FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 16, 2008

Media Contact: Andrea Miller
Phone: 517-267-8989
Email: andreah@michiganhotel

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich—Bill Matthews, Sous Chef of Sweetwater American Bistro and the Clubhouse Grille at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, near Traverse City was presented with the 2008 Culinary Star of the Year Award by the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association. The award was presented during the Stars of the Industry Dinner on Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids.

For over eight years, Bill has been working at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa. He has stepped up and helped whenever needed; his optimistic attitude makes him an excellent leader but at the same time, very team oriented. Bill continues to heighten guest satisfaction and service to the next level, no matter the request, Bill does everything in his power to meet guests’ expectations.  Bill is an all around five star team player. He always focuses on providing the highest possible food service and quality for the customer.  Bill displays the essence of teamwork and his positive winning attitude makes him an outstanding team.

The dinner concluded a two-day Michigan Lodging and Tourism Conference, "Driving Tourism 2008." The two-day event was held by the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association, Travel Michigan and Michigan State University. The Conference included many seminars related to this industry as well as an expanded trade show.

The Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association is a 100 year old trade association which represents, promotes and educates Michigan’s lodging industry. For more information on this exciting event, please visit http://www.michiganhotels.org or call (517) 267-8989.

DOWNLOADABLE PHOTO:  http://www.picturemichigan.com/mlta/media/images/2407.jpg   (l-r) Rick Winn of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel & Convention Chair looks on as Bill Matthews receives his Star of the Industry Award from Michigan State University Head Basketball Coach Tom Izzo.