Our hospitality workers are everyday heroes who go above and beyond to help others, especially in times of crisis. Whether they work in hotels, restaurants, shops, or other attractions, they’re often the first faces guests see. Hospitality workers put their best foot forward to warmly welcome out-of-town guests and residents alike. HoCo is showing its gratitude for them and everything they do because their work is critical to our community and they deserve to be celebrated!
Check back often as more HoCo Gratitude spotlight workers are added throughout the year!
Gerald Jordan @ 
Deputy Director, Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts
Gerald has been with CCTA for nearly 10 years!
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"My favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry is the impact that we have on both the kids and the community. It lasts longer than the time we are with them. It allows us to make a lasting impact on not only them but their families. Seeing them realize and recognize their talent and discover a confidence in themselves that they did not know they had will always be the greatest reward. We tell them from start to finish that they are stars and all we need is for them to believe in themselves. The rest takes care of itself."
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"We always strive to give the children everything we can. Our objective is to teach them skills that transcend the stage that helps them develop as people whether they are in front of an audience or not. These programs are an investment in their futures and we will do anything we can to help them."
Mike Foster @ 
Facilities Manager, Savage Mill
Mike Foster has been at Savage Mill for nearly 20 years!
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"Growing up in Savage, The Mill was always an important part of my life so being able to care for the buildings and its visitors helps me feel like I'm doing something for the community that has done so much for me."
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"When you spend so much time working with the public it's important to remember that a short interaction with someone can have a big impact. It's nice knowing that sometimes it only takes something small to make someone's day and I hope that they take that little bit of kindness and pass it on to the next person they meet."
Aaron Porter @ 
Server, The Walrus Oyster & Ale House
Aaron has been at the Walrus for 1 year
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"The guests! I enjoy all the daily different interactions, connections and personalities."
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"I would love for guests to know that working in the hospitality industry can be rewarding and challenging but you can make long-lasting relationships with your peers and guests as well! I have no regrets about entering the hospitality industry. Working for Star Restaurant Group has truly groomed me in many ways!"
Candace Manos @ 
Studio Coordinator & Instructing Artist, Pinot's Palette
Candace has been with Pinot's Palette for over 6 years!
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"I’ve always loved interacting with people. My background in theater as a stage manager really helped me develop a passion for communication and ultimately customer service. Working with Pinot’s Palette inspired me to seek a certificate in hospitality and event management."
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"My motto is to treat people how you’d like to be treated, and I uphold that sentiment when communicating with our customers. I think communication is extremely important and when we communicate effectively great things can happen. "
John Hinzman @ 
Project Consultant, The Vertical Connection
John has been with The Vertical Connection for 2 years.
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"Getting to meet new people every day and helping them make their homes beautiful!"
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"That this is a profession. I am licensed and have been through countless hours of professional education."
Sally Weatherholt @ 
Kitchen Supervisor @ Hudson Coastal Raw Bar & Grille
Sally was the first person hired when Hudson Coastal opened in 2017!
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"My favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry is being part of a team that works so well together under pressure to ensure that our customers have a great time and wonderful meal."
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"I want customers to know we enjoy hearing positive feedback. If you enjoy your meal, we are doing our jobs well.."
Dania Lopez @ 
Lead Event Coordinator @ Main Event Entertainment
Dania has been at Main Event for a year and a half.
What is your favorite thing about working in the hospitality industry?
"The impact I make through Interactions with individuals to create that long lasting memory with them as life is short"
What do you want your customers to know about working in hospitality?
"It is truly a pleasure to have my impactful moments shared with our guests as it helps me grow internal and professionally."
