The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce welcomed its 2025 leadership and celebrated community achievements at its Annual Installation and Awards Breakfast on Jan. 3.
- Gordon King stepped into the role of 2025 Chairman of the Board, following Stephen Perkins of Warren Averett, who served as the 2024 chairman.
King emphasized Okaloosa Gas’s long-standing commitment to Northwest Florida and noted he is only the second chair from his company to lead the board since Fred Pryor in 1984.
“Okaloosa Gas believes the vitality of our business depends on the health and well-being of our communities where we live and work,” King said. “My goal will be to do all we can to promote the quality of life in Okaloosa County.”
The chamber presented its annual awards to several local businesses and individuals.
- FASTSIGNS: Small Business of the Year.
- Florida Power & Light: Corporate Business of the Year.
- Kari Painter of Quality Roofing Solutions was named Jim Glenn Ambassador of the Year
- Holly Karr of Creative Web Solutions received the Mert Wagner Volunteer of the Year Award.
Eight community leaders received Teddy Awards for their contributions:
- Dayna Stinebiser, Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce
- Marrissa Lowe, Warren Averett
- Johnny C. Alexander, ACE50 Media
- Jerry Williams, Eglin Federal Credit Union (Retired)
- Maureen Bierman, Step One Automotive Group
- Brandon Bishop, Cross Environmental Services
- Mel Ponder, Northwest Florida State College
- Nathan Boyles, Okaloosa County Board of Commissioners
Chamber President Ted Corcoran outlined the organization’s achievements from 2024 and shared plans focused on partnership, advocacy, and service within Okaloosa County for the coming year.
In his farewell address, outgoing Chairman Perkins reflected on the chamber’s program growth and thanked staff, board members, and his family for their support throughout his tenure.
