Bay Biz Magazine - October-December 2011

October 2011

10

8 20 8

POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE: “Florida More Business Friendly”

10

16

12 24 28

THE BIZ LIST ECONOMIC PROFILE: EDA Insights

FEATURE: “Economic Development Partnerships Put Bay County on the map”

30

Local Products with a Global Reach

EDUCATION:

32

NEW MEMBERS

“Flying High at Haney Technical Center with FAA Certified Training”

33

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

15

Small Business of the Quarter

34

CHAMBER EVENTS CALENDAR

16

TRENDS:

38

OUT & ABOUT

12

“Vendor Managed Inventory”

18

Bay Young Professionals to Know

20

“ARA ReadiJet alternative Fuel Technology”

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

3

PUBLISHER Carol Roberts EXECUTIVE EDITOR Crystal Shuller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Valerie Lovett Jennifer Conoley Crystal Shuller Judith Deal Elizabeth Smith Pat Holley Carol Roberts Alisa Kinsaul DESIGN Bellhouse Publishing COVER Cover Design by Crystal Shuller CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Meredith Geddings, Jacqui Barker, Carol Roberts, Crystal Shuller, Jill McKinzie, Florida’s Great Northwest ADVERTISING Kevin Bell 1.800.264.4958 - kevin@wellsprinting.com

4

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

Bay Biz Magazine

c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce 235 W. 5th Street - P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, Florida 32401 Phone: 850.785.5206 Email: information@baychamberfl.com Online: www.panamacity.org Facebook: Bay County Chamber Twitter: @baychamberfl The Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402. 850.785.5206 POSTMASTER send address changes to Bay County Chamber, P.O. Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email Crystal@baychamberfl.com.

The Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. Email to Crystal@baychamberfl.com. Each Chamber Member receives one copy. To request additional copies please contact Crystal@baychamberfl.com or call 850.215.3755.

President’s Message As we are officially in Indian summer, we have to pause and reflect on the incredible year we have had as well as exciting news for Bay County!

DOT officials announced that the funding for the completion of four-laning Hwy 79 to I-10 may become available through a creative financing program. This incredible news affects future development of the NWFL Beaches International Airport and provides an additional northern evacuation route.

This issue has been on the Chamber’s Legislative Agenda for many years.

Our number one industry, tourism, has broken records and generated a great deal of bed tax collections that will be utilized to attract future travelers to our community who in turn, stimulate our local economy. Our airport, which held its oneyear anniversary in May, is also a shining star among the successes of the summer.

The Bay County Economic Development Alliance announced a new job generating company - Redpine Healthcare Technologies.

This announcement was made possible by our Bay County Commission, who stepped up to the plate to offer a competitive incentive package. Read more about Redpine and the partnership in this issue of the Bay Biz. To mark this news, we’ve chosen to recognize our economic development and the diversity of existing industries in our region.

Bay County has a stronger than average manufacturing base, so we found it important to highlight this segment of our economy.

They provide our area with many high wage jobs.

You can read about some of our unique manufacturers, including a company transforming algae into biofuel for jet engines, as well as articles on workforce training programs, a manufacturing industry trend, and what state government is doing to make Florida more business friendly.

At publication time, for the first time ever, the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) is meeting in Northwest Florida and bringing hundreds of Chamber execs and their staffs from all over the state to our region.

In addition, we at the Chamber have started our transition for the new year with an annual board retreat scheduled to develop the 2012 Business Plan, a slate of six new board members selected and plans for next year’s Legislative Agenda are underway. It’s been a wonderful summer and we are looking forward to a great fall and winter season. Remember, get involved and help make Bay County a better place to LIVE, WORK and PLAY!

{

Carol Roberts, Bay County Chamber President / CEO 6

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

EDA Working To Build A Stronger Bay County The Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is pleased to partner with the Bay County Chamber on this special edition of the Bay Biz, highlighting our local economic development efforts and the assets that make Bay County a great place to locate or expand a business. The EDA’s role in the community is to focus on creating a globally competitive environment where businesses can thrive and assisting companies with quality jobs in expanding or locating to Bay County.

Many times, the activities economic development organizations focus on can be confused with other business recruitment efforts, such as community development and local business development.

However, the EDA focuses on the recruitment and retention of high-skill, high-wage diversified industry. Diversified industry generally means companies that bring wealth into a community by exporting their goods and services to customers outside the local market, and those that do not rely on the local economy for income. Their primary markets are outside of the community and they can locate anywhere their labor, business costs and supplier network is available and competitive.

The EDA operates as a public/private partnership and is comprised of Bay County, the cities of Callaway, Lynn Haven and Panama City, NWFL Beaches International Airport, Port Panama City, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Gulf Coast Workforce Board, two major economic development investors – Gulf Power and The St. Joe Company and over 20 private businesses.

All of our investors share the EDA’s mission and are committed to working together for economic prosperity.

We work closely with our regional partner, Florida’s Great Northwest, which represents 16 counties in northwest Florida, as well as the State’s economic development organization, Enterprise Florida. Together, we help keep Bay County and Florida a competitive place to do business.

We are excited to showcase the diverse industries and economic assets located in Bay County in this quarter’s edition. If you have additional questions about the EDA and how we operate, don’t hesitate to contact us at 215.9965 or visit www.BayEDA.com.

{

Janet Watermeier, EDA Executive Director

Political Perspective:

Written by: Pat Holley, Bay County Chamber Governmental Affairs

Making Florida More Business Friendly

Legislative Session

The 2011 Florida legislative session was adjourned in the early morning hours of

able to determine what growth is best for their

May 7 . The focus of this year’s session was to put Floridians back to work, reduce

communities and it adds a certain amount of

government regulations and cut spending. Enacting legislation and repealing non-

predictability for businesses considering expansion.

essential regulations will help the state to become more pro-business. According

The state is creating a more efficient and business

to Representative Marti Coley, “the Florida House definitely focused on creating a

friendly method to create jobs by streamlining the

business friendly environment.” The legislature passed bills that put numerous

entire economic development process. It will

incentives in place to help local communities attract new industries.

reduce the time allowed for the state to approve

th

The Bay County Chamber’s 2011 Legislative Agenda had been encouraging our

economic development incentives, thus moving

legislators to consolidate/eliminate/streamline state departments to design a more

the process along in a more cost-effective and

efficient and modernized permitting process. Success in this area became a reality.

proficient manner. Allan Bense, Chairman of the

By eliminating the Department of Community Affairs, local governments are now

Florida Chamber of Commerce, is encouraged by

8

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

these changes. He says that “new incentives to help local

all BP oil fines and settlement monies paid to the state will go to

communities to attract new industries will help us bring in

the coastal counties of northwest Florida. Mr. Bense praised them

additional diversified industries to Bay County.”

and said, “Hats off to them, this is going to be extremely helpful

Small businesses were provided a much needed tax break this

to the economy in our area.”

past session. An increase in corporate income tax exemptions

Although many legislators believe that this was a successful

from $5,000 to $25,000 will benefit nearly half of the small

and very pro-business session, most agree that there is much to

businesses in the state.

There were 1,100 regulations that

be done in the 2012 session. The new session begins early next

impacted small business that were eliminated or repealed,

year, in January, due to the overwhelming task of redistricting.

according to a report from Senator Don Gaetz.

Representative Patronis says that it will be the number one issue

The passage of unemployment compensation reform is another positive for the business community.

in the next session but “the business community will have the best seat at the table.”

The high unemployment rates for the past several years have had a negative effect on all businesses. This year, lawmakers passed legislation that would tie the state’s unemployment rate and the maximum number of weeks workers can draw benefits from 26 weeks to 23 weeks. Thus a savings for businesses.

Legislation sponsored by Senator Gaetz and supported by Representatives Coley and Patronis ensures that three fourths of

MORESAVINGS w i t h T Y N DA L L F E D E R A L C R E D I T U N I O N .

At Tyndall Federal Credit Union, we take pride in our commitment to our members and in providing the best products available.

What can you expect at Tyndall? ě Fewer fees ě Great mortgage products ě Low auto rates ě Low credit card rates Federally insured by NCUA

Visit tyndall.org today!

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

9

Economic Development Partnerships Put Bay County on The Map A brand new airport. A deep water port. Four lanes to the Interstate from U.S. 231 and State 79. And let’s not forget, the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches.

Partnership program between the county and the Economic Development Alliance (EDA).

“Without the local incentive package, we wouldn’t have landed

As leaders in some communities furrow their brows at the

Redpine,” Bay County EDA Chairman Glen McDonald said, noting

struggling economy and uncertain future, Bay County finds itself

that the company was initially focused on other communities with

uniquely in a position rife with opportunity.

similar incentives before ultimately choosing to come here.

The Bay County Commission’s springtime creation of an

“The local incentive package will put us on the map

economic incentive program, aimed at bringing new businesses and

competitively with every other community in the United States,”

jobs to the area, illustrates turning talk into triumph. “We had to

McDonald said. “It’s a milestone for job creation and sends a

do something, and being proactive was the right thing to do,” Bay

message to the rest of the country that we are serious about

County Commission Chairman Bill Dozier said. “Bay County has so

industry and jobs coming to Bay County.”

much to offer, but there were many companies that wouldn’t

Local business people have lauded the move. Bay County

even look at us because we didn’t have any kind of incentive

Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, Carol Roberts said the

package in place.”

program has been a long time coming.

“For years the private sector has tried to carry the bulk of the

The move paid off.

load to bring new jobs to our community,” Roberts said. “This one

Redpine Healthcare Technologies, a Spokane, Washington-based

incentive, packaged with state incentives, has already proved itself

company, announced in July plans to move its headquarters – and

with Redpine. Public/private partnerships have proven time and

ultimately some 400 jobs – to Bay County, thanks to a $350,000

again, to be more successful than trying to go it alone”.

incentive package offered as part of the Bay County Economic

10

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

“Anything the county can do to partner with area businesses

come from. It still has a lot of the same ideals and the same

that can attract industry to our area and improve the overall

feeling of community. That was a big thing for us.” Bay County’s

economy is a good idea,” said Gulf Coast Medical Center’s

incentive package was comprable to other areas’ – such as Odessa,

President & CEO, Brian Baumgardner. “I truly think it’s great, and

Tx. – by a slim margin. “But look at where I get to live,” Wheeler

it’s a relatively modest program that is fiscally responsible on the

said. “Bay County kind of had the upper hand in that one.”

part of the commission but still enough to attract businesses.”

The program partners Bay County and the EDA in offering

The Redpine Revolution

performance-based incentive packages to businesses on a caseby-case basis, as long as they fall within target industries, including aviation, aerospace, defense and national security, information

Redpine offers chiropractic care providers a

technology, manufacturing and transportation and logistics

complete

companies.

comprehensive medical billing services to its

For consideration, an applicant must create a minimum of 150 new, full-time equivalent, permanent jobs paying an average wage of at least 115 percent of the Bay County average annual wage of $32,626.

practice

management

system

and

customers that ensures doctors are paid quickly, simplifies the billing and collection process and satisfies the rapidly changing legal and security

Another component of the program is that a benefitting

requirements of the new healthcare legislation. The

company’s share of sales or revenues of products or services

company is the developer and sole provider of

derived from out of the region must exceed 50 percent.

ChiroCollector, a cloud-based chiropractic practice

“In my opinion, the best thing government can do for business

management and electronic medical record system.

is to get out of the way,” Dozier said. “It’s not our desire to make

The company was founded in 2006 as ProVolve

it more difficult for our already established local companies to

Solutions and strives to meet rapidly changing

grow. It’s our desire to help our local economy grow.”

“The companies targeted for the program can generally locate anywhere there is a qualified workforce and connectivity to their customers,” said EDA Executive Director, Janet Watermeier.

McDonald said, “Infrastructure such as the port and new

customer demands as regulations and complex billing requirements continue to change. Redpine currently serves over 200 clients nationwide and continues to grow its client-base at a consistent pace.

airport also make the area attractive. Two of the EDA’s top three

“We are very excited about moving to Panama City

projects at the moment are airport related, with one related to

and the positive impact it will have on both our

maintenance and repair operations and the other an aviation

company and our customers,” said Shad Wheeler,

training center.”

president of Redpine. “Bay County offers a

While negotiations for the plans are generally not public, any funding approved by the County Commission will be vetted publicly beforehand. Qualified companies can be awarded

tremendous workforce that we believe will play a key role in supporting our continued growth and our

anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per job created, but the amount

mission to allow doctors to do what they do best –

of the award is totally at the discretion of the Bay County

take care of their patients. We take care of the rest.”

Commission.

Visit www.redpineservices.com for more information.

“We strive to be good stewards of the people’s money,” Dozier said. “We take that seriously, and we’re looking for businesses that are a good fit for Bay County.”

For Redpine President Shad Wheeler, Bay County represents more than a good financial fit for his company; it’s a good place to raise a family. “It’s a small town,” he said, “and that’s where I

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

11

Test engine on stand for new PowerPlant program

education:

Bobby Mack and Jared Holloway work together to research the components of the cockpit controls.

FLYING HIGH AT HANEY TECHNICAL CENTER WITH FAA CERTIFIED TRAINING Written by: Judith Deal Harris, Resource and Testing Coordinator

Hiding in plain sight

are the best kept secrets in Bay

County‌career and technical training programs at Haney Technical Center. Thousands of people drive past this campus every day and have no idea what this center has to offer.

Located on the corner of Highway 77 and Baldwin Road, industry experts are training students for in-demand careers at Haney Technical Center in a variety of fields.

Haney offers high quality training in the areas of architecture and construction, digital design, business management and administration, communication, cosmetology, computer systems technology, massage therapy, licensed practical nursing, applied welding technology, transportation (including auto collision repair and refinishing, auto service technology, aviation A&P mechanics and marine service technology) and adult general education. Many

of these highly skilled trainings lead to high wage pay in the workforce.

In addition to these career/technical programs, Haney Technical Center is now able to offer training in the aviation/aerospace industry through its Aviation Academy. The Aviation Academy’s program is Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) approved to offer the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) trainings. Students completing the program will be eligible to sit for the FAA written, oral and practical exams that lead to A&P mechanic licenses. Students obtaining the aforementioned licenses are qualified to work on all commercial, as well as private, airplanes and helicopters.

The program takes approximately 2 years to complete. The first course is General Aviation, and is composed of 480 hours.

The Airframe course is 960 hours, as is the Powerplant course.

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

13

Above: Airframe instructor Dennis Harper explains parts of the cockpit to students Bobby Mack, Tangnyang Maran, Bryan Prince, and Jason Blackwood.

Frank Stephens, Director of the Aviation Academy stated, “When you compare the $7,500 cost of our program to the $30,000 to $40,000 cost of comparable A&P programs throughout the country, you can see what a fantastic opportunity is available to future airplane mechanics right here in Panama City!.”

With the opening of the new Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in May 2010, Haney Technical Center’s administration and instructors recognized the future need for a trained workforce in the aviation industry. Thus, a strong partnership with the Gulf Coast Workforce Board (GCWB) was formed in pursuit of obtaining an FAA certified A&P program at Haney. With the monetary assistance of the GCWB in providing textbooks, tools, equipment and financial assistance to qualified applicants, our General and Airframe courses were certified in the spring of 2009 and our first General classes opened with a total of 22 students. Enrollment in each successive class has seen an increase.

The Aviation Academy received its final FAA certification for the Powerplant course in July 2011, and plans to open its first Powerplant class in late October of 2011. That class will finish in August 2012 and Bay County should have approximately 40 newly certified A & P mechanics in the job market. “With the average wage of A&P mechanics in the northwest Florida area being $26.03* per hour, our program is a wise choice for a successful career in the aviation field!” stated Michael Heptinstall, Director of Haney Technical Center.

Now the secret’s out – Haney Technical Center is a great source for career and technical training that lead to high wage jobs. So the next time you are driving past the campus, stop in and talk to a counselor about which program might be best for you. *US Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2010

LIVE or WORK in Bay County?

YOU can be a

MEMBER PANHANDLE EDUCATORS federal credit union

769-3306 pefcu.org

Member NCUA

Small Business of the Quarter Custom Technical Services (CTS) Custom Technical Services (CTS) has been in business in Bay County for over 2 years. Locally owned and operated, CTS installs and services CCTV systems, door access, fire and security alarm systems as well as offering monitoring services. Their mission is to bring together alarm professionals that care about protecting our community to provide quality customer service and to bring back the face to face personal care.

CTS believes in giving back to their community. They proudly support the local community by using the services of local businesses. They also enjoy supporting many community events as well as being active members of several local organizations and giving back to various children’s facilities and local churches.

Congratulations to Custom Technical Services for being selected as the Small Business Institute’s Small Business of the Quarter.

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. For more information or an application, please contact Elizabeth at 215-3761 or elizabeth@baychamberfl.com.

Example of a Vendor Managed Inventory Warehouse

Trends: VMI

Vendor Managed Inventory: A practical and affordable way to improve fill rates, turns and sales Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) is a streamlined approach to

“Using this system helps Trane reduce floor space for material

inventory management and order fulfillment that supersedes the

and creates additional space in the manufacturing areas for pro-

traditional ordering process. Manufacturers, distributors, retailers,

ducing customer orders,” said Marilyn Huntsucker, procurement

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and product users look-

manager with Trane. “The off-site inventory helps us be more re-

ing to improve the process between product development and the

sponsive to our customers’ needs and to unexpected changes in

end customer use VMI for a cost effective way to do business.

demand. We now have a competitive edge by ensuring we can pro-

The concept is that a manufacturer receives electronic data

vide products quicker than our competitors.”

(usually via software or the Internet) on the distributor’s sales and

This process can work for other industries and businesses that

stock levels. The manufacturer can view every item that the dis-

rely on quick delivery and part availability and need assistance in

tributor carries as well as true point of sale data. The manufac-

managing volatility in customer requirements.

turer is responsible for creating and maintaining the inventory plan,

It is important to note that this process requires true partner-

generating the order and keeping ownership of the inventory. Be-

ships between suppliers and the business,” said Huntsucker. “It is a

fore VMI, the quantity of the products ordered was unknown, but

working relationship based on communication, procedural disci-

using VMI, a manufacturer can see the potential need for an item

plines and reliance on each other. If implemented and executed

before it is ordered.

correctly, VMI is an efficient system for all parties involved.”

Trane, a leading global provider of indoor comfort systems and

Getting started with a VMI process involves several very im-

services and a brand of ingersoil Rand, utilizes the VMI system at

portant steps, the most important of which is having your senior

its Lynn Haven facility. The Lynn Haven manufacturing plant has

management make a firm commitment to this new process and

taken advantage of this process for the last four years by part-

communicated it throughout the organization., including employee

nering with its suppliers of raw material. The raw material suppliers

and distributor acceptance are also critical. Other steps depend

receive forecasts from Trane, and this is the basis for the stock

on the specific VMI program your company chooses to use.

levels that are maintained at third party warehouses. Replenish-

A company can do a simple search on the web for Vendor Man-

ment of the inventory is made automatically by the supplier when

agement Inventory and find resources with more information in-

Trane pulls material from the warehouse into its facility for pro-

cluding program options and software companies. Many industry

duction.

professionals have consolidated sources online to help companies

Some of the benefits utilizing a VMI system include: ●

Reductions in on-hand inventory

●

Additional space in the factory for manufacturing product

●

Fewer material shortages

●

Improved communication for replenishment to suppliers

●

cost from electronic trading and deliver visibility, control and value to your business operations.

Labor cost reduction due to third party warehouse management of inventory

●

Improved order processing speed

●

Lower out of stock rates

●

realize the benefits of VMI. VMI can remove complexity, risk and

Reduction in distributor ordering error and visibility of stock levels October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

17

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

If you are interested in becoming part of the Bay Young Professionals (BYP) group, contact Elizabeth Smith at 850.215.3761 or Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com.

Jennifer Conoley has spent the last five years in Panama City, but is no stranger to the area, growing up in Port St. Joe, FL. In 2005, she graduated summa cum laude from Florida State University’s College of Communication where she was also recognized as the Outstanding Public Relations Student of the Year. She recently earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), a designation held by more than 5,000 professionals nationally, signifying a high professional level of experience, competence and ethical standards.

Jennifer joined the Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) in 2009 as the communications and marketing director. She manages the EDA’s integrated marketing strategies designed to promote Bay County as an ideal business location. She assists in the efforts of helping businesses locate or expand in Bay County and enhancing the overall business climate.

Not only is she active in Bay Young Professionals, but she is also active in other parts of the community. She is the secretary of the Panama City Chapter of the American Advertising Federation, co-chair of accreditation and certification of the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, a member of the Panama City Beach Chamber’s HYPE young professionals group and a member of the Bay County Chamber’s public relations committee. She is also a 2008 Leadership Bay graduate. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s playing golf, fishing, scalloping, running or spending time on the beach. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Kevin Conoley, for five years and has one furry child, a beagle named Cotton.

Teresa King

was born and raised in Mobile,

Alabama and graduated from McGill Toolen High School in 1993. She attended the Auburn University, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Public Relations and then moved to Panama City in 1999.

Since 2007, Teresa became Assistant Site Coordinator for Gryphon Technologies. Her duties include human resources, security, travel, purchasing and office manager. Gryphon Technologies is a premier engineering and technical services firm providing support to national security and coalition forces. Gryphon provides Defense clients with the systems analysis, integration, and program management skills necessary to manage the development and operations of their mission critical systems. Gryphon Technologies is CMMI Level 3 rated and has consistently been named one of the 50 fastest growing technology companies.

Teresa has been a part of BYP for several years. She says, “BYP is a great committee to meet young business professionals in the area with the same goals and aspirations. I have met so many great and wonderful business people that I now call friends.�

In addition to participating in Bay Young Professionals, Teresa is a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, Public Relations Committee, Alumni of Leadership Bay, past chair of Junior Leadership Bay, Junior Service League, Emerald Coast Business Women and Make a Wish Volunteer. Teresa enjoys gardening and spending time with friends and family.

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

19

ARA’s ReadiJet Alternative Fuel Technology

ARA has extensively renovated their downtown Panama City laboratories pictured- ARA scientist, Robert Girvin

Takes off.

Thanks to a solid partnership with the first farmer’s co-op for energy crops in Florida and a global commercialization partner, ARA’s North Florida Division is taking its revolutionary, low-cost, drop-in biofuels processing technology to the next level.

ARA’s alternative fuel effort began in 2006 in response to a U.S. military requirement for technologies that could convert renewable oils to jet fuel. To answer this challenge, ARA Principal Engineer Lixiong Li, conceived an idea of using high temperature water to create biocrude. This hydrothermal process mimics nature’s processes that convert biomass to petroleum crude. Although nature’s processes take millions of years to produce petroleum crude, it takes just a few minutes for the ARA’s Catalytic Hydrothermolysis (CH) process to produce high quality biocrude. A U.S. patent on the CH technology was granted to ARA in 2010. The technology has advanced to mature pilot systems that have demonstrated the conversion of oils from plants and algae into renewable, aromatic drop-in fuels that are being trademarked ReadiJet™ and ReadiDiesel.™ “The cost-efficient CH process uses water to reduce hydrogen consumption, catalyst consumption, and carbon footprint compared to other alternative fuel conversion processes,” said Ed Coppola, ARA Principal Engineer. “These fuels do not require blending with petroleum and are ready to use in jet and diesel engines designed to operate on petroleum-based fuels,” said Coppola. “The initial goal of our team is to implement the first commercial scale system using this technology.”

“This initiative is not only huge for our company’s growth, but it also has the potential to make Florida a leader in fulfilling the military and civilian markets’ requirements for alternative fuels and to revitalize farming in Florida,” said Chuck Red, ARA North Florida Division Manager.

ARA - Chuck Red briefing US Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, on ARA’s next generation alternative fuels at the Paris Air Show 2011 Part of the impetus that led ARA to press forward with their advanced biofuel initiative was the U.S. Air Force’s mandate to have half of their jet fuel derived from alternative sources by 2016 and the U.S. Navy’s mandate to have half of their energy from alternative sources by 2020.

“The current driving factors for both the Department of Defense and civilian markets are finding a solution that is environmentally superior to petroleum and also comparable to the cost of petroleum,” said Red. In addition, the source of the oil used to create the fuel must be renewable, from a non-food crop, and from crops that are ready to be grown, harvested, and processed.

Coppola identified the first feedstockfarming cooperative in Florida, the USCJO CO-OP, which is increasing the acreage of

planted energy crops by thousands of acres. USCJO and the Florida Feedstock Growers Association grow two winter crops of Camelina each year. “Our farm plan will show how feedstock crop rotation during the dormant, off season can increase farmer revenue and reduce risk through crop diversity,” said Bill Vasden, President of the USCJO. “It is widely accepted that biofuel production should not compete with the global food supply chain, and our plan does not,” Vasden added.

Since beginning the alternative fuel initiative with initial investments by the Air Force, ARA has had multiple technology breakthroughs that have caught the attention of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Navy, several oil companies and international airline October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

21

“The current driving factors for both the Department of Defense and civilian markets are finding a solution that is environmentally superior to petroleum and also comparable to the cost of petroleum,” said Red. companies. Executives from FedEx, American Airlines, and United Airlines and the Navy’s Director of Operational Energy traveled to ARA’s Research and Development facility in Panama City this summer to discuss ARA’s technology and the overall commercialization initiative. In addition, ARA was one of eleven companies selected by British Airways and Rolls Royce to submit

renewable fuels produced in the commercial plant will meet quality specifications and be competitively priced,” said Coppola.

CLG will provide engineering services, and start-up assistance for the first commercial CH conversion system.

CLG’s Managing Director, Leon DeBruyn, commented on the ARA-CLG link-up. “With the combination of ARA’s CH Technology

jet fuel samples for analysis as part of the FAA’s Continuous Lower Energy, Emissions and Noise (CLEEN) program. The ARA ReadiJet™ fuel was down-selected for further testing by RollsRoyce because “...results indicate that this fuel may be suitable as a drop-in fuel” and it “...definitely warrants further, more detailed investigation.”

One of the most recent exciting developments is the addition of Chevron Lummus Global LLC (CLG) to the team. CLG has the expertise and experience needed to help rapidly scale up and commercialize the CH technology. “CLG is a world leader in hydrotreating technology and will provide expertise to ensure that

and CLG’s ISOTREATING technology, we can truly produce fuels that meet the highest quality standards that can be used both as ‘drop in’ fuels by our customers or blended into regional fuel pools without the quality issues associated with other technologies,” he said. “We’re also excited that our technologies work just as well with all other plant oils, which will provide long lasting value for our customers by giving them flexibility to process what is available in the market.”

For more information on this initiative, www.readifuels.com or www.ara.com/fuels.

go

to:

The

CHAMBER MEMBERS SHARE THEIR BUSINESS NEWS IN

Biz lisT U.S. Navy CDR. Anthony J. Anglin relieved CDR. Jessica M. Pfefferkorn as 4th Commanding Officer of Naval Support Activity Panama City on June 30, 2011.

Prior to assuming command, Anglin was the Current and Future Operations Officer, Navy Region Southwest, San Diego, CA. Anglin enlisted in the Navy in 1982, and in 1990, Cmdr.

Anglin graduated from the Naval Academy with a Bachelors in General Science and was commissioned an Ensign.

CDR. Anglin has a Master's in Engineering Acoustics from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Master's of Business Administration with a subspecialty in Technology Management from National University.

Pfefferkorn, who has served as the Commander of NSA Panama City since 2008, became the Chief of Partnerships, Plans and Policy, International Military Staff, NATO Headquarters, Brussels, Belgium.

24

U.S. Navy Capt. Everett Scott Pratt relieved Capt.

Thomas Joseph Brovarone as Commander, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) on Sept. 2, 2011.

Prior to assuming command, Pratt was assigned to the Program Executive Office – Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO-IWS) at headquarters in Washington D.C. His additional tours have included two assignments to the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, first in the Strategic Plans and Policy Division of the Space, Information Warfare, Command and Control Directorate and in the Warfighting Assessment Division of Director Navy Resources, Requirements and Assessments.

Brovarone, who has served as the Commander of Bay County’s only Navy laboratory since 2009, will transfer to serve as the Commanding Officer at the Engineering Duty Officer School in Port Hueneme, Calif.

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

“THE BIZ LIST”.

If you are a member of the Bay County Chamber and would like to submit your business news for publication, e-mail a press release and photo to crystal@baychamberfl.com

Brig. General John K. McMullen relieved Brig. General James S. Browne as Commander of the 325th Fighter Wing at Tyndall Air Force Base on September 9th.

Prior to assuming command, McMullen was the Commander of the 3rd Wing at Joint Base Elemendorf-Richardson, Alaska. He also served as the Chief of Partnership Strategy Division at the Pentagon in Washington, D. C. Browne, who has served as the Commander of the 325th Fighter Wing since 2009, became the Director of Operations at Air Force Global Strike Command, Barksdale AFB, La.

Lt. General Stanley Clarke III relieved Maj. General Dean as Commander of 1st Air Force at Tyndall Air Force Base on August 31, 2011.

Prior to assuming command, Clarke was the Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché,

Office of Defense Cooperation Turkey, U.S. European Command, Ankara, Turkey. He has also served as the Military Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Programs, Headquarters U.S. Air Force.

Dean, who has served as the Commander of 1st Air Force since 2009, will take Joint Forces Command in Naples, Italy, where he will serve as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations.

Harrison Sale McCloy is proud to announce that Ross McCloy has become a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America.

The College is composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada. Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only after careful investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality. Lawyers must have a minimum of fifteen years trial experience before they can be considered for Fellowship.

Membership in the College cannot exceed one percent of the total lawyer population of any state or province.

The Better Business Bureau Serving NWFL recently elected Fran Crumpton, Gulf Coast Trade Exchange, to serve as treasurer for the Better Business Bureau Board of Directors. Former treasurer, David DelGallo, Advanced Construction Services, was elected to the vice chair position.

The BBB Board of Directors also welcomed two new board members: Carroll Scarborough, Pen Air Federal Credit Union and Mindy Shirley, Gulf Power Company.

For additional information about BBB’s programs and services, visit bbb.org, call 850.429.0002 or 800.729.9226.

The American Advertising Federation of Panama City held their annual dinner meeting on June 28th, which included the induction of the 2011-2012 officers and Board of Directors: Pamela Kidwell, President; Ron Sharpe; Vice-President; Shannon Cromer, Treasurer; Jennifer Conoley, Secretary; Kristie Canaday, Rae Cotton, Tanya Deal, Patty Freund, Laura Herter, Andrew Levy, Jennifer Reale, Crystal Shuller, and Kathy Welsh. Two $1,000 scholarship check presentations were also given to Gulf Coast State Col-

lege and Florida State University-Panama City along with a donation of $325.00 presented to the Children’s Advocacy Center.

Jennifer Conoley, Director of Communications and Marketing for the Bay County Economic Development Alliance (EDA), recently earned a professional accreditation in public relations, and received the designation of Accredited in Public Relations (APR). Conoley now joins more than 5,000 professionals nationally that represent an elite group of highly skilled public relations professionals committed to practicing with exemplary ethical standards. She is the first professional to receive this designation in Bay County.

Gulf Coast State College’s Department of Continuing Education announced their new status as an Approved Provider of the International Import-Export Institute (IIEI)’s Certified Exporter® program. This 64hour program is ideal for individuals seeking to begin a career in international trade.

The class will meet for one day of instruction each week for eight weeks. The instructors are industry experts working in the areas of international trade, logistics, finance and law.

The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) has named Karen Durden as the recipient of the 2011 Southern Regional Trustee Leadership Award. Durden is one of five regional winners who will be honored at the ACCT Annual Community College Leadership Congress that will take place in October 2011. At the conference, one of the five regional winners will be given the prestigious M. Dale Ensign Trustee Leadership Award. Durden was appointed to the Gulf Coast State College District Board of Trustees in 2001.

Covenant Hospice was recently named one of Florida’s Best Companies To Work For by Florida Trend and endorsed by the HR Florida State Council.

One-hundred companies were recognized in small, medium and large company categories.

Covenant Hospice ranked 27th out of 100, in the large company category, the only company in NWFL named in this category.

The Panama City Downtown Improvement Board recently won “Runner-Up” awards in two different categories at the Florida Festivals and Events Association Conference. The awards were for “Outstanding Special Event Website” for the “Art-Tique” event and “Outstanding Promotional Poster” for the “St. Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid”.

Leslie Lugo, a Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) engineer, was recently awarded for her engineering work as the deputy project engineer for the Unmanned Influence Sweep System (UISS) at NSWC PCD, at the 2011 Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Conference Military Luminary.

HENAAC is a non-profit organization that seeks to identify, honor, and document contributions made to science, technology, engineering, and math by Hispanic-Americans. continued on page 26

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

25

continued from page 25 ment experience and holds designations from the Community Association, the State of Florida, the American Resort Development Association and the Educational Institute of American Hotel & Motel Association.

The Florida Council for Behavioral Healthcare (FCBH) has named Ned Ailes as treasurer of their Board of Directors. Ailes, a licensed marriage and family therapist, is the Chief Executive Officer of Life Management Center of Northwest Florida.

FCBH is the advocacy arm of the Florida Council for Community Mental Health, a statewide, non-profit, trade organization representing more than 60 community behavioral health centers across Florida.

Oaseas Resorts, a resort and hotel management company based in Panama City Beach, Fla., announces the appointment of Derek Tarries as Director of Association Management. Tarries has nearly 30 years of property manage-

Gulf Coast Medical Center has become the first hospital in Florida to join the UAB Cancer Care Network. The Network provides a program to support community-based oncology services, by offering broader access to clinical trials, continuing medical education for oncologists and nurses, and access to the latest education about advancements in treatments and detection of cancer in the local community. Pictured above: Dr. Edward Partridge, Dir., UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center; Jean Thompkins, Dir., Gulf Coast Medical Center Case Management; Brian Baumgardner, CEO, Gulf Coast Medical Center.

Making your list? Checking it twice?

BBB knows who’s been naughty or nice! ¾ Get free BBB Business Reviews on both BBB Accredited and nonaccredited businesses) ¾ Get a free list of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry ®

¾ Use the free Request a Quote system to get information, estimates and more from BBB Accredited Businesses - businesses you can trust!

Start With bbb.org | Start With Trust® 26

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

Awareness Month. Each employee decorated a pink bra that was submitted into a contest held by the American Cancer Society to raise awareness and funds, which Bay Radiology’s employee Marion Hamilton won 1st place.

The Tommy Hamm Sr. Cancer Center is pleased to welcome Andrew M. Weber, M.D. to their practice as the third Hematologist Oncologist. Dr. Weber completed his Hematology and Medical Oncology fellowships at Drexel/Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, PA, where he also served as Chief Fellow. His Internal Medicine residency and Chief Resident year were completed at Crozer Chester Medical Center, and obtained his MD at Temple University School of Medicine. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, and board eligible in both Hematology and Medical Oncology.

The Women’s Imaging Center at Bay Radiology teamed up to support the American Cancer Society – Breast Cancer

Catholic Charities of NWFL, United Way and Florida Dept. of Children and Families serve as the lead agency for Bay County’s Circle® Campaign, which partners with volunteers and community leaders using community resources and human ingenuity to assist families in moving out of poverty.

This initiative will not duplicate existing support services but work to complement their goals. Circles®’ aim is to educate, train, prepare and place participating families and individuals on a successful track toward self-reliance with sustainability. For more information call (850) 763-0475.

Happiness Happiness

Her first word.

Her first step.

Are you ready for her first emergency?

is H Holiday oliday F Fare are.

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 specialized attention and care.

You’d do anything for your children.

So why not make the right choice in health care?

EMERGENCY PEDIATRICS AGES 0 UP TO 18

t 1FEJBUSJD USJBHF t 1FEJBUSJD GSJFOEMZ SPPNT t 1FEJBUSJD TQFDJm D CFET

The Area’s Shortest Average ER Wait Times

t -BCPS %FMJWFSZ t "SFB T POMZ -FWFM /*$6 t "SFB T MBSHFTU 1FEJBUSJD 4QFDJBMUZ 6OJU t "SFB T POMZ 1FEJBUSJD &3

449 W. 23RD STREET PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA 32405

t 888 ($.$ 1$ $0.

t .PSF 1FEJBUSJD TQFDJBMJTUT BOE TVCTQFDJBMJTUT PO TUBGG UIBO BOZ PUIFS BSFB IPTQJUBM

Local Experts: Global Reach

Halford

Commercial Real Estate Services, Worldwide.

BILL FENIMORE Commercial Real Estate Sales and Services Brokerage Representation for Buyers and Sellers Property Management Comprehensive Market Research Experience in Multiple Industries

850.624.4475 Bfenimore@naihalford.com www.naihalford.com

NOW O NOW OFFERING FFERI N G HOLIDAY HOLIDA Y CATERING! CATERI CA TERI N G !

F From rom intimate get-togethers to large affairs, let our catering team plan the per fect menu for perfect yyour our par ties this holiday season. W parties Wee offer all the conv enience of our culinar convenience culinaryy and hospitality staff deliv ered to yyour our home or office. delivered

contact c onta ct our

team ttoday! oday! oda y!

877.533.7596 edgewaterbeachresort.com/events/catering edge waterbeachresort.com/events/catering

Scan QR-Code with your your mobile for mor moree information infor mation about our holiday catering.

BUILD ON THE POWER OF OUR NETWORK October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

27

economic profile

{

demographics

INSIGHTS Bay County Population: 168,852 Labor Force: 89,030 Households: 74,585 Per Capita Income: $29,357

inside Bay County’s Economic Development Efforts

Median Age: 40 Average Wage: $32,626 Household Income: $47,505

Although our economy’s foundation has

been

built

around

tourism,

hospitality and construction, it is fairly

current labor statistics for bay county

diverse in other sectors like defense,

LABOR FORCE

EMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYED RATE

Aug 11 July 11 June 11

92,326 83,091 93,814

83,533 84,289 84,919

8,793 8,802 8,895

9.5% 9.5% 9.5%

Aug 10 July 10 June 10

90,757 92,432 93,565

81,325 82,717 84,209

9,432 9,715 9,356

10.4% 10.5% 10.0%

manufacturing and professional services as you see in the Bay County Employment chart below. We have a collection of economic development assets much stronger than typically found in communities of this size – an

real estate sales

expanding regional port, a new growing

EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES BAY COUNTY

international

FLORIDA

REALTOR SALES

MEDIAN PRICE

REALTOR SALES

MEDIUM PRICE

Aug 11 July 11 June 11

123 107 123

$147,900 $139,100 $133,900

16,206 15,517 17,597

$137,500 $136,500 $138,000

Aug 10 July 10 June 10

86 86 104

$148,000 $176,700 $160,000

13,997 13,589 18,038

$134,000 $138,000 $143,400

Aug 11 July 11 June 11

67 62 81

$162,000 $168,600 $138,900

7,098 6,619 7,922

$91,100 $90,900 $94,100

Aug 10 July 10 June 10

50 50 68

$165,000 $172,000 $173,300

5,706 5,557 6,916

$81,600 $87,200 $95,000

airport,

freight

rail

connectivity, career and technical education opportunities, a talented workforce of 282,000 within a 60-mile radius, a strong military presence and an exceptional quality of life.

EXISTING CONDOMINIUMS

Bay County has also seen some significant job creation activity in the last few months. Local defense

bay county building permits RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

Aug 11 July 11 June 11

12 6 34

1 5 5

Aug 10 July 10 June 10

10 12 9

8 5 3

bay county sales tax collections GROSS SALES

TAXABLE SALES

TAX COLLECTIONS

July 11 June 11 May 11

$716,688,753 $466,898,537 $464,862,550

$324,837,520 $255,867,478 $259,178,812

$19,840,582 $15,954,575 $15,969,570

July 10 June 10 May 10

$565,179,438 $477,559,158 $446,894,226

$292,087,979 $244,309,094 $244,809,864

$17,997,002 $15,065,918 $14,894,574

28

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

contractor ITT is expanding by 30 employees at an average annual wage of $49,500, over 150 percent of Bay County ’s average annual wage, at The St. Joe Company’s VentureCrossings in

october - December 2011

West Bay. Redpine Healthcare Technologies, a corporate headquarters and software development

operation

relocated,

located on the 4th floor of the Hancock Bank Center on West 23rd Street in Panama City in September.

This

formally-based,

company

is

projected to hire over 100 employees within the first year of operations and grow to 410 employees by the end of 2015 at an average annual wage of

bay county bed tax collections PANAMA CITY BEACH

MEXICO BEACH

July 11 July 10 % Change

$2,966,961.49 $1,967,020.33 50.84%

$86,567.15 $70,486.43 22.81%

June 11 June 10 % Change

$2,283,706.72 $1,884,269.21 21.20%

$67,743.89 $64,817.81 4.51%

May 11 May 10 % Change

$1,127,340.30 $1,075,882.69 4.78%

$31,246.14 $33,212.60 -5.92%

northwest florida beaches international airport passenger traffic TOTAL PASSENGERS

COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

average annual wage.

July 11 June 11 May 11

87,545 83,626 83,523

1,306 1,348 1,429

Bay County has the high potential for

July 10 June 10 May 10

83,168 83,181 43,698

1,417 1,182 1,060

$49,155, 150 percent of Bay County’s

economic growth provided it puts in place the tools to help make it competitive.

By

leveraging

our

resources and improving and growing

Bay County Unemployment Rate: January 1990 - August 2011

our assets, we will be able to further diversify our industry base, creating a more competitive business environment in which companies can locate and expand.

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

29

Local Products with a Global Reach We were told for years that we need to diversify our economy in Bay County to not be solely dependent on our tourism and the military. Our community has come a long way in that quest. For a lifetime, the only manufacturing industry in Bay County was our paper mill, RockTenn, which continues to be a major player. We do have many other manufacturers i.e.; American Standard, Berg Pipe, Wellstream, Arizona Chemical, Oceaneering, Eastern Shipbuilding, numerous defense contractors and many others who contribute greatly to our local economy through job creation. Now we have built that segment of our local economy and have some very unique products being produced in our community. The six identified below operate quietly in our area and many of our citizens do not know they even exist. They are also direct results of our community’s economic development efforts from many years past to recent years.

Digitrax, Inc. - www.digitrax.com AJ & Zana Ireland - owners 24 Employees Digitrax designs, manufactures and markets a high tech electronic control system for model railroads. They build most of their products here in Bay County, then ship them to dealers and distributors for sale to model railroad hobbyists all around the world.

30

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

Mercury Marine - www.mercurymarine.com Bill Nesslar - Facility & Testing Manager 12 Employees A division of Brunswick Corporation, Mercury Marine is the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines and products. The company’s Panama City PD&E facility provides engineering and testing services in the validation and qualification of its product development programs in a saltwater environment.

MERRICK Industries, Inc. - www.merrick-inc.com Joe Tannehill, Jr. - President & CEO, Richard Millett – VP Engineering & Scott Perry – VP Facilities 165 Employees Merrick, a division of Tannehill International Industries Inc., serves industrial customers worldwide by engineering and manufacturing custom-designed industrial weighing and environmental systems.

MERRICK was created in 1908 by inventing the first dynamic weighing scale - weighing material continuously as it is carried on a conveyor belt. Today, MERRICK’s state-of-the-art technology is used across many industries including power, cement, mining, steel, paper, foods, chemicals, building materials, and water/wastewater treatment.

JENSEN USA, Inc. - www.jensen-group.com Simon Nield, President 150 employees in North America, 110 in Panama City A division of The JENSEN Group which is traded on the Euronext stock exchange in Brussels, is a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of heavy duty laundry equipment here in Panama City, which is then shipped worldwide.

The Natural Light, Inc. - www.thenaturallight.com Harvey and JoAnn Hollingsworth, owners 28 employees The Natural Light, relocated to Bay County in 1987, is a high fashion wholesale manufacturer and designer of table and floor lamps, as well as original framed art for the home. Their customers include exclusive hotel properties, interior designers and better stores across the United States.

DeTect, Inc. - www.detect-inc.com Gary W. Andrews, General Manager & CEO 65 employees DeTect, Inc. specializes in remote sensing technologies and systems for aviation birdstrike avoidance, meteorology, security surveillance and environmental survey supporting projects and facilities worldwide. The company is a U.S. corporation headquartered in Panama City, Florida with divisional offices in Colorado, Virginia (DC area), Canada and India. The company is the world leader in development, deployment and support of the systems, having supplied them to the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

31

{New Members. for July, August, September 2011 Access Recovery Solutions LLC 277 Forest Park Circle Panama City, FL 32405 850-522-1516

Goodwill Career Development Center 3207 East 4th St. Panama City, FL 32401 850-522-3900

Paramount Heating & Cooling, LLC 1 Blue Crab Lane Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-588-8172

BrightStar 3003 S. Hwy 77, Ste. C Lynn Haven, FL 32444 850-628-7458 Coffee News of Panama City 2914 D Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32405 850-774-8474 Colt Simmons P.O. Box 935 Panama City, FL 32402 850-215-6045 David Scott Jewelry 1146 Harrison Ave. Panama City, FL 32401 850-763-0729 Dreams2Reality, LLC 2203 Beck Ave., F14 Panama City, FL 32405 920-850-3438 FL Dept. of Children & Families 500 West 11th St. Panama City, FL 32401 850-872-7648

32

Dr. William B. Turner 1617 Billings Avenue Panama City, FL 32401 850-215-4642 Vision Payment Solutions

Gulf Coast Women’s Services 2202 State Ave., Ste. 207 Panama City, FL 32405 850-784-2645

Prepaid Legal Services 868 West St. Panama City, FL 32404 850-284-0155

Janet Gladis, LMT 2300 West 11th St. Panama City, FL 32401 850-625-9086

Quizno’s 1000 East 23rd St., Ste. A-4 Panama City, FL 32405 850-522-4022

MedSouth Clinic 509 East 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 850-215-8999 My Thai Asian Bistro 301 Cherry St. Panama City, FL 32401 850-784-0120

Sacred Heart Hospital on the Gulf 3801 US Highway 98 Port St. Joe, FL 32456 850-229-5601

New Image Promotional Products 1137 Harrison Ave., Ste. 3 Panama City, FL 32401 850-872-1076 Nova Technologies 429 S. Tyndall Pkwy., Ste. S Panama City, FL 32404 850-914-0002

BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

Target Marketing 541 Buttermilk Pike, Ste. 100 Crescent Springs, KY 41017 800-933-3909 Tethy’s International 306 Harrison Ave., #151 Panama City, FL 32401 850-639-6869 Timmins Consulting LLC 2910 Kerry Forest Pkwy., D4-368 Tallahassee, FL 32309 850-832-1763

1211 Venetian Way Panama City, FL 32405 850-896-0156 W.B. Riggins Tallow Co. 4474 Camp Coleman Rd. Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-3612 Wild Birds Unlimited 2455 MLK Jr. Blvd.

Panama City, FL 32405 850-640-1354 Wyndham Resorts 14700 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 850-636-8227 ZoomQa LLC 1501 Mulberry Ave., Suite 1 Panama City, FL 32401 850-215-9725

MemberAnniversaries Recognizing renewing members for their dedication at 5 year intervals for July, August, September 2011

Onyx - 5 Years

Emerald - 20 Years

Air Gas Co. Baskerville-Donovan, Inc. Counts Real Estate Group, Inc. Firehouse Subs Hilton Garden Inn Panama City Living Magazine

Eye Center of North Florida Holiday Inn Select Lewis Metals, Inc.

Ruby - 10 Years Classic Restoration Coastal Extracorporeal Technology D. Stephen Foster, CPA, PA Landmark Holiday Beach Resort Northrop Grumman Corp.

Plumb Better, Inc. Skinner Tax Consulting, Inc.

Opal - 15 Years Bishop Lifting Products, Inc.

Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated

Covenant Hospice Early Education and Care, Inc. EB Pipe Coating Edward Jones Investments HealthSouth Heritage Bible Church Monica L. Cothran, PA Panama City Mall Panama Country Club PMI Employee Leasing Rubber & Specialties, Inc.

Silver - 25 Years Florida Offshore, Inc. KLW Enterprises, Inc. M & W Auto Sales, Inc. Paul Brent Gallery

Pearl - 30 Years American Red Cross Glidden Professional Gulf Coast Management Karr, Ellis & Company Moonspinner Condo Association

Sapphire - 45 Years Kolmetz Construction, Inc.

Gold - 50 Years Jim Clark Realty

Diamond - 60 Years Van Horn Transfer & Storage

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

33

For a detailed listing of Chamber and community events visit

www.panamacity.org

7

{Calendar

October First Friday

FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.)

4

Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m.

New Member 411 Breakfast

12

Small Business Institute

8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Free for Chamber members RSVP to Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753

8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Program: Retirement Planning for Small Business RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

13

Spooktacular Business After Hours

14

Bay Young Professionals Tour

18

34

9

10

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Hosted by: BYP & The Jaycees PCMI (200 E. Beach Drive)

2:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Bay Medical Center (615 N. Bonita Ave.) RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

by October 12th

Non-Profit Sustainability Summit

Registration & Dinner: 5:00 p.m. / Program: 6 - 8:45 p.m.

FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Sponsored by: Doral Bank & FSU-Panama City $50 - Chamber members / $60 - non-members RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

by October 14th BAY BIZ | October - December 2011

Dates, times and locations subject to change.

November First Friday Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m.

FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Sponsored by: Comcast Speaker: Sec. Prasad FL Dept. of Transportation Free event for Bay County Chamber members and invited guests

Sponsored by: Bay Medical Center Speaker: Sec. Lawson, FL Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation Free event for Bay County Chamber members and invited guests

11

Bay County Chamber of Commerce Events

29

Small Business Quarterly Breakfast Seminar Breakfast & Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Program: TBD RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

Bay Young Professionals Luncheon - No Cost 11:30 a.m.

Hancock Bank (1022 W. 23rd st.)

Guest Speaker: Gary Bliss, Florida State University RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761 by November 8th

2nd Annual Non-Profit/Festival of the Trees - Business After Hours 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Marina Civic Center (8 Harrison Ave.) Human Service Non-Profit Chamber members are invited to display during a preview of the PC Rescue Mission’s “Festival of the Trees”.

Contact Jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757 for info.

2

December First Friday Networking: 7:30 a.m. / Program: 8:00 a.m.

FSU-PC Holley Center (4750 Collegiate Dr.) Sponsored by: Workforce Center Holiday Program Free event for Bay County Chamber members and invited guests

5

6 14 TBD

SAVE THE DATE

Bay Young Professionals Social

Workforce

5:30 – 8:00 p.m.

Visual Arts Center (19 E. 4th St.) Experience “Paint Your Art Out” with your Bay Young Professional peers Cost: $25 per person Limited seating, RSVP by December 1st to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

New Member 411 Breakfast

8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Free for Chamber members RSVP to Don@baychamberfl.com or 215.3753

Small Business Institute

8:30 a.m.

Chamber Boardroom Program: TBD RSVP to Elizabeth@baychamberfl.com or 215.3761

Business After Hours 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Sponsored by: The Eye Center of North Florida and Comcast Free to Chamber members and invited guests contact jill@baychamberfl.com or 215.3757 for date & location.

Education Summit October 24, 2011 FSU-PC Holley Center Find out how you can help prepare students with 21st century skills! ǯ Ǩ Presented by:

October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

35

DON’T BE BLUE THIS CHRISTMAS...... book your holiday entertainment today!

Gulf Talent Services offers an array of talent for both corporate and private events.

Bands DJ’S Karaoke Comedians FL License– TA-625 Christmas Sing-A-Long Performers

850-747-0903 WWW.GULFTALENTSERVICES.COM October-December 2011 | BAY BIZ

37

&about

out

1.

2.

& 2011

3.

out

4.

5.

6.

7.

about

1.

Local Media Representatives at Media Appreciation Luncheon

2.

Bay Young Professionals network during the July social at TGI Fridays

3.

Jason Keortge from CyberSytes presents at Marketing Seminar

4.

Laura Herter & Shannon Cromer at the Visual Arts Center - Business After Hours

5.

Janet Watermeier, Joey Ginn, Bo Rivard, Allan Bense, Al McCambry & James Johnson at September First Friday

6.

Trish Wheeler & Colin McMichen at Knology - Business After Hours

7.

Senator Bill Nelson Round Table

Accounting • Auditing • Payroll Tax Compliance • Business Advisors

(850) 763-9635 2589 JENKS AVENUE • PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA