27th annual Howdy Awards honors local hospitality professionals

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The spotlight was on 10 frontline workers in Western Massachusetts for their excellent service Monday night.

Hundreds of people showed up to the 27th Annual Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence held at the MassMutual Center. The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau recognized those in the hospitality industry that went above and beyond in their duties and provided outstanding service to their guests and customers.

Organizers say this contributes to the economic vitality of the businesses they serve and the region. There were 73 finalists heading into this evening’s awards.

“When you think first line service providers are often times the first person a guest will encounter when they come to visit. And we want to make sure that first impression of our region is a good one,” said Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau President, Mary Kay Wydra. “And so by celebrating the people that provide that service we’re doing a service to our vistors, we know are going to get them to come back because they received good treatment.”

Berkshire East Mountain Resort won the Spotlight Award, which recognizes the hospitality industry’s dedication and outstanding contributions. The People’s Choice Award which is driven by social media was also presented to Amedeo’s in Holyoke.

List of winners:

1. Accommodations:
   • Judy Linarez-Gelling
   • Hilton Garden Inn, Springfield Attractions:
2. Attractions:
   • Drew Supernor
   • Springfield Thunderbirds
3. Banquet & Meetings:
   • Brenda Lee Glanville
   • Summit View Banquets, Holyoke
4. Beverage:
   • Brittany Houghton
   • Murphy’s Pub, Agawam
5. Food – Casual:
   • Daniel Whitney
   • Lazer’s Pizza, Ware
6. Food – Tableside
   • Cathy West
   • McCarthy’s Pub, Belchertown
7. Public Service:
   • Cailene Wagner
   • Sister Caritas Cancer Center
   • Mercy Medical Center, Springfield
8. Retail:
   • Helen Baker
   • Baker’s Country Store, Conway
9. Transportation
   • Jóse Lisboa
   • Peter Pan Bus Lines, Springfield
10. Spotlight Winner:
    • Berkshire East Mountain Resort, Charlemont
11. 2024 People’s Choice Winner:
    • Elliot Castellano, Amedeo’s, Holyoke

Kayleigh Thomas is a digital reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X @kayleighcthomas and view her bio to see more of her work.