Brief background of your business: Visit Tri-Cities is one of the Tri-Cities’ most significant drivers of economic development. Formed in 1969, we are a local nonprofit that aggressively promotes tourism to create a diverse economy for our region. Number of employees you oversee: 14 How did you land your current role? I believe...
The Tri-Cities’ only flamenco, ballet and martial arts school is open for business and accepting new members.Find Your Center’s mission is to make dance and martial arts accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or background.A Pasco retiree said she feels more graceful and balanced after taking ballet classes created...
Guests visiting the lakefront Coeur d’Alene Resort are in for a treat this summer season, as the Idaho destination hotel recently completed a $10 million makeover of all 338 guest rooms and its conference center.“Our resort is in the midst of a wonderful renaissance,” said Todd Gillespie, director of sales...
After three years of operating from the back of a van and tow trailer, Northwest Paddleboarding is opening a shop near Howard Amon Park in Richland.The new store will offer walk-up rentals and a wider range of equipment for sale.Krista Patterson, who owns the company with her mother, Cathie Hobson,...
A Washington State University professor knows firsthand the importance of hiring well trained, qualified “senior living” professionals.Scott Eckstein lived in an assisted living facility for a while to help settle his maternal grandparents into one. He also believes living in one may have prevented his grandmother’s death.He knows the business...
By Anthony AntonI love hospitality. We are welcoming and solution-oriented, constantly finding ways to improve the experience we deliver to guests.The team here at the Washington Hospitality Association is working on solutions to policy issues that fit the needs of our industry and work for Washingtonians. Anthony AntonDuring the past...
By Marilou SheaHospitality is a vast industry comprised of a lot of different things — food and beverage, lodging, conventions, travel, attractions and leisure. The industry is typically divided into two measureable sectors: arts, entertainment and recreation; and accommodations and food services. I’m going to focus on the latter because...
A new extended-stay hotel is going up near Kohl’s, Mor Furniture and the Holiday Inn Express on Tapteal Drive in Richland.The $6.7 million project has a targeted opening of late 2018. The four-story WoodSpring Suites will feature 122 rooms and a fitness center.Construction financing is still being finalized and a...
By David ForsythOK, so here’s the challenge. I’ve got company visiting from out-of-town, California wine country to be exact, folks who know and are active in the wine industry. Which Washington wine should be served to showcase the true essence of Washington wine? David ForsythDo I distill the choice down...
By Robert J. HarringtonHospitality and tourism make up one of the largest industries in the United States. At the same time, the market is saturated with competition, and consumer expectations are evolving. Robert HarringtonIn changing times, how can hospitality businesses change to meet the needs of their customers and still...
