January 30, 2024

Good morning, Elizabeth!

Florida recently received some big accolades. Check out these rankings!

• #1 state to retire to by WalletHub
• #1 for talent attraction by Lightcast
• #1 for entrepreneurship by The Digital Project Manager

Also, the Florida Chamber Foundation recently shared these statistics:

• Florida's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown by 18.7% over the last 4 years. Figures show Florida is the 4th largest economy in the country, growing at a faster pace than any other state.
• Employment rose above 9.8 million in December, an increase of almost 16,000 jobs over the month and nearly 240,000 over the year. 

Are You Searching for Part-Time, Seasonal Workers?

We are hosting a job fair for Destin High School juniors and seniors from 8:30 - 11 a.m., on Thursday, March 7, at the school. The event is limited to the first 35 Chamber member businesses to respond. Email Elizabeth at espies@DestinChamber.com to secure your spot. You are welcome to bring a table, sign, applications, and collateral material. For details, call (850) 837-6241.

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

Power Hours With Kevin: Free Business Consulting

Thursday, February 1 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Location: Destin Chamber

Find details here.



Florida SBDC at UWF Business Consultant Kevin Oster will be available for impromptu meetings assisting with business challenges or opportunities. These meetings are confidential and at no cost to you. No appointment is required; however, you are welcome to email KOster@uwf.edu if you would like to schedule one.

Military Affairs Council (MAC) Meeting

Wednesday, February 7 | 12 - 1 p.m.

Location: Destin Chamber

Find details here.



Special Agent Zack Clapper from the Air Force Office of Special Investigation will speak. Any Chamber member with an interest in the military is welcome to attend.

Business Before Hours Sponsored by HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital

Friday, February 9 | 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Location: The Resorts of Pelican Beach

Registration and payment required.



Ladies Who Launch Powerhouse Women Series: Michele Nicholson, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office

Wednesday, February 21 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Location: Destin Chamber

Register here!

We are continuing the Powerhouse Women Series, highlighting impactful women in our community. The February 2024 Powerhouse Woman is Michele Nicholson, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer. There is no cost to attend this event, but space is limited, and registration is required. 

Business After Hours Sponsored by Pedro's Tacos & Tequila Bar

Thursday, February 222 | 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Location: 36178 Emerald Coast Pkwy., 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.

• Burns Estate Planning & Wealth Advisors
• Trammell Holdings, Ltd.

• Waypoint Title
• WM of The Gulf Coast

February 1 - Prime IV Hydration and Wellness-Destin

February 29 - Stepping Stones at Roane

Ongoing through Sunday, February 4

Emerald Coast Theatre Company Presents The Play That Goes Wrong

Ongoing through Friday, February 2

Homeschool Week

Thursday, February 1

FRLA's NWF Chapter Hospitality Hero Awards

Thursday, February 1 - Sunday, March 31

SeaLight Festival

Thursday, February 1 - Thursday, May 16

Lionfish Pre Tournament

Thursday, February 1

Power Hours With Kevin: Free Business Consulting

Prime IV Hydration and Wellness-Destin Ribbon Cutting

Darts & Music at the American Legion Post 296

Friday, February 2

Karaoke at American Legion Post 296

Saturday, February 3

Grand Boulevard’s Farmers’ Market

Baytowne Wharf Farmers Market

Brunch Fest

Panera Fundraising Benefitting Destin Cub Scouts

Sing Your Heart Out Competition Auditions

Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge's Martini Gras

Saturday, February 3 - Sunday, February 4

Family Valentine's Day

Sunday, February 4

Sunday Breakfast at American Legion Post 296

Sunday Brunch at Soleil

Melodies & Mimosas

Okaloosa County's Got Talent" Hosted by DJ Zoran and Okaloosa Arts Alliance

Monday, February 5 - Wednesday, February 7

Galentine's Day

Monday, February 5

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.

2024 Read to Feed

Klean Wash LLC - The Emerald Coast’s Highest Google Ranked Laundry

Hilton Garden Inn - Destin/Miramar Beach Offers Special Rate to Locals

Hello Frances Podcast: Happy Colors with Estelle Grengs

Be the Magic Foundation Makes Record-Breaking Contributions in 2023

January 2024 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

NWFSC Broadens Admission Options with Classic Learning Test (CLT) Acceptance

NWFSC Welcomes 2024 Spring Students and Celebrates Seventh Consecutive Semester of Increased Enrollment

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