At this year’s Annual Food Show, we had the pleasure of hosting team members from across the country, including VPs, District Managers, General Managers, Assistant General Managers, Chefs, and Clients, who joined us to discover new products and connect with vendors. With over 50 vendors presenting both new and existing products, the State Of The Onion presentation delivered by executive leadership, and engaging interactive sessions organized by various GSI departments, the event was packed with highlights.

The State of the Onion provided updates on the company’s notable achievements over the past year in social and environmental responsibility. Nico Foris, CEO, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering a culture where employees are treated with dignity and respect, identifying this as a key area for further development.

Several Vice Presidents shared updates on essential components within their portfolios, including Laura Sherman, Vice President of the Hospitality Division, who discussed the completion of a significant capital development project at the Flamingo Everglades. Nico said, “We’re thrilled to reach this milestone and strengthen our partnership with the National Park Service. We’re also eager to offer enhanced experiences for regional and international visitors at the national park we’ve helped revitalize.”

In his summary, Nico also mentioned the significant progress of our Employee Resource Groups: HOLA, BELIEVE, WIN, and Kaleidoscope. For live updates, please check The Core. (note: you must be logged into the intranet to view).

CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion’s Mentoring Initiative

A year ago, Nico signed the CEO Action Pledge, underscoring our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and granting access to a wide array of resources available at CEOAction.com. He also highlighted the company’s involvement in its Mentoring Initiative, aimed at senior, diverse leaders. Nico said, “Four team members, currently mid-way through this program, are not only enhancing their own professional development and networks but also bolstering diversity within our leadership and improving Guest Services’ success and reputation.”

Nico also touched on the enrichment of Employee Benefits, discussing features like the Tuition Assistance Program, 401K Matching, and modifications to PTO policies. More details can be found on the Intranet.

On The Horizon

In addition to the capital investment projects mentioned above, leadership is set to celebrate the 25-year club, continue implementing Workday, and explore many major business development opportunities in the Condominium Division.

Thank you to all our team members for a superb 2023, and we look forward to closing the year strong.

In early July, Bear Mountain State Park received as much as 9 inches of rain in less than 6 hours during a heavy rainstorm, an unprecedented amount that overwhelmed the local infrastructure. As a result of the storms, Bear Mountain State Park was closed down and, subsequently, all of Bear Mountain Inn’s operations. (Read full press release)

Levon Bedrosian, the brand-new General Manager at Bear Mountain Inn, was hired just a few months before the storm hit. It became his first challenge in his new position.

Staying attentive to incoming communications and inquiries and disseminating information among leadership as well as clients is paramount in a crisis situation. Similar to our properties in Florida, which regularly face Hurricane challenges, Levon and his team did an outstanding job not only responding to the storm but also working to return the Inn to full operations.

Who is Levon Bedrosian?

Levon Bedrosian grew up near Watkins Glen, NY, where Guest Services also operates. He started his career in 1984 at Boston University in an entry-level role and quickly moved up to supervisory positions, where he developed his skills in food service management. Over the years, he took on roles in different companies, including Viacom and ABC/Disney, and also worked at Morgan Stanley in the financial sector. Later, he managed several departments of a Municipality as the Special Districts Facility Administrator, overseeing operations and several large construction projects. Eventually, his strong background in hospitality led him back to the industry, securing him the role at Bear Mountain Inn.

Team Highlights

“I am fortunate to have a great core management team along with many wonderful staff members. However, there are three people who have gone beyond their regular duties to support my new role here,” says Levon.

“Sydney Mazzei, the Property Controller, has been a big support in so many ways. She has been supportive with providing a clear picture of the complexity of each of the departments/programs, the hurdles that have been overcome, and challenges that may arise in this diverse operation we have.”

“William VanDunk, the Front Desk Manager, has been a key person of historical knowledge and has been helpful with my learning of the past and introduced me to many Park managers, staff, and key personnel.”

“Margarito Gatica, the Concessions Manager, has one of the largest programs here at Bear Mountain Inn. He oversees Hikers Café, Stand 10 Concessions, Paddle Boat Rentals, Carousel operations, and a remote location at Lake Welch just over 10 miles away. He stays calm in many difficult situations. Always open to change and making improvements.”

Thank you to the entire Bear Mountain Inn team for your hard work!

In late August, Hurricane Idalia wreaked havoc as it moved through Florida, bringing severe damages, including flooding, roof detachments, and power outages. Government officials reported that the hurricane could have had a much more devastating impact if it had hit a more populated area. Fortunately, many of Guest Servics’ operated properties were unaffected and out of the Category 3 Hurricane’s path.

Matt Smith, District Manager, Florida State Park Operations, met with the Insider team to give an update on the effect of the Hurricane.

What Properties Were Most Affected?

As Hurricane Idalia approached, the Guest Services teams at various properties initiated the hurricane preparedness plans, a strategy meticulously laid out to safeguard both infrastructure and the community. Teams worked to ensure vehicles were adequately fueled, generators were in optimal condition, and inventory of essential resources was readied. (Reach out to your managers to get the latest information about hurricane readiness and other natural disaster preparedness plans.)

The properties in the Crystal River and Homosassa areas were most notably impacted, with the offices at the Crystal River Park accumulating sediment deposits and the Homosassa area experiencing significant flooding. Despite the storm’s challenges, the team responded quickly and efficiently, promptly initiating clean-up and restoration operations post-hurricane. The unity of the teams was instrumental in allowing Crystal River to resume operations in a timely manner and ensuring the well-being and continuity of the community and its services.

How Do We Prepare For Hurricanes?

“Staying prepared and maintaining constant communication is key to staying ahead in unexpected situations like the recent hurricane, which took an unusual route from the Caribbean, surprising many of us who typically monitor the eastern paths. Keeping communication open and keeping everyone up-to-date is really the key to staying ahead of the game,” says Matt.

Thank you to all team members who play a critical role in hurricane response!