Tourism support, honors award program merged

It’s not as good as mixing peanut butter and chocolate, but Fort Smith tourism officials have merged the annual Fort Smith “Showcase” awards and the annual R.O.S.E. awards into a larger “hospitality driven event,” according to Ramona Moon, convention sales director for the Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The combined event is scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m., May 14, in Hall B of the Fort Smith Convention Center. Visitors can drop by as their schedule allows or stay for the entire event, Moon said.

The R.O.S.E. (Recognition of Outstanding Service Excellence) awards program is in its sixth year, and honors service in the following categories: “Hometown Hospitality Hero” of the Year, “Hospitality Person” of the Year, “Hospitality Partner” of the Year, “Corporate Partner” of the Year, and “Guest Service Provider” of the Year.

Link here to nominate a candidate or vote for the listed candidates.
 
The Fort Smith Showcase brings local area hospitality and tourism businesses and attendees together to showcase products, services and the many resources available in the Fort Smith area, Moon said. In its second year, the Showcase is presented in a tradeshow format with an hors d’oeuvres reception, which includes entertainment, the opportunity to learn how individuals, companies or organizations may host a successful event.
 
Both events are open to the public, Moon said.