Seven honored for contributions to Sarasota's tourism industry

Seven members of the region’s tourism industry were recently honored with Haley Hall of Fame awards from Visit Sarasota County.

From a field of 40 nominees across seven categories, the award winners represent hospitality, the performing arts, retail and marketing. The awards were presented Nov. 18 at Visit Sarasota County’s second annual Indicators and Insights Summit.

The winners were:

• Watershed Hospitality Concepts, in the Business Excellence category;
• Mary Bensel, the executive director of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, in the Legacy Star category;
• Edith May Perez, of the Ritz-Carlton, in the Rising Star category;
• Phil Trego, of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, in the Volunteer Excellence category;
• Susie Chinn, of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime, in the Front Line Excellence category;
• Myllanna McKinnon, of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, in the Heart of the House Excellence category;
• Juan Carlos Serra Valenzuela, of the Resort at Longboat Key Club, in the Management Excellence category.

“This recognition is truly a testament to the incredible staff, artists, and community partners who make the Van Wezel thrive,” Bensel said. “I am honored to accept the Legacy Star Award on behalf of everyone who believes in the power of the arts to inspire and transform lives. And, to be honored by Virginia Haley only makes it more special.”

The awards were established to honor Virginia Haley, the leader of Visit Sarasota County for 24  years. Visit Sarasota County (VSC) is the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County where tourism is the top industry.