Chamber president clarifies event participation
To the editor:
To clear up some confusion regarding the recent Sand Bash event held at the Holiday Inn, the Fort Myers Beach Area Chamber of Commerce was not involved in this event. We can appreciate the effort and time that is expended to make such an event possible as we have hosted The American Sandsculpting Championships for the last 24 years each November. We congratulate those involved for putting on a good show.
Although our November event Chairman, Andrew Cochrane, and I originally offered the possibility of a second event in the spring that would be a doubles competition (because our event in November is only a singles event with usually 16 sculptors) the decision was made (after our event) to not participate in this one. We had no involvement beyond the idea or what the public learned from our annual efforts. To clear up what we have been asked now numerous times, we were not involved with any discussions or decisions on the date, the activities, the layout, the pricing, or even the weather.
Sand Bash expanded what we have traditionally done. This approach created a different experience. I expect these additional offerings created the need for the higher pricing. We applaud and congratulate all efforts that try to make the opportunities for visitors and residents in our area more enjoyable. We hope that the experiences generated from this event will have provided memories that will instigate desires for visitors and residents alike to return to our piece of paradise.
John Albion
President, FMB Chamber