Dean and Alexandra Rheinheimer, known for their production of Horse Shows by the Bay, were two of six individuals last Thursday to receive a 2007 Community Champions Award from the Traverse City, MI, Convention and Visitors Bureau (TCVB).

Acknowledged during the 26th Annual TCVB Meeting and Reception at the Grand Traverse Resort, the Rheinheimers were given a plaque for their "uncommon vision and public spirit" in bringing an event to the Traverse City area that "advanced the economic health and vitality of the community." A Special Tribute Certificate signed by Governor Jennifer Granholm, State Senator Jason Allen and State Representative Howard Walker Representative were also awarded to the recipients.

The Convention & Visitors Bureau launched the Community Champions program in 2006 to promote new convention and meeting business by recognizing local men and women who help to bring professional, social, religious, fraternal and athletic groups to the Traverse City area for meetings, retreats, conventions and tournaments.

"These Community Champions demonstrate how individuals can make significant contributions to their community by leveraging contacts and relationships that already exist from their personal or business interests," said Bureau President Brad Van Dommelen. "Having local contacts that have relationships with organizations that hold meetings, conferences or events are critical to our success in attracting this business to our area."

The Traverse City region is known for its moderate climate, wineries, boutique shopping, cherry orchards, casinos, resorts, golf courses, and Lake Michigan waters as blue as the Caribbean Ocean. The Rheinheimers chose Traverse City for their event because they felt that horse show patrons would welcome the opportunity to combine their hobby with this unique summer destination getaway.

Horse Shows by the Bay is sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation as "AA-Hunter/Level 4 Jumper" and is also recognized by the World Champion Hunter Rider Awards Program, Show Jumping Hall of Fame, North American League and the Young Jumper Championship. Next year's series will be held from July 16 through August 3, 2008 and will give away over $350,000 in prize money.

For more information, please visit www.horseshowsbythebay.com or call (561) 723-6287. Additional Community Champion information can be found by visiting www.visittraversecity.com.