national tourism awards.

As part of the Visitor Industry Partnership Excellence Awards, restaurants are offering the chance to one category winner to dine out for free up to 30 times -- a prize worth $2,500.

There are 17 prizes in total for tourism workers who have excelled in their posts, and there is still time to vote for people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Deadline for nominations is October 23 at 5.30 p.m. and forms can be posted at drop boxes at Paget Post Office or Bermuda College or fax to the VIP offices at 232-2847.

Two new categories have been added this year, airline employee and hospitality support services. Other sections include front of house, housekeeping, retail, performing artist and food and beverage.

All 51 finalists will be invited to a banquet at the Fairmont Southampton Princess on November 19, where the winners will be announced.

Other prizes include holidays for two, a $20,000 Bank of Butterfield money market fund and gold and diamond pins.

AWARD AWD