Leadership Starts with Serving Others
Every once in a while, you meet someone who reminds you what leadership really looks like.
This week, I had the privilege of recognizing Gary Harris as the 2026 recipient of Visit Owensboro's Larry "MAG" Maglinger Service Award. Gary isn't a CEO. He isn't an elected official. He's a Meijer associate who shows up every day with a smile, treats people with respect, and makes everyone feel welcome.
To me, that's leadership.
When Visit Owensboro announced Gary as this year's recipient, social media immediately filled with comments calling him "one of a kind," "a heart of gold," "one in a million," and simply saying, "We need more Garys." I couldn't agree more.
As President & CEO of Visit Owensboro, I'm reminded every day that destinations aren't defined by buildings or attractions alone. They're shaped by the people visitors meet along the way. Every smile, every conversation, and every act of kindness becomes part of our community's story.
I'm also grateful to Tammy, Curtis, and Brad Maglinger for continuing to honor Larry's legacy through the MAG Award. Their family's commitment to service and community pride has created a lasting way to recognize people who make Owensboro a better place.
Leadership isn't always found in a boardroom. More often, it's found in everyday moments when someone chooses to put others first.
Congratulations, Gary Harris. Thank you for reminding all of us that the best leaders are the ones who serve.
Interested in leadership, tourism, and building stronger communities? Explore more articles from Mark Calitri on leadership, customer service, economic development, and the people making a difference in Owensboro.
- Read more on the Mark Calitri Blog → https://markcalitriofficial.blogspot.com/
- Read more Visit Owensboro stories → https://visitowensboro.com/2026/06/gary-harris-honored-with-visit-owensboros-2026-mag-award/?oti=130&otx=619
About Mark Calitri
Mark Calitri is President & CEO of Visit Owensboro, a nationally recognized destination marketing organization in Owensboro, Kentucky. A leadership speaker, author, and tourism executive, Mark writes about leadership, customer service, economic development, tourism, and building stronger communities through everyday leadership.
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