Chamber of Commerce 2026 Banquet Recognitions
Contributed by Jackson County Chamber
What an incredible evening celebrating the past, present, and future of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce at the 2026 Annual Chamber Banquet!
The beautiful setting at Bar R Ranch created the perfect backdrop for a night of celebration, connection, and inspiration. Guests enjoyed an amazing meal — special thanks to Leigh and the incredible team at Farmhouse Chick for food that truly could not have been better!
The evening was beautifully enhanced by stunning floral décor from Michael and Artistic Designs Unlimited Inc., while Trickey Durham Photography captured memories we will cherish for years to come. Thank you as well to Calm Your Soul Event Bartending, LLC for keeping the beverages flowing throughout the night. 🍸
Guests were treated to fantastic live music from STAINLESS STEEL out of Panama City Beach, and an inspiring message and initiative plan from Florida Chamber of Commerce President Mark Wilson and Heather Cogar. The Chamber looks forward to partnering with them and First Federal Bank of Florida on the Prosperity Initiative as we continue building a stronger future for Jackson County.
We were honored to have several distinguished guests in attendance including Brad Drake, Walton County Commissioner and former Florida House Representative; Jim Dean, Jackson County Administrator; Commissioners Paul Donofro, Jamie Westbrook, and Donnie Branch; Sheriff Donnie Edenfield; William Long, City of Marianna Manager; and Rico Williams, City of Marianna Commissioner.
A special moment of the evening was when former Chair Kevin Yoder officially welcomed incoming Chair Amanda Parrish with the passing of the gavel, marking an exciting new chapter for the Chamber.
We also proudly recognized the Leadership Jackson County graduates:
• Andy Bevis – Florida Public Utilities
• Vander Carter – JestGreen LLC
• Dr. Michelle Gamble – Sankofahe Healing
• Malcolm Gibson – Rivertown Community Church
• Sarah Hall – Farm Credit of NWFL
• Virginia Nail – Florida Public Utilities
• Chastity Sheffield – Tourism Development Council
• Joshua Tindall – Jim Whaley Tires
• Tommy Wood – Stethoscope Staffing
Congratulations to our 2026 Award Recipients:
Citizen of the Year: David Melvin – DHM Construction
Small Business of the Year: Spanish Trail Farms
Large Business of the Year: Jackson Hospital
Entrepreneur of the Year: Dylan Pforte & Doug Driscoll
Non-Profit of the Year: CHROME Ministries
Ambassador of the Year: Dr. Michelle Gamble
This incredible night would not have been possible without the support of our generous sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: Florida Public Utilities Company
Diamond Sponsors: West Florida Electric Cooperative; David H. Melvin, Inc. Consulting Engineers
Gold Sponsors: Florida Power & Light; Jackson Hospital; Innovations FCU
Silver Sponsors: HNB Bank; All In Credit Union
Bronze Sponsor: Enviva
The future of Jackson County is bright, and the Chamber will continue working to ensure our community remains a place where businesses grow, families thrive, and opportunities exist for the next generation.
We are looking forward to an exciting and record-breaking year ahead for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce!
Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate and for your continued support of the Chamber and our community.