Rockport — Connie Russell, general manager of the Samoset Resort, on Jan. 9 presented seven awards during the Samoset’s annual Associate Awards Banquet.

Russell said the awards recipient’s best exemplify the true spirit of the resort’s success in hospitality, customer service and professionalism in 2012.

Associate of the Year is awarded to the individual who best exemplifies extraordinary service, loyalty, total dedication, and commitment to excellence both individually and as part of the Samoset team. This year’s winner is Gerry Baldacci.

Manager of the year is given to the manager that promotes the Samoset Resort in a positive light and is respected by his or her peers, co-workers and subordinates. A true leader, the candidate “makes things happen." This year’s winner is Chef Tim Pierce, culinary.

The Associate Advancement Award goes to an individual who has progressed the most in his or her position or in the resort in the past year. This year’s winner is Executive Sous Chef Eric Hansen, of our culinary team.

The General Manager Award is awarded to an individual who best illustrates the Samoset spirit and commitment and whose achievements overcoming adversity, if applicable, have been extraordinary. This year’s winner is Addie Stambaugh of the sales and front desk team.

The Food and Beverage Hospitality Award goes to an individual who provides guests with great food and beverage service, going out of his or her way to accommodate guests to meet or exceed their expectations. This year’s award winner is Christienne Jones, food and beverage.

The Hotel Hospitality Award goes to an individual who provides guests with great hotel service, going out of his or her way to accommodate guests to meet or exceed their expectations. This year’s winner is Joanne Nelson, Timeshare Administration.

The team spirit award goes to the department that has come together and best exemplifies the spirit of teamwork to achieve the resort goals. This year’s winner is the The Club.