Author: Corey A. Edwards

Grays Harbor Tourism Announces 2014 Festival & Event Grant and Tourism Services & Project Grant Availability

The Grays Harbor County Department of Tourism is now accepting applications for the two tourism related grant programs. This first is for Festival and Event Grants, and the second is for Tourism Services and Projects. The deadline for applications for both categories is October 31, 2013.

Under State law (RCW 67.28) Grays Harbor County receives funds from room taxes imposed on lodging facilities. These funds can be retained and utilized by the County for Tourism promotional operations, or expended for projects and activities established by an eligible entity under State law.

Grays Harbor Tourism Grant Applications will be accepted from non-profit entities organizing tourism based activities within Grays Harbor County, except those municipalities that are allowed by law to collect and manage 3% lodging tax revenues generated within their corporate limits. Grant funding is provided increase tourism activity within Grays Harbor County. The Grays Harbor Tourism Department allocates over $120,000 in grant funds annually.

“We are very fortunate that our County Commissioners have continued to support the funding of this Grant Program. They understand that Tourism is vital to Grays Harbor’s economic success.” said Kelly Peterson-Lalka, GH Tourism Public Relations/Office Manager. “Tourism results in over $260 million dollars of revenue and over 5,000 jobs for Grays Harbor County. When we support tourism, our local communities reap the rewards in tax revenue, jobs and community infrastructure. It is a win-win.”

Applications for Grant Funding are available for download for Festivals and Events here, or Services and Projects here. If you would like an application mailed to you, contact Kelly Peterson-Lalka at 360-482-2651 or etersonk@co.grays-harbor.wa.us.

HORNS AND HOOKS HOSTING 2nd ANNUAL FISHING DERBY

Horns and Hooks Fishing Derby - Sep. 20-22, 2013
Horns and Hooks Fishing Derby – Sep. 20-22, 2013
The Northwest’s premier outdoor adventure magazine – Horns and Hooks – in conjunction with Y.O.U. (Youth Outdoors Unlimited) will be having it’s annual fishing derby September 20th through the 22nd in Grays Harbor Bay.

Tickets are available in advance at Horns and Hooks in Montesano, all Dennis Company locations, and Harbor Saw and Supply. Tickets will be available the day of the event at the Westport, Johns River, and 28th Street launch locations. Daily tickets will be sold at $10 per day and $20 for a three day pass.

Families of all ages are encouraged to attend while volunteers and potential sponsors are encouraged to contact Horns and Hooks to contribute to the event.

Horns and Hooks hosts this annual derby to promote and encourage sport fishing in Grays Harbor while benefiting children with life threatening conditions. Cash and prizes will be given away on all three days and part of the events proceeds will go directly to Youth Outdoors Unlimited.

Saturday will spotlight the Y.O.U. Kids as they are taken fishing by volunteer guides for the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoor experience that Grays Harbor has to offer.

To volunteer your time to the event please contact Horns and Hooks.

For information regarding youth outdoors unlimited please contact them at you@youthoutdoorsu.org.

Horns and Hooks would like to thank everyone involved including: North Fork Customs, Verle’s, U.S. Marine, The Islander, Deep Sea Charters, Willapa Marine, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Ocean Crest Resort, and Grays Harbor Tourism.

Horns and Hooks Retail Location: 100 W. Brumfield Ave. Suite #4 Montesano WA, 98563