2015 Nominations

Years With Company

2

Nominee Email

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Years In Hospitality

2

Biography

Sheraton Louisville Riverside Hotel is excited to nominate Jiah Lock for the Chesapeake Hospitality Employee of the Year!
Jiah joined our family on August 3, 2015 as a housekeeper and he quickly learned the Sheraton and Chesapeake ways. Jiah then joined the engineering department on February 16, 2016 and throughout his time at the Sheraton, Jiah has immensely impacted our team and our guests while growing his knowledge of the hospitality industry. His positive outlook, friendly demeanor and thorough involvement are what makes him an invaluable asset to our hotel family. If a department is ever in need, Jiah is eager to step in to help his team and get the job done as efficiently, but meticulously as possible. He exemplifies being a team player and personifies hospitality. He is extremely reliable and always volunteers for open shifts when they present themselves.
Jiah is a hospitality chameleon in that he adapts to fit the majority of roles in hotel operations. His expertise ranges from van driver, cleaning of guest rooms in a pinch, setting meeting room and audio visual equipment and acting as security when needed. In addition to being an evening asset, Jiah is a good maintenance engineer with a great mechanical aptitude. His diligence, hard work and ability to provide memorable experiences for our guests are what makes Jiah stand out as a star employee.
His attention to detail and ability to visualize and think outside of the box to problem solve are what keeps our guests coming back. Jiah is highly engaged and committed to ensuring our guests have a great experience at our property while maintaining the exemplary standards of Chesapeake Hospitality.
One of many examples of exceptional teamwork is during a full house shift when our security company no-showed, Jiah stayed to assist until 3:30 AM, four hours beyond his shift to assist the Front Desk with many guest calls and security issues that were generated that night.
Another example of Jiah going above and beyond for a guest occurred in March 2017 when an elderly couple checked in to the hotel and was devastated when their wheel chair broke. Jiah consoled the couple, brought the wheel chair to the maintenance shop and made the needed repair. The couple was ecstatic and so appreciative of Jiah’s thoughtfulness and ability to problem solve immediately.
Sheraton Louisville is incredibly fortunate to have Jiah at the forefront of our guest service. Our hotel could not be more proud of the day to day effort he gives our team and the amazing hospitality he shares with all guests in his care.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Sheraton Louisville Riverside Hotel is excited to nominate Jiah Lock for the Chesapeake Hospitality Employee of the Year!
Jiah joined our family on August 3, 2015 as a housekeeper and he quickly learned the Sheraton and Chesapeake ways. Jiah then joined the engineering department on February 16, 2016 and throughout his time at the Sheraton, Jiah has immensely impacted our team and our guests while growing his knowledge of the hospitality industry. His positive outlook, friendly demeanor and thorough involvement are what makes him an invaluable asset to our hotel family. If a department is ever in need, Jiah is eager to step in to help his team and get the job done as efficiently, but meticulously as possible. He exemplifies being a team player and personifies hospitality. He is extremely reliable and always volunteers for open shifts when they present themselves.
Jiah is a hospitality chameleon in that he adapts to fit the majority of roles in hotel operations. His expertise ranges from van driver, cleaning of guest rooms in a pinch, setting meeting room and audio visual equipment and acting as security when needed. In addition to being an evening asset, Jiah is a good maintenance engineer with a great mechanical aptitude. His diligence, hard work and ability to provide memorable experiences for our guests are what makes Jiah stand out as a star employee.
His attention to detail and ability to visualize and think outside of the box to problem solve are what keeps our guests coming back. Jiah is highly engaged and committed to ensuring our guests have a great experience at our property while maintaining the exemplary standards of Chesapeake Hospitality.
One of many examples of exceptional teamwork is during a full house shift when our security company no-showed, Jiah stayed to assist until 3:30 AM, four hours beyond his shift to assist the Front Desk with many guest calls and security issues that were generated that night.
Another example of Jiah going above and beyond for a guest occurred in March 2017 when an elderly couple checked in to the hotel and was devastated when their wheel chair broke. Jiah consoled the couple, brought the wheel chair to the maintenance shop and made the needed repair. The couple was ecstatic and so appreciative of Jiah’s thoughtfulness and ability to problem solve immediately.
Sheraton Louisville is incredibly fortunate to have Jiah at the forefront of our guest service. Our hotel could not be more proud of the day to day effort he gives our team and the amazing hospitality he shares with all guests in his care.

Nominated By

Courtney McKinley

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 584-5175

Years In Hospitality

15

Biography

Bill Garrett was born in Jackson, TN and moved to Louisville with his family at a very young age. Bill grew up in the Iroquois neighborhood and attended Iroquois High School.

Bill has been married to Suzie Garrett for 40 years. Bill Garrett is a father of two daughters, one son and a grandfather of four grandchildren.

After working for Central School Supply for 21 years and KY Pack Out for five years, Bill’s passion to work with people kicked into action led to a dramatic career change into a hotel. Bill has worked in hospitality for the past 15 years.

When Bill is not at work he finds joy in going to church at Full Convenient, fishing, playing golf and spending quality time with his grandchildren.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

The BIG WHY…Why should Bill Garrett receive a nomination for the 2017 Rose Award? The answer is easy. Bill Garrett is the epitome of what hospitality is all about. Bill’s charitable character delivers an excellent experience to every traveler that he encounters at our hotel. He is kind, compassionate and genuine, and our guest’s recognize that in him. He has a rare yet natural ability to be of service to any individual he meets and always puts his best foot forward. This is Bill Garrett’s 2nd Rose Award Nomination and we are certain that his service will continue to be recognized because he offers an exceptional, caring and humble approach that simply stands out. Here are just a few stories to describe the remarkable service of Bill Garrett.

Bill was called to an overnight room to replace a remote control. Bill couldn’t help but to notice that the guest was having difficulties reaching certain items in their room. Our guest was a little person. The next day, when Bill saw the guest exit the hotel, he placed a step stool in the room as a kind gesture to ensure our guest had every convenience we offer, at their finger tips. When the guest returned to their rooms, they was pleasantly surprised by this offering and told us they wished every hotel staff member was as observant and caring as Bill Garrett!

Bill received a call in the middle of the night from the hotel staff telling him that a frantic guest was concerned when they discovered that their roommate was not answering his phone and that his guest room door was dead bolted from the inside. His friends were alarmed and very concerned when they couldn’t reach their friend or enter the room. Bill Garrett immediately dropped what he was doing at home and quickly got to the hotel to assist. Bill was able to disengage the lock on the door in order to get it open, yet still ran in to an issue. He assessed that a man’s body was against the hotel door which would not allow them to push it open. A friend’s worst nightmare: the very thought that their friend’s lifeless body was on the other side. The panic ensued, the tears, and high emotions. Bill noticed that the friends’ concerns quickly turned into fright. Bill then called 911 for assistance. While Bill and the others waited for the officials to arrive, Bill Garrett calmed the group down and reassured them that everything would be okay. His kindness and soft spoken manner calmed the group and made them all feel safe and secure that the outcome would be positive. Once the officials had gotten in to the room, the gentleman was in fact inside, passed out against the inside of the door. The young man had enjoyed Fourth Street Live so much so that he could only make it to the entrance of his hotel room and thought it would be a comfortable place to rest. The group of friends was comforted by Bill Garrett in an extremely high stress moment and very impressed with Bill’s actions and most of all his compassion and hospitable demeanor.

Recently, Sam and Eileen Baerg traveled to tour Louisville with the Convention Visitors Bureau. Soon after Bill arrived at the hotel for his normal shift; our General Manager had asked Bill to escort him to a room where a guest had notified him of the passing of his wife. Eileen passed away in the middle of the night due to natural causes. Our General Manager and Bill both went to the room to assist and wait for officials to arrive. As soon as Bill saw Eileen’s husband; Sam, Bill hugged him and asked if he could pray with Sam. Sam accepted the offer. Bill preformed about a 2-minute prayer of comfort with Sam. Weeks later Sam sent in the following note in regards to Bill’s service, “I have never met an angel, but I think I met some in Louisville on February 14, 2017. One of them stands out to me. His name is Bill Garrett. My wife passed away in Louisville, I was alone with no one I knew but a few people from the hotel and tourism. Five wonderful people from your great city were at my hotel door that morning to assist me and give their sympathy. I was amazed, touched, blessed and felt taken care of by strangers, people I had never met before. They all gave me a warm hug. Bill hugged me and wouldn’t let go of me while he prayed for me…such a gift to me at that difficult time in my life. Over the years we have brought numerous groups to your wonderful city. We will be coming again with a group in October “

Bill is an extremely humble person and doesn’t truly acknowledge how much he brightens the day for others. We’ve all heard of Random Acts of Kindness but in Bill’s life he performs Consistent Acts of Kindness. Bill explains that each these occurrences were supposed to happen and he was called to action by something greater than himself. He says that God puts him in the places where Bill is needed. When you ask Bill what motivates him to help others he simply answers “Because you never know what that person is dealing with”.

The Hilton Garden Inn Louisville Downtown is proud to have Bill Garrett as our Chief Engineer. No matter the outcome of this contest…Bill Garrett is now and forever our Rose Award Winner. Thank you Bill Garrett for the kind service you extend to all of us…every day.

Nominated By

John Fields

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

12

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 581-1234

Years In Hospitality

12

Biography

Alisa has worked at Hyatt Regency Louisville for 12 years.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Alisa Jackson is the epitome of care and genuine hospitality. She is the reason many guests feel so welcome in Louisville and why they choose to return.

Alisa has more than 12 years’ experience at Hyatt Regency Louisville. She continuously demonstrates Hyatt Regency Louisville’s purpose, “We care for people so they can be their best.” Alisa has a warm, enthusiastic, and genuine presence every single day and never fails to go the extra mile for both new and returning guests. She takes the time to learn about guests’ families, personal lives and careers, and remembers the details even years later. Her familiar face and upbeat personality keeps our guests coming back, looking specifically for her. Guests have said that "she gives you the feeling that everything will be perfect."

Alisa is not only an ambassador for our hotel, but for our city. She eagerly shares with guests all that she knows and loves about Louisville, so they can experience the culture and hospitality our city is known for. Alisa is a team player and has true passion for connecting with the guests of our hotel and the city of Louisville.

Hyatt Regency Louisville is proud to have Alisa Jackson as a valued member of our family and feel she would be an exceptional choice for a ROSE Award.

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A - Lisa

Nominated By

Emily Curtsinger

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

2

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 296-4619

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

Louisville native

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Lessley Wood should be consider for the ROSE award, because she exemplifies the type a person that the city of Louisville should be proud to call their own. With her great smile and personality, Lessley has always helped people in any circumstance. In the Tourism industry, her gifts really shine.

Nominated By

Lyndell Johnson

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

7

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 637-2424

Years In Hospitality

7

Biography

Harold was born in June 1934 in Campbellsburg Indiana, raised on a dairy farm with his parents he is no stranger to hard work. After graduating high school he got his first job as a car salesman with Brown Brothers Cadillac, moved from there to Bluegrass Lincoln Mercury and retired after 46 years!
He is very strong in his Christian faith and is shows in his daily life.
He and Nel have been married now for 18 years since the passing of his first wife, they love bluegrass music and going on mini-vacations, spending time with his family is top priority to him.
He still mows his own yard weekly even though it may take him a couple of days to get it finished, but it is something that keeps his step lively!!

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Harold is a dedicated and reliable employee, always wanting to go the extra mile for any guest or employee.
Harold always wears a smile and has a way to brighten up any day with his jokes & contagious smile!
Since his retirement Harold started his hospitality career with Mussleman Hotels and has been the perfect addition to our hotel!!
No matter what we throw his way he always has that smile on his face and willing to the going the extra mile.

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Harold Purkhiser

Nominated By

Beth Bowyer

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

2

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(859) 743-0974

Years In Hospitality

2

Biography

John serves as Innkeeper and overseer of all things manly, such as property maintenance and groundskeeping, at Chateau Bourbon B&B. In addition to this role, John is a career firefighter and EMT. He received his training in aircraft rescue in the United States Air Force and has been in service at the Cincinnati Airport Fire Department since 2000. Lastly, John's certifications in personal training obtained at the Cooper Institute enable him to develop and oversee the physical training standards for the firemen on his shift as well as to provide personal training services with clients with developmental disabilities.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Imagine your spouse coming home one day and stating they wanted to quit their professional, career-oriented job and put all of their savings into starting a family hospitality business, a totally unrelated field...how would you react? Well, when John's wife decided she wanted to retire from her successful career as a psychologist to open a bed and breakfast in their neighborhood of Norton Commons, John was all in.
John's wife, Missy Hillock, is the owner and primary innkeeper at Chateau Bourbon B&B which opened in December 2015. In the year leading up to its opening, John committed wholeheartedly to the vision and was available for any and all tasks related to getting the business off the ground. For example, John handcrafted many of the furniture and decor pieces featured throughout the property, including several items made from bourbon barrels and staves (swings, vanities, light fixtures, trays, frames, etc.). Since opening, John has played a major role in the overall workings of the inn to make it such a delightful experience for guests. John is a charismatic person who enjoys socializing with guests over a nice bourbon. He instantly makes people feel comfortable and welcome. As a former member of the military, John has immaculate bed-making skills and takes great pride in preparing the guest rooms to military standards...no untidy folds here! He's always happy to step up and do the "dirty work" around here, whether it's cutting the grass, changing a lightbulb, or tinkering with a temperamental toilet...all necessary and important parts of hospitality! Despite working 24-hour shifts when on duty at the firehouse, John immediately reports for duty at the inn after his firehouse shifts are over, meaning there is little rest and downtime for this guy! Not only is he an amazing asset to the inn, but he is also a wonderfully supportive, encouraging partner in life. Without his belief in his wife's vision and his commitment to the hard work that is required in accommodations, Chateau Bourbon wouldn't have succeeded. Chateau Bourbon could not be more fortunate to have such a talented, hardworking, selfless man-of-the-house! (I also attached a photo of our courtyard that shows some bourbon stave swings that John built)

Nominated By

Missy Hillock

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

8

Nominee Email

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Years In Hospitality

8

Biography

Jany moved to the United States in 1990 from Honduras to Miami, eventually finding herself in the beautiful bluegrass state of Kentucky!
In 2004 she and her family opened and started a Mexican restaurant in Mt. Washington, Kentucky finding this small town a great place to live and own a very successful business.
She enjoys making her own Pico de gallo, Salsa and putting her own twist on several traditional Mexican food dishes.
She started with Musselman Hotels in 2009 and has been with us ever since. She became a 'Mimi' this year and loves spoiling her granddaughter as well as the rest her family!!
She travels to and from Honduras enjoying her home she still has there just to see her friends and family, as well as traveling to Miami Florida at least once a year.
She is a mom of 2 and would do anything for her family, has wears a gracious smile and love for all.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Jany truly is the backbone to our Food and Beverage Department at the HGI Louisville Airport, with her contagious smile and love for our guests and making sure that their food is always correct and HOT!!
She takes pride in her job and is always going above and beyond her daily duties.
She helps out with our Bar on selected evenings making sure to engage with all the guests to ensure that they have had a good dinner and that they are doing well, enjoying their stay (always listening to the guest)
She also helps out with our Banquet Department as a server\bartender and simply makes all of our events a huge success, always making sure that each and everyone has exactly what they need or would desire.

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Jany Roberts

Nominated By

Beth Bowyer

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

10

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 712-5379

Years In Hospitality

15

Biography

Deondria is a 34 year old mother of three boys. She is a student. She got her GED four years ago and started college that same year. She going to school to be a school teacher. She bought a house in 2014. She loves her job that she been at the last 10 years.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Deondria is one of the nicest people I have ever met. She always have a smile on her face. She speaks to every one of her customers. I met her year a go at the Ali center she was the parking attendant. She always helping give directions to people in need. She like a tour guide of downtown Louisville. Recommending restaurants and local attraction for vistors to go visit while in Louisville. She never to busy to lend a hand. If she in break walking down the street she will stop to help you on your way. We need more people like her in the world. She worked at many location in downtown Louisville area like Ali center, Galt House, Kentucky center, Downtown YMCA, Actors theater and LG&E just to name a few.

Nominated By

Leandra Watkins

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

1

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 638-0045

Years In Hospitality

8

Biography

Erica attended Cincinnati State Midwest Culinary Institute and honed her skills in pastries and confections at Lola Bistro and Sweet Moses Treat Shop in Cincinnati where she was promoted to Pastry Chef and Artisian Chocolatier. Before accepting in current hospitality position in Louisville, she designed custom treats for the Cleveland Indians Progressive Field Sites desert carts.
Jim served 11 years as Staff Sergeant in the U. S. Army where he received the Sergeant Audie Murphy Award for Leadership. After Honorable Discharge he attended Art Institute of Pittsburg's Culinary Program. Before coming to Louisville he "chefed" in Cleveland at August Henry's, Swingo's Grand Tavern and Michael Simon's Lola Bistro.
The Youngs have worked together for many years and were married I September, 2016.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

The Youngs are nominated as a couple because they perform all their hospitality duties as a couple. In assisting with implementing the new concept of Louisville Bourbon Inn Bed and Breakfast and in the day to day running of the business, their passion, energy, professionalismand warmth has exceeded all expectations of owners and well as guests.
The best evidence of their performance and their invaluable contributions to Louisville hospitality can be found by pursuing on-line reviews for the Louisvillle Bourbon Inn and Inn at the Park where they have been serving the last year. Excerpts from those reviews are attached to this nomination.

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Jim & Erica Young

Nominated By

Herb Warren

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(952) 239-8287

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Joe Heron is the co-founder of the Copper & Kings American Brandy Company with his wife Lesley. Joe had originally planned to build the distillery in Oregon but were “charmed” into building and operating the brandy distillery in Louisville after falling in love with bourbon country.

After leaving his Innovative Marketing position at Novartis, the South African born beverage entrepreneur has founded three beverage companies. The first, Nutrisoda, a “good for you” soda brand sold to PepsiAmericas in 2006. Joe quickly started another company, Crispin Cider which had a line of hard ciders manufactured in California sold to MillerCoors in 2012. Joe and Lesley then started Copper & Kings in Butchertown and immediately became to hottest distillery attraction in Louisville. All three companies have their roots in Louisville, Kentucky and Joe feels fortunate to finally be able to establish their first company that is actually based in Louisville.

The family has lived in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Minneapolis and then moving South to Louisville where they reside in the Highlands. Joe basically gutted an older home and rehabilitated it into a spectacular home in the heart of Cherokee Road.

Joe loves music and developed a recording named The Joe & Les Soundtrack which features My Morning Jacket, Wilco, Houndmouth, Nick Cave, the Modern Jazz Quartet, Herbie Hancock, the Clash, the Jayhawks, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Wilson Pickett, The Cherry Faced Lurchers and Bright Blue. Joe has even wired his distillery barrel warehouse to play music twenty four hours a day creating “sonic aging” of his brandy.

Binge TV watching is a hobby – Game Of Thrones, Westworld, The Man In the High Tower, The Night Of, Stranger Things, The Wire, Mad Men, Deadwood, keeps him up all night. Forest Gump makes us cry. Every time. Monty Python makes us laugh. Every time. The Coen brothers make him laugh and cry. Every time. Joe and Les walk almost every day and have made the local restaurant scene part of their daily life eating out at all of the hot spots as well as the local favorites.

They have two children, Matthew 25, and Georgia-May 23 as well as a ten month old “Terrierist” named Milo and a five month old Springer Spaniel named Parker.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Copper & Kings opened in the downtown Butchertown neighborhood in Louisville, KY in Spring 2014. A modern, spectacular Brandy Distillery in Bourbon Country. In a short space of time the distillery has become somewhat of a Louisville icon.

Bringing together local Louisville residents to enjoy Jazz Festivals, Tiki fests with surf rock bands, to You’re The Wurst October Fest parties. The distillery is intensely community centric – hosting many charitable events, supporting food artisans with the bi-annual Cured & Crafted events, and enabling local artists by hosting the $20 Art Show.

Copper & Kings are also investing in hospitality talent and the future quality of expanded tourism in Louisville by reaching deeper in to more disadvantaged communities and training students in the craft of bartending with the free of charge, 14 week intensive Ideal Bartender School celebrating the legacy of African-American, and Louisville native, bartender, Tom Bullock.

The distillery commitment to Environmental Sustainability is impeccable – hosting a 4,300 sqft Monarch butterfly garden and urban pollinator haven in the front of the distillery (which is currently being studied by the University of Louisville Biology Department), using re-purposed shipping containers, solar power and a diligent recycling of water used through the distillation process. Cyclists and drivers of Electronic Charge Vehicles receive a half price tour of the distillery.

A tour of the distillery is intimate, educational and engaging. The Tour Hosts are knowledgeable, sociable and enthusiastic. The tours take the guest from copper pot-distillation (on 3 locally manufactured Vendome copper potstills – named Isis, Magdalena and Sara after women featured in Bob Dylan songs) through “sonic aging” the barrels with rock “n roll in the basement maturation cellar. A 2nd floor art gallery with local artists and photographers precedes the most spectacular view of downtown Louisville on the 3rd floor Skydeck.

The spirits offered are the most diverse in the state and spectacular – brandy, apple brandy, gin and absinthe. Regular Limited Release editions are found at the distillery as well as the unique “Single Barrel Socialism” program – where guests can bottle their own brandy, absinthe and gin from single barrels on the distillery floor.

The distillery has been voted Best Distillery in Louisville for 2 years in a row.

Copper & Kings represents the true soul of the real Louisville. It is creative, imaginative and caring. It is vital and vibrant beyond the stereotypical. Its sense of adventure, enthusiasm, community engagement and willingness to zag when everyone else zigs is inspiring. Most of all it’s the most interesting, fun and joyous place to visit, just like Louisville.

And everyone who visits wants to return, again and again. Because the experience is never, ever static.

Supporting material located at www.CopperAndKings.com - including press, videos, products and events.

Nominated By

David Dafoe

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(812) 391-8859

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

Tom is a retired career firefighter for Clarksville, Indiana, and served for many years as a fire department chaplain. He still serves as a department chaplain - now on a volunteer basis.
Tom has been a volunteer host and tour guide at the Vintage Fire Museum for three years and works one or more days per week offering delightful and educational tours for individuals and groups. He always brings with him his service dog, "Precious," which children and adults absolutely adore. He is very good with children, but he offers cheerful, insightful tours for everyone. The Vintage Fire Museum has many historic firefighting pumpers and other engines dating back to 1756, so a good tour guide must have a lot of specialized knowledge. Tom does a great job with both the general concepts and the details. Everyone raves about his warmth and his tours. And Precious plays a significant role in all of this, too.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Tom gives of his whole self to make the visits of the Museum guests wonderful. He does all of this on a volunteer basis, and his enthusiasm shows through to everyone. He is a great ambassador for us.

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sell - mer

Nominated By

Curtis Peters

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 243-8282

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

Marlan Ingram is the Director of Training at Openrangesports. He comes from a 30 year career in Law Enforcement and Executive Protection. He spent 22 years as a Competitive Shooter, and for the past 16 years, he has been a Firearms and Defensive Tactics Instructor. He has written over 70 articles on firearms, firearms history, and firearms training. He is rated as an NRA Handgun Distinguished Expert. Some of his certifications are:

-NRA Tactical Shooting Instructor
-Combat Focus Shooting Instructor
-S&W Academy Certified Instructor
-Action Target Academy 3 Gun Instructor
-TEES MP-5 Sub-Machine Gun Instructor
-TCOLE Basic Tactics Instructor (room entry/clearing)
-Israeli Combative Pistol Course
-Thunder Ranch Defensive Handgun Course
-Rangemaster Combative Pistol Course
-Rangemaster Active Shooter Response Course
-Range USA Advanced Handgun Course
-Unified Fighting Systems Defensive Tactics Instructor
-Unified Fighting Systems Edged
-Weapons Defense Instructor
-Simunitions Scenario Instructor

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Mr. Ingram has re-written the course curriculum and class syllabi for all of Openrange's existing educational offerings, and introduced new classes to meet the needs of the community. Mr. Ingram has hired and trained multiple instructors for Openrange, resulting in the highest quality firearms and personal safety offerings in the Greater Louisville Area and the wider Region. Under Mr. Ingram's leadership, Openrange has seen positive growth in our Education divsion, especially with those new to the shooting sports, female students, and minority students.

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MARlan INgram

Nominated By

Matthrew Noyes

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(765) 465-5831

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

Evin is a very smart and driven individual. He is currently attending Indiana University South on scholarship and is pursuing a degree in finance with a minor in accounting and Spanish. He is a brother of Kappa Sigma fraternity and is the President of the Interfraternity Council at IUS. He started at Kentucky Kingdom early 2015 and is in his third season with us. He has shown initiative and a drive for the hospitality industry. He is great with our guests and works well in public safety but is always willing to help where needed. He has expressed interest in learning more about the industry and is eager to continue working at the park.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Evin is dependable and a problem solver. He is a key piece to our security team. As a senior supervisor, he is responsible for ensuring that all public safety officers are in position and handling situations accordingly. Evin is very active around the park and interacts with guests constantly. Whether he is returning lost or stolen items, educating guests on park policies, providing directions or preventing situations that disrupt our family-friendly atmosphere; he is always trying to ensure that all of our guests are having an amazing experience. As a leader on our public safety team, he is the go-to person to deal with escalated situations and helps keep things calm all over the park. Evin started at Kentucky Kingdom as a public safety officer and over the course of three seasons has earned his way into a senior supervisor position. Evin works well with our EMTs on site and also our off-duty LMPD officers. He assists with medical runs in the park and is always calm and collected during more intimidating situations. He is a major asset in keeping all of our guests safe and making everyone's visit enjoyable.

Nominated By

Jessi O'Daniel

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(952) 239-8287

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Lesley and Joe Heron are the founders of the Copper & Kings American Brandy Company.

South African born beverage entrepreneurs who have founded 3 beverage companies; Nutrisoda – sold to PepsiAmericas in 2006, Crispin Cider – sold to MillerCoors in 2012 and now Copper & Kings. All 3 companies have their roots in Louisville, Kentucky and they feel fortunate to finally be able to establish their first company actually based in Louisville.

The family have lived in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Minneapolis and now move South home to Louisville, where they reside in the Highlands.

The Joe & Les soundtrack features My Morning Jacket, Wilco, Houndmouth, Nick Cave, the Modern Jazz Quartet, Herbie Hancock, the Clash, the Jayhawks, Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Wilson Pickett, The Cherry Faced Lurchers and Bright Blue. And the Spotify Discover playlist. And the Spotify Copper & Kings Playlist of the day. And ..

Binge TV watching is a hobby – Westworld, The Man In the High Tower, The Night Of, Stranger Things, The Wire, Mad Men, Deadwood, have had them up all night. Forest Gump makes us cry. Every time. Monty Python makes us laugh. Every time. The Coen brothers make us laugh and cry. Every time.

They have 2 children – Matthew 25, and Georgia-May 23. And a 10 month old Terrierist – Milo, and a 5 month old Springer Spaniel – Parker.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Most recently, the work Joe and Lesley Heron have done at Copper & Kings has brought accolades and attention to the city of Louisville from both the New York Times and Saveur magazine, but that is just the tip of the ice berg of the value their brandy distillery brings to the river city.

The couple opened Copper & Kings in 2014 with an uphill battle - bringing brandy to bourbon company. As their recent national headlines can attest, they are conquering that goal, but not just because they produce kick-ass spirits from aged apple brandy, to absinthe to gin. It's because of the way they do that enhances not only Louisville, but the iconic Butchertown neighborhood.

Voted best distillery 2 years running a tour of the space include not only an education in copper pot-distillation, but a look into their unique sonic aging where barrels are played rock n' roll music. They also get to see the distillery's second floor art gallery feature the work of local photographers, sculptors and painters and the third floor sky deck which includes a unique view of the city's skyline and all that surrounds it.

The entire distillery was built with a focus on sustainability. They not only reused abandoned warehouses for their foundation, but additional buildings were constructed from re-purposed shipping containers. It is all surrounded by a nearly 5,000 square foot butterfly garden which the University of Louisville biology Department is studying in an effort to understand urban pollination. It's powered by solar energy and focused on every aspect of recycling which included a campaign for anyone to bring their old plastic grocery bags that were then turned into sleeping mats for the homeless. In an effort to encourage others to follow their lead, anyone who rides their bike or drives an electric vehicle to the distillery for a tour receives 50% off their ticket.

This space is home to regular events from festivals of the jazz, tiki and sausage variety as well as charitable outreach which support a variety of causes like food artisans with the bi-annual Cured & Crafted events or local artists with the $20 Art Show.

They also have an interest in parlaying their success into successes around the city. This not only includes partnering with local breweries for brandy and beer tours or the Louisville City FC team to rally for a new stadium in Butchertown, but training future hospitality workers. The distillery just completed the first Ideal Bartending School inspired by Louisville-native Tom Bullock who was the first African-American to publish a cocktail cookbook. It offered a free 14-week training program for 15 members of under-served communities.

Copper & Kings Distillery is not just a place to learn about how to make brandy, but rather a place to truly enjoy the community of Louisville.

Nominated By

Jaimie Schapker

Nominated By Email

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Uploaded Documentation

Copper-Kings.pdf

Years With Company

1

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 890-6282

Years In Hospitality

17

Biography

Jimmy James has over 17 years of hospitality and customer service experience in addition to being a professional trained actor. Jimmy James spent five years in New York performing in film and television.
The last two years Jimmy James has entertained thousands of tourists on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, leading tastings, tours and even driving tours by bus to experience Kentucky’s native spirit.
There are never any awkward silent moments while on tour with Jimmy James, he has stories for days and is well education on all distilling processes and procedures. The best part of spending time with Jimmy James on tour is during the Bourbon tasting. He teaches each guest how professional tasters use certain techniques to pull our flavor profiles and use sensory details to truly enjoy the bourbon tasting experience.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Jimmy James Hamblin is one of the best storytellers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and Angel’s Envy is lucky to have an amazing professional actor and distillery guide on Main St.
Jimmy James goes out of his way to make every guest feel at home when they visit the Angel’s Envy Distillery. Jimmy James manages to entertain and educated guest whether it is their first bourbon distillery visit or a frequent visitor with his charismatic persona and his overwhelmingly contagious laugh.
Jimmy James goes above and beyond while at the distillery ensuring that all guests have the most enjoyable experience whether they are on the first tour of the day or the last tour. Jimmy James creates a memorable experience for guests while educating them on Kentucky’s native spirit and most importantly about the process of Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Port Barrels.

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Ham-blin

Nominated By

Deja Lawson

Nominated By Email

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Uploaded Documentation

Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(952) 239-8287

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Copper & Kings brand distillery was built in the Butchertown neighborhood in the spring of 2014 by owners Joe and Lesley Heron. Joe and Leslie relocated to Louisville from Minneapolis with the intention of recreating their past successes in the beverage industry, first with Nutrisoda (sold to PepsiAmericas) and then Crispin cider (sold to and currently operated by MillerCoors). In a short amount of time Copper & Kings has become an anchor in the revitalization of the neighborhood and a community gathering place for many events and organizations. In addition to serving as a cutting-edge manufacturing and downtown tourist attraction with fantastic tours, the distillery is leading the way in environmental stewardship. The grounds include a 4,300 square Monarch butterfly garden and urban pollinator environment. The construction of the facility made use of re-purposed shipping containers, solar power and continual recycling of water used through the distillation process. Bicyclists and drivers of electric or hybrid vehicles receive half price tours of the distillery.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

The heart of the Copper & Kings experience is the personalized and educational distillery tour. People from all over the world have visited what has been voted "Best Distillery in Louisville" for 2 years in a row. C & K tour guides are knowledgeable, engaging and passionate, taking guests from the copper pot distillation area on the first floor through the sonic aging process in the basement maturation environment. The 3 gorgeous copper potstills at the center of the manufacturing area were manufactured locally by Vendome. The second level of the facility includes an open office and art gallery and the third floor Skydeck boasts one of the most spectacular skyline views in Louisville. The large outdoor patio frequently hosts events from area non-profits and other organizations as well as food trucks, Louisville FC rallies and more. Copper & Kings is committed to innovation and continuously rolls out new products in the categories of brandy, apple brandy, gin and absinthe. In addition to regular limited releases, guests can participate in the unique "Single Barrel Socialism" program where they can bottle their own spirits from single barrels on the distillery floor. Joe, Lesley and their C & K team are brand ambassadors and champions for Louisville. One of their most singular and caring initiatives, the "Ideal Bartender School," seeks to empower some of Louisville's most disenfranchised citizens through an intensive 14-week bar tending school. Named for African-American bartender and Louisville native, Tom Bullock, the Ideal Bartender School has already been a tremendous success after less than a year. Copper & Kings is the ideal recipient of a Rose Award, marrying the best of Louisville's distinctive native identity with a continuous zest for creating new and engaging experiences for all who visit there.

Nominated By

Jay Gulick

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 992-5330

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

1990-1997 Security Officer in McLean, VA
1997-2000 Property Mgr. Assistant, Artis Reality, Washington, DC
2000-2013 Receptionist, ABC Radio, Washington, DC
2013-2014 Deli Worker, Kroger, Louisville, KY
2014-Present Building Services Tech, Louisville, KY

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Ellen Dow is an employee that any organization would love to employ. She takes every task of her job seriously and works to exceed the expectations of her manager. Ellen is part of a team at the Ali Center that is responsible for insuring that the building is kept in immaculate condition for the Center’s diverse group of visitors and guests. In discharging her duties, Ellen always goes beyond what is required. She goes out of her way to engage the Center’s guests to do what she can to make their experience at the Center and in Louisville a positive and memorable one.

Ellen is the ultimate “team player.” She does not hesitate to jump in wherever extra help is needed. Whether it is to help shorten the wait time for guests in the Center’s gift shop by bagging their purchases, or placing wristbands on guests and giving exhibit directions when the Visitor Services staff is overwhelmed, Ellen is there.

Ellen is proud of her hometown of Louisville and will readily speak to the Center’s guests and visitors about other wonderful attractions in the city. She is an amazing ambassador for both the Ali Center and the City of Louisville.

I am honored to nominate Ellen Dow for a Rose Award.

Nominated By

Elizabeth Vissing

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 432-0141

Years In Hospitality

3

Biography

Sylvia is born and raised in Louisville, KY (Highlands neighborhood). She attended Manual High School and Western Kentucky University. She has a very dynamic background. After graduating WKU, she spent 2 years in Korea teaching English, then returning home helping manage her family's garlic farm in Nelson Co. She joined Bulleit Frontier Whiskey in March of 2015, with zero Bourbon knowledge but with a ton of passion and personality. A side note- she is also published children's author. Her first book "Take me to Kentucky," was released last Spring.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Passion is an under statement when describing Sylvia. Our mission at our visitor center is to bring our Bourbon brands to life or "put a face to our whiskey." Sylvia does this... and beyond. When guests leave Sylvia's tour they sprint to pick up a bottle of whiskey, return to Sylvia and get their picture taken with her...... and then try to move next door to her house! :). OK... maybe not quite.... but you get the picture. Sylvia's passion for customer service and Kentucky Bourbon shine through every day. Just read our Trip Advisor and Yelp reviews-- Ms. Holden is mentioned in over 50% of them. Attached is an example of the impression Sylvia leaves on many of our visitors.

Nominated By

Kevin Didio

Nominated By Email

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Uploaded Documentation

Rose-Awards-Sylvia-H.pdf

Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 637-1111

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Kate Sorrell began working at the Kentucky Derby Museum in retail in March 2013.
In August 2013, she continued work as a Retail Clerk and also added the role of Tour Guide.
She moved into the position of Lead Tour Guide in May 2014.
Kate then transitioned into the Group Tour Department in November of 2015 as Group Tour, the role she currently holds.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Over the past two years in the role of Group Tour Coordinator, Kate Sorrell has consistently provided Kentucky Derby Museum guests with memorable experiences every time!
From handling initial inquires , planning itineraries to leading groups on their exclusive tour experience at Churchill Downs Racetrack, Kate literally does it all.
One of Kate’s best qualities is her ability to exceed guests expectations while always taking care of internal staff. She keeps everyone in the loop and makes sure our tour guides, front line staff, retail staff, and facilities team always feels appreciated. They always know they can count on her.
Kate has a passion not only for Thoroughbred racing but a love of the equine animal that she shares with guests. Her relationships, both at the Museum, Churchill Downs and within the horse racing industry often help add an additional special moment or experience. She has arranged for trainers, jockeys, farriers, and horsemen to meet with guests and groups, providing once in a lifetime experience that visitors will never forget. She keeps up with racing news and events so she can always share accurate and up-to-date information.
After working with Kate, the Museum often receives numerous emails, cards and calls from her clients, full of praise for her and the extra care she puts into every visit. Her energy, enthusiasm and boisterous sense of humor make her a favorite among our visitors and staff.
She is a shining example of what a ROSE Award recipient should be and we are proud to nominate Kate for this prestigious award!

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Kate So-rell

Nominated By

Jennifer Riddell

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

3

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(952) 239-8287

Years In Hospitality

10

Biography

Joe Heron, a native of South Africa, built a career in pharmaceutical sales that led him to England and eventually Minneapolis, Minn. During a long career as a pharmaceutical sales rep, he created a beverage named Nutrisoda, which was designed to help others, like him, recover from travel fatigue. It sold so well, Pepsico bought the brand, which led Heron and his wife, Lesley, to create another: Crispin Hard Cider. The couple longed for the great cider they'd enjoyed at home and in Europe, and made their own. It also was popular, and eventually sold to Miller-Coors. Missing the brandy of their homeland, the Herons set a goal to create great American brandy. As Joe did with their first two products, he returned to Louisville's Flavorman beverage company for advice. Knowing lots about marketing, but nothing about distilling, Heron believed setting up a distillery in Louisville, where every distilling resource necessary was available, was the ideal location. It didn't hurt that, on his many trips here to perfect other beverages, he and his wife had fallen in love with Louisville. After purchasing a home in the Highlands, he purchased an abandoned Butchertown factory to house the distillery and store hundreds of aging barrels of brandy. Baked into the design for the building's overhaul were large event spaces Heron would open to the community for private and public events. On many occasions, Joe has said to me in interviews for stories I write, and in private conversation, that he and Lesley always envisioned the Copper & Kings property would be a place where people of every walk could gather, interact, celebrate Louisville as a city and a home to great people. Three years into operation, they have achieved both their major goals of that, and making what is already regarded as world-class brandy. Copper & Kings produces a wide range of spirits, bottled sodas and foods sold in the marketplace and on premise during tours and public events. And without a doubt, the business is singlehandedly teaching Louisville's spirits community about the virtues of distilled fruit!

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

As I mentioned above, Joe Heron loves opening the facility at Copper
& Kings to the public for events. Its spacious outdoor courtyard, second floor event space and third floor patio-deck have become widely known in Louisville as the place to go as for small educational events ranging from country ham curing, to book signings, to music and dance performances, as well as this year's graduation ceremony and cocktail competition for its inaugural Ideal Bartender Class of 2017. (In partnership with Brown-Forman, nearly two dozen economically disadvantaged men and women were given tuition-free instruction over three months on the basics of bartending, and how to prepare for the hospitality industry in that role. Joe, like his wife, Lesley, has an enormous heart for helping such people. I'm certain other charity events are held at the distillery, yet out of the public eye.)
C&K's MixTape events--a combination of themed recorded music and cocktails matched to that theme--have turned the distillery courtyard in to the hottest "pop-up" bar in the city on nights they're held. Heron has invited other spirits producers to these events, and challenged bartenders to make cocktails combining C&K spirits with the guest distillery's. This past spring, some 400 guests turned out on a Thursday night to enjoy C&K brandies blended with Mala Idea Mezcals (trust me, they were excellent). What struck me about that MixTape event in particular was the large Latin American turnout, which reminded me of Joe's vision for C&K to be "a place for everyone, for all people." This summer, C&K hosted the Supersonic Gin and Tonic Kentucky Gin Festival. (Yes, gin, which C&K has released in four different expressions.) Invited to showcase its spirits were Kentucky-based Corsair Distillery and New Riff Distillery, both of which are known for their gins. To Joe, such an event wasn't a thumb in the eye of the bourbon industry, but "an opportunity to celebrate other well made spirits from the Bluegrass." Not only was it a huge success, of the 1,100 people who came, their ages ranged from the high 20s to low 70s, truly a community event. Just as compelling are semi-annual Cured and Crafted festivals. In spring and fall, C&K invites some 50 producers of artisanal food and drink to the distillery to showcase their wares. There's no charge for admission, and producers pay nothing for the space. As Joe says about Cured & Crafted, "We must celebrate Kentucky is, it's amazing heritage and the people who keep it alive through the tremendous foods they make. I get tired of seeing festivals that bill themselves as "Kentucky" or "Louisville," but serve nothing that distinguishes them as such. Having carnival-style food trucks selling junk food can be found anywhere. We want Cured & Crafted to be about a sense of place and people. It gets bigger every time we host it, and our hope is that it spills onto the streets of Butchertown."
Lastly, I've lived in Louisville for 52 years. I know and love its people, and I've interviewed thousands of them for stories I've written for dozens of publications. I've known many who come here and fall in love with the city and plug into the community. But I honestly can't think of any who give back to the city they love like Joe and Lesley. Long before he became what I'd call a professional friend (you interview someone likable a dozen times, you'll become a friend!) he was very open about his ideas on generosity. Once Joe said, "If all you do is get into business to make money for yourself, but don't use it to help others, then what's the point of doing it? We're here to share with each other, I believe. We've been fortunate to enjoy some modest success, and so we share that with others out of gratitude for our good fortune. It's how we help build our community." In the three years I've known him, I've seen him live by those words. And that's why I think he's deserving of a Rose award.

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Nominated By

Stephen Coomes

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(952) 239-8287

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Joe Heron
Copper & Kings American Brandy Company
Founded in Louisville, KY 4 years ago

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

Joe Heron's Copper & Kings American Brandy is one of Louisville's most interesting companies (and it's just 4 years old!). C&K opened with a bang by transforming a historic warehouse in Butchertown (that would have fallen over if leaned on too hard) into it's spectacular HQ Distillery and Event Space. C&K is already one of our beautiful city's most iconic buildings.

C&K is adding real spice to the Louisville's reputation as the craft spirits capital of the world by producing interesting spirits like brandy, apple brandy, gin and absinthe, proving powerfully that Kentucky has more to offer the spirit world than bourbon. And Joe and C&K have already become legendary for the sonic aging of their spirits - playing timeless rock and roll in the aging cellar where the sound waves from the music move the spirits into and out of the wood of the barrel during maturation.

Joe and C&K dove headfirst into connecting with the Louisville Community and have been committed from day 1 to making a powerful and positive difference. On almost any week, there will be one or more events happening at the Distillery that bring people of all parts of Louisville together, often times in support of non-profit groups doing critical work in our Community. And Joe and C&K do all of this with the best of senses of humor, always keeping the energy positive and full of light.

As a business owner and operator in Louisville for almost 23 years now (I am Co-founder and President of Heine Brothers' Coffee), I can say with confidence that Joe and C&K are not only making big things happen, they are inspiring me and many, many more of us to think bigger and bolder about what our businesses can be, and about what our community can be. I can't imagine a person / company more deserving of a 2017 Rose Award.

Nominated By

Mike Mays

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 272-2622

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

Dianne Thomas is the youngest of three children and a native of Louisville, Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern High School in Middletown and has three sons, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Dianne has worked in many fields such as Environmental Services to Credit Central. She was forced to retire in May 2007 due to a terrible car accident. But only after a year of retirement Dianne wanted more out of life and started looking for part time work to keep your busy. She held several positons over the next few years from AARP to Louisville Urban League.

In November 2013, Dianne was hired as a part time Barkeep for the newly opened Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Downtown Louisville and has kept us hopping ever since!

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

I decided instead of writing what I thought was the best description of Dianne Thomas I would allow some of the team to provide their own insight to who this amazing lady is.....

"Dianne Thomas has been an integral part of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience since the very beginning; November 2013. She was the first person to befriend everyone when they walked through the doors, and the first person to show everyone when to step it up. That is a true bond which she shares with nearly teammate at the EWBE. For several years, Dianne has served as an exceptional Barkeep, maintaining pristine conditions and training others, while offering kind and funny words to guests whenever possible. Dianne also always keeps the team supplied with plenty of snacks and treats! Soon after leaving the team for what she thought was her final retirement, she realized that she truly missed working with her team and our guests, and was welcomed back with open arms. Upon her return, she has worked even harder than before, learning aspects of retail and finally becoming our leading lady of the front desk. Her desire to grow and help out her fellow teammates knows no bounds. There is no better smile for a guest to see when they walk into the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, than the smile of Dianne Thomas. She makes each guest feel special, even on the busiest day. Her presence is warm and you instantly feel like old friends. She will always make sure no guest leaves disappointed, even if she has to personally take them upstairs for a taste of Evan Williams Peach or Eggnog (coincidentally her favorites). Dianne is a true shining jewel for the city of Louisville.” Andy Embry, EWBE Guest Services Coordinator

“Dianne came out of retirement to come work for the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. In her time here, Dianne has played many roles and never shies away from an opportunity to learn something new. She is quick to assist her team members when help is needed and has been a mentor to new employees. She always gives her all, and sets high standards for herself and others.
Dianne greets every guest with a smile and will go out of her way to make sure everyone who enters our door has a positive experience. If our tours are sold out, Dianne will make sure guests get to do a bourbon tasting. If she meets a guest who doesn’t like bourbon, Dianne will let them try our Evan Williams Peach Whiskey or our bourbon chocolates until they find something they love. Dianne is quick to laugh and her humor and friendliness is contagious. She is a fixture of our retail shop or front desk, making every guest’s experience is memorable and exceptional.” Dabney Clore, EWBE Special Events Coordinator

"Dianne brings something to the table that you just cannot teach- common sense, kindness, and humor. She makes everyone who meets her feel like she’s known them for years. For those lucky enough to work along side her, she is a work mom and sister. She holds herself and team members to the highest standards, and does not hesitate to give you a bit of tough love to make sure we are putting our best foot forward." Jean Michalak, Visitor Center Sales Manager; Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center

There are not enough words to describe how amazing Dianne is and the level of professionalism she brings to this industry. Jeff Crowe; General Manager of Heaven Hill Distillery Visitor Centers

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Di-Anne T-Omas

Nominated By

Jeff Crowe

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

4

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 291-4319

Years In Hospitality

4

Biography

La'Que was born and raised in Louisville. La'Que is a graduate of duPont Manual High School. La'Que is currently attending the University of Louisville and is pursuing a degree in education. His goal is to teach the young minds in our community to help shape and grow the future of our city. La'Que has been with Kentucky Kingdom since its reopening in 2014. He started when he was 16 years old and worked his way up in Guest Services. His original task was ticket scanner but he is now the senior supervisor who is responsible for ensuring that the season pass, ticket, and front gate operation flow smoothly. He is also responsible for handling complaints and resolving any issue that is brought to Guest Services' attention. La'Que is also one of our phone operators who handles guest calls all year long.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

La'Que is an amazing leader and is the best at turning any guests' day around. He leads by example and shows all of the Guest Services staff how treat our guests while also ensuring that our team is working at peak efficiency. Anytime a guest is having a less than perfect experience, we look to La'Que to resolve the issue and find a way to make it right. La'Que embraces the essence of hospitality and spreads it to all of our guests. He understands the importance of treating our guests as if they are guests in our own home. He has a great smile and he exudes professionalism. He is loved not only by our guests but also by all of our staff. He is a shining example of someone who works hard to be the best he can be so that our guests can have the best experience possible.

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luh-kway

Nominated By

Jamie O'Daniel

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

10

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(812) 944-7336

Years In Hospitality

10

Biography

Delesha Thomas is a native of New Albany, IN. She is daughter of Georgia Powell and is the younger of 2 children. She graduated in 1989 from New Albany High School where she played the clarinet in the band and participated in sports.
Delesha has been employed with the New Albany Public Library for 28 years, the last 10 of which have been with the Carnegie Center for Art & History.
She loves to volunteer in the community and for several years has served as the chairperson for the Public Library’s Making Strides To Fight Breast Cancer campaign where she organizes fundraisers and surpassed her personal fundraising goal of $1500. She is an active member of her church where she sings in the choir, serves as an usher, and facilitates the Women Support Group and the Firm Foundation Couple’s Ministry.
Delesha is an avid fan of the UK men’s basketball team and the NFL Pittsburg Steelers.
She has been featured in the Today’s Woman and the Courier Journal on her fashion-forward flare with her clothing, high heels and accessories. She was quoted as saying “I think it is important to look approachable and well-groomed, and it is fun to know people appreciate how I put my wardrobe together.” Repeat visitors to the Carnegie Center for Art & History state they are always eager to see Delesha’s newest outfit!
She has been married for nine years to James Thomas, they are the proud parents of 4children Destiny (Rodney), Diamond, Jarron and Bryson and they have 2 lovely granddaughters, Ramiah and Riley who affectionately call her Mimi.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

I believe Delesha should receive this prestigious award because of her extraordinary ability to make our visitors feel valued, welcomed and informed. She is committed to making sure that all guests are comfortable while they are here and that they learn not only about our museum's programs and activities but also those of attractions on both sides of the river. Delesha is also prepared to make recommendations for lunch or dinner as requested by guests as a way to be of service and to provide a fuller visitor experience to encourage repeat visitors. She routinely goes above and beyond for visitors and a recent experience with a busload of visitors is an excellent example of this. The group had toured our facility and after chatting with many of the guests about their experience here, she asked them where they were having lunch. The bus driver said they were going to the riverfront but it was not clear to him on how to actually get there. Instead of writing out directions, and with the enthusiastic encouragement of the guests, Delesha actually got on the bus with the group and directed the driver to the site!
Many of our visitors have come to look on her as dear friend and they ask about her if she is not at the front desk. Two brief quotes from our visitor survey are typical of the kinds of compliments I receive about Delesha’s service: “Delesha is a very enjoyable and receptive individual and I always enjoy her company. She is an asset to the Carnegie!” “The lady at the front desk always makes sure I am greeted and have current show literature!”
Delesha has a smile that lights up a room and a warm and engaging manner that makes her a much-appreciated co-worker. It is my pleasure to nominate her for this award and I believe she epitomizes the skills, knowledge, personality, compassion and enthusiastic service that the Rose Award honors.

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Deeleesha

Nominated By

Sally Newkirk

Nominated By Email

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Years With Company

23

Nominee Email

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Nominee Phone

(502) 736-3001

Years In Hospitality

23

Biography

A life-long Louisvillian Louis has been a member of the Brown Hotel team since 1994.

Describe why your nominee should win a ROSE award:

It is with great pleasure that I make what may be the longest overdue nomination in Rose Awards history – that of one, Louis Marriott. Louis has been employed at The Brown Hotel since 1994. Louis works the prized 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM shift polishing the floors that dazzle our guests day-in and day-out. You will never see the floors in our grand lobby when they do not shine like a diamond in a mirror. Louis takes an amazing amount of pride in his work and exhibits unequaled loyalty to the company.
There have been instances when I have “caught” him buying supplies out of his own pocket for no other reason than doing so would result in a better “product”. I have had to “force” him to take vacation time, and then, worried about the condition of the floors, talk him out of coming in. When he was asked to fill in and work shifts doing Security, he gladly volunteered, helping out greatly during a transition in this position, but obviously concerned about missing a day on his floors.
Louis has a rich family history with The Brown Hotel that speaks to his incredible work ethic and loyalty. His grandfather was a doorman here for 40 years, as was his uncle for 30. As Louis enters his 24th year with The Brown Hotel, that brings the total family tradition to a combined 94 years of hospitality - AMAZING!
Finally, Louis is the owner of what I believe to be one of the most conscientious quotes one could cite. “I want people to walk into this hotel and realize they are in a special place,” he says. “I feel like the floor of the hotel is the hotel’s shoes – if the shoes are polished and nice, the whole outfit shines.”

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5028516274

Nominated By

Gary Deusner

Nominated By Email

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