According to a press release from LaSalle Hotel Properties, Chairman and CEO Jon E. Bortz has retired and the company has promoted its COO to replace him.

Mr. Michael D. Barnello is 44-years-old and he is the new CEO for the LaSalle Hotel Properties. The company commented that Mr. Bortz retirement was a surprised for them, but apparently, Mr. Bortz wants to “pursue other carrer opportunities.”

The LaSalle Hotel Properties is a real estate investement that owns upscale hotels under several chains in 14 markets around the world. The company reported that profit fell 60% from a year ago due to the recession. However, the company believes that with Mr. Barnello as the new CEO things might change.

The Sandals Resorts International (SRI) is a parent company of Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, The Royal Plantation Collection and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts. The SRI in a press release conference has recently reported that they have purchased the Four Season in Great Exuma.

Mr Gordon Stewart Sandals Resort Founder and Chairman, the 500-acres property known as the Four Season, will be called Sandals Emerald BAy, Great Exuma, Bahamas. He believes that the resort will open January 22, 2010.

Mr. Stewart commented:”This is a remarkable moment in the history of Sandals Resorts. We are acquiring one of the most spectacular pieces of real estate in the Caribbean, which was operated by one of the world’s most highly regarded hotel companies.”

The well-recognized hotel chain of Homewood Suites by Hilton celebrates its 20th Anniversary with almost 300 properties in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton is an internation brand of all-suite, residential-style hotel and it has been providing a super service over this last 20 years to business and leisure travelers.

Mr. Bill Duncan, Global Head of Homewood Suites brand commented:”Throughout our 20-year history we have strived to provide our guests with specialized amenities that make a Homewood Suites by Hilton hotel a place where you actually live, not just stay.”

The latest innovation that the hotel has implemented is complimentary Suite Start hot breakfast and Welcome Home reception meal programs.