KEY Magazine Fort Worth

GUEST SERVICES

Guest Relations–Stockyards Style
by Don Patterson

Fort Worth visitors routinely seek out the Stockyards National Historic District, where two daily Longhorn cattle drives, rodeo exhibitions, western-styled shops and restaurants help give the city its nickname of "Cowtown." Paul Gallagher, the Stockyards Hotel Director of Hotel Operations, can attest to that popularity. "We've hosted countless guests in search of the western frontier lifestyle that still reigns here," Paul said. "The hotel has been here since 1907 and has been visited by everyone from the notorious Bonnie and Clyde to famed country-western performers George Strait and Tanya Tucker, and movie star Nick Nolte." No wonder–the 52 room Stockyards Hotel even has a room named for Bonnie and Clyde. Filled with antique furniture, western art, and historic frontier memorabilia, the lodging house occupies a site of distinction on the corner of North Main Street and East Exchange Avenue at the entrance to the Stockyards district.

Paul Gallagher knows very well how to entertain his patrons. Working at the hotel in several capacities since1990, Paul quickly learned that guest relations management would become his career endeavor. "The satisfaction of our guests is our prime concern," Paul said. "Keeping them happy, meeting their needs, and making them feel at home is what we do best. Serving up country-style western hospitality is one of our basic tools. Another, is Key Magazine. With its handy maps and entertainment listings, we can show visitors how to get around town and enjoy all that Fort Worth has to offer."

Paul's work doesn't end with satisfying individual guests. He is responsible for other hotel operations including special event arrangements, catering, and training the hotel staff. "I enjoy it all," Paul reported, "including the interaction with everyone including guests, suppliers and staff. The busy atmosphere of the stockyards poses a challenge but our team measures up to it," Paul related. "A positive attitude and the willingness to go an extra mile for each and every guest is what we strive for."

The Stockyard Hotel's continuing success bears witness to Paul Gallagher's comfortable approach to guest relations. He has learned to change the word "welcome" to a less formal "howdy."

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