The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA) recently celebrated the outstanding accomplishments, service, and leadership of IHLA member hotel employees in the hospitality and lodging industry at its annual Stars of the Industry Events. Awards were presented in 11 different categories to individuals from the Central Illinois, Chicago and Suburban Chicago regions. IHLA is a not-for-profit trade association that represents the lodging industry in Illinois, and members of this organization who attended these events are responsible for welcoming millions of visitors to Illinois each year.
The Stars of the Industry award ceremonies recognize those who go above and beyond and whose incredible hard work, dedication, attentiveness, and genuine kindness towards both guests and fellow colleagues is an inspiration to their peers. The Stars of the Industry Central Illinois Regional Luncheon was held on October 25 and the Stars of the Industry Chicagoland Regional Luncheon, which featured a welcome speech by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was held on November 1.
The State Stars of the Industry & Membership Holiday Luncheon will be held on December 14 at Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Mag Mile, where winners from the regional level will compete for State level awards. Steve Baskerville, meteorologist/weather anchor for CBS Chicago 2, will be the emcee. The IHLA will also be collecting gently used, or new, winter coats, scarves and mittens at the luncheon for those in need as part of their annual Cold Hands, Warm Hearts donation program. In Conjunction with the Chicago Police Department Community Relations Division and Domestic Violence Programs, these items will be distributed to those in need.