01/25/2025
Wednesday, we held our Annual Awards Banquet. We would like to thank all of our sponsors, The Best Restoration, the University Athletic Association, AC Hotel, Home2Suites, Dave and Buster's, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, Dance Alive, Sweetwater Branch Inn and Dr. Rachel Fu for our wonderful door prizes, Hotel Indigo for providing a beautiful space and wonderful food, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for our desserts!
We would also like to formally congratulate all of those recognized for their contributions during 2024:
Outstanding Host - the host that you feel went above and beyond for a memorable meeting
Winner – We had a tie so we’re awarding both Santa Fe Zoo & Visit Gainesville
Outstanding Guest Speaker – the guest speaker that brought the best information to council members and interacted well with attendees – the Winner is Freddie Wehbe with Spurrier’s Restaurant & Lounge
Karl Kaufmann Spirit of Hospitality - This council member embodies the values and objectives of the Alachua County Hospitality Council. The ideal candidate possess the voice of Hospitality, is knowledgeable of the Alachua County Hospitality Council and its core beliefs, is passionate about the Hospitality Industry, and has a strong network within the community. – Once again, we have a tie so we’re awarding both Carlene Baker & Dean Lockley
Community Service Champion - An Individual or Company within the Alachua County Hospitality Council that represents and actively promotes and/or engages in community service initiatives. This Champion leads and participates in various charitable activities, volunteer programs, and community service outreach efforts on behalf of Alachua County. Our Community Service Champion often works to build strong relationships with local organizations and community leaders to contribute to the betterment of society through various initiatives as well as advocating to local environmental responsibilities – The winner is Natalia Porrata, ACHC Treasurer, Chair of the Community Service Committee & Director of Sales at the Aloft Gainesville
Board Recognized Hospitality Council Leader of the Year – this Individual has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation throughout their tenor on the Board, and has truly made an impact in the hospitality sector by going above and beyond to make sure every aspect of our Board stays on task to promote and support our members and our community. – the winner is Adrienne Pozzetta, University of Florida Athletics Association and outgoing Board Secretary
And lastly, our newly installed Leadership Team for 2025 under President Linda Rocha