your connection to the beach - Panama City Beach Chamber of

Transcription

The Greater Panama City Beaches Chamber of Commerce
your connection to the beach
going green
11
Green Things
To Do in
Panama City Beach
8 Ways to Green
Up Your Life
1 New Nature
Center on the way
PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO 50
PANAMA CITY FL
BANKING CENTER
REAL ESTATE CORNER
GRAND OPENINGS
AROUND TOWN
MEMBER NEWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
November/December 2007
Vol 2 Issue 6
www.pcbeach.org
The Circuit November/December 2007
3
VISIT
“The Good Life”
ON FLORIDA’S EMERALD COAST
You’re Invited To Our
Summer
OPEN HOUSE
Open Every Day Thru August, 9a-5p M-Sa. and 10a-4p Sun.
Majestic Beach Towers - Panama City Beach
10901 FRONT BEACH ROAD
The Pearl - Navarre Beach
8499 GULF BLVD.
he Emerald Co
ling T
ast
l
e
S
(850) 233-8977
www.majesticbeachproperties.com
MAJESTIC BEACH
P R O P E RT I E S , L L C
Multiple Listing Services
REALTOR
®
4
MLS
®
AGENTS: If you are looking for a new position with a great company
and want to sit on some impressive projects, give us a call.
10901 Front Beach Road • Panama City Beach, FL 32407 • Fax (850) 233-8870 • Toll Free (866) 216-0940
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
5
FIREFLY
N
estled in the Shoppes at Edgewater,
Firefly is Panama City Beach’s newest
fine dining experience. Come relax
in a tranquil, stylish environment and
sample delicious fare from Chef Shelley
Cooper’s creative menu.
Home of the
$9.95 Seafood Platter
The Lighting of a New Era
in Fine Dining
Daily Lunch Specials starting at only
$5.99 with choice of 2 veggies
FIREFLY - MENU SAMPLES
“Best Lunch on the Beach!”
Jumbo Lump Crab
Sweet Roasted Corn, Shaved Vidalia Onion,
Grape Tomatoes, Green Goddess
Seared Rare Tuna
Citrus Soy, Wasabi Ginger, Chili Mustard,
Sesame Melon Salad
Seared Grouper “In The Sac”
with Toasted Almond Rice Pilaf in a Butter
Poached Lobster Sauce
Bacon Wrapped Gorgonzola Stuffed Pork
Chop with Red Skin Potato Hash
Handmade Angel Hair Shrimp Elfo
with Mushrooms, Chardonnay & Asiago
Homemade Pizzas
~Asparagus, Bacon,
Brie, Fontina, Truffle Oil
~Steak & Mushroom
with Boursin & Cheddar
Key Lime Icebox Pie
Gingersnap Macadamia Crust,
Mile High Meringue, Warm Coconut Cream
“Tini Tuesday” $5 Stoli Martinis. Live
Entertainment Thursdays and Saturdays with
the Regular Guys. Open nightly from 5:00.
Reservations recommended; appropriate
attire appreciated. Shoppes at Edgewater,
249-FFLY (3359).
6
7
c h a i r m a n‘ s r e p o r t
W
The Greate
r Panama C
ity Beache
s Chamber
of Commer
ce
your conne
ction
to the bea
ch
dining out
IN PANAMA CIT
MEMBER NEW
S
AROUND TOW
N
GRAND OPEN
INGS
CALENDAR OF
EVENTS
Y BEACH
Don’t Miss
BUSINESS EXP
Tuesday, April O
24th
at Boardwalk
Beach Resor
t
The
you
March/April 2007
Gre
ater
Pan
r co
nne
ama
City
Bea
che
s Ch
a
mbe
r of
Com
mer
ce
Vol 2 Issue 2
www.pcbeach.or
g
going
green
10
ctio
n to
the
bea
ch
Green
PanamAdventures in
a City B
each
8 Ways
to
Up YourGreen
1 New Life
N
Center
on theature
way
BANK
ING CE
NTER
ESTA
TE CO
GRAN
RNER
D OP
ENIN
GS
AROU
ND TO
WN
MEMB
CALE
NDAR ER NEWS
OF EV
ENTS
REAL
Novem
ber/De
cember
2007
Vol 2
Issue
6
www.p
cbeach
.org
Are You
Connected
to the
Beach?
Advertise your business
in The Circuit!
2008 Spotlight
Schedule:
JAN/FEB
Chamber’s Annual Report
MAR/APR
Special Restaurant Guide
MAY/JUN
Shopping & Things To Do
JUL/AUG
Resorts and Real Estate
SEP/OCT
The Science of Wellness
hen I first heard that the theme of this
Circuit edition was ‘Going Green,’ I
thought it was going to include articles
about how to make more money. Or
possibly an article about Leprechauns.
Or maybe even a story about how
vacationing in Panama City Beach
makes the neighbors jealous. It
turns out that the last thought, about
vacationing in Panama City Beach,
is not far off base.
On a different note, I am sad that this is my last
Chairman’s report. It has been an exciting year as
Chairman, and I have had fun at the helm. I think
we’ve made a lot of positive changes
at the Chamber, and have set the
course for future years. Speaking
of Leprechauns, your incoming
Chairman, Al McCambry, will do
an excellent job, and I know the
Chamber will fair well under his
leadership.
You’ll read in this issue about the
Audubon Center as well as some areas of natural
beauty in Bay County. In addition, there will be some
ideas about how we can all make changes in our life to
live more ‘green,’ and places we can go to have ‘green’
adventures. With eco-tourism a rising segment of the
tourism industry, we can’t afford to be left behind in
this area. Be sure to let your friends borrow this issue
if they don’t have an issue of their own. This raises a
question. Is re-gifting a form of recycling? If so, I am
a professional recycler!
The Chamber Board is having a
planning retreat at the end of November to finalize
the program of work for next year. If you have any
ideas or suggestions about what the Chamber could
do differently or better, please email President Debi
Knight or me.
president ‘s report
D
uring the latter part of November, your
Board of Directors will be attending a
planning retreat to focus
on current challenges that face
this community and region every
day. Finding solutions to increase
our workforce, attainable housing,
transportation needs, CRA and
continuing education are just a few
items that will be discussed.
Promoting and marketing our
region is also a key factor for the development of our
community. Your city and county representatives are
spending endless hours making decisions that will
change this community forever. On the same note,
I want to say what an honor it has been working with
NOV/DEC
Going Green
Call Bethany Edwards
for rates and
information at
(850) 235-1159.
8
David Powell
Thanks again to all of you for your support of the
Chamber. Since I will have some extra time on my
hands starting in January, if you need me, I’ll be at my
office planning a ‘green’ adventure!
Debi Knight
your Chairman, David Powell. David took on a great
deal of responsibility in a short period of time, with
vigor, commitment, determination
and leadership. Going through our
second Accreditation with the U.S.
Chamber is a major undertaking.
For over seven months your staff,
board of directors and committee
volunteers worked on budget,
finance, governmental affairs,
marketing, policies, procedures,
short term and long term goals for your chamber of
commerce.
I am proud of everyone’s hard work, dedication and
commitment to the best business organization in the
Southeast. Let’s keep making a difference.
The World is
Tipping Green
The Audubon Center at
West Bay will provide a
destination for visitors
to Bay County and a
learning center for the
local community. Turn
to Page 16 for more information.
Since 1947
The Gift of Dance
Learn Social & Ballroom Dancing
-Private & Group Classes
-Wedding Programs
Enjoy the Benefits of Dancing
-Exercise in a friendly environment
-Enjoy social interaction
Succeed with Our Unique
System of Teaching
-Developed by Fred Astaire himself
-Taught by our certified instructors
aaaaa
Open Monday – Friday, 12-9 pm
Gift certificates available (850) 873-6269
No partner necessary
2401 Ruth Hentz Ave.
Banking solutions
for more than
100 years.
7522 Front Beach Rd.
Panama City Beach
230-9800
3400 Marriott Dr.
Bay Point
234-2375
220 W. 19th St.
Panama City
913-9832
12216 Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach
233-1878
Member FDIC
9
2007
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairman of the Board
David Powell,
Peoples First Community Bank
Past Chairman
Russ Smith,
Towne of Seahaven
Incoming Chairman
Al McCambry, Knology
Treasurer
Rick Dye, Regions Bank
Secretary
Philip Griffitts, Jr.,
Sugar Sands Beach Resort
EDC Chairman
Deborah Hunt,
Peoples First Community Bank
Legal Council
Steven L. Applebaum
The Board
Mike Abney,
Prudential Shimmering Sands
Carol Bell,
ID’s and More
Karen Blackerby,
Magnum Capital
Robert Carroll,
McNeil Carroll Engineering
Mack Carter, Shuckum’s
Oyster Pub, Another Broken Egg
Anthony Dubose,
Coastal Community Insurance Agency
Wes Grant, Travelodge
John Hamati,
Marriott’s Bay Point Resort
Fritz Hoehne, Comcast Cable
Lewis Howell,
The St. Joe Company
Terri Hugghins,
Vision Bank
Lee Ann Leonard,
By The Sea Resorts
Doreen Morgan,
Century 21 Commander Realty
Gayle Oberst,
CFT Pyramid
Lisa Powell,
Hombre Golf Club
Bill Sherr, Labor Ready
Skip Stoltz,
Countrywide Home Loans
Bob Zamboni,
Zeebest McDonald’s
10
N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R
CONTENTS
Membership
Features
16 The Audubon Center at West Bay
A Green Come True...
20 8 Ways to Green Up Your Life
22 11 Green Things To Do In or Near
Panama City Beach
34
34
35
36
Events
8
8
12
12
15
25
27
28 Friday at the Beach
29 Calendar of Events
29 After Hours
34 Leads Group
Around Town
30 Community Update
30 Gulf Coast Workforce Board
30 Local Government Update
2 0 0 7
Grand Openings
Membership Report
New and Renewing Members
Member News
In Every Issue
Chairman’s Report
President’s Report
Banking Center
Real Estate Corner
A Few Minutes With...
Dining Out
Biz Spotlight
Cover photo by Tyler Finklea
415 Beckrich Rd., Suite 200, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Phone: (850) 235-1159 Fax: (850) 235-2301
PCBeach.org
CHAMBER OFFICERS
President/CEO
Senior VP Marketing & PR
Director of Operations
VP Membership Services
Membership Services
Web Manager
Research/Communications
Membership Accounting Mgr.
Information Specialist
Receptionist
Information Specialist
Debi Knight
Marta Rose
Beth Oltman
Skip Alford
Tyler Finklea
Jessica Summers
Bethany Edwards
Jena Kimmel
Bertie Reynolds
Joyce Kidd
Gloria Mallory
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor
Marta Rose
Creative Director Marta Rose
Advertising Sales Beth Oltman
Bethany Edwards
Production
Boyd Brothers Printing
Distribution
Allegra Print & Imaging,
Errands Galore
Contributing
Mayor Gayle Oberst,
Writers
Kimberly Bodine, Bay
Solutions, Jessica Summers
Panama City Beach is full of natural beauty to explore and enjoy. Turn to Page 22 to learn 11
Green Things To Do in and near Panama City Beach. Photo by Tyler Finklea.
11
Together We Can Make
A Real Difference
B
B&T, Branch Banking and Trust
Co., is the nation’s 12th largest
financial holding company with
over $127.6 billion in assets. Although we
offer all the security and services of a large
regional bank, that doesn’t mean we have
to act like one.
In fact, we have been operating as a family
of community banks since 1872. BB&T
keeps the authority to respond to local
needs right where it belongs, in the hands of
our local employees. After all, who could
know the needs of people in Panama City
better than people who’ve chosen to make City Executive Brian Robinson
this their home?
We offer full-service commercial, retail banking, and mortgage services.
For example, our OnSite Deposit product allows you to deposit your checks
virtually anytime from anywhere. Or consider the advantages of choosing
our BB&T Merchant Service as your single service provider for credit card
acceptance and better payment processing needs. You could also engage our
Payroll Services, where we provide affordable, high-quality payroll processing
solutions that can be customized to your specialized needs. Additional financial
services include: investments, retail brokerage, corporate and consumer
finance, insurance, international banking, leasing, and trust.
BB&T is a proud member of The Greater Panama City Beaches Chamber,
and is engaged in this exciting and dynamic community. Please join us in Bay
County’s future by supporting the Chamber’s efforts. Together we can make
a real difference in the quality of life for our employees, our customers, and all
who call Panama City and Bay County home.
If this sounds like the kind of banking relationship you’d like to have, we hope
you’ll stop by soon and let us get to know you. Or better yet, give us a call at
(850) 636-2980 and we’ll come see you.
Let Dunn Realty Put
Their Experience to
Work for You
Corner
B
anking Center
Real Estate
D
unn Realty at Panama City Beach Inc. has been doing business
in Bay County since 1990. Initially, dealing primarily with
property management and vacation rentals, Dunn Realty
began expanding into the Real Estate Sales Market in 1994. Today,
Dunn Realty manages approximately 250 homes, condos, apartments
and multi-family units across Bay County. We have exceeded $60
million in real estate sales over the last three years.
Dunn Realty is family owned and operated. Emily “Deta” Dunn
is a licensed Real Estate Broker, and she established Dunn Realty at
Panama City Beach Inc. in 1990. Deta currently works primarily with
Administrative
and
Property
Management
Services. Gary
D. Dunn is also
a licensed Real
Estate Broker
and he joined
Deta in the
family business
in 1994. Gary’s
primary focus
is
working From left: Gary D. Dunn, Emily “Deta” Dunn, Robin
with
sales, Dunn Hicks.
both residential
and commercial. Robin Dunn Hicks is a licensed Real Estate Sales
Associate. She began working with Dunn Realty in September of
2004. Robin works with Property Management services and sales.
Whatever your Real Estate needs, Dunn Realty at Panama City Beach
Inc. will put their experience to work for you. The sales team can assist
you with buying or selling Real Estate. Whether you are looking for
a Property Manager, or looking for a long term rental property, Dunn
Realty can assist you.
In addition, Gary D. Dunn and Robin Dunn Hicks have both obtained
their Community Association Management (C.A.M.) License. Deta,
Gary and Robin have formed a C.A.M. Partnership: Dunn Association
Management, Partners, LLC. In addition to the Real Estate Sales and
Long Term Property Management, we provide Community Association
Management services. Dunn
Realty is located at 16500
Panama City Beach Parkway in
the Pier Plaza building. Contact
Dunn Realty at (850) 235-0146,
or visit www.dunnrealty.com.
12
www.NevesMedia.com
BEFORE
ANYONE
NOTICES
YOU FORGOT TO ROLL OUT
A
NEW
YOU
FRESH
I D E A ...
SHOULD
CALL!
850/215-4170
NevesMedia
A Full Service Media Development Company
Production | Design | Print | Development
13
You’ve Found Your Beach...
We’ll Help You Finance Your Beach House!
At Vision Bank, we believe that finding the right mortgage should be easy. That’s
why our Mortgage Loan Specialists have developed hassle-free products that
Advertise your business in
THE CIRCUIT
will insure that financing your dream is as easy as a day at the beach.
Visit one of our convenient locations to find out how to best finance your dream
home, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying life on the Emerald Coast.
Locations
Panama City Beach
850.636.4944
Beckrich Road
850.636.7940
Panama City
850.522.4000
St. Joe Beach
850.647.3337
Port St. Joe
850.229.8226
Santa Rosa Beach
850.622.2370
Wewahitchka
850.639.2222
Destin
850.269.1709
www.visionbankfl.net
14
10,000 issues all over
Panama City Beach,
every other month
Call (850) 235-1159
for Rates & Information
Now
2007 reserv
holid ing fo
ay se r the
ason
!
A great party starts with a great location. Book your holiday event with the area’s most distinguished
host - the Convention Center at the Boardwalk Beach Resort. From corporate Christmas parties to
intimate weddings, the spacious facilities provide a wealth of options to enhance any meeting or
event. Also available is the White House on St. Andrews Bay, Watercrest Condominium, and coming
soon, Laketown Wharf. All great locations that will serve as the life of the party.
Contact us today to discuss your options and availability. Your next event will be nothing short of a
grand success.
R oya l A m e r i c a n H o s p i t a l i t y S a l e s & C ate r i n g | 8 5 0 - 2 3 0 - 4 6 8 2 | w w w. G e t Away to t h e G u l f. c o m
15
The Audubon Center at
A Green Com
16
OUR CULTURAL &
West Bay ENVIRONMENTAL
e True... HERITAGE
On January 31, 2007, the National Audubon Society
and The St. Joe Company announced a partnership
to create a world-class, state-of-the-art Nature Center
in Northwest Florida which will celebrate and explore
the area’s habitat and wildlife, and showcase efforts
to restore the area’s native pine flatwoods ecosystem.
BY MARTA ROSE, WITH EXCERPS FROM LA FLORIDA ANO 1539 BY ST. JOE
PHOTOGRAPHS BY LINDA MACBETH, ED BLAKE, TYLER FINKLEA & EDDIE SUMMERS
O
n October 21, 1539, Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto crossed the
Apalachicola River into Northwest Florida.
There he beheld a landscape that looked nothing like the Panhandle we know today.
What DeSoto saw he thought strikingly beautiful. He called it La Florida, Spanish
for “flower.” He found the land accessible -- flat and open and easy to cross with his
phalanx of men, horses, pigs and provisions. The diaries of his men detail the hike; there was no
hacking through a thicket as you might imagine, it was more like a stroll in the park.
Imagine seeing Northwest Florida as it was on that day, first wave ashore, before all the Europeans
arrived and centuries of practical progress dramatically changed the landscape. Imagine returning
the land to its roots, before logging roads and pine plantations and agricultural ambition, before
technological trial and error altered and hemmed and hacked at native design.
Audubon of Florida and The St. Joe Company are making a
radical proposition. Together, they want to restore 41,000 acres
around West Bay to the condition in which DeSoto found it. Talk
about habitat restoration.
Following is an excerpt from St. Joe’s white paper concept, “La Florida Ano 1539.”
How will it happen? How do you roll back time 500 years? You begin by determining what
DeSoto saw, and, then, oh-so slowly, meticulously returning the land as closely as possible to that
primal condition. It’s a long journey almost as daunting as DeSoto’s. The pine trees 500 years
ago were not the slash and loblollies you see today. They were, instead, fire-loving longleafs, with
bouquets of needles designed to protect their buds from lightning fires that sometimes burned for
weeks. A single tree might be targeted by thousands of lightning bolts a year, and some of those
strikes inevitably kindled fires in the pine needles and grasses.
Photo by Linda Macbeth
The longleaf and lightning were, essentially, codependents, keeping the forest floor groomed and
untangled. Flora and fauna that survived the fires thrived because of them. Wiregrass, for instance,
could not reproduce without the lightning.
17
GOING GREEN
The trees spaced themselves far apart. The Marine Corps has its few good
men. A longleaf forest had its few good trees; the ones that grew tall from
patient, deep taproots and could live for five hundred years.
And those sparsely spaced pines, two hundred feet or so apart, allowed a
flowering forest floor, almost meadow-like in appearance. The wildflower
tableau changed with every season. Pitcher plants, goldenrods, sundews,
bladderworts, butterworts, orchids, blazing stars, rush featherlings, sunflowers, golden asters, camphorweed – an endless list, a kaleidoscope of color.
DeSoto’s exploration, of course, opened the door for settlement, development, a network of roads. It opened the door for progress, and the inevitable
enterprises that follow, with commerce that requires wood, and lots of it.
Trees became another crop, planted in rows, often in altered, marginal lands
that in the past would have been too wet for pines. As houses, paper mills
and fire towers went up, the number of fires went down. Lightning fires
went the way of the buggy whip. There was human control.
The forest was forever changed. In the absence of the fires, a sunless thicket
of bramble and briar filled in the
small spaces left between the row
trees. There was no room, or sunlight, for the wildflowers and birds
and tortoises and lizards. Many
varieties of plants and seemingly
inconsequential wildlife – the scarab beetle, tineid moths and Florida
mice – began to disappear.
the WBPA, an environmental destination for visitors to Bay County and a
learning center for the local community. While an exact site for a nature
center has not yet been chosen, the location will likely be on land off of
Highway 79 facing the west side of the bay.
Audubon Centers are designed to provide educational, nature-based and
hands-on experiences to people of all ages and to influence the uses of ecosystems where they are located. While all Audubon Centers share some
common elements and the common goal of bringing people and nature together, each is specific to its location.
The Audubon Center at West Bay will celebrate and explore the cultural
and environmental heritage of Northwest Florida with education, research
and stewardship programs focusing on the area’s habitat and wildlife. Serving as a gateway to the larger West Bay Preservation Area, the multi-functional center will highlight the unique landscapes of St. Andrews Bay and
showcase efforts to restore the area’s native marsh, aquatic and woodland
ecosystems. To that end, the Audubon Center will include a demonstration
project that allows visitors to see first-hand the process of restoration.
A Nature Center provides the opportunity
to create a focal point for the West Bay
Preservation Area, an environmental
destination for visitors to Bay County, and
a learning center for the local community.
An entire ecosystem all but vanished, and restoration will take place slowly,
one discovery, one step, one day, at a time. We are the explorers this time.
The end result should be satisfying, and dramatic.
The Audubon Center at West Bay:
A Green Come True
In December 2004 the Bay County Commission passed an historic largescale, long-term land use plan for northwestern Bay County. The 75,000acre “West Bay Sector Plan” was the result of more than two years of work,
dozens of public meetings and hundreds more informal meetings and consultations with experts and officials as at all levels of government.
The sector plan, now part of the Bay County Comprehensive Plan, contained an entitlement for a “nature center.” At the time the entitlement was
included in the plan, local leaders believed that someday a nature center
could provide the public access to a portion of the West Bay Preservation
Area (WBPA). This area comprises approximately 41,000 acres -- nearly
66 square miles – of important watershed and habitat surrounding West St.
Andrew Bay – one of the nation’s most biologically diverse estuaries. The
area includes 33 miles of shoreline and an additional 44 miles of buffers
along creeks and tributaries that feed the bay, such as Crooked and Burnt
Mills Creeks. The flatwoods and marshes found in the West Bay Preservation Area function as an important filtering system that protects water purity and maintains a healthy environment for many species of fish, wading
birds, shore birds, water fowl and other aquatic life.
Today, Audubon and St. Joe believe that this entitlement, if properly utilized, will have a significant long-term positive impact on Bay County and
Northwest Florida. It will provide the opportunity to create a focal point for
18
While future planning will determine specific programs and
activities, early concepts include
both passive and hands-on nature-based activities, all with the
purpose of connecting people to
the land. The many possibilities
include visual arts, exhibits, hiking and water trails, bird watching
platforms, scenic overlooks and interactive programs. The Center’s design
will be consistent with National Audubon Society standards and programs.
The Audubon Center at West Bay will include 66 square miles of important watershed and habitat, 33 miles of West Bay shoreline, and 44 miles
adjacent to creeks and tributaries. Acreage includes a variety of ecosystem
areas and an IBA Audubon-designated Imported Bird Area for migratory
birds.
The Audubon Center at West Bay will operate as part of the national network
of Audubon Centers employing professionally trained staff and community
volunteers. It will be designed to appeal to diverse audiences, including
Northwest Florida residents, students, and visitors from around the nation
and the world. The Center will connect people with nature by introducing them to the region’s diverse habitat and wildlife. Audubon Centers are
investments in the communities in which they are located. At a time when
travelers are seeking more meaningful experiences, the Audubon Center at
West Bay will provide a unique destination for people visiting Northwest
Florida.
Audubon and the St. Joe Company are reaching out to residents, educators,
donors, conservationists, local institutions, government leaders, and others
to identify partners and participants in the planning process. The costs of
building and operating the Audubon Center at West Bay are considerable.
Leadership gifts for the Center’s capital campaign are being identified at
this time.
For information on how you can become involved, contact Linda Macbeth,
Project Manager Audubon Center at West Bay, at (850) 865-8411 to receive updates and participate in planning activities and other events.
GOING GREEN
Photography of the West Bay by Ed Blake, The Landscape Studio, Mississippi.
19
GOING GREEN
8 WAYS TO GREEN
UP YOUR LIFE
From this summer’s “Live Earth” events to last year’s
An Inconvenient Truth, the call to action grows louder:
It’s time to take responsibility for saving the planet.
Consider these small changes that have a larger
impact when consistently practiced.
BY JESSICA SUMMERS
PHOTOGRAPHS BY TYLER FINKLEA, EDDIE SUMMERS, SKIP ALFORD, THOMAS LEE
1. In The Car
As urban sprawl increases, people are on the
road for longer, and driving more. At the pace of
most American’s lives, people are hardly waiting a moment to arrange a carpool or take the
bus. Try carpooling with neighbors and friends
who head in the same direction each morning,
or simply carpool with your spouse or family
member. The bus schedule is easy to find: visit
Baytowntrolley.com. If your situation doesn’t
allow for these options, remember that driving
the tires off that SUV that seats 10 is obviously
not a green option. If you can, take a smaller car
for longer trips or your daily commute.
2. In The Home
We all remember Mom or Dad chastising us
for leaving the lights on when we were a kid.
This practice is more relevant now than ever.
Be sure to turn off lights, ceiling fans and other
appliances that can run without our conscious
acknowledgment. Buying appliances that display the Energy Star label is another way to
combat energy waste. Talk to your power company about an energy audit, to find ways you
can cut back on your usage, as well as your
monthly bill.
Try participating in a rotating watering schedule
in your neighborhood. Your city hall can give
you more information. Also, if you install sprinklers (especially timed systems), make sure you
are not watering your lawn during storms or
rainy weeks. In a similar effort, ceasing the use
of pesticides on your outdoor plants protects the
health of your family and prevents toxic run-off
which contaminates city water supply.
4. “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”
While it may have become somewhat of a cliché, it still rings true today that informed and responsible consumers make an effort to reduce,
reuse and recycle. Reduce waste by buying in
bulk. Reuse plastics by refilling bottles and using plastic grocery bags as waste can liners, litter box liners or informal tote bags.
Recycling can often be the most difficult of the
three. Try creating a simple dividing bin area
in or outside your kitchen to easily divide materials before pick-up or drop-off. Dealing with
unwanted clutter or old furniture in your home?
Visit Freecycle.org to find your local Freecycle
forum where one man’s trash is another man’s
treasure – plus the taker will actually pick it up
rather than you having to haul it to a landfill.
3. In The Yard
Water has become a precious resource, and one
that is most often taken for granted. Few people
realize that lawn care accounts for the largest
portion of water used in a normal household.
20
Photographed by, from top: Eddie Summers,
Tyler Finklea, Skip Alford, Eddie Summers, Tyler Finklea.
GOING GREEN
5. In the Pantry
7. At the Polls
Agricultural methods in the US have finally taken their toll on our environment and our way of
life. You can do so much good by just purchasing wisely at your local supermarket. Buying
USDA Certified Organic foods promotes growers who do not use toxic, non-degradable chemical pesticides on the food and food components
which pollute our land and water, and food supply (including animal products). You can also
read product labels to find items that use sustainable energy practices in their factories and humane animal stewardship, which both promote
a healthy environment. You may find that many
organic manufacturers practice all three.
Political candidates in the 21st century know they
must address environmental concerns and issues
in their platform. Although hotly debated, environmental protection policies affect everyone.
Educating yourself and voting accordingly is one
of the biggest things you can do to improve your
community and your family’s future.
6. In your Office
Your purchasing power extends farther than just
the grocery store. Encourage your office to reduce paper usage by relying on email, recycling,
and buying office supplies containing at least 10%
post-consumer waste. These supplies are usually only slightly more expensive, and make a big
statement to your customers and employees that
your company is a caring, aware and socially involved one.
8. Travel Green
There are an increasing number of hotels and resorts that are taking measures to be greener. You
may have already seen hotels that, unless you
specifically ask for it, do not wash bedding on a
daily basis during your stay. You don’t wash your
sheets every day at home; why should you while
on vacation? Some national hotel chains are using
energy-saving common technology like motion
activated hallway lighting and solar powered golf
carts, while others are going a step further with
green event planning and LEED Certification
(Leaders in Environmental Engineering).
For more information on green living and upcoming green events, contact the Chamber at
(850) 235-1159.
The Green Revolution
Friends of St Andrews Bay (BEST), FSU and
others are coming together to promote the
First Annual 33 Days of Green community
event consisting of seminars, speakers, sales
and special promotions.
33 Days of Green begins with Go Green on
the Emerald Coast on February 20th, 2008,
a day-long workshop for developers, general
contractors and others in the construction industry. A luncheon and seminar at Gulf Coast
Community College will feature Dr. Jennifer
Languell of Trifecta Construction Solutions (Trifectaconstruction.com).
The Bay Green Expo on March 22nd at Gulf
Coast Community College will educate the community on living Greener, building Greener, and
ways to minimize resource consumption. This
expo will feature vendors displaying the use of
Green products and possibilities. The Green
Tour on March 23rd will take participants to see
real life examples of how some people make living Green a part of their everyday lives.
For information and sponsorship opportunities,
visit Baygreenexpo.com and Baybest.org.
21
GOING GREEN
1.
Gayle’s Trails.
2.
Frank Brown Park.
Hike, bike, in-line skate or skateboard for fitness and leisure on Gayle’s Trails greenways and trails. The
trailhead is located at the corner of
Hwy. 79 South and Hwy. 98.
Plan a family picnic at the park’s
Under the Palms Playground; take
your dog to the play area; take your
child or grandchild fishing at the
Youth Fishing Pond; sign up for an
Environmental Education Fieldtrip
at the Community Center. Call
Frank Brown Park at 233-5045 for
more information.
3.
11
GREEN THINGS TO DO
IN OR NEAR PANAMA CITY BEACH
4.
Aaron Bessant Amphitheater. Listen to music
outdoors at a Pier Park Concert
Series event during the summer
season at Aaron Bessant Amphitheater. Call Pier Park at 236-9974 for
a concert schedule.
5. St. Andrews State Park.
Swim, snorkel, scuba dive, kayak
or canoe at St. Andrews State Park.
The park also includes two fishing piers, a jetty and boat ramp for
ample fishing opportunities for anglers. Call the park at 233-5140 for
more information.
6.
Camp Helen.
Located west of Panama City
Beach just inside Bay County, on
U.S. 98 at the west end of the Lake
Powell bridge. From 1945 to 1987
the camp was a company resort for
employees of an Alabama textile
mill; some of the buildings are now
22
7.
PCB Aquatic Center.
Swim and dive year-round at the
Panama City Beach Aquatic Center. Call 236-2205 for information
on membership, swimming lessons
and corporate fitness plans.
8.
Kayaking is a wonderful
way to exercise, get outdoors and
view nature, wildlife, fish, or just
relax after a hard day at the office.
Call Brad Stephens at Sunjammers
Watersports at 235-2281 to plan
your expedition.
Try Birding!
There are numerous spots on Panama City Beach where a multitude of
bird species can be spotted, either in
the greenways or on the shore. At
St. Andrews State Park two nature
trails wind through a rich diversity of coastal plant communities
-- a splendid opportunity for birdwatching. Call St. Andrews State
Park at 233-5140, or visit Floridabirdingtrail.com for more information.
being restored. Natural areas range
from coastal dunes and salt marshes
along the Gulf to freshwater wetlands and sand pine scrub along the
lake. Activities include swimming,
beachcombing, nature study, hiking
and fishing – both freshwater and
saltwater. Call 233-5059 for more
information.
Photo by Thomas Lee
9. View From The Sky.
Take a scenic helicopter ride over
the Gulf; view Panama City Beach
and St. Andrews State Park from
the sky. Call Panhandle Helicopter
at 230-2080 for more information.
10. Pines & Ponds of PCB.
Opening in 2008, the 3,000-acre
area situated between Hwy. 79
and Wild Heron will contain dirt
trails ideal for walking, hiking and
off-road biking, and will be a birdwatcher’s paradise. Gayle’s Trails
connects Pines & Ponds at the
west end of the beach to St. Andrews State Park on the east; both
nature parks contain an abundance
of wildlife including osprey, eagles,
deer, wild hogs and raccoon.
11. Ironman Triathlon.
Hosted by The Friends of St. Andrews State Park, this event takes
place November 1st thru 5th (Thursday - Monday). The running portion of the Ironman Triathlon takes
place from 8:00 am to sunset within
the boundaries of the park as well as
the local community. Park entrance
fee is waived for participants. Call
233-5164 for more information.
Printing in Paradise
...and helping to keep it that way.
Allegra Print and Imaging is committed to providing high quality print services
without sacrificing the quality of our environment. As a local business involved
in and supporting our community, you are more than our customers ...you are
our friends and neighbors in a beautiful coastal ecosystem. We want to keep it
that way and do our part for the community by reducing waste and recycling.
.
.
.
.
.
.
We use vegetable based inks and recycled paper.
We separate and recycle our scrap paper and cardboard packing material.
We recycle our digital toner cartridges.
We collect and recycle our metal printing plates and film.
We provide digital proofs to use less paper and reduce the need for you to travel.
We are your local print provider and offer local deliveries to reduce the environmental
impact of out of state shipping and individual travel.
2505 West 15th Street, Panama City, FL 32401 | 850.747.9000
7902 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 | 850.234.6101
23
Let us help you write your success story
At Peoples First, we recognize that communities
prosper when residents accomplish their personal goals.
That’s why our banking centers are far more than just
transaction centers. We’re committed to really getting
to know you so that we can better help you realize your
aspirations – be they educational, financial, professional
or even recreational.
Trust your dreams to the Peoples First team and
experience the close personal attention you’ll receive only
at a true community bank.
David Powell
Market Leader
Sherry Bruening
Asst. Manager
Edgewater
Dorothy Bechtold
Manager
Beach
Kate Baldwin
Asst. Manager
Beach
The best bank in the neighborhood.
Edgewater Banking Center
Beach Banking Center
415 Beckrich Rd.
234-7010
9001 Front Beach Rd.
234-7456
www.peoplesfirst.com
&.2%"-"
"$-"/../-+(((+*$/%"
,-&./&*" .%+-"(&*" ./+,,&*$
+*(3/+!&,/%"&-%"!.&*/+
/%" ++( ("*2/"-
This is Lake Merial
**-"+#+-/%2"./
(+-&!'*+2*#+-&/.
!&./&* /&1"0*.,+&("!*/0-(
#"/0-"./%&.('".&!"
+))0*&/3&.)&*0/".-")+1"!
#-+)/%" (+$+# +*./*//-# &$%23 '""-&(
24
Dining Out
?
n
i
a
P
Neck
by Marta Rose
Lowback
Pain?
Headaches? a?
algi
y
m
ro
Fib
Fatigue
?
Do you suffer endlessly from
any of the above conditions?
Have you tried everything
and still can’t find relief?
Uncle Ernie’s on historic St. Andrew’s Marina
I
visited Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Grill & Brew
House on a warm evening in early fall. My
friend and I elected to sit upstairs on the
balcony facing the marina, and the sun setting in
the sky provided a magical, colorful backdrop
to the evening. A local musician entertained
us with soft acoustic guitar music, and we sat
back, relaxed and sipped our mango mojito and
pomegranite martini as a warm breeze passed
through.
Such is a typical evening at Uncle Ernie’s, the
perfect place to go enjoy the “local color” of
Bayside living in Panama City. From its cool
collection of martinis to its eclectic ensemble of
appetizers, fresh seafood and fish, pasta dishes
and salads, Uncle Ernie’s pleases the palate in
a big way!
We started our meal with Uncle Ernie’s AwardWinning Crab Cakes topped with grilled
shrimp and honey mustard...succulent, moist
and meaty. Chef Geier’s Homemade Smoked
Tuna Dip with tortilla chips is among the best
I’ve had, and the Coconut-Pecan Shrimp
were delicious. It’s easy to go overboard on the
starters, and Uncle Ernie’s has many good ones,
including Sesame-Crusted Tuna with Thai
slaw and sweet chile sauce, Sauteed Garlic
Parmesan Oysters, Stone Crab Claws,
Homemade Oyster Stew and Black Bean
Crab Spread served with garlic flatbread.
Among the fresh seafood selections at Uncle
Ernie’s are shrimp, sea scallops, grouper, stone
crab claws, tuna, soft shell crab and catch of
the day. I tried one of the House Specials and
absolutely loved it, the Scallops Florentine: sea
scallops on a bed of fresh spinach topped with
crab and shrimp in a creamy Imperial sauce...
surrounded by grilled portobello mushrooms.
My friend tried the Italian-influenced Capellini
a la Lucia with Fresh Mozzarella: angel hair
pasta lightly sauteed in olive oil with fresh
tomatoes, garlic, basil and fresh mozzarella,
topped with shrimp and scallops.
Uncle Ernie’s also has a collection of satisfying
salads that are appropriate for your main course,
such as the 8 oz. Ribeye Steak Salad, the
New Orleans Spicy Fried Shrimp Salad, the
authentic Italian Insalata Roma, the Fajita
Chef Salad, and a very fulfilling Spinach Salad
with Bronzed Chicken and fresh mushrooms,
red onions, hard boiled eggs, Mandarin oranges
and pecans, served with a tangy honey mustard
dressing.
If relaxing with a cocktail is what you have in
mind, Uncle Ernie’s Super Sexy Martini menu
has some treats in store! Love Juice is hard to
beat, with its infusion of tropical nectars from
mango, melons, guava and passion fruit. The
refreshing Mary Jo, a simple concoction
of Malibu rum with peaches, pineapple
and cranberry, is satisfying, or try the more
decadent Red Velvet - raspberry vodka and
Chambord swirled with Bailey’s, chocolate
liqueur, raspberry sauce and cream - for later
in the evening.
Uncle Ernie’s is open for lunch and dinner
Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am
until 9:00/9:30 pm. Call (850) 763-8427 for
more information.
Ready to have your restaurant reviewed? Call
Marta Rose at the Chamber, at (850) 235-1159.
Are you tired of taking
pain medication?
My name is Dr. Jon Sherman and
I have very specific programs to
finally relieve these conditions
that are interfering with your everyday activities. These systems
are fast, aggressive, and most
importantly - EFFECTIVE. My
clinics offer a friendly and relaxing atmosphere geared towards
patient comfort and healing that
you will not experience anywhere else. The hardest part
of your care at my office is just
picking up that phone and making that first appointment. So,
take action now and call now for
your FREE consultation to see if
one of my programs can finally
relieve you of your discomfort.
(850) 249-WELL (9355)
www.pcbpainrelief.com
25
OVER
GRAND PANAMA RESORT
25,000 SWIMSUITS!
Hutchison Boulevard, Panama City Beach
Another
Broken Egg
Cafe
When it comes to breakfast or lunch, we offer
a totally egg-ceptional experience!
Great Food… Affordable Prices
Warm & Inviting Atmosphere
(850) 249-2007
26
Beach Scene
10059 HUTCHISON BLVD, PCB, FL 233-1662
t
h
g
i
l
t
o
p
S
z
i
B
C
CYber SYtes: What You See on the Net
Yber SYtes, the area’s largest website design firm, began modestly in 1995 right
after Hurricane Opal. The company’s
first venture was to create two Internet Cafes,
one at (then) “Panama Java” and another at “The
Bayview Cafe.” Company founder David Goldflies (and former Allman
Brothers band member)
notes, “It turned out Internet Cafes weren’t that
good of an idea at the time
... but the contacts made
through that first venture
proved invaluable.”
As more and more people
began to use the Internet,
businesses began inquiring about placing their
business online, and so
CYber SYtes began designing, hosting and supporting websites. Around
that time, Cindy Klauss
from the Fort Walton
Beach/Destin area was
introduced to David by a
mutual friend after Cindy
expressed an interest in
learning about the Internet. This meeting turned
into a potent combination,
with David’s artistic and
technical skills being complemented by Cindy’s
background in accounting and writing.
By 1998, CYber SYtes had grown enough that it
was time to become incorporated, and it became
CYber SYtes, Inc, a thriving Web Development
Company. The first big breakthrough came
when the company was
hired to design Sandestin’s
first website.
CYber SYtes’ founder David Goldflies.
CYber SYtes is a supporter of the arts
in Panama City. Goldflies participates in
musical theater at the Kaleidoscope Theater in Lynn Haven and current performs
(on Bass Viol) with the new “Panama City
POPS” Orchestra, Bay County’s local
orchestra.
Now, with over 500 clients, CYber SYtes has
grown in ways unimaginable from its beginning.
Says Goldflies, “As the Internet has grown, so have
the demands on businesses
to place their products and
services online. That is
what we do day in and day
out at CYber SYtes.”
In 2006, CYber SYtes
was awarded the contract to build and maintain The Greater Panama
City Beaches Chamber of
Commerce’s new website.
The requirements were a
more modern look, easy
to update, easy to use, and
improved search engine
rankings. As of the time
At
At Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving we
we pause
pause to
to count
count our
our blessings:
blessings:
The
The freedoms
freedoms we
we enjoy
enjoy in
in this
this great
great country;
country;
Its
Its opportunity
opportunity for
for achievement;
achievement;
The
The friendship
friendship and
and opportunity
opportunity you
you have
have shown
shown us.
us.
For
For all
all of
of these
these things
things we
we are
are deeply
deeply thankful,
thankful,
Our
Our best
best wishes
wishes for
for aa Happy
Happy Holiday
Holiday Season.
Season.
Your BAYSOLUTIONS Team
www.baysolutions.com
(850) 763-4332
of the writing of this article, a Google Search for
“Panama City Beach” places the Chamber website at #1. This is in part due to CYber SYtes’
evolving strategies to improve the site’s search
engine rankings along with the trust and support
of the Chamber’s staff, which has allowed this
powerful association to help local businesses and
visitors to the area.
As the Internet continues to grow, the future
looks bright for CYber SYtes. Check out their
websites at cysy.com.
Need Help?
Errands
Galore
www.errandsgalorepc.com
271-4840
Business Documents
Packages
Courier Services
Groceries
Dry Cleaning
Meal Delivery
Prescriptions
Plants / Floral
Gifts / Seasonal
Shopping
General Merchandise
Auto Parts
Rental Equipment
...and more!
LICENSED
BONDED
INSURED
27
Friday at the Beach
with Paris Janos of WJHG News Channel 7
®
November 9, 2007
7:30-9:00AM Edgewater Beach Resort
Guest Speaker: Linda Macbeth, Audubon of Florida
Sponsored by
Wilson-Miller
A residential preserve
on West Bay
December 14, 2007
7:30-9:00AM
Marriott Bay Point Golf Resort & Spa
Guest Speaker: Seclusion Bay
Sponsored by
Call the Chamber to RSVP at 235-1159
Celebrate Northwest Florida’s
Environmental Heritage
T
The ultimate getaway, RiverCamps® on
Crooked Creek is a 1,500 acre community
carefully nestled in a secluded wooded
preserve along the sparkling waters of
Crooked Creek, and the spectacular 18,000
acre expanse of West Bay
North on Hwy. 79 right on Hwy. 388 drive 2 miles
For Sales Information
Call 850.636.7777
www.rivercamps.com
© 2007 The St. Joe Company. “JOE,” “St. Joe,” “RiverCamps” and the “Taking Flight” design are service marks
of The St. Joe Company. The availability of St. Joe property (through any of its affiliates or subsidiaries) is subject to
change without notice. Access to this property is prohibited without the express consent of St. Joe or its agency. The
above shaded drawing of the State of Florida is provided to depict only the general location of the property being
advertised herein and is not intended to represent either the holding of The St. Joe Company or its affiliates nor any
specific lands being offered for sale by The St. Joe Company at this time. St. Joe makes no representation, warranty
or guarantee as to any particular use or development allowed on any particular property, rather all properties are
subject to federal, state and local governmental rules and regulations governing land use, permitting, building and
zoning requirements and restrictions and may be subject to covenants, conditions and restrictions of St. Joe. This does
not constitute an offer to sell real property in any jurisdiction where prior registration or other advance qualifications of
real property is required. Maps shown are not to scale. Void where prohibited by law. Equal Housing Opportunity.
28
he feature presentation at Friday at the
Beach on November 9th will be theAudubon Center at West Bay. Linda Macbeth,
project manager at Audubon of Florida, will describe the state-of-the-art nature center, on its way
within the next 24 months, which will celebrate
and explore the cultural and environmental heritage of Northwest Florida. The center will also
promote
education, Randy Curtis, Executive Director of the Airport Aur e s e a r c h thority, gave an update on the airport’s relocation
and stew- project at the October 12th Friday at the Beach.
ardship
programs focusing on the area’s habitat and wildlife, and showcase efforts to restore the area’s native ecosystem. This event is
sponsored by Knology, Wilson-Miller and First National Bank
of Northwest Florida.
Also at the November 9th Friday at the Beach will be Dr. Haley,
principal of Arnold High School, describing the “Learn to Earn”
movement whereby students seeking part-time employment
will be required to show their school attendance records to the
potential employer. Several years ago Dr. Haley did extensive
research on the subject, and found that Japanese schools implement this in their school systems, with the idea that a student who
Above: Paris Janos and Jody Har- has good school attendance will have good job attendance.
less of Beach Care Services get
Quacky at Friday at the Beach on
October 12th. Below, from left:
Chairman David Powell, Mayor
Gayle Oberst, Randy Curtis, Incoming Chairman Al McCambry
and President Debi Knight.
At Friday at the Beach on December 14th the developers of
Seclusion Bay, a collection of “Old-Florida-style” residences
on St. Andrews Bay featuring fractional ownership, will lead
the program at the Marriott Bay Point Golf Resort & Spa. Seclusion Bay will sponsor this event.
.
Calendar of Events
November & December 2007
November 6 Tuesday
9:00 am
Panama City Hall
County Commission Meeting
December 4 Tuesday
9:00 am
Panama City Hall
County Commissioner Meeting
November 6 Tuesday
12:00-1:00 pm Trustmark Bank
12@12 Luncheon
December 4 Tuesday
12:00-1:00 pm Trustmark Bank
12@12 Luncheon
November 8 Thursday
12:00 noon
Peoples First Bank
Executive Board Meeting
December 6 Thursday
12:00 noon
Peoples First Bank
Executive Board Meeting
November 8 Thursday
6:00 pm
City Hall Annex
City Council Meeting
December 11 Tuesday
9:00 am
City Council Chamber
TDC Meeting
November 9 Friday
7:30-9:00 am Edgewater
Friday at the Beach, featuring Linda
Macbeth from Audubon of Florida
December 11 Tuesday
5:30-8:30 pm Breakers Restaurant
After Hours Holiday Party
November 13 Tuesday
9:00 am
TDC Meeting
November 20 Tuesday
9:00 am
Panama City Hall
November 20 Tuesday
5:30-7:30 pm Visual Arts Center
After Hours Mixer: ethos & efish
November 22 Thursday
2:00 pm
City Hall Annex
November 27 Tuesday
9:00 am
TDC Meeting
November 27 Tuesday
10:00 am
Airport Board Rm
Airport Authority Meeting
November 27 Tuesday
3:00 pm
Vision Bank
EDC Meeting
December 28 Wednesday
10:00 am-5:00 pm Marriott
Board Planning Retreat
December 12 Wednesday
3:00 pm
Vision Bank
Board Meeting
C H A M B E R
AfterHours
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
ethos* & efish
Visual Arts Center
5:30 to 7:30 PM
*culture, civilization, urbanity;
Refreshments catered by efish.
19 E. 4th Street, Panama City
(corner of 4th and Harrison Ave.)
December 13 Thursday
6:00 pm
City Hall Annex
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
December 14 Friday
7:30-9:00 am Marriott
Friday at the Beach, featuring
Seclusion Bay
Breakers on the Beach
5:30 to 8:30 PM
Holiday Party
December 14 Friday
10:00 am
Airport Board Rm
Airport Authority Meeting
December 18 Tuesday
9:00 am
Panama City Hall
December 18 Tuesday
3:00 pm
Vision Bank
EDC Meeting
December 27 Thursday
2:00 pm
City Hall Annex
12627 Front Beach Road
Panama City Beach
Events Open to Chamber Members
& Their Guests
R.S.V.P. to [email protected]
or [email protected]
29
AROUND TOWN
Updates on Community, Workforce, Governmental Affairs & Military
Community Update
Mayor Gayle Oberst,
City of Panama City Beach
The City Council recently voted to allow dogs on
the beach in a special area set aside for them. The
400 feet of beach is west of the Dan Russell Pier
and will be marked with signs as a dog-friendly
area, furnished with waste disposal units, and patrolled by volunteers and city staff to insure that
all rules are adhered to. The City is continuing its
efforts to clean up Front Beach Road and is presently going through the legal process to demolish
two existing buildings. Some 20 properties on the
Front Beach Road have been requested to demolish or renovate and of those, five have voluntarily
been taken down.
The City is working with The St. Joe Company
on the Breakfast Point DRI, and construction of
the K-8 school, which is scheduled to open in fall
2008, is progressing rapidly. The Audubon Center site has been finalized, a director for the center
employed, and plans are being drafted. The trail
system will allow for walking and biking to the
Center, which will be located on the Bay.
Simon Properties is putting in infrastructure
and has already locked in several anchor stores.
That area will be developed after Pier Park, the
area located east of Aaron Bessant Park/Pier
Park Drive. Stay tuned for exciting grand openings ceremonies and events at Pier Park; they
should begin the end of 2007.
HALO to Advance Careers
in Healthcare
Kimberly Bodine, Executive Director,
Gulf Coast Workforce Board
The Gulf Coast Workforce Board (GCWB) is
launching a new program designed to meet the
healthcare employment needs of the region.
The program is called HALO (Healthcare Advancement Ladder Occupations), and will provide industry recognized training for new and
existing healthcare workers. Through the program, the GCWB anticipates serving approximately 245 participants, with 230 projected to
receive job placement and/or advancement in
the healthcare sector.
Dan’s Barbeque on the west end was destroyed
by fire and the owners have decided to build
a new full service restaurant from the ground
up. The restaurant “Salty Sue’s” will be much
larger and feature a lounge area with entertainment. Many questions have been asked about
the building on the Parkway just east of Summer Breeze. It is a cigar/beer/wine shop, and is
scheduled to open soon. A Mexican restaurant
is planned next door. The retail area between
Alf Coleman Street and Home Depot continues
to grow. Construction has begun on the restaurant TGIF, and plans for an American Best Mattress building and Best Western motel have been
reviewed and work should begin soon. While
not in the City limits, a new Hooters and Burger
King are planned on Thomas Drive across from
the Navy Base.
The program takes a multifaceted approach by
focusing on recruitment, advancement and retention. Youth and first time job entrants will
be recruited to the program and given skill assessments, training, and assistance with job
placement. As part of the program, Bay Medical Center will host a “nurse camp” in which
40 youth will be exposed to a real world look
at the work of a nurse. In addition, the program
will advance and retain workers already employed in healthcare positions. Through the use
of job coaches at Bay Medical Center and Gulf
Coast Medical Center, career advancement and
retention strategies will be developed for each
HALO participant. Under this component, the
HALO project will assist in the production of
LPNs, RNs and other clinical staff as well as
help in the retention and advancement of existing non-clinical staff.
In October, the public was treated to a special
screening at the Grand Theatre of the movie
The Jane Austen Book Club. The screenwriter /
director Robin Swicord graduated from Bay
High and grew up on the Beach. She was present to introduce the movie, autograph posters,
answer questions and meet with old friends.
Pier Park West, which is the area directly across
from Frank Brown Park, is moving forward.
The HALO project is a part of the GCWB’s
Business Employment Solutions & Training (BEST) initiative. This initiative has been
funded for the past three years by a grant from
Workforce Florida, Inc. The funds are used to
upgrade the skills of employed workers and assist new and low income workers in gaining the
skills needed to advance in their career paths.
The purpose behind BEST is to develop local
30
training solutions to meet the needs of the local
business community.
Local Government Update
Bay Solutions
Bay County
• The Commission approved leasing a vacant
lot on McKenzie Avenue for additional parking
for the Bay County Courthouse.
• The Commission has secured financing to
construct the County Administration facility
and to rebuild and extend (by 500 feet) the
County pier.
City of Panama City Beach
• The Council unanimously approved water and
sewer rate increases within the City of Panama
City Beach. For one thousand gallons of water,
the rate will increase from $2.08 to $2.64. Of
the fifty-six cents increase ($2.08 to $2.64),
fifty-five cents goes directly to the County for
their recently approved rate increase. Sewer
rates will increase from $1.64 to $1.84 per
thousand gallons.
• The City Council passed an ordinance requiring
sexual predators to stay 2,500 feet away from
any schools, daycares, parks and playgrounds.
• The Council approved the annual stormwater
assessment at the same rate as last year.
• The Council appointed Keith Curry to the
Planning Board.
• The Council agreed to draft a resolution to
encourage the State to continue the dog fly
control program.
• The Council voted to draft a resolution to
create a marked area of the beach west of the
pier where dog owners can bring their dogs. The
marked section of the beach will be open from
sunrise to sunset each day and dogs are required
to be on a leash. The resolution creating this
pilot program will be considered by the Council
at the October 11 meeting.
Panama City – Bay County Airport
• The Airport Authority raised the parking rate
from $0.50 to $1.00 per half hour. The daily
parking rate increased from $6 to $8.
• Airport officials anticipate that the new 150space parking lot at the existing airport will be
completed by the end of the month.
• The Airport Authority announced that it
approved a contract to sell the current airport
site to Community Airport Redevelopment,
LLC.
Will
You
Be Next?
Set Sail for the Best
Christmas Party Ever
Aboard the
Lady Anderson
Dining Yacht
Now Booking Holiday Parties
through New Year’s Eve
Call for individual and group
information & pricing
(800) 360-0510
[email protected]
www.ladyanderson.com
With Two Locations to Serve You:
Lady Anderson Cruises at
The Captain Anderson Marina
5550 North Lagoon Drive
Panama City Beach
(850) 234-5940
BEACH
11205 Hutchison Blvd.
(850) 233-2111
CITY
1344 W. 15th Street
(850) 872-1955
31
ROGER PARRY
Panama City Lender
2624 Jenks Avenue, Suite A
Panama City, FL 32405
Phone: 850.872.9415
Member FDIC
www.vanguardbank.com
Cosmetic Vein & Laser Center
… of the
e Emeralld Coast
12238 PANAMA CITY BEACH PKWY., PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA
“Invest in something you will be wearing
every day for the rest of your life”
Skin… Face… Legs…
External Beauty… Internal Peace
SPECIALIZING
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
IN:
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT OF VARICOSE & SPIDER VEINS
ENDOVENOUS LASER TREATMENT (EVLT)
LASER PHOTOREJUVENATION FOR AGE SPOTS & SUN DAMAGE
BOTOX & RESTYLANE
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
DERMATOLOGIC CONSULTATIONS
MICRODERMABRASION & CHEMICAL PEELS
Using Scie
ence & Sop
phistication to help people
e
look & feel beautifull inside and out.
32
Dr. Kimberly Moskowitz, MS, MD
MEMBER, AMERICAN COLLEGE OF PHLEBOLOGY
MEDICAL DEGREE:
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
RESIDENCY:
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
PHLEBOLOGY/ VEIN TRAINING:
AMERICAN VEIN INSTITUTE
HARVARD’S BRIGHAM & WOMEN’S HOSPITAL
850.233.0264
WWW. FLORIDAVEINDOCTOR . COM
you have a choice with hospice care
Hospice is a specialized form of home healthcare for patients with life-limiting illnesses.
Hospice care can be provided in the home, hospital, long-term care facility or assisted
living facility.
At Emerald Coast Hospice, our focus is on living. Through compassion and teamwork,
our expert staff creates a kind, caring atmosphere for patients and their families.
We offer a full range of services, including:
• Skilled nursing services available 24 hours a day,
7 days per week
• Spiritual support and volunteer programs
• Pain and symptom management
• Medical social workers
• Bereavement program
• Home health aides
• Reimbursed by Medicare
for more information
please contact us at
877-717-7357
We accept patients for care regardless of age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, being a qualified disabled veteran, being a qualified disabled veteran of the Vietnam era, or any other category protected by law, or decisions regarding
advance directives. #1883
33
GRAND OPENINGS
and Re-Openings, Groundbreakings & Beautifications
To schedule a ribbon-cutting call Skip Alford at 814-4292
Antonio’s Bakery & Cafe, 8/29
Team Cellular, 8/30
Gift Basket Designs, 9/13
Thomas Lee Photography
Romancing With Stones, 9/19
Mellow Mushroom, 10/3
Envy, 9/20
Gayle’s Trails, 10/11
Thomas Lee Photography, 9/27
David’s Sno-Balls, 10/18
MEMBERSHIP REPORT
Skip Alford & Tyler Finklea
Member Services
W
ith more than 80 countries visiting our Chamber website each
month since the announcement of the future Regional Airport,
we are excited about the potential of our already dynamic
beach town. Whether you are new to the Chamber this month, or have
been a member for a decade, it’s easy to feel the energy in the air.
The New and Improved Monday Morning Report that we generate
with Constant Contact software has allowed us to get in touch with our
members regularly...and with style. Be sure to let us know if your email
address changes so you can continue to receive up-to-date emails of
Chamber events and news.
We would also like to let you know that Leads Groups will now be
meeting only once a month with email interaction between meetings.
Leads Group A will meet the second Thursday of every month and Leads
Group B will meet the first Wednesday of every month. You will continue to get your email updates
on these meetings. As always, if you need Skip or myself please contact us via phone or email.
Tyler Finklea
34
Labor Solutions Re-Opening, 10/24
LEADS GROUP
The Chamber’s two Leads Groups meet
once per month to share business leads
and information. The groups are industry
specific and allow just one of any profession
to avoid conflict. Please join us:
LEADS GROUP A meets at the Boatyard,
5323 North Lagoon Dr., every second
Thursday of the month at 12:00 Noon. Erven Sewell (850) 784-0032; [email protected].
LEADS GROUP B meets at the Boatyard
every first Wednesday of the month at 12:00
Noon. Jared Jones (850) 303-1989; jared.
[email protected].
New Members
“That Seattle Girl” Residential
& Professional Cleaning
Another Broken Egg
Audubon of Florida
Bay Families with Dogs, Inc.
Beach Buddies Linen Service
Bella Flora @ Carillon
Coastal Impressions, Inc.
Coastal Janitorial Services
Coastal Palms Village
Custom Vacations
Dairy Queen
Dippin Dots (Magic Ice Cream, Inc.)
Errand Runners
Errands Galore
Executive Office Furniture, Inc.
Fuller Insurance, LLC
Ginger Silva, Realtor
Golden Nail Handyman, Etc.
Grace Episcopal Church
Hadley & McLeroy PLLC
Henkle Law Firm
Hidden Dunes Condominiums
House of Grace Maternity Home
Hutchison Beach Elementary
Jim Free Realty
Kaleidoscope Theatre
Lancaster, Kirk
Maharaja’s
Panama City Beach Rentals
Pregnancy Resource Center
Pure Water, Inc.
Quiznos Sub
South Beach Tan
System Laundry Management
Team Cellular
The Celebration Place
TLM Marketing
Treasure Island Resort Rentals, Inc.
Whitman, Elizabeth
Wiggins Auto Parts, Inc. NAPA
Renewals
Alexan Back Beach/Trammell Crow
Residential - 1
Alisa Stone, Realtor - 1
American Express - 1
Bell Signs - 1
CRA Cottage Rental Agency - 1
D.R. Horton - 1
Dooley Mack Constructors of NW FL,
LLC - 1
Emerald Coast Answerfone - 1
Field Day, Inc. Pool Services - 1
FSU-PC - 1
Irene & Company - 1
Liza’s Kitchen - 1
Minchew Enterprises - 1
Pacesetter Personnel Service - 1
The Fudge Factory/D&L Enterprises
of Bay County - 1
Women’s Civic Club of Panama City
Beach - 1
Beaches Construction Company, LLC - 2
Carillon Beach Rentals - 2
Grand Residences By Marriott Bay Point - 2
GulfCrest Condominiums - 2
GulfView Properties - 2
Interspace Airport Advertising - 2
Irby Electric Express - 2
Island Breeze Realty & Management - 2
Leeshore Realty, Inc. - 2
McInnis Builders, LLC - 2
Mixon Properties Resort Rentals, Inc. - 2
Pac & Stac of Laird Street - 2
Pinnacle Port Realty Corp. - 2
ResortQuest Central Reservations - 2
Ripley’s Believe It Not Museum - 2
Vacation Resorts (Landmark
Holiday Beach Resort) - 2
WBIF - TV RTN Network - 2
Aqua Condominiums - 3
Carillon Beach Institute - 3
North Florida Safety Council - 3
Rupert’s Cleaners - 3
Joey’s Java Juice - 4
Joni’s Beach Rentals, Inc. - 4
Kernan, Ben - 4
Paul Brent Designer, Inc. - 4
Surfside Storage, Inc. - 4
AT&T Advertising & Publishing Corp. - 5
BaySolutions - 5
Calypso Beach Cafe & Sports Grille - 5
Coldwell Banker - 5
Davis Appliance On The Beach - 5
Doctors Laboratory, Inc. - 5
Dunn Realty at Panama City Beach - 5
EmeraldCoast.com - 5
Golf Depot, Inc. - 5
Law Offices of Chris Patterson - 5
Metabolic Researc
Mortensen, Keith - 5
Panama City Beach Rotary - 5
Sallie Mae, Inc. - 5
Sandcastle Designs, Inc. - 5
Stroud, Thomas - 5
UCI Communications - 5
Vance, Harris (Zeke) - 5
White Sands Development Realty, Inc. - 5
Emerald Coast Guide Online.com - 6
Haines, Jr., Charles Fred - 6
Hidden Dunes Condominiums - 6
Panhandle Educators Federal Credit
Union - 6
Burg Management Company - 7
Covenant Hospice - 7
Enterprise Rent-A-Car - 7
Hampton Inn at Panama City Beach - 7
Papa John’s Pizza /R & L Enterprises - 7
Tillie’s Properties - 7
Marriott Legends Edge at Bay Point - 8
The Storage Center - 8
170 Condos at Regency Towers - 9
BankTrust Bank - 9
CFT Pyramid - 9
Glass Center, Inc. - 9
Paddock Club Apartments - 9
Panama City Downtown Improvement
Board - 9
PBS&J - 9
Beach Tower Resort Motel - 10
Healthsouth Emerald Coast
Rehabilitation Hospital - 10
Donald F. Nations Real Estate - 10
TRIPLE “J” Steakhouse/Vittles Inc. - 10
Zooworld, Inc. - 10
Aquatic Realty/Aqua Vista - 11
Gregory W. Goodreau D.M.D. - 11
Neighborhood Press - 11
Source One Flooring - 11
State Attorney, Steve Meadows - 11
Trustmark National Bank - 11
Leitz Office Products - 13
PMI Employee Leasing - 13
Publix Super Markets, Inc. - 13
Advanced Eye Care of Bay County - 14
Comcast Cable - 14
Hombre Golf Club - 14
Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama
City Public Affairs Office - 14
Panama City - Bay County International
Airport - 14
Pompanos Restaurant - 15
The Shores Homeowners Association - 15
Buffalo Rock Pepsi - 16
Bid-A-Wee Mini-Storage - 17
Ebro/Washington Co Kennel Club - 17
Marriott Bay Point Resort - 17
Moonspinner Condominiums - 17
Palmetto Motel - 17
Seachase Management - 17
Wendy’s - 18
See Publications, Inc. - 20
35
MEMBER NEWS
ited businesses have agreed to live up to our
Standards for Trust. Our Standards for Trust focuses on how businesses should treat the public
– fairly and honestly in all circumstances. BBB
Accreditation is an honor; not every company
is eligible.
Sunjammers
Kayaking is a wonderful way to exercise and
get outdoors, and one of the best ways to view
wildlife, fish, or just relax after a hard day at the
office.
Panama City and the surrounding areas offer
some of the country’s top kayaking. There are
countless creeks and springs just north that make
for a great day or afternoon trip. Kayaks are very
stable; flipping a kayak is more work than actually kayaking in the newer style kayaks.
Hobie Cat took kayaking to the next level when
they introduced the Hobie Mirage line of kayaks.
These kayaks can be pedaled, paddled or even
sailed! Sunjammers Watersports has everything
you need to get on the water, and also offers lessons, trips, and sales from the industry’s top kayak manufactures. Visit www.sunjammers.com
or give Brad Stephens a call at (850) 235-2281
and ask what they can do to help you explore
beautiful Northwest Florida.
Start With Trust
Your Better Business Bureau is introducing
a new energized Brand, in touch with today’s
consumers and marketplace issues and more focused on advancing marketplace trust than ever
before.
It used to simply be a good idea to do your
homework before doing business with a company. Now it’s a necessity. Today’s savvy consumers want control, security and confidence in
their choices, and know the importance of doing
business with a company that has made a public
commitment to doing what is right.
This is where your BBB steps in. BBB’s Start
With Trust campaign reminds consumers that
there are measurable and accountable standards
for trust in the marketplace. All BBB accred36
BBB’s mission is to be the leader in advancing
marketplace trust. The core of who we are has
not changed – trust, integrity, honesty, reliability. For nearly a century BBB has been the “go
to” organization for marketplace trust issues,
and it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.
New Executive Chef for 30
Degree Blue
Bay Point Marriott Resort recently promoted
Sous Chef Jason Morgan to the position of
Chef De Cuisine for
the resort’s signature
restaurant, 30 Degree
Blue.
gus in an apple-balsamic reduction sauce. Seafood lovers can enjoy a delightful broiled red
snapper with crimini and scallion risotto served
atop wilted Belgian endive and watercress in a
tarragon Beurre blanc sauce.
30 Degree Blue offers a dining experience beyond measure for anyone who has a flair for
great food and a fun, exciting atmosphere. The
restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday - Saturday, with bar service beginning at 5:00 pm and
dinner service at 6:00 pm. On-line reservation
requests should be made 48 hours before the
desired dining date, at www.30degreeblue.com.
For same day reservations, please call (850)
236-1115. Walk-ins
are always welcome.
Carpet One
Floor &
Home Goes
Collegiate
Carpet One Floor &
Home at 2804 West
23rd Street in Panama
“Creativity is the drivCity has a full line of
ing force behind all the
Chef
Jason
Morgan
of
30
Degree
Blue
college logo carpets
dishes I create,” says
and
welcome mats.
Morgan.
“Friends,
John
Shepard,
President
of
Carpet
One Floor &
family and traveling have influenced my take
Home,
says
“All
college
logos
are
available.
Colon cuisine. I love to mix it up with a little
lege-level
education
is
an
important
part
of
our
French, Italian, Mediterranean and Southern
community’s
growth.
We’re
really
excited
to
get
American. No matter the flavor – I am a fan of
to
talk
with
people
about
their
favorite
schools.”
good food!”
Shepard received the National Community SerChef Morgan’s culinary career began when he vice Award for his work with Toys for Tots. His
attended The French Culinary Institute in New store was recognized from among 1,000 other
York City, graduating in December 2004. Since stores for its service to the community.
then he has gained experience working
at several New York restaurants. “We
are delighted to have Jason serve as our
executive chef for 30 Degree Blue,”
said John Hamati, Vice President of Operations for Bay Point Marriott Resort.
“With his particular culinary skills and
creativity, Jason will help take our restaurant to an even higher level. His new
items on the menu have received wonderful comments from our guests.”
Some signature items guests can discover on the menu include an oven-roasted
Muscovy Duck served with saffron
roasted new potatoes, red wine poached Carpet One Floor & Home carries a full line of college logo
peaches and prosciutto-wrapped aspara- carpets.
MEMBER NEWS
Lighting The Way
Once in a generation there
is a chance for a community
to build something together.
Something that will live beyond them, serving as a visual
identification of a place and a
time.
furnishes each event with
two photographers. Included
for all of his clients is a DVD
which serves as a slideshow
with background music for
TV viewing, and as an archive
with hi-resolution pictures
suitable for printing. He also
places his clients’ event pictures on a private website, for
the clients’ friends and family
to review.
The Panama City Lighthouse,
located on the Panama City
Marina, offers the community
a chance to indelibly put their
family’s name on a paver that
will form the foundation of the A Paul Brent watercolor of the new Thomas has been a member
new addition to the marina. Panama City Lighthouse.
of The Greater Panama City
There are a limited number of
Beaches Chamber of Comlarge pavers available for individuals and busi- merce since 2002, and quickly became active as
nesses, and a nice supply of $50 pavers for in- a Beach Ambassador. He pictorially documents
dividuals, honorariums, grandkids, parents and grand openings, beautifications and other Ambasgrandparents, etc. The sale of these pavers will sador events, then uploads them for public viewfund the project with no additional need for help ing to www.BeachAmbassadors.com, a website
from taxes, city or county funds, or any addition- which he and his brother, Bobby, maintain.
al source of funding.
For more information, visit ThomasLeePhotogThe Coast Guard has supported the project and raphy.com, or call Thomas at (850) 814-0385.
will provide the beacon that will
be visible five to seven miles
Covenant Hospice
out into the gulf. They are exSeeks Mask Pacited about having a new USCG
rade Sponsors
sanctioned navigational aid in
Covenant Hospice is seeking
St. Andrews Bay, and have ofsponsorships for its Sixth Anfered their wholehearted support
nual Mask Parade Exhibit
of the project. Please visit Panand Gala. This is a great opamaCityLighthouse.com for
portunity for local businesses
information on how you can get
and individuals to participate in
involved.
Photographer Thomas Lee
a unique and highly publicized
fundraising event.
learn more about the event and sponsorship
levels, visit www.covenanthospice.org or call
(850) 785-3040.
Bowyer-Singleton
Announces Grand Opening
of Beach Regional Office
Bowyer-Singleton & Associates first opened in Orlando in 1972, and has been a consistent leader in
providing professional engineering and surveying
services throughout Florida for the past 35 years.
Staffed with 225 of the most talented professionals
in the industry, Bowyer-Singleton provides expert
services in Land Development Planning & Design, Transportation Engineering, Environmental
Sciences, and Surveying & Mapping.
Since 2001, Bowyer-Singleton has established
regional offices in West Palm Beach, DeLand,
Ocala, St. Augustine and, most recently Panama
City Beach. For the past six years, Bowyer-Singleton has ranked among the nation’s “Top 500
Design Firms” in the Engineering News Record
(ENR).
The Panama City Beach office staff includes five
registered professional engineers and land surveyors, averaging over 15 years of experience.
Unsurpassed quality products and services, an
experienced local staff, and our use of advanced
technology distinguish them in their industry.
For more information call (850) 233-6950 or
visit www.bsacorporate.com.
It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words.
They preserve moments, memories, emotions...
and in many ways, they celebrate our connection
to the Divine.
Since childhood, Thomas Lee has celebrated life
through a photographer’s lens, taking pictures
for family and friends. Now, Thomas Lee Photography specializes in event photography such
as corporate or charity functions, weddings and
sporting events. He has been the Official Photographer for the American Cancer Society’s Cattle
Barons’ Ball for the past two years, and recently
photographed the First Annual Sacred Grounds
Wine & Food Festival at St. Bernadette’s.
Auctions of masks painted by celebrities and
local artists, dining, entertainment and dancing
are all part of The Mask Parade Gala, which
will take place at the Edgewater Beach Resort
on March 22, 2008. Masks will be displayed
from February 29th – March 21st at participating downtown businesses. Join us for a walking
tour of the exhibit from 3pm – 5pm on Feb. 29
beginning at the Visual Arts Center.
Event proceeds benefit Covenant Hospice, a
not-for-profit organization that serves approximately 1,200 patients daily and provides comprehensive, compassionate care to patients and
loved ones facing life-limiting illnesses. To
Emerald Coast Hospice:
Giving a Whole New
Meaning to “Quality Time”
The benefits of Hospice care are no longer a
secret. The medical community now acknowledges the need for specialized and compassionate end of life care for all individuals. It is with
this in mind that Emerald Coast Hospice reminds
you – all Hospice care is not the same.
The skilled nursing staff at Emerald Coast
Continued on Page 38
37
MEMBER
NEWS
Continued from Page 37
Sharon & Gregory Yordon
Nationally Board Certified
in Hearing Instrument Sciences
A Difference
Worth Hearing About!
BELTONE,
A Leader in Hearing Aid Technology
FREE Hearing Evaluations.
Consistent care, almost anywhere
with Beltone’s largest network of hearing
care centers in the nation.
Repairs and service on almost all
makes and models.
Belcare, the most competitive followup care program of its kind.
We also have assistive listening
devices, hearing aid accessories and
fresh batteries.
Financing available (with app. credit)
Hospice works collaboratively with preferred
physicians to structure a plan of care unique to
individual needs. Home health aides provide
dignified personal care and assistance with daily
activities in a variety of settings. Social workers
and chaplains strive to help families with many
of the emotional, spiritual and financial issues
that sometimes accompany a major health crisis.
These disciplines combined with dedicated volunteers comprise an unparalleled interdisciplinary team.
The services are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, and on-call staff are the same friendly
faces you already know and trust. Emerald Coast
Hospice provides medical supplies to families in
the home, long term care facility or assisted living
facility, and they do not bill for services.
Funding is provided by Medicare, private insurance and donations. Services are available to
individuals who are medically qualified, regardless of the financial situation, and Emerald Coast
Hospice respects the choice of the family when
determining which pharmacy or medical equipment company is right.
Remember, when quality of time becomes more
precious than quantity of time, ask your doctor
about Emerald Coast Hospice. For more information, call (850) 769-0055.
The trailhead begins at the northern end of Frank
Brown Park next to the Youth Fishing Pond. It
features paved trails with picnic tables, landscaping for shade, bike and vehicle parking areas,
restrooms, small picnic pavilion, and kiosk with
trail mileage information and directions.
Activity areas are planned at various points along
the system. These public recreation areas will
include outdoor classrooms for school environmental education fieldtrips, bird watching and
wildlife observation areas, and access to swimming and fishing in the gulf across Aaron Bessant
Park at Pier Park. By providing public access to
some of these pristine locations, future generations will learn about and appreciate the natural
gifts that have been given to those who call Bay
County home.
The City of Panama City Beach is working with
other coastal counties of the panhandle to establish a Northwest Florida Coastal Trail System
that will extend through Gulf, Franklin, Bay,
Walton, Okaloosa, and Escambia counties. The
joint efforts of neighboring cities and counties
have allowed the trail system to come to life. For
more information on Gayle’s Trails, contact the
Panama City Beach Parks and Recreation Department at (850) 233-5045.
Gayle’s Trails Now Open
On Thursday, October 11th, the long-awaited
ribbon cutting for Gayle’s Trails took place on
Panama City Beach. Whether walking for fitness, biking for recreation, or simply enjoying
the natural beauty of northwest Florida, residents
and visitors will now have the opportunity to enjoy greenways and trails at the beach.
New Beach Location
Every Tuesday morning through the Summer
in Bay Medical at the Beach,
11111 Panama City Beach Pkwy.
Call (850) 763-0801 or
(877) 608-4327 for appointment
2633 Highway 77, Suite A
Panama City
38
For the past four years, the City of Panama City
Beach Parks and Recreation Department has received grants to fund over 4.5 miles of recreational trails. Gayle’s Trails was named after Mayor
Gayle Oberst for years of support while maintaining a vision of our future trail system. Funding to
build at Frank Brown Park was provided through
the Florida Recreation Development Assistance
Program (FRDAP). In addition, the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) Enhancement
grant will now add 3 miles of multi-use trails
from Panama City Beach Parkway north along
highway 79 to Pine Log State Forest.
City Manager Richard Jackson breaks in Gayle’s
Trails on October 11th.

your connection to the beach - Panama City Beach Chamber of

Transcription

Similar documents

You`re invited to the 3nd annual Weenie Roast

BROCHURE-ACQUALINA MIAMI

Harley-Davidson of Panama City Beach

Mrs. House and Mrs. Huba`s STEM Challenge Day

Weenie Roast - Cape Fear Sail and Power Squadron

Palm Beach - Blue Ocean Apartment

Company Events Design Your Own Beach Party

The 7 th Annual Orchard Beach Car Show

Invitation

Open House Rules.indd