Volunteers, employees recognized for their hospitality

CHILLICOTHE – The Ross-Chillicothe Convention and Visitors Bureau held their second Tourism Banquet on Monday.

“It’s a way to celebrate the wonderful partners we have in our community,” said Melody Young, of the RCCVB. “Tecumseh! brings in 46,000 visitors annually, and they’re all working behind the scenes.”

That includes those in the hospitality industry and those working in the tourist attractions.

This group was recognized, with a select few “exceptional hospitality workers” receiving awards for their work, although members of various attractions and organizations were in attendance.

“It’s very special, very proud of it, very unexpected,” Kathy Styer said of her Director/Innkeeper of the Year Award. Styer is the executive director of the Adena Mansions and Gardens.

“I think that’s an award the whole organization should be proud of,” Styer said.

Other award recipients included: Karen Blosser as Volunteer of the Year for her work with the Majestic Theatre, Jason Newman received Behind the Scenes Associate of the Year for his work at the Holiday Inn Express, and Kiumars Samandari received Frontline Associate of the Year.

Pineapples were the theme for the annual banquet. Guests were served pineapple juice, pineapple cakes, and Grand Pineapple Award was handed out. Once used by captains to signify a safe return from travel, the pineapple has grown into a symbol of hospitality and welcome.

RCCVB’s Grand Pineapple Award highlights an individual who has helped promote Ross County and encouraged visitors to come to Ross County.

This year’s Grand Pineapple Award went to Paul Pollard, president of the board of directors at the Majestic Theatre.

“It’s been a labor of love with the theater,” Pollard said.

“We’re so proud of it and so glad it’s coming back,” Blosser said of the Majestic. “It’s a wonderful memory for a lot of people in the community.”