Mike Seward addresses chamber members during the November Eye-Opener Breakfast at Bay Valley Resort & Conference Center.

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Full House on Hand For Chamber of Commerce Eye Opener

November Eye-Opener Held at Bay Valley

November 11, 2012
By: Josh Sharrow

A packed house at the polls and Bay Valley Resort today for the Eye Opener breakfast series.

The Chamber group recognized Independent Bank for 67 years of membership in The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.

Anderson Radio, Planet Fitness & Kaleidoscope Kandy all became new Chamber Members.

Dependable Sewer, Area Agency on Aging & Brooklyn Boyz Pizza all received Brick Awards.

Accident Fund Insurance presented a 6% dividend equaling $50,925 to The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce members who practiced safe work practices through Accident Fund Insurance. Over the past 6 years Accident Fund Insurance has paid out over 2,000,000 to Chamber Members.

Mike Dewey, Executive Director, United Way of Bay County was the keynote speaker.

The 2011 United Way campaign helped fund over 40 programs within 19 partner agencies.

**$261,708 in 19 Programs that serve the youth

**$300,000 to 12 basic needs programs affecting 5,000 individuals

**325 Individuals benefited from the Senior Wellness program

**Over 1,400 young people received clothings to return to school

Over $400,000 invested to serve over 8,000 individuals in Bay County

In 2011 The United Way utilized almost 800 volunteers.