Grit and gratitude

Memphis boosters wave Grizzly towels to thank Tony Allen

Guests wave Memphis-themed towels as Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen takes the stage during the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau 2013 annual meeting in the grand ballroom at The Peabody Hotel. The CVB honored Allen for his contribution to the Memphis brand. The event also featured a time travel-themed presentation recalling milestones in the history of tourism in Memphis, from the founding of the Liberty Bowl’s Heritage Classic to the efforts to preserve and restore the Orpheum Theatre and Beale Street Historic District.

BRANDON DILL /SPECIAL TO THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL

Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau Chairman Harold Graeter pauses during a speech to recognize those who have contributed to growing Memphis tourism during the CVB’s annual meeting inside the grand ballroom at the Peabody Hotel.