Trudy Meyer, a 30-year employee of Havre's Duck Inn, was named the hospitality industry's "Worker Of The Year" at the Montana Tavern Association Convention banquet Sept. 12 in Kalispell.
The award, sponsored by the Montana Tavern Times, is officially known as the "Gary A. Langley Memorial Worker Of The Year Award" in honor of the Tavern Times Editor Emeritus who passed away in the summer of 2004. The honoree is presented with a special plaque adorned with bartender's jigger and stir spoon as well as a crisp hundred-dollar bill.
MTA's Sandy Jones and Barb Foster, in their roles as members of MTA's Public Relations Committee, solicit nominations, then utilize a panel to select the winner. In addition to Meyer, Jennifer Regan of Harold's Club in Milltown received an Honorable Mention, a certificate and a 50-dollar bill.
Meyer was nominated by her employers and Duck Inn owners Janna Faber, COO, and William Dritshulas, CEO and was in attendance at the banquet to receive it personally. The award was presented by Montana Tavern Times Publisher and editor, Cole Boehler.
Meyer's nomination read:
"Trudy has been employed by the Duck Inn, Inc. since 1977. This year marks her 30th anniversary with our corporation. Trudy's hard work, integrity, dedication and constant support of the business make her a true asset.
"Trudy stated working as a bartender back in 1977, but she has worn many hats since then. She is currently the assistant manager of the Duck Inn and also Second Vice President of the Duck Inn, Inc.
"Our customers know Trudy by name. She is always there to greet them with a friendly smile. She is there to lend a hand to the employees. Trudy is the definition of teamwork. She is willing to help out in any area of the business; whether managing, bartending, waiting tables, dishes, banquet, keno/bingo, kitchen, decorating and even counseling at times--she is always there!
"It is not a rare occasion for her to put in a 13 hour day and repeat it again the following day. She is constantly there to make sure our customers receive the best product, service and overall pleasant experience when they walk through our doors. She has helped make the Duck Inn what it is today--a Have business landmark.
"The bar/restaurant industry is not an easy business, as we all know! The Duck Inn is open seven days a week, 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day). Trudy has worked almost every weekend/holiday for the past 30 years--the only time missing a holiday was due to an illness. This is not easy, especially being a wife, mother and grandmother.
"With giving so much of her time to the Duck Inn, she has still made time for her own family. She raised two children (partially as a single mom), who are now grown and she is a proud grandmother to her grandson, Logan.
"She is a remarkable woman who has been our role model and inspiration in this "crazy' but awesome industry. Her devotion and drive are second to none. We are proud to call her our co-worker and friend!
"The Duck Inn is much more than a job to Trudy; it is a part of her life and family. In September 2006, the Duck Inn was recognized and awarded with the Montana Family Business of the Year award by Montana State University College of Business and State Farm Insurance.
"Trudy was there to help accept the award and was quoted in the local newspaper, "This isn't like a job to me, it is a part of my life."
"Some people quit looking for work when they find a job, aren't truly satisfied in what they are doing. Trudy came to the Duck Inn in 1977 in search of work, but instead found a career. She has given 110 percent to the Duck Inn and we are so fortunate to have her as part of our family!
"If you come to the Duck Inn, you will more than likely find Trudy there! Please consider our nomination of our co-worker/friend Trudy Meyer for MTA's most valuable employee."
Jennifer Regan was nominated by Karen Keely, the owner of Harold's Club. Her nomination read:
"Jennifer started working at Harold's Club over 10 years ago. She was just 18 and very "green'!
"Her innocence showed through with a breakout of nervous hives when certain jokes or language was used. She was quiet and reserved.
"Since she is such a beautiful girl, some of the locals took her under their wings. They protected her for years from potential jerks that every bar seems to get and they would walk her to her car every night. Her personality just draws you in and keeps your attention.
"During the years, Jenny has grown so much. Her daily routine for many years was caring for her niece in the mornings, going to school herself, taking care of her niece again, then off to work from 6-2 am. She received her degree a few years ago, bought her first home at 19 and also was married a few years ago.
"Jenny is an absolute PLUS to Harold's! She has learned every aspect of the business and handles its everyday operation. She is wonderful with the patrons and has collected a great clientele. Her co-employees adore her! She has an infectious smile that you cannot help to fall in love with!
"She is no longer the "quiet' person I once knew but a beautiful, intelligent, witty young woman. She is trustworthy and reliable to the end. She is willing to go the extra mile for myself, co-workers and patrons.
"She is my best friend, my trusted employee and the one person I am so very proud of...my daughter."
Editor's note: Watch for a complete feature profile of Trudy Meyer in a coming edition of the Tavern Times.