Celebrating Excellence: HALA Stars of the Industry Awards 20

Celebrating Excellence: HALA Stars of the Industry Awards 2024

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 16, 2024

The Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA) shone a spotlight on the outstanding talents within the hospitality industry during the second annual HALA Stars of the Industry Awards. Held at the Omni Los Angeles, the event celebrated the remarkable achievements of hotel professionals who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional experiences to guests.

Hosted by Wendy Burch, a respected reporter from KTLA, the evening saw awards presented in various categories, ranging from Best Housekeeper to Best General Manager. Each winner was recognized not only for their hard work and dedication but also for their unwavering support for their colleagues.

Key to the selection process was the emphasis on creating memorable experiences for guests. Hector Prieto, named Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year, reflected on the joy of offering kindness and support, stating that it was the driving force behind his passion for hospitality.

Dr. Jackie Filla, HALA's President and CEO, reiterated the industry's mission to bring joy to travelers visiting Los Angeles. Whether through personalized care or pristine accommodations, she emphasized the pivotal role played by hardworking individuals in crafting these experiences.

The 2024 award recipients represent a diverse array of properties and roles within the industry:

Community Service: Hoxton Downtown Los Angeles

Rising Star: Melissa Swieca – Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City

Housekeeping: Tracy Hu – JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE

Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year (Small/Medium Property): Hector Prieto – Hotel Casa Del Mar

Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year (Large Property): Todd Hulce – Fairmont Century Plaza

Outstanding Manager of the Year (Small/Medium Property): Alexandra Cove – Cara Hotel

Outstanding Manager of the Year (Large Property): Jeri Zavala Tovar – Hotel Figueroa

Outstanding General Manager of the Year: Javier Cano – The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles & JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE

These deserving winners were selected from a pool of exceptional nominees, showcasing the depth of talent within the industry. Mark Davis, Chair of HALA’s Board of Directors, expressed admiration for the dedication and skill demonstrated by hospitality professionals on a daily basis.

Established in 1932, the Hotel Association of Los Angeles continues to serve as the voice of the city's hotel industry, advocating for its members and fostering excellence across all levels of the profession.

As the industry evolves, HALA remains committed to recognizing and celebrating the individuals who embody the spirit of hospitality, ensuring that Los Angeles continues to be a premier destination for travelers worldwide.

Coolberg’s ‘No Rules, Just Cool’ Campaign Speaks Gen Z’s Language

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 18, 2025

Coolberg, India’s leading non-alcoholic beer brand, has just dropped a campaign that’s as fearless and refreshing as its drinks. Titled “No Rules, Just Cool,” the campaign celebrates individuality, quirk, and the spirit of doing your own thing—just the way Gen Z likes it.

In a world shaped by social filters and rulebooks, Coolberg throws the script out the window. The campaign is more than just a marketing push—it’s a mindset. From bold relationship advice to powerful messaging around authenticity, it encourages people to be unapologetically themselves. Because for Coolberg, cool isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out.

Rolling out across platforms like Snapchat, Spotify, Meta, and top OTT channels, the campaign connects with young audiences where they are. And the message is clear: “The best rebounds aren’t people. They’re mindset shifts.”

“Coolberg is the ultimate drink for Gen Z as it's fun, inclusive and unique,” says Shubham Shukla, Head – Marketing at Ghodawat Consumer Limited. “With No Rules, Just Cool, we aim to align with Gen Z’s mindset—a generation that thrives on authenticity, individuality, and freedom of expression. We’re not just selling a beverage; we’re building a culture.”

Coolberg’s journey has been nothing short of dynamic. Acquired in 2022 by Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL), a key player in India’s FMCG space, Coolberg quickly scaled up. Today, it's available in over 50,000 retail outlets across 150 cities and exported to 15+ countries. The brand is also served at major fast food chains like KFC, Barbeque Nation, and WoW Momos, and is listed on Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Flipkart Minutes, and Amazon.

About Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL)

GCL, the FMCG arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, has been redefining everyday consumption with its wide range of products under the ‘Star’ brand—covering everything from cooking oils and atta to snacks and beverages. Its premium portfolio includes TBH (a real veggie snack brand) and Coolberg.

About Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG)

Founded in 1993, SGG is a diversified conglomerate with interests in aviation, education, retail, energy, and more. With over 10,000 employees and 21,000+ students across institutions, SGG continues to impact lives with its innovation-driven approach and commitment to excellence.

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vertical Lift Sea Bridge in Rameswaram

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 7, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic moment on the occasion of Ram Navami by inaugurating India’s first vertical lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge—in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The event was accompanied by the launch of the Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, a new train service enhancing connectivity between the temple town and Chennai.

Built at a cost of over ₹550 crore, the 2.08-kilometre-long bridge connects Rameswaram Island to mainland India and features a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that can rise up to 17 metres, allowing ships to pass smoothly without disrupting train movement. Designed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), this modern engineering marvel replaces the iconic British-era Pamban Bridge, which served pilgrims and traders for over a century since 1914.

The new structure incorporates advanced materials like stainless steel reinforcements, high-grade protective coatings, and fully welded joints, making it highly durable and corrosion-resistant. Capable of handling speeds up to 80 kmph, the bridge is designed for a 100-year lifespan and supports dual rail tracks for future traffic needs.

PM Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship that sailed beneath the elevated span during the event, showcasing the bridge's sea-lift functionality. Visuals of the first train crossing the newly inaugurated bridge added to the symbolic significance of the day, as the event coincided with the “Surya Tilak” celebration in Ayodhya—an alignment the Prime Minister referred to as a “divine coincidence.”

Notable dignitaries present at the ceremony included Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu. The absence of Chief Minister MK Stalin was noted. PM Modi had just returned from a three-day visit to Sri Lanka and received a warm welcome from local leaders, including Union Minister L Murugan and BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.

With improved connectivity and a future-ready design, the new Pamban Bridge is poised to become a key gateway to South India's spiritual tourism circuit, while also strengthening regional infrastructure.

Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari: Society Tea Unveils Power-Packed Ad Film Featuring Riteish Deshmukh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 26, 2025

Society Tea, a brand deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s tea culture, has launched its latest ad campaign, ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari’, starring Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh. The film pays homage to the bold and full-bodied essence of kadak chai, a favorite across the state.

The campaign introduces Riteish Deshmukh as Kadak Surve, a fearless cop who embodies the spirit of kadakness. Shot in Marathi and Hindi, the ad film reflects the deep-rooted love for strong, dust tea in Maharashtra, with high-energy storytelling, dynamic visuals, and a compelling narrative.

A Tribute to Maharashtra’s Love for Chai

"Kadak chai is more than just a beverage—it's an emotion," said Karan Shah, Director, Society Tea. "With ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari,’ we wanted to encapsulate the strength and energy that a cup of our dust tea delivers. Riteish Deshmukh brings this vision to life with his dynamic presence, making this campaign truly bhari!"

The power-packed ad film is now live across Meta and YouTube, inviting chai lovers to experience the boldness of Society Tea’s dust tea.

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