Bringing Home the Meetings

Local leaders who helped bring meetings to Fort Worth and strengthen the city as a tourism destination were honored by the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce (FWMBCC) and Visit Fort Worth (VFW) at the 9th Bring Meetings Home Luncheon at the Palmwood Events Center. The collaborative luncheon celebrates business owners, entrepreneurs, meeting planners and faith-based organizations in Fort Worth.

“We honor locals who champion conventions because they support our economy, job creation and give people the chance to experience our city,” said Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth. “Our incredible partnership with FWMBCC has allowed us to grow the initiative into an even more robust community collaboration.”

This year individuals or businesses were recognized for their outstanding work and contributions to the community in the following five categories, selected by the Black Tourism Advisory Committee.

• BRING MEETINGS HOME AWARDS: Dorothy Lampkin, National Women of Achievement

• NEXT GENERATION AWARDS: Ronnita Carridine & Louie T. McClain II

• FAITH BASED AWARD: Samaria Baptist Church, Pastor McKinley Jackson

• ORGANIZATION AWARD: The H. T. Mitchell-Aires

• BILL PICKETT LEGACY AWARDS: Margie Major and Judge L. Clifford Davis

“The Bring Meetings Home luncheon last week was really like a homecoming,” said Michelle Green-Ford, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce. “The legendary giants in the room — those being honored and those others who had touched our lives for decades — made it feel like a family reunion for many of us. We at the Black Chamber are grateful to be able to partner with Visit Fort Worth in helping to bring others to our hometown, whether for a family reunion or a national convention. We want to spread the word that ‘y’all means all.’”

The luncheon was emceed by local podcast host and TV personality Tony Green. Guest speakers included Margo Wade LaDrew, development and marketing director for the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. Music was provided by DJ Asa Ace. Bishop Kenneth Spears of First St. John Baptist Cathedral led the invocation. For more information on the initiative visit FortWorth.com.