2025 ROSE Awards Voting

Please vote for one person in each of the nine categories.

The total score is calculate by 70% of judges scores + 30% of public voting.

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* 1. ACCOMMODATIONS NOMINEES

Jennifer Gilmore, Front Desk Agent, The Riverside Hotel
Jennifer has a naturally friendly and optimistic attitude. She goes out of her way to show true hospitality to all guests and take care of their needs.. When Jennifer is at the desk, we always know everyone will be accommodated to the best of her ability. She is also very considerate of other staff members. She is great at helping new members of the staff learn the ropes and feel welcome. Jennifer is very patient and listens to our guests even if they are just having a bad day and need someone to vent to. She will take all the time the customer needs to hear them out and try to help them. She always tries to solve any issues that come up. Quite often, she thinks out of the box and comes to her manager with suggestions and new ideas to help solve problems.

We had a long term guest staying with us for a month while she was getting her home remodeled. This guest had the beginning stages of dementia so she had a lot of questions and needed help in making appointments and getting around. Jennifer befriended her and made her feel at home in the hotel. She went out of her way and stayed after her shift to make sure the guest was doing ok. By the time the guest left, she really thought of Jennifer as part of her family because Jennifer had helped her so much.

Lanai Hernandez, Administrative Assistant, Hotel Renegade
Lanai consistently and continuously goes above and beyond for our hotel guests. She is the main organizer for our guest amenities and always finds and creates extremely personal gifts to give. Lanai is someone who will not forget about the details and ensures each and every guest we serve feels special.

Hotel Renegade had a guest stay in our top suite and Lanai Hernandez was able to find her favorite song/artist and gifted her a record of that song. This completely made the guest's stay and she posted it all over social media claiming she has never had this amazing of service before. This one small act made an unforgettable impact on our guest's life and whole experience at the hotel. It is the small things that go a long way and Lanai has proven time and time again that she has mastered that.

Lanai is a hardworking mother of three, while also working a full time job. She is the most selfless woman we know and she would do anything for anyone. She truly deserves this award.

Sean McCall, Front Desk Agent, Courtyard Boise Downtown
Sean is consistently cheerful, greeting each guest as if they were family. He goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels comfortable, sharing his knowledge of the area, from fine dining to parks. Guests feel they receive personalized service and often inquire about his presence upon arrival. His upbeat and positive attitude brings an enthusiastic spirit to the job every day. Sean’s customer service is exceptional, earning regular positive comments from guests who genuinely appreciate his honesty and caring nature.

Sean is exceptionally professional and makes a great impression on guests. He aims to be highly engaging with both guests and coworkers. Sean excels under pressure, adapting to changes and challenges with ease. He stays calm, listens attentively to details, solves problems efficiently, and ensures that both staff and guests feel their needs are met.

I have included a guest comment below that exemplifies his outstanding customer service and problem-solving skills. “Two days later (my husband was still in hospital) I went back to the Courtyard to ask for a receipt- that I had never received. Sean was there. He knew I had called earlier about a receipt. He asked about who I was visiting in the hospital and if he was okay. He offered condolences for the position I was in. He asked if he could hug me, and he told me how important it was for him that I was comfortable. He asked if I needed another room for the night and I said I did. He stated that his hotel was full for the night but called another one down the road. Gave them my information, asked about the special rate and gave me thorough directions. I went to the other hotel, and they knew I was coming, greeted me when I walked in, asked if I needed anything else and took excellent care of me. Sean is an outstanding employee; he brought tears to my eyes with his empathy and kindness when I was going through something extremely difficult. Dealing with Sean was the best experience I have ever had.

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* 2. ATTRACTION NOMINEES

Adan Callsen, Tour Guide, Indulge Boise Food Tours
Adan is an extraordinary local chef and culinary guide whose passion for Boise’s food scene and history is unparalleled. His dedication to enhancing visitor experiences was evident during the Downtown Boise Brunch & Arts Tour by Indulge Boise, where he led our group on an unforgettable journey through the city’s vibrant culinary and cultural landscape. A group of our friends, both local and from out of town, had the pleasure of experiencing this unique foodie tour, guided by Adan. His knowledge of Boise’s history, architecture, and public art, paired with his deep-rooted connections to the local restaurant scene, made the tour an engaging and immersive experience. Despite living in Boise for ten years, we were astounded by the wealth of new insights Adan shared about our city. His enthusiasm and storytelling captivated everyone, leaving our out-of-town guests in awe and deepening our own appreciation for Boise. His ability to seamlessly blend culinary excellence with cultural education truly sets him apart.

Beyond his expertise in food, Adan’s warm hospitality and engaging personality made everyone feel welcome. He took the time to connect with each guest, ensuring that dietary needs were met and fostering a sense of community among participants. His passion for Boise’s culinary arts was evident in every story he shared and every dish he introduced.
Adan provided great customer service as the Tour Guide for the Downtown Boise Brunch & Arts Tour.

Carlo Migliori, Chair Lift Assistant, Bogus Basin
Carlo's attitude is a key factor in the exceptional customer service he provides. He consistently shows up with a positive, energetic, and friendly demeanor that immediately sets a welcoming tone for guests. Whether he’s greeting guests as they approach the lift or providing reassurance to those who may be nervous, Carlo’s genuine warmth is evident in every interaction. His attitude not only helps create a friendly atmosphere but also directly contributes to a positive customer experience. When employees exhibit such positivity, it creates a ripple effect that impacts both guests and other team members. Guests feel more comfortable and confident, while his coworkers are inspired by his enthusiasm and commitment to service. Carlo's uplifting attitude creates an environment where guests are excited to return, knowing they will be greeted with kindness and professionalism every time.

Carlo excels in communication, particularly in Bogus Basin's dynamic, fast-paced environment where timely and effective interactions are essential. As a chairlift attendant at the Coach beginner lift, Carlo communicates with many first-time skiers and snowboarders, ensuring their safety and comfort. His ability to clearly explain instructions, maintain a welcoming demeanor, and calmly address any challenges makes him an exceptional part of the team.

One notable example of Carlo’s exceptional customer service is that he provides a friendly countdown as the chairlift approaches the skiers. Carlo recognizes the apprehension in this moment, and the extra time he takes to reassure them with simple and clear instructions are greatly appreciated.

Jennifer Stockwell Fortner, Education Director, Boise Contemporary Theater
Jen is the most enduringly positive person I've ever had the joy of working with. We all know that the world of educators, artists, and non-profit employees often means handling a lot of work with little funding and resources. Jen lives in all three worlds at once and is constantly facing the question: "How do I pull this off and make it magical with limited time and money." Like the entire team at BCT, her passion and endless creativity always ensure theater magic, even in unideal circumstances.

Jen's resourcefulness and positivity make her an amazing problem solver. Part of what makes live theater wonderful (and challenging) is the inevitability that something unexpected will happen. The unpredictability and excitement of knowing that no two performances will be exactly alike is what keeps theatergoers coming back for more, and often what makes theater creators want to pull their hair out. Jen is amazing at thinking on her feet to find the best solution to a surprise problem. She faces the task of communicating change calmly and effectively not only with other adults to solve problems fast, but also with kids, many of whom are facing stage fright or teamwork in action for the first time. Jen epitomizes the phrase "The show must go on"!

Jen will go to the ends of the Earth to make sure that every person in the building during one of the Children's Reading Series shows is having a great time. I was waiting in the theater lobby before a recent production that Jen had been working on for weeks. After stopping to say hi, ask how I was, and thank me for being there, she pulled on a costume hat and told me that she was sorry to leave, but she had to go be a troll. One of her performers was sick and she had found out that morning they were unable to be in the day's show. She had asked around, but nobody else was available to step into the role on such short notice. So many directors would have rescheduled the performance, apologized to the gathered audience of kids and their families and sent them home. Jen wasn't about to let a last-minute obstacle take away from the experience of the audience or the cast!

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* 3. BAR/TASTING ROOM NOMINEES

Bruce Achtermann, Head Sommelier, Parcero Wine Bar
Bruce embodies the essence of hospitality and exceptional customer service. With a diverse background spanning fine dining, wine buying at Whole Foods Market, and serving as a flight attendant, Bruce has perfected the art of making every guest feel welcome and valued. His ability to educate others about wine is unmatched—he shares his knowledge in a way that is approachable, engaging, and never intimidating. Bruce’s passion for creating memorable experiences shines through in everything he does, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling appreciated. Every business would be lucky to have a "Bruce."

Bruce’s dedication and passion for the hospitality industry shine through in every interaction he has with guests and colleagues. His deep-rooted commitment to service isn’t just about meeting expectations—it’s about creating memorable experiences. With his extensive background in fine dining, wine expertise, and customer-facing roles, Bruce understands that hospitality is about making people feel valued and comfortable. His ability to remain calm under pressure, problem-solve with ease, and communicate effectively ensures that every guest receives thoughtful, personalized service. His passion drives him to continuously elevate the customer experience, making him an irreplaceable asset in the industry and at Parcero Wine Bar.

One memorable instance was when a couple returned to the wine bar months after their first visit. Without hesitation, Bruce greeted them by name, recalled the exact wine they had enjoyed, and even asked if they were celebrating another special occasion, as they had before. The couple was blown away by his attention to detail and genuine hospitality. On another occasion, a guest had a disappointing experience with a glass of wine they ordered. Rather than dismissing their concern, Bruce patiently listened, assessed the issue, and suggested a different wine that better suited their taste. He handled the situation with such grace that the guest not only left happy but also returned later, raving about the experience. His ability to connect with people on a personal level and make every visit feel unique is what sets him apart in the hospitality industry.

Gerrod Peck, Tasting Room Lead, Telaya Wine Co.
Gerrod truly has a “whatever it takes, above and beyond” attitude. Actually, to say that Gerrod goes above and beyond almost feels inadequate, because for me, Gerrod has redefined what above and beyond means. He genuinely wants to know, and is always thinking about, what he can be doing each moment to benefit the team and our guests; and then without hesitation does that thing. When it comes to creating a special moment for a guest, showing up to help his team in any way he can, or just finding ways to make the people around him laugh, quite simply, the limit does not exist. Gerrod is always the first to volunteer for any assignment–no matter how difficult, and the last to leave–ensuring everything went off without a hitch.

When Gerrod first joined the team he was very honest about his communication style. He came from a former background as a highly trained musician and was used to communicating quickly, efficiently and sometimes bluntly in that space. As we all know, in the service industry, this style of communication works well for some, and horribly for others. Gerrod had that awareness and compassion for his new team to address how he communicates and go even further to check in with each member of the tasting room to learn how they best communicate. Over the years, he’s even taken it further–adjusting his own communication style with each member of the team to address their individual needs. When we are busy at Telaya, which the staff endearingly calls “full-tilt-boogie,” knowing how to communicate, share information and problem solve quickly without causing any additional issues is beyond crucial. Gerrod has always demonstrated amazing leadership skills in this department and has fostered a team culture that can tackle any problem that comes their way.

Gerrod was born and raised in Hospitality. He spent much of his childhood running around and helping out in the wineries where his mother worked in Walla Walla; learning early and often the value of authentic, joyful service. Beyond the environment that Gerrod was raised in, he has consistently demonstrated unwavering excellent customer service at Telaya Wine Co.

Jamie Carrell, Bartender, Frontier Club
Jamie is a bright light in what could otherwise be known as a dive bar. Her attitude and love of her job makes it a great destination for both her regulars and first-timers. She is knowledgeable about her job and her fun personality has helped make the Frontier THE place to go in downtown Meridian.

Jamie has an ability to remember people's names, drinks, histories, and last time she saw them, which is the best trait (in my opinion) in a bartender. It also helps her serve many, many people at the same time. The bar gets busy and she stays calm under pressure and makes it a great experience for everyone who comes through the bar.

Jamie came from an event planning background (mainly planning conferences), which helps her understand the entire hospitality industry and how important her current role is to that. She knows that a night out for some people (especially in Meridian) is sometimesa date night or a once-a-month (or less) experience. So she seems to do all she can to make every customer feel special and like they are her most important guest. This has helped make the Frontier a popular place to go. When she moved from the Varsity to the Frontier, many of her guests followed her, showing how a warm personality can be more important than a location.

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* 4. BEHIND THE SCENES NOMINEES

Ramesh Patel, Maintenance, Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport (Commodore MotorHotels)
Ramesh approaches every day with a positive, can-do attitude that significantly impacts both guests and fellow team members. He is always willing to go the extra mile, whether it’s assisting a guest with a maintenance issue or helping a coworker troubleshoot a problem. His friendly demeanor reassures guests that their concerns are a priority, and his ability to remain calm under pressure sets a standard of excellence within the hotel. His positive attitude directly contributes to outstanding customer service. Guests often mention how engaging and helpful he is, whether they need assistance with their in-room amenities or have questions about the property. Even in high-stress situations, such as emergency maintenance calls late at night, he responds with patience and professionalism, ensuring that guests feel valued and taken care of.

One of Ramesh’s greatest strengths is his ability to communicate effectively with both guests and staff. He listens attentively to concerns, provides thorough explanations, and ensures that solutions are carried out efficiently. Whether interacting with a guest who may not be familiar with technical issues or working alongside hotel staff to resolve maintenance challenges, he remains patient and focused on how to best suit the customer. When Ramesh first moved to the United States, he faced the challenge of learning a new language while adapting to an entirely new culture. Rather than allowing this obstacle to hinder him, he embraced the opportunity with determination and perseverance. Over the past 25 years at the Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport, Ramesh has not only taught himself English but has also mastered the ability to communicate effectively with guests and colleagues alike. His patience, willingness to learn, and dedication to clear communication ensure that guest concerns are understood and addressed promptly. His journey is a testament to his strong work ethic and passion for hospitality, making him an invaluable asset to both our team and the guests he serves.

Just last year, his dedication was reflected in the numerous positive reviews he received, which contributed to a significant improvement in our guest satisfactions scores. Beyond his day-to-day duties, he is always looking for ways to enhance the guest experience. Whether it’s suggesting preventative maintenance strategies or mentoring new team members on best practices, he takes his role to heart. His dedication to keeping the hotel running smoothly means guests can enjoy a stress-free stay.

Thomas Abel, Line Cook, North End Pizza
Thomas Abel is quintessentially Boise. His kindness, eagerness to help others, and commitment to fostering a consistent and joyous environment affects everyone around him both on and off the job. Although Thomas may work behind the scenes at North End Pizza, the culture of the restaurant wouldn't be the same without him. His positivity and relentless commitment to consistent service influences those around him to step up to the challenge and have a laugh, even when things may have gone awry. Thomas has committed over 7 years to North End Pizza, and never has the restaurant industry known a more kind, radiant and infectiously optimistic soul than him. A Boise native, Thomas is the greatest steward of culture our great city has ever known. Even if he does work behind the scenes.

Thomas is always the employee who rallies the troops and steps up to help others in the restaurant, even when it's outside of his job description. When the restaurant is slammed and tickets are coming in fast, it's Thomas who keeps everyone on task and still somehow laughing with dad jokes and funny stories. When there is no manager present, he is able to kindly and efficiently delegate tasks in such a way that everyone is on board. This, to me, seems unprecedented. Thomas has also been known to step up when it comes to helping servers and bartenders. If the restaurant is busy and understaffed, Thomas steps up to the plate and help run food, greets guests, and still somehow manages to do his part in the kitchen. His can-do attitude affects all of the staff, which in turn helps the restaurant foster a more positive culture.

When it comes to Thomas slinging za in the kitchen at North End Pizza, you know that food can be made with love under any circumstance. Thomas is also the first person you'll see offer help to vendors delivering orders, greeting them with a smile and asking them how their day is going.

There's one instance that stands out to me as a very Thomas thing to do. There was a very busy lunch shift and the one front of house staff scheduled that day was struggling to keep up. Thomas was helping out in the front, running food and greeting new customers as they walked in with waters. He was asked by a woman with a fussy baby if the restaurant had any toys or something of the sort to help pacify the child. Thomas returned to the kitchen, and came back with a smile and a ball of dough for the baby to play with. This may seem small, but for a man who doesn't even work in the front of house to go above and beyond for a guest like this is why Thomas deserves recognition.

Veronica Roper, Project Director, Boise State Esports, BSU
Veronica is renowned for her extraordinary positive attitude and unmatched professionalism. Her kindness and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a magnet for major event managers seeking the perfect host for their championships and special events. With her disarming demeanor, Veronica has a unique ability to melt away the natural stress that comes with organizing high-stakes events. Clients consistently describe her as a worry-free partner who ensures that every detail is handled with care and precision, creating an environment where success feels inevitable. Under her leadership, Boise State Esports has become a preferred destination for prestigious events, celebrated for its seamless execution and warm hospitality. Veronica’s approach transforms the daunting task of hosting into a collaborative and joyful experience, solidifying Boise State’s reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate esports.

Veronica’s exceptional communication skills set her apart as a leader. Whether coordinating with schools, the Mountain West conference, clients, staff, or vendors, she fosters clarity, making even the most complex logistics like live events coupled with separate broadcast expectations to feel manageable. She’s unafraid to confront challenges head-on, addressing potential roadblocks before they become impediments, all while maintaining her trademark poise and positivity. Veronica’s leadership not only ensures the success of these events but leaves clients confident, stress-free, and eager to return. Veronica Roper may not view her work as being part of the hospitality industry, but her natural talent for helping and serving others shines through in everything she does.

Hosting the College League of Legends and College Valorant national championships this past summer, we found our client (who had never worked together in a physical location) trying to put on the biggest event of their carriers with our student and staff team struggling to know where they should help. Veronica sensed the frustration and brought everyone together. She had everyone introduce themselves and explain what they're role and what they could support. While this happened, she wrote it on the whiteboard so others could take pic and use it as a resource throughout the event. It solved so many unforeseen problems and turned what could have been a frustrating event into an world class event that made Boise the benchmark in our industry. Veronica is amazing!!!!

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* 5. DINING/CATERER NOMINEES

Daniel Follman, Waiter, 13th Street Pub and Grill
Danny is the consummate professional. He has worked in many 5 star restaurants and always exceeds expectations. Danny does an incredible job of making you feel special every time! He knows the menu, knows his customers and greets them by name with a hug or a handshake. Danny is absolutely one of the best servers that I have ever experienced as I have dined all around the world.

Danny always listens to feedback and if there is a problem he is quick to remedy it. He is dedicated to the satisfaction of his customers. One time Danny found out that they ran out of ice cream during the summer so instead of saying no he couldn’t deliver. He offered us goodies ice cream from down the street. He ran down the street and bought goodies ice cream and brought us some yummy treats. Where else can you get something like that to happen? Danny is a man of action intention and making people feel special.

Dreemi March, Banquet Server, The Riverside Hotel
Dreemi's unwavering optimism fosters a positive atmosphere, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for each of our guests. Her warm, approachable demeanor is ideally suited to this industry, leaving lasting impressions on all who encounter her. For the past eight years, she has been the most requested server by our loyal clientele, demonstrating her exceptional service and dedication in banquets at the Riverside.

Dreemi is always quick to respond during challenging times. We manage a wide range of dietary restrictions, and although the demands of our business can be exhausting, she handles each situation with genuine care and attention to detail.
At Banquets, we are fortunate to host numerous celebrations and parties, and Dreemi's favorite thing is matching her jewelry to the theme of each event. This not only sparks easy conversations with guests but also enhances the excitement and atmosphere. Of course, it’s always accompanied by her radiant smile!

We recently faced an unexpected situation when one of our captains experienced a medical emergency, which we were unaware of at the time, on a day when only her team was scheduled. Dreemi, along with another server, was assigned to the event. When she was unable to reach the captain, Dreemi took the initiative to assume the captain's responsibilities. After promptly involving the Manager on Duty to ensure the captain’s well-being, Dreemi efficiently prepared the buffet and set up the room. This is just one example of many occasions where Dreemi has demonstrated exceptional dedication to our guests, even while managing personal concerns about her colleague. Her reliability, professionalism, and unwavering focus on the needs of our guests make her a valuable asset to the team.

Lindsey Thurow, Founder, Idaho Tipsy Trailers & Idaho Concierge
Lindsey radiates creativity and enthusiasm, significantly enhancing the mobile bar experience. Her approachable and friendly demeanor instantly puts clients at ease, making them feel valued and important, and most importantly, excited about creating a memorable event together. In every interaction—whether addressing initial questions, troubleshooting event details, or providing thorough assistance—she maintains a cheerful disposition and a sincere commitment to crafting something special for each client. This uplifting attitude not only builds strong connections with customers but also inspires team members to emulate this exemplary behavior, fostering a unified and energized atmosphere at each event.

In the face of challenges, the nominee remains composed and focuses on solutions, viewing obstacles as opportunities to showcase their dedication to exceptional mobile alcohol catering. As a direct result of this positive attitude and passion, clients and their guests consistently enjoy an outstanding bar experience. She truly understands that each event is incredibly important, and she and her team strive for clients to leave knowing they had the best bar experience in the valley. She exemplifies a service standard from inquiry to event wrap-up that is unmatched.

Lindsey identifies potential issues, both immediate and future, and finds solutions without anyone realizing there is a problem. She is proactive in addressing issues and encourages collaboration even amongst the competition, bringing people together to brainstorm and implement effective resolutions. This inclusive approach not only resolves conflicts but also strengthens the brand and enhances her ability to deliver an exceptional mobile bar service. Furthermore, the nominee frequently seeks feedback and is open to constructive criticism, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. Her adaptability and resourcefulness in challenging situations inspire confidence among peers and team members, making her a valued leader capable of navigating obstacles with poise and integrity in a ever-changing industry.

Sandy, Server, The Original Pancake House, Boise
Sandy's job is demanding-- hungry people, older clientele and families. She always has a smile and patience for every employee. I have never seen her rushed or flustered, even on the busiest of days. Because The Original Pancake House it is a modestly priced restaurant, it is frequented by hundreds of tourists as well as locals-- as a resident, it makes me happy to think visitors are encountering Sandy (and staff) and leaving with a great impression of Boise.

Sandy handles order changes or mishaps with kindness and compassion. We asked for a food item to be "more cooked" and she never flinched-- never made us feel like we were wrong, or it was too much to ask. She seems to enjoy making her patrons happy and treats the other staff members with respect and kindness, too. I have seen her wait on tables with screaming kids and difficult teens and she is always soft-spoken, yet communicates clearly. She has a calming demeanor.

The last time we went for breakfast, she remembered our names and welcomed us back like old friends. She must have hundreds of customers, yet she makes you feel special every time.

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* 6. RETAIL NOMINEES

Garrett Rhebeg, Grocery Bagger, Albertsons Broadway
Garrett Rheberg is a superstar, and I imagine countless others who shop at the Broadway Albertsons agree. I always know when Garrett is there because it is hard to miss his joyful smile and kind conversation with everyone he sees. He knows many customers by name, including their kids, and takes the time to make them feel special.

He provides excellent customer experience and always assists anyone with whatever he can do. He is a joyful person who enjoys life and makes a positive impression on his customers. I can tell that Garrett truly enjoys his job and people, visitors and locals alike. You can feel it when you can see and talk with him. Garrett simply makes people feel whole-heartedly welcomed while at the Broadway Albertsons, and it always makes my day when I see him.

Every time I get the pleasure to be there when he is working, I see him providing great customer service. However, just a few weeks ago as I was shopping, I heard and saw him chatting with a customer who he knew with his kind pleasantries and once that conversation was completed, I watch him offer his assistance to anyone he passed as he made his way to the front of the store. This made me think how lucky we are to have Garrett at our store for both locals and visitors. Recognizing his awesomeness would be amazing!

Hanna Miller, Hairstylist, Murraki Salon
Hanna is someone who instinctively goes above and beyond for her guests. She takes great care to see each person she interacts with for who they are and where they might be coming from, and match their energy in a positive way. Hanna has quickly won the hearts of many patrons of Murraki Salon, as every person who sits in her chair feels seen and heard as an individual, and knows they are not just a number. They are an important person building a relationship with Hanna, so that she may provided a safe space for them in the salon, and they walk away with hair that gives them the confidence to succeed.

Hanna is very passionate about hospitality and its impact on the service industry. Hanna has been serving guests in the hair profession for 20 years. No matter how she may feel or what is happening in her personal life, she always shows up and is 100% on for every person that steps foot in to the salon space. Even when they are not a guest she is personally serving, she is kind, warm and friendly and always makes everyone feel comfortable, welcome, and at home. She is masterful at leading by example and she will frequently work late and beyond her shift to make sure she has completely met the needs of every guest she is working with. When you work with Hanna, She give you 100% of her time, attention, and energy. She is exemplary at following Murraki Salons company standards and practices, especially regarding hospitality.

Just one of many scenarios that come to mind, is that Hanna had a guest who had booked for a Permanent Curl Treatment. When the guest arrived, she very long, visibly healthy hair, and was just looking to do something different. With Hanna's commitment to hospitality and excellent service outcomes, she still conducted a full in depth consultation covering lifestyle, maintenance, routine, and previous health and hair care. After this process she recommended a strand test before conducting the service. As a result the guests hair very quickly start breaking down. Based on the results of the test, if she would have performed the service, a majority of the guests long hair would have broken off. Because she took the extra precautions she was able to create a positive plan with that guest to rehab the condition of her hair and ultimately a positive experience overall.

Karen Taber, Bookstore Staff, Rediscovered Books
Karen has always been the kindest and most helpful person in the world. She is incredibly knowledgeable and able to make outstanding recommendations. She is quick to greet a guest and is always asking if folks need any help whatsoever.
Karen demonstrates great patience and grace when challenges or problems arise, she works hard to ensure guests and bookstore shoppers leave with a positive experience and hopefully a handful of great reads.

Karen speaks so highly of her job and with great passion. She works for the bookstore because she loves the community. She has been a devoted employee for (to my knowledge) over 5 years when she could be enjoying retirement, she instead chooses to go serve the book buying community.

When looking for a specific cookbook that was not currently available at Rediscovered, Karen helped me not only find a copy that she could order for me but found it from another small independent business. That really meant a lot as I prefer to spend my money on small businesses and not major corporations. She helped me keep my value system while finding the exact thing I needed.

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* 7. TRANSPORTATION NOMINEES

Jason Bane, Driver, Diamond Limo Boise
Global Ties of Idaho is an organization that arranges professional appointments for international visitors who are visiting Idaho under the auspices of the International Visitors Leadership Program, which is vetted through the US Department of State. We contract Diamond Limo to provide transportations for our groups. and Jason is our regular driver. He has an extremely professional, friendly and outgoing demeanor while providing services including, transportation from BOI to the hotel, driving our guests to an activity in the Treasure Valley that we have arranged, and driving them from their hotel to the appointments we have arranged around the Treasure Valley and even to southeastern Idaho to visit the INL and the Shon-Ban reservation. He is patient, flexible, and always represents the best of Boise to our guests, who are up and coming leaders in their countries.

Jason's ability to communicate with our visitors is tremendous. Many of our guests do not speak much English and are accompanied by interpreters. He has been asked to stop by a pharmacy, dry cleaners, ATM, grocery store, or house of worship in order to accommodate individual needs. He always finds a way make this work into the regularly scheduled trip with ease. He has helped out with emergency and urgent care visits without disrupting the rest of the groups schedule several times. His problem solving, flexibility, calm demeanor and positivity make him a huge asset to our ability to present Boise in the best light possible. We always receive compliments from both the visitors and the interpreters on Jason's congeniality and service.

Jason offer first-class customer service and is exudes pride in his home area. He is proud of the company he represents and a very responsible driver. We are all happy to see Jason's confident smiling face when escort our guests to the vehicle. But, when we are not able to escort or visitors from one point to another, Jason is a consummate leader and arrives at the right place and the right time constantly. Our visitors are typically in town for 4-5 days and usually have 3 business appointments each day. However, they often arrive on a weekend and are greeted by volunteer board members. Jason is aware of detours and/or road blocks that require us to use alternate routes, as different projects occur around the city. We have had a number of occasions where our plans change at the last minute and he always stays flexible!

Jerry Liu, Lead Valet Attendant, The Grove Hotel
Jerry consistently brings an infectious positivity and enthusiasm to work every day. His open-minded and approachable demeanor motivates the entire team to not only meet but exceed our service standards. I've received countless compliments about how welcoming and professional. His leadership has had a transformative effect on the valet team at The Grove, guiding them to fully embrace and uphold our service standards while ensuring every guest feels warmly welcomed. What truly sets Jerry apart is his ability to remember guests throughout their entire stay, forging personal connections that go beyond the typical service interaction. This dedication to building relationships makes guests feel valued and eager to return, ensuring that The Grove remains their preferred choice for every visit to Boise.

Jerry excels in communication. When challenges arise, he ensures that every guest is attended to and takes the time to make them feel valued. He encourages his team to go the extra mile—opening doors, remembering guests' last names, and greeting everyone promptly. Jerry has an exceptional ability to anticipate potential issues before they even arise, allowing him to take proactive measures rather than simply reacting when challenges appear. His foresight and attention to detail enable him to address concerns early on, ensuring smooth operations and preventing disruptions. This proactive approach not only keeps things running efficiently but also enhances the overall guest experience by staying one step ahead.
Jerry exemplifies politeness, engagement, and thoughtfulness in every interaction. Passionate about his work, he loves being part of the Guest Services team.

What truly sets Jerry apart is his unique ability to remember guests throughout their entire stay, building meaningful, long-lasting relationships. This attention to detail makes each guest feel special and creates a memorable experience that brings them back to The Grove every time they visit Boise.

Jessica Anderton, Airline Wheelchair Assistant, Streamline Airport Services
I am visually impaired and require wheelchair assistance when traveling through airports. When I first flew into Boise in September 2024 for a job interview, Jessica met my flight and assisted me to baggage claim and to ground transportation. She was exceptionally cheerful and helpful, and took interest in me as a person and not just another passenger. Jessica has picked me up a few more times at the ticket counter or gate to get back and forth through the airport, and her sparkling personality and concern for me as a person has never waivered. Jessica is unfailing kind and genuinely invested in differently-abled passengers, and is a fantastic ambassador for The City of Trees. Being the first point of contact for passengers with special needs, she perfectly reflects the warmth and hospitality of the Treasure Valley, and is a highly valuable asset to the airport and her company. She is highly deserving of recognition of her great attitude and caring demeanor.

Jessica is a good conversationalist and takes an authentic interest in her passengers. She is always willing to assist travelers in any way they need, and does so cheerfully and resourcefully. A great example of her happy-to-help attitude is when I moved to Boise and she helped me navigate from the gate to baggage claim to the car rental area and eventually to my rental car, as well as her ability to get additional assistance for me from the rental car agent. She made the challenging and complex logistics move very smoothly. She has a very genuine ability to connect with her passengers on a human level and make them feel valued.

When I relocated to Boise from North Carolina in October 2024, Jessica was there to meet my plane. I had my hands full with my carry-on luggage and my cat. Jessica remembered me from my flight the month before, asked me about my interview and was genuinely happy that I got the job and was relocating to Boise. She helped get me to the restroom and tended my carry-on luggage and cat, then took me to baggage claim. She then took me to the rental car counter and worked with the rental car agent to have him help us get my luggage to my rental car. She really went above and beyond to help me take my first steps as a new resident!

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* 8. VOLUNTEER NOMINEES

Reid Wiggins, Regional President, WaFd Bank (Volunteer at Downtown Boise events)
Reid showcases such a passion for Downtown Boise and is always enthusiastic and willing to help out with local events. As an event organizer, it's rare that I see high-level executives personally volunteer to help with community events. It's even more rare to see these volunteers consistently return to offer a helping hand with humility, and enthusiasm. When Reid is on a volunteer team, I can count on him to not only do the job he came to do, but also to jump in and offer additional support as it's needed. It's clear that Reid is the rare type of leader that can also be a follower when it's needed. I've seen Reid use his connections to pull in additional volunteers in a pinch, and I've seen Reid use his communication skills to engage and communicate with event goers and staff when obstacles arise.

Reid shows a strong and genuine interest in the success of events and programs that bring people to Boise. In addition to the great work he does for Wafd Bank, he is always willing to show up off the clock and lend his skills as an event volunteer in his personal time. Many people in his position would limit their energy to supporting activations that directly benefit their business or organization, but Reid sees beyond that. He has enough energy to support not only events in connection to his work, but events that support the greater Boise community.

Last year, shortly before a major event my organization was putting together, a large volunteer group who was scheduled to help at the event pulled out. Overnight, we went from having more than enough hands, to less than half of the volunteer power needed to run a successful show. Reid was one of that small remaining team of volunteers. I recognized Reid as a great leader, not only in his role as a board member for my organization, but also as someone who had been an amazing addition to the volunteer team of past events. We put out a last-minute (and maybe far-fetched) call for extra volunteer support and found that most folks were out of town or already had plans. (Did I mention this event took place the day after a major holiday?) Reid not only showed up enthusiastically to help, but he brought his friends and family ready to lend a hand as well. Not only was that group key to the event's success, but they brought back elements of fun, teamwork, and celebration to an evening on the verge of being stressful and unenjoyable for the team.

Rick Thompson, Event Volunteer, Idaho Botanical Garden
For nearly a decade, Rick Thompson has established a thoughtful and generous presence at Idaho Botanical Garden. His knowledge of the organization, its history and mission is reflected in every intersection with our guests, especially at our highly attended Outlaw Field Summer Concert Series. Rick’s composure and patience helps to usher guests from the buzz of busy traffic, lines and security scans to a feeling of welcome – that you’re in just the right place and you’ll be taken care of while in the Garden. Rick’s attitude if one of unspoken care for those around him. He makes himself approachable by truly acknowledging individuals, communicating that we’re glad they’re here. His attention is tuned toward anyone in need of extra support, answers, or an uplifted spirit.

Rick’s communication style is such that no one is made to feel like a burden, that their needs are affirmed and will be taken care of thoughtfully. His diligence in addressing problems is done with conviction and attention, sparing no effort to ensure everyone feels included and cared for. To Rick, there is simply no other way. During Rick’s decade of service at the entrance of Idaho Botanical Garden’s Outlaw Field Concert Series, he’s made lasting connections with Garden staff, event security, and even returning concertgoers. This has built invaluable rapport and trust between the variety of entities involved in operating a high-capacity concert. When challenges inevitably surface, Rick’s first step is to make our guests feel seen and heard, which immediately helps to diffuse a problem into an opportunity to find a solution.

During Idaho Botanical Garden’s Outlaw Field Concert Series, Rick and his partner Bonnie have carved out the unique and necessary niche for themselves as Accessibility Attendants. Stationed at the front gates, their role is to tune their awareness toward any concertgoers with accessibility needs to ensure a successful and memorable concert experience.
Over the last decade, Rick has pushed countless wheelchairs for guests to their designated seats when pathways have proven to be a challenge to navigate. He’s done so in every type of weather condition, for everyone who has accepted his generous offer. He does this with a smile, a deep understanding of hospitality, and a commitment to Idaho Botanical Garden being a place where everyone is welcome.

Virgel Clark, Volunteer, Old Idaho Penitentiary and Idaho StateMuseum
Virgel exemplifies the spirit of hospitality and customer service during each shift, tour, or event that he facilitates. He is positive, welcoming, and engaging, as he encourages visitors to the Old Idaho Penitentiary and Idaho State Museum to discover new knowledge, explore concepts they may not have before, and to always interact and ask questions.

For each visitor or group that enters the exhibit (or any area of the site he works in), he pauses and takes time to greet them and offer some of his time to positively impact their experience. He is always willing to try new things and take part in projects or programs that impact the Old Idaho Penitentiary’s visitors and his colleagues and coworkers. Virgel even stepped out of his comfort zone in October 2024 to dress and be made up as a zombie to act in one of the Old Idaho Penitentiary's haunted houses during their annual Halloween fundraiser events.

Virgel makes and maintains contact with his fellow volunteers, as well as Idaho State Historical Society staff members and managers. His communication with those around him is strong, friendly, positive, and consistent. When visitors ask questions related to sites and exhibits, he is always able to take time to answer their inquiries or connect them to people who can. He takes opportunities to improve guest experiences seriously, and with pride. He never misses an opportunity to give some of himself to enrich others and make their day better, or make their visit to one of our educational experiences a better one.

Virgel Clark has been volunteering with the Idaho State Historical Society since for nearly six years, since May 2019. In that time, he has become involved in many aspects of the society, especially its tourism-oriented branches at the Old Idaho Penitentiary state historic site and the Idaho State Museum. Virgel consistently seeks out opportunities for training and team-building, which are often optional for team member who work in a volunteer capacity. When the Old Idaho Penitentiary offers specialized tours, field trips, or trainings, he is typically one of the first to RSVP.

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* 9. MANAGER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

Allan Cushing, Operations Manager, Boise Centre
Allan is a natural leader who truly embodies the "lead by example" philosophy every day. His actions build trust with his team, showing them that he is willing to go above and beyond for any task. His positive approach fosters an environment of collaboration and respect, ensuring that both internal and external customer experiences are exceptional. He consistently seeks positive intent before making decisions that impact service, reinforcing a culture of fairness and professionalism. Clients and guests appreciate his calm and approachable demeanor, which makes every interaction effortless and enjoyable.

Due to his outstanding reputation, he is often requested by other departments to lead trainings and meetings with clients. His ability to inspire and engage people makes him a role model for exceptional customer service. If there were a perfect training session on customer service, it would be shadowing Allan and watching him naturally elevate every interaction.
Allan excels in open, respectful, and solution-focused communication. His ability to navigate challenges with a client-centric approach ensures that both guests and staff feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to solutions. He has cultivated a workplace culture where ideas are encouraged, and collaboration thrives. In a fast-paced industry where challenges arise daily, his adaptability and innovative mindset allow him to turn obstacles into opportunities. The team often looks to him for guidance, as his presence brings reassurance and stability. His enthusiasm is contagious, making him an invaluable asset to both clients and colleagues. His ability to engage people naturally enhances the overall event experience, and event managers frequently request his presence in client meetings to ensure smooth planning and execution.

As a leader at Idaho’s largest event facility, Allan regularly faces high expectations and complex challenges. However, he remains the steady foundation that keeps operations running smoothly. One standout example occurred when a guest experienced a medical emergency during an event. Without hesitation, Allan took control of the situation, working closely with his team to ensure the guest received privacy.

Jameelah Nelson, Executive Housekeeper, Hyatt Place Boise Downtown
Jameelah Nelson shows up every day ready to lead and ready to tackle any problems. You cannot run a hotel without housekeeping; it is the beating heart of the hospitality industry. The cleanliness of rooms and the quality of the housekeeping staff is the number one determinate of whether a guest enjoys their stay or not. Jameelah has for over seven years been instrumental in our hotel's success. She is a leader, and a fierce advocate for her staff. One of the major metrics that we track closely is guest responses to the question "Was your room clean when you arrived?" Jameelah has consistently, for years, been responsible for a 98% and over "yes" response. She has on multiple occasions ended a month with 100% "yes". This is very difficult to achieve.

Jameelah's super-power in communication and problem solving is the personal relationships that she has cultivated with her staff and the management team. Those personal relationships are built on trust. Simply put Jameelah does what she says and says what she does. All of the management team can trust that once Jameelah is on the problem, the problem will be solved. The housekeeping staff can trust that Jameelah will have a plan to tackle any problems, and then when things are tough, Jameelah will roll up her sleevesand help to get the work done.

Jameelah genuinely wants our guests to be happy. It is obvious by the way she cares for them, her staff, and all of us at the hotel. She is also fiercely competitive and wants her monthly scores to be the highest. Hyatt Place Boise Downtown is blessed to have that combination of traits in our Executive Housekeeper. The greatest challenge in hospitality is making a guest happy after they have a complaint. Jameelah handles these situations with ease. Many times I have heard her say "We will make it right. I'll take care of it right now".

Susanna Mendez, Cider House Manager, Meriwether Cider
Suze is a pint-sized force of nature, always buzzing with new ideas to enhance both the guest and employee experience at the Cider House. From crafting star and snowflake decorations for the holiday season, to bringing in houseplants to liven up the window sills, everywhere you look, you’ll see evidence of Suze's creativity. She takes it upon herself to analyze and tweak back-of-house procedures to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Every guest at Meriwether is touched by Suze's personality and wit. Her authenticity makes everyone feel part of the fun. Hospitality comes naturally to her, resulting in a warm and inclusive guest experience.

Suze demonstrates clear communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving. She has the quality every employer values most in an employee: the ability to operate independently. She reliably sees what needs to be done, or what would work better such that I have complete peace of mind when I'm out of town or unavailable. For example, we just started sharing our space with a coffee company, this has come with quite a few changes and hurdles to manage including space for new equipment, working around new hours, and making the coffee folks feel at home. Suze has effectively come up with solutions on work flow, cleaning schedules, and ways to incorporate the new menu so everyone's job is easier and smoother. Any snags she hit during this process like adding coffee to our sales system she brought to me with all the information I needed in order to add it. The entire team at Meriwether knows they can depend on Suze. If she says she'll handle or fix something, she will. She notices things that could be improved rather than ignoring them because that’s the way they’ve been done since before she started working at Meriwether. She’s always thinking and noticing and taking the initiative to make improvements.

Suze embodies "service heart." Every day, she goes above and beyond to tailor the Meriwether experience for each guest, whether that means engaging in witty banter or providing a quiet nook for someone to relax with a book. Suze juggles washing dishes, cleaning tables, pouring drinks, and monitoring the room while ensuring no guest feels neglected.

Thank you!

*You are allowed one voting entry per day.

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* 1. ACCOMMODATIONS NOMINEES

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* 2. ATTRACTION NOMINEES

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* 3. BAR/TASTING ROOM NOMINEES

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* 4. BEHIND THE SCENES NOMINEES

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* 5. DINING/CATERER NOMINEES

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* 6. RETAIL NOMINEES

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* 7. TRANSPORTATION NOMINEES

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* 8. VOLUNTEER NOMINEES

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* 9. MANAGER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

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* 10. If you'd like to receive email updates about the ROSE Awards event, please list your email.