2013 VIP Sunshine Award winner given a ‘staycation’ at Fairmont SouthamptonBy Patrick BurgessVeteran bus driver James (Jimi) Tweed received his VIP Sunshine Award Pin, a special lunch with the Minister of Tourism for his efforts.Mr Tweed was honoured for going “above and beyond” to make the Bermuda visit of tourists he comes into contact with enjoyable and “one to remember”.Visitors are encouraged to nominate a resident using a nomination form that can be found in ‘This Week in Bermuda’ or online at www.vip.bm. Chairperson of the Visitor Industry Partnership, Barbara O’Shaughnessy congratulated Mr Tweed for his ability to spread Bermuda Sunshine.Chairman of the Tourism Board, David Dodwell, said of Mr Tweed: “It is absolutely imperative that every man woman and child in Bermuda is gracious and welcoming to each and every one of our valued visitors.“Walking the extra mile, doing that little bit extra is in the character and history of Bermudians from all walks of life.“This heritage of warmth and caring personality continues to be epitomised by Mr. Tweed. If everyone took a leaf out of his book Bermuda tourism will soon be on the road to recovery.”And General Manager of The Fairmont Southampton, George Terpilowski said:“Everyone in Bermuda is key to our visitors having a positive, memorable, vacation experience: from the child in their smart school uniform giving a smile and a wave; to the shop assistant, bus operator, the waitress and waiter and even the jogger on the railway trail taking their time to say hello with a happy face.“These are the positives our guests take away as precious memories. The Fairmont Southampton is thrilled to participate in the Sunshine Award initiative.“It is our way of saying thank you to those who make Bermuda so much more and Mr. Tweed is a shining example of going the extra mile.”Mr Terpilowski also gave Mr Tweed a complimentary stay at his hotel with breakfast and dinner.New Yorker JoAnn M Brown nominated Mr Tweed, describing being on his bus twice in three days, noting that he greeted passengers with a smile and friendly demeanour.“He obviously enjoyed his job and was proud to call Bermuda his home,” she wrote. “us to our destination, but he also proudly explained the sites and culture of Bermuda. At one point he stopped the bus so the passengers could take a picture of one of the many beautiful beaches of Bermuda.“Mr Tweed represented all the people of Bermuda, very kind and friendly. We have travelled to many islands in the past, and Bermuda is our top pick!“We are looking forward to returning to Bermuda someday and we will proudly recommend family and friends to visit Bermuda for vacation.”