PORT ANGELES — Ross Hamilton’s scenic shots have made him more than an icon among North Olympic Peninsula wildlife photographers.
The Sequim resident’s photos, capturing some of the Peninsula’s most scenic wonders, are the Clallam County Economic Development Council’s chosen benchmark for homegrown quality products wanted for the Olympic Experience Basket.
The basket, which showcases products promoted in the council’s “Always Buy Clallam” program, is a cornerstone in the council’s comprehensive five-year marketing and branding strategy. The strategy supports business retention and expansion in the county.
Hamilton’s photos are to the Peninsula what Dale Chihuly’s stained glass art is to Tacoma, said Mona Gates, the EDC’s director of business development and marketing.
That’s the message the council wishes to convey.
“He’s our little hidden treasure,” said Gates.
“A picture of Olympic National Park could be the passport to somebody coming here to visit.
“We just couldn’t have a better ambassador. He’s humble and appreciates nature in its purest form.”
Reception on May 27
The EDC plans a “rollout reception” May 27 for the 2004-2005 Olympic Experience basket, with Hamilton’s work — 30 percent of the basket’s content — as the “signature” product.
Hamilton will be celebrated at the event at 5 p.m. at Olympic Cellars, 255410 Highway 101, between Port Angeles and Sequim.
“We want this Olympic Experience basket to showcase our strengths, originality and innovative nature as an Olympic region, not a county,” said Gates.
The baskets will be sold for $100 each.