The 2009 Hospitality Excellence Award Winners

On May 18, 275 hospitality industry professionals gathered at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke to take part in the 2009 Howdy Awards for hospitality excellence.  Forty-two finalists were honored for their top-notch efforts and waited anxiously to find out if they would be named the winner in their respective categories. (All comments came from the nominations received for the Howdy Award winners.)

We salute the 2009 Howdy Winners!

ACCOMMODATIONS

Jeremy Brown
Assistant General Manager
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, Northampton 


"Jeremy was very personable and extremely friendly.  Just a very nice person.  He is customer service, personified."

ATTRACTIONS

Jeanne Elin
Volunteer
The Zoo at Forest Park, Springfield

"She is so committed to her work and to sharing her knowledge and love of animals with others.  She volunteers frequently to ensure that the next generation has an appreciation of how wildlife impacts us, and we them."

BEVERAGE

Lisette Billingsley
Bartender
Roberto's Restaurant, Northampton


"She's friendly, prompt, personable and sincere.  She cares about her customers and creates a 'family atmosphere' at the restaurant."

FOOD

Bonnie Eddy
Front End Manager
The Wagon Wheel Country Drive In, Gill


"She's always cheerful and has my order all written up when I'm just walking through the door.  She's a total joy!" 

PUBLIC SERVICE

Jay Harris
SBID Guide
The Springfield Business Improvement District, Springfield
"He has a willingness to help someone in need whether it's a business person who needs directions, someone who needs to jumpstart a car battery, or a homeless person who needs shelter or medical assistance.  He makes a difference every day."

RETAIL

Tony Isham
Stylist and Manager
Isavia Salon, Springfield 

"He's really dedicated to both his profession AND to showing his clients the best of care.  Showing respect to all clients is of utmost importance to him, in addition to the time he devotes to a wide variety of charitable events and causes."

TRANSPORTATION

Barbara Eckert
Parking Attendant
Republic Parking, Springfield

"She is always at the exit point saying - with a smile - 'I hope you had a nice day!'  She's so enthusiastic about her job and makes my every visit so enjoyable.  She always makes me smile, and her cheerful demeanor is uplifting."

UNSEEN HERO

Monica Lefebvre
Head of Housekeeping
Centennial House, Northfield

"Her wonderful sense of style, cleanliness and aesthetics are nothing short of excellent.  We couldn't do it all without her!  She has a million dollar smile and she makes you happy just being around her."

SPOTLIGHT AWARD

The Spotlight Award went to the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

They (like all Spotlight Award recipients) were cited for their long-term support of the Pioneer Valley's tourism industry.