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Two Devoted Employees Recognized With Customer Service Awards

For the past decade Grandfather Mountain has recognized two employees each December with very special awards. The Bill and Martha Awards were created to distinguish and reward members of the staff who excel in service to customers and to fellow employees.

Each year the recipients of the two awards are chosen by former awards winners and they are then recognized at the company’s Christmas party.

The Bill Award, for the employee who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty to serve fellow employees, was given to Andrew Grindstaff. Grindstaff has worked both at Mildred’s Grill and on the maintenance crew. A talented musician, the guys who work with Andrew say he is a "ladies' man," but that he will help anybody, even guys.

The Martha Award, for the employee who contributes legendary service to our guests above and beyond the call of duty, went to Assistant Restaurant Manger Madge Mayberry. Mayberry received strong nominations for both the Bill and the Martha awards this year, reflecting how much she is appreciated by her peers.

Mayberry is known around the Mountain for her ability to tease and be teased. Giving Madge a hard time is a favorite pastime for all employees, and her gruff but playful comebacks lighten up the day for everyone.

The two awards were named after Bill Alexander and Martha Oberhelman, two individuals who set a standard for service on Grandfather Mountain.

The late Alexander spent nearly half a century helping customers and his fellow staff members. He was known for going the extra mile to teach, encourage and share the load of his many friends on the Mountain.

The late Martha Oberhelman was known far and wide for her exemplary service to customers, the personal interest she showed in guests, and the memorable experience they received when they came in contact with her.

The names of this year’s honorees will be added to a plaque in the Nature Museum.

“These are the highest recognitions we give to members of our staff,” said Vice President Harris Prevost, “because their service isn’t just a one-time thing, it takes place consistently over the year.”

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