At Your Service, Spring 2021

AT YOUR

Official Magazine of North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association

SERVICE

2021 Stars of the Industry

Celebrating North Carolina’s hospitality leaders

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PLUS Count On Me NC Builds Consumer Confidence

Spring Legislative Update

Inside the fight for restaurant and lodging businesses

Blueprint for Revival Spring 2021, Vol. 10, Issue 2 NCRLA.org

THANK YOU Donors Strengthen the Voice of NC’s Hospitality Industry

Government decisions impact virtually every aspect of the hospitality industry, from the way food is prepared to how it is taxed. As a result, it is important to support candidates who understand that a healthy hospitality industry translates into a stronger North Carolina economy.

With your donations, NCRLA maintains two funds to help advance good policy and protect your bottom line from onerous government mandates.

1. The NCRLA Political Action Committee (PAC) backs the political campaigns of candidates who understand the issues affecting our state’s hospitality industry. Contributions must be from personal funds and are limited annually. Learn more at NCRLA.org/PAC.

2. The NCRLA Advocacy Fund, our newest tool, helps strengthen our political prowess. Contributions may be from a business or personal account. There is no limit and they are not subject to public disclosure.

NCRLA will use these funds for special advocacy initiatives allowed by law. Learn more at NCRLA.org/ advocacy-fund.

2020 PAC CONTRIBUTORS PLATINUM

GOLD

Tim Goss, Charlotte Burney Jennings, Greensboro Lance Trenary, Durham

Steve Thanhauser, Raleigh Bob Luddy, Raleigh SILVER

Amber Moshakos, Raleigh | Suzanne Landis, Southport | Joel Griffin, Charlotte | Anthony Kearey, Charlotte Steve Tubel, Charlotte | Vinay Patel, Charlotte | Nish Patel, Matthews | Frank Gray, Raleigh | Kevin Drum, Pinehurst Patrick Aiello, Cary | Tommy Haddock, Raleigh | Susan Adzick, Dallas, TX | Doyle Parrish, Raleigh Phil Friedman, Charlotte | Frank Scibelli, Charlotte | Jeff Chandler, Greensboro

BRONZE Tom Pashley, Pinehurst | Wil O’Neal, Raleigh | Doris Huebner, Raleigh | Sam Hobgood, Raleigh Sterling Webster, Kitty Hawk | Douglas Hustad, Charlotte | Charles Thompson, Asheville John Winkenwerder, Fletcher | Sandy Howard, Atlantic Beach | Tom Sasser, Charlotte

CONTRIBUTOR Gonza Salamanca, Raleigh | Douglas Pearce, Wake Forest | Brad Hurley, Morrisville | Jim Beley, Raleigh Billy Sewell, Jacksonville | Gerry Simpson, Greensboro | Sarah Hayes, Williamsburg, VA | Stephanie Poley, Raleigh John Vick, Raleigh | Shaunak Patel, Raleigh | Terrill Dolbier, Boone | Carl Sobocinski, Greenville, SC Julia McGovern, Raleigh | James McGovern, Raleigh | Andrew Clark, Fort Mill | Edmund Tubel, Charlotte Stephen Griffin, Durham | Wayne Bunting, Mebane | Clifton S. Arthur, Raleigh David Gronewoller, Winston-Salem | Tom Mukoyama, Raleigh | Dean Ogan, Raleigh | Seby R. Jones, Raleigh

Become a Donor: Contact Isabel Villa-Garcia at ivilla-garcia@ncrla.org or 919-861-0942.

Under North Carolina law, we are required to report the name, mailing address, employer, and job title of any individual who contributes more than $50 to the NCRLA Political Action Committee in any election cycle. The law requires that contributions to the PAC, including purchases of silent auction items, be made by individuals, not by corporations.

NCRLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Contents

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

NISHITH “NISH” PATEL, CHAIR Beacon IMG, Inc AMBER MOSHAKOS, VICE CHAIR LM Restaurants BURNEY JENNINGS, TREASURER Biscuitville Fresh Southern

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TOM PASHLEY, SECRETARY Pinehurst Resort STEVE THANHAUSER, IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Angus Barn Ltd JIM BELEY, TRAVEL & TOURISM BOARD LIAISON The Umstead Hotel & Spa LANCE TRENARY, NRA LIAISON Golden Corral Corporation LYNN MINGES, PRESIDENT & CEO FRANK GRAY, GENERAL COUNSEL AND LOBBYIST

BOARD MEMBERS:

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DAN FREELAND Concord Hospitality Enterprises PHIL FRIEDMAN Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina

Features

TIM GOSS Firehouse Subs

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10

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NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund

Count On Me NC by the Numbers

Spring Legislative Update

Blueprint for Revival

Pay As You Pour

Stars of the Industry

How NCRLA’s innovative program is helping reopen NC

Latest news from the NC General Assembly

Inside NCRLA’s plan to rebuild NC’s hospitality industry

Hospitality Insurance Group offers specialized liquor liability

Behind the scenes at this year’s awards ceremony

Continuing to support hospitality workers in need

SHERI ERHART CMC Hotels

DORIS HUEBNER F & D Huebner, LLC RUSS JONES Davidson & Jones SCOTT MAITLAND Top of the Hill Restaurant, Brewery & Distillery AKSHAT PATEL Comfort Inn / Sleep Inn — Choice Hotels SHAUNAK PATEL Parks Hospitality Group GONZA SALAMANCA Gonza Tacos Y Tequila TOM SASSER Burke Hospitality Group

In Every Issue 6

Letter from NCRLA Chair Nish Patel and President & CEO Lynn Minges Building the Blueprint for Revival

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Welcome New Members Welcome to our latest members from across North Carolina

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Upcoming NCRLA Events Mark your calendar and plan to join us

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Benefits of Membership Giving your business a competitive advantage

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IAN SAUER Summit Hospitality Group, LTD BILLY SEWELL Platinum Corral, LLC DOUG STAFFORD Griffin Stafford Hospitality, LLC CHARLES THOMPSON The Inn on Biltmore Estate JOHN WINKENWERDER South Asheville Hotel Associates, LLC

Member Moments Recognizing leaders from across North Carolina’s hospitality industry

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS CO-CHAIRS:

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JASON SMITH 18 Restaurant Group

À la Carte A sampler of hospitality-related news stories

VINAY PATEL SREE Hotels, LLC

ALLIED BOARD MEMBERS: PATRICK AIELLO Ecolab ANDY CLARK US Foods

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At Your Service | Spring 2021

Thank You to Our Corporate Partners

Corporate Partners support the endeavors of the North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association in a variety of ways, including event sponsorships, advertising, and more. NCRLA thanks those who help make the association strong.

DIAMOND

TITANIUM

GOLD

PLATINUM

SILVER

View our Corporate Partnership opportunities at NCRLA.org

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

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A Blueprint for Revival We have marked the one-year anniversary of a global pandemic that catastrophically impacted the hospitality industry. Today, with vaccination efforts speeding up and COVID cases slowing, we have many reasons to be hopeful for the year ahead. As the CDC begins to relax guidelines and approve pre-pandemic activities for vaccinated people, the hospitality industry is poised to begin rebuilding.

After losing more jobs and revenue than any other industry in our state, we knew that we had to propose major relief measures that address the unique challenges we face. In early February, we did just that. NCRLA launched our Blueprint for Revival of the North Carolina Hospitality Industry and sent it to Governor Cooper and members of the North Carolina General Assembly.

The comprehensive policy and legislative plan outlined specific and immediate actions the state should take to stabilize the industry in the short-term and set the foundation for long-term rebuilding. The relief measures outlined in the Blueprint for Revival include $300 million in stimulus money, property tax payment flexibility and revaluation, ABC permit fee extensions and suspensions, PPP tax exemptions, workforce development funds, PPP sales tax exemptions, and increased funding for tourism promotion. The NCRLA team met with legislators After losing more jobs and as well as with senior officials in the administration revenue than any other to discuss key elements of the plan. Already, we are seeing promising results of these efforts, which we industry in our state, we knew share with you in this issue of At Your Service that we had to propose major (pp. 11 – 14). relief measures that address We pushed Governor Cooper to ease curfews the unique challenges we face.” and capacity restrictions that were limiting business operations at restaurants, bars, hotels, and event venues. Our efforts resulted in the governor lifting curfews and stay-at-home orders in February and further easing capacity restrictions for various venues in March—marking a much-needed step forward for our industry.

Over these past months, NCRLA has fought for North Carolina’s hospitality industry like never before. We have engaged and educated members with numerous webinars on how to secure PPP loans, how to help employees get their vaccines, and how to operate under the current restrictions and mandates. Our members have stepped up as panelists on webinars to share their challenges and creative problem-solving ideas. We have partnered with the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel & Lodging Association to unify in our fight to save our industry and to garner as much economic relief as possible on the national level. We appreciate their leadership and partnership.

We celebrated our Stars of the Industry at a hybrid gala event with award recipients present at the Angus Barn Pavilion and hundreds of NCRLA members and partners watching via live stream. We look forward to an in-person golf tournament this spring as well as an in-person Chef Showdown in the fall! We have done all of this while growing membership for NCRLA. The hospitality industry is one of tenacity, innovation, and dedication, and we are ready for a revival. We are ready to resume our role as a leading employer and a key part of our state’s economy. NCRLA will continue to advocate for you and to stand up for you. Together, we look to brighter days ahead.

At Your Service Volume 10, Issue 2 An official publication of the NC Restaurant & Lodging Association © 2021 STAFF President & CEO LYNN D. MINGES Chief Operating Officer/ Membership Development/ Health and Safety Regulations ALYSSA BARKLEY, IOM Director of Government Affairs ISABEL VILLA-GARCIA Database Manager & Membership Coordinator NATALIE COX Special Events & Project Manager LAURA HAYDEN General Counsel & Lobbyist FRANK GRAY COVID-19 Program Manager SHANNON MCGUIRE COVID-19 Communications Manager BETH O’CONNELL Editor SHANNON FARLOW Designer TRACIE EUBANK BUSINESS OFFICE 222 North Person Street, Suite 210 Raleigh, NC 27601 Phone: (919) 844-0098 Website: NCRLA.org For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, contact Special Events & Project Manager Laura Hayden at lhayden@ncrla.org.

Published by Farlow+Co, LLC

Lynn Minges NCRLA President & CEO

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At Your Service | Spring 2021

Nish Patel NCRLA Board Chair

/NCRLA @NCRLA Or search North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association

Welcome New NCRLA Members Together, we can protect and advance the hospitality industry.

Go to NCRLA.org/membership to learn more about NCRLA and to download a membership application.

Allied Authorized Appliance ServiceCenter, Littleton Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce, Shallotte DHW CPAs, Hickory Fast QSR, Warrenton Intercontinental Hotels Group, Atlanta, GA NC Wine and Grape Council, Raleigh The Foye Group, Cary The Seat Doctor, Gaffney, SC

Lodging Genuine Hospitality Group LLC, Aberdeen The Grand Bohemian Charlotte The Millennium Hotel, Durham Restaurants Big Ed’s North, Raleigh Big Ed’s South, Garner Blue Jay Bistro, Littleton Centro Mexican, Durham Fox Restaurants, Minneapolis, MN Graybill Hospitality Co, LLC, Hope Mills

Lake Park Steakhouse, Carolina Beach Lemongrass Thai Restaurant, Raleigh Radius Pizzeria & Pub, Hillsborough Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar, Raleigh Star Diner, Marshall Taziki’s Mediterranean Café — Bent Tree, Raleigh Taziki’s Mediterranean Café — RTP, Cary Taziki’s Mediterranean Café — Waverly Place, Raleigh The Kitchen of Davidson, Davidson The Sweetest Things, Cary Waterline Brewing Co., Wilmington

2021 EVENTS Network with hospitality industry leaders at one of NCRLA’s upcoming events.

Learn more at NCRLA.org

April 19 Future of Hospitality Golf Classic Presented by US Foods Prestonwood Country Club 300 Prestonwood Parkway Cary, NC 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

July 14 Charlotte Chapter Meeting Location TBD 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

July 15 Asheville Chapter Meeting Location TBD 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

August 9 NCRLA Chef Showdown Presented

by Got To Be NC Bay 7 324 Blackwell St #700 Durham, NC 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

October 25 Manteo to Murphy PAC Fundraiser Angus Barn 9401 Glenwood Ave Raleigh, NC 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Contact Laura Hayden at lhayden@ncrla.org for more information.

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To date, we have issued funds to nearly 3,000 restaurant workers, and we continue to process applications and grant additional funds.

CONTINUING TO SUPPORT

Hotel and Restaurant Workers in 2021 As COVID-19 restrictions begin to lift and life gradually returns to normal, it is evident that rebuilding North Carolina’s hospitality industry will be an ongoing process. By all accounts, restoring consumer confidence in travel and dining out is expected to take time. At the most critical stage of job loss for our industry, the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund provided a crucial source of financial assistance for many hotel and restaurant workers. Thankfully, donors such as the Lawrence and Etta Lea Pope Foundation, Whitley Law Firm, Les Dames d’Escoffier NC, and Red Hat have given generously to the fund.

professional group for women in the food and hospitality industries, donated a total of $13,685 by first pledging $5,000 and then asking for matching donations through their Facebook page. Their generosity and outreach for community involvement made a significant impact for hospitality workers across North Carolina.

Red Hat continues to support the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund and recently provided an additional $5,000 gift. On behalf of hardworking restaurant and hotel employees still impacted by the pandemic, their generosity is appreciated!

Assisting Hospitality Workers in 2021

Thank You to Our Donors!

The Lawrence and Etta Lea Pope Foundation recently donated $27,500 to the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund in support of hospitality workers in need in the Winston-Salem and Forsyth County area.

Whitley Law Firm graciously donated $5,000 to the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund. Ben Whitley, senior partner at Whitley Law Firm, presented the check to NCRLA President & CEO Lynn Minges on January 13. Whitley Law Firm encouraged other law firms across North Carolina to show their support for hospitality workers by donating to the fund.

The North Carolina chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier, a

We want to thank everyone—private individuals, groups, small businesses, companies, and organizations—who have stepped up to support this grassroots effort. The fund is operated through the NCRLA Foundation, the association’s long-standing nonprofit arm that has provided financial assistance to hospitality employees and students for more than a decade.

Our goal is to provide up to $500 to qualified applicants who have found themselves without work. To date, we have issued funds to nearly 3,000 restaurant workers, and we continue to process applications and grant additional funds.

Learn more at NCRestaurantRelief.com.

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At Your Service | Spring 2021

THANK YOU

for Helping Hospitality Workers!

NCRLA established the NC Restaurant Workers Relief Fund in March 2020 to provide immediate financial assistance to the tens of thousands of cooks, servers, dishwashers, housekeepers, and others who have had to live paycheck-to-paycheck due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the dedication and support of the donors below, we have raised over $1.4 million to support North Carolina’s hospitality workers.

Thrive/Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC

Grubb Management

UDM Systems

Brooks Bell and Jesse Lipson

Gabrielle Bratton

Susann A. Dodds

Coastal Credit Union Foundation

Horn & Heel

Laura and Thomas Schranz

Truist

Duncan Stephenson

Louis Nieper

Duke Energy Foundation

Stephanie Cornell

Carolina Hurricanes (Jeff Merritt)

Interfaith Food Shuttle

George Smedes Poyner Foundation

Red and White Shop

Bank of America

Brad Bankos: East Cut Sandwich

Wines for Humanity, LLC c/o Ashley Christianson

Russ Jones, Seby Jones Foundation

Better Place Fund of Triangle Community Foundation

Stephanie Shipman

Cecile Noel c/o The Noel Foundation

Jack Brown’s (Coastal Beverage)

Healy Distributing Emily Ballard: Porch Project Tito’s Handmade Vodka EMPLOYERS TSYS Asheville Strong NC Spirits Association Sunday Supper Investors Management/Child Trust (Lance Trenary) Charles Purvis Carolina Hurricanes Long Beverage Republic National Distributing Heaven Hill, Inc Brown Forman Raleigh Denim Person Street Pharmacy Brewery Bhavana Burney Jennings Kellie Falk Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Grant Theresa Phillips Sandra Hoskins Elizabeth Turner Wicked Weed The Benevity Community Impact Fund Austin Chappell CityPlat James and Mary Leatherberry Foundation

NC Alcoholic Beverage Control Law Enforcement Officers Association Tri-Arc The Hunter and Erica Heniser Charitable Fund of the Ayco Charitable Foundation Red Hat Noreen Allen Tara Baird Lisa Salzman Maggie Handest Raleigh Wine Shop Rush Hour Karting Steve Thanhauser Michael Forno James McManus Associa Cares, Inc. Abbey Wood Kelly Soderberg Triangle Community Foundation Kate Brandon Sutton and James E. Sutton Cambridge & Associates Southern Plated Whole Foods Whitley Law Firm Parker Bryan Family Law Pacific Western Raleigh Art Gal: Elizabeth Altenau Biscuitville/Springer Mountain Farms

Ellen S. Silver, MD and Edward S. Eisenberg, MD Coastal Beverage Company William R. Yoder & Mary A. Montague Brad & Dana Aderhold Highland Brewing Company (2020 Gaelic Giveback) Stephanie Simon Thomas & Laura Stallings Benvenue Country Club National Philanthropic Trust - Sarah L. Ash Lawrence & Etta Lea Pope Foundation Jed E. Guilbeau and Mr. John W. Hillin Abiente Furniture Vinson’s Pub/Home Towne Hospitality CBC Program Eaton Corporation Electrical Sector Power Quality Division Dr. Laura Svetkey Protolabs Employee Recognition Fund TROSA New Belgium Brewing Company Laura and Warren Bigham Old Chicago Gateway Building Company Mostyn Foundation Inc. Les Dames d’Escoffier Allison Lyerly Andrew Corley David Beason Anna Marich

It has been nearly one year since NCRLA began developing Count On Me NC in partnership with the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), NC State Extension, and Visit NC, among others. The innovative training program provides specific guidance to restaurants, hotels, attractions, and other public-facing businesses for protecting employees and guests from the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The campaign was designed to bolster consumer confidence in safely visiting and supporting businesses in North Carolina.

Due to the success of the program, funding was extended and we anticipate a second extension in funding this summer. On February 9, we presented a detailed look at the Count On Me NC campaign at our virtual Annual Meeting. Our partners at Visit NC continue to share the Count On Me NC message with consumers in remarkable

COUNT ON ME NC

BY THE NUMBERS The success of the program is evident in the impressive numbers:

16,900+

2 billion media impressions

67,500+

Over 504,000 visitors on Count On Me NC English and Spanish websites

individuals trained

COURSES COMPLETED

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All 100 NC counties participating

webinars promoting the trainings

14,800+ unique participating businesses

$10 million marketing campaign launched by our partner Visit NC

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ways. They recently presented a webinar to hospitality business leaders across the state, highlighting the accomplishments of the campaign. They also produced a short YouTube video highlighting the success of the program.

The new trends indicate strong consumer interest in traveling again in the second and third quarters of 2021. Consumers are expressing the highest degree of confidence in safety that we have seen during the pandemic, thanks in part to the Count On Me NC campaign.

Seeking Café/Restaurant Café/Restaurant Tenant Seeking Tenant Downtown Fayetteville, Fayetteville, North Carolina Downtown Carolina

Turn-key enovated cafe/restaurant restaurant Turn- ey fully renovated space large ncludes large space available. 1,100 GSF includes outdoor with new new outdoor patio patio and and full full kitchen kitchen with commercial Scan QR QR Code Code info. commercial equipment. equipment. Scan

Operate a cafe or restaurant in the Systel Building, Fayetteville’s premier Downtown skyrise building

Spring Legislative Update The legislative long session began in January, with lawmakers focusing on the major priorities of the year: COVID relief, the state budget, and redistricting. Legislative leadership and Governor Cooper have stated their hopes for a negotiated state budget; although, given the legislature’s inability to override Governor Cooper’s budget vetoes, North Carolina has not had a budget agreement since 2018.

ABC Commission Allows Delivery from Local ABC Boards to Restaurants, Hotels, and Bars

After months of successful lobbying

by NCRLA in 2019, monumental ABC reforms were ushered in when the North Carolina Distillery and ABC Modernization Bill was signed into law. Following additional lobbying by NCRLA, the ABC Commission finally issued their rule for implementation of the delivery provisions in Senate Bill 290. On March 1, 2021,

new ABC rules authorizing the delivery of product from local ABC boards to mixed beverage permittees became effective.

This change will now allow for ABC to deliver orders to permittees, a long overdue and necessary service.

NCRLA-Initiated Bill to Waive ABC Permit Renewal Fees

House Bill 73: Temporarily Waive ABC Permit Fees passed the House and is making its way through the Senate. Rep. Tim Moffitt’s legislation would waive ABC permit fees for 2021 on alcohol permits used by restaurants and bars that are still unable to fully utilize their permits, given current capacity restrictions surrounding COVID-19. A fiscal note for the bill shows the potential cost of this legislation—and savings for the hospitality industry—of $14.2 million. Rework of the bill includes changing due dates to allow time for the fee waiver to be paid out of federal funds from the American Rescue Plan. This policy is a major component of our Blueprint for Revival of the NC Hospitality Industry.

House Bill 4 Signed into Law, Reinstating ABC Permits and Extending Due Dates

Gov. Roy Cooper signed House Bill 4 into law on Feb. 25, which signifies a big win

for the hospitality industry and muchneeded relief for bars and restaurants across the state. No ABC fees will be due until 90 days after the last of the COVIDrelated restrictions are lifted from these businesses. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Timothy Moffitt (R-Henderson), received unanimous support in the General Assembly. Rep. Moffitt has been a strong advocate of the hospitality industry for years, and NCRLA is thankful for his work in the NC House to champion our industry.

NCRLA-Initiated Property Tax Bill Update Gets Over 40 Sponsors

Over 40 bipartisan members of the North Carolina House of Representatives, including Speaker Tim Moore, signed on as co-sponsors to House Bill 119: Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Businesses. However, this bill still has a long way to go and will be a major fight. The product of months of work

by NCRLA, Rep. John Bradford, and legislative leadership, this bill would specifically give local counties the authority to issue payment plans to businesses and to waive interest and fees.

It would also allow for businesses that have suffered at least a 25 percent loss in sales revenues to apply for a temporary

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

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revaluation of their property taxes for 2020 and beyond. In March, a leadership team from NCRLA spent the day at the General Assembly, meeting with legislators about this and other important issues.

House Bill 122 Would Increase Per Diem Travel Reimbursements

House Bill 122, filed on Feb. 19, would increase per diem travel and mileage reimbursements for both state employees and lawmakers themselves, although the increase for legislators wouldn’t take effect until the 2023 legislative session.

The proposed rates would be tied to the rates for federal employees, which is updated annually by the General Services Administration. Both hotels and restaurants would benefit from this bill, and many hotels honor the state per diem rate and receive considerable business from state employees and lawmakers. NCRLA will continue to follow this legislation, which would provide a boost to the hospitality industry.

Rep. Howard and Sen. Edwards Introduce Bills Extending PECU Cutoff Date and Holding Current Unemployment Insurance Rate In response to high unemployment in the hospitality industry, NCRLA has been advocating for sensible unemployment benefits to laid-off employees and reasonable payments by restaurant and

hotel employers. Rep. Julia Howard, chair of the legislature’s unemployment oversight committee, filed House Bill 107 in February, which would extend the cutoff date for federal COVID relief benefits, called Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC).

Sen. Chuck Edwards filed Senate Bill 114, the Senate companion bill, which would extend PEUC benefits until the end of 2021. This bill has now become law. NCRLA thanks Rep. Howard and Sen. Edwards for continuing to advocate for the hospitality industry, as NCRLA has continued to speak to legislators about the need to ensure that businesses are not hit with spikes in unemployment payments.

Bills Introduced to Conform to IRS Treatment of PPP Loans

One of NCRLA’s top priorities in this legislative session is to have the state government follow the federal tax treatment of PPP loan proceeds; that is, the amount of the loan that is forgiven is NOT treated as income, and PPP funds used to pay normal items like rent, mortgage, payroll, and insurance are deductible as business expenses.

NCRLA thanks Sen. Chuck Edwards (R-Henderson) for introducing Senate Bill 104: Align PPP Tax Treatment to Federal Treatment, which would accomplish this goal. NCRLA also thanks Sen. Jim Burgin (R-Harnett, Johnston, Lee) who introduced Senate Bill 112: Temp Alignment PPP Treatment to Federal Treatment, which would accomplish the same goal but would be limited to PPP loans in 2020. This bill is a bipartisan effort with Sen. Don Davis (D- Greene, Pitt) also signing on as a primary sponsor.

This will be a lively debate, as some legislators consider the business expense deductibility piece as “double dipping.”

NCRLA needs involvement from members to make the case for this legislation.

Make sure you have completed our call to action and asked legislators to support full deductibility of PPP. This policy is a major component of NCRLA’s Blueprint for Revival of the NC Hospitality Industry.

$1.9 Trillion Coronavirus Relief, American Rescue Plan, Signed Into Law The American Rescue Plan, a sweeping $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief bill, was 12 At Your Service | Spring 2021

signed into law in mid-March. It included a $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund and help for the hotel industry in the form of $15 billion to support the hardest hit small businesses including travel and tourism, $7.5 billion in PPP funding, $160 billion to fight the pandemic and vaccinate individuals so travel can resume, and an extension of the employee retention tax credit.

Since the pandemic first hit, NCRLA has been working with our partners at the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the National Restaurant Association for much needed relief measures.

House Bill 196: COVID-19 Response & Relief Signed Into Law

When Congress provided the state with funding in December but narrowly tailored how it could be spent, the NC legislature was tasked with creating a COVID relief package for the state.

The following provisions of the bill are relevant to the hospitality industry: • $3 million to market North Carolina as a business and tourist destination • Local Tourism Development Authorities authorized to apply for PPP loans • $83 million added to small business loan program administered by Golden Leaf NCRLA will continue to advocate for further direct support of the hospitality industry when the next round of funding arrives to the states from Congress.

NCRLA Joins Forces with Business Coalition to Push for PPP Deductibility

NCRLA worked with a coalition of 15 business groups whose members are among the 141,000 businesses in NC that received PPP loans. A key component of the program was the ability of businesses to deduct from income tax on the ordinary and necessary business expenses, including payroll expenses, that resulted in loan forgiveness. The joint position paper asked that the General Assembly adopt the same tax treatment as the federal government, which is a critical piece of our Blueprint for Revival.

NCRLA thanks Sen. Edwards and Sen. Corbin for their leadership on this issue.

Blueprint for Revival of the NC Hospitality Industry NCRLA’s Survival and Recovery Plan for NC Restaurants and Hotels NCRLA has led countless efforts to secure funding for hospitality businesses — and we continue to fight for our industry. On February 9, we sent our Blueprint for Revival of the North Carolina Hospitality Industry to Governor Roy Cooper and members of the North Carolina General Assembly. The comprehensive policy and legislative plan outlines specific and immediate actions the state should take to stabilize our industry in the short-term and set the foundation for long-term rebuilding.

“Since the hospitality industry was first shuttered, NCRLA has led the call at the federal, state, and local levels for policies that will allow us not to profit, but simply to survive this pandemic,” said NCRLA President & CEO Lynn Minges. “Despite losing more jobs and revenue than any other industry in our state, recovery and relief packages have come up short. This blueprint outlines relief measures to address the unique challenges for the hospitality industry.”

THE ECONOMIC IMPACT ON HOSPITALITY IS STAGGERING

North Carolina’s hospitality industry has suffered disproportionately during COVID-19. Between March and December 2020, taxable sales from North Carolina restaurants, bars, and hotels declined $4.52 billion from the previous year. During that same time period, taxable sales for all other sectors grew $8.15 billion.

The leisure and hospitality sector experienced job losses of 20 percent, which accounts for 75 percent of all jobs lost in the state during the pandemic. Approximately 103,000

members of our hospitality workforce remain sidelined and unemployed.

Despite the staggering losses, North Carolina restaurants, bars, and hotels secured less than 8 percent of federal and state relief provided to businesses in the state.

“Since the hospitality industry was first shuttered, NCRLA has led the call at the federal, state, and local levels for policies that will allow us not to profit, but simply to survive this pandemic.”

— Lynn Minges NCRLA President & CEO

“The hospitality industry is one of tenacity, innovation, and dedication,” said Minges. “We are looking to policymakers not only for support for our short-term survival, but to create a long-term framework that sustains our role as a leading employer and a key part of our state’s economy.”

NORTH CAROLINA RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS NEED HELP

In the Blueprint for Revival, NCRLA proposed the programs and legislation listed below to help restaurants, bars, and hotels survive and recover. Since it was sent to Governor Cooper and the General Assembly in February, we have seen positive developments on several fronts. Read our Legislative Update Spring 2021 | At Your Service

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(p. 11) to see the impact the Blueprint for Revival has had on legislative wins for our industry, and be sure to stay tuned for additional news as it develops.

NORTH CAROLINA HOSPITALITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

property tax issues. Over 40 bipartisan members of the North Carolina House of Representatives, including Speaker Tim Moore, signed on as co-sponsors in February. NCRLA will continue to fight for passage of this crucial bill.

The NC Hospitality Assistance Program would provide $300 million in stimulus to NC restaurants, bars, and hotels that have experienced a significant decline in annual taxable sales revenue during COVID-19.

Update: Senator Chuck Edwards (R-Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania) filed Senate Bill 715: Hospitality Assistance Grants, which would allocate $300 million of North Carolina’s funds from the American Rescue Plan to a direct grant for hospitality businesses. This bill represents a primary policy priority of NCRLA’s Blueprint and is a major victory for the industry.

ABC PERMIT EXTENSION

PROPERTY TAX PAYMENT FLEXIBILITY

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT FUNDS

Hospitality businesses that incurred significant revenue losses during the pandemic would receive property tax payment flexibility.

PROPERTY TAX REVALUATION

Commercial properties that experienced diminished real estate value due to COVID-19 would be allowed to request a property tax revaluation ahead of the normal revaluation schedule.

Update: NCRLA initiated House Bill 119: Property Tax Relief for COVID Affected Businesses, which addresses both of these

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Annual fees for renewal applications and registration fees for on-premise permittees, including restaurants, bars, and hotels would be suspended.

Update: House Bill 4, which was signed into law on Feb. 25 by Governor Cooper, represents a significant step toward this goal. No ABC fees will be due until 90 days after the last of the COVIDrelated restrictions are lifted from these businesses. NCRLA initiated House Bill 73: Temporarily Waive ABC Permit Fees. The bill has passed the House and is awaiting a final vote in the Senate.

Creating hospitality workforce development funds would support the continuation of Count On Me NC training for the hospitality industry and funding for work-based learning and national credentialing for high school students enrolled in industry-sponsored hospitality programs.

Update: At the request of NCRLA, Senator Lazzara filed Senate Bill 344: Funds/Workforce Development Hospitality granting $400,000 in funding for the biennium for the ProStart program.

SALES TAX EXEMPTION FOR THE PURCHASE OF PPE Hospitality businesses would receive a sales tax exemption for the purchase of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and structural enhancements required to protect public health during COVID-19.

Update: NCRLA continues to fight for this assistance as part of the finance and tax packages.

INCREASED FUNDING FOR TOURISM PROMOTION

Increasing promotional funding for tourism at the state and local levels would benefit North Carolina’s restaurants, bars, and hotels.

Update: $3 million was appropriated in the legislature’s first COVID relief bill in 2021. We are continuing to push for another $10 million as part of the funds received from the American Rescue Plan.

PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM (PPP) TAX EXEMPTION AND EXPENSE DEDUCTIBILITY Update: NCRLA has been lobbying the legislature on this issue for months and has activated an all-member call to action asking for outreach to elected officials.

Lack of action by the legislature would cost North Carolina businesses $600 million in unexpected state taxes. There are four bills introduced that address this relief, but it is expected that this issue will be placed in a greater finance and tax package.

Hospitality Insurance Offers Specialized Liquor Liability for a Resurging Industry

By David Beason, Hospitality Insurance Group As you well know, the pandemic has forced many businesses in the hospitality industry and beyond to scale back their operations. Despite this, we’re seeing a hardening of the hospitality market evidenced by restaurant property rates rising and liquor liability coverage becoming pricier and more scarce.

Many insurance carriers are revising underwriting guidelines to exclude businesses open after 11 p.m. or midnight, or exclude risks with entertainment. Some are simply getting out of the liquor liability market for now. We’re not one of them.

We’re proud of our dedication to the hospitality industry and are excited to share a few of the ways in which we’re continuing to support businesses in this space: • We’re regularly writing businesses that close by midnight, regardless of whether they provide entertainment.

• For businesses that close after midnight, we’re generally offering limits less than $1mm/$2mm since performance in this sector has not been favorable.

• As with any class, we will entertain exceptions on limits for exceptional businesses that meet additional criteria. If you believe your account falls into that category, please discuss with your underwriter.

The hospitality class is our focus, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a market for well-run businesses.

“PAY AS YOU POUR” IS A NEW EXCLUSIVE FINANCING PROGRAM FOR LIQUOR LIABILITY POLICYHOLDERS A signed premium finance agreement with First Insurance Funding is required to participate in the program and the business must have a verifiable sales tracking system.

Policyholders report actual sales data bi-monthly through our portal. Eligible POS system users can have sales data automatically reported for them. This program is now available for our new and renewal business.

Some of the highlights of the program include: •A down payment of only 10% •A ttractive finance rates • I mproved cash flow—payments are based on actual monthly sales •A n easy-to-use online reporting portal •E asier to renew—no chasing down last year’s sales— we already have it

“PAY AS YOU POUR” The new applications are found at HMIC.com under the Agents tab.

If you have any questions, please contact David Beason, Marketing Representative, Hospitality Insurance Group, at 770.841.5791 or toll free: 877.366.1140.

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

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Celebrating North Carolina’s

of the Industry For more than a year now, North Carolina’s restaurants and hotels have been tested like never before. Despite facing unprecedented obstacles, the hospitality industry met challenge after challenge, demonstrating adaptability, resilience, and perseverance. On February 16, NCRLA celebrated our state’s hospitality leaders at the 2021 NCRLA Stars of the Industry awards gala. This year’s event was held at the Angus Barn Pavilion in Raleigh and, due to continued COVID-19 capacity restrictions, award recipients were invited to attend in person while we broadcast live on Vimeo to members, partners, friends, and family.

Each February, NCRLA honors individuals who have strengthened and advanced North Carolina’s restaurant and 16 At Your Service | Spring 2021

lodging industries, showing steadfast commitment to their communities. Award recipients are selected based on their exemplary service, leadership, innovation, and dedication to the hospitality industry.

“Our annual Stars of the Industry awards are an excellent way to celebrate the exemplary performance and dedication that each of these recipients display to their team and the guests they serve,” said NCRLA President & CEO Lynn Minges.

“I am proud, humbled, and in awe of those of you who have pivoted during this pandemic. You have changed your business models. You have created efficiencies. You have done things in new and different ways. And you’re still standing, and that’s what we’re here to celebrate tonight.”

HONORING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

NCRLA presented two special achievement awards to industry leaders who have epitomized the very best of hospitality. Steve Thanhauser, co-owner of the Angus Barn, took home the Griff and June Glover Award for Distinguished Service. “Steve’s dedication, can-do spirit, empathy, and relentless work ethic have provided a steady hand at the wheel of NCRLA during an incredibly hard year,” said Minges.

The Huebner family, F & D Huebner, received the Ken Conrad Award for Service to the Community. Throughout 2020, Huebner Family McDonalds (HFM) supported their employees in many ways, from providing access to educational opportunities to giving bonuses, pay raises, and holiday meals. HFM also donated grocery items to a local food pantry and continued their support of local schools with drive-through teachers’ nights.

Thanhauser and the Huebner Family have dedicated themselves to advancing the hospitality experience in the state and have set the tone for their colleagues with their tireless work ethic and commitment to the industry.

Two members of the NC General Assembly, Rep. Julia Howard and Sen. Chuck Edwards, were recognized for their consistent support of North Carolina’s hospitality industry.

Congratulations to Our 2021 Winners!

RESTAURATEURS OF THE YEAR: Charles Winston Jr. & Wil O’Neal, Winston’s Grille RESTAURANT MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Terriann Biagi, The Raleigh Times RESTAURANT EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Mai Nguyen, Sitti LODGING OPERATOR OF THE YEAR: Tiffany Tucker, Canopy by Hilton Southpark LODGING MANAGER OF THE YEAR: Christina McCall, Pinehurst Resort LODGING EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Marie Mosoti, Omni Charlotte Hotel HOSPITALITY SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR: Kevin Osterman & Wayne Hilston, Employers CHARITABLE CHAMPION: Emily Ballard, Emily Ballard Photography HOSPITALITY CHAMPION, HOUSE: Representative Julia Howard, NC General Assembly HOSPITALITY CHAMPION, SENATE: Senator Chuck Edwards, NC General Assembly

A Team Effort

We want to thank everyone who helped make this year’s virtual Stars of the Industry event a success. Max Trujillo and Matt Weiss, co-hosts of the NC Food & Beverage Podcast, kept everyone entertained as they once again emceed the ceremony. Meetings on Cue and Atlas Production Group produced the event with videography assistance from Oh Shoot Productions. Award-winning Raleigh photographer Eamon Queeney helped document the evening.

GRIFF & JUNE GLOVER AWARD: Steve Thanhauser, Angus Barn KEN CONRAD AWARD: The Huebner Family, F & D Huebner

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors PREMIER | US Foods SILVER | DoorDash • Ecolab • Employers • Pepsi • United Healthcare BRONZE | Atlas Production Group • Intercontinental Hotel Group • Meetings on Cue • Cranfill Sumner LLP • Firehouse Subs • Empire Eats • Summit Hospitality Group

Learn more and watch the event at NCRLA.org/stars-of-the-industry-awards.

WINE | NC Wine and Grape Council SUPPORTING | Angus Barn • NC F&B Podcast • Omni Charlotte Hotel • Winston’s Grille

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

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The NCRLA Chef Showdown Is Back!

Monday, August 9 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

The Angus Barn’s Bay 7 Durham, NC

Mark your calendar for North Carolina’s premier culinary and cocktail competition. Join us in person as we name the NCRLA Chef of the Year, NCRLA Pastry Chef of the Year, and NCRLA Distillery & Mixologist of the Year.

CHEF

OF THE YEAR

PASTRY CHEF

OF THE YEAR

DISTILLERY & MIXOLOGIST OF THE YEAR

Follow the action @ncrlachefshowdown on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Interested in Sponsorship Opportunities?

Contact Laura Hayden at lhayden@ncrla.org for more details.

Learn more at NCChefShowdown.com

Significant savings on services your business uses every day.

COMPLIMENTARY NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP Receive benefits offered through the National Restaurant Association, including industry trends, services, and more. Call 800-424-5156 or visit Restaurant.org/Membership/Tools-Solutions.

FOOD SAFETY & ALCOHOL SERVER TRAINING Nationally recognized and accredited foodservice sanitation, alcohol server, and allergen training for managers and employees.

20% discount on all ServSafe products.

Call 919-844-0098 or visit NCRLA.org/servsafe-certification-courses.

HIRING INCENTIVES, COVID-19 AND HURRICANE CREDITS Is your business suffering a financial downturn during the COVID crisis but still supporting your employees? You could be eligible for a refundable retention credit of up to $19,000 per employee. Synergipartners.com

WORKER'S COMPENSATION EMPLOYERS is the Provider of Choice for NCRLA. They offer low minimum premiums for all NCRLA members, including flexible and affordable payment plans.

Employers.com/employers-advantage/partnerships/north-carolinarestaurant-and-lodging-association

BUSINESS DISCOUNTS WITH AHLA NCRLA members who elect to join American Hotel and Lodging Association receive exclusive discounts on staffing solutions through Hcareers, STR reports, music licensing, and more. Call 202-289-3100 or visit AHLA.com to access research, statistics, and cost-saving solutions.

STR Exclusive discounts on various customizable regional reports and industry profiles, including the STR Report.

Call 615-824-8664 or visit STR.com.

CREDIT & DEBIT CARD PROCESSING/ PAYROLL SERVICES Benefit from payment processing solutions, loyalty programs, fair pricing, and more. Plus, enjoy superior service that’s available 24/7 with the most reliable data security solution in the country.

Call 888-963-3600 or visit HeartlandPaymentSystems.com.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/TRAINING Workforce development and training solutions to help meet your needs.

Mentorships and job placements are available. Call 919-844-0098 or visit NCRLA.org/foundation/prostart.

CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Class Action Capital specializes in the early identification of class action settlement opportunities for restaurant and hotels. Learn more at 914-200-0020 or ClassActionCapital.com/ncrla.

HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS Get easy access to healthcare coverage and other valuable resources and tools. Receive an exclusive 5% discount on group health plans. Call 301-865-7058 or visit UHCTogether.com/forms/NCRLA/form41146.gsp.

STAFFING SOLUTIONS Receive a 20% discount on the AHLA Career Center, powered by Hcareers, the nation’s leading hospitality job board. Visit AHLA.com and click “Career Development.”

LIQUOR LIABILITY INSURANCE Restaurants, bars, and taverns, receive 20% off your liquor liability insurance with Hospitality Insurance Group (HIG). Keep your local insurance agent or use one of theirs. Visit HMIC.com and click on the contact tab, or call 508-366-1140.

STREAMLINED ALCOHOL PAYMENTS Simplify alcohol purchase payments, ensure compliance, and track purchase data securely with Fintech. 50% off setup fees and ongoing preferred pricing. Visit go.fintech.com/NorthCarolinaRLA.

MUSIC LICENSING Broadcast Music, Inc. is the bridge between songwriters and the businesses and organizations that want to play their music publicly. Save up to 20% on annual fees. Call 888-689-5264 or visit BMI.com.

222 NORTH PERSON ST, SUITE 210 | RALEIGH, NC 27601 | 919.844.0098 | NCRLA.ORG

Easily disinfect hard surfaces and high touch points with

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3-in-1 hard surface cleaner, glass cleaner and disinfectant simplifies the cleaning process and creates operational efficiency

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Learn more at ecolab.com/COVID-19 ©2020 Ecolab Inc. All rights reserved.

Fresh and clean scent

Member Moments Proudly Recognizing North Carolina’s Hospitality Leaders Biscuitville Celebrates Black History Month

Greensboro-based Biscuitville Fresh Southern® celebrated Black History Month by honoring Kizzmekia Corbett, Jamilla Pinder, and Captain Derrick Smith—three North Carolinians whom CEO Kathie Niven says Biscuitville is incredibly pleased to recognize for their “tireless work and many accomplishments.” Throughout the month of February, Biscuitville gave away commemorative bookmarks with a coupon for a free sausage biscuit. Biscuitville also featured Smith, Corbett, and Pinder on social media. “We are honored that we, in a small way, can hold them up as leaders who have done so much during their careers to help others—especially during the pandemic,” Niven said.

Vinay Patel Named Top 20 Leader for 2020 by Charlotte Business Journal

Congratulations to Vinay Patel, Principal of SREE Hotels, who was named a top 20 leader for 2020.

The editorial team at the Charlotte Business Journal identified Patel as one of 20 individuals who are “leading Charlotte through the pandemic and beyond.”

He was recognized for his work with local, state, and federal officials to get relief for hotel owners and their employees. Patel played an important role in discussions that led to a $6 million recovery program for area hotels funded with federal CARES Act money.

Atrium Health Invests $11 Million in Teammates and Local Restaurant Economy

Restaurants in the Charlotte and WinstonSalem areas benefitted from a major initiative by Atrium Health. Atrium gave out DoorDash vouchers worth $50 to $250 to thank employees for their tireless and selfless work, to provide them with an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing meal at home, and to boost the local economy by helping keep the doors open at local restaurants. NCRLA President & CEO Lynn Minges said, “We’re thrilled to see such an innovative way to support the many healthcare heroes and our restaurant workers at the same time.”

The Umstead Hotel and Spa Honored

by Leading Publications

U.S. News & World Report released their annual ranking of “Best Hotels in North Carolina.” The top five hotels on the list are: The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary), which ranked number one; Old Edwards Inn and Spa (Highlands); The Fearrington House Inn (Pittsboro); The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte; and the Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville, Autograph. The publication evaluated 24,000 hotels from more than 200 destinations across the globe, including North Carolina. The Umstead Hotel, along with its onsite restaurant Herons and The Umstead Spa, also received the prestigious 5-Star Award by Forbes Travel Guide, the global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas.

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

21

Lance Trenary Receives National Leadership Award

Congratulations to Lance Trenary, President and CEO of Golden Corral Corporation, who received an award from the National Restaurant Association for outstanding leadership and contributions to the industry and the association. Trenary was presented the award at the National Restaurant Association’s National Board Meeting during the first week of February. He also transitioned from the role of Treasurer to the role of Vice Chair.

Museum of Food and Drink Features Saltbox Seafood Joint

As part of their newest exhibit “Mapping the Nation’s Table: The African American Legacy Foodways Project,” the Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) in Brooklyn, NY, is featuring Durham’s Saltbox Seafood Joint.

The upcoming exhibition, "African American: Making the Nation's Table," will shine a light on the often overlooked history of the countless African Americans who have laid the foundation for American food culture. “I joined the Museum of Food and Drink to celebrate the legacy of Black entrepreneurship—something that is incredibly important to me,” explained Saltbox Seafood Joint owner and chef Ricky Moore.

Kings BBQ in Kinston Ties for Best Ribs on Drew Barrymore Show

Kings Restaurant in Kinston tied for first place for the number one best ribs in the United States during the segment “Battle of the Bites” on the Drew Barrymore Show. The winning dish includes two racks of ribs, collard greens, hushpuppies, and a specialty rib sauce. The restaurant is a staple in the east and has been in business since 1936.

REMEMBERING THOSE WE LOST Charles Winston Sr. Leaves Lasting Mark on NC Hospitality

Charles Winston Sr. passed away on February 9, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership in the hospitality community. Winston co-founded the Angus Barn in Raleigh, Darryl’s restaurant chain, and Winston Hotels.

The former NCRLA chairman was named 1984 Restaurateur of the Year. He received the Griff and June Glover Award in 1987.

Winston devoted much time and talent by serving in leadership roles for several charitable organizations, nonprofits, his church, and his alma mater, UNC Chapel Hill. For their extensive leadership and philanthropy in the community, he and his wife Florence were inducted into the Raleigh Hall of Fame in 2011. Charles Winston Jr. was able to honor his father’s life and legacy by sharing personal stories with the NCRLA family at this year’s Stars of the Industry gala, during which he and Winston’s Grille partner Wil O’Neal were named Restaurateurs of the Year.

22 At Your Service | Spring 2021

“Big Ed” Watkins Remembered as NC Restaurant Legend

Edward “Big Ed” Watkins, the restaurant owner who kept country cooking alive in downtown Raleigh, passed away on February 2 at the age of 88. Watkins founded the first Big Ed’s Restaurant in 1958. He retired in 2006, selling Big Ed’s to NCRLA members Lynn and Sam Hobgood, who opened two new Big Ed’s in recent years, with locations in North Raleigh and Garner.

“Big Ed was a career restaurateur,” owner Sam Hobgood said.

“His presence was important to the community and the culture of the community in downtown Raleigh. He has always been supportive of the restaurant and continued to come and dine with us. He was there even during these times, which says a lot about his character.”

À La Carte

A sampler of hospitality news stories

US Foods Presents “2021 Trends of the Year” Videos NCRLA’s corporate partner US Foods is sharing the hottest “2021 Trends of the Year” through six informative and educational videos. The six culinary trends detailed in the video series are paleo, pizzas, burger toppings, dinner for two, spirit-free craft cocktails, and healthy sides.

AHLA Forecasts Slow Rebound in 2021, Acceleration in 2022

NCRLA, Kotis Holdings, and Carolina State Bank Offer PPP Webinar Thank you to Kotis Holdings (Kick Ass Concepts), Carolina State Bank (Blue Ridge), and others, who partnered with NCRLA to provide an exclusive PPP loan webinar on January 22. Webinar panelists walked participants through qualifications for the PPP loan, using the online portal, and how to submit the application.

The webinar was recorded for members who were unable to attend. Many banks either require the borrower to have an existing relationship with the bank or utilize a third-party service with no further help from the bank. Carolina State Bank is working with NCRLA members regardless of current banking relationships.

Restaurant Industry Will See Transition and Rebuilding in 2021 COVID-19 devastated the nation’s restaurant industry last year, with sales plummeting 19.2 percent.

According to the National Restaurant Association’s State of the Industry Report, sales are projected to climb 10.2 percent in 2021, though not nearly enough to recover from the damage caused by the pandemic. Last year ended with sales $240 billion below forecasted levels, with approximately 110,000 foodservice establishments permanently closed and nearly three-quarters of those operators saying they would not open another restaurant.

AHLA released its State of the Hotel Industry 2021 report examining the high-level economics of the US hotel industry’s recovery, specific impact on business travel, and consumer travel sentiments.

The top findings from the report include: •H otels will add 200,000 direct hotel operations jobs in 2021, but will remain nearly 500,000 jobs below the industry’s pre-pandemic employment level of 2.3 million employees •H alf of US hotel rooms are projected to remain empty •B usiness travel is forecasted to be down 85 percent compared to 2019 through April 2021, and then only begin ticking up slightly •5 6 percent of consumers say they expect to travel for leisure—roughly the same amount as in an average year •N early half of consumers see vaccine distribution as key to travel •W hen selecting a hotel, enhanced cleaning and hygiene practices rank as guests’ number-two priority behind price

Spring 2021 | At Your Service

23

It’s Time for Open Enrollment.

UnitedHealthcare offers exclusive members-only pricing and benefits, including: • Medical coverage • Dental and vision insurance • Disability, life and critical illness insurance

Contact your broker today or visit us at restauranthealthcare.org for more information.

Benefits and programs may not be available in all states or for all group sizes. Components subject to change.

These plans have exclusions and limitations. Contact your UnitedHealthcare broker or the company for more details.

Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. Health Plan coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina, Inc. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc.