Ten individuals who serve as role models within the hospitality industry in Lebanon County were recognized by Visit Lebanon Valley at its second annual Hospitality Star Awards ceremony on Thursday, May 9.
The Hospitality Star Awards, presented by Visit Lebanon Valley and hosted at the St. James Players Theatre in the Lebanon Valley Mall, were established to celebrate individuals who provide exceptional customer service and representation of the area.
The recipients of the 2024 Hospitality Star Awards, who were nominated by their employers or their clients, are:
- Karen Barnhart of Kenbrook Bible Camp
- Christy Barzona of Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
- Becky Briody of Chef on the Go
- Ryan Fretz of Ryan Fretz Arts
- Cory Hughes of Sinkhole Saloon & Grille
- Jamie LaFleur of Lebanon Valley Craft Brewery
- Antonio Lambakis of Buddy’s Breakfast & Lunch
- Dwayne Spencer of Timeless Café
- Michael Weber of Cornwall Iron Furnace
- Chef Brian Peffley and his pastry arts students from the Lebanon County Career & Technology Center
“The individuals highlighted at this ceremony have an exceptional commitment to customer service that not only encourages people to return to the Valley, but that helps our businesses and communities to flourish as well,” said Visit Lebanon Valley president Jennifer Kuzo.
With the Hospitality Star Awards, Visit Lebanon Valley also strives to support the hospitality industry and the positive effects it has on Lebanon County.
In 2022, people who were visiting the county spent $296.4 million on lodging, food and beverage, recreation, retail, and other related categories, according to the Tourism Economic Report from the Pennsylvania Office of Tourism.
“This figure is up 12% from the 2021 report for Lebanon County and clearly shows that tourism is a significant economic driver that injects millions of dollars into our economy every year,” added Kuzo.
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