(SHIPSHEWANA) - Two Northeast Indiana individuals and a business have been given awards for tourism.
Alvin and Elsie Miller of Shipshewana were given the Will Koch Indiana Tourism Leadership Award, which is the State's highest tourism accolade.
The award was given by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, during a presentation ceremony November 10 at the Indianapolis Zoo Hulman Riverhouse.
The Millers are being celebrated for their development of the Davis Mercantile, a four story shopping center that began as the Davis Hotel. In the 1980's Alvin noticed visitors arriving from across the country and began collecting license plate numbers. After hearing repeated questions about places to shop, Alvin left his job at a sawmill and purchased the Davis Hotel, transforming it into a hub of Hoosier Hospitality.
Today, the Davis Mercantile features over 21 specialty shops and restaurants, a 1906 carousel and an 18,000 pound Douglas Fir tree centerpiece. Even though a fire destroyed the original building in 2004, the Millers rebuilt it with support from local craftsmen and the community.
The IDDC also awarded 12 tourism industry representatives with a Hoosier Hospitality Award. Among those was Ronnie Snook, General Manager at the Holiday Inn Express in Howe and Sturgis.
Ronnie's commitment to guest safety was on full display when a visitor fell in their hotel shower. Without hesitation, Ronnie was the first to reach the guest, calmly assessing the situation and ensuring emergency services were contacted immediately. Her swift actions helped first responders arrive quickly and provide the necessary care, turning a frightening moment into one of compassion and professionalism.
Also receiving a Hoosier Hospitality Award was Cindy Schlemmer, Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator of the Ligonier Visitor Center & Heritage Station Museum in Noble County.