CVB's top honor going to C-Street advocate

Commercial Street advocate and business owner Mary Collette is set to receive the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc.'s top annual award.

The CVB announced in a news release this week that Collette would receive the Tracy Kimberlin Pinnacle Award. Five awards are scheduled to be given out during the CVB's Toast to Tourism event on May 23 during National Travel and Tourism Week.

Collette is the owner of Historic No. 2 Firehouse and president of the Commercial Club that represents C-Street. The Pinnacle Award recognizes individuals who have been active in the local travel industry for years and have made substantial contributions to it.

The Diplomat Award, given to a government official, organization or employee who has supported the local travel industry, is being presented this year to Cora Scott, director of public information for the city of Springfield, according to the release.

Missouri Association for Career & Technical Education Executive Director Karen Mason is this year's recipient of the Ambassador Award. The honor recognizes individuals or organizations that have generated an economic impact in the area by working to encourage tourism or secure a major convention or event.

Battlefield Mall is receiving the Spotlight Award, which is given to an individual, business or organization that's not usually considered part of the travel and tourism industry but had made contributions to it, according to the release.

The Gillioz Theatre is set to receive the Hospitality Award for outstanding hospitality to the traveling public.

The event is slated to be held on C-Street with a dinner at the Savoy Ballroom, according to the release.