The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) has announced its "Tourism Star" award winner and honored four Tourism Pioneers.
Annalee Berry, general manager of Surf House Oyster Bar & Restaurant and The Southerly Biscuit & Pie in Carolina Beach, was awarded the second annual Tourism Star award, according to a news release.
Kim Hufham, president and CEO of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), presented the award to Berry during the CVB’s annual Travel Rally Breakfast on May 11.
The award recognizes hospitality and tourism industry professionals who "exemplify the qualities of selfless spirit of service and leadership in their work experience," officials said in the release. The award was established in 2017 in honor of the late Jane Peterson, the CVB’s first executive director.
As a modern-day leader, Berry stands out as a shining star who goes the extra mile to engage each guest and provide service to visitors, thereby elevating the perception and quality of Pleasure Island and the greater Wilmington destination, officials said.
A graduate of East Carolina University’s Hospitality Management Program, Berry chose to return to and help grow the coastal community she calls home. At the young age of 24, Berry recently became a partner in Coastal South Hospitality Group, where she utilizes her position to develop hospitality professionals in year-round roles.
She is also involved in community activities and organizations such as 40Eats where she advocates for causes through events that showcase the hospitality community.
“Annalee’s leadership and dedication to the industry was pivotal in the creating and development of The Southerly Biscuit & Pie, the first concept for our group. Since opening in November 2017 the restaurant has steadily received praise for its commitment to excellence in hospitality, craft goods and confections,” said Craig Love, CEO of Coastal South Hospitality Group, in the release. “Annalee has worked hard to elevate hospitality for our organization. We would be a shadow of ourselves without her.”
During National Travel and Tourism Week, which is observed annually in early May, the CVB rallies the industry to share the importance of travel and tourism to our economy.
In accordance with this year’s theme, "Travel Then and Now" the CVB also recognized three pioneers of tourism in recognition of their pride and commitment to the industry, officials said in the release.
The recipients of the Tourism Pioneer awards included Bob Jenkins, owner of Wilmington Adventure Walking Tours; Carl Marshburn, owner of Cape Fear Riverboats; and John and Janet Pucci, owners of Springbrook Farms.
“The CVB is honored to recognize industry professionals—past and present—who demonstrate excellence and leadership. The timing to honor three visionary entrepreneurs who started tour and cruise companies during the 1980s proved to be ideal for this year’s National Travel and Tourism Week theme of Travel Then and Now,” Hufham said in the release.
“Without the vision and commitment of these men and women, our industry would not be where we are today. These tourism pioneers played a major role in creating a vibrant riverfront destination that has received numerous accolades, including USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice ‘America’s Best Riverfront’ and TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice ‘Top Destinations on the Rise,'” she added.
