Somerset, KY - TOUR Southern and Eastern Kentucky (TOUR SEKY) awarded the Governmental Tourism Impact Award to Tiffany Finley-Bourne with the Pulaski County Fiscal Court. Finley-Bourne received the award during TOUR SEKY’s 10th Annual Tourism Forum December 6, 2010 at the Center for Rural Development in Somerset, KY.

The Governmental Tourism Impact Award goes to an individual who is either an elected official or government employee who recognizes the importance of the tourism industry not only for their county but the economic benefit it is to the region as a whole. “Ms. Bourne goes above and beyond the required level of work to keep the community involved and informed,” said Jeff Crowe TOUR SEKY President/CEO. “Ms. Bourne works hard to secure grant funds for the community and makes sure the Master Musicians Festival is a success each year.”

TOUR also named their Rookie of the year during the event and honored several other volunteers. Funded projects through the Community Development Funds Program were also announced.

Nearly 300 tourism professionals, elected officials and tourism business representatives took part in the event. The theme was “What’s Cooking at your Destination?” Participants attended a morning session which featured presentations from Dr. Steve Morse and Davis Avery. Morse is a well-known economist and professor. David Avery is Senior Vice President of the Tombras Group.

For a list of award winners and funded communities, 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.