The Mahoning County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) was recognized by the Ohio Travel Association for achievement in marketing at the RUBY Awards presentation on Thursday, Oct. 7.

The CVB received a first place award for for its Promotion Video, "Planning Your Perfect Weekend?" as well as a second place Certificate of Excellence for its monthly eNewsletter as well as a digital campaign promoting golf in the Mahoning Valley.

The CVB were also finalists in the print advertisement category for its "Rediscover Youngstown" ad, as well as the social media campaign category for its "Snapshots of Youngstown Winter 2021" promotion. 

Nine marketing professionals judged each entry on the basis of concept, results and creativity. The judges praised the CVB commenting that their video was "exceptional, flawless and received a near-perfect score."

CVB Executive Director, Linda Macala says the CVB was thrilled to receive this award.

"Tourism marketing promoting visitation to Youngstown and Mahoning County has certainly been challenging during a pandemic. We were excited to work with a professional local company, Cinemanix, to create this video showcasing all the wonderful things to do, see and experience here in Mahoning County," Macala said. 

According to Ohio Travel Association Executive Director, Melinda Huntley, the competition was fierce this year.

"Despite the hardships created by the pandemic, these professionals produced some amazing campaigns and projects that resulted in increased sales for businesses in their communities," Huntley said.

The CVB's award-winning video can be viewed here.