CHLA September/October 2021

12 CALIFORNIA LODGING NEWS www.calodging.com Standing out among lessons learned was hospitality’s human factor—embracing the well-being of colleagues and “leading with empathy.” Ken Greene, the President and CEO of AAHOA praised the power of hotels and called out the practical need for hotels to get back their mojo with employees. Alan Reay, President of Atlas Hospitality Group, popped eyes with his description of a $2.5 million per-key 2021 transaction, highlighting that non-replicable and unique hotel locations still do matter. Throughout the conference several themes emerged:  Leisure travel is leading hotels back from pandemic closures  Keeping employees is key for the long term  Individual hotel cultures are critical for success  Public advocacy matters more than ever Stay tuned for next year’s 2022 Crystal Ball Conference plans!  “Lessons Learned from the Trenches” Panelists: Don Shindle, The Westin Verasa Napa; Daniel Kuperschmid, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego; Jeff Durham, Redwood Fortune Riverwalk Hotel; Moderated by Jyotil Sarolia, Principal for Ellis Hospitality  continued Bijal Patel, CHA, CHLA Chair hosted a dinner and addresses special guests.