Partners in Tourism Awards Presented
Green Bay, Wis.
November 10, 2003

The Packer Country Regional Tourism Office presented awards to two very deserving industry leaders at its Preferred Partners Advisory Council meeting Thursday Nov. 6 at Lambeau Field Atrium.

The Business Partner in Tourism award was given to the Green Bay Packers for outstanding tourism development.

The $295 million renovated stadium was designed to pay tribute to the historic franchise, while transforming the stadium into a year-round attraction for visitors from around the world. The Atrium, with its many restaurants including Curly’s Pub, interactive games, Pro Shop, and Hall of Fame, is like none other in the NFL. Visitors are greeted by giant bronze statues of two Packers icons, founder Curley Lambeau and legendary coach Vince Lombardi.

With the addition, the stadium is expected to draw up to two million visitors annually.

“ I can’t think of a more deserving recipient of this award,” said Kari Sliva, President of the Packer Country Regional Tourism Office. “The love affair between the fans and this team is remarkable, and now with the additions to the stadium, tourists will stay longer, enjoy the community, and feel even more connected to their beloved Packers.”

Accepting the award on behalf of the Packers was Steve Klegon, Director of Atrium Business Development.
The Individual Partner in Tourism, given to an individual who, through leadership, vision and success has garnered the respect of the local tourism industry, was presented to Jerry Lintz.

Lintz has owned and managed lodging facilities in the Green Bay market for the past thirty years, most recently the Ramada Plaza Hotel, which underwent a $5 million renovation last year. Ramada Plaza now features a new façade, completely remodeled interior including the addition of eight whirlpool suites, and water park area that features two slides, four pools and a playground and exercise area.

Lintz is one of four elected members of the Ramada International Board of Directors, holds a seat on the Cendant Corporation Advisory Committee (the world’s largest hotel franchise company), is a co-founder of the Green Bay Area Lodging Association, and past Chairman of the Packer Country Regional Tourism Office. He consults with hotels nationwide on best practice and development issues, and also is a half-time instructor in the Hotel, Restaurant and Hospitality Management Program at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.

“Jerry has been a friend of tourism in Green Bay for many years,” said Kari Sliva, President of the Packer Country Regional Tourism Office. “He knows the tourism industry like the back of his hand, and has seen it through the ups and downs. With his leadership, the tourism industry will continue to prosper in the Green Bay area.”