• December First Wednesday at Travel Salem -- "Winter Party Planning"
  November 29, 2011
• Local Winemaker Wins the Pastel Art that Inspired the Wine Country License Plate!
  November 3, 2011 
• November 2 First Wednesday Downtown Salem -- Time to Shine
  October 28, 2011
• Travel Salem Ranked #10 on the List of 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For in Oregon
  October 4, 2011 
• Win the Pastel Art that Inspired the Wine Country License Plate Design!
  October 3, 2011 
• Travel Salem Launches an Interactive Online Map
  September 6, 2011
• Back to School Night with Travel Salem!
  September 1, 2011
• TravelSalem.com Sports a Beautiful New Look!
  August 8, 2011
• NEW OREGON WINE COUNTRY LICENSE PLATE TO BOLSTER TOURISM
  August 4, 2011
• August First Wednesday at Travel Salem "Everything but the Kitchen Sink!"
  July 26, 2011
• Salem to Host Second Largest Tandem Bike Rally in the U.S.
  July 14, 2011
• Local Tourism Industry Experiences 6.6 Percent Increase in Travel Spending
  June 10, 2011
• Travel Salem Named Top 100 Best Green Companies to Work For in Oregon
  May 27, 2011
• Travel Salem Honors Exceptional Tourism Partners at “Absolutely Fabulous” Awards Event!
  May 19, 2011
• Travel Salem Creates a Database to Connect Local Restaurants with Meeting & Event Planners - Send us your Info!
  Added April 8, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 29, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

December First Wednesday at Travel Salem
"Winter Party Planning"

SALEM, OREGON -- Everybody loves a party! At Travel Salem’s Travel Café we are kicking off the holiday spirit at the December 7th First Wednesday with ideas to help you party your way through 2012. Visitors to the Travel Café will enjoy delicious treats from Trader Joe’s; Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum will be showcasing their museum, IMAX and Wings and Waves Water Park with a special raffle; The Lodge at Detroit Lake is offering holiday special discounts; Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry will be on hand to share all the details regarding their state-of-the- art facility; and Willamette Valley Vineyards will be pouring their spectacular wines.

• Chemeketa Center for Business and Industry (CCBI): CCBI representatives will be on hand to share the resources available to small business at their state-of-the-art facility (626 High St. NE) as well as their Bank of the Cascades, EDGE Business Incubator program. www.ccbi.chemeketa.edu
• Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum: Evergreen will be revealing all of the fun and educational amenities of their campus including: the Aviation and Space Museums, IMAX and the Wings and Waves Water Park. Evergreen has festive events for the holidays and they will be raffling Museum tickets and have coupons for the water park. www.evergreenmuseum.org
• The Lodge at Detroit Lake: The Lodge at Detroit Lake will be offering special holiday pricing ending December 14, 2011 at midnight. Promo code: TS1stWED. “Come and stay at our beautifully rebuilt hotel!!" www.lodgeatdetroitlake.com
• Trader Joe’s: They will have a delicious array of wonderful treats and sparkling juices. Just perfect to serve at your next party. www.traderjoes.com
• Willamette Valley Vineyards: Come sip award-winning, sustainable wines! www.wvv.com

Contribute to Travel Salem's "Absolutely Giving Back" program by dropping off a canned and non-perishable food item.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 3, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Local Winemaker Wins the Pastel Art that Inspired the Wine Country License Plate!

SALEM, OREGON – Sandee Piluso, the first graduate from the Northwest Viticulture Center at Chemeketa Community College, and owner/winemaker at Piluso Vineyard and Winery in Aumsville, Oregon has won the Travel Salem raffle for the pastel artwork that inspired Oregon’s newest specialty license plate. In anticipation of the new license plate, Travel Salem, who initiated SB442 to create the wine country license plate, raffled this original pastel art of a scenic Oregon vineyard by local artist, Judy Phipps.

“I had long, tiresome day in the vineyard and when I hit the back porch, my husband told me I had won and it made my day! I’m excited to win this artwork that I plan to hang in my tasting room to celebrate Oregon viticulture and what’s really putting Oregon on the map.”

Proceeds from the raffle went directly to the artist, Judy Phipps, who volunteered to create the visual element of the wine country license plate to help promote the initiative.

The winning ticket was chosen October 31st at the Travel Café on 181 High Street NE in Salem.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, yearround destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I- 5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 28, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

November 2 First Wednesday Downtown Salem
Time to Shine

SALEM, ORE. –– ‘Tis the season to start shining and preparing for the holidays.  Salem residents and visitors are invited to attend the November 2 First Wednesday event to kick off the holiday season.  Downtown decorations will begin to shine in the next few weeks and businesses are reminding folks to shop local and early.

The November 2 First Wednesday event will include:

Art Department, Inc., 254 Commercial St. NE
503-364-7465, www.artdepartmentsupply.com

Holiday Open House! Come warm up with a cup of cider and preview all the gifts and new art supplies for the holidays. Make a wish list and we will keep it on file for your friends and family to peruse. Enjoy the oil paintings by Lee Speights. 5-7:30 p.m.

Beads A Million, 230 Liberty St. NE
503-371-1343

A number of local artists will be showing their fine art with beads, wire, bronze clay, Native American arts, hemp arts, glass and leather. Refreshments and 20% off store items.

Copperjohns, 195 Commercial St. NE
503-375-2333

Special First Wednesday discounts available from 5-7pm only. $2.00 Micro Drafts, $3.00 Prawn Cocktail, and $3.00 Glass of House Wine - Chardonnay, Merlot & Cabernet.

Create A Memory, 270 Commercial St. NE
503-375-3664, www.createamemory.org

Hosting a Holiday Open House. All ages can make a ceramic or glass ornament for $6.00.

Gallery B, 155 Liberty St. NE
503-931-4517, www.gallerybcoop.com

Visit Gallery B, Salem's new artist cooperative, during the First Wednesday art walk. Enjoy wine and refreshments from 5-8 pm while you explore artwork from local artists ranging from textiles, painting, bronze and ceramic sculpture, glass work and artisan jewelry.

Historic Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St. SE
503-375-3574, www.ElsinoreTheatre.com

The Docks of New York  (Josef von Sternberg, USA, 1928) November 2  *SILENT MOVIE* 7:00 pm, Admission $5.
A roughhouse coal stoker (George Bancroft) on shore leave rescues a frail blonde beauty (Betty Compson) beginning a tender relationship that blossoms in the cheap rooms and a saloon on New York’s harbor.  Despite such settings, director von Sternberg’s (Morocco) unique, exquisite command of style, gesture, lighting, and composition charge every frame with a remarkable pictorial beauty and a heightened sense of reality.  A landmark movie.  With Olga Baclanova.  75 minutes. Accompanied by Rick Parks at the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ.

Hydro Zen, 255 Court St. NE
503-581-9111, www.hydro-zen.com

“Friends of Zen” Partnership with SKEF (Salem Keizer Education Foundation). Each month Hydro Zen partners with a non-profit organization to help the organization raise money. First Wed. Nov. 2- Sat, Nov. 5th, 25% of all Hydro Zen timed sessions, gift certificates and retail items purchased during those 4 days will be donated to the organization. The Nov. partner is SKEF and monies raised will go to the Salem-Keizer After School Programs. Hours:  Wed – Fri: 10am-6pm & Sat. 9am-3pm.

Magoo’s, 275 Commercial St. SE
503-931-2489

$5 wine tasting and you keep the glass. Free appetizer with tasting. Happy Hour 3-6pm. New on tap is Jubelale by Deschutes Brewing.

Salem Art Collective, 189 Liberty St. NE
503-391-7977

Gallery will be open for First Wednesday with participating artists offering visitors refreshments and music from 5 - 8:00 pm.

Where the Sidewalk Begins/Salem-Keizer Education Foundation, 233 Commercial St. NE
503-364-2933, www.wherethesidewalkbegins.com

Join us for our Holiday Open House, 4 – 8pm. Perfect time to find a great selection of holiday gifts, décor and fun. Enjoy beverages including wine from Redhawk Winery, yummy treats, mystery discounts, drawings and much more!!

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, yearround destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 4, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Travel Salem Ranked #10 on the List of 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For in Oregon

SALEM, ORE. –– Travel Salem has been ranked tenth on Oregon Business magazine’s “100 Best Nonprofit to Work For in Oregon” list. The ranking is determined by employee questionnaires and an independent assessment. Travel Salem was one of only nine Salem businesses recognized and the organization aggressively climbed the rankings from 24th last year to 10th  this year.

Nearly 5,500 employees from 170 nonprofits and not-for-profits statewide participated in this year’s survey developed by Oregon Business editor Brandon Sawyer along with research partner DHM Research and the Nonprofit Association of Oregon. Oregon Business launched this project to recognize nonprofits as key businesses critical to the economic health of the state.

Nonprofit employees who responded this year commented that they valued a work environment of trust, professionalism and care, along with opportunities for training, support and career advancement. Flexible schedules, teamwork and taking time to have fun were noted in the surveys as key components to a great workplace.

“Travel Salem has been my professional home for eight years. My first role was as an intern and over the years I have been challenged and allowed the chance to try new roles. The director team is supportive of the staff putting our families first, which means more than can be expressed. We are a close-knit group who celebrates our individual and team successes in a supportive environment where you can freely suggest new ideas. I am thrilled to be a part of such a great team of exceptional people!” said Kathie Reeves, marketing manager at Travel Salem.

The “100 Best Nonprofits to Work for in Oregon” is featured in the October issue of Oregon Business magazine, which is now available for purchase.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 3, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Win the Pastel Art that Inspired the Wine Country License Plate Design!

SALEM, OREGON – Oregon’s newest specialty license plate will celebrate the state’s rich agricultural resources and world-class culinary heritage and be available next spring. In anticipation of the new license plate, Travel Salem, who initiated SB442 to create the wine country license plate, is raffling the original pastel art that inspired the design, a scenic Oregon vineyard by local artist, Judy Phipps. This raffle is a rare opportunity to enter to win the actual artwork that inspired the upcoming license plates.

Ticket sales for the raffle began last Thursday (Sept. 29) at a party celebrating the passage of SB442 and the Wine Country License Plate, held at Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Raffle tickets are available for purchase at Travel Salem’s Travel Café at 181 High Street NE in Salem, Oregon, where you can also view the original artwork.  Tickets are $5 each or five tickets for $20.  Ticket sales will run now through October 29th with the winning ticket being selected on October 31st!

For more info about purchasing raffle tickets, email Barb Cowan at bcowan@travelsalem.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 6, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Travel Salem Launches an Interactive Online Map

SALEM, OREGON – Travel Salem recently launched a new Interactive Online Map, a media-rich tool on the TravelSalem.com website dedicated to promoting our beautiful region as a visitor destination. The Interactive Online Map (IOM) helps visitors plan their mid-Willamette Valley experience. Currently the map visually represents the region’s diverse cultural and heritage assets. Future phases will showcase culinary highlights, recreation hotspots, public gardens and more.

“Travel Salem’s goal with implementation of this Interactive Online Map is to draw more attention and visitation to the Salem and mid-Willamette Valley area through illustrating and promoting the rich and diverse offerings of our area,” said Kathie Reeves, marketing manager for Travel Salem.

The IOM is also a great tool to help local residents learn more about attractions in their backyard and is a great resource to employ when planning trips for visiting friends and family.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 1, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Back to School Night with Travel Salem!

SALEM, OREGON – Support public school students in need by donating school supplies at our First Wednesday event at Travel Salem’s Travel Café on September 7th from 5 to 8 p.m. at 181 High St. NE.

Everyone who donates school supplies will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a Travel Salem goodie bag that includes a sweatshirt and chocolates.

Travel Salem is also kicking off the school year with signature treats from Alcyone Café & Catering, day tour ideas from Oregon Country Tours and award winning wine from Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Start your year out right with Travel Salem!

• Alcyone Cafe & Catering - will feature some of its signature flavors in bite-size samples: pork tenderloin carnitas, curried chicken & petite croissant puffs. www.alcyonecafe.com
• My Sisters’ Closet – Upscale & Fashionable Women’s Consignment Apparel and accessories. Collect your 25% off coupon and enter to win a $50 gift certificate.
• Oregon Country Tours – Learn about their unique tours to Salem area cultural and historical sites. There are so many things to see and experience! www.oregoncountrytours.com
• Silverton Arts Association - Come learn some easy watercolor techniques with the Silverton Arts Association as well as information about the many classes and events they have to offer. www.silvertonarts.org
• Willamette Valley Vineyards - Come sip award-winning, sustainable wines! www.wvv.com

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 8, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy PR Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

TravelSalem.com Sports a Beautiful New Look!

SALEM, OREGON – Travel Salem recently partnered with OakTree Digital to redesign their TravelSalem.com website. The new and improved website features dynamic rotating photography on the homepage which draws in viewers and encourages them to visit our region. The new design allows visitors to more readily access current events occurring during their visit and is also more social media friendly: featuring content from Travel Salem’s Facebook page on the home page along with connectivity to Flickr, Youtube and Twitter. The new redesign also gives visitors quick access to order a Salem Area Visitors Guide, the ability to book accommodations and learn about holding a meeting in Salem area. It also offers quick links to information regarding attractions, galleries, eateries, shops and much more, all from the home page.

“The new design has beautiful images that captivate and encourage visitation to the Salem area. The user-friendly navigation system allows access to specific information with one click of the mouse,” said Kathie Reeves, marketing manager at Travel Salem.

The sleek new website also features a “Reel to Real” page with links to experiential videos so travelers can get a dynamic feel for the Salem region. Local residents, as well as visitors, are always looking for fun things to do and see and TravelSalem.com is a great resource for happenings in and around Salem and Marion and Polk Counties.

“The new look for the Travel Salem website is slick and sophisticated. The Travel Salem team wanted the site to reflect the beauty, diversity and travel options in Salem and we succeeded in doing that,” said David Martin, interactive design manager at OakTree Digital, who helped Travel Salem with the redesign.

Businesses located within Salem’s city limits may have one free listing per business on TravelSalem.com. Visit TravelSalem.com, then the “business services” section to self-submit your listing.

***

Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 4, 2011 Printable PDF Version Plate Mockup

Contacts: Irene Bernards, Travel Salem 503-581-4325 ext. 27 ibernards@TravelSalem.com Charles Humble, OWA 503-228-8336 charles@oregonwine.org

NEW OREGON WINE COUNTRY LICENSE PLATE TO BOLSTER TOURISM

WHAT: SB 442 was signed into law today by Governor John Kitzhaber establishing the Wine Country specialty license plate, the first initiative of its kind in the nation.

Plates will be available for a $30 surcharge due at issuance and every two-year renewal. Wine Country plate proceeds will be directed to the Oregon Tourism Commission to support the promotion of Oregon as a travel & tourism destination, and will be distributed as follows:

• 50% to matching grants for wine & culinary tourism promotion
• 50% to regional tourism agencies throughout Oregon, based on an acreage formula of grapes in
  production

The bill was conceived and initiated by Travel Salem and co-sponsored by Senator Jackie Winters and Representative Kevin Cameron. The Oregon Winegrowers Association provided critical guidance and advocacy on behalf of the bill.

WHY: This “jobs bill” was developed as an innovative marketing strategy to focus attention on Oregon’s culinary scene, drive new tourism revenues to support economic growth across the state, and to galvanize the tourism & wine industries. The Wine Country plate celebrates Oregon’s rich agricultural resources and world-class culinary heritage, and serves as a moving “billboard” promoting Oregon’s status as an agri-tourism hotspot. The plate provides Oregonians with the opportunity to show their support for the tourism industry and contribute toward a healthy and vibrant tourism economy.

WHEN: Plates will be available in January 2012.

RESOURCES:

Angie Morris/President & CEO, Travel Salem
503-581-4325 ext. 26, amorris@TravelSalem.com

State Senator Jackie Winters
503-986-1710, sen.jackiewinters@state.or.us

State Representative Kevin Cameron
503-986-1400, rep.kevincameron@state.or.us

Jim Bernau/President & CEO, Willamette Valley Vineyards
503-588-9463, jim.bernau@wvv.com

Michael Donovan/Managing Director, RoxyAnn Winery
541-776-2315 ext 304, michael@roxyann.com

Steve McCoid/President & CEO, Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association
503-682-4422, smccoid@OregonRLA.org

Sue Horstmann/Executive Director, Willamette Valley Wineries Association
503-297-2962, sue@willamettewines.com

Todd Davidson/CEO, Travel Oregon
503-378-8847, todd@traveloregon.com

Kari Westlund/President & CEO, Travel Lane County
541-743-8750, Kari@TravelLaneCounty.org

Sheryl Kelsh/Executive Director, Chehalem Chamber of Commerce
503-538-2014, sheryl@chahalemvalley.org

Doug LaPlaca/President & CEO, Visit Bend
541-382-8048, doug@visitbend.com

Lorna Davis/Executive Director, Newport Chamber of Commerce
541-265-8801, lorna@newportchamber.org

Alice Trindle/Executive Director, Eastern Oregon Visitors Association
541-856-3356, tnthorse@eoni.com

###

Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the Mid-Willamette Valley as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.

The Oregon Winegrowers Association advocates for the interests of Oregon's 849 vineyard and 419 winery owners. For more information visit www.OregonWine.org. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 26, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

August First Wednesday at Travel Salem
"Everything but the Kitchen Sink!"

SALEM, OREGON – This just in: Travel Salem will offer visitors about "everything but the kitchen sink!"at their First Wednesday on August 3, from 5 to 8 pm at the Travel Cafe at 181 High St. NE. Visitors can find sausage, BBQ sauces, art, coffee, apparel, computer help, and wine.

• Break the Chain Apparel- Why Not Make a Difference By Simply Getting Dressed? Break the Chain® Apparel gives a voice to those who are afraid to ask for help. Wear our clothing and start a CHANGE REACTION! www.breakthechainapparel.com
• Coldwell Banker Mt. West New Home Place- Stop in and realize your dream of owning a new home. www.newhomeplace.com
• de Nova Coffee Café- Taste the coffee delights of De Nova Coffee Café. www.denovacoffeecafe.com
• Geronimo Clark- Come view an eclectic collection of original Neo-Native work by Navaho Nation Artist Geronimo Clark.
• Magic Tek- Need to get your computer up and running again? Learn about the only IT 100% women owned & operated business in the mid-Willamette Valley. Enter to win a gift basket full of local goodies and munch on a delicious "magic" cookie. www.magictekllc.com
• Mt. Angel Sausage Company- Come join our neighbors who just starred in a recent episode of the Food Network’s Outrageous Food! Mt. Angel Sausage Company provides specialty food services for events, fairs, festivals, weddings, family reunions, sports venues and corporate parties. They use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients! www.ropesausage.com
• Tribal Moose Premium Sauces- These sauces are as wild as the Alaskan wilderness. Inspired by Grandma Lucy's passion for good cooking and a love for the great outdoors these business owners are even writing a book about their sauces! www.tribalmoose.net
• Willamette Valley Vineyards- Come sip award-winning, sustainable wines! www.wvv.com

Contribute to Travel Salem's "Absolutely Giving Back" program by dropping off a canned and non-perishable food item.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 14, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Salem to Host Second Largest Tandem Bike Rally in the U.S.

Salem, Ore. – A group of passionate Salem-area tandem riders have recently announced that next year, Salem will host the 27th Annual Northwest Tandem Rally, the second largest tandem rally in the U.S. A few weeks ago, more than 600 tandem cyclists pedaled through Spokane, Washington on the Fourth of July weekend at this year’s Northwest rally.

The 2012 event will take place June 29th through July 2nd on cycling routes throughout the Salem region. The organizer of the rally is Salem NWTR 2010 LLC, a group of about 14 dedicated tandem cyclists living in the Salem area. Salem NWTR will partner with The Grand Hotel in Salem and Willamette University for food services and accommodations. 

One of the organizers, Kurt Haas, who races with local Capitol Velo Racing Club, says the group is busy planning routes and locations for events. Eventually they welcome volunteers and sponsors for the rally.

The mission of the 2012 Northwest Tandem Rally  is to share the Wonders of the Willamette (WOW) Valley – its hospitality, history, and scenic bicycle routes – with tandem families and friends from the Northwest and across the US and beyond – all at an affordable price. 

“Our goal is to involve community in the ride as much as possible,” he said, “to benefit the riders along with the Willamette Valley, the economy, local businesses and community relationships.” He says some of the routes will have stops at local businesses like E.Z. Orchards, Willamette Valley Fruit Company, Bauman Farm and others.

Tandem teams are generally well-educated, affluent, and fit, with participants ranging from 25-60 and frequently include families with their children. The majority of NWTR participants come from Oregon, Washington and Northern California, with representation from across the country and some venturing from as far away as Europe and Australia.

Organizers are excited about the energy the event will bring to the Salem area.

“Most people haven’t seen 300 or 400 tandem bikes rolling down the road together; the rally really brings a buzz to the community,” said Haas who rides tandem on a three-seated bike with his wife and seven-year old daughter.

“Many of the tandem riders are couples and families. This is really a family-oriented activity!”

Excess proceeds from the event will go toward community based nonprofit organizations and to future NWTR events.

Organizers will also host a trade show along with a series of events, planned to increase contact between rally participants and vendors. Cost for a booth at the trade show will be $50.

For more information about the 2012 Salem NWTR, visit their website at www.nwtr.org/2012.

History of the Northwest Tandem Rally
The Northwest Tandem Rally has traveled extensively throughout the Northwest since 1986. The event has traditionally been on Memorial Day weekend but depending on venue and calendar may also be held on Fourth of July weekend. It is produced as an all-volunteer event, designed to be family oriented, grassroots and affordable.

# # #

***Travel Salem is a nonprofit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located in the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 10, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Local Tourism Industry Experiences 6.6 Percent Increase in Travel Spending

Tourism is big business for the Salem area and a vital economic generator. A recently-released study, Economic Impacts of Travel prepared by market research firm Dean Runyan Associates, reports that travel spending in the Salem area grew 6.6 percent over the previous year to $496 million in 2010.

Tourism-related businesses in the Salem area employed 6,260 people in 2010. Employees and business owners who worked in travel related businesses earned $132.7 million. Travelers to the Salem area contributed $2.5 million in tax revenue and $13.9 million in state revenue.

“Tourism is a major economic driver in the Salem area,” said President & CEO Angie Morris, Travel Salem. “Visitors enjoy our region and contribute millions of dollars to our economy and this in turn creates jobs. Travel Salem continues to strategically position the Salem area as a premier destination, bringing in new dollars that support local economies and small businesses throughout the region.”

Salem Area Travel Impacts (Marion & Polk Counties)
Accommodations - $49.1 million
Food Service - $112.9 million
Food Stores- $47.8 million
Local Transportation & Gas - $46 million
Arts, Entertainment & Recreation- $126.8 million
Retail Sales -$55.5 million
*Other Travel - $57.8 million

*outbound travel services and transportation

# # #

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes the greater Salem area as a premier, year-round destination for conventions, events and leisure travelers. Tourism economic impact for the region is $496 million annually. Travel Salem manages the award-winning Travel Café, the official Salem area destination visitors center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and a full-service travel planning website www.TravelSalem.com.***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 27, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Travel Salem Named Top 100 Best Green Companies to Work For in Oregon

SALEM, ORE. –– Travel Salem has been selected as a “Top 100 Best Green Companies to Work For in Oregon” by Oregon Business magazine. The rankings were unveiled at a luncheon held at the Hilton Portland & Executive Tower on Wednesday, May 25, 2011. Travel Salem was one of only five Salem area businesses recognized and the organization’s ranking went up significantly from 80th last year to 54th this year.

“We are committed to maintaining a ‘green company’ and are thrilled to be counted as one of Oregon’s most sustainable organizations,” said Angie Morris, CEO of Travel Salem. “We’re also pleased about the substantial progress we’ve made over last year in dramatically improving our ranking to 54th on this prestigious list. Sustainability is not only a philosophy, but it has become a way of doing business because ‘green’ business practices matter to our customers.”

Travel Salem’s “Green Team,” a group of employees charged with making the workplace more sustainable, led the way in developing an eco-savvy culture with buy-in to sustainable practices. Travel Salem is certified EarthWISE through Marion County’s business environmental assistance program, incorporating sustainable practices in the business such as recycling, reducing waste and saving energy. Travel Salem’s Travel Café and administrative office was designed with sustainability in mind: using recycled and earth-friendly materials and features that allow for generous natural light, among other things. Two years ago, the Travel Café received an award for “Green Building Retrofit of the Year” at the 2010 Mid-Willamette Valley Green Awards.

The 100 Best Green Companies in 2011 were selected based on Sustainable Practices sections in both employee and employer surveys completed last year by nearly 19,000 employees from 415 for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations. The 100 Best Green Companies survey was incorporated into the 100 Best Companies and 100 Best Nonprofits surveys.

The “100 Best Green Companies to Work For in Oregon” is featured in the June “Green Issue” of Oregon Business magazine, which is now available for purchase.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes Salem and Marion and Polk counties for leisure tourism and convention and event business. The local annual economic impact of the greater Salem area visitor industry is $452 million. Travel Salem manages the Official Salem Area Travel Café/Visitors Center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations located at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and the Official Salem Area Website www.TravelSalem.com***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Travel Salem Honors Exceptional Tourism Partners at “Absolutely Fabulous” Awards Event!

SALEM, ORE. –– Travel Salem announced the recipients of their “Absolutely Fabulous” Awards at the Second Annual “Ab Fab” Awards Luncheon Thursday, May 19, 2011 at Northern Lights Theatre Pub. Local celebrity, Sal, the Golden Pioneer jumped down off the Oregon State Capitol to greet visitors to the event!

Mayor Anna Peterson was there to help celebrate the event and read a proclamation from the City of Salem to recognize National Tourism Week.

The Ab Fab Awards recognize tourism industry partners who have gone above and beyond in 2010-11 to increase the economic impact of visitors. These recipients are movers and shakers whose collaboration and partnerships, innovation, vision, awareness, environmental initiatives, product development and regional strategies are Absolutely Fabulous!

Listed below are the winners of the 2011 Ab Fab Award in each category:

“Absolutely Carpe Diem” Award - Salem’s Underground Tours – Rebecca Maitland
For seizing the opportunity of bringing to life another cultural asset to share with visitors and the community.

“Absolutely Pioneering” Award - Virginia Green
For her absolute support of all things heritage in Salem.

“Absolutely Keystone” Award - Chemeketa Community College
For the way they champion education and training in the tourism industry!

“Absolutely Green” Award - Grand Cru Wine Tours – Byron Williams
For their commitment to having a sustainable business from first sip to last nibble.

“Absolutely a Home Run” Award - City of Salem Softball Program
For elevating Salem softball to the National level and bringing millions of dollars in economic impact to our community.

“Absolutely Gets it!” Award - Willamette Art Center – Karl Knudson
For the wonderful way they’ve brought art to the people!

“Absolutely Thinking Big” Award - The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
For their remarkable collaboration with our heritage sites to give visitors a truly authentic taste of Oregon.

“Absolutely Fabulous” Award - Ron Cooper
For the way his stellar photographs help brand and promote our beautiful region.

“We are extremely proud to honor these amazing people in the tourism sector, who, through their tireless work, creative energy and remarkable vision make the Salem area one of the best places on the planet to call home!” said CEO of Travel Salem, Angie Morris, about the recipients of this award. “They truly have demonstrated a commitment to creating the best of what Salem has to offer, helping strengthen community and building the travel industry in powerful ways!”

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes Salem and Marion and Polk counties for leisure tourism and convention and event business. The local annual economic impact of the greater Salem area visitor industry is $452 million. Travel Salem manages the Official Salem Area Travel Café/Visitors Center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations located at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and the Official Salem Area Website www.TravelSalem.com***

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 8, 2011 Printable PDF Version

Contact: Jenie Skoy Public Relations Manager 503-581-4325, ext. 25 jskoy@TravelSalem.com

Travel Salem Creates a Database to Connect Local Restaurants with Meeting & Event Planners - Send us your Info!

SALEM— In an effort to better serve convention and tourism in the Salem area, Travel Salem is requesting your help. We are creating a new database of local restaurants who offer banquet/meeting space. We plan to provide this information to meeting and event planners who are seeking for locations to host their events. We will also contact you when there are large groups in our area that can make a positive economic impact on your business.

Thanks for your valued partnership in bringing more business to the Salem area!

Please send details of your restaurant’s meeting/banquet capabilities to Tara Preston at tpreston@travelsalem.com or call 503-581-4325 Ext. 59.

###

***Travel Salem is a non-profit organization that promotes Salem and Marion and Polk counties for leisure tourism and convention and event business. The local annual economic impact of the greater Salem area visitor industry is $452 million. Travel Salem manages the Official Salem Area Travel Café/Visitors Center located at the historic Grand Hotel building (181 High St. NE, Salem), two I-5 satellite visitor information locations located at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Mill Creek Inn (3125 Ryan Dr. SE) and the Red Lion Hotel (3301 Market St. NE), and the Official Salem Area Website www.TravelSalem.com***