This release was issued under a previous government.

The Ammy Awards, named after Alberta's official gemstone ammolite, recognize the importance of Visitor Information Centres to Alberta's $7.8 billion tourism industry.

“Our Visitor Information Centres and their dedicated staff are critical factors in our international reputation as a great tourist destination. Thousands of travellers stop by the centres each year, and being assisted by enthusiastic and knowledgeable people encourages them to extend their stay and return for another visit.”

- Dr. Richard Starke, Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation

2013 Ammy Award Recipients

Edmonton Tourism

Best in Class - Hiring & Training

  • Edmonton Tourism was recognized for its ongoing training in customer service.

Sheila Dejesus, Camrose Visitor Information Centre

Best in Class -Travel Counseling

  • Sheila Dejesus was recognized for her dedication and passion in delivering excellent customer service, including learning greetings in several languages.

Kyran McKee, Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce

Best in Class - Leaders in Visitor Information Centre Management

  • Kyran McKee demonstrated leadership in the face of adversity during this spring's flooding in southern Alberta. 

Camrose Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Centre

Best in Class - Marketing, Communications & Revenue Generation

  • The Camrose Visitor Information Centre created new revenue streams that also showcased Camrose attractions and talent.

CrossIron Mills, Balzac Visitor Information Centre

Best in Class - Visitor Services

  • Visitors benefit from the partnerships created with hotels, tour operators, retailers, mall administration and guest services. 

* Millet Museum and Visitor Information Centre
* Stony Plain & District Visitor Information Centre

Best in Class - Visitor Facilities & Amenities

  • The Millet Museum and Visitor Information Centre piloted the Visitor Friendly Alberta: A guide to welcoming tourists to your community created by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation.
  • The ongoing improvements of the Stony Plain & District Visitor Information Centre are setting the standard for accessibility, function and attractiveness.

The Ammy Awards were presented at the annual Alberta Visitor Information Providers Conference.

Related information

Descriptions of the 2013 Ammy Award winners

Multimedia

Camrose Chamber of Commerce and VIC - Sheila Dejesus - Travel Counseling

More photos of 2013 Ammy Award winners

* Update: Award winner names corrected on September 19, 2013.