A Word from Our President

Dear Belle Glade Chamber Members,

This month marks an exciting moment for our community as we officially kick off a new Leadership Glades class. Each year, this program brings together a group of passionate and talented individuals who are eager to learn more about our region, grow their leadership skills, and deepen their connection to the Glades.

From exploring local industries to meeting with community leaders, participants will gain a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective on what makes the Glades so special—and how we can continue to move forward together. Leadership Glades is more than a program; it is an investment in people who will shape the future of our community.

We look forward to watching this new class begin their journey and to the impact they will create in the months and years to come. Please join me in welcoming and supporting them as they take their first steps.

Warm regards,

Erika Medellin

Chamber Benefits

Make the Most of Your Membership: A Series on Chamber Benefits

We’re continuing our monthly series on Chamber benefits, shining a spotlight on the tools and opportunities available to help your business grow.

This month’s feature focuses on one of the Chamber’s most powerful visibility resources -your online Website Listing & Directory Exposure. As part of your membership, your business is showcased on the Chamber’s website, making it easy for potential customers, partners, and the community to find and connect with you. With just a few simple updates, you can maximize this benefit and ensure your business stands out.

Website Listing & Directory Exposure

What’s the Benefit?

Your business is listed on the Chamber website.

How It Helps Your Business

Improves SEO and online credibility
Makes your business easier to find
Adds legitimacy with a Chamber affiliation

Tips to Maximize This Benefit

Log in and update your business profile and logo
Add a direct link to your booking/contact page
Make sure your category and keywords are accurate
Upgrade to an Enhanced Directory Listing. This allows you to add photos, videos, and additional business information to your profile, giving potential customers a more complete picture of your business. Contact the Chamber for details.

Real-World Example

“Being listed on the Chamber’s website and directory has been a tremendous benefit for Checkmark Collections. The exposure has helped us reach new customers, connect with other local businesses, and strengthen our presence in the Glades community.” – Melissa Nash, President of Checkmark Collections

What to Do Next

Check your listing now! Click here for Chamber Directory

Pro Tip of the Month

Use your listing as a backlink to boost your website’s ranking with Google.

Leadership Glades 2025

The Leadership Glades Class of 2025/2026 Program has Begun!

This year’s class is the 33^rd Leadership Glades class. We have class members from many of our local agriculture and ag-related businesses, retailers, service providers, non-profit social services, government agencies and municipal leaders. This is our largest class, with a total of 30 members committed to learning more about our community, committed to becoming better leaders in the Glades region.

Leadership Glades has long attracted the best and brightest from our community…those who want to make our community the best that it can be. It is heartening to look around our community and see that many of today’s local business leaders, community leaders, and municipal leaders are among our Leadership Glades Alumni.

The program officially kicked off with this year’s class orientation, which was held at the newly renovated Drawbridge restaurant in Belle Glade. The event not only gave participants the opportunity to meet their classmates, but also highlighted the spirit of connection and collaboration that has always been at the core of Leadership Glades.

Speaking of Alumni, for those previous class members who have remained engaged with Leadership, as Alumni in Good Standing, stay tuned for upcoming Alumni exclusive events, which will foster more interconnectivity among alumni from various classes.

Thank you to all the alumni who have volunteered to help us this year as Sponsors and Facilitators! The program relies upon our facilitators, and it could not run without our sponsors!

Special thanks to our class-year Program Sponsors - The Hand Foundation; McNeil Labor Management; Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida; Everglades Equipment Group; City of Belle Glade; Royal Family Businesses; TKM Bengard Farms, LLC; Big W Brand; and Bank of Belle Glade.

Local Restaurant to Re-Open

The Drawbridge Restaurant at Torry Island

The Drawbridge has officially reopened its doors, welcoming guests back with a fresh new look and a menu that celebrates the flavors of the Glades.

From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches and their Southern Family Meal Nights, the new menu has something for everyone. Guests can expect generous portions, down-home favorites, and a warm dining experience that fits perfectly with the community spirit they’ve always been known for.

To complement the menu, the Drawbridge is proud to feature Wild Hare Rum in a selection of signature cocktails — including the soon-to-be-famous “Muckarita.” It’s the perfect way to raise a glass to the Glades while enjoying a night out. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch throughout the week, and every Friday and Saturday evening guests can gather around the table for Southern Family Meal Nights, where entrees and sides are served family-style for a true taste of Southern tradition.

They’re celebrating their Grand Opening on October 3rd with a party that promises to bring the community together in style. Guests can look forward to music, line dancing, giveaways, photo opportunities, and of course plenty of delicious food and drinks. Whether it’s trying out the new menu, catching up with friends, or sipping on a signature Wild Hare Rum cocktail, the Drawbridge is set to be the go-to spot on Torry Island once again.

Check out their new menu here.