Minnie Pearl Statue Controversy Puts Tennessee Hotel in the Spotlight

    LINDEN, TN, March 17, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- How-DEEE!!! Controver-SY!!! Controversy was probably the last thing Minnie thought she'd create in her hometown of Centerville, TN. Her statue, once a fixture in her hometown's public square, has been moved to a historic hotel in the next town... and there is speculation as to when it will return.

The larger-than-life bronze of Minnie Pearl, created by internationally acclaimed artist Bill Rains, usually resides on the courthouse square in Centerville, but renovation plans there, coupled with an announced relocation, led statue owner Rod Harris to invoke the terms of his contract and reclaim the bronze figure and relocate her to the lobby of the Commodore Hotel Linden for a "vacation".

The vacation has brought a bevy of activity from curiosity seekers to visit the venue in the center of the controversy. Television stations and newspapers have converged on Linden to cover the story. The Commodore Hotel, located in scenic Linden, " is a beautiful, quaint hotel, that I'm sure Minnie would have liked," says Harris, who originally commissioned the statue. An onslaught of activity has surrounded the hotel, as locals, tourists and other media have stopped by to see the likeness of the famous comedienne. A buzz of enthusiasm is growing for the hotel and the area, also known for its beautiful rivers and outdoor recreation. "What really surprised and delighted us was the first rate quality of the hotel and rooms," says Will Mars of Findlay, Ohio. "We will definitely be back."

The Commodore Hotel Linden, located between Nashville and Memphis was built in 1939, the same year that Minnie Pearl began her entertainment career, and underwent a major renovation in late 2007. The hotel is known for its historic atmosphere, fine dining and quality live music on weekends. The rooms, with original hardwood floors, high ceilings and exposed brick walls, have captivated many guests. "It's not everywhere we find these accommodations," says Alix Hakala in town as a driver in the town's annual Road Rally Race, "The rooms were cozy, the cafe food downstairs was excellently prepared and the staff was extremely pleasant. Our team all were in agreement that this experience was unparalleled by any that we previously had, which means a lot considering we have been all around the country to rallies."

While the hope is that Minnie will eventually return to her hometown, tourists will continue to delight in this chance to see her up close and personal as she continues her visit at the Commodore.

The Commodore Hotel Linden is known for historic charm, fine dining and quality live music. For further information, please contact (931) 589-3224 or www.commodorehotelinden.com.

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