Tourism Winnipeg

Winnipeg Tourism Leader of the Year Award of Distinction

Sponsored by

Presented to an individual who contributed to growing Winnipeg’s tourism industry.

Winners: Mark Chipman & David Thomson

Category Finalists

• Mark Chipman & David Thomson, True North Sports & Entertainment
  Mark Chipman and David Thomson of True North Sports & Entertainment make great things happen. In 2004, the duo opened the MTS Centre, a concert venue for major artists and home ice for the Manitoba Moose. And then the Winnipeg Jets came home. Today, MTS Centre and its Jets, play key roles in Winnipeg’s ongoing business and cultural renaissance. Mark and David are true entrepreneurial visionaries who have helped position Winnipeg as a leading tourism destination in North America. Their accomplishments have sparked the city’s new ‘can-do’ attitude, renewed hometown pride and attracted media attention from hockey fans throughout the world.
• Garth Rogerson, Red River Exhibition Association
  In 2011, 233,183 people attended the 10-day Red River Exhibition, setting a new attendance record. That feat was made possible by the efforts, leadership and vision of exhibition CEO Garth Rogerson. Garth initiated and oversaw the completion of the new 39,000 square-foot Exhibition Place. The facility is now one of Winnipeg’s top-rated trade and consumer show spaces. But he’s not stopping there. He envisions a multi-use entertainment district with an events centre, hotel, retail space and outdoor recreational facilities. In the meantime, Garth continues to expand programming to ensure the 61-year-old Exhibition’s longevity, viability and continuing contribution to the community.
• Michael Pallie, Raven Comics
  Michael Pallie doesn’t technically have super powers but he can make just about anything happen. As owner of Raven Comics, Michael is also the brains and brawn behind Central Canada Comic Con. He plans, promotes and books convention headliners like last year’s star, William Shatner. Michael also sits on the boards of Norwood Grove BIZ and Winnipeg BIZ and volunteers at many other festivals. He selflessly shares his time, knowledge and ideas with other local groups to help make their events successful too. He is an avowed Winnipegger who works hard to make his city an even better place.