U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) was the keynote speaker at the KTIA Spring Travel Forum.
The Kentucky Travel Industry Association (KTIA) held its Spring Travel Forum at The Center for Rural Development May 10-11. It was the first conference of its kind held at The Center since the addition of the new Courtyard by Marriott next door.
The event featured presentations by industry leaders and provided members the opportunity to network with colleagues from around the state. Vendors were on hand to showcase their products and services to attendees.
“The Center for Rural Development now has a winning combination with a brand new hotel to provide added convenience for conference attendees and it’s already helping draw larger groups to Somerset,” said U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05), who gave the keynote address during the conference. “I’m thrilled to have tourism professionals from across the state here in the Lake Cumberland region to share ideas to spur the economy and learn more about our local treasures.”
Carolyn Mounce, executive director of Somerset-Pulaski Convention & Visitors Bureau, talked about what enabled her to attract the KTIA event to the area, “Working with The Center & Center staff has always been a pleasure,” said Mounce. “I was very excited with the addition of the Marriott directly adjacent to The Center, it gave our attendees the opportunity to walk to the Spring Forum.”
“We are pleased that Marriott has expanded our lodging opportunities and see that as an asset for all involved,” Mounce said. “This Spring Forum will bring in tourism professionals from all across the Commonwealth as well as marketing vendors from Kentucky and other states.”
KTIA Spring Travel Forum attendees enjoyed breakfast Wednesday morning at the new Courtyard by Marriott, adjacent to The Center for Rural Development.
Conference attendees also stayed at four other hotels in the area besides the Marriott. The event kicked off May 9th with pre-conference activities, which included tours of local attractions including Lee’s Ford Marina, Haney’s Appledale Farm, and Mill Springs Battlefield Visitor Center. For more information about KTAI, visit their website www.ktia.com.
The Center can accommodate the smallest meeting all the way to the largest national or statewide convention, trade show, concert, or performance. For more information on The Center or to book space at the facility, call 606-677-6000, or visit centertech.com.
The newly opened Courtyard by Marriott is located off of U.S. 27 (at Traffic Light 15), adjacent to The Center for Rural Development. The 104-room hotel offers a refreshing business lobby environment, with a variety of seating areas designed for impromptu meetings and social gatherings. The lobby features The Bistro, which serves high quality, healthy options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Bistro is open to both hotel guests and the general public. The four-story hotel also features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and guest laundry. For information or reservations, contact the Courtyard by Marriott Somerset directly at 606-679-0090, or toll-free at 800-321-2211.
