FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Megan McDonagh
503.275.9786
megan@mthoodterritory.com

 

Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory Recognizes Tourism Initiatives and Partners  at Annual Awards Banquet and Auction on May 14

Awards go to Lake Oswego, Wilsonville, Government Camp, Milwaukie and Welches Partners
WHAT: Clackamas County solidified its commitment to tourism more than 10 years ago through the creation of the Tourism Development Council (TDC).  Now promoted under the Mt. Hood Territory name, the destination marketing organization receives support from partners throughout the region.  On May 14, the TDC recognized outstanding work at an Annual Dinner and Auction.  Held at the Crowne Plaza in Lake Oswego, the event drew 120 guests and raised nearly $7,000 for the Oregon Restaurant Education Foundation ProStart Program.  The program allows high school students to earn credits while learning practical hospitality industry skills. 

Recipients were awarded an original piece of art.  The Arts Action Alliance of Clackamas County put a call out to local artists and the TDC selected Oak Grove-resident Jonnel Covault to craft a piece that represents the bounty of Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory.  A regular contributor to many national and international juried shows, Covault created a one-of-a-kind woodblock interpretation of the region's scenic jewels.  After creating the five prints for the awards, the block was retired.  A different local artist will be selected to participate each year.

WHO: Several awards were given to tourism partners in Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory:

Quality Service – Awarded to: Barbara Nordstrom, Wilsonville Visitor Center
The Mt. Hood Territory has participated in the statewide "Q" Customer Service Training program since the fall of 2003.  This award honors an employee of a Q-certified business who exemplifies "Q" principles through his/her outstanding customer service.  The selection was made by the Community Relations Committee.

Innovative Marketing – Awarded to: Government Camp SnowZone Lodging Co-op for winter lodging packages AND The Resort at the Mountain for the Wild About Game Cook-off

The Mt. Hood Territory is always looking for new and unique ways to promote the region and encourage regional, national and international guests to visit.  This award honors efforts by an individual organization, or a partnered effort between multiple organizations, to increase business, build revenue, or promote recognition among potential visitors/customers, particularly during shoulder seasons.  The selection was made by the Marketing Committee.

Chairman's Award – Awarded to: The City of Lake Oswego AND Bob's Red Mill in Milwaukie
The Mt. Hood Territory relies on its partners to develop and promote themselves as visitor destinations and attractions.  This award honors an outstanding project, event, business, individual or partnership that supports tourism development and epitomizes the spirit of Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory.  The selection was made by the TDC Chairman.

BACK-GROUND: The TDC was established in 1993 as the Clackamas County destination marketing organization.  The ongoing goal has been to promote regional offerings such as outdoor recreation, heritage and agriculture to visitors.  The council's efforts are funded solely by the Clackamas County lodging tax.  Linda Bell serves as the executive director and her staff includes: Erik Wolf, group marketing coordinator; Jeannine Breshears, special projects coordinator; Megan McDonagh, media relations manager; and Vicki La Duke, administrative assistant.

TDC Board Members include: Chairman, Jeff Kohnstamm; Vice Chairman, Melody Johnson; Jack Caldwell; Jude Strader; Dee Denton; Chip Terhune; Julie Hoffman; Jim Wasson; and Tim Hohl

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