RIHA Anchors Awards Celebrate Hospitality

The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) hosted the Anchors awards on Jan. 15 at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort, replacing its annual Stars of the Industry awards. The newly revamped event honored exceptional champions of hospitality across Rhode Island, inclusive of the entire industry—not just RIHA members—recognizing dedication, excellence and professionalism. More than 600 guests attended. Hosted by social media influencers Laura Afonso and Sascha Roberts from Honey Buns Social, the Anchors featured a total of 18 awards, including Chef of the Year, People’s Choice and Instagram Account of the Year, to name a few. In a new twist, select awards were open to public voting, engaging the broader community in celebrating those who elevate Rhode Island’s hospitality industry. Five additional awards were also presented by the Board and RIHA leadership. The Academy Awards-style experience featured Farouk Rajab, President and CEO, RIHA; Heather Singleton, COO, RIHA; Gov. Daniel McKee; Rep. Joseph Shekarchi, Speaker of the House; and Mayor Brett Smiley, City of Providence, among presenters and dignitaries.

: The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) hosted the Anchors awards on Jan. 15 at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort.

: RIHA team: Ryan Moot; Heather Singleton, COO; Farouk Rajab, President and CEO; Victoria Greco; Traci Dufresne; and Cindy Stepanian.

: Farouk Rajab, President and CEO, RIHA.

: Heather Singleton, COO, RIHA.

: Gov. Daniel McKee addresses guests.

: David Smiley, Immediate Past Board Chairman, RIHA.

: Jennifer Luxmoore, Board Secretary, RIHA accepting flowers from David Smiley, Immediate Past Board Chairman, RIHA.

: Anchors hosts Laura Afonso and Sascha Roberts, Honey Buns Social.

: RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF) Chairman’s Award: Michael Sabitoni, Johnson & Wales University.

: President’s Award Winner: William (Bill) Walsh, Government Strategies, Inc.

: Hotel of the Year Winner: Weekapaug Inn.

: Restaurant of the Year Winner: Beech.

: Newcomer of the Year Winner: Boon Street Market.

: People’s Choice Award Winner: Matunuck Oyster Bar. Owner Perry Raso accepted the award.

: Lodging Employee of the Year Winner: Patti Gaunt, Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa.

: Food Service Employee of the Year Winner: Johnny Tarrats, 10 Prime Steak & Sushi.

: Tourism Employee of the Year Winner: Lee Lord, Director of Brewing Operations, Narragansett Beer. Erin Crossett and Ezra Juskewitch, Narragansett Beer accepted the award.