[Not a valid template]The Delaware Hotel and Lodging Association Annual STARS of the Industry dinner was held at the Hotel du Pont in Wilmington. This event takes time to honor associates in the hotel business, as well as dedicated suppliers and government officials for their assistance to the lodging industry.
The associates honored were nominated by their peers for their outstanding contribution to the their hotel. Perry Patel, Chairman of the Delaware Hotel and Lodging Association presented the awards. This year over 25 associates were nominated. Honored were:
“Houseperson of the Year” – Donald Steele, Jr. Associate from the Courtyard Newark at the University of Delaware
“Hotel Manager of the Year” – Carolyn Grubb, Manager of Marketing and Public Relations from the Hotel du Pont and DuPont Hospitality.
“Hotel Associate of the Year” – Chef Francis Park II from the newly renovated Crowne Plaza Hotel – Wilmington
“Hotelier of the Year” – Bill Silva – from the Embassy and Homewood Suites in Newark. Bill is the General Manager of the both hotels
The “Allied Member of the Year” was awarded to Gerry Frenze from Delaware Express for his company’s dedication to assisting visitors to the State of Delaware with transportation.
The “Government Official of the Year” was awarded to Governor Jack Markell for his leadership in appreciating and promoting tourism in Delaware.
Chairman Perry Patel also honored outgoing DHLA Chairman George Fiorile of Dover Downs Hotel and Casino with the “Chairmans Award” for his service to the industry and DHLA.