Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : February 13, 2006

Hoy Murphy, Public Information Officer (304) 558-3381 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Pipestem State Park 's Ruth Ann Hatcher Receives

“Meeting Professionals to Watch” Award

From ConventionSouth Magazine

  Watch out for Ruth Ann Hatcher, Convention Services Coordinator at Pipestem Resort State Park in Summers County. She's one of ConventionSouth magazine's annual “Meeting Professionals to Watch” in 2006, according to the December issue. Hatcher is one of three individuals in West Virginia to receive this award.

  Hatcher was nominated for recognition in ConventionSouth Magazine by peers in the hospitality industry for her professionalism, excellence, preparedness and creativity. Following an interview process, her business advice includes that “meeting planners should use on-site personnel to help with meeting arrangements or to answer questions they might have.” Hatcher is a resident of Mercer County . She is a 20-year employee at Pipestem Resort working as a front desk clerk prior to her promotion to Convention Services Coordinator in 1995.

  “All the employees at Pipestem provide excellent service to our customers,” Ruth Ann says. “I am honored to be recognized individually, but it is our teamwork at Pipestem and customer loyalty that make this award even more special.”

   West Virginia 's state parks are known for their hospitality and for assisting groups with their meeting planning. “Ruth Ann's attention to detail is a main reason that meetings run smoothly at Pipestem,” explains Steve Bolar, Park Superintendent. “She expects everyone to treat our meeting planners and attendees well and I truly believe our returning customers value her attention and the attention of our entire staff here at Pipestem.”

  Pipestem Resort has over 13,000 square feet of meeting space to lure business, government and family groups. Group sizes range from small gatherings to groups of 500 for banquets in the Hudkins Conference Center . The McKeever Lodge , the main lodge at Pipestem , has 113 rooms and is open year round. It includes: The Bluestone Restaurant, gift shop, indoor pool, fitness room and sauna, outdoor Jacuzzi and great views of the Bluestone river area.

  For information about Pipestem, group services, or vacation options call 1-800 CALLWVA and ask for Pipestem State Park or go online at www.pipestemresort.com .

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