The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitor’s Bureau will host their annual open house on Thursday, May 9th to recognize National Travel and Tourism week.

“This year we want to recognize and bring awareness to everyone working in the travel and tourism industry locally,” said Chamber Tourism Manager Sunni Modawell.  “Tourism has a direct impact on the jobs of those working at restaurants, lodging, convenience stores, and museums as well as city workers who help set up for special events.”

The Brownwood Chamber will recognize an outstanding employee in the tourism industry based on nominations from the public.  To make a nomination, go to VisitBrownwood.com and fill out the online nomination form.

“The Outstanding Tourism Employee of the Year will be announced on Thursday, May 9th during our annual open house and honored during our monthly luncheon on Friday, May 17th at the Brownwood Country Club,” Modawell said. “This is your opportunity to help recognize someone who has given exemplary service to our visitors.”

National Travel and Tourism Week is May 4-12, 2013 and the open house will be held from 4 PM – 5:30 PM on May 9th at the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

The first full week of May is annually recognized as National Travel and Tourism Week, a tradition first celebrated in 1984.

“Travel and tourism in Brown County is a vital component to the local economy,” Modawell said.  “Tourism supports 620 travel industry related jobs locally and brings in over $48 million in direct visitor spending each year to Brown County.”

For more information about the upcoming open house or the local tourism industry, call the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce at 325-646-9535.