Tourism Sault Ste. Marie celebrated five people and businesses during the annual Tourism Awards on Nov. 10.
“From a record-setting season for cruise ship traffic, to excellent visitation numbers on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train and other attractions, 2016 was a very promising year for tourism in the Sault,” said Ian McMillan, executive director of Tourism Sault Ste. Marie, in a release.
“This type of achievement doesn’t happen by accident. It takes hard work from individuals and groups. The 2016 Tourism Sault Ste. Marie Awards pays homage to these folks. I congratulate and thank this year’s award winners for their contributions in growing the Sault’s tourism sector and welcoming visitors from around the world.”
A list of the awards and their winners follows:
Tourism Award of Excellence: Kim Forbes, recently retired director/curator of the Sault Ste. Marie Museum
This award is for an individual who has significantly impacted the development of tourism in Sault Ste. Marie. He or she has provided longstanding and exceptional service; has demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit, leadership and integrity; and established 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.
Business of the Year: Quality Inn & Suites Bay Front
This for-profit business in the private sector 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.
Customer Service Award: Tim Jin Suen, front desk/reception at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn & Suites
Runner-ups: Tanya Powe (Days Inn & Suites) and John Doncaster (Holiday Inn Express)
This 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.
Tourism Ambassador Award: Sault Ringette Club, which has hosted a number of major regional and national ringette tournaments over the past few years
This award is designed to recognize an individual or group who, while functioning as a volunteer(s), has made a significant contribution towards strengthening our 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.
Student Culinary Management Award ($500 Scholarship): Sandy Toole
This award is designed to recognize a second-year Sault College student in the Culinary Management Program. It is selected by the faculty of Sault College based on academic performance in the first year and the cooperative education work term. In addition, the recipient must have demonstrated a positive contribution to the program and the hospitality industry within Sault Ste. Marie.
