News Release

ACVB Appoints New Board of Directors

Anchorage, Alaska – Jan. 27, 2009 – Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (ACVB) announces its new board members for 2009.

New members added include: Stephen Blanchett, owner of Alaska Native Entertainment by Pamyua, elected to a three year term; Bob Concienne, vice president of Aramark Parks & Resorts, appointed to a one year term; John Parrott, deputy director of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, appointed advisor to the board; and James Pepper Henry, director of the Anchorage Museum, elected to a three year term.

Members that were reelected or appointed for another term include Yael Kaufman, president of Alaska Channel, reelected to a three year term; Maggie Kelly, director of Alaska Operations for Royal Celebrity Tours, reelected to a three year term; Char McClelland, president of Alaska Destination Specialists, reelected to three year term; Doug Thompson, director of SouthCentral and Interior operations for Princess Tours, appointed to a one year term; and Raquel Edelen, director of operations for The Hotel Captain Cook, appointed to fill a two year elected vacant position.

The board officers are: Josh Howes, vice president of safety & operations for Premier Alaska Tours Inc, elected chairman of the board; Randy Becker, captain of Seward Fishing Club, elected as vice chairman of the board; Steve Silverstein, vice president of marketing, sales and service for Alaska Railroad Scenic Rail Tours, sitting as immediate past chairman of the board; Maggie Kelly, treasurer; and John Woodbury, owner of Coast Magazine/Alaska Adventure Media, elected as secretary.

The ACVB Board of Directors represents 10 membership categories, including: accommodations; activities & attractions; agencies & organizations; dining; entertainment; services/event, group meeting planners; services/professional; services/visitor; shopping; and transportation. Directors are elected by the membership in the first quarter of each year to serve three-year terms.

The 2009 Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) Board of Directors election ballots were mailed Friday, Dec. 5, 2008. Each official designated voter of the ACVB membership received a ballot. The Nominations & Elections Committee nominated eleven members to stand for election to six three-year seats for the ACVB Board of Directors.

The members of the Board of Directors donate their time and talents to promote the community to visitors for the benefit of the entire membership. The Board is comprised of representatives from ACVB’s membership, including the public and private sectors. The President & CEO serves as a non-voting member, as well. They set policy and guide ACVB, as well as develop strategic plans for the future.

The Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (ACVB) mission is to attract and serve visitors to the Municipality of Anchorage as a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO). ACVB’s marketing functions are funded by one-third of the bed tax collected by lodging associations. One-third goes to the Municipality’s general fund, a contribution established in 1978, and one-third to service the bond debt and operations of the Anchorage Convention Centers. ACVB receives no state or federal funds. Explore www.Anchorage.net for more information.

Media Contacts:

Jeanette Anderson Moores
Public Relations
Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau
jmoores@anchorage.net
(907) 276-4118
Explore www.Anchorage.net

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