record nine Nova Scotia nominations are finalists for the 2010 National Awards for Tourism Excellence.

Premier Darrell Dexter extended his congratulations to those short-listed for the prestigious awards.

"Nova Scotia can be proud of these nominees, recognized for creating outstanding tourism experiences," said Premier Dexter. "They make our province a top travel destination and help to create good jobs that grow the economy." 

The awards, presented by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, recognize people, places, organizations and events that offer a superior tourism experience to travellers in Canada.

"Members of Nova Scotia's tourism industry are working hard to provide exciting reasons for people to come to our province," said Percy Paris, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "Our record number of nominees recognizes that tourism helps to make life better for families in every region."

Grand Chief Membertou 400 has been named a finalist for Event of the Year. The three-day celebration honoured the life and legacy of the distinguished Mi'kmaq leader on the 400th anniversary of his baptism.

Largely staffed by volunteers, the event brought 80,000 visitors to Halifax and was included in Her Majesty the Queen's royal tour. It generated about $2.5 million for the local economy.

"I would like to thank the government of Nova Scotia, and federal and municipal governments, for their generous support of the Grand Chief Membertou 400 celebrations," said Deborah Ginnish, project leader for the Grand Chief Membertou 400 and executive director of the Mi'kmaq Association of Cultural Studies. "Their contributions allowed Nova Scotia's Mi'kmaq community to introduce its rich culture to tens of thousands of Nova Scotians and visitors to our province, bringing great joy and pride to our people." 

Three finalists were named in each of 14 judged award categories.
The National Awards for Tourism Excellence will be presented at a gala dinner in Gatineau, Que. on Nov. 2 as part of The Tourism Summit, TIAC's annual national tourism policy conference.