PLANNING COMMISSION MAP WINS AWARD

PERRYVILLE -- The Southeast Missouri Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission last month was awarded the 1992 Innovation Award for its Southeast Missouri regional tourism map.

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) presented the award at its 25th annual conference in Las Vegas, Nev.

Each year NADO recognizes outstanding economic development and community programs that illustrate innovative approaches to problem-solving at the regional and local level. These programs are highlighted in a special report distributed to development officials throughout the United States.

The regional tourism map has been used to identify attractions that tie together the seven-county region and to attract visitors and expand regional tourism.

The map is updated regularly, and is widely distributed through seven state visitor information centers and local tourist attractions.

The program has allowed all seven counties, including those that could not otherwise afford tourism maps, to share in the visitors who are drawn to the region.

The project was funded with $2,250 in private contributions and $3,000 from the commission.

NADO promotes economic development in America's small cities and rural areas. Since its founding in 1967, NADO has been the nation's leading advocate for a regional approach to economic development.