The Village of Orland Park had more than a sporting chance to take home some hardware at the Visit Chicago Southland Meeting and Awards celebration.
The village won the Community Tourism Excellence Team Award on Oct. 8 at the Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino and Resort in East Hazel Crest.
Mary Patchin, the president and CEO of Visit Chicago Southland, said Orland Park, “Has transformed sports tourism into a powerful community asset.”
Patchin went on to say that the village partnered with regional tournament organizers, local athletic organizations as well as businesses to bring teams to the area.
“With 29 baseball and softball fields across 66 parks and more than 900 acres of parkland, these events bring thousands of athletes and families to the area, supporting local hotels, restaurants and retailers.”
Orland Park Mayor James Dodge was happy for the recognition.
“Orland does well in this mainly because we already have the shopping and we have the restaurants,” he said. “You can stay in the area during the tournaments because there is a lot to do.
“That was always the hope and I’m glad it’s working.”
Director of Sale for Homewood Suites in Orland Park Darryl Thomas won the Sales and Marketing Manager of the Year award.
“A recent sold-out group event exemplifies his exceptional service and the high standards he consistently delivers,” Patchin said. “He is collaborative, knowledgeable and dedicated to every aspect of sales and that commitment is reflected in his outstanding sales performance.”
Slick City Action Park won a Partner of the Year award
“(Slick City) brought excitement, energy and family fun to the Chicago Southland,” Patchin said.
Also from the Southwest Regional Publishing area, the Manager of the Year went to Jeffrey Mabilangan, the general manager of the Hampton Inn and Suites in Bridgeview.
“He mentors employees based on trust, accountability and teamwork,” Patchin said. “His staff members feel valued and inspired to perform at their best.”
