Two from Eureka Springs win state hospitality awards

Katelyn Jerrell, marketing and communications manager for the Eureka Springs City Advertising and Promotions Commission, was named the state’s Tourism Employee of the Year during the Arkansas Hospitality Association’s annual awards presentation earlier this month.

In addition, Randy Wolfinbarger, owner of the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks was honored with the “Golden Key Award,” given to a hotel owner or group in the state that “exemplifies excellence in lodging, creating an outstanding team, atmosphere, and hospitality experience.”

Jerrell and Wolfinbarger were honored during the AHA’s annual Stars of the Industry Awards Gala held Thursday, Oct. 15, at Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff.

“It’s truly an honor to receive an award for something that comes so naturally to me,” Jerrell said. “Eureka Springs holds such a special place in my heart, making it easy to put in the work and share the beauty of this town and community to others.

“Although my name is on the award, I’d like to hold space for everyone on my team. They put so much heart, time, and energy into making Eureka Springs known. I’m grateful for each of them ... and I thank God for the opportunity to share our slice of paradise to the world.”

Other nominees for tourism employee of the year included Grace Peppler with DogWood Hills Guest Farm, Rick Gollinger with Gaston’s White River Resort, Traci Berry with Visit Hot Springs and Holland Hayden with the Amazeum.

Wolfinbarger was one of five finalists for the Golden Key Award.

Other finalists included Mark and Rhonda McMurry with The Reserve at Hot Springs, Andy Patel with Span Hospitality, Charles Cella with Oaklawn Hot Springs and Nick Roye with Comfort Inn and Suites Presidential in Little Rock.

While Jerrell and Wolfinbarger took home awards, Eureka Springs was honored with nominees in six of the 15 categories, representing a broad range of Arkansas’ hospitality and tourism industry.

The CAPC was one of five nominees for the Pinnacle of Promotion award, joining award winner Experience Fayetteville and nominees Little Rock Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and convention and visitors bureaus from Russellville and Conway.

Jeff Clements, executive chef of Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave, was one of five finalists for the award of Restaurant/Bar Employee of the Year. Cody Roberts with Basin Park Hotel was one of five nominees for Tourism Manager of the Year.

In addition, Tanya Smith, co-founder and president of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, was one of five finalists for the Silver Cup Award.

“This year’s nominees represent hospitality professionals, organizations, and industry leaders from across Arkansas who go above and beyond to strengthen our industry and make a difference in communities across the state,” according to AHA.

“The annual event brings together hospitality professionals from across the state to celebrate the people and organizations who help make Arkansas a destination for visitors and a place where guests feel welcomed.”