Extraordinary employees take top honors at 35th MCHA Hospitality Recognition Lunch

The 2024 awards spotlight excellence in guest service, safety, longevity and teamwork

MONTEREY, Calif., Nov. 6, 2024 – Nearly 600 people celebrated local hospitality employees and their community impact at the 35th annual MCHA Hospitality Recognition Lunch. Nine standout professionals received special awards during the November 6 event, which was hosted by the Monterey County Hospitality Association (MCHA).

Each year, the gathering recognizes line staffers and hourly supervisors from small inns, large hotels, restaurants, golf courses, wineries, attractions and other visitor-serving businesses. In an era of expanding technology use, the county’s 26,000+ hospitality employees forge personal connections that make this region more welcoming for both travelers and residents.

“These wonderful professionals extend warmth and kindness and generosity towards guests. They create an environment that fosters connections between people. They make us who we are as a community, and they make this a place that visitors want to return to,” says 2024 event chair Marion Abaunza.

As general manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Monterey, Abaunza nominated an employee who won this year’s Supervisor Award. She calls Arturo Hernandez, a cook who has been with the hotel for 18 years, friendly, creative, and a lifesaver who goes above and beyond for his team.

"I am touched by his dedication to the hotel," Abaunza says. "When you work somewhere for 18 years, people might forget all the little things you do each day. The MCHA Hospitality Recognition Lunch reminds employees that we recognize and appreciate all their hard work.”

This year’s event attendees also honored Edgar Reyes of the Fishwife Restaurant, the 2024 Papa Vince winner. Named for the late Romualdo Vicente, a former Sardine Factory bartender and the award’s first recipient, the prize goes to an individual who excels in service, teamwork, community-mindedness and career dedication.

“Professionals like these are the heart of the hospitality industry. They power many of the restaurants, attractions and retailers that make this such a great place to live, and they take great pride in their work,” says Kristin Horton, MCHA executive director. “As an industry, we’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions.”

MCHA recognized more than 500 employees during the 2024 Hospitality Recognition Lunch and handed out these top awards:

PAPA VINCE AWARD
Edgar Reyes (a server for 30+ years with Fishwife Restaurant, including 6 years at this location) earned the prestigious Papa Vince Award for his exceptional skills, genuine enthusiasm for hospitality, and commitment to creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for guests and coworkers. Edgar's unwavering dedication to providing friendly, attentive and professional service has given him a loyal customer following, and those repeat guests strengthen the sense of community within the restaurant. His glowing customer reviews praise his attentiveness, professionalism and personality. Edgar is also a supportive and reliable team member who inspires others with his work ethic and cheerful attitude. He leads by example, making the business stronger while elevating the standards of service across the entire team.

FOCUS ON GUEST EXPERIENCE AWARDS
Juan Morales (24 years with Post Ranch Inn, currently a houseman) works hard behind the scenes to understand guests' likes, dislikes and allergies as he stocks mini bars. He's also quick to cover turndown duties or haul firewood to the treehouses, if needed. In addition to inspiring his coworkers, he’s also a model for his children. Three of them followed in his footsteps and now also work at Post Ranch Inn.

Adela Gamboa (14+ years with Candle Light Inn, currently a housekeeper) is an exceptional team member known for her selflessness, attention to detail, versatility and tireless work ethic. She seamlessly transitions between properties when needed, rarely calls in sick, and steps up to cover shifts and support coworkers without hesitation. Her team calls her "the quiet strength behind our success."

Jose Tena (34 Years with Monterey Peninsula Country Club, currently chief cart mechanic) brings integrity, a can-do attitude, exceptional skills and a treasured smile to his work with members and colleagues. Outside of work, he is a soccer coach, mentor and devoted family man who loves planning camping adventures at San Antonio Lake.

SUPERVISOR AWARD
Arturo Hernandez (18 years with Hilton Garden Inn, currently a cook) is a quiet leader, talented chef and creative problem solver. When the property's executive chef retired after 23 years, Arturo filled in for months – placing orders, planning menus, taking on extra shifts, and even presenting hand-crafted display trays for a grand opening celebration. His GM calls him "an irreplaceable part of our team."

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Monica Kim (5 years with the Wayside Inn, currently a front desk agent) is a shining example of service, whether she's picking up extra shifts, greeting valued guests, or volunteering. She supports individuals with neurodivergent diagnoses through her work with In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), and she assisted seniors and helped provide free covid testing across several counties in past volunteer roles. Monica also helps children with severe developmental disabilities through her work as a behavioral therapist.

HEART OF THE HOUSE AWARD
Paula Ellis (5 years with the Monterey Marriott, currently senior administrative assistant for the engineering department) consistently demonstrates exceptional organizational skills, reliability, positivity and overall excellence. When the team lacked consistent leadership for two years, Paula stepped in to lead the department while also providing front-line support for the entire engineering staff.

EFFECTIVE TEAM PLAYER AWARD
Roberta Martinez (28 years with Pebble Beach Company, currently an in-room dining server) gets praised for her unwavering team commitment, spectacular guest service and meticulous attention to detail. She recently stayed beyond her shift to help coworkers fill orders and finish cleaning – despite missing the window to pick up her car from the mechanic and facing a mile walk home in the dark. (When the work wrapped up, a manager volunteered to drive her home.)

HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Carl Smith (16 years with the Hyatt Regency Monterey, currently a food server) goes above and beyond to serve hotel guests and support not only his own family, but also other children in need of a stable, loving home. His coworkers call him a "fantastic humanitarian, incredible server and unique human being," and guests go out of their way to stop by and see him.