Ruzicka has new assignment

State Rep. Don Ruzicka, R-Mt. Vernon, is the newest member of a state commission charged with overseeing efforts to promote Missouri’s $11 billion a year tourism industry.

Ruzicka was selected to serve as a member of the Missouri Tourism Commission by House Speaker Pro Tem Shane Schoeller, R-Willard.

In naming Ruzicka to the commission, Schoeller pointed to the representative’s experience as chairman of the House Committee on Tourism and Natural Resources as a key factor.

“Rep. Ruzicka has proven himself to be a leader on the issue of tourism and someone who understands the importance of promoting all the best our great state has to offer to potential visitors,” said Schoeller. “He will be an asset to his fellow commissioners with the experience and knowledge essential to strengthening tourism in our state as he helps ensure a continued great return on every dollar invested in it.”

Ruzicka will take Schoeller’s place on the commission. He joins Rep. Joe Fallert, D-Ste. Genevieve, as the two house members who serve on the 10-member commission.

The commission is responsible for determining all matters relating to policy and administration of tourism promotion. The commission also produces an annual report for the General Assembly that includes policy recommendations for the advancement of the tourism industry.

“Tourism is a huge part of our state’s economy and an industry we must actively work to support if we are going to produce healthy economic growth,” said Ruzicka. “I am honored to have the opportunity to work with my fellow commission members to develop policies that will make our beautiful state even more of a tourist destination than it is already.”