President's Message
IHLA recently concluded three successful events, including our 2009 Lobby Day in Springfield on February 18th, AH&LA's Legislative Action Summit in Washington, D.C. on March 17-18 that included a total of 13 IHLA participants, and a press conference to officially launch our StayGreen recognition programs (please see April's upcoming newsletter for more details and photos from the LAS Summit and the press conference).
Thanks to all of our members who attended Lobby Day and the StayGreen press conference. IHLA appreciates all of your support!
Don't forget to sign up your teams for Hospitality Games VII and Knowledge Games V. It only takes 6 people to form a team to compete in the entirely new events that will take place this year. The H-Games will take place on April 14th from 12pm - 3:30pm at the Hilton Chicago. This fun event will be a great way to grow employee enthusiasm and loyalty. Contact Jennifer Chase at (312) 346-3135 x233 or jchase@ihlaef.org to sign up your teams.
IHLA has also set April 20th,as the date for our first 2009 Regional Hospitality Luncheon, to be held from 11:30am-1pm at The Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in East Peoria. Contact Brenda Jacob for registration details at (217) 522-1231 or bjacob@illinoishotels.org.
I look forward to seeing our members at all of our upcoming events! |
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IHLA Hosts Successful Lobby Day
IHLA hosted a successful 2009 Lobby Day in Springfield, Illinois on Wednesday, February 18th, 2009.
Over 40 hoteliers from across the State were in Springfield to visit with Members and Leaders of the new 96th Illinois General Assembly. "It was just a great opportunity to sit down - face to face - with my Senator and Representative(s) to talk about the issues that are really critical to the hotel industry in Illinois," stated Robert Habeeb, IHLA Chairman.
In addition to each attendee meeting with their respective Members of the Illinois General Assembly, meetings were also held with Senate President John Cullerton, Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno, and House Republican Leader Tom Cross.
Attendees to IHLA's 2009 Lobby Day also heard from some outstanding speakers: Representative Chapin Rose, Representative William Burns, and Senator Heather Steans - who shared their perspectives and insights on the issues facing our State.
IHLA's 2009 Lobby Day conluded with a Legislative Reception, honoring the members of the 96th Illinois General Assembly.
Caption for photos (below): (from left to right): IHLA members at the February 18th, 2009 Lobby Day.
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Strategic Partner News
American Hotel Register Company Promotes
Larry Morse To Chief Executive Officer
VERNON HILLS, Illinois, March 5, 2009 - The Board of Directors of American Hotel Register Company, the nation's leader in hospitality supply, has announced the promotion of Larry Morse to Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Morse joined American Hotel in August 2008 when he was named President and Chief Operating Officer. Prior to that he served as president of Quill Corporation, direct marketer of office products and a subsidiary of Staples.
"This is a tough economic time for our country and our industry," said Jim Leahy, Chairman. "Yet in the short time that Larry has been at American, he has guided our company to solid growth. He has built on our strengths and is taking us to the next level. We are impressed with his speed in learning our business."
Morse is a graduate of the Holy Cross College, Worcester, Massachusetts, and earned his MBA at Boston College. He is the first non-family member since 1896 to lead American Hotel Register.
American Hotel Register Company
Releases 2009/2010 Buying Guide
VERNON HILLS, Illinois, March 17, 2009 -The new 2009/2010 American Hotel Register Company Buying Guide is now available! This comprehensive catalog features more than 2,150 pages of merchandise from the top names in hospitality supply. This year, 64 pages were added to the Buying Guide to meet customer demand for additional product categories. Those categories include a new 40-page uniform section; a new builders and contractors section; a redesigned, expanded outdoor furniture section, as well as a broader assortment of foodservice items. In addition, the catalog features more extensive offerings of the company's well-known private label brands, American Hotel Registry, American Hotel Signature, American Hotel Luxury, and Hotel Collection.
More than 1,000 environmentally friendly and energy-saving products are featured this year in the company's Living Green program. The program includes an even broader assortment of eco-certified bed linens, biodegradable amenities, recycled-material receptacles, Energy Star-qualified appliances, and other hospitality products that span the industry. Diversity products, purchased through minority- or women-owned businesses, continue to be displayed throughout the catalog. It's easy for customers looking for specific products to find them by checking the Living Green and Diversity indexes in the back of the catalog.
The company's government and health care customers will also receive special editions of the Buying Guide that are targeted to their specific needs. And, as always, all 50,000 products the company offers are available through the company website, www.americanhotel.com.
A View through the Lens... by Jason Lensink
A Monthly Risk Tip from FGMK Insurance Agency, Inc.
Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) covers businesses against claims by workers that their legal rights as employees of the company have been violated. The number of lawsuits filed by employees is on the rise. A private company is more likely to have an Employment Practices claim than a General Liability or property claim. Are you protected?
EPLI provides protection against many kinds of employee lawsuits, including claims of Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, Wrongful Termination, Breach of employment contract, Negligent Evaluation, Failure to employ or promote, Wrongful Discipline, Deprivation of career opportunity, and Third party coverage for claims made by non-employees such as guests of your hotels that allege that an employee harassed or discriminated against them.
To prevent employee lawsuits, educate your managers and employees so that you minimize problems in the first place:
ˇ Create effective hiring and screening programs to avoid discrimination in hiring. ˇ Post corporate policies throughout the workplace and place them in employee handbooks so policies are clear to everyone. ˇ Show employees what steps to take if they are the object of sexual harassment or discrimination by a supervisor. ˇ Document everything that occurs and the steps your company is taking to prevent and solve employee disputes. For additional information, please contact Jason Lensink by phone at (847) 361-1266 or email jlensink@fgmkins.com. |
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Member News
The Elysian Spa and Health Club
A purposeful and lavish experience
Located on the 4th floor of the hotel, The Elysian Spa and Health Club is a true sanctuary with unique facilities, purposeful treatments, and a commitment to wellbeing. Expanding over a spacious area of 14,000 square feet, The Elysian Spa features a wide-ranging menu of personalized services, as well as a hair and nail spa, barber suite, relaxation areas, and a fitness facility complete with a Pilates studio. The comprehensive menu of treatments has a holistic approach with emphasis on personalized and meaningful experiences.
Situated in an environment reflective of Ancient Greece and Rome, the spa was designed to be clean and classic, yet modern. The key design elements of granite, hardwood, water features, and natural stone complement the black and white palette of the Greco-Roman atmosphere creating a refuge for true wellbeing.
Elysian Names Whitney Sapp as
Catering Director of Flagship Property
Chicago, IL - Joe Aguilera, Vice President, Sales of the Elysian Hotels & Resorts, welcomes Whitney Sapp as Catering Director for the Elysian Chicago, scheduled to open in late spring 2009. With over 4,500 square feet of meeting space at the hotel, Sapp will oversee the coordination and execution of all on-site meetings and events. In addition, she will be responsible for the financial and operational management of the catering department as well as the recruitment of the catering and conference service team.
"Whitney's passion and extensive experience will prove to be invaluable to our success," said Aguilera.
Sapp joins the Elysian after 10 years with Hyatt Hotels and Resorts where she most recently served as Senior Catering Manager at the Park Hyatt Chicago. In this role, she managed the coordination and development of all catering events, including the meetings and social gatherings for the prominent Pritzker family.
A graduate of Texas Tech University, Sapp began her career as a Corporate Management Trainee for the Grand Hyatt Washington and progressed to Association Sales Manager through several phases including management roles within the food and beverage and sales departments. Sapp then served as the Event Services Manager at the Park Hyatt Washington before moving to Chicago in 2006.
"I am delighted to join the Elysian team and have the opportunity to introduce guests to Chicago's newest luxury property," said Sapp.
Sapp holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Restaurant, Hotel, and Institutional Management and a minor in French. She is also an active member in the Catering Executives Club of America and has participated in the Chicago Cares program. She currently resides in Chicago with her fiancé.
Pheasant Run Resort Announces Winemaker Dinner Subscription Series at Harvest Restaurant
Pheasant Run Resort announces the 2009 Winemaker Dinners, now offered as a subscription series, held at Pheasant Run Resort's Harvest Restaurant. This successful 3-year dining program is now likened to a theatre subscription series, where guests participate in events where the featured wines and seasonal foods are the stars with each winery being the guest production company.
From February through November, the wines of Antinori Winery, Far Niente Winery, Rutherford Hill Winery, and Franciscan Winery will be featured.
New this year will be additional pairings highlighting local winery & brewery operations such as Lynfred Winery of Roselle, Illinois and the Glunz Family Winery & Cellar of Lincolnwood, Illinois.
As a special first-time event, Pheasant Run Resort will be presenting its first Beer Dinner, where local beers will be paired with seasonal entrees. Harvest, a unique venue located in Pheasant Run Resort's historic dairy barn, is excited to announce these memorable dining experiences of 2009.
River North Association Re-launches as River North Business Association
Neighborhood association's new name emphasizes its "We Mean Business" philosophy
CHICAGO, February 2009 - The River North community, home to Chicago's most eclectic mix of hotels, restaurants, art galleries, nightlife, retailers and many businesses and services, announces the re-launch of the River North Association under its new name, the River North Business Association (RNBA) (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza; 312-645-1047). Under its new name, the RNBA provides the same membership benefits and networking opportunities the organization has always offered, however the new name helps highlight the association's dedication towards promoting and securing prosperity for neighborhood businesses.
During a strategic planning session last fall, it became clear to the association's leadership team that becoming the River North Business Association would give members, and the public, a better understanding of the association's purpose, which includes a dedication to promoting and securing the prosperity of the neighborhood and its business community. "As simple as it may seem," says RNBA President Mark Kelly, "adding the word 'business' to the association's name helps to emphasize the true focus of our efforts, and helps prospective members quickly recognize the value of being a part of the River North Business Association. All of the services, support, events and opportunities of the RNBA provide our members make it quite obvious that we really do mean business in River North."
"We Mean Business in River North" Button Program
To help people understand the depth of business variety in River North, the association is launching a button campaign featuring: "We Mean Business in River North." As part of the launch, participating businesses will distribute special "We Mean Business in River North" buttons beginning March 25. There is no cost for the button, but wearing it will have many benefits including discounts at participating restaurants and retail stores, as well as business services including accounting, legal, public relations, graphic design, advertising, and other service oriented business calling River North home. RNBA member businesses will be providing special discounts to those wearing the button on designated RNBA Days throughout the year. The first RNBA Day is scheduled, appropriately for Tax Day, April 15. A complete list of participants and their discount offers is available by visiting the RNBA Web site at: www.rivernorthassociation.com.
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile Hotel Hosts Event Featuring Leinenkugel Beer & Brats
Beer & Brats Event at Famed Magnificent Mile Hotel Promises to Draw a Thirsty Crowd
CHICAGO, March 24, 2009 - Guests at the famed Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile hotel, as well as the public, are invited to come hungry and come thirsty to the hotel's spring installment of their exciting Lobby event series. The Beer & Brats event will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the affordable price of $5 per person.
Featuring Leinenkugel beer from The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, this tasteful after-work event will allow guests to sample a selection of different types of Leinenkugel beers, paired with house-made brats from the comforts of the downtown Chicago, Illinois hotel's Lobby lounge.
Three unique beers from Leinenkugel will be the inspiration for the hotel's Executive Chef and his team, as they create an assortment of homemade brats to accompany the libations. Leinenkugel will also be giving out prizes as part of a drawing held throughout the event.
The J. Leinenkugel Brewing Co. is the seventh oldest brewery in the U.S. and is the oldest in the state of Wisconsin. For more than 140 years and for five generations Leinenkugel has been supplying Chippewa Falls and the rest of the country with satisfying and time-honored brewing creations. For more information, visit http://leinie.com/home.
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Calendar of Events
April 7, 2009 - Chicago Council of General Managers Meeting, 8am, Hotel Monaco, 225 N. Wabash Ave.
April 14, 2009 - Hospitality Games VII & Knowledge Games V, 12pm - 3:30pm, Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Avenue
April 20, 2009 - IHLA Regional Hospitality Luncheon, 11:30am-1pm, The Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center, East Peoria
May 16-19, 2009 - National Restaurant Show, McCormick Place, Chicago
May 19, 2009 - IHLA Board of Directors Meeting, Hyatt McCormick Place, Chicago & IHLA 14th Annual Hospitality Luncheon, Vista Ballroom, McCormick Place, Chicago
June 2, 2009 - Chicago Council of General Managers Meeting, 8am, Sofitel Chicago Water Tower, 20 E. Chestnut Street
June 19, 2009 - IHLA Educational Foundation's "Pony Up for the Kids", 1:30pm - 6:00pm, Arlington Race Course
June 22-23, 2009 - AH&LA Convention, Hilton Chicago, 720 S.Michigan Ave.
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Ms. Linda DeVelasco, Vice President
Detecting bed bugs as soon as possible is of the utmost importance. Canine detection is the only proven effective method. Allie, their "Canine Detective" will identify and confirm any possible infestation quickly and conveniently and allow hotels to take immediate action to eliminate any problems. Due to her keen sense of smell, Allie can detect and pinpoint any problems in cracks, crevices, and other hiding places that would otherwise be missed on a visual inspection. This information is then shared with the pest control specialist who will then know exactly where to treat and eliminate.
Health Concepts, LLC
Mr. Mark Howard, President
Health concepts was founded by individuals who felt that people deserved a higher level of service and technology from their water supplier. We provide prospects an alternative to conventional sources of drinking water. In the last ten years consumer confidence in tap water and municipal water treatment is at an all time low. People are seeking healthier alternatives and have relied on bottled drinking water and simple filtration systems to meet this need. Based on the demands of the market place, a better educated consumer, and increased media scrutiny it is essential to select a water supplier that has the experience and knowledge of this constantly evolving industry.
Standard Textile Co., Inc.
Ms. Jenny Mazanek, Textile Consultant
Offers a complete line of engineered products designed to increase guest satisfaction and lower operating costs. This includes an extensive line of linens and bedding, drapery, as well as welll as many other accessories. They have developed a global vertically integrated manufacturing infrastructure, leading-edge products, a culture of service and quality, and a serious commitment to the environment.
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New Hotel Members
Hotel Wrigleyville, Chicago
Ms. Joy Johnson, General Manager
Wingate Inn, Arlington Heights
Mr. Greg Patel, General Manager
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IHLA Educational Foundation News
THE SHOW WILL GO ON!
PLEASE JOIN US TO SHOW OUR HOTELS ARE RESILIENT AND CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF OUR INDUSTRY!
The H-Games VII & Knowledge Games V will take place on:
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
12:00 PM-3:30 PM
Hilton Chicago
720 S. Michigan Avenue
We would be thrilled to have you compete among the finest of Illinois hotels from around the state!
We have listened, pushed back the date, and made changes to ensure this year's H-Games are even more enjoyable...Now,
*Skills teams only need 6 people to participate (3 events)
*Knowledge teams comprised of 4 people
*All-Star team price lowered to 2005 entry fee($350 for an All-Star Team!)
*NEW EVENTS! NO practice required
*NEW QUESTIONS featuring Chicago, President Obama, Illinois, and Chicago 2016 trivia
*Event time condensed to keep action flowing and respectful of your hours
*More activities added to entertain the crowd (DJ, raffle, concessions, games)
*INCREDIBLE prizes & trophies!
*SPECIAL CHICAGO 2016 Basket for exclusive team captain raffle!!
Team registration forms and event details available for download at www.ihlaef.org! "Regional Teams" are gladly accepted! And if you just wish to cheer on your favorite team, please join us that afternoon!
WE LOOK FORWARD TO HAVING YOU SHARE IN THE EXCITING CAMARADERIE AND HOTEL PRIDE!
Questions? Please contact me below. Thank you~
Jennifer Chase
Managing Director
Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Foundation
27 East Monroe Street Suite 1200
Chicago, IL 60603
p. (312) 346-3135 ext. 233
f. (312) 346-6036
jchase@ihlaef.org
$$NEED MONEY??$$
Did you know IHLA Educational Foundation offers academic scholarship awards from $1,000 to $5,000 for those Illinois residents seeking degrees in hospitality management? Visit www.ihlaef.org to download an application, but be sure to do so by May 1st, 2009 to be considered for the 2009-2010 school year!
Also, The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AHLEF) has budgeted more than $550,000 for academic and professional development scholarships. Please visit www.ahlef.org for more information and to download applications.
AHLEF offers academic scholarships to hospitality management students enrolled in a U.S. college or university-several scholarships with varying criteria available. May 1st, 2009 is the deadline to apply.
Professional development scholarships are offered to current employees of AHLA member hotels who wish to be enrolled in a distance learning or professional certification program offered through the Educational Institute (www.ei-ahla.org). Deadlines are quarterly-January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1, 2009.
For more information on IL scholarships and professional certifications, contact Jennifer at jchase@ihlaef.org
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