KHLA - Who We Are

In the News . . . .

Chuck Dedman
Outstanding Hotelier of the Year

Recognized as this year's Outstanding Hotelier of the Year Award was Chuck Dedman of the Beaumont Inn in Harrodsburg, KY. The Outstanding Hotelier Award is named after Garner B. Hanson who set the standards used by the selection committee in determining each year's winner.

Requirements include that the nominee be active in his community working to make his community a better place, that he be active with his family and operate an outstanding hotel.

Chuck and his family has operated the Beaumont Inn for over 90 years. He has been involved in the business since he was a youngster. He is active in his local Chamber of Commerce, his local tourism association and Convention Commission. He is recognized as a leader in his community. The award winner continues the tradition of excellence that is embodied in the Garner B. Hanson Outstanding Hotelier recognition. Congratulations to Chuck Dedman.

Norys Stewart
Housekeeper Star of the Industry Award

A diminutive Norys Stewart of the Sheraton Suites Hotel in Lexington, Kentucky was recognized as a Star of the Industry Award for her outstanding work in housekeeping. She serves as an outstanding mentor to her staff and for inspiration to everyone at the hotel. Bob Desai, President of the Kentucky Hotel & Lodging Associated presented her with the award.

Tara Bundy
Front Desk Star of the Industry Award

Tara Bundy was highlighted as a Star of the Industry for her work at the Front Desk of the Embassy Suites Rivercenter Hotel in Covington, KY. She was cited for her "extra efforts" on behalf of guests of the hotel. Bob Desai, President of the Kentucky Hotel & Lodging Association presented her with the award.

John Russell
Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell
Featured Speaker

John Russell of Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell, an international Marketing, advertising and public relations firm was our featured speaker at the noon luncheon at this year's KH&LA annual meeting. John talked about this great industry and its bright future and announced a new concept he is introducing of loft room hotels. John encouraged all hoteliers with his lighthearted and upbeat presentation.

Mrs. Mark O'Brien
& Daughter
"Spirit of Hospitality"

A SPECIAL AWARD entitled the "Spirit of Hospitality" Award was presented by Gerry VanderMeer to Mrs. Mark O'Brien and her daughter on behalf of the entire hotel industry. Mark passed away earlier this year. H e served his community, his industry, and his family with great devotion and will be missed by his friends and associates

Rosey Berry
Food and Beverage Star of the Industry Award

The Days Inn Conference Center in Bardstown submitted Rosey Berry as their candidate for the Stars of the Industry. Award in Food and Beverage. Rosey has worked at the hotel since its opening and has persevered through several ownership changes. She is recognized for her outstanding work ethic and for her service to guests of the hotel and Kentucky. Bob Desai, President of the Kentucky Hotel & Lodging Association presented her the award.

Kenneth White
Maintenance Star of the Industry Award

Winner of the Stars of the Industry Award for Maintenance was Kenneth White of the Buckhorn State Park Resort. His citation noted that he did it right the first time and always was available to serve the resort guests. Bob Desai, President of the Kentucky Hotel & Lodging Association presented him with the award.