Finalists were announced for the Service Star and Service Leader awards to be given away at the Tourism Leadership Council’s 18th Annual Tourism Awards and Scholarship Dinner presented by Visit Savannah on Thursday, February 18, 2016 at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center on 1 International Drive. Here are the finalists and what their nominators had to say about them:

2016 Service Star Finalists

Ronald Blue, Valet Attendant, Embassy Suites

Blue is a fixture at the Embassy Suites, a member of the team since the hotel opened in 2014. He is always willing to hop in his car and get items that guests request. He has also been known to bring repeat guests cakes from home. One look at the TripAdvisor page for the Embassy Suites, and it is clear that Blue is a huge reason for the hotel’s success.

Phyllis Durden, Lead Valet, Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport

Phyllis possesses a warm demeanor and an impeccable attention to detail, which is evident to her coworkers. She treats every vehicle as if it were her own, and always pays close attention to flight schedules, calling guests whose flights are delayed to assure them that their cars are ready for their arrival. She also seeks out ways to assist in other areas of airport operations.

John Prevatt, Dining Room Manager, Goose Feathers Café

John is the epitome of Southern Hospitality. An example of one of the ways John goes above and beyond is the following story: He helped a visiting couple jump their car battery. When that did not work, he drove them to the auto parts shop to buy a new one. He then installed the new battery and wished them well on their way home.
 
2016 Service Leader Finalists:

Paige Brown, General Manager, Crystal Beer Parlor

Paige is skilled at creating a work environment for her employees that encourages them to be their best. Guests have complimented her staff with such praise as a "friendly, knowledgeable and efficient" staff that "actually enjoys being there." She has a passion for people that is evident in her leadership.

Kim Chambless, Director of Sales, Hilton Savannah DeSoto

Kim pushes the sales team at the DeSoto to achieve and exceed their goals, leading them to receive the Sales Team of the Year award. She is also a mentor to many of the hotel’s employees, guiding them to rise within the ranks of the hospitality industry.

Sidney Lance, Lead Bartender, Pacci

Sid is a leader amongst his peers, and impresses guests with his homemade BBQ. His personality keeps guests coming back, creating a neighborhood bar environment for residents and visitors alike.