SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has taken a significant step in advocating for the hospitality industry, emphasizing its substantial economic contributions and ongoing workforce recovery efforts. In a recent testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Workforce, AHLA President and CEO Rosanna Maietta addressed critical issues facing the sector.

Economic Contributions and Job Creation

The hotel industry plays a vital role in the U.S. economy, supporting one in every 25 jobs nationwide and contributing nearly $900 billion to the country’s GDP. This data underscores the industry's significant impact and its importance as a driver of economic growth.

Workforce Recovery and Challenges

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – Westgate Resorts has officially announced its definitive agreement to acquire Bellevue, Washington-based Vacation Ownership Sales (VOS), along with the management and sales and marketing rights for VI Resorts. This strategic acquisition, set to close in 2025, marks a significant expansion for Westgate Resorts, solidifying its position as a leader in the vacation ownership industry.

Expanding Westgate's Portfolio and Vacation Club Offerings

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – Accor, Booking.com, and the University of Surrey have released a groundbreaking report detailing the motivations of sustainable travelers and offering crucial insights into optimizing communication strategies to encourage eco-friendly behaviors. This research, aimed at bridging the gap between intention and action, highlights the importance of clear, specific messaging to overcome traveler skepticism and promote sustainable practices in the hospitality industry.

Understanding Traveler Motivations

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – The PEUGEOT 9X8 #93 team has secured a 5th row starting position for the highly anticipated 1812 km of Qatar, the opening round of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). The qualifying session, held under the floodlights of the Losail International Circuit, saw intense competition among the Hypercar prototypes.

Qualifying Breakdown

Jean-Eric Vergne and Stoffel Vandoorne were tasked with qualifying the PEUGEOT 9X8 cars. The session began at 5:40 PM, with track temperatures at a cool 17°C. Vergne, driving the #93 car, began his warm-up laps on medium compound tires. He initially clocked a time of 1:39.963 before improving to 1:39.926 on his final fast lap. This performance secured him a spot in the Hyperpole session, reserved for the top ten qualifiers.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – JCJ Architecture, a leading planning, architecture, and interior design firm, has announced the promotion of Mary Faria to the role of Eastern Managing Director. This strategic move leverages Faria’s extensive operational expertise to enhance project delivery and resource management across the firm’s East Coast operations.

Mary Faria's Expanded Role at JCJ Architecture

With over 34 years of experience in design firm operations, Mary Faria brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. She will be instrumental in supporting existing contracts, ensuring adherence to critical path schedules, and strategically utilizing JCJ’s employee-owners’ diverse capabilities.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – CoralTree Hospitality has announced the appointment of Jenni Gaherty as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the Western United States. This strategic move follows the retirement of Chris Kenny, a key figure who contributed to the company’s growth since its inception in 2018.

Leadership Transition and Strategic Growth

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – Plamondon Hospitality Partners has announced the promotion of Nichole Vasquez to the position of regional director, operations, overseeing the company’s Marriott hotel locations in Frederick and Hagerstown, MD. This strategic move highlights Plamondon’s commitment to internal growth and operational excellence within its expanding portfolio.

Nichole Vasquez's Journey with Plamondon

Nichole Vasquez's career with Plamondon began in 2010 when she joined as an hourly associate. Her dedication and proficiency quickly propelled her through the ranks, leading her to supervise and manage multiple Maryland Marriott properties. Most recently, she adeptly managed Plamondon’s Marriott properties in Frederick and Hagerstown, while concurrently serving as the General Manager of Courtyard Frederick.

Leadership's Perspective on Vasquez's Promotion

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – Marriott International has announced the appointment of Carolina Voullieme as the new multi-property director of sales and marketing, a strategic move designed to enhance its presence in the Caribbean. Voullieme will oversee the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino and the Grand Cayman Marriott Resort, leading the charge in sales and marketing strategies to drive revenue, improve guest experiences, and expand market share.

Strategic Leadership and Extensive Experience

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – February 28, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 - In a recent interview with Hotel Business, Elizabeth Harlow, Chief Brand Officer of Sonesta International Hotels Corporation, shared insights into her career, leadership experiences, and the company's future direction.

A Passion for Hospitality

Harlow's journey into the hospitality industry began with a lifelong fascination. "Yes, I’ve been passionate about hospitality from a young age. Growing up, I was fortunate to travel both domestically and internationally with my parents, which sparked my love for exploring new places. Hotels, in particular, fascinated me—their ability to create memorable experiences left a lasting impression. Those early travels inspired me to pursue a career in the industry, knowing I wanted to be part of crafting those experiences for others."

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 27, 2025 – Turks & Caicos is a boater’s paradise, and for lifelong boater Jeff Hodges, it's a dream realized. Hodges, a seasoned entrepreneur from Charleston, South Carolina, has transformed his passion for the islands and boating into Moana Boat Rentals, offering unparalleled experiences on the crystal-clear waters of this Caribbean gem.

A Lifelong Love for the Water

Jeff Hodges' connection to the water runs deep. Growing up sailing and powerboating, he developed an innate understanding and love for maritime adventures. Over the past two decades, he and his family have explored the Turks & Caicos islands, captivated by their pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery. This deep connection fueled his desire to share the unique beauty of Turks & Caicos with others.

Entrepreneurial Spirit Meets Caribbean Charm