The Greater Hutchinson Convention/Visitors Bureau (CVB) awarded Linda Schmitt, Executive Director of the Reno County Historical Society, with the 2012 Hospitality Award at a luncheon held recently to celebrate National Tourism Week.

During National Tourism Week, CVB’s from across the nation focus on increasing awareness of the travel and tourism industry’s economic, cultural and social contributions. The tourism economy is a broad and diverse partnership that includes retail, lodging, dining, entertainment, and transportation sectors.

“The Hospitality Award presented to Linda was in recognition for her contribution to tourism in Reno County . The Kansas Underground Salt Museum makes a significant impact on our local economy, and Linda has been the driving force behind growing Hutchinson ’s newest tourist attraction,” said LeAnn Cox , CVB Director. “She navigated her staff and entire organization through some pretty tough times during the early stages, and now we have a one-of-a-kind attraction to be proud of.”