from the
publisher’ s pen Malcolm Ballinger Publisher
In this issue of Business Climate, read about how decisions made on the state and federal levels are impacting us in Escambia County. Our schools, businesses and beaches are receiving some muchneeded aid as the result of some key decisions from the past several months. Last month, the Florida state budget for fiscal year 2013-2014 was signed by Gov. Rick Scott. The budget includes many lasting benefits for businesses and schools in Pensacola, including raises for Escambia County teachers, new programs at the University of West Florida, and renovations to the Port of Pensacola. Many in the area are hopeful that these developments are indicative of a stronger, more robust economy and a positive turn toward healthy business. Read about the increases and who they affect on page 54. Also in this issue, we discuss proposals to restore the Gulf Islands National Seashore to its former, pre-Ivan and pre-oil spill glory. The Department of the Interior is especially advocating a cleanup of asphalt along the seashore and the purchase of two passenger ferry boats. Starting on page 52, learn about what is already happening and what still has to be done to bring these exciting projects to life. The summer is a universally regarded downtime for many businesses, a chance to look forward to fall and relax for a few months. Bill McBean, a contributing author in the business world, discusses the danger of this downtime and encourages business owners to stay busy and get a leg up on the competition during these hotter months. Discover his seven tips for a productive summer on page 49. Finally, continue to learn the importance of information technology and how it relates to your business with Mike White, on page 59.
Reader’s Services Subscriptions If you have questions about your subscriptions, call Kassie McLean at (850) 433-1166 ext. 30 or email info@ballingerpublishing.com. Gift Certificates NW FL’s Business Climate Magazine makes a great gift! Contact Malcolm Ballinger at (850)433-1166 ext. 27 or info@ballingerpublishing.com to arrange a gift certificate for your friend, business associate or loved one. Back Issues Is there an issue of one of our magazines that you just have to have? Were you featured in a recent isssue? Give us a call at 850-433-1166 ext. 30. Back Issues are $5.00/issue. Letters We welcome your letters and comments. Send letters to Ballinger Publishing P.O. Box 12665 Pensacola, FL 32591, or contact specific staff members under the “Contact us: Staff info” link on www.ballingerpublishing.com. Change of Address When calling or emailing us your change of address, please provide us with both the old and new addresses to expedite the change. Writing Opportunities We are always willing to consider freelance writers and article ideas. Please send queries and/or suggestions to Kelly Oden, executive editor, at kelly@ballingerpublishing.com, or care of Kelly to the above postal address.
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June/July 2013