National Trust seeking nominations

National Trust seeking nominations

WASHINGTON — The National Trust for Historic Preservation is seeking nominations for its 2010 list of Dozen Distinctive Destinations.

The list has been issued annually since 2000. This time, however, once the 12 places are announced Feb. 3, the public will, for the first time, get to vote on a “fan favorite.”

The National Trust selects the destinations to honor places that offer authentic cultural and recreational experiences.

Nominations for the list can be made by convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, Main Street offices, Historic Hotels of America, and other tourism, preservation or local organizations. Individuals who want to nominate a place are encouraged to contact an organization of this type to support the submission.

There is a $150 application fee. Applications are due Sept. 1, and may include images, video and letters. Forms can be accessed at www.PreservationNation.org/ddd.

Wonders campaign narrowing candidates

ZURICH — The list of finalists for the new 7 Wonders of Nature campaign will be narrowed to 28 on Tuesday.

Once the final 28 are announced, the public will be able to vote via the Web, text message or phone on the final seven. The seven winners will be announced in 2011.

Swiss-Canadian adventurer Bernard Weber, who started the Wonders campaign, said his aim is to “create respect and enthusiasm ... for the beauty of our planet.”

The campaign to showcase the world’s most impressive natural wonders began after a global grass-roots contest selected the seven manmade wonders of the world in 2007.

For more details, visit www.new7wonders.com.

Associated Press