Tennessee Notes - Summer 2015

An Official Publication of the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association

Summer 2015

TnHTA Member Spotlight on

Michael

Gibson Founder/CEO of Gibson Hotel Management, Inc.

A Productive and Successful 2015

Legislative Session

Plus, a Special Preview of the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism, October 7–9, 2015

10

12

20

CONTENTS | Summer 2015 Features

Departments

10

06

From the TnHTA Chair, Ken Maples

08

Michael Gibson, Founder/CEO of Gibson Hotel Management, Inc.

From the TnHTA President, Greg Adkins

09

Welcome, New TnHTA Members

The “Tennessee Way” – Working Together

24

Kudos! Awards and Recognitions

28

Local Associations News/ Updates

30

Advertisers Index

12 15 16 18

October 7–9, 2015 2015 Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism

A Busy Year So Far, with More Ahead A United Voice and Welcome to Commissioner Kevin Triplett

20

A Productive and Successful 2015 Legislative Session

22

Recap of the 2015 ProStart Invitational Competition

4 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

The official publication of the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association 475 Craighead Street l Nashville, TN 37204 l T: 615-385-9970 l F: 615-385-9957 l john@tnhta.net l www.tnhta.net

Published by Leading Edge Communications, LLC 206 Bridge Street l Franklin, TN 37064 l T: 615-790-3718 l F: 615-794-4525 l info@leadingedgecommunications.com l www.leadingedgecommunications.com Tennessee Notes Editor: John Whisenant, TnHTA | Managing Editor: Liz Nutter, Leading Edge Communications

2015 TnHTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

* Denotes Executive Committee Member

Ken Maples (2015 Chair)* Comfort Inn & Suites – Dollywood Lane, Pigeon Forge

Bob Cantler General Morgan Inn & Conference Center, Greeneville

Steve Holmes Cornerstone Insurance Group, Chattanooga

Radesh Palakurthi The University of Memphis, Memphis

Wayne Tabor* Holiday Inn Select – Downtown, Memphis

Tom Loventhal (2015 Vice Chair)* Noshville Delicatessen, Nashville

Kimberly Carlson Memphis Restaurant Association, Memphis

Anthony House Chick-fil-A Germantown, Memphis

Scott Pejsa Homewood Suites by Hilton, Knoxville

Tina Tackett Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Nashville

Darik Dawes (2015 Treasurer)* MainStay Suites, Chattanooga

Lauren Chesney Sevierville Hospitality Association, Kodak

Brad Ivens Eagles Ridge Resort, Pigeon Forge

Mary Phillips Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg

Danny Sumrall (Immediate Past Chair)* The Half Shell Restaurant, Memphis

Christie Connatser Hampton Inn – Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg

Teresa Karson Representative of Buddy’s Bar-B-Q, Pigeon Forge

Chuck Pinkowski Pinkowski & Company, Memphis

Bo Connor* Connor Concepts, Knoxville

Anita Lane Hampton Inn & Suites – Downtown, Knoxville

Perrin Anderson Sevier County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sevierville Andrea Anderson Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association, Chattanooga Martha Axford* ABC Design and Consulting, LLC, Knoxville Jim Bambrey Station House Restaurant, Chattanooga Dennis Barber Residence Inn/SpringHill Suites, Nashville/Vanderbilt, Nashville Regena Bearden Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, Memphis Shannon Bowles* Marriott – Nashville Airport, Nashville Ben Brock Amerigo, Nashville

Tom Cupo The Chattanoogan Conference Center & Hotel, Chattanooga Shawn Danko* Kooky Canuck, Memphis Peter Demos* Demos’ Restaurant, Murfreesboro Cornelia Dobbins Hilton Garden Inn, Gatlinburg Bob Dollinger 3H Group Hotels, Chattanooga Jeff Dunham The Grove Grill, Memphis Anne Marie Famalette Courtyard by Marriott, Collierville Michael Gibson* M. Gibson Hotel Group, Knoxville Gary Hahn Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., Memphis

Doug Browne The Peabody Hotel, Memphis

Theresa Harrington Clarksville/Montgomery County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Clarksville

Fred Bullard Hilton Garden Inn – Knoxville West, Knoxville

Dan Haskell Gullett, Sanford, Robinson, & Martin, PLLC, Nashville

Kim Bumpas Visit Knoxville, Knoxville

Tom Headla Bluff Mountain Rentals, Pigeon Forge

Mary Calorio* Elvis Presley Heartbreak Hotel, Memphis

Johnny Hill Holiday Inn, Pigeon Forge

Jackie Leatherwood* Greystone Lodge at the Aquarium, Gatlinburg Dee Lundy Lundy & Associates, Knoxville Andy Marshall* Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, A. Marshall Family Foods, Inc., Franklin Brenda McCroskey Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, Sevierville Jeff Messinger* Mt. Vernon Restaurant, Chattanooga Mike Milller* Patrick’s Steaks & Spirits, Memphis Claudia Moody* Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association, Johnson City Hugh Morrow Lookout Mountain Attractions, Chattanooga Lori Nunnery Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Jackson Ray Ogle* The Inn at Christmas Place, Pigeon Forge

Deanna Ross Metropolitan Memphis Hotel & Lodging Association, Millington John Rothkopt MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center, Kingsport

Bobby Tanner S&D Coffee, Inc., Chattanooga Karl Thomas Inn on the River, Gatlinburg Jill Thompson Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association, Knoxville Peter Tziahanas Embassy Suites, Murfreesboro Pete Weien Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville

John Rucker Key Magazine of Memphis, Memphis

Melissa Woody Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce, Cleveland

Matt Scanlan Gullett, Sanford, Robinson, & Martin, PLLC, Nashville

Dan Zink Chattanooga State, Chattanooga

Sarah Scokin Vista Host, Inc., Jackson

TnHTA STAFF

Pat Sheehy* Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., Lebanon

Greg Adkins President & CEO

Chuck Smart Fairfield Inn & Suites, Murfreesboro Pam Smith Bluff Mountain Rentals, Pigeon Forge Bob Speck Blue Coast Burrito, Knoxville Annie Steal Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga Jindy Strader InterContinental Hotels Group, Franklin

Lisa Bass Director of Membership and Business Development Amy Grace Dunsire Director of Finance and Administration Melissa McIntyre Director of Restaurant Operations and Member Retention John Whisenant Director of Tourism and Events, and Editor of Tennessee Notes Austin White Director of Education

Butch Sypridon Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation, Nashville

The Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association serves its members in the industry through education, promotion and representation. The statements and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the association, its staff, or its board of directors, Notes, or its editors.

Likewise, the appearance of advertisers, or their identification as Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association members, does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services featured in this, past or subsequent issues of this quarterly publication. Copyright ©2015 by the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association. Notes is published quarterly. Subscriptions are complimentary to members of the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association. Third-class postage is paid at Nashville, TN. Printed in the U.S.A. We are not responsible for unsolicited freelance manuscripts and photographs. Contact the editor for contribution information. Advertising: For advertising rates and insertions, please contact Leading Edge Communications, LLC, 206 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37064, (615) 790-3718, Fax (615) 794-4524.

Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 5

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Our

Tennessee is Famous for

INDUSTRY’S

SONG

WHISKEY so why can’t we buy it

Sundays?

Support Local Businesses and Boost Spending End the Sunday Spirits Sales Ban in Tennessee

M

usic. From country to the blues, to rock and roll; from the deep roots of jazz to the traditional music of the mountains; from classical to contemporary; from the Chattanooga Choo Choo to Music City to Beale Street to the Birthplace of County Music and everywhere in between. It’s what makes Tennessee unique. It’s our brand as a state and our mission as stated in the Tourism Strategic Plan: to become “the global music destination of choice” for visitors.

One interesting thing about all of these different types of music that make our state so distinct: they’re all made up of individual notes. They may be arranged differently, may have different beats and tempos and pitches, might even be played on different instruments — but putting all of those notes together is what makes the melody.

That same principle is true for our industry. We have all kinds of different “notes” — hoteliers, restaurateurs, destination marketing organizations, attractions, suppliers — some big, some small, some independent, some part of a larger corporate structure, some urban based and some located in more rural areas. But put all of them together in our association, and you come up with something that is greater than the parts: our own “song” as an industry.

That’s why we’ve named our new quarterly magazine Tennessee Notes — not only to reflect the great musical heritage and allure of our state, but also to highlight the many different aspects and interests of our members that, when put together, make our organization and our industry strong.

We’re excited about this new communications tool. It is yet another way to keep you up to speed on the many different activities and programs of your association.

And it will also allow us to reach more people with important information on the state’s second-largest industry.

So welcome to this inaugural edition — I know you will enjoy reading it! We hope it’ll be music to your ears … um, eyes!

Ken Maples 2015 TnHTA Chair

www.discus.org 6 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CEO

Upping Our Game to

“PLUS IT” P

erhaps you’ve heard of the management principle called “Plus It.” It’s a great concept that basically means, “Whatever you’re already doing well, do it more.”

That’s the way we like to do things at TnHTA — we’re always looking for ways to make your association and its programs and services even better and trying to add even more value to your membership. In other words, we’re always looking for ways to “plus it.”

In a recent Internet article, Krista Morgan of Digital Telepathy described how Walt Disney would use this principle: Normally, the word “plus” is a conjunction, but to Mr. Disney, it was a verb. He would tell his Imagineers to “plus it” as a way to motivate them to take their work to another level. He challenged them to see what was possible, and then take it a step further … and then a step beyond that. Taking it from good to great to mind-blowing.

While this new quarterly publication is not quite to the “mind-blowing” stage (yet!), it is an example of how we at TnHTA are attempting to “plus it” in the area of communications. We’ve always done well with programs such as our newsletters, legislative alerts, social media, the Attractions, Accommodations and Dining Guide and our annual Buyers Guide. And now, with the launch of Notes, we’re upping our game in an effort to keep you better informed, to present our industry and your association in a first-class, professional publication, to provide you with yet another member benefit and to help spread the word about the importance of this industry to Tennessee’s economic well-being.

Notes is your publication. We want to make it as relevant, interesting and helpful to you as we possibly can. We welcome your feedback and suggestions, both for improving the magazine and for story and subject-matter ideas.

I want to say a special word of thanks to our board of directors and, in particular, our Communications Committee chairman Shawn Danko, for their support in launching this new venture. I also want to thank our TnHTA staff and the staff of Leading Edge Communications, Notes’ publisher, for all their hard work in putting this publication together. I think you will enjoy the results of their efforts.

And thanks to you — the Tennessee hospitality and tourism industry — for allowing us to serve you through this association. It’s our commitment to always do more — to “plus it” — that makes our industry and your association so successful!

Greg Adkins TnHTA President & CEO

8 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

Welcome,

New TnHTA Members!

(January 1 – April 30, 2015) Associate Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club, Hendersonville

Construction Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort, Pigeon Forge

Lodging Baymont Inn & Suites, Knoxville Comfort Suites, Manchester Doubletree by Hilton, Murfreesboro Holiday Inn Express, Powell Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kodak/ Sevierville, Kodak Holiday Inn Knoxville West at Cedar Bluff, Knoxville Moonshine Hill Inn, Franklin Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA, Pigeon Forge Sewanee Inn, Sewanee Timbers Lodge, Pigeon Forge

Restaurants Big Kahuna Wings, LLC, Knoxville Buddy’s Bar-B-Q, Sevierville The Butcher Shop Steakhouse, Cordova Chick-fil-A, Germantown Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Nashville Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville The Island, Pigeon Forge Golden Corral, Chattanooga Golden Corral, Clarksville Golden Corral, Cleveland Golden Corral, Cookeville Golden Corral, Hermitage Golden Corral, Johnson City Golden Corral, Kingsport Golden Corral, Knoxville Golden Corral, Morristown Golden Corral, Pigeon Forge Golden Corral, Sevierville Hadley’s Southern Kitchen, Hermitage Hard Rock Café, Pigeon Forge

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Outback Steakhouse, Brentwood Outback Steakhouse, Cookeville Outback Steakhouse, Clarksville Outback Steakhouse, Hermitage Outback Steakhouse, Lebanon Outback Steakhouse/Rivergate, Madison Outback Steakhouse, Murfreesboro Papa Murphy’s Whitehouse Crossing, White House Play, Nashville Quaker Steak & Lube, Bristol Wired Coffee Bar, LLC, Ooltewah

Tourism Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc./ Graceland, Memphis Greene County Partnership Tourism Department, Greeneville Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kingsport Lawrence County Tourism, Lawrenceburg Memphis Hop, Memphis NowPlayingNashville.com, Nashville Town of Jonesborough, Jonesborough West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, Brownsville

Preferred Vendors Automatic Payroll Systems, Hendersonville BOHAN, Nashville Comcast Spotlight, Knoxville Covenant Associates, Inc., dba Patrice & Associates, Brentwood Flashpoint Management, Nashville Greener Dawn, Delray Beach Keep My Planet Green, Nashville Med One Select, Nashville Patrice & Associates, Nashville PDS America, Nashville Regions Bank, Nashville Star Distributing, Nashville Stewart Parking Solutions, Nashville Tennessee Association of Broadcasters, Nashville ✪

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www.nolansav.com Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 9

UPCOMING EVENT

2015 GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE ON HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM October 7–9, 2015 • Gaylord Opryland Resort • Nashville, TN

By John Whisenant, TnHTA Director of Tourism and Events, and Editor of Tennessee Notes

P

lans are well under way for the 2015 Tennessee Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism, which will be held October 7–9 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee. The Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association (TnHTA), the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and our hosts in Nashville are all working hard to ensure that this year’s conference is the best ever!

The annual conference, which is produced by TnHTA in partnership with the Department of Tourist Development, attracts hundreds of representatives from the state’s second-largest industry. This powerhouse event combines the former Tennessee Hospitality Association (TnHA) Conference and Trade Show and the former Tennessee Tourism Roundtable (TTR) Governor’s Conference on Tourism into one dynamic event (TnHA and TTR merged in 2014 to form TnHTA). As a result, the conference is

reflective of all facets of the industry: tourism and tourism-related organizations and businesses, hotels, restaurants, government and the various businesses and organizations that serve our industry.

Programming and activities have been planned that will serve the broad spectrum of the industry, including: nationally known and highly sought-after keynote speakers; educational and professional-development seminars on a wide variety of topics; outstanding networking and social events; and the annual Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism EXPO, where attendees can meet personally with suppliers of goods and services to the hospitality and tourism industry.

Conference attendees will also have an opportunity to experience the sights, and especially the sounds, of “Music City” through special events, tours and dine-arounds.

Two highlights of the conference will be the presentation of the Department of

Tourist Development’s marketing program

by Commissioner Kevin Triplett and the annual “Address to the Tourism Industry”

by Governor Bill Haslam (invited).

A great networking event that will take place on Wednesday, October 7, is the annual TnHTPAC Golf Tournament, which will be held at Gaylord Springs Golf Links.

Golf tournament participants will compete for prizes and bragging rights on the beautiful course, as well as enjoy complimentary breakfast, lunch and beverages.

When you combine all of these great events and activities with the outstanding educational and professional development activities of the conference, it’s easy to see that this will be one conference you do not want to miss! ✪

Top Left: Nashville’s gorgeous evening skyline. Photo courtesy of the Nashville CVC. Top Right: Gaylord Opryland Resort.

Photo courtesy of the Nashville CVC.

For complete conference information, including schedule, speakers, seminars, registration and lodging, go to the TnHTA website at

www.tnhta.net

10 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

and click on “2015

Governor’s Conference.”

AFTER AN ACCIDENT 1. Assess the damage. If possible, move the vehicle to a safe place.

See if anyone is injured, and assess the extent of damage to the vehicle.

Knowing what to do if you are involved in an accident can save lives, reduce injuries and make the claims process simpler and easier.

BE PREPARED • Keep registration and auto insurance papers, and any relevant medical information, in the car.

• Make sure you have the right amount of auto coverage to fit your needs.

2. Call the police or highway patrol. Let law enforcement know if anyone is hurt and the extent of injuries. Get officers’ names and badge numbers, and ask where you can get a copy of their report.

3. Collect as much information as possible. Get names and contact information of everyone involved, including witnesses. Ask for the license number of any other driver involved, car registration and insurance ID card. Make note of the make and model of the cars involved, the location, time of day and weather conditions. Do not discuss who was at fault, or how much insurance you have, with others.

4. Don’t leave the scene of the accident.

5. Get the claims process started. Notify your insurance profes-

Middle Tennessee: Reno Benson, Anderson Benson Insurance – 615-630-7805, reno@andersonbenson.com All Other Tennessee Areas: Corey Lane, State Auto Insurance – 615-851-1426, corey.lane@stateauto.com

sional immediately. Fill out claims forms as soon, and as accurately, as possible. If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask your claims adjuster.

6. Keep a file of all of your notes and any claim forms.

Courtesy of the State Auto Insurance Group (www.StateAuto.com).

Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 11

TnHTA MEMBER PROFILE

12 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

By John Whisenant, TnHTA Director of Tourism and Events, and Editor of Tennessee Notes

M

ichael Gibson is the founder and chief executive officer of Gibson Hotel Management, a Knoxvillebased company that manages 22 properties with a wide variety of national flags such Marriot, Hilton, Hampton, Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn, Hyatt, IHG and Starwood.

Gibson’s story in the hospitality industry is one of hard work, honesty and ethical progression. Starting as a restaurant cook, Michael found his passion for the hospitality industry, while gaining invaluable experience offered only to those who begin at the bottom of the ladder. He went on to open more than 40 upscale restaurants in Tennessee, Texas and California.

In his transition from restaurant to hotel management, Michael worked as a general manager, asset manager and regional manager of Marriot, Hilton and InterContinental Hotel Group brands. He became vice president of operations and development for Carlisle Hospitality Group and a district director for food-and-beverage operations at InterContinental Hotel Group’s corporate headquarters. Michael also served in a leading position within concept development at InterContinental Hotel Group’s corporate offices.

In 2000, Michael created Gibson Hotel Management, Inc., with a core philosophy of servant leadership. He oversees all operations, development and acquisition activities, serving as the bedrock for the company’s ethos. In doing so, Michael has gained a reputation for his ability to create mutually rewarding relationships, motivate company associates and think outside the box in order to forge “win-win” solutions. He and Gibson Hotel Management, Inc., have been recognized numerous times by Marriott, Hilton Worldwide and InterContinental Hotel Group for developing and operating award-winning hotels.

Michael remains heavily engaged in community initiatives, with a special focus on the Wounded Warrior Project. This endeavor takes a holistic approach to serving soldiers and their families in order to foster a well-adjusted generation of wounded service members. He has also served as chairman

of the TnHTA Education Foundation.

Tennessee NOTES magazine asked Michael to share some of his experiences and knowledge with our readers.

When did you start your hospitality/restaurant/hotel career, and what did you learn in your first job?

My first hospitality job was after spending six years in the United States Navy Air Patrol Squadron, with my last duty station being in Millington, TN. I went back to college at Memphis State University and worked part-time in the kitchen of a restaurant named Spaghetti Store in Overton Square in Memphis. I loved the action in the kitchen: following recipes and experiencing the teamwork required to complete a full meal service. The sense of gratification from getting it figured out with the staff still excites me today. This is probably the most important thing I learned in this first job in hospitality (although there were many) — that a team respecting each other’s roles will accomplish excellent results. Excellence is purely a voluntary commitment.

What was the first hotel that you purchased, and how many hotels do you have now?

My first hotel project was a new build in 1998: a Holiday Inn Express Inn & Suites at the Knoxville Airport in Alcoa, TN. The hotel came about after I had been a general manager for 15 years. One of my best customers came to me during a football weekend and said, “Michael, when you want to build your own hotel, I will invest! Your leadership and hotel team are the best!” So now, as an approved management company and ownership group with Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Choice, Starwood and other major groups, we currently own/manage 22 hotels located in the southeastern United States.

We also currently have several new hotel construction projects breaking ground and set for opening in 2016.

What made you want to work in the hospitality industry?

From the time I spent working in the kitchen to the personal touch we give our guests, my enthusiasm for making our guests happy and the appreciation of “what we do” for others as we help create life experiences are what make me want to be in this industry. I opened and constructed 25+ restaurants and managed 164 hotel restaurant concept changes for Holiday Inn Hotels that created the standardized programs for the food-and-beverage side of the brand. The various jobs and excitement of building something have made me want to stay in the hospitality industry.

What life lessons have you learned in our industry?

My greatest life lesson in creating a hospitality company is that the staff is more important than you are. I have staff members who have been with me for 25 or more years. They have grown together with their children and families, and they have all contributed to the success of our investors, lenders and franchise partners. Our moral compass is to always give back to the community we serve.

When did you become a hospitality association member?

I believe Moses had just brought the tablets off the mountain to present us with the Ten Commandments.

Why is it important to be a member of TnHTA? The mission of our association has always been to serve the members, contribute to their livelihood and fight laws and legislation that are contrary to our goals, profits and future. The networking and friendships developed in the association last forever. The TnHTA staff members have grown and developed into extraordinary career positions because of the association. All of these things have kept me engaged and happy to support the future leaders in the industry.

Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 13

TnHTA MEMBER PROFILE | Continued

What are some of the best things the association has accomplished for you and your company?

The association has given Gibson Hotels a voice within the legislative process, opposing laws that do not make sense to the hospitality industry and the communities they serve. Greg [Adkins] supports and guides this effort, keeps all members current with the laws and personally takes the fight and our cause to the statewide communities. These efforts help ensure that our lodging taxes are not abused and are kept for other community projects that continue to bring in more tourism dollars.

You’re the current TnHTA Education Foundation chairman. Why are you so involved in it?

I have served as the association’s chairman of the Education Awards Committee for two years, as well as chairman for the TnHTA Education Foundation. I started as a cook

and loaded UPS trucks in order to have the ability to financially afford college. It is important to me to be able to give back to the industry. When the Education Awards began, we had $500 to $1,000 in our treasury. This last year, TnHTA gave out more than $1.1 million to very worthy students who require our financial support and wish to pursue higher education in hospitality and the culinary arts. This also assists them in staying in the hospitality industry. I request we all stay committed to this program: it is one of our most worthy goals, giving back to our future associates. We get older, but we are still mentoring 17-year-olds. We have an incredible platform in place for these students to succeed.

What kind of wisdom would you share with students wanting to go into the hospitality industry?

My continued guidance to our young candidates trying to make a career choice in the hospitality field, whether in high school or college, is to start at any position. In this way, you will have an opportunity to learn which discipline within the industry interests you the most and offers the greatest chance for success. I loved the day-to-day coaching and developing of candidates, setting a plan for them and helping give

them confidence to manage a team. I like the Blanchard approach, which states that the most effective development is to set your quadrant into four areas: telling, consulting, participating and, finally, delegating. When you have moved a candidate to this stage, he or she is ready to move into another position.

Do you have any regrets, and what would you do differently?

I do not have any regrets other than not going into ownership earlier in my career.

Because of my beautiful daughters, I chose to stop traveling and stay in one place, Knoxville, for 26 years. They keep the campfire going that drives me, knowing I made a good decision in the hotels that we own and manage.

If money wasn’t an object, where would you build your next hotel or restaurant, and why?

My main interest would be in tier-one cities and building dual-branded hotels that offer great choices for our guests.

Nashville would be one of my first choices at this time, with all the new convention and development in the market.

What are some of your proudest accomplishments?

Happily married for 34 years, with four accomplished and beautiful daughters and one energetic five-month-old grandson!

Editor’s Note: Although Michael wouldn’t mention it himself, he also earned the 2012 American Hotel & Lodging Association Award for Tennessee and was also named the Tennessee Hotelier of the Year in 2000 and 2011. Under Michael’s leadership, Gibson Hotel Management & Development, Inc., has been recognized as a Top Hotel Management Company (2012, 2013 and 2014) and as a 2014 Hotel Lodging Magazine “Regional Powerhouse” for the southeastern United States. Michael has also served as the chairman and president of the Tennessee Hotel & Lodging Association, chairman of the former Tennessee Tourism Roundtable and Governor’s Conference on Tourism and director for the Knoxville Tourism Alliance, and he was a recipient of the Knoxville Habitat for Humanity Appreciation Award 2014–2015. ✪

14 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

LODGING LINES

The “Tennessee Way” — Working Together Toward a Common Goal

Jackie Leatherwood

By Jackie Leatherwood, Lodging Caucus Chair, General Manager, Greystone Lodge on the River, Gatlinburg

T

here is no doubt that the lodging industry in Tennessee is doing well these days. The overall economic recovery in the nation has helped increase travel and allowed for new capital investment in the hospitality industry. With the tremendous growth of corporate and manufacturing relocation and expansion in the state, our hotels are seeing more and more bookings from businesses travelers. Tennessee — with its wealth of both natural and man-made attractions, history, sporting and recreation opportunities, central location and expanded tourism marketing — is truly becoming a destination of choice for vacationers. We are seeing substantial development of new lodging properties in the state and an upward trend in both occupancy rates and ADR. At the same time, the hospitality sector of Tennessee’s travel industry faces some serious challenges and issues. That’s why our work as an association is so important: it gives us a strong and unified voice to make sure our concerns are addressed on the local, state and national level.

During this year’s legislative session, we

put forward a number of proposals and reforms. Working with our association leadership and lobbying team, we pursued the issue of fairness and equity as it relates to Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO) and Airbnb. Our goal is simply one of ensuring a level playing field for all lodging entities and that these properties collect and pay appropriate taxes. Our work on this issue will continue in next year’s legislative session.

We also pursued occupancy tax reform with the combined goals of protecting our industry from being overly taxed (and as a result, less competitive) and ensuring that those taxes are reinvested in tourism marketing and development. We were delighted that one result of our efforts was the authorization of a statewide economic-impact study of lodging taxes in Tennessee. This first-ofa-kind study will be a tremendous asset for us as we continue our occupancy tax reform efforts. We were also involved in and supportive of our association’s efforts involving reform of last year’s “COD” bill, which adversely affected lodging properties with liquor-by-the-drink licenses. Our

association’s bill regarding this issue passed, with the result of allowing properties to negotiate payment terms with their suppliers.

As always, the need for securing and training qualified employees is a priority for our industry, and through the association, we are working to develop and support hospitality education and development. One of the ways we are doing this is through the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program (HTMP). This high-school program provides specific skills and knowledge for students, leading to an industry-recognized and portable professional certification. In addition, many of our lodging members are tremendous supporters of TnHTA’s Education Foundation and its many activities involved in preparing young people for careers in the hospitality industry.

Working together certainly works! That’s why I believe so strongly in our association.

We can accomplish so much more with our combined strength. And, you know, that’s just the “Tennessee way” — partnership, cooperation and working together towards a common goal! ✪ Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 15

ON THE MENU

A BUSY YEAR SO FAR,

with

More Ahead

Andy Marshall

By Andy Marshall, Restaurant Caucus Chair, and Owner, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurants, A. Marshall Family Foods, Inc.

T

his has been a busy year for the restaurant caucus of TnHTA! We hit the ground running with the opening of the state legislature, as there were several issues that were critical to our industry. Of course, one of the most important pieces of legislation for us was the Payment Deregulation bill. Our caucus, led by our association leadership and lobbying team, worked hard to secure a compromise that returned the ability of liquor-by-thedrink establishments to negotiate their purchase and payment terms with their wholesalers. Passage of the deregulation bill was due, in no small part, to the active participation of restaurant members from across the state who got involved in the process and contacted their individual representatives. Other issues that we continue to work on through our caucus include the new food codes, minimum wage, workers’ comp and employee recruitment and retention. I believe there’s no better way for us to press into all of these issues than through our association, which is a both an excellent 16 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

advocate and a tremendous resource.

Another area that we have focused on this year is culinary educational opportunities for both high school and college students.

Through ProStart and other state and national programs, we have been able to provide mentoring, training, competitions and, most importantly, scholarships that are giving deserving young people wonderful opportunities, while also building and preparing the future leadership of our industry.

It is a genuine pleasure to be involved in this effort; if you haven’t done so before, I encourage you to volunteer your time, knowledge and experience to these programs.

And speaking of education and training, that’s something even we industry “veterans” need to keep up with, isn’t it? New regulations and codes can profoundly affect our businesses. Financial and accounting practices change. Management concepts and labor issues are constantly evolving. And there is no doubt that technology will continue to be more and more important in our industry. I actually find this exciting, in that we can still

practice our craft and develop our own unique brands while using these tools to do it all better and, in the end, enhance our bottom line. That’s why I am looking forward to this year’s Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism in Nashville (October 7–9), where we will offer specific educational sessions for restauranteurs on these topics. I hope you will plan to join us!

Finally, we have set an increase in restaurant membership in the association as one of our major goals. We know the benefit of being a part of this strong association, and we want to try to get that word out to those restaurants that aren’t yet members. Our TnHTA staff does a great job of recruiting new restaurant members, but they need our help by providing leads and specific contact names, as well as by us talking one-on-one with our industry peers about becoming a part of TnHTA. That personal contact and “testimonial” about the benefits of membership carry a lot of weight.

It’s great to be a part of this association and a part of this dynamic industry! ✪

TOURISM TALK

Now, Finally...

One United

VOICE

Claudia Moody

By Claudia Moody, CTTP, TnHTA Tourism Caucus Chair, and CEO, Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association

A

little over a year ago, the Tennessee Tourism Roundtable and the then Tennessee Hospitality Association completed their merger into one organization, the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association. That, coupled with the recent merger into TnHTA of the Tennessee Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus, has helped us realize a dream that many of us in the industry have had for years: one truly united voice for the state’s dynamic hospitality and tourism industry.

I am truly appreciative of our association’s leadership for their vision in making this possible and for the fact that, from the very beginning, tourism has been a full and equal partner with our lodging and restaurant industries. Our voice is fully heard, and our segment of the industry is fully represented in the decision-making and planning process.

I am also grateful for the outstanding leadership of Brenda McCroskey, who served as our first Tourism Caucus chair and who helped make the transition into the association so smooth.

18 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

Looking forward, I am very excited about some new initiatives, including the development of a strategic plan for our caucus, which will be included in the association’s overall strategic plan. Our goal is to design that plan based on the input and direction of the tourism members of TnHTA. To make that happen, we have been conducting and will be continuing our regional “listening tour” around the state, where you can learn about the work and programs of the association and offer your thoughts and suggestions on what you want to see your association accomplish in the future.

And, of course, we look forward to working with our new Commissioner, Kevin Triplett (who just so happens to be from my neck of the woods!). We will work closely with him to continue to build on our long-time partnership with the Department of Tourist Development.

It’s a great time to be a part of our industry and association — and the best is yet to come!

TnHTA Welcomes New

Commissioner of Tourism

Kevin Triplett

The Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association welcomes and extends sincere congratulations to Kevin Triplett, who has

assumed his new duties as Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Commissioner Triplett was appointed to his position by Governor Bill Haslam in March 2015 and began his new responsibilities in April. Commissioner Triplett replaced Susan Whitaker, who announced her departure in December 2014.

“As the united voice of the entire Tennessee hospitality and tourism industry, we welcome Commissioner Triplett and look forward to working with him in the days ahead,” said 2015 TnHTA chairman Ken Maples. “We have always enjoyed a very good and very strong relationship with the Department, and we are confident that that will continue under Commissioner Triplett’s leadership.”

TnHTA partners with the Department on several initiatives each year, including the annual Tennessee Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism. TnHTA also works closely with the state legislature to support the Governor’s annual budget, which funds the Department’s marketing programs and activities.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with the leadership and staff of TnHTA in the days ahead,” said Commissioner Triplett. “I truly value our longstanding partnership with the association and will enjoy working together with them in serving and growing our state’s hospitality and tourism industry.”

That sentiment was echoed by TnHTA president and CEO Greg Adkins: “We are very excited about working with Commissioner Triplett in the days ahead.

Our industry has made tremendous strides in the last several years, and with Commissioner Triplett’s leadership and vision, we are sure that the tremendous economic impact of travel on our state will grow to even greater levels.”

Commissioner Triplett comes to his new position from Bristol Motor Speedway, where he served as vice president of public affairs. Prior to joining BMS in 2005, he worked in various roles for NASCAR, ultimately serving as managing director of business operations, guiding the operation and administration of NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series. ✪ Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 19

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

A Productive and Successful

2015 Legislative Session

By Greg Adkins, TnHTA President & CEO, and the TnHTA Lobbying Team: Dan Haskell and Matt Scanlan

The

2015 session of the Tennessee General Assembly came to a quick close on Wednesday, April 22. It was a very busy legislative season that moved at lightning speed — in fact, it was one of the fastest legislative sessions since the 1970s.

The legislature considered many significant changes in Tennessee law, including the Governor’s “Insure Tennessee Plan” that was voted down.

Overall, the hospitality and tourism industry had a very productive session with many positive outcomes.

The Payment Deregulation bill (COD bill, SB710 Green / HB826 Jernigan) was passed by the legislature, allowing liquorby-the-drink license holders to pay by cash, check or credit, as negotiated between the wholesalers and the establishment. The new law allows liquor-by-the-drink establishments to pay within 10 days of receiving liquor product if they pay by electronic transfer or have an escrow account. This was one of our biggest priorities of the year, and through the compromise that we reached with the wholesalers on this bill, all 20 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

parties are now satisfied with the changes.

During the House Floor hearing on our bill, it was noted by several representatives that the wholesalers acted poorly in offering a predatory, last-minute amendment last year.

In the budget, the General Assembly took $1,000,000 out of the Governor’s proposed budget appropriation for tourism marketing and set aside $3,488,700 for various tourism-related projects with direct appropriations in the revised budget.

Although it was very disappointing that a reduction was made, it still leaves the Department of Tourism marketing budget at a $1,000,000 total increase over last year.

The VRBO / Airbnb Bill (SB584 Overbey / HB 232 Carr) was deferred to 2016 in House Finance. The amended bill is still alive in both chambers, and we will have the option to resume hearings on it when the General Assembly reconvenes in January. We will be working with our TnHTA Government Relations Committee and board leadership to look at pursing other options, including but not limited to an Attorney General’s opinion clarifying that these entities have to pay all appropriate

taxes, including sales and lodging taxes.

The Occupancy Tax Reform Bill (SB850 Tate / HB951 White) was amended, authorizing an economic-impact study of lodging taxes by the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR).

This will be the first time that a government agency has studied the economic impact of lodging taxes on tourism and hotel development. We believe the study on this issue will help shed light on the need to limit occupancy taxes in Tennessee, which has some of the highest lodging taxes in the United States. This bill also clarifies that the same individual has to stay in a hotel room to qualify for the lodging-tax exemption past a 30-day stay.

All of the occupancy tax bills that passed this year were amended to ensure that all the money goes to tourism. In addition, the sponsors of these bills have put on record that the money will be spent on tourism.

The political tide turned against reducing the amount of the taxes to 3.5% in the last weeks of session, and the increases were kept at the 5% limit previously instituted.

We will continue to work during the off-

season and through next session to show legislators the detrimental effects of runaway occupancy taxes.

The Tennessee Minimum Wage Act (SB659 Kyle / HB 579 Hardaway) and other wage-related bills failed in the House Consumer & Human Resources Subcommittee. The minimum wage bill would have increased minimum wage to $10.10 per hour by 2016 and almost tripled the tipped minimum wage for hospitality workers to $6.15 an hour. The TnHTA lobbying team worked very hard with other business associations and chambers opposing the legislation, as this would have had a severe adverse effect on hospitality and tourism businesses.

Overall, TnHTA had a very good session, as we had an aggressive agenda and will continue to push for pro-hospitality legislation for years to come. I want to thank everyone personally for their help with our very successful Day on the Hill, phone calls made to legislators and emails supporting our legislative efforts. Without your help, it would have not been a successful legislative year for TnHTA. As always, please don’t hesitate to contact any of our lobbying team if you have any questions on legislative issues. ✪ Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 21

EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Recap of the 2015

ProStart Invitational Competition

By Austin White, TnHTA Director of Education

On

Saturday, March 7, the 8th Annual Tennessee ProStart Invitational competition was held in Nashville with nine culinary teams and five management teams from across the state. With more than $1 million in scholarships and a chance to compete at the national competition at stake, each student team did its best to show off the students’ skills to the judges, who are industry experts and veterans from across the state and generously volunteer their time.

Students competed in two different categories: management and culinary. Management teams spend their academic year developing a unique restaurant concept and business plan, including theming and branding, location, restaurant design, menu offerings and pricing, employee training and marketing. In the first round of the competition, each team of four students delivers a verbal presentation on the team’s plan to a panel of judges. Following this presentation, the teams then move into a critical-thinking round, where they are presented with a series of questions by a second panel of judges on different industry scenarios and situations.

During the culinary competition, each team of four students creates a three-course meal in under one hour, while showcasing the students’ knife and poultry fabrication skills. Throughout the competition, the

22 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

team is judged not only on the finished product but also the safety, sanitation and teamwork demonstrated throughout the process.

Each student’s passion, dedication, hard work and love for the craft was evident in the competition, and many judges noted the excellence of the students’ work. The winners in the management competition were Sevier County High School (Sevierville) in third place, Lebanon High School (Lebanon) in second place and Wilson Central High School (Lebanon) in first place. The culinary competition winners were Bradley Central High School (Cleveland) in third place, Blackman High School (Murfreesboro) in second place and Glencliff High School (Nashville) in first place. Alyssa Black from Lebanon High School was awarded “Best in Class” for management, as was Bryan Ramirez from Cleveland High School for culinary.

The 2015 ProStart Teacher of the Year was awarded to Lebanon High School’s Mrs. Lindsay Morgan for her exemplary work and compassion in the classroom.

Following their first-place victories at the state completion, both the Glencliff High School and Wilson Central High school teams eagerly began preparing for the National ProStart competition, held April 18–20, at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California.

Wilson Central High School developed a paleo-diet, pre-historicinspired restaurant concept called “Primal.” They blew away the judges with their creative menu, unique marketing concepts and poised presentation. This all-girl team even surprised the audience when they began belting out their catchy radio commercial; in fact, throughout the competition, other teams were singing their praises for such a dazzling performance.

Glencliff High School’s menu was inspired by the team members’ own personal family traditions. The students developed the three courses based on meals they grew up sharing with loved ones — with their own personal twist, of course. The first course consisted of shrimp ceviche dip with handmade tortilla chips, while the main entrée was handcrafted chicken and cheese pupusas with a mouthwatering red sauce and cabbage garnish. To satiate the judge’s sweet tooth, the dessert course was caramelized plantains filled delectable with whipped cream sauce.

Tennessee could not have chosen better students to represent the state in the national competition, which had 89 teams from all over the United States and several foreign countries. Both Glencliff and Wilson Central brought their very best to the competition and supported each other with great team spirit. The culinary team from Glencliff placed 27th out of 48 teams, and the management team from Wilson Central placed 21st out of 48 teams. ✪

Student teams from across the state dazzled this year’s judges with their skills and passion for the culinary arts.

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GSRM serves as counsel for the Tennessee Hospitality Association, a trade association representing restaurants, hotels and other entities in the tourism and hospitality industries. Our attorneys are highly sought after in the area of Liquor-by-the-Drink issues, a very precise and complicated area of the law.

The firm offers counsel and solutions that only come from direct, daily involvement in the hospitality industry. With more than three decades of experience, GSRM’s Hospitality, Food and Beverage lawyers are dedicated to helping clients successfully navigate the myriad of issues involved in this very complex industry.

Our clients place a premium on the productive and often personal relationships cultivated over decades with key industry organizations and leaders.

Contact us or visit our website for more information about GSRM’s Hospitality, Food and Beverage practice.

615.244.4994 | www.gsrm.com 150 Third Avenue South, Suite 1700 Nashville, TN 37201 Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association Bankruptcy | Business | Government | Employment | Estate Planning | Litigation | Real Estate | Tax• 23

KUDOS!

Our Hats Are Off to Our Tennessee Awards and Recognitions Winners!

Robby Gilreath

Robby Gilreath Named 2014 Courtyard General Manager of the Year at Marriott International, Inc.

Robby Gilreath, general manager of the Courtyard Hotel in Goodlettsville, TN, was presented with the prestigious Courtyard General Manager of the Year award in February 2015 at the general managers’ conference held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Washington, D.C. The honor is given to leaders who exemplify excellence in overall hotel leadership, team building and development, financial management, sales and service leadership and community service.

Gilreath was cited for far exceeding the qualifications for winning this award by nominator Tamara Markham, senior director of Marriott’s Eastern region. His passion for the hospitality industry stems from nearly 28 years of experience across all Marriott brands, with 6.5 years being with Courtyard. Gilreath has tirelessly worked to lead his team to be in the top 20% of all Courtyard hotels in terms of guests’ overall satisfaction. The Goodlettsville hotel is also ranked No. 1 out of 16 on TripAdvisor. In addition to his strong work ethic, positive goal setting and commitment to the brand’s high standards, Gilreath’s success is greatly attributed to understanding the importance of taking care of his associates, who in turn cater to their guests.

Karl Thomas

Karl Thomas Inducted into Advertising Hall of Fame Karl Thomas of LundyThomas Advertising & Public Relations and a member of the TnHTA board of directors, was inducted into the 2015 Hall of Fame at the Annual American Advertising Awards. The award recognizes professionals who have shown, throughout their careers, a commitment to excellence and have helped advanced the advertising industry in Knoxville and surrounding areas.

Thomas has an extensive background in hotel/motel management, attraction and hotel sales and marketing. He is a partner and owner of LundyThomas, a marketing, public relations and advertising firm that specializes in tourism. Some of his clients include Ripley’s eight attractions in Gatlinburg (including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies), Nantahala Outdoor Center, The Inn On The River and the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association. LundyThomas is the winner of nine Addy Awards.

24 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

Winners of NCVC’s 2014–2015 Music City Hitmakers Awards.

Photo courtesy of the Nashville CVC.

Music City Hitmakers Honored The Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation has recognized its 2014–2015 Hitmakers and awarded its 2015 Annual Hitmaker Award. The Hitmakers program recognizes individuals in the Nashville hospitality and tourism industry who have given exceptional service to visitors.

The 2014–2015 Hitmakers are: • Eric Jones, Renaissance Nashville Hotel • Artesia Lee, Doubletree Nashville Downtown • Mary Greenway, General Jackson Showboat • Anita Fulgiam, Hampton Inn and Suites Opryland • Zachary LaChappelle, Renaissance Nashville Hotel • Brandon Curry, Hutton Hotel • Hazel Honicker, Macy’s at The Mall of Green Hills • Ron Harman, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum • Amanda Jones, Shoney’s Thompson Lane • Josh Tice, Towne Place Suites • Ben Shelton and Antwain Shaw, Superior Shine Nashville Airport • Darren Petty, Renaissance Nashville Hotel • 2015 Annual Hitmaker Award recipient Alan Whitt, Gray Line of Tennessee

Memphis Restaurant Association Recognizes Two Outstanding Industry Leaders The Memphis Restaurant Association used the occasion of its 51st Annual Banquet in March to honor two individuals with its highest honors. Mike Miller, owner of Patrick’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill, was named as Restaurateur of the Year, and Hale Barclay, owner of Gem Restaurant Supply, was named as Associate Member of the Year. In addition, the association recognized and welcomed Bass Pro as an exciting new partner in the Memphis hospitality and tourism industry.

Mike Miller Photo courtesy of the MRA.

Hale Barclay Photo courtesy of the MRA.

Dwayne Massengale receives his Star of the Industry Award from GCHA President Derik Dawes.

Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association Bestows First Annual STARS of Industry Awards

Peabody’s Chez Philippe Receives Four Star Award from Forbes Travel Guide For the 26th consecutive year, The Peabody’s signature dining room has received the Four Star Award from Forbes Travel Guide. Chez Philippe is the only restaurant in Memphis and one of only five in Tennessee to receive the Four Star rating for 2015.

Chez Phillipe. Photo courtesy of The Peabody Hotel.

Approximately 50 nominations were received for this inaugural honors event, and 14 awards were presented to local lodging and restaurant employees.

Winners included: • The Crash Pad Team, for Community Service Award – Small Lodging Property • Margarita Rodriguez, Town Place Suites Hamilton Place, for Lodging Employee of the Year – Small Property • Julio Galvez, Staybridge Suites Downtown Chattanooga, for Lodging Manager of the Year – Small Property • Dwayne Massengale, Springhill Suites by Marriott for Lodging General Manger of the Year – Small Property • Alyssia Mast, The Chattanoogan Hotel, for Lodging Employee of the Year – Medium Property • Dwight Benton, Chattanooga Choo Choo, for Lodging Manager of the Year – Medium Property • The Crash Pad, for Guest Relations Award – Small Lodging Property • Phillip Etherton, The Chattanoogan Hotel, for Guest Relations Award – Large Lodging Property • The Flying Squirrel Team, for Community Service Award – Restaurant • Kolby Carpenter, The Flying Squirrel, for Restaurant Employee of the Year – Independent • The Flying Squirrel Team, for Guest Relations Award – Restaurant • Chef Philippe Van Grit, The Flying Squirrel, for Chef of the Year – Independent Restaurants • Kaleena Goldsworthy, The Flying Squirrel, for Restaurant Manager of the Year – Independent • Sanders Parker, The Flying Squirrel, for Restaurant General Manager of the Year – Independent Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 25

KUDOS! | Continued

Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association Awards 2015 Pinnacles The 2015 Pinnacle Awards luncheon, themed “Hospitality and Heritage,” was held in May in Bristol. The annual program recognizes excellence in the region’s tourism industry. 2015 winners included: Special Events • Appalachian Athletic Conference Championships, Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau • Grand Opening of Birthplace of Country Music Museum, August 2014, Birthplace of Country Music Museum • The Jonesborough Yarn Exchange Radio Show Series, Jonesborough Yarn Exchange • Quake on the Lake: U.S. Title Series Power Boat Race, Johnson City Convention & Visitors Bureau Special Projects • Birthplace of Country Music — The Carter Family Lives & Legacies, Birthplace of Country Music Museum • Boone Street Market Renovations • Jonesborough Locally Grown, Town of Jonesborough • The DeVault Tavern: An Interdisciplinary Exhibition, Programming and Publication • Center for Appalachian Studies – ETSU Advertising and Promotions • Birthplace of Country Music, Birthplace of Country Music Museum Public Relations • Visit Bristol Public Relations Initiative, Bristol Convention & Visitors Bureau Best of Show • Grand Opening of Birthplace of Country Music Museum, August 2014, Birthplace of Country Music Museum Volunteer • Margaret Feierabend, Bristol, TN

MERIT AWARDS Special Events • The 150th Anniversary of the Death of General John H. Morgan, Main Street, Greeneville, TN Special Projects • Historic Jonesborough Walking Tour Guide, Town of Jonesborough Department of Tourism Advertising and Promotions • One of These Days…, Johnson City Convention & Visitors Bureau • 2014 University of Tennessee Game Day Ad, Kingsport Convention & Visitors Bureau Public Relations • Media Day – Grand Opening of the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Birthplace of Country Music Museum

All 14 Tennessee Welcome Centers Awarded Green Certification Tennessee’s Welcome Centers, which have more than 12 million visitors annually, have become green certified for reducing energy, water and material usage, as well as increasing recycling at the centers.

Since the Welcome Centers serve motor-vehicle travelers and tourists, their green certification leads by example and enables visitors to be more sustainable as they traverse Tennessee. Visitors can: recycle the cans, bottles and papers collected from road trips; make pit stops that use less water, thanks to low-flow toilets and faucets; have a picnic under a PV array; and learn about how to be more sustainable at home.

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association and the independent environmental-consulting company Skye Con worked with the Welcome Centers to complete the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association’s Green Certification Program, which contains requirements based on EPA regulations specifically designed for the Welcome Centers.

Pigeon Forge and BOHAN Advertising Win Emmy Penny Rahe of BOHAN (center) shows off Pigeon Forge’s Emmy Award to Leon Downey (left) and Sue Carr (right) of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. Photo credit courtesy of BOHAN.

Leon Downey, Pigeon Forge and its agency, BOHAN Advertising in Nashville, received a 2015 Emmy Award at the annual celebration of the Nashville/MidSouth Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for their “Where Should We Go?” commercial. This is the fifth time that BOHAN commercials for Pigeon Forge have won what has been labeled “television’s highest honor.” BOHAN, which has marketed Pigeon Forge since 1990, has won at least one Emmy Award in 10 of the last 11 years. Earlier Emmy Awards came in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2014. BOHAN also won the 2015 Nashville Business Journal “Best in Business” Award in the category for firms with 26-100 employees.

2015 Pinnacle Award Winners. Front row (left to right): Margaret Feierabend, Bristol; Alicia Phelps, Town of Jonesborough; Lori Worley, Bristol CVB; Leah Ross, Birthplace of Country Music; Commissioner Kevin Triplett, TN Dept. of Tourist Development; Claudia Moody, NETTA; Dr. Roberta Herrin, Center for Appalachian Studies; and Brenda Whitson, Johnson City CVB. Second row (left to right): Jules Corriere, Jonesborough Yarn Exchange; Karen Childress, Jonesborough Locally Grown; Hannah Holes, Birthplace of Country Music; Carey Kidd, Birthplace of Country Music; Jann Mirkov, Main Street Greeneville. Back row (left to right): Jud Teague, Kingsport CVB; Kim Davis, Birthplace of Country Music; and Gavin Andrews, Johnson City CVB. Photo courtesy of Dave Jones.

26 • Tennessee Host • Summer 2015

Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association Announces 2015 PAULY Awards Winners GKHA held its 11th annual Stars of the Industry Awards and Scholarship luncheon in May at the Holiday Inn World’s Fair Park in Knoxville. These prestigious awards, called the PAULY Awards, celebrate the brightest stars of the area’s hospitality industry. Recipients of this year’s awards included: • Marc Bauer, Holiday Inn World’s Fair Park, for Lodging General Manager of the Year • Mahasti Vafaie, Tomato Head, for Restaurant General Manager of the Year • Tim McSwords, Holiday Inn World’s Fair Park, for Lodging Manager of the Year • Toby Winters, Copper Cellar Restaurants, for Restaurant Manager of the Year • Market Square Farmer’s Market, for Attraction/Museum of the Year • M&M Productions USA, for Service/Supplier of the Year • Debbie Sisson, Best Western Plus Cedar Bluff Inn, for Lodging Employee of the Year • Dana Hart, Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, for Attraction/Museum Employee of the Year • Kelli Gibson, Visit Knoxville for Service/Supplier, Employee of the Year • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Knoxville West, for Community Service of the Year • Kristi Sowards, Knoxville Convention Center, for Volunteer of the Year • Fatih Yalcin, Marriott Downtown Knoxville, for Friendliest Face of the Year • Jill Thompson, Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association, for Women in Hospitality & Tourism (WITH) The Knoxville Ice Bears were also recognized for winning their fourth President’s Cup. 2015 GKHA Scholarships were also awarded during the PAULY Awards event.

Recipients of these scholarships were Erica Clark and Jenny Looney from Pellissippi State Technical Community College and Lam Dang and Courtney Taylor from The University of Tennessee. ✪

2015 GKHA PAULY Award Winners and Scholarship Recipients. Back row: Courtney Taylor, Mike Brown, Fatih Yalcin, Scott Groth, Charlotte Tolley, Kristi Sowards, Marc Bauer, Tim McSwords, Toby Winters and Dana Hart. Front row: Erica Clark, Jenny Looney, Debbie Bailey, Mahasti Vafaie, Kelli Gibson and Lam Dang. Front center: the Knoxville Ice Bears and the 2015 SPHL President’s Cup. Photo credit courtesy of the GKHA.

Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association • 27

LOCAL ASSOCIATION NEWS

Local Association

NEWS AND UPDATES Contributors: Andrea Anderson, Dennis Barber, Betsy Bergin, Kimberly Carlson, Christie Connaster, Jill Thompson, Deanna Ross and Jay Sheridan

Gatlinburg Hospitality Association GHA kicked off 2015 with a successful membership drive, and the association now has 76 members. The association’s monthly luncheons have had great attendance so far this year.

In May 2015, GHA awarded three $1,000 scholarships to seniors from Gatlinburg’s Pittman High School. Dollywood, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2015, hosted the May GHA meeting, and the June meeting was held at Glenstone Lodge.

Plans are well underway for the association’s annual golf tournament, which will be held on Thursday, September 17, at the Gatlinburg Golf Course.

For more information, visit www.gatlinburghospitality.com.

Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association 2015 has already been a busy time for the GCHA! GCHA was instrumental in initiating a new program in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Green Spaces to promote sustainability programs to Chattanooga businesses and potential visitors. A new website is being developed that will include submitted sustainability projects. GCHA is proud to be a part of this project.

Held on March 26 at the Chattanooga Convention Center, a “Hospitality Expo” was attended by more than 100 students from 5 local high schools. The Expo gave students the opportunity to meet with area industry leaders and to ask questions about issues that directly affect their field of study.

Students also had an opportunity to tour the Staybridge Suites and back-of-the-house operations of the Convention Center, as well 28 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

as to hear from speakers from Vision Hospitality, the Tennessee Aquarium, Zaxby’s and Chattanooga State Community College.

The first GCHA Stars of the Industry luncheon was held in April, with approximately 50 nominations. The annual GCHA Golf Tournament was held May 18 at Bear Trace Golf Course. Benefactors from the event are Orange Grove Recycling Center and Room at the Inn. For more information, visit www. chattanoogahospitalityassociation.com.

Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association The Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association has been busy during the first half 2015.

A regional legislative brunch in partnership with Middle East Tennessee Tourism Council and Visit Knoxville in January provided an opportunity to speak to state legislators and to stress the importance of tourism to the region. The Knox County Health Department offered an explanation of the new Tennessee Food Code at our February meeting. A special seminar was held in March led by the Community Coalition Against Human Trafficking, which provided training to hotel managers and staff. The June meeting provided a look at two “different faces to tourism,” with speakers on medical tourism and on the activities of Keep Knoxville Beautiful.

Association members served as judges at the District 5 DECA Conference and also participated in the Knox County Schools Career Fair in April. GKHA industry professionals were also involved with the University of Tennessee Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management program’s Appalachian Spring Dinner.

Two new hotels opened in Knoxville during the month of May: Hampton Inn

& Suites Knoxville Papermill Drive and The Staybridge Suites Knoxville/Farragut.

Home2 Suites will open this summer in the Cedar Bluff area.

The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame held its 17th induction ceremony with 6 former coaches and players honored as the Class of 2015. The opening event was special to UT Lady Vol fans when the rotunda in the WBHF was named in honor of Coach Pat Summitt.

For more information, visit www. facebook.com/GreaterKnoxville HospitalityAssociationGKHA.

Greater Nashville Hospitality Association GNHA has had a busy and successful year thus far. An aggressive agenda for 2015 was established at a strategic planning retreat in January. One of the objectives established was growth in membership; as a result, a number of new initiatives were planned and new members added to the membership committee, and a specific emphasis on growing restaurant membership was established.

The association has also been very active in the area of government relations.

On the state level, GHNA was well represented by a large delegation of members at the TnHTA 2015 Day on the Hill in Nashville in March. On the national level, several GNHA members attended the AHLA/NRA/AAHOA Day on the Hill in Washington, D.C., in April. Closer to home, GNHA has been actively been involved in upcoming Metro government elections. Of particular note were the GNHPAC Golf Tournament on May 27 and a Nashville Hospitality and Tourism Industry Mayoral Forum on June 4, co-sponsored by GNHA and the Nashville CVC. For more information, visit www.gnha.net.

Memphis Restaurant Association MRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s year started in early March with great participation from our members at the TnHTA Day on the Hill in Nashville, which gave MRA members an opportunity to meet one-on-one with the Memphis legislative delegation and other government leaders.

The MRAPAC â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prime Time Wine and Dineâ&#x20AC;? was held in April at the Butcher Shop.

Guests were treated to six courses prepared by three of Memphisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; great culinary talents: Mike Miller, Shawn Danko and Chef Ana Gonzalez. The successful event raised more than $5,000 for the MRAPAC. The popular MRA Associates Coffee Club, where associate members can learn how to make the most of their MRA membership, was held in May. The next Coffee Club is scheduled for August.

The month of June saw two great association events: the joint MRA and Metro Memphis Hotel & Lodging Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Social event at AutoZone Park and the June membership meeting at The Peabody Hotel with a presentation on the new food codes by the Health Department.

For more information, visit www.memphisrestaurants.com.

Metropolitan Memphis Hotel and Lodging Association MMHLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 17th annual Lodging Industry Update in February was an overwhelming success. The program included a keynote by Greg Marcus, president & CEO of Marcus Hotels and Resorts; a regional economic update from Martha Perine-Beard of the Memphis branch of the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank; a review of national lodgingindustry data by Jeff Higley, editorial director of HotelNewsNow.com; and an overview of Memphis lodging-industry data by Chuck Pinkowski of Pinkowski & Company.

In March, the association held its 10th annual Trivia Night, benefiting the Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality and Resort Management. In April, MMHLA held its annual Stars of the Industry event to honor the best of Memphisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hospitality industry. Held at the beautiful Peabody

Memphis Hotel, the event was a great success with overflow attendance. Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s membership meeting focused on the subject of human trafficking and how the hospitality industry can get involved in eradicating this heinous crime. The session was led by Rachel Sumner of Restore Corps.

The annual MMHLA Golf Tournament PAC fundraiser was held in June at the North Creek Golf Course and was great fun and a huge success. The association continues planning for the annual mustattend event, the Southern Lodging Summit, which will be held August 18â&#x20AC;&#x201C;19.

For more information, visit www.mmhla.com.

Nashville Originals The Nashville Originals, Music Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independent restaurant association, is continually working to find new ways

to serve locals and tourists alike. Now the nearly 60 locally owned member restaurants can be explored digitally through a free app where you can map out your meals by neighborhood, find menus and specials, make reservations and more.

For the first time ever, the Originals have added a membership option for affiliates. The local suppliers that make great meals possible can now play an even bigger part in preserving our cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary identity.

For more information, visit www.nashvilleoriginals.com.

Pigeon Forge Hospitality Association In January, the Pigeon Forge Hospitality Association held the 14th Annual Bowling for Tourism event benefiting hospitality students at Walter State Community College. PFHA also helped sponsor â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saddle

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LOCAL ASSOCIATION NEWS | Continued

Up!” at the LeConte Center, which was a great success. Also in February, the association held its quarterly business after-hours networking event, “Forging Together,” at Ole Smoky Moonshine at The Island.

In March, PFHA sent more than 40 attendees from Sevier County to “Day on the Hill” in Nashville. In addition, the association hosted two luncheon meetings: “The State of the City” Meeting at LeConte Center and the statewide launch of “Paint Tennessee Green” as part of Keep America Beautiful.

The April membership meeting featured economist Dr. Steve Morse speaking on the impact of tourism and related advertising expenditures in 2014.

The association also hosted a forum for the community to meet candidates for the Pigeon Forge City Commission.

May’s events included a membership meeting featuring communication and personal-development trainer Shari Strong, a free seminar for our members on protecting digital assets and a quarterly networking event at Harpoon Harry’s. The association welcomed new Commissioner of Tourist Development, Kevin Triplett, who was the keynote speaker for the June membership meeting.

In May, June and July, the association focused on the 18th Annual PFHA Benefit Golf Tournament, which generates funds for The Boys & Girls Club, scholarships for Pigeon Forge High School seniors, funds for TPAC and events through the end of the year.

For more information, visit www.pfhospitality.org.

Sevier County Hospitality Alliance The Sevier Count Hospitality Alliance, along with the local Sevier County Associations, hosted the 14th Annual Hospitality Trade Show at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge on Tuesday, March 31. This year, there were more than 170 vendors and close to 500 attendees. We are looking forward to working on other projects

30 • Tennessee Notes • Summer 2015

throughout 2015 with the local associations and helping them in any way possible.

Sevierville Hospitality Association The SHA is off to a running start in 2015!

Our board retreat was held in January, with many goals set for the year. Our January membership meeting featured updates from Sevierville Mayor Bryan Atchley, City Manager Russell Treadway, the Sevierville Police Department, the Sevier County Economic Development office and the Sevier County Tourism Alliance. Our February meeting was hosted by the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce with a presentation on the Chamber’s marketing plan and new look in its 2015 advertising pieces. The March meeting was hosted by the Titanic Museum Attraction.

Dollywood was our host for April, with presentations by Pete Owens on the park’s 30th anniversary and on the new DreamMore Resort. Lisa Bass presented on TnHTA, and Laura Howard spoke about a Keep Sevier Beautiful initiative.

The Tennessee Smokies Baseball Stadium hosted the May meeting in their newly renovated Smoky Mountain Brewery Bullpen Restaurant. Speakers included Doug Kirchhofer, Dave Jones (from the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development) and Linda Hyder (who presented on Healthier Tennessee Workplace). The Sevierville Convention Center hosted June’s meeting, with a presentation on their upcoming events.

Coming up on September 23, the SHA will host our biggest fundraiser of the year to benefit our scholarship program and other charitable causes. This year, SHA has presented $4,500 in scholarships and sponsored the Sevierville Chamber’s BBQ Button Campaign to publicize the May Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass Festival.

For more information, visit www.seviervillehospitality association.com. ✪

ADVERTISER INDEX

AAA – The Auto Club Group ..........27 www.aaa.com Anheuser-Bush/ Tennessee ...........................Back Cover www.anheuser-busch.com Coca-Cola Bottling Consolidated ...17 www.cokeconsolidated.com Distilled Spirits Council of The United States ..........................6 www.discus.org Ecolab ..............................................21 www.ecolab.com Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. .........21 www.graceland.com Gullett, Sanford, Robinson & Martin, PLLC ..............................23 www.gsrm.com Hospitality Control Solutions.........19 www.alohancr.com Kooky Canuck .................................29 www.kookycanuck.com Koorsen Fire & Security ..................25 www.koorsen.com M. Gibson Hotel Group ...................... Inside Back Cover www.mgibsonhotels.com Miles Marketing Destinations...........3 www.milespartnership.com Nolan’s Audio Visual, Inc. .................9 www.nolansav.com Point of Sale Connection, Inc. ..........8 www.povchina.ngo.cn Purity Dairies, Inc. ............................7 www.puritydairies.com Skye Con ..........................................19 www.skyecon.com Tennessee Dept. of Tourism .............. Inside Front Cover www.tnvacation.com

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