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Industry Happenings
Paul Kessinger Joins Hotel Yountville as Director of Operations
Hotel Yountville | October 25, 2017
YOUNTVILLE, CA. (Oct. 25, 2017) – Hotel Yountville, one of Napa Valley's hotel gems, presenting charming service and genuine comfort, welcomes new Director of Operations Paul Kessinger. Amidst enhancements to the hotel's brand identity and service, Kessinger brings 10 years of experience to lead Hotel Yountville in its continued efforts to deliver Yountville Heritage Reimagined. "With his outstanding leadership skills and diverse experience in hotel management, Paul is well equipped to offer guests a quality of service that will exceed their expectations," said Sileshi Mengiste, vice president of operations for Remington Hotels. "...
The London NYC Appoints Robert Rechtermann as General Manager
Conrad Hotels & Resorts | October 25, 2017
NEW YORK, N.Y. – October 25, 2017 – Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton's (NYSE: HLT) luxury hotel portfolio for the smart luxury traveler, today announced the appointment of Robert Rechtermann as general manager of The London NYC. In his role, Robert will oversee the day-to-day operations of the prestigious 562-key all-suite luxury hotel as the property undergoes a complete 18-month long renovation before it officially reflags as Conrad New York Midtown in spring 2019. Rechtermann brings an impressive 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, primarily in the luxury segment, boasting an extensive background in hot...
Westdrift Manhattan Beach Appoints Stephanie Bauer as General Manager
westdrift Manhattan Beach | October 25, 2017
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. (October 25, 2017) – Manhattan Beach's most anticipated luxury property, westdrift Manhattan Beach, is excited to announce the appointment of Stephanie Bauer as opening general manager. Bauer brings more than three decades of hospitality experience to westdrift, set to open in January 2018. Debuting as Los Angeles' inaugural Autograph Collection hotel, Bauer will oversee every nuance of this South Bay social destination to ensure its star power shines throughout. The 26-acre multi-faceted property reflects the refined beach lifestyle of its setting, featuring 392 breezy modern rooms, a nine-hole golf course...
Nobody Asked Me, But… No. 186: Hotel History: The Harvard Club of New York (1894)*
Stanley Turkel | October 25, 2017
By Stanley Turkel, CMHS 1. The Harvard Club of New York (1894), New York City The Harvard Club of New York at 27 West 44th Street was originally built in 1894 (with major additions in 1905, 1915, 1947 and 2003) and designed by McKim, Mead & White. Its classic Georgian design recalls the buildings at Harvard Yard in Cambridge. In 1966, the Landmarks Preservation Commission designated the Harvard Club of New York as a landmark despite the opposition of the Harvard Club to the proposed designation. It was one of the first buildings in New York to be named a landmark. It is also listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. O...
From Associations to Auto Shows, New Technology Connects Vendors, Attendees and All Points in Between
Connect Space | October 25, 2017
Connect Space provides integrated cloud-based technology for the world's largest auto show ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 25th, 2017—Connect Space was recently selected as the technology behind PlanetM's program, AutoMobili-D, following the inaugural launch in 2017 with a 40,000 plus audience at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The purpose was to bridge the gap between automakers looking to explore new innovative technologies, and those startup companies that could provide those products and services. The Michigan Economic Development Corp. partnered with NAIAS to launch the Connect Space technology at the show. "We ...
Maestro PMS Delivers Savvy Mobile Strategies that Enrich the Guest Journey from Direct Booking to Check Out
Maestro PMS | October 25, 2017
Learn more about Maestro at The HX Show in NYC, TribalNet in Phoenix, and IHLA in Miami Markham, Ontario – October 25, 2017 – Life today is about mobility. We depend on our mobile devices for communications, driving directions, and information gathering. Maestro PMS embraced this shift in the market when it emerged. Today it works with independent operators to offer enhanced mobility options in its PMS property software suite to enrich the guest journey and meet guest expectations. From reservation booking to curbside tablet check-in, in-house communications to paperless check-out and everything in between. Operators with si...
Carver Hotel Group Launches CARVER-SELECT: Task Force for Select and Limited Service Properties
The Carver Companies | October 25, 2017
ATLANTA, GA – October 26, 2017– Carver Hotel Group (CHG), the hospitality infrastructure powerhouse, announced the launch of CARVER-SELECT, a new Task Force service, designed to support select and limited service properties across North America. While historically, the largest user of Task Force consultants has been full service hotels, there is an ever growing demand for support positions such as: general manager, front office manager, housekeeping, engineering and sales at the select and limited services levels. Developing a pool of consultants for SELECT will allow Task Force to be provided at a price point that will work...
Boston Lodging Market’s Strong Performance Expected to Continue Through Fourth Quarter
Sebastian J. Colella | October 25, 2017
By Sebastian J. Colella Through the third quarter, revenue per available room (RevPAR) in the Boston and Cambridge lodging market has grown 2.8% over the same time last year and the remaining three months will only help boost this performance further. Although the market's RevPAR declined in 2016 for the first time in six years, market dynamics have improved to drive growth in both occupancy and average daily rate (ADR). The market has benefitted from a strong convention calendar with well-placed citywides, limited supply growth, and increases to both corporate and leisure demand. Year-to-date through September 2017, lodging supply has ...
HITEC Amsterdam 2018 Online Registration and Housing Bureau Open Now
HITEC | October 25, 2017
HFTP's second annual HITEC Amsterdam is 11-13 April 2018 at the RAI Amsterdam Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC®), announced that attendee online registration for its second HITEC Amsterdam is now open. Also available on the HITEC Amsterdam website is information on travel and hotel reservations. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from 11-13 April 2018 at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. "2018 will be the second time HFTP brings HITEC to Europe," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Amste...
Teneo Hospitality Group Appoints Bob Korin Director of Sales
Teneo Hospitality Group | October 25, 2017
Eden Prairie, MN, October 25, 2017 … Continuing to expand its sales force, Teneo Hospitality Group, the premier global firm representing 300+ independent and luxury branded hotels, resorts and DMCs, has appointed veteran industry sales executive, Bob Korin, as Director of Sales, joining the Northeast team. "We're delighted to welcome Bob to the growing Teneo Sales Team," says Teneo President, Mike Schugt. "He brings to Teneo invaluable experience that spans 30 years in a range of markets and a stellar reputation in the hotel and conference industries." Mr. Korin spent the better part of his career with Marriott International, whe...
The Hotel Owner’s Playbook for Choosing the Right Technology Systems
Residence Inn by Marriott | October 25, 2017
StayNTouch shares the top 5 requirements for hotel owners to consider when shopping for any new hotel technology Bethesda, MD (October 25, 2017) – There are many ways to make a bad hotel technology decision, but only a few ways to make a good one. To help you out with this process, StayNTouch has created a handbook titled, The Hotel Owner's Playbook for Choosing the Right Technology Systems, featuring the top attributes for hotel owners to consider when shopping for any new hotel technology system. With literally hundreds of different solutions to choose from, finding the right one for your hotel is a process that takes time a...
Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel Completes Multi-Million Dollar Renovation Led by General Manager Paige Lund
Tambourine | October 24, 2017
Phoenix, Arizona . . . . (October 2017) - Considered one of downtown Phoenix's most iconic and historic properties, and located in the epicenter of the city's vibrant downtown district, The Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel has recently completed a multi-million dollar makeover according to General Manager Paige Lund. The $13 million renovation, which commenced in June of 2016, included modernizing the exterior of the building and relocating the hotel entrance and valet; a complete redesign of the hotel lobby; the addition of its new signature restaurant Dust Cutter and the largest Starbucks in the downtown district, both of wh...
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile Undergoing Property-Wide Renovation Slated for April 2018 Completion
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile | October 24, 2017
(CHICAGO; October 24, 2017)— The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile (540 N. Michigan Ave.) announced that the hotel's meeting and event space will undergo a complete renovation to be completed in February 2018. "The goal of the project was to take Chicago's best located convention hotel and modernize its meeting and social spaces," says Director of Marketing Adam P. Korchek. "The space re-design and capital investment will provide an elevated hotel experience while providing versatility to a wide range of corporate, association and social clientele." The hotel will be reinventing all seven floors of approximately 90,000 sq...
Pyramid Hotel Group Celebrates Official Opening of AC Hotel Miami Aventura with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
AC Hotels by Marriott | October 24, 2017
The opening of the AC Hotel Miami Aventura by Marriott® was celebrated on October 5th, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and a vibrant cocktail reception. Aventura Mayor Enid Weisman, along with members of the City Commission and South Florida business leaders, welcomed the new property to the city. The 233-room property is located at 20805 Biscayne Boulevard, Aventura and opened its doors in July. "With the property's ample meeting space, beautiful guest rooms and exciting AC lounge and AC kitchen, the AC Hotel Miami Aventura is filling the need for stylish, contemporary lodging in our community," said Mayor Weisman. "It is a beautifu...
Six Senses and Espire Group Developing First Resort in India Through Conversion of Historic Rajastani Fort
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas | October 24, 2017
BANGKOK – October 24, 2017 – Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas is delighted to announce plans to open Six Senses Fort Barwara featuring 48 suites in Rajasthan, India. Situated 68 miles southeast of Jaipur, the property is located in the village of Chauth ka Barwara on the site of a 700-year-old fort which was owned by the Rajasthani Royal Family and sits directly opposite the temple, Chauth ka Barwara Mandir. The Barwara Fort was constructed in the 14th century by the Chauhans (Indian Rajput caste) and was conquered by the Rajawat Dynasty from the Hadas in 1734. During World War II, Raja Man Singh from the noble family of Barwa...
Art Ovation Hotel Appoints Dominic Vaccaro as Executive Chef
Art Ovation Hotel | October 24, 2017
Executive Chef Vaccaro brings 28 years of F&B experience to brand new Autograph Collection Hotel slated to open winter 2018 SARASOTA, FL – OCTOBER 2017 – Art Ovation Hotel, an Autograph Collection Hotel slated to debut in Sarasota, Florida this December, has announced Dominic Vaccaro as Executive Chef to oversee the hotel's food & beverage operations. Pending the property's highly anticipated arrival, Vaccaro is taking the lead in launching the area's newest restaurant, as well as designing the menus for the rooftop pool bar, banquets and catering, and room service dining. Dominic Vaccaro holds an exceptional record ...
Kennedy Training Network Appoints M. Cathy Cook as Executive Director of Training & Development
Kennedy Training Network | October 24, 2017
Prior to joining KTN, Ms. Cook served for 17 years as a Manager – Development, for the Learning & Development Division of Marriott International Davie, Florida – October 24, 2017 – Kennedy Training Network, Inc., a premier provider of hospitality sales & guest service training for clients throughout North America and Europe, announced the appointment of M. Cathy Cook as Director of Training & Development. Ms. Cook will oversee KTN's existing team of hospitality and sales trainers while also personally delivering KTN's extensive menu of workshop topics. Additionally, Ms. Cook will design new programs to expa...
Douglas Wilkins Joins B. F. Saul Company Hospitality Group as Senior Vice President of Operations
B. F. Saul Company Hospitality Group | October 24, 2017
Bethesda, MD – October 24, 2017 – B. F. Saul Company Hospitality Group, a leading owner and operator of full-service, select-service and extended-stay hotels, today announced the hiring of Douglas Wilkins as the Senior Vice President of Operations. Wilkins will be responsible for executing the company's operational objectives while driving strong and balanced results, and will report directly to President, Mark Carrier. "We are honored to bring Douglas in and have him be a part of the B. F. Saul family," said Mark Carrier, President, B.F. Saul Company Hospitality Group. "I have full confidence in his abilities and extensive ...
Caesars Entertainment Appoints Chris Holdren Chief Marketing Officer
Caesars Entertainment Corporation | October 24, 2017
LAS VEGAS, Oct. 24, 2017 -- Caesars Entertainment Corporation (NASDAQ: CZR) announced today that Chris Holdren has been appointed the company's Chief Marketing Officer, effective November 1, 2017. In this role, Mr. Holdren will be responsible for all of the company's marketing initiatives, including the advancement of the industry-leading Total Rewards loyalty network and Caesars Entertainment's portfolio of leading gaming and hospitality brands. Mr. Holdren will join the company's Senior Management Team and report to President and Chief Executive Officer, Mark Frissora. Mr. Holdren brings to Caesars more than two decade...
HR Group and Hyatt Enter Franchise Agreement for New Hyatt House Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany
Hyatt House | October 24, 2017
CHICAGO (October 24, 2017) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement with HR Group for a Hyatt House hotel in Frankfurt, Germany. Expected to open in late 2019, the hotel will be owned by benchmark. REAL Estate Development GmbH and will be leased and managed by HR Group. Hyatt House Frankfurt/Eschborn will mark the second Hyatt House and third select service hotel for Hyatt in Germany, an important step towards increasing Hyatt's portfolio throughout the country. The Hyatt House brand is rooted in extensive consumer insights indicating that guests seek stylis...
Public Involvement in Convention Center Hotel Financing
Thomas A Hazinski | October 24, 2017
By Thomas A Hazinski, Brian Harris Research generously supported by the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau Public sector involvement in convention center hotel projects is common due to the high cost of development and lack of private capital for such investments. Event planners expect the presence of a hotel adjacent to a convention center. Consequently, proximate hotels are essential for many convention centers to remain competitive in the convention center industry. As most communities desire the economic impact of group events and the spending of the visitors they attract, many are providing public subsidies to projects...
Scholarship to Ease Financial Challenges for Hospitality Management Students
Penn State | October 24, 2017
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Hotel and Restaurant Society Opportunity Scholarship, the society's first scholarship endowment, will ease the financial burden for students who face significant financial hurdles as they work toward their degrees. Founded in 1942 with the purpose of strengthening all hospitality professions, the Penn State Hotel and Restaurant Society (PSHRS) continues to be an influential presence on campus today. PSHRS is an Affiliate Program Group of the Penn State Alumni Association and the College of Health and Human Development Alumni Society. PSHRS's gifts to the School of Hospitality Management total ...
2017’s Top 25 Most Haunted Historic Hotels from Historic Hotels of America
October 24, 2017
These "spirited" guests continue to haunt the halls of these historic hotels WASHINGTON, D.C.—October 24, 2017—Historic Hotels of America® has inducted more than 300 historic hotels. Many of these legendary places are reported to have some spirited guests who continue to roam the halls of these historic hotels long after they should have checked out. These ghosts represent all ages, males and females, hired help to wealthy patrons, numerous professions, and others suffering from broken hearts to broken fortunes. If you are interested in a stay in a historic hotel with a paranormal twist, here is the Historic Hotels of Am...
TravelClick Expands Strategic Business Intelligence Relationship with Hyatt
TravelClick | October 24, 2017
TravelClick's Demand360®, Rate360® and Agency360® Preferred Solutions for Hyatt NEW YORK, October 24, 2017 – TravelClick, a global provider of innovative, cloud-based and data-driven solutions for hotels to maximize revenue, today announced the Company's expanded data relationship with Hyatt, a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 13 premier hotel brands and more than 700 properties in 56 countries. Through this expanded partnership, Hyatt will expand its corporate-level use of TravelClick's Hotelligence360® Business Intelligence Solutions: Demand360®, Rate360® and Agency360®, and...
