VISIT Milwaukee recognized Cecilia Gilbert, Russ Klisch and Tim Dixon with the 2011 Lamplighter Awards for each of their contributions in helping Milwaukee stand out as an attractive city to visit. All three were honored at VISIT Milwaukee’s annual meeting on July 26 at the Milwaukee Theatre, according to an announcement from the city tourism organization.
Gilbert has worked for the City of Milwaukee for over 30 years and is a board member of several local organizations including VISIT Milwaukee. She currently chairs VISIT Milwaukee’s Multicultural Advisory Committee and has helped bring multicultural conventions and events to the city for the past 20 years. In 2008 Gilbert was awarded VISIT Milwaukee’s Standing Ovation Award, and in 2009 Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 honored her with the Downtown Cheerleader Award. Klisch co-founded Lakefront Brewery 25 years ago with his brother, Jim, and has become one of the most successful brewers in Milwaukee. Lakefront Brewery has won several awards for its beers, and its tour ranks among the best with recognition from Travel Advisor and the New York Times. Dixon, owner of Dixon Development LLC, has received national attention for developing the Iron Horse Hotel. Praised as one of the best boutique hotels in the country, the Iron Horse hotel offers a high-end lodging experience for motorcyclists and business professionals. The hotel has upheld its ranking as the #1 hotel in Wisconsin since 2008 and has captured national awards for its hospitality and design.
