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The Bay County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of progress, partnerships, and the people who make our business community thrive. This year’s electric event brought together over 750 leaders, innovators, and changemakers for an evening of recognition and connection.
Just days before the event, Bay County saw something we never expected—snow at the beach! While the rare weather briefly turned our coastal home into a winter wonderland, the Annual Dinner was all about warming up the room with excitement, inspiration, and celebration.
Held at Edgewater Beach and Golf Resort, the evening honored outstanding individuals who have gone above and beyond for Bay County. Kaydee Albritton, CEO of CPAR, was named Member of the Year for her dedication to strengthening the Chamber and the local business landscape. The prestigious Lauren Merriam Memorial Award was presented to Jerry Sowell, recognizing his unwavering commitment to the community’s well-being.
We also took a moment to recognize the leadership that helps guide our Chamber forward. Outgoing Chairman Joe Holt was honored for his dedication and service over the past year, while we welcomed Incoming Chairman Shane Boyett as he steps into the role, ready to lead us into another year of growth and opportunity.
Panama City Ballet delivered a dazzling performance at our Annual Dinner, lighting up the stage—literally! Adorned in illuminated costumes, their graceful movements created a breathtaking display that captivated the audience. Their blend of elegance and innovation added a magical touch to the evening, making it truly unforgettable. We are grateful for their talent and the radiant energy they brought to our celebration!
Our Annual Dinner’s silent auction was a huge success, with attendees bidding on an array of incredible items—all for a great cause! Proceeds from the auction support Junior Leadership Bay (JLB), helping us invest in the next generation of community leaders. Thanks to the generosity of our guests and donors, we’re able to provide students with valuable leadership development opportunities that will shape their future and strengthen our community.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without our incredible sponsors. A special thank you to Presenting Sponsor Bill Cramer Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, along with Coca-Cola USA, Dermatology Specialists of Florida, Maranta Copy, Toyota of Panama City, System Service & Engineering, and so many more who contributed to the success of this event.
As we reflect on the night, we’re reminded of what makes Bay County truly special—the people. The Chamber’s goal has always been to build a better Bay, and with the support of our members, we continue to push forward with new opportunities, growth, and success.
If you missed the event, don’t worry! We’ve captured the best moments in our photo gallery, and we’d love to hear your thoughts. Take our brief survey to help us continue making the Annual Dinner even better.