Morris, Hammons receive CVB awards

John L. Morris and John Q. Hammons were honored with the first Pinnacle Awards from the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The Bass Pro Shops president and local hotelier were honored at the first Springfield Salute to Travel and Tourism April 20, said Kristin Kubitschek, public relations manager for the CVB. Proceeds from the awards banquet went to the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation and were matched by the federal government, Kubitschek said.

The Pinnacle Award will typically go to only one recipient, but in this case the CVB board of directors chose two.

The criteria for the award were that the recipient be active in the travel industry for many years and make a substantial contribution to the betterment of the Springfield area's travel industry, Kubitschek said. The Pinnacle award is the CVB's most significant award.

In addition to the Pinnacle Awards, the CVB also honored other area businesses and individuals who have contributed to the travel and tourism industry.

The Hospitality Award went to Elliott Lodging. Owned by Gordon Elliott, the company is credited with restoring several hotel properties in Springfield, Kubitschek said.

Mayor Lee Gannaway received the Diplomat Award for his work with the Mayor's Commission on Travel and Tourism in 1996. This award goes to a government official, organization or employee who has provided significant support to the travel industry.

The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce received the Spotlight Award, which is given to an individual or organization not usually considered part of the travel industry that has made a noteworthy contribution to the industry, Kubitschek said.