DES MOINES, Iowa (August 28, 2019) – Catch Des Moines honored the best of area businesses and individuals for their continued commitment and support of the tourism and hospitality industry in Greater Des Moines. Winners were recognized at the 2019 Catch Des Moines Annual Celebration, an event that celebrates the year’s success across the metro in both leisure travel as well as conventions, sports, and services.

The businesses and individuals received awards for their work in making Greater Des Moines a better place to visit, live, and work, from July 2018 – June 2019. Three additional businesses were selected through online voting for the 2019 Visitor Choice Awards.

“This past year, we put a lot of energy into telling our story about why tourism matters and making sure that everyone in the community has a voice in crafting our vision moving forward,” said Greg Edwards, President & CEO of Catch Des Moines. “This celebration truly exemplifies that spirit of collaboration and goes to show that everyone from individual Catch Champions up to corporate advocates can make a huge impact.”

Catch Des Moines also debuted their new brand campaign, “The S’s Are Silent” at the event.

The awards honored the following individuals and organizations:

  • Catch Des Moines Champion: Des Moines City Council Member Chris Coleman This champion helps bring more visitors to Greater Des Moines.
  • Community Champion: Tom Mahoney, Chairman of ITA Group
    Whether a group or individual, this community contributor has made Greater Des Moines a better place to live, visit, and work.
  • Corporate Champion: West Bank
    The advocacy of this corporation brings vitality and strength to Greater Des Moines tourism.
  • Partner Champion: Exile Brewing Company
    This partner proudly supports tourism efforts in Greater Des Moines.
  • Sports Champion: Drake University
    This winner shows support in bringing sporting events to Greater Des Moines.
  • Spirit of Hospitality: Des Moines Marriott Downtown
    This organization exemplifies first-class hospitality and has a passion for enhancing the industry.

Visitor Choice Awards – determined by online visitor vote

  • Attraction of the Year: Adventureland
  • Hotel of the Year: Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown
  • Restaurant of the Year: Centro

For photos of the event or additional information about the awards, please contact Mandy McWherter at mandy@catchdesmoines.com or 515-699-3466.

About Catch Des Moines

Catch Des Moines is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting planners. As the visitors’ and meeting professionals’ trusted partner, we help elevate the visitor experience by connecting the functional to the aspirational. Our focus is to drive economic success for our more than 840 partners and enhance the quality of life in the 15 Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.

 

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