Local tourism was celebrated Monday, and our Kevin Coleman switched roles from tour guide to reporter at the Christopher Conference Center. The Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau kicked off National Tourism Week with their 7th Annual "Pineapple Awards Luncheon."
The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality, and the CVB gives out five "Pineapple Awards":
- Director / Inn Keeper of the Year
- Front Line Associate of the Year
- Behind the Scenes Associate of the Year
- Volunteer of the Year
- Grand Pineapple of the Year, the top award
Melody Young, Executive Director of the CVB, said the awards are for members of the tourism industry who go over and above their job description, and are nominated by peers or visitors.
Young also pointed out that the awards are within the tourism industry, but the industry touches everyone in some way.
The Bureau also gave out $20,000 in grants to groups creating or expanding events and attractions. Rallies and races appear to be a growing trend.
The winners will be listed on the Visitor’s Bureau website and Facebook page.
The Ross County Commissioners surprised Melody Young with a special award to for her work with the CVB on local tourism.
Kevin Coleman covers local government and culture
1 of 3 CVB Communication Assistant Gene Betts gets a portrait of all the award recipients.
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