'I'LL REMEMBER THIS THE REST OF MY LIFE': Mayor Craig Barker offers a lesson in leadership

As Destin Mayor Craig Barker slowly walked among the attentive adolescent eyes, he couldn’t help but recall his youth and how much the same gestures have meant to his life.

Last week, Barker was the guest speaker at the Inaugural Northwest Florida Symphony and Community Leadership Luncheon for Destin Middle School’s fifth Grade French and Fine Arts Program hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

After an introduction from fifth grader Colt Buckingham, Barker opened by saying that speaking with students was one of his favorite experiences as mayor, saying, “I’ll remember this the rest of my life.”

“When figures in the community took the time to speak with me as a child, it left an impression,” Barker also added. “That’s something that inspired me.”

Barker went on to emphasize the characteristics of strong leaders, explaining that listening is just as important as taking action. After a short opening, Barker took questions from students who were eager to pick the brain of Destin’s leader.

The first question came from Cameron May, who asked, “How many people are in your posse?”

Barker responded, explaining that he surrounded himself with 15 or 20 people who are more knowledgeable than he on specific issues, and that those people enable him to make well-informed decisions.

After taking about half a dozen more questions about his position, Barker handed the microphone to DMS principal Dr. Diane Kelley, who presented Good Citizenship Awards to Faith Ford and Jackie Zannetti. The Good Citizen recipients are chosen for behavior, work ethic toward academics and their “sterling” character.

The luncheon was closed with words from fifth grader Matthew Woods.

“We have had a wonderful day together,” said Woods. “I ask my fellow Destinees, ‘Ask not what your community can do for you, but what you can do for your community.’ ”

While taking in the wisdom of leaders in the community, the students were able to practice their dining etiquette and enjoy a carefully prepared Carrabba’s lunch.

“The Symphony was fantastic,” said Hannah Hellerstedt. “And I like that Mayor Barker was here. He taught us that as long as we believe in ourselves we can do anything.”