(North Platte, Nebraska, May 7, 2025) – Visit North Platte hosted the 6th annual Excellence in Tourism Awards Luncheon on May 7th at Venue304. Thirty-eight nominations were submitted from the public for the seven award categories. The ‘Excellence in Tourism’ awards recognize outstanding customer service at hotels or other lodging establishments, restaurants or other food service establishments, events, attractions, and retail as well as Volunteer of the Year and Hero of Tourism. The nominees can either be individuals or businesses.
The Visit North Platte Board of Directors selected the award winners from the nominees based on the nominations submitted. The winners along with a short summary of their nominations are as follows:
Excellent Service at an Attraction – John Martin, Cody Park Railroad Museum
For the past six years, John has been a passionate and welcoming volunteer at North Platte’s train display, greeting visitors from around the world and sharing his deep knowledge as a thirdgeneration railroader. His entertaining stories, musical talents, and off-season tours create a memorable experience that connects guests to the area’s rich railroading history. As a proud ambassador for North Platte, John actively promotes local attractions, making him an essential part of the city’s tourism experience.
Excellent Service at an Event – Rob Martinson, Fort Cody Summer Music Series
Rob launched the Fort Cody Music Series in 2011 to create a welcoming space where locals and visitors could connect through live music. N
ow entering its 15th year, the series has become a key part of North Platte’s summer tourism experience, drawing crowds each week and enriching the community’s cultural life. Rob’s hands-on dedication—from booking bands to running sound and promoting the events—has not only kept the series thriving but also helped the local music scene grow.
Excellent Service within a Hotel – Vonnie Hebblethwaite, Susan Seifer, Shelby Post, Kathy Thornton, and Shaney Clang, HolidayInnExpress
The Breakfast Bar Team at the Holiday Inn Express consistently provides exceptional service, going beyond just serving breakfast to becoming key ambassadors for both the hotel and the community. Their dedication to guest satisfaction—offering local tips, directions, and restaurant suggestions—helps enhance the tourism experience in North Platte. With many team members serving for years, they have built strong connections with returning guests, ensuring a welcoming and personalized stay.
Excellent Service within a Restaurant – Amanda Huebner, Einstein Bros. Bagels
Amanda is a standout example of exceptional customer service, demonstrating kindness, dedication, and a positive attitude that make her an invaluable asset to her restaurant and the Lincoln County community. Known for creating meaningful connections with every guest, she goes beyond service by remembering personal details and uplifting others, even in challenging moments. Her leadership and work ethic set a high standard for her coworkers and inspires everyone around her, making her a true leader deserving of this prestigious award.
Excellent Service within a Retail Establishment – Stephanie Ford, Dunham’s Sports
Stephanie is a standout leader at Dunham’s Sports, managing stores across Nebraska and Wyoming with a strong focus on customer service and product knowle
dge. Her dedication ensures that every guest, including travelers and sports event visitors, receives a welcoming and memorable experience. Stephanie’s leadership not only upholds high standards in her store but also sets an example for her team, contributing to a positive tourism experience and leaving visitors with a lasting impression of the region.
Volunteer of the Year – Mick Jesse, Golden Spike Tower, State Golf at Lake Maloney, & Other Local Entities
Since retiring from the Union Pacific Railroad, Mick has been a dedicated volunteer in North Platte, sharing his expertise at the Golden Spike Tower and supporting local events like the Boys and Girls State Golf Tournaments. His engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of railroading create meaningful experiences for visitors, while his volunteer efforts contribute to the community’s welcoming reputation. Mick’s dedication enhances the tourism experience, leaving a lasting positive impression on all who visit North Platte.
Hero of Tourism – Jeff Boeka, Wilkinson Companies
Jeff has been a driving force in promoting tourism in North Platte and across Nebraska for nearly three decades. As Director of Hotels for Wilkinson Companies, he oversees multiple hotel properties and a catering business,
leading with integrity and a commitment to excellence. Jeff plays a vital role in the company’s international student program, ensuring participants experience Nebraska culture through events like NEBRASKAland Days. He’s a longtime advocate for tourism, having served 17 years combined on the Visitor Bureau and Visit North Platte boards, as well as on the Nebraska Tourism Commission. Jeff also recruits future hospitality leaders through university outreach and supports sports tourism through local and national committee work. Beyond his professional contributions, he gives back to the community through nonprofit leadership, church involvement, and by refereeing youth sports. Jeff’s dedication, leadership, and heart make him a true Hero of Tourism in Nebraska.
Visit North Platte would like to thank all their incredible tourism partners in Lincoln County that help make tourism successful each year, as well as all of the nominees and winners for their incredible contributions to our community!
