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, chairwoman 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 communications, advertising, public relations, publications, and/or tourism from outside of the OACVB membership.

The Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau received an award on Thursday. The CVB was presented with a first place MIDDY Award for their 2011 Visitor Guide. The CVB works with local business Wooster Printing and Litho, Inc., to design and print the brochure.

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.