Bashore Recognized for Championing Tourism and Hospitality in Oklahoma

Rep. Steve Bashore of Miami, Oklahoma, has been recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association, and the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association. The award was presented during the 2nd annual Oklahoma Hospitality Leaders Dinner on August 28 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, where hospitality professionals from across the state gathered for a night of celebration and collaboration.

Bashore said, “Last week I was truly honored and humbled to be recognized as Legislator of the Year from the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, Oklahoma Travel Industry Association, and the Oklahoma Hotel & Lodging Association. Also recognized are my colleagues Rep. Scott Fetgatter, Sen. Ally Seifried, and Sen. Brent Howard. Thank you to the associations, and I will continue working to advance our state’s tourism and hospitality industry.”

The Oklahoma Hospitality Leaders Dinner has quickly grown into one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year, bringing together leaders from restaurants, hotels, and tourism to celebrate one of the state’s largest economic drivers. In addition to the Legislator of the Year honors, the evening featured the inaugural Oklahoma Hospitality Hall of Fame Awards, recognizing trailblazers in the industry, and a keynote address from U.S. Senator James Lankford.

Organizers described the event as a chance to showcase solidarity and amplify the collective voice of the state’s hospitality sector, which is the third-largest industry in Oklahoma. The dinner also offered an exclusive opportunity for association members and ORA EXPO exhibitors to connect with lawmakers and strengthen relationships that will help the industry continue to thrive.

By honoring both legislators and hospitality professionals, the event underscored the importance of ongoing collaboration. Leaders say that building unity across the industry is critical to addressing challenges, expanding Oklahoma’s tourism footprint, and supporting the small businesses that fuel local communities.

The Oklahoma Hospitality Leaders Dinner is more than just an annual tradition—it is a reflection of the shared commitment to grow and protect an industry that represents both economic strength and community spirit across the state.