SCHENECTADY TOURISM WINNING STATEWIDE RECOGNITION
The New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association held its “Stars of the Industry” awards ceremony Monday evening, March 10, at the Crowne Plaza in Albany to recognize the exemplary professionalism and the exceptional service of individuals in the hospitality and tourism industry. Proctors Theatre CEO Philip Morris was named Tourism Executive of the Year for 2008.
Morris orchestrated the multi-million dollar renovation and expansion of the 80 year-old vaudeville theatre, revamped programming at Proctors’ multiple venues, which brought 350,000 visitors in 2007, built a power plant that brings low-cost energy to an entire block of downtown, and championed the renaissance of the downtown arts district in Schenectady.
“The Chamber salutes the New York Hospitality & Tourism Association for selecting Philip Morris as the Outstanding Tourism Executive of the Year in New York State,” stated Chuck Steiner, President of the Chamber of Schenectady County. “Philip’s vision and leadership at Proctors has been a catalyst for the renaissance of downtown Schenectady into a significant destination for arts, entertainment and cultural diversity.”
The “Stars of the Industry” awards program also honors front-line and backstage members of the hospitality industry whose contributions and commitment to excellence often go unnoticed. The Schenectady Holiday Inn’s Bridgette Turner was a finalist in the Housekeeper of the Year category.