State Seeks Nominees for Take Pride in Idaho Awards

Each year, Idahoans throughout the state are recognized for their efforts to promote, preserve or restore Idaho's tourism and recreation resources through the Take Pride in Idaho Awards. The governor presents the awards each year at the Governor's Conference on Recreation and Tourism. Nominees for 2009 Take Pride in Idaho Awards are currently sought for the following categories:

Outstanding Achievement in Recreation and Tourism - Individual or Group - awards are made for efforts to develop, manage, preserve, promote and protect Idaho's tourism and recreation resources.

Outstanding Tourism Community - recognizes a community devoted to the sustainability, growth and development of travel and tourism.

Governor's Outstanding Tourism Event - highlights an event that brings national exposure to Idaho.

Outstanding Historic Preservation Award - presented in recognition of the project that best represents historic preservation.

Outstanding Cultural Tourism Award - presented in recognition of the project or event that best showcases Idaho's cultural tourism offerings.

Outstanding Visitor Center Award - rewards the Idaho Visitor Center that has distinguished itself by its outstanding service to travelers.

Idaho Media Award - recognizes the works of an Idaho newspaper, magazine, radio, television station or freelance writer to promote Idaho's tourism and recreation opportunities.

The Idaho Conference on Recreation and Tourism is an annual event sponsored by a consortium of state and federal agencies to provide an industry forum for public, private and non-profit travel professionals throughout the state. This year's conference will be held May 5-7 in Sun Valley.

Nominations for the Take Pride in Idaho Awards will be accepted until April 10.

Contact Ron Gardner at 208-860-4432 or visit the Idaho Department of Commerce web site at http://commerce.idaho.gov/travel/ to download a nomination form.