HENDERSON, Ky — This week marks the 40th annual National Travel and Tourism Week, the annual celebration of the contributions of the U.S. travel industry, spotlights the essential role that travel will play in driving economic growth and innovation through the theme #TravelForward.
In Henderson County, the travel industry drives $87 million in total spending annually and accounts for nearly 600 jobs.
The Henderson Tourist Commission today recognized travel’s essential contributions by hosting a Celebration of Travel, Tourism & Hospitality breakfast at Gallery 101 in The Depot Welcome Center with a goal of recognizing frontline tourism and hospitality staff who go above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences through the Commission’s inaugural Hospitality Hero awards. Kentucky Department of Tourism Commissioner Mike Mangeot was also on hand to comment on the growth of the tourism economy in Henderson and the bright future the industry plays for our quality of life as Kentuckians
Those recognized as Hospitality Heroes include Sally Finley, a volunteer with the W.C. Handy Blues & BBQ Festival; Mandi Whitmore, assistant manager at Sidewalk Cafe; Cindy Treadway, a server and host at Farmer & Frenchman Winery & Cafe; Susie Thurman, a long-time tour guide with the Henderson Tourist Commission; Diane Bremer, a volunteer with the Bluegrass in the Park Folklife Festival; Bryce Stonecipher, bartender at Hometown Roots; Lisa Hoffman, naturalist at John James Audubon State Park; Kelly Keeling, bartender at Rookies; Hector Quiros, maintenance associate at Sleep Inn; Cierra Agnew, barista at Roast Coffee Bar; Josh Harris, manager at Rockhouse on the River; Savannah Blackston, bartender at Homer’s Barbecue; Bernabe Ramirez, server at Tacoholics; Tyson Barnard, guest experience manager at Henderson Brewing Co., and Miranda Dillehay, front desk staff at Sleep Inn.
“Travel is at the heart of Henderson, powering a strong local economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our community’s culture and identity,” said Abby Dixon, executive director of the Henderson Tourist Commission. “This National Travel and Tourism Week, we are proud to celebrate all that travel does for our community now, all that it will contribute in the future, and the people who are key to the success of our community as a destination for visitors— our frontline staff.”
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