 We are proud to feature Heartland Payment Systems in this month's Partner Spotlight. The company is a Silver Partner and has been a member of MHLA since 2006. Read below to learn more!
Organization Overview Heartland is the point of sale, payments and payroll solution of choice for entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry that need human-centered technology to sell more, keep customers coming back and owners spend less time in the back office. Nearly 1,000,000 businesses trust them to guide them through market changes and technology challenges, so they can stay competitive and focus on building remarkable businesses instead of managing the daily grind. How does Heartland differentiate itself from others in their industry? In every interaction, in every decision, Heartland demonstrates care for their customers, focusing on the things that will deliver the best outcomes. They work hard to consistently provide best-in-class services to their customers and the partners who support them. How does Heartland positively impact the lodging industry? o Local Relationship Managers to provide best in class support and partnering. o POS - uptime o Payments - uptime and transaction volumes, fair contracts o Payroll - availability, consultation, and checks process Primary Contact Information Chrissy Mayhew Relationship Manager Email: chrissy.mayhew@e-hps.com Phone: 443-745-5711 Company website- https://www.heartland.us/ Follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube  Effective immediately, the IRS has put a temporary hold on accepting any new Employee Retention Credit (ERC) applications.
Why are they doing this? Due to their backlog of 600,000 applications, the IRS is overwhelmed and processing times have more than doubled. They’ve put a temporary stop on processing new applications until they can catch up. When will the program reopen? While the IRS has not provided any definitive guidance on this point, Adesso anticipates that the IRS will resume processing new applications in Q1, likely in January. However, there is also a possibility that the IRS will simply end the program. I'm working on my ERC application now. Should I stop? While the choice is of course yours, they recommend you continue your application process. Adesso will continue to process applications and either submit immediately to the IRS, where they will be held until the program potentially resumes or hold the files and mail them on the day the IRS reopens the ERC program. What if I haven’t started my application? Adesso will continue to accept new applications, which will ensure you will be in line to receive your refund when and if the program reopens. Because it is likely the IRS will not extend the program once it’s reopened, we believe the best approach, given the regulatory uncertainty, is to continue “business as usual” to avoid missing the April 15, 2024 deadline for 2020 amended returns and April 15, 2025 deadline for 2021 amended returns. Additionally, all files will be pay-at-the-end so you will not incur any fees until you’ve received your refund. Why should I bother starting an application if the program is on hold? Adesso takes great measure to confirm its compliance with applicable laws and regulations to make sure you qualify and then submit your file as soon as the program reopens. You are qualified and deserve this help! I’ve already submitted my ERC application. What should I expect? If your application was submitted to the IRS before September 14, 2023, then you’re all set. You should, however, anticipate longer (2x+) processing times while the IRS gets through its backlog. Why is Adesso the best partner to secure my refund? Adesso is submitting quality and qualified deals to the IRS and is the ERC filer endorsed by more than 40 state associations. They have a team of CPAs who file for their clients (vs. requiring the client to file) and often use law firms to determine eligibility and ensure the right business owners receive their refunds. Adesso currently only works with partners like SRAs and accounting firms to ensure reduction of fraudulent claims. Additionally, Adesso employs two law firms to review deals when there is any uncertainty. There’s no cause for concern when using Adesso. Unlike ERC mills, their application process includes several safeguards to ensure your ERC application is accurate. Adesso has worked with leading law firms to develop a compliance infrastructure that we believe leads the industry. We regularly work with tax lawyers to review complex applications. We work hard to stay on top of and maintain compliance with current IRS regulations, having CPAs file the applications on your behalf who put their name and reputation behind their work. I was expecting the funds; do I have any options? They also have two great programs to secure capital now, by allowing you to borrow against ERC vs. your business: Adesso has launched a new ERC Advance option that lets you get your ERC funds directly from Adesso now! Click here to learn more about their new lending solutions. Adesso is also now offering new lending solutions that help get the funds you need fast! You can borrow anywhere from $10,000 - $1,000,000 and get preferred rates available only to Adesso clients like you, including: • Lines of credit • Term loans • Equipment financing • Merchant cash advances • SBA loans MHLA will share additional updates as they arise. On Monday, September 18, 2023, it was a perfect day for MHLA members and friends to join together for MHLA's Annual Golf Outing at the Whiskey Creek Golf Course in Frederick, MD. Again, this year tremendous support was shown, with a great golfer turnout and sponsorship at one of the highest levels in recent years. Ecolab was the Title Sponsor for the 9th year in a row and their support was greatly appreciated. The success of the 2023 MHLA Golf Outing enables MHLA to continue to do what they do best, advocacy for the hotel industry in Maryland.
Top Right: Helicopter Ball Drop Sponsor - David Dorough, Pinnacle Communications Bottom Left: Amy Rohrer, MHLA President & CEO welcomes everyone. Bottom Right: MHLA Golf Committee L-R Brian Rash, Josh Marshall, Michael Henningsen, Amy Rohrer (MHLA), Michael Howard, Melissa Simpson (MHLA) Pete Mangione. Not pictured- Jim Stark, Rodney Gooden. Click here to view more photos from the day. Congratulations to our 2023 MHLA Golf Outing WINNERS! 1st Place Team Parking Management Company CHRIS MURREN BILLY CEASE PAUL PRUITT SHELLY SAUNDERS 2nd Place Team Ruppert Landscape DOUG HALSEY PAUL HEFFRON SHERMAN GENE JEFF BANKS 3rd Place Team Pinnacle Communications DAVE DOROUGH ANDREW HOPKINS ROSS CRAMPTON DAVE LUIZZI Longest Drive - Women KAT EVANS- Maryland Office of Tourism Longest Drive - Men TONY STANLEY- Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel Closest to the Pin BILLY CEASE - Parking Management Company Straightest Drive KIRK WAGNER- Complete Mechanical and Electrical Solutions Helicopter Ball Drop MARK DADATTO Putting Contest KEVIN SPARKS - HD Supply Thank you to all of our volunteers, donors and sponsors listed below. The success of the outing would not be possible without all of them.
Thank you to our GOLF COMMITTEE! CHAIR - Michael Henningsen, Plamondon Hospitality Partners Rodney Gooden, Westin Annapolis Michael Howard, Hyatt Place Baltimore Pete Mangione, Turf Valley Resort Josh Marshall, Ecolab Brian Rash, Avendra Jim Stark, Best Western Plus BWI Airport - Arundel Mills Thank you to our VOLUNTEERS! Sharon Bear, Plamondon Hospitality Partners Regina Boston, RMB Photography Pete Chambliss, MHLA Volunteer Staff Diane Girgenti, Plamondon Hospitality Partners Emily Gutierrez, Plamondon Hospitality Partners Kathy Konopik, HotelPro Chrissy Mayhew, Heartland Payment Systems Patrick Miner, Courtyard Baltimore Inner Harbor Bob Rodman, Century Distributors Thank you to all who DONATED! Click here to see the list of companies who donated prizes and giveaways. Thank you to our SPONSORS! Click here to see the list of sponsors for the event.  We are proud to feature Ecolab in this month's Partner Spotlight. The company has been a member of MHLA for more than 30 years. They upgraded to become a Gold Partner in 2019 and upgraded again to achieve Platinum Partner status in 2023. Read below to learn more! Organization Overview
A trusted partner for millions of customers, Ecolab is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life. How does Ecolab differentiate itself from others in their industry? Building on a century of innovation, Ecolab has more than 47,000 associates and operates in more than 170 countries around the world. Ecolab delivers comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use. Our innovative solutions improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets. Share any recent achievements, accolades or awards Ecolab has received that are applicable to hotels. The Ecolab team operates with a strong commitment to integrity, innovation, sustainability and social responsibility. Ecolab always strive for the best results for it's customers and the company, and in 2022, they were recognized by several leading organizations for their commitment to operating responsibly and sustainably. These commitments align with the goals and ambitions of many global hotels. By receiving these awards, they are united in their purpose and commitment to serve hotels with the best products, solutions, and expertise to help them achieve their goals, too. Recent Ecolab awards and recognition:
Ecolab is a trusted partner in cleaning and infection prevention helping hotels deliver clean, healthy, inviting spaces that promote exceptional experiences for guests and employees. Ecolab helps hotels achieve a heightened level of cleanliness across all areas of operation including cleaning and sanitizing solutions, cooling and boiler water treatment, food safety solutions, laundry solutions, pest elimination, pool and spa solutions & warewashing. Ecolab help hotels drive efficiency through innovative programs, training and expertise. Every customer challenge is unique, which is why their field associates’ partner with customers in their hotels, providing innovative solutions, digital technologies and unmatched insights across the entire hotel property. Primary Contact Information Josh Marshall Senior Corporate Accounts Manager Email: Joshua.Marshall@ecolab.com Phone: (443) 625-9406 Company website-www.Ecolab.com Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram or YouTube The Maryland Hotel Lodging Association (MHLA) (www.mdlodging.org) is a business trade association located in Annapolis, MD. We are seeking an Administrative Assistant to join a small, but extremely busy staff that deals with high level policy and industry issues.
This position is best suited for a team player with a “can do” attitude. The ideal candidate will be customer/member focused, detail-oriented, and will have strong oral and written communication skills. This position will require a high-level of administrative support, such as taking calls, scheduling meetings, managing executive requests, database management and other office duties. This position is not remote. Reports to: Vice President of Operations Hours: Average 20-25 hours per week within core business hours. Rate of Pay: $20.00-$24.00 per hour based on experience. Eligible for retirement plan after one year. Travel: Willingness to travel to Signature Events and other association meetings outside of the office, as needed, is a plus. Major Responsibilities: Primary areas of responsibility are below. Additional duties may be assigned to support member activity, committees and achievement of organizational goals. Membership Services & Support Database management - update and maintain member and prospect contact information, payments, notes, and mailing/distribution lists. Assist with answering phones and monitoring general email inbox. Respond to requests concerning membership or general information in a timely manner, referring questions to other staff members as needed. Oversee invoicing for member dues: Generate and send invoices, record payments, follow up on collections, send receipts, thank you notes, etc. Prepare internal summary of payments. Assist with membership reports. Assist with retention of files and electronic records in accordance with MHLA policies. Assist with website updates as needed. Assist with preparation of materials (electronic, printed, mailings, etc.) for various meetings or communications. Meetings & Event Support In-office services for Signature Events (i.e., Annual Awards Luncheon & Golf Outing), Regional Meetings, seminars, etc. Assist with event registrations and related communication. Respond to registrant questions by phone and email in a timely manner. Oversee invoicing for events: Generate and send invoices, record payments, follow up on collections, send receipts, thank you notes, etc. Marketing & Promotion of events – Assist with email blasts and mailings, answer questions by phone / email, etc. Assist with the preparation and assembly of meeting/event materials for staff and committee liaisons, including attendee lists, tent cards and badges, printed programs, power points, and other meeting materials. Obtain sponsor logos and display as needed (print/web/email) On-site registration assistance at meetings and events Assist with post event tasks as needed. General Skills & Qualifications 1. 5-10 years of prior professional work experience, preferably in an Association environment. Associate or bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, Communications or other related discipline is required. 2. Proficient in Microsoft Office, with particular strong skills in Word (require ability to perform Mail Merges for print/email) Excel, and PowerPoint. 3. Responsive and timely entry/update of information into database(s) and accurate record keeping across multiple systems. 4. Highly organized self-starter with strong time management skills and attention to detail 5. Able to manage multiple tasks/projects and meet agreed upon deadlines. Balance priorities of tasks appropriately. 6. Self-starter with ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as under pressure. 7. Professional phone manner 8. Excellent customer service skills and willingness to collaborate/interface with staff and members. To Apply Submit resume and cover letter to Melissa Simpson at mhla@mdlodging.org. The cover letter must include contact information and availability for a start date. Resumes must be attached, preferably as a pdf. We know how challenging it’s been to find and retain top talent and the AHLA Foundation and Maryland Hotel Lodging Association want to help! In addition to its Empowering Youth Program and Apprenticeship Program, which we hope you will explore, the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation is offering up to $25,000 for Incumbent Worker Training, which can cover training costs such as instructional fees for training courses, classes for certification exams, online training, textbooks and manuals. This is a great way to help with the retention of employees!
Did you know? AHLA has a partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute to support our industry’s professional development. Employees can earn industry-recognized credentials in more than 20 pathways to support skill-building and career advancement. The Incumbent Worker Training grant can cover these online training courses and certifications! Why? Incumbent Worker Training helps you stay on the cutting edge, increase productivity, and reduce turnover by providing employees with the training needed for you to remain competitive. Who? Businesses in Anne Arundel County can upskill current full-time, permanent company employees who have been employed at the company for at least six months. How? To learn how your business can apply please email the Business Solutions team at Businesssolutions@aawdc.org or fill out the contact form at https://www.aawdc.org/upskill. Please let us know if you have any questions about how the AHLA Foundation and Maryland Hotel Lodging Association can support your workforce efforts. We’re here to help!  We are proud to feature Visit Howard County in this month's Partner Spotlight. The company has been a Silver Partner of MHLA since 2016. Read below to learn more!
Organization Overview Visit Howard County is the official marketing organization for Howard County. They are committed to collaborating with Howard County’s tourism community to facilitate opportunities that drive new and existing demand. Visit Howard County promises to provide free, quality information on the unique experiences offered in Howard County and the greater region. How does Visit Howard County differentiate itself from others in their industry? Visit Howard County is the only designated marketing organization for Howard County that is officially recognized by the Howard County government and the State of Maryland. Share any recent achievements, accolades or awards Visit Howard County has received that are applicable to hotels. Visit Howard County has championed many successes, including recent recognition from Howard County Government with an inaugural Rise to the Challenge Business Innovation Award for its leadership in helping businesses navigate through the pandemic and ultimately recover. Additional recognitions are from the Maryland Office of Tourism Development (OTD) – a division of the Maryland Department of Commerce – and the Maryland Tourism Development Board (MTDB) with the 2021 Transactional Opportunities Award for its work in securing the Major League Quad Ball (formally Quidditch) Championship in Howard County and the first-ever Market Expansion Award for work on Maryland’s Korean Way culinary trail. The organization was recognized in the 2020 Baltimore Sun article “Beyond the Frontlines” for its leadership in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Other notable successes include initiating the OEC Bucks program to assist with the economic recovery of Old Ellicott City, hosting the US Quidditch Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship in partnership with Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks and Parks, bringing "The Made Marketplace" event to Elkridge and Western Hoard County, working with a local tour operator on the launch of Maryland Brewery Tours, and the widely popular Howard County Restaurant Weeks promotion that the organization has coordinated since 2008. How does Visit Howard County positively impact the lodging industry? Visit Howard County serves Howard County’s lodging industry through promoting Howard County as a premier place for business and leisure travel. We are an energetic and innovative organization of talented and dedicated professionals who fulfill our mission by integrating the organization's work with our partners and serving as a credible advocate for Howard County's tourism industry. Primary Contact Information Amanda Hof Executive Director Email: amanda@howardcountytourism.com Phone: (410)-313-1900 Company website-Visithowardcounty.com  We are proud to feature Sunlight Energy Group in this month's Partner Spotlight. The company has been a Gold Partner of MHLA since 2019. Read below to learn more!
Company Overview Sunlight Energy Group is a professional energy management company. They help companies by developing powerful energy management plans that help their clients identify how to reduce their energy usage, to manage their supply and delivery costs, and leverage existing and emerging technologies to better manage their overall energy usage & spend. As highly experienced professionals in the complex field of energy, they earn trust by getting results. Sunlight Energy Group makes energy planning and management easy for their clients, and good for their bottom line. How does Sunlight Energy Group differentiate itself from others in their industry? Sunlight Energy Group brings big company solutions to small and medium-sized businesses in an affordable manner. While large corporations may have their own in-house energy management and sustainability teams, they understand that this isn't feasible for smaller companies. That's where they come in, offering expert energy management services to help clients not only save time and money, but to also reach sustainability goals and meet compliances. Share any recent achievements, accolades or awards your company has received that are applicable to hotels. Sunlight Energy Group provided energy management services to a large hotel management company, streamlining their energy accounts across all locations with customized tools and systems. This allowed the management team to easily access and share energy-related data and ensure compliance with regional energy regulations. Primary Contact Information Jim Mumm Executive Vice President Email: jim.mumm@sunlightenergygroup.com Phone: (646) 228-9663 Company website-www.sunlightenergygroup.com MHLA Names 2023 Ambassador of the Year; Announces 2023-24 Board of Directors at Annual Meeting5/1/2023
 Pictured from left to right: Amy Rohrer, Donnie Sutton, Michael Henningsen The Maryland Hotel Lodging Association (MHLA) is proud to name its 2023 Ambassador of the Year: Donnie Sutton, General Manager at the BWI Airport Marriott. The announcement was made during MHLA’s Annual Meeting, held April 20, 2023 at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center. The Ambassador of the Year award recognizes a member who has successfully recruited new members as a Board or Committee Member and contributed to the success of the Association during the past year.
“Donnie Sutton engaged quickly when he joined the MHLA Board just one year ago,” said MHLA Board Chair Michael Henningsen. “He serves on the Ambassador and Legislative Committees and also hosted MHLA’s inaugural Member Appreciation Breakfast this past January. I wish to thank Donnie for contributing to the success and growth of MHLA this past year and am pleased to present him with this award.” MHLA also announced its 2023-24 Board of Directors and Executive Committee Members, after a vote of approval by members during the Annual Meeting. Five Executive Committee Members will serve an additional one-year term:
Three Allied Directors will continue their service for the 2022-24 two-year term:
 31 winners announced at 33rd annual event honoring exceptional hotel properties and frontline employees from across Maryland Annapolis, Md. – On April 20, 2023, the Maryland Hotel Lodging Association (MHLA) hosted more than 400 guests – including owners, managers, employees, and partners from Maryland’s statewide lodging industry – at its 33rd annual Stars of the Industry Awards Luncheon and Annual Meeting. Held at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, the celebration recognized deserving hotels and team members who have gone above and beyond this past year to provide excellent service to their guests and communities. Nominations were submitted by MHLA members, and 31 winners were announced in 10 categories celebrating the contributions of every hotel department, including managers, general managers, and staff. A full list of Stars of the Industry winners is included below. “This awards program honors the brightest stars among MHLA member hotels,” said Amy Rohrer, President & CEO, MHLA. “These extraordinary individuals have risen to every challenge and remain committed to driving guest satisfaction at their properties, which in turn contributes to the industry’s success. We are especially proud to celebrate the accomplishments of all nominees and congratulate our award winners.” 2023 MHLA Stars of the Industry Winners (NOTE: Division 1 = properties with 250 rooms or less; may have both a select service and full-service winner. Division 2 = full-service properties with more than 250 rooms.) Individual Awards:
Top Left: Aaron Wright, General Manager at the College Park Marriott Hotel & Conference Center - Presenting Sponsor & Host Hotel Top Right: (L-R) Stars Committee Members - Micah Logan, Hyatt Place Baltimore; Kathy Konopik, HotelPro; Doug Klein, Sheraton Baltimore Inner Harbor; Aaron Wright, College Park Marriott; Dionne Pratt, Hilton Baltimore; Patrick Miner, Courtyard by Marriott Baltimore Inner Harbor; Kat Burns, Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ; Chuck Chandler, Plamondon Hospitality Partners. (not pictured -Sandip Patel, Crossroads Hospitality) Lower Left: (L-R) Michael Henningsen, MHLA Chairman; Patrick Miner, Courtyard by Marriott Baltimore Inner Harbor-Stars Committee Vice Chair; Chuck Chandler, Residence Inn Fulton at Maple Lawn-Stars Committee Chair; Amy Rohrer, MHLA President & CEO. Lower Right: (L-R) Deepak Patel, AHHOA; Sharon Sykes, AHLA; Amy Rohrer, MHLA President & CEO; Liz Fitzsimmons, Maryland Office of Tourism; Ruth Toomey, Maryland Tourism Coalition; Susan Jones, OC Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association; Marshall Weston, Restaurant Association of Maryland. Thank you to the following sponsors for their support of this event.    |
|
20 Ridgely Ave., Suite 309, Annapolis, MD 21401 • Phone: (410) 974-4472 • Email: mhla@MDLodging.org
Copyright Maryland Hotel Lodging Association All Rights Reserved. |
|
