In Walton County, the landscape is continuously evolving. Whether we’re welcoming fresh faces and exciting new locations or collecting accolades that speak to our world-class travel status, our growth is a true team effort.
That’s why we’re so pleased to greet these new and noteworthy additions to the community.
Currently serving as county administrator after 11 years as the Director of Beach Operations, Brian Kellenberger oversees municipal operations, bringing his extensive project management background to his responsibilities. Kellenberger brings over two decades of expertise as a construction and development manager, having worked with leading general contracting and development firms throughout Northwest Florida and Southeast Alabama. A Dothan, Ala., native and Auburn University graduate, Kellenberger now calls Freeport home with his wife and daughter. His passion extends beyond his professional responsibilities to include all forms of water sports, motorsports, woodworking and the meticulous restoration of antique vehicles.
Ryan Adams is the new deputy beach operations director and has 16 years of experience in project management and government agency operations at both the state and local levels. He is a former director of the DeFuniak Springs Airport and most recently worked at the Florida Department of Transportation as a project manager. Adams is a graduate of Northwest Florida State College where he received his bachelor’s degree in Project Management. He is a lifelong resident of Northwest Florida and has resided in Freeport with his wife and two kids for the past six years. In his free time, Adams enjoys spending time with his family and various outdoor recreational activities.
Tabatha Bolen is the new transportation manager for Walton County Beach Operations, bringing nearly two decades of leadership experience in Florida’s tourism industry. A longtime resident of Northwest Florida, Bolen has deep roots in the community and a passion for public transportation solutions. When she’s not enhancing visitor experiences through innovative transportation initiatives, Bolen enjoys surfing and outdoor adventures with her family along the Emerald Coast.
Cory Thornton Transportation Assistant Manager for Walton County Beach Operations Cory Thornton joins the team as the new assistant transportation manager, bringing more than 15 years of logistics management experience. After years in the industry, Thornton and his family decided to embrace a new adventure — traveling full time in an RV. Their journey began in Northwest Florida, where they quickly fell in love with the area and chose to make Walton County their permanent home. Before stepping into his current role, Thornton worked as an outside supervisor at Camping on the Gulf, where he developed a passion for the tourism industry. His background in logistics and customer service makes him an asset to the county’s transportation team. Thornton’s wife, Crystal, works at the Visitor Center, and their daughter, Bella, serves as a local lifeguard. The Thorntons are proud to call Walton County home and are excited to be part of the community.
Caroline Chester Content Coordinator for Walton County Tourism Caroline Chester is the new content coordinator for the Tourism Department and moved to the area from Memphis, Tenn., in 2024. With a Bachelor of Arts in public relations and a background in journalism and marketing, she offers a well-rounded perspective on communication — combining storytelling, visual design and strategic messaging. She loves to explore Walton County and see all the different landscapes and wildlife, especially in the state parks. Outside of work, Chester enjoys staying active, crocheting, gardening and reading.
Grand Boulevard at Sandestin is happy to announce the appointment of Jenny Taylor as the new general manager of the popular Northwest Florida Beaches Town Center. Taylor most recently served as general manager of Market Street in The Woodlands, Texas, a premier mixeduse development managed by Trademark Property Company. She led the team at Market Street since 2015, and her career with Trademark spanned nearly two decades, having also held roles as assistant general manager and marketing director. “This beautiful and inspirational property has much to be proud of and I’m excited to be a part of the next chapter in her story,” Taylor said. “The location of the center is perfect in perspective as the proximity to the natural environment of emerald waters and forested oasis makes this place very special.”
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Inc., Celebrating 40-Year Anniversary
Newman-Dailey Resort Properties Inc., Celebrating 40-Year AnniversaryFounded by Jeanne Dailey and Randy Newman on April 15, 1985, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties celebrated its 40th anniversary in April. The company, which specializes in vacation rentals, property management, association management and real estate sales, has weathered many storms and earned a reputation for honesty, integrity and exceptional service over the years. “We are honored to have an extended family of owners, guests and friends that have been with us and supported us all these years,” Jeanne Dailey, founder and CEO, said. “It is these families and individuals who have helped shape our culture and our unwavering commitment to excellence.”