A special flag was raised May 28 to promote tourism awareness and Tourism Week in Preeceville on May 31 to June 6. Mayor Harris was assisted by Elaine Simpson in raising the flag.
The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed May 31-June 6 as Saskatchewan Tourism Week, coinciding with Tourism Week in Canada, which brings attention to the significance of the country’s tourism sector and the economic opportunities available through travel and tourism.
In Saskatchewan, tourism expenditures exceed $2.12 billion annually, and more than 12.5 million visits are made to and within the province, according to a SaskTourism release. Approximately 57,000 residents are employed in tourism or tourism-related jobs.
“The tourism awareness we wish to build is an understanding of the industry in terms of employment it brings us, the economic impact on our lives and the pride we all have in our town,” said Mayor Garth Harris.
“Visitors to Preeceville spend numerous dollars on transportation each year traveling to and through our town. The money also spent on accommodations and food each year adds to the ecology. Tourism to me means volunteers promoting our community through events like Western Weekend and Mushers. Usually a community can only handle one event but we here in Preeceville have three big events which help define what and who we are. People keep coming back to our town due to volunteers, organizations, the beauty of the town and friendships made here.
“We are a four-season community where tourists can enjoy all the attractions we have from hunting and snow-mobiling to using the ski trails and walking trails and fishing in all the lakes that surround the area.
“All Saskatchewan residents are urged to become more involved in tourism activities to show their communities and their personal commitment to the attractions and destinations within the province,” said Harris.
