TOUR Southern and Eastern Kentucky (TOUR SEKY) hosted the Experience the BLOOM Awards May 23, 2012 at The Center for Rural Development.  BLOOM stands for Business, Leadership, Opportunities, Organization and Motivation.  These awards were created to honor those who have gone above and beyond to make the visitors experience outstanding. Nominations were made by tourism professionals across TOUR SEKY’s 47 county region.

Ken Harvey was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.  The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to an individual who has dedicated many years to the tourism industry. The recipient may currently work in the industry, volunteer, or may be retired.  The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to someone whom has taught others about the tourism industry and has made an impact in their community. Ken served as the Executive Director of the London-Laurel County Tourist Commission for 25 years and is a long time member of the TOUR SEKY Board of Directors.

"Ken Harvey is a world-class leader in tourism and I appreciate his expertise on the TOUR SEKY board for more than two decades, working tirelessly to protect and promote the natural treasures we have across the region," said Rogers. "Even though Ken transplanted to Laurel County for work, his passion for promoting the natural treasures in southern and eastern Kentucky has resulted in vast growth for the region that he made his home. I congratulate Ken on his retirement and wish him the very best in the years to follow."

There are 12 different categories for the Bloom Awards.  Each one represents an outstanding experience; restaurant, accommodation, visitor attraction, entertainment, sporting event, and CVB or tourism office.  Awards were also presented to hospitality youth, hospitality personality, best downtown, lifetime achievement, man and woman of the year.

For more information about the Experience the Bloom Awards please contact Maggie Bill at 606-677-6093 or mbill@tourseky.com.

TOUR SEKY is an award winning initiative of Congressman Hal Rogers. The organization’s mission is to educate, expand, develop and market the existing and potential tourism industry throughout southern and eastern Kentucky, while contributing to the economic, cultural growth, health and awareness, and overall quality of life of the region.  For additional information about TOUR SEKY visit www.tourseky.com, or call 606-677-6093.

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