Missouri Tourism Icon to Retire
Jefferson City, Mo.,– The Missouri Division of Tourism (MDT) is losing a major asset in the Missouri tourism industry with the retirement of R. B. “Bob” Smith III, who has served this state’s tourism efforts for more than 21 years.
First appointed to the Missouri Tourism Commission by Governor John Ashcroft in May 1989, Smith went on to chair the commission from 1992-97. During his tenure, Smith spearheaded efforts aimed at passage of House Bill 188, establishing the Tourism Funding Formula which remains in effect today. In 1999, Smith was inducted into the Missouri Tourism Hall of Fame.
In May 1999, Smith returned to the Division, serving in several capacities: Director of Governmental Relations; Interim Division Director (2001-02 and 2008-09); and Deputy Director, (2002-08 and 2008-09). His official retirement date is July 1, 2010.
A past president of the Missouri Press Association, Smith was inducted into the Missouri Press Association Hall of Fame in 2005.
A farewell reception for Smith was held last week in Kansas City, at the annual conference of the Missouri Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus.
Shown in the photo are (l to r) Marci Bennett, Tourism Commission Chair; Rep. Gina Walsh, Commission Member; Gov. Roger Wilson; Pat Smith, (Bob’s wife); Bob Smith; Rep. Maynard Wallace, Commission Member; Kelly Swanson, Commission Member.
A farewell luncheon, sponsored by the Missouri Travel Counsel, is planned for June 18 in Jefferson City.
A stalwart, dedicated supporter of tourism in Missouri, Smith will be sorely missed by the entire tourism industry . . . although he probably won’t disappear from the scene all together. Keeping him away from tourism would be like banishing a golfer to the tennis court.
Mr. R. B. “Bob” Smith III will be spending his days in Lebanon, Missouri, with his wife Pat, his dog Brandy, and his ever changing garden.
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