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Agency looks to draw large events
Source:
Butler Eagle
Written by:
Kelly B. Garrett
Published:
August 11, 2010
ZELIENOPLE — The Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau has begun working with high schools and municipal parks and recreation departments for a new type of tourism.
Jack Cohen, the bureau's executive director, said his office is working as a conduit for organizations that need specialized or large recreation facilities to hold tournaments and those who oversee such facilities, like those at Pullman Park in Butler or Slippery Rock University.
Attracting such events helps generate revenue for businesses and also can showcase what Butler County has to offer, he said.
"Last year the National Collegiate Baseball Association's Division II World Series was held at Pullman Park, so that was six nights for eight teams which is 240 hotel room nights," Cohen said.
When players aren't playing or their families and friends are waiting for results, those visitors are eating at restaurants, shopping or sightseeing, which all benefits Butler County residents and business owners.
Paul Lueken, SRU's athletic director, said working with the tourism bureau helps introduce the potential students and their families to the university.
SRU recently played host to the PIAA Decathlon and PA West soccer championships, with some athletes staying in resident halls.
"It helps the university while also generating revenue for area businesses and helping the university raise money for scholarships," Lueken said. "It's good all the way round."
Upcoming events Cohen is working on include the state bowling tournament in 2012 that will use alleys across the county, an adult flag football tournament at Seneca Valley and a disc golf tournament at Moraine State Park.
"These events help to wet the whistles of visitors for what Butler County can offer and help to develop opportunities for additional groups to visit here," Cohen said. "It's good for everyone."
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