Tamara L. Young, PhD, Public Information Director
This month the mayor, Bobby Wagner, and I sat down and reflected on the changing seasons and surrounding activities in Destin.
TY: Both of us have spent some time separately in New York lately, and it’s hard to be there and not appreciate the crisp autumn weather and seasons changing. For us in Destin, this time of year means a lot of favorite annual activities. We just had our largest Open House yet, which is our chance to say thank you to our residents and let them know what we’ve been working on.
BW: This year’s Open House was truly something special! A BIG thank you to yourself, city staff and our partners in the community for making this celebration so great. Seeing the community come together to hear about our projects and plans and having the chance to listen to their feedback face-to-face—it’s a reminder of why we do what we do. There’s nothing like a full gym of engaged residents asking thoughtful questions, sharing ideas, and helping to shape the future of Destin. It’s an exciting time for the city, and I think we all left feeling grateful for the community’s support and ready to roll up our sleeves for the next steps.
TY: Absolutely, and I think that energy carries over to other events that connect our community. The Pinfish Classic is such a perfect example—it’s all about getting kids outdoors and connecting them to our local waters, which has been part of Destin’s heritage for generations. It’s encouraging to see discussions happening around keeping the docks accessible and ensuring everyone feels welcome and safe, while respecting the space and taking care of it. It’s that kind of balance that preserves these special places for the next generation of anglers.
BW: The Pinfish Classic is such a fantastic event in our city! Watching kids of all ages compete in a fishing tournament right from shore and harbor is a fun, safe way to pass on the love of fishing to the next generation. Plus, it’s perfect for those of us, like me, who get seasick out on the Gulf—this tournament keeps the excitement on solid ground! It’s a small event with a big impact, building a lasting connection to our local fishing heritage.
TY: I suppose the last big change for the season will come with the election results. What’s your hope nationally and locally in terms of progress and overall change?
BW: As we look toward the election results, the outcomes will shape what’s possible for both our community and the nation. I hope to see progress rooted in thoughtful, community-centered initiatives. Locally, I envision us continuing to build on recent achievements—investing in infrastructure and keeping Destin a safe, vibrant place for all ages. Nationally, I’d love to see a focus on the real issues that impact our communities: strengthening local economies, investing in resilient infrastructure, and ensuring cities have the support they need to thrive without getting tangled in unnecessary red tape.
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