Bob Lemen, fitness attendant and leader of the AM Power Walks at
the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert,
Calif., turned 90 years old on March 7. Known for his sense of
humor and dedication to his morning jaunts, he and
90 other people turned out in honor of his birthday for the
3.2-mile, one-hour walk around the resort. Afterward, the group
celebrated with cake.
KENNEDY MOVES TO MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL
Marriott International has named John F. Kennedy director of global
travel industry relations and sales strategy. He has over 20 years
of experience in the hospitality industry. Previously, Kennedy was
the director of international reservations and revenue management
for Ramada International. In his new position, Kennedy will now be
responsible for Marriott International’s retail travel agency
strategy, building relationships with industry leaders and working
with travel agents around the world.
RANKIN MOVES TO HILTON HAWAII
Hilton Hawaii has appointed Cynthia Rankin regional director of
public relations. In her new position, Rankin will oversee the
public relations activities at Hilton Hawaii’s Waikoloa Village and
the Doubletree Alana Hotel. Before joining the Hilton, Rankin was
director of public relations for the Sheraton Hotels in Waikiki.
“Cynthia’s wealth of experience will be a tremendous asset to our
public relations efforts for Hilton Hawaii,” said Peter Schall,
senior vice president, Hilton Hotels Corporation.
HENZELL TAKES THE REINS AT ISLAND OUTPOST
Chris Blackwell, Island Outpost founder, has announced Jason
Henzell as the new president for his collection of boutique
properties in the Caribbean.
Previously, Jason was the owner and general manager at Jake’s in
Treasure Beach, Jamaica. Prior to his position at Jake’s, Jason
worked at the Hyatt, Cayman Islands.
“Jason brings a continuation of the vision I have for Island
Outpost,” said Blackwell.
LABELLE JOINS SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS
Renee LaBelle has been named sales manager and director of travel
at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa in Phoenix. LaBelle
will contribute extensive experience and expertise to the team.
Prior to working for the Sheraton, LaBelle was regional director of
sales for LaBelle Management in Michigan. Her new duties include
leading the sales initiative within the Midwest and international
markets to generate revenue for the resort and Phoenix’s tourism
industry.
