April-June 2011 Bay Biz Magazine

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April 2011

258 POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE:

Florida Chamber Days

10 FEATURE:The Changing Face of Tourism

13 OUT & ABOUT

14 EDUCATION:Take Stock in Children: Scholarships, Mentors & Hope

FSU-PC: New College & Programs

16 TRENDS:iPads for Business

18 Small Business Development Center offers assistance for struggling businesses

19 Small Business of the Quarter

April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 3

10

148

1620 THE BIZ LIST

25 DEFENSE INTEL:NSWC PCD Maintains Despite Budget Cuts

26 ECONOMIC PROFILE:EDA Insights

28 Bay Young Professionals to Know

30 BEST PRACTICES FOR BUSINESS:Keep Employees Engaged & Energized

32 NEW MEMBERS

33 MEMBER ANNIVERSARRIES

34 CALENDAR

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Bay Biz Magazinec/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce

235 W. 5th Street - P.O. Box 1850

Panama City, Florida 32402

Phone: 850.785.5206

Email: [email protected]

Online: www.panamacity.org

Facebook: Bay County Chamber

Twitter: @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 The Bay County Chamber, P.O. Box1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email [email protected].

The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email [email protected]. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. Torequest additional copies please contact [email protected] orcall 850.215.3755.

PUBLISHERCarol Roberts

EXECUTIVE EDITORCrystal Shuller

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

DESIGNBellhouse Publishing

COVER & INSIDE PHOTOGRAPHYPanama City Beach Sandbar

Lana Williams www.lanawilliams.com

ADVERTISINGKevin Bell

1.800.264.4958 - [email protected]

4 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011

Jacqui BarkerPam CooleyJennifer ConoleyBeth DeluzainPat HolleyHeather Kretzer

Michelle LacewellRich MusgraveCarol RobertsDr. Ken Shaw

Elizabeth Smith

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retirement and change of command

activities. The highlight of the first quarter

was the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show at

TAFB and the many MAC events

surrounding the festivities.

We have some new events and programs

planned for this year and one of them is a

trip to Ireland. This exciting adventure is

organized by Collette Travels and

coordinated locally by our friends at Nervig

Travel Service/American Express. It will

take place in November. Find out more

information inside this edition and keep an

eye out in your inbox for more details to

come!

Recently, Crystal Shuller our VP of

Communications, attended the ADFED’s

Annual Addy Awards. Bay Biz received a

Silver Addy Award for its promotional

campaign. Hat’s off to the Panama City

Beach Chamber who also received a Gold

and Silver Addy award.

Thank you for your continued support of

the Bay Biz, the Chamber and its mission to

make Bay County a better place, to live,

work and play!

Carol Robert,

President / CEO

President’s Message

I would like to start off by saying “Thank You” to the advertisers who supportedour first edition of the new Bay Biz format; because of you it was a great success!

As you may know, here at the Chamber,

during May, we celebrate Bay County’s #1

industry with “Tourism Appreciation

Month”. With this in mind it was only fitting

to recognize in this issue how this industry

is changing and how our tourism-based

members and the Tourist Development

Council is working to market our

community in new and innovative ways.

In this issue we are also including various

resources for your business with

information about the Small Business

Development Center, what an iPad can do

for your business and how motivating

employees can bring your business success.

Be sure to check out our other staple

sections: Defense Intel, Political

Perspective, Education, Bay Young

Professionals to Know, The Biz List, Out n’

About photos and Economic Intel.

In Chamber news, the first quarter has

been a productive one. We celebrated the

successes of 2010, including our FACP 2010

Chamber of the Year award, at our Annual

Dinner and Awards Ceremony on January

28th. We awarded the Jerry Mills - Small

Business of the Year, Member of the Year,

the rare Chairman’s Award and the

prestigious Lauren Merriam award. You can

find out more about these awards and who

the winners are in the “Biz List” section.

Kudos to the winners and to our sponsors

for a successful event!

I would also like to recognize Doug

Merkle who was recently approved to once

again represent this organization on the Bay

District School Citizens Oversight

Committee. Doug has served as the

Chamber’s representative for many years

and we along with the administration at

Bay District Schools appreciate his

dedication.

I was fortunate to participate in the

Florida Chamber Capitol Days along with

many other Chambers and business leaders

from throughout the state.

Congratulations to Allan Bense, Chairman

of the Florida Chamber and former Speaker

of the House, for such a successful event.

You can read more about it in this issue.

During the two days in Tallahassee a

meeting of the Florida Association of

Chamber Professionals (FACP) Board of

Directors, of which I serve on, was also

held. For the first time ever in FACP history,

its annual conference will take place in

Northwest Florida. Congratulations to my

friend Shane Moody, President of the

Destin Chamber, for bringing the

conference to our region.

David Powell, Chairman of the Military

Affairs Committee (MAC) has been

extremely busy with activities at Tyndall

AFB and NSA. As the 2011 chair he has

participated in orientations at both

installations and attended numerous

{


We hope you find this edition just as informative and useful.

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Political Perspective:Florida Chamber Capitol Days

The Bay County Chamber represented the needs of your business and our

community at Florida Chamber 2011 Capitol Days from February 7th – 9th. The

event was held at the Hotel Duval in Tallahassee with several hundred in

attendance from Chamber Execs to CEOs from major corporations.

Bay County’s own Allan Bense is the 2011 Chairman of the Florida Chamber.

The former speaker of the Florida House kicked the event off with a multitude

of movers and shakers. Governor Rick Scott highlighted his initiative to streamline

and consolidate, shared his plan to review every contract over $1M and discussed

his initiatives to improve the State’s unacceptable 12% unemployment rate. When

asked what the business community could do to assist him, he responded “Be

active. Tell your legislators what you need.”

Governor Scott was followed by Dr. Carrie Blanchard, Director of Research and

Public Policy for the Florida Chamber Foundation. Dr. Blanchard gave an update

on the Florida Scorecard (if you are not familiar with this program visit

floridascorecard.com). Blanchard reported that one in five homes in Florida are in

foreclosure and that one in ten families are receiving assistance; Florida’s global

competitiveness ranks at 4th in exports, 9th in foreign direct investment and 10th

in imports; and Florida’s top three industry segments are professional/business,

construction, education/health.

In addition, CFO Jeff Atwater and Amy Baker from the Office of Economic and

Demographic Research gave a briefing on Florida’s Financial State of the State.

Breakout sessions were also held on numerous topics including; Education &

Economic Development Reform, Regulatory Reform & Business Competitiveness

Professionals from throughout Florida meet in Senate Chambers

Written by: Carol Roberts

and The Union Wake Up Call. And on Tuesday

evening attendees were treated to a reception at

the Governor’s Mansion. Governor Scott once

again joined the group and was available to

discuss issues of importance.

The following day started with guest speaker

Attorney General Pam Bondi. She spoke of recent

actions to remove bath salts from the shelves of

retailers, the extent of its abuse and the harm it

is causing to so many. The pill mill initiative is also

high on her priority list. She closed her comments

with discussion of the oil spill. Bondi says she and

her staff will hold Feinberg accountable and

insure that Florida will get its share of the $20B.

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam spoke

to the group and addressed energy and water

issues in Florida. Attendees then traveled to the

Capitol and gathered in the Senate Chambers.

Chairman Bense was joined by Rep. Dean Cannon

and Sen. Mike Haridolopolos who addressed the

legislative session forecast, 2011 Issues Briefing

and the 2011 Business Agenda.

LtoR: Carol Roberts, Governor Rick Scott & Beth Oltman


11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 9

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t is the number one industry in the State of Florida with more than 80 million visitors each year, creating 22% of the state’s sales

tax revenue. The potential is mounting for Panama City Beach to capture more of the state’s visitors to our beautiful blue green

waters; however, the general idea of tourism is changing. With that in mind we decided to look at what a few chamber members

feel are opportunities and challenges with the changing face of tourism for Panama City Beach.

CHANGINGFACEofTOURISM

New Faces from New Places The Tourist Development Council

collects bed tax dollars from the resorts and hotels on the beach

to fund, among other things, marketing of the destination. If you

review the TDC’s 2011 Marketing Plan, you will find two focuses

that reflect the potential for change in our tourism markets; one,

develop opportunities to further penetrate core markets through

varying marketing efforts; and second, leverage opportunities to

open Panama City Beach to new markets.

Perspective: Dan Rowe, TDC “Over the past five years, the

resort destination has experienced overwhelming growth in new

development of lodging, restaurants and retail stores. On May

23, 2010 Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport opened

bringing service from Southwest Airlines and expanded service by

Delta Airlines. Our goal for this coming year is to push beyond

the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and return to our marketing of

Panama City Beach as the “World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.” The

overall brand is REAL. FUN. BEACH. We will accomplish this

through layered, integrated programs targeting different markets,

demographics and media.”

REAL. FUN. BEACH.- Eco-Tourism Also encouraging a new vision

of Panama City Beach is the imagery being used in marketing

efforts by the TDC. The images are of families, couples, children

playing on the beach, fishing or exploring nature. The 2010

Tripsmarter.com traveler survey found that eco-tourism activities

such as water sports, hiking and biking ranked high when choosing

a vacation destination. All of which are available to Panama City

Beach visitors. Understanding the growing popularity in outdoor

activities will support the TDC and independent resorts and

hotels in marketing efforts to attract new visitors.

Tourism is one of the largest economic drivers in Bay County and there’s room to grow.

I

the

Eco-Tourism

Beach Concerts


Airport Travelers

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 11

potential growth to our destination

through the sports market but there is

also the opportunity for job creation

through the positions and staging for

managing facilities and servicing the

events. Focusing on this segment of

Panama City Beach tourism could produce

a huge return in the future.”

Spring Break Not Just for CollegeStudents Every March and early April there

is an influx of college students scampering

up and down the beach crowding Front

beach road and sleeping eight to ten in one

hotel room. Spring Break is a much needed

shot in the arm to many businesses after

the quiet winter season but there has been

a long standing discussion on the impact of

Spring Break to our reputation as a

destination. One company who looks at

Spring Break as a revenue generator is

Spinnaker Beach Club, which has been an

icon on Panama City Beach for decades.

Perspective: WB “Sparky” Sparkman III,Spinnaker Beach Club “Spring Break is

viewed by many as a valuable piece of

beach business and vital to their survival,

particularly in recent years. It has

transformed through the years, but much

of the transformation has been in the

form of perception. The college breakers

have changed some, but they remain a

savvy informed group in general, most of

see a large tour bus pull into the parking

lot at a local shopping center or

attraction, say “Thank You” for taking a

chance on Panama City Beach!

Score with Sports Event EnthusiastsSometimes over looked is the large

number of sporting events that are held on

Panama City Beach and the impact of

those teams on an annual basis. When

these teams come to town they bring with

them parents and siblings who attempt to

make the most of their trip to the beach.

But what can be done to expand the scope

of the sporting event opportunities on

Panama City Beach?

Perspective: Steve Bailey, The Resort

Collection of Panama City Beach “Annually,

Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort is host to

many sporting groups including

cheerleading competitions, softball

championships, golf tournaments, Ironman

competition, football and soccer

tournaments. To increase the amount of

tournaments or events that Panama City

Beach can accommodate, the destination

needs more multi-use facilities. Those

facilities would allow for an expanded

sports base from our traditional baseball

and softball markets. Adding additional

sports segments would increase the influx

of visitors during the shoulder seasons

when sports are in full swing. There is

Boomers by Bus Twenty years ago if you

were over 60 years old and looking for a

hot spot to hang out between November

and March, Panama City Beach was the

place to be. With the changes in the

economy and an aging population those

days are but a distant memory. A recent

Visit Florida survey found that the Boomer

generation is looking for opportunities to

explore multiple destinations on one trip.

They are more adventurous and eager to

see the world; less likely to set up a winter

home. With the help of tour operators and

organizations like the American Bus

Association we can reach out to people

eager to explore and offer our destination.

Perspective: Annie Holcombe, OaseasResorts: “The Motorcoach Market has long

been a staple for big cities and large

tourist attractions like Disney, New York

City and Branson, MO. After attending the

annual “ABA Marketplace” in January, I

found that not only are there many

companies interested in our beautiful

beaches as one of their stops, but they

have hundreds of people interested in

Panama City Beach! A perfect fit and one

that could spell relief for our tourism

community that has suffered too many

quiet winters. The buses come in for 3

days to 3 months and bring the friendliest

people you could meet. So next time you


Sports Winter Visitors

continued on page 12

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 12


whom come to town to have a good time

as they break from the rigors of becoming

the future leaders of this country.

One fact about Spring Break that is

widely misunderstood is the dramatic

difference between college and high

school (aka "family") Spring Break. About

the only similarity between the two is

they both occur in the spring! These two

components produce very different

results. Both provide opportunity for our

destination and, certainly, both present

challenges! The high school or family

component occurs after the collegiate

part and leaves, in my view, the most

lasting impression for our community.

Spring Break consists of two distinct

groups of visitors, both of which are

currently vital to our tourist driven local

economy “

Shoulder Season Event Goers In 2010,

with the help of funds from BP, the TDC

was able to dive into hosting events in the

late summer and fall to create an impact

on the shoulder season. With those events

under our belt, planning for 2011 events

will provide an opportunity to create

interest in visiting Panama City Beach in the

fall. But how do we move past these

events filling up with locals and make a

greater heads in beds impact?

Perspective: Tom Nocito, SouthernResorts

“Having the ability to plan events with

the funds from BP was a great opportunity

in itself. To truly make events an impactful

part of our tourism economy there would

need to be plans in place to promote,

manage and evaluate the events for their

contribution.

One option that can be considered in

using these events to put heads in beds

would be to offer free admission to guests

who can show a valid confirmation from

their accommodation provide. This would

create the ability to track the impact of

the event. If other locals and day visitors

want to be part of the event, they could

pay whatever the established cost for the

event would be. I believe that offering a

discounted or free admission to an event,

and advertising the event in this way, could

be a real incentive to a potential guest.

Scheduling the events around the fall

breaks of school might also increase

visitors in the fall.

Over all, events have great potential

for improving the shoulder seasons, there

just needs to be a plan of action for

management and promotion of the events

to create a greater heads in beds impact.”

Business Travelers Last but not least,

the meetings market makes a substantial

impact on tourism year round. It is mainly

comprised of the following segments;

corporate, military, associations, fraternal

organizations, social meetings, and local

catering events. Just a few years ago with

the collapse of many large corporate

organizations in the country, the meeting

market took a hit when out-of-town

conferences, meetings and events

appeared to be an inappropriate use of

company funds. Today, there is life in the

meetings marketing again and there is hope

that new companies will find Panama City

Beach to be the perfect place to meet.

Perspective: Dawn Wolfe, Bay PointMarriott

“The first half of 2010 was a little

sluggish in terms of booking

activity. However, with the opening of the

new airport, lead volume increased

dramatically. Meeting and Convention

bookings that were secured the last half

of 2010 put us right back on track for

what we foresee as a very successful

2011. We’ve been able to attract and

secure opportunities from new markets

thanks to the improved air access. Clients

in Houston, Nashville, and Baltimore

appreciate the ability to hold their events,

trainings, and meetings at a resort

destination without having to compromise

their bottom line.”

So what does all this mean? It means

Panama City Beach is headed down a long

path to growing our tourism through

various markets that have not been tapped

into previously. The work of our community

leaders and the independent resorts,

restaurants and attractions on Panama City

Beach will continue to open up new

markets and invite new visitors to our sandy

white beaches. With any luck they will

become repeat visitors and our greatest

advocates for sharing their pictures and

stories with family and friends.

Business Meetings

4th of July at Pier Park

continued from “Changing Face of Tourism”

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 13


out&about

1. 2.

3. 4.

5. 6.

7. 8.

1. Mel and Lee Ann Leonard, Dan Rowe, Annual Dinner

2. Kal and Melody Squires, Annual Dinner

3. Bay Young Professionals Tour, Port Panama City

4. Marty McDaniel and Annie Holcombe, First Friday

5. Petra and Gage Blevins, Annual Dinner

6. David Powell, Navy Base Orientation

7. Carol Roberts, Cong Southerland, Jill McKinzieSoutherland Inauguration Trip

8. Mark McKinney & Chuck Bond,Annual Dinner

out&about

2011

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 14


Students typically are selected in 6th

grade and remain a part of the program until

they complete their first post-secondary

degree or certification. Take Stock in Children

students and their parents enter into a

contract with the Bay Education Foundation.

Students must strive for excellence in

grades, attendance, and attitude. They are

also required to volunteer in the community

and to remain drug free and crime free. In

return, the Bay Education Foundation

provides each student with a scholarship, a

community mentor, and a variety of support

services to assist in the college preparation

process.

“Our scholarship committee reviews

applications very carefully,” says committee

chairman Don O’Neal. “We estimate that

we invest about $24,000 in every student,

so we want to be sure that our investments

pay off.”

While the large scholarship is the

program feature that initially attracts most

students; mentoring ultimately makes the

most difference. Every Take Stock in Children

scholar is assigned a mentor. Mentors are

adult community members who agree to

TAKING STOCK IN CHILDRENSCHOLARSHIPS, MENTORS AND HOPE

visit students at school three times a month

and help them stay focused on their

responsibilities in the program. While

mentors are asked to commit for a year at a

time, many stay with their kids through

middle and high school.

Each year, the Bay Education Foundation

selects Mentors of the Year. Nominated by

their students, this award is designed to

showcase the importance of mentoring.

This year’s recipients are Andrea Davis and

Doug Merkle, both mentor graduating

seniors.

“If you want to see and feel the

difference you are making in the world,” says

Janet Kessler with BEF, “mentoring is the

place for you. Nothing is more rewarding

than helping kids achieve their goals.”

One success story is Jenny Dula, a first

grade teacher at Cedar Grove Elementary

School. With support from Take Stock in

Children, Jenny completed her B.S. in

elementary education and later earned a

Master’s degree. Jenny and her husband have

a duaghter, Charlotte and are expecting

daughter Abigail this spring. They are active

members of their church and community.

“This is exactly the story we imagine

when we award a Take Stock Scholarship,”

says Ronnie Adams, BEF President. “We want

to help build many young families whose

future is bright and whose potential

contributions to our county and state are

unlimited.”

There are 12 other people who have

completed the program with majors in

nursing, criminology, business and social

work to name a few. Most of them live and

work in Bay County and are good citizens

who contribute to our community.

“The link between prosperity and

education is indisputable,” says Adams. “We

are investing in people and in our community

when we provide an opportunity for those

who want to succeed.”

Funding the Take Stock in Children

program is a major focus of the Bay

Education Foundation. A local donation of

$7,500 earns a 100% match from the Florida

Prepaid Foundation, which is enough to

purchase one four-year scholarship. This

year, the Bay Education Foundation launched

a new fundraising event, Arts Alive, to

supplement community donations. The

event was held on April 1st.

The Bay Education Foundation is the local agency for the statewide Take Stock in Children program. Take Stock in Childrenis an award-winning program that offers scholarships and mentors to promising young people in need. In Bay County, 84 middleand high school students and 49 college students are Take Stock in Children scholars.

education:

{written by: Beth Deluzain, BEF Executive Director

Jenny Dula, BEF graduate Sklar Paggert, student and Andrea Davis, mentor

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 15


The Florida State University’s newest

college is the College of Applied Studies.

As one of the 16 colleges and schools at

FSU, the College of Applied Studies makes

its home at the Panama City campus. Ap-

proved by the FSU Board of Trustees in June

2010, the new college makes it possible for

FSU Panama City to develop and offer new

degree and certificate programs that will

have the greatest impact upon meeting

workforce need.

In 2009, enrollment growth targets

were established for FSU Panama City and

initiatives began that would help grow en-

rollment to approximately 1,400 students

by fall 2012. The new programs and op-

portunities offered by the College of Ap-

plied Studies will make a significant

contribution to reaching those enrollment

targets and position the campus for long-

term growth. FSU Panama City’s Dean, Dr.

Ken Shaw, will serve as Dean of the Col-

lege of Applied Studies. Three programs

have recently been approved: the Bachelor

of Science in Recreation and Leisure Serv-

ices Administration, the Bachelor of Science

in Public Safety and Security and the online

Graduate Certificate in Event Management.

Leisure activities are an integral part of

people’s lifestyles and billions of dollars

are spent annually on recreation programs

and facilities in public, private and nonprofit

recreation agencies. The Bachelor of Sci-

ence degree in Recreation and Leisure Serv-

ices Administration fills a growing need for

qualified professionals to manage recre-

ation programs, lands and facilities in vari-

ous community environments and agencies.

Potential employers in this field include

public recreation and park agencies, non-

profit community and cultural organiza-

tions, commercial recreation businesses,

armed forces recreation, resorts and hotels,

Written by: Dr. Ken Shaw, Dean, FSU Panama City

FSU-PC: New College and Programs

sports management organizations and

tourism agencies. The program will begin

admitting students in August 2011.

The Bachelor of Science in Public Safety

and Security has been identified by faculty

at FSU Panama City as a critically needed

program within the state of Florida. The FSU

Panama City Criminology and Criminal Jus-

tice faculty and Underwater Crime Scene

Investigation team have been providing ad-

vanced training opportunities for public

safety dive teams and law enforcement

professionals for the past 8 years. In re-

sponse to the continued need for advanced

education and training for these profes-

sionals around the state, the Public Safety

and Security program was approved by the

FSU Board of Trustees at its January 2011

meeting. The degree consists of four major

choices including Police Science (AS to BS),

Law Enforcement Operations (AA to BS), In-

telligence (AA to BS) and Crime Scene In-

vestigation (AA to BS). The program will be

offered in online and on-campus and will

begin admitting students for fall semester

2011.

The online Graduate Certificate in Event

Management provides advanced knowl-

edge and practical experience in the plan-

ning, marketing and management of events.

The program consists of four courses in-

cluding a practicum. It is available to de-

gree-seeking graduate students or

professionals and interested individuals who

have earned a baccalaureate degree from

an accredited college or university enrolled

as a non-degree seeking student. The

course curriculum includes economic im-

pact, marketing, sponsorship acquisition,

ethics, risk management and safety. This

program is essential for hospitality and re-

sort management professionals, as well as

event professionals in government, corpo-

rate, non-profit organizations, marketing and

communications, and parks and recreation

services. This certificate can serve as a pro-

fessional complement to the degree in

Recreation and Leisure Services Administra-

tion. Those interested may apply for ad-

mission now.

education:CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR CAMPUS AND STUDENTS

{Visit pc.fsu.edu for academic program, admission and registration information andrequirements or contact the Office of Admissions and Records at 850-770-2160.

{PHOTO COURTESY OF FSU PANAMA CITYPHOTO COURTESY OF FSU PANAMA CITY

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:49 PM Page 16


Printer and paper not required

Local television station, News 13-WMBB, found the cutting edge

technology could also cut costs. Heather Kretzer, News Director

with News 13-WMBB said, “With five sets of scripts for seven daily

shows at an average of 50 pages each, the costs of paper, ink and

printer maintenance was more than $10,000 annually.” News 13-

WMBB got the idea when general manager, Terry Cole, read about

another station using iPads in a trade journal. For News 13-WMBB

the change was simple and inexpensive. They

bought seven of the tablets at $500 each,

set-up a secured wireless network, created a

dedicated email address on the iPad and

installed a pdf writer on their computers and

a pdf viewer on the iPads. You’ll see News 13-

WMBB’s anchors using the iPads daily on the

news. Another local TV station News 7 –

WJHG, has not made the switch yet but

anticipate it in their near future. News Director,

Mark Wildman says “As part of researching with other sister

market stations that have successfully made the conversion from

paper scripts to iPads, we have found every News Director say

they wish they had made the switch sooner. Therefore, we have

made the decision to soon start placing them in the hands of our

anchors and eventually the field reporters.”

Presentations on the go, wherever you go

The most common area iPad users are transforming the way work

is done is for making presentations. The iPad has a variety of case

styles available that can also serve as a stand for better visibility

and utility. Sales persons and others can scroll through slides to

show a customer, demonstrate a website and even present video.

Local Bay County business owner, Todd Neves

of Neves Media, stated, “We use it to review

video, audio and print projects while away from

the office and sync between Google docs and

customer sites when we are doing creative

sessions so that the rest of the staff can

immediately be updated on project statuses.”

The iPad includes support for a number of

different types of email accounts and calendars

including Microsoft Exchange, Google, AOL,

mobileme and Yahoo. You can also use it to create, review and edit

common office documents, presentations, complex spreadsheets

and access important files on your corporate network.

Apple’s iPad has become a

household name with consumers

everywhere. The iPad made its

debut in early 2010 as a thin and

light designed full color tablet

mostly known for its use with

web, email, photos and video.

However, it’s recently become an

impressive piece of technology

for business users of every kind

with a slogan: “A new way to

work”. Here are examples of how

local businesses are using it,

which may generate some useful

ideas for you.

Cebo Campbell, Cybersytes meets with web client

Todd Neves, Neves Media previewsclients new commercial

iPad’s for BusinessTrends:

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:49 PM Page 17


Your Business: There’s an App for that

The success in the iPad for business world stems from the many

powerful third-party applications also known as “apps”; which are

developed on a daily basis. Designers are using apps to create mock

up sketches and renderings on the spot. Cebo Campbell with

‘CyberSytes’ says, “When in a room with a client, anyplace, we are

able to show them their website development including how it

functions rather than the back end with coding. We train our sales

reps and developers to log right into the program and edit the sight

via the iPad.

The iPad can be a valuable tool for businesses. It has Bluetooth

capability, special adaptors for a full keyboard, a strong battery life

and WiFi internet access. It can be of use for warehouse managers,

retail floor staff, medical staff, surveyors, project managers, auto

dealers, restaurant servers, legal teams and anyone else who needs

real-time access to documents, programs and apps while on the go.

{Detailed information provided by www.apple.com}

“We also use it to view and sign contracts right on the spot.”

Introducing the area’s only Pediatric ER.

It’s important to remember that children aren’t little adults, and that their bodies and injuries require specializedattention and care.

You’d do anything for your children.So why not make the right choice in health care?

Her fi rst word. Her fi rst step. Are you ready for her fi rst emergency?

The Area’s Shortest Average ER Wait Times

449 W. 23RD STREETPANAMA CITY, FLORIDA 32405

EMERGENCY PEDIATRICS AGES 0 UP TO 18

The Area’s Shortest Average ER Wait Times

AGES 0 UP TO 18

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 18


any businesses in the Bay County area, as well as across

the state of Florida, have suffered from the economic

decline. Periods of financial crisis pose special

challenges for many small and medium businesses.

These entities, once stable, profitable and competitive, are

struggling to improve operational and financial performance.

Consider the impact for Florida alone, when small and medium

businesses make up an overwhelming 91% of the employer firms

and additionally contribute to more than one-third of all new jobs.

According to the Florida Small Business Development Center

Network (FSBDCN) this means that approximately 91% of all

businesses are struggling and possibly failing and as a consequence

are creating less employment opportunities.

The FSBDCN has developed a targeted program to assist these

existing businesses in need. This new program, called the Growth

Acceleration Program (GAP), will help existing small to medium

enterprises get back on their feet by providing the in-depth, high-

level technical assistance they need to succeed in the new

economy. To implement this process, the FSBDCN will provide

professional business turnaround and growth specialists across

the state who have expertise and qualifications to assist and

consult distressed but viable businesses in the areas of

Strategic/Business Plan Services, Marketing, Financial and Capital

Access, and Cash Flow Management. GAP services will be offered

at no charge to eligible participants. Each participant will go

through a four-stage process that includes: Pre-Assessment and

Orientation, Business “Health-Check” Assessment, Health Check

Report and Presentation, and Follow on Consultation or Training.

If you are an existing, viable business interested in participating

in this program, please review the criteria below prior to contacting

your local Small Business Development Center.

Businesses must meet the following guidelines to participate inthe Growth Acceleration Program:

l In-business for a minimum of three years

l Employ 5 or more full time employees

l Have $500,000 or more in gross annual sales

The FSBDCN believes that since these specific businesses are

the greatest contributors to new job creation, the focused

services available through hired professional consultants will meet

the complex and diverse needs of the market and will result in

the stimulation of the economy. The objective of this program is

to support not just job creation and retention, but also the

creation and retention of new wealth (i.e. sales revenue), better

positioning to access new capital and repay existing debt

obligations, and stabilize and save businesses.

For more information about the GAP program and how the Bay

County area SBDC can help your business, please contact:

The Small Business Development Center at

850.271.1108 or www.northfloridabiz.com

Moffers assistance for struggling businessesSmall Business

Valerie Simmons, SBDC Associate Directormeets with a Small Business Owner

Development CenterWritten by: Pam Cooley, SBDC

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 19

Congratulations to Mad Hatter Automotive Center for being

selected as the Small Business Institute’s Small Business of the

Quarter.

Mad Hatter Automotive

Center has been in business

in Bay County for over 30

years. They strive to

provide their customers

with a relaxed and

enjoyable experience when

dealing with the repairs of

their automobiles; to create

Small Business of the Quarter personal relationships through honesty and integrity and to

maintain the highest degree of quality workmanship in completion

of their work. Mad Hatter provides complete general automotive

repair service for both domestic and foreign vehicles. Their motto

is, “If It Can Be Done, We Can Do It.”

Therefore, they work closely with Anchorage Children’s Home

and the Boys and Girls Club of Bay County to help them in their

automotive repair needs. They also provide free automotive

advice to the public through various local publications. David

Lovett, owner of Mad Hatter, also volunteers on the Bay County

Value Adjustment Board and The Rotary Club of Panama City.

Does your business have fewer than 35 employees and are you

a member of the Bay County Chamber? If so, your business may

be eligible for Small Business of the Quarter. The SBI is currently

accepting applications. Businesses that are selected receive

publicity in the Bay Biz, recognition on the Chamber’s website,

www.panamacity.org, recognition at First Friday and a sign for your

business recognizing you as the Small Business of the Quarter.

Mad Hatter Automotive Center

For more information or an application, please contact:

Elizabeth at 215-3761 or [email protected].

Helping children and promoting

education are close to Mad Hatter’s heart.


11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 20

Franklin Harrison of Harri-

son Sale was given the highest

honor within the Chamber, The

Lauren Merriam Memorial

Award. Harrison was chosen for

this award for his commitment

to the community's well being,

as exemplified by involvement

in civic and charitable endeavors

contributing to the betterment

of Bay County and the benefit

of its citizens.

HSG Accounting was se-

lected by the Chamber's Small

Business Institute for the Jerry

Mills Small Business of the Year

award because the business

demonstrated successful

growth, stability and commu-

nity involvement. The award is

named after local businessman

Jerry Mills. Mills was the first

chairman of the Small Business

Committee

Victoria Williams, of the As-

sociates Architects, LLC won

the Member of the Year Award.

The Member of Year Award is

presented annually to a Cham-

ber member who has gone

above and beyond just being a

"member." Williams always goes

above and beyond the call of

duty. She has served as chair-

person of the Chamber's Small

Business Institute and the Am-

bassador Committee. Over the

years Williams has also served

on the Chamber Board of Direc-

tors, Local/State Government,

Business Referral Network, Expo

Committee and Industry Appre-

ciation Task Force.

Karen Durden, wife of the

late K. Earl Durden accepted the

Chairman's Award on his behalf.

He is only the second recipient

in the 98 year history of the

Bay County Chamber, with it

being presented once before to

Brother Si Mathison over 15

years ago. This gentleman was

relatively a newcomer to our

community when he moved to

our community in 1988 from

Dothan, Alabama. He founded a

local community bank; served

as Chairman of the Florida

Transportation Commission for

8 eight years, was largely cred-

ited with securing the funding

for the new Hathaway Bridge,

four-laning of state highways 79

and 77, was a member of the

Florida Base Relocation Ap-

pointment Committee, the Bay

County Economic Development

Alliance, chaired the K-12 grade

sub committee of the FSU PC

Presidential Blue Ribbon Com-

mittee, was on the board of the

Florida Council of 100, a direc-

tor of the James Madison Insti-

tute and director and past

chairman of the Florida Justice

Reform Institute. He was an ac-

tive participant and proponent

for his community and the

state's of Florida, Alabama and

Georgia. He was named by the

Florida Trend Magazine as one

of the 100 most influential per-

sons in Florida. Mr. Durden

passed away in April of last

year.

The Better Business Bureau

serving Northwest Florida wel-

comes Dr. Carol Law to its board

of directors. Law is the presi-

dent of Drug Free Workplaces,

Inc., a BBB Accredited Business

for nearly 15 years. She is a na-

tionally certified substance

abuse program administrator

with over 30 years’ experience

in the mental health and sub-

stance abuse fields.

Florida Therapy Services,

Inc. Is proud to announce that

we have moved our Corporate

and Panama City Office to a

new, larger location at 2711 W.

15th Street in the St. Andrews

area. Located at the corner of

Drake Avenue and 15th Street,

our new facilities offer more ac-

commodations and space for

staff, clients, and partners. We

Biz lisTThe Bay County Chamber Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremonywas held on January 28th where the Chamber gave out thefollowing awards:


TheIf you are a member of the Bay County Chamberand would like to submit your business news forpublication, e-mail a press release and photo [email protected]

CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS IN “THE BIZ LIST”.

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 21

look forward to sharing with

the community our many ac-

complishments and look for-

ward to the year ahead of

providing Bay County and our

surrounding areas the best men-

tal health services available. For

more information, visit

www.flatherapy.com

American Advertising Feder-

ation-Panama City presented its

2011 ADDY Awards for advertis-

ing creative excellence Satur-

day, February 11th. This annual

dinner and awards presentation

was attended by over 100 indi-

viduals of the local advertising

and media businesses.

Entries were judged based on

originality and creative strategy.

Neves Media captured the

Judge’s Choice in Broadcast for

a 30-second television commer-

cial for Envy Boutique. Corner-

stone Marketing & Advertising

garnered the Judge’s Choice in

Logo Design for Southern The-

aters, a Judge’s Choice Award in

Publication and Design for it’s

Pinup Girls Editorial Spread done

for VIE Magazine and Best of

Show for their website design

for nancy Drew. The Judge’s

Choice in Photography went to

Jennifer Hendrix, a student at

Gulf Coast Community Col-

lege, for her photo entitled

“Stairway to New Orleans”.

Please congratulate all the

2011 AAF-Panama City ADDY

Awards winners:

Bay Bank & Trust Co. – 2 Silver

Bay County Chamber of Commerce – 1 Silver

Color It You, LLC – 1 Silver

Cornerstone Marketing & Advertising – 8 Gold, 7 Silver

Cyber Sytes, Inc. – 2 Gold , 19 Silver

Doral Bank – 3 Silver

Gulf Coast Community College – 4 Silver

Innovations Federal Credit Union – 2 Gold, 2 Silver

Kerigan Marketing Associates – 2 Gold, 21 Silver

Magic Broadcasting – 2 Gold, 2 Silver

Neves Media – 3 Gold

Panama City Beach Chamber – 1 Gold, 1 Silver

Panama City Radio Group – 1 Silver

The Eye Center of North Florida – 1 Silver

United Way of NWFL – 1 Silver

WJHG – 1

Student ADDY Awards:James Montgomery – 1 Student Gold

Jennifer Hendrix – 3 Student Gold

Kevin McKinzie was awarded

the ARINC Advanced Concepts

Engineering (ACE) Employee of

the Year for 2010. Throughout

the year, Kevin has provided su-

perb leadership and support to

ARINC and his customers. Kevin

practiced the leadership philos-

ophy of “Service Before Self”.

His positive attitude has been in-

fectious throughout the entire

ARINC Project Team and his

value to the ARINC Team can-

not be over stated. Kevin’s ac-

tions have reflected well on

himself, on our customers, and

on ARINC.

Holly Gordon was selected as

the ARINC Coastal Systems En-

gineering (CSE) Employee of the

Year for 2010. Holly’s sustained

stellar performance is under-

scored by pride, self-improve-

ment, and accomplishments. A

dynamic self starter whose pro-

fessional talent, superb initia-

tive, and hands-on leadership

skills guarantee outstanding re-

sults in all endeavors. Holly’s

professionalism and can-do atti-

tude set the standard for all to

emulate and have contributed

immensely to the increased pro-

ductivity and contract procure-

ment success enjoyed by

ARINC CSE.

The Honorable Bill Kinsaul,

Bay County Clerk of the Circuit

Court, recently completed his

240 hours of initial New Clerk

training to earn his FACC Clerk

Certification. Clerks are required

to have 240 hours of training

for the initial certification. After

the initial certification, Clerks

are required to attend 36 addi-

tional hours per year to main-

tain their certification.

“This training was an invalu-

able process in preparing me for

the duties I perform each day

as Clerk,” Kinsaul said of the

training. “The Clerk has a variety

of duties that encompass many

unique challenges. I believe this

training will serve me well in

making the best decisions in

serving the citizens of Bay

County.”

BookIt.com announced ear-

lier this year, Lee Ann Leonard

to the position of Market Man-

ager for Panama City Beach,

headquarters to BookIt.com.

Leonard will be responsible for

the development of destination

relationships and site content to

support market development

and growth.

“I’m extremely proud to rep-

resent one of my favorite mar-

kets and my hometown, Panama

City Beach”. “It is part of the

BookIt.com business model to

have a passionate in-market

manager for every market we

serve,” said Bud Finlaw, CEO and

President of BookIt.com. “Lee

Ann’s passion for selling Panama

City Beach is obvious from the

moment you meet her, and we

look forward to merging our

passion for our hometown with

hers.” Leonard offers 12 years of

experience in the hospitality

and broadcast industries and

serves on the board for the Bay

County Chamber of Commerce

Gulf Coast Medical Center

Cancer Program Coordinator

Charla Carter, CTR, is the recip-

ient of an HCA North Florida

Division Innovators Award. The

award was given as a result of

Carter’s work in developing a

breast cancer education pro-

gram for area Girl Scouts and

their mothers. The program

was recognized for its focused

educational outreach to young

women in the Bay County area.


continued on page 22

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 22

Hutt Insurance Agency, a

third-generation, family-owned

agency is celebrating 50 YEARS

of service to the region provid-

ing insurance to businesses, fam-

ilies, and non-profit

organizations. Since 1992, Trey

Hutt has emulated the business

practices of his father and

grandfather, with the assistance

of terrific employees, in carry-

ing forward a legacy of in-

tegrity, service, and community

involvement.

Congratulations to the cast,

crew and production team of

GCCC's November 2010 produc-

tion of “A Doll’s House”. The

production was adjudicated as

part of the Florida Community

College Activities Association

Theatre Division and received

the top ranking of “SUPERIOR”.

The following people were also

individually recognized:

Stage Management - Emily

Hankins (current scholarship

student)

Acting - Leeah Taunton (cur-

rent scholarship student) and

Allen Walker (GCCC alumnus)

Congratulations to the

GCCC Marketing Office (Laura

Green, Erin Ossewaarde and

Chris Thomes) for their three

statewide Association of Florida

Colleges and four local ADDY

wins for outstanding achieve-

ment in marketing and advertis-

Mentors of the Year, Doug

Merkle and Andrea Davis, two

community professionals. Both

mentor student scholars in the

Take Stock In Children scholar-

ship program, which makes

dreams of college a reality for

students who show promise.

Mentoring is essential in offer-

ing motivation, support and role

models." Read more about the

program in this issue of the Bay

Biz.

Veteran economic develop-

ment executive Neal Wade

joined The St. Joe Company in

late 2010 as the company’s

Senior Vice President of Eco-

nomic Development. In his new

role, he leads the team respon-

sible for the development of

VentureCrossings Enterprise

Centre, the region’s largest

commercial development lo-

cated adjacent to the newly-

opened Northwest Florida

Beaches International Airport.

Wade, who worked for St.

Joe from 2000 to 2003, served

for the past eight years as Di-

rector of the Alabama Devel-

opment Office (ADO), the

state’s lead economic develop-

ment organization credited with

creating 20,000 new jobs an-

nually. During his tenure, the

ADO was twice named the top

state economic development

agency in the United States.

Wade’s return to St. Joe ev-

idences the company’s commit-

ment to take an active role in

economic development and job

creation in Northwest Florida.

ing. Awards were won for the

college magazine “The Clipper”,

the “Student Success” outdoor

ad campaign, and three Visual &

Performing Arts posters (“Resur-

recting Van Gogh”, “Ramona”,

and “A Doll’s House”).

Girls Incorporated of Bay

County is pleased to announce

Tammy Dunaway has joined

their team as the Executive Di-

rector. Tammy’s loyalty to our

community began over thirty

years ago when her parents

transplanted her family into Bay

County as Military retirees. Ms.

Dunaway has served as a Stu-

dent Advocate for Bay Educa-

tion Foundation, Patient

Advocate for Gulf Coast Med-

ical Center. She will promote

the organization and its need

for active community support

and participation. Ms. Dunaway

brings with her an AA in Com-

munications from Gulf Coast

Community College, a BA in So-

cial Sciences from Florida State

University Panama City, and is

currently completing her MS in

Counseling and Psychology this

fall at Troy University Panama

City.

Southwest Airlines would

like to announce KJ Rice as the

Station Manager at the new

Northwest Florida Beaches In-

ternational Airport. Rice brings

with him to the new airport 25

years of technical operation

management and airline indus-

try. He provides leadership of

local operation to assure high

quality service and onetime per-

formance to Southwest Airlines

Customers. Rice is a 1981 Distin-

guished Graduate, US Army and

brings with him a BA in Christian

Education from The University

of Ozark, and is a 2008 MIT

Graduate.

Oaseas Resorts is proud to

announce it has relocated its

corporate headquarters in

Panama City Beach, Florida, to a

newly-acquired building just

over 43,000 square feet in size.

The headquarters is located at

415 Richard Jackson Boulevard,

at the corner of Richard Jackson

Blvd. and Hutchison Blvd., in the

building that was formerly

known as the Beach Financial

Center (occupied by the former

Peoples First Bank). Leasing op-

portunities within the building

exist immediately at highly com-

petitive rates. A Doral Bank

branch is the first tenant of the

lease space. Contact Karen Dug-

gan for leasing information at

850-249-0276.

Bay Education Foundation

would like to congratulate Its

Take Stock In Children 2011


Biz lisTThe

continued from page 21

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 23

One of the top economic de-

velopers in the United States,

Wade will lead a powerhouse

team that also includes eco-

nomic development veteran

Kevin Johnson, who joined St.

Joe in 2009 from The Research

Triangle Park, and CB Richard

Ellis, the largest commercial

real estate brokerage firm in the

world.

The Better Business Bureau

Foundation Serving Northwest

Florida welcomes Ronnie

Gilmore as a new Foundation

trustee. Gilmore is the owner of

Gilmore Services, a business

started by his father in 1955 and

run by Gilmore since 1979.

Gilmore Services has been a BBB

Accredited Business since 2001.

Lamar Advertising is proud

to announce the promotion of

Chris Avondet to Vice President

/ General Manager of the Erie,

PA Lamar plant. Chris began his

career with Lamar in Providence,

RI in real estate development &

leasing. After achieving success

in that department, he moved

into outside sales. In 2008

Chris was promoted and moved

to Panama City and assumed

the role of Sales Manager for

the Lamar Panama City plant.

Oceaneering is proud to an-

nounce the expansion of the

Oceaneering brand name from

the former multiflex business

unit to “Oceaneering Umbilical

Solutions”. Over the past sev-

eral years the entire company

has transformed into a larger

global organization. Within the

Subsea Products division, Multi-

flex has invested significantly in

its facilities, made improvements

toward a best-in-class safety

culture, and analyzed all phases

of project management and

overall engineering capabilities.

The name change reflects this

growth and in our primary focus

on providing creative solutions

across the entire range of cus-

tomer operations in subsea en-

vironments.

Grand Panama Beach Resort

is excited to announce the

launch of a newly branded web-

site featuring consumer-friendly

navigation, photos, and inform-

ative content to educate guests

in their search of upscale ac-

commodations on the Gulf of

Mexico’s pristine beaches. In

addition, an interactive Blog and

Facebook social marketing plat-

form is integrated to give guests

a day-by-day glimpse into life

at the beach. Designed by Cor-

nerstone Marketing and Adver-

tising, Inc.—The Idea

Boutique®—located in Grayton

Beach, Florida, the website in-

cludes an intricate network of

links to area shopping, dining

and recreational choices avail-

able to complete a grand vaca-

tion. To view the newly

launched website, visit

www.grandpanamabeachre-

sort.com.

Second Chance of North-

west Florida, Inc. is happy to an-

nounce the appointment of Mr.

Michael Brill as Chairman of

the Board. Mr. Brill is a CPA with

22 years of accounting experi-

ence including 6 years as a Fi-

nancial Controller in the

technology industry and 16

years with Segers, Sowell, Stew-

art, Johnson, & Brill, P.A. His spe-

cialties include income tax

preparation and planning, ac-

counting, and small business

consulting. Mr. Brill is a member

of the American Institute of

Certified Public Accountants

and the Florida Institute of Cer-

tified public Accountants. Mr.

Brill is a graduate of The Penn-

sylvania State University and has

performed post graduate work

at The Florida State University.

Barrie Ainslie recently

joined the staff of the Panama

City Beach Convention & Visi-

tors Bureau as Visitor Services

Manager. Ms. Ainslie joins the

Bureau with a strong customer

service background, including

past tourism experience with

the Bay County Chamber of

Commerce’s Resort Council,

and the Bay County Motel &

Restaurant Association (which is

now the Panama City Beach

Chamber of Commerce). More

recent experience includes

working as Area Sales Manager

at Dillard’s in Pier Park. She also

worked with Southwest Airlines

in Raleigh/Durham, North Car-

olina.

Summit Bank, N.A. is proud

to announce the promotion of

Terri Hester to Loan Compliance

Officer. Terri is one of the

original Summit Bank employees

and has many other roles

including Executive Assistant to

the President and Chief Lending

Officer, Secretary to the Board

of Directors and Head of Loan

Operations. Summit Bank, N.A. is

headquartered in Panama City.


Biz lisTThe

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 24

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espite the national budget cuts, the Naval

Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division

(NSWC PCD) classifies current business

operations as “healthy,” but subject to growing

environmental factors.

A sign of the sustained operations at the largest

command on the Bay County Navy base, resides in the

organization’s workforce. Although the federal

government froze salaries in late Fiscal Year 2010 (FY10),

NSWC PCD hired 130 new employees; 77 were scientists

or engineers, 33 percent were women and 18 percent were

minority enhancing our workforce diversity. To date, NSWC

PCD employs over 1,300 military and civilian personnel

and contributes over $313 million to Bay County and

approximately $495 million to the state of Florida

“Over the past 32 months, we have hired approximately

425 employees resulting in a civilian workforce growth of

approximately 225 while also replacing more than 200

employees who have retired or changed jobs,” said NSWC

PCD Technical Director Dr. Delbert “Ace” Summey, Senior

Executive Service (SES).

NSWC PCD’s area of expertise for over 60 years resides

within mine countermeasures – in fact this Navy command

is the birth place for airborne mine countermeasures.

Additional business areas include Naval Special Warfare,

Diving and Life Support, and Amphibious and Expeditionary

Maneuvers Warfare.

Over the years, the organization’s business base has

grown to $589 million in FY10. “That’s 100 more work

years than in fiscal year 2009. A decade ago, we were a

$300 million activity. Today, we are almost a $600 million

a year activity,” Summey said. “Current, FY11 funding also

reflects a healthy outlook for Mine Warfare, Special

Warfare, Diving and Life Support and Expeditionary

Maneuver Warfare.”

Nationally, Summey cited the myriad of ways the Navy

laboratory in Bay County directly supports U.S. service members

on the front lines around the world, to include work on the

Navy’s new class of ships, the Littoral Combat Ship, or LCS. NSWC

PCD also provided technical support onboard USS Bataan (LHA-5)

after the Haiti earthquake, provided upgrades to mine

countermeasure ships in the Navy’s fleet, upgraded Landing Craft

Air Cushions ( LCACs) in the fleet, and locally delivered more than

400 Mine Roller systems (300 produced locally). The Mine Roller

is used in Afghanistan for anti-improvised explosive device

detection and neutralization."

written by Jacqui Barker NSWC PCD Public Affairs

“Times are still good, but we live in

a very complex and volatile national

and world environment which places

new constraints and challenges on

achieving our strategic goals and

executing our mission,” Summey said.

“A growing national deficit, described

by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs

as our biggest risk to national security,

almost certainly implies future

Department of Defense (DoD) budget

cuts.”

Those anticipated budget cuts

could yield reductions in planned

future spending for the NSWC PCD

for the FY11 and budget planning year

2012, however, NSWC PCD has taken

proactive business measures to prepare for the anticipated cuts.

“We are already pursuing initiatives to cut our overhead

resources for FY12-FY16 thereyby ensuring we will operate more

efficiently over the next six years,” Summey said. “Yet, even as the

nation’s leadership discusses hiring and salary freezes, our Warfare

Center continues to be relevant to our nation’s defenses. While

budgets may impact national security, we continue to produce

relevant, affordable defense systems for our nation’s services that

continue to or will strengthen this nation’s security.”

D

East aerial view of the Navy Base

Defense Intel:NSWC PCD remains strong despite budget cuts

One of Naval Surface Warfare

Center Panama City Division's core

business areas includes the

production of SEAL Delivery

Vehicles, or SDVs. U.S. Navy photo

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 26

ECONOMIC PROFILE

The Bay County Economic Development

Alliance (EDA) is pleased to be a part of

the new Bay Biz, providing quarterly

economic information that is pertinent

to your business. The INSIGHTS article is

designed to keep you well-informed of

your local economic development

office’s ongoing efforts to enhance the

business climate and assist locating and

expanding businesses.

If you are a resident of the City of Lynn

Haven, you will see an important

economic development incentive on

your April ballot. The item is a

referendum to allow the Lynn Haven

Commission to be authorized to grant

property tax exemptions to new and

expanding businesses to establish new

jobs. At a time when we are all

concerned about jobs and growing our

local economy, it is important to

support programs that make our area

more competitive and spur new jobs.

Early voting is April 11-15, and Election

Day is April 19. The EDA supports this

initiative and encourages you to vote YES

for the property tax exemption to

create new jobs.

We are fortunate to have a legislative

delegation that has been very active in

helping our region recover from the

effects of the Deepwater Horizon Oil

Spill. Thanks to the efforts of Senator

Gaetz, the Senate unanimously passed

the Oil Spill Recovery Act, Senate Bill

248, which outlines programs to create

InsIGHtsInside Bay County’s Economic

Development Efforts

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

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ics

BAY COUNTY FLORIDA

{


current labor statistics for bay countyLABOR FORCE EMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED UNEMPLOYED RATE

Feb 11 89,030 79,041 9,989 11.2%Jan 11 88,608 77,663 10,945 12.4%Dec 10 89,391 78,826 10,565 11.8%

Feb 10 89,560 79,213 10,347 11.6%Jan 10 89,013 78,260 10,753 12.1%Dec 09 88,691 78,739 9,925 11.2%

real estate salesEXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

REALTOR SALES MEDIAN PRICE REALTOR SALES MEDIUM PRICE

Feb 11 103 $157,700 13,701 $121,900Jan 11 86 $150,000 12,151 $122,200Dec 10 130 $138,900 15,550 $133,100

Feb 10 70 $142,900 11,890 $131,300Jan 10 71 $158,900 10,465 $130,900Dec 09 94 $165,700 14,923 $139,800

EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS

Feb 11 54 $175,000 6,984 $77,300Jan 11 66 $150,900 6,681 $79,400Dec 10 66 $175,000 6,673 $88,100

Feb 10 53 $183,300 5,085 $92,200Jan 10 40 $200,000 4,631 $97,300Dec 09 47 $177,500 5,955 $106,700

bay county building permitsRESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

Feb 11 8 2Jan 11 10 3Dec 10 9 5

Feb 10 20 3Jan 10 3 2Dec 09 14 10

bay county sales tax collectionsGROSS SALES TAXABLE SALES TAX COLLECTIONS

Jan 11 $505,216,099.00 $237,406,989.00 $13,723,581.00Dec 10 $359,944,707.00 $193,900,172.00 $12,441,957/00Nov 10 $404,279,870.27 $203,530,985.00 $10,309,313.11

Jan 10 $478,915,129.41 $210,216,229.53 $10,817,086.75Dec 09 $365,516,236.00 $179,719,981.00 $11,356,670.00Nov 09 $386,338,599.00 $196,030,539.00 $12,120,418.00

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 27

jobs and diversify our economy. Among

other provisions, this bill offers targeted

economic incentives for businesses that

locate to the affected area from other

states and spurs economic diversification

through a $10 million appropriation. The

bill also allocates three-fourths of any

fines or settlements collected from BP

to the seven counties of coastal

Northwest Florida. A related bill, House

Bill 1309, was introduced in the House

of Representatives by Rep. Coley, Rep.

Patronis and three other Northwest

Florida legislators. We applaud our

elected officials’ vision for sustained

growth and look forward to seeing this

bill’s movement through the House of

Representatives.

The EDA’s Annual Meeting and

Reception held in February was a great

success. Nearly 80 community leaders

participated in the interactive session

where the attendees were polled about

their opinions on several important

topics, including infrastructure and

economic development incentives. We

also welcomed four newcomers to the

community with a New Leader Welcome

Reception, which included Don Kirkman

with Florida’s Great Northwest, KJ Rice

with Southwest Airlines, Hans Sack with

Berg Steel Pipe Corporation and Neal

Wade with The St. Joe Company.

Mark Your Calendars

The EDA’s Quarterly Meeting and

Reception is scheduled for April 20th at

3:00 pm. This meeting will feature an

economist reporting on the Bay County

economy and updates on the first

quarter EDA activities and our regional

partner, Florida’s Great Northwest.

We also will host our Economic

Development 101 Session on July 20th

to provide an overview of the economic

development process and available job

creation incentive programs. If you wish

to attend any of these events, contact

our office for more details at 215.9965.

0.0%

2.0%

4.0%

6.0%

8.0%

10.0%

12.0%

14.0%

Unemployment Rate

Bay County

Florida

US

“At a time when we are all concerned about jobs and growing ourlocal economy, it is important to support programs that make ourarea more competitive and spur new jobs.”


"Unemployment rate chart for January 2009 to february 2011"

bay county bed tax collectionsPANAMA CITY BEACH MEXICO BEACH

Jan 11 $306,667.93 $10,895.56Jan 10 $318,457.80 $11,339.65% change -3.70% -3.92%

Dec 10 $247,747.00 $9,079.10Dec 09 $227,630.37 $13,370.63% change 8.84% -32.10%

Nov 10 $284,476.90 $11,790.08Nov 09 $283,593.62 $8,086.02% change 0.31% 45.81%

Oct 10 $521,278.79 $15,891.99Oct 09 $449,813.31 $17,644.74% change 15.89% -9.93%

northwest florida beaches international airport passenger trafficTOTAL PASSENGERS COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

Jan 11 53,539 1,364Dec 10 60,186 1,453Nov 10 65,155 1,459

Jan 10 18,990 854Dec 09 20,429 860Nov 09 22,977 803

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 28

Jeremy Bennett was raised in Marianna, Florida

but considers Panama City his home. Graduating from Marianna High

School in 1995, Jeremy went on to Troy University to earn his bach-

elor’s degree in Management. After graduation, Jeremy worked for

the Bay County Property Appraiser and Giles Appraisal Group as a

commercial appraiser.

In 2006 Jeremy joined the Vision Bank team as a credit analyst

and review appraiser. He was then promoted to Vice President in

Commercial Lending in 2009. In this capacity, Jeremy has assisted

numerous individuals and businesses with their financing needs, such

as the development and construction of residential subdivisions, of-

fice buildings, warehouses and restaurants. He also has experience

working with clients on the application and funding of loans under

the Small Business Administration 504 program. In addition to his

duties at Vision Bank, Jeremy is a partner in Tranquil Development

and Bennett- Fuller, real estate development companies.

Jeremy is very involved in the community, serving as an alumnus

of Leadership Bay and past chairman of the Leadership Bay Steering

Committee. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Anchor-

age Children’s Homes, Bay Young Professionals, Bay Point West Board

of Directors and the Bay County Small Business Incubator. In his

free time, Jeremy enjoys fishing, golfing, diving and spending time

with family and friends.

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 Professionalsto know.

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 29

Kelly Brannon was born in Missouri, but she has

lived most of her life in Bay County, Florida. Following graduation

from Bay High School in 1996, Kelly attended Spring Hill College in

Mobile, Alabama where she received a Bachelors of Science in Ac-

counting. She moved back to Panama City and graduated from

Florida State University - Panama City campus where she received

her Masters in Business Administration. Kelly is a Certified Public Ac-

countant at Carr, Riggs, & Ingram, LLC.

Kelly has been with CRI, the #4 accounting firm in the south-

east, since 2000 and has recently been promoted to Manager with

the firm. At CRI, Kelly specializes in tax preparation for businesses

and individuals. She also has experience with the firm’s fraud team

by working on several forensic investigation engagements. An ac-

tive member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, she is

currently working to obtain her Certified Fraud Examiner’s license.

Kelly is also a member of the Florida Institute of CPAs (FICPA) as

well as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).

Kelly gives back to her community through membership in Bay

Young Professionals, she serves on the steering committee for Jun-

ior Leadership Bay, and is a 2007 graduate of Leadership Bay. Fur-

thermore, Kelly volunteers with the Junior Service League of Panama

City. Kelly is married to Josh Brannon, and they have two daughters,

Kaly (4), and Emma (2). Kelly and her family are members of First

United Methodist Church. Kelly enjoys sailing in her spare time; she

and her family just returned from a week long sailing trip in the

British Virgin Islands.

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 30

SAY THANK YOUPersonally thank an employee for a job well-done. Specify whatwas good about it and why you appreciate it. Remember tocelebrate effort as well as accomplishment, to give employeesworking on long-term goals a boost.

FREE TIME

• Let high-performing teams leave early to miss rush hour

traffic.

• Give an afternoon off to employees who have

exceeded expectations for a particular customer.

FREE FOOD

• Sponsor a free lunch or breakfast for hardworking

teams.

• Subsidize the price of food in vending machines.

An example of this motivation tool is used by The News Herald

which has cookout days to raise morale and say thank you for

employees’ hard work. They also offer popcorn in their lobby

every Friday for employees and customers.

best prActIces for bUsInesstwo small words can go a long way

wr i t ten by Rich Musgrave , I IB Accred i ted Execu t ive Assoc ia te

Quick and easy ways to recognize employees and make them feel

valued:

ith layoffs and budgets tightening we're all being asked to do more with less and

employees are often seen disengaging. Your employees’ ideas and passion for

their work can help your business grow and succeed. Consider taking these

steps to thank your employees. It could improve your work environment and

encourage employees to work with energy and enthusiasm. The results could be

profitable, personally and financially.


Covenant Hospice at their annual employee morale meeting.

Life Management

staff activity committee

tracking healthy living goals

W

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 31


WMWaste Management

Shay Harvilleo u t s i d e s a l e s r e p r e s e n tat i v e

From everyday collection to environmental protection,

Think Green.Think Waste Management.

waste managementinc. of florida

6319 E. Highway 22 Panama City, FL 32404

(850) 874-1019 | (850) 874-8550 Fax(850) 258-8761 Cell [email protected]

SPECIAL EVENTS

Create an events committee to plan fun outings, such as

trips to a sporting event, a picnic, or a holiday party. Many

chamber members are already implementing this with great

success.

The Resort Collection of Panama City Beach holds

quarterly meetings that include a motivational movie day.

Clear Channel rewards sales teams who reach their goals

with fun outings such as bowling.

Covenant Hospice holds their annual employee moral

meeting at a local indoor inflatable obstacle course while

learning team building skills.

Life Management Center has a “Staff Activity

Committee” who plans the “LMC Fall Fling” for family’s and

their employees as well as a “Wellness Committee” who

run a program for employees who receive incentives for

meeting certain healthy living goals. It serves two-fold by

engaging and raising morale of employees while also keeping

health insurance costs lower.

Saying thanks will help employees feel valued and

enthusiastic about their jobs. Not only is this more fun, it’s

good for business, improves retention, and reduces burn out.

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 32


newf o r J a n u a r y , f e b r u a r y , M a r c h 2 0 1 1

{12 Gage & the Deep Blues Band587 Plantation Dr. Port St. Joe,FL 32456 (850) 596-5470

3D Payroll1122 Florida Ave.Lynn Haven, FL 32444(850) 215-3093

Almega Sports LLC2497B Highway 77 Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 215-5151

Ausgar Technologies3111 Camino Del Rio N, Ste 925 San Diego, CA 92108 (619) 822-2968

Ayman T. Aboulela M.D.304 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 769-1566

Bay County Alzheimer’s AlliancePO Box 16345 Panama City, FL 32406 (850) 769-3398

Chili's Grill & Bar #1074845 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32401(850) 769-3167

Coleman American AlliedPO Box 36Panama City, FL 32402-0036 (850) 785-2070

DHL Express #10313350 International Pkwy Jacksonville, FL 32218 (904) 779-3432

Emerald Coast Florida PMI ChapterPO Box 1265 Shalimar, FL 32579 (850) 319-5586

Graybar Electric3513 Transmitter Rd. Panama City, FL 32404(850) 767-2600

Gulf Coast Chiropractic & Rehab1008 Jenks Ave.Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 624-2973

Gulf Resources, LLC340 Bunkers Cove Rd. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 872-0044

Hilltop Meat Company27630 US Hwy 29Andalusia, AL 36421(334) 388-2353

Human Resource ManagementAssociationPO Box 1802 Panama City, FL 32402(850) 596-7335

Islamic Understanding Institute237 W. 15th St., Ste F Panama City. FL 32401 (850) 215-4840

Kerigan Marketing Associates,lnc.260 Marina Dr. Port St. Joe, FL 32456 (850) 229-4562

La Quinta Inn & Suites17710 PCB PkwyPanama City Beach, FL 32413(850) 249-1112LJ Cooper Wealth Advisors455 Harrison Ave. Suite C Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 784-1216

Medical Clinic PCB8317 Front Beach Rd., Ste 37B Panama City Beach, FL 32407(850) 249-1002

North Bay Haven Charter Academy1104 A Balboa Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 248-0205

O'Reilly Auto Parts1602 Ohio Ave. Lynn Haven, FL 32444 (850) 271-3519

Panama City Pulmonary2426 Jenks Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 763-9459

Peters & Scoon25 East 8th St.Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 769-7825

R&L Enterprises dba PapaJohns11160 PCB Pkwy, Ste 406 Panama City Beach, FL 32407(850) 235-6161

Schlotzsky's Deli15801 LC Hilton Jr. Dr., ste 100 Panama City, FL 32413(850) 913-1899

Southern Earth Sciences, Inc.1438 Balboa Ave. Panama City, FL 32401(850) 769-4773

Stanley E. Peacock P.A.514 Magnolia Ave. Panama City, FL 32401(850) 215-2112

Star Service Inc.4663 Halls Mill Rd. Mobile, AL 36693 (800) 661-9050

Sugar Crave556 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401(850) 640-0080

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans336 Hiland Dr. Panama City, FL 32404 (850) 819-7027

Veolia EnvironmentalServices1441 US Hwy 231 Youngstown, FL 32466 (850) 541-6017

William B. Price, P.A.1100 McKenzie Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 (850) 215-2195

Woman's Club of Panama City350 N. Cove Blvd. Panama City, FL 32401(850) 785-7125

Members.

®

Consumers trust usLet them know they can trust you

Your Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida received over 300,000 inquiries from consumers last year.

7 in 10 consumers say they’d be more likely to buy from a company designated as a “BBB Accredited Business.”*

Do you make the cut?*Princeton Survey Research Associates 2007

Contact BBB at 850.429.0002 or start with bbb.org to ask about BBB

Accreditation

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 33


ONYX - 5 YEARSAbsolute Business SolutionsDavid H. Melvin, Inc.Gulf Crest CondominiumsGulf Talent ServicesLinea PeninsularOcean Towers Beach ClubOceaneering MultiflexPitts Appraisal TechnologyResource Realty Group

RUBY - 10 YEARSChildren's Home Society of FloridaDouglas H. MerkleGulf Coast Children's Advocacy Ctr.Hampton Inn-Panama City BeachJames Auto Center, IncPanama City Health Club & SpaSmitty's Barbecue & Salad Bar

OPAL - 15 YEARSCity of Mexico BeachFirst CommunicationsMcNeil Carroll Engineering, Inc.Northwest Florida Blood ServicesO'Neal Steel, Inc.Panama City Mall

EMERALD - 2O YEARSAMIKids, PC Marine InstituteSam's Club

SILVER - 25 YEARSCardiology Associates PACity of CallawayCreative PrintingDermatology AssociatesHarrison, Sale, McCloy, Duncan & JacksonPanhandle Educators Federal Credit UnionVittles Companies /PoFolks/Triple J/Loco's

PEARL - 30 YEARSAmerican Cancer SocietyBuchanan & Harper, Inc.Haney Technical CenterPanhandle Anesthesiologists, Inc.United Way of Northwest Florida

TOPAZ - 35 YEARSMid-South Lumber CompanyThe Storage Inn

SAPPHIRE - 45 YEARSBill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC

GOLD - 50 YEARSHutt Insurance Agency

DIAMOND - 60 YEARSAT&TBoyd BrothersBrown & Brown InsuranceBuffalo Rock Company/Pepsi ColaTarpon Dock Air ConditioningTECO Peoples GasThe News Herald

MemberAnniversariesRecognizing renewing members fortheir dedication at 5 year intervals

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 34

first friday7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m. – ProgramFSU-PC Holley CenterSponsored by: TBD Program: Leadership Bay / Junior Leadership Bay Project PresentationsFree event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests

new Member 411 breakfast8:30 a.m.Chamber Boardroom Free for new Chamber membersRSVP: [email protected] or 215.3753

calendar Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events{

first friday7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m.FSU-PC Holley CenterSponsored by: Doctors ExpressProgram: Meet the Candidates Free event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guests

new Member 411 breakfast8:30 a.m.Chamber Boardroom Free for new Chamber membersRSVP: [email protected] or 215.3753

small business Institute8:30 a.m. – Program: TBDBay County Chamber BoardroomRSVP: [email protected] or 215.3761

business After Hours5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Sponsored & located at: OASEAS and Doral Bank415 R. Jackson Boulevard contact: [email protected]

bay Young professionals social5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Sponsored & hosted by: St. Andrew Bay Yacht ClubNo cost, must rsvp to [email protected] or 215.3761

first friday7:30 a.m. – Networking / 8:00 a.m.FSU-PC Holley CenterSponsored by: TBD Program: The Changing Face of TourismFree event for Chamber members and Chamber invited guestsWear your most creative tourist costume for prizes!

small business Institute8:30 a.m. – Program: TBDBay County Chamber BoardroomRSVP: [email protected] or 215.3761

May

1

5

13

21

spring classic Golf tournamentSponsored by: TECO, HealthSouth and Neves MediaPlace: Bay Point’s Nicklaus CourseTime: Lunch - 11:00a.m.Shotgun start - noonContact [email protected] or 215.3757 for more info.

leadership bay Graduation5:30 – 8:00 p.m.Location: Edgewater Beach & Golf ResortLeadership Bay & invited guest only

Jungleball Volleyball tournament / business After Hours4:00 – 7:00 p.m.Location: BookIt.com Beach at Pier ParkSponsored by: BookIt.com, Pier Park and Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors bureau Contact: [email protected] or 215.3757 for more info.

11

20

17

June

6

24

3

7

April

for a detailed listing of chamber

and community events visit

www.panamacity.org

Dates, times and locations subject to change.

check events calendar for updates at www.panamacity.org

26

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 35

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:53 PM Page 36

Accounting • Auditing • PayrollTax Compliance • Business Advisors

(850) 763-9635

2589 JENKS AVENUE • PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA

11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 1

April-June 2011 Bay Biz Magazine

Documents

Transcript of April-June 2011 Bay Biz Magazine