Spotlight on Bay County’s Best // November ’24

Katie McCurdy, Executive Director Community Engagement, Gulf Coast State College

1. What’s something everyone should know about our community? We are very fortunate to live in a beautiful place that promotes an active lifestyle, whether it’s through our beautiful Emerald Coast waters, natural springs, state parks, or recreational facilities. Bay County is truly a remarkable place where the community comes together to support many initiatives that make the place we live and work in every day very special. 
2. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Great things never came from comfort zones. Over the course of my professional career, I have been presented with opportunities that really took me out of my comfort zone, but the knowledge I gained and the connections I made were invaluable.  
3. What’s the best place you’ve ever traveled and why? Underwater- I know that seems like an odd answer, but scuba diving gives the world a whole new perspective and I am truly fascinated by it. I have had the opportunity to scuba dive in many places and it is one of the things I look forward to every year when the water is warm.   
4. What’s something about you that might surprise people? I played Division I College softball and was fortunate to win three championship titles.
5. What’s your go-to source of inspiration when you need a boost? Being out on the water allows me to step away from the hustle and bustle to clear my mind and reset.
6. If you had to describe our community in three words (or one quote), what would they/it be? Family Oriented, Military Friendly, Opportunity

Scott Kirkman, Florida Real Estate Professional, The Kirman Group of eXp Realty

1. If you could pick up one skill or hobby instantly, what would it be? I would learn to juggle.  It looks like fun and I spend a lot of time juggling tasks anyway…I may as well learn how to juggle bowling pins or chainsaws or flaming torches right?
2. What’s something everyone should know about our community? Everyone should know that our community has SOOO much to offer especially in regards to the arts.  We are blessed to live in such a beautiful area with pristine beaches and beautiful water.  It is picturesque and also bursting at the seams with art of all sorts.  We have great local music, songwriters, local artists painting murals and so much more.  Check it out!
3. What’s one project you’ve been a part of that people might not know about? A few years ago when I was teaching at Gulf Coast State College, I had the privilege to be a part of a group that wrote a children’s musical.  It was called “The Miracle of the White Leaves” and was performed at the Civic Center.
4. What’s your go-to source of inspiration when you need a boost? When I need a boost of inspiration or a boost for anything really, I hit the piano.  I bust out some of my favorite tunes on piano and sing my heart out.  It is my go-to place to unwind, get inspiration, work through problems and that place where I center myself.
5. What is one thing you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? I know this will sound lame…but the one thing I have always wanted to do but haven’t done yet is anything I haven’t done yet!  It sounds like a cop-out, but I am open to adventure and new things, and am always looking for something new to try or do.  

Victoria Routh, Information Specialist, Bay County Chamber of Commerce

1. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Upon graduating high school, my mother shared with me the story of her high school graduation.  After numerous family members had spent several minutes giving her advice, a family friend came up to her and put her arms around her and said, “You know, anybody in need of advice just hasn’t been listening.”
2. What’s the best place you’ve ever travelled and why? The most memorable place I’ve ever been to is Kwajalein Atoll, in the Marshall Islands.  As a “Kwaj Kid”, the memory of the Pacific and the culture of the locals is something I’ll always treasure.
3. What’s something about you that might surprise people? People are usually surprised to find out about my military service.  I’ve always believed it’s the responsibility of every able-bodied American to serve in the Armed Forces.  It truly changes your perspective and allows you to form bonds that last a lifetime.
4. What’s your go-to source of inspiration when you need a boost? I keep two books on my bedside table, the Holy Bible and The John Wayne Code.  Neither has ever let me down.
5. What is one thing you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? As the family genealogist, I’ve always wanted to travel to the UK and visit the historical sites of my ancestors.  Connecting with the past always makes me appreciative of the present.
6. If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self? Don’t be afraid of failure or embarrassment.  It will be the chances you don’t take that you will regret the most.