Three of 25 awards for excellence in the tourism industry were presented to area businesses, organizations and attractions during the annual Iowa Tourism Conference this week. The awards were divided into metro and rural classifications in 13 categories and conference attendees voted for the People’s Choice award, which went to Black Capital of Iowa Passport in Waterloo. “These awards are a great opportunity to recognize our industry partners for their perseverance in the face of a pandemic,” says State Tourism Manager, Amy Zeigler. “We celebrate their innovations in safely delivering memorable experiences to Iowa travelers.” Two of the three local rural awards were presented to a Jefferson attraction and a Jefferson non-profit. The Mahanay Carillon Bell Tower was named the Outstanding Attraction and Jefferson Matters: A Main Street & Chamber Community, received recognition for Outstanding Promotional Materials. The third went to Grace on Main in Elk Horn for Outstanding Dining Business.
