Poland Spring Resort owner Cindy Robbins (left of podium) watches staff members inducted into the Maine Tourism Association Hall of Fame.
POLAND. In celebration of its 100th anniversary, the Maine Tourism Association held its annual meeting and centenary gala on May 19 and 20 at the Poland Spring Resort.
The organization was founded as the Maine Advertising Bureau by Hiram W. Reeker, son of the founder of Poland Spring, with the goal of “advertising Maine attractions as a tourist state.”
“There is so much history between our two companies,” said CEO Tony Cameron. “Cindy Robbins is amazing to work with, so we couldn’t ask for a better partnership,” he said of the resort owner.
Each year, the group inducts into its Hall of Fame an individual or individuals who, through their leadership, dedication, and professionalism, have made a significant and sustainable contribution to the Maine tourism industry. This year’s Hall of Fame includes members of the Maine Tourism Department.
“These workers form the backbone of our industry,” said association chairman Rick Martin. “They have been successful in tourism over the last 100 years and will keep it going for the next 100 years. It is especially fitting that we recognize them in 2022, after the last very difficult two years and all they have done to help tourism survive and recover.”
All members of the Maine Tourism Association will receive a certificate confirming that their employees are members of the Hall of Fame. The first certificate was awarded to the staff of Poland Spring Resort, who received applause for their outstanding work at the organization’s gala.
The annual meeting also included the introduction of two new members to the board of directors: Jeff Yacuessa, president and CEO of Portland Sea Dogs, and Don Kleiner, owner of Maine Outdoors, a professional guide service.
The terms of two other board members were extended: Lynn Tillotson, VisitPortland, and Scott Riccio, Northeast Charter & Tour Co.
“We held the required annual meetings, but much of the evening was devoted to celebrating tourism in Maine, its position for decades as the largest private industry in Maine, and its sustainability,” Cameron said.
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