
The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association (MRLA) awarded Bill Wentworth Jr., vice president of Miller Apple in Flint Township, with the Distinguished Service Award (DSA) — the highest honor awarded by the association.
Wentworth was presented with the award at the MRLA’s annual Chairman’s Dinner at Townhouse Detroit in Detroit on Feb. 4. The award recognizes individuals who have provided exceptional and continuing leadership, vision, and commitment to the Michigan hospitality industry. Wentworth was selected by a committee made up of previous winners.
“As this year’s DSA award recipient, Bill Wentworth has impacted local towns across the state through good food service — and outstanding community service,” says Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the MRLA. “His drive, vision, and persistence have helped his company to thrive, even in challenging times, and will keep propelling the company forward in the future. But under his leadership, Miller Apple has also been steadfastly committed to giving back to Michigan communities in the true spirit of hospitality.”
Born in Michigan, Wentworth attended Albion College in Albion before working with his father, Bill Wentworth Sr., and sister, Martha Sanford, to launch a hospitality company in 1993 with their flagship Applebee’s restaurant in Flint. The original restaurant was on Miller Road, which inspired the company’s name — Miller Apple.
Since then, Miller Apple has added 23 Applebee’s locations and two Sonic drive-throughout the state, from Fenton to Houghton.
Wentworth’s commitment to Michigan has also inspired him to give back to local communities, and Miller Apple often partners with local charities to provide for those in need or with community organizations to support important events.
Through the years, Miller Apple, has provided meals on Veteran’s Day for service members, supported the I-500 snowmobile race in Sault Ste. Marie, offered free appetizers with tickets to local high school games, and put on weekly “Fed our High School Teams” events.
Miller Apple is also a supporter of Alex’s Lemonade Stand, an organization searching for a cure to pediatric cancer and has donated more than $100,000 to the organization over the years.
Miller Apple remains a family-run business. Wentworth and his sister now guide the company together. His own family, which includes his wife of 29 years, Daniele, and their four children, has been involved in the Grand Blanc community where they now reside.