The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) celebrated its third annual evening of industry achievements in Toronto with its Hall of Fame Awards of Excellence Program. The Hall of Fame Awards Program was developed by the HAC to recognize those of its members (individuals, companies or properties) that have demonstrated significant accomplishments, exemplary leadership and tireless commitment to Canada’s lodging industry.

“The goal of HAC’s awards program is to reward strong standards in the industry that will enable this country to remain competitive,” said Irwin Prince, Chair of the Hotel Association of Canada and event MC. “We are pleased to honour this year’s winners, whom we feel represent some of the finest examples of professionalism, quality and perfection.”

Three Hall of Fame awards were presented under the categories of Humanitarianism, Human Resources and Energy & Environment.

In the category of Humanitarianism the award was presented to the staff of a downtown Ottawa hotel. The staff of Les Suites Hotel, Ottawa were honoured for their significant and ongoing contributions to their community’s projects, organizations and events. Their unfailing support of the Terry Fox Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of Ottawa, Children’s Literacy Programs, the United Way and Child & Youth Friendly Ottawa are just a few of their activities but are a clear reflection of their humanitarian qualities. The award was accepted by Les Suites’ General Manager Steve Georgopoulos on behalf of his staff.

Chantal Smitheram, Casting Director for the Brookstreet Hotel, Ottawa was awarded in the category of Human Resources for her outstanding contributions to the hotel’s service culture. Under Chantal’s direction the hotel has implemented numerous employee programs and incentives which ultimately motivate and encourage staff to provide guests with an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Wendy Swedlove, President of the Canadian Human Resource Tourism Council (CTHRC) relayed some of Ms. Smitheram’s many employee-focused initiatives to the audience just prior to presenting the award.

This year’s Energy and Environment Award was presented to the Best Western Inn – Kelowna, Kelowna, BC. Owner Greg Salloum has actively pursued and promoted a green philosophy in all areas and activities of the property. A rooftop solar hybrid water heating system provides 60 – 90% of all hot water to the property’s pool, hot tubs and guest rooms. In-room heating/cooling is controlled by an energy efficient central option rather than by individual units. Employees are active participants in the hotel’s composting, recycling and conservation efforts and wherever possible natural products replace chemical options. The Best Western Inn – Kelowna is also an HAC Green Key Eco-Rated property with an impressive 4 Key Rating. Rosemary Paterson, General Manager, accepted the award on behalf of Mr. Salloum.

Following the awards presentations, Rex Murphy, host of CBC Radio’s “Cross County Checkup”, treated dinner attendees to a delightful and humourous keynote address with a distinct hospitality spin and later posed for photos with the award winners.