As part of Delaware North’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, the company-operated Gideon Putnam and Roosevelt Baths & Spa in Saratoga Spa State Park, N.Y., recently rewarded two associates for leading the way.

The awards were the brainchild of Heather Coton, environmental manager of The Gideon Putnam. Managers submitted their nominations to Coton, who chose two recipients for their outstanding efforts toward the resort’s composting program. The hotel and spa have been composting for nearly two years.

The two associates recognized were Otto Korner, chef de partie at Putnam’s Restaurant, and Michael Berkal, a massage therapist at Roosevelt Baths & Spa. Korner has been at The Gideon Putnam for almost 48 years, and served as the restaurant’s executive chef from 1970-2007. Berkal holds a degree in Environmental Studies, and prior to entering health care, he worked as an educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Celebrating the GreenPath success of Chef de Partie Otto Kormer are (from left) Heather Coton, environmental manager; Luca Brunelle, executive chef at The Gideon Putnam; Korner; and Bruce McVay, sous chef.

Coton noted that Korner and Berkal demonstrated exceptional commitment toward monitoring the Gideon Putnam’s composting bins, as well as educating their fellow associates about composting. Both winners received a certificate and sustainable gift.

Celebrating Massage Therapist Michael Berkal’s honor are (from left) new General Manager John Howard, Berkal and Coton.