Rivers & Routes Tourism Summit 2025
- JD Lorton
- Feb 23, 2025
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 3, 2025
Celebrating Innovation: Trailblazer Awards Shine at Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Summit 2025
What an incredible day this past week at the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Summit 2025, celebrating the amazing achievements of our regional businesses. A highlight of the event was the presentation of the first ever Trailblazer Awards, honoring innovation in tourism in Southwest Illinois. And guess what? Our very own Jeff and Sandy Lorton were among the recipients!
Their lifetime of dedication and innovation in growing tourism in our region is truly remarkable. It was an honor to witness their recognition after so many decades of hard work and tireless dedication.
We were also thrilled to see the Loading Dock's Ben & Trudi Allen receive a Trailblazer Award! The energy in the room was energized with 80's nostalgia, with so many people from Grafton and beyond coming together to celebrate our beautiful region. We're proud to be part of this community, working to boost tourism and keep our communities thriving. A huge thank you to Cory Jobe and the entire Rivers and Routes team for their efforts in promoting and supporting tourism in Southwest Illinois – their work continues to fuel tourism and business in our region and we can't wait to see what the future holds. Check out these photos from the event, and here's to making 2025 our best season yet!
#GreatRiversAndRoutes #TourismSummit #TrailblazerAward #SouthwestIllinois #GraftonIllinois #SupportLocal #Community
This title really got me thinking about a trip I took a few years back along the Rhine River. We did a cruise that went through Germany and France, and it was incredible how much history and culture unfolded right from the ship's deck. Seeing those ancient castles perched on the hillsides, little villages nestled in the valleys, and then experiencing the distinct flavors and traditions in each port of call was such a rich tapestry https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/about-us/services/liquor-gaming/contact-us/lg-complaints It made me realize how much a river isn't just a waterway, but a historical artery. I'm so curious about what new perspectives this Rivers & Routes Tourism Summit will bring to light. Will they focus on sustainability, or perhaps uncovering lesser-known river…