LRA Greater Baton Rouge Chapter Honors Culinary Leadership Excellence at Awards Night 2023

The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) Greater Baton Rouge Chapter gathered November 15 at the elegant Ruffino’s De La Rhonde Hall for an evening of celebration, recognition, and honor. The 2023 Awards Night brought together esteemed members, industry professionals, and friends to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of individuals who exemplify excellence in the culinary and hospitality sectors.

​The event commenced with an opening address by Chapter President Stephen Hightower, welcoming attendees to an evening dedicated to acknowledging the passion, dedication, and ingenuity that define the culinary community within the Greater Baton Rouge Chapter.
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The night's highlights included the recognition of several outstanding individuals:

• Rookie Members of the Year Award: The 2023 Rookie Members of the Year Award honored Jason Nay of Fred’s Bar & Grill for his involvement in various committees, setting an inspirational standard for new members. Steven Fontenot of Superior Grill, a valuable addition to the Chapter Board of Directors, also received recognition for his contributions.
• Event Chair of the Year Award: Hudson Lemoine of Coca-Cola Bottling was acknowledged for his leadership as the Chairperson of the Golf Committee, which spearheaded the successful fundraiser, raising over $50,000 for LRA Programs, including ProStart.  
• Associate Members of the Year Award: Jeffrey Meyers of Sysco and Shawn Hayes of Performance Foodservice were both recognized for their contributions to the culinary community, setting high standards of support within the association.  
• Charlie Hustle Awards: Brad Watts of Cecilia Creole Bistro and K​errie Kikendall of L'Auberge Baton Rouge Resort and Casino, Chairs of the Oktoberfest Committee, were praised for their exceptional leadership and commitment.  
• Distinguished Mentor Awards: Bruce Attinger of City Group Hospitality, and Mickey Freiberg of A La Carte Foods were honored for their immeasurable impact as mentors and advocates within the industry. Their guidance and dedication have significantly shaped the future of the culinary community.

The evening concluded with heartfelt gratitude extended to all awardees, presenters, and attendees for their unwavering passion and dedication. Special recognition was given to Megan Klock and the team at Ruffino’s for an outstanding dinner.

Stephen Hightower emphasized the profound influence and friendship between Bruce Attinger and Mickey Freiberg, highlighting their shared dedication to the LRA's mission and their pivotal role in shaping the industry's future.

As the night drew to a close, Hightower encouraged fostering camaraderie and excellence within the industry, inspired by the exemplary dedication of the evening's honorees.

The LRA Greater Baton Rouge Chapter Awards Night 2023 was a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence and the unbreakable bond within the culinary and hospitality community.