May 14, 2024

Good morning, Elizabeth!

Today, young professionals from across the area will gather at the Niceville Community Center for the 2nd Young Professionals of NWF Leadership Conference. Thank you to all of the sponsors who are making this professional development opportunity possible for our future business and community leaders!

Leadership Okaloosa | Okaloosa Gas | United Way Emerald Coast | Emerald Coast Vibe | Florida SBDC at UWF | Florida Power & Light | Illume Branding + Design | New American Funding/Amy Harvell | Synovus | A2Z Specialty Advertising | Bayou Brewing Company | Epic Photo Co. | Parker Gene Creative

David Butler Named Ambassador of the Quarter Sponsored by 790

Each quarter, we recognize an Ambassador who has gone above and beyond in service to this Chamber. From attending ribbon cuttings and welcoming new members to event setup and breakdown, their work and commitment is instrumental to our day-to-day operations.

Congratulations to David Butler (center) on receiving the honor for 1st Quarter 2024! His name was placed on our perpetual plaque, and he received a $50 gift card from award sponsor 790. He is seen here with 2024 Chairman Christian Carlee of Trustmark and Ambassador Chairman Brenda Gray of Hilton Garden Inn Destin/Miramar Beach.

Understanding Childcare Needs in Okaloosa & Walton

The Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast is conducting a vital childcare needs assessment for Okaloosa and Walton counties. Its goal is to understand how the availability of quality, affordable childcare impacts local businesses like yours.

Why your input matters:

• Employee recruitment and retention

• Absenteeism and productivity

• Community well-being

Take this short survey using the QR code or click here. It takes approximately 3-5 minutes to complete, and your responses will remain confidential. The deadline is June 7.

Do You Have an Award-Worthy Boss or Coworker?

We are seeking your help in rewarding one deserving business person every quarter. Do you know a Destin area business professional who should be recognized for his or her extraordinary efforts? Submit your nomination here. The award will be presented at a future Chamber Business Before Hours.

Perks of Your Chamber Membership

Affordable Health Insurance for Your Employees

• ACA-Compliant Group Health Benefits Solution
• Healthiest You by Teladoc

Savings On Your Email Marketing Program

• Save up to 25% with Constant Contact

Save $ On Office Supplies

• Save on office supplies with ODP Business Solutions

Business After Hours Sponsored by Henderson Beach Resort

Thursday, May 23 | 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Location: 200 Henderson Beach Resort Way, Destin

Registration and payment required.



Join us for networking, cocktails, and appetizers! The event begins at 5 p.m., and culminates with door prizes at 6:30 p.m.

Military Affairs Council (MAC) Meeting

Wednesday, June 5 | 12 - 1 p.m.

Location: Destin Chamber

Find details here.



Any Chamber member with an interest in the military is welcome to attend. Our speaker will be Randy Roy, Community Planning & Liaison Officer with NAS Whiting Field, which was just selected as the Navy's "Best Small Base" for the 5th time in the last nine years.

Ladies Who Launch Powerhouse Women Series Sponsored by Community Bank: Donna Montalvo, A 2 Z Specialty Advertising

Wednesday, June 12 | 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Location: Destin Chamber

Registration required.



Ladies Who Launch is continuing its Powerhouse Women Series, highlighting impactful women in our community. The June 2024 Powerhouse Woman is Donna Montalvo, co-owner of A2Z Specialty Advertising.

Community Bank is sponsoring lunch for this event. There is no fee to attend, but space is limited and registration is required.

Business Before Hours Sponsored by Holloway Yacht Charters

Friday, June 14 | 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Location: Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village

Registration and payment required.



Start your day with breakfast overlooking the beautiful Destin Harbor with Holloway Yacht Charters.

Addison Kay Weddings

Renew Concierge Physical Therapy

• AnchorsGordon, P.A.
• Blackwater Canoe Rental

• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Destin
• Northwest Florida Ballet

May 16 - Elite Cabinet Designs

Congratulations to Locks on the Docks on last week's ribbon cutting celebration!

Ongoing through Thursday, May 16

Lionfish Pre Tournament

Ongoing through Saturday, May 18

Lionfish Restaurant Week

Tuesday, May 14

2nd NWF Young Professionals Leadership Conference

Wednesday, May 15

Military Appreciation Free Lunch

7th Annual TeCMEN Industry Day

Wednesday Night Concert Series

Thursday, May 16 - Sunday, May 19

Emerald Coast Open | Lionfish Tournament

Thursday, May 16 - Saturday, May 18

Erica Courtney Personal Appearance & Trunk Show

Thursday, May 16

Power Hours With Kevin: Free Business Consulting

Florida SBDC at UWF Presents “A Roadmap to Small Business Funding”

Elite Cabinet Designs Ribbon Cutting

Thursdate at Melting Pot

Bubbly Baytowne

Darts & Music at the American Legion Post 296

Little Black Dress Night at Marina Cafe

Mattie Kelly Concert In the Village: Gotta Groove Band

Friday, May 17 - Saturday, May 18

Escape to the Island 2024

Friday, May 17

12th Annual Rotary Club of Destin Cajun Crawfish Bash

Karaoke at American Legion Post 296

Saturday, May 18

3rd Annual Navarre Paddle Classic

Florida SBDC at UWF Presents “Starting an At-Home Childcare Business”

Grand Boulevard’s Farmers’ Market

Baytowne Wharf Farmers Market

Spring Farmers Market Series

Jurassic Park in Concert

Sunday, May 19

Sunday Breakfast at American Legion Post 296

Sunday Brunch at Soleil

Monday, May 20

Bingo Fundraiser at American Legion Post 296

If you would like your event listed here, please submit it to the Events Calendar at DestinChamber.com. Be sure to include your company name, as we only publish events of Destin Chamber members.

Cox to Recognize Inspirational Student Heroes in Okaloosa County

2024 Grace Fulcher Memorial Scholarship Winner

Locks on the Docks Offers Secure Temporary Storage of Luggage & Personal Items on the Destin Harbor

Ready the May 2024 Issue of VIP Destin Magazine

Destin-Fort Walton Beach to host World’s Largest Lionfish Tournament

Warren Averett Named one of Accounting Today’s 2024 Best Firms for Technology

Want to see your business news, blogs and awards listed here? Send your updates to espies@DestinChamber.com.