Marc Friday, General Manager of the newly developed Wingate Inn in Savannah, was presented this award at GHTA�s 23rd Annual Award dinner held recently here in Atlanta. 

Marc is the first Savannian to receive this award and takes his place among some the industry�s top names. Some past recipients include: Dick Stormont (Current Tourism chairman for Georgia Department of Industry, Trade Tourism); Ted Wright (The Cloister); Horst Schulze (Ritz Carlton Hotel Company); Valerie Ferguson (former Chair of the American Hotel Motel Association) and Joel Meyer (King Prince Beach Resort). This is the twenty-fourth such award to be presented.  39 year old Marc Friday has been involved in the hospitality industry for over 22 years and has worked in each facet of the industry. In addition to his work experience, Marc has volunteered his time to various industry organizations. Marc has served on the Savannah Convention Visitors Bureau board of directors for over five years.

He has most recently been chosen to usher in the new millennium as Chairman of the Savannah Convention Visitors Bureau for the year 2000. Marc has also served on the board of directors for GHTA for over three years and served as Chairman of the Savannah Hospitality Association for two years. Marc has also been appointed to the City of Savannah�s Tourism Advisory Council for the past three years.  �Marc has been a tremendous leader in Savannah with dedication and commitment to the hospitality industry.� stated Bill Figg, Chairman of the Savannah Hospitality Association. � I can think of no other more deserving this award.�

About The Savannah Hospitality Association

The Savannah Hospitality Association (SHA) is a non-profit organization representing members of the Savannah/Chatham County area in hospitality and tourism related business and legislation. SHA receives funding from strictly dues from members. It is the only organization in Savannah recognized by the Georgia Hospitality and Travel Association and American Hotel Motel Association.