Steve & Patti Wolfron, Aleta & Dave Jefferson

Jennifer Frost, Megan Irby & Tonya Rauch

Katie Johnson & Taylor Casal

T

he Walton Are Chamber of Commerce held its annual 
Award Gala on January 19 at the Hilton Sandestin 
Beach Golf Resort and Spa. The formal event, 
sponsored by the Hilton and other local businesses, 

was attended by infl uential and up and coming personalities in the 
community. 

The gala was a night of incomings, outgoings and recognitions 

for service and achievements. The Young Professional of the Year 
award went to Chelsea Blaich of Grayton Beer Company, the 
Ambassador of the Year went to Allison Smith of Herbafex, Small 
Business of the Year North went to Walton County Tax Collector’s 
Offi ce, Small Business of the Year South was awarded to Grayton 
Beer Company, Large Business of the Year went to CHELCO, and 
Person of the Year was awarded to the illustrious Lisa Comeau.  
The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce and its board take great 

consideration in naming these prestigious awards each year.

In addition to awards and recognitions, formal installations 

took place as part of the evening’s ceremonies.  The Young 
Professionals, which is a product of the Chamber held their 
swearing in ceremony.  The new board of 15 young and 
impressively skilled professionals with diverse backgrounds and 
experiences will be presided over by Jessica Bracken. 

A highlight of the evening was the offi cial installation of the new 

Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Megan 
Harrison, President of The Walton Chamber, said she was excited 
about the new board and was looking forward to working with each 
of them in the upcoming year. The new board consists of proven 
leaders who all bring unique and diverse talents to make Walton 
County a stronger and more thriving area.  The new board will be 
chaired by Steve Wolfram of CHELCO.  

photos & story by

 Zhalman Harris

   VIP Destin at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa

Awar d Gala

Walton Area Chamber of Commerce

Jim Peacock, Brandi Gill & Patty Roberts

94     |    VIPDestinMagazine.com

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