The Circuit - The Holiday Issue

THE CIRCUIT GIFT

GUIDE

HOLIDAY

MAKE THIS YEAR'S CHRISTMAS SHOPPING A BREEZE

SIMPLE, DELICIOUS, & SURE TO IMPRESS

DINING OUT

RECIPES

ON THE HOLIDAYS? KNOW WHICH RESTAURANTS WILL BE OPEN & WHEN

THE

HOLIDAY ISSUE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

|

PCBEACH.ORG

PANAMA CITY BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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(850) 215-3061

(850) 785-8706

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

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The Circuit DEPARTMENTS & FEATURES

36

46

22

55

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 11 From Katelyn French A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN 12 From Ryan Davis BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS 18 The Latest Updates from Businesses in Bay County

AIR & SEA 32 News from Tyndall Air Force Base & Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division FEATURES 13 Calendar of Events 20 8 Local Charities You Can Help 22 Holiday Dining Guide 36 Spirit & Feast: Holiday Recipes

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

46 Removed: The Critical Need for Foster Parents in Bay County 55 2017 Holiday Gift Guide 64 Ask the Doctor SEE & BE SEEN 66 September Business After Hours 67 8th Annual Golf Classic 68 October Friday At The Beach 69 October Business After Hours COMMITTEES 70 HYPE 71 IdeaCamp 73 Ambassadors AROUND TOWN 74 CareerSource Gulf Coast, Kim Bodine 75 Bay District Schools, Bill Husfelt

76 76 77 77

Film Commissioner, Julie Gordon Visit Panama City Beach, Dan Rowe FSU Panama City, Dr. Randy Hanna City of Panama City Beach, Mayor Mike Thomas 78 Gulf Coast State College, Dr. John Holdnak 78 County Commissioners, Philip “Griff” Griffitts MEMBERSHIP 80 Grand Openings & Ribbon Cuttings 81 A Message from Your Chamber Rep 82 New & Renewing Members

N O W

T A K I N G H O L I D AY R E S E R VA T I O N S

PA R T Y

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T H E S H O W G E T YO U R E V E N T C A T E R E D

N E X T

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ON THE COVER The holidays are a time for gathering with your loved ones and celebrating the season with a festive spirit. This photo captures not only a glimpse of one of our favorite articles of this issue — the Spirit & Feast feature on page 36 — but also the essence of the holiday season.

Sure, it may get a little messy and chaotic, but it all comes together to make one big, beautiful picture. Cheers! | Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash

The Circuit CONNECTING YOU TO THE BEACH & BUSINESS

EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHER Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce

ADVERTISING SALES Shannon Richmond Shannon@PCBeach.org

MANAGING EDITOR Katelyn French

DISTRIBUTION The Print Center, Lewis Advertising

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Kristopher McLane PRODUCTION Hartley Press

CONTRIBUTORS Jacqui Barker, Delaney Rose, Kasey Killebrew, Jessica Clark

The Circuit Magazine is designed and produced by the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. All information in this guide is believed to be correct at time of production; the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. All unsolicited manuscripts become the property of the publisher and will not be returned. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. ©2017 The Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved.

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

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A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS E X E C U T I V E B OA R D RYAN DAVIS Chairman | Community Bank JAYNA LEACH Past Chairman | Visit Panama City Beach MATT GRIFFITTS Treasurer | Sugar Sands Insurance DAVE TREPANIER Incoming Chairman | Firefly Restaurant KAREN SMITH Secretary | Beachy Beach Real Estate

B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S JEREMY BENNETT MidSouth Bank PAUL BUSUTTIL Buster ’s Beer & Bait JEAN CAPPS Sheraton Bay Point SHAY CATRETT BAYSOLUTIONS MARVIN COLLEY Beach TV CATHERINE COLLINS Resort Collection MICHAEL DENTON Pier Park/Simon Malls JEFF DIBENEDICTIS Summit Bank BRAD GRIFFIN Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center RICK KOEHNEMANN Koehnemann Construction WILL LARK Shipwreck Island Waterpark LEE ANN LEONARD Royal American Beach Getaways JOSHUA ROGERS Gulf Power Company PAUL SCHREINER Texas Roadhouse APRIL WILKES The St. Joe Company

H O N O R A R Y B OA R D RAMON DUVALL Beachside Fellowship DR. RANDY HANNA Florida State University Panama City BECCA HARDIN Bay Economic Development Alliance DR. JOHN HOLDNAK Gulf Coast State College PARKER MCCLELLAN NWFL Beaches International Airport DAN ROWE Visit Panama City Beach JOHN SKAGGS Naval Support Activity Panama City MAYOR MIKE THOMAS City of Panama City Beach

CHAMBER STAFF KRISTOPHER MCLANE JENA LILES SHANNON RICHMOND KATELYN FRENCH HELEN ADAMI

President/CEO Chief Financial Officer Director of Membership Services Director of Communications

A

few days ago, I stopped to watch a video on Facebook about an 82-yearold man who lost his wife and became deeply depressed. For days, he stared out of his window searching for a reason to live, in which he could not find. 6 months went by, and the man determined that he had no purpose to live, until one day in a grocery store. While walking down the aisle, a 4-year-old girl wanted to let the man know that it was her birthday. The grocery store's video footage captured her fervently reaching out to the man, who was admittedly unapproachable, and then revealed her doing something that changed the man's life— she hugged him, a complete stranger to her.

My heart sank as I watched the man's response as he recalled this moment with tears. In that moment, he said to the girl, "You don't know, but this is the first time for quite a while that I've been this happy." He said that the girl showed him a love that he didn't know existed anymore. That day was the first time he felt a sense of purpose again.

I finished that video with tears rolling down my face, because far too many people feel the way this man did. As intentional as I have been about making sure the people I love don't feel that way, this video shook me to my core with conviction. What about the ones that I don't know? What about the people in the grocery store that I pass by? What about the people standing alone at an event?

This video proved something else that I heard one year ago in a service at my church. In fact, I wrote about it in my letter in last year's Holiday Issue. It proved the power of physical touch. The turning point of this man's life was not the girl waving and saying hey, it was the girl hugging him.

One small and simple act of kindness can make someone's day brighter, but physically touching someone can turn someone’s life around. There are some people who haven’t felt a friendly human touch in YEARS— something I can’t even fathom. Some feel they are not even worthy of being touched by another human because no one has ever reached out and made them feel otherwise.

It is important to understand that, as joyful as the holiday season can be for you, for others, it can be the most lonely.

I believe that all adults have the same awareness as this little girl had to pick out someone in a crowd who needs to feel loved; however, we are more apt to overlook that feeling because our culture has conditioned us to ignore our neighbor more than love them, or because we are in such a rush that we are afraid of how much time loving someone will cost us.

When given the opportunity, do MORE than smile or say hey. If you feel compelled to, physically touch someone on their shoulder, shake someone’s hand, give someone a hug. Do something, anything, to let them know that they are worthy of being alive.

This little girl gave someone a reason to live when they couldn’t find a reason themselves, and you and I can too.

Director of Events

BERTIE REYNOLDS

Information Specialist

CHARLIE COLLINS

Information Specialist

Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce 309 Richard Jackson Boulevard, Suite 101, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Phone: (850) 235-1159 | Fax: (850) 235-2301 | www.PCBeach.org

Katelyn French WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN | RYAN I hope you enjoy this year’s

DAVIS to serve their membership and their community.

final edition of The Circuit magazine, the “Holiday Issue.”

On a personal note, I am extremely proud to have served on the

The year 2017 has been a

Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors since

tremendous

the

2009, most recently as your 2017 Chairman. As a lifelong resident of

Panama City Beach Chamber

Panama City Beach, I can’t envision a better way to have served this

of Commerce, and it has been

community for the past 8 years. Panama City Beach/Bay County is a

a huge honor and privilege

place that is near and dear to my heart— a place that I will always call

of mine to serve as the 2017

home. I hope you and your families enjoy a safe and fulfilling holiday

Chairman of the Board.

season and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

At the beginning of 2017,

From my family to yours, Happy Holidays!

year

for

the Chamber’s Board of Directors laid out extraordinary goals and expectations for the Chamber staff. The common thread of those goals was centered on one primary objective– growth! Primarily, growth in membership and growth in revenue.

I am very proud to say that the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce staff answered the bell and has already exceeded all

Ryan Davis, 2017 Chairman of the Board

expectations! Bay County is blessed to have such a talented and

Senior Vice President, Community Bank

dedicated group of Chamber professionals working tirelessly each day

Seas

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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FOR MORE EVENTS, VISIT PCBEACH.ORG/EVENTS

•

NOVEMBER EVENTS 4

Saturday

Ironman Florida | Boardwalk Beach Resort

8-11

Everyday

Emerald Coast Cruizin' | Aaron Bessant Park

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Thursday

City Council Meeting | 6pm | Beach City Hall

9-12

Everyday

Holly Fair | Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort

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Saturday

Veteran's Day

14

Tuesday

TDC Meeting | 9 am | Beach City Hall

16

Thursday

Business After Hours | 5–7 pm | Ripley's Believe It! Or Not

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Friday

Friday at the Beach | 7:30–9 am | Advanced Technology Center at GCSC

17-18

Everyday

Chili Vibrations Music Festival | Spinnaker Beach Club

23

Thursday

Thanksgiving

24-25

Everyday

Beach Home for the Holidays | Panama City Beach

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Wednesday

IdeaCamp | 5:30–7:30 pm | The Pour

All information is subject to change after publication is printed.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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OPENING NIGHTS at F LO R I DA STAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

COMING TO FSU PANAMA CITY

SIERRA HULL - 12/9

BRIA SKONBERG - 2/24

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

Other world-class performances in Tallahassee include: A Far Cry, George Benson, Michael McDonald & more!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | DECEMBER 2017

•

FOR MORE EVENTS, VISIT PCBEACH.ORG/EVENTS

•

DECEMBER EVENTS 1

Friday

Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker | 7–9 pm | Marina Civic Center

2

Saturday

Panama City Beach Marathon | Pier Park Annual Jaycee's Christmas Parade | 7 pm | Downtown Panama City

9

Saturday

Optimist Club Christmas Parade | Pier Park Boat Parade of Lights | Downtown Panama City & St. Andrew's

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Tuesday

TDC Meeting | 9 am | Beach City Hall

13–16

Everyday

Bethlehem Village | Capt. Anderson's Marina

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Thursday

Beach Chamber Annual Christmas Party | 5–7 pm | The Grand Marlin City Council Meeting | 6 pm | Beach City Hall

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Sunday

Christmas Eve

25

Monday

Christmas Day

31

Friday

New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop | 5:30 pm – 12 am | Pier Park

All information is subject to change after publication is printed.

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

Dreaming of a

Turquoise Christmas?

HOLLY FAIR November 9-12 PANAMA CITY BEACH CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING AT BEACH HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS November 24 BEACH HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Thanksgiving Weekend OPTIMIST CLUB CHRISTMAS PARADE December 9 AN EMERALD COAST CHRISTMAS December 8-10 NEW YEAR’S EVE BEACH BALL DROP AT PIER PARK December 31

Invite your whole family to spend the most wonderful time of the year at the most wonderful place on the Gulf – Panama City Beach. Start a fun, new holiday tradition as we welcome Santa Claus to town on the Friday after Thanksgiving for our Beach Home for the Holidays event. Keep the party going with the “Seasons of Harmony” concert performed by POPS Orchestra and Restless Heart, s’mores, activities for the kids and more at Aaron Bessant Park. The main event is the annual Christmas tree lighting, illuminating the spirit of the season at the Real. FUN. Beach.

To see more upcoming events, visit our website at

VisitPanamaCityBeach.com/holidays WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS STAY UPDATED WITH WHAT OUR MEMBERS ARE DOING

FLORIDA LINEN

PCB SENIOR CENTER

SHOP LOCALLY FOR ALL OF YOUR HOME DÉCOR NEEDS

IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR SENIORS 50+

The only family owned and operated linen store along the Emerald Coast, Florida Linen takes pride in offering quality Made-in America products and service. Exceptional personal attention to your shopping needs is our #1 goal for over 30 years.

Since opening its doors in 2006, the Panama City Beach Senior Center has been offering activities for seniors 50+ years that can help members enjoy a better quality of life. On average, there are 8 activities a day, 5 days a week, that members can take advantage of, including chair exercise, yoga, line dancing, card games, strength exercise, billiards, dominos, wood carving, stained glass, painting, special holiday activities, dances, and more. Community volunteering and social events such as monthly potluck luncheons, speaker presentations, and a Coffee Shoppe, provide members with opportunities to meet with friends and neighbors. All of the activities are conducted by volunteer activity leaders, and members are encouraged to recommend new activities that would be of interest to other members. As of September, membership has grown to 745 individuals for 2017. The price of a one-year membership is $35 and includes participation in any of the classes, activities, and discounts available to members by area merchants.

Florida Linen carries thousands of high quality, everyday essentials, as well as gifts and souvenirs for every occasion. Our 10,000 squarefoot showroom is open daily and has a variety of items to decorate your entire house or rental property.

Come explore our huge selection of quilts, comforter sets, bedspreads, duvet covers, shams, dust ruffles, blankets/throws, decorative pillows, and window coverings for your bedroom. Find the towels, bath rugs, curtains, and accessories for any bathroom in your home. Decorate your kitchen or dining room with place mats, napkins, coasters, decorative dinnerware, and accessories from our expansive stock of kitchen and dining room items.

Personalize your selections with elegant and beautiful custom embroidery, completed within 48 hours. We also custom-make window treatments.

If you are looking to decorate your home, condo, office or boat visit Florida Linen first!

For more information or to shop online, visit our website at floridalinen.net. We ship!

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The Senior Center is a 501Š3 non-profit organization and is operated by a volunteer board of directors and three part-time employees. Our hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM 3:00 PM and, in some cases, after hours to accommodate special activities. The center also offers rental opportunities for weddings, family reunions, and other group events.

If you are at least 50 years old, wish to meet new friends, and want to improve your quality of life, come visit us. You will be given a tour of the facility and have the opportunity to ask questions to see if what we offer fits your lifestyle. Please call 850-233-5065 for more information, or visit our website at pcbsc.com. We are located at the Oatfield Center, 423 Lyndell Lane, Panama City Beach.

MAHARAJA'S FINE JEWELRY

#GCB

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SERVING BAY COUNTY

GULF COAST BURGER CO.

Since 1977, Maharaja’s Fine Jewelry & Gifts has taken pride in

There are certain things you can only find on the Gulf Coast—sandy white beaches, the smell of the Gulf of Mexico, and sunsets painted with God’s paintbrush. When Dustin and April Kelly partnered with Jesse and Paige Green, they knew they wanted a place that signified what they loved about home. A place where you could have an experience like no other.

providing Bay County and customers from all over with the best jewelry selection and service in the area. Our journey began in Panama City Beach when owner Manu Samtani opened his first store near the intersection of Front and Middle Beach Road. Today, Maharaja’s is still family owned and operated by the Samtani’s and our professional staff who makes it our duty to go above and beyond for every customer.

Many years have passed since we started but one thing remains the same—when you walk in our doors, it is our main goal to treat every

Imagine walking around the French Quarter in New Orleans, sipping a hurricane on Orange Beach, watching the sunrise in South Padre, or enjoying a sunset on the World’s Most Beautiful Beaches in Panama City Beach. That’s the impression we want to leave you with at Gulf Coast Burger Co.

customer as our own family and to give them the best experience possible. Whether it is cleaning your favorite ring or finding you the diamond of her dreams, we take pride in providing customers with the utmost value and integrity in our products and services.

As we near the end of 2017, we celebrate 40 years of business and serving the community. We would like to wish every one of you an excellent holiday season and would like to thank each and every customer who has made this an incredible journey along the way.

We look forward to serving you for many more years to come!

For more information about Maharaja's, visit their website at

We offer local grass-fed beef, bison, gulf shrimp, and fresh grouper.

Our draft beers are crafted from cities across the Gulf Coast, our cocktails have flavors you can only find along the beaches where waves meet sand, and our signature burgers are a tribute to each beautiful state that makes up the Gulf Coast. Let our Lifeguards handcraft you a Cat5 Shake after lunch or dinner, and sit back and enjoy the music or watch the game.

Make memories you will never forget, eat great food, and have a couple of drinks with us. We hope you enjoy Gulf Coast Burger Co. as much as we do, and that you truly come enjoy what the Gulf Coast has to offer! Just look for the Big Red Chair!

shopmaharajas.com.

For more information, visit our Facebook @GulfCoastBurgerCo. WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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'tis the season to

GIVE

8 LOCAL CHARITIES YOU CAN HELP THIS HOLIDAY SEASON B E T H L E H E M C H R I ST M A S V I L L AG E

B AY C O U N T Y S H E R I F F ' S O F F I C E P R O J E C T 2 5

Capt. Anderson's Marina will convert their parking lot into Bethlehem Village, presenting the Biblical story of the Birth of Christ, and will help raise donations for a different charity each night, including Backpack Blessings on Wednesday, Center of Hope on Friday, and either the Boys & Girls Club, Rescue Mission, or Salvation Army on Thursday and Saturday. Each group will become the "tax collector," collecting and distributing whatever is donated.

Started by two deputies more than three decades ago, this project has helped thousands of needy children receive gifts on Christmas since it began. Several toy drive events are hosted throughout our community to help this project.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P On the evenings of December 13 – 16, take your family to Bethlehem Village at Capt. Anderson's Marina and donate to the "tax collector."

For further questions, call Pam Anderson at (850) 234-3435, or email pamheartsofhope@aol.com.

B OYS & G I R L' S C L U B Texas Roadhouse of Panama City Beach is partnering with the Boys & Girl's Club of Bay County to help raise toys for our local youth of all backgrounds, with special concern for those from disadvantaged circumstances.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P Bring a new, unwrapped toy to Texas Roadhouse from December 1 – 22, and receive a free appetizer card that can be redeemed on your next visit. Texas Roadhouse is located at 15660 Panama City Beach Parkway. To learn more about the Boys & Girl's Club of Bay County, visit www.bgcbayfl.org.

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

-and-

PA N A M A C I T Y P O L I C E D E PA R T M E N T ' S H O L I DAY H E L P E R S This annual program helps less fortunate families during the holiday season by having a can-food drive where complete Thanksgiving and Christmas food bags are supplied to those less fortunate. During the Christmas season, many local organizations conduct toy drives and donate those gifts to the police department, where they are disseminated to those families. Each year, approximately 200 families benefit from this program along with approximately 300 children.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P On December 14, Beach Chamber members can bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Beach Chamber's Annual Christmas Party sponsored by Panama City Toyota and receive an extra drink ticket per toy donated. The event will be from 5 – 7pm at The Grand Marlin and is exclusive to Beach Chamber members. If you cannot attend the event, you may drop off donations to Panama City Toyota during business hours leading up to the event.

C H R I ST M A S ST O C K I N G S F O R T H E H O M E L E S S This project was started by a local woman whose heart broke for the homeless men, women, and children in our community who had to brave the cold holiday season with no gifts under the tree to wake up to, and, most heartbreaking, no warm clothes or blankets in the coldest days of the year. She began putting together stockings for the homeless with basic, everyday items we take for granted (scarves, can openers, reading glasses, flashlights, etc.), and she and her family would pass them out during the Christmas Dinner at the local Rescue Mission. Today, six years later, it has evolved into a well-known local project that she and her family participate in together, distributing over 200 stockings to homeless men, women, and children.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P Stuff stockings with unisex everyday items (gloves, combs, hats, toiletries, small radios, hand warming packs, instant coffee packs, etc.) and drop them off to the Counts Real Estate Office in town located at 3009 Highway 77, Suite H, no later than December 10. If you are unable to prepare a stocking, please consider purchasing needed items. For more information, contact Hollie Hansen at (850) 258-2602 or holliesellshomes@gmail.com.

S I M P LY S E L F E ST E E M Founded by a local woman who was shaken to action after she volunteered to help fulfill a 13-year old girl's Christmas Wish List and found the words, "Pretti Clothes, My Own Tooth Brush, Deodorant," and "A Necklace," this project is dedicated to help get hygiene items to teenagers who either don't have anyone to support them, or don't have a family who is able to provide for them.

FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS

State of the Art Facility NOW OPEN at our new location!

H O W YO U C A N H E L P Drop off any items you find down the grocery store's hygiene aisle (toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, etc.) to one of the collection boxes around town, or give a monetary donation for others to shop for you. Drop off locations include Panama City Toyota, Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce, The Palms Conference Center, Fairfield Inn & Suites, TechFarms, and any Beachy Beach Real Estate location. For more information, call (850) 381-3584, or visit www.simplyselfesteem.org.

T OYS F O R K I D S F O U N DAT I O N Help provide assistance to established Bay County agencies and groups that share the vision of helping those less fortunate families with children in need.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P Attend the Annual Toys for Kids Foundation Christmas Ball on December 16 at Edgewater Beach Resort, which will help raise thousands of dollars to go to our local children in need.

For information on how you can attend, call (850) 814-7800 or email christfk@gmail.com.

T OYS F O R T O T S Southern Self Storage in Panama City Beach will be partnering with the Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots campaign that raises toys for thousands of children and donates to several worthy, local agencies such as the Salvation Army, Anchorage Children's Home, Children's Home Society, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Bay County.

H O W YO U C A N H E L P Bring a new, unwrapped toy to Southern Self Storage from November 13 – December 15 during office hours (Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5:30pm), located at 18436 Panama City Beach Parkway. For more information, contact the office at (850) 588-2767, or email panamacity@southernselfstorage.com. To learn more about Toys for Toys, visit www.panama-city-fl.toysfortots.org.

True Spa Environment for Patient Comfort Dental Spa 850-249-9311 Sleep Medicine 850-249-9331

ECDSPA.COM 900 Thomas Drive

Panama City Beach, FL 32408

*Each charity project was submitted by Chamber members for this article and was not selected by the Beach Chamber.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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holiday DINING GU

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

I

f your favorite holiday dish is whatever you don't have to cook yourself, you'll be

pleased to know that plenty of

UIDE

our restaurant members will be open for the holidays. Looking for somewhere to get a traditional turkey dinner like Grandma's, or a place to toast champagne on New Year's Eve? We've got you covered.

On the next page, you will find just a few of our restaurants that you and your family can visit to enjoy tasty food, festive drinks, and good cheer—hassle-free.

All information in this article is subject to change. Please call each restaurant for holiday-specific hours.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE

THANKSGIVING

NEW YEAR'S EVE

24

2018

CHRISTMAS DAY

CHRISTMAS EVE NEW YEAR'S DAY

FOOD SPECIAL

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG

BILLY'S OYSTER BAR & CRAB HOUSE

11535 Hutchison Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-2007

3000 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 235-2349

2018

2018

BACK PORCH - BAY COUNTY

BUFFALO WILD WINGS

16220 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-1750

701 Pier Park Drive, Bldg. C, Suite 100 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 236-0325

2018

2018

BAREFOOT ON THE BEACH

CAHALL'S DELI

11073 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-2442

416 W 23rd St. Panama City, FL 32405 (850) 769-7739

2018

24

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

CARRABBAS ITALIAN GRILL 13820 Panama City Beach Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 230-4522

2018

24

CULVER'S OF PANAMA CITY BEACH 11501 Panama City Beach Pkwy.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-0709

2018

24

DAIRY QUEEN 134 Alf Coleman Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 234-5850

2018

24

DIRTY DICK'S CRABHOUSE 9800 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-3425 24

2018

DOMINO'S PIZZA/DEBEST PIZZA, INC. 9528 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 819-3333 24

2018

FATTY'S SANDWICH SHOP 15900 Front Beach Roard #105 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 249-1515 24

2018

FIREFLY 535 Richard Jackson Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-3359 24

FIRST WATCH, THE DAYTIME CAFE 11160 Panama City Beach Parkway, #407 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 234-5700 24

2018

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

25

FEATURE | HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE GEORGE'S AT ALYS BEACH

IHOP

30 Castle Harbour Dr. Alys Beach, FL 32461 (850) 641-0017

15620 Panama City Beach Pkwy., Suite 100 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 236-8200

2018

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HARPOON HARRY'S

J. MICHAEL'S RESTAURANT

12627 Front Beach Road.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 234-6060

3210 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-2055

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HOOK'D PIER BAR & GRILL

JERSEY MIKE'S SUBS

16201-C Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-8232

15750 Panama City Beach Pkwy.

Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 588-5309

2018

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2018

HOOTER'S/GULF COAST WINGS, INC.

LA COCINA MEXICAN GRILL & BAR

12709 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-9464

10343 E County Hwy 30A Panam City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 231-4021

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We Help Build Stronger Communities Every Day We are grateful for our many partners in Bay, Gulf and Franklin Counties. It is a team effort that leads to success.

Thank you for all you do to help us make our communities stronger every day.

Best Wishes for a Peaceful Holiday Season 26

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

Learn More!

If you need to fill a vacancy at your business, start with us. Job seeker? We can help you, as well.

Learn more about our free services online today!

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An equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers on this document may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at 711.

LA CREMA TAPAS & CHOCOLATE 38 Main St. Rosemary Beach, FL 32461 (850) 534-3004

2018 LIZA'S KITCHEN 7328 Thomas Drive, Suite L Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-9000

LONGHORN STEAK HOUSE 15721 Panama City Beach Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-4980

2018 MARGARITAVILLE 16230 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 235-7870

2018 MIKE'S CAFE & OYSTER BAR 17554 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 234-1942

2018 MONTEGO BAY 437 Richard Jackson Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 233-6033

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2018 WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE PATCHES PUB & GRILL

SALTWATER GRILL

SHONEY'S RESTAURANTS

4723 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-8879

11040 Hutchison Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-2739

101 Bluefish Dr. (Pier Park) Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 234-1555

2018

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2018

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PINEAPPLE WILLY'S

SCHOONERS

SHRIMP BASKET PANAMA CITY

9875 S. Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 235-0928

5121 Gulf Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 235-3555

12390 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 563-7836

2018

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POMPANO JOE'S

SHANE'S RIB SHACK

SHUCKUM'S OYSTER PUB & GRILL

16202 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-1790

10100 Hutchison Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 249-8111

15614 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 235-3214

2018

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2018

RUNAWAY ISLAND BEACH BAR & GRILL

SHARKY'S BEACHFRONT RESTAURANT

SISTERS OF THE SEA AND THE DIVA BAR ON GRAND LAGOON

14521 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-3907

15201 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 235-3882

3901 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-0334

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

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2018

SONNY'S BAR-B-Q 11341 Panama City Beach Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-4742

2018

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SURFSIDE MCDONALD'S RESTAURANT /COSTA CO. OF THE EMERALD COAST 16990 Front Beach Road Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-3060 24

T.G.I. FRIDAYS 1022 West 23rd Street Panam City, FL 32405 (850) 234-0558

2018

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TACO BELL ON THE BEACH 559 Richard Jackson Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 234-7008 24

2018

TAZIKI'S 15463 Panama City Beack Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 257-5695 24

2018

TEXAS ROADHOUSE 15660 Panama City Beach Pkwy.

Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 236-7448 24

2018

THE GRAND MARLIN 5323 N. Lagoon Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 249-1500

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(850) 235-4948 | pbilling@resortcollection.com 30

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

FEATURE | HOLIDAY DINING GUIDE THOMAS DONUT AND SNACK SHOP 17554 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 234-8039

TRIPLE J STEAKS & SEAFOOD 2218 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-9514

2018

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WENDY'S 8720 Thomas Drive Panama City Beach, FL 32408 (850) 233-0100

2018

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WHATABURGER VENTURES LLC 11749 Panama City Beach Parkway Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 230-2508 24

2018

WICKED WHEEL BAR & GRILL 10025 Hutchison Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 588-7947

2018 ZAXBY'S 9960 Hutchison Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 233-6000 24

ZOE'S KITCHEN 15620 Panama City Beach Pkwy. Suite 200 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 (850) 233-1993 24

All information in this article is subject to change.

Please call each restaurant for holiday-specific hours.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

31

AIR & SEA

NEWS FROM TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE AND NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE CENTER PANAMA CITY DIVISION

PANAMA CITY HOSTS FUTURE EOD OFFICERS

By Jacqui Barker, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division

E

xplosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Officers and Enlisted from various Naval Support Activity Panama City area commands collaborated with Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) to welcome future EOD candidates late September.

The 2nd Annual EOD “Exceptional Exposure” weekend kicked off on September 28 and included three days of training aboard Naval Support Activity Panama City. The goal of the weekend was to provide Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen exposure to the EOD/Diving community to set proper expectations and to inspire them towards intelligent preparation for service assignment. As the Home of Military Diving, Panama City was chosen as the venue for this year’s event.

The U.S. Navy’s EOD Officer Community Manager Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Lavery attended the event and discussed officer selections with the midshipmen.

“The EOD officer community represents less than 2 percent of the U. S. Navy officer corps and is heavily relied upon to support operations around the globe. As the smallest unrestricted line officer community, we want to provide midshipmen with the opportunity to learn about what missions our community is engaged in now and the capabilities we are able to provide the fleet,” said Lavery. “Our goal of the EOD Exceptional Exposure event is to spark interest and mentor midshipmen 32

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

interested in the program so that we continue to attract the best candidates for selection.”

Thirty-three students from 21 different universities participated in this year’s event. The three-day training included physical training, swim stroke clinic, classroom instruction and briefs, leadership discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and various interactions with active duty EOD officers and enlisted personnel.

“This past weekend proved to be an invaluable experience in which I was able to interact with and learn from some of the highest-caliber military personnel, as well as visit the most high-tech training and testing facilities in the world,” said Midshipman Tucker Coffman from Liberty Township, Ohio, a sophomore at Ohio State University. Much like many of the midshipmen who attended the weekend, Coffman wants to be an EOD officer.

CAPTION: Explosive Ordnance Disposal Chief Petty Officer Johnathon Laird assigned to EOD Mobile Unite Six Detachment Panama City shows Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps NROTC Midshipman Emilio Mackie, from the University of Arizona, how to drive an Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot during the second annual EOD Exceptional Exposure weekend in Panama City, Florida Sept. 30, 2017. U.S. Navy courtesy photo.

The event was planned and coordinated by three active duty EOD officers who serve as Naval Science Instructors (NSI) at NROTC units across the country. Lt. Abe Kim, from the University of Colorado-Boulder, served as the EOD Weekend Officer in Charge and was assisted by Lt. Jason Cocca from Auburn University, and Lt. Jon Dobbins from Texas A&M. All three officers are NSIs at their respective universities.

“The purpose of the EOD "Exceptional Exposure" weekend was to set appropriate expectations for NROTC midshipmen in regard to the EOD community. Many of them do not have access to EOD resources at their universities, so this event provided an in-depth forum to understand beyond what one would get off a recruitment pamphlet or website,” said Kim. “Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC) was the perfect platform that offered access to EOD Instructors and their wealth of knowledge, Navy diving training areas and equipment, and an EOD shore detachment which could fully showcase the many capabilities of a Navy EOD team. We intend to hold this training again in the future and hope midshipmen continue to take advantage of this opportunity to learn about this highly specialized warfare community.”

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University of Arizona sophomore Midshipman Emilio Mackie agreed that NDSTC was a great place to host the event.

“The short time I spent at the NDSTC taught me more than just information about Navy Diving and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal.

I felt that I found a sense of purpose in Panama City, and will use this new found drive to push myself to not only be a better student, but also a better officer in the fleet,” said Mackie.

REDLINE IT

United States Naval Academy midshipmen are afforded numerous opportunities to get in-depth exposure to all the officer communities throughout their four years at the academy. Although NROTC midshipmen are also provided exposure to the different officer communities, historically their experience with lesser-known communities such as EOD and diving has been intermittent. This event was held to bridge the gap between the two commissioning sources.

EOD Officer Cmdr. Sam Brasfield who is assigned to Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division hopes EOD Exposure Weekends will entice midshipmen to consider EOD as a career of choice.

RALLY 2

“There is a lot of the talent that exists at the NROTC units and we hope to inspire them to join our ranks or at least have the knowledge to make an informed decision,” said Brasfield.

Supporting commands aboard NSA Panama City included Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal, NDSTC, Navy Experimental Diving Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 6 Detachment Panama City, and U.S. Navy Bureau of Personnel.

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33

A NEW BATTLE—WHY NOT ME? A STORY OF BRAVERY, FAITH, & RESILIENCE

By Airman 1st Class Delaney Rose, 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

B

ravery, hard work, and determination. These words represent what it takes to be resilient.

Carol Wagner, an advanced program office personnel security manager with the 325th Fighter Wing at Tyndall, exemplified these words, as they were the staples of her life. Wagner’s Air Force career started when she was only 20 years old, when she decided to join the military to provide herself with a structured environment that she couldn’t create for herself. In her 21 years of serving, she was able to accomplish extraordinary things, paving the way for other female crew chiefs by becoming the first female dedicated crew chief for the F-22 Raptor.

“She was seldom given menial tasks," said her husband of 30 years, Ron Wagner. "Her time and effort were better suited for impossible or nearimpossible tasks,” he added.

But extraordinary situations weren’t always dealt to her, however. After 10 years of serving as a Tyndall employee, everything in Wagner’s life seemed normal. Little did she know, she was about to face an obstacle that no one saw coming.

After noticing some of the classic symptoms of a diabetes, a disease that ran in her family and ended the life of her father at his age of 61, Wagner consulted with a doctor and made an appointment for a health check-up. A simple, routine bloodwork examination turned her life around. Expecting a worst-case-scenario of her doctor ordering her to follow a proper diet plan as preventative measures for diabetes,

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

Wagner instead received news that brought light to an unexpected and daunting truth. Wagner received a phone call from her doctor, and the doctor uttered the word “Leukemia.”

Wagner never suspected anything was wrong.

“I didn’t even know what Leukemia was,” she said with a puzzled look.

“At the time I didn’t know it was cancer.” Wagner said she had the round belly and all of the suspecting markers.

Wagner began her journey by seeing a specialist to undergo more testing, so the doctors could get a clearer picture about what her disease entailed. At this time, Wagner’s family still did not know about the bad news she had been dealing with.

“I didn’t want to scare my family until I knew for sure that this was real,” Wagner added. “Hiding what I was going through wasn’t easy, especially when I realized my two sons started to pick up that something was wrong.”

The day she decided to tell her children of the news about her Leukemia finally arrived a month and a half after her initial diagnosis.

CAPTION: Carol Wagner in her early Air Force career as a Crew Chief, paving the way for other female crew chiefs by becoming the first female dedicated crew chief for the F-22 Raptor.

AIR & SEA | TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE “It wasn’t easy to tell them, but we are a practical family,” Wagner stated.

Although her family was devastated by the news, they knew Wagner was strong.

Kyle, her oldest son said, “I was in shock for the first five minutes, but deep down I knew she would fight hard and be alright.”

The alternative for taking targeted gene therapy, a form of chemotherapy, is a bone marrow transplant. That surgery, however, comes at a risk, with a 15 percent mortality rate. Even though her medication causes her a lot of pain, Wagner noted that what’s most important to her is that she is alive and with her family.

“I have never felt limited,” Wagner added. “There isn’t anything I can’t do.”

“I’m not exaggerating when I say it was a physical blow to the gut,” said Wagner’s husband. “I wiped the tears away from my eyes and told her that was the last time she would see me cry about it. I told her my new goal was to help her know more about it and defeat it.”

Her positive outlook is infectious. She continues to be a light to her family and friends. She tells others instead of asking “Why me,” you should ask, “Why not me?”

The family wasn’t going to give up without a fight.

Although there is no cure for Leukemia, Wagner is committed to living a happy and fulfilling life in remission, waking up every day ready to fight.

Wagner’s strength and resiliency came from her upbringing, faith, and family by her side. Her husband said that it was her “spiritual fitness” that helped in the healing process.

“She not only had faith in God’s plan, but faith that she would beat it,” said Ron. “Setting aside those fears has helped her set an example of strength to others.”

CAPTION: Carol Wagner today is an advanced program office personnel security manager with the 325th Fighter Wing at Tyndall. She is committed to living a happy and fulfilling life, despite her diagnosis.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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spirit &

feast

YOU SPOKE, WE LISTENED. BECAUSE YOU ASKED FOR IT, WE DECIDED TO BRING BACK OUR SPIRIT & FEAST HOLIDAY RECIPE FEATURE – THIS TIME, WITH MORE! WE’VE GATHERED SOME OF OUR FAVORITE FOOD & BEVERAGE RECIPES THAT WILL GIVE YOUR TASTE BUDS THE GIFT THEY DESERVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. NEEDING TO IMPRESS YOUR IN-LAWS? WE’VE GOT A RECIPE FOR THAT. NEED TO SURVIVE YOUR IN-LAWS? WE’VE GOT A RECIPE FOR THAT TOO. CUT OUT & ENJOY.

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

holiday mule

slow cooker gingerbread latte

white christmas punch

sparkling pomegranate mimosa WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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Slow Cooker Gingerbread Latte

Holiday Mule

INGREDIENTS Yields 6-8 servings • 8 cups whole milk • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar • 3 teaspoons ground ginger • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 2 cinnamon sticks • pinch cloves • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg • 3 1/2 cups strongly brewed coffee or espresso • whipped cream, graham cracker crumbs, caramel sauce, and gingerbread cookies for garnish (optional)

INGREDIENTS • 1/2 ounce simple syrup • 1/2 ounce unsweetened cranberry juice • 1 1/2 ounce gin or vodka • 2 ounces chilled ginger beer • 1 rosemary sprig • orange slice, for garnish • sugared cranberries, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add all ingredients to a large slow cooker.

2. Cook on low for 3 hours or until heated through. Monitor to make sure it doesn't boil.

3. Dip rims of cups in caramel sauce and then in graham cracker crumbs to create the look above (optional). Top with fresh whipped cream and caramel syrup if desired. For extra fun, top with gingerbread cookies.

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine simple syrup, cranberry juice, and gin in a glass.

2. Pour over ice and top with ginger beer.

3. Serve garnished with rosemary, orange wedge and sugared cranberries, if desired.

>> NON-ALCOHOLIC TIP Replace the gin and ginger beer with gingerale and you will have a festive, refreshing drink!

>> BOOZE TIP Add a shot of Bailey's liqueur in your glass before pouring your mixture in.

Recipe from www.thecookierookie.com

Recipe from www.homesweetjones.com

Sparkling Pomegranate Mimosa

White Christmas Punch

INGREDIENTS • ½ cup pomegranate seeds • 6-8 sprigs of rosemary • pomegranate juice • 1 bottle of champagne

INGREDIENTS Yields 12-16 servings • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/4 cup hot water • 3 ounces evaporated milk (6 Tbsp) • 1 teaspoon almond extract (I used a teaspoon) • 1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream • 1 2-liter bottle of 7-Up • whipped cream and festive-colored sprinkles (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add 1 tablespoon of pomegranate seeds, a rosemary sprig, and 1½ ounces of pomegranate juice to each glass.

2. Top with champagne.

3. Serve!

>> NON-ALCOHOLIC TIP Replace the champagne with club soda for a fun spritzer!

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine sugar and water in a small glass bowl. Heat in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until sugar is dissolved. Cool and stir in evaporated milk and almond extract. Pour into a large punch bowl and add vanilla ice cream.

Use a potato masher to break ice cream into small chunks. Slowly stir in the 7UP. 2. Spoon into serving glasses. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles if desired. Serve immediately.

Recipe from www.joyfulhealthyeats.com >> BOOZE TIP Try it with a shot of amaretto liqueur for an extra kick.

Recipe from www.creationsbykara.com

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FEATURE | SPIRIT & FEAST

new year's eve mocktails for kids

christmas sangria

cranberry beergarita

pumpkin spice martini WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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Christmas Sangria

New Year's Eve Mocktails for Kids

INGREDIENTS Yields 8-10 servings • 1 bottle white wine (750ml) • 1 ounce ginger beer plus more for topping if desired, 12 • 1 1/2 cups apple cider • 1/2 cup brandy • 3 pears sliced • 3 oranges sliced • arils from 1 pomegranate • 3 cinnamon sticks • cinnamon sugar for the rims of your glasses (optional)

INGREDIENTS • sparkling juice (use a light colored juice such as white grape or apple) • candy that has food coloring (rock candy, Nerds, gummies, etc.)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large pitcher, combine all the ingredients. Stir and then place in the fridge until chilled. Don't chill for longer than a few hours or the ginger beer will lose its fizz.

2. Before serving, rim your glasses with cinnamon sugar. Fill each glass with ice and pour the sangria over the ice. If desired, top with more ginger beer.

Garnish with slices of pears, oranges, and pomegranate arils. Drink up!

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add your candy of choice to plastic champagne flutes.

2. Top with sparkling juice of choice.

3. Serve and instantly become the coolest parent ever.

>> PRO-PARENT TIP Cut the juice with water if your kids go nuts when they have too much sugar.

Recipe from www.modernparentsmessykids.com >> MAKE-AHEAD TIP To make this more than a few hours in advance, just add all the ingredients minus the ginger beer. Then, before serving, stir in the ginger beer!

Recipe from www.halfbakedharvest.com

Pumpkin Spice Martini

Cranberry Beergarita

INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons 100% pure pumpkin puree • 3/4 ounces simple syrup • 2 ounces vanilla vodka • 2 ounces Bailey's Irish Cream liqueur • 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

INGREDIENTS Yields 6 servings • 12 ounces frozen cranberry juice concentrate • 12 ounces lemon-lime soda • 12 ounces beer • 12 ounces gold tequila • 1 tablespoon lime juice • fresh cranberries and limes for garnishing

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add pumpkin puree, simple syrup, vodka, Bailey's, and pumpkin pie spice. Shake for about 30 seconds.

2. Pour shaken mixture through a strainer into a martini or cocktail glass.

3. Sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice and garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.

>> PRO TIP For sugar & spice rims on your glasses, combine a bit of granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice in a shallow dish. Use your fingertip dipped in water to wet the rim of each glass, all the way around. Dip each rim into the sugar and spice mixture to coat before pouring beverage in.

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Mix together the frozen cranberry juice concentrate, soda, beer, tequila, and lime juice in a large pitcher until combined.

2. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh cranberries and limes.

>> BOOZIER TIP Try adding a shot of Grand Marnier orange liqueur for a top-shelf beer'rita!

Recipe from www.wineandglue.com Recipe from www.thekitchenismyplayground.com

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FEATURE | SPIRIT & FEAST

slow cooker collard greens with ham hocks

squash casserole

baked cream cheese corn with crumbled bacon

slow cooker honey-glazed ham

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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Squash Casserole INGREDIENTS Yields 12 servings • 2 tablespoons butter • 4 cups sliced yellow squash • 1 medium onion, chopped • 2 eggs • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese • 1 cup milk • 2 tablespoons butter • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350º F. 2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in medium skillet or saute pan over medium-low heat. Add squash and onions and cook until tender.

3. To a large bowl, add eggs and lightly whisk. Add cheese and milk and whisk into egg until well-combined. Add cooked squash and onions to egg mixture and stir well to combine. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in skillet used to cook squash and onions. Add to squash casserole mixture. Add cayenne pepper, if using, along with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Spray a 9x13 casserole dish with cooking spray and pour squash casserole mixture into the baking dish. Top evenly with crushed Ritz crackers. Place in preheated oven and bake 45 minutes, or until top has lightly browned and casserole does not "jiggle" when the dish is moved.

5. Allow to sit for about 3 minutes before serving.

Slow Cooker Collard Greens with Ham Hocks INGREDIENTS Yields 12 servings • 2 smoked ham hocks (1 1/4 lb. total) • 2 (14-oz.) cans chicken broth • 2 (1-lb.) pkg. prewashed chopped fresh collard greens • 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion (from 1 onion) • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar • 2 teaspoons kosher salt • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine all ingredients in a 6-quart oval slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW 9 hours. Carefully remove ham hocks and all bits of bone before stirring greens after cooking. Cool ham hocks, and thoroughly remove all fat and bone; return meat to slow cooker. Stir into greens, and serve. >> MAKE-AHEAD TIP Make these a day or two in advance and refrigerate in the slow cooker insert. Let the insert stand at room temp for 30 minutes, then return to slow cooker to reheat. Do not reheat the cold insert straight from the fridge or it will crack.

Recipe from www.addapinch.com

Recipe from www.southernliving.com

Slow Cooker Honey-Glazed Ham

Baked Cream Cheese Corn with Crumbled Bacon

INGREDIENTS Yields 8-10 servings *NOTE - This recipe calls for a 6 quart or larger Slow Cooker • • • • • •

3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 10 whole cloves 1 (8- to 10-pound) spiral cut ham

INSTRUCTIONS 1. MAKE GLAZE- Combine the brown sugar, honey, water, mustard, and cloves in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Cook until the glaze is homogeneous and fragrant from the cloves, about 5 minutes. Remove the cloves with a spoon.

2. PREP HAM- Place the ham in a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, making sure you can put the lid on. You may have to turn the ham on its side, or trim a bit off the top if your ham is too large. Gently pull apart the ham's slices and separate them.

3. ADD GLAZE- Pour the glaze over the ham, trying to cover as much of the ham as possible, but not worrying too much, as the glaze will fall back into the slow cooker.

4. COOK HAM- Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 4-5 hours. Every hour (or as you remember), baste the ham with the glaze. You can also flip the ham halfway through cooking, if desired. The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Serve with the thickened glaze. >> MAKE-AHEAD TIP The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Recipe from www.thekitchn.com

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INGREDIENTS Yields 6-8 servings • 4 cans (15 oz) Libby's whole kernel corn, drained • 12 slices bacon, split • 1/4 cup butter • 1/2 cup onion, diced • 2 - 8 ounce packages cream cheese • 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese, grated • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat your oven to 375°. In a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove bacon to a paper towel lined plate and discard the bacon drippings (you can leave a tablespoon or two in the pan for a little extra bacon flavor, if you'd like).

2. Reduce the heat to medium and add 1/4 cup of butter to the pan. Saute the onion in the butter until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the cream cheese to the pan a little at a time, stirring continuously until the cream cheese is smooth and softened. Add the grated parmesan cheese and black pepper. Then, crumble 8 slices of the bacon and add it to the cream cheese mixture (the other 4 slices will be for GARNISH AFTER BAKING).

Finally, add the corn and mix well.

4. Pour the corn mixture into a buttered 2 quart casserole dish, top with the remaining 2 Tbsp. parmesan and drizzle with the melted butter or olive oil.

5. Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe from www.thetwobiteclub.com

FEATURE | SPIRIT & FEAST

baked pumpkin french toast casserole

spicy cranberry barbecue meatballs

baked brie with roasted fig & walnut honey topping

slow cooker pumpkin pecan pudding cake WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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FEATURE | SPIRIT & FEAST Spicy Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs INGREDIENTS Yields 8-10 appetizer servings • 2 (14-ounce) packages frozen meatballs (if using homemade, about 55-60 small) • 1 (14-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce • 1 (17-ounce) bottle spicy barbecue sauce

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine sauces over medium heat in a large deep skillet and cook until bubbly.

2. Add meatballs in a single layer and stir to coat completely. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook until meatballs are heated through; about 15 minutes for frozen.

3. Remove cover and continue to cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce is reduced and completely coating the meatballs.

4. Serve on their own as an appetizer, or as a main dish over rice.

>> SLOW-COOKER TIP For slow cooker method, place meatballs in the slow cooker and pour sauces over.

Stir ingredients together and cook on low for a few hours or until ready to serve. Stir again just before serving.

Recipe from www.yellowblissroad.com

Baked Pumpkin French Toast Casserole INGREDIENTS Yields 6-10 servings FRENCH TOAST: • 5 large eggs • 1 cup milk, preferably whole or 2% • 1/2 cup half and half • 1/2 cup light brown sugar • 1 cup pumpkin puree • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • One 15 ounce loaf French bread cut into cubes

• • • • • • •

TOPPING: 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed 2/3 cup all purpose flour 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice pinch salt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Maple syrup to serve Optional garnishes: whipped cream, chopped nuts

INSTRUCTIONS 1. PREP FRENCH TOAST (allow at least 1 hour to soak): In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, half and half, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, pie spice, and vanilla. Grease a 2½ or 3 quart casserole dish and place the bread cubes inside. Pour the custard (egg mixture) evenly over the bread. Lightly stir the bread around in the custard allowing all of the bread to get coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1-3 hours. Meanwhile, prepare the topping.

2. PREP TOPPING: Combine brown sugar, flour, pie spice, and salt. Add butter, and, using a spoon or your fingers, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the butter is evenly distributed and the mixture resembles wet, clumpy sand. Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake the French toast 3. BAKING: Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove the French toast from the refrigerator (the bread will have absorbed most of the custard). Crumble the topping over the top of the French toast. Bake for 40-55 minutes, until puffed, golden brown, and set (check that the center is not too wet). Baking time will depend on how deep your casserole dish is and whether you prefer your French toast more well done. Serve immediately with syrup, whipped cream and/or chopped nuts. Leftovers can be refrigerated.

Recipe from www.celebratingsweets.com

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pecan Pudding Cake

Baked Brie with Roasted Fig & Walnut Honey Topping

INGREDIENTS Yields 6 servings • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour (white whole wheat flour works too) • 1 cup packed brown sugar • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup milk (can use almond milk for dairy-free)

INGREDIENTS Yields 6-10 appetizer servings • 1 round of brie cheese • 5 figs, halved • 2 tablespoons of olive • ½ cup of walnuts, roughly chopped • 1/3 cup of raw honey • 1/8 teaspoon of ground nutmeg • toasted baguette slices

• • •

• •

2/3 cup canned pure pumpkin or pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 1/4 cup butter, melted 25 whole pecans (feel free to add chopped pecans and stir into the batter instead) TOPPING: 1 1/3 cups very hot or boiling water 3/4 cup packed brown sugar

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar (to remove any lumps), baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon and salt. Whisk until combined. Add milk, pumpkin and melted butter and using a wooden spoon, mix until just combined. Spread batter into the bottom of the slow cooker (a 4 or 5 quart work best) Top with pecans, pressing firmly into the batter.

2. Add brown sugar and water into a small sauce pan. Heat over medium heat until simmering and sugar dissolves. Carefully pour into slow cooker over the batter (The nuts may float around but this is okay).

3. Place two paper towels or a large cheesecloth over the top of the slow cooker (this prevents any steam from dripping on the cake) then carefully place lid on top and cook on high for 1 - 2 1/4 hours (depending on how hot your slow cooker runs), or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.(check on cake at 1 hour then every 30 minutes after).

4. Serve warm, spooning sauce from bottom of pan over cake and with a scoop of ice cream, if desired.

Recipe from www.lifemadesweeter.com

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INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350.

2. Place figs on baking sheet and top each with a drip of honey. Bake for 15 minutes and remove from oven.

3. Preheat oven to 375.

4. Place brie cheese on baking sheet with parchment paper, bake for 12-17 minutes, until cheese starts to ooze out.

5. In the meantime, heat a small saucepan to medium-high heat. Add walnuts, honey, and nutmeg. Heat until honey is more liquid-like. Remove pan from the heat.

6. Remove cheese from oven, place on a serving dish top with roasted figs and honey walnut topping. Serve with toasted baguettes. >> ALTERNATIVE TIP Try experimenting with other kinds of fruit. Instead of figs and honey, top your Brie cheese with pineapple preserves, sweet pepper jelly, or peach jelly. You can also add the appropriate fruit toppings to go with it!

Recipe from www.joyfulhealthyeats.com

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REMOVED. T H E C R I T I C A L N E E D F O R F O S T E R PA R E N T S I N B AY CO U N T Y

BY KASEY KILLEBREW

T

ake a moment to imagine yourself at an early age of six years old— You wake up in the middle of the night and a stranger

is taking you away from the place you call home. You are clutching to the few things you can carry. You leave your belongings, your bed, and your family behind. Your siblings may go too, but not always together. You don't understand why. How could you? In that moment, you just know that you are being taken away from all you have ever known.

Some children will wake up this Christmas morning to presents underneath their tree. There are many, however, who will wake up to the situation described above, being removed from their homes because they are no longer safe. In many cases, harm has already been done.

While so many people in today’s world are focusing on compelling issues such as the economy, healthcare, and gun control, children are facing this urgent matter equally as critical. These children’s lives are being

YOU ARE CLUTCHING TO THE FEW THINGS YOU CAN CARRY. YOU LEAVE YOUR BELONGINGS, YOUR BED, AND YOUR

turned upside down every day, and many

FAMILY BEHIND. YOUR SIBLINGS MAY GO TOO, BUT NOT

people are not even aware it is happening

ALWAYS TOGETHER. YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY. HOW

right here in Bay County.

The devastating fact is that Bay County

COULD YOU? IN THAT MOMENT, YOU JUST KNOW THAT YOU ARE BEING TAKEN AWAY FROM ALL YOU HAVE EVER KNOWN.

has one of the highest child removal WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

47

FEATURE | REMOVED: THE CRITICAL NEED FOR FOSTER PARENTS IN BAY COUNTY

rates in the state of Florida (per capita). With a large transient population, there is a plethora of families without roots, support, and stability, making for a home environment where domestic violence, substance abuse, and

WHEN THERE IS NOT AN AVAILABLE HOME WITHIN THE

unstable mental health are prevalent.

COMMUNITY, THEY ARE SENT

Sometimes, the “fortunate” case is that these displaced children can go to

WHEREVER THERE IS AN OPEN

live with relatives or non-relatives who they know; however, those who do not have that option are put in foster care or in a group home.

HOME ANYWHERE IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA. SOMETIMES, THAT

Currently, in Bay, Gulf, Jackson, Calhoun, Holmes, and Washington counties, there are 332 children who have been removed from their homes and placed in out-of-home care. With only 61 current licensed foster homes in these six counties, there are not nearly enough foster homes to take care of these children. When there is not an available home within the community, they are sent wherever there is an open home anywhere in the state of Florida. Sometimes, that means brothers and sisters have to be placed in separate homes or even separate cities located hours away from each other.

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

MEANS BROTHERS AND SISTERS HAVE TO BE PLACED IN SEPARATE HOMES OR EVEN SEPARATE CITIES LOCATED HOURS AWAY FROM EACH OTHER.

T

hese children are being transitioned from not only their homes, but also their communities, neighborhoods, teachers, friends, and all that is familiar to them, adding

to the difficulty of an already traumatic situation.

When children are placed in a home outside of their community, they are often required to switch schools. It is estimated that every new move puts a child behind academically three to six months, contributing to the statistic that the graduation rate for foster children in the state of Florida is only 50 percent.

While this is all unsettling to hear, it is the heartbreaking reality.

Children who enter foster care have suffered traumatic events that no child should ever have to face.

Now, more than ever, the need for quality foster homes in Bay County is critical.

Life Management Center of Northwest Florida is an organization that recruits homes for these children, and trains and supports

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WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

49

FEATURE | REMOVED: THE CRITICAL NEED FOR FOSTER PARENTS IN BAY COUNTY

"SOMETIMES PEOPLE DON'T REALLY UNDERSTAND WHY I CHOOSE TO BE A FOSTER PARENT, AND MANY PEOPLE ASK ME WHY I WOULD SET MYSELF UP FOR HEARTBREAK,” A BAY COUNTY FOSTER PARENT STATED. “WE DON'T DO IT BECAUSE WE AREN'T AFRAID OF HEARTBREAK. WE DO IT BECAUSE WE ARE AFRAID OF WHAT WOULD HAPPEN TO THEM WITHOUT US," THEY ADDED.

aren't afraid of heartbreak. We do it because we are afraid of what would happen to them without us,” they added.

Foster parents can come in all shapes and sizes—those married, single, or in a domestic partnership—as long as they can provide safe and loving homes. "I did not care if the person was black, white, male, or female—” said a former Bay County foster child—“I just wanted someone the foster parents. Understanding that keeping children in their communities and

to take me in and give me a loving home.”

schools gives children a better chance for success in the future, Life Management believes in Community Based Care and makes every effort to keep children as close to home as possible and siblings together.

Interested in becoming a licensed foster parent?

Life Management knows the tremendous impact foster parents can have on the lives of many children. "What sets foster parents apart is their amazing ability to love these children like one of their own, regardless of whether the child lives with them for a month or more than a year,” Recruitment & Retention Specialist Kasey Killebrew of Life Management said.

According to many foster parents, the opportunity to help these children heal and trust again is one of life's best rewards. "Sometimes people don't really understand why I choose to be a foster parent, and many people ask me why I would set myself up for heartbreak,” a Bay County foster parent stated. “We don't do it because we

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The Quality Parenting Training (QPT) is an eightweek course at Life Management that is offered at no charge to those interested in becoming licensed foster parents. For more information about fostering, please contact Recruitment and Retention Specialist Kasey Killebrew at 850-5224485 ext. 8404 or kkillebrew@lmccares.org. You can also visit the Life Management website at lmccares.org, or the Facebook page at "Foster & Adopt on the Gulf Coast."

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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We hope you have a happy holiday season!

But, if you happen to have an emergency, we are here 24/7.

Text ER to 32222 for ER wait times.

(850) 769-8341 www.gcmc-pc.com WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

53

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

holiday gift guide WITH THE HOLIDAYS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, NOW IS THE TIME TO START PURCHASING GIFTS FOR YOUR LOVED ONES. WE UNDERSTAND FINDING THE PERFECT GIFT CAN BE TOUGH, SO WE'VE PUT TOGETHER A COLLECTION OF SOME TRENDING ITEMS THAT WILL HELP MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING A BREEZE!

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

SPARQ HOME CEDAR CONDIMENT TRIO WITH SOAPSTONE BOWLS (SET OF 3) $44 target.com

SWISSMAR LAUSANNE 11-PIECE COPPER FONDUE SET $120 crateandbarrel.com

STYLE SETTER ARTESIA GLASS BEVERAGE DISPENSER WITH STAND $30 target.com ARTLAND OASIS GALVANIZED BEVERAGE PAIL $15 target.com

er n i a t er t n E

FOR

THE

THRESHOLD WOOD & BRASS FINISH BAR CART $84 target.com

GARDEN LIGHTS SAVANNAH FIRE PIT $125 wayfair.com

CAMBRIDGE MOSCOW MULE MUG 20 OZ COPPER, SET OF 4 $36 target.com

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TABLE TOPICS CONVERSATION GAME $25 uncommongoods.com

FIRE TV STICK WITH ALEXA VOICE REMOTE STREAMING MEDIA PLAYER $40 amazon.com

AROMATHERAPY RELAX LAVENDER & VANILLA CANDLE $25 bathandbodyworks.com THE YEAR OF COZY $15 amazon.com

FOR

AROMATHERAPY BATH FIZZY $7 bathandbodyworks.com

THE

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y d o b ome

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PRISTINE BAMBOO LUXURY BATHTUB CADDY $40 amazon.com

MEN'S HANDSEWN SLIPPERS, FLANNEL-LINED $50 llbean.com

XHILARATION POPCORN KNIT THROW BLANKET $20 target.com

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE BARBELL CUFFLINKS $45 uncommongoods.com

CHESTNUT LEATHER IPHONE CASE $35+ etsy.com

BASEBALL DARTBOARD $120 uncommongoods.com

BIOLITE PORTABLE CAMP GRILL & CHARGER BUNDLE $150 sierratradingpost.com

THE

n a M FOR

of the

e s u Ho

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GOLFERS BBQ SET $26 uncommongoods.com

BOTTLELOFT $38 uncommongoods.com

SINGULIER WOOD PHONE DOCKING STATION & ORGANIZER $52 etsy.com HANDCRAFTED WOODEN DICE SET $15 uncommongoods.com 58

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

BELLEMAIN 4 OZ. PORCELAIN RAMEKINS, SET OF 6 $15 amazon.com

THE INSPIRALIZER $35 inspiralized.com

FOODIE DICE NO. 1 SEASONAL DINNERS $38 amazon.com LSA INTERNATIONAL IVALO DOME & ASH BASE $60 amazon.com

WALNUT COOKBOOK HOLDER $50 williams-sonoma.com

f e h C p o T FOR

THE

FRENCH KITCHEN MARBLE PASTRY SLAB $50 crateandbarrel.com

TRISHA YEARWOOD ROYAL PRECIOUS METALS 10 PIECE COOKWARE SET, COPPER $150 amazon.com

LODGE 12" CAST IRON SKILLET W/ SILICONE HOLDER $37 amazon.com

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CUISINE PREFERE STAINLESS STEEL BAR TOOL SET $30 amazon.com

CORKCICLE CIGAR GLASS $20 wineenthusiast.com

BEER TASTING FLIGHT $59 uncommongoods.com

THE NEW COCKTAIL HOUR: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO HAND-CRAFTED DRINKS $15 amazon.com

er v o L s t i r i p S FOR

THE

HORD PERSONALIZED 3 OZ. LEATHER FLASK $50 etsy.com

BREVILLE|POLYSCIENCE COCKTAIL SMOKING GUN PRO $148 amazon.com

WINE SOCKS $17 sugarandcotton.com

SAGAFORM HAND-BLOWN GLASS WINE DECANTER WITH STOPPER $30 bedbathandbeyond.com

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

KNOCKOUT BY VICTORIA SPORT TIGHT $67 victoriassecret.com

BLENDER BOTTLE 26 OZ. ODOR RESISTANT STAINLESS STEEL, COPPER $28 vitaminshoppe.com

FITBIT ALTA HR AND FITNESS WRISTBAND $150 dickssportinggoods.com

h t l a e H s t as i s u h t En FOR

RAW ORGANIC SUPERGREENS & PROTEIN POWDER $15 vitaminshoppe.com

THE

REP FITNESS 35 LB. KETTLEBELL $68 amazon.com

SONY EXTRA BASS SPORTS WIRELESS HEADPHONES $80 bestbuy.com

LULULEMON REVERSIBLE YOGA MAT $68 shop.lululemon.com BREVILLE COMPACT JUICE EXTRACTOR $100 amazon.com

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FEATURE | HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE NEARLY NATURAL MAGNOLIA LEAF WREATH $41 wayfair.com

PROJECT 62 FRAMED WATERCOLOR SET $65 target.com

10-PIECE VALERIE CANDLEHOLDER & TRAY SET $37 jossandmain.com

or i er t In or t a or c e D FOR

SALLIE BASKET $45 jossandmain.com

THE

CERAMIC PADDYWAX CANDLE WITH COPPER LID $30 amazon.com

HEARTH & HAND GREEN GLASS JUG VASE $30 target.com

HERRICK 2-PIECE ORB SCULPTURE SET $25 jossandmain.com

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TURKISH STYLE PESHTEMAL BATH TOWEL $24 allmodern.com

FAUX FIDDLE LEAF FIG TREE IN POT $104 jossandmain.com

BANDO WORK IT OUT GYM BAG $35 amazon.com

GAME OF PHONES $20 uncommongoods.com

FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI INSTANT FILM CAMERA $64 amazon.com

SPRUCE & CO IPHONE 7 SELFIE LED LIGHT CASE $15 amazon.com

s er g a n ee

FOR

THE

T

BOSE SOUNDLINK MICRO BLUETOOTH SPEAKER $109 dickssportinggoods.com

2ND GENERATION AMAZON ECHO $99 amazon.com

SWIMLINE GIANT PRETZEL FLOAT $13 amazon.com

BLUELOUNGE CABLEYOYO $9 amazon.com

COSHINE ROSE GOLD MERMAID MAKEUP BRUSH SET $13 amazon.com

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ASK THE DOCTOR SKIN CARE TIPS FOR AGING SKIN

By Jessica Clark, MD, FAAD

A

s we get older, our skin changes and so do our skin care needs. How well you took care of your skin during your younger years also plays a role in the health of your skin now. The good news is that, even if you never took care of your skin before, you can make changes now to see visible improvements.

Good hygiene is important for everyone, but, depending on your skin type, you may need to cleanse your skin more or less often. Most people need to wash their face and body at least once per day with soap and water. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it is very important to use a gentle, moisturizing, fragrance-free cleanser, followed by an emollient applied to the skin once out of the shower to help retain moisture. Harsh antibacterial soaps or deodorant soaps with strong fragrance can be very drying and irritating. In general, creams that are in a jar are more moisturizing that those in a pump and are a good bet if you are very dry. At times, a very greasy emollient such as Vaseline can even be used for an overnight treatment for very dry, itchy skin, or for those with a history of atopic dermatitis or eczema.

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Use of daily sunscreen is recommended for the face and any exposed body parts. It may be excessive to apply high SPF sunscreen to your entire body daily when you are mostly indoors; however, an over-the-counter facial moisturizer with SPF 30 applied to the face, neck, chest, and arms is a relatively simple step with significant benefits to add to your morning routine. UV rays from the sun are the most important risk factor that you can control that contribute to increased risk of melanoma and melanoma skin cancer.

UV radiation is also the main cause of skin aging. Chronic UV exposure increases the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, texture changes, laxity, and sagging of our skin as we get older. If you are concerned about chemical sunscreens or have sensitive skin, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are good ingredients to look for. They are also the best tolerated sun blocks for sensitive skin or by those prone to breakouts.

Finally, there are numerous over-the-counter and prescription products that are actually effective to address some common signs of aging. Retinol is a topical Vitamin A derivative that is the gold standard for reversing

photodamage of the skin. Consistent, longterm use will decrease overall sun damage, including the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. It also helps with the overall tone and elasticity of skin. Retinols are available over the counter in lower strength than prescription products and can be a great place to start if you have never used one before. Prescription products are stronger and produce more results, but often need to be used with a moisturizer to prevent irritation.

For more tips and information on skin care, schedule an appointment with your local board-certified dermatologist.

The highly trained staff at Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology is committed to providing the most comprehensive dermatological care to patients of all ages, focusing on your individual concerns and needs. Give their Panama City Beach office a call today at (850) 500-3376, or visit their website at coastalskinsurgery.com.

All Ask the Doctor articles are provided by the Emerald Coast Medical Association.

ABOUT JESSICA L. CLARK, M.D., FAAD Dr. Clark is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology and specializes in general adult, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology at Coastal Skin Surgery & Dermatology. Dr. Clark graduated Summa Cum Laude from The University of Texas at San Antonio with a Bachelor of Science degree in Community Health.

She received her medical degree with honors from Texas A&M in 2008. Dr. Clark continued her passion with two years of research in clinical dermatology in Texas and Louisiana, and then completed a dermatology residency at Tulane.

She served as the Chief Cosmetic Dermatology Resident and then went on to join the Tulane Dermatology Faculty. She has been an academic dermatologist with Tulane for the last two years, supervising residents and students while also having a full-time clinic. During her tenure at Tulane, she started a pediatric dermatology clinic at the Children’s Hospital in New Orleans, where she was able to help underserved children in the community. She has been a subinvestigator on several clinical research trials and is up to date on new and emerging therapies for psoriasis and other chronic conditions.

Dr. Clark is committed to bringing excellent dermatology care to the Panama City Beach, Florida, area. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and any outdoor activity.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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SEE SEEN & be

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS THE POINTE ON 30A | SEPTEMBER 21

1

2

4

5

DUAL BUSINESS AFTER HOURS WITH WALTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

3

6

For all event photos, visit our Facebook: www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber

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8TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC HOMBRE GOLF CLUB | SEPTEMBER 29

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4

2

5

1. Zac Ferrell, Griff Griffitts, Ricky Shores, Matt Griffitts 2. Talena Grawburg, Lisa Kern 3. Si Clemo, Matt Sowell, John Johnson, Mike Vogler 4. Presenting Sponsor Community Bank 5. Winning Team from Grand Slam Sports Tournaments 6. Tanner Jenkins, Robbie Willis, Katelyn French, Jamie Nelson

3

6

For all event photos, visit our Facebook: www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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SEE SEEN & be

FRIDAY AT THE BEACH

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTER | OCTOBER 13

1

2

4

5

1. Jill Barnett, Emma Koen 2. Shannon Tucker, Sonia Guzman 3. Bryan Taylor, David Powell 4. Maria Lofton, Jennifer Gray 5. Shay Catrett, Victoria Williams 6. Nanisa Head, Ken McVay

3

6

For all event photos, visit our Facebook: www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

CAPT. ANDERSON'S RESTAURANT | OCTOBER 19

1

4

2

5

1. Jacob Tate, Barry Tate, Paula Fredrick, Starla Collins 2. Carrie Routt, Layne Glendinning 3. Patrice Lovett Griffitts, Tim Thompson, Hope Abbott 4. Matt Davis, Mariah Rinehart 5. Kristopher McLane, Sponsor Larry Thompson, Yonnie Patronis 6. Garrett Wright, Jason Crowe

3

6

For all event photos, visit our Facebook: www.facebook.com/pcbeachchamber

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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COMMITTEE UPDATES | HYPE

HYPE

HELPING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

EVOLVE

BY KRISTOPHER MCLANE

I

n August, HYPE was invited out to SweetBay in Panama City for lunch and a tour of the growing community. Holly Pituch and Jacob

Fish from SweetBay talked about the future plans for development,

DECEMBER 2 MARATHON HALF-MARATHON 5K & KID’S FUN RUN

neighborhood events, and University Academy. After lunch, we were all invited to tour the beautiful model homes on property. Thank you to SweetBay for hosting us and for having such generous hospitality!

In September, HYPE hosted a breakfast social at Tides at Sheraton Bay Point. This was a great opportunity to network over a delicious breakfast buffet overlooking the Bay and Alligator Point. This was the first breakfast we’ve held in over two years, and we had a great turnout! Due to the popularity, we look forward to having another breakfast social in early 2018. Thank you to General Manager Jean

VISIT PCBMARATHON.COM FOR DETAILS

BOSTON QUALIFIER

AFTER PARTY FREE BEER+GUMBO WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

LIVE TRACKING THANK PRESENTED YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! BY

Capps at Sheraton Bay Point for hosting us at your AAA Four Diamond rated hotel property.

With the weather finally starting to cool down, HYPE decided it was time to have a beach bonfire—our first-ever bonfire event for HYPE. Our beach bonfire social was held behind Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort. As the weather cooled and the bonfire was lit for sunset, this event was a hit from beginning to end. Thank you to Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort and Domino’s pizza for making this event great!

It’s hard to believe 2017 is coming to an end, but we are closing out the year with some exciting events! On November 15, HYPE will tour Haney Technical Center. In December, there will be a volunteer gift -wrapping event at Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center. Remember, it’s never too late to join HYPE and get involved!

About HYPE: We encourage young professionals between the ages of 21 - 40 to get involved in the committee. HYPE hosts monthly events, such as Socials, Professional Development Luncheons, Business Tours, Fundraisers, and more! This committee is open to both Beach Chamber members and non-Beach Chamber members. If you are interested in joining HYPE or would like more information, please email Chamber@PCBeach. org or call (850) 235-1159. Don’t forget to visit PCBHYPE.com for additional information.

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COMMITTEE UPDATES | IDEACAMP

IDEACAMP INSPIRE. ENERGIZE . IGNITE

BY KATELYN FRENCH

W

hat better way to use this final IdeaCamp update than by dedicating it to the ones who make it possible—my incredible committee.

Every year, IdeaCamp has a committee of Chamber members who volunteer their time and energy for the good of IdeaCamp. And, every year, I am completely astonished by the fact that these committee members go above and beyond for something that is not even their paying jobs. Reflecting on this year, I can’t help but feel blessed for having this committee that has helped make my job easier and has served as a source of amazing friends for years to come. Our 2017 IdeaCamp Committee is made up of the following rock stars: Talena Grawburg with ServPro of Bay County, Mike Calidonna with Edward Jones, James Buell with The Print Shop, Maria Wilson with People’s First Insurance, and Marta Rose-Thorpe with Marta Rose Productions.

At the time I am writing this, there have been 9 IdeaCamps, and we are currently looking forward to two more.

At our September IdeaCamp at Dave & Buster’s, guest speakers Brian Hilario and Erica Averion talked about what it takes to live life on your own terms, how to create opportunities for yourself, and how to be your greatest resource, with the event’s topic, “Create Your Opportunities.”

Our October IdeaCamp will be held at Flip Flops Pool Bar in Sheraton Bay Point, and guest speakers B Cody Shields and Olivia Crosby will talk about finding what works best for you, and making things happen in both your personal and professional world, with the topic “Move the Dirt.”

Of course, our September and October IdeaCamps would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors. We want to thank our presenting sponsor Southwest Airlines, and our additional supporting sponsors Beachy Beach Real Estate, Panama City Toyota, ServPro of Bay County, and Grand Slam Sports Tournaments. We would also like to thank our friends at Dave & Buster’s and Sheraton Bay Point for welcoming our IdeaCamp family and providing us with great venues. If you have not yet been to these locations, please show some support!

Our IdeaCamp Committee looks forward to closing out this amazing year and bringing you even better events in the year 2018. See you next year!

What Is IdeaCamp?

IdeaCamp is a forum to inspire, energize, and ignite the community through sharing, connecting, and cultivating of open-minded discussions supporting the free flow of ideas. IdeaCamp creates an experience to learn, engage, and expand your life and your business.

CAPTION (top): Laurie Olshefski and Dr. Anaya Palay at the "Create Your Opportunity" IdeaCamp.

CAPTION (bottom): Zack Sanchez and Ashlee Phillips Shields at the "Move the Dirt" IdeaCamp.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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Make your list, CHECK IT TWICE.

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escape.iflybeaches.com

COMMITTEE UPDATES | AMBASSADORS

AMBASSADORS REPRESENT YOUR CHAMBER

BY JEREMY HINTON

W

e all wear many hats and have many different roles that come with those hats. One of my favorite roles is “Dad.” I get to hear that

name every day from my 9 and 12 year old daughters. With daughters at these ages, the term “euphoric” is a gross understatement of the true level of anticipation in our home for the approaching holidays. As I stop to think about the upcoming holiday season, I find myself doing a lot of anticipation and reflection. I anticipate time with family and friends, decorating (and redecorating) our home, preparing and sharing special meals, celebrating traditions (both old and new), giving gifts, traveling, planning for next year, celebrating new arrivals, and giving back.

As I reflect on past holidays, the important things bubble to the top— family, friends, new arrivals, people we have lost, traditions, a thankful heart, and celebrating the greatest gift of all. When I think about what is really important, the answer boils down to one thing—relationships.

Another hat I wear is the Chairman of the Beach Chamber Ambassadors. In the same way I thought about the holidays, I spent time anticipating and reflecting on this role. When I accepted this position, I anticipated all the things I did not know. That turned out to be for naught because this is an amazing group of business professionals who enjoy what they do. As I reflect on my time working with this group, these people have become more important to me because of the relationships we have formed within the group, and among the business community. I now find myself anticipating what we will accomplish next year. And that is euphoric!

Want to join a group that builds relationships in the community? Join us. Help the Ambassadors support and encourage our business community. For more information on our committee, visit pcbeach.org/ambassadors-committee or call the Chamber at (850) 235-1159.

CAPTION (Top): Ambassador Phyllis Smith making her first Member Appreciation Networking visit to Dr. Alan Woolery's office, earning 50 Ambassador points.

CAPTION (Bottom): Ambassador Jennifer Haynes dropping off a New Member Packet to one of our newest Chamber Members and Ambassadors G.L. Hall with Broward Hall Agency.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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AROUND TOWN | COMMUNITY. EDUCATION. WORKFORCE. GOVERNMENT.

CAREERSOURCE KIM BODINE GULF COAST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR As our traditional “season” comes to

up your interviewing skills through the CareerSource Gulf Coast free

an end, so do many of our tourism

resume writing class.

jobs. This is a problem that can be turned into an advantage for both

Market your transferable skills. Even if you may not have retail

job seekers and employers. The

experience, you can market the skills you do have to fit the demands of

necessity of holiday hiring can be

the holiday job. For example, if you have worked as a hotel intake clerk,

used by employers as a recruiting

the customer service skills you gained will easily transfer to customer

tool for new full-time employees,

service skills as a cashier in a retail store.

even as tourism workers can parlay their skills into full-time positions, or, simply pick up some extra cash

Be positive. Job seekers who come to an interview with an optimistic

for the holidays. The average American family spends nearly $1,000

attitude towards the seasonal opportunity are more likely to be hired

on Christmas gifts, with 34% of parents saying that they spend at

than those who are pessimistic about being laid off from a tourism job.

least $500 per child. Add that to an average credit card debt of $8,377

Never talk negatively about a previous employer, no matter what the

per family and a side job during Christmas becomes very appealing.

circumstances were for your job ending.

Seasonal jobs can be full-time or part-time, lasting for a few weeks or months, and potentially even leading to a full-time permanent position.

Stay open-minded. Seasonal jobs are a great chance to try something

Seasonal jobs offer great opportunities for job seekers of all types.

new and meet new people, thus expanding your networking sphere.

You never know when and where you may meet your next employer.

"Retailers will need extra salespeople and cashiers, and they'll also need people to work in their warehouses, shipping departments, and

Don't get discouraged. There's a lot of competition for seasonal jobs,

in customer service. Those with full-time employment interested in

but there are also a lot of jobs available this time of year. Keep your

seasonal work bring valuable qualities to retailers,” said Kim Bodine,

eyes out on online job boards as well as in-store signage in the places

Executive Director of CareerSource Gulf Coast.

you normally shop.

Employers looking to hire seasonal help should know that the market

Remember the perks of retail. Working retail not only helps fill the gap

is tighter now than in years past, and offering the standard employee

in income, but also helps you save money on your holiday shopping.

discount to these temporary workers is one way to put their business

Typically, employees receive a discount on their own purchases, helping

at a competitive advantage in recruiting seasonal employees. Promote

you stretch your holiday budget and reduce the risk of taking on more

your employee perks as well as the opportunity to have extra money for

debt.

holiday shopping in your employment advertising. In the current labor market, hiring managers should look at each— seasonal employee for

CareerSource Gulf Coast is one of 24 regional boards in the state

potential as a full time, and permanent employee after the holidays are

working toward a single goal— developing employment matches for

over. Businesses will have a chance to assess the worker to measure

job seekers and employers. Because we are involved with the local

their “fit” into its corporate culture, their flexibility, problem-solving

business community, we know many of the challenges facing area

skills, and ability to perform in a teamwork setting. Think of it as trial

businesses. We know, too, that talented people are the heart of your

employment, and, at the end of the season, consider making offers to

business. All things considered, we can save you time and money, while

the stars of your holiday staff.

providing you the best employment candidates for your team. That's what we bring to the table in Bay, Gulf, and Franklin Counties.

For those seeking seasonal employment following these simple tips will help in landing a position:

Stop in, call us, or visit our website. Search CareerSource Gulf Coast on Facebook. No matter how you choose to connect, we'll be here to

Be flexible. Many seasonal jobs require evening and weekend

serve you.

hours. Be willing to work within the demands of the holiday jobs.

The CareerSource Gulf Coast Job Center in Panama City is open 8am Be proactive. Employers are hiring fall and holiday workers now, so get

– 5pm, Monday through Friday, and you can reach us via email at

started on your seasonal job search by going to EmployFlorida.com.

customerservice@careersourcegc.com or by phone at

Use keyword job searches such as “holiday” or “seasonal.”

850-872-4340, ext. 100.

Take it seriously. Even though it is a seasonal job, come to an interview dressed for success. It is a good idea to revise your resume and brush 74

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

BAY BILL HUSFELT DISTRICT SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT The majority of our instructional time is obviously spent on statemandated, standards-based lessons, and we pride ourselves on making sure our students receive the most rigorous education possible. Student achievement, after all, is the name of our game.

Almost all of our schools offer opportunities for parents to join their students for lunch during the holidays, and some even offer parentchild crafting activities. Students at CC Washington Middle School craft with their parents and make Christmas ornaments together. Students at Deer Point Elementary School, in grades kindergarten through second, spend their time creating crafts that are sold at a gigantic school-wide Christmas fair. Funds raised from this event are donated to local charities and are also used to help purchase classroom supplies.

However, throughout the year, we also try to teach good citizenship, responsibility, and other “life skills” because those are just as important as the academic skills students need to become lifelong learners.

As you can see, our students are as busy as Santa’s elves during the holidays and learn to balance academics with their responsibilities to their community.

Nowhere is this more evident than during the holidays when our education family kicks into high gear to make sure our students learn that it’s truly more important to give than to receive. While many of our students are on the receiving end of support from endless charitable organizations in our community, our schools make sure that all students learn the value of making a difference in the lives of others.

There’s a long list of “good works” going on at our schools during the holidays, and the projects are as unique as the schools and faculty members who support them. Tyndall Elementary School, for example, participates in “Operation Christmas” each year and collects items to send to deployed family members. They also support “Operation Cookie Caper” for airmen who can’t return home for the holidays.

While we’re not sure of the final financial impact of all of these projects, we know for sure that students learn a great deal from their participation and that these various efforts have a HUGE impact on the hearts of our community members.

Merry Christmas to all of you. May this be a holiday season filled with family, food, festivity, and fun. I hope you will encourage our students in their efforts to give back if you have the opportunity and I thank you for your continued support of our teachers, our students, and our schools.

Students and faculty members at J.R. Arnold High School collaborated last year to raise more than $2,500 for “Project Spread the Joy," in which funds were used for the school's culinary academy students to prepare holiday meals for 15 needy families, and each child received gifts valued at $100 or more. Additional family-sized food baskets were also sent home.

Merritt Brown Middle School (MBMS) students make sure our veterans are not overlooked at the holidays. They ask veterans at a local nursing home to write “wish lists,” and then students raise the funds and use their own money to purchase those items. Gifts are wrapped and delivered to the nursing home, and Principal Charlotte Marshall said her school family gets “great joy watching the gifts under our school tree grow knowing they will go to such deserving men and women who served our country.” This year the MBMS students will be joined in their efforts by the students at Waller Elementary School.

Many of our school choirs and bands share their musical talents during the holidays to spread Christmas cheer. Students from Patronis, Lynn Haven, Waller, Cherry Street, and Southport elementary schools are just a few who make sure their choirs perform holiday tunes at local nursing homes. High school choirs and bands often join them and, of course, you can always find our students performing at the annual Christmas Parade.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

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AROUND TOWN | COMMUNITY. EDUCATION. WORKFORCE. GOVERNMENT.

VISIT PANAMA DAN ROWE CITY BEACH PRESIDENT & CEO As we enter into the holiday season,

weekend, as well as our Beach Ball Drop in Pier Park and winter resident

we are provided with the gift of

events as we enter into the New Year.

reflection,

renewal,

and

time—

reflection of our past experiences,

Start off the holiday season with our Beach Home for the Holidays,

and renewal for a fresh, new year.

located at Aaron Bessant Park. The event will have live entertainment

But, most importantly, we are given

and outdoor activities, including s’mores, Santa’s Village, and a

quality time to spend with loved

Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Various musical artists will perform

ones.

for this event, including our headliner for the weekend, Restless Heart.

This event will be sure to get you and your family into the holiday spirit,

Throughout the years, Panama City Beach has grown into a premier

while you enjoy the sights and sounds of Panama City Beach.

year-round destination, making it perfect for families to create new and exciting holiday traditions. Thanks to the many visitors we had

To top off this successful year on the beach, what better way than

throughout 2017, our collections have been up for a solid year, coming

to celebrate at the New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop? Located at Pier

in at a double-digit growth. These record-breaking numbers are due

Park, visitors and residents are welcome to enjoy live entertainment

to many loyal visitors and their families, as well as the entertainment

and good cheer. Complete with a ball drop of over 10,000 beach balls,

opportunities we are able to provide.

fireworks, and live music, this event will ring in the New Year right!

Following a strong summer, Visit Panama City Beach has prepared many

Visit Panama City Beach has much to be thankful for this holiday season

fun-filled events for our visitors to experience during their stay this

and we look forward to new horizons in the upcoming year.

winter, including our Beach Home for the Holidays over Thanksgiving

FLORIDA JULIE GORDON FILM OFFICE, INC. FILM COMMISSIONER ‘Tis

in

new to showcase. Keep in mind that there are shows filmed up to five

Bay County! Have you ever been

the

Season

years ago that are still airing. This is such a huge gift and we appreciate

watching

all the airtime on this family-friendly network. Keep ‘em coming, HGTV!

a

for

television

filming show

or

commercial and spotted something totally out of place? For instance—

TLC’s Behind Closed Doors: The American Family has aired its initial six

you are in the middle of a binge-a-

episodes with Tam Taylor and Paul Davis being front and center. This

thon of your favorite summer series

often risqué household leaves nothing to the imagination other than,

and spot holiday decorations in the

“Will Paul stop texting?" Where this show may leave them is anybody’s

background?

guess, but the production company is fascinated with the local talent,

While it sounds so

obvious, these are things producers, set stylists, and location scouts/

so fingers crossed for an upgrade for the local celebrities.

managers all have to keep in mind year round. It is generally the goal to shoot what is called “Evergreen,” meaning there is no distinctive

The Creative Con in Panama City screened multiple films produced

direction of a season, so the production can air at any given time and

by local filmmakers. Thank you to Wes Rolan and Graceleigh Wright,

be appropriate. Local businesses have been so understanding and have

just to name two of the artists. This event was also an effective way

taken Christmas lights, fake snow, and even winter-wear off the racks

for filmmakers to mingle with like-minded people and strike up

when asked to, so please keep this in mind this season as the summer

relationships with future movie makers. Thanks to Jason Kretzer for a

shows are already upon us.

truly unique and fascinating event.

Home and Garden Television Show (HGTV) is coming back to film more

As always, please contact the Film Office if you are approached about

residences being purchased in paradise. A new show to the network

filming in your home or business. Let’s make sure the production

is also in progress with auditions to the Real Estate market narrowing

company is legit, has insurance, and knows the rules and regulations of

their search. If you are an HGTV fan, please go to the network’s page

working in Bay County. See you in the movies!

and set your computer for local alerts. It will ask for your zip code so that any show filmed in the area will tell you when it will air. With the

Film Commissioner, Julie Gordon

booming communities and new businesses, there is always something

850-819-4694, floridafilmoffice@knology.net

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FSU DR. RANDY HANNA PANAMA CITY DEAN This year, we have renewed a partnership

with

FSU’s

City, and this is a small way we want to give back.

Opening

Nights, a performing arts series that

Through the arts, we hope to inspire, invigorating both mind and spirit.

has been part of the Tallahassee

The events also will draw new audiences to our campus, allowing us to

community since 1921. Thanks to a

showcase the progress we have made in the past 35 years.

generous donation from the St. Joe Community Foundation, FSU Panama

Arts bring people together despite their backgrounds, walks of life, or

City will host the following two

experiences, and we hope future events will become a vital part of Bay

Opening Nights events: bluegrass

County culture that enriches lives and unites the community.

singer Sierra Hull on December 9, and jazz singer/trumpet player Bria Skonberg on February 24.

Sierra Hull has been recognized from age 11 as a virtuoso mandolinplayer, astonishing audiences and fellow musicians alike. Her latest

The series, which hosted performances in Panama City when it was

album, “Weighted Mind,” was nominated for a Grammy for Best Folk

just Seven Days of Opening Nights in the late ’90s and early 2000s,

Album, and she recently was named best mandolin player of the year

showcases dance, voice, instrumental film, poetry, and more. Since then,

by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Vocalist, trumpeter,

Opening Nights has evolved into an annual series of performances

and songwriter Bria Skonberg has been recognized as one of “25 for

from October to April.

the Future” by DownBeat magazine, and Vanity Fair cited her as a Millennial “shaking up the jazz world.” Her debut LP, BRIA, which was

Although the name has changed throughout the decades, Opening

released in 2016, won the 2017 Canadian Juno Award (Canada’s version

Nights’ mission remains the same— to engage our university, local, and

of The Grammys) for Vocal Jazz Album of the Year.

global communities in creative experiences.

General admission to each performance is $45. Tickets are available The people of Northwest Florida have done so much for FSU Panama

online at openingnights.fsu.edu.

CITY OF MIKE THOMAS PANAMA CITY BEACH MAYOR There is much to be thankful for

Park, where different church and civic groups, including the Arnold

in Panama City Beach during the

High School band, have brought the sights and sounds of the holiday

holidays, and, even in the high

season. This year, we plan to bring all of these traditions to a new

and low tides of each season, our

location in Aaron Bessant Park, along with a new 30-foot Christmas

community

to

tree. The longstanding tradition of the popular “What Christmas Means

support one other. We are blessed

to Me” essay contest will be available to all elementary school students,

that our area is built of both residents

and the winner will join me in the lighting of the tree later that evening.

and year-round visitors, allowing for

Although the location of the tree lighting has changed, the traditions

more jobs and opportunities in our

we have instilled for the past 38 years will continue to remain true to

comes

together

beach town. For many years, we have welcomed families from across

our community.

the globe to participate in our holiday traditions. It is these traditions that we as a community hold dear to our hearts and pass down to the

Panama City Beach has many things to look forward to in 2018 as we

generations to come.

continue to offer the best possible service to our residents and visitors.

Providing opportunities for local business owners will continue to

Traditions that I look forward to each year are our annual Christmas

grow Panama City Beach into one of the strongest financial climates

Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. Nothing says, “The

in Northwest Florida. As we start fresh in the upcoming year, I look

holidays have arrived!” like Pier Park packed with families watching

forward to serving you and our great city. We invite you to join us in

the floats roll in while spending time with their loved ones. In previous

all of the holiday traditions we have coming up! On behalf of our great

years, the Christmas Tree Lighting has been hosted at Frank Brown

city, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

77

AROUND TOWN | COMMUNITY. EDUCATION. WORKFORCE. GOVERNMENT.

GULF COAST DR. JOHN HOLDNAK STATE COLLEGE PRESIDENT Colleges across the country, including Gulf Coast State College, are seeing an increase on campus in the number of active duty service members, veterans and their dependents furthering their educational opportunities. In fact, that group comprises 11% of GCSC’s population, and many are combat veterans, so they come to us with the same problems of typical students but also have a unique set of challenges. It’s our mission to address these challenges and support the needs of the communities we serve.

Even though these students utilize veteran’s education benefits (which helps cover costs associated with education and training), there is a misconception that “all” educational expenses are being covered. Many factors affect the amount and timing of the resources received through military related benefits. Those who have chosen to sacrifice for their country are often left with insufficient resources to meet not only their educational expenses but many of life’s daily needs as well, even with their veteran education benefits.

With everything these students and their families have sacrificed for us, we are honored to help support them. The Gulf Coast State College Foundation has created the “Gulf Coast State College Foundation Military & Veteran Student Emergency Fund” which is the focal point

of the “Thanks a Million” campaign. Our goal is to raise at least $1 million dollars over the next two years to provide financial assistance to currently enrolled military and veteran students who may face unforeseen hardships, as well as active military whose benefits do not cover all of their educational costs. This fundraising drive continues the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to making a college education accessible to all students, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Sometimes, the only folks who really understand the world these military students are in, or where they’ve come from, are people that have been there themselves. Consequently, I am pleased to announce that we’re expanding our Military & Veterans Resource Center (MVRC).

The building that previously housed the radio station (now located in the Advanced Technology Center) is currently being remodeled into the new Military & Veterans Resource Center. The space will provide active duty members, veterans and military dependents access to available resources, including counselors and support staff who can assist with Veterans Education Benefits and other questions. The new space will be a relaxing environment with study rooms, conference rooms, a quiet lounge and an activity area to create a sense of community for our military students.

Gulf Coast State College is proud to provide our service members with the tools and resources necessary to thrive -- without the worry of financial burden -- while achieving their educational goals. It’s our way of saying “Thank you, in fact, Thanks a Million!”

BAY COUNTY BOARD OF PHILIP “GRIFF” GRIFFITTS COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 5 School’s back in and summer’s over,

to bring cameras for pictures with Santa. The ceremony will be followed

but Bay County is as busy as ever with fall/winter events.

by the Bay County Legislative Delegation meeting in the Commission Chambers from 5:30 to 7:30 PM.

On Friday, November 10, the Bay County Commission, Bay County Veterans Services, and the Bay County Veterans Council will pay tribute to the men and women who have served our great country with the annual Veterans Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony. This year, the parade will return to its original route, south along Harrison Avenue to the Panama City Marina. The parade will begin at 9:00 AM.

Keep an eye out for the 2017 Bay County Annual Report, which will be arriving by mail or available at the Commission Chamber offices as soon as they are published, which is anticipated to be in early December.

The annual Bay County Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will begin at dusk on Thursday, November 30, at the Bay County Government Center located at 840 West 11th Street in Panama City. The event will feature free hot chocolate and cookies, Christmas carolers, and an opportunity to meet Santa Claus. The public is invited to attend and is encouraged

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

Finally, the 2017 hurricane season was very active, and serves as a reminder that we should always be prepared. Bay County Emergency Services encourages residents and visitors to sign up for the county’s emergency notification system, AlertBay. This system, funded by the state of Florida, allows the county to send emergency alerts via text message, phone, email, fax and/or SMS. To sign up for AlertBay, visit alertbay.org.

To learn more about Bay County’s government, please visit baycountyfl.gov.

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WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

79

GRAND OPENINGS &RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Ambassador Committee welcomes the newest members of the Beach Chamber. If you haven’t scheduled your business' Grand Opening or Ribbon Cutting, contact your Membership Representative for more information and available dates.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1. FloridaSunandSolar by Powur, August 25 3.

Healthy Start, September 15

|

|

2. Haney Technical Licensed Practical Nursing Building, September 13

4. Los Antojitos Mexican Restaurant, September 19

|

5. Netchex, September 28

6. Reliv International, October 3 | 7. Wal-Mart #818 "Online Grocery Pick-Up," October 19 | 8. The H.O.P.E. Project, October 20

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THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR CHAMBER REP | SHANNON RICHMOND

The holidays are cheerful, but they can

Buy or bake a little extra. Do a little extra of something you were

also be a busy time of year for many,

already planning. Baking Christmas cookies? Make an extra batch for

with crowded schedules, shopping,

the local nursing home. Cooking up a big meal? Drop some off at the

and stress. But that doesn’t mean you

homeless shelter. There are plenty of programs and members out there.

have to lose the giving spirit!

If you need some ideas, please feel free to reach out to me. I would love to help you get connected!

The best gifts often aren’t material ones. Small acts of kindness that show

Be a friend. The holidays may not be full of joy for everyone. They can be

you’re thinking of someone can mean

a lonely time for some that don’t have nearby friends and family. If you

more and cost less than a physical

know someone who finds the holidays tough, make sure to include them.

item. Remember that, at the Beach

Invite them to your gatherings, or just spend some extra time with them.

Chamber, we consider our members more than just a name or number—we consider them one great big

Foster a pet. Make a new friend this season by fostering a cat or dog.

family. As you would with your own family, we encourage you to spread

Animal shelters can get chilly in winter weather, which is a great reason

what I call “Chamber love.” Here are a couple of tips to help you spread

to take a pet back to your warm home.

some Chamber love throughout the holiday season: Visit a Senior. Did you know that more than 50% of senior citizens in Thank volunteers. If you’re unable to make a volunteer commitment

nursing homes never get visitors? Bring a sense of family to someone

this season or if you have volunteers helping with your cause, make sure

who doesn’t have one.

to thank those members who are volunteering their time.

To a Joyful Holiday Season, Mind your manners. When you’re out and about this holiday season, say thank you, let someone go in front of you in the crowded line, or just

Shannon Richmond

simply smile at someone.

(850) 890-8069 | shannon@pcbeach.org

Buzzing By To Wish You… Happy Holidays !!!

From Beach Mosquito Control District www.pcbeachmosquito.org 850-233-5030

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

81

NEW & RENEWING MEMBERS

NEW MEMBERS Be Kind to All

George's at Alys Beach

RelaxZation Spa

Beach Nails & Spa

Gulf Coast Burger Co.

Saltwater Grill

BrandNue Strategic Creative

La Cocina Mexican Grill &

The Eye Gallery

Broward Hall Insurance

Bar/Grits & Grind

The Premier Property Group

Disaster Response Team

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate

Wiregrass Courier, LLC

Edwards Fine Food & Wine

Nibbs and Associates Realty

XD Dark Ride Pier Park

Food 4 Kidz

Rank First Media, LLC

RENE WALS 1 YEAR 30Avenue Alena Bakutis Photography, LLC Ameriprise Financial - Wendy B. Meyer, CFP, CRPC Book That Condo Destination Panama City Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hill Coleman, LLC Lynn Haven Ledger/Health Care Monthly Stone & Tile Design Who Dey Prints & Embroidery Women's Council of Realtors Your Accountant My Accountant 2 YEARS Chautauqua Vineyards/Emerald Coast Winery Texas Roadhouse Triple H Dustless Blasting

3 YEARS DSI Security Services Emerald Coast Olive Oil Southern Earth Sciences, Inc. The Arc of the Bay The Pearl 4 YEARS Bay County Clerk's Office Beach Art Group Florida Architects, Inc. Mason Title & Escrow Company MDM of Bay County Panama City Living Magazine Rotary Club of the Emerald Coast, Inc.

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Emerald Coast Rheumatology & Infusion Center Florida Film Office, Inc. Miles Interiors, Inc. 7 YEARS Booz Allen Hamilton Engineering Service Harbourage Yacht Club Hook'd Pier Bar & Grill Target Marketing

15 YEARS American Cancer Society Panama City Beach Rotary 16 YEARS Panhandle Educators Federal Credit Union The Wisteria Inn

8 YEARS Blue Sun Properties, LLC Ironman Florida Life Management Center of Northwest Florida, Inc. Military Media, Inc. Mills Heating & Air

17 YEARS Papa John's Tillie's Properties

9 YEARS Bill Byrd Kia DeJa-Vu Panama City Beach Center for Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Panama City Resort & Club Press Print Graphics, LLC Publix Super Markets, Inc.

20 YEARS Nations Real Estate The News Herald

10 YEARS Gortemoller Engineering, Inc. Grace Episcopal Church Panera Bread Southern Rentals & Real Estate Sunjammer's Watersports 11 YEARS Redwire/Sonitrol

5 YEARS Bay Health Foundation Days Inn Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant

12 YEARS Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium VRI/Landmark Holiday Beach

6 YEARS Adam Brack, Experience Better Golf Academy

13 YEARS Dirty Dick's Crabhouse Provision Living at Panama City Beach

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017

14 YEARS VBA Design, Inc.

19 YEARS Bay Cars The St. Joe Company

21 YEARS Parkway Dental Associates 23 YEARS Architectural Rails, Inc. Publix Super Markets at Breakfast Point, Inc. 26 YEARS Club La Vela 27 YEARS Jubilee & Treasure Island Deep Sea Fishing 29 YEARS Walmart Super Center

Bayside living with a dash of Southern charm.

Introducing SweetBay—a master-planned

neighborhood charter school), and to

community of new homes in Panama

the future Town Center. Located near

City, Florida, designed to celebrate the

the naval and air bases, SweetBay is all

great outdoors. It’s where miles of natural

about community and family. Won’t

coastline are your personal playground,

you join us? Visit our Welcome Center

and a scenic trail network connects

to tour the models and learn about

your new home to the waterfront, the

our new homes, priced from the mid

park, University Academy (our

$200s to the $500s.

SweetBayFl.com | 844.35.SWEET | SweetBay Welcome Center, 3204 Heartleaf Ave. East Panama City, Fl 32405 All information, plans, and pricing are subject to change without notice. Models do not reflect racial preference.

WWW.PCBEACH.ORG

83

309 Richard Jackson Boulevard, Suite 101 Panama City Beach, FL 32407 (850) 235-1169 | PCBeach.org

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Diagnostics also available including X-Ray, CT Scan, Open MRI, Ultrasound, EKG, Lab, Physical Therapy 11111 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, FL 850-747-2900 ï‚– www.baymedical.org 84

THE CIRCUIT November / December 2017