Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association The official site for North Alabama tourism professionals
The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Associated has been honored as the 2019 Community Partner Eagle Award winner by the Alabama State Parks.
AMLA was recognized for its ongoing efforts to “share the good news about the parks at various trade shows in the region and beyond, and also provides space for parks’ personnel training.”
“We recognize the importance our state parks play in the quality of life for our residents and in the destination choices it provides travelers wishing to experience the beauty of Alabama and the hospitality of our communities. We are indeed honored to receive the Eagle Award from the state parks,” said Tami Reist, AMLA President/CEO.
The three-year-old program honors “outstanding efforts in supporting the parks.” Most of the awards are based on online nominations open to the public.
“We are proud to pay tribute to these special contributors to our state parts,” said Parks Director Greg Lein. “These Eagle Award winners have given of their time and talents and worked hard to keep our parks special.”
The award was presented to AMLA during ceremonies at Lake Guntersville State Park on February 2, 2019.
Other 2019 winners by category were:
Volunteer — Robert Murphy and Linda Reynolds. Organizers said Murphy has done extensive trail maintenance work in Monte Sano State Park, while Reynolds has given “of her time, knowledge and energy in an enthusiastic fashion” at Lake Guntersville State Park for 34 years.
Elected Officials — Ala. Reps. Dickie Drake, R-Leeds, and Steve McMillan, R-Gulf Shores. Park officials credited Drake for his work on the Parks for Patriots Bill which grants free park admission to service members and veterans, and McMillan for supporting the Gulf State Lodge project.
Park Partner — Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP) for “organizing rides, staffing work days in Oak Mountain State Park and hosting social activities for the group in the park,” among other activities.
Media — Joe Songer, the first member of the media to be recognized with an Eagle Award, “is a regular visitor to our state parks, even during his off hours. Songer’s interest and enthusiasm for the parks show in his work that draws millions of page views to his postings on AL.com.”
Songer’s work in 2018 included photo features on the new Lodge at Gulf State Park, beautiful trails in state parks, fall foliage in Mt. Cheaha State Park, and a close look at 1930s-vintage cabins in Chewacla State Park.