HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY AWARDS

2017 Award Recipients

Oregon’s hospitality industry is brimming with outstanding individuals who go above and beyond, raising the bar for excellence in performance, service and commitment to the industry. As a highlight of ORLA’s Annual Convention, the Hospitality Industry Awards recognize the exemplary performance and qualities that set the high standards for the entire industry to achieve. 

A big congratulations to the 2017 Hospitality Industry Award recipients:
RESTAURATEUR OF THE YEAR
Ralph Matt, Best Little Roadhouse,
Salem
Sponsored by Jordan Ramis PC

​Ask any of his colleagues, and they’d say Ralph is the quintessential “tireless restaurant operator.” He’s spent his entire career in the restaurant industry, starting out as a bartender in college working for Steak & Ale in Tennessee, and then management roles with various restaurant groups including Buffets Inc. over the years. In 2003, Ralph started his own venture, Best Little Roadhouse in Salem. He learned early on “to be successful, you should surround yourself with good people, take an active role in your community, and always be available for your business.” Ralph encompasses the characteristics of a true leader, always showing integrity, genuine care and support of his staff, and continually inspiring them to become successful at what they do. He’s also been a dedicated advocate for the industry; Ralph served on the ORLA Board of Directors 2010-2016 (as Chair in 2014-15), chaired the Policy Committee, and currently serves as Chair for ORLA’s Education Foundation. 
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Heather Tincher-Overholser, Overleaf Lodge and Fireside Motel, Yachats
Sponsored by Snagajob


​The Overleaf Lodge and Spa is recognized as one of the top destination resorts in Oregon and especially along the Oregon Coast. A key component of that success is its staff, and one in particular, Heather Tincher-Overholser. As Front-of-the-House Manager, Heather goes above and beyond her expected job responsibilities by demonstrating exemplary professionalism and service. She is respected and adored by staff and guests, always making extra efforts to enhance their experiences at the properties. Heather’s ability to operate all sectors (housekeeping, laundry, foodservice, front desk and maintenance) of the Fireside Motel and Overleaf Lodge has made her a valuable team member over the past 20 years. One of the first Certified Guest Service Gold employees in Oregon, Heather continues to demonstrate her leadership by tutoring fellow staff and helping expand the training program within her properties as well as regionally among other organizations.  ​
​LODGING OPERATOR OF THE YEAR
Pat McShane, InnSight Hotel Management Group, Springfield
Sponsored by Ecolab

With more than 30 years’ experience in the lodging industry and numerous awards in his portfolio, Pat McShane has certainly demonstrated exceptional leadership and distinguished himself as a successful lodging operator. In 1993, he partnered with Richard Boyles to form InnSight Hotel Management Group, an organization employing more than 500 people in the Pacific Northwest. Under Pat’s leadership, InnSight has thrived to become one of the state's leading hotel groups. He’s a servant leader who sincerely cares about his team, always inspiring them to perform at their very best. Pat has been a keen advocate for the hospitality industry, speaking out on behalf of the industry regarding the use of lodging tax dollars and the importance of the tourism industry as an engine for recharging the economy. While serving as Chair of the Board, Pat was instrumental in the successful merger of the Oregon Restaurant Association and Oregon Lodging Association. 
ALLIED MEMBER OF THE YEAR
McDonald Wholesale Company, Eugene
Sponsored by Portland General Electric

​McDonald Wholesale Company has proven to be an enthusiastic partner of the association, supporting our industry members through community-building activities, sponsorships, and continually providing excellent service. In addition to being a long-time sponsor and Allied member of the association, McDonald Wholesale hosts industry training classes instructed by ORLA representatives. McDonald Wholesale has made significant contributions to Oregon’s hospitality industry, supporting the local economy and fostering growth in the foodservice industry. McDonald Wholesale was one of only three food distributors in the U.S. to have double-digit growth last year.
QUICK LINKS

- Awards & Recognition
- Convention
- 2018 Hospitality Industry Awards ​Nomination Form
​- Restaurant Neighbor Awards
​- Hospitality Industry Awards Archive
Submit a nomination for the 
​2018 Oregon Hospitality Industry Awards

Check out these videos from last year's winners:

Restaurateurs of the Year
​Richard and Linda Becker, Hole in the Wall BBQ, Eugene 
Lodging Operator of the Year
​ Al Munguia, Jupiter Hotel, Portland
Employee of the Year
Sara Hohler, DoubleTree by Hilton, Portland
Associate Member of the Year
Elliott, Powell, Baden & Baker, Portland