Mark Calitri: Owensboro's Best Days Are Still Ahead

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 Every community has a choice. You can spend your time talking about what's wrong, or you can roll up your sleeves and help build something better. When I look at Owensboro and Daviess County today, I see a community that's moving forward. New attractions. National events. Record tourism. New investment. More opportunities for families and businesses than ever before. None of that happened by accident. It happened because people cared enough to get involved. Business leaders, volunteers, elected officials, nonprofits, and countless others have worked together to make Owensboro stronger. They don't always agree on every decision, but they share something much more important—a belief that our community's future is worth investing in. That's why I believe our best days are still ahead. There will always be challenges, but I like our direction. I like our people. Most of all, I like what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose. Thank you for believ...
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Mark Calitri Selected for Second Year of National Leadership with Destinations International

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I’m honored to be selected for a second year of service on Destinations International’s Convention Sales & Services Committee. This committee brings together destination leaders from across the country to share best practices, elevate the meetings and conventions industry, and help destinations compete at the highest level.

 

This kind of national service matters. It’s where ideas are tested, standards are raised, and real work gets done. Being invited back for a second year isn’t about a title—it’s about trust, contribution, and showing up ready to work. Owensboro earns its seat at the table by rolling up our sleeves, bringing practical insight, and delivering results that help move the industry forward.

 

 

Putting Owensboro on the National Map

 

 

Serving at the national level gives Owensboro a voice in conversations that shape tourism, convention sales, and destination development across the country. It allows us to share what we’re building here—our facilities, our hospitality partners, our events, and our community pride—while learning from top destinations doing exceptional work.

 

This is how smaller and mid-market destinations win. We show up prepared. We add value. We earn respect through effort and execution. Owensboro doesn’t wait for recognition—we work for it.

 

Tourism is a team sport. Through Destinations International, we collaborate, challenge each other, and push the industry forward. I’m proud to represent Owensboro on a national stage and even more motivated to bring those insights back home—strengthening our sales strategy, sharpening our service standards, and continuing to grow Owensboro as a destination that competes well above its weight class

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