A resolution recognizing Russell "Russ" Simons, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Gaylord Entertainment Center as the "Facility Executive of the Year".

WHEREAS, January 30, 2001, at the Pollstar's 12th Annual Concert Industry Awards Party, in Las Vegas, Nevada, the "Facility Executive of the Year" was presented by Pollstar Magazine to Mr. Russ Simons; and

WHEREAS, Pollstar Magazine, the leading concert industry publication in the nation, annually recognizes concert industry professionals who have distinguished themselves in the international touring industry; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Simons has served as the center's General Manager since its opening in 1994, in overseeing the day-to-day operations, event bookings, and along with his staff are responsible for administration, box office operations, engineering, finance, marketing and maintenance of the Gaylord Entertainment Center; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Simons is a recognized leader in the hospitality and attractions industry, where he was responsible for overseeing the development of the Alltel Arena in Little Rock, CenturyTel Center in Bossier City, Louisiana, the Monroe Civic and Cultural Center, and various other facility's throughout the United States; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Simons has been active in numerous civic and industry organizations, including on the Board of Directors of the Predator Foundation and the Oasis Center, member of the Internal Entertainment Buyers Association and the Major Arena Managers Association; and

WHEREAS, in April of 1999, Mr. Simons received the LMI "Manager of the Year" award; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Simons has been instrumental in bringing big name concerts and events to the Gaylord Entertainment Center and a large number of conventions and business conferences; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council recognize Executive Vice President and General Manager Russ Simons on receiving this award.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

SECTION 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing Russell "Russ" Simons, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Gaylord Entertainment Center as the "Facility Executive of the Year".

SECTION 2. The Metropolitan Council Staff Office is directed to prepare a copy of this Resolution to be presented to Russell "Russ" Simons.

SECTION 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Bob Bogen & Leo Waters

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee
Introduced:	March 6 , 2001
Adopted:	March 6, 2001
Approved:	March 7, 2001
By: