The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce announced Vince Mayfield, CEO and co-founder of BitWizards, as Life Director during the Chamber’s Annual Installation and Awards Breakfast held in January.
The Life Director designation recognizes an individual whose long-standing commitment, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the Chamber and the Greater Fort Walton Beach business community. Mayfield actively supports the Chamber and has earned recognition as a leader within the region’s technology and business sectors.
The annual event also marked the installation of the Chamber’s 2026 leadership and a formal transition of board leadership. Gordon King, CEO of Okaloosa Gas, who completed a successful year as chairman of the board, ceremonially passed the gavel to Bonnie Barlow, president and CEO of Bridgeway Center, who will serve as chairman for 2026.
King reflected on the Chamber’s accomplishments over the past year, highlighting continued progress in member engagement, advocacy, and community partnerships. Barlow outlined priorities for the year ahead, emphasizing advocacy, collaboration, and continued economic growth throughout Okaloosa County, guided by her theme for the year: Leadership, Service, and Success.
Annual Awards
Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s prestigious awards:
- Volunteer of the Year: Barbara Britt, B Britt, LLC
- Ambassador of the Year: Paul Singleton
- Local Business of the Year: Mills Heating & Air
- Corporate Business of the Year: Cox Media
Teddy Awards
The event also featured the beloved Teddy Awards, recognizing individuals for their dedication and contributions to the community. This year’s Teddy Award winners include:
- Carolyn Ketchel, Okaloosa County
- Stephen Perkins, Warren Averett
- Debbie Dodge, Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce
- Ben Merrell, owner, Soundside Waterfront Bar; Fort Walton Beach City Council
- Bernard Johnson, Florida Power & Light
- Kelly Jasen, United Way Emerald Coast
- Shane Weddle, FASTSIGNS
- Robert Bage, City of Fort Walton Beach Police Department
- Marcus Chambers, Okaloosa County School District
The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce continues to serve as a leading advocate for business, economic development, and quality of life throughout the region.
For more information about programs, events, and chamber membership, visit fwbchamber.org.
