2022 Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year, Excellence in Service Awards

Visit Tri-Cities celebrated a year of tourism successes and honored Kathy Powell, Executive Director of the Tri-City Water Follies, with the 2022 Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year award during Visit Tri-Cities 53rd Annual Meeting held Nov. 1 at the Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick.

The Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year award is the organization’s most prestigious honor and recipients are carefully chosen based on their dedication to the tourism industry and supporting the efforts of Visit Tri-Cities to continually elevate the region as a premier tourism destination in the Pacific Northwest.

“The Tri-City Water Follies is a Tri-Cities iconic event which brings thousands of visitors and millions of dollars into the community each year,” said Kim Shugart, Senior Vice President of Visit Tri-Cities. “Kathy’s abilities as a leader and community-minded partner truly embody the spirit of a Tourism Champion of the Tri-Cities.”

Visit Tri-Cities also announced the 2022 Excellence in Service award during the program. Tumbleweeds Mexican Flair, owned by Keith Moon, was recognized with more than 20 nominations for providing outstanding customer service along with tasty food. Nominees were judged on the ability to serve as an example to others, provide exemplary customer service and create a memorable visitor experience. Tumbleweeds was one of 32 nominees who were recognized by the community for exceptional hospitality.
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For more information about Visit Tri-Cities, or for tourism businesses looking to become a member, check out VisitTri-Cities.com.