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  Delaware Honors Excellence in Tourism
Dover, Del. (April 17, 2008) - The best of the First State's tourism industry were recognized today during the 2008 Governor's Tourism Summit, held at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington. Delaware Economic Development Office Director Judy McKinney-Cherry and Tourism Director Tim Morgan presented nine Governor's Tourism Awards. More than 200 tourism industry professionals attended the Summit. Presenters and winners with DLITE Director Jim Rapp (second from right.)Delmarva Low-Impact Tourism Experiences (DLITE) received the award for "Best Itinerary" in the State of Delaware for the 2007 Delmarva Birding Weekend. The Birding Weekend celebrates the spring migration of thousands of warblers, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. The Weekend combines boat trips, paddling treks, and expeditions by foot. The 2008 event takes place April 23 - 27. Southern Delaware Tourism nominated DLITE for the award. The Governor's Tourism Awards acknowledge individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Delaware's tourism industry. Delaware attracts more than 8.1 million visitors to state each year. "I am pleased to celebrate those who have maintained and strengthened Delaware's reputation as a premier tourism destination," said Governor Ruth Ann Minner. "Tourism in Delaware bolsters local economies and communities and enhances the quality of life not only for our visitors but for all Delawareans." According to Global Insight, Inc., the total economic impact of the tourism industry in Delaware was $1.80 billion in 2006. Core Tourism is the 5th largest sector employer in the state with 30,200 direct full-time equivalency jobs. Award winners were selected by a panel of judges, representing tourism organizations nationwide: Janene Charbeneau, Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance; Richard Gilbert, Maryland Office of Tourism Development; and Bruce Poster, Southwest Planning and Marketing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. |
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