Bill Ross, Bob Ross named Urban Pioneers

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Bill Ross and Bob Ross of the Inasmuch Foundation will be honored for their work in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District.

Bill Ross and his son Bob Ross — chairman and president, respectively, of the Inasmuch Foundation — will be honored next month by the Plaza District Association in Oklahoma City.

They will receive 2011 Urban Pioneer Awards, which recognize “those individuals who have been instrumental in the rebirth of our inner city,” according to the association’s website.Past winners include Dr. Tom McDaniel, Lou Kerr, Meg Salyer, Mark Funke, Mike Turpen, Ann Simank and Steve Mason.The Ross family has been active in Oklahoma City nonprofits for years, volunteering and supporting various organizations. “Their role in the Plaza District has been pivotal,” according to a news release. “With their … longtime involvement with Lyric Theatre and their leadership role in Lyric’s highly successful capital campaign, their participation in the Plaza District has been instrumental to its success.”The Plaza District is a neighborhood commercial district on NW 16 between Classen and Pennsylvania avenues. The area, once burdened by high crime rates and urban decay, has been revitalized over the past 15 or so years. It now includes restaurants, art galleries and shops. Regular events include “Live on the Plaza,” a series of art walks featuring live music.Bill Ross’ childhood home was on NW 16. He and his son will be honored at an awards luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 16, at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel, 1 Park Ave. Tickets are $45 and may be purchased by phone at 367-9403 or online at plaza district.org. News Photo Galleriesview all Annual Spring Jam Spencer Rodeo: May 14, 2011 Yukon High School 2011 graduation Jerome Ersland found guilty: May 26, 2011

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<a href="http://newsok.com/father-son-to-be-honored-by-group/article/3570316tag:news.google.com,2005:cluster=http://newsok.com/father-son-to-be-honored-by-group/article/3570316Mon, 23 May 2011 05:09:45 GMT 00:00″>Bill Ross, Bob Ross named Urban Pioneers