THE GOLD (KEY) STANDARD

» IN FEBRUARY, 400 San Diego community and hospitality leaders celebrated at the San Diego County Lodging Association’s 43rd annual award ceremony in the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina ballroom. Recognizing the best of the county’s hospitality industry, the ceremony honored nine exceptional hospitality professionals and one nonprofit organization (a charitable group that doesn’t work directly in hospitality but finds innovative approaches to contribute to the betterment of the industry) with Gold Key Awards.

“[The winners] represent all ranks that make tourism, hotels, hospitality, and hotels function,” says Pete Hillan, partner at Singer Associates Inc. and spokesperson for the San Diego County Lodging Association. “[The recognition] certifies that the hospitality DNA that [industry professionals] have in their blood is a good thing … and those who represent that lead by example.” –Ava Diaz and wellness center. There will also be an on-site restaurant concept and artisanal marketplace with more detail available in the coming months. “The resort will celebrate the beauty of unexpected harmony through contrasts, delivering inspired stays through a blend of serenity and a touch of decadence,” Rowntree says, adding that it “represents the start of a bright future for the Regent brand in the Americas.”

–Amanda Christensen

ihg.com

» Food and Beverage Associate of the Year: Francisco “Chico” Montanez, Bahia Resort Hotel

» Guest Service Associate of the Year: Kimberly Hawes, Loews Coronado Bay Resort

» Heart of the House Associate of the Year: Raquel Reyes, The Lodge Torrey Pines

» Hotel Executive of the Year: Diane Koczur, Evans Hotels

» Hotel Manager of the Year: Charles McCay, Omni San Diego Hotel

» James V. Cunningham Personalized Service Award: Giselle Guzman, Flagship Cruises & Events

» Pattie Roscoe Allied Person of the Year: Christina Jefferies, San Diego State University

» Revenue Management Professional of the Year: Charles Rullan, Hotel del Coronado

» Sales Associate of the Year: Logan Webster, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

» The Gold Key: Sports San Diego lodgingsd.com

NACE Greater Palm Springs Members Say Bon Appétit

The La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta welcomed 40 guests and members of the Greater Palm Springs Chapter of the National Association of Catering & Events (NACE) to its PGA West Mountain Dunes Clubhouse in March for a true French rendezvous. The event, called “The Art of Being French,” was hosted by Director of Sales Carly McGarry and spotlighted Executive Chef Herve Glin’s artful menu of French fare on tables adorned with elegant succulent arrangements, which doubled as take-home gifts for attendees. The glorious Santa Rosa Mountains peeking through the clubhouse windows served as a stunning backdrop for the gathering.

1. DJ Jason Amaton 2. Gabi Vielmas, Laura Romero, and Anita Carrillo

3. Liz Skylar 4. Trish Santella and Daryn Benton 5. Tablescapes including succulent arrangements for attendees to take home 6. Tanja Janjic and Krystal Moreno 7. Felicity Lyra, Flavio Ramirez, and Brian Stastny

To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact achristensen@greenspring.com