Press Release

GRCVB Honors Four for Service and Leadership in Local Visitor Industry

 
Media Contact: Martin Armes; (919) 645-2654; marmes@visitraleigh.com
 

RALEIGH, N.C. (June 13, 2005) - The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau has given three Isaac Hunter Excellence in Service Awards to honor those exemplary individuals who continue the tradition of Hunter for far exceeding normal expectations to provide excellent service to visitors and residents alike. In fact, the recipients are among 17,000 Wake County people employed in the visitor industry (which also provides one in eight jobs nationally).

Of note, the hospitality of a tavern owner is largely responsible for the location of the North Carolina state capital. In 1769, Isaac Hunter opened a tavern near Crabtree Creek. The tavern became so popular, that the state's General Assembly Capital Site Selection commission required that the seat of state government be located within 10 miles of the tavern.

This year, the Bureau honored outstanding front-line individuals in the following three categories:

Accommodations: Sheron Hopkins, Cook, Quality Suites Raleigh
Attractions: Tammy Hinshaw, Receptionist, Artspace
Dining: Ray Nease III, Bar Manager, Gino Russo's Oyster Bar

The Horizon Award recognized exemplary attitude and professionalism of a mid-management level employee who demonstrates the skills to be a future leader in the hospitality industry. The 2005 recipient was Patty Wilson, Facility Director, Playspace Children's Museum.

The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (GRCVB) is a non-profit agency that enhances the economic growth and development of Raleigh and Wake County by increasing convention and visitor business. Through its website, VisitRaleigh.com and other tools, the GRCVB assists local visitors in a variety of ways.