Somerset, KY – TOUR Southern and Eastern Kentucky (TOUR SEKY) awarded the APEX Award to Susan Laws during its 10th Annual Tourism Forum December 6, 2010. Laws is the Executive Director of the Mt.Vernon-Rockcastle County Tourist Commission.

APEX stands for Achievement, Professionalism, Excellence, and Xtraordinary in tourism.
Laws was chosen for this award because of her tireless efforts to improve tourism opportunities not only in Rockcastle County, but in Southern and Eastern Kentucky as a whole.

“Susan is a true supporter of Southern and Eastern Kentucky,” said Jeff Crowe, TOUR SEKY President/CEO. “She pursues projects that will improve the way of life in our region, and doesn’t let others discourage her in her endeavor.”

TOUR SEKY hosted the Annual Forum and Awards Luncheon at The Center for Rural Development in Somerset, KY. 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 David Avery. Morse is a well known economist and professor. David Avery is Senior Vice President of the Tombras Group.

In addition to the Apex award, TOUR also announced its Rookie of the Year and Tourism Impact award winners. During the program, the organization also announced projects funded through its Community Development Funds Program.

For a complete list of award winners and funded communities, contact Maggie Bill at 606-677-6093 or mbill@tourseky.com. If you would like a free TOUR SEKY region guide, call 10877-tourseky.

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.