The awards presentation was led by Crystal Crow, President of the Ozark Gateway Region, alongside Cathy Drew, Executive Director, and Adam Davis, Vice President. The evening recognized outstanding contributions to tourism, community development, and regional promotion.
Partner in Tourism Awards were presented to businesses that went above and beyond in their efforts to promote the Ozark Gateway Region. Honorees included:
- CherryRoad Media
- Bank of Cave City
- The Citizens Bank
- First Community Bank
- FutureFuel
- KFFB Radio
- North Arkansas Electric Cooperative
- White River Now
Member of the Year was awarded to Polk and Paddle for their continued investment in Batesville’s downtown, creating a one-of-a-kind destination dining and recreation experience.
The President’s Award went to Mark Ballard, Superintendent of Jacksonport State Park, for his unwavering dedication to representing his county and advancing tourism efforts throughout the region.
The prestigious Tom Biggs Award was presented to Harold Johnson, founder of the Wings of Honor Museum in Walnut Ridge. Johnson’s lifelong dedication to preserving aviation history has made the museum a signature destination in the region.
Two Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented this year:
- Carolyn Lewis was honored for her remarkable service to the Ozark Gateway Region since 1979. Known for her tireless work ethic and passion for creating fun, meaningful experiences, Lewis has long been a cornerstone of regional tourism efforts.
- Gloria Sanders was recognized for her transformational work in Calico Rock, where her leadership and vision helped revitalize the community. Her efforts led to the creation of a unique downtown district featuring museums, art exhibits, and cultural attractions.

Member of the Year L-R Crystal Crow, Cathy Drew, Tham & Dustin Dayberry owners of Polk and Paddle

President’s Award L-R Crystal Crown & Mark Ballard

Tom Biggs Award L-R Cathy Drew, Mayor Charles Snapp, Harold Johnson & Crystal Crow

Lifetime Achievement L-R Crystal Crow, Cathy Drew & Gloria Sanders

Lifetime Achievement L-R Cathy Drew, Carolyn Lewis & Crystal Crow

Cathy Drew is a lifelong resident of the region that she loves to promote. She was born in downtown Batesville in the late ’60s, located in one of the eight counties she now enjoys encouraging people to visit.
Drew became associated with the Ozark Gateway Region in 1990 while working at the ad agency (The Media Market Inc.). The agency handled marketing for the regional association, where she and her co-workers produced an annual tabloid publication. She began working as the Ozark Gateway Region director in June 2000.
After Drew became director, she took the region to the next level by helping the tourism organization create a new website and moved it from the old newspaper paper tabloid publication to a color magazine format. She helped open a visitor center for the Ozark Gateway, allowing visitors to pick up information from the entire state 24/7. Over the years, Drew has helped the organization meet new marketing goals, such as in- and out-of-state marketing, assuring that all 100,000 copies of their magazines are distributed each year.
In 2016, she assisted in creating the first Ozark Gateway Region Golf Classic. The tournament continues to grow each year, allowing the organization to expand its co-op program and helping each county have dedicated promotion. Drew stays busy at Ozark Gateway as the ad sales manager, magazine editor, day-to-day office operations, trade show representative, and magazine distribution representative, all while ensuring that the region is represented all over Arkansas and southern Missouri.
Drew was featured in several local and statewide publications over the years, as well as the 1997 cover of the Ozark Gateway Region tabloid, along with her then 4-year-old son, Jon. She has received several awards, such as the Batesville Rotarian of the Year in 2010 and a three-time Paul Harris Fellow.
She also has served as an Independence County election commissioner for several years. She now serves as their co-election coordinator, helping with behind-the-scenes management of voting equipment, day-to-day election deadlines, and poll worker training.
Drew is Batesville Rotary Club Past President, and is the Rotary Clubs’ current membership chair.
In March of 2018, Drew was honored with induction into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame for her many years of dedicated service to the tourism industry.