The Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA) recently honored several Warwick residents and hospitality professionals at its "Stars of the Industry" Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony, which took place at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence. The Stars of the Industry Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of members of the hospitality, foodservice and tourism industries. Award recipients were chosen not only for their dedication and contributions to their careers, but for their involvement in their local communities. Pictured, RIHA Vice Chairman Stephen Marra helps present Steve Hinger – who owns Drum Rock Products based in Warwick – the Vendor of the Year Award along with RIHA President and CEO Dale Venturini.

Also honored at the event were James Rudi Heater, former general manager of the Crown Plaza Hotel, who won the Unsung Hero Award; Sandy Pacheco, housekeeping supervisor at the Residence Inn, who was named Hotel Employee of the Year; Lori Zabetta, the director of Banquet and Catering Sales for Chelo's, who was named Catering Employee of the Year; Jessica Caparco, the marketing manager for the Providence Warwick Conventions and Visitors Bureau, who was named a Tourism Employee of the Year; and Susan Folco, the tourism and development coordinator for the City of Warwick Arts, Culture and Tourism Department, who was also named a Tourism Employee of the Year.