Tourism is a little about story telling

People often ask me, "What does a Tourism Director actually do?" The answer is simple: a little bit of everything.
My day might begin by creating a social media post or filming a video to encourage visitors to discover something new in Fort Madison. I answer visitor questions, greeting Amtrak passengers during their stop, update our website, review hotel and tourism data and meet with community partners. And today? I used a leaf blower to remove mayflies from the depot platform. No two days are ever the same.
Tourism is really about storytelling. Every day, I have the privilege of sharing what makes the Fort Madison area special. It's a blend of our incredible history, the Mississippi River, our railroad heritage, festivals, agriculture, and the unique experiences that make our community one of a kind.

This time of year is especially exciting. Visitors are arriving daily for area events, family reunions, Amtrak adventures, Great River Road getaways, and summer vacations. Each guest who comes to town supports our local economy by staying in hotels, dining in restaurants, shopping in stores, and visiting our attractions.
A Tourism Director is part marketer, part historian and part community cheerleader. But the most important part of my job is inviting others to experience Fort Madison and helping them create memories here. Because every visitor has a story, and every day I get to help tell ours.
Chi Eastin is director of the Fort Madison Tourism Board and can be reached at fortmadisontourism@gmail.com