2019 Award Recipients Honored

Eugene, Ore - Travel Lane County honored the individuals and organizations that make the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region a premiere destination for visitors and a fantastic place for those of us who call it home.  

The 2019 Visitor Industry Celebration held at the Valley River Inn and focused on the importance of cycling to Oregon and Lane County's economy. Travel Lane County President & CEO Kari Westlund presented the state of the visitor industry in Lane County, and Executive Director of Cycle Oregon, Steve Schulz, provided a comprehensive look into how Cycle Oregon events build connections to communities all over Oregon. 

Please view the award descriptions, video playlist and photos from the event.  

Below is a summary of the recognition recognition given to Travel Lane County members, local organizations and community members. 

2019 Community Leadership Award
Presented to a group, business or individual that has significantly contributed to the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region's tourism industry or visitor experience through an advocacy program, visitor product or community development.
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to Cottage Grove City Manager Richard Meyers. View Award Video>

 
2019 Convention Leadership Award
Presented to a local resident(s) or business that is directly responsible for the confirmation of a meeting or event which brings in a significant number of overnight visitors to Lane County.
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to IAMCR President Janet Wasko.  View Award Video>

2019 Sports Leadership Award
Presented to a local resident(s) or business that is directly responsible for the confirmation of a sports event which brings in a significant number of overnight visitors to Lane County.
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to Mike Ripley, Mudslinger Events.  View Award Video>

2019 Destination Award 
Presented to a business or individual who, through their efforts, has excelled in promoting the community and the Eugene, Cascades & Coast as a visitor destination.
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to PublicHouse. View Award Video>

2019 Stewardship Award
The Stewardship Award is presented to a business or organization that creates greater business/organization value through its demonstrated commitment to its people (social equity), the planet (environment) and profit (economic value).
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to the Oregon Country Fair. View Award Video>

2019 Stewardship Award
The Stewardship Award is presented to a business or organization that creates greater business/organization value through its demonstrated commitment to its people (social equity), the planet (environment) and profit (economic value).
Our 2019 recipient: Congratulations to the McKenzie River Trail Run. View Award Video>

Tourism Ambassadors: This award is given to an individual or organization that made significant contributions to the visitor experience in their community. Each chamber of commerce was tasked with selecting a recipient for their community:

Cottage Grove - Nadine Kelley 
Eugene - Jen Bell
Florence - Jon Thompson
McKenzie River - George Letchworth
Oakridge./Westfir - Toni Wassenberg
Springfield - Nancie Koerber
TriCounty - Tom & Sue Hunton
Veneta/Fern Ridge - Ric Ingham

Thank you to our Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsors: Mereté Hotel Managment & Summit Bank
Keynote Sponsor: Turell Group
Centerpiece Sponsor: City of Eugene
Registration Sponsor: PeaceHealth Rides