Happy New Year!
 
We are embracing the New Year at the TRCVB and all the opportunity that comes with it. 2011 was a challenging year but despite economic and resource challenges, there are many success stories to celebrate and accomplishments to report. Please read the accompanying blogs and review the year-end report card to see where we ended up in relation to our organization's published goals.

Moving forward in 2012, our Board of Directors is reviewing the data collected from the surveys, focus groups and interviews conducted for Destination ReThink, and over the next few months will be revising our long-term strategic plan as we prepare for 2013 (yes, already!), the U.S. Open and so many great things on our destination's horizon. Stay tuned to this newsletter to remain up-to-date on 2012 initiatives and the development of future plans.
 

My message this month is my final opportunity to thank you for an extraordinary four years. My time in Pierce County has been blessed with adventure, learning and laughter, and your CVB has evolved into an organization engaged and responsive to customers and stakeholders while developing initiatives to drive tourism business. 

 

I have had the privilege and pleasure of working with a community of smart, creative, resourceful and inspiring people. You have offered support, collaboration and friendship without reserve. You have made this a place I will remain forever connected to, and will always refer to as a model community of action, responsibility and caring, down-to-earth people.
 
On Feb. 1 I begin my new job as CEO for the Monterey County CVB. This is a time of new beginnings 'lots of great things are on the horizon for the TRCVB and Pierce County, and a new chapter for me. I will be ever-grateful for the work you've joined me in, but more importantly for embracing me, for making this not just a job, but rather an experience I will always treasure.
 
As I depart, I wish you all the best and encourage you to continue to evangelize the importance of tourism and its social and economic benefits, to continue actively working together to strengthen our community and its culture. I will miss you.