mission statements.

Bermuda Quality Awareness Team (BQAT) chairman Ms Lucinda Callaghan said yesterday the award was part of the group's efforts to keep quality as an important part of the Island's business.

"Four Star was chosen because of how they created their mission statement, what it says and how they live it,'' added Mr. David Kneisler, past BQAT chairman.

The Four Star mission statement -- "We are committed to crafting a superior pizza and delivering it to you promptly and politely'' -- was created in May 1993 by management and non-management, said owner Mr. Marico Thomas.

When the mission statement was finalised it was published with signatures of all of Four Star's employees. Currently about 100 people work at Four Star's four locations.

"Frequently we take a look at our systems and procedures, our image and appearance, our menu, and along with feedback from our customers and staff, decide on a plan of action for improvement,'' he said.

Four Star received a $500 voucher for the purchase of quality related items or for conference fees. The business also received a plaque.

Contest honourable mentions were A.F. Smith Trading, Franklin Travel, Sonesta Beach Hotel and the Works and Engineering Department of Government.

The quality awareness group was formed here three years ago by Ms Patti Daly, who is now with Performance Consultants International Ltd.

Ms Daly spearheaded the promotion of a quality awareness group here and was one of the ten BQAT charter members, said Mr. Kneisler, general manager at Home Paint Supplies Company Ltd.

There are 263 members of BQAT and the group held its annual general meeting last week. The BQAT's operational structure includes ten management committee members.

Though only 11 entries were received for the contest, Ms Callaghan and Mr.

Kneisler said they hoped to get more involvement from the Island's businesses with future projects.

ON A MISSION -- Four Star Pizza owner Mr. Marico Thomas, right, receives the top prize for Four Star Pizza's mission statement from the Bermuda Quality Awareness Team (BQAT) chairman Ms Lucinda Callaghan and former chairman Mr.

David Kneisler.