Marcus Hotels Press > Hotel Management Press Releases

05.02.17

150 New Jobs to Result from the Opening of the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District

Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District

Omaha’s New Premier Downtown Hotel Looking to Hire Full-time and Part-time Positions in Anticipation of July Opening

OMAHA, Neb., May 2, 2017. . . . .The soon to open premier full-service Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District, managed by Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, today announced that it is looking to hire 150 full-time and part-time positions within the next three months. Slated to open July 2017, the Omaha Marriott Downtown will be the first new full-service hotel to open in Omaha, Neb. in more than 10 years. The 333-room hotel is also projected to accommodate more than 500,000 guests each year. Within the first year of operation, guests are projected to spend more than $15 million in the local economy.

“With the addition of more than 1,550 jobs during the construction phase of the project, as well as the 150 new jobs needed for future operations, the Omaha Marriott Downtown will have a significant economic impact on Omaha and the downtown area. As we near the official opening of the hotel, we are greatly looking forward to contributing to the vibrancy and success of our city,” said Steve Hilton, general manager of the Omaha Marriott Downtown.

Located adjacent to the CenturyLink Arena & Convention Center and TD Ameritrade Park, the 12-story Omaha Marriott Downtown is serving as a major anchor for the $205 million Capitol District being developed by Shamrock Development, Inc. The hotel is also planned to be part of Marriott’s new design concept called “Redesigned Marriott.” As one of only 55 “Redesigned Marriott” hotels in the world, the Omaha Marriott Downtown will feature floor to ceiling windows in all its guest rooms and 13 suites with custom furnishings and dynamic cityscape views.

When combined with the hotel’s 17,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, outdoor event areas, roof-top swimming pool, full-service restaurant and bar, and additional luxury amenities, the Omaha Marriott Downtown’s modern chic rooms and exceptional service will make the hotel a premier location for business meetings, weddings, weekend getaways and much more.

Looking to Hire People with a “Spirit to Serve”
“After recently naming approximately 20 key positions for the hotel, including an exceptional new executive chef, Brent Hockenberry, and top sales and management positions, the Omaha Marriott Downtown team is looking forward to welcoming new staff members,” Hilton added. “We strive for service excellence in everything we do, so over the next few months, we will be looking for the top people in our community to serve our valued local, national and even international guests. We are currently hiring individuals in 15-20 management roles, with more positions opening later this spring and early summer.”

Job Fair May 22 at Omaha Design Center
The Omaha Marriott Downtown will be holding a job fair May 22, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Omaha Design Center, 1502 Cuming Street, Omaha, Neb. for those interested in joining the hotel team. New employees are needed for culinary, server, front office and guest service, housekeeping, and other operational positions. Prospective employees can search for and apply to job openings at DowntownOmahaMarriott.com/apply, or by calling (402) 807-8000. New positions are added daily.

The Omaha Marriott Downtown is now accepting reservations for group blocks, meetings, weddings, and individual reservations. If you would like to make an individual reservation, please call (844) 696-3779 or make a reservation online. For those interested in booking a meeting or wedding, please contact Megan Gilligan, director of sales and marketing, via phone at (531) 205-7354, or email her at megangilligan@marcushotels.com.

For more information about the hotel, visit http://www.downtownomahamarriott.com/.

More information on the Capitol District Development is available at http://www.capitoldistrictomaha.com. Views of the project site can also be seen live at: http://www.workzonecam.com/projects/shamrock/capitaldistrict/workzonecam.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 17 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, featuring premier brands such as Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a second location that opened in early 2017 in Chicago, Ill. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

About the Capitol District
The Capitol District is Omaha’s only downtown entertainment district. The District surrounds a technology-smart, modern town square and will feature a 218-unit high rise apartment tower, a full-service Marriott hotel, Class A office space, plenty of adjacent parking and over 20 diverse restaurants and bars – all within walking distance of Omaha’s best civic, cultural and entertainment venues and the Riverfront. The Capitol District will connect, invigorate and entertain Omaha. The District will welcome people year-round at all times of day by hosting collaborative events, live music and everyday fun. For more information, visit www.capitoldistrictomaha.com

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04.20.17

Give Mom the Gift of Wellness, Relaxation and Fun with a Marcus® Hotels & Resorts eGift Card Plus an Added Bonus

The Perfect Gift for Mom is just a Convenient Click Away

Milwaukee, Wis., April 20, 2017. . . . Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company, is celebrating mothers with digital eGift Cards redeemable towards accommodations at the company’s participating hotels and resorts, dining at signature restaurants, golf and waterpark adventures and pampering at award-winning spas.

Whether it’s pampering her with a pedicure at her favorite spa or gifting her a relaxing weekend getaway – showing your love for the special woman in your life just became a little easier. Customers can go to MarcusGiftCards.com, select a Mother’s Day gift card theme and amount, and send a personal eGift Card all within minutes. As an added bonus, shoppers who spend $100 in gift card purchases will receive a $20 certificate to enjoy at one of Marcus Hotels’ relaxing WELL Spas.

For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts owns and/or manages 17 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, featuring premier brands such as Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a second location that opened in early 2017 in Chicago, Ill. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

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04.14.17

Wisconsin Hospitality Linen Service Names David Sobcinski General Manager and Scott Smith Director of Sales

Leading Hospitality Linen Service Positioned for Growth

Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company, today announced that its Wisconsin Hospitality Linen Service (WHLS) business unit named David Sobcinski general manager and Scott Smith director of sales. WHLS is a leading provider of commercial laundry services for hotels, restaurants and spas in the Midwest.

David Sobcinski
With more than 30 years of management experience within the laundry service industry, Sobcinski will serve as general manager of WHLS. In his new role, Sobcinski will oversee and manage daily operations for the company, including managing staff, inventory and quality control, as well as maintenance and general business responsibilities. He has held general manager positions at several major laundry service companies over the past seven years, including various Crothall Laundry Services locations throughout the United States, as well as Kleen Laundry & Dry Cleaning and Allina Health System – Metropolitan Linen Services. Sobcinski replaces Keith Scheffler, who is retiring after more than 35 years with The Marcus Corporation.

Scott Smith
In WHLS’s newly created position of director of sales, Smith will be responsible for new business development, and sales and marketing initiatives for the company. Prior to joining WHLS, Smith served as business development manager for CleanPower, Inc. With more than 30 years of business development experience, he has also served in sales management positions at U.S. Foods, where he was named Territorial Manager of the Year in 2013, and Sysco Food Service of Eastern Wisconsin. Smith received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in Wausau.

About Wisconsin Hospitality Linen Service
WHLS has been the area leader in commercial laundry services for the hospitality industry for over 20 years. The business was founded by Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 1995 and has operated at its current 32,000 square foot facility near the Milwaukee airport since 2001.

In December 2016, WHLS completed a $2.3 million expansion that will enable it to double its current capacity over the next five years. The company currently processes approximately 10 million pounds of linen each year, including sheets, towels and restaurant linens, for 18 properties across the Midwest.

04.05.17

Marcus Hotels & Resorts Recognized with Governor’s Tourism Award for Service Excellence

Company recognized for outstanding contributions to Wisconsin’s hospitality and travel industry

Milwaukee, Wis., April 5, 2017. . . . .Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), was presented the Service Excellence Award by Governor Scott Walker at the Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism, which took place March 12-14, 2017 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Tourism, the Governor’s Tourism Awards recognize individuals, organizations and businesses for their excellence, dedication and impact on Wisconsin’s travel and hospitality industry.

The Service Excellence Award honors a Wisconsin business that has achieved significant success and growth by providing exceptional service to its customers and a strong, charitable involvement in its community. Marcus Hotels & Resorts received the award for its ongoing commitment to supporting Wisconsin charities and tourism-driven amenities. Last year, associates of The Marcus Corporation and Marcus Hotels & Resorts volunteered more than 28,000 hours in their local communities, living out the company’s philosophy of “serve people, create memories and deliver exceptional experiences.”

In 2016, Marcus Hotels & Resorts donated to charities and tourism-driven causes such as Boys & Girls Clubs, American Cancer Society, Arthritis Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Autism Society, ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis, Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF), as well as donations to local schools and community events. The Marcus Corporation has donated $2.7 million to United Way over the past five years and has provided nearly $1 million of in-kind contributions, including donation of hotel and restaurant gift certificates and room nights to worthy causes each year.

“It is an honor to receive the Governor’s Tourism Award. Our hotels and restaurants nationwide have facilitated many creative partnerships with hundreds of charities to support special causes, assist others in times of extraordinary needs and practice servant leadership in their communities. I am proud of our associates for their unwavering commitment to helping others. Together we are making communities a great place to live, work and play,” said Joseph Khairallah, president and COO of Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

Marcus Hotels & Resorts has developed several charitable programs in Wisconsin that have touched thousands of residents and tourists, helping to build a strong and attractive place to visit and live:

• The Pink Room Project at the InterContinental Milwaukee has donated nearly $86,000 to ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis since its inception in 2010. More than 3,440 guests from 42 states and 12 different countries have stayed in the rooms. The project has won numerous awards, including a national “Stars of the Industry” award from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. The program continues to earn recognition in prominent hotel media outlets including Hotel Business, Midwest Meetings, HOTELS, Lodging Magazine and others.

• The Hilton Madison’s Carbone Room Project has raised over $14,000 for the University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center to support cancer research.

• Since 2013, the BluTender program at The Pfister Hotel has raised more than $175,000 for local Wisconsin charities and non-profit organizations.

• Marcus Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Milwaukee associates have collected $3,000 so far to fund the Albert E. Kagel School, one of the schools in the Milwaukee Public Schools system, to help with its needs and initiatives.

For more information on the company’s community impact, please view its Community Impact Report. For more information on the Governor’s Tourism Awards, please visit: https://walker.wi.gov/press-releases/governor-walker-honors-five-excellence-tourism-industry/

Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), owns and/or manages 18 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, featuring premier brands such as Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a second location that opened in early 2017 in Chicago, Ill. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

About The Marcus Corporation
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, The Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its Marcus Hotels division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 885 screens at 68 locations in eight states. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.

03.20.17

The Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District Names Brent Hockenberry Executive Director and Vanessa Vasa Director of Events

Brent Hockenberry Executive Chef at the Omaha Marriott Downtown

The soon to open premier full-service Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District today announced that it has named Brent Hockenberry as executive chef. In his new role, Hockenberry will oversee and manage all food and beverage operations within the 333-room hotel, including catering, banquet and in-room services. The Omaha Marriott Downtown, which will be managed by nationally recognized hotel owner and management company, Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, is scheduled to open in summer 2017.

Hockenberry joins the growing Omaha Marriott Downtown team with more than 12 years of culinary and management experience in top resort properties, business hotels and fine dining restaurants across the world.

“I cook with the mentality that food is healing and that by incorporating sustainably grown and locally produced food, I can create a restorative and powerful experience for the consumer,” Hockenberry said. “I aim to bring this mindset into how we approach food and beverage throughout the Omaha Marriott Downtown.”

Prior to joining Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Hockenberry served as executive sous chef at the Grand Hyatt D.C., where he oversaw offsite catering, banquets, personnel, and food safety standards, among other things. Hockenberry also worked on the opening taskforces for two Caribbean resorts: the Hyatt Ziva in Montego Bay, Jamaica and the Andaz Papagayo in Costa Rica. From 2009 to 2014, Hockenberry served in multiple banquet and restaurant positions at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa Clearwater Beach in Florida, where he helped the hotel’s restaurant win two best new restaurant awards, as well as worked as a banquet chef at the Grand Hyatt Seattle.

“We are thrilled to have Brent join our team and help us create an exceptional food and beverage program at the property,” said Steve Hilton, general manager of the Omaha Marriott Downtown. “With his passion for creating experiential cuisine that emphasizes quality and locality, Brent will add a meaningful component to our focus on excellence and high-quality service.

Hockenberry earned an associate’s degree in applied sciences from the Orlando Culinary Academy.

Vanessa Vasa
New Director of Events Named

In related news, the Omaha Marriott Downtown also named Vanessa Vasa as director of events of the property. In her new role, Vasa will oversee the hotel’s catering program and will manage a team of event specialists in charge of programming and community events. Prior to joining the Omaha Marriott Downtown, Vasa was director of catering and community outreach for the Flagship Restaurant Group in Omaha. She brings nearly 18 years of catering, food and beverage and management experience. She earned a bachelor of science in marketing management from Bellevue University.

Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District
In addition to managing the Omaha Marriott Downtown, Marcus Hotels & Resorts is also a minority investor in the 12-story high-rise hotel, which will serve as an anchor for the $205 million Capitol District being developed by Shamrock Development, Inc.

The hotel will offer 20,000 square-feet of flexible meeting space with an additional 16,000 square feet of pre-function space, outdoor event space, hospitality suites, roof-top swimming pool with bar/entertainment area, full-service restaurant and bar, Starbucks® café in the lobby, attached parking garage and personalized concierge service.

The new Capitol District is located in the heart of downtown Omaha across the street from the CenturyLink Arena & Convention Center and TD Ameritrade Park, home of the NCAA College World Series and other major NCAA and regional events.

Views of the project site can be seen live at http://www.workzonecam.com/projects/shamrock/capitaldistrict/workzonecam.

For more information on the Capitol District Development, visit http://www.capitoldistrictomaha.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), owns and/or manages 18 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, including Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a Chicago location opening in early 2017. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

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03.01.17

The Secret has been Leaked: SafeHouse Chicago Officially Opens its Doors on Wednesday March 1


Reliable sources indicate that Chicago’s newest experiential restaurant, SafeHouse Chicago, will officially open on Wednesday

Chicago, Ill. – On orders from Control, SafeHouse agents will neither confirm nor deny that legendary Milwaukee destination (and famous spy refuge), The SafeHouse, will officially open its covert Windy City location to the public on March 1 at 5 p.m. However, reliable sources have reported this to be factual. SafeHouse Chicago, a refuge for weary spies, maintains the establishment’s treasured 50-year legacy while adding upgraded experiences to the new location, including new technology and a modern design by Chicago’s own award-winning firm, The Gettys Group.

On orders from Control, Station Chief Agent OH-OH-7 (aka David J. Baldwin) founded SafeHouse Milwaukee in 1966. His vision for this spy-themed hideaway was unique and full of historical references. SafeHouse became a local landmark and cultural icon for hungry spies. Agent OH-OH-7 and his Chief of Disinformation Agent Eliza remained undercover for nearly 50 years. Their secret was service for all spies who came in from the cold – or from the warm. Today, Agent BB (aka Greg Marcus, The Marcus Corporation President and CEO), and his team of friendly Marcus Restaurant agents continue Agent OH-OH-7’s vision.

“Who doesn’t want to escape the everyday for an hour or two and become an international superspy?” says Agent BB, Greg Marcus, President and CEO of The Marcus Corporation. “Fascination with the world of espionage persists in novels and movies, making the SafeHouse concept one that stands the test of time. Spying is, after all, the world’s second oldest profession.”

Secretly headquartered below the city streets in the vicinity of 60 E. Ontario Street, the SafeHouse Chicago fuses elements from the original Milwaukee location with modern technology. The password to enter will remain unchanged, but a new agent authentication process and unique new experiences have been installed, including the soon-to-be infamous Cone of Silence Booth. Visiting spies will be tasked with locating the top-secret entrance marked only with a sign for International Exports Ltd. flanked by a gaslight and an iconic red door. Before entering, operatives will be required to provide the password or perform a top-secret clearance test to gain entry to this newest refuge for spies from around the world. Once inside, operatives will embark on a one-of-a-kind mission as they create their own agent name and complete missions while discovering gadgets and uncovering hidden secrets.

In addition to upgraded technology, the SafeHouse Chicago integrates more technology and upgraded aesthetics for agents operating in the modern world. The design of the SafeHouse was led by award-winning design firm, The Gettys Group, and Agent Fudd, Paul Daurio. Original espionage artifacts are an integral part of the décor, including the flight deck from an authentic spy plane donated by the man who flew it in WWII, as well as a piece of the Berlin Wall secured from covert operatives. From the sleek Interpol Bar to the Spybrary, to the Seduction Lounge and the Interrogation Room, every aspect of the design has been tinkered, tailored, soldiered, and spied. Interactive elements such as a Gadget Bar featuring a nightly magician, and “futuristic” technology, fuse seamlessly in an action-packed atmosphere where food and signature drinks unite guests as they embark on their mission.

Every spy needs to eat well. Under orders from Control, the SafeHouse culinary agents are always on the prowl, tracing the source of local ingredients and securing them from top suppliers. These ingredients are then smuggled into the SafeHouse and hand-assembled into fresh dishes by experienced chefs to spies who deserve local and authentic food. Honoring original favorites like the Fried C4 Cheese Curds and the hand-crafted M.O.A.B. (Mother of All Burgers), Agent Pickles (a.k.a. Head Culinary Agent David Hardy) has bulked up the menu for visiting spies, adding specialties including our Camp X Poutine and an array of savory entrees as well as healthy vegetarian and vegan items.

“Today’s consumers are increasingly seeking unique experiences, and the SafeHouse is a one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar that fills that niche,” says Agent Blonde, Peggy Williams-Smith, Marcus Hotels & Resorts Senior Vice President. “Spies in the great city of Chicago were in need of a refuge and Control wanted to ensure there was a SafeHouse for them as well.”

SafeHouse Chicago is open Sunday-Friday 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. For more information on The SafeHouse, visit www.SafeHouseChicago.com or call (312) 3131-007.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), owns and/or manages 18 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, including Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a Chicago location opening in early 2017. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

About The Marcus Corporation
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, The Marcus Corporation is a leader in the lodging and entertainment industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its Marcus Hotels & Resorts division, the company’s movie theatre division, Marcus Theatres®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 885 screens at 68 locations in eight states. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.

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02.09.17

Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ Premier Properties Recognized with AAA Four Diamond Award

The Pfister Hotel, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Skirvin Hilton and Hilton Milwaukee Receive the Distinguished Four Diamond Rating in 2017

Milwaukee, Wis., February 9, 2017. . . . .Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced that four of its owned and managed properties have again received the esteemed AAA Four Diamond Award in 2017.

The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wis., remains one of only 12 hotels in North America that have maintained AAA Four Diamond status for 41 consecutive years since the Diamond Ratings were first introduced in 1976.

Other Marcus Hotels’ properties that have received the AAA Four Diamond Award in 2017 include the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wis. for 19 consecutive years; the historic Skirvin Hilton in Oklahoma City, Okla. for 10 consecutive years and the Hilton Milwaukee, the major convention hotel in Milwaukee, Wis. for six consecutive years.

The Pfister Hotel, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Skirvin Hilton and Hilton Milwaukee are part of an exclusive group of establishments within North America. Currently, less than six percent of the nearly 28,000 hotels approved by AAA make the Four Diamond list. Hotels at this level are committed to providing upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, attentive service and attention to detail, according to AAA.

“Serving our guests, creating memories and delivering exceptional experiences is the foundation of our company. This recognition is a testament to our associates and their passion to make each day extraordinary for our guests. We congratulate our AAA-Four Diamond properties on this notable accomplishment,” said Joseph Khairallah, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

In related news, Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ properties also received high rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 Best Hotels list. Grand Geneva Resort & Spa and The Pfister Hotel both ranked in the top five best Wisconsin hotels. The Skirvin Hilton Hotel ranked #1 in best Oklahoma City hotels. The rankings evaluate more than 3,000 luxury hotels across the USA, the Caribbean, Canada and Mexico and are calculated on the opinion of travel experts, guest reviews and hotel class ratings.

For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com.

About AAA Inspections
For more than 80 years, AAA has used professional inspectors to conduct anonymous, in-person property evaluations. AAA offers the only rating system using comprehensive, on-site professional hotel and restaurant evaluations guided by member priorities. AAA’s rating system covers the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Travelers can find Diamond Rated establishments and inspector insight in AAA’s trip planning products: the AAA Mobile app, the online TripTik Travel Planner mapping and routing tool, searchable online AAA Travel Guides and AAA TourBook guides available to members at AAA offices.

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 57 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Motorists can map a route, identify gas prices, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.

02.02.17

Marcus Hotels & Resorts Appoints Gordon Tareta Area Director of Spas

Milwaukee, Wis., February 2, 2017. . . . .Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced the appointment of Gordon Tareta as area director of spas.

Gordon Tareta

In his new role, Tareta will oversee the company’s Well Spa + Salon brands at the AAA Four-Diamond Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wis., AAA Four-Diamond Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wis., and Platinum Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev. He will also oversee Evensong Spa at Heidel House Resort & Spa in Green Lake, Wis.

Tareta joins Marcus Hotels & Resorts with more than 25 years of luxury spa industry experience, having developed and operated over 110 renowned and award-winning spas worldwide. Prior to joining Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Tareta was the president and founder of Tareta Group International, LLC, a business development group focused on strategic concept development and product integration for individual and corporate spas and affiliated industry suppliers. His career includes nearly 10 years with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts managing over 110 spas worldwide in 26 countries. While at Hyatt, he conceived and launched Hyatt Pure, which was awarded best spa brand by Spa Finders, and developed and implemented global fitness brand StayFit. Before joining Hyatt, Tareta served as corporate director of spa operations for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, where he completed the refurbishment of the famous Banff Springs Hotel’s spa facilities in Alberta, Canada. Tareta has also served as chief operating officer for Marilyn Monroe™ Spas in Orlando, Florida.

“Gordon’s spa visionary success will be instrumental in overseeing our four award-winning spa brands. His global spa experience and creativity in concept innovation, transformation and product development will further position our top rated spas among the best in the nation,” said Joseph Khairallah, president and chief operating officer of Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

01.31.17

Marcus Hotels & Resorts Promotes Jeff Peterson to Vice President of Finance and Transaction Administration; John Hendricks Promoted to Division Controller

Milwaukee, Wis., January 30, 2017. . . . .Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced the promotion of Jeff Peterson to vice president of finance and transaction administration for Marcus Hotels & Resorts. The company also announced the promotion of John Hendricks to division controller.

Jeff Peterson

In his newly created role, Peterson will oversee all accounting and finance functions for the division, as well as oversee new deal structures, joint ventures, management agreements and the implementation of funding investments. He will serve as a lead member of the Marcus Hotels & Resorts’ development team and will also join the company’s senior leadership team.

Peterson joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 2013 as vice president of operations. In 2015, he was promoted to senior director of finance and transaction administration for The Marcus Corporation, overseeing a wide range of financial and strategic initiatives as well as providing support for MCS Capital, the company’s hotel investment affiliate. Prior to joining Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Peterson served more than 17 years with Hyatt Corporation in various real estate, asset management, finance and accounting roles. He also served as chief financial officer of Ticketmaster Resale, a division of Ticketmaster/Live Nation, the second largest company in the online resale ticket industry.

Peterson, a CPA, began his career in public accounting at the international accounting firm, KPMG. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

The company also announced that John Hendricks, CPA, has been promoted to division controller for Marcus Hotels & Resorts. In his new role, Hendricks will report to Peterson and oversee daily accounting operations for the entire hotel division.

John Hendricks

Hendricks joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts as director of accounting in 2015 and has been instrumental in major accounting improvements for the company. He also assisted in the company’s conversion to a new fiscal year in 2016. Hendricks graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater with a master’s degree in professional accountancy and a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He also serves as a big brother as part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee.

Prior to joining Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Hendricks served as an audit manager for KPMG, LLP where he worked with mid-market companies to Fortune 50 multinational corporations.

“Both Jeff and John have made significant contributions to the operational effectiveness of our division, and have a deep understanding of our business and the hotel industry. Jeff has been an instrumental partner on our development team, overseeing new deal structures and management agreements. John’s accounting and auditing expertise has been invaluable. I am confident they will continue to be an integral part of our team and I congratulate them on their new roles,” said Joseph Khairallah, president and chief operating officer of Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com.

01.25.17

Marcus Hotels & Resorts Names Three New Sales Personnel at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District

Marcus Hotels & Resorts logo

MILWAUKEE, January 25, 2017. . . . .Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel owner and management company, today announced the hiring of three new sales personnel at Omaha’s soon to open premier full-service hotel, Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District. Megan Gilligan has been named director of sales and marketing and Laurie Nielsen-Singer and Kristy Phalen have been named sales account executives. The Omaha Marriott Downtown is scheduled to open in summer 2017.

“We are confident that these three women will contribute successfully to building a top sales and service organization for downtown Omaha’s newest full-service hotel,” said Steve Hilton, general manager of the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District. “Their combined 46 years of experience in hotel sales, management and event planning is an exceptional asset for our new hotel, and we are thrilled to have them on our team.”

Megan Gilligan, director of sales and marketing at the Omaha Marriott Downtown
Megan Gilligan

Serving as the Omaha Marriott Downtown’s new director of sales and marketing, Gilligan will oversee all sales efforts, marketing and public relations initiatives for the full-service hotel. Gilligan brings more than 14 years of experience in marketing, sales, catering and hotel management to her new role. Prior to joining the Omaha Marriott Downtown, Gilligan served as director of event sales at the La Vista Conference Center Complex in Omaha, which includes the Embassy Suites Omaha-La Vista Hotel & Conference Center, as well as the Courtyard by Marriott hotel. In this position, she managed all food and beverage revenues, corporate and association conferences, events and tradeshows and oversaw the property’s sales and event staff. Prior to this position, she served as catering sales manager for the Hilton Omaha, where she was a part of the pre-opening sales team during the construction phase of the hotel. Gilligan received a bachelor’s degree in studio arts from the University of Nebraska Omaha, and was named a “40 Under 40” by the Midlands Business Journal in October 2016.

Laurie Nielsen-Singer, sales account executive, Omaha Marriott Downtown
Laurie Nielsen-Singer

In her new role as sales account executive, Nielsen-Singer will manage all group sales and event planning activities, and will oversee revenue and bookings at the hotel. She brings 22 years of experience in hotel management, group sales and event planning to the Omaha Marriott Downtown, including previous senior sales manager positions with the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel and Hilton Omaha Hotel. Prior to these roles, Nielsen-Singer also served as the director of group sales at the Renaissance Austin Hotel in Austin, Texas and destination sales manager at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort in Indian Wells, California. Nielsen-Singer received a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Denver.

Kristy Phalen, sales account executive, Omaha Marriott Downtown
Kristy Phalen

Bringing 10 years of hotel management and sales experience to her new role as sales account executive, Phalen will support all sales initiatives at the hotel. Prior to joining the Omaha Marriott Downtown, Phalen served as assistant general manager at the Sheraton Omaha and general manager of the TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Omaha. She has also held several account management roles with Marriott National Group Sales. Phalen currently serves as the president of the Nebraska Hotel & Lodging Association. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska Omaha.

Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District
Marcus Hotels & Resorts is a minority investor and will manage the 12-story high-rise Marriott Omaha Downtown hotel, which will serve as an anchor for the $205 million Capitol District being developed by Shamrock Development, Inc.

The hotel will offer 20,000 square-feet of flexible meeting space with an additional 16,000 square feet of pre-function space, outdoor event space, hospitality suites, roof-top swimming pool with bar/entertainment area, full-service restaurant and bar, Starbucks® café in the lobby, attached parking garage and personalized concierge service.

The new Capitol District is located in the heart of downtown Omaha across the street from the CenturyLink Arena & Convention Center and TD Ameritrade Park, home of the NCAA College World Series and other major NCAA and regional events.

Views of the project site can be seen live at: http://www.workzonecam.com/projects/shamrock/capitaldistrict/workzonecam.

For more information the Capitol District Development, visit http://www.capitoldistrictomaha.com.

To book an event or reserve meeting space at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capital District hotel for 2017 and beyond, visit http://www.downtownomahamarriott.com or contact LaurieNielsen-Singer@marcushotels.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts
Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), owns and/or manages 18 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning, including hotel food and beverage concepts developed by its Marcus Restaurant Group, including Mason Street Grill, ChopHouse and Miller Time Pub & Grill. The company is also growing its experiential restaurant concept, The SafeHouse, with a Chicago location opening in early 2017. For more information, please visit: https://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook and Twitter (@MarcusHotels).

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