Michigan is home to many unique, diverse, and attractive cities and towns. From our picturesque lakeside communities to our urban downtowns. From our heritage sites to our natural wonders - our state is full of distinctive travel destinations. The Center for 21st Century Communities (21c3) likes to see it when Michigan communities are honored for their uniqueness, and acknowledges that promoting a "sense of place" attracts tourists and makes communities vibrant places where people want to live and work.
Each year, the National Trust for Historic Preservation honors U.S. cities, towns, and sometimes neighborhoods that "exude an authentic sense of place," by acknowledging a Dozen Distinctive Destinations around the country. The program pays tribute to places where one finds things like "attractive architecture," as well as "cultural diversity and commitment to historic preservation, sustainability, and revitalization," according to the program's website.
Nominations for the 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations are being accepted until September 10, 2010. Nomination Guidelines are available online. Nominations must be submitted by a Chamber of Commerce, Convention & Visitors Bureau, National Trust Statewide or Local Partner, Main Street Office, Historic Hotel of America, or other tourism, preservation, or local organization, according to the guidelines.
Selected communities will receive online promotion, inclusion in a feature article appearing in Preservation magazine, additional promotional support, and the title of "2011 Dozen Distinctive Destination," which includes use of the program logo.
A number of Michigan communities have been honored with the title in the past. Last year, Marquette, Michigan was selected as the "2010 Fan Favorite," by public vote. 21c3 hopes to see more Michigan cities and towns join the ranks. So, get your nominations in before the September 10 deadline!
Jennifer Eberbach is professional journalist and writer. Find contact information on her website www.jenthewriter.info
