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These interviews are part of a series that highlights new hires within the industry. Have you recently started a new role or do you know someone who has? Submit your ideas to brittany.trevick@tigeroak.com.

These interviews are part of a series that highlights new hires within the industry. Have you recently started a new role or do you know someone who has? Submit your ideas to brittany.trevick@tigeroak.com.

Cheryl Shirley was recently hired as the new director of catering at AT&T Executive Hotel and Conference Center in Austin, Texas.

1. What are you looking forward to the most in your new role as the director of catering at AT&T Executive Hotel and Conference Center?

After more than a year, the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge announced the unveiling of its $45 million transformation, ending a three-phase renovation.

The third phase focused on renovating the 667 guestrooms to mimic the Brooklyn lifestyle, with urban-inspired color pallets, fabrics that emulate the culture and landmarks, and an art piece that zooms in on a piece of a mural that is located in the lobby.

On Aug. 24, the Crowne Plaza Princeton, N.J., debuted the Lakeside Terrace a new wedding venue that resides on the property.

SITTING MIDWAY BETWEEN LOS ANGELES AND SAN DIEGO, the historic SoCal port city of Long Beach offers an easygoing charm and walkability, along with a yearround Mediterranean climate. These qualities have long made the city an attractive destination for meeting planners. Now, there’s even more to love.

TALK ABOUT FIRST IMPRESSIONS-when meeting attendees pull up under the porte-cochère at the Resort at Squaw Creek, and the bellman swings open the doors, the wow factor immediately kicks in.

I spent last week visiting two extraordinary properties in San Diego: