On Nov. 14, The Preserve: A Bluewater Taproom celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Located in Niceville's Bluewater Bay community, The Preserve: A Bluewater Taproom offers good drinks and great times with friends. Enjoy your favorite sporting events on its many TVs, as well as trivia, bingo, and poker nights. While food trucks are often onsite, you are welcome to bring your own food too. For a full event and food truck schedule, visit
The Salon Trinity, a Platinum Paul Mitchell Focus Salon, marked a significant milestone celebrating its 5-year anniversary on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, with a special Ribbon Cutting ceremony alongside the Destin Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together clients, friends, and community members to commemorate five years of exceptional hair care, unforgettable client experiences, and unwavering commitment to the local community. The celebration featured live music, lite bites, and refreshments, creating
During the Destin Chamber’s Nov. 8 Business Before Hours, Eric Navarre, Emerald Coast Market President with Renasant Bank, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “I’ve known Eric for a long time. I’ve watched him grow and develop into a seasoned business executive and a leader in many facets of our
On Oct. 15, new Destin restaurant CJ’s Hangout celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. CJ's Hangout is a full service, family friendly sports bar catering to locals. The menu features pizza, wings, salads and subs. Come meet your friends, watch all the games, play music bingo, sing karaoke, and more! Visit CJ's Hangout at 385 Harbor Blvd., Ste. 2, in Destin. Find out more at CjsHangout.com.
Branden Crosby, CPA, is a Member in Warren Averett's Tax Division, has been selected to participate in Leadership Northwest Florida’s Class III. Leadership Northwest Florida is an educational program offered to industry leaders that helps them grow their knowledgebase, networks and skillsets. This year’s class is composed of 17 participants from a variety of backgrounds. Class III participants will be immersed in a seven-month educational program focused on regional collaboration. They will meet other
The Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP) awarded Destin Chamber President & CEO Shane A. Moody (right), CCE, FCCP, with its prestigious Executive of the Year Award, during the organization’s Annual Conference, held September 24-25, 2024, at the Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center in Boca Raton, FL. The award was presented by FACP Chair-Elect Noel Martinez, President & CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes a chamber executive who has made outstanding
Hear from the candidates for Destin City Council, during an Oct. 1 Candidates Forum Sponsored by the Destin Chamber and Emerald Coast Association of Realtors. The forum format will include opening and closing statements from each candidate. There will be a series of questions from the Destin Chamber and ECAR. Chamber Chairman of the Board Christian Carlee and ECAR's Director of Government Affairs Melissa Garza will be the moderators. Questions from the Chamber and ECAR will rotate throughout the forum.
During the Destin Chamber’s Sept. 18 Tourism & Hospitality Lunch, Melissa Read, General Manager of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “Melissa has done a great job turning around the direction of the convention center. She’s been willing to work with
Eglin Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Neko Stubblefield of Baker has been promoted to the Senior VP of Membership and Community Development. Stubblefield has worked for the Credit Union since 2017. She oversees membership growth, community development and financial education. In her new role, she will have expanded responsibilities to include community development across the Credit Union’s expanding footprint. President/CEO Jerry Williams said, “We are thrilled to recognize Neko’s hard work,
First National Bank is proud to announce Christian Carlee as the new Market President for Miramar Beach. With 20 years of banking experience in the market most recently with Trustmark Bank. Christian is dedicated to building professional relationships and supporting his clients' financial growth. As a Destin native Christian's deep involvement in the community is evident through his roles as Chairman of the Destin Chamber of Commerce, Immediate Past President of the Destin Rotary Club, and Past Vice
The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Wednesday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and investment in the Chamber and in
On July 11, Destination Health & Rehabilitation celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Destination Health & Rehabilitation's facility is designed with style, comfort and state-of-the-art equipment and therapies to help you recover quickly. Specialty programs include, but are not limited to, Orthopedic Rehab, Cardiac Rehab, Stroke Recovery, Pulmonary Therapy, Lymphedema Therapy, Mist Therapy, Wound Care Services, Urinary Incontinence, Pain Reduction, Vestibular Therapy, and Balance
During the Destin Chamber’s June 14 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Holloway Yacht Charters, Patrick Berry (left), Senior Vice President/Chief Operating Officer of Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Berry is pictured with 2024 Chamber Chairman Christian Carlee of
Terésa R. Hebert has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. As in all Marquis Who’s Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process. For nearly four years, Ms. Hebert has served the City of Destin as a councilwoman. Before her tenure in the public service sector, she enjoyed a career in both the military and
On May 20, the Destin Forward Class of 2024 celebrated the completion of its class project, the beautification of Destin’s Clement Taylor Park, with a ribbon cutting. Improvements include educational signage, upgrades to the volleyball court, and the planting of Florida native plants. Destin Forward, the Destin Chamber’s community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. In addition to the project, the class spent nine months touring and
On May 16, Elite Cabinet Designs celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. The new 5,700-square-foot showroom, located at 11662 Emerald Coast Pkwy., in Miramar Beach, next door to Renovation Flooring, showcases the latest innovations in cabinet designs, hardware, kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, a variety of storage solutions, and outdoor scapes by Renovation Flooring. It highlights Wellborn cabinets on the inside and NatureKast waterproof cabinetry for the outdoor section, as well as coral
On May 7, Locks on the Docks LLC celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Locks on the Docks' goal is to provide security to locals and tourists, while they enjoy a harbor excursion, a day on the beach, or any other occasion they may need a locker to temporarily store luggage and other items. You will find the lockers on the docks at HarborWalk Village between The Cantina and Boogies Watersports' jet skis. Visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553928854666 to learn more.
On May 2, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 17 business professionals from its 15th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Wendi Davis of Eglin Federal Credit Union. She is seen in the photo on the left with 2024 Chamber Chairman Christian Carlee of Trustmark. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. After a
On April 23, Rainbow Pediatrics celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Operated by a Board-certified pediatrician, Rainbow Pediatrics provides your child the best pediatric care for a bright and vibrant future. Services include well child visits, immunizations, school & health physicals, prenatal & newborn care, allergy testing, respiratory & asthma care, ADHD and behavioral management, and more. Visit the new office at 870 Mack Bayou Rd. Ste. B, in Santa Rosa Beach, or visit
Brenda Gray, Director of Sales at the Hilton Garden Inn Destin/Miramar Beach, is the Destin Chamber’s 2023 Paul Woolman Ambassador of the Year! The award was presented by 2023 Chairman Jason Belcher of FNBT, during the Chamber’s April 12 Business Before Hours Sponsored by The Palms Bistro. “Brenda has been a great advocate for the Destin Chamber for many years. She brings happiness, enthusiasm and excitability to everything she does. She almost never says ‘no,’ and she truly enjoys her involvement and
The 12th Annual Paddle at the Park Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency will take place in the Gulf of Mexico behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island on Saturday, May 11, 2024. This standup paddleboard race features 1- and 3-mile recreational races, a 6-mile elite race and a kids' fun out-and-back paddle. Racers and spectators alike will enjoy the festive atmosphere with displays and booths set up along the beach. The races have staggered start times, beginning at 9 a.m. The event will conclude with
– During the Destin Chamber’s March 8 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Bit-Wizards, Tammie Bowyer (above right), owner of Stepping Stones Early Learning Academy, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Bowyer is seen above with the Chamber's 2024 Chairman of the Board Christian Carlee of
It is time for the Pinewood Derby a storied tradition of the Scouting community. The Pinewood Derby is a small wooden car race conducted by Scouts across the world since 1953 when the first event was held in Hunnington Beach, CA. Millions of cars have been constructed and raced since the inception of the event 70 years ago. The Pinewood Derby competition allows scouts and their parents to work together and to foster STEM processes (design, physics, graphics) as well as problem solving esprit-de-corps
On Feb. 29, Stepping Stones at Roane celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Stepping Stones at Roane is a Preschool for children ages 1-5 that provides an adventurous setting for those in their early learning years to flourish. Its goal is to teach children to love God, provide a positive foundation for a life-long love of learning, and promote independence with a focus on social and emotional aspects of a child’s development. The preschool offers a structured curriculum along with exposure
On Feb. 27, Beau Halo Luxury Salon celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Beau Halo Luxury Salon's goal is to transform the lives of clients by providing exceptional hair care services for the ultimate in hair health and beauty. Let its team of stylists help you create your dream look. Book your appointment at www.beau-halo.com, and visit the beautifully remodeled space at 4705 Furling Ln. Ste. 109, in Destin. Be sure to mark your calendars for Beau Halo Luxury Salon's Grand Opening
Klean Wash LLC, a family-owned boutique laundry under the ownership of Jerry and Doreen Baca since June 2018 has hit a milestone; the TEAM recently achieved the highest Google ranked laundry facility on the Emerald Coast with a 4.9 rating and 849 reviews and counting. Bacas said, “Customer service has always been a Klean Wash hallmark; however, with the seasoned leadership of our new General Manager, Vandy Vela, we shifted our resources to a laser focus on customer satisfaction. ‘Hiring our Lead Laundry
On Jan. 18, Destin Chamber members celebrated the Chamber’s most outstanding individuals and businesses, during the Awards Party & Wine Pairing Dinner Presented by Trustmark. Hosted by Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer on the beautiful Destin Harbor, the event featured a cocktail reception and awards ceremony, before guests were treated to curated dinner and wine pairing. The 2023 Destin Chamber Chairman Jason Belcher of FNBT Bank began the awards presentation by announcing the Paul Woolman Ambassador of
After more than two decades, Alan Gieseman is retiring as CEO of White-Wilson Medical Center, the region’s largest independent physician group. Gieseman has worked with the organization’s physician owners and leaders to expand access to health care for tens of thousands of locals and visitors in a three-county region since taking the helm 21 years ago. He has helped the group successfully navigate major changes in the health care industry and serve the community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Gieseman
On Dec. 4, the Destin Snowbirds celebrated the annual opening of its roost with a ribbon cutting attended by Destin Chamber ambassadors and staff and community members.The Snowbirds Roost, officially located in the Destin Community Center, offers regular programs and special events to snowbirds visiting the area. For more information, please call (850) 351-0672 or visit DestinSnowbirds.org.
During the Destin Chamber’s Oct. 13 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Hand Arendall Harrison Sale, Jearl McCall, Senior Executive Director of Golf at Emerald Bay Golf Club, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. McCall (right) is seen here with 2023 Chairman of the Board Jason Belcher of FNBT Bank. “Anyone
On Sept. 5, Causeway Coffee celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. At Causeway Coffee, every sip tells a story! Its mission goes beyond serving exceptional coffee. Its founders aim to create a hub that fosters connections within our community and supports impactful missions around the world. As you step through the doors, you'll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, crafted with care and passion. With every cup you enjoy, you contribute to efforts in supporting missions
The Destin Chamber Trustee members are celebrating and thanking local first responders with a free cookout on Monday, Sept. 11. They will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and serving BBQ sliders and brisket at Destin Fire Station #9 at 848 Airport Road, in Destin, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, beach safety, EMS and military are invited. Trustee membership is the highest membership level in the Destin Chamber, and it shows a significant commitment to and
On Aug. 29, woman’s boutique Dress Up celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Located in Destin Commons, Dress Up offers women stylish wardrobe options, from dresses, rompers and jumpsuits to loungewear, shoes and accessories. It boasts 17 locations across the Southeast and has new arrivals weekly. Visit the store at 4121 Legendary Dr., in Destin. Call (770) 535-9010 or visit ShopDressUp.com for more information.
On Aug. 24, Southern Tide’s 30A store celebrated its grand opening with the Destin Chamber. Southern Tide offers quality, coastal inspired apparel for men, women and kids. Its signature men’s line has everything for the modern refined man, from professional chinos for the office to moisture-wicking quarter-zip pullovers for breezy days by the coast. Its women’s designs feature stylish, preppy, and cozy pieces, whether your lifestyle takes you to the tailgate or the country club. The ever-growing
During the Destin Chamber’s Aug. 11 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Destin City Lifestyle Magazine, Clayton Bonjean, Broker/Owner of Mainsail Realty Company, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. Bonjean has personally closed more than 550 real estate transactions totaling more than $330 million
On Aug. 1, Pinch A Penny celebrated its grand opening with the Destin Chamber. Shop the Destin Pinch A Penny for a huge selection of pool supplies, including liquid chlorine, tablets, pumps, filters and more. Locally owned and operated by Luis, Bonita, Brian, and Kevin D'Jesus, this neighborhood pool store provides expert advice plus everything you need to care for your pool, patio or spa. Find details at https://pinchapenny.com/stores/destin-fl-278 or call (850) 533-5153. Visit the store at 4010
On July 13, Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA, celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA, is composed of a team of skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to providing the highest level of care and expertise in the field. Revitalize your appearance and restore your confidence through a wide range of beauty enhancement and reconstructive surgery services. For details, visit www.barnettfacialplastics.com or call
On June 13, Aqua Vitae IV Hydration and Oxygen Bar held a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber to celebrate its new location. Aqua Vitae IV Hydration and Oxygen Bar is a premier IV therapy and oxygen bar dedicated to providing a safe alternative means for those wanting to improve their overall health and well-being. Its highly experienced, friendly and attentive medical staff provide multiple IV vitamin cocktails, injections and aromatherapy oxygen customized for you. With an on-site physician and
On June 5, Emerald Coast Theatre Company celebrated its new sign with a ribbon cutting attended by the Destin Chamber and Walton Area Chamber. The new sign, visible from Highway 98, marks ECTC’s Grand Boulevard location. ECTC's mission is to enrich and entertain the Emerald Coast through professional and educational theatre. It inspires, educates and empowers the community and artists of all ages to achieve the highest level of cultural excellence through collaboration, productions and educational
On May 30, IV Sea Hydration Spa LLC held a grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration with the Destin Chamber. IV Sea Hydration Spa LLC offers infusions that aid in improving dehydration, illnesses, hang overs, viral infections, chronic fatigue, oxidative stress, auto immune disorders, inflammation, weight loss, depression and even injections and infusions that may help slow and reverse the aging process. Its IV infusions and vitamin injections are formulated in house with additives from the most
Okaloosa County has compiled a variety of resources with information to help households and families prepare for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season which begins June 1, 2023. Hurricane GuidesThe County has printed a limited number of Hurricane Guides. The guide is a comprehensive document containing important phone numbers, checklists, information about evacuation zones and other storm-related information. The 2023 Hurricane Guide can be found online and downloaded here. While supplies last, physical
During the Destin Chamber’s May 12 Business Before Hours Sponsored by BOTE, Justin Woodard, President - Walton County Division of Community Bank, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. He is seen here with 2023 Chamber Chairman Jason Belcher (right), FNBT Bank. “Justin has been heavily involved in the
On May 2, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 21 business professionals from its 14th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Kayla O’Leary of Waypoint Title. She is seen in the photo on the left with Chamber Chairman Jason Belcher, FNBT Bank. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created to help find and educate future city and business leaders. After a retreat in August, the
Congratulations to Saltwater Restaurants’ Director of Operations Clint Rogers and Director of Marketing Misty Rae Ruthrauff, who were honored with the Destin Chamber’s Business Persons of the Month Award! The Chamber's Board of Directors created the award to honor Destin area businesspersons showing vision for their business and leadership in our community. The award was presented on Tuesday, April 25, by the Chamber's President & CEO Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP (center). “Any business that’s successful is
The 11th Annual Paddle at the Park Sponsored by HCA Florida Destin Emergency is moving its location and date! This standup paddle board race will take place in the Gulf of Mexico behind The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island on Saturday, May 6, 2023. It features 1- and 3-mile recreational races, a 6-mile elite race and a kids' fun out-and-back paddle. The weekend fun begins on Friday, May 5, with a Racer Welcome Party at Al’s Beach Club at The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island. It continues on Saturday morning with
On Tuesday, Feb. 7, Elevated Laundry celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Elevated Laundry, a brand new 8,000-square-foot commercial laundry facility locally owned and operated in Miramar Beach, offers cutting-edge equipment and streamlined logistic methods to ensure prompt service of fully sanitized, soft, well-packed linens. With the capacity to turn 2.6 tons of laundry daily, Elevated Laundry is ready to help solve one of the largest issues the property management, hotel, fitness,
On Thursday, Feb. 2, Soleil celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Located inside the Inn at Crystal Beach, the exquisite beachfront setting is reflected in seasonal lunch and dinner menus. Enjoy dining in the dining room, al fresco on the beachfront patio or at the cocktail bar. The starter menu now includes Fried Buffalo Crab Claws, Fried Fish Bites, Ceviche and the already famous hand cut fries. For your entree, enjoy Shrimp and Grits, Chicken Piccata, an 8oz Filet, Fried Whole Fish,
During its Jan. 13 Business Before Hours and Annual Membership Meeting at LuLu’s Destin, the Destin Chamber honored some of its most outstanding volunteers and installed its 2023 Chairman and Board of Directors. Before passing the gavel to 2023 Chairman of the Board Jason Belcher of FNBT Bank, 2022 Chairman Jennifer Gutai Comella of Hand Arendall Harrison Sale presented the James D. Neilson, Sr., Chairman’s Award for Volunteer Service and the Paul Woolman Ambassador of the Year Award. These awards are
On Dec. 13, Destin Chamber members celebrated the holidays and the Chamber’s most outstanding individuals and businesses, during the Annual Holiday & Awards Party Presented by Trustmark. Amid poinsettias, twinkling lights and Christmas trees at the Destin – Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, 2022 Destin Chamber Chairman Jennifer Gutai Comella of Hand Arendall Harrison Sale and Destin Chamber President & CEO Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP led the awards presentation. Alan Gieseman, CEO of White-Wilson Medical
Yesterday, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin presented a $3,260 donation to the Air Force Enlisted Village. This money was raised through a silent auction, which was held during the Destin Chamber's Aug. 25 Business After Hours Sponsored by the Fairfield Inn & Suites and after a ribbon cutting, which celebrated the completion of the hotel's remodel. The auction raised $1,360, and the Fairfield Inn & Suites hotel owner Gurmit Advani matched the proceeds.
During the Destin Chamber’s Nov. 10 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Gateway Payments Gulf Coast, Tyler Jarvis, Co-Founder and Operating Partner of The Bald & The Beard Restaurant Group, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community. “When looking for a successful businessperson, you’ll find that those who are
On Nov. 4, AJ’s Rocking L Specialty Meats and Gourmet Market celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting, attending by Destin Chamber Ambassadors and staff. The market features locally raised meats, deli meats and cheeses, freshly made desserts, daily lunch specials, beer, wine, vegetables and produce from Maples Market in Andalusia, Ala. Visit the market in Destin’s Shoreline Village Mall at 872 U.S. Hwy. 98 Unit #19. For more information, visit
On Oct. 25, Panda Express celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Now open in Destin, Panda Express offers a fresh, flavorful combination of Chinese regional cuisine and technique with bold American tastes. Visit the new restaurant at 34898 Emerald Coast Pkwy., or start your takeout or delivery order at https://www.pandaexpress.com/location/us-hwy-98-matthew-blvd/menu. Panda Express is a community minded company, committed to building positive and meaningful connections. Its associates
On Dec. 1, Parrot Head Yachts, LLC, celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Parrot Head Yachts offers visitors the joy of spending several hours on an Emerald Coast excursion aboard a luxury motor yacht – manned by a US Coast Guard Certified Captain and Crew. This luxury yacht experience is for everyone, from families, couples, retirees and honeymooners to corporate teams, wedding parties and more. To experience yacht life, call (850) 980-5824 or visit
Destin, Fla., August 5 – During its Aug. 14 Business Before Hours Candidates Forum, the Destin Chamber will host candidates for Florida House of Representatives District 4, Okaloosa County Commission District 5, and Okaloosa County Superintendent of Schools. The event, which takes place from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at The Henderson, is sponsored by the Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation and features non-profit spotlight The Arc of the Emerald Coast. Cost is $20 for Destin Chamber members and $30 for non-members.
Destin, Fla., April 28 – On April 27, Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records carries vintage vinyl record albums, including classic, rock, pop, heavy metal, soul, new wave, jazz, country, easy listening, comedy, and classical. It also offers vintage turntables, amps speakers, and more, as well as used electric, acoustic, and bass guitars. Visit it at 217 Racetrack Rd. N.W., in Fort Walton Beach. For more information, visit