The Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus held its 14th annual Awards of Excellence in Waldo on Thursday, Sept. 15. MIDDY awards are presented for destination marketing and tourism development.

“The MIDDY Award name reflects our region of the country,” said Diane Watson, chairperson of the OACVB MIDDY awards for 2011. “Recipients are recognized for excellence in planning, creativity, effectiveness of message, concept, and design.”

Award entries were received in a variety of categories, including rack brochure, website, print advertising, specialty advertising, social media, television spot, and tourism campaign. All entries are judged by a team of experts in the communications, advertising, public relations, publications and/or tourism fields from outside of the OACVB membership.

The Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau received two awards on Thursday. The Tourism Bureau was presented with a first-place MIDDY Award for the Amish Country Ambassadors Yellow Apron Campaign. They also received a second-place award for their visitors’ guide, the 2011 Hearts & Hands travel planner.

“We constantly strive to creatively and effectively market Amish Country as a premier tourism destination,” said Shasta Mast, executive director of the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau. “These awards recognize the creativity and innovation of our team. We’re honored to be acknowledged by our peers for excellence in marketing.”

Convention and visitors bureaus are best described as destination marketing organizations and are responsible for travel and tourism product awareness to visitors. Many outstanding marketing projects were submitted for the annual awards competition. Being recognized for a job well done in the promotion of travel and tourism throughout the state of Ohio is a highly valued achievement.