ARHANOW THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION
Meet the 2017
CARLE PLACE, NY PERMIT NO 35
STARS OF THE INDUSTRY
PAID
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE
VOLUME 6 ISSUE #4
POWERING THE ELECTRIC KITCHEN.
With reduced cleanup time, lower maintenance cost and longer equipment life, electric cooking gives Š 2016 Alabama Power Company
you a cooler and more efficient kitchen. When you add in faster preheating, faster recovery and less product shrinkage, you’ll see how electricity gives you the power to save while giving your menu the preparation it deserves. Call 1.888.430.5787 to learn more about the benefits of electric cooking.
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INSIDE. 2017 BARTENDER OF THE YEAR STATE FINALS PAGE 20
ARHANOW THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION
phone: 334.244.1320
FROM THE PRESIDENT
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ARHA WELCOMES CHEF JESSICA HENRY
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2017 TASTE OF THE RIVER REGION RECAP
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2017 GRAND PINEAPPLE GOLF CHALLENGE
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2017 STARS OF THE INDUSTRY
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2017 PROSTART INVITATIONAL
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WHAT’S GOING ON
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fax: 334.244.9800 3 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 www.arhaonline.com
MINDY HANAN President & CEO
JESSICA HENRY Director of ProStart Program
ALISON INGLE Director of Communications
REBECCA PAULK Director of Administration & Special Events
SHEA PERKINS Director of Member Relations
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from the
PRESIDENT
T MINDY HANAN President & CEO, ARHA
he Alabama hospitality industry is brimming with outstanding leaders who go above and beyond, raising the bar of excellence in performance, service and commitment to the industry. This issue of ARHANow highlights the winners of this year’s Stars of the Industry Awards. This inspiring event always surpasses expectations and attracts the industry’s finest who embody the heart and soul of the hospitality industry. Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners of this year’s awards!
With Alabama’s economy nearing full employment, a key challenge for restaurants and hotels is finding and retaining talent. A main objective of the Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association is to enhance the industry’s image as the industry of opportunity. The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s research Who Works in the U.S. Restaurant Industry details the opinions of nearly 5,100 Americans who currently work or formerly worked in the industry, as well as those who own or operate restaurants, the study offers compelling insight into the sense of pride, optimism and opportunity among the restaurant workforce. A majority of restaurant employees said the industry provides good long-term career opportunities. Individuals in almost every occupation and age group surveyed felt the restaurant industry affords them career advancement potential. Of those not in their first restaurant job, a solid majority said they have advanced to higher-paying jobs. The American Hotel and Lodging Association did a similar study which highlights the success stories of the hotel industry’s employees, who have been provided with significant opportunities for upward mobility and promotions, with no limitation on how far they can go. The study reveals that throughout the hotel industry, general managers, senior executives and even many CEOs began their careers in hourly, entry-level hotel jobs. The hotel and lodging industry offers the ability to create rewarding life-long careers, and that can be done quickly – with most employees becoming eligible for promotion after only one year of employment. The hospitality industry has a lot of which to be proud. ARHA is continually working to help build tomorrow’s workforce. I am pleased to announce the addition of Chef Jessica Henry as the new Director of our ProStart program. There are lot of opportunities for you to be involved. We now have over 25 ProStart Schools across the state. We need judges, mentors and employers for the young people in the program. Please let us know if you are interested in being involved. Our next ProStart Invitational will be held February 3 at Jefferson State Community College. From all of us at ARHA, we wish you happy holidays and a blessed new year!
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ARHA welcomes Chef Jessica Henry DIRECTOR OF PROSTART
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RHA is pleased to announce that Chef Jessica Henry is joining our team as the Director of ProStart. Chef Henry is a familiar face in our state’s culinary education circles. Since 2014, she has judged and helped coordinate the annual ProStart® competitions in Alabama and Mississippi. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and a Master’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Auburn University. Chef Henry joined the Mississippi University for Women in 2014 as an Assistant Professor of Culinary and Hospitality Management and Campus ProStart® Coordinator. Prior, she served as the Culinary Arts Instructor at Fort Payne High school for four years. She also serves on the Board of Directors at Serving Hope, Inc. in Huntsville. Jessica will coordinate the state’s ProStart® Program on ARHA’s behalf. “We are looking forward to what Chef Jessica brings to the table regarding administering the ProStart® Program. We anticipate a smooth transition since she is known to many of the culinary and hospitality educators in our state,” says Mindy Hanan, ARHA Executive Director and CEO.
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Taste of the River Region 2017
The 2017 Taste of the River Region was held on Sunday, September 24 with over 800 in attendance. The event was held at the Union Station Train Shed in downtown Montgomery with approximately 25 food and beverage vendors marketing their restaurants and products. The 2017 winners are: 1.
Best App: Eastside Grille - Wings
2. Best Chicken Entrée: Potz & Pans - Chicken & Rice 3.
Best Pork Entrée: Itta Bena Pork Tenderloin
4. Best Seafood Entrée: D’Road Café - Ceviche 5. Best Beef Entrée: LongHorn Sirloin 6. Best Soup/Chowder: Debra’s Lunch-to-Go - Camp Stew 7. Best Southern Fixings: Martha’s Place - Mac & Cheese 8. Best Specialty Drink: UnitedJohnson Brothers - Banana Pudding Cream 9. Best Dessert: Wintzell’s - Bread Pudding 10. Best Decorated Booth: Alabama Sweet Tea Co. 11. Best New Bourbon: Republic National - Clyde Mays
Photography by Bryan Carter, Carter Photography & Design
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THE WINNERS OF THE 2017 STARS OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS WERE ANNOUNCED IN OCTOBER AT THE SHERATON BIRMINGHAM HOTEL. THE STARS OF THE INDUSTRY IS THE ALABAMA RESTAURANT AND HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION’S (ARHA) ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER HONORING THE RESTAURANT, LODGING, AND TOURISM INDUSTRY. THE STARS AWARDS ARE PEER-NOMINATED AND WINNERS ARE SELECTED BY THE STARS COMMITTEE AND ARHA’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS. THERE WERE OVER 90 NOMINATIONS SUBMITTED STATEWIDE AND THE WINNERS IN EACH OF THE SIXTEEN CATEGORIES WERE PRESENTED WITH TROPHIES BY ARHA BOARD CHAIRMAN TONY SMITH. THE EVENT BEGAN WITH AN ELEGANT RECEPTION WHILE THE REGIONAL BARTENDER FINALISTS COMPETED IN THE STATE BARTENDER OF THE YEAR COMPETITION SPONSORED BY OLD FORESTER. GUESTS ENJOYED A FABULOUS DINNER PREPARED BY EXECUTIVE CHEF JABARI NIX. MR. ERIC PERKINS PROVIDED LIVE MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT AND EUNICE ELLIOT, NEWS REPORTER FOR NBC 13 BIRMINGHAM AND STAND-UP COMEDIAN, SERVED AS THE EMCEE FOR THE EVENING.
Alabama Power Aloha Hospitality Bruno Event Team Birmingham CVB
Renaissance Montgomery Renaissance Ross Bridge Right Way Restaurants Inc. Sheraton Birmingham Hotel
Stars Partners: BMI Sysco Wood Fruitticher
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DAVID & RHONDA MARTIN
RIGHT WAY RESTAURANTS
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Lifetime Achievement Award
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avid and Rhonda Martin with David’s brother Danny and his wife Elisa founded the first Steak-Out location in March 1986, 31 years ago in Huntsville. Their Mom and Dad got a second mortgage on their home to fund the venture. David and Danny’s restaurant experience started in their parents Bar-B-Q restaurant in the early 70’s. David promised his mother he would work the 3rd shift at McDonald’s to repay the loan if he had to. The Steak Out concept delivering steak, chicken, burgers and salads was considered groundbreaking in 1986. By 1995 Steak-Out had 76 locations across the southeast. The growth was part company owned, part franchised and part through a sponsorship program where managers could own 49% of a franchised location with the Martins. In March of 1995 David and Rhonda Martin sold Steak-Out Franchising to an Atlanta group. They retained the exclusive rights to Madison County and continued to own and operate 5 Steak-Out locations there. David’s lifelong friend, Greg Atkins, has been the Huntsville Operations Director and partner for over 30 years. In December 1995 the Martins opened a 250 seat Rosie’s Mexican Cantina in Huntsville. It was the first Cantina style Mexican restaurant in the area. Equity was offered to former Steak-Out Franchising CFO, BJ Fratesi and Director of Operations, Tod Craig. They accepted and joined on immediately as operations partners. Rosie’s was named in honor of Rhonda’s grandmother, Rosie, who owned and worked in small cafes in Arkansas. In Mid 1995 Rosie’s partnered with former Wilmington, NC Steak-Out franchisee Chris Vincent and opened Little Rosie’s Taquieria. Little Rosie’s is fast casual Mexican with counter service, drive-thru and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Per square foot it is a busy little restaurant! In February of 2000 the Martins opened their second Rosie’s Mexican Cantina in South Huntsville. It is a 10,000 square foot restaurant that seats near 300 plus a private banquet room. In September 2005 Rosie’s Mexican Cantina on North Court Street in Florence, AL opened with operations partner Ray Grissom. Ray Grissom was a former operating partner with the Martins in a Steak-Out located in Athens, AL. In 2007 Rosie’s original location relocated across the street to a new free standing 10,000 square foot facility. They kept the original location and re-opened it April 2008 under a new flag “Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante”. The operations partner was Rosie’s first employee and he is Phil Sandoval. In early 2009 they opened “Shaggy’s Burgers and Tacos” near Research Park in Huntsville. Chris Vincent of Little Rosie’s is Shaggy’s Operations partner. Shaggy’s is fast casual with counter service, drive-thru and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. People say it has a California vibe. In September 2011 the first Ted’s Bar-B-Q location adjacent to and with Phil Sandoval’s was opened. Ted’s is named in honor of David and Danny’s father Teddy Martin. “We learned a lot from him, he had input on Teds and we use several of his recipes. A customer favorite is Teddy’s recipe called Bar-B-Q Baked Beans”, said Martin. Two other free-standing Ted’s Bar-B-Q restaurants are now open with operations partners, Sara & Coby Cowles in the 5-Points area and Brandon Waldron in Madison. Last but not least, Walton’s Southern Table opened in December 2014 on the corner of Whitesburg and Airport Rd. Rhonda Martin and Tod Craig take pride in their families’ recipes and serving exceptional Southern fare. Walton’s is named after Mr. Walton Fleming. The restaurant sits on the property where Mr. Walton’s drive-in theatre was located. Currently, a downtown Huntsville Steak-Out location is under construction and another Ted’s Bar-B-Q is scheduled to open in 2018. It is important to know, these operations are supported by the Martins commissary that delivers fresh product daily in refrigerated trucks. The commissary employs 9 meat cutters and 6 in the poultry department. Quality, consistency and fresh product are the primary reason the commissary exists. The concept of owning and operating restaurants with operations partners has been a successful model for the Martins. Rhonda and David are fortunate and proud their partners were initially employees who advanced to ownership. They are also fortunate and proud of all their great employees through the years, currently they employ 1,025 people. The Martin Group has participated in community service, worthy causes and charities throughout the years. Area schools have always been at the forefront. Others include Huntsville Rehabilitation Center, The Better Business Bureau, Hudson Alpha Tie the Ribbons event for breast and ovarian cancer, Huntsville Sports Commission, sponsor for Alabama State Soccer Tournament, Kids to Love, Boys and Girls Club, Chamber Economic Development, YMCA, South Huntsville Business Association, Huntsville Hospital and the Margarita Society Toy Drive.
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Legislator of the Year Award SENATOR DEL MARSH
SENATE DISTRICT 12
Senator Del Marsh has been serving the citizens of Calhoun and St. Clair Counties in the Senate since 1998 and was elected to serve as Senate President Pro Tempore in December of 2010. Marsh is a small businessman who chose to go to Montgomery with conservative values and to push for legislation that creates a good climate for small business. He believes small business is the key for job growth and economic development. The senator continues to push for openness and accountability in state government and pro-business legislation, including tax breaks for small business. Senator Marsh and his wife Ginger recently acquired and renovated the Hotel Finial, a beautiful boutique style hotel breathing new life into downtown Anniston.
REP. JUANDALYNN GIVAN
HOUSE DISTRICT 60
Representaive Juandalynn Givan was first elected to serve House District in 2010. In 2014, she was re-elected to serve a second term with a 76.5 percent win rate--the highest of all candidates for state races in that year’s primary election. Representative Givan received her degree in political science from Miles College and her Juris Doctor degree in law from the Miles School of Law. She is the owner of Givan & Associates Law Firm and That Girl Inc. She recently expanded her practice to include governmental relations and program management consulting services. She is also a mentor and public speaker and is no stranger to public service. Upon graduating college, she was appointed as an Administrative Cabinet Member to Birmingham’s first African-American Mayor Dr. Richard Arrington Jr. She also served as HOPE VI Coordinator for the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District and HOPE VI Revitalization Projects at Metropolitan Gardens and Tuxedo Court. In the past, she provided political commentary and analysis WABM My/68. Givan practices law and works in the community to improve the quality of life for all citizens. She is recognized as a leader in the community by the NAACP, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Museum of Urban Arts, and many more organizations. Representative Givan has received many awards and accolades including being named the 2015 Legislator of the Year for the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, 2014 NAACP Woman of the Year, SCLC Woman of the Year for Social Justice, 2010 Freshman Legislator of the Year and many more. She is the daughter of the late Leroy and Patricia Givan.
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Small Hotelier of the Year Award NANDA PATEL
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES, GADSDEN Nanda runs the Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Gadsden. The hotel strives for 100% guest satisfaction, to keep all the staff safe, healthy and trained for service, and to keep to the hotel updated at all levels. Her hotel is a service award winner of the IHG’s prestigious Torchbearer Award in 2017 and also achieves 5 out of 5 metrics award. Nanda also was awarded the 2016 Spirit of Citizenship award by the community. The hotel supports the community’s arts programs, education, industrial development, tourism, Chamber, legislative action forums, workforce development, college, and hospitality. A few years ago, Nanda partnered with a church to create a linen program that helps recently released prisoners, donates towels to the humane society, and donates furniture and linens to the Love Center. Nanda sponsored a fund for student transportation for a junior college workforce development program. Her efforts are directed toward the hotel supporting its community and sharing it success since 2005.
Hotelier of the Year Award CRAIG HILLYARD
RENAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA / PCH HOTELS Craig Hillyard is the General Manager of the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center. Craig became the GM in January 2014 and he oversees the hotel, convention center and the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. His leadership has been foundational to moving the hotel forward. Craig consistently handles challenges of running the largest hotel in the capitol city of Alabama with great professionalism. With his leadership, his team increased 2017 revenues by 5.4% and NOP by 18% versus 2016. The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa maintains strong guest satisfaction results, being ranked in the top 30% of all Renaissance brand hotels.
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Restaurateur of the Year Award BILL LLOYD
301 Bistro & Wilhagen’s Grille & Tap Room , Tuscaloosa Since 2001, Wilhagen’s Grille and Tap Room has been providing their guests with fabulous food, drinks and much more. Located in downtown Tuscaloosa, Wilhagan’s is known for its local inspired menu and diverse selection of beer. This past year, Bill and Bebe Lloyd took on the daunting task of renovating the 100-plus year-old L & N train station in Tuscaloosa and have given it new life as 301 Bistro, Bar & Beer Garden. The bistro is a place where anyone who enjoys culture, good food, and something a little different can come for any occasion. The vibe is casual, yet sophisticated and unique in Tuscaloosa. It is a place people to feel equally at home in either cocktail-wear or blue jeans. But, Bill Lloyd isn’t just a restaurateur, he’s part of the fabric of the Tuscaloosa community. Whether it’s giving to the local food kitchens, helping feed hundreds of high school coaches at the annual Super 7 football championships or simply lending a hand to the less fortunate Bill can always be counted upon! Bill Lloyd is an outstanding leader who has a solid work ethic, is fair-minded employer and displays class in how he manages people which earned him the respect from those in the business community. He is generous, loyal and his citizenship is always at the forefront. He displays a considerable amount of integrity, character and a positive attitude.
Chef of the Year CHEF BRODY OLIVE
PERDIDO BEACH RESORT, ORANGE BEACH Brody Olive joined Perdido Beach Resort in 2016 as the Executive Chef over all of the hotel’s food and beverage outlets. While new to the Resort, Brody joined the hotel with a strong history in the industry and many accolades from throughout the State of Alabama. He received his initial training from Johnson and Wales University before starting his career at Ocean Restaurant in Birmingham as the Sous Chef to continue his development under the accomplished Chef George Reis. Brody then moved to the Alabama Gulf Coast and opened Villagio Grille where he was Executive Chef and General Manager for three years before opening Elli Bistro and Zen Restaurant. Before coming to the Resort he spent three years at Coast Restaurant at the Beach Club. Brody was recently named in the Top 20 of Alabama Rising Chefs by AL.com and won the Alabama Seafood Cook-Off. He will compete in the 2017 World Food Championships in November. Chef Brody also focuses his time promoting the Gulf Wild brand which ensures that all seafood served is responsibly caught and harvested in the gulf. Karl Groux, Assistant General Manager for Perdido Beach Resort stated, “Chef Olive is bringing the highest quality of innovation to all dining venues within the Resort. It is a pleasure to have someone with this level of talent and experience leading our Culinary Team.”
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Spirit Award DOUGLAS COOPER
Sheraton Birmingham Hotel
Douglas Cooper is a Loss & Prevention Officer at the Birmingham Sheraton Hotel...but he goes above and beyond his job each week. He shares his passion for health and wellness with both the Sheraton, Westin and BJCC employees, as well as the local Birmingham community. He embodies Marriott’s health initiatives and Douglas leads a one-hour “high energy fitness” class each week for any associates of the complex. His classes are held all over the city, from the BJCC/Hotel complex site, Birmingham’s Railroad Park and various church and community outreach facilities. His exercise regime is designed to meet the physical capabilities of a very diverse group of people who all come together for one purpose. He tailors his exercise regime to meet the needs of the group ensuring no one is left out. His purpose is to renew the mind and body. His wellness class is structured with high and low impact exercises that each individual does to his or her best capabilities. There is “no judgement” in how physically fit a person is. His teaching methods are warm, friendly and firm. He can push you or you can push yourself. No stress. By the end of the class each participant is exhausted and leaving the room feeling uplifted in spirit, confidence and healthier than when they walked in.
Humanitarian of the Year CYNTHIA HART
Cyn Shea’s/Serving Hope, Huntsville Cynthia Shea Hart’s name should be synonymous with the word ‘servant’. Ms. Hart has always had an innate ability to make amazing food, breath taking tablescapes, and provide professional service with a smile for over 20 years. In 2016, the Lord showed Cynthia her café was meant to serve a greater purpose and thus Serving Hope, Inc. was born. Over the remainder of 2016 Cynthia and her team worked tirelessly to convert her café and catering company into the non-profit training facility Serving Hope, Inc. Today Cyn Shea’s Café and Catering is a division of Serving Hope and exists solely to teach Madison County’s poor and marginalized people all the things she loves most about food and service to secure long-lasting employment opportunities in Huntsville’s fast-growing hospitality industry. Cynthia often hopes that Serving Hope will leave a legacy that truly matters, and sharing as much love as possible along the way. She endeavors to love each student with the grace of Jesus Christ, while seeing that they are properly trained and equipped in culinary and food safety techniques that will allow them to provide for themselves and their families.
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Tourism Promoter of the Year GENE HALLMAN
BRUNO EVENT TEAM, BIRMINGHAM Gene Hallman founded the Bruno Event Team with partner, Ronnie Bruno in 1995. Bruno Event Team is a sports marketing and event management company is based in Birmingham, Alabama and employs a staff of 80+ employees with 12 offices throughout the country. Bruno Event Team has been extremely instrumental in several events including the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama, the Fed Cup and Davis Cup, along with numerous other world-class golf events. Bruno Event Teams annually manages the Regions Tradition, a major on the PGA TOUR Championship, as well as the McDonald’s Magic City Classic. Mr. Hallman is also the President of the Alabama Sports Foundation, the official sports lobbyist for the state of Alabama and President and CEO for ZOOM Motorsports, and Five Star Catering. He was recognized as one of Birmingham’s most influential leaders in 2013-2016 and was named Alabama’s Man of the Year in 2003. Gene received a B.S. degree in Economics (Cum Laude) from the College of Charleston and a Masters of Business Administration at the University of South Carolina.
Supplier of the Year BOB CRAWFORD
UNITED-JOHNSON BROTHERS, LLC Bob Crawford is the President of United-Johnson Brothers of Alabama, the largest wine, beer, and spirits distributor in the state, with operations in Huntsville, Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile. He oversees more than 200 associates statewide and works to provide stellar service to over 6,000 customers from their supplier’s brands. United-Johnson Brothers of Alabama has been a huge supporter of ARHA’s annual events in the last few years. Since 2015, his company has sponsored the “Bartender of the Year” state and regional competitions, Stars of the Industry awards dinner, and ARHA’s Grand Pineapple Golf Challenge. Bob was named the 2015 Vendor of the Year by the Alabama Grocers Association Vendor and serves on the Board of Directors of the Alabama Grocers Association, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama, and the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association.
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Restaurant Manager of the Year BLAKE FIELD
ACRE, AUBURN
Blake started as the Assistant General Manager at Acre in 2015 and was promoted to General Manager in June of 2016. As a former Auburn quarterback, Blake is a highly driven and self-motivated person and his management style is detailed, organized, and all of the employees respect him greatly. Blake is able to identify talent and develop it through consistent feedback and coaching, which has resulted in elevated service levels in both the servers and bartenders. One of Blake’s greatest strengths is his gift for operations. Over the last year, Blake has implemented several new programs to improve efficiency and streamline costs. He works with multiple vendors to ensure that Acre is receiving the best agreement possible and his efforts have resulted in increased profits, allowing for growth. Acre has recently announced a second restaurant, Bow & Arrow. The company is confident that Blake will be an integral part of its success as well.
Hospitality Manager of the Year BLAKE ALLEN
PERDIDO BEACH RESORT, ORANGE BEACH Blake Allen joined Perdido Beach Resort five years ago as the Manager of Guest Services which encompasses oversight of the Bell Stand and Valet operations. He came to the hotel after spending a number of years working in a similar capacity in Alaska, Colorado, Montana, Georgia and Florida. His knowledge and understanding of creating an overall “guest experience” is unparalleled and his leadership has served to bring his division to an entirely new level of excellence. Not only has Blake managed, trained and developed his staff to the level where they are ranked #1 internally regarding guest satisfaction, when theExecutive Staff was asked for nominations for “Stars”, every single member proposed Blake for this award for the past two years. Guest have specifically pointed out the helpfulness of Blake and his staff and social media review sites mention his entire operation often as well as honoring them with many 5 star reviews. Blake was also the leader in helping to develop the Resort’s first ever formal summer internship program. He mentored a number of students the past two summer seasons from LSU, the University of Alabama and Mississippi State. It is people like him that establish the future for our industry and recognize that cultivating positive hospitality leadership is critical to future growth and development. Blake’s love of this industry is boundless and he shares that outlook with everyone that he comes in contact with daily.
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Front of House Restaurant Employee ALICE CAMPBELL
GRAND HOTEL MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA, POINT CLEAR Alice is one of the stellar top performers in the Dining Room at the Grand Hotel and has been with the hotel for over 38 years. She started as a dishwasher in 1979 after graduating high school taking her current server role in 1983 and has done an outstanding job ever since. She is efficient and continuously strives for excellence. The morning restaurant team has much respect for her exceptional service and remarkable connection with the guests who often remark on her cheerfulness. Alice’s stellar service to her guests make them request her specifically every time they return. She is a role model to all the Grand Hotel’s associates and everyone can agree, her smile and congeniality comes from the heart.
Back of House Restaurant Employee JESSICA BLANCHARD
GRILLE 29, BIRMINGHAM
Jessica is an amazing cook who has climbed through the ranks in the kitchen without much guidance. She is a statuette leader and very consistent. Her drive for completion is piloted by her passion for the industry. She has recently been promoted to Sous Chef and has brought new life to the pastry program at Grille 29, with a new spin on some classic desserts. Her dedication, and determination are inspiring to the rest of the staff.
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Front of House Hospitality Employee CARLOS BERRIOS
MARRIOTT SHOALS HOTEL & SPA, FLORENCE Upon entering the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, guests are greeted by a kindlman at the door with a great big welcoming smile. Carlos is a prime example of southern hospitality and guestslove him. From the moment guests arrive, he is there opening their car doors welcoming them and guiding them to the desk for check-in, offering valet service, luggage assistance or just simply talking about the Marriott Brand and our local area...being a great ambassador. Carlos has been with the hotel for over 10 years and has become an invaluable part of the hotel culture, training new associates as he has evolved into his new role from Bellman to Bell Captain. He is very humble and goes out of his way everyday to achieve 100% guest satisfaction.
Back of House Hospitality Employee DANIEL STOKER
THE HOTEL AT AUBURN UNIVERSITY & DIXON CONFERENCE CENTER
It’s hard to think of a fall football Saturday at The Hotel at Auburn University without thinking of Mr. Dan’s and Richard’s famous Bloody Mary Bar. War Eagle Package Holder’s and locals alike have been greeted every fall Saturday ( approx. 75 games) for the last 10 years by Mr. Dan and Mr. Richard in their signature orange blazers, navy polos and of course, their infectious hospitality. Mr. Dan began his career with The Hotel at Auburn University in 1988 as a banquet server and has spent the last 29 years in various positions such as Banquet Captain, Assistant Banquet Manager, Restaurant Manager of Ivy’s, Banquet Manager and back to his current role as Banquet Captain in 2008. He is one of three hotel employees still employed that were a part of the opening team. In November, Mr. Dan will celebrate 80 plus home games serving his loyal guests Bloody Mary’s, and the hotel (and Dan) will celebrate 30 years of success!
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The Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association crowned the “Bartender of the Year” in October. The winner was Steven Bradford, the bar manager at Abhi restaurant at the Summit in Birmingham. Here is the rundown. It begins with regional competitions all over the state. Each regional contestant receives a list of 10 cocktail recipes once they sign up to compete. On the day of the event, the contestant will get a random selection of two cocktails from that list and will have 10 minutes to create the cocktails plus a Manhattan with their own unique “twist,” and a customized signature drink of their own using one or more of the featured spirits. Contestants are judged on taste, accuracy, showmanship, their crowd interaction, and speed at which they create these concoctions. This year, regional competitions were held in Mobile, Huntsville, Auburn, and Birmingham. Winners of each regional contest were awarded cash prizes and plaques, along with an invitation to the State Bartender of the Year competition held each year at ARHA’s Stars of the Industry awards dinner. The regional winners were: Auburn - Kayla Treat (Central in Montgomery), Birmingham - Steven Bradford (Abhi), Huntsville - Akinde Olagundoye (Sip Fine Spirits & Cigars), and Mobile - Josh Lynn (The Hangout in Gulf Shores). In the state competition, Akinde won 2nd place and Josh took home 3rd. The four regional finalists competed in front of a crowd of 300 people at the cocktail reception held before the Stars of the Industry dinner at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel on October 16.
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY
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Steven Bradford is Alabama’s 2017 Bartender of the Year. Steven is the bar manager at Abhi at the Summit. He is a renowned local bartender in Birmingham, having previously worked at The Marble Ring and Fancy’s on 5th. At Abhi, he has created an Asian-inspired drink menu using locally grown ingredients like Shiitake mushrooms and Thai basil, incorporated into the craft cocktails. Steven realized his passion for bartending after being accepted to attend Camp Runamok in Kentucky with 150 of some of the most influential bartenders in the world. Since then, he has competed in many competitions and enjoys learning from other bartenders about the cocktail culture and techniques.
Stand out from the competition...
with increased bar profits.
SWEET HOME. PERFECT POUR.
please sip old forester responsibly.
oldforester.com | responsibility.org
Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 43-50% Alc. by Vol., Brown-Forman Distillers Company, Louisville, KY OLD FORESTER is a registered trademark. Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc. Twitter is a registered trademark of Twitter, Inc. Š2015 Brown-Forman Distillers. All rights reserved.
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2018 ARHA FOUNDATION
PROSTART® INVITATIONAL
FEBRUARY 3, 2018 • JEFFERSON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE • BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
The ARHA Foundation is excited to announce our 2018 ProStart® Invitational. Students representing their high school’s ProStart® program will participate in culinary and management competitions. This one day event allows ProStart® students to showcase the skills that they have learned in the classroom. This event is made possible through the support of our industry. See how you can help below and remember all sponsorship donations are tax-deductible.
HOW CAN YOU HELP: BE A JUDGE OR VOLUNTEER Over 50 people are needed to staff a ProStart competition! If you would like to volunteer on the day of the competition, we would love your help. We also need judges with backgrounds in culinary, restaurant management, and marketing.
WHAT IS THE PROSTART PROGRAM? ProStart® is a nationwide, two-year program for high school students that develops the best and brightest talent into tomorrow’s industry leaders. From culinary techniques to management skills, ProStart®’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-world educational opportunities and builds practical skills and a foundation that will last a lifetime. By bringing industry and the classroom together, ProStart® gives students a platform to discover new interests and talents and opens doors for fulfilling careers. The curriculum teaches all facets of the restaurant and foodservice industry, inspires students to succeed and sets a high standard of excellence for students and the industry. ProStart® is supported and operated by the ARHA Foundation in partnership with the NRA Educational Foundation. With 26 high schools currently participating, the ProStart® program is growing fast and on its way to becoming a talent pipeline for careers in Alabama’s up and coming foodservice industry.
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Sponsorship Opportunities: PROSTART® PLATINUM: $5,000 WIND CREEK HOSPITALITY •
Featured recognition and presentation at awards presentation•Company logo will appear on: Website | Award | Magazine | Signage | Email Blasts | Agendas & Schedules
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VIP Guest Judge Invitation: an exclusive invitation that enables your company to receive increased press by having a member of your staff serve as a judge for the culinary/management competitions.
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National Recognition: Logo embroidered on winning team’s uniforms nationals
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Company mentioned in any ARHA press releases regarding state and national competition.
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Company logo displayed on the ARHA website sponsor scrolling banner (on each page) for 6 months
PROSTART® GOLD: $2,000 • Awards presentation recognition and presentation • Company logo on: Website | Award | Magazine | Signage | Email Blasts | Agendas & Schedules • VIP Guest Judge Invitation: an exclusive invitation that enables your company to receive increased press by having a member of your staff serve as a judge for the culinary/management competitions.
PROSTART® SILVER: $1,500 • Company logo on: Website | Award | Magazine | Signage | Email Blasts | Agendas & Schedules • VIP Guest Judge Invitation: an exclusive invitation that enables your company to receive increased press by having a member of your staff serve as a judge for the culinary/management competitions.
PROSTART® BRONZE: $1,000 • Company logo: Magazine | Signage | Agendas & Schedules • VIP Guest Judge Invitation: an exclusive invitation that enables your company to receive increased press by having a member of your staff serve as a judge for the culinary/management competitions.
2018 PROSTART® INVITATIONAL - HOW WILL YOU HELP? Please select the level of sponsorship:
How would you like to help? q BE A JUDGE
q DONATE BEVERAGES
q VOLUNTEER
q DONATE SNACKS
q MENTOR
q GOLD SPONSOR: $2,000 q SILVER SPONSOR: $1,500 q BRONZE SPONSOR: $1,000 q SUPPORTING SPONSOR: $500 q TEAM SPONSOR: $100
q OTHER: (example: pens, notepads, logo items, kitchen items, gift certificates, etc.) Company Name: Name: Email: Address: City: State:
Zip:
Phone: Fax: SPONSORS ONLY:
Please charge my:
Card #:
Exp:
Complete form and send to: FAX: 334.244.9800
Visa
MC
AMEX
Signature:
| MAIL: 3 S. Jackson St., Montgomery, AL 36104
FOR MORE INFORMATION: CONTACT: Rebecca Paulk | PHONE: 334.244.1320 | EMAIL: rebecca@arhaonline.com
Discover
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ARHANOW
WHAT’S
Going On The Tuscaloosa Chapter held their November meeting at FIVE restaurant and guests learned about the impact of the Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority on the hosptiality industry.
ProStart educators joined ARHA at the 2017 Stars of the Industry dinner held in October in Birmingham.
Congrats to these two Alabama ProStart students for winning the national ProStart Tech Competition!
The Albertville High School Hospitality & Tourism and ProStart programs were honored tonight with a Certificate of Excellence by the City of Albertville, Mayor Honea, and the city council.
Mayor Mark Saliba and a representative from Carr-Allison law firm were the guest speakers the November Wiregrass Chapter Meeting held in Dothan.
Students from the ProStartÂŽ culinary program at The Huntsville Center for Technology displayed their skills in November at a ProStart Day luncheon.
Mr. Dan and Mr. Richard both began working at The Hotel at Auburn University thirty years ago and are still going strong with their legendary Game Day Bloody Mary Bar on Iron Bowl Saturday this year.
Introducing an Easy Way to Move Your Business Forward
Heartland Lending has partnered with American Express to offer you a new and exciting option in small business loans. In addition to the excellent service and security of Heartland, American Express Merchant Financing also gives you:
Invest in Upgrades
Save on Costs
It is important for your practice to grow with medical advances. Use your loan to purchase new medical equipment, update your office systems or take care of needed maintenance and repairs.
Reduce expenses and save on overhead by buying medical supplies in bulk or take advantage of vendor discount by paying upfront/early.
Increase your working Capital
Expand your business
Every small business needs capital. With cash on hand, you no longer need to stress about maintaining adequate supply levels and can more readily maneuver through slower times of the year.
A loan from Heartland Lending could allow you to invest in marketing or finally add another physician to your group. Let Heartland Lending help your dreams come true.
To learn more, contact Angela Ihry 605.940.9861 or angela.ihry@e-hps.com heartland.us
Š 2016 Heartland Payment Systems, Inc.
ARHANOW
ARHA Member Benefit