Recognizing Excellence: Oklahoma’s Hospitality Stars Honored at the 2024 Hirst Hospitality Awards11/12/2024 Oklahoma City, OK., November 4, 2024— The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) honored over 75 of Oklahoma’s top food service talent at the 25th Anniversary celebration of its Hirst Hospitality Awards. The event took place at The Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City on November 4, where over two hundred and fifty restaurant industry professionals attended to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the 2024 Hirst Hospitality Awards honorees. "Oklahoma's hospitality industry truly shines, and the ORA takes great pride in the last twenty-five years of acknowledging the incredible talent within it," expressed James Leewright, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. "Their dedication and enthusiasm make it effortless to honor these distinguished professionals as worthy recipients." The ORA’s two most prestigious awards - the Distinguished Service Award and the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award - were presented at this year's ceremony. These two distinguished awards represent the highest distinctions given out annually by the ORA, celebrating careers defined by outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the state's hospitality industry. The 2024 Distinguished Service Award was bestowed to Brandon Kistler, Area Partner of Hal Smith Restaurants. Brandon has dedicated 33 years to the food service industry 27 of which have been with Hal Smith Restaurants. This award is presented to an exceptional individual who has dedicated their career to the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality through their outstanding service, professionalism, and dedication, they have consistently set a standard of excellence and making a lasting impact in their field. “Brandon’s commitment to this industry and commitment to the Oklahoma market is really profound” said David Brauckmann, CEO of the Hal Smith Restaurant Group “He has proven to surround himself with people that get the job done.” The Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s Distinguished Industry Leadership Award is given to an exemplary member of the restaurant community who has demonstrated significant leadership and set high standards of excellence. Through their leadership and meaningful contributions, these individuals have made a lasting impact on the industry and strengthened the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. This year’s dual recipients are Hank Kraft and Mike Rogers of Hal Smith Restaurants. These two extraordinary individuals are pivotal figures in Oklahoma's culinary landscape employing more than 6,000 team members and overseeing more than 100 concepts/locations. Through Hank’s leadership of the ORA Governmental Affairs Committee, and Mike’s support of the ORA Golf Classic they've had an impact on ORA advocacy efforts and events. Together they’ve also driven the success of Oklahoma ProStart which is the industry’s connection to education and offering high school students crucial industry exposure and experiences. Their mentorship bridges education with real-world experience, instilling valuable skills in aspiring culinary professionals. "I feel incredibly lucky to have these two individuals, whom I see as one," said Hal Smith. "Together, we've achieved so many amazing things." Honorees from more than 20 restaurants were given a commemorative gift and were eligible for more than $2,000 in raffle prizes and cash awards. Additionally, a $1,000 cash prize was presented to Honoree Jennifer Kindred from Musashi’s Japanese Steakhouse. Proceeds from the Hirst Hospitality Awards support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation and these funds support the restaurant community in the form of scholarships to students engaged in culinary, restaurant management, and hospitality-related studies. The program, emceed by Lance McDaniel, Owner McDaniel Entertainment, highlighted distinguished vintner, Dr. Madaiah Revana of Revana Family Vineyard, as the featured guest through Thirst Wine Merchants. 25th Anniversary Partners included 110 Events; Ben E. Keith Company; Bryan Close; Dr. Pepper; ECOLAB; GoFresh; McGregor Insurance Group; Premium Brands; Thirst Wine Merchants; Republic National Distributing Company; Shake Rattle & Roll; The Skirvin Hilton Hotel; and US Foods. Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. ###
0 Comments
Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation's Odyssey de Culinaire ShowcasesTop Chefs and Student Talent7/24/2024 OKLAHOMA – Once the fast-paced night of preparing delicacies alongside noted Oklahoma chefs ended, Chris Kendall, a student at Tulsa Tech Owasso, was finally able to fully soak in the experience.
“This was one of the best nights of my life,” Kendall said. “I never believed we could accomplish this. And we had the opportunity to work with so many amazing chefs. I am excited to see what’s next for me.” What’s next – that’s what the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation’s ProStart program is all about. And the foundation’s Odyssey de Culinaire, two nights of fine-dining events, in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, provides students from across the state the opportunity to work with mentor chefs and to enjoy a peek inside an industry drawing their attention. “Odyssey is absolutely one of my favorite summer events to attend,” said Brenda Pollak, a culinary arts instructor at Pioneer Technology Center. “My students are always so impressed with their mentor chefs, chefs they end up meeting throughout the day of Odyssey and seeing chefs they have met throughout their time in our ProStart program. “It is not every day, especially in our small part of the world, that my students get to experience a dinner of this scale, let alone be a major component in it. It is so special to see the students' eyes light up at the end of the night seeing how their planning, preparations, and hard work paid off.” This year’s Odyssey experience opened in Tulsa’s River Spirit Casino Hotel on July 9. The following week, July 18, at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel, the showcase event moved to Oklahoma City. Attendees were treated to a five-course meal, with each course paired with fine wines presented by Republic National Distributing Company. Some of the state’s finest chefs embrace the opportunity to serve as mentors for discerning students who may one day fill key positions in the industry. In Tulsa, the chef lineup featured Joel Bein (The Meat & Cheese Show), Jeremy Johnson (Food Bank of Northeastern Oklahoma), Stephen Lindstrom (Smoke Woodfire Grill) Austin Plumlee, (Tavern, Bull in the Alley) and Alex Pierce (Southern Hills Country Club). In Oklahoma City, chefs Chris Barton (Skirvin Hilton Hotel), Jeff Chanchaleune (Ma Der Lao Kitchen), Kevin Lee (Birdie’s by Kevin Lee), Brianna Shear (84 Hospitality), Meghan Synco, (Hal Smith Restaurants) and Zak Walters (Sedalia’s) took center stage along with the students. The chefs are paired in their course preparation with high school students who are currently active in ProStart® culinary arts programs in Oklahoma. Funds raised from the event provide the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation, resources to students, teachers and schools who are involved in culinary educational programs. This support includes teacher training and development, materials and resources for student recruitment, assistance with job placement for internships, graduate employment and industry-driven events for hospitality students. “This is the fourth year my school has had an opportunity to participate in the Odyssey de Culinaire,” said Chef Chaya Pennington of Metro Tech. “The experience this event creates is invaluable to reinforcing techniques and expectations of industry standards, giving students a chance to work in real time with esteemed chefs.” A chance to work and learn. And more. “I had such an amazing experience working with my chef, Joel Bein,” said Nikki Longoria, a student at Pioneer Tech. “I want to start my own catering business and having this opportunity with Oklahoma ProStart and Odyssey has given me the courage to work hard and continue learning. I have enjoyed this event and grateful for the chance it’s given me.” Odyssey de Culinaire is an annual celebration organized by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, dedicated to fostering culinary education and growth within the community. The event is held in partnership with Executive Chef Partners Ben E. Keith Co., Republic National Distributing Co., River Spirit Casino Resort, and Skirvin Hilton Hotel, as well as 110 Events, Ecolab, Encore, Funnel Design Group, Legacy Entertainment Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Bryan Close, Capital Distributing, Easy Ice, GoFresh, McGregor Insurance Group, Superior Linen Service and Twisted Tree Baking Company. For more information or to support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation, please visit www.okrestaurants.com. # # # Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually. # # # The Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation (OHF) is a charitable organization benefiting the restaurant, lodging, and tourism industries in Oklahoma. As the philanthropic arm of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, the Foundation enhances the industry’s service to the public through education, community engagement, and promotion of career opportunities. The OHF is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, and shall be operated exclusively for the purpose of increasing philanthropy in the state of Oklahoma.
 Tulsa, OK, April 2, 2024 – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa was the epicenter of professional growth and networking on April 1, 2024, as it hosted the Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s(ORA) annual TulsaFest, an event that has once again proven itself to be more than just another industry gathering. With a focus on fostering meaningful connections and delivering unparalleled insights, TulsaFest 2024 set a new standard for professional events in Oklahoma.
Reflecting on the 2024 TulsaFest, James Leewright, CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, shared:"2024 TulsaFest exceeded all expectations, bringing together the brightest minds in our industry for a day of meaningful connection and growth. I'm grateful to everyone who participated, helping make this year's event truly remarkable. The sense of community and passion for our industry's future was palpable, and I look forward to seeing how we continue to grow and innovate together." The day began with the ORA Board of Directors Meeting, setting a tone of leadership and strategic vision. This was followed by a vibrant networking session where attendees had the opportunity to meet and engage with peers, sharing ideas and forging potentially life-changing professional relationships. Lunch & Special Presentations were a highlight, with recognition of the ORA 2024 Key Club Partners, including esteemed organizations 110 Events / Factor 110, AB One / Anheuser-Busch, Adesso Capital, Auto-Chlor Services, Ben E. Keith Company, Bryan Close, Capital Distributing, Cintas, Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper (Keurig), Easy Ice, Ecolab, Inc., GoFresh, Hal Smith Restaurants, Heartland, Image First Laundry Specialists, McGregor Insurance Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Republic National Distributing Co., Southern Glazer's, Superior Linen Service, US Foods, Visit Oklahoma City whose support and dedication are instrumental to the organization’s success. Special presentations by Sean Kouplen, Chairman & CEO of Regent Bank, Oklahoma’s former Secretary of Commerce & Workforce Development and Shelley Zumwalt, Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage offered attendees a deep dive into Oklahoma's economic development and cultural richness. The afternoon sessions, led by keynote speaker Kent Julian, focused on creating a "DREAM TO DO CULTURE" and “Busting Your Signature Moves”. These sessions provided actionable insights and strategies for personal and professional growth, emphasizing the importance of leveraging individual strengths for collective success. Thank you to the 2024 TulsaFest Partners, AB One / Anheuser-Busch, Auto-Chlor System, Ben E. Keith Company, Chandler Hospitality Group, Coca-Cola, Clearwater Energy Services, Dr. Pepper (Keurig), Mazzio's, US Foods, Ecolab, GoFresh, Heartland, ImageFirst Laundry Specialists, McGregor Insurance Group, Oklahoma Natural Gas, Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits, and Superior Linen Service. As TulsaFest concludes, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and partners for making this year's event a resounding success. The connections made, knowledge shared, and achievements celebrated have indeed made TulsaFest an extraordinary experience for everyone involved. About TulsaFest TulsaFest is an annual event designed to bring together professionals from across Oklahoma for a day of education, networking, and celebration. Through its dynamic programming and focus on fostering strong community ties, TulsaFest aims to propel career growth and recognize the contributions of industry leaders and partners. ### About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
Edmond Students will travel to Baltimore next to compete for coveted national title and $200,000 in scholarships from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
It's not every day that you get the chance to return to a place that has molded you into the person you are today. Yet, I had the distinct honor to do just that as a 1994 alumnus of Oklahoma State University. I was recently invited to be a guest speaker for Dr. Lisa Slevitch's class at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (OSMHTM). The opportunity to share my journey and insights into the hospitality industry with the bright, aspiring professionals of tomorrow was an experience I hold in high regard.
|
|  James Leewright (ORA President) gavel presentation to Siegmund Brown (ORA Chair) |
ORA Board of Directors include:
Scott Bainbridge, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Seminole
Chad Bearden, Click’s Steakhouse, Pawnee
Joel Bein, The Meat and Cheese Show, Tulsa
Brian Bogert, The Jones Assembly, Oklahoma City
Levi Bouska, The Butcher BBQ Stand, Wellston
Eric Brewer, Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, Oklahoma City
Steven Buck, Mentalitea & Coffee, Bethany
Michael Bujold, Downstream Casino, Quapaw
Jeff Castleberry, The Chowhouse, Tulsa
Steven Clowdus, Hard Rock Casino Tulsa, Catoosa
Kim Danserau, Humankind Hospitality Services, Oklahoma City
Stephen DeGraffenreid, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Shawnee
Andrew Delaney, Chick-Fil-A Claremore, Claremore
Marty Doepke, Traditions Spirits, Norman
Kyle Fleischfresser, The Hutch, Oklahoma City
Robert Founds, Lloyd’s Cuts, Tulsa
John Gaberino III, Topeca Coffee, Tulsa
Tyler Gillespie, Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Norman
Ryan Gray, Billy Sims BBQ, LLC, Tulsa
Kirk Greenwood, Auto-Chlor Services, LLC, Oklahoma City
Steve Griffin, Pearl’s Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Shay Hayes, Viridian Coffee, Duncan
Jeffrey Holloway, Boulevard Steakhouse/Holloway Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Russ Johnson, Ludivine, Oklahoma City
Jared Jordan, Summit Club , Tulsa
Andrea Koester, Holey Rollers & Red Rooster, Oklahoma City
Darren Lister, Hideaway-2, Inc., Tulsa
Seth Nimmo, Rib Crib Corporation, Tulsa
Dave Osborne, Symmetry, Oklahoma City
Adam Rott, Republic National Distributing Company, Oklahoma City
Nich Schaefer, Interurban Restaurants, Norman
Bill Tackett, Bluestone Steakhouse, Tulsa
Blane Thompson, The Ellison Hotel, Oklahoma City
Robby Vernon, Hacienda Tacos, Oklahoma City
Katie Walters, Pete's Place, Krebs
Michael Wehba, The Social Order, Edmond
Jamie Winteroth, Shared Plate Hospitality, Oklahoma City
A number of Associate Board members were also voted in.
About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
###
 |  |
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. - The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) announced its 2024 Board of Directors at its annual meeting on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.
"We extend a heartfelt welcome to each of these esteemed industry leaders, acknowledging the honor it is to serve as a director. Their involvement as vital links in our mission to support the industry, through engagement with the foodservice and hospitality industry across Oklahoma, is greatly valued," expressed James Leewright, President & CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association.
The ORA has elected the following directors for 2024, who represent membership around the state.
Officers & Executive Committee Members:
Chair - Siegmund Brown, SERVEGROUP, LLC, Tulsa
Vice Chair/Treasurer - Robert Williams, Eskimo Joe’s, Stillwater
2nd Vice Chair - J Mays, Café 7 Delicatessen & Pastaria, Oklahoma City
Executive Committee- At-Large -Amy Moss, McGill’s, Sand Springs
Executive Committee- At-Large -Alex Stodghill, GoFresh Produce, Tulsa
ORA Board of Directors include:
Scott Bainbridge, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Seminole
Chad Bearden, Click’s Steakhouse, Pawnee
Joel Bein, The Meat and Cheese Show, Tulsa
Brian Bogert, The Jones Assembly, Oklahoma City
Levi Bouska, The Butcher BBQ Stand, Wellston
Eric Brewer, Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, Oklahoma City
Steven Buck, Mentalitea & Coffee, Bethany
Michael Bujold, Downstream Casino, Quapaw
Jeff Castleberry, The Chowhouse, Tulsa
Steven Clowdus, Hard Rock Casino Tulsa, Catoosa
Kim Danserau, Humankind Hospitality Services, Oklahoma City
Stephen DeGraffenreid, Boom-A-Rang Diner, Shawnee
Andrew Delaney, Chick-Fil-A Claremore, Claremore
Marty Doepke, Traditions Spirits, Norman
Kyle Fleischfresser, The Hutch, Oklahoma City
Robert Founds, Lloyd’s Cuts, Tulsa
John Gaberino III, Topeca Coffee, Tulsa
Tyler Gillespie, Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Norman
Ryan Gray, Billy Sims BBQ, LLC, Tulsa
Kirk Greenwood, Auto-Chlor Services, LLC, Oklahoma City
Steve Griffin, Pearl’s Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Shay Hayes, Viridian Coffee, Duncan
Jeffrey Holloway, Boulevard Steakhouse/Holloway Restaurant Group, Oklahoma City
Russ Johnson, Ludivine, Oklahoma City
Jared Jordan, Summit Club , Tulsa
Andrea Koester, Holey Rollers & Red Rooster, Oklahoma City
Darren Lister, Hideaway-2, Inc., Tulsa
Seth Nimmo, Rib Crib Corporation, Tulsa
Dave Osborne, Symmetry, Oklahoma City
Adam Rott, Republic National Distributing Company, Oklahoma City
Nich Schaefer, Interurban Restaurants, Norman
Bill Tackett, Bluestone Steakhouse, Tulsa
Blane Thompson, The Ellison Hotel, Oklahoma City
Robby Vernon, Hacienda Tacos, Oklahoma City
Katie Walters, Pete's Place, Krebs
Michael Wehba, The Social Order, Edmond
Jamie Winteroth, Shared Plate Hospitality, Oklahoma City
A number of Associate Board members were also voted in.
About the Oklahoma Restaurant Association
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,500 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice owners and management develop and strengthen business operations; and inspires membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
 |  |
Tulsa, Okla., November 6, 2023— The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) honored over 65 of Oklahoma’s top food service talent at the 23rd annual Hirst Hospitality Awards.
The event took place at The Summit Club in Tulsa on November 6, where over two hundred and fifty restaurant industry professionals attended to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the 2023 Hirst Hospitality Awards honorees.
“Oklahoma’s hospitality industry is one worth celebrating and we are honored to recognize some of the finest employees working in the industry today,” said James Leewright, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. “Because of their passion and commitment to the industry, it is incredibly easy to call these employees honorees.”
The ORA’s two most prestigious awards - the Distinguished Service Award and the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award - were presented at this year's ceremony. For the very first time, there were three recipients of the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award, recognizing their enduring influence and advancement of Oklahoma's hospitality sector. These three awards represent the highest distinctions given out annually by the ORA, celebrating careers defined by outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the state's hospitality industry.
The Distinguished Service Award was bestowed to Barbara Flanagin with Integris Health of Spencer, Oklahoma. Barbara has dedicated 41 years to the food service industry all at Integris Health.
“Barbara’s contributions to both the company and the broader hospitality industry are substantial,” said Samuel Brannaman, Integris Health. “Her experience and expertise have been invaluable in maintaining operational excellence. Her journey from an entry-level position as a Food Service Worker to her current role as a Food Service Supervisor exemplifies her growth within the company.”
One of the Distinguished Leadership Awards, presented to a long-standing ORA member who has demonstrated continuous support for the industry, was presented to Rusty Loeffler and Robert “Rosser” Ross. These two extraordinary individuals began their remarkable journey in 1969, as friends waiting tables at Steak and Ale. Fast forward to 1976, and their vision became a reality as they co-founded their first Interurban Restaurant in Norman, Oklahoma. Today, their legacy continues within Urban Management overseeing seven establishments across Oklahoma, including the concepts, Interurban, Packard’s New American Kitchen, and HunnyBunny Biscuit Co.
”I have been blessed to learn this business from two of the greatest mentors.” said Business Partner Nick Schaefer. “Rosser and Rusty became my friends and family over the years and I miss Rosser every day. They have been outstanding businessmen and even better people. These two men have meant more to me and my family than I will ever be able to express.”
The second Distinguished Leadership Award was presented to Bill Ricks of Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores where he served as Vice President of Retail Operations for 35 years. Bill also served as the chairman of the National Ice Cream & Yogurt Retailers Association and was their “Man of the Year”.
"Bill has been a faithful and active member of the ORA for 30+ years. It would be hard to find a current or former director who was as active and involved as Bill. He has given his time, experience, and knowledge in an unselfish way to the benefit of the ORA. He has provided wise counsel in many important board discussions", said Craig Bothwell, ORA Past Chair.
Honorees from more than 25 restaurants were given a commemorative gift and were eligible for raffle prizes and cash awards. Additionally, a $1,000 cash prize was presented to Jessi Martinez from Mexico Joe’s.
The proceeds from the Hirst Hospitality Awards support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation. The funds go back into the restaurant community in the form of scholarships to students engaged in culinary, restaurant management, and hospitality-related studies.
“The scholarship fund is a great way for the foundation to invest in the future of our most precious resource, hospitality professionals,” said Jimmy Mays, Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation Board Member and the Hirst Hospitality Awards Committee Chair. “As a former scholarship recipient myself, it is really satisfying to be able to provide these kinds of opportunities and see the process come full circle.”
The program, emceed by The Oklahoman’s Dave Cathey, highlighted distinguished vintner, Benoit Trocard from Les Artigues-de-Lussac, France, as the featured guest of the awards dinner.
Partners included Auto-Chlor System; Ben E. Keith Foods Company; Bryan Close; Dr. Pepper; Premium Brands; The Summit Club; Thirst Wine Merchants; ECOLAB; Republic National Distributing Company; Shake Rattle & Roll; 110 Events; Coca-Cola; Go fresh; McGregor Insurance Group; and Southern Glazer’s of Oklahoma. In-Kind supporters are Artisan Fine Wine & Spirits; Buthion Fine Food & Wine Shop; Handcrafted-Dynamic Brands; Premium Brands; Republic National Distributing Company; Revolution Syndicat; Southern Glazer’s; Thirst Wine Merchants; and Vignobles Trocard.
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
###
The event took place at The Summit Club in Tulsa on November 6, where over two hundred and fifty restaurant industry professionals attended to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the 2023 Hirst Hospitality Awards honorees.
“Oklahoma’s hospitality industry is one worth celebrating and we are honored to recognize some of the finest employees working in the industry today,” said James Leewright, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. “Because of their passion and commitment to the industry, it is incredibly easy to call these employees honorees.”
The ORA’s two most prestigious awards - the Distinguished Service Award and the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award - were presented at this year's ceremony. For the very first time, there were three recipients of the Distinguished Industry Leadership Award, recognizing their enduring influence and advancement of Oklahoma's hospitality sector. These three awards represent the highest distinctions given out annually by the ORA, celebrating careers defined by outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the state's hospitality industry.
The Distinguished Service Award was bestowed to Barbara Flanagin with Integris Health of Spencer, Oklahoma. Barbara has dedicated 41 years to the food service industry all at Integris Health.
“Barbara’s contributions to both the company and the broader hospitality industry are substantial,” said Samuel Brannaman, Integris Health. “Her experience and expertise have been invaluable in maintaining operational excellence. Her journey from an entry-level position as a Food Service Worker to her current role as a Food Service Supervisor exemplifies her growth within the company.”
One of the Distinguished Leadership Awards, presented to a long-standing ORA member who has demonstrated continuous support for the industry, was presented to Rusty Loeffler and Robert “Rosser” Ross. These two extraordinary individuals began their remarkable journey in 1969, as friends waiting tables at Steak and Ale. Fast forward to 1976, and their vision became a reality as they co-founded their first Interurban Restaurant in Norman, Oklahoma. Today, their legacy continues within Urban Management overseeing seven establishments across Oklahoma, including the concepts, Interurban, Packard’s New American Kitchen, and HunnyBunny Biscuit Co.
”I have been blessed to learn this business from two of the greatest mentors.” said Business Partner Nick Schaefer. “Rosser and Rusty became my friends and family over the years and I miss Rosser every day. They have been outstanding businessmen and even better people. These two men have meant more to me and my family than I will ever be able to express.”
The second Distinguished Leadership Award was presented to Bill Ricks of Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores where he served as Vice President of Retail Operations for 35 years. Bill also served as the chairman of the National Ice Cream & Yogurt Retailers Association and was their “Man of the Year”.
"Bill has been a faithful and active member of the ORA for 30+ years. It would be hard to find a current or former director who was as active and involved as Bill. He has given his time, experience, and knowledge in an unselfish way to the benefit of the ORA. He has provided wise counsel in many important board discussions", said Craig Bothwell, ORA Past Chair.
Honorees from more than 25 restaurants were given a commemorative gift and were eligible for raffle prizes and cash awards. Additionally, a $1,000 cash prize was presented to Jessi Martinez from Mexico Joe’s.
The proceeds from the Hirst Hospitality Awards support the Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation. The funds go back into the restaurant community in the form of scholarships to students engaged in culinary, restaurant management, and hospitality-related studies.
“The scholarship fund is a great way for the foundation to invest in the future of our most precious resource, hospitality professionals,” said Jimmy Mays, Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation Board Member and the Hirst Hospitality Awards Committee Chair. “As a former scholarship recipient myself, it is really satisfying to be able to provide these kinds of opportunities and see the process come full circle.”
The program, emceed by The Oklahoman’s Dave Cathey, highlighted distinguished vintner, Benoit Trocard from Les Artigues-de-Lussac, France, as the featured guest of the awards dinner.
Partners included Auto-Chlor System; Ben E. Keith Foods Company; Bryan Close; Dr. Pepper; Premium Brands; The Summit Club; Thirst Wine Merchants; ECOLAB; Republic National Distributing Company; Shake Rattle & Roll; 110 Events; Coca-Cola; Go fresh; McGregor Insurance Group; and Southern Glazer’s of Oklahoma. In-Kind supporters are Artisan Fine Wine & Spirits; Buthion Fine Food & Wine Shop; Handcrafted-Dynamic Brands; Premium Brands; Republic National Distributing Company; Revolution Syndicat; Southern Glazer’s; Thirst Wine Merchants; and Vignobles Trocard.
Founded in 1933, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association is the trade association of restaurants and foodservice operations, the state's largest private industry employer. Representing more than 4,000 restaurants and members, the ORA actively monitors legislation and regulatory agencies; helps foodservice management develop and strengthen business; and develops the membership to do together for the industry what cannot be done individually.
###
| The Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA) honored over 80 of Oklahoma’s top food service talent at the 23rd annual Hirst Hospitality Awards. The event took place at the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club in Nichols Hills on November 14, where more than two hundred and fifty restaurant industry professionals attended to celebrate the outstanding contributions of the 2022 Hirst Hospitality Awards honorees. “Oklahoma’s hospitality industry is one worth celebrating and we are honored to recognize some of the finest employees working in the industry today,” said James Leewright, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. “Because of their passion and commitment to the industry, it is incredibly easy to call these employees honorees.” | |
Bartending Champion Title Goes to Milo at The Ellison’s Dylan Kemp at the ORA Cocktail Shakedown
9/30/2022
Dylan Kemp from Milo at The Ellison claimed the title Cocktail Shakedown Champion by creating an outstanding cocktail using the final championship mystery ingredient: Blue Chair Bay Key Lime Rum Cream. This was the eighth annual Oklahoma Restaurant Association Cocktail Shakedown at the ORA Expo on August 17, 2022.
Kemp was one of several bartenders scoring the highest number of total points in the first and second rounds of the competition, qualifying him to advance and compete in the
Championship Round.
Kemp was one of several bartenders scoring the highest number of total points in the first and second rounds of the competition, qualifying him to advance and compete in the
Championship Round.
Archives
November 2024
July 2024
April 2024
February 2024
November 2023
November 2022
September 2022
April 2022
RSS Feed
