Faces and Places
THE OBADON HOTEL GROUP ANNOUNCES
ALICE LAND AS DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING OF THE MAYFAIR HOTEL & SPA
Coconut Grove, Fla. – The Obadon Hotel Group proudly announces the appointment of Alice Land as Director of Sales and Marketing of the Mayfair Hotel & Spa. An iconic Coconut Grove enclave with 179 suites, featuring Japanese soaking tubs and chaise lounges on private alcoves, Land will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of this legendary property. Having spent more than 11 years in the hospitality industry, Land brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh outlook to the Coconut Grove landmark. “We are confident in Land’s experience and are positive that she will contribute to the overall success of the Mayfair Hotel & Spa, with her leadership and training skills she is truly a powerful asset,” said Brij Misra, general manager. Land boasts an extensive background in the hotel industry, focusing on management and sales. Her most recent position as Director of Sales and Marketing at Renaissance Ft. Lauderdale-Plantation Hotel in Plantation, Fla., gave Land the power to successfully implement strategies to increase business opportunities. Formerly holding management and executive roles in various departments for the Marriot brand, she has experience in both operations and sales. Blending New York influences with the tropical vibe of Miami, the iconic Mayfair Hotel & Spa – poised in hip Coconut Grove – recently unveiled a new layer of haute with the opening of rooftop Cabana One Pool Club & Lounge and famed New York steakhouse Angelo & Maxie’s. Gaudí-inspired design and an unpretentious ambience define this historic enclave, complete with an orchid-filled, open-air atrium and Japanese soaking tubs on private bougainvillea-covered terraces.
For more information call The Mayfair Hotel & Spa at (800) 433-4555, (305) 441-0000 or visit www.mayfairhotelandspa.com. For more information regarding Obadon Hotel Group, call (561) 713-2020.
HYATT REGENCY GRAND CYPRESS ANNOUNCES
NEW DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
Gary Gotling Appointed Director of Sales and Marketing
ORLANDO, Fla. (July 2, 2009) – Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress announces Gary Gotling as the new director of sales and marketing for the iconic, Orlando area hotel. Gotling will be responsible for managing sales strategies, marketing plans and comprehensive revenue generation.
“Gary Gotling has been in the Hyatt™ family for 25 years and has the skills and the experience to drive tremendous growth for Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress," said Paul Tang, vice president and managing director of Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. “We’re proud to have him at the helm of our sales and marketing team." Gotling began his hospitality career in 1978, at the front desk of a hotel in his native hometown, Chicago, IL. Six years later, he joined Hyatt™ Corporation, also in Chicago, and has since left a stream of accomplishments in his wake. Gotling has acted as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt properties across the country, from Maui to Miami, and most recently Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront.
“I am honored and privileged to join Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress as the Director of Sales and Marketing, a place where there is such a long history of delivering exceptional customer service,” said Gotling. “I look forward to working with the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress’ dynamic sales team and capitalizing on our hotel’s marketability by reaching a wide-variety of both repeat and new guests.”
Gotling is joined in Orlando by his wife of 19 years, Paula Gotling, son Gary Gotling Jr., age 14 and daughter, Savannah Gotling, age 12 and his two beloved Chihuahuas, Jenny and Buster.
“I couldn’t have made any of this happen without the support of my wife Paula and my kids. I want to thank them for their enthusiasm about coming to Orlando,” Gotling said with a smile. “We’ve been here for ten days and love it already.”
About Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
The award-winning Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is situated on 1,500 acres in the Lake Buena Vista area, close to Orlando’s many famous theme parks. In October 2008, the legendary hotel began its $65 million renovation with a modern restyling of all 750 guestrooms and suites. Each guestroom is smartly- designed with emphasis on conservation, guest comfort and convenience. With many guestrooms already renovated, the remainder of the initial phase of the renovation is scheduled for completion in November 2009.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress offers a variety of recreational activities, including 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf, racquet club, a 21-acre lake with water sports, a ½-acre lagoon swimming pool with waterfalls and waterslides and Camp Hyatt children’s programs. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is located at One Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando, Florida, USA 32836. Please call 1-800-55-HYATT (49288) for more hotel information and reservations or you may call the hotel directly at 407-239-1234. You may also visit our Web site at www.hyattgrandcypress.com.
About Global Hyatt Corporation
Global Hyatt Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is one of the world’s premier hotel companies. The hotels owned, operated, managed or franchised by its subsidiaries provide authentic hospitality to guests in 46 countries through a passionate commitment to personalized service, cultural relevance, and the environment. Global Hyatt subsidiaries own, operate, manage or franchise more than 385 hotels and resorts worldwide under the Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Resorts™, Grand Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt Summerfield Suites® and Andaz™ brands with additional properties under development on five continents. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club®. The success of Global Hyatt is driven by the commitment and energy of the thousands of men and women around the world who provide exceptional service to hotel guests. From the U.S. and Canada, reservations for any Hyatt hotel worldwide may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234 or visiting www.hyatt.com.
SCOTT RUSSELL NAMED VICE PRESIDENT, SALES & MARKETING
AT SANDESTIN® GOLF AND BEACH RESORT
Destin FL (June 30, 2009) – Intrawest ULC, a leader in the development and management in destination resorts, today announced the appointment of Scott Russell to the position of vice president of sales and marketing at Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, Florida. In his new role, Russell will oversee all sales and marketing activities for Sandestin. He will also serve as strategic counsel for Intrawest Hospitality Management for the Marriott Courtyard and Marriott Residence Inn, both located at Sandestin, as well as Cottage Rental Agency in nearby Seaside. “Scott Russell is known as a marquis player in the sales and marketing arena and has a proven track record for building and developing outstanding teams,” said Brian Collins, president of Intrawest. “We look forward to the positive contributions Scott will bring to Sandestin,” added Collins. Russell served more than 18 years with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, most recently as vice president of sales and marketing for the company’s properties in the Caribbean and Mexico. During his tenure with Ritz-Carlton, Russell was also responsible for all company-wide sales training initiatives. In addition, he held senior leadership roles with Ritz-Carlton New Orleans and Ritz-Carlton Atlanta.
Prior to joining Ritz-Carlton, Russell spent six years with the Le Meridien Hotel in New Orleans, where he served as sales manager, assistant director of human resources and director of training. Russell received his bachelor’s degree from the University of New Orleans. He is also a graduate of several Ritz-Carlton sales training programs including Mastering Sales Productivity, Strategy and Peak Performance programs as well as Ritz-Carlton’s renowned “Oratorio” public speaking program. He is the recipient of several awards and recognitions including Ritz-Carlton’s top sales person in 1992, 1993 and 1994. In 2003, Russell was named one of New Orleans “Top Men of Substance and Style” by New Orleans Magazine and in 2004 he was named WHERE Magazine’s Silver Plum Award winner as the “Marketing Director of the Year.” Russell has been involved in several community and civic organizations including “Food and Friends” and the “Children’s Inn” at the National Institute of Health, both based in Washington, DC. He has also served as a guest lecturer at the University of New Orleans and other colleges and universities.
About Sandestin® Golf and Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort offers the most complete beach resort experience in North America. Located on the popular Beaches of South Walton, Sandestin is a 2,400-acre destination resort for all seasons and for all ages. Sandestin invites guests to enter a world of sugar white sand beaches, 30 charming neighborhoods featuring 1,600 condominiums, villas, town homes and a wide variety of hotel accommodations. The luxury golf resort features four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 98-slip marina, a fitness center and Spa, 65,000 square feet of meeting space and a pedestrian village featuring a host of boutique shops, casual and fine dining restaurants and nightlife venues. Sandestin is a unit of Intrawest, a world leader in experiential destination resorts.
For more information about Sandestin, visit www.sandestin.com.
Media Contacts:
Laurie Hobbs
(850) 267-8261 or (612) 220-1176
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Lela Coker
(850) 267-8269
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ANGELIQUE SWANN APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
DOUBLETREE COCONUT GROVE HOTEL
Beverly Hills, Calif. -- June 23, 2009 – Angelique Swann has been appointed director of sales and marketing of the Doubletree Coconut Grove Hotel effective immediately according to Barbara Wendel, the hotel’s general manager. The 196-rooms hotel located in the heart of Coconut Grove Florida offers 10,000 square feet of meeting space including the penthouse level ballroom overlooking Biscayne Bay and the Coconut Grove Marina.A 20-year hospitality veteran, Swann comes to Doubletree Coconut Grove from Tenstar Consulting where she held the position of Director of Sales. Her career in Sales spans the globe with 6 countries including Japan, Turkey and Dubai. Swann began her career with The Four Seasons Hotel in Austin, Texas where she held the position of Executive Sous Chef and from there she held successive management positions with Fairmont Hotels, Stouffer Renaissance, Vita Luxury and Al-Sheddhi International in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Her many dynamic past roles include Director of Organizational Development, Regional Vice President and Senior Vice President of Sales. The Doubletree Coconut Grove is conveniently located just minutes from Center Grove. The hotel features 196 sleeping rooms and 10,000 square feet of meeting space, accommodating a wide number of events. For more information about the hotel, visit our hotel’s website at www.coconutgrove.doubletree.com or contact us directly at 305-858-2500.
CONTACT:
Lisa Cole
Director of Communications, SE
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305-796-8383
SUNSTREAM HOTELS & RESORTS APPOINTS
SENIOR SALES MANAGER FOR ITS NEWEST PROPERTY - THE RESORT AT MARINAVILLAGE
(FORT MYERS BEACH, FL) - SunStream Hotels & Resorts has named Erica Schatz senior sales manager for The Resort at MarinaVillage. In her new role, Schatz will be responsible for generating group sales for the company’s newest property set to open in November. Schatz has worked for multiple properties in the Southwest Florida region and brings more than nine years of hotel sales experience to her role. The Resort at MarinaVillage is a luxurious full-service condominium resort located at Tarpon Point Marina in Cape Coral. With 19 stories of sweeping views of the Caloosahatchee River, San Carlos Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, The Resort at MarinaVillage offers all the amenities of Tarpon Point Marina plus hotel-style luxuries such as room service, housekeeping and professional concierge services. Studio, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom residences range up to 2,225 square feet, with grand rooms, master suites, guest suites, dining terraces and access to amenity decks. The resort features 20,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor event space, ideal for medium-sized group meetings, weddings and conferences.
According to Jennifer Seaborn, director of sales and marketing, “We’re excited to introduce Erica to the opening team for The Resort at MarinaVillage. Her in-depth knowledge of the region and extensive hospitality experience are invaluable assets to making the property a success at opening and beyond.”
With high-speed Internet connectivity, complete business services and turnkey support from an experienced sales and catering management staff, SunStream Hotels & Resorts provide the utmost in meeting convenience and professionalism. For more information on SunStream meeting planning, please contact an associate in the SunStream Sales Division at 800-865-5844 (Cape Coral and Fort Myers Beach) or 800-548-5284 (Naples), or visit www.sunstream.com.
WALT DISNEY WORLD SWAN AND DOLPHIN CATERING SALES MANAGER
RECEIVES DOUBLE HONORS
Renee MacDonald named Orlando Caterer of the Year and
earns prestigious Certified Meeting Professional designation
Lake Buena Vista, Fla. – May 20, 2009 – Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort catering sales manager Renee MacDonald recently earned two separate honors. She was named Orlando Caterer of the Year and earned the designation of Certified Meeting Professional. MacDonald was named the Caterer of the Year by the Orlando chapter of the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE). NACE is the oldest and largest professional association that addresses all aspects of the catering industry. Additionally, MacDonald earned her Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) status through the Convention Industry Council.
The CMP is one of the most highly regarded certifications in the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry and strives to recognize those who achieve a high level of experience, skill and knowledge. To earn the certification, candidates must be widely involved in the meetings and conventions industry, have strong professional experience and pass a written examination. MacDonald joined the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort team in 2000 and, as the catering sales manager, is responsible for planning all food and beverage events for convention groups at the 2,265-room hotel.
A recipient of the prestigious Meetings & Conventions Hall of Fame Award, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is a nationally respected and recognized leader in the convention resort arena. Ideally located in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort, the resort offers 2,265 guest rooms and over 329,000 square feet of meeting space. Features consist of 84 meeting rooms, including two executive boardrooms, four ballroom options, 110,500 square feet of contiguous convention/exhibit space, outdoor function areas, two business centers, and Disney benefits. Groups also enjoy sophisticated guest rooms featuring Westin Heavenly Beds®, the luxurious Mandara Spa and 17 world-class restaurants and lounges.
FORT LAUDERDALE RESORTS WELCOME
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER CORINNE WHITTINGTON
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – May 18, 2009 – The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale –an oceanfront resort with 433 inviting guestrooms and 32,000 square feet of flexible meeting space – and the Sheraton Yankee Clipper Hotel today announced the appointment of Corinne Whittington as the new national sales manager. Whittington will be responsible for covering sales in the Southeastern United States for groups of 26 guestrooms and more. “Considering her past experience with Westin Resorts, Ms. Whittington has strong knowledge of the brand and is extremely well suited to serve our group customers,” said Amaury Piedra, complex general manager. “We are thrilled to have her on our Fort Lauderdale team.”With more than five years of Westin Resorts sales experience, Whittington joins the complex from The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa in Hollywood, Fla., and The Diplomat Golf Resort & Spa, Hallandale Beach, Fla., where she served as the Midwest national sales manager. Prior to that position, Whittington was responsible for managing groups of up to 150 guestrooms on peak as group sales manager for the two properties.
The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale opened March 2009, after completing the first phase in its extensive multi-million dollar rebirth. The beachfront resort will soon provide more than 32,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space and an 8,100-square-foot Heavenly Spa by Westin TM. The resort also offers 433 spacious and refreshing guestrooms and suites, each with Heavenly® Bed and Heavenly Bath®, as well as three palate-pleasing dining options including upscale Shula’s on the Beach, poolside Waves Bar & Grill and Starbucks coffeehouse. Known as the yachting capital of the world, the former spring break hot spot has recently experienced a coming of age and now offers high fashion, historic homes, an exhilarating nightlife and miles of white sand beaches.
For more information, call The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale at (800) 823-2240 or visit www.westin.com/fortlauderdalebeach.
CHESAPEAKE CONVENTIONS AND TOURISM WELCOMES SUSAN DREWERY
Susan Drewery will act as the new sales manager for Chesapeake Conventions and Tourism
Chesapeake, Va., June, 24, 2009 – Chesapeake Conventions and Tourism recently welcomed Susan Drewery as the newest member of their sales team. Drewery joined CCT as a sales manager to help bring group travel and tourism visitors into the Chesapeake area. At CCT, Drewery will help to promote Chesapeake as a go-to city for group travel tours and military, family and fraternal reunions.Before transferring to CCT, Drewery acted as sales manager for the Chesapeake Conference Center. Prior to that, Drewery was employed with Nauticus, The National Maritime Center in Norfolk, Va., where she dedicated 14 years of work to promoting tourism within the Hampton Roads region. While maintaining her job at Nauticus, Drewery graduated from Old Dominion University where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Drewery worked at Nauticus after classes as a development associate, a special events coordinator and a membership coordinator. She also holds an associates degree in social sciences from Tidewater Community College.
“We are ecstatic to have Susan Drewery as a member of our team now,” said Kim Murden, director of CCT. “She has lived and worked in the Chesapeake region for more than 15 years; she knows the area well and she’ll be able to give travelers expert advice.” As the tourism industry continues to grow within Chesapeake and the Hampton Roads region, CCT needed to expand their sales department as well. Drewery’s sales efforts will be dedicated to reaching out to group planners and tour guides.
“Susan is a huge asset to our sales team,” said Murden. “Her time will be committed to creating new and exciting itineraries and encouraging tour guides and tour planners to bring their groups into the region.” In addition to working with groups interested in planning their own tours and reunions, Drewery will collaborate with tour operators to create customized trip itineraries that meet the unique tourism preferences of a variety of groups.
“I am thrilled to take on this new challenge as a sales manager with the Chesapeake Conventions and Tourism team,” said Drewery. “Although I have played an active role in tourism attractions in the Hampton Roads region for years, I look forward to experiencing the full scope of the industry firsthand by working in the Conventions and Tourism department. Working for CCT will broaden by knowledge of the industry and I am confident that I will learn a lot.” For more information about CCT’s offerings in Tourism & Group Travel, go to www.visitchesapeake.com/tourism. Learn more about CCT’s newest group itineraries at www.visitchesapeake.com/tourism/itineraries.
About Chesapeake, Va. Conventions & Tourism
Based in southeast Virginia, the city of Chesapeake boasts more than 4,000 available hotel rooms and some of the strongest attractions, accommodations and meeting spaces in the area. Chesapeake Conventions & Tourism (CCT) strives to promote, market and sell the city as a destination for meetings, conventions and individual travelers, fostering economic development and benefiting and supporting members and the overall business community.
Established in 2002, the office of the Chesapeake Conventions & Tourism oversees all leisure, group and meeting travel marketing for the city. In addition to managing the Chesapeake Visitor Center, the office also markets the Chesapeake Conference Center with more than 23,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space. For more information on all Chesapeake has to offer, contact Chesapeake Conventions and Tourism at 757.502.4898 or go to www.visitchesapeake.com.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HYATT REGENCY HILL COUNTRY RESORT AND SPA
APPOINTS TROY KNAPP EXECUTIVE CHEF
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (August 17, 2009) – Troy Knapp, an eleven-year veteran with Hyatt Hotels Corporation and recipient of Hyatt’s 2008 Chef of the Year Award, has been appointed Executive Chef for Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. In his new position he will oversee and manage the operations of the resort's award-wining dining outlets: Antlers Lodge, Springhouse Café, Cactus Oak Tavern, Papa Ed's and Charlie’s Long Bar. In addition, Knapp will be responsible for room service, convention services and special events that take place at the resort. "We welcome Troy’s extensive knowledge and culinary expertise as well as his enthusiasm," said Gino Caliendo, General Manager. "We look forward to the many innovative contributions that he will bring to the resort and our guests." A graduate of South Seattle Culinary Arts, Knapp follows in the steps of his mother who is a personal chef. His first job in the culinary industry came at the age of 15 when he worked for a small catering company. In 1998, he joined Hyatt Hotels & Resorts as Executive Sous Chef at Hyatt Regency Valencia in southern California and was later promoted to Executive Chef at Hyatt Regency Westlake Plaza. Most recently, Knapp was Executive Chef for Hyatt Regency Phoenix.
"I am thrilled to be a member of the team at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa,” said Knapp. “Within the company, and the hotel industry as a whole, Hyatt Hill Country is well-regarded for exceptional service and unique cuisine." Knapp, originally from Seattle, Washington, contributes his success to having great mentors and to his passion for food, wine, music and art. Troy, his wife Linda and children Eden (5) and Noah (2) have recently moved to San Antonio.
About Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa is located on 300-scenic acres in the heart of San Antonio and features 500 guestrooms, 58 suites and 33,000 square feet of meeting space. With four restaurants, a lounge and coffee bar, guests can enjoy superb epicurean dining or cocktails with colleagues overlooking a lushly landscaped 27-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course. Amenities include a four-acre water park with three swimming pools and a 950-foot Ramblin’ River, as well as, Windflower – the Hill Country Spa with 21 treatment rooms and spa services using all natural products and botanicals. For reservations or information contact The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa at 210.647.1234 or visit us at www.hillcountry.hyatt.com.
About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company with a proud heritage of making guests feel more than welcome. Thousands of members of the Hyatt family in 45 countries strive to make a difference in the lives of the guests they encounter every day by providing authentic hospitality. The company’s subsidiaries manage, franchise, own and develop hotels and resorts under the Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Andaz™, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Place® and Hyatt Summerfield Suites™ brand names and have locations under development on five continents. Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., a Hyatt Hotels Corporation subsidiary, develops and operates vacation ownership properties under the Hyatt Vacation Club® and Hyatt Residence Club® brands. As of June 30, 2009, the company’s worldwide portfolio consisted of 413 properties. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.
HILTON FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH RESORT HAS
APPOINTED JOHN ALLAN
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER AND DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., August 19, 2009– The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, one of the area’s first large-scale, oceanfront resorts, has appointed John Allan as assistant general manager and director of sales and marketing, effective immediately. Allan, most recently held the assistant manager position where he oversaw the rooms divisions operation for the hotel. In his new expanded role, Allan will oversee the sales, marketing and catering efforts as well as management of the sales team, with continued focus on the day to day operations. “John has been an important part of Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort team. His leadership skills, accomplishments and experience with the Hilton brand and the success of this hotels sales and marketing efforts is a valuable asset for our resort and the entire Fort Lauderdale community,” states General Manager Andreas Ioannou. Allan began his career in hospitality at the Miami Lakes Inn & Golf Resort in 1989 as Director of Front Office and Guest Services. In 1991, he was appointed General Manager of the original Shula’s Steak 2 at the resort and was tasked with positioning the restaurant with franchise opportunities by developing standard operating procedures; a position he held until 1992 when he became Corporate Director of Restaurants overseeing 5 food and beverage outlets for the resort. His leadership skills and food and beverage experience lead him to the Fontainebleau Hilton in 1993 as Assistant Director of Food and Beverage overseeing 35 managers and 500 team members; as well as 10 food and beverage outlets and 250,000 square feet of meeting space. In 1996, he returned to Shula’s Steak House as Director of Operations and then in 1999 returned to the Fontainebleau as Executive Assistant Manager before becoming Vice President of Operations for Shula’s in 2002. Before joining the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach in 2007 as Assistant General Manager, Allan was Vice President of Sales for Freedman Meats Inc., a SYSCO Company. Allan has earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida International University in the School of Hospitality Management.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort:
“the spirit of elegance…personalized”- The spectacular Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is a 25-story, all-suite landmark property ideally located on the world-acclaimed shoreline of Fort Lauderdale’s exclusive North Beach, between the palm-shaded boulevards of Sunrise and Las Olas. It features 333 elegantly appointed studios, one, two and three-bedroom suites; a 25,000-sq.-ft. Sunrise Terrace with a pool and private cabanas overlooking the ocean; three dining options; Spa Q; 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; and children’s programs. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort prides itself on its personal services offered to guests, including dedicated beach concierges, kids’ concierges, premium transfer service and remote check-in, personalized shopping, wireless waiters and paperless valet systems. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is located at 505 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard between Sunrise and Las Olas Boulevards. For information and reservations, call 1-800-HILTONS (1-800-445-8667) or visit www.fortlauderdalebeachresort.hilton.com.
About Hilton Hotels
With nearly 500 hotels on six continents, Hilton Hotels continues to be an innovative leader in the full-service hospitality segment and the most recognized name in the industry. Hilton celebrates the accomplishment, enlightenment, renewal and celebration that travel enables. This commitment to personal guest achievement infuses all decisions about products, programs and amenities, and is underscored by the belief that travel can and should be transformative. Each unique Hilton Hotel was designed to reflect the sense of place of its location; each team member chosen to reflect the local culture and community. For more information, please visit www.hilton.com.
Lakeway Resort Partners with Returning Heroes Home to
Reinforce Good Will in the Meetings Industry
AUSTIN, T.X. (August 13, 2009) ? Lakeway Resort and Spa will launch this month, a charitable incentive program for meeting planners to book their meetings at the Austin area Dolce Resort and impact the lives of returning soldiers. They have teamed up with the U.S. Army Bass Anglers in support of the organization Returning Heroes Home. The organization has been working to raise $1.5 million to construct a new Warrior Family & Support Center to help meet the emotional and physical needs of wounded heroes of all military service backgrounds. The center will make great strides in the rehabilitation of America’s “Wounded Warriors” and their families by providing an environment that fosters healing and coping with war related disabilities.
“With Ft. Hood, one of the largest military bases, as our neighbor, our staff has come to truly understand the sacrifice that these men give for their country with each year of service. At a time when every dollar is watched closely and cost cutting is the norm, worthwhile programs are often lost in the shuffle of low business levels,” says General Manager, Stephen Bello. “This program will allow us to partner with other organizations through strategic meetings, an already established initiative for their company’s success, and feasibly make a difference.” Starting in August and running through the end of 2010, all clients that mention promotional code “HERO” in the booking process will have the opportunity for up to two different contributions to be made in their organization’s name to the Returning Heroes Home program. Based on a meeting with ten guest rooms or more, and keeping with the Resort’s “On the Lake” culture, complete bass fishing tackle will be donated to the heroes for recreational use. For meetings with over 25 guest rooms, a donation of 2.5% of rooms revenue will be donated to the efforts to phase II of building the support center.
“We provide our clients a superior conference product, attentive staff, and enthusiastic meeting planners, all on the lake,” says Mike Islava, Director of Sales and Marketing. “Now we can also supply them a way to give back as well.”
Lakeway Resort has long been recognized as one of the top meeting, executive retreat and conference destinations in Central Texas. Conference facilities at the 174 guest room conference center, total to 24,000 square feet of flexible, state-of-the-art meeting space, including 17 meeting rooms, with 12 break out rooms and four large ballrooms ranging from 4,000 – 5,800 square feet. Two of the large meeting rooms are equipped with permanent projection capabilities, A/V controls, computer graphics capability, multipurpose lighting, music and sound systems to accommodate the most dramatic presentations. Lakeway also offers a business center, high-speed Internet access and complimentary wireless capabilities. For additional details on how to participate in the Returning Heroes Home program or to check availability, please contact the sales office at 512-261-7300. For more information on the organization and what they are doing to better the lives of “Wounded Warriors” or to make individual contributions, please visit www.returningheroeshome.org.
About Lakeway Resort
Majestically situated on the shores of Texas’ renowned Lake Travis, Lakeway Resort has been the preferred destination for an unparalleled lakeside experience for over 25 years. Spectacular views only enhance the 174 guestrooms, suites and villas, 24,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, dining outlets, and calming experience of San Saba Spa. Located just west of downtown, the resort has long been considered the ideal spot for mixing business with pleasure. As a Dolce Resort, Lakeway Resort is managed by a global hospitality company specializing in the meetings experience and resort destinations. Dolce Hotels and Resorts holds a portfolio of 27 unique properties in the United States, Canada, and Europe, each with its own unique style.
Lakeway Resort and Spa is located at 101 Lakeway Drive, Austin, Texas 78734. Reservations may be made by calling toll-free 800-525-3929; local, 512-261-6600, or online at www.lakewayresortandspa.com.
Dolce Hotels and Resorts
Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., and Paris, is majority-owned by Broadreach Capital Partners and employs approximately 4,000 worldwide. Its portfolio of iconic hotels, resorts and conference centers also includes Dolce Hayes Mansion in San Jose, Calif.; Dolce Sitges in Barcelona, Spain; Seaview, near Atlantic City, N.J.; Dolce Chantilly in France; and Aspen Meadows Resort in Aspen, Colo.
Dolce Hotels and Resorts has earned a reputation for creating inspiring working and learning environments through its superior cuisine and amenities, productive facilities and design, and dedicated, personalized customer service. Additional information is available at www.dolce.com.