A record number of Oklahoma’s tourism professionals gathered to honor fellow industry leaders in 15 categories at the RedBud Awards Program. Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb and "Discover Oklahoma" host Jenifer Reynolds were on hand to announce the winners during a special gala held on May 6, 2013 at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. The RedBud Awards Ceremony is an annual event recognizing Oklahoma tourism attractions, Convention & Vistors Bureaus, Chambers of Commerce, ad agencies, event managers and regional marketing organizations for their outstanding efforts to serve and promote Oklahoma's tourism industry. "RedBud Awards represent the highest honor given in the Oklahoma tourism industry," said Debra Bailey, President/CEO, Oklahoma Travel Industry Association. "This year, we received entries on behalf of outstanding tourism efforts from all across our state." Entries are evaluated by independent judges based on criteria including customer service, marketing effectiveness, media relations, variety of audiences reached, value, and overall creativity. “It was an exciting evening recognizing the efforts of our industry, and a great celebration of tourism,” said Bailey. “There is no better way to showcase the diversity of travel opportunities in Oklahoma than by honoring the best each year and bestowing them with this award.” A full list of RedBud Award winners is listed below. Outstanding Agritourism Attraction
RedBud: Lavender Valley Acres
State of Oklahoma
Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry
Jim Reese
Secretary of Agriculture
Mary Fallin
Governor
May 20, 2013
Dear Jag:
It is with great pleasure that I extend congratulations to everyone who is a part of
Lavender Valley Acres for winning the prestigious Agritourism Attraction Red Bud award!
The dedication you have exhibited to continuing Oklahoma's success in the Agritourism
field has not gone unnoticed. With over 500 Agritourism attractions and venues across the state,
it is you who has surfaced to the top. It is high time that you be recognized for your
achievements! I look forward to bringing my family to Lavender Valley Acres a~ and in seeing youin the news for continuing the love for agriculture not only in Oklahoma cmzens, but in people
across our Nation. You truly have helped put Oklahoma on the map for not only being an
agricultural state, but a tourist destination as well.
Thank you again!
Wishing You The Best,
Jamey Allen, Director
Market Development Services
2800 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 (405) 521-3864
www.oda.state.ok.us