More choices.
NCRLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
SHERI ERHART, CHAIR CMC Hotels
VINAY PATEL, VICE CHAIR, SREE Hotels, LLC
TAD DOLBIER, TREASURER Tar Heel Capital Corporation
STEVE THANHAUSER, SECRETARY, Angus Barn
LANCE TRENARY, NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION LIAISON Golden Corral Corporation
AMBER MOSHAKOS, NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION LIAISON LM Restaurants
JASON SMITH, IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR 18 Restaurant Group
ALLEN THOMAS, PRESIDENT & CEO
LYNN MINGES, STRATEGIC ADVISOR FRANK GRAY, GENERAL COUNSEL
BOARD MEMBERS:
JEFF CHANDLER Chandler Foods, Inc.
ANDY CLARK US Foods
SABRINA BENGEL Bengel Hospitality
BURNEY JENNINGS Biscuitville Fresh Southern
CHEETIE KUMAR Ajja
JULIA MCGOVERN Poppyseed Market
LIZA MERRELL 81 Hospitality Group
SEAN POTTER Built on Hospitality
BILLY SEWELL Platinum Corral
PAUL ADKISON CO-X Holdings
PETE BYERS Summit Hospitality
BRENDA DURDEN South Asheville Hotel Associates
JAMES L. GRATTON Marriott International
KELLY HARRILL Koury Corporation / Koury Hospitality
KYLE HIGHBERG Biltmore Farms
RUSS JONES LODEN Hospitality
PAUL NISWONGER First Carolina Management Hotels
TOM PASHLEY Pinehurst Resort
PINKESH PATEL Ex
Welcome New NCRLA Members
Allied
AFTERDISASTER, Greensboro
Caldwell Community & Technical Institute
Dump and Pump Septic, Raleigh
Keurig-Dr. Pepper, Charlotte
NC Education Lottery
Sentinel, Raleigh
Visit Greenville
Wind River Environmental, Garner
Lodging
Extended Stay America Fayetteville –Owen Dr.
Extended Stay America Fayetteville –Rowan St.
Extended Stay America Fayetteville –Cliffdale
Extended Stay America Fayetteville –West
Extended Stay America Wilmington
Extended Stay America Wilmington –West
Extended Stay America Camp Lejeune
Extended Stay America Greensboro
Extended Stay America Fort Bragg
Extended Stay America RTP
The West Main, Washington
Restaurants
Counter, Charlotte
Culver’s, Clemmons
Figulina, Raleigh
Liberty & Plenty Distillery, Durham
Larry’s Steakhouse, Greenville
Laurel Park, Charlotte
Mala Pata, Raleigh NanaSteak, Durham
Restaurant Technologies, Greensboro
Seraphine, Durham
Spice QSR, Tropical Smoothie Café
– Capital Blvd, Raleigh
– Oberlin Rd, Raleigh
– Falls of Neuse, Raleigh
– Miami Blvd, Raleigh
– Duke Medicine Circle, Durham
– S. Horner Blvd, Sanford
– Hillsborough Rd, Durham
The Scheffer Group, Asheville
– Gan Shan
– Jettie Rae’s
– Vinnie’s
– Vinnie’s South
Laurel Park, Charlotte | Photo: laurelparkclt.com
Liberty & Plenty Distillery, Durham | Photo: libertyandplenty.com
Figulina, Raleigh | Photo: figulinaraleigh.com
Momentum in Motion
At NCRLA’s Annual Meeting in February, our new officers and board members were officially installed and immediately got to work advancing the priorities that will shape the year ahead.
As we look forward, our focus remains clear: strengthening the industry’s voice, elevating its reputation, and ensuring meaningful engagement in public policy. With a legislative short session and election year underway, our advocacy efforts— supported by a strong PAC—will be critical to maintaining a seat at the table where key decisions are made.
We look forward to connecting with members and welcoming new faces at stops across the state throughout the year.”
We are committed to keeping you informed and prepared. Through weekly newsletters, timely webinars, and ongoing updates, we will help members navigate evolving public health regulations and other emerging issues impacting our industry.
Our Hospitality Summit Series is also off to a strong start, with successful spring gatherings in the Outer Banks and Greensboro. We look forward to connecting with members and welcoming new faces at stops across the state throughout the year. Be sure to check our website for a meeting near you.
Equally important is celebrating the people who make North Carolina’s hospitality industry exceptional. Our signature events continue to spotlight the talent, dedication, and success of our workforce. In this Spring issue of At Your Service, we take you behind the scenes of the 2026 Stars of the Industry Awards Gala.
You’ll also find a closer look at NCRLA’s Preferred Providers and Partners—trusted resources offering valuable services and solutions to support your business operations and long-term strategy.
We are grateful for the strength of this community and the leadership guiding our association. We look forward to working alongside you to keep North Carolina’s hospitality industry moving forward.
At Your Service
Volume 15, Issue 2
An official publication of the NC Restaurant & Lodging Association © 2026
STAFF
President & Chief Executive Officer
ALLEN THOMAS
Strategic Advisor
LYNN D. MINGES
Vice President of Communications & Business Development
CHRIS MACKEY
Vice President of Government Affairs
ISABEL VILLA-GARCIA
Vice President of Finance and Operations
SHELLY EUBANKS
Director of Membership NATALIE COX
Director of the NCRLA Foundation COURTNEY HAMM
Director of External Engagement AMANDA CONNER
Executive Assistant DANA TOBIN
Sales & Membership
CAROLINE BHATIA
Digital Communications Manager NATE ROBERTS
Food Safety and Lodging Regulations Specialist
CAROLYN K. GRIFFIN
Editor
SHANNON FARLOW
Designer
TRACIE EUBANK
BUSINESS OFFICE 222 North Person Street, Suite 210
Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 844-0098
Website: NCRLA.org
For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, contact Chris Mackey, Vice President of Communications & Business Development, at cmackey@ncrla.org.
by FARLOW+CO, LLC
Allen Thomas NCRLA President & CEO
Sheri Erhart NCRLA Board Chair Sheri
Upcoming Events
Network with hospitality industry leaders at one of NCRLA’s upcoming events. Learn more at NCRLA.org
April 24–26
National ProStart Invitational
Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Baltimore, MD
May 12–13
AHLA Hotels on the Hill
Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill Washington, DC
May 16–19
National Restaurant Association Show
McCormick Place Chicago, IL
June 2
NCRLA Board of Directors Meeting Raleigh
June 2
Rally in Raleigh The Merrimon-Wynne House, Raleigh
July 21
NCRLA Foundation Board of Trustees Meeting Virtual
August 17
Future of Hospitality Golf Classic
Prestonwood Country Club, Cary
September 2
NCRLA Chef Showdown Grand Finale Bay 7 at the American Tobacco Campus, Durham
Provide a menu that promotes N.C. products & supports N.C. Agriculture.
• Enhance the “locally sourced in N.C.” message on your menu.
• Identify N.C. ingredients on your menu.
• Feature & promote seasonal N.C. products.
• Align purchasing decisions with N.C. product availability.
For inspiration & resources contact Chad Blackwelder Food Service Marketing Specialist
N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Office 919-707-3150 • Cell 919-971-4352 • chad.blackwelder@ncagr.gov
Thank You to Our Corporate Partners
In Case You Missed It
North Carolina Industry Headlines
NCRLA Connects with Outer Banks Operators
NCRLA President & CEO Allen Thomas recently met with members of the Outer Banks Restaurant Association during a gathering at the Black Pelican. Since taking the helm, Thomas has prioritized connecting with members across North Carolina to highlight NCRLA’s advocacy work and member benefits, including cost-saving programs through endorsed partners.
Occupancy Tax Case
May Reshape Tourism Funding
The North Carolina Supreme Court is considering a case that could influence how tourism dollars are spent statewide.
In Costanzo v. Currituck County, plaintiffs argue the county improperly used occupancy tax revenue to fund law enforcement and emergency services rather than tourism promotion. The Court of Appeals sided with the plaintiffs in 2024.
A ruling expected later this year could shape how counties and tourism development authorities use occupancy tax revenues across North Carolina.
North Carolina Population Growth Remains Strong
New estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show North Carolina continues to grow faster than most of the country.
While the U.S. population grew just 0.5% between July 2024 and July 2025, North Carolina expanded by 1.3%, adding nearly 146,000 residents—the third-highest increase nationwide.
Most of the growth came from domestic migration and is expected to drive long-term demand for restaurants, hotels, and tourism across the state.
U.S. Population
North Carolina Population
+145,000
New residents in North Carolina
NCRLA’s Allen Thomas and Isabel Villa-Garcia joined other hospitality leaders at the Costanzo v. Currituck County hearing.
Allen Thomas and Mike Kelly
New ABC Permit Renewal Deadline Approaching
Restaurants and hospitality businesses that sell alcohol must renew their permits with the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission by April 30, 2026.
Under a new state law, businesses that miss the deadline will face a 25% late fee. Permits not renewed by June 1 will be permanently revoked, requiring operators to restart the application process.
Renewals can be completed online through the ABC Permittee Portal.
COVID Bar Lawsuit Returns to Trial Court
A long-running legal challenge over pandemic shutdowns is heading back to trial court.
In North Carolina Bar and Tavern Association v. Stein, the North Carolina Supreme Court ruled in 2025 that bar owners may pursue constitutional claims tied to the “fruits of their own labor,” allowing the case to move forward despite state sovereign immunity defenses.
The trial court will now consider whether the state’s shutdown orders were reasonably necessary during the pandemic.
NCRLA Launches Hospitality Summit Series Bringing North Carolina’s Hospitality Leaders Together
NCRLA launched the new Hospitality Summit Series in March with a successful inaugural meeting in Greensboro, bringing together restaurant and lodging leaders from across the Triad to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing North Carolina’s hospitality industry.
The kickoff summit featured a conversation with Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, who joined NCRLA President & CEO Allen Thomas and local operators to discuss key policy and economic issues affecting restaurants, hotels, and tourism businesses. Topics included workforce development, the regulatory environment, and broader economic trends shaping the industry.
The Summit Series will continue across the state throughout the year. The second meeting took place in Charlotte on
April 9 and featured Tim Moore, Congressman representing North Carolina’s 14th Congressional District, along with Chad Moutray, Vice President of Research and Knowledge and Chief Economist for the National Restaurant Association. Himanshu Desai from Amadeus Hospitality presented the latest hotel performance and travel trends impacting North Carolina.
The series will travel to Asheville on June 12, where attendees will hear from Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
Additional stops are planned for Wilmington and Raleigh later this year. The Hospitality Summit Series is designed to connect restaurant and lodging operators with industry leaders, policymakers, and peers while addressing the issues shaping North Carolina’s hospitality economy.
Sen. Berger stopped to chat with NCRLA members before the Hospitality Summit in Greensboro.
NCRLA's Dana Tobin, Natalie Cox, and Allen Thomas welcome members to the Greensboro Hospitality Summit.
Allen Thomas shares NCRLA's mission and goals for 2026 and beyond.
NORTH
CAROLINA HOSPITALITY
The North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association (NCRLA) is the uniting force of the North Carolina hospitality industry. We impact legislation and policies, cultivate relationships, and provide valuable resources to help members run their businesses.
Leadership Announcment
Sheri Erhart Elected 2026 NCRLA Board Chair
NCRLA named Sheri Erhart, chief operating officer of CMC Hotels, the Chair of the Board of Directors for 2026. Erhart was officially sworn in during NCRLA’s Annual Meeting in Durham, marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership for the association.
Erhart steps into the role with nearly three decades of hospitality industry experience and a strong record of service to both NCRLA and North Carolina’s broader tourism community. She has served on the NCRLA Board since 2021 and brings deep operational expertise and strategic perspective to the position.
“Sheri is a respected and proven leader whose experience and perspective will be invaluable as our industry continues to evolve,” said Allen Thomas, President and CEO of NCRLA. “With this exceptional board and leadership team, NCRLA is well positioned to advance workforce solutions, strengthen advocacy efforts, and ensure North Carolina’s hospitality industry remains a powerful economic engine for communities across our state.”
Meet the Full Board ››
GET TO KNOW
SHERI ERHART, CHAIR Erhart joined CMC Hotels in 1997 after earning her degree in industrial engineering from North Carolina State University. In addition to her role at CMC Hotels, she currently serves as Chair of the Executive Board of Directors for the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau and has been a member of Marriott’s Owner Advisory Council since 2016. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to collaboration, operational excellence, and industry advocacy.
Joining Erhart on the Executive Committee is a distinguished slate of officers representing both the restaurant and lodging sectors:
LANCE
The Board also welcomed four new members who reflect the geographic and operational diversity of North Carolina’s hospitality industry:
2026 NCRLA Board of Directors
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Sheri Erhart, Chair, CMC Hotels
Vinay Patel, Vice Chair, SREE Hotels (Charlotte)
Tad Dolbier, Treasurer, Tar Heel Capital Corporation (Boone)
Steve Thanhauser, Secretary, Angus Barn (Raleigh)
Lance Trenary, National Restaurant Association Liaison, Golden Corral Corporation (Raleigh)
Amber Moshakos, National Restaurant Association Liaison, LM Restaurants (Raleigh)
Jason Smith, Immediate Past Chair, 18 Restaurant Group
BOARD MEMBERS
Jeff Chandler, Chandler Foods, Inc.
Andy Clark, US Foods
Sabrina Bengel, Bengel Hospitality
Burney Jennings, BISCUITVILLE Fresh Southern
Cheetie Kumar, Ajja
Julia McGovern, Poppyseed Market
Liza Merrell, 81 Hospitality Group
Sean Potter, Built On Hospitality
Billy Sewell, Platinum Corral
Paul Adkison, CO-X Holdings
Pete Byers, Summit Hospitality
Brenda Durden, South Asheville Hotel Associates
James L. Gratton, Marriott International
Kelly Harrill, Koury Corporation / Koury Hospitality
Kyle Highberg, Biltmore Farms
Russ Jones, LODEN Hospitality
Paul Niswonger, First Carolina Management Hotels
Tom Pashley, Pinehurst Resort
Pinkesh Patel, Ex Officio, AAHOA Liaison
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS CHAIR
Billy Sewell, Platinum Corral, LLC
LIZA MERRELL 81 Hospitality Group (Atlantic Beach)
BILLY SEWELL Platinum Corral (Jacksonville)
PAUL ADKISON CO-X Holdings (Greenville)
KYLE HIGHBERG Biltmore Farms (Asheville)
JASON SMITH Immediate Past Chair
STEVE THANHAUSER Secretary
TAD DOLBIER Treasurer
TRENARY National Restaurant Association Liaison
AMBER MOSHAKOS National Restaurant Association Liaison
VINAY PATEL Vice Chair
Welcoming New Board Members
NC Senate Leader Berger Defeated by Sam Page
North Carolina’s primary election was one of the most dramatic in recent political history, with several high-profile legislative upsets—including the close race for Senate District 26.
Berger Concedes to Sam Page
In the state’s most closely watched race, Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page narrowly defeated long-time Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger to win the Republican primary for Senate District 26.
After an initial two-vote difference reported on election night, two recounts gave Page a 23-vote lead, prompting Berger to finally concede on Tuesday, March 24.
This race carries significant implications for leadership dynamics in the North Carolina Senate, where Berger has served as the chamber’s top Republican leader for more than a decade.
Democratic Override Coalition Dissolves
Another notable development from the primaries was the defeat of three incumbent Democratic House members who previously joined Republicans to override vetoes issued by Governor Josh Stein.
Their losses effectively dismantle the bipartisan coalition that enabled several veto overrides during the last legislative session. As a result, lawmakers may attempt to revisit outstanding veto override efforts early in the upcoming short session before the new General Assembly is seated.
Key Federal Contests Taking Shape
At the federal level, North Carolina is poised to host one of the most expensive and closely watched U.S. Senate races in the country.
Former Governor Roy Cooper secured the Democratic nomination, while former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley won the Republican primary. Cooper enters the race with strong statewide name recognition following two terms as governor, while Whatley
will be running his first statewide campaign. Political observers expect the contest to attract historic spending and national attention.
In U.S. House Races:
In the 1st Congressional District, Republican Laurie Buckhout won her primary, setting up a rematch against incumbent Rep. Don Davis.
In the 4th Congressional District, Rep. Valerie Foushee narrowly avoided a runoff, finishing just under 49.2% of the vote and edging challenger Nida Allam at 48.2%.
Key Legislative Races
NC Senate
• District 26 (GOP Primary): Page defeated Berger by 23 votes following two recounts.
• District 34 (GOP Primary): NCRLA-supported Sen. Chris Measmer, a restaurant owner, lost to former Rep. Kevin Crutchfield in a high-spending contest reportedly fueled by nearly $1.5 million in outside spending tied to sports betting interests.
• District 10 (GOP Primary): NCRLA-supported Sen. Benton Sawrey won decisively.
• District 21 (GOP Primary): NCRLA-supported Sen. Tom McInnis secured a commanding primary victory.
NC House
• District 27 (Democratic Primary): Rep. Rodney Pierce defeated former Rep. Michael Wray with 64.2% of the vote.
• District 113 (GOP Primary): NCRLA-supported Rep. Jake Johnson defeated former House Majority Leader Mike Hager with 61.1%.
• District 118 (GOP Primary): Rep. Mark Pless lost to Jimmy Rogers, who captured 54.7%.
• District 65 (GOP Primary): NCRLA-supported Rep. Reece Pyrtle lost to challenger Seth Woodall by 2,432 votes.
• District 79 (GOP Primary): Rep. Keith Kidwell was defeated by Darren Armstrong.
• District 110 (GOP Primary): Eight-term incumbent Rep. Kelly Hastings lost by 491 votes to Caroline Eason.
• District 106 (Democratic Primary): Rep. Carla Cunningham lost to Rev. Rodney Sadler, who faces no Republican opposition in November.
• District 99 (Democratic Primary): NCRLA-supported Rep. Nasif Majeed lost to challenger Veleria Levy, who also faces no Republican opposition in the general election.
Former Governor Roy Cooper secured the Democratic nomination, while former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley won the Republican primary.
Looking Ahead
With several races decided by narrow margins and leadership implications still unfolding, the full impact of the primary election may not be clear for several weeks. As vote canvasses and recounts move forward, NCRLA will continue monitoring the results and engaging with policymakers on the issues most important to North Carolina’s restaurant, lodging, and tourism industries.
NCRLA-supported Sen. Benton Sawrey won decisively in the District 10 GOP Primary. Photo:
LIGHTING
THE WAY
2026 NCRLA Stars of the Industry Awards Event Shatters Records
More than 400 hospitality leaders, operators, employees, suppliers, and partners filled the Sheraton Imperial Hotel on February 23 for NCRLA’s largest Stars of the Industry Awards in the event’s history.
Photography by Zach Gunty
The record-setting evening began with a red-carpet experience, where attendees had the opportunity to walk alongside many of North Carolina’s chefs recognized in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide American South selection—an unmistakable signal of how far the state’s culinary and hospitality community has come.
“Our industry is built on people— leaders, teams, and innovators who show up every day to serve their communities and create meaningful experiences,” said NCRLA President & CEO Allen Thomas. “The 2026 Stars of the Industry honorees represent the very best of hospitality in North Carolina.”
The evening’s program was emceed by David Crabtree of PBS North Carolina, whose longstanding connection to the state’s communities added both gravitas and warmth to the celebration.
Twenty outstanding individuals across 10 categories were recognized for their leadership, operational excellence, advocacy, and service that define North Carolina hospitality at its best.
Service Beyond the Bottom Line
At its core, hospitality is about service— and several awards spotlighted those who embody that ethos. The Ken Conrad Award for Service to the Community went to:
• Ashley and Red Harrell, Birdies and Gaffer’s, Emerald Isle
• Dean Neff, owner/chef, Seabird, Wilmington
The Griff and June Glover Award for Service to NCRLA went to Joshua Vukelich, Kitchen Guard, from Greensboro and NCRLA’s Hospitality Supplier of the Year went to Chris Pence, Haand Pottery in Burlington.
Our industry is built on people—leaders, teams, and innovators who show up every day to serve their communities and create meaningful experiences.”
—Allen Thomas NCRLA President & CEO
Among the most notable presentations of the evening were the Hospitality Champion Awards, recognizing two North Carolina lawmakers who have demonstrated consistent leadership on issues critical to the restaurant and lodging sectors:
• Senator Brad Overcash
• Representative John Bell IV
Their advocacy on behalf of North Carolina’s hospitality businesses underscores the importance of strong public-private collaboration in advancing industry priorities.
Chef Christopher Prieto
Ashley and Red Harrell
Chef William Dissen
Chef Dean Neff
David Crabtree
Excellence in Restaurant Leadership
Restaurateurs of the Year were Chef William Dissen from The Market Place in Asheville, and Chef Christopher Prieto of Prime Barbecue in Knightdale.
Restaurant Managers of the Year:
• Pearl Greenway, BISCUITVILLE Fresh Southern, Graham
• Laura Ray, The Umstead Hotel & Spa, Cary
Restaurant Employees of the Year:
• Charles Tolo, Parizade, Durham
• Christopher Lovegood, Parks Hospitality Group, Asheville
Recognizing honorees from the inaugural
Lodging Leaders Setting the Standard
Lodging Operators of the Year were Brenda Durden of Asheville Hotel Group, and Christophe Le Chatton with The Ballantyne Hotel in Charlotte.
Lodging Managers of the Year:
• Ashley Tjaden, SREE Hotels, Charlotte
• Hannah Talbott, The Longleaf Hotel & Lounge, Raleigh
• Margarita Hernández, Fairfield Inn by Marriott, Cary
Lodging Employees of the Year:
• Carlos Bacugan, Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, Durham
• Anderson Owens, The Umstead Hotel & Spa, Cary
• Thomas Barton, Parks Hospitality Group, Asheville
An Industry Powered by Partnership
The success of Stars of the Industry is made possible through robust industry partnerships. Presenting Sponsor US Foods led a distinguished group of supporters, including Gold Sponsor Capital Games; Silver Sponsors Ecolab and Sysco; and Born in the Carolinas Sponsor Pepsi Bottling Ventures.
The VIP reception was supported by Visit NC, Explore Asheville, Discover Durham, CRVA, and Visit Raleigh, while dozens of additional partners— including Butterball, DoorDash, Kitchen Guard, Relay, Toast, Angus Barn, Shelton Vineyards, Tryon Distributing, E&J Gallo Winery, BHAWK, Crush Vodka, Weldon Mills Distillery, Carolina Brewery & Grill, Crank Arm Brewing, and Gizmo Brew Works—helped create a memorable evening.
Brenda Durdin
Joshua Vukelich from Kitchen Guard Christophe Le Chatton
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2026 National ProStart Invitational
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center and Asheville High School Advance
North Carolina's next generation of hospitality professionals took center stage on March 8–9 as five teams from four high schools competed in the North Carolina ProStart Invitational (NCPI), hosted by the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association Foundation (NCRLAF) at the Westin RaleighDurham Airport.
The competition is part of ProStart, a high school and technical education program focused on culinary arts and restaurant management. Developed by the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation (NRAEF), the program combines classroom instruction with industry experience to prepare students for careers in the hospitality industry. Alongside the team events, students also competed in individual competitions spanning knife skills, cake decorating, napkin folding, mocktail mixology, chicken fabrication, and sandwich preparation.
In the culinary competition, teams prepare a three-course meal in just 60 minutes using only two butane burners— without access to running water or electricity—testing their technical skills, timing, and teamwork. In the management competition, students develop and present a full business proposal for an original restaurant concept, including menu design, restaurant layout, and marketing strategy.
The Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center in Jacksonville captured first place in the culinary competition,
while Asheville High School earned first place in the management competition. Supported by Presenting Sponsor Golden Corral, the event gave students the opportunity to demonstrate their skills before chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality leaders from across the state.
Both winning teams will advance to the National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore, April 24–26, where they will compete against top programs from across the country. Participating students gain access to more than $360,000 in scholarships offered through the program.
Special recognition was awarded throughout the competition. Mya DeLeon of the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center was honored for her resilience, and August Guntis of Asheville High School was recognized as Best Team Manager. Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center received The Seals Award for Safety & Sanitation. Asheville High School earned recognition from Relay for Communication, from Golden Corral for Innovation, and was also celebrated for outstanding Presentation Skills and Critical Thinking.
In addition to the student competition, Joseph Quispe of the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center in Onslow County was named North Carolina's Educator of Excellence and will be recognized at the national competition in Baltimore.
Thanks to our sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor:
Golden Corral Corp.
Host: Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport/CMC Hotels
Silver Sponsors: Ecolab, US Coast Guard, US Foods
Bronze Sponsors: Biscuitville, Griffin Stafford Hospitality, International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, Kitchen Guard, LM Restaurants, Pepsi Bottling Ventures, Prudential Overall Supply, Relay, Sysco, Scott Brown Media Group, Zwilling
Event Sponsors:
Bojangles, Butterball, Concord Hospitality, Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk, Johnson & Wales, Pinehurst Resort, The Seals
2026 NCPI Results
CULINARY COMPETITION
First Place:
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center, Jacksonville
Second Place: Asheville High School, Asheville
MANAGEMENT COMPETITION
First Place: Asheville High School, Asheville
Second Place: Clyde A. Erwin High School, Asheville
Third Place: Cary High School, Cary
INDIVIDUAL COMPETITORS
Between Bread:
Precious Harvest, Cary High School
Cake Decorating: Cole Davis, Cary High School
Bojangles Chicken Fabrication: Julia Monroe, Cary High School
Mocktail Mixology: Treasure Harvest, Cary High School
Prudential Overall Supply
Napkin Folding: Karen San Juan, Chatham Central High School
Zwilling Knife Skills: Nolan Eacret, Cary High School
ProStart culinary students test their technical skills, timing, and teamwork.
Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center
Clyde A. Erwin High School
Asheville High School
NCRLA Preferred Providers & Partners
Take advantage of these membership perks from NCRLA's partners.
Delivery & Technology Solutions
DoorDash is a technology company that connects people with the best in their cities.
Cloud-based platform empowers your active team with voice technology, safety, and data.
Credit Card, Payroll, and Point-of-Sale
Simplify payroll, HR, and compliance with scalable cloud-based solutions.
Take payments anytime, anywhere with payment solutions designed for your business.
Credit card and payroll processing.
Streamline operations, accelerate growth, and provide guests with a first-class experience, in-house or online.
Cloud-based restaurant management platform that integrates point-of-sale, online ordering, payroll, and team management into one system.
Certifications & Training
Certifications & Training
Elevate your restaurant's success with exclusive savings on insights, tools, and training for NCRLA members.
NCRLA members receive 20% off ServSafe trainings and certifications.
Foodservice & Beverage
Butterball Foodservice offers chefs superior turkey products and exceptional customer service.
Got To Be NC is a proud partner of NCRLA to connect chefs and restaurants to local products to continue to diversify, innovate, and strengthen NC's food and agriculture businesses.
AHLEI provides a range of resources, including online learning, professional certification, and educational materials for the hospitality industry.
Workforce development and training for the hospitality leaders of tomorrow.
Pepsi Bottling Ventures is the largest independent Pepsi-Cola bottler in the nation, operating 12 production and distribution sites in NC. As NCRLA’s Born in the Carolina’s partner, they can help fill your beverage needs.
Shelton Vineyards remains one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast, serving as a new agricultural resource for an area once dependent on tobacco farming.
Sysco is the global leader in selling, marketing, and distributing food products to restaurants, lodging establishments, and other customers who prepare meals away from home.
Foodservice & Beverage
US Foods provides customers with innovative food offerings, culinary equipment, and a comprehensive suite of e-commerce, technology, and business solutions to help increase your bottom line.
Legal Solutions
Specializing in Alcohol Legal Issues.
Experts in North Carolina retail, restaurant, and hospitality law.
Legal guidance for hospitality employers, from compliance to claims defense.
Entertainment & Music Licensing
BMI makes it simple to use music in your bar, restaurant, or brewery. Save up to 20% on annual fees.
As North Carolina's amusement industry leader, Capital Games is at the forefront of the exciting Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) market.
Lucky Lincoln Gaming, LLC is a licensed Video Gaming Terminal Operator.
Health & Wellness Benefits
We partnered with Decisely to bring you the NCRLA Benefits Center—healthcare solutions exclusively for NCRLA members, their families, and staff.
Insurance People of NC will assess your situation and develop a comprehensive, cost-effective solution that fits your needs.
Tailor-made health plans for your business.
Insurance, Risk, & Employee Benefits
Affordable benefits and services that help you save and retain top talent.
If your business sells liquor, it’s best to play it safe. NCRLA members save up to 15% on your Liquor Liability Policy and 5% on your Business Owner Policy.
Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA) provides business insurance, employee benefits, retirement, and private client solutions through over 15,000 colleagues and 300+ offices across the U.S. and Canada, combining personalized service with the global resources of Marsh McLennan.
Independent risk, benefits, and safety solutions tailored to your business.
Hotel Performance Data
Global data benchmarking, analytics, & marketplace insights.
Cleaning & Sanitation Suppliers
Provides cleaning and sanitation products and services to businesses in foodservice, food processing, and hospitality.
Cleaner, safer commercial kitchens are their mission.
Marketing & Communications
Helping clients in the hospitality industry take their stories to the next level.
Member Moments
Proudly Recognizing North Carolina’s Hospitality Leaders
Remembering Angus Barn Co-Founder Florence “Flo” Winston
North Carolina’s hospitality industry lost one of its true icons on March 30, as Florence “Flo” Winston, co-founder of Angus Barn, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family.
Anita “Spring” Council Publishes New Cookbook Honoring Mama Dip’s Legacy
Flo, alongside her husband Charles and partners Thad and Alice Eure, helped build the very foundation of the modern restaurant industry in North Carolina. Their vision and entrepreneurial spirit led to the opening of the Angus Barn in 1960—an institution that has become synonymous with excellence in hospitality. Together, they also developed the Darryl’s restaurant chain and a network of Pizza Inn franchises, shaping the state’s dining landscape for decades.
Beyond restaurants, Flo’s influence extended into lodging and design. Through her firm, Barclay Designs, she played a pivotal role in the construction, renovation, and design of more than 50 hotels across the country. Her creative vision and attention to detail brought a sense of warmth and authenticity to every space she touched.
Anita “Spring” Council has released a new cookbook, Southern Roots: Recipes and Stories from Mama Dip’s Daughter, offering a blend of family recipes, personal memories, and the rich culinary history of Chapel Hill.
The book pays tribute to Council’s mother, Mildred “Mama Dip” Council, the beloved founder of Mama Dip’s Kitchen. Through 100 recipes—including pimento cheese biscuits, grits, sweet potato dishes, and pecan pie—Council reflects on the traditions, ingredients, and storytelling that shaped her upbringing in Chapel Hill’s historic Northside community.
Council said Southern cooking is about far more than fried foods, emphasizing fresh ingredients and the joy of sharing meals. In the book, she recounts memories of learning in her mother’s kitchen, where food, stories, and community came together around the table.
Originally opened in 1976, Mama Dip’s Kitchen became a gathering place that reflected the family’s deep commitment to hospitality and service. Today, the legacy continues through the next generation, including Council’s daughter, Tonya Council, who operates several concepts across the region.
Photo:
Winston
Big Cat Restaurant Opens in Raleigh’s East Mordecai Neighborhood
A group of Raleigh culinary leaders has opened Big Cat, a new restaurant, market, and neighborhood gathering spot at 1000 Brookside Drive in Raleigh.
The concept is led by a team that includes NCRLA Board Member Cheetie Kumar and Paul Siler of Ajja; Marshall Davis and Angela Salamanca of Mala Pata; and Justin Pasfield of Locals Seafood and Person Street Bar.
Set in a 3,500-square-foot space, Big Cat is designed to function as a neighborhood hub with indoor seating, a bar, a covered patio, and a small market offering wine, prepared foods, and other goods. Kumar developed a “tavern-style” menu, featuring approachable dishes such as smoked chicken, grilled lamb, seafood sourced from Locals Seafood, salads, sandwiches, and softserve ice cream.
Thousands Gather at Grandover Resort for Monks’ Walk for Peace
More than 6,000 people gathered at Grandover Resort & Spa to welcome a group of Buddhist monks participating in a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace across the Southeast.
The gathering featured remarks from Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, who is leading the pilgrimage from Texas to Washington, D.C. The journey, which began in late 2025, promoted peace, loving-kindness, and compassion while encouraging mindfulness through simple acts such as walking and offering flowers.
The monks stayed overnight at the Greensboro property during their travels, and the event drew thousands of attendees along with strong regional attention online. The gathering also highlights the role hospitality venues play in hosting meaningful cultural and community events. NCRLA recognizes Grandover Resort for accommodating the visit and welcoming thousands of guests to the property and surrounding community.
Photo: Mary Helen Moore/Axios
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Hospitality Industry News Bites
Google Launches Tool to Combat Review Extortion
Restaurant operators across the country are reporting a rise in organized campaigns involving fake one-star reviews designed to pressure businesses into paying to have the reviews removed. These attacks often involve sudden clusters of negative reviews from accounts with little or no history, followed by direct payment demands.
In response, Google has introduced a dedicated “merchant
extortion” reporting tool within Google Business Profile. The tool allows operators to report fake reviews and related extortion attempts while submitting supporting documentation. Google classifies this activity as a policy violation and advises businesses not to pay or negotiate. Operators are encouraged to document suspicious activity, preserve evidence, and report incidents promptly.
Hotels Forecast Continued Growth in 2026
According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s 2026 State of the Industry Report, the hotel industry is projected to continue a steady recovery in 2026, even as operators manage rising operating costs.
Hotels generated $85.1 billion in local, state, and federal tax revenue in 2025, with that figure expected to climb to nearly $87 billion in 2026. Guest spending is projected to reach nearly $805 billion next year, while the hotel workforce is expected to grow by more than 30,000 jobs, bringing total employment to approximately 2.2 million.
Restaurant Sales Projected to Hit $1.55 Trillion in 2026
The National Restaurant Association projects restaurant and foodservice sales will reach a record $1.55 trillion in 2026, a 4.8% increase over 2025, according to its 2026 State of the Restaurant Industry Report
Industry employment is expected to climb to 15.8 million jobs, with more than 100,000 new positions added this year. However, real growth is projected at just 1.3% after inflation, and profitability remains a challenge. Median pre-tax income stands at 2.8% for full-service restaurants and 4.0% for limited-service operators, while 42% of operators reported they were not profitable in 2025.
Travel Groups Seek Pay Protections for Aviation Workers
CEOs of major U.S. airlines along with travel industry groups, including the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the National Restaurant Association, urged Congress to immediately end the partial government shutdown and fund the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The shutdown, which began in February 2026 and affects the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has caused significant staffing shortages and long security wait times at airports, with reports that more than 300 TSA agents have resigned due to the funding lapse. Industry leaders are advocating for legislation to prevent aviation workers from being affected by future shutdowns.
GLP-1 Drugs Reshape Food Industry Strategy
Major food and beverage companies are investing heavily in product reformulations and new offerings as appetitesuppressing GLP-1 medications reshape how Americans eat. Companies such as PepsiCo and Coca-Cola are focusing on shorter ingredient lists, smaller portions, and higher-protein products as demand patterns evolve.
Use of GLP-1 drugs—commonly prescribed for diabetes and weight loss—has grown rapidly, with about 20% of U.S. households now including at least one user, according to industry analyses. Researchers estimate these changing eating habits could reduce snack sales by as much as $12 billion over the next decade.
