The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau last night presented its Pinnacle Award to Springfield hotelier Greg Walker.
The partner in Springfield-based Walker Hospitality Group LLC and owner of La Quinta Inn & Suites, 2535 S. Campbell Ave., was honored during the CVB’s annual Salute to Travel & Tourism awards banquet at The Old Glass Place downtown, according to a news release.
Walker Hospitality Group also owns the La Quinta Inn & Suites at 2445 N. Airport Plaza Ave. and the Days Inn near Bass Pro Shops at 621 W. Sunshine St., according to its
website.
To help further the travel industry, Walker has served on several boards, including for the CVB, the Springfield Sports Commission, the Springfield Hotel Lodging Association and the corporate brand council for La Quinta. Currently, he’s serving as president of the Missouri Hotel Lodging Association, according to the release.
Last year, the CVB’s Pinnacle Award - which honors individuals who have made substantial contributions to the area’s travel industry - went to Jim Anderson, the former president of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.
During the banquet last night, the CVB presented seven additional awards.
The Ramada Plaza Springfield Hotel and Oasis Convention Center took home the Hospitality Award, which is given to an attraction, lodging facility or restaurant that provides noteworthy hospitality to Springfield visitors, according to the release.
Given to government officials, organizations or employees who have supported the area travel industry, the Diplomat Award went to U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo.
David Eslick, a founding member of the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival, was given the Spotlight Award, an honor presented to individuals outside of the travel and tourism industry who have contributed to its success, according to the release.
The CVB presented the Ambassador Award to Kirk Hansen, public relations director at Fantastic Caverns. The award honors individuals or organizations who economically help the area tourism industry.
Charlene Stewart, a five-year CVB volunteer, was honored with the John & Mary Williams Volunteer of the Year Award, and volunteers Harold and Mary Peterson were given the Decade of Service Awards, according to the release.
One of the first volunteers of the CVB, Mary Williams, was honored for her 25 years of service.
