CVB Travel: CVB presents travel, tourism awards May 20

Susan Wade is the public relations manager with the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau is gearing up for showcasing, saluting and celebrating this spring.

The bureau showcased its recently spruced up Tourist Information Center at an April 15 ribbon cutting and open house, and will salute travel and tourism industry leaders May 20 at its annual awards banquet.

Ribbon cutting

The remodeled Tourist Information Center at 3315 E. Battlefield Road was dedicated at the April 15 ribbon cutting.

Remodeling of the 14-year-old Tourist Information Center expanded the display area from about 750 square feet to more than 1,600 square feet, allowing for the installation of new displays and kiosks. The project increased storage and workspace for CVB volunteers and staff.

The bureau also operates tourist information centers at the Springfield-Branson Regional Airport and at its new offices at 815 E. St. Louis St.

Travel, tourism banquet

Tickets are now on sale for the CVB's Fourth Annual Salute to Travel and Tourism Banquet and Benefit May 20 at University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center.

For the second year, the awards banquet will be in conjunction with the Springfield Regional Arts Council Ozzie Awards and serve as a fundraiser for the arts council.

Two-time "Star Search" winner Jake Simpson will provide entertainment, and Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, will attend.

In addition to entertainment and the Ozzie Awards, travel and tourism industry leaders will be recognized and receive awards from the CVB in five categories:

The Ambassador Award is presented to individuals or organizations that generated significant economic impact for the area by working to encourage tourism or secure a major convention or event in Springfield.

The Hospitality Award is presented to an attraction, lodging facility or restaurant that demonstrates outstanding hospitality to the traveling public and exhibits a team spirit in promoting the growth of Springfield area travel and tourism.

The Diplomat Award is presented to a government official, organization or employee who has provided significant support to the local travel industry.

The Spotlight Award is presented to an individual, business or organization not usually considered part of the travel and tourism industry for noteworthy contributions in advancing travel and tourism in the Springfield area.

The Pinnacle Award is reserved for individuals who have been active in the travel industry for many years and have made substantial contributions to the betterment of the Springfield area's travel industry.

Event sponsors include Associated Video Producers Inc.; Gerry Averett Photography and Digital Imaging; Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World; Butler, Rosenbury & Partners; Carol Jones Realtors; ColorGraphic Printing Inc.; Elliott Lodging; Southwest Audio-Visual; and University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center.

Companies interested in tax-deductible sponsorships may contact Whisler at the CVB for more information.

Tickets to the event are $45 per person or $425 for a table of 10. For ticket information, call 417-881-5300.