Stars of the Industry

This award recognizes a heart of the house employee who goes above and beyond to help the operation run smoothly and exemplifies dependability, teamwork and dedication to the industry.

Jorge Garcia, Banquet Set-Up Houseman, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sonoma Wine Country

Jorge Garcia has been working as the Banquet Set-up Houseman for the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sonoma Wine Country in Rohnert Park for 23 years. He sets up, tears down, and resets for all the indoor and outdoor meetings and convention events. In addition, he sets dance floors, risers, and stages. Often, he has to turn a full ballroom set for dinner for 500 people into three separate meeting spaces with three different set-ups ready for group meetings early the following morning. Jorge has located missing items for guests, assisted with luggage, and even provided housekeeping duties when the hotel was short-staffed. Jorge goes above and beyond and always gets the job done.

Kim Navarro, Skating Director, Snoopy’s Home Ice

Given that Kim Navarro began ice skating at the age of 3 at Snoopy’s Home Ice, it’s fitting that she is now an enthusiastic and passionate instructor who brings her years of professional skating experience back to the rink where it all started. Kim is committed to providing fun, creative and engaging programming for every level of skater or spectator who goes to Snoopy’s. Her team spirit has created a warm, inviting, and welcoming environment for team members and visitors alike. Kim exemplifies dependability and teamwork. She is a special team member and her contribution to the community is invaluable.

Eddie Poli, Director of Engineering, Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country

As Director of Engineering, Eddie Poli is not only the embodiment of dedication and commitment to excellence, but he also has the rare ability to foster a sense of camaraderie among his team. He leads by example, inspiring co-workers to strive for excellence and to go above and beyond for hotel guests. Under Eddie’s guidance, the engineering department operates like a well-oiled machine. Eddie’s calm demeanor and quick thinking have saved the day on numerous occasions, earning him the admiration and respect of both his colleagues and hotel guests. His commitment to providing excellent customer service sets him apart as a true asset to the team.

This award recognizes an individual who has worked in the industry for under five years and has shown a passion for or dedication to the world of hospitality. This individual’s hard work and talent has bettered their workplace and business output and is destined for great things within the hospitality industry.

Chantal LaRochelle, Assistant General Manager, The Stavrand Russian River Valley

Even before she became the Assistant General Manager, Chantal LaRochelle showed her team spirit and leadership abilities by rolling up her sleeves and assisting maintenance and the short-staffed housekeeping team to ensure rooms were ready for guests. Chantal was hired during Covid, and in her capacity at the front desk, she worked hard to make sure the guest experience was always seamless and enjoyable. As the Assistant General Manager, Chantal has worked tirelessly to create policies and procedures for daily shift checklists, liability waivers for guests, and an emergency procedure manual. Her dedication to her job, to the industry, and to guests make her an amazing leader and role model.

Cheyenne Pinner, Marketing Manager, Montage Healdsburg

Since joining Montage Healdsburg as a Sales & Marketing Coordinator in 2021, Cheyenne Pinner has displayed remarkable growth and dedication. During the last three years, she has made significant contributions, leading her to win Employee of the Quarter in 2022 and further leading to her promotion to Marketing Manager later that same year. Cheyenne has not only played a pivotal role in the success of Montage Healdsburg but has also left an enduring impact on the entire Montage International Company. A multi-tasking marketing machine with a keen editorial eye for detail, her diligence, patience, and commitment stand as a testament to her invaluable contributions to the team.

Katieanne Robidou, Sales Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Rosa

Katieanne Robidou has shown herself to be extremely proactive and self-motivated in her new role as Hotel Sales Manager. In a short three months, Katieanne has reviewed the hotel website and plans to update and refresh outdated information and photos. In an effort to learn all she can in her hospitality sales role, she eagerly participated in a LinkedIn training program. She also attended the CalSAE Seasonal Spectacular trade show in Sacramento as a partner with the Sonoma County Tourism booth. Katieanne’s enthusiasm and commitment to increasing exposure and sales for Courtyard Marriott clearly make her a welcome new addition to the hotel’s capable team.

This award recognizes a hospitality business that has developed a culture toward integrating environmentally sustainable practices within everyday operations.

DaVero Farms & Winery

DaVero Farms & Winery epitomizes the essence of sustainability, regenerative farming, and quality green practices in Sonoma County. The farm’s commitment to sustainability is deeply engrained in every facet of its operation. From biodynamic farming methods to eco-friendly winemaking processes, the winery prioritizes environmental stewardship to ensure the longevity of the land and the health of the community. The winery’s tasting experiences offer a glimpse into DaVero’s holistic approach to farming, showcasing the connection between soil health, grape quality, and wine flavor. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the beauty of the farm, surrounded by organic gardens and lush vineyards. DaVero has an unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship paired with a commitment to craft exceptional wines.

Sonoma County Farm Trails

Sonoma County Farm Trails is a nonprofit organization that has worked for five decades to promote farmers and educate the public about the importance of supporting local agriculture. Its mission is to “ensure the continuing economic viability of Sonoma County agriculture by instilling an appreciation of ag as a vital part of the community/lifestyle.” The organization set a goal to be 95% zero waste during its 50th anniversary year fundraiser, the Gravenstein Apple Fair, and achieved it! Zero-waste stations among other sustainable practices resulted in 14,500 people attending the weekend celebration and generating only three cubic yards of trash – the equivalent of the bed of a small pickup truck.

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

For more than five decades, sustainability has been a guiding principle for St. Francis Winery & Vineyards. The winery, named after the patron saint of the natural environment, has remained committed to responsibly producing the highest caliber wines from vineyards throughout Sonoma County since its founding. As a Certified California Sustainable Vineyard and Winery, it is guided by three core pillars of sustainability: environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability. These principles inform every aspect of the daily operations as the winery strives to offer exceptional wines and delicacies sourced from the heart of Sonoma County, all while ensuring the preservation of this cherished region for future generations.

This award recognizes a hospitality organization that offers exceptional service creating a customer-centric environment, creates goodwill among guests, actively engages their customers in their business or brand, and/or elevates the visitor experience.

Occidental Community Farmers Market

At the Occidental Community Farmers Market customers are greeted with locally sourced products straight from the hands of dedicated farmers and artisans. Customers can engage directly with the producers, fostering a sense of connection and community. Whether inquiring about farming practices, seeking cooking tips, or simply exchanging pleasantries, these interactions add depth and meaning to the shopping experience. It's not just about buying goods; it's about forging relationships and learning from those who dedicate their lives to cultivating the land. The market cultivates an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. Live music and cooking demonstrations create a lively and inviting ambiance, where shoppers can socialize with vendors and neighbors alike. This sense of belonging transforms the act of shopping into a cherished ritual, drawing customers back time and time again.

Reed Between the Lines Escape Rooms

Reed Between the Lines was opened in 2017 in Rohnert Park and was the first escape room to open in Sonoma County. Reed Between the Lines encourages every customer to embrace the child within them, and to have fun solving puzzles with their friends and family. The staff is enthusiastic, the owner is flexible with customers' needs, and the experience offered is truly fun. Reed Between the Lines regularly donates gift cards to community organizations that raise funds for schools and organizations in need. Reed is also ADA accessible. Reed Between the Lines helps encourage every customer, whether local or tourist, to have fun every day.

Russian River Adventures

Russian River Adventures has been providing Bay Area residents, as well as thousands of visitors to the region, with the finest outdoor river adventures for 23 years. It was created by founder Larry Laba who designed and produced SOAR Inflatable Canoes. Having moved to Healdsburg in 1998, Larry felt the pull of the seldom-visited Russian River downstream of Healdsburg with its clean, fresh abundant water coming into the Russian River from Dry Creek. He has assembled a team of enthusiastic women and men to provide customers with everything for safe, fun, self-guided and self-paced outdoor adventures. The whole experience with Russian River Adventures flows as easily and gently as the river itself on a summer's day.

This award recognizes a Sonoma County lodging property that exemplifies excellence and elevates the visitor experience.

AutoCamp Russian River

As an affordable, family- and dog-friendly property, AutoCamp Russian River has attracted a new type of traveler to Sonoma County since its debut in 2016. Surrounded by Sonoma redwoods, the basecamp is ideally positioned between the Russian River and Guerneville. It’s perfect for those interested in water sports, outdoor activities, and wine tastings. Blending the traditional elements of sleeping under the stars, with the service and design-forward thinking of a boutique hotel, the property creates a unique experience that encourages guests to immerse themselves in nature – without sacrificing the comforts of high-end accommodations. As a partner of Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, AutoCamp donates to the organizations’ volunteer, educational, and stewardship programs.

Farmhouse Inn

As a standout establishment in Sonoma County, Farmhouse Inn is a testament to excellence, offering an unparalleled visitor experience, rooted in a rich history that exemplifies quintessential Wine Country charm. Originally functioning as a working farm, it underwent a transformative evolution into a celebrated Michelin-starred country inn. Farmhouse Inn now features sumptuous barn rooms, a rejuvenating spa, a pool and hot tub, lush garden, guest hiking trails, and numerous amenities. The menu at the inn’s restaurant celebrates Sonoma County's local bounty, and the wine program is nothing short of extraordinary. Showcasing the finest wines of Sonoma and Napa, the program’s thoughtfully curated partnerships allow guests to savor a symphony of exceptional wine brands – all under one roof.

Olea Hotel

Situated along the hillside of Sonoma Valley, Olea Hotel is a naturally spacious retreat that attracts wine enthusiasts from all over the country. Surrounded by oak and olive trees, the Sonoma Valley hotel features a beautiful terrace with outdoor furnishings overlooking the valley. The rooms are beautiful, modern and have great amenities. The staff treats guests like family and go out of their way to ensure they have the most wonderful and memorable stay. Guests are greeted warmly and there is wine, coffee, tea and water offered in the lobby. Visitors return again and again for the exceptional organic, gourmet breakfasts. It's a true gem tucked away in beautiful Glen Ellen.

This award recognizes a hospitality business that gives back to the community through philanthropy, and/or partnership with local non-profit organizations.

The Backdrop

The Backdrop, at its core, is a hospitality business focused entirely on community enrichment; offering a venue that fosters organic connections to others in the industry. The 20,000-foot indoor/outdoor state-of-the-art event venue is a dedicated partner to the nonprofit Becoming Independent (BI), a group that has been providing critical services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and helping them live meaningful and productive lives for more than 50 years. As a vocational training ground, The Backdrop offers people served at BI, who have an interest in working within Sonoma County’s growing hospitality field, an opportunity to build and hone their skills through professional event services. All of The Backdrop event fees go directly to BI to enhance their services.

Los Tres Chiles

Los Tres Chiles is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Santa Rosa's Bennett Valley neighborhood that has given generously to the local community for many years. The restaurant hosts countless Dine & Donate events for local schools, teams, churches and even organizations that aren't in the immediate neighborhood. Los Tres Chiles encourages local nonprofits to fill out a Dine & Donate request form and regularly provides authentic Mexican food to nonprofit groups at a generous discount. Los Tres Chiles not only makes delicious food, but it is also a true community partner.

Out In The Vineyard

Out In The Vineyard is much more than an experiential Wine Country tour and event company offering exclusive itineraries to the discerning gay and lesbian traveler. It’s a shining example of combining passion for community, inclusivity, and philanthropy. Through its commitment to supporting nonprofits such as Face to Face and Positive Images, Out In The Vineyard has not only showcased the beauty of the region, but also provided much-needed assistance to the LGBTQ+ community. By organizing Gay Wine Weekend and Pink Sonoma, Out In The Vineyard has helped raise over $500,000 for these LGBTQ+ nonprofits. The company’s dedication to giving back to the community where it operates demonstrates a holistic approach to business and social responsibility.

This award recognizes any campaign, program, tour, publication, event or other activity that is the result of a partnership between two businesses or organizations that shared resources to promote a common tourism experience or product.

Charles M. Schulz Museum and Russian River Brewing Company

The Russian River Brewing Company has been a corporate partner of the Charles M. Schulz Museum for the past ten years. Along with financial donations, the Russian River Brewing Company and its proprietors, Natalie and Vinnie Cilurzo, have generously donated beer to multiple museum events and special programs. The company also had two beloved Peanuts statues. Peppermint Patty and Marcie, restored and placed at its Windsor tasting room and restaurant. The company continues to support the community in so many ways with its award-winning beer and generosity. This partnership goes above and beyond what could ever be expected in a partnership.

Phase Clé Events

Phase Clé Events was the lead partner for the third annual French Winter Market in Old Courthouse Square in downtown Santa Rosa in 2023. Vendor attendance by 36% and visitors to downtown Santa Rosa increased by 60% year over year during the festival. Not only did this lift the Francophile culture in the region, but it also increased the visibility of local businesses in the area. Phase Clé Events prides itself in offering highly tailored experiences ranging from private tours for a few guests, to major events with several hundred participants. The staff goes above and beyond and delivers everything promised and then some!

Windsor Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center

The Windsor Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center partnered with more than 20 local businesses to create a social media campaign, with the goal to increase visibility and followers. The center donated gift certificates and experiences for a packaged giveaway for participants. Not only did the campaign receive more than 100 entries, but it also brought more visibility to the entire Windsor community and communicated that it’s a desirable community to visit. This Destination Windsor Instagram contest was especially successful for businesses like Hampton Inn and Suites, which grew its social media followers from 378 to 570. Grata Italian Eatery went from 2,604 followers to 2,735.

This award recognizes an individual or organization who has supported, championed, or advocated for the Sonoma County hospitality industry.

Aphrodite Caserta, Director of Marketing and Communications, Safari West

For more than 20 years, Aphrodite Caserta has steadfastly marketed and supported Safari West and the community of Sonoma County. She is a long-time board member of the Sonoma County Lodging Association, now the Sonoma County Hospitality Association. Aphrodite skillfully connects with people on a personal level, and develops media relationships on a local, state, and national level to the benefit of both Sonoma and Napa counties. She is active in her community, and has participated in the success of countless events and programs on regional and state levels, always with a smile. Aphrodite is "a star" and a very hard worker who always gets the job done.

Jennifer Good, Business Development Manager, ETHOS Event Collective

Jennifer Good has both passion and determination when it comes to selling Sonoma County as a destination. She has made it her mission to discover all that is Sonoma County hospitality and to uncover some beautiful hidden gems. In her capacity at ETHOS Northern California, she orchestrates everything from grand-scale corporate events, to spearheading social responsibility initiatives. Jennifer utilizes her wealth of knowledge in hotel operations and sales to sell and promote Sonoma in her own unique and fun way. Large or small, she consistently delivers. Whether it's by phone or Zoom, or in person at a tradeshow or conference, Jennifer is a trusted ally to Sonoma County.

Douglas Keane, Chef/Owner, Cyrus

Douglas Keane set out to effect real change in the restaurant industry with the reopening of his fine dining restaurant Cyrus in Geyserville. Cyrus has structured pay so that every employee earns at least $65,000 per year. With tips split between front and back of house, everyone makes more than that. Cross-training of staff allows the restaurant to cut down on the total number of staff. Cyrus’ employees also enjoy a 4-day workweek, three weeks of vacation per year, health insurance assistance, dental and vision. Douglas' hope is that by leading by example, others might be inspired to find ways to make hospitality take as much care of its employees as the guests it serves.

This award recognizes any campaign, program, tour, publication, event or other activity produced by a Sonoma County Visitor Center that has enhanced the visitor experience.

Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center

The Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce has operated a Visitor Center for more than 43 years. It provides brochures, maps, and general tourism information for visitors about the northernmost town in Sonoma County.  The center also promotes county and regional events throughout the area. Events are promoted via the website and include robust offerings from a monthly Cloverdale Wine Walk and annual Car & Motorcycle Show to more general suggestions for things to do when visiting the city that is framed by oak-studded rolling hills, vineyards, and small farms.

Petaluma Visitors Program

The Petaluma Visitors Program is located in one of the city’s historic landmarks, the Petaluma Train Depot, and is also near the SMART train platform that serves Sonoma and Marin counties. It offers a variety of resource materials and information and serves as a welcoming presence to hundreds of thousands of visitors. The center’s knowledgeable staff and volunteers are fully engaged and dedicated to providing a phenomenal and memorable visitor experience. It also offers a robust website, an annual Visitor Magazine and exceptional service from staff and volunteers who are proficient in English, French, Spanish, and German.

Russian River Chamber Visitors Center

The Russian River Chamber Visitors Center is the largest visitor center serving the unincorporated lower Russian River area. It serves as a resource for directing and driving visitors, tourists, and Sonoma County locals to patronize local businesses and activities. It serves both Bay Area visitors and the California fly markets. It provides multiple services including walk-in and call services, website, weekly newsletter, and an events calendar. Events including Parade of Lights, Night Market and Feast Above the River are posted on the website and via social media channels. The center is proud to promote its diverse activities in the region from horseback riding to whale watching, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking in towering redwoods.

This award recognizes a Sonoma County Visitor Center volunteer or staff member who provides an exceptional experience for visitors.

Pam Higley, California Welcome Center/Visit Santa Rosa

Pam Higley has worked in the hospitality industry for many years in various capacities including event planning and operations. She is a skilled and experienced tour coordinator who brings her theater background to her various tour guide roles, and never fails to entertain. Pam enjoys creating experiences for visitors and always thinks outside the box. Whether it’s on foot, in a kayak, on a bike or even a Segway, Pam can tailor a one-of-a-kind adventure. She is the queen of using maps to help visitors know where to go and what to see along the way. Pam shares her love and passion for the industry. She truly is the best!

Diane & Dennis Mitchell, Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau

Diane and Dennis Mitchell are the wonder duo of the Friday morning Sonoma Plaza shift, showing up without fail to work the cart out in front of the historic Carnegie library building and answer questions as mundane as where the bathrooms are, to the more esoteric, like how to find the grave of an ancestor at the cemetery. They hand out maps and guides, talk up the Friday morning market, and make sure to greet everyone walking by with a smile. Dennis fills up the boxes around the Plaza with Sonoma Valley Visitor Guides, while Diane holds court with the various characters who make the Plaza their daily living room. They are committed and devoted to welcoming visitors.