Four from North Alabama Recognized with State Tourism Awards

A  number of North Alabama’s key tourism players were recognized at the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism with state tourism awards.
 Sue Pilkilton, executive director of the Helen Keller Birthplace in Tuscumbia, was inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame at the event. She was recognized for her 50 years of service at the historic site and for being instrumental in starting the Helen Keller Foundation’s Camp Courage for deaf/blind children.
 Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro was also inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame. Now in its 50th year, the retail store has received national and international attention for its unique approach to the shopping experience. 
 Alabama Senator Arthur Orr received the Government Advocate Award for being a tireless champion of tourism in the state. As Chairman of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission, he was also a key leader of Alabama’s Bicentennial Celebration.
 The Marshall County Convention and Visitors Bureau was named the Tourism Organization of the Year. During the past several years, the organization has recruited fishing tournaments, such as the Bassmaster Elite event, which have produced an economic impact of more than $35 million for the region. Since Katy Norton became president of the Marshall County CVB in 2013, Marshall County has had a 29% increase in lodging tax revenues with tourism expenditures rising 22%.