photos & story by
Zhalman Harris
T
he Walton Area Chamber of Commerce held their 2017 Annual
Gala on Thursday, January 19, at the Hilton Sandestin Beach
Golf Resort and Spa. A cocktail event kicked off the evening
where guests had the opportunity to socialize with other
attendees which included business owners, elected officials, dignitaries
and Chamber members. After 91 years since the Walton Area Chamber of
Commerce was founded, the organization continues to celebrate its longtime
success while providing insight and leadership for a healthy business
community.
The night’s festivities included a live band, dinner and most importantly,
naming of the 2017 board of directors including incoming chairman, Fred
Leopold of Community Bank. Several awards that had been voted on by
the community were presented, including volunteer of the year, young
professional of the year, small business of the year - North Walton, small
business of the year - South Walton, large business of the year, and the
Walton Area Chamber person of the year.
As 2016 goes down as a successful year, the CEO of the Walton Chamber
of Commerce, Megan Harrison, who also served as the event’s Master of
Ceremonies, shared how hopeful she was that 2017 was going to be another
great year for the organization and for local businesses as the Walton area
continues to prosper.
Ed & Denise Kendust
VIP Destin at the Hilton Sandestin
Dewayne & Katherine Youngblood
Incoming and Outgoing Board of Directors
2017 Annual Gala Celebration
022-024 Event Walton Chamber Gala.indd 1
2/23/17 3:01 PM