The Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau (OKCCVB) recently honored several Oklahoman’s and organizations in their 11th annual Hometown Heroes Awards.
The Hometown Heroes Awards honor individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact on Oklahoma City’s tourism and hospitality industry.
“These honorees have done everything from developing world-class events and attractions to helping recruit large-scale conventions to the new OKC Convention Center and above all, they embody the welcoming, can-do spirit of our great city,” said OKCCVB President Mike Carrier.
Tourism awards were bestowed upon eight individuals and organizations that have exceedingly supported and promoted Oklahoma City tourism and travel. Awards were presented to the following:
- The Colcord Hotel
- Factory Obscura
- Orr Family Farm
- Chris Semrau, ASM Global/Chesapeake Energy Arena
- Shawn McCarty, Oklahoma Regional Volleyball Association
- Ray McNair, Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association
- Lloyd Kirk, Oklahoma Dept. of Environmental Quality
Additionally, each year during the Hometown Heroes awards a Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) is selected as the “CTA Star of the Year” as part of a national program in each community. The CTA Star is acknowledged by their excellence in hospitality and customer service and one who demonstrates knowledge of local attractions and venues, stays current on local events and shows a commitment to the CTA program. This year, the CTA Star honors Karl Stephens, a City of OKC Ambassador who greets visitors in the downtown and Bricktown areas, providing information on points of interest.
“We’re excited to honor this deserving group for all the ways they go above and beyond in providing a wonderful visitor experience throughout OKC,” said Carrier. “It takes more than the CVB to promote tourism in Oklahoma City and these individuals and organizations greatly contribute to making OKC a premier destination. Being able to celebrate them is just a small way we can thank them for their continued belief in our city.”
For more information on the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau or the Certified Tourism Ambassador program, check out this page.