mark your a message from our chair

MARK YOURCALENDARSEPTEMBER 2021

Mark your calendar now for these great networking events in October.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURSSponsored by:

Tuesday, October 5th5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. @ Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Café, 1000 E. 9 Mile RoadCost: $10 at the door.RSVP to 623-2339 or [email protected]

NETWORKING LUNCHSponsored by:

Friday, October 8th12Noon @ The Hangar American Grill3966 Avalon BoulevardCost: $10 at the doorRSVP required to 623-2339 or [email protected]

A.M. NETWORK BREAKFASTSponsored by:

Friday, October 29th7:30 a.m. @ Grover T’s, 5887 Highway 90Cost: $10 at the doorRSVP required to 623-2339 or [email protected]

The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Information Center • (850) 623-23392

The Santa Rosa County Chamber & Tourist Center welcomes the many new businesses and industries to our area. The Chamber staff, board members and ambassadors work

very hard each month to help make networking and building business connections easier for our members. After all, we are your voice for issues affecting business and industry in Santa Rosa County. We invite you (new businesses and industries) to stop by our beautiful Cham-ber building located on Avalon Blvd to learn more about how we can help grow your business. I would like to welcome new members Airforce Enlisted Village, Mediacom Business, Star Haulers, LLC , Gulf Coast Insurance , Steve & Kristen Rhodes – Levin Rinke Realty, Wordwalk, Strick Development Group, Cajun Crab Company, Sugar Sands Painting and Ground Zero Customs, LLC. I encourage you all to attend our monthly networking events and get involved with your community! To learn more about your chamber benefits, be sure to attend one of our many monthly new member orientations. Leadership Santa Rosa Alumni is now accepting appli-cations for their annual 2021 RISE Grant. Leadership Santa Rosa Alumni is committed to giving an award of $3,000

annually to a non-profit organization serving Santa Rosa County. Please email Nicole Frenk at the Chamber to request the application form: [email protected]. We still have tickets available to join us on October 16th for our first ever Casino Night! You don’t want to miss the fun and most of all the incredible door prizes! I encourage you to get your tickets now. Your tickets can be purchased at the Chamber and remember all proceeds help pay down the mortgage on your new Chamber & Tourist Information Center. For event details visit our website at www.srccham-ber.com. Have you thought about serving on the Chamber Board of Directors or know someone you would like to nominate? If so, please submit nominations to Donna Tucker at [email protected].

I am sure many of you (over achievers) have already be-gun your Christmas shopping so, I just want to remind

you to shop local and support your fellow chamber members and local business community!

Respectfully,Robin Vickers, 2021 Board Chair

2021 COMMITTEE & EVENT CHAIRS

A Message from our Chair...

WITHOUT A CHAMBER...Many people still don’t know….The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Information Center is not a government agency, we are not funded by the County, the City, your tax dollars or any source other than by local businesses, non-profits and individuals that join and two annual fundraisers, The Leadership Awards Banquet and Team Bruce Baker, MBA - RE/MAX Infinity Golf Classic. We thank the currently 600 members that support our Chamber, your businesses and your community. Consider joining if you are not already a member and please remember to support those businesses and organizations that are a member and make it possible to keep your Chamber active in our community.

YOU – our members keep our doors open and our offices staffed. THANK YOU for supporting your business community and your Chamber of Commerce.

We Invite You To Join Us!

The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Information Center • www.srcchamber.com3

EXECUTIVECOMMITTEE 2021

Message From CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARDRobin Vickers

Chair: Robin Vickers, University of Florida, WFRECChair-Elect: Anna Weaver, Synovus

Past Chair: Terry Miller, Edward Jones InvestmentsTreasurer: Debbie Kemp, Pen Air Federal

Credit UnionSecretary: Jeremy Reeder, Reeder Financial Group

Tracy Allen ............... Goosehead InsuranceTracy Beach .............. Blue Arbor Lance Cook ............... Lance Cook Marketing & ConsultingCindy Sallas Drummond .. Santa Rosa Medical CenterCapt. Paul Flores ....... NAS Whiting Field (Ex-Officio)Erica Grancagnolo ..... SRC Economic Development Office (Ex-Officio)Frank Hoskins ........... Buildia Construction Group, Inc.Matt Howard ............ Lamar AdvertisingMike Johnson ........... Goldring Gulf Distributing CompanyRandy Jorgenson ...... City of Milton (Ex-Officio)Charlin Knight .......... Santa Rosa County Schools (Ex-Officio)Jennifer Micklos ........ The First, ANBAPete Morgan ............. Service Matters Realty, Inc./ Property ManagementSteve Rhodes ............ Gulf Power CompanyMirella Savage ...............HelmsBriscoe/Team Bruce Baker, MBAMargarita Vazquez .... Primerica Financial Services

Director Emeritus...... Larry Strain, Synovus

BOARDMEMBERS 2021

2021 Officers & Board of Directors

2021 COMMITTEE & EVENT CHAIRS

Ambassadors..............................................Mirella Savage ...................................... HelmsBriscoe/Team Bruce Baker, MBA

Co-Chair ................................................Bruce Baker ........................................... Team Bruce Baker, MBA-RE/MAX Infinity

Awards Luncheon .......................................Tracy Allen ............................................ Goosehead Insurance

Business After Hours ..................................Anna Weaver ......................................... Synovus

Co-Chair .................................................Erin Vaughn ........................................... South State Bank

Business Showcase .....................................Tracy Beach ........................................... Blue Arbor

Co-Chair ................................................Mirella Savage ...................................... HelmsBriscoe/Team Bruce Baker, MBA

Casino Night ...............................................Mike Johnson ........................................ Goldring Gulf Distributing

Co-Chair ................................................Matt Howard ......................................... Lamar Advertising

Christmas Parade .......................................Connie Clark .......................................... Santa Rosa Lions Club

Community Service Council ........................Jaimie Hudson ...................................... Project Box

E.D.G.E........................................................Charlin Knight ....................................... SRC School District

Team Bruce Baker, MBA

RE/MAX Infinity Golf Classic .......................Larry Strain ........................................... Synovus

Finance Committee ....................................Erin Vaughn ........................................... South State Bank

Job Fair .......................................................Tracy Beach ........................................... Blue Arbor

Leadership Santa Rosa ...............................Christina Simmons ................................ Class 28 Graduate

Leadership Santa Rosa Alumni ...................Kyle Schoolar ........................................ Feeding The Gulf Coast

Local Legislative Action .............................Ed Carson .............................................. Carson Construction

Membership Development.........................Terry Miller ............................................ Edward Jones Investments

Member Orientation ..............................Terry Miller ............................................ Edward Jones Investments

Membership-What’s Next? .....................Margarita Vazquez ................................ Primerica-Margarita Vazquez

Military Appreciation Month ......................Tracy Allen ............................................ Goosehead Insurance

Riverfest 2021 ............................................Larry Strain ........................................... Synovus

Santa Rosa Young Professionals .................Jeremy Reeder ...................................... Reeder Financial Group

Networking Lunch ......................................Lance Cook ............................................ Lance Cook Marketing & Consulting

The A.M. Network ......................................Tracy Allen ............................................ Goosehead Insurance

Co-Chair ..............................................Paulette Martin ..................................... Nouveau Pastries & Catering


THANK YOU TO OUR 2021 SPONSORSTHANK YOU to these Businesses & Organizations that have already confirmed

networking sponsorships for 2021. Call/email now to reserve yours!

Business After Hours January .............. Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityFebruary ............ CenterState BankMarch ................ Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityApril .................. Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityMay ................... Grover T’s BBQJune ................... Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityAugust ............... Emmanuel, Sheppard & CondonSeptember ......... Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityOctober .............. Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityNovember .......... S.O.S. Junk and Trash Removers

Networking Lunch January .............. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest FloridaFebruary ............ Fast Cash ATM ServicesMarch ................ Assisted Living LocatorsApril .................. Two Men And a TruckMay ................... RideOn Commuter ServicesJune ................... Complete Technology Solutions Group, LLCJuly .................... Baptist Health CareAugust ............... Santa Rosa Medical CenterSeptember ........ Reeder Financial ServicesOctober .............. S.O.S. Junk and Trash RemoversNovember .......... Santa Rosa Kids’ HouseDecember ........... Harvesters Federal Credit Union

The A.M. Network January .............. Pen Air Federal Credit UnionFebruary ............ Gulf Power Co.March ................ Harvesters Federal Credit UnionApril .................. Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX InfinityJune ................... Santa Rosa Medical CenterJuly .................... Pen Air Federal Credit UnionAugust .............. Dan Stewart PA/Navy League Santa Rosa CouncilSeptember ......... RM IntegrationsOctober .............. Pen Air Federal Credit UnionDecember ........... Locklin Technical College

The Santa RosanJanuary .............. Office Pride Commercial Cleaning ServicesFebruary ............ Honey Bee PlumbingMarch ................ Emmanuel, Sheppard & CondonApril .................. Tanglewood Golf & Country ClubMay ................... Buildia Construction Group, Inc.June ................... Synovus July .................... Blackwater River Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility/GEO GroupAugust ............... Leadership Santa RosaSeptember ......... RE/MAX Infinity, PaceOctober .............. Gulf Coast InsuranceNovember .......... AvailableDecember ........... Available

How Do I Get More Involved...

Ah, these words are music to a Chamber leader’s ears…we WANT you to be more involved and welcome the opportunity to show you how. Businesses, orga-nizations and individuals join their area Chambers for a myriad of reasons – most to grow their network and business – build their volunteer base – give back to the community. These are the top reasons we hear. As a member you have numerous opportunities to volunteer either with Chamber activities/events or those of your fellow members, the relationships you build are benefi-cial to your business and you feel good for helping your community. Your Chamber coordinates three net-working events monthly which your fellow members sponsor – great opportunity to get face to face (6 ft. apart please) with potential clients, gain recognition

(bring a door prize) and learn more about business-es/organizations in your community – maybe they need volunteers – maybe they need your services or maybe you can refer someone you know to them. Think of your Chamber like a big extended family, the more you put out there – the more you get back. Attending ribbon cuttings, grand openings and ground breakings are a great way to meet other members and community leaders and gain recogni-tion. And if you REALLY want to take it to the next level and have not yet participated in Leadership Santa Rosa, this program has long -lasting, far reach-ing relationship building opportunities.

If you are not sure how to get more involved and you want to, let’s talk, we want to show you how.

At Your Service,Donna TuckerYour President/CEO

FROM YOUR PRESIDENT / CEO

ADVERTISINGGet your business recognized through

our website, monthly newsletter, and monthly networking events.

Call Donna or Nicole to find out how to

Get Your Business PLUGGED IN!(850) 623-2339


Weekly Recurring Meetings/Activities

MONDAYS9 a.m.1 p.m.Small Business Development Center Consultation Hours in MiltonSRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

TUESDAYS12 NoonMilton Rotary Club - Meetings are open to the publicThe Hangar, 3966 Avalon Blvd, MiltonCall (850) 287-6248 to confirm.

7 PMPrimerica Business Opportunity5205 Dogwood Dr, MiltonCall Margarita Vazquez, (850) 626-7188, to confirm. WEDNESDAYS12 NoonKiwanis Club of Milton SunriseCall (850) 910-405 for location.

THURSDAYS7 AMPace Rotary ClubStonebrook Golf Club, 3200 Cobblestone Dr., PaceCall (850) 994-9797 to confirm.

7:15 AMBNI Tri-CitiesSRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

SATURDAYS9 AM-2:00 PMSaturdays at the Market Outdoor Vendor & Farmers Market5300 Berryhill Rd, Milton

For an up-to-date calendar of events, visit our website www.srcchamber.com.

THE A.M. NETWORK

Chair: Tracy Allen, Goosehead InsuranceCo-Chair: Paulette Martin, Nouveau Pastries & Catering

Thank you to our Sponsor

Dan Stewart, PA/Navy League Federal Credit Union, represented by Darryl Johnson, Debbie Kemp, Del Lewis, Martin

Simmons, and Dan Stewart

Congratulations split-the-pot winner: Holly Leeds, Shaffer Construction

Mirella Savage (Chair) ........Team Bruce Baker/ HelmsBriscoe

Bruce Baker (Co-Chair) ......Team Bruce Baker - RE/MAX Infinity

Tracy Allen ........................Goosehead Insurance

Kim Anderson ....................Sunbelt Title

Tracy Beach ......................Blue Arbor

Meghan Bral ......................Mary Kay Independent

Sales Director

Linda Clark .......................LC Creative Productions

Eric Diamond ....................Water Works Sprinkler Systems, Inc.

Gisset Diaz .........................Coastal Funding Corporation

Ryan Funderburk ...............Regions Mortgage

Brenda Kay Hammel ..........Express Employment Professionals

2021 CHAMBER AMBASSADORSOur Ambassadors Make It Happen!

Felicia Fortune Northcutt ...Coldwell Banker

Ed Perry ...........................The Perry Group

Jeremy Reeder .................New York Life

Daniel Savage....................All Squared Away Lawn Care

Josh Shawley .................... Team Bruce Baker - RE/MAX Infinity

Larry Strain ......................Synovus

Christopher Truitt ..............Venture Realty

Juan Vazquez ...................Primerica-Margarita Vazquez

Margarita Vazquez .............Primerica-Margarita Vazquez

Janice White ....................Accelerating Futures, LLC

Ray White ........................Accelerating Futures, LLC



OCTOBER Membership Milestones

5 YearsLC Creative Productions

My Father’s Arrows

Two Men And A Truck

1 YearCora’s Custom Creations Lounge

& Event Center

Conqueror Productions

Tammy Wilson

Please support these businesses & organizations that support

our community!

October is National Retirement Security Month. But what does retirement security mean to you? And how can you work toward achieving it? Here are some suggestions:• Build your resources. While you’re working, save in tax-advantaged accounts such as your IRA and 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. In your 401(k), contribute at least enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered, and increase your contributions whenever your salary goes up. Remember, especially early in your career, time is often your biggest asset. Be sure to save early, since the longer you wait, the more you’ll need to save to help reach your goals.• Look for ways to boost retirement income. When transitioning to retirement, you can take steps to align your income with your needs. For example, consider Social Security. You can start collecting it as early as 62, but your monthly payments will be much larger if you can wait until your “full” retirement age, typically between 66 and 67. (Payments will “max out” at age 70.) So, if you have sufficient income from a pension or your 401(k) and other retirement accounts, and you and your spouse are in good health with a family history of longevity, you may consider delaying taking Social Security. You also might want to explore other income-producing vehicles, such as certain annuities that are designed to provide a lifetime income stream.• Prepare for unexpected costs. During your retire-ment, you can anticipate some costs, such as housing and transportation, but other expenses are more irregular and can’t always be predicted, such as those connected with health care. Even with Medicare, you could easily spend a few thousand dollars a year on medical expenses, so you

may want to budget for these costs as part of your emergency savings, and possibly purchase supple-mental insurance. You may also want to consider the possibility of needing some type of long-term care, which is not typically covered by Medicare and can be quite expensive. The average annual cost of a private room in a nursing home is more than $100,000, and it’s about $55,000 per year for a home health aide, according to Genworth, an insurance company. To address these costs, you may want to consider some form of protection, such as long-term care insurance or life insurance with a long-term care component. • Do your estate planning. It’s hard to feel totally secure in retirement if you’re unsure of what might happen if you have an unexpected health event, be-come incapacitated or die earlier than expected. That’s why you’ll want to create a comprehensive estate plan – one that might include documents such as a durable power of attorney, a will and a living trust. A review of your insurance coverages and beneficiaries can also help protect your assets and ensure they are distrib-uted the way you want. In creating your plan, you will need to work with your financial advisor and a legal professional, and possibly your tax advisor as well.

Thinking holistically about your retirement security and developing and executing a strategy aligned with your goals may help free you to enjoy one of the most rewarding times of your life.

Like my Facebook business page: Connect with me onLinked in.

Edward Jones4620 Summerdale Blvd, Pace, FL 32571

(850) 995-3382www.edwardjones.com

FINANCIAL FOCUSWhat does retirement security mean to you?

Terry Miller, CIMAEdward Jones Investments


COMMUNITY CALENDAR - OCTOBER

October 5 ..................................... 1 p.m. First Place Partners Meeting Studer Community Institute, 220 W. Garden Str., #100, Pensacola

October 7 ..................................... 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. “Empowering Women in Business” Networking Lunch SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 7 ..................................... 5 p.m. City of Milton Planning Board Meeting Milton City Hall, 6738 Dixon Street

October 8 ..................................... 7-9 a.m. Faith-Driven Entrepreneurs Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 9 ..................................... 6:00 p.m. Bridge & Berry Fashion Show SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 9 ..................................... 5 p.m. Central Santa Rosa Republican Club The Hangar, 3966 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 11.................................... Chamber closed for Colombus Day

October 12.................................... 9:30-10:30 a.m. Milton Garden Club Meeting Magnolia Hall, 5256 Alabama St, Milton

October 12.................................... 5:45 p.m. City of Milton Council Meeting Milton City Hall, Council Chambers, 6738 Dixon Street

October 13.................................... 12-1 p.m. Navy League Santa Rosa Council Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 14.................................... 1-2:30 p.m. Milton Dementia Support Group Milton Community Center, Room 113, 5629 Byrom Street

October 14.................................... 5:30 p.m. City of Milton Historic Preservation Board Meeting Milton City Hall, 6738 Dixon Street

October 19.................................... 9 a.m. Coldwell Banker Roundtable SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 20.................................... 6:30 p.m. Blackwater Pyrates Meeting Please call (850) 313-1967 for location.

October 23.................................... 11:00 a.m. First Presbyterian Church’s “Knotty Prayers” Ministry Please call (850) 623-2510 for location.

October 25.................................... 5:30 p.m. City of Milton Bord of Adjustments Milton City Hall, Council Chambers, 6738 Dixon Street

For an up-to-date Chamber calendar, visit www.SRCChamber.com.


CHAMBER CALENDAR - OCTOBER / NOVEMBER

October 4 ..................................................11:30 a.m. Jay Chamber Meeting Jay Community Center, 5259 Booker St.

October 4 ..................................................4:30 p.m. Leadership Santa Rosa Executive Committee Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 4 ..................................................5 p.m. Leadership Santa Rosa Alumni Committee Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 5 ..................................................5:30-7 p.m. Business After Hours Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Café, 1000 E. 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola

October 8 ..................................................12-1 p.m. Chamber Networking Lunch The Hangar, 3966 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 11.................................................Chamber Closed for Columbus Day

October 12.................................................8:30 a.m. SRC Legislative Coalition Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 15.................................................11:30 a.m. Chamber Ambassadors Lunch Cajun Crab Company, 5080 Hwy 90, Pace

October 16.................................................6-10 p.m. Casino Night Fundraiser SRC Auditorium, 4530 Spikes Way, Milton

October 19.................................................2:30-4 p.m. Member Orientation SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 20.................................................8:30 a.m. SRC CoC Executive Committee Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 21.................................................All day Leadership Santa Rosa, Class 35: Agribusiness Day Meets at Panhandle Growers, 5975 Southridge Rd, Milton

October 25.................................................4 p.m. SRC CoC Board of Directors Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

October 29.................................................7:30-8:30 a.m. The A.M. Network Grover T’s, 5887 Hwy 90, Milton

October 30.................................................5 p.m. Ribbon Cutting for St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church 6451 Park Ave, Milton

November 1 ...............................................11:30 a.m. Jay Chamber Meeting Jay Community Center, 5259 Booker St.

November 1 ...............................................4:30 p.m. Leadership Santa Rosa Executive Committee Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

November 1 ...............................................5 p.m. Leadership Santa Rosa Alumni Committee Meeting SRC Chamber of Commerce, 4315 Avalon Blvd, Milton

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

Berryhill Child CareJessie Moulder

Blackwater Heritage Trail, Inc.Vernon Compton

Blossman Gas, Inc.Bobby L. Jones

Can Do Home InspectionsMatt Aninos

Defenders of Freedom – FL, Inc.Jamie Wells

Emerald Coast Veterans Alliance, Inc.Bucky Howle

Eaton’s Creations/Uproarious EndsBrad & Christina Eaton

Fisher Cabinet Company, LLCScott Fisher

H.J. Steele & Company, Inc.Howard Steele

LC Creative ProductionsLinda Clark

My Fathers Arrows, Inc.Sarah Ellis

Pace Water SystemJulie Babcock

Republic Services, Inc.Robert Abramowski

Service Matters Property Management, Inc.

Pete Morgan

Stan Colie NicholsSanta Rosa County Tax Collector

SynovusAnna Weaver

The Backyard BarnJeremy Koehn

The Penton House Salon & Day SpaDoug or Alice Campbell

The Wacked Out WeinerRuss or Jackie Dieterich

Toni R. WilsonIndividual Member

Two Men & A TruckGreg Micklos

THANK YOU For Your Continued Support of our

Chamber & Community


MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN

YOUR COMMUNITY!

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS

With 2021 fast coming to a close, several of our current Board Members will have fulfilled their terms on the Board of Directors.

Board positions are for a three-year term beginning in January 2022. If you are interested in serving on the Board, please forward a short bio or resume to Donna Tucker, [email protected].

The Board of Directors currently meet the 4th Monday of every month from 4pm to 5pm to review & discuss Chamber functions, procedures and future planning. Your input and leadership is crucial to the success and growth of our Chamber, Community and County.

If you would like more information, please call Donna at 623-2339. We invite you to become more

active in the future of your Chamber and assist us in supporting our business community.

Deadline for submissions is Thursday, October 28th @ 4:00 p.m.


WELCOME ABOARD NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME BACK!Gulf Coast Insurance

Mary Jordan700 N New Warrington Road, Pensacola

(850) 497-6810www.gcains.com

Follow Us on Facebook!Independent Insurance Agency

Levin Rinke RealtySteve & Kristen Rhodes

10 Portofino Drive, Pensacola Beach(850) 737-1467

www.KristenR.LevinRinkeRealty.comFollow Us on Facebook!

Real Estate Agents

Wordwalk, Inc.Michael Rollwagen

539 El Cerrito Place, Pensacola(850) 478-2159

www.Wordwalk.usConnecting domestic providers to

international needs

Air Force Enlisted VillageRyan Price

92 Sunset Lane, Shalimar(850) 420-8010www.AFEV.us

Follow Us on Facebook!Providing homes for the surviving spouses of Air

Force enlisted retirees. 55+ Community

Mediacom BusinessMark Robbins

4349 Avalon Boulevard, Milton(850) 336-9469

www.mediacombusiness.comManaged business internet, phone, wifi,

data security, tv and music

Star Haulers, LLCRobert Kenneth Wheeler, Jr.

3429 Jubilee Drive, Pace(907) 382-6701

www.Starhaulers.comLocal delivery service specializing in gravel, mulch,

compost, river rock, lava rock, sawdust, pinestraw, fill dirt, clay and top soil

Strick Development Group, LLCRobert Strickland

Milton(850) 572-3727

www.StrickDevelopmentGroup.comConsulting & Community Development – Affordable

Housing – Economic Development – Healthcare – Education and Recreation

Cajun Crab CompanyJen or Jim Yang

5080 Highway 90 W, Pace(850) 982-0200

www.CajunCrabCompany.comFollow Us on Facebook!

Delicious Seafood Boil & Great Bar – Private meeting space

Sugar Sands Painting, LLCDustin Hippensteel

5111 Dogwood Drive #3545, Milton(850) 776-8780

www.SugarSandsPainting.comMilton Florida’s Premier

Painting Professional

Emerald Coast Sports Association

Carlton Keith Whitfield, Jr.8604 Bobby Brown Road, Milton

(757) 332-3850Looking to have a positive impact on

the youth & community thru academics & sports

The Junior League of Pensacola, Inc.Lexie Thorsen

2016 W. Garden Street, Pensacola(850) 433-4421

www.Pensacola.jl.orgFollow Us on Facebook

Modern ChiropracticDustin L. Weber, D.C.

4583 Watkins Street, Pace(850) 910-4282

www.ModernChirofl.comChiropractic Care

LET’S SUPPORT THESE NEW MEMBERS!


COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

55th Annual Santa Rosa County Farm Tour goes virtual The 55th Annual Santa Rosa County Farm Tour tradition continues with a hybrid tour this year. The farm tour com-mittee has been busy filming producers this summer and would like to share this with everyone. The video tour will be available on UF/IFAS Extension Santa Rosa Facebook page and the Santa Rosa County BOCC YouTube channel beginning Mon., Oct. 18. There will also be videos featur-ing the Farm Family of the Year, Wendt Farm & Nursery, as well as the Friend of Agriculture Award Recipient, Mr. Bill Seelmann. In addition to videos, the Santa Rosa Farm Tour com-mittee invites citizens to visit three local farms Fri., Oct. 22. Wendt Farm & Nursery will be featured as well as two traditional row crop farms. Attendees must pre-register online through the Farm Tour Eventbrite and be prepared to drive to the farm locations in rural Santa Rosa County. The farms will be open from 1 – 4 p.m. with producers and members of the farm tour committee available to answer questions attendees may have about local agriculture. A map of the farm locations will be sent by email on Thurs., Oct. 21. Attendees will be visiting working farms and should plan to dress accordingly. Santa Rosa County agriculture generates $75 million per year and provides numerous jobs. The county’s population continues to become more removed from agriculture and the Santa Rosa County Farm Tour aims to help the citizens understand the value of agriculture and natural resources.For more information, contact the Santa Rosa County Extension office at 850-857-2313.

2021 Farm Family of the Year The 2021 Farm Family of the Year was awarded to Wendt Family Farm and Nusery, which has three generations of hard workers and over three decades of experience. The 2021 Farm Family includes Earl and Janet Wendt, parents to William Wendt and Vickie Shiver. William Wendt is married to Joy and they have five children and four grandchildren. The Wendt’s are joined with other family members who also work on their farm, Wayland Nowling and Angela Nowling. The family enjoys participating in the Farm to City program that provides produce for families at Thanksgiving. Wendt Farm and Nursery, a Santa Rosa County landmark, has been growing wholesome and delicious vegetables for 35 years. Once located on Chumuckla Highway before urban sprawl encroached upon the farm causing the family to move it 15 miles north into rural Santa Rosa County, on this farm, three generations of the Wendt family work side-by-side to produce the best locally grown sweet corn, peas, butterbeans, tomatoes, cantaloupe and water-melon, and other fresh produce to area customers both wholesale and retail. The Wendt’s commitment to provide the best lo-cally products coupled with the desire to better serve their customers resulted in building and opening a seasonal market located on the original farm site, 5191 Chumuckla Highway in Pace. Growing 50 acres of vegetables in the Florida panhandle is not for the faint of heart and the Wendt Family has demonstrated their commitment to providing nutritious vegetables regardless of what weather conditions are thrown at them. Beyond the vegetables grown on the farm, the Wendt Family also operates a two-acre greenhouse nursery where they have provided seasonal color for over three decades to the area. Wendt Farm and Nursery is known for growing Christmas poinsettias, Easter lilies, fall garden mums, and spring flowering plants, but few likely know that they also grow wholesale commercial vegetable transplants that are shipped to commercial vegetable farms all over the region. The latest endeavor at the nursery is

hydroponic lettuce production where they produce the freshest leafy greens which are available at local retail produce markets.

Moo-Moo’s Bakery Classes

At Moo-Moo’s Bakery we offer a Variety of Baking Classes. All of our Baking Class are from scratch and are offered through the Pensacola Cooks Kitchen these classes are available for Kids, Teens and Adults. We also offer classes for our healthy dessert Clients and these classes are available for Kids, Teens and Adults. Class times and cost varies from the menu choosen for your class. We also offer decorating class-es for People who don’t want the hassle with baking but want to learn different decorating styles and designs. With our classes we provide everything and all you have to do is pay your class fee and come to class ready to learn. To schedule a class please contact The Pensacola Cooks Kitchen https://pensacolacooks.com/ or call (850)456-0743 and Ask to book a class With Moo-Moo’s Bakery.

$360,000 in grants awarded to Santa Rosa County Yesterday, Wed., Sept. 15, Governor Ron DeSantis announced at a press conference held in Milton that Santa Rosa County will receive a $300,000 Defense Infrastructure Grant to continue easement purchases


around NAS Whiting Field to provide critical buffer zones. The county is also receiving a $60,000 Defense Reinvest-ment Grant to promote further development of Whiting Aviation Park, a 267-acre parcel located adjacent to Naval Air Station Whiting Field. “The ‘Gold Standard’ or a ‘Best Business Practice’ – that is what you hear when people talk about the communi-ty-military partnering initiative between NAS Whiting Field and Santa Rosa County,” said Dave Piech, commissioner chairman and district 4 commissioner. “It’s something to be proud of and shows the county’s commitment to our military. The grant programs that have positioned counties and municipalities to protect, enhance and further the De-partment of Defense’s mission across this great state have been second to none.” The Defense Infrastructure Grant program has been a sta-ple in protecting the critical mission of NAS Whiting Field. Over the years, this partnership has buffered nearly 6,000 acres and expended over $15 million in matching funds. The Defense Reinvestment Grant has played a key role in gaining a military liaison counterpart in the county as well as programs, studies and military-community partnering projects that have enhanced overall mission capability.

West Florida Baptist Academy Breaks Ground

We officially broke ground on our new classroom expansion project. We look forward to adding 6 new rooms next fall! Please remember to pray for the health and safety of workers and students throughout the building process as construction begins tomor-row morning.Thank you Sam Parker, Santa Rosa County District Five - Commissioner Colten Wright, James Calkins, Republican County Com-missioner, Dave Piech: The Commissioner Years, and

Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce for coming out and being a part of this special occasion.Also, a big thanks to Strobel and Hunter for the building design and to Hewes & Company, LLC. for all the work you will be putting in to complete this project.

HELPING OUR NEIGHBORS TO THE WEST

As in the past our community continues to be generous of their time and resources when our neighboring communi-ties have been struck by disaster. Many of you brought by supplies, donated funds and resources to help one of our lo-cal heros Larry Ward and his team that began transporting in food and supplies just days after Hurricane Ida battered Louisiana. Over the past weeks numerous businesses and organizations have taken food, building materials, health-care items and a long list of needed items.

THANK YOU SANTA ROSA COUNTY!! You are why we love our community! A special thanks to Gulf Winds Federal

Credit Union for donating $15,000 in supplies and Venture Realty $5,000 in building materials.


CHAMBER NETWORKING LUNCH

Chair: Lance Cook, Lance Cook Marketing & Consulting, LLC


Reeder Financial Group and our program/speakers: University of Florida, Dallas Brooks and Mark Long

Congratulations split-the-pot winner: Ron Holcomb, Easy Peasy Home Services


A Partnership of the Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce

Gulf Breeze Chamber of CommerceGreater Navarre Chamber of Commerce

Jay Chamber of CommerceNavarre Area Chamber of Commerce

THANK YOU to our Sponsors!

MAJORFlorida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County

First Baptist Church of MiltonThe Cutting Board

V.F.W. Post 4833

CAPTAINGreystone Consulting, LLC

Grover T’s BBQService Matters Realty – Property Management, Inc.

Pen Air Federal Credit UnionSonny’s BBQ

The Rock

SERGEANTUnited Bank – Milton

Signgypsies Milton – PaceEars 2 Hear

Howard Young Flooring

MANY MANY Thanks to everyone who donated $25 gift cards for distribution to our

Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s DeputiesFlorida Highway PatrolFlorida Fish & Wildlife

Gulf Breeze Police DepartmentMilton Police Department

& to all of the wonderful hardworking volunteers that helped prepare,

and pack to-go meals!

2021 LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION


BUSINESS AFTER HOURS


Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX Infinity, represented by Bruce Baker, MBA, Mirella Savage,

and Josh Shawley

Chair: Anna Weaver, SynovusCo-Chair: Erin Vaughn, South State Bank


Thank you to Baskets of Dreams; Blackwater Bistro; Chae Kyle, Iron Plan Solutions Group; Cora’s Custom Creations;

Eaton’s Creations/Uproarious Ends; Fenoy Butler, Riverside Wealth Advisors; Joanna Bradford, Navy to Navy Homes;

Modern Chiropractic; One Step Automotive; Sinelen Industries, Inc./Tigerfish™ Sanitizing Systems; Something Old Salvage;

Team Bruce Baker, MBA @ RE/MAX Infinity

Congratulations split-the-pot winner: Kimberley Anderson,

Sunbelt Title Insurance

WE LOVE DOOR PRIZES!


LEADERSHIP SANTA ROSA CLASS 34Education Day

Thank you to our lead facilitator Jodi Bell and her team Christina Simmons, Erin Vaughn and (Photographer) Linda Clark. SPECIAL Thank you to Pensacola News Journal for sponsoring breakfast and Team Bruce Baker, MBA-RE/MAX Infinity for sponsoring lunch. Facility hosts for the day were the Dillon Administrative Center and Pensacola State College, Milton Campus. Guest presenters were Dr. Karen Barber, Santa Rosa County School Superinten-

dent, Charlin Knight, Workforce Education Director, Michael Knowlton, Instructional Technology Specialists, Chris Middleton, Program Advisory for Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation, Jolie Hullett, Locklin Technical College Ca-reer Specialist, Tyler Sahlin, IT/Cyber instructor at Locklin, Dr. Ed Meadows, President Pensacola State College, Director Jennifer Hill Faron and UF Director Wes Wood.

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR CLASS 35 – Call (850) 623-2339 for more information.

CHAMBER FACTS• The Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce

is 83 years old this year.

• We currently have 600 active members.

20% of our membership is based in

Escambia County.

• Your Chamber is also the official Tourist &

Visitors Information Center for Central/North

Santa Rosa County.

• We operate solely on funds received from

membership dues and two annual fundraisers

(Community Awards & Installation Luncheon;

Chamber Golf Classic).

• We only have two full-time staff persons on

payroll.

• As per September 15, we have answered 1,069

phone calls, assisted 358 walk-in visitors, and

signed up 90 new members. Our website had

10,313 visitors who generated 49,476 page

views.

• The most interesting question this month

was: “I’m from Dothan, Alabama. I heard

Jerry’s Tires’ been sold. Do you know who

bought it?”


Membership - What’s Next?Benefits Review

Chair: Margarita Vazquez, Primerica Financial

Attendees:Tiffany Bates, RideOn Commuter ServicesRon Holcomb, Easy Peasy Home Services

Margarita Vazquez, Primerica Financial Services – ChairDonna Tucker, Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce

THANK YOU to our Refreshments sponsor by Primerica Financial Services

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Step One Automotive GroupStep One Automotive Group is an American company based in Florida that was built on a singular dedication to empowering lives through smarter and easier ways of accessing mobility. At Step One Automotive Group, we are in the people business. Our guiding principles are Health. Family, Business. Whether you buy or service from us, you are a part of the Step One Automotive Family. We are dedicated to enhancing our communities by employing over 800 people as well as sponsoring and partnering with several local organizations and nonprofits. Step One Automotive Group is growing at a competitive rate. With each vehicle purchased from a Step One dealership, our communities’ benefit with increased career opportunities. Step One Automotive Group owns 22 dealerships in Florida, Alabama, and Georgia, rep-resenting 16 brands including Chrysler, Dodge Jeep, Ram Fiat, Volkswagen, Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, Genesis, Ford, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Alfa Romeo and Maserati. Our headquarters is located in the heart of Fort Walton Beach, Florida off Beal Pkwy NW. Hours of operation vary between dealerships, however our headquarter office can be reached between the weekday business hours of 8am-5pm Monday through Friday. Please visit www.steponeautomotive.com/ for more information and to reach any of our Step One dealerships. You can find our Step One Automotive Group social accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Follow our hashtags at #foreverwarriors and #westeptogether and our website blog to stay up to date in our community involvement, dealership updates, new model launches, and everything powered by Step One Automotive Group.

Baskets of DreamsCreated by Bob and Marlene Thompson, Baskets of Dreams LLC has been designing custom gift baskets since 2014. Since Bob’s passing in spring of 2020, Marlene and her chihuahua Bree have continued to serve loyal customers and meet new clients in the Pensacola area including Gulf Breeze, Milton, Pace, and Navarre. Marlene’s focus is on the little things, both in life and in her gift baskets. From the beginning of the basket-building process, she gathers information about the recipi-ent’s interests and hobbies before weaving together a gift that captures the essence of the person it is intended for. Little surprises are hidden in the smallest of places to prolong the experience of receiving a custom gift from a loved one. Give someone the gift of their dreams and support a local business in the process! Your loved ones could use a hug right now, and what better way to tell someone “I love you” than with a gift perfectly crafted to reflect what makes them special.Baskets of Dreams: (850) 293-0954. On the Web at www.BasketsOfDreams.net. On Facebook at www.facebook.com/basketsofdreams.

Located at696 Beal ParkwayFort Walton Beach

StepOneAuto.com


(850) 293-0954

On the Web at www.BasketsOfDreams.net. On Facebook at www.facebook.com/baskets

ofdreams.


RIBBON CUTTINGS

Crew LendingKristy ReeseResidential Mortgage Loan OriginatorNMLS: #[email protected] Serving the Gulf CoastKristy Reese is a Residential Mortgage Loan Originator for Goldwater Bank, N.A. With over 5 years in the financial industry, 15 years in sales, and over 18 years in cus-tomer service, her service is supreme. She successfully built and managed her own business. She is passionate about working with people and building relationships. Homebuying can be stressful and overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Kristina’s goal as a mortgage lending professional is to provide the best financial solution to meet her client’s unique needs. Attention to detail and hard work sets her apart from the crowd. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, renovating, or refinancing, Kristy will help you navigate the process, allowing you to focus on what is truly important – achieving your mortgage goals. If you are looking to purchase, refinance, build or renovate a home, call Kristina to get pre-approved today!

Moo Moo’s BakeryHi my name is Mariah Morrison but Everyone calls me Moo-Moo. I’m the owner of Moo-Moo’s Bakery. I’ve been baking since I was nine years old.. This is my dream Ca-reer and Bakery. We are a gourmet Bakery that specializes in Customized Cupcakes & Healthy Desserts. Moo-Moo’s Bakery offers Baking Class for kids, Adults, Families, Corporations and homeschooling students at The Pensacola Cooks Classroom at 3624 Barrancas Ave Pensacola, FL You can find I us on Instagram www.instagram.com/moomoosbakery.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/moomoosbakery We also have a great website Www.moomoosbakery.com

217-918-8081

[email protected]

Proudly Serving the Gulf Coast

instagram.com/moomoosbakery.com;

.facebook.com/moomoosbakery

www.moomoosbakery.com


Donations are still needed! ALL donations are tax exempt under our 501c3 Community Foundation Building Fund& Cash Donations can be paid over a 2 year period. Call: 623-2339 for more information

$120,000 ...............Santa Rosa County Tourist Development Council$52,000 ...............Bruce Baker RE/MAX Infinity $50,000 ...............McKenzie Motor Company$35,000 .................John Kiley Builders, Inc.$30,000 .................Santa Rosa Press Gazette$25,000 .................Mooneyham Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. $25,000 .................Panhandle Growers $15,000 ...............Water Works Sprinkler Systems, Inc. $15,000 .................Saki & Amber Filios and Family $10,000 .................CAT, LLC$10,000 ...............Santa Rosa Medical Center$10,000 ...............Leadership Santa Rosa $10,000 ...............Southern Site & Utility Design, Inc. $10,000 ...............General Rental Center $10,000 .................Okaloosa Gas District $10,000 ...............Beautiful Lights, LLC $10,000 ...............Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center $10,000 ...............LJFD, Incorporated - Joiners $10,000 ...............Milton Truss $10,000 ...............Goldring Gulf Distributing Company $10,000 .................Quina Grundhoefer Architects$10,000 .................McCombs Electric Heating & Air Conditioning$8,000 ..................Gulf Power Company$8,000 ..................Howard Young Flooring$7,000 ..................Lindsay & Lindsay, P.A.$6,000 ..................Claude & Melanie Duvall $5,000 .................Rick & Terry Paschall $5,000 .................Benchmark Surveying & Land Planning Inc. $5,000 .................City of Milton $5,000 .................Greg Cowell Farm Bureau Insurance$5,000 ..................Harris Rebar, LLC $5,000 .................Henry Company Homes $5,000 .................ID Group $5,000 .................Sport & Wheat, CPA, PA $5,000 ..................Clark Partington Attorneys At Law $5,000 .................Phil Gambrell $5,000 .................John & Deborah Roche$5,000 ..................Synovus $5,000 .................Lee & Darlene Parker $5,000 .................American Concrete $5,000 .................United Bank $5,000 .................McMahon & Hadder Insurance$5,000 ..................Boyett’s Vacuum Pumping & Portable Restrooms $5,000 ..................Service Matters Realty; Service Matters Property Management, Inc. $5,000 ..................Town of Jay $5,000 ..................Harvesters Federal Credit Union$5,000 ..................Texas Roadhouse$5,000 ..................Graye’s Granite, Inc.$5,000 ..................Pensacola News Journal$3,000 ..................Guernsey Financial

$3,000 ..................American Alarm & Audio $3,000 ..................Tiffany Sullivan, LegalShield$3,000 .................Universal Engineering Sciences$3,000 ..................Lifeguard Ambulance Service$3,000 ..................Eastman Chemical Operations, Pace Operations$3,000 ..................Dr. Georgieanna Bryant$3,000 ..................Weber Skate World$3,000 ..................Larry Strain$3,000 ..................Coastline Cabinet, Inc.$2,500 ..................Ed Carson $2,500 ..................Dick & Karen Hohorst$2,500 ..................OEC Office Furniture, Ed Perry $2,000 ..................Ellis Crane Works$2,000 .................Granny Nannies$2,000 .................Life Options Clinic$2,000 .................Baptist Healthcare$2,000 .................Accelerating Futures, LLC $2,000 .................CenterState Bank$2,000 ..................Jeremy & Tasha Reeder$2,000 ..................CTG Improvements, Inc.$2,000 ..................East Milton Water System$2,000 ..................RM Integrations$2,000 ..................Axion Communications$1,500 ..................Clyde’s Well Service$1,500 ..................H&R Block$1,200 ..................Anna Weaver“THE GRAND CLUB” . $1,200 ..................Best Western Milton$1,000 .................Cher Plowman $1,000 .................Durst & Jordan, CPA’s $1,000 .................LC Creative Productions$1,000 ..................Signcrafters of NW Florida, Inc.$1,000 .................Susan Clark$1,000 .................Cynthia Roberts$1,000 .................Blackwater Pyrates, Inc. $1,000 .................LandrumHR$1,000 ..................Bob & Colleen Asmus$1,000 ..................Terry Miller$1,000 ..................Hall’s Hardware$1,000 ..................Grover T’s$1,000 ..................Lance Cook Marking & Consulting Services$1,000 ..................Kelly Gash, West Florida Trophies$1,000 ..................Cindy & John Drummond$1,000 ..................Howard Young Flooring, Inc.$1,000 ..................Turner Financial Group, Inc.$1,000 ..................Tammy Ward$1,000 ..................Sharon Pitts$1,000 ..................Diane & Rick Scott$1,000 ..................RE/MAX Infinity$1,000 ..................Ray & Kellie Walker$1,000 ..................Rhett & Tina Fendley

to the following Businesses, Organizations & Individuals for supporting your new Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Information Center NOW OPEN at 4315 Avalon Boulevard! Donations are still needed! ALL donations are tax exempt under our 501c3 Community Foundation Building Fund& Cash Donations can be paid over a 2 year period.

Call: 623-2339 for more informationThank You$1,000 ..................James & Kim Chalmers “The Chalmers Family”$1,000 ..................Ken & Cindi Ponsell, Blackwater Bay Tours$1,000 ..................Robin & Shawn Vickers$1,000 ..................Universal Engineering Sciences$1,000 ..................Karen Haworth Family$1,000 ..................BJ’s Wholesale$1,000 ..................Leigh Anne Weekley$1,000 ..................Primerica-Milton-Margarita Vazquez$1,000 ..................Martin Simmons – Apprise Video Productions$1,000 ..................The Blackwater Bistro$1,000 ..................Escambia River Electric Cooperative$1,000 ..................RGH Alternative Health Stores, Inc.$1,000 ..................Steve & Kristen Rhodes$1,000 ..................El Paso Mexican Grill$1,000 ..................Matt Aninos, Can Do Home Inspections$1,000 ..................Income Advisors USA, LLC$1,000 ..................Florida Blue$1,000 ..................Sam & Candace Parker$1,000 ..................Tanglewood Golf Club$1,000 ..................Pete & Suzanne Morgan & Family$1,000 ..................2019 Brew Crew$1,000 ..................Bub Gideons – PHD Realty, Inc.$1,000 ..................Advance Insurance of Northwest Florida, Inc. Brad Pittman$1,000 ..................NAI Pensacola$1,000 ..................Oval Office Pub & Grub, Al & Deb Grinde$1,000 ..................The Tool Shack$1,000 ..................Brenda Kay & Bill Hammel$1,000 ..................Locklin Insurance Agency, Inc.$1,000 ..................The Perry Group, Ed & Gayle Perry$1,000 ..................Frank Hoskins$1,000 ..................HJ Steele & Company, Inc. General Contractor$1,000 ..................Pete & Janice Gandy$1,000 ..................VFW Post #4833$1,000 ..................Greg & Debbie Kemp$1,000 ..................Watson Family Dentistry$1,000 ..................Daniel & Mirella Savage$1,000 ..................Freeman Roofing


Florida Legislature Launches Joint Redistricting Website and Map Drawing ApplicationSubmitted by: Florida House of Representatives

Last month the Florida Legislature launched a joint website, www.FloridaRedistricting.gov, and a new interac-tive map drawing application for the 2022 redistricting cycle. Florida’s redistricting website is a one-stop-shop for information on the redistricting process. Notably, it includes a direct link to a map drawing application where the public can go to draw and submit redistricting plans after signing up for a free account.

Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson said: “The way people communicate with everyone, including their legislators, has changed a lot in the last 10 years, and this new joint website is going to reflect those great technological advancements. Our staff have been working tirelessly to integrate recently received census data with the new map-drawing application so legislators and the public can appropriately and actively participate in this once-in-a-decade process in a tangible and meaningful way.”Florida House Speaker Chris Sprowls said: “Today’s launch of the Florida redistricting website and map drawing application marks an exciting milestone for this redistricting cycle. We are proud to put forward resources that both educate the public and enable them to directly participate in this once-in-10-year process. The task of redistricting is not one to be taken lightly, and as we embark on this cycle, the Florida House will aim for the same constitutional and legal standards that led to our map being upheld by the Florida Supreme Court in 2012.” The Florida Legislature’s map drawing application uses industry-leading geographical information systems (GIS) technology, incorporating data necessary to build districts down to the census block level. The conveniently accessible map drawing application allows members of the public to use the same datasets, drawing tools and analysis functionality used by legislators and staff. Florida is one of a handful of states to offer a free, tailored map drawing solution to the public for the 2022 redistricting cycle. Florida’s redistricting website houses a direct link for the public to draw and submit maps; direct links to U.S. Census Bureau background information and source data; redistricting resources such as a glossary, timeline and constitutional references; as well as instructional materials for the map drawing application and interactive maps that illustrate population growth over the decade, along with historical maps. Additional updates to further enhance the communication of ideas and suggestions from the public are expected in the coming weeks. BackgroundThe U.S. Census Bureau conducted the decennial census during 2020 and subsequently released updated apportionment counts in April 2021. Based on statewide population growth, as captured during the decennial census, Florida received an additional congressional seat, bringing the state’s total to 28 seats. The U.S. Census Bureau also announced that Florida’s updated statewide population total is 21,538,187 residents, officially making Florida the third most populous state in the country. In August 2021, the U.S. Census Bureau released the legacy format P.L. 94-171 redistricting population dataset required to analyze and draw district boundaries at the census block level. The formal and fully formatted data was delivered on September 16, 2021. As stated in Article III, Section 16 of the Florida Constitution, the Florida Legislature is required to update state legislative district boundaries during the Regular Session in the second year following a decennial census. This process, along with updating congressional district boundaries, will be completed in compliance with both the U.S. and Florida constitutions. Even with a delayed release of redistricting data by the U.S. Census Bureau, the Legislature remains on schedule to complete the redistricting process within its constitutionally mandated timeframe. The Florida Senate and House of Representatives announced committee and subcommittee assignments for the 2022 Regular Session on Sept. 3. As previously announced, the Florida Senate Committee on Reapportionment will be chaired by Senator Ray Rodrigues, and the Florida House of Representatives Redistricting Committee will be chaired by Representative Tom Leek.

For more information and to get involved in Florida’s redistricting process, visit www.FloridaRedistricting.gov.

President/CEO: Donna TuckerAdministrative Assistant: Nicole Frenk

NOW OPEN at 4315 Avalon Boulevard, MiltonContact us at (850) 623-2339

LEADING • CONNECTING • SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY


mark your a message from our chair

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