Competitive Events in Central Oregon:
Pain or Pleasure?
The Central Oregon region is recognized and valued in part for the myriad of activities that are available and supported in the area. Competitive sporting events have become part of the community culture and have brought thousands of visitors to the region to share in the abundant resources and active population that helps create the high quality of life the reisdents have come to cherish and enjoy.
On July 15 the City Club of Central Oregon will welcome Chuck Kenlan, Executive Director of the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation and Doug La Placa, President and CEO of Visit Bend to explore Competitive Events in Central Oregon: Pain or Pleasure?
From ski races, to rodeos, cycling events to dog sled races, the list of competitive events is lengthy. While the diversity of activities has contributed to the enormous attraction to the region, some residents would ask "when is enough, enough?" The economic impact and revenue brought to the region is contrasted with the wear and tear on the environment, and the sometimes inconvenient impact to residents.
During this City Club forum we will learn more about the recruitment, bidding, creation and economic impact of competitive events as well as the compromises that locals make to be gracious hosts to both local and visiting competitors.
The Forum will begin at 11:30 and conclude at 1:00 p.m. and will be conducted at St. Charles Center for Health and Learning, 2500 NE Neff Road in Bend.
Preregistration is required by July 12th at 5:00 p.m. The cost to members is $15.00 for lunch. Nonmembers pay $30.00 for lunch and program.
Preregister in one of the following ways:
1) Prepay on line with a Visa or Mastercard.
2) Use the "contact us" link to let us know who is attending - then pay cash or check at the door.
3) Call the City Club at 541-633-7163 to provide the names of those who will attend and pay cash or check at the door.
Speakers Bios
Chuck Kenlan
Chuck has served as the Executive Director of the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) since 2002. The non profit was formed in 1986 with a mission to be the Northwest's leading youth sports training organization, promoting the positive values of competitive sports including Alpine and Nordic Skiing, snowboarding and cycling. Prior to 2002 he served in a variety of positions with Mt. Bachelor Inc., to include Cross Country Director, Ski School Manager, tri Instuctor Marketing Assistant and Bus Driver. He also owned his own Fly Fishing Guide and Outfitter business from 1995 to 2002. He graduated from Washington State University and enjoys skiing, cycling, fly fishing and fly tying.
Doug LaPlaca
Doug joined Visit Bend in 2007 and oversees all departments and operations including bureau policies, Board of Directors, economic impact information, media relations, government relations, marketing strategies, strategic planning, and corporate partnerships. In addition to his role with Visit Bend, Doug serves on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus and the Board of Directors for Ski Oregon.