CVB's Tourism Celebrity Awards 2008

The Tacoma Regional Convention + Visitor Bureau held its Annual Meeting this morning at the Museum of Glass, highlighted by the Tourism Celebrity Awards.

Terry Blount of ESPN hosted the awards and announced the three winners:

Jon Graef of the Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Commission won the Community Unity Award, which recognizes a STAR who continuously works to unite the Pierce County community through collaboration, innovation and regional projects. Graef implemented the Sports Commission’s Preferred Hotel Program, enabling Tacoma and Pierce County to host more state high school championships than any other area of the state. 

Jeff Bowe of Hotel Murano was named Tourism Professional of the Year. This award honors a STAR whose exceptional service and outstanding commitment to Pierce County’s tourism industry in has contributed significantly to its success. Bowe was recognized for his exceptional customer service, commitment to Pierce County tourism and willingness to assist tourism partners whenever needed.

Pierce County Executive John Ladenburg won the Tourism Visionary Award for his involvement in Chambers Bay Golf Course. This award honors an individual whose long-term effort, commitment and trail-blazing accomplishments have set the stage for regional tourism. Ladenburg was instrumental in the development of Chambers Bay Golf Course, a valuable new addition for visitors and residents alike; he then spearheaded the effort to bring the prestigious 2015 U.S. Open and the 2010 U.S. Amateur Championship to the new course. 

Congratulations to the winners. It’s always fun to win something.