06/05/2026
Galena Country Tourism hosted its Annual Awards Dinner on June 4 at Eagle
Ridge Resort & Spa. Calendar year 2025 marked the second consecutive year of record-setting tourism for Galena Country. The event brought together tourism professionals, business owners, community leaders, and hospitality partners, celebrating individuals and organizations that help make Galena Country a premier Midwest destination.
“The hospitality industry is driven by people who go above and beyond to welcome visitors and showcase Galena Country,” said Terry Mattson, Galena Country CEO.
“The truth is your character reaches further than you will ever know. You may not always immediately see the results. These unsung heroes play an essential role in the visitor experience.”
In addition to recognizing hospitality excellence, Galena Country released its annual Impact
Report. Combined City of Galena and Jo Daviess County lodging tax collections rose 4.3
percent, and Galena occupancy rates were up 1.38 percent over 2024. With occupancy up 10
percent above pre-pandemic levels, Galena is outperforming many destinations which largely
normalized.
“The 2025 results represent a very strong performance both statewide and nationally,
particularly for a long-established leisure destination,” added Mattson.
“Looking ahead, we remain focused on strategic priorities, including new campaigns, digital platform growth, and adding new products like our cutting-edge app, passport experiences such as the Coffee &
Culture Trail, along with initiatives that further connect visitors and locals.”
This year's award recipients included:
Best Lodging Personnel – Janice Morgan, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
Best Housekeeping Personnel – Stoney Creek Inn, Galena
Best Maintenance Personnel – City of Galena Public Works
Best Restaurant Personnel (Front of House) – Regina Valladares, Woodbine Bend
Best Restaurant Personnel (Back of House) – Chef Gino Brandon, Galena Taphouse
Best Retail Personnel – Heather Shuey, Earth's Treasures
Best Bartender – Millennium Bar & Marina
Best Attraction – Hoof It Goat Treks
Best Event - Galena Halloween Parade
Best Storefront - Champagne on Main
Best Social Media Presence – Galena Haven
Best Website – Long Hollow Canopy Tours
Guest Services Professional of the Year - Adam Langbecker, Galena Roasters
First Responder of the Year - Gabriel King
Best Tourism Ambassador – Ted Williams, Haunted Galena Tour Company
Outstanding Public Servant - Claire Smunt, Stockton Public Library
Outstanding Hospitality Award – The Rigopoulos Family
Lifetime Achievement Award – Terry Miller, Ulysses S. Grant Home
Social Media VIP Ambassador - Mike Wolfe, American Pickers