The Governor’s 2013 Tourism Conference Brings Travel Professionals Together From Across Colorado

The Governor’s 2013 Colorado Tourism Conference wrapped up in Telluride, CO on Friday October 4 with freshly turned fall colors. Tourism professionals from across the state met to discuss current trends, successes and challenges facing tourism in the state. The Colorado Tourism Office hosted the conference with the theme “Now Is Your Time To Feel Alive.” The conference includes speakers; break out sessions, networking events as well as a silent auction that raises money for student scholarships.
“The Governor’s annual tourism conference is a key event to gather tourism industry representatives from all over the state to celebrate the successes of the past year and plan for the future,” said Timothy H. Wolfe, chairman of the Colorado Tourism Office Board of Directors. “As an industry, must stay passionate about continuing to build a great tourism experience for locals and visitors alike.”
At the Annual Awards Luncheon on October 3, Colorado Tourism Office Director Al White, (also known as the “godfather of tourism”) presented awards to individuals and organizations that have greatly contributed to the advancement and innovation of Colorado’s tourism industry.
Each winner was awarded a beautifully crafted plate from Telluride based artists, Judy Haas. “I was so flattered when I was asked to create the awards so I could help an industry that I depend on for my income,” said Haas.

• The Outstanding Tourism Volunteer Award was presented to Jack Snow for his 26 years of service at the Trinidad Colorado Welcome Center. Jack served his community by sharing his great knowledge and love for the state, which is know carried on by his wife, Barbara Snow, who is also a lifetime volunteer at the Welcome Center. “He would be humbled but pleased state is acknowledging value of Colorado welcome Center volunteers,” smiled Barbara.
•  The Colorado Tourism Office Board Chairman’s Award was presented to Richard Schaden and Rick Schaden for their work in restoring the US Pro Cycling Challenge in Colorado. With the third annual Pro Cycling Challenge taking place this year, Richard and Rick have helped to continue to raise Colorado’s profile as a world class travel destination. The race was seen across 175 countries with billions of media impressions.

• The Outstanding Community Tourism Initiative Award was awarded to Bobstock in Fort Morgan. Bobstock, an idea based on Woodstock, has become more than a music concert in the park. In its sixth year, the event attracts a few thousand people and supports local bands.
• The Governor’s Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution was presented to Angela Hollingsworth for her contributions to Lake City/Hinsdale County as Marketing and Senior Director of the Chamber of Commerce. Her contributions include graphic website design and tourism promotions.
• The Governor’s Award for Outstanding Marketing Program went to GoBreck’s #BreckBecause campaign. GoBreck helped visitors share their love for Breckenridge through the use of #BreckBecause and generated a huge percentage increase in social media followers.