(PITTSFIELD, Mass.) – Beginning on June 3, 2013, the Berkshire Visitors Bureau will launch its third annual Berkshires Dream Auction, an online auction to raise funds for the Berkshire Marketing Fund. Items being auctioned include a one month spa passport for one at Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf Club in Lenox; a zip & roll private segway tour at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in New Ashford; cocktails lessons and appetizer sampling for six at Freight Yard Pub in North Adams; two tickets to John Pizzarelli & Jessica Molaskey plus a reception with the performers at the Mahaiwe in Great Barrington; The on-line auction will run from June 3 through June 23.
The Berkshire Visitors Bureau’s Board of Directors created the Berkshire Marketing Fund in 2011 in order to create a new source of revenue to supplement state promotional funds and cooperative marketing dollars raised through its members. “Our goal is to make sure the Berkshires stays “top of mind” for travelers throughout the year in our key markets. Our members’ participation in cooperative marketing have enabled us to maintain a strong summer presence and as the state funds have been restored we have been able to supplement the messages in shoulder seasons,” explained Lauri Klefos, president & CEO of the Visitors Bureau. “The Berkshire Marketing Fund dollars, however, mean we can carry this voice throughout the winter and spring, protecting our market share and increasing awareness of the Berkshires in all seasons.” she continued.
“We are excited to be raising money to market the Berkshires year round. Area businesses have really stepped up to the plate by donating great experiences for this auction such as private tours, unique lodging, dining and spa packages, exclusive theatre packages and more,” said Betsy Strickler, director of sales and marketing at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort and chair of the Visitors Bureau’s board of directors. “We look forward to visitors and residents alike actively bidding for these items.”
For more information or to contribute to the Berkshires Dream Auction, contact Dara Kaufman at dkaufman@berkshires.org.
The Berkshire Visitors Bureau is the non-profit, official destination marketing organization for Berkshire County, representing more than 680 area businesses. The Bureau is dedicated to promoting the Berkshires as a premiere travel destination and providing comprehensive information to maximize visitor spending in the region.