april-june 2011 bay biz magazine
DESCRIPTION
The Voice of Business from the Bay County Chamber of Commerce.TRANSCRIPT
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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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April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 5
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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
{
6 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
8 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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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
10 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 11
Sports Winter Visitors
continued on page 12
11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:48 PM Page 12
12 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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”
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April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 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
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14 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 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
16 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 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
18 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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.
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 19
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:
20 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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.
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 21
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
22 BAY BIZ | April-June 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.
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 23
Biz lisTThe
11000864_Magazine 3/29/11 2:50 PM Page 24
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April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 25
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
mo
gra
ph
ics
BAY COUNTY FLORIDA
{
26 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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.”
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 27
"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.
30 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 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
32 BAY BIZ | April-June 2011
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
April-June 2011 | BAY BIZ 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