The first ballot was dropped for the 2011 Red Hat Awards nominations Tuesday afternoon at the Tourism Information Centre.

During the Hats off To Summer event at the centre the Red Hat Awards were officially kicked off as 2010 winner for best manager/supervisor Lana Goldie of the Best Western Inn & Suites in Red Deer dropped the first ballot during National Tourism Week.

The Red Hat Awards are given out to individuals who have gone above and beyond in the tourism and hospitality industry and have shown great customer service.

“The awards are so people can really acknowledge outstanding customer service and people that have really made tourists’ visit extra ordinary,” said Liz Taylor, executive director for Tourism Red Deer.

“It is a chance for us to thank them and really show how strong tourism and hospitality is in Red deer and area.”

The 2011 Red Hat Awards Ceremony and Banquet will be held on Oct. 4 at the Black Knight Inn to honour those who have been chosen.

Along with the kick-off Red Deerians had the opportunity to meet with operators from 17 businesses from around Red Deer and area to see what activities and events they had to offer this summer.

“It is a celebration of summer and it really launches the whole summer season when all the facilities and even the hotels are fully staffed and geared up to go.”

Also a free carriage ride around to Heritage Ranch was offered where lunch was available to anyone who came out to find more information on this summer’s tourist destinations.

“It is really for people to find out what the programs are about,” said Naomi Spendiff, membership and events coordinator for Tourism Red Deer.

To nominate a special individual who you think deserves an award for their dedication to their customer service visit www.tourismreddeer.net to cast your vote or find a nomination form at various businesses around the City.

tsigurdson@reddeerexpress.com