U.S. Virgin Islands, October 16, 2007 The Hotel & Tourism Association (HTA) is excited to announce that the annual Tommy Star Awards Gala is scheduled for Saturday, November 10, 2007, at the Frenchman’s Reef Marriott. This much anticipated event recognizes hospitality employees demonstrating excellence, and serves as a fundraiser for the association’s education and training fund.
The Tommy Awards, in its sixth year, salutes employees with the following awards--Airline Associate of the Year, Attractions/Activity Associate of the Year, Hospitality Support Service, Associate of the Year, Hotel Associate of the Year, Hotel Supervisor of the Year, Public Service Representative of the Year, Restaurant Associate of the Year, Retail Associate of the Year, and Taxi Operator of the Year. The Tommy Star Lifetime Achievement Award will also be presented to an individual who has dedicated years to ensuring the growth of the tourism industry and the promotion of our hospitality workforce. This year’s recipient is Nick Pourzal, a hotel veteran and huge supporter of HTA programs.
“The Tommy Awards could not be successful without the support of the community and our sponsors, said Wein Demitros, co-chair of the HTA’s Tommy Star Committee Chair. Everyday our nominees demonstrate their understanding of the importance of an excellent visitor experience and serving as a brand ambassador for the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
Sponsors currently supporting the Tommy Gala include: Star members Caneel Bay Resort, Department of Tourism, FilmVI.net, Moxie Marketing, the Ritz Carlton, Southland Gaming, WSTA, and the West Indian Company Limited; Gold members, Ackley Media Group, Cape Air, Holiday Inn, Frenchman’s Reef Marriott, Little Switzerland, M Booth & Associates, Nick Pourzal, Quality Foods, Westin Resort St. John, and Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa; Silver members, Bellows International, Bolongo Bay Beach Club, Coral World, Diamonds International, Island Business Graphics, Island Meetings and Incentive, Media Marketing, and Yacht Haven Grande; and Bronze member Roses Too. Sponsorship opportunities are still available to help us reach this year’s goal of $65,000.
Programs such as the Tommy Star Awards allow the Hotel & Tourism Association to provide scholarships and support many school programs including the CAHS Hotel & Restaurant program and the Readonnaire program.
Tickets for the gala are $125 per person. For sponsorship details, ticket sales, or to purchase an ad in the commemorative booklet, contact the association office at 774-6835.
