CVB presents travel/tourism awards

The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau yesterday honored individuals and businesses during its annual Salute to Travel & Tourism Awards Banquet at the White River Conference Center. The event was the first to be held at thew new event center on the Bass Pro Shops campus.

The CVB's top award, the Pinnacle Award, was given to Dan Kinney, retired director of the Springfield-Greene County Parks Department. The accolade is awarded to individuals who have spent several years furthering the area travel industry and have made substantial contributions to its betterment, according to a news release.

Other honorees:

• Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation was awarded the Ambassador Award, which is presented to individuals or organizations that generate significant economic impact by working to increase tourism or by securing a major convention or event in Springfield.
• O'Reilly Hospitality Management LLC bagged the Hospitality Award, given out to an attraction, lodging facility or restaurant engaged in promoting travel and tourism and providing superior hospitality for travelers to the area.
• 417 Magazine received the Spotlight Award, presented to an individual, business, or organization which isn't usually considered part of the travel and tourism industry but nevertheless has contributed to its advancement.
• The Missouri Division of Tourism was given the Diplomat Award, an honor bestowed upon a government official, organization or employees providing significant support to Springfield-area tourism.
• Don Bechtel was named the John & Mary Williams Volunteer of the Year, an award presented to a CVB volunteer nominated and selected by peers for service to the bureau.

The CVB also presented Flora Clark, Russell Sanders and Barbara Haun with 20-year service awards, marking two decades of volunteerism with the CVB. Nearly 100 people serve as volunteers for the organization, the release said.[[In-content Ad]]