Visit Meridian hosts ‘Popcorn in the Plaza’ during National Travel and Tourism Week

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) – One tourism agency is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week in the Queen City.

Visit Meridian kicked off the week by hosting ‘Popcorn in the Plaza’ at Dumont Plaza on Monday morning.

The press conference was a way to recognize the hospitality industry and announce the winners of the Hospitality Hero Award.

There were five categories that included best restaurant, retail, mixology, attraction, and hotel.

Laura Carmichael, the Executive Director at Visit Meridian, shares why it was important to spotlight individuals in this industry.

“People nominated those folks who’ve had great experiences in their industry or in their business, and we wanted to give a special thanks to those who work hard to make sure that those people on the front line, the people coming into Meridian, that they experience the best things that they can experience in our city,” said Carmichael.

The MAX was the overall winner of the Hospitality Hero Award. Courtney Keith, the Retail Plus Visitor Services Assistant Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the museum.

“We have so many people that come from out of town and you know when they come, you want to them to leave with the best experience they’ve ever had. You know, part of them, I’m more of the gift shop. You know, them coming in and finding out where they’re from and, you know, making sure that they want to come back and spreading the word of what we’re trying to do, you know, in the city of Meridian and for tourism,” said Keith.

Attendees at the event received free popcorn, lemonade, and t-shirts.

Carmichael said this was the first year awarding the Hospitality Hero Award but hopes to continue it in the future.

Full list of winners at 2024 Hospitality Hero Award:

Best Restaurant: Stephen Thomas at Jean’s

Retail: David Haggard at Hampton Inn Shell, Toomsuba & North Hills Texaco

Mixologist: Christine Moore at Hilton Garden Inn

Attractions: Alana Sparrow Broughton at Jimmie Rodgers Museum

Hotels: Kayla Cabaniss at Ascent Hospitality/ Threefoot Hotel

Overall: Courtney Keith at The MAX

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