FALL 2026 | VOL. 16 / ISSUE 4 PANAMACITY.ORG
NEDU APPROACHES A CENTURY OF UNDERSEA INNOVATION
T H E VO I C E O F B U S I N E S S F R O M T H E B AY C O U N T Y C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
HOW FSU INSPIRE IS DRIVING REGIONAL TALENT, ECONOMIC PROSPERITY, AND FUTURE TECH
fall 2026 departments 4
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
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POLITICAL PERSPECTIVE Candidates Take the Stage at August First Friday
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DEFENSE INTEL NEDU Approaches a Century of Undersea Innovation
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TECHNOLOGY How FSU InSPIRE is Driving Regional Talent, Economic Prosperity, and Future Tech
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ECONOMIC PROFILE
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WORKFORCE CONNECTION
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BIZ LIST
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NEW MEMBERS
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MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
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features 14
COVER STORY MAC at 80: Eight Decades of Service, Support and Partnership
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MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION MONTH RECAP
14 Bay Biz is published quarterly by the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. POSTMASTER send address changes to: Bay County Chamber, PO Box 1850, Panama City, FL 32402 or email information@baychamberfl.com. Bay Biz welcomes story ideas from its readers. To have your story considered, please email communications@baychamberfl.com. To request additional copies, call 850-785-5206.
PUBLISHER Al McCambry
CONTENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTION
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kim Bodine, Becca Hardin, Sean Kim, Al McCambry, Linda Morgan, and Taylor Smith
ART DIRECTION, LAYOUT, AND DESIGN
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bay County Chamber of Commerce, CareerSource Gulf Coast, FSU Inspire, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Navy COVER Tom Neubauer speaks during the 2018 unveiling of the Great American Defense Communities seal on a water tower near Tyndall Air Force Base. The recognition celebrated Bay County's and MAC’s longstanding commitment to supporting its military installations, service members and their families.
BAY BIZ MAGAZINE c/o Bay County Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1850 Panama City, FL 32402 850-785-5206 panamacity.org | information@baychamberfl.com
A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR VISION INVESTORS - FUNDING INNOVATION, GROWTH, & LASTING IMPACT A Superior Mechanical • Bill Cramer Automotive • CBC Construction • Chevron • Dermatology Specialists of FL • Destination Panama City Early Learning Coalition of NW FL • Florida Power & Light • Hand Arendall Harrison Sale Attorneys at Law • Innovations Financial Credit Union Panama City Coca-Cola Bottling Co. UNITED • PanCare of Florida, Inc. • System Service and Engineering • The St. Joe Company
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As we enter the final months of 2026, there is much to reflect on and even more to look forward to at the Bay County Chamber of Commerce. This fall has been a reminder of what makes our organization strong: our members, our relationships, and a shared commitment to the community we love and choose to call home. In September, we celebrated Membership Appreciation Month and the businesses, organizations and individuals whose involvement makes the work of the Chamber possible. At our Membership Appreciation Awards Luncheon, we had the privilege of recognizing 10 outstanding members whose leadership, service and investment represent the very best of our business community. While the awards recognize individual accomplishments, Membership Appreciation Month is really about something much larger. Every ribbon cutting attended, committee meeting joined, referral made, event sponsored and connection created strengthens the network that makes our Chamber valuable. Thank you to each of our members for choosing to be part of it. In October, we turned our attention to another group that deserves our gratitude — Bay County's first responders. Our 15th Annual First Responders Appreciation Luncheon gave our community an opportunity to recognize the men and women who answer the call every day and honor those whose service and sacrifice help keep Bay County safe. You will be able to read all about it in the Winter 2027 issue of the BayBiz Magazine. Service is also at the heart of another important milestone featured in this issue of Bay Biz. In 2026, the Chamber's Military Affairs Committee, aka MAC, celebrated 80 years of strengthening the relationship between Bay County and the military community. To put in perspective, the economic impact on Bay County due to the military community is over $2Billion. Since 1946, generations of Chamber members and community leaders have worked through MAC to welcome service members and their families, build relationships with installation leadership and strengthen the connection between our business and military communities. Over time, that commitment has grown alongside organizations such as the 4
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Bay Defense Alliance, creating a network of relationships and advocacy that continues to support the military missions and people who are so important to Bay County. Eight decades is an extraordinary legacy, and it is one worth celebrating. More importantly, it is a legacy we have a responsibility to continue. As this issue reaches you, Florida voters are also preparing to make decisions that will affect communities across our state. Amendment 3, which proposes changes to Florida's property tax structure, will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. Over the past several weeks, the Chamber has worked to provide our members with information about the proposed amendment and its potential implications for Bay County. Our Governmental Affairs Committee and Chamber programs provide opportunities to learn about issues affecting our businesses and community and to hear directly from those involved. Whatever the issue, an informed and engaged business community is important to Bay County's future. I encourage you to learn about the measures and candidates on your ballot and participate in future elections. As we look toward the end of the year, our work is far from finished. We are already preparing for 2027 and another year of opportunities to connect businesses, develop leaders, advocate for a strong business environment, and strengthen our community. We are also looking to further create an environment of strategic thinking. So stay tuned! In January, we will gather for our Annual Gala and celebrate the people and organizations helping move Bay County forward. Our committees, programs, and events will continue creating opportunities for members to build relationships, share ideas and become more involved.
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POL ITI CAL PERSPEC TIVE
Candidates Take the Stage at August First Friday by: Sean Kim, VP of Governmental/Military Affairs
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ith Florida's primary election approaching, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce dedicated its Aug. 7 First Friday program to a longstanding Chamber tradition: candidate stump speeches. Held at the Holley Academic Center at Florida State University Panama City, the event brought Chamber members, community leaders and candidates together for a morning focused on the issues facing Bay County and Florida. The timing gave attendees an opportunity to hear directly from candidates shortly before early voting began Aug. 8. Florida's primary election was held Aug. 18. A Forum for Candidates and the Business Community First Friday regularly brings business and community leaders together for networking, community updates and conversations about issues affecting Bay County. The August program placed candidates at the center of that conversation. Before the program began, attendees had an opportunity to network and interact with candidates, business leaders and other members of the community. Once the program started, each participating candidate was given a designated amount of time to address the audience. The format was intentionally straightforward: stump speeches rather than a debate. There were no rebuttals or candidate-
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to-candidate exchanges. Each participant received the same opportunity to introduce themselves and discuss the issues and priorities they wanted voters to consider. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce did not endorse candidates through the program. Candidates were provided an opportunity to participate regardless of party or race, creating a forum where Chamber members could hear directly from those seeking elected office. Candidates on the 2026 Ballot The program included candidates seeking office at the municipal, school board, state and federal levels. Participating candidates included:
› › › › › › › ›
Callaway Ward 1: Bobby Birdsell School Board District 2: Ginger Littleton and Michael Petty School Board District 3: John Haley, Colleen Koch, Glenn Manley and Chris Moore Panama City Beach Ward 3: Nick Atkinson and Mary Coburn Panama City Beach Ward 1: Carlos Sanchez and Grant Wittstruck Florida House District 6: Tricia Berry and Stephanie Lyn Leonard U.S. House District 2: Yen Bailey, Amanda Marie Green, Lee Jones, Luke Murphy, Jim Norton, Evan Power, Austin Rogers, Audie Rowell and Nic Zateslo Florida governor: Dayna Marie Foster and Rachel Rodriguez
Staying Informed Candidate stump speeches provide one opportunity to learn about those seeking public office, but they are only one part of the process. The Bay County Chamber encourages members to review candidate information, examine positions on issues that matter to them and consult official election resources as they prepare to vote.
The range of offices represented gave attendees an opportunity to hear from candidates seeking positions at different levels of government during a single Chamber program. Florida's 2026 ballot includes federal, statewide, legislative and county offices, with local elections also taking place throughout the state.
Issues Affecting Bay County Throughout the morning, candidates discussed a range of issues affecting residents, employers and the broader community. Among the recurring subjects were infrastructure, workforce development, economic growth, housing and insurance. Infrastructure and Growth
Florida's 2026 general election will be held Nov. 3, with the voter registration deadline Oct. 5 and mandatory early voting scheduled for Oct. 24-31.
Transportation and infrastructure remain important considerations as Bay County continues to grow. Candidates discussed roads, traffic, utilities and the infrastructure needed to accommodate residential and commercial development.
The Chamber also thanks its Governmental Affairs Committee and Lisa Moore, Vice President of Events and Foundation, for coordinating the program, as well as FSU Panama City for hosting First Friday.
Workforce and Education
Thank you to each candidate who participated and to the Chamber members who attended.
Workforce development was another recurring topic. Candidates addressed education and training as they relate to employers' ability to recruit and retain skilled workers, including the role of local educational institutions and workforce programs. Economic Development
Programs such as August First Friday are one way the Chamber works to keep Bay County's business community informed and connected to the public-policy process.
Stay informed. Stay engaged.
Candidates also discussed economic development, including Bay County's military installations, Port Panama City, tourism and opportunities to attract and retain businesses and jobs. Housing and Insurance Housing affordability and insurance costs were among the issues raised during the program. Both can affect residents directly while also influencing employers' ability to recruit and retain workers in the region. The Chamber's role during the event was not to determine which proposals were preferable, but to provide an opportunity for candidates to present their positions directly to members.
HEAR MORE FROM THE CANDIDATES Scan to review candidate survey responses.
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DEF E NS E INTEL
NEDU Approaches a Century of Undersea Innovation by: Sean Kim, VP of Governmental/Military Affairs, Bay County Chamber of Commerce
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ay County’s identity and economy are closely connected to the U.S. military. While much of the region’s recent attention has focused on the rebuilding of Tyndall Air Force Base, Naval Support Activity Panama City remains an important part of the local economy and a center for maritime defense, research and technological development. At a recent First Friday meeting, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce turned the spotlight toward undersea research with a presentation from the Navy Experimental Diving Unit, or NEDU. As the command prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027, Chamber members learned about NEDU’s history, current mission and plans to commemorate a century of experimental diving. Connecting Local Enterprise with Defense Innovation
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contracting opportunities, education and workforce development while creating opportunities for collaboration among the military, private industry and research institutions. Events such as First Friday give Chamber members an opportunity to better understand those missions and the people behind them. A Century of Undersea Research: 1927-2027 Established at the Washington Navy Yard in 1927, NEDU was created to address challenges associated with diving and undersea operations. The unit relocated to Panama City in 1973, and its Ocean Simulation Facility was dedicated in 1975.
First Friday brought local business leaders, defense contractors, civilian professionals and military personnel together to learn more about the research and testing conducted at NEDU.
Today, NEDU conducts research, testing and evaluation of diving and hyperbaric equipment, procedures and systems designed to improve the safety and effectiveness of Navy divers and special operations forces. The command employs approximately 150 military and civilian personnel.
The relationship between Bay County’s military installations and the surrounding community extends beyond the installation gates. Military missions support employment,
Its work over the decades has contributed to advances in decompression procedures, breathing systems, diving equipment, hyperbaric medicine and underwater operations.
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Those capabilities create connections among military research, private industry, higher education and the local workforce while reinforcing Bay County's longstanding role in undersea defense and diving. The relationship works both ways. During the First Friday presentation, NEDU representatives emphasized the role the Bay County community plays in supporting military personnel and the command's research and testing mission.
At the center of that research is NEDU's Ocean Simulation Facility, or OSF, at NSA Panama City. The complex of hyperbaric chambers can simulate pressures equivalent to depths of up to 2,250 feet of seawater, allowing researchers and activeduty divers to study the effects of pressure on the human body, evaluate equipment and develop diving procedures in a controlled environment. The OSF marked its 50th anniversary in 2025. Looking Ahead to NEDU's Centennial A key focus of the First Friday presentation was NEDU's approaching 100th anniversary. Centennial activities are being planned for May 2027 to recognize the command's contributions to military and scientific diving and the military and civilian personnel who have been part of that history. NEDU has publicly announced May 6-8, 2027, as dates to save for its centennial milestone, with additional activities and community partnerships surrounding the anniversary. The Man in the Sea Museum is also partnering in the centennial celebration and will host a NEDU 100th Anniversary event May 8 at the Majestic Beach Resort Conference Center in Panama City Beach. Plans shared with Chamber members include opportunities to highlight the history of diving, recognize NEDU alumni, showcase advancements in underwater technology and research, engage students through STEM outreach and introduce future generations to careers associated with diving, engineering, science and undersea research. Additional details are expected as the centennial approaches. Strengthening Economic and Technical Ties NEDU's presence also connects Bay County to a highly specialized defense and research ecosystem. Its mission requires military divers as well as scientists, engineers, medical professionals, researchers and technical specialists. NEDU also evaluates diving and life-support equipment and works to ensure equipment, procedures and systems meet the operational needs of Navy divers.
"The collaboration is phenomenal," Lt. Cmdr. Krishnan Rajagopalan of NEDU told WJHG following the event, describing the community's welcome of military members and opportunities to interact with local leaders. The Next 100 Years NEDU's centennial offers an opportunity to recognize a century of scientific discovery and military service, but the milestone also points toward what comes next. Research in diving physiology, hyperbaric medicine, lifesupport systems and underwater technology continues in Panama City today. NEDU's current leadership has emphasized that the command's work remains focused on expanding what is possible beneath the surface while improving the safety and capabilities of Navy divers. As centennial plans develop, Chamber members and the Bay County community will have opportunities to learn more about NEDU's history, its current mission and the people who will carry that work into its second century. The Bay County Chamber of Commerce thanks the Navy Experimental Diving Unit for sharing its mission and centennial plans with our members and for nearly five decades of research, innovation and service from its home in Bay County.
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BY: BAY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF
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or 80 years, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee has helped define what it means to be a military community. Known simply as MAC, the committee began in 1946, at a time when the United States was emerging from World War II and military installations were becoming increasingly important to the identity, economy and future of communities across the country. In Bay County, leaders recognized early that the relationship between the military and the civilian community required more than proximity. It required understanding, engagement, advocacy and a shared commitment to the people who serve. Eight decades later, that mission remains relevant. MAC exists to develop understanding, support and goodwill between Bay County’s civilian community and the military. It brings together Chamber members, business leaders, elected officials, retirees, veterans, military families and active-duty partners around a belief that a strong military presence and a strong community are inseparable. As the committee marks its 80th anniversary, its history offers more than a look backward. It provides a reminder that Bay County’s militarycommunity partnership is not an accident. It is the product of relationships built deliberately over generations.
A committee built for connection MAC is one of the Bay County Chamber’s longest-standing and most recognizable committees. Its founding followed a period in which military service had touched nearly every American family. The end of World War II brought returning veterans home, reshaped the
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nation’s workforce and elevated the importance of military readiness in communities throughout the country. Bay County leaders understood that the military would continue to be a critical part of the region’s future. The committee’s purpose was straightforward but meaningful: help the civilian community understand its military neighbors, support those serving locally and create a durable relationship between the Chamber, local employers and military installations. That purpose has endured through major shifts in military technology, national defense priorities, local leadership and the Bay County economy. MAC’s history was formally documented by local author Giles “Hank” Basham in Legend of the MAC: A 40-Year Pictorial History of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee, 1946–86. The publication preserved photographs, milestones and memories from MAC’s first four decades, recognizing that the committee’s work had become a lasting part of the Chamber’s identity and Bay County’s civic history. MAC’s work reflects an essential reality of life in Bay County: military installations are not isolated facilities. They are workplaces, economic engines, neighbors, training partners, customers, employers and homes for service members and their families. The committee helps make sure the surrounding community recognizes and supports that role.
Supporting the people behind the mission Military installations are often discussed in terms of aircraft, facilities, technology, jobs and economic impact. Those elements matter. But MAC’s history is also rooted in people. The
committee has long helped make Bay County a more welcoming place for military personnel and their families. That work can take many forms: receptions for incoming leaders, community introductions, installation tours, recognition events, family-support efforts and personal relationships developed over time. When a new commander, senior leader or military family arrives in Bay County, MAC offers a connection to the community beyond the installation gate. It provides an opportunity to meet civic and business leaders, understand local resources and build relationships that can make a new assignment feel more like home. Those connections are especially important in a military community, where families may relocate frequently, spouses may be seeking employment, children may be enrolling in new schools, and service members may be adjusting to new responsibilities. MAC has also supported programs focused directly on military family quality of life. In 2015, the committee partnered with Tyndall’s 325th Force Support Squadron to fund a Hearts Apart Fun Day for Airmen and families experiencing separation related to deployments. The event created space for families to connect, participate in activities and receive support during a challenging time. That type of effort reflects the committee’s enduring purpose. Support for the military is not limited to ceremonies and handshakes. It includes showing up for the families whose sacrifices are often less visible but equally real. A strong military community is one where service members and families know their neighbors value their contribution.
Tyndall and a changing defense landscape Tyndall Air Force Base has long been a central part of Bay County’s military identity. The installation’s missions, personnel, families and economic influence have made it one of the region’s most important community partners. Over the years, the committee has welcomed incoming 325th Fighter Wing commanders, recognized outgoing commanders and created opportunities for military and civilian leaders to meet outside formal government settings. These moments matter because leadership transitions are opportunities to establish trust, communicate community support and develop relationships that can shape how an installation
and its host community work together. In 2018, MAC participated in a reception that bid farewell to Col. Michael Hernandez, then commander of the 325th Fighter Wing, and welcomed Col. Brian Laidlaw as the new commander. The occasion represented more than a ceremonial change. It reinforced the committee’s role as a connector between military leadership and Bay County’s business and civic community. MAC’s work has also included helping community leaders better understand the missions, capabilities and people at Tyndall. In 2007, then-MAC Chairman Glen McDonald participated in an F-15 flight, an experience that illustrated the value of direct exposure to the work being done at the installation. Military-community relations grow stronger when civilians understand the mission and military leaders understand the community that supports them. MAC has helped create those opportunities for decades. The importance of that relationship became even more evident after Hurricane Michael. The storm’s 2018 impact on Tyndall, its personnel and Bay County was profound. Recovery required coordination among military leadership, local governments, businesses, nonprofit organizations, education partners and residents. The broader community response demonstrated the value of relationships that had been built long before the storm. When disaster strikes, trust cannot be created overnight. MAC’s history of connection, advocacy and partnership helped reinforce the foundation that Bay County relied upon during one of its most difficult periods. As Tyndall continues its transformation and the Air Force advances new missions and capabilities, the need for strong militarycommunity communication remains just as important as it was in 1946.
From relationships to strategic advocacy That commitment to Bay County’s military missions also helped lay the groundwork for a more specialized defense advocacy effort. During the Base Realignment and Closure era of the early 1990s, Chamber and community leaders mobilized to protect the long-term future of the region’s military installations. Those efforts contributed to the formation of what became the Bay Defense Alliance in 1993.
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Today, MAC and the Bay Defense Alliance serve complementary roles in Bay County’s military community. MAC remains focused on relationships — connecting military leaders, service members and families with the business and civilian community — while the Bay Defense Alliance concentrates on the long-term strategic interests of local installations and missions. That partnership has allowed Bay County’s military support network to operate on two levels: building the relationships that make service members and families feel connected to the community while also working to protect, strengthen and expand the military missions that have become central to the region’s economy and identity.
More than one installation Bay County’s defense community extends beyond Tyndall. Naval Support Activity Panama City, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division and Coast Guard Station Panama City are all part of the region’s military footprint. Each brings a distinct mission, workforce and connection to the community. MAC’s history includes engagement with these installations and the people who serve there. The committee has participated in tours and leadership events at Naval Support Activity Panama City, giving Chamber and community leaders a closer look at the Navy presence in Bay County. MAC has also participated in events surrounding NSA Panama City command transitions, reinforcing the committee’s role in welcoming and supporting installation leadership. At Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division, MAC representatives have participated in tours and demonstrations that highlight the technical and research work taking place locally. NSWC Panama City Division supports defense innovation in areas connected to diving, maritime systems, expeditionary missions and other specialized Navy capabilities. For many community members, this work can be largely invisible. MAC helps create awareness of the high-level research, engineering, science and operational support that exists in Bay County. The committee’s military-community focus also reaches the Coast Guard. Bay County’s relationship with Coast Guard Station Panama City reflects the broader principle at the center of MAC’s work: the community benefits when it understands, supports and welcomes all branches of the military that serve in the region. This broader perspective is important. Bay County is not simply home to a base. It is home to a diverse defense community with active-duty service members, civilian employees, contractors, veterans, military spouses, researchers, educators, businesses and public servants whose work is connected to national security. MAC helps keep that larger picture in view. 16
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The role of business The Bay County Chamber Military Affairs Committee is, at its core, a business-community committee. Its members understand that military readiness and community readiness are connected. A military installation depends on more than runways, buildings and equipment. It depends on access to a capable workforce, quality schools, health care, housing, transportation, recreation, family support, local services and a welcoming community. Businesses play a major role in that environment. They employ veterans and military spouses. They provide services to military families. They sponsor community events. They invest in workforce development. They support nonprofits and civic organizations. They help create the quality of life that matters when military families consider whether a community feels like home. For a business owner, joining MAC is an opportunity to learn more about the military community, build meaningful relationships and contribute to Bay County’s long-term strength. For military leaders, it creates access to a network of community partners who want to understand the mission and support those connected to it. The committee’s value is not measured only in events held or photographs taken. It is measured in the relationships that are ready when a family needs support, a new leader arrives, a mission changes, a community faces a challenge or an opportunity emerges to strengthen the connection between Bay County and its military partners.
Looking ahead An 80th anniversary is an opportunity to honor the past. It is also an invitation to consider what comes next. The needs of military families will continue to evolve. Workforce demands will change. Technology will reshape national defense. Installations will adapt to new missions, new threats and new operational requirements. Bay County will continue to grow and change alongside them. The committee can continue to strengthen its work by helping employers connect with veterans and military spouses, supporting installation-community communication, introducing emerging civic leaders to the defense community, recognizing service and sacrifice and ensuring that Bay County remains a place where military families are welcomed and valued. The next chapter of MAC’s history will not look exactly like the first 80 years. But it can be guided by the same principle that has sustained the committee since 1946: strong communities support those who serve, and strong military-community partnerships make both the installation and the community better.
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TEC H N OLOGY
How FSU InSPIRE is Driving Regional Talent, Economic Prosperity, and Future Tech by: Linda Morgan, FSU InSPIRE
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lorida State University’s Institute for Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Research, & Education (InSPIRE) was brought to life by a $98.4 million grant from Triumph Gulf Coast to establish a thriving center of innovation in Bay County rooted in education. Triumph is a nonprofit that oversees funds recovered for economic damages from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill for the eight counties of Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin, and Wakulla. In November 2023, a delegation from FSU that included President Richard McCullough and Vice President of Research Stacey Patterson presented their proposal to Triumph, which voted unanimously to forward the InSPIRE initiative. Florida State University committed an additional $65 million. InSPIRE is spearheading long-term educational initiatives for regional K-12 teachers across northwest Florida to help them build STEM expertise and prepare the local talent needed to support a thriving advanced manufacturing and aerospace ecosystem. Led by InSPIRE and staffed with experts from FSU’s Learning Systems Institute, a continuous learning community is developing in which participants support each other, rapidly responds to industry trends, and builds workforce capability throughout the region. Teachers along the Gulf Coast are being certified in the use of robotics, artificial intelligence in engineering, computational thinking, and 3D printing fundamentals, to better prepare current and future students for local careers.
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In June 2025, FSU InSPIRE welcomed aerospace leader and decorated test pilot Drew Allen to head this high-impact initiative to turn northwest Florida into a hub for aerospace and defense innovation. Allen brings more than two decades of military aviation experience and a strong track record in defense research and partnerships. A former U.S. AirForce Colonel and Wing Commander and the only pilot ever qualified in every modern USAF fighter jet, he has led teams of thousands and managed budgets topping $1 billion. With current operations established at FSU Panama City, InSPIRE is finalizing all design and licensing requirements to construct an advanced manufacturing facility near the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. Within this facility, researchers, engineers, technicians, faculty, industry partners, and students will collaborate to invent, test, iterate and develop an entire product lifecycle under one roof for the aerospace, defense, marine, and energy sectors. On-the-floor training and mentoring will ensure the workforce remains forward-thinking and empowered. Scientific breakthroughs from applied research at FSU will be translated into real-world solutions through on-site prototyping, testing and demonstrations. Sustainable production through this accelerated, in-house deployment will encompass technological advancements in next-generation machining, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence design, robotics, simulation, and prototyping.
While our nation’s advanced manufacturing boom is underway, a lack of some standards and substantiated processes has challenged the industry’s efforts to confidently implement complex, large parts printed using additive manufacturing. Vetted methods to validate the quality and feasibility of components throughout the printing process are crucial to both commercial and defense industries accelerating the uptake of 3D-printed parts, particularly large and complex components. ASTRO America is a key strategic partner helping to establish this region as a hub for advanced manufacturing and industrial collaboration. Last year, it led the launch of an inaugural 3D printing Tech Challenge with ASTM International’s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence. Companies across the United States were invited to submit their solutions for in-process sensors that monitor component quality during production to avoid the more costly post-production identification of potential defects in 3D printed parts. Solutions were implemented, evaluated, and monitored at Maritech Machine in Panama City, InSPIRE and ASTRO’s first advanced manufacturing node in the region. From those evaluations, five finalists were selected to present and demonstrate their solutions before a panel of industry and academic experts at FSU Panama City. Jentek Sensors, Additive Assurance, Phase3D, Applied Optimization, and Addiguru presented their solutions before representatives from the Air Force Research Laboratory, ASTRO America, Boeing, GE Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, RTX, Kratos, Stifel North Atlantic Capital, ASTM International, and Florida State University. Two of those companies emerged as top performers: Additive Assurance and Addiguru. Both illustrated viable ways to bridge this gap in metal additive manufacturing, where quality control can shift to in situ production to allow for quicker reiterations and avoid costly rebuilds after components have been printed. Addiguru and Additive Assurance excelled in demonstrating their value to end-users within aerospace and defense and were invited to meet with Stifel’s investment team along with decision makers at leading aerospace organizations to discuss future opportunities. Leveraging the insights gained from this inaugural Tech Challenge, ASTRO, together with FSU InSPIRE, Applied Optimization, Pennsylvania State University Applied Research Laboratory, Colorado School of Mines, Honeywell Aerospace, and Lockheed Martin, pursued and won a highly competitive QTIME (Quality Test and Inspection Methods Expediency) grant. The QTIME project is funded by the Office of the
Under Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology Office, through America Makes. Anticipated outcomes include significantly reducing costs during the inspection and qualification of complex 3D printed parts with an LPBF lattice structure as inspection challenges have slowed their adoption. Real-time, layer-by-layer monitoring will provide a framework that will enable suppliers and manufacturers to deliver proven, high-performance components so end users can more rapidly implement solutions that ultimately strengthen the defense industrial base. The team’s flaw detection and prediction capabilities during production aim to reduce inspection times from many hours to under one hour, while cutting costs by up to 90%. Upon successful completion, this project will better enable the use of advanced manufacturing, particularly in defense and aerospace applications. Another exciting part of this project will be commercializing the results and mentoring small to midsize businesses throughout northwest Florida in adapting the technology in their own operations to further advanced manufacturing capabilities in the region. Building on all this momentum, this year’s Tech Challenge was on Distortion Prediction & Compensation in Inconel 718, which is a big challenge in precision parts manufacturing for aerospace and defense. Participating companies were invited to present their solutions for predicting printed component distortion that results in build failures, rework, nonconformance, and post-processing. This challenge specifically dealt with Inconel 718 metal, a nickel-based alloy considered superior to many other metals due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. After an afternoon of finalist presentations, a leading solution from Oqton was selected. By bringing academia and industry together, InSPIRE continues to advance its vision of transforming Bay County and Northwest Florida into a hub for advanced manufacturing, innovation and workforce development. It will edify the local talent industry needs, advance future technology breakthroughs, deliver scalable aerodynamic testing, innovate with military and industry partners, and offer hands-on training. This future is fully supported by FSU, an eminent institution deeply immersed in meaningful collaboration with its students, faculty, community, business leaders, and partners to spark regional prosperity, boost national ingenuity and strengthen global competitiveness.
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current labor statistics for bay county LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED
UNEMPLOYED RATE
April 2025
103,450
100,002
3,448
3.3%
May 2025
103,638
100,060
3,578
3.5%
June 2025
104,621
100,585
4,036
3.9%
April 2026
103,720
98,857
4,863
4.7%
May 2026
104,043
99,372
4,671
4.5%
June 2026
105,230
100,428
4,802
4.5%
real estate sales
EXISTING SINGLE FAMILY HOMES PANAMA CITY MSA
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
April 2025
330
$359,959
23,572
$412,734
May 2025
373
$365,000
24,756
$415,000
June 2025
395
$363,163
23,827
$412,000
April 2026
372
$369,950
24,129
$420,000
May 2026
400
$359,250
24,915
$425,000
June 2026
440
$369,000
26,036
$432,000
CONDO-TOWNHOMES SALES PANAMA CITY MSA
April 2025
FLORIDA
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
REALTOR SALES
MEDIAN PRICE
70
$401,000
8,710
$315,000
May 2025
83
$350,000
8,345
$310,000
June 2025
79
$340,000
7,809
$300,000
April 2026
108
$345,000
9,309
$315,000
May 2026
111
$385,000
8,897
$306,990
June 2026
106
$365,000
8,900
$305,000
GROSS SALES
TAXABLE SALES
TAX COLLECTIONS
April 2025
$967.3M
$584.6M
$34.3M
May 2025
$896.8M
$570.9M
$33.4M
June 2025
$960.4M
$625.8M
$36.7M
April 2026
N/A
N/A
N/A
May 2026
N/A
N/A
N/A
June 2026
N/A
N/A
N/A
bay county sales tax collections
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Bay County Demographic Snapshot
Bay County Population: 202,123 Median Age: 42.8 Labor Force: 105,230 Average Wage: $53,754 Households: 82,427 Household Income: $82,514 Per Capita Income: $44,666
April - June 2026 from Becca Hardin, President & CEO, EDA of Bay County
Great things are happening in Bay County, and our economic development efforts are gaining recognition beyond Northwest Florida. Bay EDA has been invited to participate in trade missions to Canada and Taiwan alongside SelectFlorida and Florida’s Secretary of Commerce. These invitations reflect Bay County’s growing reputation as a competitive location for international investment. They also provide opportunities to meet business leaders and government officials exploring expansion in the United States. International outreach is an important part of Bay EDA’s business recruitment strategy. Canada has strong economic ties to Florida and is home to companies operating in many of Bay County’s target sectors, including aviation, aerospace, marine technology, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Taiwan is recognized globally for its leadership in technology, electronics, precision manufacturing, and innovative supply chains. During these missions, Bay EDA had the opportunity to present the assets that make our community an attractive business location. Those assets include Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, Port Panama City, rail connectivity, available industrial sites, proximity to major military installations, a talented workforce, and strong partnerships with local educational institutions.
Participation alongside SelectFlorida and the Secretary of Commerce also allows Bay County to benefit from the strength and visibility of Florida’s broader economic development platform. These partnerships help open doors, establish relationships, and ensure Bay County is represented when international companies consider investing in Florida. The ultimate goal of these efforts is local: attracting new capital investment, creating quality career opportunities, expanding our tax base, and supporting greater economic diversity. Trade missions do not always produce immediate announcements, but the relationships formed through them can develop into significant projects over time. Bay EDA is proud to represent our community on the international stage and share the story of why Bay County is an exceptional place to invest, grow, and do business. For more information about the Bay Economic Development Alliance, please visit www.BayEDA.com or connect with us via Facebook and LinkedIn. Becca Hardin is the President & CEO of the Bay Economic Development Alliance in Bay County, Florida. She can be reached at Becca@BayEDA.com.
northwest florida beaches international
bay county bed tax collections
airport passenger traffic
PANAMA CITY
PANAMA CITY BEACH
MEXICO BEACH
April 2025
$151,988.91
$3,317,296.49
$113,407.20
2025
47,290
April 2026
$147,182.19
$2,787,423.62
$94,828.51
2026
49,298
% Change
3.27%
19.01%
19.59%
% Change
4.25%
AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS (YEAR-TO-DATE)
TOTAL PASSENGER ENPLANEMENTS (YTD)
May 2025
$182,875.96
$4,210,632.58
$156,551.15
2025
481,011
May 2026
$181,126.20
$4,141,452.64
$127,949.21
2026
510,330
% Change
0.97%
1.67%
22.35%
% Change
6.10%
TOTAL PASSENGER DEPLANEMENTS (YTD)
June 2025
$238,326.55
$6,995,448.86
$285,241.65
2025
486,449
June 2026
$228,490.44
$7,090,690.67
$236,418.12
2026
514,596
% Change
4.30%
-1.34%
20.65%
% Change
5.79%
BAY BIZ / FALL 2026
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Membership Appreciation Month puts the spotlight on the businesses, organizations and people whose leadership, service and investment help move Bay County forward. Every Chamber membership represents more than a name in a business directory. Behind it are people creating jobs, serving customers, supporting causes, developing leaders and investing in the community they call home. Throughout September, the Bay County Chamber of Commerce celebrated those contributions during Membership Appreciation Month, a month dedicated to recognizing Chamber members and the role they play in Bay County’s business community. From connecting businesses and developing emerging leaders to supporting local organizations and strengthening relationships with Bay County’s military installations, Chamber members contribute to the community in many different ways. Membership Appreciation Month provides an opportunity to recognize that involvement — and to simply say thank you.
Recognizing Excellence A highlight of the month was the 2026 Membership Appreciation Awards Luncheon, held Sept. 17 at the Holley Academic Center at Florida State University Panama City. Ten businesses, organizations and individuals were recognized for professional achievement, leadership, service and community involvement. Griff Griffitts of Visit Panama City Beach served as keynote speaker for the luncheon.
Derrick Malnar (All In Credit Union) Outstanding Young Professional of the Year Derrick Malnar’s commitment to leadership extends throughout the community. A Leadership Bay graduate and current Steering Committee member, he also participates in Leadership Northwest Florida and serves as president of Beach Care Services. His involvement has included service with the Arc of the Bay, Habitat for Humanity and local economic development initiatives.
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More Than an Award The 10 recipients represent different industries, generations and forms of service, but their stories share a common thread: involvement matters. Bay County’s business community grows stronger when businesses build relationships with one another, experienced leaders invest in the next generation, organizations contribute their expertise and resources, and members choose to become involved beyond the walls of their businesses. That spirit extends well beyond the recipients recognized at this year’s luncheon. Throughout the Chamber are members who volunteer on committees, mentor young professionals, support local nonprofits, welcome new businesses, advocate for the business community and invest in programs designed to strengthen Bay County. Membership Appreciation Month is an opportunity to celebrate all of them. To our members: Thank you for your membership. Thank you for your involvement. And thank you for continuing to invest in Bay County. This year’s recipients reflect the many ways Chamber members are helping shape Bay County’s future.
Marcia Croom (Gulf Coast Children’s
Becca Hardin (Bay County Economic
Ambassador of the Year
Businesswoman of the Year
Marcia Croom has become a familiar face at Chamber events through years of consistent involvement and service. A former Chamber Ambassador chair, she now leads the Junior Leadership Bay Committee while remaining active at ribbon cuttings, programs and community events. Her service also extends to organizations including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bay County.
Becca Hardin’s work in economic development continues to help position Bay County for new investment and employment opportunities. Major company announcements resulting from economic development efforts in 2025 and 2026 represent approximately 2,760 jobs, $149 million in annual wages and $305 million in total added value to the local economy.
Advocacy Center)
Development Alliance)
Kinetic Leadership Consulting
FrameShaping LLC (Chas Higgins) Minority-Owned Business of the Year
(Dr. Caesar Kellum)
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year Dr. Caesar Kellum has used lessons from 27 years of military service, academic research and professional experience to create leadership-development opportunities for others. Kinetic Leadership Consulting has provided or committed approximately $22,500 in professional leadership certification value to veterans, civic leaders and emerging professionals while supporting Leadership Bay, Junior Leadership Bay and veteran entrepreneurship initiatives.
Tim Prather (Hancock Whitney) Businessman of the Year Tim Prather combines professional leadership with extensive community service. In 2025, he stepped in as interim executive director of the Bay Education Foundation during a leadership transition and now serves as chairman of its board. His service has also included Rotary, the Tom P. Haney Education Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida and the Panama City POPS Orchestra.
Retired U.S. Air Force veteran Chas Higgins founded FrameShaping LLC to help individuals and organizations strengthen leadership, communication and team performance. Through coaching, workshops and speaking engagements, Higgins combines professional development with conversations about resilience and mental health. His community involvement includes Leadership Bay and service as a Chamber Ambassador.
The St. Joe Community Foundation Community Organization of the Year The St. Joe Community Foundation supports organizations working across education, health care, environmental stewardship, arts and culture, and essential community services. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $57 million in grants, including more than $4.6 million in 2026, helping nonprofit and community organizations serve Northwest Florida.
Terry Campbell (Mobile
Communications of America)
Military Affairs Committee Member of the Year For more than two decades, Terry Campbell has helped strengthen connections between Bay County’s business and military communities. A member of the Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee since 2000, Campbell regularly supports military ceremonies, programs and community initiatives. His service has included volunteering during the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show and providing valuable historical perspective to the committee.
Hutt Insurance Small Business of the Year Hutt Insurance demonstrates how a small business can make a broad community impact. In addition to involvement with Chamber programs including the Committee of 100, Military Affairs Committee, Ambassadors, Leadership Bay and Junior Leadership Bay, the locally owned company supports numerous civic, educational and nonprofit organizations throughout Bay County.
Chevron Organization of the Year Chevron’s Panama City operations supply approximately 125 million gallons of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and aviation gasoline across the Florida Panhandle. The company also invests locally in education, workforce development, environmental stewardship and community resilience while supporting Chamber initiatives including Leadership Bay, the Hurricane Preparedness Expo and First Responders Appreciation Luncheon.
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W O R KF ORC E CON N E C TION
Strengthening Our Regional Economy with Workforce Services Supporting Our Military Community by: Kim Bodine, Executive Director, CareerSource Gulf Coast
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or eighty years, the Military Affairs Committee (MAC) has served as an essential bridge between our armed forces and Bay County’s business community. Celebrating eight decades of MAC leadership offers an important moment to reflect on what makes our region unique: a deeply rooted partnership with the service members, veterans, and military spouses connected to local military installations. CareerSource Gulf Coast works alongside MAC as the region’s designated local workforce development board under the State of Florida. Chartered to serve Bay, Gulf, and Franklin counties, our role is to steward public workforce investment dollars into programs that build talent pipelines and support sustainable economic development across our communities. Our military installations do more than defend the nation; they bring highly disciplined, skilled, and mission-ready individuals to our area every year. This adds to the extraordinary concentration of veterans and service members transitioning into civilian life that choose Bay County and the surrounding areas as their home. Ensuring this valuable talent pool connects to regional industries is one of the most effective ways public workforce funds are put to work. Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG) For individuals separating from military service, entering the civilian economy can present unique challenges. Through the federally and state-funded Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG), our centers deploy dedicated staff focused entirely on veteran employment.
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Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists work directly with veterans facing significant barriers to employment, providing intensive case management, barrier removal, and individualized career plans. Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives (LVERs) engage with area employers to advocate for veteraninclusive hiring practices, demonstrating how specialized military technical skills align with private-sector workforce demands.
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Under federal and state law, veterans and eligible spouses receive Priority of Service across all publicly funded workforce programs, ensuring those who served have first access to training, job referrals, and career coaching. Retaining the Talent of Transitioning Active-Duty Service Members Retaining transitioning service members within our region is vital to meeting the workforce demands of regional growth sectors, including defense contracting, aerospace, logistics, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. In coordination with installation transition assistance offices, our board connects with separating and retiring service members well before their end-of-service dates. Staff assist personnel in translating Military Occupational Specialties into civilian business competencies and aligning their technical training with local industry openings. Initiatives like the annual Paychecks for Patriots Job Fair connect these transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses with local employers who wish to hire this mission-ready talent. Military Family Employment Advocacy Program Beside each service member is a family whose stability directly influences service member retention and community integration. Yet frequent relocations, credentialing hurdles, and deployment cycles can create distinct career barriers for military spouses. To address these challenges, the State of Florida created the Military Family Employment Advocacy (MFEA) Program, administered locally through the workforce development board. MFEA staff provide specialized career guidance tailored to the realities of military family life. This state-funded service helps spouses:
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Navigate Florida professional licensure reciprocity and certification requirements. Access publicly funded training grants that can lead to portable careers. Connect with regional employers seeking experienced, adaptable professionals.
Providing insurance to the Gulf Coast since 1961. Always here when you need us.
Retaining military family talent strengthens the local labor market and provides area businesses with qualified, versatile employees who are already living in our communities. Putting Public Workforce Resources to Work As we celebrate 80 years of the MAC’s leadership, the alignment among military advocacy, the business community, and public workforce infrastructure remains as critical as ever. The employment services, training grants, and special programs provided through CareerSource Gulf Coast are public resources designed to support job seekers and help employers find the skilled talent needed to keep Bay County and Florida competitive and thriving. To learn more about accessing these publicly funded workforce programs or connecting with military talent in the Bay, Gulf, and Franklin County region, visit careersourcegc.com or call an employment specialist at (850) 872-4340.
Personal | Business | Workers Comp
3106 W 23rd St • Panama City 850-769-4888 • huttinsurance.com
GULF COAST
STATE COLLEGE
NURSING H I G H L Y S O U G H T R A P I D L Y H I R E D OVER 65 YEARS OF PROVEN EXCELLENCE
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Tyndall Federal Credit Union Named Florida’s #1 Credit Union by Forbes Tyndall Federal Credit Union has been recognized by Forbes as the #1 Credit Union in Florida on its 2026 America’s Best-InState Credit Unions list, a distinction that reflects the trust and confidence members place in Tyndall and the credit union’s commitment to delivering exceptional financial services.
Presented by Forbes in partnership with Statista, the annual ranking is based on an independent survey of thousands of consumers and publicly available reviews. Financial institutions are evaluated on key factors including trust, customer service, financial advice, digital services, and overall member satisfaction. The recognition comes during a milestone year for Tyndall as the credit union celebrates its 70th anniversary. Founded in 1956 to serve military personnel at Tyndall Air Force Base, the credit union has evolved into one of Florida’s leading 26
BAY BIZ / FALL 2026
financial institutions, now serving more than 100,000 members nationwide while remaining committed to the personalized service that has defined Tyndall for seven decades. Harrison Avenue Named Finalist for 2026 Great Places in Florida People’s Choice Award The City of Panama City announced Harrison Avenue was selected as one of four finalists for the 2026 Great Places in Florida People’s Choice Award, presented by the American Planning Association Florida (APA Florida). This year’s award theme, “Great PeopleFocused Places,” celebrates public spaces that foster connection, care, and community identity — places that tell stories, honor culture, and create a sense of belonging.
Harrison Avenue is the Main Street of Panama City’s historic downtown and has been central to the community since the early 1900s. The historic downtown corridor extends approximately 0.48 miles from E. 6th Street/Business Highway 98 to Government
Street along St. Andrews Bay. The avenue’s historic architecture, strong connections between buildings and the street, waterfront access, and role as a gathering place have long made it a peoplefocused destination. Following Hurricane Michael, revitalization efforts strengthened these qualities by focusing on resilience, connectivity, sustainability, downtown activity, and placemaking. The winner will be announced by APA Florida on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Ascension Sacred Heart Bay begins construction on new Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit Ascension Sacred Heart Bay is beginning construction of a new 18bed Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit. The new center will offer specialized physical, speech, and occupational therapies and medical care tailored for patients
recovering from strokes, neurological injuries, severe trauma, orthopedic injuries, neurological disorders, and other medically
complex conditions. The unit is fully integrated on-campus, giving patients immediate access to cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, oncology specialists, and surgeons. This on-site expertise ensures that patients don’t have to be transferred to another facility if they require emergency care or specialized consultation during their recovery. The new unit is expected to open in Spring 2027. This addition is the latest example of how Sacred Heart Bay is fulfilling its promise to invest in the community, including the creation of approximately 50 new clinical and support positions to staff the new team. Kristina Williams Assumes Regional Development Leadership Role Kristina Mizell Williams has been appointed Director of Development for Apalachee Center while continuing to serve as Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Life Management Center. Her expanded leadership role reflects the ongoing integration of the two
organizations and a shared commitment to strengthening behavioral health services across Northwest Florida. As a member of both senior leadership teams, she leads development, fundraising, and advancement initiatives across the organizations while collaborating on regional communications and community engagement strategies. Upon completion of the merger, she will lead development and philanthropic strategy for the newly expanded organization, supporting a 14-county service region while advancing strategic partnerships, resource development, and regional brand alignment. Life Management Center Names New Acting CEO
Life Management Center has named Dr. Jay Reeve, President and CEO of Apalachee Center and President and CEO of Live Oak Behavioral Health Management (a joint project between Apalachee Center and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare) as Acting Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of longtime CEO Edwin R. (Ned) Ailes. Through a management agreement with Apalachee Center, Dr. Reeve is leading both organizations as they work toward full integration during the current fiscal year. This unified
organization will create a stronger, more coordinated behavioral health system that will expand access to care and improve outcomes for individuals and families across Northwest Florida. Tyndall FCU Announces New PCB Branch Manager
Tyndall Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Gina Perkins as the new Branch Manager at the Panama City Beach Branch. Gina is an accomplished Branch Manager with decades of experience leading high performing banking teams in the Cincinnati, Ohio market, specializing in leadership development, driving revenue growth, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Recognized for her ability to align financial strategies with community needs, while consistently delivering measurable results. Beyond the credit union, Gina is committed to supporting Bay and Walton County’s economic growth. She believes in building trust, delivering exceptional service, and creating opportunities that empower individuals and businesses to thrive. In her free time, Gina enjoys spending time with her family, watching college football, and adrenaline seeking adventures.
Tyndall congratulates Gina Perkins on her new leadership chapter and looks forward to the continued growth and meaningful impact she will bring to the organization, community, and its members. Innovations FCU Celebrates Barbara McCullough’s Retirement Innovations Financial Credit Union is celebrating the retirement of Barbara McCullough, Controller, following an extraordinary 49-year career in the financial services industry that has taken her from a teller in Alaska to executive leadership in Northwest Florida. Barbara spent much of her career with First National Bank Northwest Florida, where she ultimately served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. When Innovations Financial Credit Union acquired First National Bank (FNB) in 2024, Barbara played an instrumental role in the acquisition and the transition that followed. Her decades of institutional knowledge, financial expertise and familiarity with FNB’s systems and operations helped provide continuity as the two organizations came together. Following the acquisition, Barbara continued her career with Innovations as Controller. She worked closely with Innovations’ finance team throughout the transition, including the detailed process of integrating the financial systems, processes and operations of the two institutions.
While technology has changed considerably, Barbara’s commitment to serving people and her community has remained constant. Throughout her career, she has been involved with numerous charitable and volunteer organizations. She taught first aid and CPR classes through the American Red Cross, served for several years on the local March of Dimes board and shared her banking knowledge by teaching American Bankers Association banking classes at Gulf Coast State College. Her retirement closes a career that has spanned nearly half a century of change in the financial industry, from handwritten ledger sheets and passbook savings accounts to online and mobile banking. It also marks the next chapter for someone whose professional and personal roots run deep in the Panama City community. Innovations Financial Credit Union thanks Barbara for her many years of dedicated service, leadership and commitment and wishes her happiness and fulfillment in retirement.
Have a submission for the Biz List? Please email your news releases to communications@baychamberfl.com.
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NEW M E M B ER S from June 1, 2026 to August 31, 2026 ALLIANCE INVESTIGATIONS, INC. Business Consulting AllianceInvestigations.biz 229-400-1000
COASTAL CONTRACTORS Contractors 17749 Ashley Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 850-449-2667
AMERICAN CHARLIE GRILL & TAVERN Restaurants 473 Richard Jackson Blvd. Panama City Beach, FL 850-283-8340
COVE HOME PROS Contractors 408 Linda Cove Panama City, FL 850-764-2683
ARDAMAS FLEET SERVICES Fleet Management 758 W. 13th St, Unit 8 Panama City, FL 850-466-7483 AVCON, LLC Engineering Services 320 Bayshore Dr, Ste A Niceville, FL 850-890-6983 BAYCOLA Child Care & Early Learning 4100 E. 43rd St. Panama City, FL 850-272-5615 BEACH 95.1 Marketing & Public Relations Beach951.com 904-558-2212 BERRY WELLNESS GROUP Counseling & Family Services 1701 Tennessee Ave, Ste 200 Lynn Haven, FL 850-348-9819 BIRDIE SOCIAL Sports, Recreation & Outdoors 416 Jenks Ave. Panama City, FL 850-888-4299 BURNING PASSION MEDIA Media, Marketing & Technology BurningPassionMedia.com 407-307-3252 CANDLEWOOD SUITES PCB Hotels, Resorts & Lodging 7909 Panama City Beach Pkwy. Panama City Beach, FL 850-238-2114 CHILDREN'S CRITICAL CARE ALLIANCE Social Services 8940 Hwy 2301 Youngstown, FL 850-814-1954
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DAVID TAYLOR CONSTRUCTION Contractors 7150 Hwy. 98, Unit 5103 Panama City Beach, FL 850-559-0888 DETECT, INC. Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing 2817 Hwy 77 Panama City, FL 850-763-7200 THE DOG CLUB USA Boarding, Day Care & Pet Sitting 850-691-7060 EMERALD EMBER CIGAR LOUNGE Cigars & Tobacco 103 Heritage Ct. Lynn Haven, FL 850-257-6119 EXPRESS OIL CHANGE & TIRE ENGINEERS Automotive, Marine & Transportation 2851 S. Hwy 77 Lynn Haven, FL 334-714-1373 FIREWALLS PLUS Security Services 112 Wedgewood Dr. Bonifay, FL 850-768-2655 GARY'S OYSTER SHACK Restaurants 1320 N. Tyndall Pkwy. Panama City, FL 850-348-1116 GOLDEN CORRAL Restaurants 105 E. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 850-872-9090 GULF COAST BOATING CENTERS Marina & Boat Storage 6215 Hwy 79 Panama City Beach, FL 850-775-4819
HAMCO BUSINESS SOLUTIONS, LLC Wholesale Distributors 538 Harmon Ave. Panama City, FL 850-942-5600
PULSE NUTRITION Nutrition & Weight Management 1812 Hwy 77, Ste 127 A Lynn Have, FL 850-367-9610
HORIZON WATCH, LLC Media & Broadcasting 13 Blue Crab Ln Panama City Beach, FL 850-238-2441
RAYDIANT LIFEWORKS INITIATIVE, INC. Non-Profit 1520 Wisconsin Ave Lynn Haven, FL 201-228-0572
KALEIDOSCOPE THEATRE Arts Organizations kt-online.org 850-441-3096 MAINSTREET FAMILY CARE Health Care Providers 524 N. Tyndall Pkwy. Panama City, FL 205-407-3942 MIGHTY MOUSE SOLUTIONS, LLC Handyman Services 5230 W. Hwy. 98 Panama City, FL 602-565-4121 DONATOS PIZZA Restaurants 840 W. 23rd St. Panama City, FL 850-495-9055 O'CONNELL & ASSOCIATES CONSULTING ENGINEERS, LLC Engineering Services 130 Richard Jackson Blvd, Ste. 104 Panama City Beach, FL 850-403-4555 OLIVERSPERRY RENOVATIONS General Contractors 401 Office Plaza Tallahassee, FL 850-386-6383 PANAMA CITY A CAPPELLA CHORUS NON-PROFIT 8724 Tracy Way Panama City, FL 850-628-5784 PANAMA DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS, LLC Real Estate 844 N. Tyndall Pkwy Panama City, FL 850-771-2848
RENFROE OUTDOOR ADVERTISING Advertising Agencies RenfroeOutdoor.com 702-326-5509 ROGAN'S PRO APPLIANCE & POOL SERVICES Appliances RogansProAppliance.com 850-557-6188 THE SLIP Bars, Breweries & Nightlife 1654 East 5th St. Panama City, FL 850-238-1998 ST. ANDREWS EPISCOPAL CHURCH Faith-Based Organizations 1608 Baker Ct. Panama City, FL 407-341-5969 STONEBROOK EXTERIOR Roofing 714 Transmitter Rd. Panama City, FL 850-215-7663 THOMAS WILSON Individuals VANGARD FORGE, LLC Business Consulting 653 W. 23rd St, PMB 175 Panama City, FL 719-359-6020 850-394-0055
WICKED GARDEN - STONE TEMPLE PILOTS TRIBUTE BAND Arts & Organizations 13110 Agave St. Panama City, FL YUME RAMEN Restaurants 1000 E. 23rd St, A10 Panama City, FL 850-252-6002
M E MB E R AN N I VE R S ARIE S
from June 1, 2026 to August 31, 2026
5 years
10 years
30 years
Emerald Coast Pancreatic Cancer Initiative Emerald Coast Shade Sails, Inc. First Commerce Credit Union Florida Health Connector Harris Chamber Team Harrison's Kitchen and Bar Jet Boat Pilot Millennium DME Point South Marina Bay Point Red Road Remodel & Gutter Scott Kirkman LLC Strength Medical Group Structural Restoration & Coatings Wewa Films Whitehead Plumbing
Bay Haven Charter Academy Employee Solutions Hello Credit Union Portfolio Real Estate Management Simpli Seafood Southeastern Surveying & Mapping Corp. The Appliance Center
El Governor Resort & RV Park
15 years Pinnacle Hammock Square
25 years Mr. Leon Walters, Sr. Panama City Toyota
35 years Troy University
40 years First Baptist Church of Panama City The St. Joe Company
70 years Barron & Redding, P.A. Engineering & Equipment
BAY BIZ / FALL 2026
29
TH
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anniver sary BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS
D E C E M B E R 12 , 2 0 2 6 DRONE SHOW AT 5PM | BOAT PARADE AT 5:30PM
Ring in the season the Panama City way! Head down early to Holiday Village at Panama City Marina, open 4–7pm with holiday vendors, live music, drone show, and a special visit from Santa. Then find your spot along the water as a dazzling procession of illuminated boats sets sail at 5:30pm, cruising from St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club past Panama City Marina and along Beach Drive before looping past St. Andrews Marina and ending at Hathaway Bridge. Bring the family, and celebrate the magic of the holidays on the water and in the sky.
PA N A M A C I T Y • F LO R I DA 30
BAY BIZ / FALL 2026
Six Decades. Three Generations. One Tradition.
2251 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL 32405 BAY BIZ / FALL 2026
31
PO BOX 1850 PANAMA CITY, FL 32402
(850) 733-7333
FLORIDA BUILDING CODE GROUP
FBCCA.COM
If this sticker is not on your Job-Box, you’re losing valuable time. PLAN REVIEW AND INSPECTIONS IN LIEU OF THE LOCAL BUILDING OFFICIAL (F.S. 553.791) Based in Panama City, our fully licensed staff covers Pensacola to Tallahassee, and beyond...