MSCVB honors "Stars of the Industry" for tourism

The Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau (Mat-Su CVB) recently recognized several Valley businesses and organizations for their outstanding achievements in the field of tourism. Awards were presented at Mat-Su CVB's Annual Awards Banquet, "Stars of the Industry," held at the Best Western Lake Lucille Inn, on Nov. 8.

The Cheechako Award is awarded to a young tourism business, organization or entity showing entrepreneurial zeal and managing not only to survive but thrive in its early years.

This year the Mat-Su CVB presented this award to Alaska Gold Rush Bed and Breakfast. Alaska Gold Rush Bed and Breakfast, located at the base of Hatcher Pass, opened in 1999 with three units. Today they have seven units and can accommodate up to 25 guests.

The Palmer Chamber of Commerce was awarded the Northern Lights Award, which is awarded to a community or organization in the Mat-Su Borough that has distinguished itself for outstanding tourism promotion and/or development over the past year. Stu Graham, chamber president, accepted the award on behalf of the Palmer Chamber of Commerce.

The Palmer Chamber of Commerce was nominated for this award because of their involvement in activities which draw visitors to the area including Friday Flings, Colony Days, Colony Christmas and Palmer Pride.

The Tourism Angel award is awarded to an individual who has supported and assisted Mat-Su CVB and has shown true concern for the success and growth of all members in the Mat-Su Borough. This year Sandra White of Talkeetna Air Taxi was given this award for her vision and her silent contributions to tourism in the Mat-Su Valley.

The Gold Star Award is awarded to a business or organization that has made a significant accomplishment in the tourism industry. The Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge was awarded this prestigious award. In addition to their continual support of the community of Talkeetna, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers magnificent lodging, dining and convention facilities. This year two special awards were presented. The Spirit Award was awarded to Lorraine Jallen, Visitor Center Manager at the Mat-Su CVB.

Jallen demonstrates outstanding support for the Mat-Su CVB, it's members and the community.

Also new this year was the Community Service Award, presented to Lifetime Adventures. This award was developed to show support for a local business who worked hard to keep State Parks open to visitors and locals alike. Lifetime Adventures operated several State Parks within the Mat-Su Borough which may have not been open.

Stars of the Industry

Cheechako Award

Alaska Gold Rush Bed and Breakfast

Northern Lights Award

Palmer Chamber of Commerce

Tourism Angel Award

Sandra White of Talkeetna Air Taxi

Gold Star Award

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Community Service Award

Lifetime Adventures

Awards were presented at the Stars of the Industry annual banquet.