tourism and the fiscal health of a community
DESCRIPTION
Mel Monkelis shares lessons learned from years of coordinating Whatcom County's famous "Ski to Sea" race.TRANSCRIPT
Mel MonkelisExecutive Director, Whatcom Events
Home of the Ski to Sea and the Muds to Suds Races
Infrastructure in Place
• TIME Magazine 2011 – Rates Bellingham 9th Most Active City in America
• SUNSET Magazine 2011-Best Place to Play Year-round
1911 Mount Baker Marathon
• Purpose-Get Mount Baker declared a national park
2012 Ski to Sea Race
• Generates 1.2 million dollars into economy
• Brands Bellingham as the recreational center of the Northwest
• Highlights 7 different sports on 1 day
• Over 6 million page views on website
• Put Runners in Ferndale and Mountain Bikes in the Mountains
• Involve More Community Events to Draw More Visitors for the Weekend
• Increase Racer Attendance without Losing Uniqueness
Planned Changes to Ski to Sea
Visitors to Our Community• Spends $352.00 if in
Hotel• Spends $130.00 if staying
with friends• Food & Drink Sales Tax
Revenue #2 in City Generating $1,738,000.00 in 2011
The Mountain Runners
Film
Nominated Grand Priz Graz 2012
International Mountain & Adventure Filmfestival Graz
Infrastructure Part 2
• Mt Baker Ski Area, Galbraith Mountain, San Juan Islands, Nooksack River, Rolling Countryside, Mt. Baker Foothills, Bellingham Bay, and on…
• Whatcom County and Bellingham Parks, WHIMPS, Greater Bellingham Running Club, Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts, Mount Baker Club, Mount Baker Bicycle Club, and on…
Branding Our Area
http://map.veloland.ch
Whatcom CountyOne place to go online for:Bike Rides, Kayaking Trips, Hikes, Mountain Bike Trails, Swimming, Skiing, Hotels, Events, and more…