NAPLES, FL (January 21, 2003) - More than 500 of the hospitality industry's most successful professionals are anticipated to convene for a weekend of fellowship and fun at the inaugural Great Hoteliers of the World Reunion in Naples, Fla., August 15-17, 2003.

Designed and chaired by John Russell and Toma G. Brashear, co-founders of Hospitality Artists, LLC, the Reunion will provide a unique opportunity for active hotel executives, retired industry veterans, lodging vendor friends, spouses and guests to exchange ideas, renew acquaintances and network with one another. The three-day event at the Registry Resort, Naples includes a gala opening night reception and an informative general session highlighting industry trends, financial issues and updates from industry notables. A relaxing afternoon of entertaining events, including golf, tennis, fishing, water sports and shopping will be followed by a special "Evening Under the Stars."

"This is an unprecedented opportunity to bring together current leaders from throughout the hotel industry and pay tribute to those who have contributed so much in the past," said John Russell, CEO, Hospitality Artists. "In so doing, we will seek to nurture and enhance the sense of camaraderie that has always characterized our great industry." Toma G. Brashear, chairman, Hospitality Artists, added "I can think of no better setting for such a dynamic event than the Registry Resort and the city of Naples. This will be one of the most beautiful seaside locations in the United States and will provide attendees with a generous selection of premium recreational activities."

In addition to a slate of fun-filled events, a portion of The Great Hoteliers of the World Reunion will focus on assisting the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) build a foundation for its Experienced Lodging Initiative. The program is aimed at introducing the youth of America to the numerous career opportunities in the lodging industry by creating an Ambassador Program. Reunion attendees will be asked to participate as industry Ambassadors in their respective geographic areas and carry the Lodging Industry Career Opportunity message to high schools, colleges, universities and community youth organizations. These ambassadors will work in concert with AH&LA member state associations to reach as many youth as possible and recruit the next generation of hoteliers.

"This is an outstanding opportunity to utilize the experience, talent and optimism of past and present leaders as a catalyst to recruit and retain our leaders of the future. We are tremendously excited to be a part of this reunion," said Joe McInerney, president/CEO, AH&LA.
Heading the design and planning of The Great Hoteliers of the World is Naples-based Hospitality Artists LLC a privately-held consulting firm specializing in the growth and enhancement of companies and brands related to the hospitality industry. The company's clients include top international hotel chains, management companies and vendors to various segments of the hospitality industry.

The event is sponsored, in part, by Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell, Orlando, America's leading marketing, advertising and public relations agency specializing in serving travel and leisure-industry clients. Additional sponsor participants will also be participating in the groundbreaking hotelier event.

Additional information on the Great Hoteliers of the World Reunion, including program details, is available at the Hospitality Artists Web site, www.hospitalityartists.com or via telephone at 239-591-4470.

For more information:

Rod Caborn, YPB&R Public Relations, 407-838-1799, Rod_Caborn@ypbr.com
John Russell, Hospitality Artists, 706-467-1334, jjrussret@aol.com
Toma Brashear, Hospitality Artists, 941-232-2301, toma@hospitalityartists.com