The award for the Chicagoland hotelier who takes service to the next level went to Patrick Donelly, general manager, Hyatt Regency Chicago (shown at left, with Sirott and Murciano). “Patrick has been instrumental in bringing some of the highest level and most important business to Chicago. He is generous both with financial support and his time to make sure our city always puts its best foot forward and highlights its first-class facilities and service. He has the ability to bring the industry together to work as a team to benefit the entire city and community. Patrick has informal meetings with all of the general managers in the city, and welcomes each and every new GM. He takes personal responsibility to be in his lobby greeting individual travelers, as well as VIP meeting planners, with the same gracious hospitality warmth that make his employees love serving with him.”

This award went to the restaurateur who exemplifies hospitality and is a positive representative of the local culinary scene: John Colletti, managing partner, Gibson's Restaurant Group (shown at left, with Murciano and Sirott). “John demonstrates relentless energy when it comes to supporting Chicago and the hospitality community. He has our respect and support as we know he is passionate and sincere in representing our great culinary city. He is generous and humble and deserving of this recognition.”

The award for the meetings or trade show executive who assists in elevating the industry went to John Patronski, executive vice president–industry development, Global Experience Specialists (shown at left, with Murciano and Sirott). “John serves on all industry leadership organizations and has been producing trade shows for 35 years plus. John strives to promote and improve our industry. His knowledge is exceptional and he is always willing to lend a helping hand! He is efficient, tactful, and somehow manages to leave everyone smiling.”

This award went to the corporation or association whose event or meeting best gave back to the local community: Susan Katz, director of corporate events & travel, True Value Inc. (shown at left, with Murciano and Sirott). “Through Susan’s leadership True Value Inc.'s exhibitors donated items from their booths to Habitat For Humanity. Over 17 semi trucks full of donated items (over $200,000 worth of goods) were gathered, packed, and transported by volunteers."

All the winners, plus some fans. from left to right: Cindy Payne; Patrick Donelly; Susan Katz; John Patronski; Deborah Sexton, president and CEO of PCMA; John Colletti; and Don Welsh, president and CEO of Choose Chicago.

Ray Kopcinski, CMP, chair of the PCMA board of directors,  and senior director, Million Dollar Round Table, is spotted in the audience.