The R.O.S.E. (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards took place on Thursday May 9, 2013. It was generously hosted by the Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa in the Stardust Event Center.
17 businesses, individuals, and organizations received awards at the ceremony. Winners are chosen by vote. And after they are counted, those that go above and beyond to provide an exceptional experience for the people who live in and visit Porter and La Porte County and receive the most votes have the honor of receiving a R.O.S.E Award.
While speeches and award were given, guests dined on a delicious lunch that was provided by the talent kitchen staff at the Blue Chip.
Here are a few of the R.O.S.E. Award recipients that you might recognize:
- People’s Choice Restaurant of the Year - Industrial Revolution Eatery and Grille
- Shining Star - Dani Landgrebe of Industrial Revolution Eatery and Grille
- Retailer of the Year - Air One Aerial Photography
- Festival of the Year - Central Park Plaza Events, Valparaiso Community Festivals and Events
- Festival of the Year - Central Park Plaza Events, Valparaiso Department of Parks and Recreation
- Recreation Location of the Year - Portage Township Parks
- Quality of Life/Quality of Place Award –La Porte County Public Library, La Porte Mayor Blair Milo and Michigan City Mayor Ron Meer
- La Porte County Achievement Award - Mary Ellen Hatton of Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa
- Outstanding Elected Official Award - Cary Kirkham of the La Porte City Council
- Professional of the Year - Vice Chancellor Rick Soria of Ivy Tech Community College Pejic
- Volunteer of the Year - Helen Arvidson of Porter County Museum of History
Smiles abounded as the winners accepted their awards. Cameras flashed, a few tears were shed, and applause was readily given to each participant. Mike Leeson, owner of Industrial Revolution Eatery and Grille, was incredibly happy and pleased to have been part of this great day.
“I am very thankful to the community for voting - Industrial Revolution Eatery and Grille the ‘Restaurant of the year’ two years in a row,” Leeson said. “Being that this week is our third year anniversary, it is great to hear from our guests how far we have come since we opened. It’s not only great hearing the positive stories from them on how much they love to visit for a weekly history lesson, but also how our food an service is among the best in the area. Thank you to my staff and our guests for making us a Northwest Indiana landmark.”
A big thank you goes out to all the R.O.S.E Award winners for making NWI a great place to live, work, and visit!