Chamber welcomes gala attendees, Hollywood style
BY LISA NEWELL Gulf Breeze News lisa@gulfbreezenews.com

FAR LEFT: The Gulf Breeze News gang arrived via Island Limo. From left: Pam Randall, Joe Simpson, Vici Papajohn, Mike Ladd of Island Limo, Robyn Philips, Katie Killen, Amanda Browning, B.J. Davis, Lisa and Bob Newell.

The stars were out Friday night as Gulf Breeze Chamber hosted it's first ever Gala with the theme, "Welcome to Hollywood!" at the Hilton Garden Inn on Pensacola Beach.

The event featured emcees Francesca Maxime from WEAR and Marty Stanovich, who entertained the capacity crowd with skits and award presentations. Two giant video screens presented scenes from the past year as well as sponsors for the event.

Awards went to:

Emerging Leader of the Year: Courtney Humbaugh of Covenant Hospice

Emerging Business of the Year: Grendelfly Studio, LLC (George Johnson and Kara Szostek)

Small Business of the Year: Plastic Engraving, Inc. (Jim Robert)

Volunteer of the Year: Donna Cooper, People's First Community Bank

Business of the Year - Covenant Hospice

"We want to thank Chamber members for coming out and for catching the vision of this chamber by committing to so many generous sponsorships," Josie Cotti, associate director, said.

LEFT: Nevin and Norma Shaffer enjoy the fun at the Chamber Gala.

Later, the Reunion Band entertained with dance music.

Dottie and David Radcliffe. Incoming chamber president Doug Jolly of Qualified Marketing with his wife, Karen. Margaret Cunningham and Monsignor Luke Hunt.