The 2014 Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA) Tourism Summit & AGM saw its President's Award presented to Cariboo Regional District chair Al Richmond on Dec. 5.
He was chosen for his longtime assistance to the region's tourism sector.
CCCTA president Pat Corbett notes this annual award recognizes an individual whose cumulative efforts have enhanced the awareness and quality of tourism experiences in the region and provided support to the industry.
"I was so pleased to give this year’s CCCTA President's Award to [Al Richmond] for his over 20 years of helping the region's tourism industry battle issues, surprises and shocks...."
These ranged from helping the local sector through its sudden impacts and challenges surrounding the Mt. Polley Mines breach, BC Ferries cutbacks, loss of passenger train service, regional airport issues, the Tourism Assessment Relief Act, and numerous other regional issues.
"Thanks Al Richmond for all you do for our region's tourism industry."
Richmond says the award was completely unexpected, as he had no idea why he had been invited to attend.
"I was surprised, when so many people work so hard on tourism. I was both honoured and shocked.
"I recognize that we had worked a long time on tourism on a number of things ... but I'd never given consideration to some of the things Pat [Corbett] talked about."
In a lot of these projects and challenges, Richmond notes he worked with many people on these.
Corbett says Richmond contributed crucial assistance in managing media stories on Mt. Polley, as well as time and energy lobbying to governments and corporations to preserve regional rail, ferry and airport passenger services.
Along with Richmond's fundraising for airport improvements, all these efforts are greatly appreciated by the CCCTA, Corbett adds.