CONCORD, N.C. (November 24, 2025) – 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.

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Photos are available here.

About the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau
As the official destination marketing organization for Cabarrus County, North Carolina, the CCCVB is dedicated to promoting Cabarrus County as a visitor destination and enhancing the complete visitor experience. We also represent and support the interests of the local tourism industry and promote public awareness of the importance of tourism. For more, visit CabCoCVB.com or connect with Explore Cabarrus on social media.

About Cabarrus County, NC
Cabarrus County is in south-central North Carolina in the Piedmont region, about 30 minutes north of Uptown Charlotte. The area encompasses five municipalities: the cities of Concord and Kannapolis, and towns of Harrisburg, Midland and Mount Pleasant. Known as a hub of engaging experiences, Cabarrus County is home to premier motorsports entertainment, shopping, family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, historic sites, charming downtowns and more. Learn more at ExploreCabarrus.com.

Media Contacts:

Julie Hinson
Cabarrus County CVB
JulieHinson@ExploreCabarrus.com
704-575-9379

LOU HAMMOND GROUP
Cabarrus@LouHammond.com