The Cabarrus County Convention & Visitors Bureau honored the area’s hospitality and tourism professionals on Thursday, November 20 during their 12th Annual Celebrate Cabarrus and Golden Helmet Awards event.
“Cabarrus County’s tourism industry continues to soar thanks to the kindness, creativity, dedication, and vision of our hospitality professionals,” said Cabarrus County CVB President and CEO Donna Carpenter. “Big and small, we appreciate all of the ways they elevate our destination and make a positive impact on our community.”
The 2025 Celebrate Cabarrus honorees and Golden Helmet Award recipients are:
Housekeeping Employees of the Year
- Anahi Sanchez, Hampton Inn & Suites Concord/Charlotte
- Bahija El Hachimi, Homewood Suites by Hilton Concord/Charlotte
- Debra Norvell, Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte/Concord
- Fatima Gonzales Vidal, Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte/Concord
- Francisca Gutierrez, Staybridge Suites
- Jessica Medlin, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte/Concord Golf Resort & Spa
- Keylin Orsorio Cruz, Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte/Concord
- Laura Espinoza, Country Inn & Suites Concord/Kannapolis
- Liliana Carrillo, Sleep Inn Concord/Kannapolis
- Martha Alonso, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlotte/Concord
- Top Visitor Center Referrals – Linda Albers, Hendrick Motorsports
- Volunteer of the Year – David Otero
- Restaurant of the Year – Chophouse 101
- Hospitality Professional of the Year – Lindsay Hartman, Morrison Motor Car Museum
- Unsung Hero – Quiana Alston, Great Wolf Lodge
- Hotel of the Year – Homewood Suites by Hilton Concord/Charlotte
- Attraction of the Year – Cabarrus Arena & Events Center
- Small Business of the Year – Promo Logic
- Outstanding Ambassador – Steve Steinbacher, Cabarrus Brewing Company
- Hospitality Humanitarian – Angie Brown
- Hometown Hero – Dr. Allen Dobson
- Destination Visionary Award – Town of Harrisburg, Mayor Jennifer Teague & Town Council
- Smith Family Lifetime Achievement Award – Mayor Bill Dusch, City of Concord
The Golden Helmet Awards honor those who create memorable experiences for visitors through exceptional customer service and go beyond the call of duty to wow guests and strengthen our destination’s reputation.
In 2024, Cabarrus County had the 11th highest visitor spending growth rate of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Tourism generated $679.41 million in visitor spending, $180.22 million in payroll, $43.94 million in state and local taxes and 5,014 jobs.
For more information on the contributions of tourism in Cabarrus County, visit CabCoCVB.com.
Photos from the event are available here.
