CVB: Travel, tourism awards banquet planned

March 9 is the deadline to submit nominations for the second annual Salute to Travel & Tourism Banquet & Benefit sponsored by the Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The banquet set for April 26 at University Plaza Holiday Inn will pay tribute to individuals and businesses that have made strides in advancing the interests of the local hospitality industry.

"People involved in the hospitality industry understand the importance of recognizing their peers and businesses that have a positive impact on local travel and tourism," said Tracy Kimberlin, CVB executive director. "Travel and tourism has a major economic impact on the Ozarks and Missouri."

Statistics from 1999 show 2.2 million overnight visitors spent $526.2 million in the Springfield area, and a study conducted in 1996 shows the travel and tourism industry employs more than 11,000 people and brings $6 million in tax revenue to Springfield.

Statewide, the economic impact of tourism and travel for 1998 was estimated at $12.2 billion, with $520 million generated in state tax revenues and nearly 200,000 employed in the industry.

Banquet proceeds will benefit Friends of the Zoo, a nonprofit, tourism related business.

"We have had the opportunity for many years to work on tourism-related projects through the CVB," said Melinda Mancuso, public relations and marketing director for the zoo. "Friends of the Zoo is honored to be selected as this year's banquet beneficiary."

Kimberlin said more than 400 attended the banquet in 2000 and nearly $5,000 was raised for the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation.

"I'm confident the 2001 banquet will be even more successful than our first year," Kimberlin said. "People appreciate the fund-raising aspect of the banquet and there's no doubt they are willing to support Friends of the Zoo."

Nominations are accepted for businesses and individuals throughout the state in the following categories:

Ambassador Award presented to individuals or organizations that have worked to secure a major convention or event in Springfield, generating significant economic impact for the area.

Hospitality Award 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.

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

Spotlight Award 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.

Pinnacle Award 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.

For information or nomination forms, call 417-881-5300. Nomination forms also are available on the Web at www.springfield.mo.org/nominations.

(Susan Wade is public relations manager for the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.)