Ottawa, ON, March 10, 2011 – On Monday, March 7th the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) celebrated its seventh annual afternoon of industry achievements at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, with its Hall of Fame Awards of Excellence Program.

The Hall of Fame Awards Program was developed by the HAC to recognize those of its members (individuals, companies or properties) that have demonstrated significant accomplishments, exemplary leadership and tireless commitment to Canada’s lodging industry.

“The goal of HAC’s awards program is to reward strong standards in the industry that will enable this country to remain competitive,” said Tony Pollard, HAC President. “We are pleased to honour this year’s winners, whom we feel represent some of the finest examples of professionalism, quality and perfection."

Following greetings from The Honourable Robert Moore, Minister of Tourism, three Hall of Fame awards were presented under the categories of Humanitarianism, Human Resources and Energy & Environment.

In the category of Humanitarianism the award was presented to the Steve Gupta and Easton’s Group of Hotels Inc. Mr. Gupta was selected to receive the Humanitarian Award in recognition of his ongoing support of local, national and international communities through a variety of initiatives.

Carol Lumb, Director of the Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council, was awarded in the category of Human Resources for her outstanding service to the Canadian hospitality industry.

The Energy and Environment Award was presented to the Parkside Victoria Resort which has been designed, built and furnished with sustainable development in mind.

For more information on the Hotel Association of Canada’s Hall of Fame Awards of Excellence program, or for information and photos on this year’s winners, please contact the HAC.

The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) is a professional industry association representing the lodging industry in Canada. Its membership encompasses the provincial and territorial hotel associations, the corporate hotel chains, independent hotels, motels and resorts and the many suppliers to the hotel industry.  HAC’s objective is to assist both its national and international members as they endeavor to enhance their competitiveness and achieve their bottom line.  The HAC accomplishes this through the collection and dissemination of information, research, advocacy, education, and operational support services designed to assist its members.