “There’s such a wide range of people here,” Edwards said. “You put together freshmen with lifelong learners and you have a powerful combination.”

She also plans to expand FSU Panama City’s involvement with the arts through collaboration with schools, musicians and artists. “Her fresh approach to our traditions, and her seasoned

FSU Panama City Welcomes First Female Deanby: Erica Howard, FSU Panama City Marketing & Special Events Coordinator


vision for our future, will no doubt be a winning combination for us all,” said Director of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Missy Conner, who chaired the dean’s search committee.

Prior to her tenure at Texas Tech, Edwards served as a Profes-sor of Art and Dean of the College of Fine and Performing Arts at Western Washington University from 2004 to 2007. She held numerous teaching and administrative positions at Kennesaw State University from 1994 to 2004, including that of Assistant Dean of the College of the Arts from 2002 to 2004. She served as Director of the North Georgia Institute for Education in the Arts, a professional development institute for teachers and administrators, from 1994 to 2004. She also held teaching positions at the University of Alabama and in the public school system of Columbus, Mississippi.

In addition to her doctorate, Edwards earned a Master of Arts degree in Art Education from the University of Alabama in 1984, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Commercial Art

from the Mississippi University for Women in 1970. Since 1995, she has helped facilitate about $25 million in education grants. “We are very pleased that Dr. Carol Edwards, with her outstanding record of success in university administration and community leadership, will join us as the new Dean of FSU Panama City,” said Sally McRorie, Interim Provost and Execu-tive Vice President for Academic Affairs at FSU. “She is an ac-complished builder of programs and an exceptional fundraiser, and she will build upon the great work already underway on this beautiful campus.”

Edwards lives in a Panama City Beach condo with her hus-band, Joe. She has a daughter, Angela, and three grandchil-dren. She succeeds Ken Shaw, who served as Dean of FSU Panama City from 2008, until his departure in June 2014 to become President of Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Texas.

Simplify yourLife with

A new experience in online and mobile banking.

Find out more at trustmark.com/mytrustmark

Member FDIC

• Monitor accounts and information• Pay bills electronically• Transfer funds between accounts• Create special alerts and reminders

Sign In

Login ID

Password

Locations

Sign In

Login ID

Password

Locations

Sign In

Login ID

Password

Locations

Messages

Pay and Transfer

Activity Center

Bill Payment

Transfer

Locations

Services

Edwards with Scott Clemons and Becca Hardin


LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED RATE

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

87,846

88,761

87,564

89,848

91,210

89,848

83,247

84,038

83,039

84,132

85,480

84,132

4,599

4,723

4,525

5,716

5,730

5,716

5.2%

5.3%

5.2%

6.4%

6.3%

6.4%

REALTOR SALES MEDIAN PRICE REALTOR SALES MEDIAN PRICE

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14

302

298

254

229

236

248

$165,000

$171,000

$177,750

$173,000

$178,950

$165,000

27,729

26,916

23,651

23,181

20,099

21,742

$203,500

$199,900

$199,900

$185,000

$185,000

$180,000

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14

137

105

103

137

141

138

$196,000

$160,000

$195,500

$190,000

$180,000

$181,000

10,991

10,235

9,277

9,594

8,984

8,900

$152,076

$150,000

$150,000

$141,000

$137,500

$136,000

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14

38

44

40

44

48

39

0

2

3

0

2

0

GROSS SALES TAXABLE SALES TAX COLLECTIONS

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14

$583,108,930

$778,609,823

$727,593,540

$565,454,503

$778,156,531

$659,843,189

$351,982,850

$417,335,776

$438,602,802

$320,583,358

$395,836,976

$409,405,057

$21,981,358

$25,895,315

$26,370,045

$19,831,992

$24,145,855

$24,981,751

current labor statistics for Bay County

real estate salesEXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

CONDO - TOWNHOME SALES

Bay County building permits

Bay County sales tax collections

INSIGHTS:Bay EDA Updateby: Becca Hardin, President

Did you know that over 9,000 people are employed in the health care industry in Bay County? Did you know that this industry has a $2B economic impact in our com-munity? We didn’t either until Carlton Ulmer, CEO of Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center’s recent presentation to the Bay EDA In-vestors.

Our population in the U.S. is aging and it’s no secret that this indus-try is on the rise. According to Ulmer, “10 of the 20 fastest grow-ing jobs are in health care. There is a 3.1 % growth rate for jobs at hospitals, requiring 91,000 more physicals and about 260,000 more nurses. Home health aids and other positions are growing as much as 70 %.”

All over the country hospitals and medical offices struggle to find qualified personnel and that pres-sure is felt in Bay County as well. Both Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center and Bay Medical Sacred Heart have 40-50 open clinical positions at any given time.

Typically, medical positons offer wages higher than our local aver-age, currently $16.24 an hour. Ul-mer shared that when it comes to nurses, “those positions start at $21, $23 an hour. That’s great for Bay County.”

With the rising demand in the in-dustry, local leaders are looking for ways to meet the workforce needs and to capitalize on this growth. “We have the opportuni-ty as a county to provide regional care. We need to grow the poten-tial and grow health care,” stated Ulmer.

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14


INSIGHTS:Bay EDA Update

Demographic Snapshot

Bay County Population: 178,324Median Age: 40Labor Force: 90,424Average Wage: $33,251

Households: 67,561Household Income: $47,461Per Capita Income: $24,498

PANAMA CITY BEACH MEXICO BEACH PANAMA CITY

MAY 15

MAY 14

% CHANGE

JUN 15

JUN 14

% CHANGE

$1,842,628.00

$1,600,701.00

15.11%

$3,379,852.00

$3,171,472.00

6.57%

$12,435

$10,546

17.91%

$22,277

$19,976

11.52%

Bay County bed tax collections

July - September 2015

TOTAL PASSENGERS COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

JUN 15

JUL 15

AUG 15

JUN 14

JUL 14

AUG 14

96,496

99,148

86,622

88,940

90,923

79,778

1,584

1,587

1,387

1,422

1,369

1,268

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport passenger traffic

JUL 15

JUL 14

% CHANGE

$3,960,944.00

$3,463,301.00

14.37%

$23,015

$21,662

6.25%

National, state & local unemployment rate (Jan 1990 to July 2013)

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

Jan-

90Au

g-90

Mar

-91

Oct-9

1M

ay-9

2De

c-92

Jul-9

3Fe

b-94

Sep-

94Ap

r-95

Nov-9

5Ju

n-96

Jan-

97Au

g-97

Mar

-98

Oct-9

8M

ay-9

9De

c-99

Jul-0

0Fe

b-01

Sep-

01Ap

r-02

Nov-0

2Ju

n-03

Jan-

04Au

g-04

Mar

-05

Oct-0

5M

ay-0

6De

c-06

Jul-0

7Fe

b-08

Sep-

08Ap

r-09

Nov-0

9Ju

n-10

Jan-

11Au

g-11

Mar

-12

Oct-1

2M

ay-1

3De

c-13

Jul-1

4Fe

b-15

Florida

US

Bay County

$146,220.00

-

-

$201,906.00

-

-

$238,143.00

-

-


T his year marks the 70th anniversary for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City (NSWC-PC). In 1945, then Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal, established the U.S.

Navy Mine Countermeasures Station in Panama City, Florida, with a mission area focused on mines and mine countermeasures.

While NSWC-PC has remained firmly rooted in Mine Warfare, several mission areas have been added along the way, namely: Diving & Life Sup-port Systems, Naval Special Warfare Systems and Amphibious/Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare Systems, which are all among the most relevant missions conducted by the Navy, Marine Corps, and Department of Defense today.

From its humble beginnings in July 1945 with ten officers and three civilians, it has been the community’s dedication, all of us working as a team, which has enabled the Warfare Center to en-sure the United States Navy maintains its supremacy of the seas.

Physicist Harold A. Johnson was the first civilian aboard the U.S. Mine Countermeasures Station, arriving on August 10th, 1945. This excerpt from the archives recounts Johnson’s early days.

“After a war, the economy tends to shrink rather than expand, so CDR. Frost, the driving force behind the mine countermea-sures effort, had a tough time in Washington convincing people to come here. Panama City was isolated from towns of any size, and commuting back and forth to Washington would be an or-deal. There were no educational facilities past Bay High, no hos-pital except the Adams Clinic. In fact, the biggest thing Panama City had to offer was recreation – fishing and the beach. People were afraid if they came down here, they’d be caught when plac-es closed and they’d have to head back to Washington to hunt for jobs that might not be there. The Depression was etched in history, and their memories. But Frost did a masterful selling job. He said we knew from history that mine warfare was here to stay. He did such a good job of selling, that I packed up my wife and kids - one in the first grade and one in the fifth - and came here. I was sold. We arrived on Sunday, August 9th, 1945, and I start-ed to work August 10. Frost told me to get the first significant

NSWC-PC Celebrates 70 Years In The Communityby: Ed Stewart (SES), Technical Director, NSWC Panama City Division

Base gate in 1945

1965 Aerial


project going, get the gear streamed, the closed loop sweep, so that people in Washington would know that Panama City was serious business, and the experiments underway were proof. He said, “Johnson, I want you to go down there and make this thing work.”

Well, some things haven’t changed, like interactions with Wash-ington! But seriously, what hasn’t changed is the quality of the people and the desire to do their very best each and every day. The base is serious about its business. NSWC Panama City end-ed the fiscal year on September 30th with over 1,400 govern-ment service civilians, a military complement of 45 and over 700 defense industry partners on the team, a workforce complement that will ensure Panama City remains the recognized leader in the littoral missions of our Navy.

Many high level visitors are received at the base, and that is important because it tells the work we do is relevant. This year, the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Ad-miral James Winnefeld, was so impressed with the work at the base that he invited a friend to visit, Deputy Secretary of De-fense Robert Work. It is a testament to the work that is being conducted.

In 2015, the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center joined in celebrating the Year of the Military Diver (YOTMD). Repre-sentative Gwen Graham visited during our YOTMD event in June, and she came to appreciate Panama City as the home of the military diving.

Recently, the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Jonathan Greenert, and Representative Jeff Miller visited Pensacola to in-spect our preparations of the Mine Countermeasures Mission Package (MCM MP) equipment. CNO Greenert noted the MCM MP is one of the Navy’s top priorities, and testing is underway aboard the USS Independence. On his Facebook page, the CNO remarked, “We were both very impressed with the high-cali-ber crew and civilians who are focused on introducing this en-hanced capability to our Fleet.” More recently, Sean Stackley, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, made a personal visit accompanied by many senior flag level sponsors to assess and encourage our progress.

NSWC-PC is the Navy’s Technical Center of Excellence for Littoral Warfare and Coastal Defense! Its work is relevant and business is strong, which means the base is hiring. In fiscal year 2015, over 210 people were hired and 41 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students interned this past sum-mer, including eight students from FSU Panama City and six

students from Gulf Coast State College. Our hiring forecast for 2016 looks very positive. The economic forecast looks promising as well. The Warfare Center business base for FY15 will be over $550 Million, and the forecast for FY 16 is pro-jected to be very strong again.

For 70 years, NSWC-PC has been providing a technical advantage to our men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line to defend our country.

Everyone should all be exceedingly proud of the contributions Bay County makes to the Department of Defense and to our Na-tion.

Base gate in 1945

1965 Aerial 1970 Aerial

You Only Have One Heart . . .

615 N. Bonita AvenuePanama City, FL 32401(850) 769-1511w w w. b a y m e d i ca l . o r g

Only Available at Bay Medical Sacred Heart

• Acomprehensiveprogramincludingopen-heartsurgery–Whentimecountsit’simportanttohavesurgicalback-upon-sitesoyoudon’tlosevaluabletimebeingtransferredtoanotherfacility.

• Thearea’sbestsurvivalratesforheartattackandheartfailure.

• Electrophysiologyservices,suchascardiacablations,totreatpatientswithheartrhythmdisorders.

• Minimallyinvasiverepairofholesintheheartfromcongenitalheartdefects.

• Specializedtechnologyforcomplexandhigh-riskpatients,suchasatinyheartpumpthatcanbeinsertedintothecoronaryarteriestoensurecontinuousbloodflowduringcomplexprocedures.

• Less-invasiveroboticheartsurgery–aserviceofferedonlyatahandfulofhospitalsintheentireSoutheast.

• Ateamofmorethan200caregiversdevotedspecificallytoheartcare.

Only One Hospital Has the Area’s Best Survival Rates

Bay Medical Sacred Heart BayMedicalSacredHeartisrecognizedasoneofthetop-ratedheartprogramsinthenation.Why?Becauseourmortalityratesareamongthelowestinthecountryandwe have healed more heartsthananyotherprogramintheregion.

You Only Have One Heart -- Only Trust it to One Hospital

Coastal OB/GYN offers a full complement of women’s services for teens and young women, mothers to be, women in mid-life, menopause and beyond.

Call 785-0515 to Schedule Your Appointment

25 Doctors DrivePanama City , FL 32405

www.coastalobgynpc.com

Be Happy. Stay Healthy.

Gregory Morrow, MD Deborah Edgeworth, MD Yolanda Jones, MD Shawn Brooking, DNP, CNM Noreen Burke, ARNP

1138879★Alcohol Offenses

★D.U.I. Offenses★Drug Offenses★Assault and Battery★ Traffic Offenses

LOOK FORTHE SEAL.

bbb.org

®

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K


W e all know that to have strong, vibrant busi-nesses, we need an ed-

ucated and trained workforce. What some may not know is that workforce development begins with our youth – and at a very early age.

For this reason and so many more, I am excited that folks are rolling up their sleeves to join a movement aimed at building a more sustainable community. A new non-profit organization, Alignment Bay County (ABC),

is setting into motion a process through which businesses, civic organizations, churches and folks from all walks of life will join together to creatively solve strategically tar-geted issues our youth face.

Ensuring the success of our community’s children requires creative approaches to complex problems. This is not an overnight fix; the work is generational, and it will take many of us to see this through. ABC, known as a collective impact organization, will guide the process. The overall goal of the work is to align community organizations and resources in coordinated support of student success in Bay County.

Some of you may have already heard about our organi-zational work. For the record, ABC is not a service pro-vider, nor does it exist to create new programs. Instead, it is a “backbone” organization designed to work directly in partnership with Bay District Schools, committed com-munity volunteers and organizations. The model provides a structure and a process to educate community members about issues preventing student success. By harnessing ex-isting resources in Bay County, creative student-centered solutions can be implemented.

Fortunately, we are not creating a new idea. The collective impact model exists in the form of Alignment Nashville (www.alignmentnashville.org). Nashville leaders have

guided the Bay County development process. Over past months, the organizational pieces have been firmly laid locally. We have a clear mission “…to align community or-ganizations and resources so their coordinated support of Bay County’s youth has a positive impact on public school success, children’s health, and the success of our commu-nity as a whole.”

We have in place today a 25-member Governing Board, and a nearly 40-member Operating Board. The team is incred-ibly strong. Those serving on the ABC Governing and Op-erating Boards are presidents and vice presidents of cor-porations and organizations, chief executive and financial officers, lawyers, medical doctors and PhD’s, retired phys-icists, local governmental leaders and top-tier educational leaders.

There is no question that we need all Bay County stakehold-ers to get involved – and here’s why: Approximately 59% of all children in Bay District Schools are eligible for free or reduced lunches; Over 3,000 children miss more than 21 days of school annually; Approximately 30 languages are spoken in our schools; More than 1,400 students are home-less. All told, approximately 26% of district students live in poverty. Statistics show the higher the percentage of a school’s students living in poverty, the higher the dropout rate.

The solutions won’t evolve overnight. It’s going to take a dedicated and extended team effort to achieve desired goals. We hope the entire Bay County business communi-ty chooses to support this important work. Visit the ABC website at AlignmentBayCounty.org, and feel free to con-tact any of the Governing Board members. You’ll find a full list of our leadership on the website.

ABC: Developing Workforce through Youth Successby: Kim Bodine, Executive DirectorCareerSource Gulf Coast

NURSE ANESTHESIAMASTER OF SCIENCEAT FSU PANAMA CITY

experience hands-on learning through classroom and on-site clinical instruction

begin a one-on-one clinical practicum within the fi rst week

o� er quality patient care before, during and after surgical procedures

acquire the skills to become a Certifi ed Registered Nurse Anesthetist

pc.fsu.edu

� e Florida State University Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia Program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), 222 S. Prospect Avenue., Park Ridge, IL 60068-4001; (847) 655-1160.


Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD)More than 1,600 college students applied for the National Research Enterprise Internship Program (NREIP) last year. Of the 592 stu-dents selected for the prestigious

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math internship program, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) welcomed 41 students and embarked on a 10-week journey. NSWC PCD has the NREIP’s fourth largest amount of interns for fiscal year 2015, and the largest number in the program they have ever had.

Hancock BankHancock Bank announces Gina Mann will serve as the new Mort-gage Loan Originator overseeing mortgage loans at the Edgewater branch. With more than 15 years in Panama City’s financial indus-

try, Mann offers strategic options and recommendations for her cli-ents, and has a passion for banking, trade associations and non-profits in the local area. As a mortgage

loan originator, she will assist in originating all types of residential mortgages including construction permanent, renovation, portfolio, Jumbo, conventional, VA, FHA, and RD. Mann is a life-long resi-dent of Bay County, and a graduate of Gulf Coast State College.

PCB EntertainmentThe third annual Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam drew fans from across the country and the globe to Panama City Beach over Labor Day Week-end with superstar headliners Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert and Lady Antebellum. At the end of

the event, the producers (PCB En-tertainment), announced a brand new festival called SpringJam that will be coming to Aaron Bessant Park April 7-9, 2016. Headlining one of the days will be Grammy award-winning country trio, Rascal Flatts. Additional performers and information will be available on springjam.com closer to the event.

Burg Management GroupSherry Hill of Burg Management Company of Panama City Beach recently joined the elite group of Community Association Man-agers who have earned the Pro-fessional Community Association Manager (PCAM®) credential from Community Associations Institute (CAI). Hill is one of more than 2,200 managers worldwide who have earned the highest level of pro-

fessional recognition in the com-munity association field. Hill has been a Florida licensed Communi-ty Association Manager for eight years, and has worked for Burg

Management Company for the past five years. She has also earned the Certified Manager of Community Associations and Association Man-agement Specialist designations.

Bay Medical Sacred HeartThe Bay Medical Sacred Heart Board of Trustees is pleased to an-nounce the selection of their new President and Chief Executive Of-ficer, Steve Grubbs. Grubbs joins Bay Medical Sacred Heart with more than 28 years of hospital man-agement experience. A native of

Kentucky, Grubbs began his career with Humana serving as a financial

If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news to be published, email a press release, logo or photo to [email protected]


specialist in Chattanooga, Tennes-see. Since that time, he has worked with several major health systems as Chief Financial Officer, and then transitioned to the position of CEO in 2005. During his tenure as CEO, Steve has led three hospitals to new heights in quality, safety and pa-tient satisfaction. He most recently served as CEO of Paris Regional Medical Center in Paris, Texas, a two-campus regional referral cen-ter in northeast Texas with 368 li-censed beds. Grubbs holds a Bach-elor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky and an Masters of Business Admin-istration from Bethel University.

Bay Medical Sacred Heart also re-cently named Ron Patrick as the new Chief Financial Officer. He joins the Bay Medical team from Northwest Medical Center, a 300-

bed hospital in Tucson, Ariz., where he served as CFO for the past 25 years. Patrick began his healthcare career at West Florida Regional Medical Center in Pensacola, his home town. He later worked in Mobile, first at Knollwood Park Hospital and then at Doctor’s Hos-pital, before joining Northwest Medical Center in Tucson. Patrick received a Master of Science in Ad-ministration at Central Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of West Florida.

Panhandle EngineeringJim and Rosemary Slonina, along with Chris Forehand of Panhan-dle Engineering, presented a check

for $3,000 to Girls Inc. to sponsor the Ashley Slonina Golf Tourna-ment, and help support the pro-grams of Girls Inc. of Bay County. The program inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, provid-ing more than 400 girls a year with life-changing experiences and real solutions to the unique issues girls face. Girls Inc. provides a holistic, in-depth approach that combines mentorship, programming, and a positive space.

Bay County Transportation Planning OrganizationA new chairman is at the helm of the Bay County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO). The chairmanship transitioned from

Lynn Haven City Commissioner Rodney Friend, who served the TPO for two years, to the vice chair-man, Panama City Commissioner Mike Nichols, who will serve for fiscal year 2015-2016.

Eye Center of North FloridaThe Eye Center of North Florida is pleased to announce that Kristina Mizell Williams has been appoint-ed as Director of Marketing. With more than 12 years marketing and sales experience, she was previous-ly the Marketing Director for Supe-rior Residences, Hospice Specialist

at Emerald Coast Hospice and Mar-keting Coordinator at Gulf Coast Medical Center and Aculab.

Bay County Chamber ofCommerceInstitute for Organization Man-agement, the professional devel-opment program of the U.S. Cham-ber of Commerce Foundation, is pleased to announce that Elizabeth Smith, VP of Events/Foundation of the Bay County Chamber of

Commerce has recently completed her first year at Institute for Orga-nization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training pro-gram at University of Georgia in Athens, GA.

Have a submissionfor the Biz List?

Please contact Brittany Coleat 850-215-3755.

The Region’s Top-Rated Cardiac Care

Michael F. Morrow, MDMedical College of Georgia

Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease.

Bussie A. Evans, MDUniversity of Florida School of Medicine


Samir N. Patel, MDMedical College of Rush University

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Cardiology, Endovascular Medicine and Nuclear Cardiology. Registered physician in Vascular Interpretation.

Accepting New PatientsMost Major Insurances Accepted

Amir R. Haghighat, MDUniv. of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional Cardiology, Endovascular Medicine and Nuclear Cardiology.

Hari K.R. Baddigam, MDM.S. Ramaiah Medical College

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Electrophysiology.

Thompson C. Maner, MDMedical College of Georgia

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology.

Michael J. Stokes, MDUniversity of Miami School of Medicine

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease and Interventional Cardiology.

Hashem A. Mubarak MDDamascus University School of Medicine


Joe Trantham, MDDuke University School of Medicine

Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, Electrophysiology, Interventional Cardiology and Adult Transthoracic Echocardiography.

The physicians of The Cardiovascular Institute provide Northwest Florida's top-rated heart care to patients from the nine counties surrounding Panama City and beyond. Our team has played a critical role in developing the nationally recognized program at Bay Medical Sacred Heart and launched the heart program at Gulf Coast Medical Center. With new offices in Panama City Beach and in Marianna, we are expanding toprovide both quality andconvenience for our patients.

Our physicians offer the very latest in diagnosis and treatment options to care for:

y Coronary Artery Disease

y Heart Failure

y Cardiomyopathy

y Valvular Disease

y Rhythm Disorders

y Peripheral Vascular Disease

y Carotid Disease

y Hypertension

y Congenital Heart Disease

For diagnosis of heart and vascular conditions, we offer the area's only accredited echocardiography lab and nuclear stress lab and we are nationally certified in vascular ultrasound studies. We provide a full spectrum of cardiac monitoring services and stress testing in our main office.

With an in-house research department, our physicians stay on the forefront of cardiac care and offer specialized therapies that are otherwise only available in a university setting.

M eet O ur Physicians

(850)769-0329 • w w w.c ardiovascularinstitute.comMain Office: 801 E. 6th St., Floors 4&5, Panama CIty, FL • Beach Office: 11111 Panama City Beach Pkwy, Panama CIty Bch, FL

The only cardiology group seeing patients at both Panama City hospitals.

It’s beautiful outside. Perfect for a bayfront morning run, or a poolside brunch and mimosas with friends. Maybe some sweet tea on the porch with

neighbors at sunset—sounds like the perfect way to end the day. Welcome to the SweetBay life.

SweetBay is a new master-planned community at the water’s edge in Panama City, Florida. A place to get in touch with nature and

neighbors. There are pathways, waterways, parks and pools to connect the community as well as an award-winning free public

charter school, University Academy. Down the line, a future shopping district is planned to serve as the heart of the community.

The best part? Everything is just a short walk from your front door.

Our bayfront village is intelligently designed to foster a mindful, healthy, and relaxed lifestyle full of natural beauty and wellness.

Won’t you join us?Register online to get all the news and information about new homes in SweetBay. www.sweetbayfl.com

A new-home communityin Panama City, Florida

OPE

NING THIS SUMMER

SBAY 28P-15 Sweet Bay • BayBiz.indd 1 5/7/15 3:35 PM


Many young professionals are enthusiastic about area business and community opportunities and are ready to get involved as new leaders. Bay Young Professionals (BYP) was formed by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce to specifically address the needs of this age group to enrich our community by uniting, developing and retaining our future leaders.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Bay Young Professionals (BYP) group, contact Elizabeth Smith at850-215-3761 or [email protected].

Jake Mann, a Bay County native, is proud to work and serve in his home-town as a Loan Officer with Community Bank, where he enjoys building working relationships and helping people achieve their financial goals. Mann holds his Bachelor of Arts degree from Florida State University.

Son of a police officer and a school teacher, Mann attributes his tenacious work ethic and spirit of service to his parents and a strong, supportive family. He considers patience and perseverance among his best qualities, and believes that “if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” Mann is thankful for the opportunity to have been mentored by a number of accomplished leaders in the banking community over the last eight years. He continues to push himself to learn and grow, and seeks to sup-port others in their development.

Active in the community, Mann is a member of the Bay County and Pan-ama City Beach Chambers of Commerce, the Bay Young Professionals Steering Committee and the Beach Chamber HYPE Group. He also works with the United Way of Northwest Florida as an active member of the Dollar Smart Coalition and serves as a Beach Chamber Ambassador.

In his free time, Mann enjoys discovering new music, having weekend brunch with friends and all things Star Wars.

Jacob Mann

Photos by: Desiree Gardner Photography


• KBB’s2015“Best Buy Award”• MotorTrend’s“Talk of The Town Award”• U.S.News&WorldReport2014“Best Cars For The Money”

Five Decades.....Three Generations.....One Tradition!2251 W. 23rd Street - Panama City, FL 32405

850-250-4737 - BillCramerGM.com

+Pricing effective 10/06/2015 and subject to change at any time. Home and community information including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. *Amenities at The Villages of Mill Bayou are not yet constructed or under construction as of 10/06/2015. D.R. Horton is not the developer of this subdivision and is not responsible for construction of the amenities. D.R. Horton cannot and does not guarantee construction or completion of any community amenities by the developer. Pictures, photographs, colors, features, and sizes are

for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. For a list of all D.R. Horton communities near you, visit www.DRHorton.com. ©2015 D.R. Horton, Inc.

EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

The Villages of Mill Bayou

Planned Pool Center & Marina*Fishing Docks | Boat Ramp & Kayak Launch | John B. Lynch Park

Oak Point Park & Nature TrailsBen’s Lake, a Naturally-Stocked Fishing Area

Located off State Road 390 behind North Bay Haven Charter Academy103 Shoreview Drive || Panama City, Florida 32404 || Sales Office: 850-252-6215

For a complete and up to date list of all Chamber activities, includingcommittee meetings,visit our website at www.PanamaCity.org

NOTE: Dates, times and locations subject to change. For sponsorshipinformation, please contact: [email protected] or call850-215-3761

Oct2nd First Friday*FSU Panama City HolleyAcademic Center(4750 Collegiate Drive)Program:Northwest Florida Regional Planning CouncilNetworking:7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m.Sponsored by:Bay Medical Sacred Heart

22ndBay Young ProfessionalsGolfing Clinic and Social EventBay Point Resort Golf ClubTime:5:00 p.m.Sponsored by:Bay Point Resort Golf Club

29thFirst RespondersAppreciation LuncheonFSU Panama City HolleyAcademic Center(4750 Collegiate Drive)Time:11:00 a.m.Sponsored by:Tyndall Federal Credit Union, Gulf Coast State College, Gulf CoastRegional Medical Center, Perry & Young, WMBB-TV, Bay Medical Sacred Heart, Emerald Coast Hospice, and The Eye Center of North Florida

Nov6th First Friday*FSU Panama City HolleyAcademic Center(4750 Collegiate Drive)Networking:7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m.Sponsored by:FSU Panama City

11th Veteran’s DayChamber Closed

17th New Member 411 BreakfastBay County Chamber of CommerceBoardroom(235 W. 5th Street)Time:8:30 a.m.

26th & 27th Happy ThanksgivingChamber Closed

Dec4th First Friday*FSU Panama City HolleyAcademic Center(4750 Collegiate Drive)Networking:7:15 a.m. / Program 8:00 a.m.Sponsored by:Gulf Coast Medical Center

15th Holiday After HoursFSU Panama City HolleyAcademic Center(4750 Collegiate Drive)Time:5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Sponsored by:The Eye Center of North Florida and Premium Outdoors

24th & 25th Merry ChristmasChamber Closed

31st Happy New YearChamber Closed


Tis the Season for Booking Holiday Parties

Classic Caesar SaladBrown Sugar & Cinnamon Crusted Sweet Potatoes

Celery Root Whipped Potatoes

Sliced Rum Soaked Baked Ham Sliced London Broil with Cabernet Fig Demi

Honey Butter Brussel Sprouts Glazed Baby Carrots

Rolls & Butter Coffee, Tea and Water

Chef’s Choice of Assorted Desserts

* All prices are subject to a 7.5% Sales Tax and a 22% Service Charge. This special and venue options are only available for a limited time and based on availability.

Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel & Convention Center850-230-4630 • [email protected]

BoardwalkBeachResort.com | 9400 - 9600 South Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL

Traditional Holiday Dinner MenuOnly $32.95*

Don’t worry about a thing, we’ve got it all covered! Contact Lisa Chrastina to set up a complimentary tour of our

available meeting and party space.u Traditional Holiday Dinner - Only $32.95 Per Person u Complimentary Room Rental - Up To $1,500 Valueu Complimentary Dance Floor - Up To $350 Valueu Private Bartender Fee of $60 - $240 Value

Savings up to

$ 2,000

Reserve Sunday - Thursday for an Extra 15%OFF


ADT Security Services751 Ashley Dr.Crestview, FL 32536(541) 515-9640

Albritton Law Office456 Harrison Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 215-0200

Aqua View Motel4909 Hispaniola St.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 234-2661

Arby’s1877 Cove Blvd.Panama City, FL 32405(850) 785-3003

B. J. Buccini Real Estate400 Sandal Lane #416Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Battle’s Rivercraft Marine7429 E. Hwy 22Panama City, FL 32404(850) 871-2920

Bay Point Resort Golf Club4701 Bay Point Rd.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 235-6950

Beach Art Group9201 Front Beach Rd.Panama City Beach, FL 32407(850) 541-3867

Bot Boutique2995 W. 10th St.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 215-0212

Childcare Network2724 E. 17th St.Panama City, FL 32405

Coastal Angler MagazinePO Box 1272Port St. Joe, FL 32457(850) 229-4500

Coastal EmergencyRestoration2919 S. Hwy. 77Lynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 215-6475

Community Health &Rehabilitation3611 Transmitter Rd.Panama City, FL 32404(850) 747-9688

Daffin Insurance Service775 Harrison Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 769-8183

Emerald Coast HealthcareCoalition755B Lovejoy Rd.Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548

Equus Unlimited2423 Hwy 77Panama City, FL 32405(850) 763-9163

Florida Real Estate Investor Services12118 PCB ParkwayPanama City Beach, FL 32407(877) 848-8873

Gulf Management, LLC2101 Northside Dr., Ste. 104Panama City, FL 32405(850) 763-3883

Gun Depot USA700 Ohio Ave.Lynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 628-8285

Half Baked Oyster Bar & Grill2920 Thomas Dr.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 249-4611

Johnson Medical Billing1045 Jenks Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 571-5252

Kirkland Insurance Agency2518 Hwy. 77, Ste. CLynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 784-7974

Laura Maxwell1618 Meadowlark WayPanama City Beach, FL 32413(850) 775-8008

Lynn Haven LedgerPO Box 912Lynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 303-4487

March of Dimes2809 W. 15th St., Ste-102Panama City, FL 32401-1358(850) 250-2904

Mass Tax, Inc.2523 E. Bus. Hwy 98Panama City, FL 32401(850) 481-1547

NW FL Reception Center4455 Sam Mitchell Dr.Chipley, FL 32428(850) 773-0201

Piggly Wiggly - Food For Less PC1380 W. 15th St.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 818-0601

Planted True310 Harrison Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 865-3588

Poole Engineerig & Surveying, Inc2145 Delta Blvd., Ste. 100Tallahassee, FL 32303(850) 386-5117

Proper Fox Consulting, LLCPO Box 16291Panama City, FL 32406(850) 890-3517

Quality Gates and Openers2728 County Rd. 2321Southport, FL 32409(850) 271-3617

Realty One of Northwest Florida8200 Palm Cove Blvd.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 236-9757

Mr. Rodney KingRS King Refinishing, LLC4909 Hispaniola St.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 381-0269

RV Connections3926 E. 15th St.Panama City, FL 32404(850) 763-6910

Sandra Jean Uniforms103 W. 23rd St. E-3Panama City, FL 32405(850) 392-1688

SETCO Services, LLC401 E 23d St.Panama City, FL 32405(850) 714-4037

Smokin’ Hot BBQ6547 Hwy 231Panama City, FL 32404(850) 740-1183

SOS Fence, LLC1007 E. 26th St.Panama City, FL 32405(850) 319-9136

Student AdvocacyCenter of BayPO Box 35893Panama City, FL 32412(850) 832-2377

The Corner Store2511 Thomas Dr.Panama City Beach, FL 32408(850) 238-8588

The Lilly Company319 Kelley Dr.Dothan, AL 36303(334) 792-3011

The Works Studies Institute415 Richard Jackson Blvd. #204 Panama City Beach, FL 32407(850) 588-1477

Thirston Law OfficePO Box 19617Panama City Beach, FL 32417(850) 249-4998

Trailer Trash Boutique474 Harrison Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 252-6155

Trigo San Francisco Style Deli119 Harrison Ave.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 481-0132

Tutor Doctor of theEmerald Coast7228 W. Lakeland Dr.Panama City, FL 32404(850) 387-7400

Volkert, Inc.14101 PCB Parkway, Ste. 1Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Walgreens Store #9619301 N. Tyndall ParkwayPanama City, FL 32404(850) 522-5321

Watson Landings1654 E. 5th St.Panama City, FL 32401(850) 747-4999

Wingate by Wyndham2610 Lynn Haven ParkwayLynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 248-8080

Woodmen Life2618 E. 22nd CourtPanama City, FL 32401(850) 769-9212

YP Marketing Solutions2114 Airport Blvd., Ste. 1800Pensacola, FL 32504(850) 479-9222

Zoo World9008 Front Beach Rd.Panama City Beach, FL 32407(850) 230-1243

5 YearsAVIAN Engineering LLCBASIC of NWFL, Inc.ISPA TechnologyKerigan Marketing Associates, lnc.Mathison Retirement CenterPirates Island Adventure GolfPurvis Systems IncorporatedSouthwest Airlines

10 YearsAnderson & Associates Construction, Inc.Daystar Cleaning IncGulf Coast Women’s ClubITT ExelisLaguna Beach Christian RetreatMichels & Michels Marketing GroupMr. Rooter PlumbingPineapple Willy’sProvision Living at PCBRegister’s Enterprises

15 YearsBB&TNaval Surface Warfare Center PCPatriot Flags & FlagpolesRedco RecyclingSmitty’s Barbecue & Salad BarSpinnaker

25 YearsArizona ChemicalBroward Hall Insurance AgencyJack G. WilliamsKedrick Cerry Inc.Sonny’s Real Pit BBQTyndall AFB Public Affairs

30 YearsBryant & HigbyCareerSource Gulf CoastCity of Panama CityComcastFSU Panama CityLamar Advertising Co.Panama City Downtown Improvement Board

35 YearsBay County Association of RealtorsParthenon Prints, Inc.

45 YearsPaulk’s Moving & Storage

Commercial and Residential PropertyValuations

D O N A L D G I L E SM A I , S R A

Cert. Gen. RZ356

122 E 4th St Panama City, Fl, 32401

Phone: 850-769-6593 Fax: 850-872-9160

[email protected]

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name

Street Address Address 2

City, ST ZIP Code Phone: 555.555.0125

Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Employee Name

Position Title

Company Name



Fax: 555.555.0145

E-mail address

Contact us by phone (850) 832-2377, e-mail [email protected] orLike us on Facebook for more information on SAC-BCI and/or upcoming events!

***************************************************************

504’s * IEP’s * Parent/Teacher/Student ConferencesSuspensions * Expulsions * School Based Arrests

***************************************************************

The mission of the Student Advocacy Center of Bay County, Inc. (SAC-BCI) is to provide Preventive Education, Representative Assistance, and Restorative Methods to help students receive the maximum amount of classroom time in the Least Restrictive Environment!

***************************************************************--- Register at www.active.com ---

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL BULLYING PREVENTION MONTH!


12

43

56

1. Representative Jay Trumbull, Chairman of the Board Mike Sears and Governor Rick Scott at the IndustryAppreciation Celebration Awards Breakfast.2. Chamber staff meeting with Warrior Beach Retreat.3. Winners of the 2015 Industry Appreciation Sporting Clay Tournament, Dr. Reid Bauman, Aaron Rich,Jim Hayden, Bryan Taylor and Will Cramer.4. Military Affairs Committee reception honoringCmdr. Christopher C. Serow.5. Pianist Kevin Fair entertaining First Fridayattendees.6. Mike Johnson, Dr. Carol Edwards, Jeff Storey,Steve Grubbs, and Bay County Chamber of CommerceChairman, Mike Sears, at the CEO Welcome Reception.

Harvest some savings.Contact us to see how much you could save

on more than just car insurance.∑øœ∂˚

850-785-05381314 N. Tyndall Pkwy, Panama City

Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Homeowners, boat, PWC and flood 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. The GEICO Personal Umbrella Policy is provided by Government Employees Insurance Company and is available to qualified Government Employees Insurance Company and GEICO General Insurance Company policyholders and other eligible persons, except in MA. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2014. © 2014 GEICO.

235 W. 5th StreetPanama City, FL 32401

Documents

October-December 2015 Bay Biz