What a truly beautiful summer we have had. I feel so very lucky to be able to be in Depoe Bay every day. I have met so many first-time guests who have fallen in love with this city and have made it the “must-go” place for their travels.
Depoe Bay has something special that no other place does and that’s because of the community. Some of these incredible community members are organizing a fundraiser for Lahaina on September 7th. Thank you Kathy Short, Debbie Davilla and Autumn Watson for all you are doing to make this happen. It’s wonderful to see people step up to support those in need no matter the distance. The flyer is below for details. We hope to see you all then.
It has been a busy couple of months. Crab Feed was FANTASTIC, and the Chowder Cook-off was a fun new addition that we are looking forward to growing next year. In case you missed it, Fishing Rock Eatery & Lounge won Judges Choice and home chef Debbie Hatch won People’s Choice!
In May, the city of Depoe Bay celebrated 50 years and it was sensational. I was sad to miss the celebration personally (my husband’s oldest friend wouldn’t move his wedding for me), but I received lots of photos and from friends and neighbors who came to celebrate. Great job City!
In June we partied with OCVA and had a BLAST! Fishmongers was rockin’ while serving delicious locally caught seafood, Depoe Bay Wine was pouring and over 60 members and tourism industry friends joined us. We cannot wait to host again. Arica Sears of OCVA said, “Depoe Bay knows how to party” … and we do!
In July we had a booth at Beach, Bacon and Brews and made bacon fried corn and butter pecan and bacon cupcakes. We were a HUGE hit and raised $500+ Thank you Robert Vincent and Jack Sumner for helping! I must concede, my husband’s Bacon Fried Corn did outsell my Bacon Cupcakes.
August has been BUSY in town. We had a blast at National Night Out with the City! They did a fantastic job, and we are so grateful to partner with them on as many projects as we can. This month we also officially made the decision to cancel this year’s Salmon Bake. While we had purchased some things, including advertisements, tent rentals, and more, we did not sell any tickets. Salmon Bake was canceled for a variety of reasons, including salmon, fire concerns, volunteers, and important resources. We were not going to put on an event that didn’t do things appropriately. Making this decision was extremely difficult. The salmon bake is traditional and celebrates the Native American culture and community. It was unanimously agreed that if we could not do this important historical event correctly in all aspects, then we shouldn’t do it at all. But have no fear, we will have a Salmon Bake next year!
What’s in store for September… Fish N’ Chips & Sips. This event is designed to celebrate chamber businesses. Any Chamber Member in Lincoln County is invited to participate as a vendor at no charge. We have several members bringing a tent or table to set up and sell to all our guests. Several beers and wines are available for purchase and tastings. Music, and so much more at this Coastal Commerce Gathering. If you want to volunteer email us at info@depoebaychamber.org Tickets on sale now. Puchase here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fish-n-chips-sips-tickets-697516780467
Otter Rock businesses are having a Progressive Business After Hours again this September 21st from 5:15 to 7pm. This was so much fun last year. We got to go into each business, meet the owners and learn more about their businesses. I can’t wait to go again!
We received a grant to partner with Reinventing Rural and bring Co-Starters to Depoe Bay! If you are looking to start a business or your business is struggling, please reach out and we will connect you with the programs that are here to help at no cost to you. This 10-week program starts this fall. Please let me know if you would like to join or know someone who would like to join send them my way. As always, if there is anything I can do for you please reach out.
Be the reason someone smiles today,
Mellissa Sumner
