ARHANOW
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ALLIANCE
VOLUME 4 ISSUE #1
© 2015 Alabama Power Company
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ARHANOW
INSIDE. 2015 PROSTART STUDENT INVITATIONAL RECAP FROM THE PRESIDENT
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ARHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ALLIANCE
MEET THE ARHA STAFF
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phone: 334.244.1320
2015 STAR OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS DINNER
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2015 GRAND PINEAPPLE GOLF TOURNAMENT
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
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SALES TAX CHANGES ON CERTAIN ITEMS
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2015 PROSTART COMPETITION RECAP
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KIRK KIRKLAND MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS REPORT
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Director of Communications
HOW A BILL BECOMES LAW
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LISA LOTT
A GUIDE TO LOBBYING
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ALABAMA LEGISLATURE FAST FACTS
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ARHA POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
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ARHANOW fax: 334.244.9800 61B Market Place Montgomery, AL 36117 www.arhaonline.com
MINDY HANAN President & CEO
ALISON INGLE
Director of Administration & Special Events
SHEA PERKINS Director of of Membership Relations
SUSAN STARR Director of Education
2015 HUNTSVILLE PINEAPPLE AWARDS RECAP
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2015 TASTE OF MOBILE RECAP
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
from the
PRESIDENT
E MINDY HANAN President & CEO, ARHA
xciting things are happening here at ARHA. The Legislature has just gone into session for the first year of the new “quadrennium.” Be sure to read the update from Miller Development Group, ARHA’s lobbying firm, on what can be expected in the 2015 session. We have also included helpful information such as how a bill is passed into law, a guide to lobbying and general facts about the Alabama Legislature. Also, look for the weekly session update emails that we send out regarding important issues affecting our industries. Please contact the ARHA staff to be added to the email distribution list if you do not receive these emails. The National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association will be holding their annual joint Washington, D.C. trips on April 14-15. Our industries are impacted tremendously by what happens in Washington. The expensive litigation many of our members are currently facing is due to badly crafted laws and regulations. It is imperative that our members voice these concerns and issues to our elected representatives. Let me know if you would like more information on attending these meetings. In February, ARHA held its 2nd Annual Alabama ProStart® Student Invitational. We will have two great teams representing our state at the national competition in April. This is
a very worthwhile program. ProStart is not just a “cooking competition.” ProStart® is a curriculum that has been adopted in Alabama that includes all facets of the industry and sets a high standard of excellence for students and the industry. By bringing together the industry and the classroom, ProStart® gives students a platform to discover new interests and talents to open doors for fulfilling careers. This program will be a great benefit to both the students and our members. The students graduate from the program with marketable skills and provide the industry with a better prepared employee. If you are interested in partnering with a ProStart® school in your area, please let us know. This is an exciting time for the Alliance. I hope you enjoy the new look of our magazine. We wanted to change the publication to reflect the composition of our combined membership. You should have also received our new “stand-alone” issue of ARHA Buyer’s Guide. We have added two new staff members and have reallocated our other staff members within the office. Please read the “Meet the Staff” and get to know the people who are working for you. It is our pleasure to work for such a wonderful group of people. Please let us know how we can be of service to you.
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ARHANOW
Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Chairman
Brandt Tucker Willies Wings and Stuff, Auburn
Vice Chairman
Tony Smith Longhorn Steakhouse, Birmingham
Treasurer
Hans van der Reijden The Hotel at Auburn University, Auburn
Secretary
Eric Duggan Eastside Grille, Montgomery
Immediate Past Chairman Mark Noyes Birmingham President/CEO
NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES NRA–Brian Moore Tenda Chick, Auburn
Mindy Hanan ARHA, Montgomery
AH&LA –Pedro Mandoki, Mandoki Hospitality, Gulf Shores
BOARD MEMBERS Tracy Adams
Brett Robinson, Gulf Shores
Leo Maurelli III
Central, Montgomery
Marie Arighi
Von Braun Center, Huntsville
David Martin
Auburn University, Auburn
Bob Baumhower
Aloha Hospitality, Loxley
Jim Miller
Coastal Human Resource Group, Mobile
Mike Bertani
S&D Coffee, Birmingham
Bob Omainsky
Wintzell’s Oyster House, Mobile
Natalie Bickel
Outback Steakhouse, Birmingham
Neela Patel
Best Western, Gadsden
Kent Blackinton
Renaissance Riverview Plaza, Mobile
Michael Powell
Royal Cup Coffee, Birmingham
Bryan Caldwell
US Foods, Montgomery
Jay Prater
Marriott Grand National, Opelika
Woody Cheatham Merchants Foodservice , Clanton
Rusti Price
Orange Beach
David Clark
Spectrum Resorts, Gulf Shores
Wayne Reaves
Manna Enterprises, Inc., Oxford
Patti Culp
Alabama Travel Council, Montgomery
Tami Reist
Ala. Mtn. Lakes Tourist Assoc., Decatur
Luis del Valle
Cooper Restaurants, Mobile
James Robinson
Alabama Gas Corporation, Birmingham
Bill Dowling
Westin, Huntsville
Tom Ruszkowski
Red Diamond Food Service, Birmingham
Sara Hamlin
Bham Convention & Visitors Bureau
Rick Schaffer
Mobile Gas, Mobile
Nick Hartmann
Alabama Power Company, Birmingham
Robert Smith
Alabama Power Company, Birmingham
Claudia Issiac
Chicken Salad Chick, Auburn
Rick Smith
Renaissance Ross Bridge, Birmingham
George Lane
Wood Fruitticher, Birmingham
Clayton Taylor
Alabama Insurance Exchange, Birmingham
Bill Lloyd
Wilhagans, Tuscaloosa
Brandon Thrash
Faulkner State Comm. College, Gulf Shores
Tynette Lynch
Aldridge Gardens, Birmingham
Bill Truxal
Heartland Payment Systems, Birmingham
Stephen Marino
AlaCOMP, Montgomery
Tom White
US Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville
Danny Martin
Steakout, Huntsville
Toby Wilson
Wilson Hospitality Mgmt., Tuscaloosa
ARHANOW
meet the ARHA TEAM
Pictured left to right: Alison Ingle, Susan Starr, Mindy Hanan, Shea Perkins and Lisa Lott.
MINDY HANAN President and CEO Mindy has more than 20 years of organizational management experience with leadership roles at the Alabama Bankers Association and the Alabama Optometric Association. Mindy is a native of Huntsville, Alabama and is a graduate of Auburn University and Jones School of Law. She is a member of the Alabama State Bar, the Alabama Council of Association Executives and has served on the board of directors of the Central Alabama Title Center, the Alabama Recovery Coalition for the Financial Sector, the Alabama JumpStart Coalition for Financial Literacy and Montgomery Gray Girls Softball League. Mindy and her husband, Ellis, reside in Montgomery and have a daughter, Amelia, who attends Auburn University.
ALISON INGLE Director of Communications Prior to joining ARHA in December 2014, Alison served as the Communications Manager
for Alabama Housing Finance Authority for eight years. She led the communications staff, overseeing AHFA’s marketing, public relations, communications, event management and legislative affairs.
SHEA PERKINS Director of Member Relations Prior to joining ARHA in January 2013, Shea was an account executive at Xerox and has more than six years of sales experience.
Alson has previous experience in real estate development and served as the Director of Communications for the Alabama Bankers Association. She is a graduate of Auburn University Montgomery and is a member of the Public Relations Council of Alabama.
She received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Information Sciences from the University of Alabama and is a member of the Junior League of Montgomery and Alabama Council of Association Executives.
Alison and her husband, Todd, reside in Millbrook and have two daughters.
SUSAN STARR
LISA LOTT Director of Administration and Special Events Lisa has been with ARHA since 2010 and serves as the Director of Administration and Special Events. She handles general accounting and administrative tasks, as well as, helps plan industry events such as the Taste of Montgomery. Lisa and her husband Greg live in Montgomery and have three sons.
Director of Education Susan recently joined ARHA as the Director of Education. She received her Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Alabama and has experience in outside sales and customer relations in retail, industrial and education. Susan has served as a volunteer for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, , Junior League of Montgomery, St. Peters Catholic Church and Our Lady Queen of Mercy Catholic Church. She and her husband John reside in Montgomery and have three children.
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ARHANOW
It is not too early to start thinking about nominating your outstanding employees for the 16th Annual Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner. ARHA will recognize the best of the best at our annual Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner on Monday, September 28 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. These awards recognize outstanding performance, commitment, and achievements in the lodging, tourism, and restaurant industry. The 2015 Stars of the Industry award categories are: •
Front of the House Hospitality Employee of the Year
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Chef of the Year
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Back of the House Hospitality Employee of the Year
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Bartender of the Year
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Front of the House Restaurant Employee of the Year
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Supplier of the Year
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Back of the House Restaurant Employee of the Year
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Tourism Promoter of the Year
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Hospitality Department Manager of the Year
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Restaurateur of the Year
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Restaurant Manager of the Year
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Hotelier of the Year
For nomination forms and information, visit ARHAonline.com.
Grand Pineapple Golf Challenge 2015 Restaurant, Hospitality and Tourism Challenge • September 29 • Birmingham
Shot-Gun Start | Four-Man Scramble | $150 per golfer/$600 per team Registration includes golf, cart, range balls, breakfast, beverages and fabulous prizes.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: •
Platinum Package ($5,000): includes 4-golfers, signage on course, premium hole sponsorship, recognition in the ARHA magazine and newsletter
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Gold Advertising Package ($2,500): includes 4-golfers, hole sponsorship, signage on course
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Silver Advertising Package ($1,000): includes 2-golfers, hole sponsorship, signage on course
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Hole Advertising Package ($150)
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Putting Contest Advertising Package ($500)
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Beverage Cart Sponsor ($750): includes name on beverage cart
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Non-Golfer Cart Package: includes golf cart to network with golfers ($200)
ARHANOW
Auburn, AL
The Hound
Auburn, AL
IHOP #4455
Huntsville, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Birmingham, AL
Outback Steakhose
Dothan, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Hoover, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Huntsville, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Madison, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Mobile, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Montgomery, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Opelika, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Prattville, Al
Outback Steakhouse
Sheffield, AL
Outback Steakhouse
Tuscaloosa, AL
Papa’s Pizza @ Craft Farms
Gulf Shores, AL
Pie Five Pizza Co
Hoover, AL
Sabor a Mexico
Mobile, AL
Shaggy’s Restaurant
Huntsville, AL
Sunset Pointe @ Fly Creek Marina
Auburn, AL
Tee Shots Bar & Grill
Montgomery, AL
Twin Peaks
Montgomery, AL
Yak The Kathmandu Kitchen
Mobile, AL
Yak The Kathmandu Kitchen 2
Fairhope, AL
Alabama Catfish Producers
Montgomery, AL
Casa Holdings LLC
Huntsville, AL
Country and Commercial
Opelika, AL
HRBUniversal
Birmingham, AL
Liberty Properties
Auburn, AL
ALLIED
Acre
RESTAURANT
WELCOME. New Members
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ARHANOW
CHEF LEO MAURELLI, III
as Guest Chef for Auburn University’s TheSelected Most Respected Training Quality of Life Banquet in New York and Certification Source in the Industry
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xecutive Chef of Central Restaurant in downtown Montgomery and Auburn University Alum Chef Leonardo Maurelli, III was selected to serve as guest chef for Auburn University’s twenty-first annual International Quality of Life Awards Banquet at the United Nations in New York, NY on December 6, 2014.
“ServSafe allows you to exceed expectations.”
In 1994, the College of Human Sciences at Auburn University launched the International Quality of Life Awards in conjunction with the United Nations’ International Year of the Family. Through these awards, CHS proudly honors Miklos people and partnerships who have made significant and lasting contributions to individual, family, andMick community wellVice President beingillness locally and the world. Every year, a different chef is threats selected to this Foodborne andaround alcohol-related problems are major toprepare a multiple course menu for Safety prestigious event. “I was honored to represent Auburn University, Central Restaurant and the entire stateof ofFood Alabama your businesses and customers. That’s why the National Restaurant and Training, in New York. I am really proud of the menu I created for this event and truly enjoyed experiencing New York.” Chef Leo Waffle House® states. (NRA) created the ServSafe® program nearly 40 years ago. Association
And why – Chef under guidance of scientists andand industry specialists – Leo the is a native of the Republic of Panama shares his unique multicultural take on traditional southern dishes and cuisine as the Executive Chef of Central Restaurant located in the Alley Entertainment District. He ServSafe training and certification are your best protection. This is the immigrated to Alabama in the early 1990’s where he quickly began his apprenticeship in the culinary field. While ® ServSafe Program leading attending programAuburn that has been Chef rigorously developed, regularly updated University, Leo honed his skills under the tutelage of many award winning and world traveled chefs. Chef Leo has been the recipient of many awards and designations, including the 2011 Chef of the Year award and solely administered by a single authority and used worldwide.
Be
by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance, 2013 Alagasco Good Heat Chef, and his latest distinction as one of the Best Chefs America: South, an annual peer review publication highlighting the best of the best in the culinary safe with Chef ServSafe. profession. Leo celebrated two years with Central in February 2015.
Right for You
Safety in Numbers
Giving Back
Neighborhood establishments to international chains depend on ServSafe for their protection.®
Over 65,000 instructors and proctors have chosen ServSafe over the past 40 years. Their expertise helps ensure the safety of your customers, your business and your staff.
ServSafe profits are reinvested in industry educational, outreach and advocacy programs.
ServSafe Program ogram
The Most Respected Training and Certification Source in the Industry Foodborne illness and alcohol-related problems are major threats to your businesses and customers. That’s why the National Restaurant Association (NRA) created the ServSafe® program nearly 40 years ago. And why – under the guidance of scientists and industry specialists – ServSafe training and certification are your best protection. This is the leading program that has been rigorously developed, regularly updated and solely administered by a single authority and used worldwide.
Be safe with ServSafe.
“Serv allow to ex expe
ARHANOW
CERTAIN RESTAURANT SUPPLY PURCHASES NOT SUBJECT TO SALES TAX BY ROBERT MILLER, CPA & Partner at Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC
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ffective March 5, 2015, the Alabama Department of Revenue has amended the administrative rule (8106-1-.69) for sales tax regarding restaurant purchases of items considered to be components of the sale. The rule was amended to conform to the decision of the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals in the case of State Department of Revenue v. Kelly’s Food Concepts of Alabama, LLP. The amendment adds several nontaxable items to the extensive list of items that are specifically determined to be taxable or nontaxable. The listed nontaxable items are considered to be components of a sale and not subject to sales tax when acquired by the restaurant. The list applies to “restaurants, drive-ins, cafeterias, concession stands, bars, lounges and night clubs”. The following items are now considered nontaxable if accompanying a sale and not reusable – bibs, coffee stirrers, napkins, straws, plastic tableware, moist towelettes, wooden forks and spoons, and wooden skewers. In addition to the items added, the list includes many commonly used items, including but not
limited to paper bags, certain paper products, various types of disposable cups, trays and plates. Certain items are only nontaxable if they accompany a sale and are not reusable. The rules and entire list of applicable items can be found on the Alabama Department of Revenue website at http://revenue. alabama.gov/salestax/rules/. In light of the amendment, you should communicate with your suppliers to confirm they are aware of the amended rules to ensure unnecessary tax is not paid. As the amendment is retroactive, it could be beneficial to determine if any listed nontaxable items have been previously subjected to sales tax. If it is determined that sales tax has been paid on nontaxable items, it may be beneficial for a business to file a refund claim on the sales tax paid, assuming the cost of filing for the refund claim does not exceed the benefit to be received. The refund claim must be accompanied by supporting documentation, such as invoices, receipts, or other documentation to provide sufficient evidence. Statute of limitations allows refund claims for up to three years from the date of the refund claim. CRI, currently ranked as the 23rd largest accounting firm
FOOD & BEVERAGE NON-TAXABLE Aluminum Plates Barbeque Bags Bibs Burger Cups Butter Chips Coffee Stirrers Cups and Lids Eclair Cases
Hot Dog Trays Kone Bottles Moist Towelettes Napkins Paper Bags Paper Plates Paper Trays Paper Liners for Food Trays
Plastic Forks and Spoons Sandwich Bags Sandwich and Drink Trays Souffle Cups Straws Wooden Forks and Spoons Wooden Skewers
Note: The items listed in orange were changed to nontaxable or added to list. Visit ARHAonline.com to see the full list which also lists nontaxable only if accompanies sale and cannot be reused.
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DESCRIBE
2015 Alabama Prostart Student Invitational
COMPETITION RECAP. JEFFERSON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA | FEBRUARY 7, 2015 Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance Educational Foundation recently announced the winners of the 2nd Annual Prostart Student Invitational. The competition was held Saturday, February 7 at Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham. With eight schools participating in both culinary and management competitions, more than $100,000 in scholarships were awarded to the winning teams. Over 30 of the state’s premier chefs and restauranteurs judged the competition and provided valuable feedback to the participating students. During the culinary competition, the judges score the teams on numerous factors including knife skills, cooking procedures, presentation, taste, sanitation and teamwork. Teams participating in the management competition demonstrated their knowledge by developing a restaurant concept and delivering a presentation to the judges as if they are investors.
2015 PROSTART COMPETITION WINNERS CULINARY: Albertville High School
1st Place
Moody High School
2nd Place
Calhoun County Career Tech
3rd Place
MANAGEMENT: Moody High School
1st Place
“I was also extremely excited about the multiple scholarships the team received. Most of these girls were not afforded the chance to go straight to college after graduating and this opportunity has drastically changed their futures,” said Lauren Boulding, Culinary Arts Instructor at Albertville High School and instructor of the winning culinary team.
PROSTARTRECAP
“WE WERE SO EXCITED THAT OTHERS Brenda Contreras, RECOGNIZED OUR PASSION...” Albertville High School Culinary Team
ALBERTVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 1st Place Culinary Team
Albertville and Moody High Schools will represent ARHAEF in the National Prostart ® Invitational in Anaheim, California April 18-20, 2015.
MOODY HIGH SCHOOL 1st Place Management Team
According to The University of Alabama’s Center for Business and Economic Research, the state’s hospitality industry is one of the sectors where above-average employment growth is anticipated. “ProStart ultimately benefits the restaurant and hospitality industries in our state,” said Mindy Hanan, CEO of the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance. “The curriculum prepares students with culinary and management skills making the program an excellent source to find quality employees.” ProStart® is a two-year, culinary management program for high school juniors and seniors with a curriculum designed to teach students culinary techniques as well as restaurant management skills. ProStart® is in almost 50 high schools statewide and nearly 840 students participate in the program.
CHEF GREG BEACHEY ProStart National Program Manager
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PROSTARTRECAP
Photography by Alison Ingle
PROSTARTRECAP
Kirk Kirkland Memorial Scholarship2015 IN 2009, ARHAEF established the Kirk Kirkland Memorial Scholarship to provide opportunities for Alabama students to further their education in the restaurant and lodging industry. This scholarship allows recipients access to post-secondary education in the culinary and/or hospitality fields or special certificate programs for educators or industry professionals.
APPLICATION INFORMATION: Applicants must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or more on a 4.0 scale. Leadership must be demonstrated in both on and off campus activities and students must be an Alabama resident to apply. Applicants must submit the following: completed application form, a copy of the transcript from most recent school with established GPA at time of application, a letter of recommendation (one from a teacher/personal reference and one from an industry employer if possible) and a letter of acceptance from school (unless currently enrolled). Visit ARHA’s website for the 2015 scholarship application. Applications and accompanying documents must be postmarked by May 1, 2015.
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GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS
LegislativeREPORT The Elephant in the Room Could Impact Your Pocketbook
DEBORAH MILLER Miller Development Group
W
ith just a few weeks into the session, governmental consultants, including your team at ARHA have a sense of dread. This is the year when many news accounts have talked about the elephant in the room and the fact that the elephant can no longer be ignored as well as the fact that it will be hungry and must be fed. The elephant in the room is the general fund budget. Alabama faces a huge shortfall in this budget that provides money for the judiciary, prisons, Medicaid and other agencies such as state troopers. Varying deficit amounts have been cited with by all accounts a shortfall in October of 2015 of at least $265 million and some accounts have suggested the real deficit over several years could be $700 million. All of the members of ARHA clearly want to know why are we where we are today? The Medicaid shortfall is somewhere around $100 million, prisons need $40 million more and
there are borrowed dollars of $160 million in 2010 from the state’s Rainy Day fund that is mandated to be paid back. The State also owes approximately $125 million to the feds due to overpayment and errors. Still other deficits include $63 million in gas tax dollars taken away from highway maintenance and given to public safety and the courts and $187 million moved from the education budget to the general fund in a previous year that has to be paid back. Governor Bentley has warned the returning legislators and made a special plea to the new incoming freshman legislators not to declare his budget “DOA” and warned business groups that the state doesn’t “have money to cover what we owe.” Bentley said that he and the lawmakers must come up with some long-term solutions. Would that include tax increases? The Governor has said that “taxes would be the last thing…but I cannot see getting through this without raising revenue.” But he also said that he does hope to eliminate some deductions, cut out unfair tax credits and close corporate loopholes. He has publicly said that his proposals will not include property tax increases, but that the proposals could likely make even him pay more taxes. It is the first major revenue plan since Governor Riley proposed $1.2 million tax hikes that failed
by a 2-1 margin by voters. Bentley has discussed eliminating some tax deductions and exemptions. Specifically he has pointed to Alabama’s deduction for federal income taxes paid as well as the exemption for retirement income from defined benefit pensions plans. Many groups expect some sort of higher fees for services provided by government. All of the above could be daunting for businesses and perhaps members of ARHA. So what are alternative options on the table for consideration? Additional settlements from BP could give lawmakers a breather, a state compact with the Poarch Creek Indians who are making hundreds of millions in the casinos and a larger approach to gaming to include a state lottery or legalized gambling on a large commercial scale. Bentley has said that the final option would not be part of his plan as gambling revenue is unstable and unpopular with citizens in Alabama. ARHA will be all hands on deck to analyze bills and proposals for impact to ARHA members. Besides higher taxes, we continue to see ill thought out bills relating to tourism, restaurants and small businesses. The elephant in the room must be addressed but not on the backs of the hard-working, tax paying, already over-regulated industries that comprise ARHA.
2015 LEGISLATIVE SESSION March 3 – June 15
HOW A BILL BECOMES LAW ry ducto Intro ge Sta
Once a bill has been assigned a number, it is read to the chamber during what is called first reading.
The bill is referred to a commitee by the House Speaker or Senate President.
Start Here! Bill
The bill is introduced by a member of the House or Senate.
ment Amend Stage
A second reading. The committee reports the bill to the members of the House or Senate.
The committee considers the bill.
ng Voti Stage
The bill is referred to committee by the House Speaker or Senate President and the committee considers the bill.
If passed, the bill is sent to the second chamber where the process is repeated.
If passed, the bill may be signed into law or vetoed by the Governor.
A third reading when members debate and vote on the bill
If vetoed, the Legislature may vote to override the veto and the bill becomes law without the Governor’s approval.
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GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS
A GUIDE TO LOBBYING. LOBBYING GOALS •
The lobbyist provides the one-to-one contact between its client and the legislator. You can influence his or her vote because you are his or her constituent.
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The lobbyist will communicate to its client headquarters data obtained and responses received from the legislator.
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At least one informed individual should serve as liaison throughout the session for each legislator.
CONTACTING YOUR LEGISLATOR Personal contact with your representative or senator is the most effective way to promote your legislative interests and concerns. All legislators appreciate hearing from their constituents. Opinions of constituents on any issue assist the legislator in making decisions about the actions he or she will take in support or opposition (or for compromise) regarding that issue. Face-to-face contact with your legislator is the most effective way to make your opinions known to the legislator. When this is impossible, a telephone call or personal letter can also be effective. During the legislative session, members of the Legislature spend nearly every weekend in their home and communities. Call on them personally or telephone them at their home or place of business.
When you make a phone call when time is short, a telephone message is sometimes the best way to communicate, especially when you know the legislator personally or you have established previous face-to-face contact. If you cannot talk to the legislator directly, deliver your message to a member of his or her staff. Be sure you identify yourself to the answering party and clearly identify the issue you are addressing.
WRITING A LETTER •
Address the letter properly.
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Use your own stationary. Use your own words. Form letters are ineffective.
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Write legibly or type your letter.
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Sign your full name and show your address on the letter.
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Do not write “on behalf of _______)” write on behalf of YOUR-SELF.
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Know your subject. Identify the bill by number or name, if you can.
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Stick to one subject. This makes your position easier to understand and adds weight to the message.
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Keep it brief. One page should be enough. One sincere paragraph could be enough. You don’t have to analyze and explain the entire bill.
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Be concise. Summarize your position in the first paragraph. Use the remainder of the page for explanation and supporting remarks.
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Be factual. If you have expert knowledge, share it. Do not offer arguments that cannot be substantiated. Personalize the effect of the legislation telling how you see it affecting you, your business, and/or your community.
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Be reasonable and polite, but communicate that you would like to know your legislator’s position on the legislation.
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Write while there is still time for the legislator to take effective action.
MAKING A VISIT Make an appointment and go with one or more individuals with the same motive if possible. Keep the visit brief and to the point. Be friendly– you’ll want the legislator to be receptive in the future. Be sure to express appreciation for the appointment. If the legislator asks questions you cannot answer, say you do not know but will get the answer. Be respectful of the office and responsibility the legislator holds, but don’t be intimidated– he or she is a citizen in your community, just as you are.
GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS
GUIDE TO LOBBYING CONT.
•
Say “Thank You” for a favorable vote to let your legislator know you appreciate a job well done.
How to Address a Letter: TO A REPRESENTATIVE: The Honorable ________________ Alabama House of Representatives
Alabama Legislature
FAST FACTS • Established in 1819 • Four-year term of office
State House, Room ___________ Montgomery, AL 36130
Session Dates:
Dear Representative ______________:
First year after election: TO A SENATOR: The Honorable ________________ Alabama Senate State House, Room ___________
Organizational Session-2nd Tuesday in January Limited to 10 consecutive days
Montgomery, AL 36130
Regular Session-1st Tuesday in March
Dear Senator ______________:
Second and third years: 1st Tuesday in February
LOBBYING TIPS •
DO be knowledgeable about the subject you discuss with your legislator to gain and keep his or her confidence.
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DO make periodic contact with the legislator. One letter or telephone call will not establish a legislator-constituent relationship.
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DO furnish the legislator with your address and telephone number.
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DO NOT make threats or demands. It will turn the legislator off. Be polite and fair.
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DO NOT make negative remarks about people whose views differ from yours.
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DO NOT exert excessive pressure for a commitment from the legislator. Remember that legislators may not be ready to express a specific commitment on a bill, but this does not minimize the value of your contact in helping him or her reach a decision.
Fourth year: 2nd Tuesday in January
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105
Senators
Representatives
QUALIFICATIONS: • Citizen and resident of Alabama for three years. • 25 years of age - Senator • 21 years of age - Representative • Resident of the Legislative District for one-year
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GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS
ARHAPAC The Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance Political Action Committee (ARHAPAC) maximizes the political strength of Alabama’s hospitality industry to help ARHA represent and protect our restaurant, hotels and associated businesses from legislation that threatens the competitiveness of the industry. Political action funds are used strictly for campaign contributions to support candidates who support the concerns of the restaurant and hospitality industry. We appreciate your support!
2015 PAC CONTRIBUTIONS (JANUARY - MARCH 10, 2015) A Cup of Everything
El Paso Mexican Grill
Midtown Pizza Kitchen
Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association
FarmLinks
Mikata Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar
Firehouse Subs - Mobile
Mobile Fixture
Fountain Parker Harbarger and Associates
Nabeels
Fried Stewed Nude Inc
Neighbors Seafood Chicken
Gulf Shores Plantation
Old 27 Grill
Gulf Shores Steamer
Outside the Box Food Service Training
Hamilton’s on Magnolia
Panini Pete’s
Hampton Inn Winfield
Papa Johns Pizza - Greenville
Happy Catering Company
PCH Hotels and Resorts Inc
Henley’s Bar-B-Que
Popeyes Famous Fried Chicken
Heroes Sports Bar and Grille
R&R Seafood Restaurant
Honey Baked Ham Company & Cafe
Residence Inn by Marriott
Huggin’ Molly’s
Ricatonis Italian Grill
Hungry Howies - Mobile
Royal Cup Inc
Irish Bred Pub
Sam’s Super Burger 6
Iveys Fine Dining
Spot of Tea
Iz Cafe
Stuckey’s Express
J & M Fast Foods
Surin Management Inc
Jack’s Family Restaurants Inc
Sysco Central Alabama
James Tucker Produce Inc
Tacky Jack’s/ Gulf Shores
Jon Boy’s Smoke House
The Hangout
Lap’s Causeway Grocery & Grill
The Montgomery Country Club
Lenny’s Sub Shop Daphne
The Wing House Restaurant
Lulu’s
Tigers Kwik Stop
Magnolia Cafe
Uncle Sam’s - Hueytown
Manna Enterprises
Wilhagan’s of Tuscaloosa
Martins Restaurant
Willies Wings and Stuff
Matas Greek Pizza
Zaxby’s - Andalusia
AlaBev Aldridge Gardens Aloha Hospitality, Inc. Baymont Inn & Suites Bellinis Restorante and Bar Best Western Gadsden Hotel & Suites Big Bob Gibson Bar B Q Birmingham Restaurant Group Birmingham Restaurant Supply (BRESCO) Buffalo Wild Wings Mobile Business Insurance Group Cafe Gallery Cahaba Foods Chicken Salad Chick City Hardware Cosmos Restaurant and Bar Country Inn and Suites Dairy Queen - Gradic Davenport’s Pizza Palace Days Inn and Suites Prattville Days Inn Clanton Days Inn Enterprise Dixie Fish Company Dixie Store Fixtures Downtown Tavern Econo Lodge Tillmans Corner Ed’s Drive In
Mc Donald’s/James Barnes Enterprises
ARHANOW
Pineapple Awards Dinner2015 Huntsville-Madison County Hospitality Association The Huntsville-Madison County Hospitality Association (HMCHA) recognized the outstanding accomplishments of area hospitality professionals at the Jackson Center on January 20, 2015. HMCHA’s annual dinner honors members who have exhibited true hospitality and professionalism in the industry. The winning individuals work to enhance the area’s image, promote tourism, are considered role models and are active in the hospitality industry and in the community. The following individuals received Red Ribbon Awards: Hotel Category — Imran Hussain, General Manager of Embassy Suites Hotel & Spa; Restaurant Category — David Martin, Restaurant entrepreneur behind SteakOut, Rosie’s Mexican Cantina, Phil Sandovals Mexican Restaurante, Walton’s Southern Table, Blue Plate Café and more; Allied Category — Allison Dillon-Jauken, Executive Director of The Arts Council; and Attraction Category — Bennie Jacks of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. The prestigious Pineapple Award is given for the contributions of a group or individual not employed in the hospitality industry who has had an outstanding impact on the industry. The 2015 Pineapple Award was presented to Jim Hudson, who helped put Huntsville on the map as the co-founder of the prestigious Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology. He was also the driving force behind what is now the largest private arts facility in the nation, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, solidifying the important impact the arts have on both increasing tourism and travel to
Photography by Jeff White
Madison County.
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CHAPTERNEWS
Taste of Mobile2015
The 38th Annual Taste of Mobile was held Tuesday, March 3rd at the Mobile Marriott. The event was hosted by the Mobile Chapter of the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance. This year’s event raised funds for Murphy High School’s culinary program students to pursue a higher education in the culinary field. A new format featured an evening of fine dining by some of the best restaurant and beverage operations in the Mobile and Baldwin County area. The event sold out in just a few days and was a huge success!
Photography by Danny Mosley, Jr. Photography
OCTOBER 19-20, 2015 SAVE THE DATE!
Georgia World Congress Center
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Culinary expo May 12, 2015 • 10aM - 4PM
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