NHLRA announces Stars of the Industry award winners

CONCORD — The New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association has announced the winners of its 2021 Stars of the Industry awards. The annual awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in New Hampshire’s hospitality industry.

“We’ve all witnessed the extraordinary hard work, adaptability, and resilience of New Hampshire hospitality workers during the past 18 months,” said NHLRA President and CEO Mike Somers. “Each of our 2021 Stars of the Industry award winners embodies this spirit of hospitality. Congratulations to these 11 outstanding individuals, and thank you to all of the employees in New Hampshire who make our foodservice, lodging, and tourism industries the best in the nation," said Somers.

Each of the winners was nominated by a colleague, employee, or employer. The awards will be presented on Nov. 8 at the Event Center Nashua.

Rising Star

Joseph Linnehan, director of marketing and operations

Tinios Pro Hospitality Group

Lifetime Achievement

Cindy Bates, chief people officer

The Common Man

Chef of the Year

Britnie Lia, executive chef and director of operations

The Sassy Biscuit Company

Restaurateur of the Year

Sim Willey, owner

Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant

Innkeeper of the Year

Brad McCoil, general manager

Owl’s Nest Resort

Restaurant Employee of the Year

Tim Allen, director of restaurant operations

Great NH Restaurants

Lodging Employee of the Year

Johanny Jimenez, housekeeping manager

Bedford Village Inn

Catering/Venue of the Year

Peggy Rice, owner and function coordinator

Woodstock Inn Brewery

Brewer of the Year

Sharon “Dropkick” Curley, lead brewer

Lithermans Limited Brewery

Allied Member of the Year

Steve Parnagian, district sales manager

US Foods

Live Free & Give Award

Cynthia Makris, owner

The NASWA Resort