Awards Spotlight Hospitality Industry
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Restaurant & Lodging Association has announced the top performers in hospitality service. Employees at restaurants and hotels in Indianapolis, South Bend and Angola were recognized.
February 12, 2015
News Release
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – The Indiana Restaurant & Lodging Association Wednesday recognized the best of those who work in the service hospitality industries at an awards event at Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis.
“These are the best and brightest stars when it comes to promoting the state of Indiana in the hospitality and service industry,” said Patrick Tamm, CEO of the Indiana Restaurant & Lodging Association. “We’re proud to be able to recognize this elite crew.”
The association has been selecting the best in the business since 1998 by asking industry professionals to nominate those who provide outstanding service. Nine people were selected this year.
The top restaurant achiever goes to Scotty’s Brewhouse this year with a nod to General Manager Dave Hornak who oversees the downtown Indianapolis restaurant.
“Dave is surrounded by a team of good people and I've watched him learn how to delegate,” said Scott Wise, president and CEO of Scotty’s Brewhouse. “His personal beliefs align with our company culture, which is not just about serving beer, burgers and fries, but providing good service and making an imprint in the community.”
Another top winner, Heather Goralski at Morris Inn in South Bend, Ind., took her job there as her lodging location had just completed a $30 million renovation — then earned its first Four Diamond Hotel rating from AAA.
“It is an amazing honor to receive this recognition. I feel privileged to be able to bring this award back to the South Bend community and Morris Inn at the University of Notre Dame,” said Goralski, who is senior sales manager at the Inn.
The 2015 winners are:
Outstanding Restaurant Manager of the Year
Dave Hornak, General Manager, Scotty’s Brewhouse, Downtown Indianapolis
Outstanding Restaurant Front of House Employee of the Year
Solanika Gleason, Lead Day Hostess, St. Elmo Steak House, Indianapolis
Outstanding Restaurant Back of the House Employee of the Year
Jason Chesky, Line Supervisor, Harry and Izzy’s North, Indianapolis
Outstanding Lodging Manager Employee of the Year – Full Service
Heather Goralski, Senior Sales Manager, Morris Inn, South Bend-University of Notre Dame
Outstanding Lodging Manager Employee of the Year – Select Service
LaShaun Frye, Assistant General Manager, Hampton Inn Northwest Park 100, Indianapolis
Outstanding Lodging Front of House Employee of the Year – Full Service
Viola Gedeon-Hall, In-Room Dining Supervisor, JW Marriott Indianapolis
Outstanding Lodging Back of the House Employee of the Year – Select Service
Terry Collins, Maintenance Technician, Potawatomi Inn, Angola
Outstanding Lodging Back of House Employee of the Year – Full Service
Felipa Gaspar, Room Attendant, Conrad Indianapolis
Outstanding Lodging Front of House Employee of the Year – Select Service
Myra Raines, Guest Service Representative, Holiday Inn Express South, Indianapolis
Source: Indiana Restaurant & Lodging Association