The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce presented their annual “Excellence in Tourism” award this week to Mary Stanley of the Turtle Restaurant for her efforts in enhancing and promoting the travel and tourism industry in Brown County.

“Mary and her business draws a large base of customers from outside of the Brown County area which positively impacts the community and other area businesses,” said Sunni Modawell, Director of Tourism for the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce gives their “Excellence in Tourism” award each year during National Travel and Tourism Week to an individual or business that impacts the local tourism industry.  This year National Travel and Tourism Week is May 3 through 11.

Tourism has a large impact on Brown County by supporting over 600 local jobs.   Modawell said that visitors spend over $50 million in each year in Brown County which generates over $1 million in sales tax revenue.

Across Texas, travel employs a diverse workforce, from hotel employees, to restaurant, attraction and retail workers, as well as supports employees in other industry sectors such as construction, manufacturing and finance.

Mary Stanley owns the Turtle Restaurant, Enoteca and Gelateria in Downtown Brownwood.  The Turtle has been featured in regional press such Texas Highways, Edible Austin, Edible Dallas Fort Worth, and national publications Southern Living and Wine Enthusiast.

For more information about local events in Brownwood or attractions and activities, go to VisitBrownwood.com or call the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce at 325-646-9535.

Pictured is Mary Stanley receiving the award from Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce Tourism Director Sunni Modawell.