There’s A Star in the Kitchen at Star Plaza – Introducing Chef Jillian Flathers from Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Kitchen”

We have a new star in the kitchen at Star Plaza – Chef Jillian Flathers!

Our new restaurant chef at our signature restaurant T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub appeared on Season 8 of FOX’s cooking reality series “Hell’s Kitchen,” led by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. From September – December 2010, she competed as one of 16 contestants vying for the spot of head chef at the L.A. Market restaurant at the JW Marriott Hotel in Los Angeles. Setting the bar with her creative culinary techniques and memorable no-fear rapport with the fiery Chef Ramsay, our Chef Jillian placed second runner-up – and was a total fan favorite!

Now, she’s working closely with our Executive Chef Brian Narug to fine-tune a new menu as part of the re-launch of our popular Irish pub T.J. Maloney’s. (Stay tuned for updates and new promotions!) (Click here to learn more.)

The Biggest- and Longest-Ever St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Northwest Indiana

Shamrocks are blooming in Northwest Indiana as T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub’s “Going … Going .. Green!” 10-Day Celebration grows through St. Patrick’s Day – and beyond!

As promised, T.J. Maloney’s has been cranking out one heck of a St. Patty’s Day Celebration – the region’s biggest- and longest-ever, with 10 days of themed festivities from March 10 – 19, 2011. Each day carries a different theme – such as our “Man vs. Reuben Roll” Competition that was held on March 10, the launch of our T.J. Maloney’s Irish Drinking Club on March 11 (memberships are still available!), and our Official Training Day this past Saturday, March 12.

Check out pics of our “Man vs. Reuben Roll” Competition winner Jeff Kardelis (slainte, Jeff!), as well as area-favorite New Element performing live on Official Training Day. (Click here to learn more.)

Wisecrackers Comedy Club Features Special Performer: World-Renowned Hypnotist Chuck King

Wisecrackers Comedy Club at Star Plaza – Northwest Indiana’s premier comedy club – is set to host world-renowned hypnotist, Chuck King, for two nights of interactive, hypnotic entertainment.

Held on both Friday, March 11, and Saturday, March 12, the one-of-a-kind show will be hosted in Star Plaza’s Celebrity Ballroom, instead of the traditional venue, Star Café, to best accommodate the nature and scope of the performance. Doors will open at 8 p.m., while live entertainment starts at 9 p.m.

Show tickets are $17 per person and are available now – click here to book! Tickets purchased at the door will be $20 per person. (Click here to learn more.)

Star Plaza culinary team participates in Meals on Wheels fundraiser event that raises $68,000 for Northwest Indiana

The culinary team of Star Plaza was pleased to participate in the 10th Annual “Meals on Wheels Dine with the Chef’s Dinner” to help raise $68,000 for the Northwest Indiana  Chapter.  Over 400 people attended the event featuring the chef’s from the Northwest Indiana Chapter of the American Culinary Federation which is dedicated to promoting the professional image of cooks and chefs through educaction among culinarians at all levels – from apprentice to master. (Click here to learn more.)

The Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, IN has issued the following statement, from President and CEO Charlie Blum:

“The fire at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville last night during the performance of the ‘New Shanghai Circus’ was limited to the stage left curtain and did not spread into the house seating area.

The flame was immediately contained and extinguished by our in-house sprinkler system prior to the fire department arriving on the scene,” says Blum. “I am relieved to report that the 1,800 patrons in attendance, as well as the performers, were evacuated by our staff in an orderly manner, without incident or injury. Refunds for ‘New Shanghai Circus’ tickets will be given at point of purchase through Feb. 26, 2011.  The limited damage is being addressed today and we will be resuming our scheduled programming without any interruption, beginning with ‘Riverdance’ tomorrow evening,  Feb. 11, 2011 at 8 p.m.”

Valentine’s Day choices are made easy at Star Plaza where “It’s All Here”!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner – have you decided what you are doing with that special someone?  Are you looking for suggestions?  Look no further than Star Plaza where “It’s All Here”.  Whether you are looking for a romantic get-away, a fun filled evening full of laughs, live entertainment or one of our amazing shows, we have just what you are looking for!  Choose any of these great options during the entire weekend.  No need to limit yourself to a single day, we have something going all weekend long!

All-Inclusive Packages with deluxe hotel accommodations, meals and entertainment are just a click away – find one that is perfect for you and your special someone!
(Click here to learn more.)

T.J. Maloney’s is the Top Spot in Northwest Indiana to Watch Super Bowl 2011

Home of traditional Irish food, beverage and hospitality – T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub is one of the top bars in Merrillville, Indiana, to gather with friends, family and colleagues – and next weekend, it’s the #1 spot in Northwest Indiana to watch the 2011 Super Bowl! On Sunday, February 6, there is no better place for football fans than our very own T.J. Maloney’s, with our genuine atmosphere, savory menus and warm hospitality … it’s your home away from home.

Whether you’re a Packers or Steelers fan, on game day, there is a perfect spot for you anywhere in T.J. Maloney’s – from our expansive bar to one of our cozy booths, you can belly up to tasty menu items, frosty beers, or better yet, both! And, in particular, the reason any seat is perfect is because we are installing FOUR new flat-screen TVs, including two behind the bar! Now, our guests can watch the Super Bowl – and any sporting event – from anywhere in the restaurant or bar. We figured what better way to introduce these nifty new additions than with a showing of the biggest sporting event of the year!

(Click here to learn more.)

Star Plaza’s “Get Out Of The Cold!” All-Inclusive Overnight Package

Brrr! It’s cold outside! As winter temperatures drop, turn to Star Plaza to escape the chill.

With a variety of warmth-inducing amenities, our multifaceted Northwest Indiana destination is the perfect winter escape – beginning with our one-of-a-kind indoor Atrium oasis. Complete with sparkling pool, waterfall, whirlpool and private deluxe cabanas, this dynamic hot spot is sure to melt away any lingering nippiness. Bundle in our full-service Starbucks® with piping hot beverages and seasonal sweets, and our perennially cozy T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub, with hearty Irish fare, traditional libations and festive live entertainment – and Old Man Winter’s got nothin’ on you! (Click here to learn more.)

Relive – or Recreate – Your “Prom Night” at Star Plaza!

So, you’ve had a week to recuperate from New Year’s Eve. Now, don’t you think it’s time for another party? We do!

Next Friday, January 14, 2011, we’re hosting another blow-out Dance Party – this time, the theme is “Prom Night.” Held in our spectacular Celebrity West Ballroom, this high-energy bash will feature NWI’s very own DJ Navic, Lil Dave and Chris Trojin, and is being co-promoted by Twisted Concepts and Plan B Promo. Drink specials include $2 Domestic Draft Beer, $1 Shot Special, and a select variety of $3 bombs! “Prom Night” will be going non-stop from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Want your chance to be crowned Prom King or Queen? Enter our special “Prom Night” Costume Contest at the door to compete! Winners will be awarded a cash prize, as well as a spot in our VIP section, complete with bottle service for the King and Queen and four guests.

Tickets are available now! Advance purchase admission is $6 (online only), or $10 at the door. To order, visit www.StarPlaza.com/Special-Events/. (Click here to learn more.)

Get out of the cold and into Star Plaza!

Brrr! Old Man Winter has officially arrived and it is cold outside! So as the temps drop, turn to Star Plaza for escaping the chill with two particularly cozy spots to warm up with friends and loved ones.

Our signature T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub is sure to warm both body and soul! At T.J. Maloney’s, you can expect a true Irish experience. Filled with rich woods, an expansive bar and authentic furniture built in Dublin, our Pub gives patrons every feeling that they have been transported to the Emerald Isle. Our friendly staff and cozy atmosphere create the “Craic” of an authentic Irish pub – a spirit that is sure to warm your soul and make you feel like you’re at a “home away from home.” 

T.J. Maloney’s dinner and lunch menus feature hearty Irish offerings, blended and balanced with American favorites. Fuel up with items such as Shepherd’s Pie, our famous Fish & Chips, Dubliner Dip with Guinness Onion Soup and Warm Irish Whiskey Bread Pudding. Not toasty enough? Our bar offerings are anchored by a selection of Irish and international lagers and ales, partnered with Irish scotches and whiskeys – sure to take the edge off any chill. T.J. Maloney’s unique environment fosters a welcoming, genuine, friendly and fun atmosphere – the perfect remedy on a cold, winter’s day. (Click here to learn more.)

Northwest Indiana’s Top Comedy Club Celebrates 20 Years!

It’s been two decades and we’re celebrating! Our Wisecrackers Comedy Club – Northwest Indiana’s #1 comedy club – is commemorating 20 years of hilarity with a star-studded, special anniversary show, to be held on Saturday, Dec. 18, from 9:00 – 11:30 p.m. in Star Plaza’s Celebrity Ballroom.

Our signature in-house comedy club has come a long way since debuting in 1990. Since its doors first opened, Wisecrackers has matured significantly in both scope and popularity – and is now known for playing host not only to nationally acclaimed comedians, but also sold-out shows every weekend.

So, to celebrate this success, we’re putting on a double-header show with two acclaimed comedians: Ken Evans and Isaac Witty. (Click here to learn more.)

STAR PLAZA IS BRINGING BACK THE ULTIMATE NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH!

December is in full swing – and that means not only is Christmas around the corner, but so is New Year’s Eve. It’s time to start planning how you’re going to celebrate! And, at Star Plaza, you know we never pass up the chance to throw a good party – and what we have planned to usher in 2011 is no exception.

Get ready to “Book the Bash” today because we’re bringing back the ultimate New Year’s Eve party! As the epicenter of entertainment in Northwest Indiana, we’re set to host the area’s premier event. With our unbelievable variety of restaurant, lounges and special event venues, our Star Plaza New Year’s Eve Bash will include a property-wide collection of dance parties, comedy shows, live entertainment and world-class performances. It’s all here at Star Plaza – with options for everyone!

Spectacular all-inclusive overnight packages and individual tickets are on sale now! Registered guests will be supplied with an all-access wristband upon arrival. (Click here to learn more.)

A STAR PLAZA GIFT FOR YOU!

“It’s All Here” at Star Plaza – including at your fingertips! This holiday season treat your loved ones – or even yourself! – to the convenience, ease and excitement that come with the Star Plaza Gift Card.

Enjoy the use of this versatile card anywhere at Star Plaza – from deluxe accommodations to world-class shows to distinctive dining. With everything under one roof, the Star Plaza Gift Card caters to every preference.

The Star Plaza Gift Card can be purchased AND used at the following Star Plaza locations:

• Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza accommodations
• Star Plaza Theatre tickets
• T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub
• Starbucks® (onsite)
• Star Café
• Atrium Bar & Lounge
• Wisecrackers Comedy Club
• Star Plaza Gift Shop

Give your family, friends or loved ones the luxury of enjoying their holiday gift in a variety of memorable ways for a time to come.

Happy Holidays from Star Plaza!

Start Your Thanksgiving Celebration Early with Star Plaza’s “Black Wednesday” Bash!

So you’ve heard of “Black Friday,” but what about “Black Wednesday?” Forget the overcrowded malls and swarms of feisty shoppers. Our “Black Wednesday” Thanksgiving Eve Bash is all about sensational DJs, all-night dancing and fantastic drink specials!

We’re ready to celebrate the long holiday weekend by getting the festivities started early – i.e. the night before Thanksgiving! And, what better way to recover from a fun night-out than on Thanksgiving Day with family and friends, as you savor turkey galore (maybe at our Thanksgiving Day Brunch!), loads of football and of course the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Our high-energy “Black Wednesday” Bash is the perfect way to get the weekend started off with a bang – AND even burn off some prelim calories!

Our Bash is co-hosted by Twisted Concepts, and will feature NWI’s own DJ Navic, James Alexander and Lil Dave in a battle of Hip Hop vs House. Drink specials include $1.50 Miller Lite bottled beer all night, $1 Shot Specials, and a select variety of $3 bombs! (Click here to learn more.)

Star Plaza Makes It Easier To Host Guests This Holiday Season!

Do you have a houseful of guests headed your way this holiday season, but are tight on space – or maybe even on time? Alleviate added stress this year with our thoughtfully created, all-inclusive overnight package – “Spare Room for the Holidays.”

Don’t worry about making up the sleeper sofa, digging out the sleeping bags or even changing that extra set of sheets. Treat your houseguests – and yourself! – to deluxe overnight accommodations and a daily breakfast for two with this exclusive package deal. Consider it our gift to you!

Package Inclusions:
• Quality accommodations
• Breakfast in Star Café, daily
• All applicable taxes, hotel fees, and gratuities (Click here to learn more.)

Star Plaza is Keepin’ It Green!

Six months ago, our Star Plaza team embarked on a journey to implement a variety of “green” practices, as part of White Lodging Services Inc.’s “Keep It Green” program. The overlying goals were to encourage energy and water conservation, reduce waste, reduce air pollution and to protect the world’s natural resources. We are now proud to announce that we are a certified “Keep It Green” hotel! (Click here to learn more.)

No Tricks, Just Treats – and Beats! – at our Halloween Bash Next Friday, Oct. 29th

Known for our blow-out bashes, Star Plaza is set to host another high-energy dance party in honor of the upcoming spook-tacular holiday – our Haunted Hotel Halloween Costume Bash. The perfect way to kick-off the Halloween weekend, this action-packed event will feature NWI’s own DJ Navic, Chicago’s Boi Jennius from 103.5 Kiss FM, James Alexander and David Prentoski. It’ll be a pulse-pounding battle of the DJs, spinning Hip Hop, House and Top 40 all night long!

A special sweet treat? Our Costume Contest features a $1,000 CASH PRIZE for best costume – so get creative! First place prize is sponsored by Frozen Ghost Vodka, while second and third place prizes are sponsored by Star Plaza. Additional sponsors include Twisted Concepts and Miller Lite.

Check out details on NWI’s #1 Halloween Bash! (Click here to learn more.)

‘Tis the Season for STAR Holiday Event Planning!

It’s that time again: time to actually make good on last year’s New Year’s resolutions that you’ll start planning this year’s holiday party early, i.e. before Thanksgiving! While we too are still excited with end of summer/early fall highlights such as football season and the leaves changing, it’s also when we – specifically Star Events – launch into full winter holiday event planning mode.

In the blink of an eye the festive holiday season will be upon us, and we are already receiving requests to host special family gatherings and corporate holiday parties, as well as for event catering. So, we wanted to fill you in on – or even remind you of – the many reasons to book your holiday festivities with us at Star Plaza before time runs out! (Click here to learn more.)

And, the ROSE Award Goes To … Two of Our Star Plaza Employees!

On Wednesday, September 29th, the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority (SSCVA) honored two of our Star Plaza employees – Paul Wheaton and Beverly Wheaton – with ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards.

Paul and Beverly are brother and sister – and the first-ever brother and sister winners in the history of the ROSE Awards. Paul and Beverly have been working at our property for a compelling 12 and 19 years respectively. Receiving a ROSE Award is a tremendous accomplishment, and we are so proud of our team members!

Also, recognized at the award ceremony were Fermin Monreal and Mark Tarlton, who were another two of our ROSE Award nominees due to their extraordinary contributions to Star Plaza and their superior guest service skills.

The ROSE Awards are presented annually by the SSCVA, and were created to recognize exceptional front-line hospitality employees who go above-and-beyond the call of duty on a regular basis. Most often, guests have more interaction with front-desk employees than an owner or manager, and ultimately have a lasting impression on guests. (Click here to learn more.)

White Lodging Puts Its Best Foot Forward as Our Company’s Donations to the “Back on My Feet” Organization Reach $100,000!

White Lodging has been stepping up for a great cause … literally! In support of the organization “Back on My Feet” (BOMF), which uses running as an incentive to get homeless people into job training and independent living, White Lodging – our parent company – and our fellow associates launched fundraising efforts over Labor Day weekend with an internal “Sneaker Day,” during which all employees were allowed to wear sneakers to work upon making a $5 donation.

The results were spectacular – and certainly (Click here to learn more.)

Does Star Events Make You Starry-Eyed?

Carrying a 40-year legacy of high-profile meetings, buzz-worthy events and top-notch service, Star Plaza – and our Star Events team specifically – take delivering the highest caliber of meetings and events very seriously.

Star Plaza is regarded as one of the premier meeting and event destinations in Northwest Indiana – featuring 67,000 square feet of versatile meeting and conference facilities. Both our property (Click here to learn more.)

What Is Your Favorite Star Plaza Memory?

Did you know that Star Plaza just celebrated a birthday? Forty years, in fact! We think our ever-evolving, star-studded history is pretty cool – and we thought we’d share our story with you.

Star Plaza has been family-owned and -operated since its origin four decades ago. The property was the very first venture of (Click here to learn more.)

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Star Plaza

1. See a show at the famous Star Plaza Theatre
2. Get away from it all in one of our deluxe guestrooms, complete with a private balcony
3. Take a dip in our indoor and outdoor pools – don’t forget about the two whirlpools
4. Laugh the night away at our very own Wisecrackers Comedy Club
5. Top patio dining! Open for the season at T.J. Maloney’s Authentic Irish Pub
6. Dine with the “Stars” at Star Café
7. $5.00 Martinis and $5.00 Patron Silver shots on Fridays
8. Free LIVE entertainment every weekend!
9. Get down to business with your next corporate event
10. Plan the wedding of your dreams
11. Bonus! Here’s an extra…Starbucks®. Need we say more?