While Hopkinsville and Christian County said farewell to the retiring executive director of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Thursday, they also celebrated receiving an economic award.
The Visitor’s Center at the Trail of Tears Park was filled to the brim with well-wishers as they honored the 21-year career of Cheryl Cook, who was presented with many gifts and a proclamation from the City making June 28 Cheryl Cook Day.
At the reception, President and CEO of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association Hank Phillips presented Cook and Oak Grove Tourism Director Traci Cunningham with the Economic Engine Award on behalf of the county. He says Christian County generated $149 million in tourism economic impact in 2017.
He says although the total solar eclipse undoubtedly helped, Christian County brings in huge dollar amounts in tourism every year, which is proven by the 130 jobs that are supported by the industry.
Cook says she gets to be the tourist now while incoming Director Brooke Jung takes over, and looks forward to spending time with family and travelling.