NEWSTREAM — HMSHost Corporation, the world’s largest provider of food, beverage and retail concessions to the travel industry, announced the opening of Gervin’s, an exciting sports-themed restaurant, in San Antonio International Airport.
Developed in conjunction with George “The Iceman” Gervin, a 12-time NBA all-star and Hall of Famer, the restaurant features photographs and memorabilia from Mr. Gervin’s personal collection. It also has multiple satellite feeds showing sporting events on a continuous basis.
Gervin’s food and beverage selections inspire patrons to remember their favorite Iceman moments – “Base Line” nachos, the “Slam Dunk” smoked turkey sandwich, and the “Nothing But Net” club sandwich.
The Iceman himself, George Gervin, was on hand to open the restaurant that bears his name. “I’m extremely pleased to be here today,” he said. “San Antonio Airport is an outstanding facility, and I feel fortunate to be part of its tradition of excellence. I would also like to thank the fine people of HMSHost for helping to make the Gervin’s vision a reality. Throughout the development process, their experience and knowledge were extremely valuable to all of us.”
Joining Mr. Gervin at the opening were, Kevin Dolliole, Aviation Director of the City of San Antonio Aviation Department; Susan Blackwood, Executive Director of the San Antonio Sports Foundation; and Steve Johnson, Vice President of Business Development for HMSHost.
“I am extremely honored to share this occasion with such a distinguished group of people,”
Mr. Johnson said. “Gervin’s would not have been possible without the inspiration of our friend, The Iceman. His accomplishments on the court speak for themselves, but we were more impressed by his vision, his creativity, and his commitment to the fine community of San Antonio.”
“I also want to thank the outstanding leadership of San Antonio International Airport,” Johnson continued. “We share Mr. Gervin’s belief that this is an exceptional facility, and we are extremely proud to be part of its concessions program. Gervin’s is just one phase of an extensive development program aimed at providing San Antonio travelers with world-class dining choices.”
Johnson marked the occasion by announcing HMSHost’s intention to be a Silver Level Corporate Member of the San Antonio Sports Foundation.
“Like Mr. Gervin, the Sports Foundation has been a positive force in the San Antonio community for a good number of years,” Mr. Johnson said. “Their ‘Dreams for Youth’ program has introduced scores of disadvantaged children to Olympic sports, opening pathways to personal growth and improved self-esteem. The Sports Foundation’s tireless efforts have brought several premier sporting events to this city, most recently, the 2002 NCAA Women’s Final Four. The Sports Foundation is also working extremely hard to bring the 2007 Pan Am Games to San Antonio, and we hope that our support will help them in this effort.”
Printed in Volume 1 Issue 8