Released from Galveston.com:

On June 11, 2007 Galveston.com & Company won a Stevie Award in the Multimedia: Public Information category in The 2007 American Business Awards last night for its entry, Second Life Galveston Island. Galveston.com won the 2006 Award for Best Overall Website Design.

Hailed as “the business world’s own Oscars” (New York Post , April 27, 2005), The American Business Awards are the only national, all-encompassing awards program honoring great performances in business.

Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word “crowned,” the awards were presented during ceremonies at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. The ceremonies were hosted by Larry Wilmore of THE DAILY SHOW with JON STEWART, videocast live on the Internet, and broadcast nationwide on radio.

Galveston.com & Company president Lee Roane and graphic designer Adam J. Gillis were presented the Stevie before a packed ballroom by Stevie Award founder and president Michael Gallagher. In accepting the Stevie, Roane said, "Over six months ago when we decided to create the virtual world of Galveston Island in Second Life, we knew we had to hire the best person for the job we could find. We found that person in Adam J. Gillis."

Stevie Awards were presented in over 40 categories including Best Overall Company, Best Executive, and Best Corporate Social Responsibility Program. More than 2,000 entries from companies of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted for consideration.

“Second Life Galveston Island is about promoting Galveston Island tourism to a new audience,” says Jim Cordell, vice president and chief creative officer of Galveston.com & Company. “Our debut within Second Life will give digital travelers a chance to introduce themselves to the best aspects of Galveston Island, and unwind in our social areas, beaches, and concert venues. They will be able to take guided virtual tours, learn about Galveston history, view Galveston Island tourism videos, provide feedback, and interact with new virtual friends from around the globe.”

The project is the first Convention & Visitors Bureau-affiliated simulation in the popular virtual world of Second Life.

Members of the Awards’ Board of Distinguished Judges & Advisors and their staffs selected Stevie winners from among the Finalists. Finalists were chosen by business professionals nationwide during preliminary judging in April and May.

The elegant Stevie trophy was designed by R. S. Owens, the same company that makes the Oscar® and the Emmy.

“Being in Times Square with good friends and employees was a thrill in itself,” says Jim Cordell. “But to win an award of this stature with all of them present was a dream come true. We couldn't be more excited.”