Heather O'Neal, CTA, Ann Arbor, MI
The Himalayan Lodge

"Before becoming a CTA I thought I knew of all the hidden gems in our city. To my surprise since then I have learned there is still more to discover in this town. Now as a CTA I have permission to seek out new places and experience more of my city - the city where I was born. It’s like having a license to inquire, pry, learn, explore, discover so that I can share my knowledge with my next guests and the visitors I meet downtown and at the bells. And hopefully in part because of my CTA insights and demeanor, these visitors will return to the city I love - Ann Arbor."

Of course, Rochester, MN is well known for Mayo Clinic, but did you know 80% of their patients are treated as outpatients? So, where do they stay, what do they do, and where do they eat? Well, the Canadian Honker Restaurant & Catering is a welcoming dining option. Owners and CTAs, Cris and Joe Powers' pride in their community shows...

"The CTA program is a valuable tool for front line staff and community advocates to use in providing a memorable visitor experience. The Program also helps to increase the awareness of the value that visitors bring to our community with stakeholders and local citizens. Our CTAs play a vital role in making our mid-Michigan region a desirable destination for visitors."

Jack A. Schripsema, CTA, President/CEO
Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau