SHERATON HACIENDA DEL MAR NAMED TO SHERATON GRAND COLLECTION

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Popular Los Cabos Destination Resort Joins Best In Class Category

The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico has been named to the Sheraton Grand tier by Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. The Grand category is Sheraton Hotels & Resorts’ new premier designation of hotels recognized for enticing destinations, distinguished designs and excellence in service and guest experiences. Now, renamed Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar, the iconic resort is the newest addition to the Sheraton Grand collection and the only property in Mexico and one of only three in Central and South America to receive this designation.

“Our authentic, Mexican Hacienda-style resort set on more than 26 acres of oceanfront property, with beautiful gardens and seemingly endless array of guest amenities, has long been a sought after destination resort in Los Cabos,” said Renato Mendonca, General Manager of Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar. “Equally, or even more importantly, we pride ourselves in offering superior service. We are very proud of this incredible acknowledgement.”

The new designation of Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar is the result of the property’s excellence in service and hospitality, its idyllic location on the beaches of Los Cabos and its luxurious, authentic Mexican architecture and design. The property features 270 exquisite guest rooms and suites with traditional Mexican décor; a collection of mouthwatering restaurants, which include two Five Star Diamond Award-winning restaurants, De Cortez Grill and Restaurant and Pitahayas Restaurant; and over 18,000 square feet of space for meetings, events and weddings of all sizes. The Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar is a popular destination for business travelers, couples and families, with amenities that accommodate every itinerary, and as Mexico’s only Sheraton Grand property, the hotel will treat its guests to an unparalleled level of service, hospitality and luxury during their stay.

Showcasing the Best of the Sheraton Brand around the World
Having launched in August 2015, Sheraton Grand celebrates the brand’s best-in-class hotels, each hand-selected based on a specific list of criteria ranging from sophisticated design and sought-after destinations, to unrivaled standards of service and impressive hotel amenities.

A Clear Vision
Sheraton Grand is just one of many initiatives currently underway for Sheraton 2020, a comprehensive 10-point plan revealed in June 2015 designed to put Sheraton Hotels and Resorts firmly back into the global spotlight. A nod to the plan’s clear five year vision, Sheraton 2020 also includes a new multi-million Sheraton-focused marketing campaign; the launch of a new elevated food and beverage lobby program, Paired; continuous innovation of the Sheraton guest experience; an unwavering commitment to service excellence; the implementation of revenue and profit-driving initiatives to benefit owners and developers; and a goal of adding more than 150 new Sheraton hotels worldwide by 2020.

For more information on Sheraton Grand Los Cabos, Hacienda del Mar, visitwww.sheratonhaciendadelmar.com, facebook.com/sheratonloscabos or follow the property on Twitter attwitter.com/sheratoncabos and Instagram at instagram.com/sheratonhaciendadelmar.

About Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, the largest and most global brand of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., makes it easy for guests to explore, relax and enjoy the possibilities of travel through smart solutions and effortless experiences at more than 440 hotels in more than 72 countries around the world. The brand is currently in the midst of implementing Sheraton 2020, a 10 point plan designed to make Sheraton the global hotel brand of choice, everywhere. Sheraton recently launched “Where Actions Speak Louder,” a multi-channel, multi-million dollar advertising campaign that highlights the brand’s ongoing enhancements to its guest experience, including new products and partnerships, and a renewed focus on service. With work well underway, the brand has already rolled out a variety of initiatives under Sheraton 2020, including Paired , a new imaginative lobby bar menu; the richest SPG promotion in the brand’s history; and Sheraton Grand, a new premier tier that recognizes exceptional Sheraton hotels and resorts. To learn more, visitwww.sheraton.com. Stay connected to Sheraton: @sheratonhotels on Twitter and Instagram andfacebook.com/Sheraton.

LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE APPOINTS REBECCA HUBBARD AS NEW GENERAL MANAGER

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Former Hotel Manager to Lead Iconic Luxury New York City Hotel Under New Ownership by Lotte Hotels & Resorts

Lotte New York Palace announced today the appointment of long time hotel manager, Rebecca Hubbard, as the new General Manager. Hubbard, approaching her five-year anniversary with the property, has established herself as a leading force in maintaining and growing the property’s esteemed reputation through her true passion and extreme dedication.

Hubbard joined the Lotte New York Palace team in 2011, bringing with her an extensive background of over 20 years of experience in the industry. Her roots began in guest service with managerial roles at Manhattan East Suite Hotels, Sheraton New York, Sheraton Manhattan, and The Essex House. At the latter, she served as the Director of Reception, where she led all front office departments, implemented training and orientation programs for all new managers, and was responsible for all financial planning of the reception department. She has since held the prestigious managerial roles of Assistant Rooms Executive and Front Office Manager at The Ritz-Carlton hotels of New York, where she was a leader of all rooms departments, including front of the house, housekeeping, guest recognition, club lounge, spa, and PBX. She also served on the Rooms Advisory Board for Ritz-Carlton for the New York and Boston regions.

Prior to her position at Lotte New York Palace, Hubbard opened Trump SoHo as the Executive Assistant Manager, overseeing the daily operations and budget of the rooms department. This experience helped her to forge a longstanding reputation for exceptional quality and impeccable service, creating a name for herself as she stepped through the doors of Lotte New York Palace.

Hubbard holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from SUNY Plattsburgh in Plattsburgh, New York, and currently resides on the Upper East Side with her husband and two daughters. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and exploring museums, restaurants and other cultural offerings in New York City.

About Lotte New York Palace
Lotte New York Palace, a luxury midtown hotel on the corner of 50th & Madison, was acquired by Lotte Hotels & Resorts on August 28, 2015. Previously, the property completed a $140 million redesign in the fall of 2013. The renovation transformed the property’s premier rooms and suites in The Towers, a hotel-within-a-hotel. Additional upgrades included new lobbies, specialty suites and restaurants and bars including Trouble’s Trust, The Lobby Lounge, Tavern on 51, Rarities and Pomme Palais. In addition to 30,000 square feet of updated event space, The Palace is home to private spaces located in the historic Villard Mansion that feature 19th century interiors and are ideal for lavish weddings, events and dinners. With 909 rooms and suites, The Palace is known for unparalleled splendor, spectacular views, spacious rooms and exquisite service. Located across the street from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and only steps from Rockefeller Center — the hotel’s world-renowned courtyard incorporates motifs from several 15th-century Italian cathedrals and has served as the entranceway to the historic Villard Mansion since 1882. Lotte New York Palace gracefully blends the landmark Villard Mansion with a contemporary 55-story tower. Guests can reserve accommodations online at www.lottenypalace.com or contact reservations at (1-800-697-252) or via email:reservations@lottenypalace.com

THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS COMPLETES $6 MILLION RENOVATION OF MEETING & EVENT SPACE

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San Francisco’s iconic Westin St. Francis has completed an extensive renovation of 50,000 square feet of meeting and special event space in both the Landmark and Tower buildings. Since opening more than a century ago on March 21, 1904, The Westin St. Francis has been at the center of San Francisco’s social, theatrical and business life, hosting socialites, royalty and business leaders for their most important meetings and celebrations.

“The renovation gives our meeting space a more contemporary look and feel,” said Westin St. Francis Director of Sales & Marketing Elaine Clancy. “The design and color palette are much more cohesive throughout.”

Thirty rooms were renovated including: the Grand Ballroom, ideal for large celebrations; the Colonial Room appointed with classic Italian murals, elaborate candelabras, and gold-leafed columns separating regal opera balconies; the elaborate Italian Room; the Borgia Room with its jewel-like ceiling was originally the hotel chapel; and the sophisticated St. Francis Suite, the former home of the Pope Family for many years.

Designed by Whitespace Interiors, the meeting rooms and event space reflect a “new classic” aesthetic that is fresh and modern while paying tribute to the historic qualities of the hotel. Edwardian and Art Deco-era patterns and motifs found within the architecture of the spaces helped establish the spirit of the new design. Each of the 30 rooms showcase a sophisticated color palette that cohesively blends cool silvers and greys with warm bronze, cream and gold tones, providing a rich yet neutral backdrop for the deep red-gold tones found within the vintage architectural ceiling details.

Design highlights include: woven Axminster carpet with a custom designed pattern unique to the characteristics and vintage of each room; custom crafted chandelier and wall sconces with cast glass, bronze, and nickel finishes imported from Czech Republic; elegant drapery and window treatments designed to provide a soft filtered light perfect for meetings; and artwork curated to provide a modern counterpoint to some of the traditional interior elements. All of the rooms have been outfitted with energy efficient LED architectural lighting and are wired for top performance high speed internet.

The Westin St. Francis boasts 1,195 guestrooms, including 41 suites. The hotel consists of two buildings, providing guests with a choice of staying in the historic Landmark Building or the contemporary Tower, which completed a $20 million renovation in 2014. Guestrooms in the Landmark Building showcase San Francisco’s history and charm with high ceilings, chandeliers and ornate woodwork supplemented by modern furnishings and premier views of Union Square. Tower guestrooms offer spacious accommodations with contemporary finishes, marble bathrooms and large bay windows, plus breathtaking views of famous San Francisco icons.

Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, The Westin St. Francis is the only hotel situated directly on Union Square. World-class shopping, restaurants and theatres are just steps from the hotel offering visitors many diverse options for activities and attractions; the Financial District, Chinatown and North Beach are just a quick walk. San Francisco’s famous cable cars stop right at the front door with direct access to Fisherman’s Wharf. Conveniently located near two international airports, the hotel is just thirty minutes (12 miles) to San Francisco International Airport and 40 minutes (15 miles) to Oakland International Airport.

NHCC Summit Focuses on Corporate Diversity and Inclusion

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Aiming to expand diversity and inclusion in the workplace, The National Hispanic Corporate Council (NHCC) will hold it 2015 Fall Summit in San Diego from Oct. 14-16, 2015.

The summit, entitled “Corporate Diversity & Inclusion: The Future is Now,” will take place at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa on Mission Bay.

“This important event will bring together subject matter experts in the areas of diversity and inclusion, marketing, and supplier diversity,” said Octavio Hinojosa, Executive Director of the NHCC. “Our objective is to identify key opportunities and challenges for stronger cooperation between these two highly-interlinked fields and share the latest corporate best practices.”

Summit highlights:

Thursday, Oct. 15

Address: “The Future of Corporate Diversity and Inclusion” by Maria G. Arias, Vice President, Comcast Corporation

Address: “Think Different – Effectively Engaging Your Latino Talent to Drive Growth” by Trini Monistere, Director, Insights and Strategy, SMU Cox Latino Leadership Institute.

Address: “Case Study: How Diversity & Inclusion Increases the Bottom Line” by Jose Montero, President, the Montero Group

Friday, Oct. 16

Supplier Diversity Session: “A Conversation on Supplier Development” led by Joset Wright-Lacy, President/CEO, National Minority Supplier Development Council Diversity and Inclusion Session: “Leveraging Latino Leadership as the Voice of the Brand” led by Audrie Ponzio, Founding Partner, APC Collective.

To register for the summit, go to nhcchq.org. For accommodations at the Paradise Point Resort and Spa, go to paradisepoint.com or call 800-344-2626.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Octavio Hinojosa with the NHCC, at 202-528-7229 or ohinojosamier@nhcchq.org.

About NHCC
Founded in 1985 with the vision to be our corporate members leading resource for maximizing the Hispanic market opportunity. Today, NHCC (www.nhcchq.org) provides our corporate members broad access to a collaborative community that shares resources, knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions to grow talent, customers, and suppliers. NHCC is the premier resource on effectively maximizing the Hispanic market opportunity through marketing, community relations, human resources, and procurement within the foundation of corporate social responsibility. Follow us on Twitter @NHCCorg.

Visit KC Appoints New Vice President of Sales & Services

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Cori Day to oversee company’s largest team beginning Aug. 31

Following last week’s appointments of two other leadership positions, Visit KC announces today that Cori Day will assume the role of Vice President of Sales & Services. Day brings to the tourism organization more than 16 years of experience in hospitality sales and marketing. Her hire continues the strategic growth of Visit KC’s management team and combines the organization’s convention sales and services team into a single department.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated hospitality professional to lead our sales and services efforts,” said Visit KC President and CEO Ronnie Burt. “I am confident that Cori’s leadership experience will take us to the next level as a meeting and convention destination.”

Day comes to Visit KC from the Independence Tourism Department in Independence, Mo., where she served as tourism director for four years. During her tenure, the organization witnessed a 60-percent increase in guest tax revenues. She also oversaw the reorganization of Independence’s group sales efforts, the creation of a convention services department and the founding of a sports commission.

Day’s diverse hospitality experience also includes 12 years of sales management experience with the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau in Columbia, Mo., the Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center in Independence and the Best Western Columbia Inn.

As Vice President of Sales and Services, Day will lead the destination’s sales and services teams, promoting Kansas City as a convention destination through short and long-range booking strategies, improving delivery of services to convention planners and maintaining relationships with area hotel and facility management teams.
Active in regional tourism organizations, Day serves as president-elect of the Missouri Travel Council and as a board member of the Missouri Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. A resident of Blue Springs, Mo., Day is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Day’s first day with Visit KC will be Aug. 31. Her hire bookends the appointment of two other new leaders within the organization— Ashley Jones, Vice President of Partnerships & Events; and Traci Preus, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications, joining Visit KC on Aug. 17 and 24, respectively.

About Visit KC
Visit KC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ignite global passion for visiting Kansas City. Through marketing, sales and service of the convention and tourism industries, Visit KC supports a vital and growing component of the local economy—generating more than 45,000 jobs and $4.6 billion in economic impact annually. For more information about the organization or Kansas City, go to VisitKC.com.

SW AIR And HACU Now Accepting Applications For The Lanzate Travel Award Program

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Southwest Airlines, in conjunction with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), announced that they are accepting applications for the 11th annual “¡Lánzate!/Take Off!” Travel Award program. Online applications will be accepted through May 15, 2015, at www.hacu.net. The program is geared toward Hispanic college students with economic need who pursue higher education at least 200 miles away from home. All applicants must complete an online application including an essay describing their inspiration to pursue a college degree.

 

Educators and education advocates from around the country will form a diverse judging panel this summer to select the 2015 Travel Award recipients. To view the criteria for the 2015 award program, please visit:SWAmedia. Each selected student winner is eligible for up to four roundtrip tickets for use by the student and/or a family member traveling to/from the university.

 

“Over the last 11 years, we have seen more than 700 inspirational students reach their dreams through their pursuit of higher education,” said Christine Ortega, Southwest Airlines Manager of Community Affairs & Grassroots. “We are proud and excited to once again offer this award to encourage the dreams of Hispanic students.”

 

“The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is proud of its continued partnership with Southwest Airlines ¡Lánzate! Travel Award Program,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “The compelling essays of more than 4,500 students received through the years underline the importance for our students of balancing their education and their families. Through HACU’s partnership with Southwest Airlines, the cost for these students of traveling back home is eliminated, and countless families have received a way to stay connected during their higher education journey.”
More than 1,500 roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines have been awarded to students across the nation since the program’s inception in 2005. Learn more at NUTS About Southwest.
ABOUT HACU
The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities represents approximately 450 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin America and Spain. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). Information is available at www.hacu.net.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
In its 44th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 46,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,400 flights a day, serving 94 destinations acrossthe United States and six additional countries. Southwest service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, begins in June 2015; and subject to government approvals, service to Belize City, Belize begins in October 2015.
Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity while over the United States. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to access streaming music provided by Beats Music or to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply), and there are never reservation change fees, although fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what’s important in their lives.

 

From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as “The Southwest Effect,” a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 42 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier’s performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2013 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at Southwest.com/citizenship.
Book Southwest Airlines’ low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.

San Antonio CVB’s all new “Unforgettable Experiences” Vacation Packages

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The San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau (SACVB) has a new way for travelers to authentically experience one of the greatest cities in the world. Unforgettable Experiences, an exclusive series of vacation packages, is guaranteed to help visitors create priceless memories in San Antonio, Texas.

The SACVB is the only destination marketing organization in the nation to develop these vacation packages, which take traditional accommodations and events bundles and up the ante. Unforgettable Experiences packages feature premier accommodations, epicurean discoveries, charming ground transportation, incredible event access, and more, all carefully curated to ensure the ultimate combination of ease, comfort, and cultural immersion. The simple, one-stop booking process allows the traveler to book the trip and rest easy, knowing countless key details have been expertly planned.

Each package is available for a limited time, and the current offering is a perfect example of the series’ inspired mix of exclusivity and fun: Viva Fiesta! The Royal Unforgettable Experience (April 22 – 26) gives visitors an unrivaled gateway into one of the world’s favorite parties, the legendary Fiesta San Antonio, April 16 – 26, 2015.

The Viva Fiesta! Royal Unforgettable Experience package for two includes the opportunity to:

  • Ride on a festive and colorful horse-drawn carriage in the country’s largest illuminated evening parade—the Fiesta Flambeau Parade.
  • Have VIP seats at the Battle of Flowers Parade to see the vividly decorated floats in the historic Alamo plaza.
  • Attend a private evening gala to meet Fiesta royalty and Grand Marshal John Quinones, as well as have their presence announced to the entire reception.
  • Have VIP Access and a behind-the-scenes tour at NIOSA (Night in Old San Antonio), where more than 250 elaborately decorated food and drink booths and more than a dozen nonstop-entertainment stages represent the diverse cultures and customs of San Antonio in 15 heritage-themed areas.
  • Enjoy a scenic San Antonio river cruise aboard a water taxi toward the Pearl District, a vibrant culinary section of the River Walk, to enjoy dinner at La Gloria restaurant.
  • Take a privately guided hidden-secrets tour aboard a personal Fiesta-decorated pedicab.
  • Work with a chef and bartender at Ácenar HotMex/CoolBar restaurant to make a famous drink and contemporary dish. The experience will also include lunch and dessert.
  • Attend the King William Fair and receive complimentary food and drink tickets.
  • Receive a welcome bag with Fiesta apparel and a selfie stick.
  • Stay at the ultra-luxurious Hotel Valencia on the world-famous River Walk.

 

New options in the Unforgettable Experiences series will be posted throughout the year. Upcoming options include this summer’s Family Fun Experiential Package, a kid-friendly dream trip featuring behind-the-scenes SeaWorld adventures, a visit to a Fiesta parade float-making workshop, honorary river barge steering duties for children, and more. This fall, a Tales From Times Past package, provides a deep dive into San Antonio’s rich history that includes a special meeting with descendants of the Coahuiltecan tribe who built San Antonio’s Colonial Spanish Missions, a meal with leaders of Mission Concepción, a curator-led visit to the Witte Museum featuring artifacts not on display to the public, an explanation of el Dia de los Muertos followed by a craft-making workshop inspired by the celebration, and so much more.

 

Visitors can check www.visitsanantonio.com/UnforgettableExperiences regularly for the latest vacation packages, and visit www.visitsanantonio.com to explore all of the one-of-a-kind experiences waiting in San Antonio.

 

Washington, DC Area Hotels Win Five Awards Among Over 100 Hotels Throughout North America

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Crescent Hotels & Resorts, held its Annual Leadership Conference at the Sheraton Tysons Hotel which concluded with an awards gala celebrating individuals and hotel teams among the over 100 managed properties that excel in guest service, community outreach and financial performance. Of the 31 awards given out, five were presented to hotels in the Washington, DC area.

The Community Outreach Award was given to the Sheraton Reston Hotel and Westin Reston Heights. These two hotels, adjacent to each other, are just minutes from the new Silver Line Metrorail via complimentary shuttle. “We are honored to receive this award, as it not only speaks to the culture of our hotels, but our company as well,” said Claudia Eggspuhler, Complex General Manager, who oversees both locations. “We feel it’s so important to give back to the local community and be a strong community leader.” The hotels participated in a fundraiser event nearly every month of 2014 with hotel team members volunteering their time. The nonprofit charities that the hotels assisted included: American Heart Association, Ronald McDonald Charity Homes, Brides Against Breast Cancer, Locks of Love Hair Donation, Backpack Drive, Wounded Warrior Project, Yellow Ribbon Fund, Toys for Tots and Katherine Hanley Family Shelter.

Harold Bassler, General Manger of the Hilton Crystal City at Washington Reagan National Airport received the General Manager Excellence in Sales Award. “We are particularly proud of this award because it truly showcases our commitment to our customers,” said Tim Bowes, Vice President of Sales. “With our well-known brands and ideal locations throughout the Washington, DC area, it’s easy for our sales teams to bring groups and corporate travelers to our hotels. However, it’s the strong dedication from our general managers that insure the highest level of service is given to our guests once they arrive, and that’s what keep our clients, groups and individual travelers, coming back to our hotels year after year.”

The 2014 Crescent Brightest Star for Leader of the Year Award was given to Butch Tamayo, Banquet Manager at the Sheraton Reston Hotel. “Butch has been with the hotel for over ten years and works closely with all departments of the property to be sure every catering event guest receives the utmost in service, “said Eggspuhler. “He is always going the extra mile. Many of our business and social events come back to the hotel because of Butch.” When given his award, it was noted that while Tamayo’s responsibility is at the Sheraton Reston, he is always the first to volunteer to assist at the hotel’s sister property, The Westin Reston Height, whenever needed – even on his days off.

Marje Jones, also a member of the Reston hotel complex, received an award thanking her for her two years of service on the Sales Marketing And Revenue Team (SMART) Council. Jones holds the position of Complex Director of Sales and Marketing, managing the sales team members for both locations. “The fact that Marje has her hands full, but is still willing to volunteer her time so that all our hotels can benefit from her hospitality expertise shows the kind of person she is,” said Lovell Casiero, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Crescent Hotels & Resorts, who credits the growth of the management company in large part to the high level of talent the company attracts. “I’ve never worked for a company where so many people are willing to work beyond the scope of their own positions, to help their colleagues and the company be successful,” added Casiero.

The last award of the night given to a Washington, DC area hotel was Most Improved Guest Service Score, presented to the Hilton Crystal City at Washington Reagan National Airport team and accepted by Harold Bassler. Less than a year ago, the hotel completed a $12M renovation, including a dramatic refurbishment of the hotel’s 393 guest rooms, convention and meeting space, lobby level as well as having introduced a new food and beverage concept, Oasis, geared to exceeding the needs of today’s traveler. “While our guests love the new look of the hotel, located just over the river from Washington, DC,” stated Sami Zeitoun, Vice President of Operations, “behind the scenes, our team at the Hilton worked diligently to transition the hotel to the gem it is today. We are all very proud of how hard the hotel team worked to usher in an even higher level of guest service for the hotel to match the exciting major physical enhancements of the property.”

Crescent Hotels & Resorts operates over 100 hotels throughout North America, including 15 hotels in the Washington, DC area.

ABOUT STAY IN WASHINGTON DC

Stay in Washington DC includes Crescent Hotels & Resorts’ hotels located in and around Washington, DC. These properties are internationally recognized brands including, Hilton, Hyatt, Sheraton, Westin, Wingate by Wyndham, Radisson, Cambria Hotels & Suites and Best Western. Most hotels are in walking distance to a Metrorail or offer complimentary shuttle service that links guests to the city’s world renowned Metrorail network. All locations offer various dining, shopping and entertainment options just minutes away via walking, complimentary shuttle or Metrorail. Several locations offer award winning restaurants right inside the hotels. For more information, visitwww.stayinwashingtondc.com, like on Facebook.com, follow on www.twitter.com, follow on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube and connect on Google+. #StayinWashDC

ABOUT CRESCENT HOTELS & RESORTS

Crescent Hotels & Resorts is a nationally recognized, top-5 operator of hotels and resorts. Crescent currently operates over 100 hotels and resorts in 36 states in the US and 4 provinces in Canada. Crescent is one of the few elite management companies approved to operate upper-upscale and luxury hotels under the brand families of Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Hyatt and IHG. Crescent also operates a collection of legendary independent hotels and resorts. Crescent’s clients are made up of hotel REITs, private equity firms and major developers. For more information, please visit www.chrco.com.

The Convention Industry Council (CIC) responds to Governor Mike Pence in response to Indiana’s RFRA law

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Dear Governor Pence:

On behalf of the Convention Industry Council, I respectfully request that your office continue to work with the general assembly and the hospitality community in the state to adopt corrective language that clarifies that the law does not allow discrimination of any kind against any segment of the population. The Convention Industry Council represents 33 associations in the meetings, conventions, exhibitions and travel industry who collectively represent more than 103,500 individuals and 19,500 firms and properties involved in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry.

An unintended consequence of this law has been the reaction of many businesses who are considering not holding future meetings and events in Indiana. Not only would this be harmful to economic well-being of the state, but it would injure the very people who are employed by the hospitality industry and who may be subject to discrimination due to this legislation.

Meeting destinations in Indiana have a reputation for delivering world-class hospitality and service to all visitors and meeting attendees. This legislation does much to harm the view of Indiana as an inclusive and welcoming community.

Thank you for your immediate attention to this important matter.

Regards,

Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP
Chief Executive Officer

Spring to San Diego & Set Sail on a Harbor Getaway!

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Visit San Diego is giving away a San Diego getaway including domestic roundtrip airfare, a three-night stay at Kona Kai Resort & Marina along with a spa package at Kona Kai’s Spaterre, dinner for two at Chef Deborah Scott’s Island Prime, and a sunset cruise with Bay Dreamin’ Cruises. Enter to win for a limited time. Last day to enter is March 15 at 11pm.

https://www.facebook.com/SanDiego?sk=app_143103275748075

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