The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau (GDMCVB) has been serving the community since 1908. Throughout the years, the GDMCVB has seen many changes and celebrated many successes. On this day, marking 100 years of service, the GDMCVB celebrates with the following announcements:

•The launch of a new GDMCVB website, www.catchdesmoines.com

•The recognition of GDMCVB predecessors, specifically George Hamilton

•The naming of 2007/2008 Fiscal Year Award Recipients

New GDMCVB Website

A new website with interactive maps, expanded business directories, search tools and videos showcasing Greater Des Moines has launched. The website showcases Greater Des Moines as a place where you can “Do More.”

GDMCVB Predecessors Lead to Current Successes

From 1914-1938, George Hamilton, dubbed the Father of the Des Moines Convention Bureau, led the GDMCVB. At that time the GDMCVB was called the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Convention Bureau. Hamilton wrote the famous song “I-O-Way” and was applauded for raising Des Moines’ image throughout his time with the GDMCVB.

In the early 1900s, approximately 30-40 conventions were being held in Des Moines annually. By the end of Hamilton’s leadership at the GDMCVB in 1938, there were 273 national, regional and state conventions being held in Des Moines.

In 2007/2008 Fiscal Year, the GDMCVB brought 585 conventions, 488 sporting events, 251 motor coach tours and 2.7 million visitors to Greater Des Moines.

“We are proud of the progress we’ve made over the years,” said GDMCVB President/CEO Greg Edwards. “We are committed to continually serving as Greater Des Moines’ destination manager by promoting our communities world-wide.”

Fiscal Year Award Recipients

GDMCVB 2007/2008 goals and successes were reached, thanks in part to the following Award Recipients:

Friend of Hospitality: Barbara Eslick, Renaissance Savery Hotel

Media Friend of Hospitality: Des Moines Radio Group

Civic Friend of Hospitality: Traffic and Transportation Department, City of Des Moines

Sport Friend of Hospitality: Bob Egr, USSSA

Corporate Friend of Hospitality: Freeman

Partner of the Year: Matt Homan, Iowa Events Center

Spirit of the Community: John and Mary Pappajohn

Volunteer of the Year: GDMCVB Airport Information Booth Volunteers

These organizations have been recognized for their commitment to the community and the GDMCVB through various acts of generosity, volunteerism, donations and partnerships with the GDMCVB staff, clients and partners