ARHA Now Vol. 8 Issue #1

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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION

VOLUME 7 ISSUE

DOTHAN’S KELSEY BARNARD CLARK WINS ‘TOP CHEF’ PAGE 28

2019 ProStart®

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INSIDE. Save the Date!

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STARS OF THE INDUSTRY

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION

AWARDS DINNER

phone: 334.244.1320 3 S. Jackson Street

November 11, 2019

Montgomery, AL 36104

Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

ARHAONLINE.COM

MINDY HANAN President & CEO

FROM THE PRESIDENT

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ARHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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ARHA LEGISLATIVE REPORT

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2019 ARHA LEGISLATIVE DAY

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Director of Communications

2019 LEGISLATIVE TOURISM BASH

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DEBBIE JONES

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

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2019 NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATON PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE

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2019 GRAND PINEAPPLE GOLF CHALLENGE & “TASTE AT THE TEE”

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HUMAN TRAFFICKING IN ALABAMA

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AUBURN UNIVERSITY BREAKS GROUND ON $95.4 MILLION CULINARY ARTS CENTER

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2019 PROSTART COMPETITION

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HOW HIGH SCHOOL CULINARY ARTS PROGRAM CHANGED HER LIFE FROM CHEF JESSICA HENRY

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2019 PROSTART NATIONAL COMPETITION

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2019 EDUCATOR OF EXCELLENCE

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IN MEMORY OF...

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WHY JOIN ARHA

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FOR ADVERTISING RATES:

DOTHAN NATIVE WINS TOP CHEF

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Call 334.244.1320 or visit ARHAonline.com.

ARHA HAPPENINGS

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JB HAMPTON Director of Grassroots & Chapter Development

CHEF JESSICA HENRY Director of ProStart Program

ALISON INGLE

Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper

SHEA PERKINS Senior Director of Membership

THANK YOU ADVERTISERS! WOOD FRUITTICHER 2 ALABAMA POWER

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WESTIN HUNTSVILLE

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ALABAMA INSURANCE EXCHANGE

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HEARTLAND 23 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS (GADSDEN/FT. PAYNE)

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SCULPTURE HOSPITALITY/BEVINCO

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BAUMHOWER’S / DAUPHIN’S

BACK COVER

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from the

PRESIDENT You are Our Strength - None of Us is as Strong as All of Us

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he Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association is stronger than ever. Our number one priority is advocacy. We work to protect the industry. There is a saying in Washington you are MINDY HANAN either at the table or you are on the menu. Through the commitment President & CEO, ARHA and dedication of our members, the industry is building strength, clout and respect. This year we have had meetings throughout the state in which we hosted our local legislative delegations, members of the United States Congress and most recently the mayoral candidates for the city of Montgomery.

There is power in numbers. ARHA has a new member benefit for our restaurants and hotels -- Dining Alliance a group purchasing program. Through technology and the combined purchasing power of our members, they are able to offer rebates on many of the items you are already buying. If you would like to find out how your business can participate, call Shea Perkins in our office at (334) 244-1320 ext. 1.

I invite you to look at the other business-building resources the association provides to our member restaurants and hotels. These benefits are outlined in this edition of the magazine and can be found on our website at www.ARHAonline.com. If your business encounters any problems or issues, please contact us.

We are always here for our members to help your business prosper.

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Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association

BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chairman

Toby Wilson Wilson Hospitality Management Company, Tuscaloosa

Chairman-Elect

Bob Omainsky Fried Stewed & Nude​, Mobile

Treasurer

Penny Groux Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach

Secretary

Will Meacham Midtown Pizza Kitchen, Montgomery

Immediate Past Chairman Hans van der Reijden

Ithaka Hospitality Management, Auburn President/CEO

Mindy B. Hanan Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association

BOARD MEMBERS RESTAURANTS

Steve Below - Below the Radar Brewhouse Jamie Black - Black Family Restaurants - McDonald’s Brandon Cain - Roots & Revelry David Conklin - Firehouse Subs Kim DiGilarmo - Carrabba’s Italian Grill Stephen Goode - The Southern Kitchen & Bar Brian Harsany - Cosmo’s Will Haver - Taco Mama (The Summit, Bham) Cynthia Shea Hart - Cyn Shea’s Stacie Knight - Cooper Restaurants Matt & Stephanie Mell - Purveyor Huntsville

​HOTELS

Kent Blackinton - Renaissance Riverview Plaza Larry Bowser - Shoals Marriott Sharon Delmar - Poarch Band of Creek Indians Andrew Dorough - Westin Huntsville Craig Hillyard - Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa Alan Patel - Comfort Inn - Homewood Nanda Patel - Holiday Inn Gadsden Todd Scholl - The Hotel at Auburn University Rick Smith - Renaissance Ross Bridge Matt Sterley - Hyatt - Wynfrey Hotel Chris Townsley - Birmingham Marriott

TOURISM

David Clark - Mobile CVB Sara Hamlin - Birmingham CVB Jami Koshofer - Huntsville/Madison County CVB Don Staley - Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports

ADVISORY COUNCIL

President: Eric Duggan, US Foods Cristina Almanza - Buffalo Rock Bob Baumhower - Aloha Hospitality Mike Bertani - S&D Coffee ​Jeremy Bilotto - US Foods Bob Crawford - United-Johnson Brothers of Alabama Patti Culp - Alabama Travel Council Nick Hartmann - Alabama Power Company Matt Hood - Hotel Capstone Paul Hufstedler - US Foods Elizabeth Kanter - Carr Allison Nick Kopp - Auto-Chlor Services Amber Lamote - Sculpture Hospitality/Bevinco George Lane - Wood Fruitticher Bill Lloyd - 301 Bistro, Bar & Beer Garden Nick Maroules - Royal Cup Inc. Joseph Mitchell - Jefferson State Community College Alvin Niuh - University of Alabama Wesley Ratliff - Petra RMS Wayne Reaves - Manna Enterprises Tami Reist - Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association James Robinson - Spire Energy Bob Schoeneck - BRESCO Robert Smith - Alabama Power Company Tony Smith - LongHorn Gil Stiff - TSC Associates Clayton Taylor - Alabama Insurance Exchange ​Robin Thagard - Bella’s Brandt Tucker - Proud Willie’s Wings & Stuff

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LegislativeREPORT 2019 Recap: A Doozy of a Session

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Doozy of a session! That’s how one news article described the 2019 legislative session. It was also called grueling, contentious, fast-paced, odd and other adjectives to try and convey the tenor of it. One long-serving State Senator, Jabo Waggoner said it was the number one session of his career in terms of high profile issues, and added “that’s really saying something.” The ARHA team monitored over 30 committee meetings per week and more than a thousand bills introduced. All of this was compressed into a very short time period that meant long hours, much like our ARHA members put in every week. Our day began early and lasted many nights to well over midnight.

and Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, the number of weeks Alabama’s jobless could collect unemployment compensation would float between 14 and 20 based on the unemployment DEBORAH MILLER rate in the state and other Miller Development Group factors. That time frame could be extended for 19 and up to 25 weeks for people who participate in up to five weeks of a state-approved training program.

While the legislature was given grades from A to C and B by many, ARHA made the honor roll again this year. Many bills that would have been detrimental to ARHA members failed to be considered but could have been but for the tenacity of our efforts. A shout out should go out to those that attended the 2019 ARHA Legislative Day and those that made phone calls and met with legislators to echo our opposition or support of many important legislative measures.

The current law allows a person who loses a job through no fault of their own to apply for up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits. Under this new law, when unemployment is low and jobs are available, the number of weeks will decrease. The weekly benefits increased from the current maximum amount of $265 to $275.

Among the most contentious of bills that failed to pass included the following: E-VERIFY: This bill required every business to provide a sworn affidavit that they had e-verified every employee prior to receiving a business license. This bill was said to be patterned after Georgia but after some research, we learned that this bill went much farther than that.

MINIMUM WAGE: Despite the passage of monumental legislation that has been recognized nationally that prohibited a governmental entity from passing individual minimum wage laws, once again, a bill was introduced to repeal that ACT and permit that practice.

Bills becoming law that ARHA weighed in on: UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION: ARHA employers will see some relief on unemployment compensation beginning on Jan. 1, 2020. As previously reported Alabama employers will save an estimated $42.3 million annually. It reduces the duration of Alabama’s unemployment payouts while increasing benefits. Under Act No. 2019 - 204 by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur,

Since 2010, employers are currently paying the highest rate possible into the state’s Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund which is funded through employer contributions.

EQUAL PAY BILL: This bill makes it illegal to pay employees differently based upon sex and race passed the legislature. It also provides that an employer shall not refuse to interview, hire, promote or employ an applicant for employment because the applicant does not provide wage history.

Wage history under the legislation means the wages paid to an applicant for employment by the applicant’s current or former employer.

Good news for ARHA was the amendatory language your association worked diligently to have added to the bill before final passage. The new language allows for provisions to clarify the grounds for which to bring a lawsuit including seniority merit system or productivity standards. The lawsuit must be pleaded with particularity demonstrating that the employee was paid less than someone for equal pay despite possessing equal skill, effort, education, experience and responsibility.

Language was also added that exempted employers with less than 50 employees from certain record keeping requirements on wages, job classifications, and terms and conditions of employment that the larger companies must keep for three years. ...continued on next page

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LegislativeREPORT continued LODGING TAX CODIFICATION: The legislature passed a bill that put in the statute the actual rule that your ARHA team lobbied successfully for in previous years. Why is this important? A Rule can be changed by an agency but a statute change would have to be voted on and passed by the entire legislature. A special thanks to Representative Arnold Mooney to champion this issue. He was aided by new-comer Senator Garlan Gudger of Cullman. The bill banned the Department of Revenue from requiring hotels to collect lodging tax on space that is not designed for sleeping. Since the Rule passed, we have heard from countless hotels that have praised the efforts and provided testimonials of conferences that they successfully landed due to that anti- competitive practice being prohibited. This not only benefited the hotel but boosted tourism dollars. It particularly boosted the revenues of local restaurants.

LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP: Many ARHA members are involved in partnership arrangements. This law slightly revises current law. It allows a partnership to continue as an entity for a brief period of time with one or no partners. Additionally, the partner’s duty of loyalty requires that the partner refrain from competing with the partnership in the conduct of the partnership’s business or not for profit activity before the dissolution of the partnership.

BUSINESS DELIVERY ARTICLE: ARHA had another win with the passage of HB329 by Rep. Paul Lee The bill requires only one business delivery license regardless of the number of trucks making the actual deliveries. Some municipalities have attempted to charge a business license per delivery truck, which is unfair to ARHA members that deliver.

ANTI-SLOW LEFT LANE DRIVING: The bill, dubbed the “anti-road rage act,” prohibits staying in the left lane on interstate highways for more than a mile and a half without passing a vehicle. It would allow exceptions for traffic congestion, inclement weather, emergency vehicles, and preparing to take a left lane exit. The sponsor is Rep. Phillip Pettus, a Republican from Lauderdale County and a retired state trooper. For the first 60 days, law enforcement can only issue warnings related to left lane violations.

FANTASY SPORTS PASSES: Under Alabama’s new law, fantasy sports will be overseen by the attorney general’s office. The biggest operators, with more than $10 million in revenues, will pay an annual registration fee of $85,000, while small operators will pay just $1,000 a year. Operators will be taxed at 10.5 percent on gross revenue. The games are restricted to players 19 and older.

SUNDAY SALES FOR WET COUNTIES & MUNICIPALITIES: As previously reported, this is a HUGE win for ARHA members. Local bills will no longer be required for wet cities and counties. If you need your local Sunday sales hours expanded you can now work with your local city council or country commission to get it done.

Other issues monitored by ARHA: SERVICE ANIMAL BILL MUZZLED: ARHA took the lead in amending a Service Animal Bill that was punitive to employers and employees in the hotel and restaurant industry. The bill included all spaces that were open to the public. The bill as presented, required anyone that refused to allow a service animal or a service animal trainer from entry to be guilty of a criminal misdemeanor and up to 3 months of jail, and countless hours of community service. ARHA heard from members that they were very sympathetic to service animals and trainers but feared that they and their employees were unable to detect the fraudulent use of the animal. The bill prohibits employers and employees from enquiring as to the diagnosis that allows for the service animal.

ARHA has provided several seminars to help educate its members and believe that the federal ADA adequately covers the subject.

FRANCHISEE/FRANCHISOR BILL: A controversial measure monitored by ARHA failed to make its way to final passage. It set up strict statutory requirements for the relationship between franchisors and franchisees and those contracts could not be modified through individual contracts. We expect the return of this legislation.

DIRECT WINE SHIPMENT BILLS DIE: All bills in the legislature that would have allowed direct wine shipments to consumers have been referred to a study committee. Alabama is one of five states where direct shipping is not allowed. By Dec. 1, 2020, a nine-member task force is to report its findings to the Legislature on the impact of allowing wine to be shipped directly to Alabama consumers.

PRIVATIZATION OF ABC BOARD: SB 77 By Senator Orr would have required the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board to adopt, amend, or repeal rules as necessary to phase out the retail sale of alcoholic beverages by the board prior to October 1, 2024, but continue all other functions prescribed by law. This bill would provide for the markup on all alcohol sold by the board; provide for the distribution of proceeds; and provide that liquor sold by the board shall be subject to existing taxes.

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ARHA HOLDS ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE DAY IN MONTGOMERY On April 3, 2019, the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Assocaition hosted its 2019 Legislative Day in Montgomery.

Members gathered to network and learn about important issues that impact our industry.

Topics included: 2019 Legislative Session Update, Privatization, FLSA, National Restaurant Association Priorities & Industry Update, and Human Trafficking in Alabama. Attendees walked over to the state house in the afternoon to meet with legislators and see committee meetings in progress.

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Space to Explore Huntsville Launch your summer travel plans with a trip to Huntsville! Stay at the Westin or element at Bridge Street Towne Center for the perfect launch pad for all that Huntsville has to offer.

• US Space and Rocket Center – Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing in July • Alabama’s Bicentennial Celebration and Constitution Village • Huntsville Botanical Gardens • Early Works Children’s History Museum • Huntsville Museum of Art • Constitution Park Hall • Countless Parks and Preserves

Huntsville 6800 Governors W Huntsville, AL 35806 T 256-327-9000 F 256-327-9900 ElementHuntsville.com

TWO UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. ONE ADDRESS. Book the 2-Night Summer Getaway package at either the Westin, Huntsville’s only 4-Diamond hotel, or the more spacious Element hotel to receive welcome amenity, complimentary breakfast for up to 4 daily, valet parking, 2 complimentary Starbuck’s drinks plus 2 drinks at Portofino’s Pool Bar, and a Westin insulated lunchbox souvenir.

Summer Getaway package rate avaialbe for stays between June 1, 2019 - Sepetember 30, 2019.

Restrictions may apply.

HUNTSVILLE 6800 Governors W Huntsville, AL 35806 T 256-428-2000 F 256-428-2001 WestinHuntsville.com

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ALABAMA TOURISM PARTNERSHIP 2019 Legislative Tourism Bash

ARHA is proud to be a sponsor of the 2019 Legislative Tourism Bash which showcases the best culinary and beverage offerings In Alabama.

The Association is a member of the Alabama Tourism Partnership who hosts the event each year to promote how tourism helps sustain economic growth in our state.

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WELCOME. New Members RESTAURANT Azteca’s of Saraland Bella’s Fine Dining Cereal Killer District Hall Heroes American Grill Ed’s Country Cooking & Bar-B-Que El Barrio Restaurante & Bar Ensley Seafood Express #3 Firehouse Subs Hot Digity Dog Ironhand Brewing Katie’s Plates LLC Kobe Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Live and Let Live LLC (Taco Mama) Louise’s Cakes & Supply LLC Lucy’s Oakland Cafe & Market Phnom Phen Fusion Sushi Bar & Noodle Pirates Cove Rack & Reel Sports Grill Sonic Drive-In Terrapin Box The Craft Bar and Grill The Mill The Woolworth Nabeel’s Café & Market

Saraland, AL Dothan, AL Daphne, AL Foley, AL Anniston, AL Phenix City, AL Birmingham,AL Birmingham, AL Foley, AL Birmingham, AL Mobile, AL Trussville, AL Montgomery, AL Mobile, AL Hoover, AL Auburn, AL Florence, AL Bayou La Batre, AL Elberta, AL Camden, AL Fort Payne, AL Spanish Fort, AL Enterprise, AL Fairhope, AL Birmingham, AL Birmingham, AL

Bella’s Fine Dining, Dothan

Taco Mama, Mobile

The Woolworth, Birmingham

LODGING AC by Marriott Huntsville Country Inn & Suites Hampton Inn Hilton Birmimgham at UAB Microtel Inn & Suites VVP Inc dba Birmingham Inn

Huntsville, AL Montgomery, AL Atmore, AL Birmingham, AL Huntsville, AL Birmingham, AL

ALLIED Brookstone Building Co. LLC Dining Alliance Inc. The Liquidators llc McKinney Communications RBH Benefits Rodian Hospitality SpotOn

Bessemer, AL Waltham, MA Birmingham, AL Homewood, AL Birmingham, AL Oneonta, AL Florence, AL

Hilton Birmingham at UAB

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ARHA AT NRA PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE IN WASHINGTON, DC

Restaurant Insurance Coverage Specialist Since 1979.

Property Insurance Restaurant Liability Auto & Delivery Crime Excess Umbrella

Workers Compensation Liquor Liability Employment Related Discrimination Trade Name Restoration Food Borne Illness

All Types of Restaurants - Family, Fast Food, White Tablecloth Special Programs for Franchise Operations Bars & Taverns

2032 Valleydale Road Birmingham, AL 35244

CLAYTON TAYLOR, ext. 103 205.988.0800 800-476-0801 clayton@aieins.com

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“Taste at the Tee” Tuesday, September 17 | Oxmoor Valley Golf Course, Birmingham, Alabama Proceeds to Benefit the Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Foundation & Restaurant Advocacy Fund

Each year, the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association (ARHA) hosts the Grand Pineapple Golf Challenge. It is a fun-filled day of golf, networking, and fabulous raffle prizes. This year we are introducing a new format geared towards creating a more fun sociable tournament environment. In addition to great door prizes including weekend getaways, gift certificates, golf/hunting/fishing outings, etc., we are also featuring a variety of foods and beverages on each hole.

Restaurants, breweries, and distilleries, etc. are invited to participate and provide samples of their delicious products for all to enjoy. Of course there will be winners, but this tournament will be filled with much more than just golf.

There will be cocktails/hors d’oeuvres and awards to follow.

SPONSORSHIPS:

For more info, call 334.244.1320

ATTENTION RESTAURANTS: Shot-Gun Start | Four-Man Scramble $250 per golfer/$1,000 per team • • • • •

Sign up to participate in the “Taste at the Tee” today!

Registration at 10 am | Sponsor set-up at 9 am Food and beverages included Mulligans - $10 each / 2 for $15 Par is your Friend Policy w/ 2-putt minimum Fabulous door prizes such as beach trips, sports outings, resort accommodations, hotel stays, dinners, and much more!

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IN ALABAMA

BY PAT MCCAY, CHAIR & DAVID PINKLETON, FUNDRAISING CHAIR OF THE ALABAMA HUMAN TRAFFICKING TASK FORCE

H

uman trafficking is the fastest growing criminal activity in the world. There are more than 27 million slaves in the world

today.

Human trafficking is not just happening in third world countries. This “Modern Day Slavery” is happening across the United States and here in Alabama.

Human trafficking continues to escalate and spill over into Alabama communities both large and small.

Cases have been reported in Florence, Huntsville, Guntersville, Cullman, Oneonta, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, Dothan, Atmore, Mobile, and many smaller communities across the state.

Interstate 20 is the “Super Highway” for human trafficking in the U.S. Interstates 10, 59, 65, and 85 are “Major Corridors” for human trafficking in the U.S. and Alabama. These interstates provide an easy access into our state for traffickers to establish their “businesses”. They also allow for a fast exit if they feel they are being watched or in danger of being arrested.

There are two types of human trafficking: sex trafficking and labor trafficking. Sex trafficking is the most prevalent form in the U.S.; however, both forms of human trafficking exist in Alabama.

Human trafficking is a very lucrative business estimated at $150 billion annually. Unlike drugs and arms dealing, traffickers can exploit their victims over and over again. Drug dealers and gangs have discovered that human trafficking provides less risk in obtaining their “products” and have added human trafficking to their “product line”.

Approximately 79% of human trafficking victims are female, but males are being trafficked more and more, specifically young LGBTQ males.

The average age of entry into sex trafficking is 11-14 years of age and exploitation can continue for years. Although the majority of victims are younger, there are many adult victims, too. Anyone can be a victim of human trafficking. Sex trafficking of children is a brutal form of human trafficking and child sexual abuse. 300,000 children are at risk of sexual exploitation each year. It is estimated that 2 children are trafficked every minute.

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Pimps target the vulnerable, such as runaways, homeless youth, or abused and neglected children.

Traffickers gain complete control of their victims through force, fraud, or coercion.

Human trafficking is a clear and present danger to Alabama and its cities and towns. Thankfully, the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force was created to combat this growing problem.

The Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force began in 2014 and meets quarterly at the State House. The purpose and agenda of the Task Force is multifaceted.

Our efforts are working, but there is still much to be done. We must address the driving force behind domestic minor sex trafficking: Demand or Buyers.

We must work together to stop perpetrators before they reach our youth, not after. Together, we can end this injustice in Alabama through increased awareness initiatives and training programs.

To learn more about human trafficking and how to get involved with the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force, visit www.enditalabama.org, follow @enditalabama on Twitter or Facebook.

• To combat all aspects of human trafficking, including sex and labor trafficking.

• To pursue a comprehensive response to crimes of human trafficking.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING INVESTIGATIONS, 2016-17

• To coordinate strategies to provide necessary services for human trafficking victims.

• To focus prevention efforts to end the demand for human trafficking and create awareness through education and community initiatives.

• To develop legislation to prevent, intervene, and treat human trafficking.

Since 2015, the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force has sponsored Human Trafficking Awareness Day every January in observance of National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Day and the annual Human Trafficking Summit, a statewide training and awareness program.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING CASES CHARGED BETWEEN 2010-2017 IN ALABAMA

The Annual Summit is groundbreaking for our state. Law enforcement, social workers, educators, healthcare workers, faith leaders, elected officials, and concerned citizens join together to learn how best to fight this growing evil in Alabama.

In 2016, the Alabama legislature passed the Safe Harbor Act to ensure that children caught up in human trafficking are recognized as victims not criminals.

In 2018, Shared Hope International, the premier anti-trafficking organization, gave Alabama an “A” grade and “Most Improved” designation on the annual State Report Card. The State Report Cards are based on the effectiveness and comprehensive nature of each state’s human trafficking laws.

Please share “Human Trafficking Warning Signs in the Hospitality Industry” with your staff.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING WARNING SIGNS in the hospitality industry

Hospitality professionals are on the front lines of human trafficking.

If you come in contact with a guest exhibiting one or more indicators, they may be a victim of human trafficking.

Patrons checking into room(s) appear distressed or injured.

The individual might have numerous rooms reserved for one night.

Rooms may be paid for with cash or pre-loaded credit card.

An individual checks in with multiple young guests, does not have luggage, few or no personal items, and leaves the hotel.

Within the group of guests checking in, there may be one person who appears very controlling over the rest of the group and will not let the others in the group speak.

Excessive use of hotel computers for adult oriented or sexually explicit websites.

Rentals of pornography when minors are staying in the room.

The guest(s) left in the room may seem confused about their own name(s), may appear helpless, ashamed, nervous, or disoriented.

Conversations with the guest(s) seem very scripted and/or vague.

The guest(s) might exhibit signs of physical abuse such as bruises, burns, scars, and/or malnourishment.

The guest(s) may have tattoos that reflect money or ownership.

The guest(s) may not have any spending money or identification, may not make eye contact, and may wear clothes printed with slogans such as “Daddy’s Girl” or clothing that is inappropriate for the weather or the guest(s) age.

Human trafficking victims typically will not admit they are victims and may not ask for help.

IF YOU SUSPECT HUMAN TRAFFICKING, PLEASE CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT, THE NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING HOTLINE AT 1-888-373-7888, OR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AT 1-866-347-2423.

Source: Polaris Project, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force.

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AUBURN UNIVERSITY BREAKS GROUND ON $95.4 MILLION CULINARY ARTS CENTER Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center

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demonstration and food production laboratories, a food hall, wine appreciation center, distilled spirits center and brewing science lab under one roof.

“The Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center is a symbolic representation of Auburn’s future,” said Auburn University President Steven Leath, “a future that is globally focused, service oriented and shapes the next generation of industry leaders.”

Such an educational platform will inspire students to plan, market, manage and evaluate a commercial hospitality operation, while at the same time provide them with cutting-edge opportunities to develop technical and leadership skills.

The 142,000-square-foot structure is distinct as it will blend an innovative learning environment with a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant. No other facility has a teaching hotel, teaching restaurant, a range of classrooms,

“This center will create one of the world’s premier environments in which to train students for the rapidly evolving hospitality industry,” said Trustee Raymond Harbert. “Through immersive, hands-on learning as well

uburn University celebrated the construction of a culinary science center unlike any other in the world with a ceremonial groundbreaking in April.

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as unique opportunities to work with some of the world’s leading chefs and hospitality experts, Auburn students will gain invaluable experience in the culinary arts and hospitality management. In addition, the center will offer patrons unparalleled amenities and refined guest services.”

Creating a facility at Auburn that could address the growing hospitality industry and advance the instruction of students interested in culinary and hospitality careers began more than a decade ago when Martin O’Neill, head of the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Hospitality Management, and Hans van der Reijden, managing director of The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center, began benchmarking globally recognized programs and facilities.

“They consulted with a tremendous number of experts in the field, and they explored a variety of educational models, striving to envision what the future may bring to the world of hospitality and the culinary sciences,” said June Henton, dean of the College of Human Sciences. “As it turns out, all of this time was well spent because we have set our sights on creating a truly unique and worldclass culinary center here at Auburn.”

Leath said Auburn responded to hospitality industry growth “the best way we know how — with premier academic programs and scholarly research that continues to shape our global footprint.

“This one-of-a-kind center is a natural next step for us.

It stands to greatly advance our reputation as one of the country’s preeminent providers of hospitality education.”

Auburn University is home to Alabama’s only professionally accredited hospitality program. The new center will be a draw for students currently in top culinary programs in high schools in Alabama and across the nation.

Auburn’s plans for a culinary science center received significant encouragement in 2017 when James W. “Jimmy” Rane and the Rane family made a $12 million commitment to the building’s construction. Rane is a 1968 Auburn alumnus, longtime member of the Board of Trustees and chairman, president and chief executive officer of Great Southern Wood Preserving. The board later approved naming the facility in honor of his parents, Tony and Libba Rane.

Gifts to the College of Human Sciences, university general funds and revenue from the hotel, restaurant, a food hall and leased living units will cover the estimated project cost of $95.4 million. The Rane Culinary Science

Center will be the first revenue-generating academic building at Auburn. The university seeks to raise an additional $13 million in philanthropic support through various naming opportunities within the building.

Trustee Rane said that his parents were passionate about hospitality, and “they loved to entertain.” Bestowing their names on a building dedicated to hospitality and culinary science was a true blessing for him and his family.

Henton said the naming of the center was especially meaningful to those in the college who had met Tony and Libba Rane.

“It is a great honor to be entrusted with this responsibility of carrying their legacy of ‘la famiglia’ going forward,” she said.

Construction of the Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center at the corner of East Thach Avenue and South College Street will begin in the coming months and is expected to be complete in 2021.

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Meet your FUTURE EMPLOYEES. 2019

THE WESTIN HUNTSVILLE | MARCH 4, 2019 Albertville High School Auburn High School Boaz High School Calhoun County Career Academy Career Academies of Decatur Ft. Payne High School Huntsville Center for Technology Limestone County CTC

Montevallo High School Moody High School Opelika High School Pelham High School Shelby County CTEC South Baldwin CTC Wenonah High School

THANK YOU SPONSORS

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2019 WINNERS CULINARY COMPETITION: 1st Place: Huntsville Center for Technology 2nd Place: St. Clair County/Moody High School 3rd Place: Career Academies of Decatur

MOODY HIGH SCHOOL 1st Place Management Team

MANAGEMENT COMPETITION: 1st Place: St. Clair County/Moody High School 2nd Place: Calhoun County Career Academy 3rd Place: South Baldwin Center for Technology BEST BEEF ENTREE (SPONSORED BY ALABAMA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION): Shelby County Career Technical Program KNIFE SKILLS (SPONSORED BY DEXTER CUTLERY): Pelham High School SPIRIT & TEAMWORK AWARD–CULINARY: St. Clair County/Moody High School SPIRIT & TEAMWORK AWARD–MANAGEMENT: Calhoun County Career Academy

HUNTSVILLE CENTER FOR TECHNOLOGY 1st Place Culinary Team

A total of 19 teams representing 15 high school hospitality and culinary programs in Alabama met in Huntsville on Monday, March 4 for the 2019 Alabama ProStart Student Invitational. The competition is hosted annually by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association Foundation (ARHAF) and was held at The Westin Huntsville.

ProStart is a high school program that gives students interested in foodservice careers a head start by teaching culinary techniques and management skills through an industry-driven curriculum. Upon successful completion of the ProStart Program, students receive an industryrecognized certificate – and employers get wellprepared, enthusiastic employees.

The Alabama ProStart Student Invitational is a competition which showcases the culinary, management and academic talents of students from high schools across the state. The student

teams compete in both culinary and management events which are judged by industry professionals and experts. The top winners in the culinary and management events are crowned the state champions and receive multiple scholarships.

“ProStart students represent the future of the restaurant and hospitality industry,” said Mindy Hanan, Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association President and CEO. “This Competition is an incredible opportunity for those students to showcase the skills learned in the classroom through the ProStart program and their passion for this industry.”

The winning teams in culinary and management will advance to compete in Washington, D.C. at the National ProStart Invitational this May, where more than $1 Million in scholarships are awarded.

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY/ MOODY HIGH SCHOOL 2nd Place Culinary

SHELBY COUNTY CAREER TECH Best Beef Entree Award

CAREER ACADEMIES OF DECATUR 3rd Place Culinary

PELHAM HIGH SCHOOL Knife Skills Award

CALHOUN COUNTY CAREER ACADEMY 2nd Place Mgmt.

ST. CLAIR/MOODY HIGH SCHOOL Spirit & Teamwork Award - Culinary

SOUTH BALDWIN CENTER FOR TECHNOLOGY 3rd Place Mgmt.

CALHOUN COUNTY CAREER ACADEMY Spirit & Teamwork Award - Mgmt.

Engag eme nt Bobby Higdon robert.higdon@heartland.us 812-989-6044 heartland.us

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Chef Jessica Henry ARHA’S PROSTART PROGRAM DIRECTOR & ASSISTANT PROFESSORS, MISSISSIPPI UNIVERSITY FOR WOMEN

HOW HER HIGH SCHOOL CULINARY PROGRAM CHANGED HER LIFE...

I

had always loved to cook and had grown up with multiple maternal figures creating the best of southern cuisine and they let me learn in the kitchen by standing in and helping when I could. My freshmen year of high school I found out that my high school had a culinary program I was ecstatic and knew it was something I wanted to explore.

My pathway had always been medical; I wanted to help people and by 15 I had decided I would be a nurse. I wanted to join the culinary program as an outlet to stress that every teenager feels when planning their entire life. Cooking was something I was comfortable with and reminded me of amazing times with my family. It wasn’t an option for a career even though it was my “high school job”—I worked at a local pizza & ice cream restaurant. I was very lucky to quiet literally “win the lottery” and was able to join a culinary class my Junior year; spots in the program were very coveted!

The knowledge I gained in my high school culinary classroom extended far beyond basic kitchen techniques and skills. I learned teamwork, leadership, communication, trust, and so many more life skills. The experience literally changed my life. Spending time in that career tech classroom changed everything though; I saw the professionalism and a pathway that I’d never known existed. While my experience in the culinary classroom was a precursor to the amazing ProStart program we have today in Alabama, we were basically a ProStart program we just didn’t know it. A lot of other wonderful things happened between then and now on my career journey but I’m so proud of the time I spent in my three culinary courses at Bob Jones High School and so lucky to have had the instructor that I had, Mrs. Judy Brown.

Without the time spent in that setting, I would not have found the passion for education & training that I now have.

I’m a full-time assistant professor at Mississippi University for Women in the Culinary Arts department. I’m also very honored to be the Director of the ProStart Program for the state of Alabama where I get to work alongside culinary classrooms just like the one I stumbled my way into 15 years ago.

PHOTOS: (Top) Chef Jessica Henry, ARHA ProStart Coordinator & Assistant Professor, Mississippi University for Women.

(Middle) Jessica and her classmates with former culinary instructor and retired Career Tech Education Specialist for the Alabama Department of Education. (Bottom) Jessica in the culinary classroom at Bob Jones High School.

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Alabama teams compete at 2019

NATIONAL PROSTART STUDENT INVITATIONAL In early May, the culinary team from Huntsville Center for Technology and managment team from St. Clair County/Moody High School represented Alabama at the 2019 National ProStart Student Invitational in Washington, DC. The national competition is the finale of a nationwide series of state competitions hosted by partner state restaurant associations. Alabama’s two teams did an outstanding job and ARHA is proud of all the students!

2019 Educator of Excellence BARBARA BONNER, FORT PAYNE HIGH SCHOOL With 21 years as an educator, 11 of them teaching ProStart in two separate high schools, Barbara Bonner is known for her commitment to excellence on many levels. She works closely with industry partners in her community and prepared a group of students for competition in the state invitational.

Barbara said one of her greatest strengths has been in making the curriculum relevant to her students and their interests in order to engage them fully. Of all the rewards teaching has provided her, she is most proud of watching those students who were not always successful in other academic pursuits unequivocally shine in ProStart. In a true testament to who she is, Barbara continues to provide for her students at this high level despite facing a significant health challenge.

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In Memory Of NANCY MEADLOCK–PERDIDO BEACH RESORT Nancy Meadlock, 80, passed away after an extended and difficult illness in March 2019.

Nancy was born in 1938 in Athens, Alabama to Bunyan Dee Broadwater and Mattie Pearl Leopard Broadwater. She received her B.A. degree from the University of Alabama and her Master’s Degree from Athens College. She served in France with the U.S. Foreign Service before joining IBM in the United States. In 1969, she co-founded M & S Computing, Inc. which was later renamed to Intergraph Corporation in 1980. She was responsible for all financial and administration functions as well as serving as an Executive Vice President and a member of the Board of Directors. Intergraph grew during her time there to become a corporation with over one billion dollars per year in revenue. In 2000, Nancy relocated to Orange Beach, Alabama as the Owner and General Manager of Perdido Beach Resort, the only resort-hotel directly on the Alabama Gulf Coast. During her tenure she was recognized by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association as the Hotelier of the Year and was also recognized with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The hotel was also awarded the Business of the Year for the Alabama Gulf Coast by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber. Nancy is survived by her husband, James W. Meadlock, her son, James Dee Meadlock, one grandchild, Nancy Marie Meadlock and her beloved grand-dog Vegas “aka” Baby. She is also survived by the 200+ employees at Perdido Beach Resort who were her extended family. Nancy’s vision, passion and love for the hotel is forever embedded not only in the hearts of those who knew her, but in the very brick and mortar of Perdido Beach Resort.

PEDRO MANDOKI, MANDOKI HOSPITALITY, INC. Pedro Mandoki, 77, of Gulf Shores, Alabama, passed away in February 2019, after a short illness. Pedro was born in Budapest Hungary in 1941. After escaping the Nazi occupation, he and his mother fled to Mexico, where he learned the hospitality business working with his mother and uncle in the hotel they owned in Cuernavaca, Mexico. At 16, he took over the management of the hotel upon his mother’s death. After receiving his degree in premed from the University of Morelos, Pedro married, had two children, and decided to move to the United States. In 1964, he arrived in New Orleans with his family, five suitcases, and $175. He got a job at the Royal Orleans hotel as a captain in the dining room and went on to management positions with the Royal Orleans Hotel, Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC, and Callaway Gardens Resort in Pine Mountain, Georgia to name a few. In 1977, he became a citizen of the United States.

In 1976, Pedro took over the management and created Miracle Mile Resort in Panama City Beach, Florida. He began managing Gulf Shores Plantation in Gulf Shores, Alabama in 1986, with his company that would become Plantation Resort Management. After moving to Gulf Shores in 1988, he continued his management of Gulf Shores Plantation, operating as Mandoki Hospitality, Inc. since 2005.

Serving on multiple boards and guest lecturing at various universities, Pedro was the recipient of the 2005 Thomas Carvel Immigrant Entrepreneur Award by the National Immigration Forum. Also in 2005, he was inaugurated as the Chairman of the American Hotel and Lodging Association. Prior to that, he served as President of both the Florida and Alabama Hotel and Lodging Associations. Pedro was the founding chairman of the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau. In 2010, he was awarded one of the top honors of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Lawson Odde Award and he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alabama Tourism Department in 2017. In December 2018, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism and it was announced that the boardroom would now be known as the Pedro & Nora Mandoki boardroom. Throughout his career, he was the recipient of countless awards in the hospitality industry and mentored many of its current leaders.

Pedro is survived by his wife of 30 years, Nora Durham Mandoki, as well as his four daughters, Margarita McClain, Kati Arata, Marcia Chapman, Jessica Cook, and his grandchildren.

WHY JOIN ARHA?

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CYNTHIA SHEA HART Huntsville Cyn Shea’s Cafe & Catering, Owner

DER REIJDEN

“

The political prowess of ARHA is second to none. ARHA removed the competitive disadvantage hotels experienced compared with other venues with regard to lodging tax.

Additionally, ARHA increased our revenues due to the expansion of Sunday sales hours with the brunch bill. The result of these two actions will be tens of thousands of dollars in new revenue each year to our hotel HANS VAN perpetually.

Managing Director Founder/CEO Ithaka Hospitality Partners

BRANDT TUCKER

Operating a Non-profit café training program is costly. Through ARHA, my café saves over $7000 per year by switching to AlaCOMP workers’ compensation insurance. These kinds of savings help to make training the Huntsville’s under-served possible.

Auburn Willie’s Wings and Stuff, Owner

“

As a longtime member of ARHA, I have seen the value of my member benefits far outweigh the price of membership. Not only do I see great value from our partners who offer member discounts, but also, No one works harder or more effectively at the State Legislature to protect the interest of our industry.

As an independent hotelier, finding answers to questions ranging from regulatory concerns or labor laws to knowing what legislative issues are on the horizon that may impact our business is often challenging. Through our relationship with the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association, so much of that challenge is mitigated because we have a true partner in helping us stay up-to-date on current issues both federally and within the State of Alabama. The guidance, leadership and regular communication ARHA provides us is invaluable and the opportunity to interact with other industry leaders is priceless.

“

PENNY GROUX Director of Human Resources & Public Relations Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach To learn more about membership, visit www.ARHAonline.com or call 334.244.1320.

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DOTHAN NATIVE KELSEY BARNARD CLARK WINS “TOP CHEF” Season 16 on Bravo

A

labama’s culinary scene continues to shine as Dothan’s Kelsey Barnard Clark brought home the title in the season 16 finale of Bravo’s “Top Chef” this year.

Clark, a self-proclaimed born and raised southerner, is the owner and chef at KBC in downtown Dothan.

She got her start in the food industry as a mere middle schooler with a baking obsession and did her first catering gig at 16.

Kelsey left the south for a few years to learn from world-class chefs at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She fine-tuned her skills working for Manhattan’s top restaurants Cafe Boulud and Dovetail before returning to her roots in Alabama to launch her business, now known as KBC. Kelsey’s passion is whole food, prepared classically and plated with big city flair.

The winner of “Top Chef” receives $125,000 as well as a feature in Food & Wine magazine and the opportunity to showcase their skills at the annual

Food & Wine Classic culinary event held in Aspen, Colorado. Not to mention the exposure being on the show can bring to a chef and a restaurant.

Kelsey was one of 15 contestants originally chosen for Season 16 of “Top Chef,” which was filmed in 2018. For the final “Top Chef” episode this season, the chefs were asked to cook a four-course meal. Clark, whose restaurant is a Southern and French fusion café, used her Alabama roots to craft a Southern-inspired meal for the judges.

A public viewing party for the show finale was held in Clark’s honor in downtown Dothan near her restaurant.

Many said they considered the win an achievement for not only Clark, but also for the city of Dothan. The notoriety will put Dothan on the culinary map.

In addition to being the newest Top Chef champion, Clark was also voted as this season’s fan favorite.

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ARHA Happenings

ARHA’s Montgomery Chapter hosted an informative meeting in June which featured seven of Montgomery’s mayoral candidates. The city’s hospitality industry was invited to meet the candidates and hear how each plans to support our industry. Thanks to Dreamland BBQ for hosting the event!

ARHA’s Birmingham Chapter held its June meeting at the Birmingham Marriott.

Guest speakers included representatives from the U.S. Department of Labor and Expedia.

The Huntsville Chapter held a meeting in April at Below the Radar with Sculpture Hospitality and Expedia as guest speakers.

In January, ARHA held a board meeting at Arrowhead Country Club in Montgomery. Topics included board member orientation, goal planning and a preview of the upcoming legislative session.

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ARHA Happenings

Hundreds poured into the Mobile Convention Center on April 18 for the 40th Annual Taste of Mobile. Over 25 restaurants served iconic food, desserts, and drinks from their menus.

The event is hosted by the Mobile Chapter of the Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association.

ARHA was honored to have Rep. Martha Roby as the guest speaker at the Montgomery Chapter Meeting in February held at Midtown Pizza Kitchen.

PROSTART INFORMATION DAY

South Baldwin Career Tech at Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach, March 2019

Opelika High School, April 2019

The Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association, Visit Dothan and the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce held a Restaurant & Hospitality Briefing with Wiregrass Legislators in January at Dothan’s Hilton Garden Inn. The event providing the opportunity for area restaurants and hotels to hear from and connect with their local legislators.

Dothan Technology Center, May 2019

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