The Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord was selected for the award in the waste reduction and recycling category among public and private businesses.  Criteria for the Cabarrus Sustainability Award included innovation, sustainability, partnerships, superior environmental practices, measurable environmental benefits and commitment/leadership in pursuit of sustainability.

“Being an exceptional community partner that makes a difference is a fundamental pillar of the John Q. Hammons legacy of excellence,” said Terry Crawford, general manager, Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord/Golf Resort & Spa.  “We appreciate being recognized with this prestigious sustainability award.  We applaud our staff and guests for their ongoing efforts to be good environmental citizens with even small changes in everyday actions for continued green improvements.”

To receive the Cabarrus Sustainability Award, the Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord demonstrated success across multiple categories.  Award-winning outcomes originated from initiatives ranging from lighting fixture replacement that resulted in nearly 90 percent reduction in fixture energy consumption to responsible recycling of printer cartridges throughout the facility.

Dakeita Vanderburg-Johnson, Cabarrus Sustainability Council Chair for 2011, noted that the Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord is setting a positive example for others to seek.  “When one of the community’s most successful and widely recognized hotels commits its resources and attention to improving environmental efforts, we all take notice.  Certainly, their environmental achievements for recycling and waste reduction have set the bar for other businesses to follow,” Vanderburg-Johnson said.

Recently, the Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord/Golf Resort & Spa received the prestigious Eco Carolinas Certification for recycling and waste reduction for the third consecutive year.  Neil Swiacki, president of Environmental Carolinas, which awards the Eco Carolinas Certification, indicated that the hotel’s environmental practices reflect their overall business approach.

“The success of the Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord’s environmental efforts is directly related to the commitment of the organization.  Continuously improving its environmental efforts while focusing on operating a world-class resort speaks volumes about the innovative and responsible culture hotel management has created for their employees and guests,” Swiacki said.

About Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord/Golf Resort & Spa

The 308-suite golf resort, spa and adjoining 80,000-gross-square-foot conference center overlook the area’s premier municipal course at Rocky River Golf Club, also managed by John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, and are located minutes from the popular Concord Mills Mall and Charlotte Motor Speedway.  In addition to beautifully decorated suites with the new Embassy Essentials Bedding Collection and amenities to make guests feel at home, guests and local residents can enjoy the upscale, casual fare at Rocky River Grille lounge and restaurant.  Caffeina’s Internet Café, located in the open garden atrium of the hotel, is a great place to relax and enjoy a coffee.  With a variety of full-service spa treatments, the hotel’s Spa Botanica pampers guests and Charlotte – Concord residents.  The hotel offers 24-hour room service, same-day dry cleaning, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and a nightly Manager’s Reception with complimentary beverages.  Other features include a fitness center, indoor pool and sundeck.  To make a reservation, please call (704) 455-8200 or go to www.embassysuitesconcord.com.  The Embassy Suites Charlotte – Concord also can be booked under the following GDS codes: Amadeus CLT540, Sabre 28002, Apollo 30973 and Worldspan 5599.

About Embassy Suites Hotels
Embassy Suites Hotels, one of Hilton Worldwide’s 10 market-leading brands, gives guests more during every stay.  The full service, upscale brand offers spacious two-room suites, free cooked-to-order breakfast and a nightly Manager’s Reception with complimentary appetizers and beverages.  Both leisure and business travelers looking for an approachable, upscale experience feel right at home in the brand’s inviting atrium environment.  Embassy Suites Hotels has 213 properties across the Americas and an additional 30 in the pipeline. For more information, visit www.embassysuites.com, and connect with Embassy Suites at www.embassysuitesmediacenter.com, www.facebook.com/embassysuiteshotels and www.twitter.com/EmbassySuites.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts

Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as:  Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

Springfield, Mo. – February 9, 2012 – John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts today announced the company’s distinction of having the #1 rated Embassy Suites Hotel in the world in its national portfolio for six consecutive years.  The Springfield, Mo.-based company’s Embassy Suites Omaha – La Vista / Hotel & Conference Center in Nebraska received the #1 ranking for the third consecutive year.  The 257-suite hotel is connected to the La Vista Conference Center, representing 100,000 gross square feet of meeting space.  Three hotels operated by John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts secured the coveted “Connie” Award for being the top three performing hotels among the 2011 Embassy Suites Hotelsbrand set.  Overall, eight John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts properties in seven states were recognized as being among the top 10 percent performing Embassy Suites.  John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States.

Overall Top Performers

In addition to the three Connie Award winners, named for Hilton Hotels’ founder Conrad Hilton, five of John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties were recognized and ranked among the best of the best of more than 200 upscale, all-suite Embassy Suites Hotels across the Americas.  The complete ranking of John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ top performers follows:

• #1   Embassy Suites Omaha – La Vista / Hotel & Conference Center in Nebraska – CONNIE AWARD
• #2   Embassy Suites– Loveland Hotel, Spa & Conference Center in Colorado – CONNIE AWARD
• #3   Embassy Suites Nashville SE Murfreesboro – Hotel & Conference Center in Tennessee – CONNIE AWARD
• #7   Embassy Suites Norman – Hotel & Conference Center in Oklahoma
• #14 Embassy Suites St. Louis – St. Charles/Hotel & Spa in Missouri
• #15 Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas Hotel, Spa & Convention Center in Arkansas
• #16 Embassy Suites San Marcos – Hotel, Spa & Conference Center in Texas
• #21 Embassy Suites Hot Springs Hotel & Spa in Arkansas

The outstanding performance results are based on quality assurance audits measuring cleanliness, condition and adherence to brand standards, as well as customer scores rating staff service and the quality of the hotel’s physical accommodations.  Each honored hotel will receive a trophy, monetary prize and recognition during an upcoming on-property ceremony.

“Truly listening and taking action are keys to our continued success,” said Jacquie Dowdy, CEO of John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts.  “We humbly thank our guests for taking time to share feedback and to recognize our hotels’ outstanding performance.  We also give thanks to our more than 9,000 passionate associates nationwide for living the John Q. Hammons legacy of excellence.”

Embassy Suites properties operated by John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts feature a variety of amenities for both business and leisure travelers.  Select hotels also feature a full-service spa.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ Embassy Suites properties, please call 1-800-EMBASSY or visit www.jqhhotels.com.

About Embassy Suites Hotels
Embassy Suites Hotels, one of Hilton Worldwide’s 10 market-leading brands, gives guests more during every stay.  The full service, upscale brand offers spacious two-room suites, free cooked-to-order breakfast and a nightly Manager’s Reception with complimentary appetizers and beverages.  Both leisure and business travelers looking for an approachable, upscale experience feel right at home in the brand’s inviting atrium environment.  Embassy Suites Hotels has 213 properties across the Americas and an additional 30 in the pipeline. For more information, visit www.embassysuites.com, and connect with Embassy Suites at www.embassysuitesmediacenter.com, www.facebook.com/embassysuiteshotels and www.twitter.com/EmbassySuites.

About Hilton Worldwide

Visit www.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide at www.facebook.com/hiltonworldwide, www.twitter.com/hiltonworldwide, www.youtube.com/hiltonworldwide, www.flickr.com/hiltonworldwide and www.linkedin.com/company/hilton-worldwide.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts

Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as:  Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

Most recently, Henley served as general manager of the 262-room/suite Holiday Inn Joplin Convention Center and Spa in Joplin, Mo., operated by John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts.  John Q. Hammons’ Holiday Inn and 114-suite Residence Inn in Joplin are located in the same hospitality complex, a location that served as the heart of emergency relief efforts after the deadly tornado in 2011 and also as temporary housing for residents displaced by the storm.  Henley has been instrumental in bringing business to Joplin and in collaborating with community leaders and residents on rebuilding efforts.

“I greatly enjoyed my time in Joplin and really appreciate the way the whole community welcomed me and my family.  It’s a special place.  We are going to miss our friends and colleagues in Joplin, even as we look forward with excitement to this new opportunity in Springfield,” Henley said.

“Robert’s experience and fresh ideas will propel the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center forward in 2012,” said Jacquie Dowdy, CEO for John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts.  “We are excited to have him back in Springfield.  We also want to publicly thank Bob Pottberg for his tremendous service at University Plaza and wish him the best in his new assignment with the company.”

Henley’s first general manager position was opening the conversion of the Doubletree Hotel Springfield.  From there he returned to John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, where he had previously worked in multiple capacities, including as assistant general manager of the Embassy Suites Hotel Des Moines Downtown.  Recent service with the company includes appointments as the opening assistant general manager of the Embassy Suites Norman Hotel & Conference Center and general manager of the Residence Inn Oklahoma City Downtown/Bricktown both in Oklahoma.

 “Robert’s performance results with our company have been impressive,” Pasley said.  “His extensive experience operating market-leading hotels and conference centers make him an ideal fit for the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center.”

John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is currently studying plans for improvements to the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, designed to maintain the hotel’s position as the first-choice destination for travelers and meetings in Springfield.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts
Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as: Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

Jim Brickman’s A Christmas Celebration concert tour, in progress, enables concert goers to enjoy an evening of dazzling solo piano, vibrant vocals, and the warmth and humor that has made this concert a seasonal tradition for the past 15 years.  Brickman is also introducing fans to his new album releases, All is Calm and Romanza, available at Target stores.  Once again, sold-out audiences have the opportunity to experience the romance and spirit of the holidays in an unforgettable evening of music, laughter and memories.  Brickman and his special guests, singers Anne Cochran and Benjamin Utecht, plus electric violinist Tracy Silverman, blend fan favorites and seasonal classics with brand-new Brickman compositions.

“It’s my favorite time of year,” Brickman said.  “Celebrating across the country with fans and friends makes it even more special.  So does the personalized service at John Q. Hammons’ upscale hotels, my home away from home while on tour.”

While on their national tour, Brickman and crew enjoy stays at John Q. Hammons’ properties in select cities.  John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ 78 properties spanning 24 states offer many of the comforts of home, with several of the company’s award-winning properties featuring luxurious spas and state-of-the-art fitness facilities.

A Christmas Celebration concert tour cross-promotional opportunity includes extensive online, radio, in-market and on-premise visibility for the Jim Brickman and John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts brands and select John Q. Hammons properties.  Hotels participating in the holiday cross promotion in December span locations in six states: Kansas City, Mo., Nashville, Tenn.; Charlotte, N.C.; Fort Worth, Texas; Charleston, W. Va.; and Peoria, Ill.  Go to www.JimBrickman.com for A Christmas Celebration ticket information.

“Music icon Jim Brickman is about creating unforgettable memories, which is a fundamental aspect of the John Q. Hammons culture,” said Phill Burgess, vice president of sales and revenue management for John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts.  “We are pleased to build on the momentum of this collaborative relationship that has evolved to include brand building, music scholarships for rising stars, and unique concert experiences such as the recent sold-out Jim Brickman performance at John Q. Hammons’ Embassy Suites Montgomery ballroom in Alabama.”

About Jim Brickman

Jim Brickman has revolutionized the sound of solo piano with his pop-style instrumentals and star-studded vocal collaborations.  Brickman’s lineup of  collaborators include numerous gifted singers, including Martina McBride, Lady Antebellum, Gerald Levert, Michael W. Smith, Kenny Loggins, Carly Simon, Herb Alpert, Michael Bolton, Sara Evans, Donny Osmond, Olivia Newton-John, Blind Boys of Alabama, and five American Idol finalists.

Since the 1994 release of his debut album No Words, Jim Brickman’s romantic piano sound made him a marquis name among contemporary instrumental hit-makers.  His signature style of playing and songwriting has also brought him six gold and platinum-selling albums, the most charted Adult Contemporary hits of the decade (30), two Grammy nods (2003 and 2009), two SESAC “Songwriter of the Year” awards, a Canadian Country Music Award, and a Dove Award (presented by the Gospel Music Association).

Brickman is a strong supporter of Public Television and has had four PBS concert specials: Jim Brickman at the Magic Kingdom—The Disney Songbook (2005), My Romance, An Evening with Jim Brickman (2000), Love Songs and Lullabies (2002), and Beautiful World (2009).

Other artistic endeavors include a weekly radio show, Your Weekend with Jim Brickman; two best selling books, Simple Things and Love Notes; performances at Carnegie Hall and the White House; as well as standing room-only concerts from Spain to Thailand.  Brickman supports several charitable foundations for children including Autism Speaks, Camp Heartland and UNICEF.  He also has a scholarship foundation in his name at his alma mater, The Cleveland Institute of Music.  Visit JimBrickman.com for more information.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts

Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as:  Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

The Renaissance Oklahoma City was recently recognized with the following accolades:

• Winner – ConventionSouth’s 2011 Class of Readers’ Choice Awards: Based on nominations and votes from meeting professionals and event planners regarding convention and visitors bureaus, convention centers, conference centers, hotels, resorts and other meeting sites that they believe display exemplary creativity and professionalism to groups; ConventionSouth is the national multi-media magazine for planning events in the South.
  

• Winner – Smart Meetings’ 2011 Platinum Choice Awards: Highlights the best of the best in the hospitality industry based on votes from Smart Meetings’ readers and editors in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean; each month, Smart Meetings magazine is published to set the standard for the meetings industry with articles that feature the latest in industry trends, corporate event planning, emerging technology, personality profiles and updates on the best venues and destinations throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.

• Winner – 2011 CMUS Talk of the Town Award for Excellence in Customer Satisfaction: Based on all new CMUS Power Ratings derived from a multitude of resources, including consumer-review websites and blogs, social networks, and other rating services and industry resources to determine the top consumer-rated businesses in the country.

According to Tracy Swibold, director of sales and marketing for the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center, Hotel & Spa, the hotel’s recent accolades support John Q. Hammons’ commitment to consistently delivering an exceptional guest stay and seamless, memorable event.

“At the Renaissance Oklahoma City, we focus on individualized service.  Whether you’re a hotel guest, a meeting planner, or event attendee, we ensure an unparalleled experience,” Swibold said.  “We appreciate the significant support from the industry and travelers in recognizing a job well done.”

About the Hotel

Managed by John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center, Hotel & Spa touts the largest ballroom in Oklahoma City at 25,000 square feet and 33 meeting rooms, serving as the gem of the facilities’ overall 66,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.  The hotel enables corporate travelers to work productively with the hotel’s signature Room that Works^®, featuring large work areas.  High-speed Internet access, easy to reach plug-ins and an onsite business center make getting down to business a simple task.  In addition, guests can enjoy recently updated public spaces, including Caffeina’s marketplace and giftshop, a cozy coffee house with free wifi.  The hotel also offers a complimentary airport shuttle, enhancing travelers’ overall experience.

The hotel’s three Club Floors include the beautifully appointed Club Lounge with breathtaking views of Bricktown.  Guests of these floors will enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, honor bar and late evening dessert trays.  A nightly turndown service, upgraded bathroom amenities and complimentary shoeshine services are also available on these floors.

Making a Reservation

For more information about the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center, Hotel & Spa or to book a group function, call (800) 468-3571 or go to www.marriott.com/okcbr.  The hotel also can be booked under the following GDS codes: Amadeus OKCBRB, Apollo 24965, BR/Sabre 44970 and Worldspan OKCBR.

About Renaissance Hotels

To learn more, visit http://www.marriott.com/renaissance-hotel/travel.mi.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts

Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as:  Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

#  #  #

Editor’s Notes: Hotel photography is available on request.

WHAT:    Jim Brickman’s “An Evening of Romance” concert performance at the Embassy Suites Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center, a John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts property

• Five-time platinum-selling pianist and songwriter Jim Brickman will take fans on a musical journey playing hits like Valentine, Love of My Life, If You Believe, Never Alone and more
• America’s Romantic Piano Sensation offers an evening of dazzling solo piano and vibrant vocals complemented by warmth and humor
• Brickman will introduce fans to his upcoming album releases, All is Calm and Romanza
• Special concert offers unique guest experience with event romance packages for hotel stay, pre-concert dinner, and post-concert meet and greet with Brickman

WHO:   Jim Brickman: Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling recording artist, pianist and composer
Victoria Shaw: Award-winning songwriter and recording artist touring with Jim Brickman as a guest vocalist

• Estimated 500 concert goers: Jim Brickman fans from Montgomery and the surrounding area

• Executives from John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts: Official hotel sponsor of the Jim Brickman concert tour
• Management from 237-suite Embassy Suites Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center: Upscale full-service,all-suite accommodations next to Montgomery’s historic Union Station and the Montgomery Convention Center

WHEN:  Saturday, November 12, 2011, Showtime 8 p.m. CST

WHERE:  Embassy Suites Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center
Embassy Ballroom
300 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
334-269-5055

• Jim Brickman’s “An Evening of Romance” event tickets and packages on sale at
  www.brownpapertickets.com/event/188359, while supplies last
• Event tickets start at $35
• Packages are available featuring Jim Brickman concert performance,
  post-concert meet and greet with Brickman, pre-show dinner, and hotel stay

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as: Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton. With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets. Founded on the extraordinary vision of John
Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry. Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development. For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

Most recently, Kelly served as general manager of John Q. Hammons’ Embassy Suites Tampa Hotel & Conference Center near the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens. His expanded responsibilities include product quality, operations efficiencies, financial performance and talent management on behalf of John Q. Hammons’ Embassy Suites Hotels, Homewood Suites, Renaissance and Residence Inn branded properties in Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.

Prior to his joining John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, Kelly was vice president of operations at Atlanta-based Lodgian Inc., where he was responsible for 28 hotels. His hospitality career also includes eight years with Winegardner & Hammons, Inc., where he served as general manager for Radisson and Holiday Inn branded properties. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Science from the School of Management at State University of New York at Buffalo. He completed the Executive Development Program from the College of Business at The Ohio State University.

“Joe has a collaborative, hands-on leadership style that translates to impressive performance results,” Morrissey said. “His extensive experience with sales, marketing and operations for top hotel franchises is ideal for John Q. Hammons’ diverse portfolio.”

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as: Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton. With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets. Founded on the extraordinary vision of John
Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry. Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development. For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

Holiday Inn Joplin is collaborating with Show Me the Ozarks magazine, as the publication celebrates its 10^th anniversary, to bring together numerous area retailers and entertainment providers for a day of caring, style and fun.

John Q. Hammons’ Holiday Inn and Residence Inn are located in the same hospitality complex, a location that served as the heart of emergency relief efforts after the deadly tornado and also as temporary housing for residents displaced by the storm.

“Holiday Inn Joplin is dedicated to rebuilding Joplin,” said Hotel General Manager Robert Henley.  “As a community, we are in the healing stage and diligently working together to create an even better life in Joplin.”

Wine, Dine & Donate Event

On August 28 at 3615 Range Line Road, family fun begins at 2 p.m. with bounce houses and hot air balloon rides.  Several sponsored booths will feature family entertainment, an array of food, fashion, jewelry, fine art, and health and beauty specialists.  Admission is $10 per person and free for children under age 2.

The community fundraiser will culminate with an evening of elegance featuring display tables, an upscale fashion show at 4:30 p.m., and a wine-pairing dinner at 6 p.m.  Cost is $75 a person.

For more information regarding event details, dinner tickets and sponsorship opportunities, call 417-455-9898 or email editor@showmetheozarks.com.

According to Lee Radcliff, editor/publisher of Show Me the Ozarks magazine, the red carpet fundraising event in Joplin is expected to draw hundreds of attendees from a 60-mile radius.  “We are experiencing an overwhelming positive response from the business community to get involved and support the event.  We anticipate raising more than $20,000 for the United Way’s Joplin Tornado Relief Fund,” Radcliff said.  “The public will have the opportunity to really enjoy themselves, while supporting an important cause in their own backyard.”

About Holiday Inn Joplin Convention Center and Spa

Operated by Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, the Holiday Inn Joplin Convention Center and Spa is located at 3615 Range Line Road in Joplin at I-44 and US-71 just minutes from the heart of area attractions.  The hotel offers numerous business conveniences, such as 50,000 gross square feet of flexible meeting space, a guest business center, and convenient meeting planner packages.  Other amenities include an in-house day spa, free WiFi access, indoor pool, fitness center, and a beautiful new outdoor courtyard area featuring an outdoor pool.  Each of Holiday Inn Joplin’s 262 guest rooms and suites features a 32” flat panel TV, down blankets and pillows, gourmet coffee, Bath and Body Works bath amenities, and complimentary WiFi access.  For more information, to make a reservation or to book a group function at the Holiday Inn Joplin and the adjacent Convention Center, call 417-782-1000, contact your travel agent, or visit www.holidayinn.com/joplinmo.  The hotel also can be booked under the following GDS codes: Amadeus JLN96D, Galileo/Apollo 3421, Sabre 3546, and Worldspan 2413.

About Show Me the Ozarks Magazine

Joplin, Mo.-based Show Me the Ozarks magazine was founded in August 2001.  Locally owned and operated, Show Me the Ozarks is dedicated to providing the highest quality regional monthly magazine in the four-state area.  Every month, Show Me the Ozarks celebrates the people who make a difference, places to go, and must-attend events in over 12 counties spanning the four-state region.  Please visit www.showmetheozarks.com for more information.

About John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts

Springfield, Mo.-based John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts is the largest private, independent owner and manager of hotels in the United States, representing brands such as:  Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa & Convention Center; Courtyard by Marriott; Embassy Suites Hotels; Hampton Inn & Suites; Hilton; Holiday Inn; Homewood Suites by Hilton; Marriott; Plaza Hotels Collection; Radisson; Renaissance; Residence Inn by Marriott; and Sheraton.  With a portfolio of 78 hotels representing nearly 19,000 guest rooms/suites in 24 states, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ properties are dominant in their markets.  Founded on the extraordinary vision of John Q. Hammons and built on his legacy of excellence spanning more than 50 years, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts has become one of the most recognized and award-winning companies in the hospitality industry.  Built to be the best, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts continues to set the standard in hospitality management and hotel development.  For more information about John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts, please visit the company’s website at www.jqhhotels.com or www.facebook.com/jqhhotelsresorts.

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Contact: Tom Crawford
Telephone: (573) 634-3388

FOR IMMEDIATE  RELEASE

TRUCKING INDUSTRY DISPLAYS THE BEST OF THE BEST IN SPRINGFIELD

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – On June 10 & 11, 2011, the Missouri Trucking Association held the 44th Annual Missouri Truck Driving Championships at the Prime, Inc. CDL Training Lot in Springfield, Mo. The Official TDC Headquarters was John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts’ University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, which seamlessly hosted the meeting that was previously scheduled for Joplin, Mo., at a sister John Q. Hammons property. The two-day event evaluated over 150 drivers on their knowledge of the industry, first aid, safety and security, and required federal vehicle inspections. The participants were then interviewed by industry experts before competing on a point-value-assessed driving skills course of six obstacles to be completed under actual everyday conditions.

The event relocation was a result of the devastating tornado in Joplin, in which area hotels temporarily
began serving as emergency relief centers and much-needed accommodations for local residents left homeless
after the storm. The Missouri Trucking Association dedicated an evening of its event to a fundraiser in which
more than $10,000 was donated by attendees to help rebuild Joplin.

In their respective classes, drivers tested their expertise in the driving skills they use daily. The competition challenged their knowledge of safety, equipment, and the industry, as well as their performance on personal interview. The skills course tested drivers’ ability to judge distances, maneuver tight spaces, reverse, park, and position their vehicle exactly over scales, before barriers or around curves.

Over 500 on-lookers at the Awards Banquet Saturday evening saw David Wiechers of Belton, Mo., receive the prestigious “Grand Champion” title as Missouri’s best of the best. David, a driver for ABF Freight System of Kansas City, Mo., achieved this recognition by outscoring all other competitors in four elements of skill and knowledge.

Mr. Wiechers was also awarded the top driver in the Straight Truck Class in the annual safe driving
competition sponsored by the Association’s Council of Safety Supervisors. He will be joined by eight other class winners as the Missouri Championship Team reporting to Orlando, Fla., to compete against other state teams in the American Trucking Association’s Truck Driving Championships August 9 – August 13, 2011. During the competition the Missouri Team will compete against 450 other professionals vying for selection as the nation’s top professional truck drivers.

First, second and third place winners in all nine classes of competition as well as the top “Rookie” and the
driver with the best Pre-Trip Inspection were honored at the Awards Banquet.  Winners and runners-up in the classes of competition are listed below with the driver’s hometown, and employer company and location.

Straight Truck Class
1st – David Wiechers, Belton, Mo. – ABF Freight System, Kansas City, Mo.
2nd – John Larson, Independence, Mo. – YRC Transportation, Kansas City, Mo.
3rd – William Cranford, Jacksonville, Fla. – Con-way Truckload, Joplin, Mo.

Three Axle Class
1st – Byron Bramwell, Centerview, Mo. – YRC Transportation, Kansas City, Mo.
2nd – Bryan Dupart, Florissant, Mo. – Con-way Freight, St. Louis, Mo.
3rd – Danny Thompson, Republic, Mo. – YRC Transportation, Strafford, Mo.

Four Axle Class
1st – Richard O’Brien, Maryland Heights, Mo. – FedEx Freight, St. Charles, Mo.
2nd – Wayne Pierce, Old Monroe, Mo. – UPS Freight, St. Louis, Mo.
3rd – Michael Jones, Ellington, Mo. – Walmart* Transportation, St. James, Mo.

Five Axle Van Class
1st – Paul Baumhoer, Koeltztown, Mo. – Walmart* Transportation, St. James, Mo.
2nd – Wyatt Hooper, Republic, Mo. – Con-way Freight, Marshfield, Mo.
3rd – William Stanford, Kennesaw, Ga. – Prime, Inc., Springfield, Mo.

Tank Truck Class
1st – John Fobes II, Colon, Mich. – Prime, Inc., Springfield, Mo.
2nd – Remy Braun, Mount Vernon, Mo. – D & D Sexton, Carthage, Mo.
3rd – Thomas Miller, Bunker Hill, IL. – Prime, Inc., Springfield, Mo.

Flatbed Class
1st – Randall Campbell, Aurora, Mo. – Steelman Transportation, Springfield, Mo.
2nd – Duane Grimme, Satsuma, Fla. – Prime, Inc., Springfield, Mo.
3rd – George Shuck Sr., Nampa, Idaho – Prime, Inc., Springfield, Mo.

Sleeper Berth Class
1st – Paul Stallibrass, Joplin, Mo. – Con-way Truckload, Joplin, Mo.
2nd – Stephen Hanna, O’Fallon, Mo. – UPS Freight, St. Louis, Mo.
3rd – Donald Lewis, Republic, Mo. – O & S Trucking, Springfield, Mo.

Twin Trailers Class
1st – Steven Fields, Independence, Mo. – YRC Transportation, Kansas City, Mo.
2nd – Wayne Darnell, Poplar Bluff, Mo. – Con-way Freight, Poplar Bluff, Mo.
3rd – Charles Hargrave, Trenton, IL – UPS Freight, St. Louis, Mo.

Step Van Class
1st – Michael Hausner, O’Fallon, Mo. – FedEx Freight, St. Charles, Mo.
2nd – John Wood, Kansas City, Mo. – FedEx Freight, Kansas City, Mo.
3rd – James Frank, Cape Girardeau, Mo. – FedEx Express, Cape Girardeau, Mo.

Randall Campbell of Aurora, Mo., a driver for Steelman Transportation out of Springfield, Mo., was named “Rookie of the Year” for his outstanding well-rounded performance as a first-time contestant.

The “Pre-Trip Inspection” award for the highest score in assuring that a vehicle is in safe and efficient operating condition before leaving on a trip went to Richard O’ Brien of Maryland Heights, Mo, a driver for FedEx Freight, in St. Charles, Mo.

The “Team Championship” went to YRC Transportation, based in Overland Park, Kan., for having the             highest average team score in the competition.

The keynote speaker for the evening was Jan Skouby, Director, Motor Carrier Services Unit, Missouri
Department of Transportation.

6/14/2011