Sault tourism seeking award nominees

Tourism Sault Ste. Marie is seeking nominations for one of five awards given to recognize efforts in the tourism sector.

Winners will be announced at a formal evening gala on Oct. 27 at the Delta Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Hotel and Conference Centre.

The Tourism Award of Excellence goes to an individual who has significantly impacted the development of tourism in Sault Ste. Marie, including providing longstanding and exceptional service; demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit, leadership and integrity; and establishing a strong legacy through passing on their experience to others to further benefit the tourism sector.This individual has gained respect of those in the tourism industry.

The Business of the Year Award is bestowed on a for-profit business in the private sector that has demonstrated leadership by investing equally in both staff and customers through staff training or special programs and through value-added undertakings for the customer. The presence of this business leads to the provision of a better total tourism product in Sault Ste. Marie.

The Customer Service Award is intended to recognize an individual employed in the tourism industry who has contributed to the betterment of the tourism experience for visitors. He or she exhibits a courteous, friendly manner; is customer service-oriented and regularly goes beyond the expected duties and performances of their job responsibilities. Three finalists will be chosen with the winner to be announced on the night of the awards.

The Tourism Ambassador Award is designed to recognize an individual or group who, while functioning as a volunteer(s), has made a significant contribution towards strengthening the local tourism economy, helping to achieve impressive results. This individual or group has undertaken their work in the capacity of a volunteer and not as part of their regular paid employment.

The Tourism Sault Ste. Marie Student Hospitality Management Award is a $500 scholarship designed to recognize a second-ye0ar Sault College student in the Hospitality Management Hotel and Resort program. It will be selected by college faculty based on academic performance in the first year and the co-operative education work term. In addition, the recipient must have demonstrated a positive contribution to the program and the hospitality industry.

Anyone can submit a nomination, and self-nominations will be accepted. Selection of the award winners will be based upon the extent to which the individual or business matches all of the elements identified in the award descriptions and is at the discretion of committee consensus.

Submissions will be accepted until Sept. 30.