Chrissy Arch, an EBCI tribal member and owner of Plan Ahead Events – NC Smokies, was honored at the 2012 United Franchise Group World Expo with an award for Most Creative Meeting or Event. The Expo, which was held recently at the Rio in Las Vegas, included educational sessions, networking opportunities and an exciting trade show floor.
The event for which Arch received the award was the send off for the “Remember the Removal” bike ride in 2011. Groups of cyclists rode 900 miles from New Echota, Ga. Tahlequah, Okla. to follow and commemorate theTrail of Tears.
The ride promotes awareness of these significant events as well as education about Cherokee history and the achievements of the modern Cherokee nation. Arch’s send off event was a celebration of the participation of the riders from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. It included a bike rodeo featuring BMX demonstrations, safety and skills assessments and food as well as Bryson City Bicycles’ demonstrations for kids. There was a 5K fun ride around the loop in Cherokee and the night ended with the team’s symbolic practice ride to the Kituwah Mound and back.
“I am pleased to recognize Chrissy for being awarded with this year’s Creative Marketing Award for Plan Ahead Events,” said Tipton Shonkwiler, VP/Director at United Franchise Group. “Chrissy continues to stretch the boundaries of creativity with all of the programs she produces. Today’s customer for meeting & convention services is looking for the WOW factor, and Chrissy delivers just that.”
– Plan Ahead Events
