Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2023
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Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association Honors Exceptional Talent Within the Hospitality Industry at Annual Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner
The winners, who were nominated by their peers and selected by a panel of industry leaders, represent hotels, resorts and restaurants across the state
The winners, who were nominated by their peers and selected by a panel of industry leaders, represent hotels, resorts and restaurants across the state
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) celebrated the excellence within Michigan's hospitality industry by honoring the industry's top leaders during its annual 'Stars of the Industry' Awards Dinner that was held at the Saint John's Resort in Plymouth on Nov. 9.
"In our ever-evolving industry, it's imperative that we take time to honor those who consistently elevate the standards of hospitality,” said Justin Winslow, MRLA President and CEO. “These dedicated professionals continue to shape the guest experience, inspire their colleagues, and drive our industry forward. We take great pride in celebrating these outstanding leaders and innovators within Michigan's vibrant hospitality community."
The Stars of the Industry Awards recognize the outstanding individuals within Michigan's hospitality industry who have demonstrated professionalism and creativity while going above and beyond their roles to contribute to the positive image of the industry. Honorees are nominated by their peers and then selected as winners by a panel of industry leaders. This year featured two new publicly-voted categories, including “Bartender Star of the Year” and “Resort Star of the Year.”
The Hospitality Star of the Year Award is given to a visionary owner or general manager who has maintained the highest standards of hospitality over the expanse of their career. The honoree is an innovator who mentors rising peer stars and develops new practices that positively impact the guest experience. This year's award was given to Tina Pietrangelo of Castanon Holdings LTD (PNK LLC), who “always shares her vision for continuous improvement, personal growth and standard for excellence.”
The North Star of the Year Award is given annually to an unsung industry hero who showcases passion for hospitality and demonstrates a strong commitment to the business and surrounding community. The 2023 award winner is Beverly Demeter of Downtown Restaurant Investments / Old City Hall Restaurant.
The Restaurant Manager Star of the Year Award is given to a top-of-class restaurant management employee who demonstrates exemplary operational performance, outstanding customer service, and dedication to guests, staff, and the community. This year's award was bestowed upon Michael DeRose of Anna's House for cultivating a high-performing team, leveraging each individual's strengths and addressing their weaknesses to establish a unified standard of excellence.
Heather Gates of Restaurant Partners Management Group / Grand Beach and Sugar Beach Resorts was named General Manager Star of the Year for rising through the ranks and exemplifying the best attributes of the hospitality industry.
Emily Moir of Epoch Hospitality was awarded Emerging Hospitality Leader Star of the Year. She was selected for her attention to detail, quick resourcefulness, and undeniable connection to the people she is serving.
The Women in Hospitality Leadership Star of the Year Award is given to an industry leader who is also a community role model and mentor committed to raising up those around her. The 2023 award winner is Mandy Gray of The Highlands at Harbor Springs, formerly Boyne Highlands Resort, for her dedication to self-improvement and leadership excellence.
The Heart of the House Star of the Year Award recognizes exemplary performance and exceptional service by a chef, sous chef, or line cook in a non-management position who does not have regular customer contact. The 2023 honoree is Jorge Alberto Nopala Mendez of Gilmore Collection/Paddock Place.
The 2023 CVB Star of the Year was awarded to Jennifer Sistrunk of South Haven Convention and Visitors Bureau for her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to promoting tourism in the Lake Michigan shore, motivating travelers to visit and frequently return to South Haven.
The Sustainability Recognition Star of the Year Award is given to an individual who develops a culture that embraces green technology and practices that benefit the environment, meet guest expectations, and reduce property expenses. The 2023 award was presented to Holly Moorehead of Mission Point Resort.
The Guest Experience Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an associate who is the first person to greet guests, fosters an environment conducive to new and repeat business, quickly establishes a positive rapport and goodwill among guests, and effectively resolves guest complaints. This year's honoree is Joel Berghorst of Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton.
The Seasonal Operator Star of the Year Award recognizes exceptional performance in the hospitality industry during the seasonal period. This year's honoree is Seth Britton of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
The Sales and Marketing Star of the Year Award is awarded to an individual for innovative marketing and sales efforts generating increased sales and retention of guests. The 2023 award was given to Jennifer Suchocki of the Daxton Hotel for her exemplary performance, exceptional service and consummate professionalism.
The Bartender Star of the Year recognizes a bartender in Michigan who is experienced in their field both in explaining and preparing drinks and cocktails and also helps create new drinks for menus. This award honors an individual who takes bartending to the next level through their knowledge of the industry overall. This year's Bartender Star of the Year is Curry Lund of Suburban Inns (Big E's Sports Grill) for going above and beyond when providing service to his guests.
The Engineering + Operations Star of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding operations, engineering, and maintenance employee who works tirelessly to improve efficiencies, maximize machinery life, reduce costs, and improve property appearance to provide all guests the best stay possible. This year's winner is Marcelo Ponti of Saint John's Resort.
The Room Attendant Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an individual who exceeds all standards for cleanliness and efficiency, inspiring others to work to ensure guests have an optimal overnight experience. The 2023 award winner is Marina Hernandez of 6PM Hospitality.
The Resort Star of the Year spotlights a standout Michigan property known for the experience it provides to guests, its room offerings, facilities, food, service, and overall value. This year's award winner is Crystal Mountain.
The HR Professional Star of the Year Award is designated for an individual working behind the scenes efficiently and loyally to ensure that all team members of a hotel or restaurant have the support they need to be successful and hospitable to guests. The 2023 award winner is Ellen Winterburn of Project Barfly, Inc.
Finally, the Allied Partner Star of the Year Award honors a company that steps up for the hospitality industry, is consistently reliable, and brings solutions to the industry. This year's award winner is SpotOn.
The MRLA also awarded Larry Brown of Affinity Group and Dave Lorenz of Travel Michigan with Stellar Legacy Awards.
In 2014, Larry Brown founded the Affinity Group with other partner companies, providing national representation to clients while also working with other Michigan boards and organizations. Brown has served on MRLA’s Board of Directors since 2001 and has served as the Foundation’s Chairman for 13 years. Under his leadership, the MRLA and its Foundation have grown exponentially. Brown will retire at the end of this year.
Dave Lorenz will be retiring as the state’s tourism director at the end of the year, signaling the end of a 21-year career with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He joined the Travel Michigan team in 2002 and rose to Vice President in 2015, guiding the state’s revitalization through vivid marketing campaigns, community engagement efforts, and improved travel options.
Hi-res photos of all award winners can be found by clicking HERE.
recognizes an outstanding operations, engineering, and maintenance employee who works tirelessly to improve efficiencies, maximize machinery life, reduce costs, and improve property appearance to provide all guests the best stay possible. This year's winner is Marcelo Ponti of Saint John's Resort.
The Room Attendant Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an individual who exceeds all standards for cleanliness and efficiency, inspiring others to work to ensure guests have an optimal overnight experience. The 2023 award winner is Marina Hernandez of 6PM Hospitality.
The Resort Star of the Year spotlights a standout Michigan property known for the experience it provides to guests, its room offerings, facilities, food, service, and overall value. This year's award winner is Crystal Mountain.
The HR Professional Star of the Year Award is designated for an individual working behind the scenes efficiently and loyally to ensure that all team members of a hotel or restaurant have the support they need to be successful and hospitable to guests. The 2023 award winner is Ellen Winterburn of Project Barfly, Inc.
Finally, the Allied Partner Star of the Year Award honors a company that steps up for the hospitality industry, is consistently reliable, and brings solutions to the industry. This year's award winner is SpotOn.
The MRLA also awarded Larry Brown of Affinity Group and Dave Lorenz of Travel Michigan with Stellar Legacy Awards.
In 2014, Larry Brown founded the Affinity Group with other partner companies, providing national representation to clients while also working with other Michigan boards and organizations. Brown has served on MRLA’s Board of Directors since 2001 and has served as the Foundation’s Chairman for 13 years. Under his leadership, the MRLA and its Foundation have grown exponentially. Brown will retire at the end of this year.
Dave Lorenz will be retiring as the state’s tourism director at the end of the year, signaling the end of a 21-year career with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He joined the Travel Michigan team in 2002 and rose to Vice President in 2015, guiding the state’s revitalization through vivid marketing campaigns, community engagement efforts, and improved travel options.
Hi-res photos of all award winners can be found by clicking HERE.
"In our ever-evolving industry, it's imperative that we take time to honor those who consistently elevate the standards of hospitality,” said Justin Winslow, MRLA President and CEO. “These dedicated professionals continue to shape the guest experience, inspire their colleagues, and drive our industry forward. We take great pride in celebrating these outstanding leaders and innovators within Michigan's vibrant hospitality community."
The Stars of the Industry Awards recognize the outstanding individuals within Michigan's hospitality industry who have demonstrated professionalism and creativity while going above and beyond their roles to contribute to the positive image of the industry. Honorees are nominated by their peers and then selected as winners by a panel of industry leaders. This year featured two new publicly-voted categories, including “Bartender Star of the Year” and “Resort Star of the Year.”
The Hospitality Star of the Year Award is given to a visionary owner or general manager who has maintained the highest standards of hospitality over the expanse of their career. The honoree is an innovator who mentors rising peer stars and develops new practices that positively impact the guest experience. This year's award was given to Tina Pietrangelo of Castanon Holdings LTD (PNK LLC), who “always shares her vision for continuous improvement, personal growth and standard for excellence.”
The North Star of the Year Award is given annually to an unsung industry hero who showcases passion for hospitality and demonstrates a strong commitment to the business and surrounding community. The 2023 award winner is Beverly Demeter of Downtown Restaurant Investments / Old City Hall Restaurant.
The Restaurant Manager Star of the Year Award is given to a top-of-class restaurant management employee who demonstrates exemplary operational performance, outstanding customer service, and dedication to guests, staff, and the community. This year's award was bestowed upon Michael DeRose of Anna's House for cultivating a high-performing team, leveraging each individual's strengths and addressing their weaknesses to establish a unified standard of excellence.
Heather Gates of Restaurant Partners Management Group / Grand Beach and Sugar Beach Resorts was named General Manager Star of the Year for rising through the ranks and exemplifying the best attributes of the hospitality industry.
Emily Moir of Epoch Hospitality was awarded Emerging Hospitality Leader Star of the Year. She was selected for her attention to detail, quick resourcefulness, and undeniable connection to the people she is serving.
The Women in Hospitality Leadership Star of the Year Award is given to an industry leader who is also a community role model and mentor committed to raising up those around her. The 2023 award winner is Mandy Gray of The Highlands at Harbor Springs, formerly Boyne Highlands Resort, for her dedication to self-improvement and leadership excellence.
The Heart of the House Star of the Year Award recognizes exemplary performance and exceptional service by a chef, sous chef, or line cook in a non-management position who does not have regular customer contact. The 2023 honoree is Jorge Alberto Nopala Mendez of Gilmore Collection/Paddock Place.
The 2023 CVB Star of the Year was awarded to Jennifer Sistrunk of South Haven Convention and Visitors Bureau for her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to promoting tourism in the Lake Michigan shore, motivating travelers to visit and frequently return to South Haven.
The Sustainability Recognition Star of the Year Award is given to an individual who develops a culture that embraces green technology and practices that benefit the environment, meet guest expectations, and reduce property expenses. The 2023 award was presented to Holly Moorehead of Mission Point Resort.
The Guest Experience Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an associate who is the first person to greet guests, fosters an environment conducive to new and repeat business, quickly establishes a positive rapport and goodwill among guests, and effectively resolves guest complaints. This year's honoree is Joel Berghorst of Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton.
The Seasonal Operator Star of the Year Award recognizes exceptional performance in the hospitality industry during the seasonal period. This year's honoree is Seth Britton of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.
The Sales and Marketing Star of the Year Award is awarded to an individual for innovative marketing and sales efforts generating increased sales and retention of guests. The 2023 award was given to Jennifer Suchocki of the Daxton Hotel for her exemplary performance, exceptional service and consummate professionalism.
The Bartender Star of the Year recognizes a bartender in Michigan who is experienced in their field both in explaining and preparing drinks and cocktails and also helps create new drinks for menus. This award honors an individual who takes bartending to the next level through their knowledge of the industry overall. This year's Bartender Star of the Year is Curry Lund of Suburban Inns (Big E's Sports Grill) for going above and beyond when providing service to his guests.
The Engineering + Operations Star of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding operations, engineering, and maintenance employee who works tirelessly to improve efficiencies, maximize machinery life, reduce costs, and improve property appearance to provide all guests the best stay possible. This year's winner is Marcelo Ponti of Saint John's Resort.
The Room Attendant Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an individual who exceeds all standards for cleanliness and efficiency, inspiring others to work to ensure guests have an optimal overnight experience. The 2023 award winner is Marina Hernandez of 6PM Hospitality.
The Resort Star of the Year spotlights a standout Michigan property known for the experience it provides to guests, its room offerings, facilities, food, service, and overall value. This year's award winner is Crystal Mountain.
The HR Professional Star of the Year Award is designated for an individual working behind the scenes efficiently and loyally to ensure that all team members of a hotel or restaurant have the support they need to be successful and hospitable to guests. The 2023 award winner is Ellen Winterburn of Project Barfly, Inc.
Finally, the Allied Partner Star of the Year Award honors a company that steps up for the hospitality industry, is consistently reliable, and brings solutions to the industry. This year's award winner is SpotOn.
The MRLA also awarded Larry Brown of Affinity Group and Dave Lorenz of Travel Michigan with Stellar Legacy Awards.
In 2014, Larry Brown founded the Affinity Group with other partner companies, providing national representation to clients while also working with other Michigan boards and organizations. Brown has served on MRLA’s Board of Directors since 2001 and has served as the Foundation’s Chairman for 13 years. Under his leadership, the MRLA and its Foundation have grown exponentially. Brown will retire at the end of this year.
Dave Lorenz will be retiring as the state’s tourism director at the end of the year, signaling the end of a 21-year career with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He joined the Travel Michigan team in 2002 and rose to Vice President in 2015, guiding the state’s revitalization through vivid marketing campaigns, community engagement efforts, and improved travel options.
Hi-res photos of all award winners can be found by clicking HERE.
recognizes an outstanding operations, engineering, and maintenance employee who works tirelessly to improve efficiencies, maximize machinery life, reduce costs, and improve property appearance to provide all guests the best stay possible. This year's winner is Marcelo Ponti of Saint John's Resort.
The Room Attendant Star of the Year Award is bestowed upon an individual who exceeds all standards for cleanliness and efficiency, inspiring others to work to ensure guests have an optimal overnight experience. The 2023 award winner is Marina Hernandez of 6PM Hospitality.
The Resort Star of the Year spotlights a standout Michigan property known for the experience it provides to guests, its room offerings, facilities, food, service, and overall value. This year's award winner is Crystal Mountain.
The HR Professional Star of the Year Award is designated for an individual working behind the scenes efficiently and loyally to ensure that all team members of a hotel or restaurant have the support they need to be successful and hospitable to guests. The 2023 award winner is Ellen Winterburn of Project Barfly, Inc.
Finally, the Allied Partner Star of the Year Award honors a company that steps up for the hospitality industry, is consistently reliable, and brings solutions to the industry. This year's award winner is SpotOn.
The MRLA also awarded Larry Brown of Affinity Group and Dave Lorenz of Travel Michigan with Stellar Legacy Awards.
In 2014, Larry Brown founded the Affinity Group with other partner companies, providing national representation to clients while also working with other Michigan boards and organizations. Brown has served on MRLA’s Board of Directors since 2001 and has served as the Foundation’s Chairman for 13 years. Under his leadership, the MRLA and its Foundation have grown exponentially. Brown will retire at the end of this year.
Dave Lorenz will be retiring as the state’s tourism director at the end of the year, signaling the end of a 21-year career with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He joined the Travel Michigan team in 2002 and rose to Vice President in 2015, guiding the state’s revitalization through vivid marketing campaigns, community engagement efforts, and improved travel options.
Hi-res photos of all award winners can be found by clicking HERE.
About the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice and lodging community. Founded in 1921 as the Michigan Restaurant Association and now known as the MRLA, the Association represents over 5,500 Michigan foodservice and lodging establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 450,000 people and creating nearly $44.6 billion in annual sales. For more information, visit www.mrla.org and www.detroitrla.org.
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice and lodging community. Founded in 1921 as the Michigan Restaurant Association and now known as the MRLA, the Association represents over 5,500 Michigan foodservice and lodging establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 450,000 people and creating nearly $44.6 billion in annual sales. For more information, visit www.mrla.org and www.detroitrla.org.
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