Bay County reaches out to incoming Holloman Airmen

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Andrea Valencia
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, FLA. --  Approximately 19 Bay County community members will visit Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., July 26 to let the Airmen moving to Tyndall know just what Bay County has to offer.

"Bay County, Fla., has been a military community for more than 70 years and has a special appreciation for those who serve," said Tom Neubauer, Bay Defense Alliance president. "In an effort to help military members and families overcome some of the challenges often associated with a military move, community leaders and volunteers plan to deliver useful information and personal assistance."

The representatives will be holding an information seminar July 26. A group briefing will be held at 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Holloman base theater followed by a break out session at the Airman & Family Readiness Center where preregistration for school and Tricare will take place. The Bay County representatives are funding the trip out of pocket. The Airmen will be moving as part of an operational F-22 combat-coded unit that will be standing up here next spring.

"Our neighbors in Bay County are truly amazing in their support of Tyndall," said Col. David Graff, 325th Fighter Wing commander. "They are reaching into their own pockets to provide a great service to the 1,000 Airmen or so and their families that will be moving here. We all know how difficult a move can be and this personal touch shows the great relationship we have."

The information will be comprehensive and participants will be briefed by program specialists for the Bay County School system, including the district superintendent. Attendees will also have an opportunity to begin the school registration process and explore programs. The Work Force Board will offer assistance with spousal employment opportunities and specialists representing healthcare, community services, utilities, arts, entertainment and recreation will provide vital information. Tyndall's housing opportunities will be presented by Balfour Beatty, and local experts will present an overview of homes for sale and rent in the surrounding communities.

"For those who attend, the information will be invaluable and should make the move to Florida a much easier process. Participants will not only leave with vital information, but will also meet leaders in their respective fields who can provide a unique point of contact to assist with key issues," Mr. Neubauer said. "Presenters will welcome questions and concerns from those in attendance, giving the community every opportunity to address key issues in advance of the move."

1) Bay County School System: Advanced programs such as International Baccalaureate, Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Program, Advanced Placement; Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Information regarding school choice, overview of Bay County schools, academic standings will be provided. There will be specialists available to offer information regarding the eligibility of transfer students in a number of subject areas including academic programs, sports, band, ROTC, etc. and any associated special requirements.

(2) Spousal Employment: Presenters will discuss Florida's support for military spousal employment such as Florida legislation that helps certain licensed professionals to transition immediately to the Florida workforce. Work Force will also be prepared to present employment opportunities and can help with direct contact information.

(3) Medical Care: Presenters will discuss availability of Tricare authorized providers in the local community supporting both primary care and specialties. Presenters will also offer an overview of community medical facilities accreditations and unique capabilities. There will also be information on the scope of services offered at the Tyndall clinic and pharmacy.

(4) Housing Market: Short term and long term housing availability will be discussed. A Tyndall representative will provide an overview of temporary lodging and base housing. Experts will offer details on off-base housing including a description of key market areas, availability of rental properties, utility costs, etc.

(5) Post-Secondary Education: College programs offered for military members and dependents are offered by Florida State University Panama City campus and Gulf Coast State College as well as several college extension programs operating through the base education center will be discussed.

(6) Community Services and Info: Presenters will discuss obtaining a Florida driver's license, registering vehicles, utility services, connection costs, special programs for military, voter registration and contact information will be available.

(7) Arts, Culture, Civic and recreational opportunities: Presenters will provide an overview of key Bay County arts and recreational programs including availability of scouting programs with names and contact data for den and troop leaders. There will be a presentation of Tyndall Moral, Welfare and Recreation services and opportunities offered on base and the availability of local churches and religious services scheduled for the base chapel.

(8) Florida insurance issues: Discussion of hurricanes and insuring personal property with casualty and flood insurance.