The Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office has announced the recipients of the fifth-annual Clark County Tourism Awards, recognizing key individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to tourism and economic growth in the region.
“There are many unsung heroes that have contributed greatly to tourism in Clark County,” said Kim Bennett, president and CEO of Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office, in a press release. “The Tourism Awards pay tribute to these organizations and individuals that have gone above and beyond by displaying ingenuity, innovation and leadership when attracting tourists and visitors to Southwest Washington.”
The 2012 Tourism Award recipients are as follows:
Tom and Karen Hall, owners and operators of the Camas Hotel, received the Tourism Ambassador Award, which is bestowed upon individuals who continually strive to enhance the experience of tourists visiting Clark County. The Halls have owned the historic hotel since September of 2008 and in that time have made major renovations to the 100-year-old property.
Hoops on the River – Share of Vancouver, received the Spirit of Tourism Award, which recognizes a business or organization that has contributed to the economic vitality of the region through attracting visitors. The annual basketball tournament, now in its fifth year, is a fundraiser for Share and draws large crowds of players and spectators to Southwest Washington.
Brian Davis, race director for Energy Events, was recognized with the Outstanding Tourism Professional Award, which honors an individual who has gone the extra mile to promote the tourism industry in Clark County. Davis founded and organizes four annual runs in Clark County; the newest and largest is the Vancouver USA Marathon, which was held for the first time in August of 2011.
The three winners were nominated by their peers and then selected by the Tourism Office board of directors.
Videos featuring interviews with the award recipients can be seen on the Tourism Office’s website.
