July-August 2013 Bay Biz

July 2013

8 Political Perspective: Florida Legislative Session Wrap-Up

10 Celebrating 100 Years:

12 Defense Intel: Meet Lt. Gen. William Etter

14 Transforming Downtown Panama City

17 Workforce Connection

18 Education: Chamber Program Introduces Education Leaders to Opportunities in Bay County

Mock Trial Gives Students Real Life Experience

July - September 2013 | BAY BIZ 3

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20 Trends: Incentives Give Employees Reasons to Stay Healthy

22 Economic Profile: EDA Insights

24 Biz List

32 New Members

34 Member Anniversaries

36 CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR

37 Out & About

What’s Inside

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4 BAY BIZ | July - September 2013

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSBrittany Cole, Elizabeth Smith, Downtown Improvement Board,City of Panama City, Panama City Community RedevelopmentAgency, Desiree Gardner Photography, The Workforce Center,Leslie Brown, DAF Chief, Public Affairs, Rex Knight Photography

Bay Biz Magazinec/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce

235 W. 5th Street – P.O. Box 1850Panama City, FL 32402

[email protected]

Online: www.panamacity.orgfacebook.com/baychamberfltwitter.com/baychamberfl

The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber ofCommerce, P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 850.785.5206

POSTMASTER send address changes to Bay County Chamber,P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or

The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to [email protected]. Each Chamber Member receives one

copy. To request additional copies please [email protected] or call 850.215.3755.

PUBLISHERCarol Roberts

EXECUTIVE EDITORBrittany Cole

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

DESIGNBellhouse Publishing

COVEROld and New Downtown Panama City

Special thanks to Rex Knight Photography for the “new” shot

Brittany Cole

Angela Segers

Chelsea Hamati

Elizabeth Smith

Jody Walls

Rich Musgrave

Amanda Bawn

Leslie Brown

DAF Chief, Public Affairs

Maria Goodwin

Scarlett Phaneuf

Neal Wade

The Chamber is at the half way point of the year where we

are wrapping up programs such as Leadership Bay and Junior

Leadership Bay with graduation events and now starting

preparations for 2013-2014 sessions. In addition, the Governmental

Affairs Committee is researching topics for our legislative survey

to determine priorities for the 2014 Legislative agenda. I can’t

believe I’m talking about 2014 already.

The cover of this issue is dedicated to the redevelopment of

the beautiful Downtown Panama City that we all know and love.

The Panama City Commission and staff are to be commended for

stepping up to the plate to revitalize this gem of the Gulf Coast.

It is obviously a team effort with the CRA and Downtown

Improvement Board. Dutch Sanger and his board have fought the

battle for many years and now have thousands of people coming

to our downtown area that would not necessarily have reason to

do so if it weren’t for the many special events and advertising that

they afford the area. It is developers such as Chris Hines with

Bluewater Development that have gambled with their investment

and are now flourishing and providing high end office space to

accommodate nationally and worldwide affiliated corporations to

downtown Panama City. All of this is like a perfect storm, but in

a positive way. When it all comes together, Bay County will have

yet another thriving element in its tool box to attract tourists and

businesses to our community.

So with that, take a look inside and I think you will agree that

we are indeed a great place to live, work, and play!

Carol Roberts

President / CEO

Our beaches are breaking record numbers of visitors, our airport

has celebrated its 3rd anniversary, the Trane Company celebrated

100 years, Eastern Shipbuilding has announced yet another 400

new jobs, monies will be coming from our state legislature to

complete Highway 79 4-laning and the 23rd street fly-over, our

Navy base is one of five installations in the nation awarded the

2013 Commander in Chief's Annual Award for Excellence, we’ve

broken ground on the Downtown Marina Renovation project, we

now have a beautiful new amphitheatre on Panama City Beach,

millions of dollars are flowing into our community via BP,

developers of our old airport are well on their way to bringing

new life to the northside of Panama City, new residential and

commercial construction is popping up all over the county,

hundreds of troops and their families are coming this fall to

Tyndall Air Force Base from Holloman Air Force Base in New

Mexico and so much more.

It really is a great day in Bay County when you sit back and

take in all of the exciting things happening in our community!

Speaking of new, as you can see from my photo in this issue

we have a new kid in town. I’m pleased to introduce my friend,

Lance Allison, the new President/CEO of the Panama City Beach

Chamber of Commerce. Joining us in the picture is my best friend

in the Chamber industry, Shane Moody, President/CEO of the

Destin Chamber. I think you will see a lot of pictures like this of

these Chambers working together, along with the many others in

Northwest Florida, as we embrace a regional attitude.

We do hope that you enjoyed the summer issue of Bay Biz. The

commemorative issue has been very popular with our residents.

Should you like additional copies please drop by the Chamber

office at 235 West 5th Street. The 100th year anniversary

celebrations continue during First Friday and through our eBiz

electronic newsletters.

President’s Message


It is hard to believewe are more thanhalf way through2013.


Political Perspective

On May 3 the Florida Legislature held its last day of session,

capping off two months of fierce debates, political jockeying, and

several new laws that will impact the state. Luckily, many of these

new laws will positively impact the economy of Bay County, and

have been on the Chamber’s legislative agenda for the past couple

of years. These are just some of the legislation that passed during

this session:

Elimination of the Manufacturers Sales Tax on Equipment (HB 7007/ SB 518/ HB 391)If you are on the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs email list, you

may have received several Governmental Affairs Action Alerts urging

you to write to your representatives regarding the tax elimination.

The tax put Florida at a disadvantage to other states as Florida was

the only one on both the Atlantic and Gulf Coast who charged a

sales tax on manufacturing equipment. Eliminating this

manufacturers’ tax was a top priority of Governor Scott’s agenda

to make Florida more competitive and encourage manufacturing

companies to locate to the state. Although the legality of the bill

will be debated over the next year, Governor Scott is confident it

will prevail and be enacted in April of next year.

Enforcing Florida’s Water Standards(HB 7115/ SB 1808)Water regulations have been on the Chamber’s radar since 2011

when the Environmental Protection Agency refused to relinquish

control of the water monitoring standards to the Florida

Department of Environmental Protection. After two years of

debate, the EPA and FDEP have finally reached an agreement to

follow Florida’s scientifically-backed water regulations. These new

procedures will protect Florida’s water sources from excess levels

of nitrogen and phosphorus, which pollutes the water. Not only

will the new standards save taxpayer money, the agreement

makes Florida more competitive by expediting the water analysis

process.

Expediting Environmental Permitting(HB 999/ SB 1684)Expediting the permitting process to start or to expand a

business has always been a concern of both the small and large

businesses in the Chamber. This year, the legislature passed a bill

to help speed up the Department of Environmental Protection’s

measures on processing permits. The piece of legislation included

changes such as placing an emphasis on electronic submissions,

reducing turn-around times from local governments, and balancing

authority between Water Management Districts and the DEP.

Bay County InfrastructureThe Bay County Chamber has always been heavily involved in

promoting transportation projects in the area. We are very happy

this year that the Florida Department of Transportation budget

has funded two projects that have been on our radar for the past

five years. Starting in 2014, the FDOT will begin construction on

an overpass connecting U.S. 98 and 23rd Street in Panama City. The

written by Chelsea Hamati

Wrapping up the Florida Legislative Session


project has been allocated 87 million

dollars due to a work development

program aimed at improving infrastructure

and employment in the state. In addition,

partial funding for the 4-laning of State

Road 390 passed this session.

What’s been in the news:� Banning internet cafés and electronic

gambling devices (HB 155): As a result of

the Allied Veterans of the World scandal

shortly before session, which resulted in

the resignation of Florida Lieutenant

Governor Jennifer Carroll, the House and

the Senate swiftly passed this bill within the first week. � Banning Texting While Driving (HB 7125): A long-debated bill,

the ban passed within the last two days of session. As of October

1, 2013, the law will label texting while driving (unless stopped)

as a secondary offense charging a fine of $30.00.� Restricting the Use of Drones in Florida (SB 92): This newly-

signed law is the first of its kind in the United States, and requires

a warrant of probable cause by a judge before deploying an

unmanned aerial drone (except in extenuating circumstances).

Governor Scott signed this bill into law on April 25, 2013. � CAPE Academies (SB1076) and Teacher Raises: In efforts to

improve the education system in Florida and encourage a more

skilled workforce, the CAPE bill expands “Career and Professional

Education Academies.” These CAPE Academies promote a high

school curriculum where students can earn college credits and

industry certifications while pursuing their diploma. In addition,

Governor Scott signed the FY 2013-2014 budget giving Florida’s

teachers a $2500 raise tied to performance standards.� Healthcare Reform: The Senate and the House were unable

to reach an agreement on alternative healthcare policies to

supplement the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The

Senate proposed a premium assistance program using federal

dollars, while the House created a primary and catastrophic

insurance coverage for low-income households. Both of these bills

failed to pass.

The Governmental Affairs Delegation from the Chamber with

Speaker of the House Will Weatherford and Representative

Jimmy Patronis. Listed from left to right: Carol Roberts, Larry

Carroll, Pam Anderson, Will Weatherford, Dan Rowe, Neal Wade,

Rob Jackson, and Jimmy Patronis.

Wayne Stubbs, along with Joe Tannehill, Jr. (not pictured), testify

before the House Economic Affairs Committee chaired by

Representative Patronis on the elimination of taxes on

manufacturing equipment.

�

�

EDUCATION GROWS

From the early one-room schoolhouses until the 1960’s,

Panama City students were totally segregated. Schools for black

children existed in small communities including Bayou George,

Majette, Sandy Creek, Parker, West Bay, Callaway and Vicksburg

from the late 1800’s up until the 1920’s. During this time, as the

terms of the black children’s schools were three months shorter

than those for the white children’s, it took two or three terms for

black students to complete a grade. In 1964, a lawsuit changed

the segregated structure and forced the school board to begin a

“transfer policy” allowing black students to enroll in formerly all-

white schools. When the policy was modified in 1969 to a

“freedom of choice” plan, the courts ruled that schools were not

being integrated quickly enough. A. D. Harris and Patterson Sixth

Grade Centers were created to help speed up the process.

In 1967, progress in Bay County’s higher education system

continued when the State Board of Regents created the Panama

City Center. The University of West Florida agreed to administer

the center and, in 1971, classes began with 623 students and no

textbooks. In 1982, the State Legislature appropriated $6.9 million

for a new Panama City campus under Florida State University.

COUNTY AND CHAMBER GROWS

During the tenure of Panama City Mayor John W. Silcox, Jr.

(1965-1971), a referendum for a $1.5 million bond issue was approved

by Bay County voters for the purchase of Wainwright Shipyard and

improvements for the city’s new port. Port of Panama opened in

1967, an international trade operation that continues to grow and

develop to this day, providing jobs and enabling ocean freight

transportation of goods through the county’s waterways. Also in

1967, the County saw the incorporation of the cities of Parker and

Mexico Beach; Panama City Beach followed in 1971.

In 1973, the Bay County Chamber established its procedure of

appointing the outgoing Board Chairman as the Military Affairs

Committee Chair.

Milford Braxton Miller began his decade (1971-1981) as Mayor

of Panama City and championed Panama City’s concerns that

residents were paying county ad valorem taxes but were not

getting adequate roads and bridges in return. The Bay County

Commission agreed to pay the city $44,500 to settle the claim.

In 1976, under President Tommy Cooley, the Chamber promoted

the expansion of 23rd Street to four lanes. In 1977, Gulf Coast

Medical Center opened under the name of Gulf Coast Community

Hospital, providing more health care options to residents. In 1981,

Miller decided not to seek an unprecedented sixth term and Gerry

Clemons was elected Mayor.

TOURISM GROWS

More and more tourists traveled to our “world’s most beautiful

beaches.” Some of the more popular landmarks of Panama City

Beach were The Hangout – a hotspot for dancing and mingling on

the beach, which was destroyed by Hurricane Eloise in 1975;

Miracle Strip Amusement Park – created in March, 1963, it changed

the shape and history of Panama City Beach for 40 years; the

The Third Twenty-Five Years (1964-1988)Bay County ChamBer of CommerCe


written by Rich Musgrave, Centennial Committee

Miracle Mile – a well-known attraction for millions worldwide; and

the Top O’ The Strip -- an iconic landmark of the Beach that

opened in April, 1966 until it ultimately had to be destroyed due

to damage from Hurricane Opal in 1995.

A tourist attraction that brought pride to a sprawling downtown

Panama City for nearly half a century, the Dixie Sherman Hotel

hosted many visitors to Bay County. In later years, its condition

and reputation deteriorated so that it was eventually demolished

in April of 1970. Another historic landmark, the Cove Hotel, sold

in 1974; it burned to the ground on January 2, 1976. Like other

‘downtowns’ nationwide, Panama City began to deteriorate. The

advent of air-conditioned, one-roof shopping in the Panama City

Mall in 1974 hastened the downtown area’s downturn. Created in

the same year, the Downtown Improvement Board (DIB) began

collecting property taxes in 1976 to fund improvements for the

downtown area, making it a more desirable destination.

LAUREN MERRIAM AWARD

Also in 1976, the Chamber presented the first Lauren Merriam

award to Gerry Clemons. This award exemplifies the professional

qualities and successful community business leadership

demonstrated by its namesake, Lauren Merriam. It has remained

the most prestigious award the Chamber presents to community

business members.

GROWING TOGETHER

The Chamber continually assisted Bay County’s progress

through this period, as we all watched the world move forward in

leaps and bounds. We not only witnessed man’s landing on the

moon in 1969 and the first test-tube baby in 1978, but also the

local tragedy in that same year when a train derailment near

Fountain resulted in the deaths of 13 residents due to the chlorine

gas that spilled from its railcars.

In 1983, the Chamber of Commerce influenced Century Boat

Company to relocate to Panama City, bringing more jobs to Bay

County. That same year saw the formation of the first Leadership

Bay Class of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, offering

local members of the business community the opportunity to

prepare for future leadership in the coming years.

Next issue: The last twenty-five years (1988 to 2013).



Bay County residents, and the rest of the United States, cansleep soundly at night because this man doesn’t.

Lt. Gen. William Etter, Continental U.S. NORAD Region-1st AirForce (Air Forces Northern) commander, realizes he has theextraordinarily critical mission of keeping the skies safe over NorthAmerica every day. How does he do it? “I’ve got great Airmenwho monitor the skies around the clock, keeping us safe,” he said.“Many of these great men and women have been doing it for years,so I know America is in experienced, capable hands.”

Under his command are four direct reporting units, numerousactive air-defense alert sites, and during surge operations, up to15,000 active duty, National Guard, Air Force Reserve and civilianpersonnel. According to the general, he has three priorities:Homeland Defense, Defense Support to Civil Authorities, andTheater Security Cooperation.

The key to the homeland defense mission is Operation NobleEagle. Since Sept. 11, 2001, 1st Air Force has been the lead agencyfor this no-fail assignment in the Continental United States. Itscontinuing mission is protection from air attack from inside oroutside the contiguous United States. First Air Force accomplishesthis task by providing surveillance and command and control forair defense forces 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For the general, a veteran of nearly 100 flight-hours himself, it'sa mission he was brutally introduced to as an operations groupcommander in the Vermont Air National Guard when he was taskedwith ordering some of the first aircraft airborne on that fateful daynearly 12 years ago. "Right after 9-11, we had flying missions overground zero in New York City," he said, and added that betweenthat experience and his current responsibilities, he's come full circlenow that he’s the commander of CONR, complete with aninevitable personal investment of "many long but gratifying nights.”

As the Continental U.S. Region for NORAD, the bi-nationalNorth American Aerospace Defense Command, CONR provides airdefense in the form of airspace warning and control, and maritimewarning. “It is our responsibility to protect the homeland throughthe control and use of air assets,” Etter said. “This mission is madeeasier with the well-trained folks; many who live right here in BayCounty.” As the USNORTHCOM air component, AFNORTH is the

senior agency specifically responsible for the land areas of thecontinental United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and thesurrounding seas out to approximately 500 nautical miles.

When tasked, it conducts Defense Support of Civil Authoritiesoperations within this area of responsibility, rapidly responding tonon-military threats. Under the DSCA mission, the organizationassists civilian agencies before and during emergencies whethernatural or man-made. This role provides the ability to save lives,relieve suffering, prevent property damage and providehumanitarian assistance where and when it is needed most. TheDSCA mission is to support local, state, regional, and federalemergency service agencies; save lives, mitigate suffering andprevent significant property loss.

“It’s important for Americans to remember, the military can’tget involved until all of these other assets have been exhausted,”he said. “But we will be there as soon as we are called.” First AirForce units include the 601st Air and Space Operations Center,known as "America's AOC," and the Air Force Rescue CoordinationCenter at Tyndall AFB. CONR is further divided into two air defensesectors--the Eastern Air Defense Sector in Rome, N.Y., and theWestern Air Defense Sector at McChord AFB, Wash. Also, thereare nine aligned Air National Guard fighter wings.

The 601st AOC plans, directs and assesses air and spaceoperations and provides aerospace warning and control forUSNORTHCOM's homeland security mission. The AOC is alsoresponsible for the detection, deterrence, defense, and defeat ofaviation threats to U.S. citizens and critical infrastructure.

The AFRCC serves as the U.S. inland search and rescuecoordinator, and is responsible for coordinating on-land Federalsearches. It has direct ties to the Federal Aviation Administrationalerting system and the U.S. Mission Control Center. Since itsinception in 1974, it’s recorded more than 15,000 saves.

Theater Security Cooperation is important to protecting theUnited States as well. Working in tandem with North Americancountries, TSC ensures air sovereignty for the entire continent.“Collaboration with our neighbors is what security cooperation isabout,” he said. “It ensures our security, which helps everyone sleepbetter.”

Defense Intel:Meet Lt. General William Etter

written by Leslie Brown, DAF Chief, Public Affairs

In April 2011, Greg Brudnicki was officially elected as Mayor of

Panama City. Weeks later as he took the oath of office, he had a

list of plans for the city, including bringing a new image to

Downtown. “I wanted to explore developing the Downtown

Marina. This involved renewing/redoing the submerged land leases

and determining the condition of the

bulk heads and securing the necessary

funding. I also wanted to pass

ordinances to help eliminate the

vagrancy problem,” says Brudnicki.

Plans are in place to revitalize the

Panama City Marina, including building

a memorial walk to honor all branches

of the military. In addition to the

memorial walk, the marina will be

transformed as a destination for both

locals and tourists. “The plans include

something that will appeal to

everyone, and will serve as an anchor for the entire Downtown.

We will be expanding many of the present amenities while

improving the infrastructure, and adding many attractions such as

the amphitheater, splash pad and lighthouse.” says Brudnicki.

While the City of Panama City is hard at work transforming the

image of Downtown, the Community Redevelopment Agency

(CRA) is also in the process of making positive changes to the area.

Just like Mayor Brudnicki, CRA Director, William Whitson, was also

met with challenges when he took over the agency. “The truth is

we face multiple challenges in restoring Downtown. Some of those

include image and the need for investment. We also need common

goals and direction, and a strong sense of commitment to follow

through and make positive things happen.”

Whitson says much of the support in revitalizing the area has

come from the Panama City Commission. “The key difference

today is our Commission has not just talked about wanting

improvements; they have acted and stepped forward in a big way

with the needed public investments ($13.1M) being made in the

Marina Project, as well as the renewal of the CRA for the next

20 years. This shows stability, strength, leadership and vision for

the long-term. This is the correct

pathway to help reinvent, revitalize and

restore our wonderful downtown,”

says Whitson.

As Mayor Brudnicki and Whitson

strive to make the area more appealing

to locals and tourists, Christopher

Hines with Bluewater Development has

been transforming commercial

buildings for businesses.

Bluewater was able to purchase the

old Chevron Oil Terminal. They

converted the 67,000 square foot

warehouse to 100,000 square feet of office space. They gained

their first tenant, Applied Research Associates, in 2003 who has

since outgrown the space.

Bluewater’s building at 421 Grace Avenue has served as an

incubator for many companies. The first tenant there was EDO

Corporation, a two person team from Long Island, New York, who

used that location while their space at the Bluewater Center was

being prepared. By the time they reached the Bluewater Center,

they had expanded to about 35 employees. After moving there,

EDO Corporation expanded to more than 100 employees and ITT

bought the company. Eventually, they outgrew the Bluewater

Center and relocated to a building on Jenks Avenue. Since then,

Bluewater Development has been able to rent out 75% of the

vacated space. The company that has filled this space is iSirona

who currently has over 100 employees and is expanding. Hines

transformingDowntown Panama City

written by Brittany Cole, Angela Segers


and his team are currently working on converting 20,000 more

square feet of space into office space for iSirona. Other companies

that started on Grace Avenue include InaComp and Gentiva Home

Health.

The Bluewater Center has more tenants coming, including the

Development Leadership Team of Northstar Community Church

and a United States government agency, which will later be

announced. These companies will bring in about 25 more

employees that will frequent the Downtown businesses and

restaurants.

Bluewater Development Group is a great example of what is

happening all over Downtown Panama City. They have renovated


continued on page 16


they do a lot of the marketing for Downtown. Their most recent

campaign includes four billboards strategically placed to draw

people from the beach and people coming into town from

Highway 231 and Highway 77, and television and radio commercials.

Most people who have lived in Panama City a while will recognize

their radio commercial by the “Downtown Panama City, Celebrate

Downtown” jingle. It was used years ago, but they decided to

reuse it with an updated commercial to create nostalgia.

Sanger said, “We have seen the effects of this new marketing

campaign by the increased foot traffic. If you come down here

during lunch or on a Saturday, a parking space is hard to find on

Harrison Avenue.”

With the revitalization Downtown is going through, traffic is

only going to increase and the Downtown businesses are going to

prosper.

buildings and brought in new companies. Hines says one of the

obstacles he continues to face is “the building owners have to think

about improving their properties and think about different uses for

them. The best kept buildings are the first to get rented.”

Drawing people to Downtown Panama City is the goal of all

three of these organizations. The Downtown Improvement Board

(DIB) wants to make sure residents and visitors have exciting events

waiting for them when they come to the area. DIB is the

organization that puts on most of the events like the favorite

street festival, Friday Fest. According to Executive Director, Dutch

Sanger, these events bring about 394,000 people Downtown.

“Our events are targeted more at our local community. Friday Fest

began 10 years ago to allow the community to have something

fun and free to do with their family. Everyone else was going after

the tourists; we needed something for the locals.”

Events like Friday Fest and Festival of Nations creates customers

for the Downtown shops and restaurants.

Looking around during the events, all the

restaurants are packed out. “Whether they

are locals or tourists, because of these

events, people get to see how far

Downtown has come and how much

further we will be going. The future looks

bright.” says Sanger.

Not only does the DIB bring people

Downtown through their special events,

continued from page 15

Before

After

Gulf Coast jobseekers andemployers now have an even moreenhanced tool at their disposal toassist them in finding suitable jobs,locating training opportunities andidentifying skilled candidates. TheGulf Coast Workforce Boardrecently launched a new web sitebringing numerous enhancementsto individuals seeking jobs andemployers seeking employees. Allof the services continue to beprovided at no charge to job

seekers and employers. The web site, developed by KeriganMarketing Associates is www.workforcecenter.org

Users will notice a different look and feel when they visit thesite. Gulf Coast Workforce Board Executive Director Kim Bodinenotes, “The upgrade focused on better organization of workforceinformation, coupled with a cleaner and more streamlinedexperience to assist job seekers and employers in finding whatthey need quickly.”

The site features a new layout structure, important informationhighlighted by a revolving image carousel, a prominent navigationbar, portals for Job Seekers and Employers, easy-to-understandcontent, and interactive features.

Key interactive features for employers include:

• An Online Job Order Form - This feature will allow employersto quickly submit their open positions for posting on the state’slargest job bank, www.employflorida.com. This feature alone cansave businesses hundreds to thousands of dollars in help wantedads each year.

Kim Bodine, Executive Director

– Gulf Coast Workforce Board

workforce connection

• Integration with Social Media - Employers can sign up for theWorkforce Center’s monthly e-newsletter, join Linked In, Twitteror Facebook and become part of the conversation about the localworkforce, employment services, and human resources.

• An Employer Satisfaction Survey - Employers can giveconfidential feedback on the performance of our staff andprograms in order to help us improve our service.

• The Workforce Center Helped My Company - This feedbackform can help our staff identify success stories for use in futurepublications or videos, which is a great way to showcase yourcompany and how the partnership with the Workforce Center hashelped you.

Key features for job seekers include:

• Hot Jobs! The Hot Jobs section of the Workforce Center’s newweb site will now be updated daily! These selections of jobs areones local employers are in a rush to fill.

• Calendar of Events - With the new calendar feature, jobseekers will never miss an opportunity to sharpen their skills andenhance their job search with free employment workshops andmini-job fairs held at the Workforce Center.

• Integration with Social Media - Job seekers can sign up for theWorkforce Center’s monthly e-newsletter, join Linked In, Twitteror Facebook to receive daily job listings and other helpful labormarket information.

•Jobseeker Satisfaction Survey - Jobseekers can give confidentialfeedback on the performance of workforce staff and programs.

• I Found a Job - This feedback form can help our staff identifysuccess stories for use in future publications or videos, and isanother great way the Workforce Center can celebrate yoursuccess with you!

{ workforce center launches new web site }Convenient Features Added for Employers and Job Seekers

written by Amanda Bawn


During June 10 – 13 the BayCounty Chamber ofCommerce and Bay DistrictSchools Career and TechnicalEducation hosted the secondannual Educators in Industry.Educators in Industry wascreated in 2011 to offerteachers and counselors theopportunity to step out of

the classroom and into the workplace in order to discover first-hand what their students need to know. “The purpose of thisprogram is to show them the different opportunities out there forstudents,” said Elizabeth Smith, the program’s coordinator. “Wewant them to know there are jobs for young people in BayCounty. Educators often do not have the opportunity to alwaysknow what career opportunities are available to students afterthey graduate. Now they will be able to go back to the classroomand really know what is needed in the workforce.”

Educators spent four days learning more about local industriesand businesses in Bay County the scope and the variety of career

Education:Educators in Industry

opportunities thatexist, theconnectionbetween theworkplace andwhat is beinglearned in school,the training andeducation requiredfor specific careerpaths and skills necessary to be successful in the world of work.Participants visited Boyd Brothers, The Resort Collection, BayCounty Emergency Operations Center, Bay County Sheriff’s OfficeCyber Security, Gulf Power Lansing Smith Plant, Bay County WaterTreatment Plant, Trane, Jensen USA, Panama City Port Authority,Oceaneering and Tyndall Air Force Base.

What we’re finding out is that there’s a real need for a diverseworkforce,” said John Juchniewicz, Chairman of the EducationCommittee at the Chamber. “This is a way we put the teachers intouch with what businesses do.”

Thank you to Eastern Shipbuilding for sponsoring this event.

For the third year,Manuel & Thompson, P.A.hosted a mock jury trialas part of the Bay CountyChamber of CommerceJunior Leadership Bayprogram. The mock trial isa way to allow thestudents to experiencefirsthand the thrill of

courtroom drama. After a brief introduction from Mr. Thompson,the students heard from Bay County Clerk of Court, Bill Kinsaul,who explained his role in the civil and criminal justice system. Abailiff then announced the arrival of Bay County Judge JoeGrammer who presided over the mock trial for the second year.

Students were selected to act as the parties involved in thelawsuit, various witnesses, and the jury. Zachary Taylor and ColinMcMichen, lawyers from Manuel & Thompson, represented theparties in the lawsuit. The case was balanced with both sideshaving points of weaknesses and strengths and covers many legalissues to give the students a glimpse of several legal aspectsrather than focusing on one matter.

Junior Leadership Bay Participates in Mock Trial

The case at hand involved a wrongful death automobileaccident. Key points such as the dangers of using cell phones whiledriving, distracted driving, and tight schedules were driven home.All such points are relative and relatable to today’s youth. JudgeGrammer sustained Mr. Taylor’s objection to the introduction of aphoto that depicted Ms. Potter, the deceased client of Mr.McMichen, lying in the street following the accident.

After the case was presented, the students who made up thejury were instructed by Judge Grammer on their duties as jurorsand were led out of the courtroom by the bailiff to deliberate. Aforeman was chosen, exhibits were reviewed and the students wereable to return a verdict and found the Defendant, Charles Shrackle90% at fault and Ms. Potter, the deceased pedestrian, only 10% atfault. Mr. Shrackle’s lawyer, Mr. Taylor, was overheard saying “I amfiling an immediate appeal.”

Keith Bryant, Chairman of the Junior Leadership Bay SteeringCommittee with the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, arrangedfor a legal day for the students who spent the morning with thePanama City Police Department, the State Department of JuvenileJustice, Judge Allen Register, Judge Shane Vann, and State AttorneyGlenn Hess.

“They ended the day with this mock trial, and it puts everythingthey learned up to this point today into action,” Keith Bryant said.

written by Elizabeth Smith

written by Angela Turner


Jake Bryant volunteered to play the part of Michael Young, apolice officer, in the case. “I wanted to do this so I could get someexperience in the courtroom, trials and cases,” said Jake Bryant.

Formed by the 1999 - 2000 Leadership Bay class, the goal ofJunior Leadership Bay is to provide students insight into Bay Countybusinesses and government, to provide an opportunity for themto give back to the community through service projects, and to tolearn about government through hands-on activities like the mocktrial. The hope is that Bay County’s best and brightest studentswill be encouraged to return to the area after college.

“Rather than just having

a tour of the courthouse,

we put on the mock trial,”

Thompson said. “We’ll give

the kids what a real trial

looks like; they will be

voting age soon, so they

can see what it’s like to sit

on a jury and hear a case.”

It’s a warm summer afternoon and officers with the PanamaCity Police Department are hot on the trail, but not chasingcriminals. Today, the group is participating in a city-wide wellnessprogram to earn rewards for a healthy lifestyle. Kim Pilcher,Director of Human Resources & Safety for the City of PanamaCity, says, “Resources are limited, but resourcefulness is not.”While the City of Panama City has limited resources, they utilizedfunds from their insurance company, Blue Cross Blue Shield ofFlorida, to fund the incentive program.

Their goal is to move employees that were at high risk tomoderate risk and those at moderate risk to low risk. The Citystarted with a committee made up of a representative from eachdepartment. They then created a plan, including branding and alogo for their program, and started with a budget, goals and a wayto measure their success.

The first incentive they offered was an employee healthscreening. This was a key factor to determining what the needswere for their group. They worked with their insurance companyto provide the screenings which included blood pressure test,glucose, BMI tests and lifestyle coaching. The City offered a $50incentive for employees who participated. They received testresults for the group as a whole, and were able to tailor theireducation to those areas most needed. They had a success rateof 70%.

The City did have a physical fitness incentive program, butmoved to the Wellness Program, which incorporates changes inlifestyle and, results have been very positive. They determined forevery dollar they spend, they have received $3 in savings. It hasdriven the insurance premiums down, absenteeism and turnoverhave been lower as well. They City has seen an increase in moraleand fewer accidents, which has decreased their worker’scompensation premiums.

They have created a culture of accountability. One of theirsuccess stories was an obese employee who has lost aconsiderable amount of weight and now rides his bike to workdaily. Other employees made positive changes such as walkingmore and simply drinking water.

Government entitiesare not the only onesencouraging employeesto stay healthy.HealthSouth Emerald

Coast Rehabilitation Hospital is at the Platinum level with theAmerican Heart Association’s Fit Friendly Program. This wasachieved by providing all full-time and part-time employees freegym membership with various gyms in town. In addition, thecafeteria menu was revamped to include more “heart healthy”items and providing free fruit.

The campus is mapped out for those walkers who want to takea break during their shift – three laps equals 1 mile.

“We have seen a financial impact by investing in our employees’health. We have reduced our health insurance premiums andimproved their lives.” says HealthSouth CEO, Tony Bennett.

Eating fattening foods and not exercising can cause obesity andweight problems; however, another habit can be deadlier: smoking.At Gulf Power, they are taking extensive measures to helpemployees kick the habit. The company’s Tobacco Policy has beenin effect since October 1, 1985, and states that employees canonly smoke in designated areas. They are not allowed to light upin company buildings, vehicles, or in confined areas. In addition, alljob applicants must sign an attestation on their job applicationthat they have not used tobacco products within 6 months ofsubmitting their application. A few years ago, the Company addeda Nicotine Screen to their post-offer drug and alcohol testingprotocol. Gulf Power’s program offers Smoking Cessation programsto employees who were hired prior to the implementation of thispolicy in 1985. Many other companies have chosen to turn theirworkplaces into “smoke-free areas”, including Gulf Coast StateCollege, Bay Medical Center-Sacred Heart, HealthSouth, and GulfCoast Medical Center.

For tips on smoking cessation in your workplace, visitwww.TobaccoFreeFlorida.com.


Trends:

Businesses and EmployeesWinning Combination for

written by Brittany Cole, Jody Walls

Incentives to Stay Healthy Create

economic profile

Being an Alabama native, I take pride

that one of the state’s heroes is Helen

Keller. In fact, her statue is one of two

from the state that stand in the U.S.

Capitol. One of her famous sayings is:

“Alone we can do so little; together we

can do so much.”

I am reminded of that quote as I think

about the strength of the EDA’s

partnerships with two key business

organizations, the Bay County Chamber

and the Panama City Beach Chamber.

As a single organization we can do so

little, but in partnership we can do so

much.

InSIGhtSBay EDA Updateby: Scarlett Phaneuf

Bay County Population: 168,852 Median Age: 40Labor Force: 89,030 Average Wage: $32,626Households: 74,585 Household Income: $47,505Per Capita Income: $29,357

de

mo

gra

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ics

BAY COUNTY FLORIDA

{

bay county sales tax collections GROSS SALES TAXABLE SALES TAX COLLECTIONS May 13 Apr 13 $630,090,078 $328,565,640 $19,998,215 Mar 13 $422,589,258 $212,217,688 $13,463,496

May 12 $494,849,601 $262,527,620 $16,046,737 Apr 12 $573,377,527 $302,496,622 $18,454,075 Mar 12 $418,241,194 $209,804,955 $13,299,670

current labor statistics for bay county LABOR FORCE EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED RATE

May 13----------------- Apr 13 89,305 83,743 5,562 6.2% Mar 13 88,484 82,635 5,849 6.6% May 12 90,019 81,752 8,267 9.2% Apr 12 90,428 83,397 7031 7.8% Mar 12 90,937 83,404 7,533 8.3%

real estate salesEXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

REALTOR SALES MEDIAN PRICE REALTOR SALES MEDIUM PRICE

May 13 Apr 13 197 $146,000 20,662 $165,000 Mar 13 191 $159,150 19,631 $160,000 May 12 168 $157,450 18,723 $147,000 Apr 12 172 $137,000 17,606 $144,500 Mar 12 173 $137,000 18,003 $138,900

EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS

May 13 Apr 13 142 $202,500 11,183 $128,000 Mar 13 99 $190,000 9,957 $120,000

May 12 103 $188,000 9,995 $112,000 Apr 12 96 $173,750 9,842 $110,000 Mar 12 101 $170,000 9,853 $103,500

bay county building permits RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL May 13 Apr 13 24 1 Mar 13 28 2

May 12 20 3 Apr 12 8 0 Mar 12 25 2

national, state & local unemployment rate - 4-13

Both Chambers are solid with active

programs to support the business

community in Bay County. They have

legislative initiatives that advocate for

our local businesses and keep our

elected leaders aware of key issues that

can either promote or become a barrier

to quality growth. Furthermore, the

chamber leaders often have overlapping

roles in serving as officers and board

members of the Economic

Development Alliance.

We have working programs in which we

actively partner to improve the

community.

We are indeed a better area because of

these dynamic organizations and their

eagerness to play a critical role in the

goal of sustaining and growing the

existing economic base and attracting

new, quality companies into the county.

July - August 2013

bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH MEXICO BEACH May 13 May 12 $1,407,357.21 $41,208.11 % Change

Apr 13 Apr 12 $1,269,403.39 $35,732.07 % Change

Mar 13 $2,134,028.14 $39,899.30 Mar 12 $1,768,015.26 $40,009.29 % Change 20.70% -0.27%

northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS May 13 Apr 13 72,703 5,354 Mar 13 81,960 1,290 May 12 87,398 5,485 Apr 12 78,844 5,407 Mar 12 82,909 1,362


On May 21st, a reception was held honoring the 30th Classof Leadership Bay at the Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort. Theevent was attended by the class participants, their employersand family members, the Leadership Bay Steering Committee andthe Chamber Board of Directors.

The group began their nine-month curriculum with a weekendretreat at Tyndall Air Force Base in October. Every otherWednesday the class explored the various segments of BayCounty’s economy, i.e., Tourism, Industry, Military, LawEnforcement, Local and State Government, CommunityVolunteerism, Communications/Media, Healthcare and Ecology.

Each class is responsible for developing a project of benefitto the Chamber and/or the community. This year's project wasthe creation of the Emergency Service Function 18 and creatinga Continuity of Operations Plan for businesses to implement inthe event of a disaster in our community.

Of course, we can’t have Leadership Bay without the supportand hard work from the 2012-2013 Leadership Bay SteeringCommittee: Chairman Tricia Petty, Edgewater Beach & GolfResort; Pete Bailey, Gulf Power Company; Cory Bruckschen, BoozAllen Hamilton; Michael Calidonna, Edward Jones Investments;Joe Chavarria; Irene Field, Girl Scout Council of the FL

Leadership Bay Graduates 30th ClassPanhandle; Mario Gisbert, City of Panama City Beach; MaryHulgan, Naval Surface Warfare Center; Brian Leebrick, Barron &Redding, P.A.; Kerri Maney, Counts Oakes Resort Properties;Frances Martin, Gulf Coast Medical Center; Samantha Miller,Trustmark Bank; Angela Sexton, Florida State University – PCCampus; John Sklarski, Preble-Rish, Inc.; Tammala Spencer; KevinWattenbarger, Sperry Van Ness/Southland Commercial RealEstate

Congratulations to the 2012-2013 Leadership Bay Graduates:Pamela Billing, Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort; Jeff Carter, Barron& Redding P.A; Shirley Courson, Booz Allen Hamilton; EricCrossen, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital; Ashley Davis,Naval Surface Warfare Center; Jacob Fish, St. Andrew Bay LandCompany; Emanuel Gonzales, Trustmark Bank; Tiffani Hinds,United Way; Richard Holt, Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort;Chelzy McCoy, Gulf Power Company; Julie Miller, Bay MedicalSacred Heart Health Systems; Doug Moore, Prosperity Bank;Donna Newell, Gulf Coast State College; Brenda Parker, HancockBank; Valerie Proctor, Life Management Center; Jared Scott,601st Air Operations Center; Trevor Walls, Gulf Coast StateCollege.

Biz lisTThe

If you are a member of the Bay County Chamberand would like to submit your business news tobe published, email a press release and logo orphoto to [email protected].

CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS

Ashley Davis

Tiffini Hinds Chelzy McCoy Doug MooreEmanuel Gonzales

Eric Crossan Jacob Fish

Julie MIller

Pam Billing

Richard Holt

Shirley CoursonJeff Carter


Larry K. Carroll, owner of theColdwell Banker Carroll Realty,

Inc., has earned the 2012 Offi-cer Manager’s Award for OwnerExcellence. Carroll was one ofonly 224 affiliate office man-agers throughout North Amer-ica in the Coldwell Bankersystem to fulfill the high-stan-dard requirement of this presti-gious award.

Florida Department of Trans-portation hires Carter Johnson

as its newest Government Af-fairs Liaison. Johnson has workedin state and federal governmentfor over 12 years. He has previ-ously held positions with theFlorida House of Representa-tives, United States Congressand the Florida National Guard.Carter is a graduate from FlaglerCollege in St. Augustine.

EPS Corporation announcesthe opening of our new office inPanama City Beach. Strategicallylocated on Florida’s Gulf Coastthis office will expand EPS’ sup-port for the NAVSEA Naval Sur-face Warfare Centers andSPAWAR Systems Centers forthe Navy/Marine Corps. Underthe leadership of Mr. AllenArmstrong, Director of Pro-grams, our focus will be on pro-viding acquisition support,program management, systemsengineering, test and evaluation,logistics and training to devel-opmental programs supportingDepartment of Defense initia-tives. “Allen brings expertise inthe area of expeditionary andlittoral warfare that enhancesour extensive core capabilities,”said Mr. Albert C. Zimmerman,President and Chief OperatingOfficer.

Rotary Club of Panama City

(Downtown Rotary) member,Richard Musgrave, reads to pre-schoolers at Good ShepherdEarly Learning in Callaway aspart of the Rotary Read Aloudprogram fostered by the EarlyLearning Coalition of NorthwestFlorida. The program has beenin place for four years. Cur-rently fourteen active Rotariansread to over 280 pre-K childreneach month. Musgrave has

been a member of the clubsince 2007. He was electedmayor of Parker on April 16.

After spending the past 15years in the telecommunica-tions industry, Al McCambry hasbecome Gulf Coast State Col-

lege’s new Director of Continu-

ing Education. A graduate of theUniversity of Georgia, McCam-bry’s experience includes man-ufacturing, public accountingand marketing research, includ-ing more than seven years asthe general manager for Knol-ogy in Panama City.“I’m ex-tremely excited about thistremendous opportunity withGCSC. I truly believe that BayCounty and Northwest Floridaare destined for tremendousgrowth, not only growth eco-nomically but also growth inthe quality of life,” McCambrysaid. McCambry is the currentMilitary Affairs CommitteeChairman and past Chairman ofthe Board for the Bay CountyChamber of Commerce and cur-rent secretary for the BayCounty Education FoundationBoard.

In May, the familiar Cook-Whitehead Ford changed toAutoNation. The Fort Lauderdalebased auto retailer, the coun-try’s largest — is now busyswapping out regional brandnames in 16 states across thecountry for the single AutoNa-tion brand. AutoNation has thelargest auto retail footprintfrom Coast to Coast and sellsnearly 500,000 vehicles eachyear and has revenue of over $15billion.

Gulf Coast State College

Keeps Higher Education Afford-able. State and community col-leges have always been atremendous value for Florida’sfamilies, and Gulf Coast StateCollege is no exception. In aneffort to increase that accessand affordability, Governor RickScott issued a challenge toFlorida’s 28 state colleges tooffer bachelor degrees for just$10,000. Each college has an-nounced support for the highereducation affordability chal-lenge, and GCSC is going tomake it a reality with its new Or-ganizational Management Bach-elor’s degree, starting August2013.

July 2013 Biz lisT

photos courtesy of

Desiree Gardner

Photography

Brenda ParkerDonna Newell Jared Scott Trevor WallsValerie Proctor


Gulf Coast State College isproud to announce Dr. Cheryl

Flax-Hyman’s promotion toVice President of InstitutionalEffectiveness & Strategic Plan-ning. The position incorporatesinstitutional research, analytics,reporting and strategic planning.Other responsibilities includedeveloping articulation agree-ments with K-12 and otherhigher educational institutions,coordinating accreditation func-tions and implementing aca-demic program reviews.

Naval Support Activity

Panama City was one of five in-stallations in the nationawarded the 2013 Commander

in Chief’s Annual Award for Ex-

cellence. The Commander inChief’s Annual Award for In-stallation Excellence recognizesthe outstanding and innovativeefforts of the people who op-erate and maintain U.S. militaryinstallations. The five recipientsof this highly competitive presi-dential award were selected fortheir exemplary support of De-partment of Defense missions.Installation excellence enablesbetter mission performance andenhances the quality of life forservice members and their fam-ilies. Each winning installationsucceeded in providing excel-lent working, housing and recre-ational conditions and willreceive a commemorative com-mander in chief’s award trophyand flag, along with a congrat-

Rating, Martindale-Hubbell'shighest possible rating for bothethical standards and legal abil-ity. This rating represents thepinnacle of professional excel-lence. The rating is achievedonly after an attorney has beenreviewed and recommended bytheir peers - members of thebar and the judiciary.

Bay Medical Sacred Heart an-nounced Barry Keel will be thenew Chief Executive Officer forthe hospital. Keel has been ahospital CEO for more than 17years and has also served asChief Financial Officer and aClinical Director during his ca-reer. Keel has worked in bothnot-for-profit and for-profit set-tings throughout the South-east. He joins Bay MedicalSacred Heart from Health Man-agement Associates where heserved as the Alabama MarketCEO with responsibility for twohospitals totaling more than400 patient beds.

ulatory letter from the presi-dent.

TECO Energy has entered intoan agreement to acquire NewMexico Gas Company. This is atransformative transaction thatprovides an opportunity forcontinued growth and successby TECO Energy and New Mex-ico Gas Company. This is an ac-quisition at the TECO Energyholding company level and willnot affect our Florida utility op-erations, including Tampa Elec-tric and Peoples Gas.

The Resort Collection of

Panama City Beach is proud toannounce the addition of threenew members to its sales andmarketing team! Jill Burnham

joins the team as the new Mar-keting Manager. She bringsknowledge of the real estateand hospitality industries to thetable and provides a fresh visionto The Resort Collection and itsmany properties. Tricia Petty hasbeen promoted to Director ofSales. She joined the team in

2010 as a sales manager special-izing in associations and execu-tive meetings. Tricia also worksclosely with Resort CollectionTravel. Dana Lent joins our salesteam as Sales Manager. Herfocus is sporting groups andevents and executive meetings.She joins The Resort Collectionfrom The Wyndham at BayPoint.

Richard Dodd and partnershave formed a new construc-tion management firm – Re-

liantSouth Construction Group –which will be located in down-town Panama City. Re-liantSouth Construction Groupwas founded from a division ofGAC Contractors. At its peak,GAC Contractors was one ofthe leading contractors inNorthwest Florida and offered adiverse range of services span-ning from complete site androad work, to building such proj-ects as the Advanced Technol-ogy Center (ATC) on thecampus of Gulf Coast StateCollege.

Dion J. Moniz, attorney andshareholder with Harrison Sale

McCloy, whose primary area ofpractice is Civil/Commercial Lit-igation, has earned the AV Pre-eminent® rating fromMartindale-Hubbell® Martin-dale-Hubbell, a division of Lex-isNexis®, has confirmed thatattorney Dion Moniz hasachieved the AV Preeminent

Jill Burnham

Tricia Petty

Dana Lent

April - June 2013 | BAY BIZ 27

Many young professionals are enthusiastic about area business and communityopportunities and are ready to get involved as new leaders. Bay YoungProfessionals (BYP) was formed by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce tospecifically address the needs of this target age group, 21-41, to enrich ourcommunity by uniting, developing and retaining our future leaders.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Bay Young Professionals (BYP) group,contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761 or [email protected].

Bay Young Professionals

Julie Garner is Vice President of Marketing at

Garner IT Consulting, located in Downtown Panama City on Harrison

Avenue. Garner manages the Online Marketing Division of her company,

performs human resource duties, as well as being responsible for the

acquisition and retention of new clients.

Julie and her husband, Randall, started the local IT Firm nearly 4

years ago, and have enjoyed meeting and serving Bay County businesses.

She grew up in Lynn Haven in a home built in 1925 that her father spent

countless hours restoring. She has so many wonderful memories of

growing up in the small town community, running down the street to

catch parades, spending countless nights at the 5th street ball park,

summers reading from the library and biking all over the streets of Lynn

Haven. When her father retired as a Fire Chief from Eglin Air Force Base

they moved her to northern Bay County to a live on a beautiful little

lake know as Little Blue Pond. She has been “in the country” since. Julie

is a proud alumni of Mosley High School and walked the stage on the

25th anniversary of the school. With three children, Randall and Julie

consider themselves a “tech family,” but believe in taking the time to

unplug. They have a family garden and enjoy spending time outdoors

fishing, camping and canoeing. The Garner family loves to visit the

“World’s Most Beautiful Beaches”, but also enjoy exploring the hidden

treasures of the fresh water in North Florida, the lakes, rivers and creeks.

Her passion is in marketing and helping local businesses discover their

online voice. Garner IT’s Online Marketing Services really are about

creating a comprehensive online presence for local businesses. They

provide reputation management, build and manage websites, produce

blog and website content, execute social media marketing, email

marketing and search engine optimization.

Matthew lopez was born and raised in a small town

in Eastern Long Island, New York called East Hampton. He attended school in

East Hampton until he received the opportunity to attend a preparatory

academy in Portland, Oregon, from which he graduated in 1999. He earned

both an academic and an athletic scholarship to attend Texas A&M University

in College Station, Texas. Lopez went on to earn a Bachelors of Sciences

Degree in Business Management and completed a rigorous Graduate Degree

Program in Occupational Safety with a concentration in Fire and Emergency

Services Management from Eastern Kentucky University.

Lopez began working at Gulf Coast Medical Center as the facilities

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Coordinator in September of 2012 after

serving the citizens and visitors of Bay County as a Lieutenant with Bay County

Fire Department for six years. As the EMS Coordinator, Lopez is the sole

liaison between Gulf Coast Medical Center and all of the numerous

Fire/Rescue and EMS agencies that encompass a geographic area from South

Walton County to the Apalachicola Bay and up to the Alabama state line.

Lopez enjoys staying very involved in the local community and especially

takes pleasure in teaching, mentoring high school students, and coaching a

myriad of athletic disciplines. He has been an active member of the Bay

County Chamber of Commerce since joining a year ago, and is also a member

of the Bay Young Professionals Steering Committee.

Lopez has been happily married to his wonderful wife Wendy, for 3 years.

On 11/11/11, they added a new bundle of joy to their family; their son Preston.

Lopez favorite hobbies include flying recreational aircraft, playing golf, and

off-roading (jeeping). Outside of his career, community service and love for

adventure sports, he also enjoys spending time enjoying the company of his

wife, his son, and his close friends.


DaVita Dialysis, enjoy a vacation here in Panama City. Our Dialysis Center can keep you locally OR on the beach. While here, the only worry you will have is how to spend

your free time. Appointments available to meet your needs. Flexible Vistation Policy.

Visit us at any one of our

locations or at www.DaVita.com

Panama City 615 Highway 231

763-1233

510 North McArthur Avenue 914-0824

Panama City Beach

16201 Panama City Beach Parkway 233-0837



newf o r J u l y - a u g u s t 2 0 1 3

{Orkin Pest Control

(850) 763-6595(850) 769-01931516 St. Andrew Blvd.Panama City,[email protected]

Bay County Branch of NAACP

(850) 763-5387(850) 763-5216PO Box 2521Panama City,[email protected]

Institute of Diving

(850) 235-410117314 PCB ParkwayPanama City Beach,[email protected]

Boardwalk Beach Resort

(850) 234-3484(850) 235-39899400 S. Thomas Dr.Panama City,[email protected]

Tommy's Glass & Mirror

(850) 769-3325(850) 785-28452817 Highway 77Panama City,FL32405

Sterling House Panama City

(850) 872-8484(850) 872-84292575 Harrrison Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Bay Builders Industry Assoc.

(850) 784-0232(850) 769-68872428 Lisendy Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Advisory Solutions

(850) 215-4176(850) 215-63531609 Lisenby Ave.Panama City,FL [email protected]

Aaron's Sales & Leasing

(850) 522-0065(850) 522-9729241 W. 15th St.Panama City,FL [email protected]

Beef 'O' Brady's

(850) 271-0064(850) 271-06442310 Hwy. 77, Ste. 350Lynn Haven,[email protected]

Coastal Emergency Restoration

(850) 215-6475(850) 271-84462919 S Hwy 77Lynn Haven,[email protected]

Leitz Music Company

(850) 769-0111(850) 785-1779508 Harrison Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Thompson E-file America

(850) 763-1040(850) 763-3644708 W. 11th St.Panama City,[email protected]

Beach 95.1

(850) 235-2195(850) 235-2795700 W. 23rd StPanama City,FL [email protected]

Bay County Traffic School

(850) 874-2009(850) 481-1378949 Jenks Ave. Ste. 15Panama City,FL [email protected]

Mr. Trash, LLC

(850) 249-3382550 2nd Ave.Panama City Beach, FL [email protected]

Blueboy Consulting, LLC.

(850) 774-5609(850) 391-5858232 Lakeridge Dr.Panama City,[email protected]

Beef 'O' Brady's

(850) 215-3905(850) 215-2357842 N. Tyndall PkwyPanama City,FL [email protected]

Perry & Young Attorneys at Law

(850) 215-7777(850) 215-47772612 W. 15th St.Panama City,[email protected]

Warrior Beach Retreat, Inc.

(850) 625-0736PO Box 19555Panama City Beach,FL [email protected]

Panama City Pulmonary

(850) 763-9459(850) 763-94602426 Jenks Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Woman's Club of Panama City

(850) 785-7125350 N. Cove Blvd.Panama City,[email protected]

Employee Benefit Solutions

(850) 797-3779(850) 243-4299272 Champion Ct.Destin,[email protected]

Alia Adhal, PA

(850) 215-2330(850) 215-2335PO Box 920Panama City,[email protected]

Combined Insurance Company

(850) 624-6862PO Box 1828Lynn Haven,[email protected]

Ted Spangenberg, Jr.

Aaron's Sales & Leasing

(850) 392-1220408A S. Tyndall ParkwayPanama City,[email protected]

Hal Eddins

Panama City Northside Rotary

(850) 747-5009(850) 763-4636PO Box 16544Panama City,FL 32406-6544

EPS Corporation

(850) 588-5145(850) 588-52962111 Thomas Dr., Ste 5Panama City Beach,FL [email protected]

Weldco Mechanical Services

(850) 763-6415(850) 769-26092201 N. East Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Members.


Nonie Kinner

Chill Yogurt Cafe

(850) 769-1999607 W. 23rd St.Panama City,[email protected]

Gulf Coast Office Products

(850) 434-5588(850) 434-00896020 Enterprise Dr.Pensacola,[email protected]

Shepard Law

(850) 215-5200(850) 215-53542612-B W. 15th St.Panama City,[email protected]

Maritech Machine

(850) 872-0852(850) 872-92831740 Sherman Ave.Panama City,FL [email protected]

Sweet Frog


Supreme Lending

(850) 250-0808(850) 250-21192612 W.15th St.Panama City,[email protected]

Panama City Bop & Shag Club

(850) 532-27811105 Bob Little Rd.Panama City,[email protected]

Sonic Drive In #1155

(850) 265-16331508 Ohio Ave.Lynn Haven,[email protected]


(850) 872-1314238 N. Tyndall ParkwayPanama City,[email protected]


(850) 763-2296224 W.23rd St.Panama City,[email protected]


(850) 913-03564239 N.Hwy 231Panama City,[email protected]


(850) 522-02263407 W. Hwy 98Panama City,[email protected]


(850) 233-711211200 Hutchison Blvd.Panama City Beach,[email protected]

Momma Goldberg's Deli


Freedom Boat Club

(850) 984-4704(850) 656-7302111 W. Beach Dr.Panama City,[email protected]

Beef 'O' Brady's

(850) 236-8999(850) 236-890913800 PCB ParkwayPanama City Beach,[email protected]

Stuffy's Cafe

(850) 215-17711302 Harrison Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Papa Murphy's Pizza

(850) 664-2830723 West 23rd [email protected]

Smartbank

(850) 269-5220PO Box 129Destin,[email protected]

AFLAC - Truby Perkins


Gulf Coast Aquarium Inc.

(850) 769-4111(850) 769-4110469 Harrison Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Spot On

(850) 231-1130(866) 399-52972350 Kerner Blvd., Ste. 380San Rafael,[email protected]

Aaron Rich Marketing

(850) [email protected]

Milk and Honey Frozen Yogurt

(850) 249-53452439 Thomas Dr.Panama City Beach,[email protected]

Gulf Coast Dermatology

(850) 233-3376(850) 522-835412907 PCB ParkwayPanama City Beach,[email protected]

Albert Sauline III, Attorney

(850) 215-6628(850) 215-4567509 Harrison Ave. #202Panama City,[email protected]

Kraze Nutrition

(850) 248-04483117 Hwy 77Panama City,[email protected]

Quality Service Floor Care

(850) 832-66922511 E. 3rd St.Panama City,[email protected]

Chez Amavida

(850) 387-2472297 W. 10th St.Panama Ciy,[email protected]

ReliantSouth Construction

Group

(850) 215-5540(850) 215-5570490 Grace Ave.Panama City,[email protected]

Leitz Music Company FWB

(850) 863-1099650 N. Beal PkwyFt. Walton Beach,[email protected]

Global Fiber & Data Solutions

(256) 486-1988(800) 609-0353135 Rothenberg LaneArab,[email protected]

Bay Area Resource Center

(850) 628-8701945 Grace Ave.Panama City,[email protected]


Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals

for July - August 2013Memberanniversaries5 YearsBookIt.comGift Basket DesignsMoss and AssociatesPeter Brown ConstructionShore House FurnitureSitte Roofing & Guttering Inc.St. Andrew Bay Land Co.Sunny Hills Golf ClubThe Tech GroupUPS

10 YearsEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical University Frank GregoryHonda Yamaha Sea Doo of PanamaSt John Catholic SchoolState Farm/Jim Dickerson

15 YearsCarpet ConnectionEcological Resource ConsultantsManuel & Thompson P.A.McKenzie InsurancePCB Convention & Visitors BureauPeaden

Rotary Club of Panama CitySAICScience & Discovery Center of NW FloridaTim Allen Photography

20 YearsSuper 8 Motel

25 YearsWal-Mart #1207

30 YearsFlorida Pest ControlInacomp Data and Voice Systems Inc.

40 YearsClear Channel RadioFran’s Travels Inc.

45 YearsBay County Land & Abstract

50 YearsPanama City Florist & Gifts Inc.


first fridayFSU-Panama City Holley Academic Center

(4750 Collegiate Drive)

Networking: 7:15 a.m./ Program 8:00 a.m.

Sponsored by: WOW

Free event to Bay County Chamber members and

Chamber invited guests

Business after hoursSpinnaker (8795 South Thomas Drive)

5:30-7 p.m.

Sponsored by: Spinnaker and the News Herald

Events are for Bay County Chamber members and

Chamber invited guests. Contact 785-5206 for

information on events or membership.

CalendarBay County Chamber of Commerce Events{

first fridayFSU-Panama City Holley Academic Center



Sponsored by: Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Program: Northwest Florida Beaches International

Airport Master Plan Update

Free event to Bay County Chamber members

and Chamber invited guests

augustfirst fridayFSU-Panama City Holley Academic Center



Sponsored by: Emerald Coast Hospice

Free event to Bay County Chamber members and

Chamber invited guests

September

2

July

for a detailed listing of Chamber and community events visit

www.panamacity.orgDates, times and locations subject to change.

612

24


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out&about

1.

5.

1. Carol Roberts and Bill Fenimore with Mosley High School Junior, Anna Wirrick, the 2012-2013 Junior Leadership Bay Scholarship Winner.

2 Peaden Air Conditioning taking home the 1st place trophy for the7th Annual Jungleball Volleyball Tournament.

3 Bryan Taylor, Carol Roberts, Congressman Steve Southerland, Bryn Walls and David Powell at the “Wizard of Oz” themed April First Friday.

4 2012-2013 Leadership Bay graduating class with CongressmanSteve Southerland and Bill Fenimore.

5 Golfers enjoying the 17th Annual Spring Classic.

6 Packed house for the April First Friday.

7 “Longest Drive Marshmallow Contest” at the 17th Annual SpringClassic at Hombre.

out&about

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