WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
A bartender at a Sturgis restaurant recently earned statewide recognition.
Alex Weinert has claimed the title “Star Bartender of the Year,” an honor based on popular vote through a campaign sponsored by the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association.
Weinert was nominated by the restaurant’s owners, Eugene and Karee Harrison. The process involved the creation of an introductory video and creating a classic mixed drink – an old fashioned – using Woodford Reserve bourbon.
He said Wings Etc. general manager Emily Thompson submitted all relevant paperwork, including a synopsis on why Weinert was being nominated.
After three weeks of public voting, finalists were announced and featured Weinert, as well as bartenders from Novi, Saginaw and Traverse City. Weinert, a 33-year-old Kalamazoo resident, was named the winner April 16. Of 743 votes cast, Weinert received 512 tallies.
Weinert was recently honored during an annual recognition event by the state’s hospitality industry. “Star Bartender of the Year” was one of about two dozen categories awarded during the program.
