Danny Wuerffel and Sister Hazel Dazzle at Annual Chamber Gala, nearly 700 in Attendance

ALACHUA ‒ The Alachua Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 Annual Gala on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, delivering a night of celebration, community, and excitement that will not soon be forgotten. Held at Alachua’s Legacy Park, the signature event attracted nearly 700 attendees, with glowing 3-D marquee letters spelling out “Alachua” as a fitting backdrop to an evening honoring the Chamber’s accomplishments and promising future.

The gala, a cornerstone of the Chamber’s calendar, serves as an opportunity to recognize businesses, volunteers, and sponsors that contribute to the growth and prosperity of the region. It also allowed the Chamber to highlight the year’s achievements while unveiling goals for 2025.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour at 5:30 p.m., courtesy of Tri-Eagle and Beaker and Flask Wine Co., which set the stage for the festivities. At 6:45 p.m., guests indulged in a surf-and-turf dinner served by Beyond Expectations, capped off with desserts sponsored by Colliers International Real Estate.

The entertainment was as dazzling as the evening itself. The Dance Alive National Ballet opened the show with a breathtaking performance. But the true crowd-pleaser was a surprise appearance by Sister Hazel, the platinum-selling band from Gainesville. Founding members Ken Block and Drew Copeland, joined by keynote speaker and 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel on keyboard, had the crowd singing along to hits and requesting favorites.

Former Chamber President and current board member Mitch Glaeser took the reins as master of ceremonies, bringing both humor and heartfelt admiration to the role. Glaeser introduced Scherer Construction, the event’s title sponsor for the second consecutive year, and delighted the audience with a guided video tour of Alachua’s thriving business community—delivered on horseback, no less. To the crowd’s delight, Glaeser also appeared in a horse costume on stage.

Outgoing Chamber President Adam Boukari took the opportunity to thank the Chamber’s Sustaining Members, a distinguished group of businesses, organizations and individuals whose ongoing support drives the Chamber’s mission. Boukari emphasized the collective effort behind the Chamber’s successes, noting, “It took a team of dedicated individuals who gave their time and resources to make the Chamber a vibrant resource for local businesses.”

Among the honored Sustaining Members that continue to strengthen the region’s business environment were City of Alachua, San Felasco Tech City, Alachua Commerce Center, Renasant Bank, Campus USA, Scherer Construction, University of Florida, Santa Fe College, UF Innovate, Concept Companies, Fletcher Family Companies, G & C Foods, Tara Forest, Tower Hill Insurance Group and Jerry Smith Family.

The gala also celebrated outstanding individuals and organizations within the community. The Alachua Police Department recognized Sgt. Carl Newsome as Officer of the Year for his unwavering commitment to law enforcement and community service. Local favorite Mi Apa Latin Café was named Small Business of the Year, while

. Michele Lee, recognized as Chamber Volunteer of the Year, received heartfelt applause for her tireless efforts.

Outgoing President Boukari delivered his final address, reflecting on a year that saw the Chamber double its membership and strengthen its role as a vital resource for businesses. Boukari’s service and dedication were celebrated with a parting gift: a newly minted silver bar, presented by incoming Chamber President Elliot Welker.

The gala also featured an exciting live auction led by City Manager Mike DaRoza. Among the sought-after items were footballs signed by all three University of Florida Heisman Trophy winners—Steve Spurrier, Danny Wuerffel, and Tim Tebow—and an original art piece titled “Baby Danny Wuerffel” by Atlanta-based artist Reuben Watson.

Keynote speaker Danny Wuerffel brought both humor and inspiration to the evening. Reflecting on his journey as a UF quarterback who led the Gators to their first National Championship in 1997, Wuerffel shared amusing anecdotes and heartfelt insights into his current role as Executive Director of Desire Street Ministries, a nonprofit organization focused on community transformation.

The gala also included the announcement of the 2025 Board of Directors, Mitch Glaeser, Ed Potts, David Pope, Zak Seymoure, Neil Burk, Jerry Smith, Jovante Hayes, Joe Hancock, Flo Hester, Shasta Schoellhorn, Michele Lee, Shelley Vickers, Kyla Frye, Steve Szabo, Daurine Wehbe, Adam Boukari and President Elliott Welker.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear the 2025 Alachua Chamber of Commerce Gala was more than an event—it was a celebration of community, collaboration, and the promise of a bright future for Alachua. From the lively entertainment to the heartfelt recognition of local heroes, it truly was a night to remember.

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