President's Message: Summer is Here!

Summer is here, so is the heat, so are the visitors.  So, drink lots of water and stay hydrated.  And greet our visitors with a smile on your face and thank you from your voice!

Those who choose Destin as their vacation destination do so over many other choices.  They do not have to come here.  Imagine if they didn’t.  How would we provide jobs?  How would we create a sustainable economy?  We couldn’t, and we wouldn’t.

Those of us who live, work, and play here love our quality of life. Much of that quality of life exists because of the millions of tourists who visit us each year.  Yeah, traffic is bad sometimes, even at a standstill.  But as my good friend Bill Lindsley said to me the other day, “isn’t this traffic beautiful?”   And you know what?  It is! 

So, to the many visitors to the Destin Area who are reading this today, thank you for choosing Destin as your vacation destination.  We know you have many choices.  We know you’ll love your time here.  The southern hospitality mixed with beautiful beaches, great dining, world-class shopping, and endless recreational activities make this the most wonderful place to visit and spend time with your family and friends.  We’ll see you again soon!

And just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the chamber is standing pat.  No, we’re busy working and preparing for the fall.  Paddle at the Porch is Aug. 15, thanks to BOTE Boards and the Back Porch Restaurant, and many other sponsors and friends.  Bourbon at the Bay is Nov. 19.  The Chamber Holiday Party will be Dec. 17.  The Annual Banquet is scheduled for Jan. 15.  And Bayou, Bay & Beach 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon is Jan. 23.  All of this is in addition to our monthly lunches and after hours events. 

Don’t forget that 2016 is our 50^th Anniversary.  Our 50^th Anniversary Task Force is working hard to set up a year-long celebration you’ll not want to miss. 

Thanks for being a member.  Thanks for making this a great community.  Thanks for making it fun for me to be your president and CEO at the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce.

Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP

President & CEO

Destin Area Chamber of Commerce