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�The Lighting of The Lodge event is evidence of the creativity and
dedication to hospitality�s guests and employees every one in the lodging
industry should aspire to,� said AH&LA President/CEO Joseph A. McInerney,
CHA. The Ritz-Carlton Lodge was one of only eleven properties nationwide
that were selected for this annual award that recognizes outstanding hotel
programs throughout the country. Stars of the Industry awards also honored
ten stand-out hospitality employees.
�This is the property�s annual benefit for the Greensboro Dreamers,
an organization that empowers children in low-income communities to achieve
higher education,� explained presenter David Kong, vice chairman, AH&LA
and president and CEO, Best Western International during the ceremony.
�It�s also a huge celebration of the holiday season for the property�s
guests and local community residents. A live nativity scene, petting zoo,
the �largest gingerbread in the south,� live music, and 1.5 million white
lights set the stage for visitors. The icing on the cake each year is Santa�s
surprise arrival � which has been by hot air balloon, hang-glider, and
on the back of a Marine Corps 7-ton truck.� At last year�s event, NASCAR
hero Richard Petty surprised the crowd of 2500 celebrants by driving the
Christmas icon into the holiday event in a classic cruiser. The event raised
a record sum of over $45,000.for Greensboro Dreamers, Camp Collinswood
and other local charities. �This annual event has become one of the most
well-known and well-attended events in the region,� added Kong.
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From left to right: Mr. Steven Freund, the General Manager of
The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation with Mr. Joe Martin,
current Chairman of AH&LA, and owner/operator of Stillwater Hospitality
at the Stars of the Industry Luncheon |
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