Elvis Spotting

The Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau presented its annual Ozzie Awards April 28 at Oasis Inn & Convention Center. The awards are given to people or groups who promote the local arts, travel and tourism industries.

Right, Ozzie committee chair Jeanne Duffey and 2005 Ozzie winner Byrne Blackwood present the 2006 individual award to KSMU Arts News host Randy Stewart. First Friday Art Walk received the group award while the Legacy Award was given posthumously to the family of Beatrice Allen Reynolds. Former City Manager Tom Finnie received a special award for his work in securing a building for the Creamery Arts Center. A full list of award honorees is in the CVB Travel column.

At right, Springfield’s own “Elvis,” Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce President Jim Anderson, dances with Pythian Castle owner and dance instructor Tamara Finocchiaro as part of the evening’s entertainment, dubbed Dancing With the Springfield Stars.