March 8, 2022 – In 2021, Tourism was in such a shocked state from COVID. Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Teri Hammel spoke about the pandemic and what they have planned going forward.
“COVID took us all the way down in so many ways. Tourism is the second largest employer in the world and so many people and businesses were devastated and lost so much. We are still in recovery mode. With restaurants closing and hotels not able to bring in guests it was such a devastating time. Personally, I had to rethink all my years (25 to be exact) on how to bring this office back with changes to compensate what happened in 2020/21. Time to think outside the box and not do the normal day to day things that worked pre-COVID.” said Hammel.
But there were good things to lean on during the pandemic for the DACVB.
“A highlight for 2021 was for us sports. We were able to still host outside events like softball and golf but that was all we could muster….so it made us feel a bit normal again,” she said.
As for 2022, the CVB will focus more on Tourism. As for meetings and conventions, Teri believes it will come back stronger in 2023. It is trickling in now but zoom gave planners the comfort of still taking care of business but there is nothing like the one on one in-person experience and it is important to bring that back. It is how relationships begin and develop over time.
“This year we are doing great. New events are being planned, our sales team has landed some new accounts and we are crazy busy but feel blessed for sure.” Hammel said of 2022. Attractions like the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater and Overlook Adventure Park are helping.
“The Devon is an attraction that draws overnight stays. It is amazing and we can track hotel rooms from the show nights. People also eat in our community before the show even if they are like an hour or more away but may not stay the night. As for Overlook Adventure Park, what an amazing attraction for our community and guests. I do not believe people will necessarily come and stay all night in a hotel to go there but for those who are here it is perfect.” Hammel said.
Things are looking up on the tourism front, and the DACVB can feel it, but, they are thankful for where they have been, as well as where they are going.
“Tourism is the engine that helps any community during a recovery and we at the CVB are so grateful to our funders that they recognize that and that they supported us during our darkest hours.” stated Hammel.
For more information on what the DACVB has planned in the coming months, click HERE.
