Christian Carlee Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
During the Destin Chamber’s April 11 Business Before Hours Sponsored by CRC Data Technologies, Christian Carlee, Market President with First National Bank, was honored with the 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. Carlee is seen here with 2025 Chairman of the Board Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. “I’ve known Christian for many years,
Spark by Hilton Destin Offers Consistent, Comfortable & Affordable Lodging
On March 6, Spark by Hilton Destin celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Spark by Hilton Destin offers consistent, comfortable, and affordable stays, to help budget smart and travel happy. Guests will appreciate its many amenities, including comfortable, clean and thoughtfully designed guest rooms; free morning bagel bar and freshly brewed coffee; common area with rocking chairs and picnic tables; 24/7 retail market with snacks and ready-to-eat options; and free WiFi. Spark by Hilton
850 Froyo & Kwench Juice Café Offer Sweet & Healthy Dining Options in Destin
On March 4, 850 Froyo and Kwench Juice Cafe celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. 850 Froyo offers self-serve frozen yogurt at only 73 cents per ounce. Check out the menu at Froyo850.squarespace.com! Kwench Juice Cafe offers a wide variety of raw juices and smoothies, invigorating juice cleanses and shots, and delicious acai and pitaya bowls to fuel your health and wellness journey. Its commitment to quality ingredients and innovative recipes ensures a wholesome and delicious experience
After 12-Year Run, Sun Sets on Paddle at the Park
After long and difficult consideration, the Destin Chamber's Board of Directors has decided to cancel Paddle at the Park, bringing an end to its 12-year run. The event was also cancelled in 2020 due to Covid. Created to help draw tourists to the area, promote a trendy new sport, and partner with home-grown paddleboard manufacturer BOTE, the event drew close to 175 paddlers at the outset. While that number declined slightly through the years, after the 2020 cancellation, participation never bounced back,
EXIT Realty Anchor South Opens Grand Boulevard Office
On Feb. 18, EXIT Realty Anchor South celebrated its new Grand Boulevard office with a ribbon cutting. EXIT Realty Anchor South is a full-service, professional real estate company with additional locations in Fort Walton Beach, as well as Lake Martin and Auburn, Ala. It is industry leading in training, marketing and branding. EXIT Realty Anchor South provides agents the opportunity to earn more than 100%, a residual income of 10% between closings, a retirement benefit of 7%, and a legacy benefit of 5%.
Destin Chamber Installs 2025 Board During January Breakfast
During the Destin Chamber’s Jan. 10 Business Before Hours and Annual Membership Meeting at Emerald Grande, 2024 Chairman Christian Carlee of First National Bank officially passed the gavel to 2025 Chairman Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. After taking the gavel, Brunson explained the goals she and the Board created for the coming year, including continuing to work with local and state officials and organizations in advocating for the needs of the business community, forming a Past Chairman's Council to serve
Detricks Car Wash Offers Express Car Washing Services in Destin
On Dec. 17, Detricks Car Wash celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin Chamber. Family owned and operated, Detricks Car Wash offers express car washing services with no contracts, one low monthly fee, contact free entry and more. Be sure to ask about its fleet program and fundraising opportunities. Visit the Destin location at 1071 U.S. Hwy. 98 E., in Destin. For more information, visit DetricksCarWashInc.com or call (850) 353-2097.
Eric Navarre Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
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
Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company Offers Community Banking & Innovative Products in Miramar Beach
On Oct. 22, Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company celebrated its new location with a ribbon cutting. Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company's mission is to strengthen its relationship with its customers by combining the values of old-fashioned community banking that focus on individualized customer service with innovative, competitive banking products and trust and brokerage services. Banking services include checking and savings accounts with online and mobile banking options, as well as personal loans, home
Shane Moody Named State Chamber Association's Executive of the Year
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
Learn More About Destin City Council Candidates at October 1 Forum
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.
Melissa Read Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
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
Get Back to Passionate, Purposeful Life with GameDay Men’s Health-Destin
On Aug. 22, GameDay Men’s Health-Destin celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. GameDay Men's Health can help get your testosterone levels back to what they should be, so you can live your passionate, purposeful life. Enjoy free TRT tests, no contracts, man cave offices, and more. For more information, visit GameDayMensHealth.com/destin or call (850) 250-1201. The new location is inside Regatta Commons at 4477 Legendary Dr. Ste. 201, in Destin.
Vitas Healthcare Opens In-Patient Destin Location
On Aug. 20, Vitas Healthcare celebrated its new Destin location with a ribbon cutting. VITAS Healthcare offers in-patient and out-patient hospice care, pain and symptom management, and psychosocial support. Its hospice care experts are available 24/7 to answer questions and provide support. The Destin location is at 195 Mattie Kelly Blvd., in the rear of the Destination Health and Rehabilitation building. There is also a nearby Niceville location at 4576 E. Hwy. 20, in Bluewater Bay. For more
Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout on Sept. 11, 2024
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
Sunset Shoes And Lifestyles Offers Casual, Easygoing Styles for the Entire Family
On July 18, Sunset Shoes And Lifestyles celebrated its newly expanded Destin Commons location with a ribbon cutting. Sunset Shoes opened its doors more than 20 years ago. With four locations in HarborWalk Village, Sandestin, Panama City and Destin Commons, Sunset Shoes' collection is inspired by the beautiful beaches and the relaxed environment of Destin with comfort and easygoing style as the hallmark of its shoe collections. Recently, it added apparel to its arsenal, introducing clothing and
Destination Health & Rehabilitation Offers State-of-the-Art Rehabilitation Therapies in Destin
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
Gulfarium’s Patrick Berry Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
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
Hotel Effie Sandestin Joins Prestigious Marriott Autograph Collection
On June 4, Hotel Effie Sandestin celebrated joining the prestigious Marriott Autograph Collection with a ribbon cutting. Hotel Effie Sandestin is where southern hospitality meets modern luxury. Its more than 250 guest rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed for the luxury traveler. With a reserved beach, luxury cabanas at the rooftop pool and lounge, upscale dining options, live music, onsite fitness center, and 20,000 square feet of conference and meeting space, Hotel Effie offers a seamless blend of
Destin Forward Celebrates Beautification of Clement Taylor Park
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
Rainbow Pediatrics Celebrates Opening of Santa Rosa Beach Office
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
Diana Health Offers High Quality Women’s Healthcare to our Destin/Fort Walton Beach Area
On April 16, Diana Health celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Destin and Greater Fort Walton Beach chambers of commerce. Diana Health is a full-scope OB/GYN practice that believes in delivering evidence-based, high-quality, empowering care to women of all ages. It offers a full range of services to meet your healthcare needs across all stages of your life. From gynecology, maternity care, mental health services, health and wellness coaching, and more, the professionals at Diana Health will work with
Tammie Bowyer Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter
– 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
Prime IV Hydration and Wellness Offers IV Hydration Therapy in Destin
On Feb. 1, Prime IV Hydration and Wellness – Destin opened its doors with a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration. IV Hydration Therapy is low risk and minimally invasive. It is administered by skilled and medically licensed staff, who offer a full evaluation prior to your drip. Prime IV's drips are specifically formulated with rich vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids, designed to increase energy, boost your immune system, decrease inflammation, aid in muscle recovery and even help you
Destin Chamber Awards Outstanding Members During Awards Party & Wine Pairing Dinner
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
RE/MAX Coastal Properties Celebrates 36 Years In Business & Its Building's 50-Year History as Destin's First Real Estate Office
On Nov. 15, RE/MAX Coastal Properties celebrated a ribbon cutting in recognition of its 36 years in business and its building's 50-year history as Destin's first real estate office. The building was first constructed by Destin real estate pioneer John Cox in 1973. Owners Ed and Terri Smith are licensed real estate brokers, as well as having earned the professional designations of ABR (Accredited Buyer Representatives), CRS (Certified Residential Specialists), CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Experts),
Beachside Chiropractic & Wellness Offers Natural Approach to Healthcare
On Nov. 2, Beachside Chiropractic & Wellness celebrated a ribbon cutting. Beachside Chiropractic was created for people seeking a natural approach to healthcare. Services include chiropractic manipulative therapy, soft tissue therapies, x-ray imaging, functional nutrition assessments, health physicals, and more. The office is located at 36468 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Ste. 11101., in Destin. Visit MyBeachsideChiro.com to book your appointment today.
Jearl McCall Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month
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
Stretch Zone Destin Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary
On Oct. 5, Stretch Zone Destin celebrated its 1-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting. Unlock your body's flexibility with Stretch Zone. Let trained stretch practitioners lead you through a series of dynamic stretches to increase mobility and muscle function and make daily movements more efficient. Visit the Destin location at 4507 Furling Ln. Ste. 114. For more information, visit Stretchzone.com/locations/destin or call (850) 407-8088.
Destin Chamber Trustees Invite Local First Responders to Appreciation Cookout
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
Women’s Boutique Dress Up Celebrates Grand Opening of Destin Commons Location
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.
Southern Tide Offers Coastal Inspired Apparel for Men, Women & Children
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
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Real Estate Division Honors Shannyn Stevenson and Diane Green as the Top Producers for the Second Quarter 2023
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Real Estate Division honors Shannyn Stevenson and Diane Green as the second quarter top producers. Shannyn Stevenson earned “Top Listing Agent”, and Diane Green achieved “Top Sales Agent” for April through June 2023. “Real Estate sales along Florida’s Emerald Coast have continued to thrive in spite of rising interest rates,” said Jeanne Dailey, founder and CEO of Newman-Dailey Resort Properties. “Our team of experienced agents have been guiding buyers and sellers through the
Realtor Clayton Bonjean Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month
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
Revitalize your Appearance & Restore Your Confidence with Barnett Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, PA
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
Taylor Haugen Foundation Celebrates New Niceville Location
On June 29, The Taylor Haugen Foundation celebrated its new location with a ribbon cutting. At the new Niceville location of 1145 John Sims Pkwy., the local non-profit organization will continue its mission of building and recognizing youth leaders and the promotion of youth sports safety to honor the legacy of Taylor Haugen. It will continue to provide awareness, education and abdominal injury protection to secondary aged schools and leagues in contact sports, through its YESS© Program (Youth Equipment
First National Bank Offers Local Decision Making & Competitive Products in Destin
On June 27, First National Bank celebrated its new Destin location with a ribbon cutting. As a full-service bank, First National Bank offers local decision making, a wide range of competitive personal and business products, and experienced bankers dedicated to providing superior service in a warm and friendly environment. For more information, please call (850) 608-2088, visit https://fnbdc.com/about-us/hours-location/miramar-beach online, or stop by the new branch at 91 Scenic Gulf Drive, in Miramar
ORO Italian Street Food Brings Authentic Italian Cuisine to Destin
On June 22, ORO Italian Street Food celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting. ORO Italian Street Food is a family-owned restaurant that brings the streets of Italy to your table. Located within City Food Hall at Destin Commons, its menu features authentic Italian street food made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients imported from Italy. Its dishes are inspired by the vibrant culture and diverse culinary traditions of Italy, and the owners pride themselves on providing a warm and welcoming
Emerald Coast Theatre Company Celebrates New Signage
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
IV Sea Hydration Spa LLC Celebrates Grand Opening in Destin
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
Justin Woodard Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month
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
21 Graduate from Chamber’s Community Education & Leadership Program
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
Destin Chamber Hosts Candidates at August 14 Breakfast
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.
Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Fort Walton Beach Vintage Records
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
